Automotive Type Patents (Class 220/746)
  • Patent number: 7654410
    Abstract: A vehicle reservoir tank has an anti-spill chamber and an overflow channel. The anti-spill chamber has a body portion, an inlet at one end of the body portion and an outlet at another end of body portion. The anti-spill chamber is configured and arranged to restrict fluid flowing from a main reservoir chamber. The overflow channel has a first end portion, a second end portion and an intermediate curved portion. The first end portion is fluidly coupled to the outlet of the anti-spill chamber. The intermediate curved portion extends from the first end portion to the second end portion such that the second end portion of the overflow channel extends downwardly relative to the first end portion. The second end portion extends along an area of the body portion of the anti-spill chamber to restrict the flow from the anti-spill chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Nissan Technical Center North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Antonio Prince, John R. Young
  • Publication number: 20090321461
    Abstract: A fuel tank comprising at least one fuel vapor accessory articulately coupled with a fuel tubing extending from the fuel tank. The tubing is secured to an inside upper wall of the fuel tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Applicant: RAVAL A.C.S. LTD.
    Inventors: Omer Vulkan, Moshe Ehrman
  • Publication number: 20090314357
    Abstract: Liquid tank venting system comprising a chamber that is inside the tank and that is equipped with a drainage device that comprises at least one opening made in the chamber and an elastomer-based non-return valve capable of sealing/freeing this opening, according to which this non-return valve is forced into a position for leaktight closure of the opening via a specific device starting from a certain liquid level in the tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2007
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Applicant: Inergy Automotive Systems Research(Societe Anonyme
    Inventors: Michel Arnalsteen, Alex Blieux, Vincent Cuvelier, Jerome Ropert, Thierry Rouxel
  • Publication number: 20090308881
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing a fuel container and to a fuel container for motor vehicles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Applicant: KAUTEX TEXTRON GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Dirk Eulitz, Harald Lorenz, Gerd Wolter
  • Patent number: 7520293
    Abstract: A fuel storage system for a transportation or recreational vehicle has a fuel tank that carries a vapor assembly that seeks out vapor pockets and controllably removes fuel vapor from the tank without releasing hydrocarbons to the surrounding environment. Preferably, a vent manifold attaches to a flange that sealably covers an access hole of the tank. At least one flexible tentacle extends from the manifold in the tank to a respective vapor vent valve that floats upon the surface of fuel at a vapor dome. When freely floating, the vent valve is open thus communicates the vapor dome through the tentacle and preferably with a filtering carbon canister. As fuel surface levels change or the vehicle tilts, changing the vapor dome size or location in the tank, the floating vapor vent valve is free to move generally with the vapor dome and as permitted by the flexibility of the trailing tentacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: TI Group Automotive Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Steven R. Hilderley, James R. Osborne
  • Publication number: 20090085342
    Abstract: A fuel tank has a primary sump and secondary sump. A first vent valve and a second vent valve are disposed within the fuel tank. The first vent valve is closed when a level of fuel in the primary sump is equal to or higher than a first predetermined filling level, and the second vent valve is closed when a level of fuel in the secondary sump is equal to or higher than a second predetermined filling level in a refueling procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Inventors: Minoru CHINO, Naoaki Tanimura, Masashi Kamei, Junichi Hanai
  • Patent number: 7491258
    Abstract: A gas and liquid separation device for use with a fuel tank. The separation device includes a body having at least one passage therethrough in fluid communication with the fuel tank, and a gas and liquid separator carried by the body in fluid communication with the at least one passage and being oriented at an angle with respect to horizontal when in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: TI Automotive Fuel Systems SAS
    Inventors: Christophe Gouzou, Eric Renard, Humbert de Monts de Savasse
  • Publication number: 20090038296
    Abstract: In a liquid tank provided with a pressure relief vent hole, a shielding member surrounding the vent hole is disposed. The shielding member forms an isolated chamber communicated with the vent hole. In a portion located to the side of the vent hole, the shielding member allows communication between the isolated chamber and an inner space in the liquid tank excluding the isolated chamber. On the other hand, in a portion located below the vent hole, the shielding member blocks movement of the liquid between the isolated chamber and the inner space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Applicant: NISSAN DIESEL MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kiyoshi Fukuda, Yasushi Osaku
  • Publication number: 20080314915
    Abstract: A tank for oils or liquids designed for being fastened directly on a fastening surface. The tank can be fastened in a compact manner and with reliable hold on a fastening surface while having a sufficient tank volume. At least one fastener acting directly on the fastening surface is led through the tank volume.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2005
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventors: Keit Wagener, Peter Lindeckert
  • Publication number: 20080251523
    Abstract: A ventilation device (1) for a fuel container (2) with a liquid trap (3) and a suction jet pump (8) which is provided for emptying the liquid trap (3) has a filling-level limit switch (11) for detecting the filling level of fuel in the liquid trap (3). A valve (10) which is connected to the filling-level limit switch (11) is connected upstream of the suction jet pump (8). The suction jet pump (8) is first activated by means of the valve (10) when the intended filling level of fuel in the liquid trap (3) is exceeded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2006
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Inventors: Christian Krogull, Knut Meyer, Frank Reiter
  • Publication number: 20080224363
    Abstract: Method for manufacturing a plastic fuel tank by moulding a parison in which, during the moulding operation, a pipe (3) is attached to the parison at least two points, the said pipe being deformable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2006
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Applicant: INERGY AUTO SYSTEMS RESEARCH (SOCIETE ANONYME)
    Inventors: Bjorn Criel, Herve Lemoine
  • Publication number: 20080223865
    Abstract: A device for delivering fuel has a fuel delivery unit placed inside a fuel tank and which consists of a swirl pot with a fuel pump situated therein for delivering fuel out via a flow line to an internal combustion engine, and with a ventilation system located inside the fuel tank and serves to withdraw fuel vapors from the fuel tank. This ventilation system consists of ventilation lines and a liquid trap for precipitating fuel. The ventilation lines are arranged with one end in the upper area of the fuel tank, and, with the other end, lead into the liquid trap. An activated charcoal filter located downstream from the liquid trap has a connection to the atmosphere. The liquid trap and the activated charcoal filter are situated next and at the height of the swirl pot. At least the liquid trap is mechanically connected to the swirl pot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventors: Andreas Althof, Stefan Fuehling, Christian Krogull, Knut Meyer, Frank Reiter
  • Publication number: 20080217188
    Abstract: The invention concerns a hollow body of plastic material, in particular a fuel tank, which was obtained by extrusion blow molding, having at least one line which is stationarily laid in its interior, wherein the hollow body is distinguished in that the line is at least region-wise joined in material bonded relationship to the inside wall of the hollow body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Applicant: KAUTEX TEXTRON GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Matthias Borchert, Gerd Wolter, Harald Lorenz, Dirk Eulitz, Timo Kramer
  • Publication number: 20080190490
    Abstract: Safety valve for the venting circuit of a liquid tank Safety valve for the venting circuit of a liquid tank, comprising: a) a chamber (1) provided with a cover (2), which extends at least partly into the tank and is connected via an aperture (4) to the venting circuit; b) a float (7), which can slide vertically inside the chamber (1) and close off the venting aperture (4) in a high position; and c) a moveable wall (3), which divides the chamber (1) into a lower portion (1?) in which the float (7) slides and an upper portion (1?) which connects with the venting circuit, this wall (3) being a moveable wall and having the venting aperture (4), said valve further including an aperture stop (13) integral either with the moveable wall (3) or with the cover (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2006
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Applicant: Inergy Automotive Sys. Research (Societe Anonyme)
    Inventor: Michel Arnalsteen
  • Publication number: 20080142111
    Abstract: This invention provides a fuel tank venting system for regulating the discharge of fuel vapors and of liquid fuel from a fuel tank. The fuel tank venting system includes fuel vapor vent tubes that are fully enclosed within the system and exit the fuel tank at a common location. Because the fuel vapor vent tubes are fully enclosed within the system, vent valves are not required at each vent point and permeation resistant tubing is not required. In this fuel tank venting system fuel is prevented from reaching the fuel vapor recovery canister under normal operating conditions and the fuel filler pipe serves as a liquid/vapor discriminator. In another embodiment the vent vapor tube does not extend beyond the highest fuel level in the fuel filler pipe because the fuel filler pipe pressure is lower than the fuel tank pressure due to the fuel filler pipe connectivity to the canister.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2006
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Inventors: Mark Osterbrink, Paul Luft
  • Patent number: 7213622
    Abstract: A venting device, particularly for fluid storing reservoirs such as tanks, comprising a connecting part for establishing an air-conducting and/or fluid-conducting connection to the inside of the reservoir and comprising a closing part, which can be removed from the connecting part and which is provided, in particular, in the form of a closure cap. When the closure cap is fastened, at least one leakage point in the form of an air exchange opening exists between the closure cap and the connecting part. By virtue of the fact that a labyrinth-like seal effectively seals the respective leakage point at least from penetrants such as water and/or cleaning chemicals while not impairing an air exchange for the actual venting, the system of seal passages inside the labyrinth seal prevents the unwanted damage causing entry of the respective penetrant, also in the form of dirt or dust, into the reservoir or tank interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: Rydac Filtertechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Sakraschinsky, Peter Naumann
  • Patent number: 7121301
    Abstract: A fuel tank (1) has a constructional unit which can be preassembled and comprises a surge chamber (3) and venting device (6). The constructional unit is fastened to the bottom of the fuel tank (1) and has spring arms for prestressing openings (12, 13), which are provided for venting the fuel tank (1), against the upper wall of the fuel tank (1). The fuel tank (1) can be fitted in a particularly simple manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Christian Krogull, Frank Reiter
  • Patent number: 7080657
    Abstract: A fuel tank venting system includes a fuel cap, a vent diaphragm and a vent disc. A valve cavity with a substantially concave bottom is formed in a bottom of the fuel cap. At least one air passage is formed through the vent disc. A substantially convex surface is formed on a top of the diaphragm projection. The vent diaphragm is retained between the substantially concave bottom and the substantially convex surface. When air is needed for fuel flow, a vacuum within the fuel tank pulls the perimeter of the vent diaphragm downward, which breaks a seal with the substantially concave bottom to allow air flow. In a second embodiment, the fuel tank venting system is contained in a wall of the fuel tank. In a third embodiment, the fuel tank venting system is contained in a fuel vent body, which is attached to the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Inventor: William A. Scott
  • Patent number: 7017629
    Abstract: The invention relates to a windshield wiper fluid reservoir (1) comprising a closure device (4) and a filling tube (2) for use in a windshield wiper system for motor vehicles. The aim of the invention is to improve the design of a prior art windshield wiper fluid reservoir (1) comprising a closure device (4) and a filling tube (2) whereby improving the ability to fill the reservoir, in particular, enabling a pressure filling involving the use of a pump nozzle. This is achieved by provision of a filling tube (2), which comprises an integrated ventilation channel (3) in a one-piece design and is situated on the windshield wiper fluid reservoir (1). ventilation channel (3) is shaped by reshaping the upper area of the filling tube. This ensues by pressing in the lateral surfaces (6) in the upper third of the filling tube (2) in a longitudinal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Rehau AG & Co.
    Inventor: Stefan Winterling
  • Patent number: 6782914
    Abstract: A gaseous fuel discharge structure is used in a vehicle including an airtight cover disposed within a trunk thereof. The airtight cover covers a gaseous fuel containing tank. The structure includes an air introducing pipe and a gas discharging pipe both connected to the cover. If gaseous fuel leaks from within the tank, the structure is operated to discharge the gaseous fuel out of the vehicle. The air introducing pipe is provided with a fan. The air introducing pipe has an air intake flap while the gas discharging pipe has a discharge flap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yozo Kami, Tohru Ono, Yoshihiro Shimizu
  • Patent number: 6783022
    Abstract: A ventilation device for a fuel tank includes an antisurge element designed as a porous component manufactured from sintered plastic. The antisurge element prevents fuel which is sloshing around in the fuel tank from penetrating into an activated carbon filter of the ventilation device. The antisurge element is a fixed component that does not require any movable parts and is produced particularly cost-effectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Mannesmann VDO AG
    Inventor: Martin Essing
  • Publication number: 20040154670
    Abstract: A fuel tank for a motor vehicle having a chamber delimited by a wall and having an activated carbon filter located to ventilate the volume of the fuel chamber located above the level of fuel in the tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2003
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Inventors: Marc Gerhardt, Thomas Zapp
  • Patent number: 6732759
    Abstract: This device is intended for a motor vehicle tank (2) having on the one hand a filler pipe (4) provided with a flap (12) mounted so as to pivot about a spindle (34), prestressed in the closed position and intended to be opened by the end of a filling nozzle (10), and on the other hand a pipe (16, 18) for venting the tank. A device (20) is provided for closing off the vent pipe (16, 18) of the tank whilst it is being filled, being controlled from the pivoting of the flap (12) about its spindle (34).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignee: I.T.W. de France
    Inventors: Christian Romanek, Sophie Magdeleine, Jean-Philippe Bar, Jean-François Blum
  • Patent number: 6585128
    Abstract: A two stage splash guard structure is provided for an oil breather usable with an hydraulic fluid reservoir or tank. The first splash guard is provided within a neck portion preferably formed as part of the tank. A bowl-like cavity is formed within the neck portion and a ring-like chamber surrounds the cavity to serve as the first stage splash guard. An orifice is provided in the lower portion of the bowl to allow for the flow of air through the neck portion and into and out of the tank as the fluid in the tank shifts or rises and falls. A shelf is formed within the bowl to receive a second stage splash guard plate. A hollow adapter is then threadably secured within the neck portion to secure the second stage splash plate in place on the shelf and an air breather cap with the filtering element is threadably secured to the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: William Andrew Clevenger, Friedrich Konrad Diecke, Eric Taylor Spurgeon
  • Patent number: 6581621
    Abstract: The invention relates to a valve and a fuel tank provided with a valve for a motor vehicle. Bleeder valves for integrated compensation volumes for fuel tanks are known in the prior art. One disadvantage of known valves is that if the tank is filled slowly during the refueling operation, the fuel compensation volume can fill. The invention aims to provide a valve with a compact construction. To this end a pressure valve (28) is located on the valve (1, 3) which opens if there is a predetermined excess pressure in the fuel tank (30), a refueling venting opening (38) is configured in the valve (1, 3) so that a sealing plate (5) can close the refueling venting opening. The sealing plate (5) has an operational venting opening (42), which can be closed by a displaceable closure element (15) that is displaced according to a position of a float (26) that is located on a float lever (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Heinz Klaffki, Marietta Gehring
  • Patent number: 6527008
    Abstract: The invention relates to a ventilation device for fuel tanks, wherein the ventilation device comprises a compensator reservoir arranged in the interior of the fuel tank and at least two ventilation lines. The ventilation lines run from below the upper tank wall to the compensator reservoir and extend in the latter toward an opposite tank wall. The apparatus according to the invention is particularly well suited under all static and dynamic stresses for ventilating fuel tanks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Mannesmann VDO AG
    Inventors: Knut Meyer, Stefan Fühling, Thomas Zapp, Markus Distelhoff
  • Patent number: 6446826
    Abstract: A filler neck closure assembly (20) includes a housing (74) formed to include a passage (77), a tank pressure control assembly (84) in passage (77), and an outer shell (44) coupled to housing (74). Closure assembly (20) includes a sleeve (185) that reinforces housing (74) and shields tank pressure control assembly (84). Closure assembly (20) also includes a sealing gasket (192) and a foam ring (210) between housing (74) and a side wall (46) of outer shell (44) leakage of fuel vapor therebetween. Outer shell (44) includes frangible tabs (260) that break away from the rest of outer shell (44) in a controlled manner when outer shell (44) is subjected to an impact during a vehicle crash. Outer shell (44) is formed to include a fluid drain (421) and closure assembly (20) includes a float (425) that closes fluid drain (421) and that moves to open fluid drain (421) to allow accumulated fluid to drain out of outer shell (44).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: Stant Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventors: Dean C. Foltz, Robert S. Harris, William Abney, III
  • Patent number: 6439277
    Abstract: A fuel tank, especially that of a motor vehicle, substantially reduces emission of fuel vapor from the fuel tank during refueling. Part of the fuel tank is cooled so that the rising fuel vapor condenses and flows back to the fuel tank, instead of vaporizing and releasing into the environment outside of the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Inventor: Hans Kyburz
  • Publication number: 20010035421
    Abstract: A ventilation device for a fuel tank includes an antisurge element designed as a porous component manufactured from sintered plastic. The antisurge element prevents fuel which is sloshing around in the fuel tank from penetrating into an activated carbon filter of the ventilation device. The antisurge element is a fixed component that does not require any movable parts and is produced particularly cost-effectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2001
    Publication date: November 1, 2001
    Applicant: Mannesmann VDO AG
    Inventor: Martin Essing
  • Patent number: 6223923
    Abstract: A safety pressure release locking gas cap is shown. The gas cap is comprised of a handle element, and a plug element. The plug element is rotatably housed in the handle element, and has external threads. A lock element is contained between the handle element and the plug element and can be used to lock the two components together. Locking arises by rotation of the lock element, for example by a key, about an axis of rotation which is a first manner of movement. The lock element has also a second manner of movement, which is axially along the axis of rotation. Movement in the second manner moves a valve from a pressure containing position to a pressure relief position. According to the present invention the movement in the first manner occurs independently from movement in the second manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Joseph Fishman
  • Patent number: 6189581
    Abstract: A fuel tank filler apparatus includes a fuel tank filler neck, a pressure-relief valve coupled to the fuel tank filler neck, and a filler neck closure coupled to the fuel tank filler neck. The filler neck closure includes a drainage basin configured to collect liquid fuel, a retention chamber configured to store liquid fuel, and a fuel conductor configured to communicate liquid fuel between the drainage basin and the retention chamber. The filler neck closure can also include a blocker positioned to pivot about a pivot axis between a normally closed position blocking a fuel-receiving passage and an opened position permitting liquid fuel to flow through the fuel-receiving passage to the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Stant Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventors: Robert S. Harris, Jason K. Jobe
  • Patent number: 6044517
    Abstract: An apparatus for filling a washer fluid reservoir of a rear wiper system includes a fill cup assembly having main body and a cover. The main body defines an opening for receiving washer fluid. A first conduit provides fluid communication between the opening and the washer fluid reservoir for the transfer of washer fluid. A second conduit allows for venting of the washer fluid reservoir back to the opening and provides complete exterior venting of fumes. A vent passage defined in part by the second conduit is blocked when the cover is rotated to a closed position. A designed-in interference normally retains the cover in its opened position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: Chrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Jeffrey D. Zendler, Vince Carnes, William M. Buehrer
  • Patent number: 6029719
    Abstract: 1. A fuel tank (1) having a filler neck (3) closable by a filling flap (2), the volatile fuel components (5) located in free space (4) of the fuel tank (1) being able to be fed into a storage chamber (7) filled with an absorption element (6), including a vent line (8) that connects the free space (4) to the storage chamber (7) and is closable by a valve (9). The filler neck (3), on the side facing away from the fuel tank (1), has a plug fitting (10) with a valve support (11). The valve (9) includes a sealing flap (12), the sealing flap (12) and the filling flap (2) forming components of the valve support (11), each being able to pivot about a shaft (13,14), and, being acted upon by spring tension, each being able to be placed against a valve seat (15,16) in the valve support (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignees: Firma Carl Freudenberg, Kautex Textron GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Hartmut Hor, Joachim Heinemann, Jurgen Kriebel, Axel Wagner
  • Patent number: 6009920
    Abstract: The present invention is a capless refueling assembly for a motor vehicle fuel tank. The capless refueling assembly has a housing assembly having a nozzle-receiving opening in fluid communication with the fuel tank such that a fuel nozzle can be inserted in the nozzle-receiving opening and supply liquid fuel to the fuel tank. A primary seal is mounted within the housing assembly for pivotal movement between a sealed position wherein the primary seal sealingly closes the nozzle-receiving opening and an open position. The pivotal movement is responsive to a fuel nozzle being inserted into and removed from the nozzle-receiving opening. A closure is pivotally mounted to the housing assembly for movement between a covering position wherein the closure covers a mouth of the nozzle-receiving opening and an access position wherein a fuel nozzle can be inserted into the nozzle-receiving opening. A vapor venting valve engages the primary seal for cooperative movement therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Assignee: Tesma International Inc.
    Inventors: Sandor Palvoelgyi, Peter Reinlaender, Gunther Pozgainer
  • Patent number: 5983963
    Abstract: To provide a simple on-board refueling vapor recovery (ORVR) system without separate check valves and the like, a multi-path valve, typically a 6/2 valve (5) is provided, and formed with a discrete switching path (13) which is inserted in a pressure equalization line (12). Upon valve operation between a fuel filling mode position and an operating mode position, respectively, the valve switches the discrete switching path of the pressure equalization line (12) to connect the equalization line (12) to a fuel vapor receptor through a valve outlet when the valve (5) is in operating mode position, while blocking the equalization line (12) when the valve (6) is in filling mode position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: Tesma Motoren-Und Getriebetechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Gunther Pozgainer, Sandor Palvolgyi, Bernhard Maier
  • Patent number: 5971203
    Abstract: A vent apparatus of a fuel tank comprising a housing having a through-hole at the bottom communicating with a fuel tank; a valve body mounted on the housing, having a flange, vent slots and a partition wall; a lower cover mounted under the valve body, having a through-hole communicating with the through-hole of the housing and the lower space of the valve body; a ball for opening and closing the through-hole of the partition wall of the valve body; a pushing weight mounted on the upper compartment of the valve body, having a protrusion formed on its bottom to prevent adhesion of the ball to the partition wall of the valve body; and an upper cover positioned on the top of the housing, having a plurality of outlets around its periphery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Kang-Soo Bae
  • Patent number: 5755248
    Abstract: A tank pressure control valve is provided for controlling the discharge of fuel vapor from a fuel tank. In one embodiment, the tank pressure control valve is configured to use pressurized fuel vapor to control a flexible diaphragm operable between a closed position blocking discharge of fuel vapor from the fuel tank and an opened position allowing such discharge. In another embodiment, the tank pressure control valve is configured to use pressurized fuel vapor to move a flexible diaphragm to move a rigid valve member between a closed position and an opened position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Assignee: Stant Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Emil Szlaga, Robert H. Thompson
  • Patent number: 5722559
    Abstract: Rotationally molded component parts for a skid steer loader are disclosed wherein the parts provide specialized operative functions heretofore unrealized. A fuel tank structure includes both a tank body and a separate filler tube formed from a rotational molding process. The filler tube is connected to the fuel tank body by a fastening mechanism and an O-ring to provide a liquid-tight connection, The coolant recovery bottle formed with the rotational molding process incorporates an inwardly directed vent tube formed as an integral part of the recovery bottle. The container for the operator's manual is formed with the rotational molding process to incorporate a live hinge connecting a lid closable against the body of the container to provide a substantially dirt-free environment. Double walled light housings mounting front and rear lights serve as bumpers protecting the frame of the skid steer loader from damage from impact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Assignee: New Holland North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas G. Branham
  • Patent number: 5701928
    Abstract: A leak compressed fuel gas discharging device in an automobile having a compressed fuel gas tank arranged within a shut-up compartment such as a trunk room is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Takeshi Aoki
  • Patent number: 5676115
    Abstract: The invention relates to a cutoff machine having an internal combustion engine arranged for driving a work tool. The engine is held in a housing including a supporting component. Located in the housing is a fuel tank, from which the internal combustion engine is supplied with fuel. The fuel tank itself is connected via a venting tube to an equalizing vessel, which communicates with the atmosphere via a valve system. In order to connect the fuel tank to the equalizing vessel in an easily produced and assembled manner and in order to ensure safe venting of the fuel tank, a hollow body is provided in the supporting component. The hollow body is partitioned by a partition wall into two chambers, the one chamber forming the fuel tank and the other chamber forming the equalizing vessel. Both chambers are connected to each other via a one-piece venting component in which a venting line is formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Assignee: Andreas Stihl
    Inventors: Peter Linsbauer, Norbert Veser
  • Patent number: 5636668
    Abstract: A fuel vapor recovery system is disclosed wherein fuel supplied to the fuel filler pipe of a vehicle is cooled by a container of a coolable phase change material. The phase change material is cooled by a thermoelectric cooling element powered by the vehicle electrical system. A heat exchange member is disposed in the filler pipe in heat conducting relation to the container containing the phase change material. The heat exchanger and container are preferably retained in the filler pipe by thermally insulative supporting members to minimize heat transfer between the container phase change material and the filler pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventor: Robert H. Thompson
  • Patent number: 5538055
    Abstract: Tank closure with a self-locking closure apparatus arranged at the orifice rim of a pour-in socket-piece. The closure apparatus consists of a closure part and a pour-in opening which is closable by means of the closure part. Between the rim of the opening and a refueling nozzle to be introduced a gas outlet gap remains for the gases which escape when refueling the tank. A guide is provided for reception of the refueling nozzle. In order to free the exiting gases from fluid droplets, it is provided that the guide exhibits a reduced-scale segment closely surrounding the refueling nozzle. Exit openings are provided at the side of the reduced-scale segment which is placed toward the pour-in socket-piece, through which the gases pass out of the guide to the outside. Inlet openings are arranged at the side of the reduced-scale segment which faces away from the tank, through which the gases in the interior of the guide enter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1996
    Assignee: Temetec Fahrzeugtechnik Entwicklungsgesellschaft MbH
    Inventors: Georg Kunz, Angelika B. M. Temmesfeld
  • Patent number: 5515891
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for preventing the spillage of fuel into the water or onto a marine vessel when filling a fuel tank on the vessel. A vent line is coupled between the fuel tank and a vent port of the vessel, at least one valve assembly is coupled within the vent line, and an overflow container is coupled within the vent line between the valve assembly and the vent port. The valve assembly defines a drain hole for permitting small quantities of fuel, gases and/or vapors to pass through the valve assembly and into the overflow container. A fill container defines an inlet port for receiving a fuel nozzle to fill the fuel tank with fuel, and an outlet port coupled in fluid communication with a fill line for the passage of fuel between the fill container and the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1996
    Assignee: LNG & K, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph R. Langlois
  • Patent number: 5509569
    Abstract: An air-tight filler neck cap wherein an operating torque is amplified to obtain a large tightening torque including an outer cap of the filler neck which includes a knob and a cover grip which is engaged with a body of an automobile to thereby prevent the cover grip from rotating and an inner cap of the filler neck cap which is moved in association with the outer cap by a planetary gear mechanism. The planetary gear mechanism includes a sun gear, planet gears and a ring gear located on a carrier disk plate which is rotatably attached to an upper face of the inner cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Assignee: OM Corporation
    Inventors: Takanari Hiranuma, Kyokuichi Sato
  • Patent number: 5449018
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for controlling venting of fuel vapors from a vehicle fuel tank. The apparatus includes a housing having an inlet receiving fuel vapor from the fuel tank and an outlet discharging vapor to a vapor treatment device and a valve having a central portion and an outer annular portion. The valve is movable in the housing and cooperates therewith to define a first vent chamber communicating with the fuel tank and a second vent chamber communicating with the vapor treatment device. A first vent opening is formed in the central portion of the valve. The apparatus also includes a member partitioning the first vent chamber into a central region exposed to pressure from the second vent chamber and an outer annular region exposed to pressure from the inlet. A spring normally biases the valve into engagement with the partitioning member to block flow of fuel vapor from the outer annular region of first vent chamber through the first vent opening to the second vent chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1995
    Assignee: Stant Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventor: Robert S. Harris
  • Patent number: 5417240
    Abstract: A head valve for maintaining a desired pressure head in a vehicle fuel tank which responds automatically to pressure changes in the filler pipe corresponding to a change from normal vehicle operation to a refueling operation to adjust the pressure head maintained by the head valve. In a vehicle fuel system including a filler pipe selectively opened and closed by a cap, the valve of the present invention responds to pressure changes near the filler pipe inlet upon removal of the cap to increase the pressure head it maintains in fuel tank 10 and prevent the fuel tank from being overfilled. When the refueling operation is completed and the cap is replaced, the change in pressure near the filler pipe inlet operates the valve to decrease its head valve closing force and reduce the pressure head maintained in the tank for normal vehicle operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1995
    Assignee: G.T. Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert P. Benjey
  • Patent number: 5404906
    Abstract: A fuel tank includes a vent cutout valve having a first chamber connected to a vent tube, a second chamber communicating with a canister and a third chamber connected to an evaporation tube. The first and second chambers are defined by a first partition wall with a first communication bore and the second and third chambers are defined by a second partition wall with a second communication bore. A main body of the vent cutout valve is disposed within the second chamber to open the first communication bore when a shutter presses the main body of the vent cutout valve, and is provided with a check valve to close the second communication bore which is biased toward the second partition wall by a resilient member interposed between the check valve and the valve main body of the vent cutout valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 11, 1995
    Assignees: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Keeper Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuyuki Aoshima, Taiki Aoyama
  • Patent number: 5385179
    Abstract: A method is provided for installing a nozzle restrictor assembly in a fuel filler tube. The method comprises the steps of attaching a restrictor plate to an inner surface of the fuel filler tube, coating the restrictor plate and the fuel filler tube, and inserting a closure plate through a first slot formed in the restrictor plate so that the closure plate is positioned to block the opening. A nozzle restrictor assembly is also provided which comprises a restrictor plate sized for insertion into a fuel filler tube and a mechanism for selectively closing an opening formed in the restrictor plate upon withdrawal of a fuel filler nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1995
    Assignee: Pilot Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Dale Bates, Daniel N. Smith, Richard F. Little
  • Patent number: 5335641
    Abstract: A pressure control valve for controlling the vacuum in a crankcase housing, which valve is disposed on an oil filler opening (33) and simultaneously acts as a cap for the oil filler opening. A tube 37 through which the crankcase gases are conveyed to the air intake of the internal combustion engine is provided in the oil filler opening. The pressure control valve serves to establish a certain vacuum in the crankcase, is of compact construction, and can be replaced or checked in a simple manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1994
    Assignee: Filterwerk Mann & Hummel GmbH
    Inventor: Werner Schnabel
  • Patent number: 5322099
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for preventing the spillage of fuel into the water or onto a marine vessel when filling a fuel tank on the vessel. A vent line is coupled between the fuel tank and a vent port of the vessel, at least one valve assembly is coupled within the vent line, and an overflow container is coupled within the vent line between the valve assembly and the vent port. The valve assembly defines a drain hole for permitting small quantities of fuel, gases and/or vapors to pass through the valve assembly and into the overflow container. A fill container defines a first aperture for receiving a fuel nozzle to fill the fuel tank with fuel, a fitting portion for seating the fill container within a fuel fitting coupled to the fuel tank on the vessel, and a second aperture for permitting fuel to pass between the fill container and the fuel tank. Upon filling the fuel tank with fuel, the overflow fuel is collected within the fill container, thus signalling to the attendant to turn off the fuel nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 21, 1994
    Assignee: L N G & K, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph R. Langlois