Automated Fuel Distribution System with Mechanical Tank Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refueling systems for continuously operating vehicles, such as those at fracking sites, are inefficient and pose safety hazards due to reliance on manual refueling and electrical sensors, which can lead to errors and spark risks, and depressurization of fuel lines reducing responsiveness.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a fuel source, pump, distribution manifold, mechanical valve assemblies in each vehicle tank, and a control circuit that manages pump operation based on tank levels and pressure sensors to ensure efficient and safe fuel distribution, using mechanical valves to shut off fuel flow when tanks are full and a pressure sensor to prevent over-depression of fuel lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual refueling methods are used with personnel monitoring and refilling tanks, then refueling can be performed, but the process is time-consuming and prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service refueling through automatic detection and control mechanisms. Fuel tanks are equipped with sensors that automatically detect when they are full, and the central control system automatically manages the refueling process without requiring manual intervention from personnel, thereby eliminating time loss and human error
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical refueling operations with an automated electronic control system. The system uses sensors, controllers, and automated valve mechanisms to manage fuel distribution, substituting human labor and manual monitoring with automated technological systems that improve efficiency and reduce errors
2Extent of automation
If electrical sensors are used to detect tank levels, then automatic refueling control is achieved, but spark risks are introduced at the worksite
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces expensive and hazardous electrical sensors with simpler, non-electrical sensing mechanisms that are inherently safer in explosive environments. The invention uses mechanical or non-sparking sensing technologies that achieve automatic control without introducing spark risks, effectively substituting dangerous components with safe alternatives
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a safe operating environment by eliminating electrical components that could generate sparks in the fueling area. The system design ensures that all sensing and control mechanisms in proximity to fuel are inherently non-sparking, effectively creating an inert safety atmosphere that prevents ignition hazards while maintaining automation
3Device complexity
If fuel lines are depressurized to each truck, then fuel distribution is simplified, but the responsiveness of supply to each truck is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic pressure control where fuel lines maintain pressure readiness but only activate flow when needed. The automated valve system keeps the fuel distribution network pressurized and ready, allowing immediate responsive supply to any truck that requires refueling, rather than maintaining constant depressurized flow to all lines
4Ease of operation
If multiple personnel are deployed to monitor and refill tanks, then refueling can be performed, but the system becomes more complex and requires more resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the human element from the refueling operation by implementing fully automated sensing and control systems. The complex task of monitoring multiple tanks and coordinating refueling operations is removed from personnel and transferred to an automated control system, simplifying human involvement while managing system complexity through technological automation
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 enables efficient, safe, and automated refueling of multiple vehicles by ensuring all tanks are filled simultaneously while minimizing pump operation time and reducing safety hazards, improving responsiveness and reducing personnel errors.
Implementation Method 1
a pump operable to draw fuel from the fuel source
Implementation Method 2
each of the valve assembly being operable to independently shut off flow of fuel therethrough when the tank is filled to a predetermined level
Implementation Method 3
a pressure sensor in the distribution manifold. The control circuit is adapted to turn off the pump when the pressure sensor detects a pressure drop greater than a predetermined level
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a system and method for delivering fuel to a plurality of vehicles. The system comprises a fuel source, a pump operable to draw fuel from the fuel source and a distribution manifold having a plurality of outlets. The system further comprises a plurality of fuel lines extending from the distribution manifold and a plurality of valve assemblies, each located in a tank of one of the plurality of vehicles each of the valve assembly being operable to independently shut off flow of fuel therethrough when the tank is filled to a predetermined level. The method comprises pumping the fuel supply from the fuel source to the distribution manifold, connecting a plurality of fuel lines to the distribution manifold and a valve assembly in each of a plurality of trucks in connection with one of the fuel lines.