Integrated Vent Valve for Liquid Tank Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid tank ventilation systems for motor vehicles are complex and require numerous elements and connections, increasing assembly difficulties, costs, and risks of errors due to their multiplicity of functions and extensive piping.
Innovation Solution
A compact vent valve integrating automatic closing, overfill prevention, pressure release, and bypass functions, allowing all functions to be performed by a single, easily assembled valve that operates even when the venting system is closed, with elastic means and orifices to manage pressure and gas flow efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate devices are used to provide ROV, ISR, OPR, and bypass functions, then each function can be reliably performed, but the device complexity and number of connections increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines four separate ventilation functions (ROV, ISR, OPR, and bypass) into a single integrated vent valve assembly. The enclosure houses multiple orifices and closing elements that work together to provide all functions through one device, eliminating the need for separate valves and reducing the number of connections required.
Solution Approach 2:
The vent valve is designed as a universal device that simultaneously performs multiple functions: roll-over valve (ROV) function through a first orifice and closing element, overfill prevention (ISR) function through a second orifice and closing element, over-pressure release (OPR) function through a third orifice and closing element, and bypass function through a fourth orifice. This multi-functional design resolves the contradiction by providing reliable performance of all functions while maintaining device simplicity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If numerous pipes and connections are used to connect ventilation elements, then all functions can be implemented, but assembly difficulty and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple ventilation functions into a single valve assembly that connects to the tank through one connection point. The enclosure contains all necessary orifices and closing elements internally, eliminating the need for multiple external pipes and connections, thereby simplifying assembly while maintaining full functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If more connections and pipes are used in the ventilation system, then all ventilation functions can be achieved, but the risk of malfunctions such as leaks and clogs increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces the number of potential failure points by combining multiple functions into one sealed enclosure. With fewer external connections and pipes required, the system has reduced exposure to leaks and clogs while maintaining comprehensive ventilation coverage through the integrated orifices and closing elements.
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 simplifies the assembly process, reduces manufacturing and assembly costs, and minimizes the risk of errors by integrating multiple functions into a single valve, ensuring reliable operation and safety for fuel tanks during various stress conditions.
Implementation Method 1
said closing element being subjected to the action of elastic means
Data Source
Figure 1~2b
Figure 2c~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a vent valve (1) for a liquid tank comprising a chamber (10) incorporating: - means (22, 24, 26) for providing function of automatically closing the valve if the tank turns over, or "ROV" function; - means (44, 46) for providing an overfill prevention function preventing the tank from being filled beyond a predetermined level, or "ISR" function; - means (28, 30, 32) for allowing gases to escape to the external atmosphere in the event of an overpressure exceeding a predetermined threshold, or "OPR" function; - means (36, 38, 40, 42) to allow air to enter the tank when the pressure obtaining within the tank is below atmospheric pressure, or "bypass" function.