Float Probe Shut-Off for Spill-Safe On-Demand Fuel Supply
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fuel delivery systems are inefficient, prone to spills and leaks, and pose safety risks due to manual delivery methods, which can lead to environmental hazards and operator injuries, especially in remote or harsh conditions, and often result in incomplete refueling of multiple assets.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a pressurized tank, manifold, and segmented hoses with pressure relief valves and automated fill caps that allow for on-demand fuel delivery to multiple assets, reducing manual intervention and minimizing spills through recirculation of excess fuel and automated shut-off mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual fuel delivery is used, then equipment complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service fuel delivery where the automated dispenser performs the fuel delivery function without requiring manual intervention from operators. The dispenser automatically monitors fuel levels, controls the dispensing process, and manages safety protocols, thereby improving productivity while maintaining relatively simple equipment architecture.
2Device complexity
If manual fuel delivery is used, then system complexity is reduced, but safety and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The automated dispenser performs safety-critical functions autonomously, including monitoring fuel levels, controlling dispensing rates, and detecting leaks, thereby improving reliability without significantly increasing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where sensors continuously monitor fuel levels, flow rates, and potential leaks, and the controller adjusts the dispensing process in real-time based on this feedback to maintain safe operating conditions and improve reliability.
3Productivity
If automated fuel delivery is implemented, then productivity improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated dispenser performs the fuel delivery function autonomously, improving productivity. The system is designed to be self-sufficient with integrated components that work together without requiring external manual intervention, achieving automation while keeping the overall system architecture manageable.
4Stress or pressure
If excess fuel is recirculated to the pump, then pressure build-up is prevented, but pump damage occurs due to heating
Solution Approach 1:
The system converts the harmful effect of excess fuel recirculation (which causes heating and pump damage) into a beneficial process by implementing a controlled recirculation path that returns excess fuel to the tank rather than recirculating it through the pump. This eliminates the harmful heating effect while maintaining pressure control.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enhances efficiency and safety by ensuring continuous, automated fuel delivery to multiple assets without manual monitoring, reducing the risk of spills and operator exposure, while maintaining asset refueling levels and preventing fuel overflows.
Implementation Method 1
The first pressure relief valve is set at a first predetermined pressure threshold. The first pressure relief valve opens when the back-pressure in the fuel delivery coupling exceeds the first predetermined pressure threshold
Implementation Method 2
A float probe may be inserted into the fuel tank to mechanically actuate the shut-off valve on the probe when the tank is full
Data Source
AI summary
A float probe configured to regulate fluid flow into a fluid container is disclosed. The float probe comprises an upper assembly having one or more outlets, a plurality of rods extending from the upper assembly to a lower assembly and a float assembly disposed between the upper assembly and the lower assembly. A first distal end of the rods is coupled to the upper assembly and a second distal end of the rods is coupled to the lower assembly. The rods extend along an outer surface of the float assembly and the float assembly is movable along the rods between a first position proximate to the upper assembly and a second position proximate to the lower assembly. The float assembly prevents fluid flow out of the outlets when disposed in the first position.