Fuel-Air Separator Air-Bleed Layout for Diesel Injection Reliability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fuel injection systems in diesel engines suffer from efficiency degradation due to entrained air and vapor, leading to retarded injection timing, spray pattern disruption, increased emissions, and component damage, which prior technologies have not adequately addressed.
Innovation Solution
An improved air separator with an active secondary air-bleed and wiper blade flow divider, installed between the fuel filter and outlet, enhances gas removal without significant pressure loss, eliminating the need for additional pumps or electrical components, and incorporating a fluidic mixing alcove to trap and remove gases efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fuel-air separator is installed in the fuel line, then fuel injection reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fuel-air separator functionality with the existing fuel injection system components. The separator is integrated into the fuel line configuration rather than being a completely separate system, merging the separation function with the existing fuel delivery infrastructure to reduce overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The fuel line configuration serves multiple functions: it delivers fuel to the injector, provides a path for air bleed, and incorporates the separation function. By making the fuel line configuration multi-functional, the system reduces the need for additional dedicated components, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If air bleed holes are provided in the fuel line, then fuel injection reliability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The air bleed holes are strategically positioned at specific locations in the fuel line where they provide maximum benefit for removing air bubbles without requiring high precision throughout the entire fuel line. The local placement optimizes the air bleed function while reducing overall manufacturing precision requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The air bleed holes are designed to operate preliminarily by allowing air to be bled from the fuel line before fuel injection occurs. This preliminary air removal action prevents air bubbles from interfering with the fuel injection process, improving reliability without requiring complex precision control during the actual injection event.
3Reliability
If fuel line configuration is changed to improve air bleed, then fuel injection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel line configuration is segmented into functional zones: sections with air bleed holes for air removal, sections for fuel delivery, and sections for separation. This segmentation allows each portion to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall system simplicity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent addresses air bleed issues by utilizing the spatial dimension of the fuel line configuration rather than adding more components. By strategically positioning air bleed holes at specific locations and using the fuel line's geometric configuration, the system achieves improved air removal without increasing device complexity.
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 effectively separates and removes air and vapor from fuel, improving engine efficiency, reducing component wear, and extending the life of the fuel injection system while maintaining pressure and flow, thus enhancing overall engine performance.
Implementation Method 1
a separator body (33) which rotates about a rotation axis (L) and has a separation function, wherein the separator body (33) separates fuel and air into each other by a centrifugal force generated by the separator body (33) itself
Implementation Method 2
an air bleed system which bleeds air from the fuel line, wherein the fuel line has a porous material formed in an inner surface
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An air separator, fuel delivery system and installation set are provided. The air separator includes a vessel defining a hollow interior chamber having an inlet for receiving fuel from a fuel source and an outlet for fluidic communication with an engine. An air-bleed receives and removes a quantity of undesired gas, which is in fluidic communication with a discharge port. Further, a filter media for contact with fuel received and a conduit for delivering fuel passing through the filter media to the outlet. The air separator removes gas from the fuel prior to passage through the outlet to the engine, with the gas passing through the air-bleed. The air bleed includes a fluidic mixing alcove for passage of the gas through the discharge port. The air separator is between the transfer pump and the engine. Finally, installation sets for mounting the air separator to the fuel delivery system.