Spherical Panel Closure for Compact Vehicle Filler Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closing systems for vehicle supply systems, such as fuel filler pipes, are cumbersome and occupy excessive space due to their design, limiting their compactness and flexibility in vehicle integration.
Innovation Solution
A closing system featuring a spherical segment frame with radially arranged guides and curved panels controlled by an electric motor, allowing for a compact and efficient access mechanism that reduces overall dimensions and enables remote operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If flat panels are moved on a radial plane to seal the filler pipe, then the closing function is achieved, but the system occupies excessive space around the closing mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies spheroidality by replacing the traditional flat radial panel movement with curved panels that follow a spherical arc trajectory. The panels are shaped as spherical segments and move along curved guides on the spherical closure body, enabling compact closure while reducing the horizontal space required compared to flat radial movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from two-dimensional radial panel movement to three-dimensional spherical arc movement. The panels move along curved paths on the surface of a sphere, utilizing the third dimension (vertical curvature) to achieve closure, thereby reducing the footprint area occupied by the mechanism.
2Reliability
If traditional diaphragm closure mechanism is used, then access to supply system can be sealed, but the overall dimensions of the system are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by placing the curved panels inside the spherical closure body structure. The panels are positioned within the spherical framework and move along internal curved guides, allowing the closure mechanism to be compactly integrated within the spherical boundary rather than extending outward.
Solution Approach 2:
The spherical geometry of the closure body and the curved shape of the panels enable a compact three-dimensional arrangement that achieves sealing while minimizing overall dimensions, compared to traditional flat-panel diaphragm mechanisms that require larger planar space.
Data Source
AI summary
A closing system is provided which includes a frame adapted to be mounted on a vehicle supply system, the frame being shaped as a spherical segment and extending between a first circular section and a second circular section. The frame has a plurality of first and second guides, arranged on a radially outer surface. The closing system has a plurality of curved panels, each curved panel being shaped as a spherical cap portion and constrained at a first end and a second end thereof to slide, respectively, along a first guide and a second guide between a first position, in which the curved panels jointly define an opening that allows access to the vehicle supply system, and a second position, in which the curved panels prevent access to the supply system. Control means control movement of the curved panels between the first and second positions.