Fuel Pump Valve Isolates Module to Reduce Wear
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Solution Overview
Problem
The continuous operation of fuel pumps in motor vehicles leads to unnecessary load, premature wear, increased noise, and heat generation, as well as potential vapor formation due to the constant flow of fuel back into the fuel module, even when the fuel level is sufficient.
Innovation Solution
A fuel system with a fuel pump and a fuel valve that isolates the pump from the fuel module when the fuel level reaches a predetermined level, reducing the operational power and flow only when necessary, using a float valve or venturi valve system to manage fuel flow effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the fuel pump operates continuously to supply fuel to the engine and fill the reservoir, then the fuel supply reliability is improved, but the fuel pump experiences unnecessary wear, increased noise, and heat generation
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel pump operates periodically rather than continuously. A fuel level sensor detects when fuel in the reservoir drops below a threshold level, triggering the pump to operate only during these periodic intervals when fuel is low, thereby reducing overall operating duration while ensuring reliable fuel supply when needed
Solution Approach 2:
A feedback control system using a fuel level sensor continuously monitors the fuel level in the reservoir and provides feedback to control the fuel pump operation. When the fuel level drops below a predetermined threshold, the sensor signals the pump to operate; when the level is sufficient, the pump shuts off, optimizing operation based on actual fuel conditions
2Quantity of substance
If the fuel pump operates continuously at high pressure, then sufficient fuel is available for the engine and jet pump, but unnecessary load and heat are generated leading to potential vapor formation
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel pump operates periodically based on fuel level detection rather than continuously at high pressure. This reduces the cumulative heat generation in the fuel module while maintaining sufficient fuel availability by pumping only when the reservoir level drops below the threshold
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses partial action by operating the fuel pump only to the extent necessary to maintain adequate fuel levels in the reservoir. The pump runs intermittently rather than continuously, providing just enough fuel to maintain operation without excessive pumping that would generate unnecessary heat
3Stability of the object's composition
If a fuel module with reservoir is used to prevent fuel starvation, then fuel supply stability is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel pump, reservoir, fuel level sensor, and control mechanisms are merged into an integrated fuel module assembly. This consolidation provides stable fuel supply functionality while containing the complexity within a single modular unit, making the system more manageable despite the added components
Solution Approach 2:
The fuel module is designed with self-monitoring and self-regulation capabilities. The fuel level sensor automatically detects when fuel is low and triggers the pump operation without external intervention, and the system self-regulates to shut off the pump when fuel levels are adequate, reducing the need for complex external control systems
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 solution reduces wear and tear on the fuel pump, decreases noise and heat generation, and minimizes vapor production by ensuring the fuel pump operates only when needed, thereby optimizing its performance and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the fuel valve comprises a venturi valve system
Implementation Method 2
the fuel valve comprises a float valve system including a float member connected to an actuator
Data Source
AI summary
A fuel system for a motor vehicle includes a fuel pump having a first pump outlet connectable to an engine fuel inlet and a second pump outlet, a fuel pump module including an internal volume, a fuel pump module outlet is arranged in the internal volume fluidically connected to the second pump outlet, and a fuel valve is fluidically connected to the second pump outlet. The fuel valve is operable to fluidically isolate the fuel pump from the fuel pump module when fuel in the internal volume reaches a selected fuel level.