Integrated Fuel System Assembly for Hydrogen Vehicle Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional fuel systems face challenges in securing limited mounting space and simplifying assembly operations due to the separate installation of multiple parts in the supply lines of hydrogen tanks to fuel cells, complicating the assembly process.

Innovation Solution

Integration of a pressure reducing valve and a pressure sensor into a single assembly that functions as a pipe fitting in the supply line, allowing for improved mountability and assembly ease, with additional sensors and valves optionally integrated for enhanced functionality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple parts (pressure reducing valve, pressure sensor, leakage check port) are installed separately in the supply line, then each part can be independently selected and replaced, but the mounting space requirement increases and assembly operations become complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveIndependent part selection and replacementVSAvoidMounting space
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the pressure reducing valve, pressure sensor, and leakage check port into a single integrated assembly that functions as a pipe fitting. This merging reduces the number of separate components to be mounted, thereby decreasing the total mounting space required while maintaining the functional capabilities of each individual part.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a pipe fitting for fluid flow, a pressure reducing valve for pressure control, a pressure sensor for pressure detection, and a leakage check port for system verification. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mounting locations for each component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of repair

If multiple parts are installed separately in the supply line, then each part can be independently maintained, but assembly operations become complicated and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveIndependent part maintenanceVSAvoidAssembly operations
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By integrating multiple parts into a single assembly, the patent reduces the number of assembly operations required during installation. Instead of separately mounting the pressure reducing valve, pressure sensor, and leakage check port, the integrated assembly is installed as one unit, significantly simplifying the assembly process and reducing installation time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Area of stationary object

If parts are integrated into a single assembly, then mounting space is reduced and assembly operations are simplified, but the complexity of the integrated component increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveMounting spaceVSAvoidIntegrated component complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The integrated assembly is designed to perform multiple functions within a single component structure. The assembly includes a body that houses the pressure reducing valve mechanism, incorporates a pressure sensor for detection, and provides a leakage check port. This multi-functional design achieves space efficiency while managing complexity through functional integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 integrated assembly reduces the complexity and time required for piping assembly, improves mountability, and allows for effective leakage checks, while also reducing the risk of damage to high-pressure tanks during collisions.

Implementation Method 1

a first pressure sensor adapted to detect primary or secondary pressure of the pressure reducing valve

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure detection:

Implementation Method 2

a pressure reducing valve inserted in the supply line and adapted to reduce pressure of the fuel gas

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure reduction:

Data Source

PatentEP2457762B1Fuel system and vehicle
Publication Date: 2014.12.10 TOYOTA JIDOSHA KK
  • EP2457762B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2457762B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2457762B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

[Problem to be Solved] The present invention is to provide a fuel system and a vehicle which can improve mountability and assembly ease of parts. [Solution] A fuel system comprises a fuel storage source; a filling line adapted to connect the fuel storage source to a filling port; a supply line adapted to connect the fuel storage source to a fuel destination; a pressure reducing valve installed in the supply line; a first pressure sensor adapted to detect primary or secondary pressure of the pressure reducing valve; and an assembly which is an integration of the pressure reducing valve and the first pressure sensor. The assembly functions as a pipe fitting inserted in the supply line and has a line branch point for the supply line.