Automatic Water Control; Suction Patents (Class 123/25L)
  • Patent number: 5084216
    Abstract: An apparatus provides improvement over the apparatus that provides a highly humid air into a boiler or internal combustion engine such as diesel, gasoline, and other similar engines, and improves the fuel economy and reduces the amount of the produced exhaust gases from the boiler, etc. by adding the highly humid air into the suction pipe through which it is delivered into the combustion chamber together with the mixture of the injected fuel gas and air. The highly humid air provided by the improved apparatus contains a mixture of vaporized water flow drawn by suction under the reduced pressure developed within the combustion chamber and an air flow drawn from the atmosphere, the mixture being formed by allowing the two flows to meet together and strike against each other at angles of 55 to 65 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1992
    Assignee: Nihon Vaporizer Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Ogura, Yoshihiro Ogura
  • Patent number: 4958598
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for reducing the emissions of a diesel engine. A hydrous alcohol fuel of low proof supplements the diesel fuel, particularly in high acceleration and high r.p.m. conditions. The fuel is fumigated into the airstream of the intake manifold of the engine by a fuel injector that is supplied both the alcohol fuel and air under pressure. Control apparatus begins delivery of the alcohol fuel above a selected engine r.p.m. and the amount delivered generally corresponds to engine r.p.m. Under heavy acceleration, the flow of diesel fuel is reduced and engine power is brought back up by the alcohol fuel. No alcohol fuel is used when the engine is decelerating or reducing its r.p.m.'s.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 25, 1990
    Assignee: Midwest Power Concepts, Ltd.
    Inventor: Dwayne Fosseen
  • Patent number: 4831971
    Abstract: A mehtod for mixing water and diesel fuel in a ratio between 5 and 20 Vol %, in which the liquid components are recirculated in a recirculation loop comprising an ellipsoidal vortex chamber (10) in which rotation around a longitudinal axis (9) is attained, the rotating fluid is expanded and tangentially injected in a baloon-like second vortex chamber (16) with an axis (17) normal to that of the first chamber, the open lower end of the second rotational chamber (16) is connected to fluid inlets and suction side of a recirculating pump. The outlet occurs from the equatorial plane of the second vortex chamber. The outflow rate should be at least ten times less than the flow in the recirculation loop. The mixture which have water droplets smaller than 200 nm has a consistency similar to that of fuel and can be used as fuel to diesel engines, whereby the amount of unwanted components in the exhaust gases will be reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1989
    Assignee: Harrier Inc.
    Inventors: Walter H. Ott, Roland Steinmeier, Werner Zurcher
  • Patent number: 4800848
    Abstract: A fluid injection system for injecting atomized fluids into the intake manifold of an internal combustion engine comprising: a fluid reservoir to hold a supply of fluid, means to transport the fluid to a mixer having (i) a mixing junction, (ii) a flow adjustable fluid intake port to receive the fluid and deliver it to the mixing junction, and (iii) a restricted fixed air flow intake port to deliver a predetermined approximately constant air flow into the mixing junction for atomization of the fluids, and collector means and transport the atomized fluid mixture into the intake manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1989
    Inventor: Von J. Hubbard
  • Patent number: 4708118
    Abstract: An internal combustion engine having three valves per cylinder includes a novel fuel injector that produces a heated 30% liquid/70% vapor fuel mixture at the injector's outlet. This heated fuel mixture combines with air heated to a temperature within the range of 160.degree. F. to 180.degree. F. by thermistor controlled heating elements prior to entering a combustion chamber. To help reduce pollutants and increase efficiency of the engine, a methanol/water vapor mixture is further drawn through a PCV line and combined with the air/fuel mixture prior to entering into the combustion chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1987
    Assignee: Anti-P, Inc.
    Inventor: Kelly R. Rawlings
  • Patent number: 4703728
    Abstract: A liquid dispensing device particularly suitable for automatically dispensing a lubricant to the combustion zones of an internal combustion engine. A sealed lubricant reservoir conjoins with an air and liquid blending chamber formed by a housing. The housing is sealed save for a minute air bleed aperture. An inlet to the chamber for the liquid is provided in an upper part of the housing and an outlet from the chamber provided in a lower part of the housing. The outlet is set up higher than a lower extremity of the chamber such that the outlet operates as a weir. The outlet conjoins with a turbulating device comprised of an axially adjustable pin having an external helical groove. The pin is mounted in a bore conjoining with a conduit to a required dispensing port, for example, in an inlet manifold of an engine. Inlet manifold vacuum draws lubricant from the reservoir via the air with lubricant blending chamber and the turbulating device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1987
    Inventors: Andrew L. Payne, Conrad F. Barber
  • Patent number: 4671215
    Abstract: A liquid injection system using a novel venturi injector and a novel liquid level control chamber for use in an internal combustion engine. The injection system uses water and/or a water/alcohol mix in the preferred embodiment which is pumped from a remote liquid level tank to a liquid level control chamber. A venturi injector is positioned within the internal combustion air cleaner housing to inject predetermined amounts of liquid into the carburetor of the internal combustion engine. The rushing air within the air cleaner passing through the venturi injector causes water to be pulled into the venturi and into the throat of the carburetor from the liquid level control chamber. Control means is provided in the system to control the pump to supply more liquid to the liquid level control chamber from the remote liquid tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1985
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1987
    Inventor: Kenneth F. Waechter
  • Patent number: 4589376
    Abstract: A vapor introduction system having an internal combustion engine which has an exhaust gas blow by hose connected to the intake of the engine. A fitting having a flexible hose is mounted on the cap of the windshield wiper fluid reservoir, with the hose extended to the bottom of the reservoir. A T-shaped coupling having an adjustable valve is connected with the hose to the fitting. The valve has a stem threaded into the coupling and a cone-shaped cap operable to adjust the size of the annular passage through which vapors and air flow from the windshield washer reservoir to the intake of the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1984
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1986
    Inventor: Robert V. Albertson
  • Patent number: 4557222
    Abstract: This invention is an arrangement of mechanical components that humidify the intake air (specifically, the air that mixes with fuel for combustion) of an internal combustion engine, to increase combustion efficiency and reduce poison gas emissions. The components of this invention consist of a heat collector, air pump, humidifier and ducting tubes that connect the components forming a pressurized circuit of heated, humid air. Part of the embodiment of this invention is in the designed capacities of the components related to the engine to be served. Reasons and guidelines for this are given in the Summary of the Invention. A pressurized circuit to feed the combustion mixture of an engine is the crux of this system's function. It is the means to increase the mixture's density, in all the ranges of power demand by at least the volume of humidity that is introduced into the air stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1985
    Inventor: Herbert A. Nelson
  • Patent number: 4528948
    Abstract: A performance improving means for an internal combustion engine having an intake manifold, a carburetor and a vacuum intake between the manifold and carburetor, including an upright vessel having an air inlet and an outlet opening in the upper portion, a tube connecting the vessel outlet to the engine vacuum intake, a vertical tube within the vessel communicating at the upper end with the vessel inlet opening and the lower end terminating adjacent the vessel bottom, a valve connected to the vessel inlet so that the rate of flow of air into the tube in the vessel may be adjusted, and a water emissible liquid within the vessel, air being drawn into the vessel through the valve and tube and out through the bottom of the tube bubbling upward within the liquid forming a vapor which is drawn into the engine intake manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1980
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1985
    Assignee: Atlas Investment Co.
    Inventor: Mike J. Ashmore
  • Patent number: 4526138
    Abstract: A fluid injector for internal combustion engines in which the fluid flow to the engine is indicated in the driver's compartment and in which a mixing chamber in the compartment communicates with a primary vacuum line of the engine and with a fluid reservoir. A valve is disposed between the reservoir and the chamber to prevent the flow of fluid from the reservoir when the engine is not running. A needle valve is disposed in a fluid inlet port for adjusting the volume of fluid entering the chamber. An adjustable air inlet port is disposed in the chamber, and a vacuum gauge is provided for monitoring the vacuum in the chamber. The vacuum from the primary vacuum line draws fluid into the chamber from the reservoir, where the fluid mixes with air and the mixture is drawn to the engine carburetor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1980
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1985
    Inventor: Ronald H. Cooper
  • Patent number: 4519341
    Abstract: This alcohol-water injection system first electrically heats a alcohol-water mixture to a superheated gaseous state, then utilizes the vacuum conditions in the carburetor to control the flow of the gaseous alcohol-water mixture into the intake manifold of the engine where it is mixed with gasoline and air from the carburetor to power the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1985
    Inventor: Clarence D. McGarr
  • Patent number: 4511119
    Abstract: A vapor introduction system having an internal combustion engine which has an exhaust gas blow by hose connected to the intake of the engine. A fitting having a flexible hose is mounted on the cap of the windshield wiper fluid reservoir, with the hose extended to the bottom of the reservoir. A T-shaped coupling having an adjustable valve is connected with the hose to the fitting. The valve has a stem threaded into the coupling and a cone-shaped cap operable to adjust the size of the annular passage through which vapors and air flow from the windshield washer reservoir to the intake of the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1982
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1985
    Inventor: Robert V. Albertson
  • Patent number: 4479907
    Abstract: The method and apparatus make use of the suction source which, for example, is developed in the automobile engine, and produce a vapor-and-air mixture that contains large amounts of high humidity, which is to be added to the air-and-fuel mixture, thereby enhancing the mixture ratio to a higher value than the theoretical air-and-fuel mixture. Thus, the complete combustion can be achieved, thereby improving the fuel economy and the air pollution problem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1983
    Date of Patent: October 30, 1984
    Inventor: Takashi Ogura
  • Patent number: 4476817
    Abstract: A controlled amount of a fluid (steam or water or a solution of water plus additives) is injected into an internal combustion engine to improve combustion, efficiency, and to reduce emissions. The amount of the fluid injected is controlled in response to engine need. The steam is generated by the heat produced by the engine. Combustion gas temperature is used to control the amount of steam produced by varying the fluid flow through one or more fixed or variable orifice control valves. The steam is injected in a piston engine to cool peak temperatures, to prevent detonation and pre-ignition, to smooth out hot spots, to prevent auto-ignition or dieseling, and to use the vapor energy in the expansion cycle to increase low speed torque and acceleration. The steam is used to cause full retard of the vacuum spark advance during acceleration at full load from low speed, and a large amount of steam is injected at this point in the cycle to prevent pre-ignition and detonation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1983
    Date of Patent: October 16, 1984
    Assignee: Owen, Wickersham & Erickson, P.C.
    Inventor: John E. Lindberg
  • Patent number: 4465095
    Abstract: A pressure-actuated flow control valve. A valve housing has an inlet and an outlet with first and second spaced-apart seats between them and a permanent magnet on the inlet side of the first seat, which is closed to the inlet. A ferromagnetic ball in between the seats is urged by said magnet toward the first seat to check backflow. The valve responds to pressure differential to move the ball away from the first seat and toward the second seat. Between the seats, the passage widens toward the second seat. There may be a needle valve on the outlet side of the valve enabling controlling the flow therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1982
    Date of Patent: August 14, 1984
    Assignee: Owen, Wickersham & Erickson
    Inventor: John E. Lindberg
  • Patent number: 4461245
    Abstract: A novel pump suitable for use in a water injection system of an internal combustion engine is described. The pump controls the rate of flow of water injected into the engine. The pump includes a variable pressure inducing means for pressurizing the water contained in the pump. The variable pressure inducing means is responsive to negative back pressure developed in the intake manifold of the engine and varies the pressure of the water in accordance with changes in the negative back pressure of the manifold. As the negative back pressure decreases, the pressure of the water increases which in turn increases the flow rate of fluid from the pump into the engine. There is also disclosed a pressure sensitive nozzle for controlling the flow of fluid exiting from the nozzle as a function of fluid pressure. The nozzle includes an auxiliary fluid flow path through the nozzle that has an inlet opening of variable size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1982
    Date of Patent: July 24, 1984
    Inventor: Michael Vinokur
  • Patent number: 4448170
    Abstract: A system for injecting controlled amounts of water into the fuel intake to the cylinders in proportional response to the pressure in the engine's exhaust manifold. First conduit means, preferably including an extended surface heat sink and a length of flexible, plastic tubing, communicate the exhaust manifold pressure to the upper surface of a supply of water in an enclosed container. A lower part of the container is connected by second conduit means to a point in the fuel intake system, preferably in the air inlet to the carburetor. An adjustable throttling valve is interposed in the second conduit means for selective control of the relation of water flow to exhaust manifold pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 15, 1984
    Inventor: Arthur C. O'Hara
  • Patent number: 4448153
    Abstract: An internal combustion engine is shown having an intake manifold and carburetor to which water is injected or sprayed by an electrically powered pump receiving water from a reservoir; switches responsive to engine temperature, engine oil pressure and engine intake manifold vacuum serve to determine whether the circuitry for energizing the pump will be opened or closed; a valve member responsive to the intake manifold vacuum serves to permit a greater rate of flow of the water to the engine upon the manifold vacuum decreasing to a predetermined magnitude.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 15, 1984
    Assignee: Colt Industries Operating Corp
    Inventor: Robert J. Miller
  • Patent number: 4442802
    Abstract: An auxiliary apparatus for injecting water into the intake manifold of an automotive internal combustion engine at an adjustable visible rate that is related to the number of cylinders of the engine to achieve increased mileage from the vehicle and power output from the engine, eliminate pinging and Dieseling, minimize build up of carbon around the valves of the engine, results in the engine operating at a lower temperature, and allows the use of low octane fuel without detrimental results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1982
    Date of Patent: April 17, 1984
    Inventors: Earl H. Cook, Norman E. Booth
  • Patent number: 4434748
    Abstract: Water under pressure is delivered to an air/fuel induction passage of an internal combustion engine under control of a three-way spool valve whose water conveying passages are completely isolated from actuating air passages by dynamic elastic seals on the valve spool. The valve is spring-biased to a water bypass position and is activated by engine manifold pressure to deliver water when the engine is running.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1982
    Date of Patent: March 6, 1984
    Inventor: Bernard C. Smelser
  • Patent number: 4430964
    Abstract: Fuel additive fluid is induced at two locations relative to the throttle valve of an atomizing carburetor. A first stream of fluid is induced at an upstream position located at or upstream of the throttle valve such that the throttle valve can be closed to block the passageway from the upstream position to the combustion chamber and thereby regulate the flow of fluid therebetween. A second stream of additive fluid is induced at a position downstream of the throttle valve, from which position there is an uninterrupted passageway to the combustion chamber. The fluid is delivered to both positions from a single compartment of a heat exchange device wherein waste engine heat is transfered to the fluid prior to induction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1981
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1984
    Inventor: Kenneth M. Coppock
  • Patent number: 4424676
    Abstract: An improved turbocharger system for a diesel engine includes a turbocharger driven by the exhaust gases of the engine. Air is compressed by the turbocharger prior to admission to the engine intake manifold. An auxiliary fuel tank filled with an alcohol and water mixture is pressurized by compressed air from a line connected to the turbocharger outlet. An auxiliary fuel line connects the fuel take to the intake manifold. So long as the auxiliary tank pressure is below a threshold pressure, a control valve maintains the auxiliary fuel line in closed condition. Upon exceeding the threshold pressure, the valve opens and the water and alcohol mixture is driven by an auxiliary pump and injected into the intake manifold. The outlet pressure of the turbocharger controls the initiation and quantity of fuel provided from the auxiliary fuel tank to the intake manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1981
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1984
    Assignee: M & W Gear Company
    Inventor: Elmo R. Meiners
  • Patent number: 4418654
    Abstract: A fuel supplement supplying device for an internal combustion engine to add a liquid additive such as water, methanol, or the like into the air being introduced prior to be mixed with a fuel is disclosed. The device includes a hollow vaporizing head of porous material disposed within the induction duct leading to the combustion chamber of the internal combustion engine to define a constricted annular zone between the head and the induction duct. The liquid additive as above is fed from a reservoir via a feed line to the vaporizing head where the same is subjected to the negative pressure in response to a vacuum developed in the induction duct upon operation of the engine to whereby be sucked or seeped out through the porous wall of the vaporizing head into the stream of the air passing through said constricted annular zone. The liquid additive thus seeped out is vaporized on the surface of the head in the passing air to moisten the introducing air prior to being mixed with fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1982
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1983
    Inventor: Kodo Keiun
  • Patent number: 4417547
    Abstract: A fluid injection system for an internal combustion engine such as a spark-ignition engine in which an injection nozzle injects a finely divided spray of fluid, such as water or a water solution, into the engine in response to a flow of atomizing air. The nozzle is connected to a fluid supply reservoir and to an air compressor for supplying air to the nozzle at a rate in direct proportion to engine speed to induce the flow of fluid through the nozzle. A pressure responsive flow control device is provided that is responsive to engine load, as manifested by the pressure in the intake manifold for controlling the flow of air to the nozzle, and therefore the discharge of fluid from the nozzle. The pressure of air supplied by the compressor to the nozzle is varied in response to variations of the pressure in the exhaust manifold of the engine. As a result, the flow of atomizing air to the nozzle, and therefore the rate of fluid injection, is varied in response to variations in engine speed and in engine load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1981
    Date of Patent: November 29, 1983
    Assignee: Goodman System Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Toronta P. Goodman, Bruce W. Everling
  • Patent number: 4414924
    Abstract: An improved supplemental air flow and water injection system for internal combustion engines includes an air and water mixing chamber (24, 96) the contents of which are delivered to the intake fuel manifold of an internal combustion engine. Water is delivered from a storage reservoir (36) to one inlet opening (106) of the mixing chamber, and supplemental air is delivered to the chamber through a normally spring opened, pneumatic check valve (84, 110). The valve and the mixing chamber inlets and outlets are arranged physically so that at low negative pressures at the input manifold the air flow aspirates water into the mixing chamber (24, 96), but so that water is drawn into the chamber by a suction at higher negative pressures in the fuel inlet manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1981
    Date of Patent: November 15, 1983
    Inventor: Hugh H. Harren
  • Patent number: 4411224
    Abstract: A fluid injection system for a turbocharged internal combustion engine such as a spark-ignition engine in which an injection nozzle injects a finely divided spray of fluid, such as water or a water solution, into the engine in response to a flow of atomizing air. The nozzle is connected to a fluid supply reservoir and to the outlet line of a compressor which receives the air/fuel mixture from the carburetor and supplies the mixture to the nozzle to induce the flow of fluid through the nozzle. The compressor is driven by the flow of exhaust gases from the exhaust manifold so that the flow of atomizing air to the nozzle, and therefore the rate of fluid injection, is varied in response to variations in engine load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1981
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1983
    Assignee: The Goodman System Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Toronta P. Goodman
  • Patent number: 4409931
    Abstract: A controlled amount of a fluid (steam or water or a solution of water plus additives) is injected into an internal combustion engine to improve combustion, efficiency, and to reduce emissions. The amount of the fluid injected is controlled in response to engine need. The steam is generated by the heat produced by the engine. Combustion gas temperature is used to control the amount of steam produced by varying the fluid flow through one or more fixed or variable orifice control valves. The steam is injected in a piston engine to cool peak temperatures, to prevent detonation and pre-ignition, to smooth out hot spots, to prevent auto-ignition or dieseling, and to use the vapor energy in the expansion cycle to increase low speed torque and acceleration. The steam is used to cause full retard of the vacuum spark advance during acceleration at full load from low speed, and a large amount of steam is injected at this point in the cycle to prevent pre-ignition and detonation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1980
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1983
    Assignee: Owen, Wickersham & Erickson
    Inventor: John E. Lindberg
  • Patent number: 4406255
    Abstract: A fluid injection system for an internal combustion engine such as a spark-ignition engine in which an injection nozzle injects a finely divided spray of fluid, such as water or a water solution, into the engine in response to a flow of atomizing air. The nozzle is connected to a fluid supply reservoir and to the outlet line of an air-injection pump that is connected to an electronic control circuit which includes a detonation sensor coupled to the intake manifold. The electronic circuit operates the pump in response to detonation of the fuel charge in the combustion chamber by virtue of its connection to the detonation sensor. As a result, the flow of atomizing air to the nozzle and therefore the rate and magnitude of water injection is responsive to fuel detonation. An inductive pickup can also be provided that is coupled to the ignition system of the engine and connected to the electronic circuit so that the pump is also operated in response to engine speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1981
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1983
    Assignee: The Goodman System Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Toronta P. Goodman
  • Patent number: 4401059
    Abstract: A fluid injection system for an internal combustion engine such as a spark-ignition engine in which an injection nozzle injects a finely divided spray of fluid, such as water or a water solution, into the engine in response to a flow of atomizing air. The nozzle is connected to a fluid supply reservoir and to the outlet line of an air compressor for supplying air to the nozzle to induce the flow of fluid through the nozzle. A pressure responsive flow control device is provided that is responsive to engine load, as manifested by the pressure in the intake manifold, for controlling the flow of air to the nozzle, and therefore the discharge of fluid from the nozzle. As a result, the flow of atomizing air to the nozzle, and therefore the rate of fluid injection, is varied in response to variations in engine load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1981
    Date of Patent: August 30, 1983
    Assignee: Goodman System Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Toronta P. Goodman, Bruce Everling
  • Patent number: 4398506
    Abstract: A system for improving the combustion efficiency of an internal combustion engine having means for supply fuel and primary air for combustion in said engine and a valve for controlling the flow of at least the primary air into the engine, said system including means for introducing liquid in fine particle or vapour form into the primary air stream and means for drawing air treated by said liquid introducing means into the primary air stream at a position immediately down stream of the primary air controlling valve of the engine together with valve means for controlling the flow of said treated air in response to the level of vacuum produced by said engine whereby the valve means is closed when the engine is idling and is open when the engine is operating at a speed above the idling speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1981
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1983
    Inventor: Thomas M. Cosway
  • Patent number: 4397268
    Abstract: The present moisturizer for air going into a combustion process has a venturi passageway through a liquid permeable, porous, open-ended, annular body surrounded by liquid such as water and a valve in the venturi passageway. The valve is spring-biased toward the air inlet end of the venturi passageway to provide a maximum flow restriction at low volume demand. The valve deflects air outward against the inside wall of the porous body which defines the venturi passageway for the purpose of enhancing the withdrawal of moisture from the porous body, particularly at low volume demands. At progressively higher volume demands, the valve is displaced by the air toward the air outlet end of the venturi passageway to enlarge the effective open area of the passageway around the valve. Preferably, the valve operates to keep the air velocity through the venturi passageway substantially constant at different air flow demands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1981
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1983
    Inventor: Charles L. Brown
  • Patent number: 4391229
    Abstract: A steam injection apparatus for an internal combustion engine having an exhaust system, a carburetor and an engine vacuum line, the apparatus including a reservoir of liquid water, a conduit communicating with the reservoir and a heater coil of metallic tubing. The heater coil has an inlet which communicates with the conduit and an outlet which communicates with the vacuum line. The coil is placed in heat-receiving relation to the engine exhaust system for heating water in the coil. The coil has a cross-section that is insufficient to allow complete vaporization of the water in the coil, and the water is substantially vaporized within the vacuum line for introduction into the engine in a vaporized state. An air inlet is connected to the conduit at a tee fitting for mixing air with water from the reservoir for regulating flow to the heater coil. A threaded member is placed within resilient tubing, and provides an air passage through its threads and restricts air flow through the tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1980
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1983
    Inventor: Larry G. Turner
  • Patent number: 4385593
    Abstract: Alcohol and water are mixed as liquids in a volume ratio of water to alcohol in the range 0.3-1.0 to 1. The liquid mixture is heated in heat exchanging relation with the exhaust conduit of a gasoline operated internal combustion engine, to convert the mixture to a gaseous state which is then combined with a mixture of gasoline and air for introduction into the engine. The water-alcohol mixture is 3-14 vol. % of the gasoline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1983
    Assignee: The Chemithon Corporation
    Inventor: Richard J. Brooks
  • Patent number: 4364370
    Abstract: An apparatus and method of introducing a fluid, as water, alcohol, or a mixture of water and alcohol, into intake air of an internal combustion engine. An electric motor drives a pump that delivers fluid under pressure to a nozzle mounted on the cover of an air cleaner above the air inlet of the carburetor. The electric energy supplied to the electric motor is modulated in a manner to operate the motor so that the pump discharges fluid at a rate that maintains the fluid to air/fuel mixture ratio substantially constant over the operating rpm of the engine. An electric control circuit is operably associated with a diaphragm assembly connected to the intake manifold and a light emitting and reflective light sensing component operable to produce an electric signal response to movement of the diaphragm that is proportional to vacuum pressure in the intake manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1980
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1982
    Inventors: Byron D. Smith, Terrence J. Erickson
  • Patent number: 4351289
    Abstract: Water injection is carried out in a pressure system, with water from a reservoir pressurized by an injection pump energized only above predetermined torque demand levels, under the control of a vacuum switch sensing intake manifold vacuum. Water injection is also precluded until the engine reaches operating temperature by a vacuum switch connected to a PVS valve. A water spray nozzle is mounted in the air cleaner and directs droplets into the carburetor intake. A purging pump causes purging of a short section of the feed line upstream of the injection nozzle after the engine is shut off to minimize water drippage into the engine carburetor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1980
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1982
    Inventor: Vince A. Renda
  • Patent number: 4346675
    Abstract: A flow system for an internal combustion engine has a first conduit connected to a water reservoir and extending therefrom to pass adjacent a heating source such as the exhaust pipe of an automobile engine, and then passes to connection with the bore of an adapter plate beneath the throttle plate of a carburetor. A second conduit extends adjacent the exhaust pipe to be heated so that air from the atmosphere can pass through it to the carburetor and intake manifold. A third conduit connects the first and second conduit, and a fourth conduit connects the third and first conduit. The first, second and fourth conduits have flow control spiral orifice pieces which restrict the flow of fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1980
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1982
    Inventor: John T. Holliday, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4342288
    Abstract: A water induction system for internal combustion engines which is comprised of a metering device for metering controlled amounts of air and water, a reverse needle vacuum control valve which is operated in response to intake manifold vacuum and is connected to the metering device, and a heater wherein the air-water mixture is vaporized. The manifold vacuum regulated reverse needle control valve allows an increasing amount of air and water to be drawn into the heater as manifold vacuum pressures drop, engine load increases and the engine requires more vapor. At lower loads, the valve operates to cut back the air-water flow into the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1980
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1982
    Assignee: The Klane Corporation
    Inventor: Kazuo Sato
  • Patent number: 4340549
    Abstract: An improved carburetor (20) for delivering one combustible fuel and a liquid, or two combustible fuels from separate reservoirs (50), (500), to the central portion of a hollow spray bar (98) for discharge into carburetor venturi (30) includes substantially closed metering chambers (90), (508) disposed in fuel flow communication from the reservoirs and suspended from opposite ends of spray bar (98). Fuels from metering chambers (90), (500) travel through variable width grooves (154), (548) formed in arcuate metering inserts (148), (544) into the lower end portion of corresponding metering arms (92), (540) and then into the hollow interior of spray bar (98).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1981
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1982
    Inventor: Robert E. McKim
  • Patent number: 4336772
    Abstract: A vapor injection system for introducing water vapor into an internal combustion engine includes a housing having first, second, and third chambers within the housing. An inlet conducts water into the first chamber from an unpressurized water container. A filter separates the first chamber from the second chamber. A small orifice extends from the second chamber into a third chamber. An airtight tube connects the third chamber to an opening in a carburetor of the internal combustion engine, the opening being located above a throttle valve of the carburetor. When the engine is running, reduced air pressure exists in the carburetor above the throttle valve and therefore in the third chamber. The orifice is sufficiently small that water passing from the second chamber into the lower pressure third chamber immediately vaporized as it enters the third chamber. The water vapor passes through the tube into the carburetor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1980
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1982
    Inventors: Don H. Young, Russell W. Wellman
  • Patent number: 4336773
    Abstract: Energy conservation apparatus for internal combustion engines in which a restriction device is used with a fluid supply associated with a heat exchanger which converts the fluid into a vapor prior to being drawn into the fuel-air mixing carburetor or injector, the apparatus utilizing the negative pressure from the engine for moving the fluid through the system at a rate related to the engine displacement. In the apparatus, the restriction device effects control over the fluid quantity being moved into the engine in a vapor state, and operates through the presence of a fine-bore tube of a fixed diameter in the passage between the fluid supply and the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1980
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1982
    Assignee: Middleton M. Carouthers
    Inventors: Middleton M. Carouthers, Robert L. Klamm
  • Patent number: 4333422
    Abstract: A hot fuel gas generator for an internal combustion engine simultaneously vaporizes gasoline and water in a novel heat exchanger mounted in an exhaust manifold of an internal combustion engine. A control valve meters the amount of a water and gasoline mixture supplied to the heat exchanger which delivers the resulting superheated steam and gaseous fuel to the intake manifold by way of an adapter downstream of the location of the usual carburetor. The control valve is actuated by devices responsive in operation to inlet manifold pressure of the internal combustion engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1980
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1982
    Inventor: Fred G. Mahoney
  • Patent number: 4329945
    Abstract: Control apparatus is described for metering a liquid additive to be vaporized and introduced to the fuel mixture for an internal combustion engine. Improved enhancement of the combustion process is obtained by supplying the additive in accurate and reliable dependence upon the condition of operation of the engine, as represented by the pressure in the intake manifold. Such control is made possible by a pressure responsive valve having a valve member movable with low friction along the length of a narrow valve orifice of uniform width. The resulting flow is then linearly related to the movement of the valve member, and provides sensitive and accurate control even at extremely low flow rates. A complete system for combustion enhancement employing such a valve and associated control features is described. Independently adjustable springs at opposite ends of the valve member provide separate adjustment of the flow for engine operation at high and low power conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1980
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1982
    Inventors: Harvey E. Beech, Richard M. Bird
  • Patent number: 4306520
    Abstract: An air cleaner for a combustion engine including air and fuel induction passages is provided and the air cleaner defines an inner chamber downstream from an associated air filter element. The inner chamber opens into the air and fuel induction passages of the engine and a reservoir for an evaporative liquid is provided, including an upper portion defining a filtered air inlet and a vapor outlet. An elongated conduit extends between and communicates the vapor outlet with the inner chamber within the air cleaner and a liquid absorbent and porous body is provided within the chamber for floating on the liquid therein, the body when in use defining increased wetted surface area from which liquid contained within the reservoir may be evaporated by air entering the reservoir through the air inlet and being drawn from the reservoir through the vapor outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1979
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1981
    Inventor: David E. Slaton
  • Patent number: 4300483
    Abstract: A fluid injection system for an internal combustion engine such as a spark-ignition or compression-ignition enginein which an injection nozzle injects a finely divided spray of fluid, such as water or a water solution, into the engine in response to a flow of atomizing air. The nozzle is connected to a fluid supply reservoir and to the outlet line of an air-injection pump connected to the intake manifold of the engine and to an electronic circuit that includes an inductive pick-up coupled to the ignition system of the engine. The pump operates in response to engine speed by virtue of its connection to the ignition system and in response to engine load by virtue of its connection to the intake manifold. As a result, the flow of atomizing air to the nozzle and therefore the rate and magnitude of water injection is responsive to engine speed and engine load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1980
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1981
    Assignee: The Goodman System Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Toronita P. Goodman
  • Patent number: 4300484
    Abstract: A fluid injection system for an internal combustion engine such as a spark-ignition or compression-ignition engine in which an injection nozzle injects a finely divided spray of fluid, such as water or a water solution, into the engine in response to a flow of atomizing air. The nozzle is connected to a fluid supply reservoir and to the outlet line of an air-injection pump connected to and controlled by an electronic circuit that includes a pick-up coupled to the ignition system of the engine. The electronic circuit responds to spark plug firing rate, which is proportional to engine speed, and to the amplitude of the voltage across the spark plug gap, which is proportional to engine load, and varies, respectively, the pump stroke rate and the pump stroke length accordingly. As a result, the flow of atomizing air to the nozzle and therefore the rate and magnitude of water injection is responsive to engine speed and load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1980
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1981
    Assignee: The Goodman System Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Toronta P. Goodman
  • Patent number: 4300485
    Abstract: A fluid injection system for an internal combustion engine such as spark-ignition engine in which an injection nozzle injects a finely divided spray of fluid, such as water or a water solution, into the engine in response to a flow of atomizing air. The nozzle is connected to a fluid supply reservoir and to the outlet line of an air-injection pump that is connected to an electronic control circuit which includes an inductive pick-up coupled to the ignition system of the engine and a pressure responsive sensor that is coupled to the intake manifold. The electronic circuit thus operates the pump in response to engine speed by virtue of its connection to the ignition system through the inductive pick-up and in response to engine load by virtue of its connection to the intake manifold through the pressure responsive sensor. As a result, the flow of atomizing air to the nozzle and therefore the rate and magnitude of water injection is responsive to engine speed and engine load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1980
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1981
    Assignee: The Goodman System Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Toronta P. Goodman
  • Patent number: 4286550
    Abstract: A fuel additive injection device for injecting an additive into an automotive engine to slow down the burning rate of gasoline while the engine is under heavy load, thereby reducing knocking or pre-ignition while increasing engine output power and increasing fuel mileage. A vacuum chamber having a diaphragm therein is connected to the intake manifold of the engine so that the diaphragm moves back and forth as the pressure in the intake manifold changes. A connecting rod is coupled to the side of the diaphragm opposite to the interior of the chamber. A needle valve connected to the diaphragm through a control rod and a connecting rod and positioned through a valve seat in a flow control passage regulates the flow of additive into the intake manifold of the engine, preferably through the throat of the carburetor. When the pressure in the chamber increases corresponding to a heavy engine load, the needle valve opens increasing the flow of additive to the engine which in turn reduces the burning rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1979
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1981
    Inventor: Arlin C. Lewis
  • Patent number: 4243202
    Abstract: A water induction system for internal combustion engines which consists of a metering device for metering controlled amounts of air and water, a control valve which is vacuum operated and connected to the metering device to allow a predetermined amount of air and water to be drawn into a heater wherein the air water mixture is vaporized and admixed with the fuel air mixture entering the intake manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1978
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1981
    Inventor: Toshio Inamura
  • Patent number: 4240380
    Abstract: Water is pumped from a holding tank through nozzle means to an area above the carburetion means on an internal combustion engine. The pumping means is controlled by diaphragm means reacting to intake manifold pressure as well as manual control. Filtering means are provided to allow the use of normal tap water. The diaphragm control means operates only after intake manifold pressure has risen to a certain point and ceases to operate after it has arisen above a second point or pressure. In another version, a variable pump is used to provide water in direct relationship to the manifold pressure over the indicated or selected range. The nozzle and the carburetion means act together to provide proper atomization of the water in the fuel air mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1977
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1980
    Inventor: Bernie L. Slagle