Link Arm Misfueling Prevention Apparatus

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing misfueling prevention apparatuses using annular members made of plastic face limitations in mechanical strength and durability due to elastic deformation, leading to increased friction resistance and impaired functionality over time.

Innovation Solution

A misfueling prevention apparatus utilizing a base with a through hole, first and second link arms, and a flapper mechanism that discriminates between fuel filler nozzles based on outer diameter without relying on elastic deformation of a plastic annular ring, featuring a modular design with adjustable spacers for compatibility with various fuel filler pipes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If an annular ring made of plastic is used for elastic deformation to discriminate nozzle size, then the discrimination function is achieved, but the mechanical strength and durability are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenozzle discrimination functionVSAvoidmechanical strength of annular ring

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the plastic annular ring's elastic deformation mechanism with a metallic link arm mechanism. The link arm uses rigid metal structure with pivot joints to achieve the same discrimination function through mechanical leverage rather than elastic deformation, thereby maintaining high mechanical strength and durability while preserving the nozzle size discrimination capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention uses a composite structure combining metal link arms with plastic components (flapper, base). The metal link arm provides structural strength and durability, while the plastic components provide functional features like sealing and actuation. This composite approach resolves the contradiction by assigning different material properties to different functional requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Adaptability or versatility

If an annular ring made of plastic is used for elastic deformation, then nozzle discrimination is achieved, but friction resistance increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenozzle discrimination functionVSAvoidfriction resistance during nozzle insertion

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the plastic annular ring's elastic deformation mechanism with a metallic link arm mechanism. The link arm uses rigid metal structure with pivot joints to achieve the same discrimination function through mechanical leverage rather than elastic deformation, thereby maintaining high mechanical strength and durability while preserving the nozzle size discrimination capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Strength

If the annular ring is made thick to prevent breaking, then structural integrity is improved, but friction resistance increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural integrity of annular ringVSAvoidfriction resistance during nozzle insertion

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the plastic annular ring's elastic deformation mechanism with a metallic link arm mechanism. The link arm uses rigid metal structure with pivot joints to achieve the same discrimination function through mechanical leverage rather than elastic deformation, thereby maintaining high mechanical strength and durability while preserving the nozzle size discrimination capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Enhances mechanical strength and durability while reducing friction resistance, ensuring accurate nozzle discrimination and improved operational feel during refueling, with a modular design that simplifies installation and reduces manufacturing costs.

Implementation Method 1

both ends of which are engaged to the first link arm and the second link arm, biases the first link arm and the second link arm to the closing direction

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9505302B2Misfueling preventing apparatus

Publication Date: 2016.11.29 ASTEER

AI summary

A misfueling preventing apparatus discriminates a fuel filler nozzle based on an outer diameter of the fuel filler nozzle. The misfueling preventing apparatus includes a base, a first link arm, a second link arm, a flapper and a stopper. The first link arm has a first trigger projection. The second link arm has a second trigger projection. If the fuel filler nozzle of light diesel oil pushes the first trigger projection and the second trigger projection, the first link arm and second link arm swing to a direction to which the first link arm and second link arm open to, placing the flapper in an openable state.