Refueling Coupling With Dry-Break Member for Pressure and Gravity Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refueling systems for vehicles are expensive, bulky, and introduce a weight penalty due to the need for both pressure and gravity refueling nozzles, which are not efficiently integrated.
Innovation Solution
A combined pressure and gravity refueling coupling with a displaceable dry-break member and a subsidiary member that allows for seamless transition between pressure and gravity refueling, using an annular member with a fitting for pressure nozzles and a dry-break mechanism that includes a pivotally connected subsidiary member for gravity nozzles, along with an air vent system for back-pressure management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate pressure and gravity refueling nozzles are provided, then both refueling modes are supported, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines both pressure refueling and gravity refueling capabilities into a single coupling structure. The coupling includes a dry-break member with a seal that can accommodate both pressure nozzles (which displace the dry-break member) and gravity nozzles (which pass through the aperture). This merging eliminates the need for separate couplings for each refueling mode, directly resolving the technical contradiction by maintaining versatility while reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling is designed as a universal interface that can accept both pressure refueling nozzles and gravity refueling nozzles. The dry-break member with its aperture and sealing mechanism provides multi-functional capability: it seals against pressure nozzles when displaced, and allows gravity nozzles to pass through while maintaining fuel flow control. This universal design enables a single coupling to perform multiple refueling functions, addressing the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate pressure and gravity refueling nozzles are provided, then both refueling modes are supported, but weight penalty increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging both refueling mode capabilities into a single coupling assembly, the patent eliminates the weight of duplicate components. Instead of having separate pressure and gravity couplings, the design integrates both functions into one unit, directly reducing the overall weight while maintaining full refueling mode compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal coupling design allows a single multi-functional component to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized components. The dry-break member's ability to handle both pressure and gravity refueling modes means one coupling assembly performs the work of what would otherwise require separate assemblies, thereby reducing total weight while preserving adaptability.
3Device complexity
If a single coupling handles both pressure and gravity refueling, then weight and complexity are reduced, but sealing effectiveness may compromise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different sealing characteristics to different regions of the dry-break member. The outer periphery includes a seal that contacts the coupling bore for pressure refueling, while the aperture includes a separate sealing arrangement for gravity refueling. This local differentiation of sealing qualities ensures that each refueling mode has its own optimized sealing interface, maintaining high reliability despite the unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The dry-break member is designed to dynamically change its sealing configuration based on the refueling mode. During pressure refueling, the dry-break member is displaced from its initial position, engaging the outer seal. During gravity refueling, the member remains in its initial position, allowing the aperture seal to function. This dynamic adaptation ensures effective sealing for both modes without compromising reliability.
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 enables efficient and cost-effective refueling by allowing a single coupling to handle both pressure and gravity refueling, reducing weight and complexity while maintaining effective sealing and fuel flow management.
Implementation Method 1
the main and subsidiary members are adapted for sealing of the subsidiary member to the main member
Implementation Method 2
the pivot is provided with a spring for returning the subsidiary member to its normally closed position
Implementation Method 3
an air vent having a float arranged to close as the tank fills for causing back-pressure in the connector when the tank is full
Data Source
AI summary
A refueling coupling has an annular fitting having a bore, bayonet lugs and slots suiting it for connection to a pressure filling nozzle. A dry-break member is provided within the annular fitting, normally sealing to it with the aid of an O-ring seal. When the pressure filling nozzle is fitted, the dry-break member is depressed allowing fuel to flow. The dry-break member has a central aperture, normally closed by a side pivoted flap. The pivot is at a pin carried in lugs on the underside of a central disc having the aperture. The flap has a finger projecting between the lugs and having the pin passing through it. A spring is carried on the pin and normally biases the flap into its closed position parallel with the disc.