Fuel Tank Carrier Guide for Single-Opening Component Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Marine fuel tanks require multiple access panels to comply with regulations due to the need for accessible fuel components, increasing manufacturing costs and aesthetic concerns, as traditional coupling methods lead to fuel vapor leakage and emissions.
Innovation Solution
Positioning fuel components inside the fuel tank cavity using a carrier and guide system, eliminating the need for external couplings and allowing access through a single opening, thereby reducing the number of access panels required.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If fuel components are coupled to external surfaces of the fuel tank, then accessibility for inspection and servicing is improved, but the number of access panels increases leading to higher manufacturing costs and aesthetic issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fuel components (grade valve, fuel fill apparatus, vapor recovery valve) into a single access panel location. The carrier assembly integrates multiple components that can be accessed through one opening, eliminating the need for separate access panels at different locations on the fuel tank.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent repositions fuel components from external coupling to internal placement within the fuel tank cavity. By moving components into the third dimension (inside the tank), the design eliminates the need for multiple external access points while maintaining accessibility through a single opening.
2Reliability
If multiple access panels are used to access fuel components, then regulatory compliance is improved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple access functions into a single access panel, reducing the total number of panels from multiple to one. This consolidation maintains compliance with accessibility requirements while significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fuel components are positioned on different ends of the fuel tank, then functional requirements are satisfied, but the number of access panels increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the spatial distribution issue by moving components into the internal volume of the fuel tank. The carrier assembly allows components to be positioned within the cavity while maintaining accessibility through a single opening, effectively using the internal three-dimensional space to resolve the external distribution problem.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods to couple fuel components to a fuel tank are described. An example method includes forming a guide within a cavity of a fuel tank, positioning a carrier on the guide, and sliding the carrier along the guide.