Servo-Motor Fuel Hose Handling Device with Sensor Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fuel dispensing units face challenges with bulky and complex hose handling systems that require excessive force to extract and return hoses, and are not space-efficient, making them difficult to maneuver, especially in limited spaces.
Innovation Solution
A sensor-controlled device with a rocker unit and rail element that allows for smooth and flexible hose handling, using sensors to detect positions and trigger motor actions for efficient extraction and retraction, supported by a spring element for returning force, enabling space-efficient and easy hose management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a longer hose is provided to reach vehicles parked at a distance, then the hose can reach the vehicle, but the hose may land on the ground when not used and get stuck in or damaged by passing vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The hose is kept in a dynamic suspended state above the ground using a support arm and reel mechanism, allowing it to be deployed when needed and retracted when not in use, preventing ground contact and damage
Solution Approach 2:
A support arm and reel mechanism serve as intermediary structures to hold and manage the hose, preventing direct contact between the hose and ground while enabling controlled deployment and retraction
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a returning mechanism is added to prevent hose from landing on the ground, then hose damage is prevented, but the device becomes bulky and complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The support arm and reel mechanism are integrated into a single unified structure that performs both support and retraction functions, reducing overall complexity while maintaining hose protection capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The support arm serves multiple functions: supporting the hose during dispensing, guiding hose movement, and working with the reel to retract and store the hose, eliminating the need for separate dedicated components
3Extent of automation
If a spring-biased swinging arm mechanism is used for hose retraction, then automatic hose returning is achieved, but the device becomes bulky and requires extensive space
Solution Approach 1:
The hose is nested on the reel, which is mounted on the support arm, creating a compact nested arrangement that provides automatic retraction functionality while minimizing the space occupied by the overall device
4Extent of automation
If existing hose returning devices are used, then hose retraction is achieved, but the force required for extracting the hose from the hose housing is quite extensive
Solution Approach 1:
A sensor detects the position of the hose and provides feedback to the control unit, which automatically activates the motor to assist with hose extraction and retraction, reducing the manual force required by the user
Solution Approach 2:
A motorized system replaces the purely mechanical spring-biased retraction mechanism, using controlled motor force to assist with hose extraction and retraction, significantly reducing the manual effort required
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 provides a compact and user-friendly hose handling system that reduces the effort required for hose operation and ensures smooth handling, facilitating refueling even in tight spaces without the risk of hose damage from external vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor means comprises a first sensor arranged in the hose storage space and configured to detect the idle position the first hose guiding means, and a second sensor arranged in the hose storage space and configured to detect the working position the first hose guiding means
Implementation Method 2
supported by a spring element for returning force
Implementation Method 3
a motor connected to the second hose guiding means through a cable element
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (9) for handling at least one hose (7), which device (9) allows the at least one hose (7) to be pulled out from a front opening of a hose storage space (2) and which device is adapted to return the at least one hose (7) to the hose storage space (2). The device (9) comprises a first hose guiding means(10) and a second hose guiding means (11) movable between an idle position and a working position to control extraction and feeding in of the hose (7), a sensor means (12) arranged in hose storage space (2), a motor (13) connected to the second hose guiding (11) means through a cable element (14), and a control unit (15) connected to the sensor means (12) and to the motor (13). The invention also relates to a method for handling at least one hose (7).