Fluid Dispensing Device with Test Channel for ORVR Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fuel dispensing systems with active vapor recovery face reliability issues due to complex constructions and inadequate sealing, particularly when refueling vehicles equipped with Onboard Refueling Vapor Recovery (ORVR) systems, leading to potential air and vapor mixture leakage.
Innovation Solution
A device with a test channel and pressure sensor that utilizes the Venturi effect to differentiate between fuel vapors and air based on physical properties, allowing for safe shutdown of active feedback by controlling the return of vapors through a switching valve.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a bellows-based sealing system is used to detect ORVR systems, then active recirculation can be deactivated, but the system becomes complex and unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the sealing function from the bellows component and replaces it with a simple membrane structure. The membrane is integrated into the test channel assembly, separating the detection function from complex sealing mechanisms. This extraction allows reliable ORVR detection without requiring complex bellows-based sealing systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The membrane acts as an intermediary element between the test channel and the external environment. It transmits pressure changes from the refueling system to the sensor while maintaining a simple, reliable seal. This intermediary approach replaces the complex bellows mechanism with a straightforward pressure transmission system that is both simple and reliable.
2Reliability
If a bellows-based sealing system is used to detect ORVR systems, then active recirculation can be deactivated, but the system becomes difficult to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is extracted from complex bellows components and implemented through a simple membrane element that can be easily manufactured and integrated into the test channel assembly. This extraction dramatically simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining reliable ORVR detection capability.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If active recirculation is used during ORVR refueling, then fuel vapors are recovered, but air is drawn in causing pressure increase and vapor leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the natural pressure changes that occur during refueling to activate the membrane sensor, which then automatically controls the recirculation valve. The system serves itself by using the refueling process's own characteristics to trigger the appropriate response, eliminating the need for complex external detection and control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The membrane sensor provides continuous feedback on the pressure conditions during refueling. When the membrane detects the characteristic pressure pattern of an ORVR system, it triggers the recirculation valve closure. This feedback mechanism ensures automatic deactivation of active recirculation when needed, preventing vapor leakage without requiring complex programmable control systems.
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 solution provides a simpler, more reliable method to determine the presence of air or fuel vapors, ensuring safe shutdown of active feedback and preventing air and vapor mixture leakage, thus enhancing environmental and economic efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the main channel has a constriction and the test channel opens into the main channel in the region of the constriction
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A~2C
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for discharging a first fluid and for returning a second fluid, comprising a main channel (13) for discharging the first fluid and a return channel (14) for returning the second fluid. According to the invention, a test channel (15) is provided which connects the main channel (13) to the return channel (14), the main channel (13) having a narrowing (16) and the test channel (15) issuing into the main channel (13) in the region of the narrowing (16). The device further has a sensor (17) which is designed to determine a pressure in the test channel (15). The invention further relates to an outflow tube, a delivery nozzle and a delivery pump having a device according to the invention. With the aid of the invention, active return of the second fluid can be shut off in a simple and safe manner.