In-Tank Fuel Pump Mounting Through a Dual-Use Fill Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fuel delivery systems for fuel-injected engines require a separate opening for the fuel pump, leading to potential fuel leakage and increased fabrication costs, while also needing a robust mounting system to withstand vibration and acceleration loads.
Innovation Solution
A fuel pump assembly is mounted within a fully assembled fuel tank using a dual-use fuel fill opening, integrating the pump housing with the fuel tank's design to eliminate the need for a separate pump opening and provide a robust, compliant suspension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate opening is provided for the fuel pump, then the pump can be mounted inside the tank, but the number of openings increases leading to potential fuel leakage and increased fabrication costs
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel pump opening is merged with the fuel fill opening, allowing the pump to be mounted through the same opening used for fuel filling. This eliminates the need for a separate pump opening, reducing the number of potential leakage points and simplifying tank fabrication.
Solution Approach 2:
The fuel fill opening serves dual purposes: it is used for both filling the tank with fuel and for mounting the fuel pump inside the tank. This multi-functional use of a single opening reduces complexity and eliminates the need for dedicated separate openings.
2Strength
If the pump is mounted rigidly to withstand vibration and acceleration loads, then mounting stability is improved, but the pump may be susceptible to damage from thermal expansion and contraction
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system transitions from a fully rigid connection to a dynamic mounting that allows controlled movement. The pump is suspended with flexible connections that can accommodate thermal expansion and contraction while maintaining stability against vibration and acceleration loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system incorporates elements that change their physical parameters in response to temperature changes, such as flexible hoses or mounts that can expand and contract, allowing the pump to maintain a stable position while accommodating thermal variations.
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
This configuration results in a more compact and leak-resistant system that effectively cools the pump, reduces vaporization risks, and withstands mechanical stresses, enhancing fuel delivery efficiency and reducing fabrication costs.
Implementation Method 1
This configuration results in a more compact and leak-resistant system that effectively cools the pump, reduces vaporization risks
Data Source
AI summary
An in-tank fuel pump assembly and mounting system is disclosed which may be configured for mounting inside a fuel tank. The assembly includes a pump housing, pump mounted to the housing, and pressure relief valve. The housing may comprise upper and lower pump housing units coupled together. The upper housing unit is configured for mounting to a tank opening, which in one implementation may be the fuel fill opening. The lower housing unit extends into the tank to approximately the bottom of the tank. A fuel fill fluid pathway is created through the housing for adding fuel to the tank while the pump assembly remains in situ. The upper housing unit may include a removable fuel cap. The pump housing may include an integral vapor trap.