Modular Fuel Delivery System with Integrated Pump and Regulator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fuel delivery systems for small utility engines are limited by the use of in-tank turbine fuel pumps, which restrict universality across different engines and vehicles, and in-line fuel pumps require additional components like pressure regulators and return lines, complicating design and increasing power consumption.
Innovation Solution
An integrated, modular fuel delivery system with a subsidiary fuel tank and a fuel pump and pressure regulator housed within a single module, eliminating the need for a return line and reducing power consumption by using a high-pressure turbine fuel pump.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If in-tank turbine fuel pumps are used, then fuel delivery efficiency is improved, but universality of application across different engines and vehicles is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel pump is segmented from the fuel tank, transitioning from an integrated in-tank design to a separate in-line configuration. This allows the pump to be universally applied across different engines and vehicles without being constrained by specific tank designs, while maintaining effective fuel delivery through the separate mounting configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The in-line fuel pump design provides universality by being applicable to a wide variety of different engine types and vehicle platforms. The standardized mounting and connection interfaces enable the same pump configuration to serve multiple applications, contrasting with the engine-specific in-tank pumps.
2Stress or pressure
If in-line fuel pumps with oversized flow capacity are used, then high pressure for EFI system is achieved, but fuel flow exceeds required capacity by three to eight times
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses parameter changes by adjusting the pump's operational characteristics through a controlled return path. The pump operates at high capacity to generate sufficient pressure, while the return line regulates the actual fuel flow to the engine, preventing excessive flow while maintaining the pressure head needed for EFI operation.
3Stress or pressure
If pressure regulator and return line are added to in-line fuel pump system, then fuel pressure is regulated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure regulator and return line functionality are merged into a compact integrated assembly that mounts directly on the engine. This combination reduces the number of separate components and simplifies installation compared to traditional distributed arrangements, while still providing the necessary pressure regulation capability.
4Stress or pressure
If return line is added to fuel system, then pressure regulation is enabled, but fuel tank integrity and reliability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The return line configuration is extracted to eliminate the need for penetrating the fuel tank wall. The system uses an external return path that bypasses the tank structure, thereby maintaining fuel tank integrity and avoiding compromises to its reliability while still enabling pressure regulation functionality.
5Adaptability or versatility
If in-line fuel pump is used instead of in-tank pump, then universality of fuel tank/pump system is enhanced, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic control of the return line to optimize power consumption. By dynamically regulating the return flow based on actual engine demand, the system allows the pump to operate at lower average power levels while maintaining the ability to deliver high flow when needed, thus reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuously operating at maximum capacity.
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 modular system simplifies implementation across various engines and vehicles, enhances universality, reduces power demand, and facilitates easy conversion from carbureted to EFI systems without compromising fuel tank integrity or reliability.
Implementation Method 1
turbine style fuel pumps to provide fuel to internal combustion engines
Implementation Method 2
pressure regulator housed within the module
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated, modular system for delivering fuel to an engine component in an engine having a fuel tank, as well as engine employing such a system, and methods of implementing such a system, are disclosed herein. In at least one embodiment, the system includes a housing defining a chamber, an in inlet, and a passage leading to an outlet, the inlet receiving fuel from the tank and directing the fuel into the chamber, the outlet capable of providing fuel from the passage toward the engine component. The system also includes both a pump and a pressure regulator supported within the housing, with the pump having a pump input and output, and the pressure regulator having a regulator input and output. The pump input and regulator output are in communication with the chamber and the pump output and regulator input are in communication with the passage.