Fuel Tank Closure Element with Mechanical Pressure Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fuel tank closure systems fail to effectively manage excess pressure and vacuum conditions, leading to difficulties in refueling hybrid vehicles where the internal-combustion engine is not operational, potentially causing fuel spillage and environmental damage.
Innovation Solution
A closure element with a mechanical pressure sensor and indicating dial that informs the operator of excess pressure or vacuum conditions, preventing accidental opening and featuring a mechanical locking mechanism to ensure safe operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical locking mechanism is implemented to prevent opening under excess pressure, then safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The closure element is divided into functional segments: a pressure sensing component that detects excess pressure or vacuum conditions, and a mechanical locking mechanism that responds to pressure changes. This segmentation allows the system to address safety concerns through specialized sub-components rather than a monolithic complex design.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure sensor provides advance warning of pressure conditions before opening is attempted. The indicating dial communicates pressure status to the operator in advance, preventing accidental opening attempts under unsafe conditions and eliminating the need for overly complex interlocking mechanisms.
2Reliability
If pressure monitoring and locking mechanisms are added, then refueling safety is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The indicating dial provides continuous visual feedback to the operator about pressure conditions within the fuel tank. This simple feedback mechanism guides operator decision-making without requiring complex controls or procedures, maintaining ease of operation while improving safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure element automatically responds to pressure conditions through its mechanical locking mechanism without requiring active operator intervention. The system self-regulates based on pressure sensor input, reducing the cognitive load and operational complexity for the user.
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 solution allows operators to safely determine if the fuel tank is ready for opening by visual cues, preventing accidental pressure drops and ensuring secure closure, thus enhancing refueling safety and reducing environmental risks.
Implementation Method 1
a mechanical pressure sensor which, as a whole, is identified by reference number 8, is arranged in the foot part 1b
Implementation Method 2
an indicating dial 4, which can be rotated by way of a pin displaceable against spring force under the influence of the pressure existing in the tank
Implementation Method 3
a pin displaceable against spring force under the influence of the pressure existing in the tank
Data Source
AI summary
A closure element is provided for a fuel tank of a motor vehicle, in which tank an at least slight excess pressure and/or vacuum may exist. An indication is provided on the closure element, by which indication the operator is informed of the presence of excess pressure and/or vacuum in the tank. The indication takes place mechanically by way of a mechanical pressure sensor, specifically with respect to the presence of essentially ambient pressure or excess pressure by use of different colors. For this purpose, an indicating dial can be provided in the closure element, which indicating dial can be rotated by way of a pin displaceable against a spring force under the influence of the pressure existing in the tank. A jacket segment being recognizable by the operator through a window.