With Plural Fuel Tanks Patents (Class 180/314)
  • Patent number: 10953827
    Abstract: A vehicle body front structure includes: a side frame extending in a front-rear direction in a front part of a vehicle body; a branch frame provided on a vehicle width direction outer side of the side frame; and a coupling member attached to and between the side frame and the branch frame. The branch frame has a rear end portion housed in the side frame and fixed to a vehicle width direction inner wall portion of the side frame. A ridgeline formed on the branch frame is aligned with a ridgeline formed on the inner wall portion of the side frame in the front-rear direction. A ridgeline formed on the coupling member is aligned with a ridgeline formed on an outer wall portion of the side frame in the front-rear direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2021
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Masayasu Yoshida, Takuya Morisawa
  • Patent number: 9623746
    Abstract: A tank bracket (23) is formed by a bottom surface part (24) having a first frame body (24A), a second frame body (24B), a third frame body (24C), and a fourth frame body (24D), a first side surface part (25) supported by the first frame body (24A) of the bottom surface part (24) and provided in a vertical direction, and a second side surface part (26) supported by the second frame body (24B) and provided in the vertical direction, and a female screw hole (24E) is provided in the bottom surface part (24). A fixing band (28) for fixing a reduction agent tank (22) is provided on the tank bracket (23). On this, the tank bracket (23) is fixed to an undercover (14) of a revolving frame (5) by using each of the female screw holes (24E) of the bottom surface part (24) in a state in which the reduction agent tank (22) is sandwiched between the second side surface part (26) and a right side frame (11) of the revolving frame (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshinori Fujii, Hidenori Mano, Hiroyuki Azuma
  • Patent number: 9205878
    Abstract: A tunnel arrangement for a floor assembly of a vehicle body is proved. The floor assembly includes spaced apart first and second floor parts. A tunnel is arranged between the first and second floor parts and includes first and second flanges and front and rear tunnel sections extending between the first and second flanges. A tunnel bridge is provided on a lower surface of the tunnel for stiffening the tunnel arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2015
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Frank Bechtler, Pawel Adamski, Robert Koehr
  • Patent number: 8915322
    Abstract: Provided is a compressed natural gas (CNG) fuel system comprising a frame, a first container, a second container, a first manifold, a second manifold, and a casing. The frame may have: a first side; a first connecting member; and a second side. The first container may be configured to house or contain CNG and be engaged to and substantially shrouded by the first side of the frame. The second container may be configured to house or contain CNG and be engaged to and substantially shrouded by the second side of the frame. The first manifold may be engaged to and substantially shrouded by the first side of the frame. The second manifold may be engaged to and substantially shrouded by the second side of the frame. The casing may at least partially surround the frame, the first container, the first manifold, and the second manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Trilogy Engineered Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Gary Gibb, Michael Pintz, Stephen Polatas
  • Patent number: 8882071
    Abstract: A system and attendant structural components for incorporating an alternate fuel supply, such as of the type used in combination with a conventional distillate fuel, to power a heavy duty industrial vehicle, such as a mine haul dump truck. The system and attendant structure includes a mounting assembly structured for containment and support of the alternate fuel and a containment area disposed on the vehicle and structured and dimensioned to retain the mounting assembly therein. The containment area and the mounting assembly are disposed in laterally adjacent, exposed relation to an operator area of the mine haul truck, wherein the mounting assembly and the containment area are cooperatively disposed and structured to facilitate storage of the alternate fuel and operative communication and distribution thereof with the powering engine of the mine haul vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Inventor: Jason Green
  • Publication number: 20140158451
    Abstract: A fuel system for a work vehicle including a fuel tank comprising a main tank body and an auxiliary tank body, a canister, and a fuel-gas introducing passage for connecting a top portion of the auxiliary tank body to the canister. The top portion of the auxiliary tank body is located higher than the main tank body when the fuel tank is installed on the work vehicle. A fuel filling pipe extends through the top portion of the auxiliary tank body and has a first end arranged outside the auxiliary tank body and a second end arranged within the auxiliary tank body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2014
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: Kubota Corporation
    Inventors: David SPITZ, Masahiro YAMADA, Takeshi KOMORIDA, Takashi SHIBATA
  • Patent number: 8695827
    Abstract: A system including a DEF tank and a fuel tank arranged in a portion of a vehicle to give that portion multiple structural functions. The system may be arranged to form a part of a counterweight on a work vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Aaron S Klauer, Nitin N Patil
  • Publication number: 20130240283
    Abstract: A work vehicle includes a vehicle frame extending between a right and left pair of rear wheels. An engine is mounted in a vertical position on a horizontal mounting surface defined in the vehicle frame in a peripheral area of the rear wheels in a central portion of a transverse direction of the vehicle. A fuel tank includes a main tank body mounted under a driver's seat and an auxiliary tank body mounted on the mounting surface on one lateral side of the engine in the transverse direction of the vehicle. A canister is mounted adjacent to the engine on one lateral side of the engine and rearwardly of and adjacent to the auxiliary fuel tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: KUBOTA CORPORATION
    Inventors: David SPITZ, Masahiro YAMADA, Takeshi KOMORIDA, Takashi SHIBATA
  • Patent number: 8534403
    Abstract: A vehicle, a system, and a method are disclosed for providing the vehicle configured to operate on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) with CNG storage tanks. An example vehicle may include a cab including an engine compartment. An engine may be configured to operate on a gaseous fuel and may be located in the engine compartment. The vehicle may include a bed, and a mid-box positioned between the cab and the bed. The mid-box may include at least one storage tank configured to store the fuel in a compressed, or a compressed liquid state. The vehicle may include a fueling system configured to supply fuel from the at least one storage tank to the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Ross Dykstra Pursifull
  • Patent number: 8302997
    Abstract: A system for integrating and embedding a fuel storage tank in the roof of an automotive vehicle is provided. The automotive vehicle may include a roof assembly having inner roof panels and outer roof panels. The roof panels may define a cavity that protrudes into the passenger compartment below the roof line of the automotive vehicle. A pressurized fuel tank may be disposed within the cavity of the roof assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Michael Jon Veenstra
  • Patent number: 8011383
    Abstract: A fuel tank for an agricultural vehicle, comprises a main fuel tank 10 having a filler pipe 11 and a separate inlet 15 and a removable auxiliary tank 30 having a second filler pipe 32 and an outlet 36 for supplying fuel into the separate inlet 15 of the main tank. To avoid spillage from the filler pipe of the main tank 10, in one aspect of the invention, a valve 16 is provided in the main fuel tank 10 to close off the second inlet 15 when the fuel level within the main tank 10 reaches a predetermined level. In a second aspect of the invention, spillage is avoided by means of an extension tube 40 which sealingly engages the filler tube 11 of the main tank at its lower end and opens at its upper end into the filler pipe 46 of the auxiliary tank 30.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey William Mowatt, Thomas Charles Kindred
  • Patent number: 7937936
    Abstract: An exhaust component arrangement is provided for an off-road vehicle having an engine, a cab, a transmission connected to the engine, and a fuel tank adjacent the transmission. A portion of the fuel tank is positioned below a portion of the cab. The exhaust component arrangement includes a particulate filter unit, a NOx reduction unit, and an oxidation catalyst unit, all connected in series. The fuel tank has a recess formed in an upper surface thereof. A lower portion of one of the units is received in the recess. Preferably, a lower portion of the NOx reduction unit is received in the recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Robert James Recker, Christopher Adam Bering, Kirby Jon Baumgard
  • Publication number: 20100258364
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an excavator having an undercarriage, a superstructure and an internal combustion engine for the drive of the excavator arranged in or at the superstructure, with at least one fuel tank for the supply of the internal combustion engine with fuel being arranged in or/and at the undercarriage of the excavator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2010
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Applicant: LIEBHERR-HYDRAULIKBAGGER GMBH
    Inventors: Gerhard Bolz, Alfred Miller, Marco Niederer
  • Publication number: 20100252353
    Abstract: A tank mounting structure adopts a new approach against a force of moving downward a high-pressure tank transversely mounted on a vehicle. A tank mounting assembly has a winding strap and a restraining strap located on an upper side and a lower side of a high-pressure tank to transversely fix the high-pressure tank between a frame and a frame. This structure causes the high-pressure tank to be transversely mounted on the vehicle. A winding strap is wound on the high-pressure tank. A restraining strap extended from a fixing bracket of the winding strap is laid on the winding strap to be placed directly on an upper end portion of a circumferential wall of the high-pressure tank and is fastened to the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Takehisa Tsubokawa
  • Publication number: 20100212991
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fuel cell system (10) which comprises a reformer (12) having an oxidation zone (48) to which stored fuel can be supplied by means of a fuel supply device (50) for reaction with an oxidant; and an afterburner (36) having an oxidation zone (60) to which stored fuel can be supplied by means of a fuel supply device (62) for reaction with an oxidant. The invention is characterized in that the fuel supply device (50) of the reformer (12) and the fuel supply device (62) of the afterburner (36) are adapted to supply fuel in such a manner that the fuel supplied by the fuel supply device (50) of the reformer differs from the fuel supplied by the fuel supply device (62) of the afterburner (36) with respect to the type of fuel and/or its state of aggregation and/or the temperature at which it is supplied. The invention also relates to a motor vehicle comprising said fuel cell system and to a method for operating said fuel cell system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2007
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Applicant: ENERDAY GMBH
    Inventors: Matthias Boltze, Michael Rozumek, Stefan Käding, Manfred Pfalzgraf, Andreas Engl, Beate Bleeker, Michael Süssl, Markus Bedenbecker
  • Publication number: 20100108429
    Abstract: Motorcycles, ATVs, and the like that may be transported in an RV or trailer can be refueled from a gas tank in the vehicle. A refueling line may tap from a three-way valve in a fuel system associated with the RV or trailer, with the valve being movable to supply either a generator in the RV or trailer or the ATV/motorcycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: DELPHI TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Steven William Aikman, Michael Joseph McHale
  • Publication number: 20090152043
    Abstract: A mounting structure of a fuel tank may include a carrier fixed and mounted onto a roof panel of a vehicle body, fuel tanks sequentially arranged in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle body, wherein both end portions of each fuel tank are configured to be aligned in a traverse direction of the vehicle body, and fastening members coupling the fuel tanks with the carrier, the fuel tanks restricted to the carrier by the fastening members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2008
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Applicant: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY
    Inventor: Sangkyu LEE
  • Patent number: 7543667
    Abstract: The present invention provides a mounting structure for a compressed gas storage tank of a vehicle in which at least two high pressure storage tanks are modularized and mounted in a vehicle. For this, the present invention provides a mounting structure for a compressed gas storage tank of a vehicle, comprising: a plurality of storage tanks for storing a compressed gas therein, including a hemispherical dome portion formed on both ends thereof; panel brackets connected to both ends of the storage tanks; pipe frames connecting edges of the panel brackets connected to both sides of the storage tanks; and high pressure parts and pipes connected to the storage tanks in a state where the panel brackets and the pipe frames are connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Ki Ho Hwang, Gyu Jin Jang, Young Min Choi, Sang Hyun Kim
  • Publication number: 20090000842
    Abstract: The present invention provides a mounting structure for a compressed gas storage tank of a vehicle in which at least two high pressure storage tanks are modularized and mounted in a vehicle. For this, the present invention provides a mounting structure for a compressed gas storage tank of a vehicle, comprising: a plurality of storage tanks for storing a compressed gas therein, including a hemispherical dome portion formed on both ends thereof; panel brackets connected to both ends of the storage tanks; pipe frames connecting edges of the panel brackets connected to both sides of the storage tanks; and high pressure parts and pipes connected to the storage tanks in a state where the panel brackets and the pipe frames are connected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Applicants: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Ki Ho Hwang, Gyu Jin Jang, Young Min Choi, Sang Hyun Kim
  • Publication number: 20080197614
    Abstract: A ballast apparatus adds ballast above or adjacent to the driven wheels of a vehicle, wherein the ballast can be easily loaded and unloaded without taking up valuable cargo space of the vehicle. The ballast apparatus is preferably integrated with the structure of the vehicle and includes at least one ballast container located within a body cavity of the vehicle, wherein the ballast container includes at least one inlet and at least one outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2007
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Inventors: Andrew P. Connors, Marc A. Rossi
  • Publication number: 20080115998
    Abstract: Hydrogen leaking from a hydrogen cylinder has a lower specific gravity than air, thus rises in a cylinder housing space, and reaches a ventilating opening constituted by a group of slits formed in an upper surface of a roof cover. At this time, the ventilating opening is formed in a position above the hydrogen cylinder, and thus the leaking hydrogen can reach the ventilating opening in a short distance as compared with the case where the ventilating opening is formed in a position apart from the position above the hydrogen cylinder. The ventilating openings are provided in a plurality of locations, and thus the leaking hydrogen reaches the closest ventilating opening. The hydrogen gas reaches the ventilating opening, passes upward therethrough and flows outside.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2006
    Publication date: May 22, 2008
    Inventors: Yoshiaki Naganuma, Norimasa Ishikawa
  • Patent number: 7367352
    Abstract: The valve device consists, according to the invention, of (at least) two part valves which are symmetrical in circuit terms with respect to the existing connections and which are designed, in particular, as four-way, two position valves of any desired type of construction, but preferably are provided as slide valves. There is preferably a double slide valve with two cooperating slide valves. The valve device features internal seals and sealing surfaces which minimize wear and damage to the seals as they move across flow ports. The valve device is particularly adapted for use as a fuel control valve for an internal combustion powered motor vehicle having two separate fuel tanks. The valve device permits control over which tank supplies fuel to the engine, and allows controlled mixing of the fuels from each tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Assignee: Voss Automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Harald Hagen, Markus Hasberg, Andreas Suhr
  • Patent number: 7137474
    Abstract: A support structure for a container (1) provided with neck portions (47, 49) on both ends of a longitudinal direction thereof which includes; a first support member (5) for supporting one of the neck portions (47, 49) of the container (1); a second support member (7) for supporting the other of the neck portions (47, 49) of the container (1), and elastically pressing the container (1) in the longitudinal direction thereof; and a frame (3) to which the first and second support members (5, 7) are fixed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masatsugu Yokote
  • Patent number: 6986494
    Abstract: A self-aligning bracket for use in mounting a planar surface such as a roof to a fixed structure such as a bank of fuel cylinders mounted to the roof of a vehicle frame. The bracket provides a locating block on a saddle mount which co-operates with a depression formed on the inner surface of the roof to align fasteners depending from the roof with a coupling fastener on the bracket. The coupling fastener is laterally moveable within an oversized hole in the bracket and engages the locating block to permit co-rotation. An anchor is attached to an end of the coupling fastener so that when the roof fastener is actuated in the coupling fastener, the anchor is drawn towards the coupling fastener, tightening the locating block, coupling fastener and anchor to the saddle mount, preventing further lateral movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Dyneter Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: Daniel G. Strasser
  • Patent number: 6938928
    Abstract: A fuel system for a work vehicle having fewer points of leakage and a secure or virtually damage proof location for the filler tube of the fuel tank is provided. The fuel system includes an integrated fuel tank which includes a fuel tank and a filler tube integrated as one piece and a counterweight having a complementary portion with a hole of sufficient size to allow passage of the filler tube. The integrated tank and the counterweight are arranged to allow the filler tube to pass through and be surrounded by the complementary portion. The complementary portion may also have a door providing additional protection to the filler tube and a secure and stable stepping area for the operator of the work vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Jesse Lee Pfohl, Eric Juan Angulo, Christopher Michael Ruden
  • Patent number: 6550811
    Abstract: A side mount fuel tank system installed on an earth moving vehicle such as a motor grader. The side mount fuel tank system is designed to allow the installation of an air-to-air aftercooler onto a motor grader without requiring the lengthening of a rear frame of the motor grader. The side mount fuel tank system includes a support apparatus and a fuel tank apparatus. The fuel tank system includes a first fuel tank attached to a first side of an engine compartment, and a second fuel tank attached to a second side of the engine compartment. Each of the fuel tanks includes tank plates positioned to deflect material impinging on the tanks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventors: Timothy J. Bennett, Shandy L. Hill, Kevin J. Wilkening
  • Patent number: 6502660
    Abstract: A CNG fuel supply system is provided for a bus. The system includes a plurality of rearward tank cylinders mounted on the top of the bus and a plurality of forward tank cylinders mounted on the top of the bus. A CNG manifold line has a length extending transversally across the bus between the forward and rearward tank cylinders. A plurality of inlet lines connect the manifold line to the tank cylinders. The plurality of inlet lines include a plurality of bendable inlet expansion portions, one of which is associated with each tank cylinder for accommodating longitudinal expansion of the tank cylinder. A plurality of outlet lines connect the tank cylinders to the manifold line, with the plurality of outlet lines including a plurality of bendable outlet expansion portions, one of which is associated with each tank cylinder for accommodating longitudinal expansion of the tank cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Fab Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey D. Scott, George T. Scott, Joshua C. Vedder
  • Patent number: 6439334
    Abstract: A gaseous alternative fuels vehicle has a vehicle body with an engine and a gas fuel tank. A gaseous fuel supply system establishes gas communication between the engine and the gas fuel tank. The gaseous fuel supply system includes a valve having a valve body with a housing having a first unvalved port and a second unvalved port. A through-flow channel extends between the first unvalved port and the second unvalved port. The through-flow channel provides continuous gaseous communication between the first unvalved port and the second unvalved port. A valved port is in gaseous communication with the gas fuel tank, and a valving channel extends between the valved port and the through-flow channel. The valving channel provides valved gaseous communication between the valved port and the through-flow channel. A flow controller has a valve element within the valving channel at a valve location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Assignee: Circle Seal Controls, Inc.
    Inventors: David P. Myers, Mark Shalkevich
  • Patent number: 6412588
    Abstract: A CNG fuel supply system is provided for mounting a plurality of Type 4 tanks on the roof of a bus. A manifold line extends to the roof of the bus and is anchored against movement relative to the length of the bus. A shutoff valve is associated with each tank, the shutoff valve being mounted on an end of its respective tank adjacent the manifold line. The shutoff valve has two ports which communicate with the tank when the shutoff valve is open. An inlet tubing piece connects the manifold line to one of the two ports of each tank and an outlet tubing piece connects the manifold line to the other port of each tank. The tubing pieces are manufactured to be substantially identical to other tubing pieces of the tank system for a given bus, and to other tubing pieces for other buses in the fleet, thus reducing the number of different tubing pieces utilized for construction and maintenance of the fleet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: FAB Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey D. Scott, George T. Scott, Joshua C. Vedder
  • Patent number: 6394217
    Abstract: A dual draw and return fuel manifold with an integral mounting bracket for use on a mobile vehicle containing at least two fuel tanks such as a heavy duty truck. The invention overcomes problems associated with assembling several fittings to a bracket and reduces the opportunities for leaks to develop in a vehicle fuel system by incorporating the fittings and mounting apparatus into a one piece design. There is a manifold which contains two three way tees integrated onto a mounting bracket or body. The mounting bracket has two engagement legs for engagement to a chassis mounted component or to a vehicle drive train component. In a preferred embodiment these engagement legs will be engaged on either side of a transmission of the vehicle. The return and supply manifolds are located one on top of another on the manifold such that they may be easily connected to the high pressure tubing of the fuel system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Curt J. Studebaker
  • Patent number: 6367573
    Abstract: A CNG fuel tank system is provided for mounting on the roof of a bus. The system includes a support frame mounted on the roof of the bus. The support frame includes at least one longitudinal frame wall extending generally parallel to the length of the bus. Each tank cylinder has associated therewith first and second saddles which are attached to one side of one of the frame walls. Each saddle has a base oriented vertically and engaging in the first frame wall. Each saddle includes an arcuate recess spacing sideways from this frame wall. Each tank cylinder is received in the arcuate recesses of the saddles associated therewith. Each saddle has associated therewith first and second strap assemblies which extend around the tank cylinder to secure the tank cylinder to the saddles and thus to the support frame. Preferably, a set of four parallel tanks are mounted in the fashion described on two parallel longitudinal frame walls. There is one tank hung in a cantilever mode off either side of each frame wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Fab Industries, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Scott
  • Publication number: 20020030397
    Abstract: There is provided a crawler carrier capable of smoothly operating the driving force source even at a slant ground or the like. The driving force source is arranged between the dump body and the cab and laid in a lateral direction and at the same time the driving force source and the heat exchanger are arranged in series in a lateral direction. With such an arrangement as above, the driving force source can be arranged at the upper structure frame under a state in which it becomes substantially horizontal without being interfered with the dump body. With such an arrangement as above, even in the case that the crawler carrier performs a work at the slant ground such as a mountain area having a high gradient, the engine can always be lubricated with lubricant oil and the driving force source can be operated smoothly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2001
    Publication date: March 14, 2002
    Inventors: Seiji Tamura, Morio Oshina, Kiyoshi Hirasawa, Tsuyoshi Takayama, Yoshinori Sendai
  • Publication number: 20020005312
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fuel tank (1) for heavy vehicles, said fuel tank being adapted for mounting to a vehicle frame (2) by means of at least one supporting bracket (3) which discloses a partly circular contact surface (4) against said fuel tank, wherein the tank (1) comprises two end gable sections (5, 6) and an essentially cylindrical casing section (7) which extends between said end gable sections. The invention is in particular characterized in that the fuel tank (1) comprises a first section (8) which is essentially partly circular and faces towards the vehicle frame (2) and is adapted for bearing against said partly circular contact surface (4) on the supporting bracket (3), and a second section (9) which is essentially rectangular and faces away from the vehicle frame (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 1999
    Publication date: January 17, 2002
    Inventor: MAGNUS GOLLUNGBERG
  • Publication number: 20010032747
    Abstract: A dual draw and return fuel manifold with an integral mounting bracket for use on a mobile vehicle containing at least two fuel tanks such as a heavy duty truck. The invention overcomes problems associated with assembling several fittings to a bracket and reduces the opportunities for leaks to develop in a vehicle fuel system by incorporating the fittings and mounting apparatus into a one piece design. There is a manifold which contains two three way tees integrated onto a mounting bracket or body. The mounting bracket has two engagement legs for engagement to a chassis mounted component over and to a vehicle drive train component. In a preferred embodiment these engagement legs will be engaged on either side of a transmission of the vehicle. The return and supply manifolds are located one on top of another on the manifold such that they may be easily connected to the high pressure tubing of the fuel system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Publication date: October 25, 2001
    Applicant: Navistar International Transportation Corp.
    Inventors: Michael C. DePoy, Curt J. Studebaker
  • Patent number: 6213243
    Abstract: A dual draw and return fuel manifold with an integral mounting bracket for use on a mobile vehicle containing at least two fuel tanks such as a heavy duty truck. The invention overcomes problems associated with assembling several fittings to a bracket and reduces the opportunities for leaks to develop in a vehicle fuel system by incorporating the fittings and mounting apparatus into a one piece design. There is a manifold which contains two three way tees integrated onto a mounting bracket or body. The mounting bracket has two engagement legs for engagement to a chassis mounted component or to a vehicle drive train component. In a preferred embodiment these engagement legs will be engaged on either side of a transmission of the vehicle. The return and supply manifolds are located one on top of another on the manifold such that they may be easily connected to the high pressure tubing of the fuel system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: Navistar International Transportation Corp.
    Inventors: Curt J. Studebaker, Michael C. DePoy
  • Patent number: 6102065
    Abstract: A liquid propane reserve system for providing propane to propane operated equipment including a reserve tank interconnected between a main tank and the equipment. Each tank includes a manual shutoff valve so that the main tank may first selectively be depleted of propane after which propane in the reserve tank may then be made available to the equipment without partially refilling the main tank. When the main tank is substantially full by momentarily opening both of the shutoff valves, the reserve tank is quickly refilled and held in reserve until needed by simply closing the second shutoff valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventor: Stewart W. Tobias
  • Patent number: 5924514
    Abstract: An auxiliary fuel tank for a snowmobile is detachably secured to the clutch guard of the snowmobile so that the tank is as remote as possible from heat producing elements of the snowmobile while being readily accessible when the cowling covering the engine is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Inventor: Christian Wayne Bullerdick
  • Patent number: 5704387
    Abstract: A propane reserve system for providing propane fuel to propane driven equipment. The propane reserve system includes a standard tank and reserve tank interconnected by a supply network such that the standard tank simultaneously supplies fuel to the propane driven equipment and the reserve tank, if needed. The supply network generally includes a standard tank effluent conduit, a reserve tank inflow conduit, a reserve tank effluent conduit and an output conduit meeting at a junction and a plurality of vanes restricting fuel flow through the network. A flow restrictor coupled to the reserve tank inflow conduit cooperates with one of the valves to limit flow into the reserve tank thereby allowing the effluent from the primary tank to fill the reserve tank while also powering the equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Inventor: Donald G. Sims
  • Patent number: 5197443
    Abstract: A fuel system for a diesel truck has a first fuel tank (80) and a second fuel tank (82). A siphon line (90) is open to the lower portions of the tanks and extends above the upper portions of both tanks. A manually operated priming pump (98) is used to remove air from the siphon line. Fuel is delivered from the first tank to the engine of the truck through a fluid delivery line (84). As fuel is drawn from the first tank, the fuel levels in the tanks equalize as the result of flow through the siphon line. Fuel not consumed by the engine is returned through an overflow line (86). The returning fuel is warmed as a result absorbing energy during pumping and having been in close proximity to the engine. A three-way control valve (88) directs the warm returning fuel to either the first or second fuel tank in response to the temperature sensed by a temperature sensor (94).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1993
    Assignee: Parker Hannifin Corporation
    Inventor: David H. Hodgkins
  • Patent number: 5082426
    Abstract: A jet pump structure for a fuel tank having first and second chambers therein includes first, second and third fuel pipes all of which are connected to a vacuum chamber provided within the fuel tank. The first pipe returns oversupplied fuel into the vacuum chamber, the second pipe transfers fuel stored in the first chamber into the vacuum chamber, and the third pipe receives the fuel from the first and second pipes and discharge same into the second chamber. A flow guide member is provided within the first pipe, which receives the oversupplied fuel to form same into a swirl flow. The swirl flow is ejected from the first pipe as a jet flow into the vacuum chamber to provide a vacuum therearound within the vacuum chamber. The ejected swirl flow further works to seal the vacuum chamber against the third pipe so that the vacuum generated within the vacuum chamber is prevented from being released through the third pipe to effectively suck the fuel from the first chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1992
    Assignees: Nissan Motor Company, Limited, Jidosha Denki Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Michiaki Sasaki, Kiyokazu Yamamoto, Toshiyuki Matsuki
  • Patent number: 4747429
    Abstract: An emergency fuel transfer accessory adapted for mounting in a vehicle's fuel system is disclosed. In a normal or first mode the accessory directs fuel through the confidential fuel system of the vehicles. The accessory includes a valve adapted for utilizing the action of the vehicle's fuel pump for drawing fuel from an external fuel source and directing that fuel through the fuel system of the accessory fitted vehicle into said vehicles fuel tank. The valve is further adapted in another mode to transfer fuel from the accessory fitted vehicle outward to an external fuel source. In a fourth mode, the valve is adapted to direct fuel from a first external fuel source, through the accessory fitted vehicle's fuel system, and thereafter discharging that fuel into a second external fuel source. The valve includes a plurality of channels which are positionable to connect with conduits connecting the accessory vehicle's fuel pump, fuel tank and carburetor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1988
    Inventor: Lowell W. Sundstrom, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4696366
    Abstract: In a motorcycle, a fuel tank is mounted to a main frame extending from a head pipe to the rear of a vehicle body in such mode that the fuel tank can be mounted from and dismounted to the side of the vehicle body, and an exhaust pipe is disposed along the main frame at the same level as the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1985
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1987
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Shigeru Hattori
  • Patent number: 4694870
    Abstract: A vented fuel system for a vehicle includes a plurality of fuel storage tanks and a fuel sump tank with at least one fuel storage tank positioned on each side of the vehicle. The sump tank is positioned on the vehicle between the fuel storage tanks and at a lower elevation than the fuel storage tanks. Each of the fuel storage tanks is connected by a fuel line to the sump tank and all of the fuel storage tanks are interconnected by air transfer lines. One of the fuel storage tanks on each side of the vehicle is provided with a filler spout and a vented fuel cap assembly for closing the filler spout. All of the fuel tanks can be filled from either side of the vehicle, and during refueling, air is expelled from the closed vented fuel cap assemblies and the open filler spout. The plurality of air transfer lines prevent air entrapment in any of the tanks by transferring air between the tanks and subsequent venting of the air through either or both vented fuel cap assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1987
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Robert M. Vize
  • Patent number: 4620568
    Abstract: A fuel flow diverting system is provided for a diesel engine powered vehicle including an auxiliary power system driven from the engine of the vehicle when the latter is stationary and wherein the vehicle is provided with primary and secondary fuel tanks with fuel supply and return lines being provided for each tank. The fuel diverting system is operative when the auxiliary power system is not operating and the vehicle is being operated in an over-the-road mode, to draw engine fuel from and return excess engine fuel to the primary tank. The fuel diverting system is further operative, when the vehicle is stationary and the auxiliary power system drivable when the vehicle engine is actuated, to supply fuel to the engine from the auxiliary fuel tank only and to return fuel from the engine to the auxiliary fuel tank only.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1985
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1986
    Inventors: Harold A. Sumerford, Melvin R. Collins
  • Patent number: 4383590
    Abstract: A tractor having two power units supported on respective frame portions which are pivotably connected in tandem, each power unit operatively connected to its respective fore or after axle which respectively mounts four or six wheels. The frame portions supporting the power units are joined between the fore and aft axles by vertical and horizontal solid steel pivotable shafts so as to be pivotable within limits about both a vertical axis and a horizontal axis aligned with the longitudinal axis of the tractor. Hydraulic piston and cylinder units extending from the frame portion of one power unit to the other on either side of the vertical pivotable shaft provide steering from controls located in a cabin suspended by an inverted "U" structure included in the frame portion of the after power unit. Both power units are provided with large capacity fuel tanks which extend transversely above each set of wheels and have a configuration whereby they function as fenders or mudguards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1979
    Date of Patent: May 17, 1983
    Inventor: Cornelis van der Lely
  • Patent number: 4287908
    Abstract: A valve assembly for selectively connecting either one of a pair of fuel supply tanks through supply and return lines to and from a combustion engine while isolating the other tank from communication both with the selected active tank and with the engine. The valve includes first and second chambers dedicated respectively to supply and return service. Valving elements in the chambers are operated by a selector shaft shiftable between first and second positions corresponding to the first and second tanks. The valve is advantageously ported in a manner which only requires a single supply line and a single return line to and from the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1980
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1981
    Assignee: Dana Corporation
    Inventor: David N. Storgard
  • Patent number: 4286624
    Abstract: A compact fluid handling system and multi-positionable valving arrangement for use therein wherein a plurality of fluid source means such, for example, as a plurality of fuel tanks or the like, are adapted to be interconnected with a plurality of fluid utilization means such, for example, as a plurality of diesel engines or the like, in such a manner that fluid contained in a selected one or ones of the plurality of fluid source means can be directed to all or selected ones of the plurality of fluid utilization means, and wherein excess fluid which is unused by the fluid utilization means can be returned to the particular source means from which it was supplied or, in certain instances, can be returned to fluid source means other than that from which it was supplied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1980
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1981
    Inventors: Eivind Clausen, Benton H. Amos, William M. Wood
  • Patent number: 4270621
    Abstract: A tractor with two engines arranged in tandem, each carried by a frame portion pivotable relative to the other counterbalances about a vertical axis under the rear engine. The body of the tractor is narrow forward and to the rear wherein axles for front and rear sets of ground engaging wheels extend laterally and mount six wheels each. The front engine and rear engines extend forward of the respective front and rear sets of ground wheels. The front frame portion is turnable axially relative to the rear frame portion under the rear engine and steering is accomplished by the relative pivoting of the portions about the aforesaid vertical axis. A fuel tank forms a guard over the rear set of wheels and includes a depression for an operator's seat. The fuel tank has a central partition and is optionally hinged in its outer portions whereby the width of the tractor is reduced by removing the outer wheels and pivoting the outer portions of the fuel tank to the rear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1979
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1981
    Inventor: Cornelis van der Lely