Engine Uses Gaseous Fuel Patents (Class 180/69.5)
  • Patent number: 11892123
    Abstract: A type IV conformable pressure vessel is provided comprising an elongated folded tank and a valve assembly configured to pass fluid into and out of an interior of the tank through first and second filling couplers directly connected to a respective first and second end of the tank. The tank has at least two chambers for the storage of fluid. The valve assembly receives fluid from an external source, selectively provides the external fluid through a Venturi nozzle into a mixing chamber, recirculates fluid from the second end of the tank into the mixing chamber, and delivers the mixture of the recirculated fluid and the external fluid to the first end of the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2024
    Assignee: Linamar Corporation
    Inventors: Maria Elizabeth Saade Saade, Jason Wexler
  • Patent number: 11661866
    Abstract: A combined-cycle power plant comprises a gas turbine engine for generating exhaust gas, an electric generator driven by the gas turbine engine, a steam generator receiving the exhaust gas to heat water and generate steam, and a duct burner system configured to heat exhaust gas in the steam generator before generating the steam and that comprises a source of hydrogen fuel, a fuel distribution manifold to distribute the hydrogen fuel in a duct of the steam generator, and an igniter to initiate combustion of the hydrogen fuel in the exhaust gas. A method for heating exhaust gas in a steam generator for a combined-cycle power plant comprises directing combustion gas of a gas turbine engine into a duct, introducing hydrogen fuel into the duct, combusting the hydrogen fuel and the combustion gas to generate heated gas, and heating water in the duct with the heated gas to generate steam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2023
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Power Americas, Inc.
    Inventors: Craig Satoshi Brooker, Song Wu, Michael McManus
  • Patent number: 11465493
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method are provided for an alternative fuel system, comprising a plurality of fuel tank assemblies interconnected with fuel lines; the plurality of fuel tank assemblies comprising a CNG fuel tank and a fuel tank shield; wherein a first and second fuel tank assembly is disposed immediately in front of a rear wheel assembly, and a third fuel tank assembly is disposed immediately behind the rear wheel assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2022
    Inventors: Tony Matijevich, Mark Matijevich, Terry McCrea
  • Patent number: 11440399
    Abstract: A fuel system is provided that includes a fuel system frame and in some cases access steps. The frame can be mounted to a vehicle frame rail. Bracket assemblies can be coupled to the fuel system frame at a plurality of positions. The fuel tank can be mounted at neck portions thereof and can be supported on the frame rail between the neck portion, e.g., spaced a distance from the neck portions in a longitudinal direction of the fuel system. The access steps can be non-rectangular to provide a wide stepping portion even if the fuel system includes large tanks. The steps can be directly supported by an outside surface of the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2022
    Assignee: Agility Fuel Systems LLC
    Inventors: Momchil Yordanov, Chris Forsberg, Andrew Taylor Gordon, Adam Robertson
  • Patent number: 11242956
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device (10) for holding a pressure cylinder, the device (10) having a frame element (12), a cylinder space (14) for receiving a pressure cylinder and at least one band element (16) for securing a pressure cylinder in the cylinder space (14), the band element (16) being connected to the frame element (12), wherein at least one damping element (20) is connected to the band element (16), the damping element (20) being arranged between the cylinder space (14) and the frame element (12). In this way, the invention provides an improved device (10) for holding pressure cylinders, the device (10) preventing oscillations from being transmitted into the cylinder space (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2022
    Inventor: Markus Schaub
  • Patent number: 10807480
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to an energy storage arrangement for a vehicle. In particular, the energy storage arrangement includes a battery unit provided in an intermediate space between adjacent fluid tanks. Relative to the above-discussed prior art, this disclosure provides an improved energy storage arrangement which uses the otherwise unused intermediate space between two adjacent fluid tanks. Thus, this disclosure provides a space-saving, efficient, and cost-effective arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: Ulrich Kramer
  • Patent number: 10538159
    Abstract: A high-pressure tank mounting structure includes: a case disposed beneath a floor of a vehicle cabin and having a bottom wall, a peripheral wall and a top wall; and a plurality of high-pressure tanks accommodated so as to be lined up within the case, wherein a first hydrogen collection portion that is recessed upwardly is formed at a back surface of the top wall of the case, and a hydrogen sensing sensor is disposed at the first hydrogen collection portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2020
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Chiaki Kataoka, Shinsuke Kinoshita, Osamu Sawai
  • Patent number: 10352502
    Abstract: A cylinder filling system is configured to automatically fill fluid cylinders with fluid at varying fluid pressures. The cylinder filling system may include a plurality of pressure control manifolds operatively connected together and disposed in a fluid circuit between a fluid storage container and a fluid outlet. A control unit may be in communication with the plurality of pressure control manifolds. The control unit is configured to operate the plurality of pressure control manifolds to deliver fluid at a rated fluid pressure of a fluid cylinder that connects to the fluid outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: Scott Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Gordon E. Rado
  • Patent number: 10184613
    Abstract: A system for filling an LPG vehicle with LPG using an auxiliary bombe is provided. The system may be configured for easily filling a main bombe with LPG even in the hot season (summertime) or the like during which the outside temperature rapidly rises, by using an auxiliary bombe in addition to using the main bombe. The system may also be capable of always smoothly refilling the main bombe with LPG by moving a portion of the LPG in the main bombe to the auxiliary bombe, when the pressure in the main bombe is higher than the LPG filling pressure of a filling gun in the hot season during which the outside temperature rapidly rises, so that the pressure in the main bombe becomes lower than the filling pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2019
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Chang Han Kim, Jae Hwa Park, Jong Ki Kim, Jae Min Lee, Keun Soo Kim
  • Patent number: 10118483
    Abstract: A compressed natural gas fueling system includes a frame arrangement with at least one tank disposed therein and an inlet that can receive a compressed natural gas fueling nozzle to fill the at least one tank. The fueling system can be attached with and supported by frame rails behind a cabin of a vehicle such that the inlet is positioned above the frame rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Assignee: Worthington Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Trevor Milton, Morgan Mackelprang, Ralph Hilton, Isaac Sloan
  • Patent number: 10081243
    Abstract: Some of the present apparatuses include a frame defining first and second supports and at least a portion of a rigid tank mount laterally offset from the first and second supports, where the first support is configured to be pivotally coupled to a vehicle such that the frame is movable relative to the vehicle between a first position in which the second support is spaced apart from the vehicle and second position in which the second support is coupled to the vehicle. Some apparatuses include a frame mount having a flange defining a bounded opening configured to receive a fastener and a post extending from the flange and away from the opening, where the first support is configured to be pivotally coupled to the flange via the fastener and the second support is configured to be coupled to the post when the frame is in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Assignee: NATURAL GAS FUEL SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Michael Zimmerman, Christopher Culberson
  • Patent number: 9914355
    Abstract: A fuel system for a vehicle is provided. The fuel system is configured to couple to a frame rail of the vehicle. A fuel system frame assembly of the fuel system is configured to couple with the frame rail directly or with another component that is coupled, directly or indirectly, with the frame rail. A cowling of the fuel system can include a fuel pressure vessel. The fuel pressure vessel configured to be placed within and supported by the fuel system frame assembly. The fuel system is configured to enhance component arrangement efficiency when mounted to a vehicle frame rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Agility Fuel Systems LLC
    Inventors: Todd F. Sloan, Chris Forsberg
  • Patent number: 9869498
    Abstract: A refrigerant charging method includes installing, cooling, confirming, and moving steps. In the installing step, a refrigeration device is installed on site. In the cooling step, a container is cooled to 31° C. or below using a cooling medium. In the confirming step, it is confirmed that the container has reached 31° C. or below. In the moving step, the refrigerant is moved to the intended charging space from the container upon confirming that the container has reached 31° C. or below via the cooling step. When moving the refrigerant from the container to the intended charging space, first, refrigerant that is in a gas phase within the container is moved into the intended charging space, whereupon refrigerant that is in a liquid phase within the container is moved into the intended charging space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2018
    Assignee: Daikin Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiromune Matsuoka, Toshiyuki Kurihara
  • Patent number: 9273639
    Abstract: A system for storing and dispensing fuel and a ballast fluid is disclosed. The system may be employed in a vehicle or facility having a power plant. Fuel and ballast fluid may be stored cryogenically in a liquid phase and dispensed to the vapor phase. The system may employ a thermal and volumetric compensatory arrangement wherein fuel dispensed from storage for use in a power plant is used as a heat exchange medium (refrigerant) for ballast fluid received for storage; during refueling, ballast fluid stored in the vehicle or facility may be dispensed and used as a refrigerant for fuel being stored in the vehicle in space made available by the dispensed ballast fluid. The fuel may be natural gas with a main component of methane; the ballast fluid may be a fluid obtainable from ambient environmental air, such as nitrogen or oxygen. The fuel and ballast fluid may be conditioned so that the respective boiling points are approximately equal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2016
    Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Jordin T. Kare, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9151249
    Abstract: A system for storing and dispensing fuel and a ballast fluid is disclosed. The system may be installed in a station. The system may be employed in a vehicle or facility having a power plant. Fuel and ballast fluid may be stored cryogenically in a liquid phase and dispensed to the vapor phase. The system may employ a thermal and volumetric compensatory arrangement wherein fuel dispensed from storage for use in a power plant is used as a heat exchange medium (refrigerant) for ballast fluid received for storage; during refueling, ballast fluid stored in the vehicle or facility may be dispensed and used as a refrigerant for fuel being stored in the vehicle in space made available by the dispensed ballast fluid. The fuel may be natural gas with a main component of methane; the ballast fluid may be a fluid obtainable from ambient environmental air, such as nitrogen or oxygen. The fuel and ballast fluid may be conditioned so that the respective boiling points are approximately equal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Jordin T. Kare, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9080241
    Abstract: A system is provided for producing hydrogen and oxygen based on decomposition of sodium chlorate (NaClO3). In a service station, NaClO3 is produced by a sodium chloride (NaCl) electrolyser. The service station is supplied with water (H2O), NaCl, and energy in order to carry out an electrolysis reaction in the electrolyser, to produce NaClO3 and gaseous hydrogen (H2). The NaClO3 and H2 are supplied to vehicles. Each vehicle includes a reactor for decomposing the NaClO3 and producing reaction products of NaCl and oxygen, with the oxygen being supplied to a fuel cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Assignees: COMPAGNIE GENERALE DES ETABLISSEMENTS MICHELIN, MICHELIN RECHERCHE ET TECHNIQUE S.A.
    Inventor: Antonio Delfino
  • Publication number: 20150112506
    Abstract: A fuel management module for use with a CNG fuel system for a vehicle includes a housing configured to be connected to the vehicle and a number of connections, receptacles, and controls associated with the module. A defueling receptacle may be positioned on the front panel of the housing, for defueling a fuel tank of the vehicle. A defueling control valve may be positioned on the front panel of the housing for controlling operation of the defueling receptacle, allowing for selective defueling. One or more high pressure connections may be accessible on the housing and configured for connection to one or more separate fuel tanks in a plug and play configuration. A plurality of filling connections may be accessible on the housing for filling the fuel tank(s). A low pressure fuel output connection may be positioned on the back panel of the housing to provide fuel output from the high pressure connections to the engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2013
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Applicant: Shem, LLC
    Inventors: Thesa Hanlin, Shane Leppan
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20140339000
    Abstract: A vehicle system, comprising an internal combustion engine, a transmission enclosed within a transmission case coupled to a gaseous fuel source, the transmission case having an amount of gaseous fuel located therein. Housing the transmission in a case containing low density gaseous fuel reduces the power losses from air resistance and increases fuel efficiency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2013
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: David Karl Bidner
  • 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: 20140291048
    Abstract: A tank for storing compressed natural gas (CNG) for fueling an automotive vehicle engine. The tank includes a container body for containing the CNG at a service pressure rating from about 20 MPa (megapascals) to about 30 MPa, the container body being formed from a single piece. The container body includes a head end region, a terminal end region distal to the head end region, and an intermediate region extending therebetween. The terminal end region and the head end region define an axial length of the container body. The container body is formed from an aluminum alloy. A valve member is operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with the container body via an opening defined in a wall of the container body. The container body wall has a thickness ranging from about 3 mm to about 10 mm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2014
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Arianna T. Morales, Mahmoud H. Abd Elhamid, Anne M. Dailly, Mei Cai
  • Patent number: 8844662
    Abstract: The present invention is to provide a fuel system and a vehicle which can improve mountability and assembly ease of parts. A fuel system comprises a fuel storage source; a filling line adapted to connect the fuel storage source to a filling port; a supply line adapted to connect the fuel storage source to a fuel destination; a pressure reducing valve installed in the supply line; a first pressure sensor adapted to detect primary or secondary pressure of the pressure reducing valve; and an assembly which is an integration of the pressure reducing valve and the first pressure sensor. The assembly functions as a pipe fitting inserted in the supply line and has a line branch point for the supply line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Takehisa Tsubokawa
  • Patent number: 8807256
    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: November 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Trilogy Engineered Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Gary Gibb, Michael Pintz, Stephen Polatas
  • Publication number: 20140138173
    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: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2013
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Applicant: TRILOGY ENGINEERED SOLUTIONS, LLC
    Inventors: GARY GIBB, MICHAEL PINTZ, STEPHEN POLATAS
  • Publication number: 20130240080
    Abstract: Vehicles, systems, and methods for delivering natural gas and providing mobile fueling services are disclosed. A method of delivering natural gas includes: delivering a source vehicle to a receiving tank for receiving natural gas at a remote refueling location, the source vehicle having a natural gas engine for driving the vehicle and a source tank disposed onboard the source vehicle for storing the natural gas; and transferring natural gas from the source vehicle to the receiving tank using pressure equalization between the source tank and the receiving tank and using a compressor disposed onboard the source vehicle. The onboard compressor is operatively connected to and powered by the source vehicle engine. The source tank is adapted to store a volume greater than or equal to about 200 DGE of natural gas and supplies natural gas to power the source vehicle engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: Ultimate CNG, LLC
    Inventors: Dennis A. Pick, Brian P. Fimian
  • 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: 8522837
    Abstract: Gas canister retaining structure includes: a gas canister cover pivotable between an opened position for attaching/detaching a cassette gas canister to/from the retaining structure and a closed position for accommodating and holding the gas canister in place within the canister cover; a mouthpiece support section provided inside the gas canister cover for supporting a mouthpiece portion of the cassette gas canister with a jet nozzle of the cassette gas canister received in a nozzle receiving port provided in the mouthpiece support section; and a shutter member pivotable between an opened position for opening the nozzle receiving port and a closed position for closing the nozzle receiving port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideaki Kobayashi, Masayuki Sasaoka, Tomoki Ito
  • Publication number: 20130213724
    Abstract: An electrolysis system adapted to split water into hydrogen and oxygen gases includes a housing, a baffle dividing the housing into first and second chambers and including an upper solid portion and a lower portion, a first electrode disposed in the first chamber, and a second electrode disposed in the second chamber. The first and second electrodes are configured to be at least partially immersed in the water, and each electrode becomes electrically charged when the electrolysis system is coupled to a current source to split the water into hydrogen and oxygen gases. The lower portion of the baffle and the first and second electrodes are each formed from the same material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2013
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Inventor: Charles Robert Storey
  • Publication number: 20130105235
    Abstract: A tank system for a motor vehicle, tank system including at least one first compressed gas vessel defining a first vessel space configured to receive natural gas, and at least one second compressed gas vessel defining a second vessel space configured to receive at least one of natural gas and liquefied gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2012
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Applicant: MAGNA STEYR FAHRZEUGTECHNIK AG & CO. KG
    Inventor: Magna Steyr Fahrzeugtechnik AG & CO. KG
  • 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: 8251171
    Abstract: A distensible fuel tank included in a vehicle is provided. The fuel tank may include a housing enclosing a lattice structure including at least two intersecting wall members, each wall member including a plurality of panels arranged in a repeating pattern, the plurality of panels having planar sides including a compliance panel having a first and second section configured to fold about a crease line. In this way, multi-directional compliance of the fuel tank can be achieved, while increasing structural integrity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel Frank Cragel, Russell Randall Pearce, Patrick Sullivan
  • Patent number: 8201652
    Abstract: A work vehicle includes an engine driven by gas fuel sealed inside a cassette gas cylinder. The cassette gas cylinder is installed in a cylinder mount. The cylinder mount comprises a mouthpiece support for supporting a mouthpiece of the cassette gas cylinder, and a shutter member swingable about a support shaft provided to the cylinder mount, for opening and closing an opening of the mouthpiece support from above the mouthpiece support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomoki Ito, Koichi Azuma, Tomomi Nakaya, Masayuki Sasaoka
  • Patent number: 8136843
    Abstract: In a gas-engine-mounted working machine, a gas engine is mounted on a machine body and supplied with fuel gas from a cassette gas canister. The cassette gas canister is detachably attached to a gas canister retainer assembly. Handle column extends rearwardly and upwardly from the machine body and having left and right handle posts fixed to the machine body for supporting an operating handle of the machine. The cassette gas canister is mounted, via the gas canister retainer assembly, between the left and right handle posts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideaki Kobayashi, Masayuki Sasaoka
  • Patent number: 8074618
    Abstract: In a gas-engine-mounted working machine, a gas engine is mounted on a machine body and supplied with fuel gas from a cassette gas canister, a handle column extends rearwardly and upwardly from the machine body, and the cassette gas canister is detachably attached to the handle column. Operating handle is collapsably attached to the handle column. Collapsing-movement-preventing member is provided on the operating handle for preventing collapsing movement of the operating handle, utilizing presence of the cassette gas canister attached to the handle column, so that the collapsing movement of the operating handle is prevented as long as the cassette gas canister is attached to the handle column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hideaki Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 8033353
    Abstract: A canister mounting structure including: a spare tire disposed in a rear underfloor region of a vehicle body in a forward tilted position wherein a front end of the spare tire is positioned lower; a canister disposed between the vehicle body and the spare tire and fastened to an underfloor member; a fuel tank disposed in front of the spare tire; a first space formed between the spare tire and the fuel tank; and a second space formed between the canister and the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yosuke Sawauchi
  • Patent number: 7882587
    Abstract: There is disclosed a vehicle comprising: a chassis (1a) extending in a longitudinal direction (1b) and with lateral sides (1c) parallel to the longitudinal direction (1b); a storage apparatus (5) for a fuel gas; an engine (2) utilizing fuel gas; wheels (2a) at least partly driven by the engine (2); driving means (14); a container (3) for refuse and pollutants; and conveying members (4) suitable to convey refuse and pollutants towards the container (3); the container (3) having side panels (3a) provided with recesses (15) expanding inward and extending above the lateral sides (1c); and the storage apparatus (5) comprising a plurality of tanks disposed in the recesses (15) and supported by the chassis (1a). The recesses (15) are also provided with connecting walls suitable to facilitate the flow of refuse inside said container (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Dulevo International, S.p.A.
    Inventor: Fabrizio Tagliaferri
  • Publication number: 20100175941
    Abstract: The present invention provides a signal generator device for generating an electrical signal for use in an electrolysis device. The signal comprises a waveform with a voltage, a duty cycle, and a frequency. These waveform parameters may be varied based on data received from a plurality of sensors. The signal generator may generate a second electrical signal superimposed with the first electrical signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2009
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Inventor: MOHAMMED KHODABAKHSH
  • Publication number: 20100126788
    Abstract: A work vehicle includes an engine driven by gas fuel sealed inside a cassette gas cylinder. The cassette gas cylinder is installed in a cylinder mount. The cylinder mount comprises a mouthpiece support for supporting a mouthpiece of the cassette gas cylinder, and a shutter member swingable about a support shaft provided to the cylinder mount, for opening and closing an opening of the mouthpiece support from above the mouthpiece support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2009
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Tomoki Ito, Koichi Azuma, Tomomi Nakaya, Masayuki Sasaoka
  • Publication number: 20100078244
    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: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Ross Dykstra Pursifull
  • Publication number: 20100032221
    Abstract: An electrolysis system adapted to split water into hydrogen and oxygen gases includes a housing, a baffle dividing the housing into first and second chambers and including an upper solid portion and a lower portion, a first electrode disposed in the first chamber, and a second electrode disposed in the second chamber. The first and second electrodes are configured to be at least partially immersed in the water, and each electrode becomes electrically charged when the electrolysis system is coupled to a current source to split the water into hydrogen and oxygen gases. The lower portion of the baffle and the first and second electrodes are each formed from the same material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventor: Charles Robert Storey
  • Patent number: 7658297
    Abstract: A fuel cap 10 maintains high sealing even when subjected to external force; is easy to operate; and requires minimal space for accommodation. The cap device comprises a casing body 20 for closing the filler opening FNb in a sealed condition, a cover 40, a handle 45, a clutch mechanism 60 and a torque transmission mechanism 80. By upraising the handle to the handling position and applying rotational torque, rotational torque is transmitted to the casing body 20 via the clutch mechanism 60 and the torque transmission mechanism 80, closing the filler opening FNb. The handle 45 lowers back to the retracted position when released, whereupon the clutch mechanism 60 assumes non-transmission mode wherein the cover 40 and the handle 45 rotate freely if subjected to external force such as in a collision.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Hagano, Masayuki Nakagawa
  • Patent number: 7631713
    Abstract: A car mounted with a hydrogen internal combustion engine is driven by supplying hydrogen gas fuel which is produced by vaporizing an aqueous hydrazine solution carried on the car and bringing the vaporized hydrazine into contact with a catalyst carried on the car to decompose hydrazine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Inventors: Shinroku Kawasumi, Sunao Sugihara
  • Patent number: 7624753
    Abstract: A container for gas storage tanks in a vehicle is disclosed as part of a fuel storage system. The container is dimensioned to include one or more storage tanks along with a flow control device, such as a pressure regulator or automatic valve. The container does not form a fluid-tight containment around the storage tank and includes one or more ventilation openings to allow a gas within the container to be vented therefrom. There is also one or more drain openings in the container to allow liquid within the container to be drained therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Uwe Süess, Ludger Hilvert
  • Publication number: 20090272590
    Abstract: The present invention provides a hydrogen storage system for a vehicle which is readily attachable to and detachable from the vehicle. The hydrogen storage system includes a plurality of hydrogen tanks filled with hydrogen at the outside and is mounted on the top of a rear underfloor of the vehicle in the form of a cartridge. For this purpose, the present invention provides a hydrogen storage system for a vehicle, including a hydrogen storage housing, accommodating a hydrogen storage material filled with hydrogen at the outside and easily attached to and detached from the vehicle using a quick connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2008
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Applicants: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY, KIA MOTORS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hyung Ki Kim, Sang Hyun Kim, Hoon Hee Lee, Hee Yeon Ryu
  • Publication number: 20090236163
    Abstract: A motor vehicle includes a compressed-gas tank which is disposed in a wheel well of a spare wheel. The compressed-gas tank has a circular-cylindrical configuration defined by an axis of rotation and includes tie elements in parallel relationship to the axis of rotation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Applicant: Benteler Automobiltechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Wibbeke, Andreas Wille, Christian Handing
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7398841
    Abstract: An energy conversion apparatus and method using recovered energy sources including motor vehicle kinetic energy (deceleration and shock) and wind resistance, supplemented by liquefied air transferred to the vehicle and by solar radiation thereto. The energy sources are combined, as available, to drive a compressor for supplying intake working fluid of a motor vehicle prime mover, wherein liquefied air provides pre-compression cooling of an atmospheric air portion of the working fluid. The liquefied air is made by recovered energy, stored and transferred between vehicles and between vehicles and stationary sites. In a hybrid version of the vehicle, exhaust heat from a combustion engine part of the prime mover increases working fluid temperature in a gas expander part, thereof; the engine and expander operating independently or together for improved vehicle propulsion efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Inventor: Jay Stephen Kaufman
  • Publication number: 20070278024
    Abstract: A power system suitable for use in a transportation device is provided. The power system includes an engine, a gas tank and a gas pipe. The engine has at least a gas cylinder with a piston. The gas tank is used for storing a high pressure noninflammable gas. The gas pipe is connected to the engine and the gas tank. The high pressure noninflammable gas is delivered into the cylinder via the gas pipe to drive the piston so as to drive and move the transportation device. Therefore the transportation device of the present invention can replace the transportation device which uses fuel as the power source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Inventor: A-Song Liu
  • Patent number: 7270209
    Abstract: A gaseous fuel storage system for a vehicle is disclosed. The fuel storage system can be installed as a modular unit in the vehicle. The fuel storage system is pivotable relative to the vehicle to allow easy accessibility to the storage tanks without requiring the storage tanks to be unmounted from the vehicle. The fuel storage system also provides protection for the storage tanks through the use of shielding and energy absorbing material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Uwe Süess
  • Patent number: 6527075
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a storage pack for storing gas under pressure for providing an onboard supply of the pressurized gas. The pressurized gas may be used as a medicinal gas, e.g. oxygen, on emergency medical vehicles, or the gas may be used as a fuel source for a motorized vehicle having a motor that runs on combustible gas. The gas storage pack includes a pressure vessel formed from a plurality of hollow chambers, which have either an ellipsoidal or spherical shape, interconnected by a plurality of relatively narrow conduit sections disposed between consecutive ones of the chambers. The pressure vessel includes a reinforcing filament wrapped around the interconnected chambers and interconnecting conduit sections to limit radial expansion of the chambers and conduit sections when filled with a fluid under pressure. The gas storage pack further includes a gas transfer control system attached to the pressure vessel for controlling gas flow into and out of the pressure vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Mallinckrodt Inc.
    Inventors: John I. Izuchukwu, Stan A. Sanders