Fuel System Leak Test Using Diaphragm Counterforce
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for leak-testing fuel supply systems with low pressure injection require separate pressure tests for sections upstream and downstream of the control valve, making it complex and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that utilize a test pressure unit with a test pressure line connected to the fuel supply system, applying a predetermined pressure level upstream of the control valve and a counterforce equal to or greater than the pressure level to keep the diaphragm in an open position, allowing simultaneous pressure testing of the entire system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a test pressure multiple of 8 to 10 times the operating pressure is applied to the fuel supply system, then the tightness of fuel guiding elements can be ensured, but the control valve closes due to the high pressure in the control chamber, preventing testing of downstream components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a counterforce to the diaphragm that opposes the test pressure force. This counterforce keeps the control valve open during pressure testing, allowing the entire fuel supply system including downstream components to be tested simultaneously. The counterforce acts as a balancing mechanism that neutralizes the closing effect of high test pressure on the diaphragm-controlled valve.
2Reliability
If separate pressure tests are conducted for upstream and downstream sections of the control valve, then each section can be tested individually, but the testing process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the testing of upstream and downstream sections into a single simultaneous pressure test. By keeping the control valve open through the application of counterforce to the diaphragm, the entire fuel supply system can be pressurized and tested at once, eliminating the need for separate testing procedures and reducing overall testing time and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the forces acting on the diaphragm during testing. By applying a counterforce that balances the test pressure, the control valve remains in an open state during the pressure test, enabling a dynamic testing condition that allows simultaneous testing of all system components rather than requiring static separate tests.
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
Enables rapid and reliable pressure testing of the entire fuel supply system, ensuring the tightness of all components without the need for separate tests, using a simple and easily handled device.
Implementation Method 1
acting upon the portion of the fuel supply system upstream of the control valve with a predetermined pressure level
Implementation Method 2
acting upon the side of the diaphragm facing away from the control chamber with a counterforce, wherein the counterforce is equal to or greater than the predetermined pressure level
Data Source
AI summary
A method for leak-testing a fuel supply system has been provided, wherein the fuel supply system comprises a fuel tank, a fuel injection valve, fuel lines between the fuel tank and the fuel valve, and a control valve controlled by a diaphragm, and wherein the diaphragm bounds a control chamber on one side, the method comprising: acting upon the portion of the fuel supply system upstream of the control valve with a predetermined pressure level, acting upon the side of the diaphragm facing away from the control chamber with a counterforce, wherein the counterforce is equal or greater to the predetermined pressure level. A device for leak-testing a fuel system according to the above method, wherein the device comprises a test pressure unit with at least one test pressure line, wherein said test pressure line is connectable to the fuel supply system.