Fuel Module Pump Filtration Flow Housing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Complexity and inefficiency in modern internal combustion engine fuel systems due to numerous moving parts and high pressures, with existing filtration systems often requiring multiple pumps and filters, leading to potential debris-related damage and performance degradation.
Innovation Solution
A fuel system incorporating a high pressure fuel circuit with a high pressure pump and a low pressure fuel circuit featuring an electric drive motor, first and second cartridge filters, and a flow housing with internal conduits, allowing for lineless pump installation and sealed engagement, thereby reducing the complexity and improving filtration efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple pumps and filters are used in the fuel system, then filtration efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple pumps (low pressure transfer pump and high pressure pump) and two filters into a single integrated fuel module assembly. The filters are positioned upstream and downstream of the high pressure pump within the same housing, eliminating the need for separate mounting hardware and reducing system complexity while maintaining comprehensive filtration coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The fuel module housing serves multiple functions simultaneously: it houses the low pressure transfer pump, high pressure pump, and both filters; provides fluid passages for fuel flow; and acts as a mounting structure for all components. This multi-functional design reduces the overall number of separate components needed in the fuel system.
2Reliability
If multiple pumps and filtration apparatus are used, then debris-related damage is reduced, but the number of lines, fittings, and mounting hardware increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the low pressure pump, high pressure pump, and both filters into a single modular assembly with internal fluid passages, the patent eliminates numerous external lines, fittings, and mounting hardware that would be required if these components were installed separately. The housing itself provides the fluid pathways, reducing the need for additional tubing and connections.
3Power
If dedicated unit pumps are associated with each fuel injector, then fuel pressurization is achieved, but the number of moving parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple pump functions into a single integrated assembly where the low pressure transfer pump feeds fuel to the high pressure pump, which then supplies all fuel injectors. This centralized pumping arrangement maintains the necessary fuel pressurization capability while significantly reducing the total number of moving parts compared to having dedicated unit pumps at each injector.
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 enhances fuel system reliability by reducing debris-related issues and improving filtration efficiency, enabling smoother fuel flow and pressure control, which contributes to faster engine starting and reduced pressure pulsations.
Implementation Method 1
a low pressure pump having a pump electric drive motor
Implementation Method 2
first cartridge filter, a second cartridge filter... fluidly connect the fuel inlet to the fuel outlet
Implementation Method 3
high pressure pump with a pump drive gear for engagement with a gear train on the engine... for pressurization to an injection pressure
Data Source
AI summary
A fuel module for pumping and filtration of a fuel in a fuel system includes a flow housing, and each of an electrically powered pump, a first cartridge filter, and a second cartridge filter in sealed, direct engagement with the flow housing. The fuel module is applied in a low pressure fuel circuit feeding fuel to a high pressure fuel circuit for pressurization to an injection pressure. Electronic closed loop control techniques for the pump are also disclosed.