Fuel Nozzle Detection via Optical Sensors and Illumination
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle operators often fail to disconnect the fuel nozzle from the fuel tank after refueling, leading to damage, fuel spillage, and vapor escape, as existing systems lack effective detection and alert mechanisms to prevent this issue.
Innovation Solution
A sensor subsystem with a transmitter and two receivers is used to detect the fuel nozzle within the fuel tank and the position of the fuel tank access panel, illuminating specific regions to alert the operator and preventing engine start until the nozzle is removed, utilizing a combination of sensors and a lighting system to provide visual and communication-based alerts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If no detection system is installed, then the vehicle structure remains simple, but the operator cannot be alerted about the nozzle being left connected, leading to damage and fuel loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical detection systems with optical sensors (transmitters and receivers) that use light beams to detect the presence of the fuel nozzle and access panel position. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while improving reliability of detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing fuel nozzle structure itself as part of the detection mechanism - the nozzle body blocks the optical beam when present, eliminating the need for separate mechanical switches or sensors attached to the nozzle. The system serves itself by utilizing the natural presence of components already in the system.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are added to detect nozzle presence and panel position, then detection accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical sensor system performs multiple detection functions simultaneously - it detects both the presence of the fuel nozzle and the position of the access panel using the same transmitter-receiver configuration. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated sensors for each detection task.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent positions the optical transmitters and receivers at specific locations around the fuel tank opening to create targeted detection zones. By optimizing the local placement of sensors rather than using a comprehensive array, the system achieves high detection accuracy with minimal components.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the engine is stopped to prevent driving with nozzle connected, then safety improves, but operational efficiency decreases due to extended downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides immediate visual feedback through illumination when the nozzle is detected as left connected, and provides feedback to the engine control system to prevent startup. This feedback mechanism ensures safety by alerting operators and preventing harmful operation, while the clear visual signals help operators quickly understand and correct the situation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system takes preliminary action by preventing engine startup before any damage or spillage can occur. By blocking engine operation while the nozzle is improperly connected, the system eliminates the risk of harmful events rather than reacting after they occur, thereby maintaining both safety and efficiency.
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
Prevents damage and fuel loss by ensuring the nozzle is safely removed before driving, enhancing safety and operational efficiency by providing real-time alerts and adjustments to vehicle operation based on sensor inputs.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor subsystem including a transmitter, a first receiver, and a second receiver arranged within a fuel tank access region of the vehicle, the fuel tank access region including the fuel tank access panel, the sensor subsystem configured to detect the fuel dispensing nozzle coupled to the fuel tank via the fuel tank inlet
Implementation Method 2
illuminating a first portion of a fuel tank access region disposed in the vehicle; and in response to detecting, with the transmitter and a second receiver of the sensor, a fuel tank access panel in an open position, illuminating a second portion of the fuel tank access region
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided for detecting a fuel dispensing nozzle coupled to a fuel tank of a vehicle and providing a visual indication of the presence of the fuel dispensing nozzle to a vehicle operator. In one example, a method may include detecting the fuel dispensing nozzle within the fuel tank and illuminating a portion of a fuel tank access region. Further, vehicle operation may be adjusted based on the detection, and one or more alerts may be communicated to the vehicle operator.