Abstract: A method for fueling an automotive vehicle 26 on a conveyer line 28 is provided. The conveyer line 28 moves generally along a first axis 170 and the method utilizes a robotic arm 34 with an end effector 54 for fueling a fuel stem 90 of the vehicle 26. The method includes determining a first position of the fuel stem 90 along the first axis 170. The method further includes moving the robotic arm 34 to position the end effector 54 proximate to the first position. The method further includes determining a three-dimensional position of the fuel stem 90 utilizing a vision system 164. The method further includes moving the end effector 54 proximate to the three-dimensional position to enable the end effector 54 to mate with the fuel stem 90 and moving said robotic arm 34 relative to said first axis 170 at a speed substantially equal to a speed of said conveyer line 28. Finally, the method includes fueling the fuel stem 90 with the end effector 54.

Abstract: A refuelling system is provided, the system comprising: a seal cylinder defining the outside surface of an axial vapor recovery volume within the seal cylinder having a first end and a second end; a first flexible conduit to supply fuel to within the seal cylinder through the first end; a movable seal piston within the seal cylinder connected to the first flexible conduit, the seal piston effective to isolate a vapor recovery volume within the seal cylinder from the atmosphere surrounding the flexible fuel conduit; a fuel insert tube connected to the seal piston and extending through at least a portion of the vapor recovery volume; a boot seal attached to the seal cylinder at the second end of the axial vapor recovery volume, the boot seal effective to seal with a fuel tank inlet nozzle; and a device to move the seal piston laterally through the seal cylinder and thereby extending the second flexible conduit through the second end of the axial vapor recovery volume and into a fuel tank inlet nozzle when the b

Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle and a method utilizing that dispensing nozzle, are provided, the method comprising the steps of: providing a sealing means effective to mate in a sealing relationship with a fuel tank inlet, the sealing means comprising a boot having an elastomeric sealing surface, a source of pressurized gas, a channel providing communication from the source of pressurized gas to outside of the boot wherein pressure on the elastomeric sealing surface restricts flow through the channel, and a means to block fuel flow through the fuel dispensing nozzle when a threshold pressure or greater exists at the source of gas supply, the threshold pressure indicative of a sealing relationship between the sealing surface of the boot and a fuel tank inlet; mating the sealing surface to the fuel tank inlet; and passing fuel into the fuel tank only when the pressure within the gas supply conduit exceeds the threshold pressure.