Fuel Tank Valve Assembly With Spring-Latched First-Fill Venting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fuel tank valve systems fail to efficiently vent air during the initial fueling event without requiring power, leading to potential vapor buildup and inefficiencies in hybrid vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A valve assembly with a spring latch mechanism that holds the poppet in an intermediate-open position during the first-time fueling event, allowing air expulsion without power, and transitions to normal operation with actuator control post-fueling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a traditional valve system is used, then the structure is simple, but the valve cannot efficiently vent air during initial fueling without power
Solution Approach 1:
The spring latch is pre-configured to automatically engage with the poppet during initial fueling, creating a preliminary mechanical arrangement that enables power-free air venting before the fueling process begins. This preliminary setup allows the valve to function automatically during the first fueling event without requiring external power activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve system transitions from a static, power-dependent state to a dynamic, multi-position system where the poppet can move between closed, intermediate-open (held by spring latch), and fully open positions. This dynamic capability enables the valve to adapt its opening degree based on operational requirements, improving air venting efficiency during initial fueling.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If the valve remains closed during initial fueling, then vapor buildup is prevented, but air cannot be expelled efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The spring latch mechanism applies localized mechanical force at a specific engagement point on the poppet, creating a controlled intermediate-open position that selectively allows air passage while maintaining vapor containment. This local quality approach enables differentiated flow control for different gas types during the fueling process.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring latch acts as an intermediary mechanical element between the closed valve state and the fully open state, providing a intermediate holding position that permits controlled air venting. This intermediary mechanism mediates between the conflicting requirements of preventing vapor buildup and enabling efficient air expulsion.
3Ease of operation
If power is required to open the valve, then operation is controlled, but the system becomes dependent on power during initial fueling
Solution Approach 1:
The spring latch mechanism is designed to automatically engage with the poppet during initial fueling without requiring external power input. The mechanical spring-loaded system self-activates based on pressure differential and geometric alignment, enabling the valve to service itself during the critical initial fueling event without dependency on electrical or electronic power sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces power-dependent electronic actuators with a purely mechanical spring latch system for the initial opening operation. This mechanical substitution eliminates power dependency during initial fueling while maintaining controlled operation through the mechanical engagement and disengagement of the latch with the poppet.
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
Ensures efficient air expulsion during initial fueling, prevents vapor buildup, and maintains normal operation by isolating the fuel tank from the engine in hybrid vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
A spring latch is fixed to the cage and is releasably engageable with the poppet. When engaged with the poppet, the spring latch maintains the poppet in an intermediate-open position
Data Source
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AI summary
A valve assembly for a fuel tank includes a cage having a seat that defines an aperture and a spring latch that holds a poppet in an intermediate-open position, which spaces the poppet from a seat to allow fluid communication through an aperture. A method of operating a valve assembly due to a first-time fueling event is disclosed.