Automotive Type Patents (Class 220/86.2)
  • Publication number: 20140217094
    Abstract: The invention relates to a closure system on a fuel tank (2) of thermoplastics with barrier properties for hydrocarbons. The closure system comprises at least one orifice (4), with a closure cap (5) which closes the orifice (4) in a sealing manner and which cooperates in a form-fitting manner with closure means provided at the circumference of the orifice (4) and encloses at least one first sealing means between it and a tank wall (3). The closure system (1) according to the invention is distinguished in that the tank wall is sealed in the region of the orifice (4) with at least one second sealing means, which covers and/or shields a part of the tank wall surfaces exposed to hydrocarbons.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: KAUTEX TEXTRON GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventor: Hartmut Wolf
  • Patent number: 8794467
    Abstract: A tank flap module is provided for installation in a motor vehicle having a basin, which in the region of an elastically deformable floor section has a passage opening for receiving a fuel filler neck. The floor section adjoining the passage opening on a side facing the fuel filler neck has a surface structure provided for reducing the adhesive and/or sliding friction properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Christian Zentner
  • Publication number: 20140209616
    Abstract: A cover for a service fluid tank arrangement having a first service fluid tank and a second service fluid tank includes a housing having a housing wall through which a first opening and a second opening extend. The first opening is configured to be connected to a service fluid inlet of the first service fluid tank and the second opening is configured to be connected to a service fluid inlet of the second service fluid tank. At least one of the first opening and the second opening has a filler neck that extends from the housing wall in at least one direction and is configured as a connector for a service fluid line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2013
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Inventors: Steffen Balzer, Arnd Wagner
  • Patent number: 8776845
    Abstract: A fuel tank opening and closing device is equipped with a flap valve mechanism arranged inside the tank opening forming member, having an opening and closing member for which the inlet is opened and closed by being pressed by the tip of the fueling nozzle, a shaft provided at the tip of the opening and closing member, and a bearing mechanism provided on the tank opening forming member for supporting the shaft so as to be rotatable. The bearing mechanism has a shaft support recess in which the shaft is inserted and a plurality of shaft restriction projections provided projecting from the wall surface of the shaft support recess, and the shaft restricting projections have a cross section arc shaped shaft support surface such that there is contact with a portion of the outer periphery of the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Hagano
  • Publication number: 20140183192
    Abstract: A capless nozzle for a vehicle fuel filler canal, includes a conical portion; and a non-conical portion having a stop formed therein configured to limit travel of a filler pipe in one direction when the pipe is inserted in the filler canal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Brian Thomas Aitken, Shahid Ahmed Siddiqui, Paul Chretien, Dennis Seung-Man
  • Patent number: 8763656
    Abstract: A device for preventing a fueling error reliably prevents a fueling error by accurately preventing an insertion of a small-diameter nozzle without blocking an insertion of a large-diameter nozzle whose entrance should be permitted. Even if an end of a nozzle is strongly pressed to left-and-right shutter members (22), the shutter members (22) never rotate and move in an opening direction unless the shutter members (22) slide and move to an outside of a radial direction. Thus, the structure prevents the shutter members (22) from erroneously moving to a position in which the nozzle is allowed to enter from a blocking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignees: Nifco Inc., Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takahide Ichimaru, Yuki Takikawa, Syouichi Hokazono, Takeaki Nakajima, Shinya Murabayashi
  • Publication number: 20140175096
    Abstract: A fuel tank system includes a tank that stores fuel, a leveling valve that decides a limit liquid surface, a filler pipe that is provided with a fuel filler opening to which a blocking cover is attached at an end portion of the filler pipe, a recirculation pipe that communicates with the filler pipe, a discharge passage that is connected to the leveling valve and branches to a first passage and a second passage, a seal valve, and a release valve that is connected to the tank at a position higher than the limit liquid surface and one of the recirculation pipe and the filer pipe, and is released by a pressure lower than a pressure caused by a head difference between the limit liquid surface and a liquid surface of the fuel at the fuel filler opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI JIDOSHA KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Norifumi IWAYA, Kenichi KUNII
  • Patent number: 8746298
    Abstract: A cap-free closeable neck end for a filler neck of a tank of a motor vehicle, the cap-free closeable neck including an upper entry space forming an insertion region for a fuel nozzle and being surrounded by a side wall, a lower sealing flap arranged in the upper entry space and a closing mechanism arranged above the lower sealing flap. The closing mechanism includes an upper filling opening and an upper cover, which in a closed state at least partially covers the upper filling opening and being embodied in such a manner that the upper cover is displaced by inserting an outlet pipe of a fuel nozzle into the upper entry space for releasing the upper filling opening so as to allow for the insertion of the outlet pipe through the upper filling opening and the lower sealing flap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Gerdes GmbH
    Inventor: Ralf Gerdes
  • Patent number: 8740002
    Abstract: A filler neck cap is adapted to mate with and close a filler neck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Stant USA Corp.
    Inventors: John W. Ripberger, Jr., Joshua L. Rude
  • Patent number: 8730024
    Abstract: A removable fuel tank indicator having a housing, wherein the housing is removable and universal to all automobiles and wherein the housing attaches to an automobile connection point located within the interior of the automobile; a removable arm temporarily attached to the housing, wherein the removable arm signals which side of the automobile a fuel tank is located; a means for attaching the housing to the automobile connection point wherein the automobile connection point is located within the interior of the automobile and said connection point is capable of attaching to the housing; the fragrance cartridge adapted for insertion into the opening and locking into the cavity of the housing, wherein where the cartridge is properly inserted into the opening and cavity of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Inventor: Carlos H. Cabezas
  • Patent number: 8726947
    Abstract: A fuel-fill adapter for use in conjunction with a manually-controlled liquid supply nozzle for filling a fuel reservoir is disclosed. The adaptor mates with liquid supply nozzle as well as the filling port of the fuel reservoir. The fuel fill adaptor includes two main fluid pathways: an incoming pathway for liquid to fill the reservoir and an outgoing pathway for vapor venting or excess liquid draining. The fuel-fill adaptor includes a low-pressure differential vacuum-breaking valve to prevent the siphon effect that would otherwise naturally occur if liquid were to enter the gas venting hose. The vacuum-breaking valve permits air to enter the adaptor, wherein the air is then drawn down the drain hose instead of any additional liquid. The vacuum breaking valve can be connected to either the incoming liquid or vent/drain pathways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: John D. Willey, Harry Lichter
  • Patent number: 8726950
    Abstract: A mis-fuel inhibitor in an inlet neck assembly of a vehicle fuel system discriminates between nozzle diameters, allowing entrance of nozzle diameters at or greater than a predetermined minimum diameter while inhibiting entrance of nozzles having diameters less than the predetermined minimum diameter. An actuator responsive to nozzle diameters opens and closes shutters blocking nozzle entrance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Bryan M. Miller, Franco A. Cisternino, Paul M. Sutenbach
  • Patent number: 8720721
    Abstract: A capless refueling system is provided which utilizes snap-in attachment of a multi-stage valve assembly within a fuel pipe. The valve assembly includes a lower body portion and a cover independent from the lower body portion. The lower body portion and the cover are configured to be lockingly adjoined to one another. The cover is adapted to be adjoined to the fuel pipe. The system is sealed at a position above the primary shutoff valve thereby eliminating the need for a spring pin support bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Robert K. Dutzi, Bryan M. Miller, William A. Purdy, Stephen M. Sperando, Paul M. Sutenbach, Franco A. Cisternino
  • Patent number: 8714213
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to a tank filler neck which comprises a housing, in which at least one flow aid and a head part are arranged. The flow aid and the head part, which may be designed with a screw thread, are connected to form an insert, which by insertion in the housing can be connected thereto, a flap comprising a grounding lug being connectable to the head part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Martin Girgenrath
  • Patent number: 8714214
    Abstract: A mis-fuel inhibitor in an inlet neck assembly of a vehicle fuel system discriminates between nozzle diameters, allowing entrance of nozzle diameters at or greater than a predetermined minimum diameter while inhibiting entrance of nozzles having diameters less than the predetermined minimum diameter. An actuator responsive to nozzle diameters engages and disengages locking arms that are associated with a primary shutoff valve flapper door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works
    Inventor: Franco A. Cisternino
  • Patent number: 8714212
    Abstract: One embodiment of a fuel inlet includes a tube including a side wall having an interior surface that defines an interior adapted for receiving a fuel nozzle therein and for receiving fuel there through, and the side wall including a raised region that extends circumferentially around the interior surface of the side wall and inwardly into the interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Inventors: Kenneth A. Watson, Evan S. Waymire
  • Publication number: 20140110405
    Abstract: A misfuelling prevention device for a filler neck of a fuel tank includes a tubular element with an inflow side and an outflow side and a closure element, which, when in an open state, permits a flow of fuel through the outflow side, and, when in a closed state, prevents a flow of fuel through the outflow side. In a shell surface of the tubular element there is formed at least one opening which permits a flow of fuel from an inner side of the tubular element through to an outer side of the tubular element. The tubular element can be mounted such that at least a part of the shell surface in which the at least one opening is formed is arranged spaced apart from an inner surface of the filler neck such that fuel flowing through the at least one opening can flow via the filler neck into the fuel tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Thorsten BREUER, Christian SCHARPING
  • Publication number: 20140103039
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments of a reinforcement structure for a vehicle fuel filler tube. In one aspect, a fuel filler tube assembly for a vehicle comprises: a fuel filler tube configured to fluidly connect a fuel filler adaptor with a fuel reservoir and having an exposed segment; an elastomeric sleeve at least partially circumscribing the exposed segment; and a rigid reinforcement plate at least partially overlaying the sleeve, the plate extending longitudinally along a circumferential portion of the exposed segment and shaped to approximate a contour of the exposed segment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: Souichi Fujiwara, Carrie Dubay
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8678218
    Abstract: The present disclosure refers to a fuel tank for a vehicle equipped with a valve housing and a ventilation opening that has a ventilation valve placed on an upper opening of the tank and which projects into the tank interior. Additionally, the wall of the valve housing is interspersed with at least one wall opening, and a float has been arranged in the valve housing that can be moved from a resting to a closing position and has a sealing element on its upper end. The float is in a lower place in the valve housing when it is in its resting position and the sealing element releases the ventilation opening. The float, when in a closing position, closes the ventilation opening with its sealing element as soon as the closing level is reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Alfmeier Präzision AG Baugruppen und Systemlösungen
    Inventors: Richard Roscher, Jurgen Theissler
  • Patent number: 8671978
    Abstract: A refueling device (1) for refueling a fuel tank (2) of an internal combustion engine (3) in a motor vehicle (4) has a filler connector (5) for feeding fuel to the fuel tank (2). An integrated fuel feed device (10) feeds the fuel from the filler connector (5) to the fuel tank (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Michael Fritz, Josef Oesterle, Horst Petri
  • Patent number: 8667922
    Abstract: A closure element is provided for a fuel tank of a motor vehicle, in which tank an at least slight excess pressure and/or vacuum may exist. An indication is provided on the closure element, by which indication the operator is informed of the presence of excess pressure and/or vacuum in the tank. The indication takes place mechanically by way of a mechanical pressure sensor, specifically with respect to the presence of essentially ambient pressure or excess pressure by use of different colors. For this purpose, an indicating dial can be provided in the closure element, which indicating dial can be rotated by way of a pin displaceable against a spring force under the influence of the pressure existing in the tank. A jacket segment being recognizable by the operator through a window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Stefan Demmer
  • Publication number: 20140061192
    Abstract: A motor vehicle includes a fuel-filler housing component for mounting to a vehicle body and an insert at a terminus of the fuel filler pipe. The housing component has a central opening and at least one on-center vertical plumb feature. The insert is mounted to the fuel filler pipe so that it is disposed in the central opening. The insert includes an annular mouth with a hole for receiving a fuel transfer nozzle, wherein the annular mouth includes a drain slot for draining liquid away from the hole. The drain slot is substantially aligned with the on-center vertical plumb feature and has a teardrop profile substantially free of visible straight lines pointing toward the on-center vertical plumb feature. Thus, any small misalignment of the insert remains relatively undetectable since visual cues are minimized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Brian T. Aitken, Paul Chretien
  • Patent number: 8662118
    Abstract: A coupling has a housing which defines a vacuum chamber and, at least in part, a nozzle chamber. The nozzle chamber forms a valve chamber, an intake chamber, and an outlet chamber. A main valve is in the valve chamber. The main valve is movable between an open and closed position. A poppet valve is in the outlet chamber. An air outlet opens from the vacuum chamber into the nozzle chamber. An opening of an air uptake conduit opens into the vacuum chamber. The air outlet opening is distinct from the opening of the uptake conduit. When the main valve is in the open position the valve chamber is open to the outlet chamber and the outlet chamber is open to the intake chamber. In the closed position, the valve chamber is sealed off from the outlet chamber and the intake chamber is sealed off from the outlet chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: EMCO Wheaton Corp.
    Inventors: Gary Wilson Hunt, Mark Andrew Pettenuzzo
  • Publication number: 20140053947
    Abstract: A fuel tank having an interior space defined by a wall, a fill tube to admit fuel into the interior space, and a vent to discharge air and vapor from the interior space as the fuel is admitted. The vent includes a vent tube extending through the wall and downward into the interior space, and having a non-circular opening. In this manner ejection of fuel from the fill tube can be prevented reliably under a wide range of refueling conditions, and without imparting excessive length to the vent tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Damien Baldwin, Michael William Soltis, Jeffrey Dumler
  • Patent number: 8657147
    Abstract: A container with a tube is disclosed, which is suitable for receiving therein urea-containing liquids and which, especially due to its material properties, can easily be installed subsequently into vehicles and engines. The tube can consist of TPV.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Veritas AG
    Inventors: Marc Van Hooren, Burkhard Wirth
  • Patent number: 8651151
    Abstract: A vehicle fuel inlet shut-off valve assembly includes a two-piece housing having inner and outer housing components secured to each other. The housing components can be provided of different materials, with a surface coating. A flapper door assembly is secured in the outer housing component and includes directionally biased interlocking components that facilitate installation and inhibit disconnection after assembly with redundant connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: William Berghorst, Kirk J. Bush, Franco A. Cisternino, Michael Payne
  • Publication number: 20140034638
    Abstract: Fuel fill apparatus for use with fuel tanks are described. An example fuel fill apparatus includes a body to removably couple to a neck of a fuel tank. The body has an opening to receive a fuel nozzle and guide liquid fuel from the fuel nozzle to a cavity of the fuel tank. A nozzle retainer retains the fuel nozzle in the opening. A positioner in the opening offsets the fuel nozzle relative to a central axis of the opening such that an aspirator of the fuel nozzle is positioned adjacent an inner wall of the opening when the fuel nozzle is inserted in the opening. The positioner maintains a fuel nozzle outlet opening substantially parallel relative to a central axis of the opening during a fueling event.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventors: Sean Whelan, Anthony Slabaugh, Christopher Bostwick
  • Publication number: 20140027451
    Abstract: A fueling device is equipped with a grating member provided in a fuel path of a fueling pipe, wherein the grating member is equipped with a plurality of ring shaped partition members arranged in concentric circles with the center line of the fuel path as the center, and having differing diameters, and support members for supporting the partition members in relation to the inner wall of the fueling pipe, and wherein the gaps formed between the inner wall of the fueling pipe, the partition members, and the support members are used as a plurality of gap flow paths which are a portion of the fuel path, and the center of each of the partition members is arranged at different positions on the center line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2013
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicants: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA, TOYODA GOSEI CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kenichiro KANEKO, Toshinori SEKI, Kunji KITAGAWA, Shinji SHIMOKAWA
  • Patent number: 8636163
    Abstract: The invention relates to a motor vehicle fuel tank (1) of thermoplastics having at least one filler neck (4) not moulded on in one piece, the latter being connected in a fluid-tight manner to the fuel tank (4), wherein the filler neck (5) is inserted into an opening (5) in the fuel tank (1) and is sealed by sealing means (11) at its outer circumference relative to the fuel tank (1) in the opening (5). The filler neck (4) is clamped axially against the tank wall (2), with the seal acting radially.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Kautex Textron GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Klaus Gebert, Axel Wagner
  • Patent number: 8635777
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fuel draw and return system including a plate, a first fuel tube secured to the plate, and a second fuel tube secured to the plate, wherein the first and second fuel tubes are secured to one another and to the plate to define a triangular shaped connection configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Inventor: Kenneth A. Watson
  • Patent number: 8627912
    Abstract: A CNG filling receptacle holding device for a vehicle according to the present invention comprises additional elements for the installation of CNG filling receptacle with the fuel filling path opening on the body of the vehicle to that of the typical installation of the gas filling receptacle inside the engine compartment wherein a number of molded plates are made into elements for assembling onto a frame at the position of the CNG filling receptacle holding device for the vehicle according to the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Surayut Posirisuk
    Inventor: Kasap Mulanon
  • Patent number: 8622101
    Abstract: A filler tube assembly is used with a fuel pump nozzle having a pressure sensing port. The filler tube assembly includes a receiver having an inner wall defining an aperture, which receives the pump nozzle. The inner wall defines an orifice and a seal is coupled to the inner wall about the orifice for defining a chamber between the inner wall, the seal, and the fuel pump nozzle when the fuel pump nozzle is disposed in the aperture. A vacuum tube has a coupled end in fluid communication with the orifice and an open end in fluid communication with the fuel tank. The receiver defines a rim for seating the fuel pump nozzle in the aperture to align the pressure sensing port with the orifice. When fuel covers the open end of the vacuum tube, a pressure change is transmitted through the filler tube assembly to the pressure sensing port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventors: Gregory F. Smith, David G. Smith
  • Patent number: 8622102
    Abstract: A neck assembly of a fuel system component comprises a housing. The housing comprises a sleeve having a first end portion positioned exterior to the fuel system component and a longitudinally opposed second end portion. The housing further comprises an encapsulation ring extending radially outwardly from the second end portion of the sleeve and encapsulated within a wall of the fuel system component. The neck assembly further comprises a valve cartridge at least partially received within the sleeve and secured thereto. The valve cartridge comprises a conduit having a first end portion positioned exterior to the fuel system component and a longitudinally opposed second end portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Salflex Polymers Limited
    Inventors: Jeff Yager, Daniel Butum, William Matthew Foster
  • Patent number: 8616403
    Abstract: Disclosed is a fuel filler port device that is of a fuel tank for a straddled vehicle and that can utilize the upper space of the fuel tank without leading to an increase in size of a fuel filler guide tube. The fuel filler port device (60) of a fuel tank for a straddled vehicle is provided with: a fuel filler guide tube (61) that extends from the fuel filler port (53) provided to the upper wall of the fuel tank (16) to the interior of the fuel tank (16), and a flame arrester (62) that is disposed at the bottom of the fuel filler guide tube (61); and the flame arrester (62) is provided in a manner allowing a nozzle (N) of a fuel gun inserted from the fuel filler port (53) to be inserted lower than the upper end of the flame arrester (62).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masaru Hisadomi, Hiroyuki Maeda
  • Publication number: 20130327768
    Abstract: A fuel tank fuel filler structure with which even a fuel nozzle having a large diameter portion can be inserted easily into a fuel fill inlet and which can highly demonstrate the action of guiding the fuel nozzle to the fuel fill inlet. One end of a guide plate is rotatably supported on a rotational shaft disposed on a flapper valve. The guide plate is biased by a guide plate biasing spring toward a withdrawal region in which the guide plate withdraws from a passage region of a fuel nozzle. In a state where the flapper valve is in an open position, the entire guide plate is positioned in the withdrawal region. In a state where the flapper valve is in a closed position, the guide plate can be placed near a fuel fill inlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2011
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Chiaki Kataoka, Satoshi Yamamoto, Masaki Akagi
  • Patent number: 8596311
    Abstract: A fuel system includes a fuel tank, a fill head, a vapor canister, and a valve assembly. The fill head is in fluid communication with the fuel tank. Fluid flows from the fill head to the fuel tank. The vapor canister is configured for absorbing vapor therein. A recirculation line is configured to fluidly extend between the fuel tank and the fill head. A vapor line is configured to fluidly extend between the fuel tank and the vapor canister. The valve assembly is operatively disposed along the vapor line or the recirculation line. The valve assembly includes a filter having a membrane formed from a micro-porous element that is fluid impermeable and vapor permeable. Fluid is prevented from flowing through the membrane and into the vapor canister while allowing vapor to flow through the membrane and into the vapor canister.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Matthew L. Erdmann, Matthew D. Reuther
  • Patent number: 8596315
    Abstract: A filling neck to feed fuel into a motor vehicle tank using a filling nozzle, exhibiting the following features: a slotted drive ring comprising an insertion portion conically tapering toward the vehicle fuel tank, the cross-sectional constriction being less than the filling nozzle's cross-section; the drive ring, facing the fuel tank comprises, on at least one side of said gap, a locking segment; the drive ring is configured in floating manner in a cup-shaped housing portion of the filling neck, the outside diameter of said ring being less than the inside diameter of the cup-shaped housing portion; a sealing element is associated with the distal end of the drive ring, blocking access to the tank in its closed position; the drive ring's locking segment engages and keeps the sealing element in the locked position, and moves into the open position when said drive ring is expanded by the filling nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: ITW Automotive Products GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Manfred Muller
  • Patent number: 8596483
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a closure for an aperture. More specifically, the present invention relates to a closure for an access aperture in a panel, such as a closure for an oil filter access aperture in an engine cover. The present invention comprises a single-piece rotatably-engageable access closure element having a plurality of tension arms and adapted to seal an access aperture having cutouts corresponding to each of the plurality of tension arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Novo Motor Acoustic Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Pal M. Molnar, Steven J. Wille, Tim E. Droege
  • Publication number: 20130306631
    Abstract: An adapter for an oil filler neck and an assembly method for the adapter are provided. In an embodiment, the adapter includes an extension piece with a lower partial region and an upper partial region. The lower partial region has an outer bayonet cap guide that is adjusted to an inner bayonet cap guide of an oil fill port. The upper partial region has the inner bayonet cap guide that is adjusted to the outer bayonet cap guide of an oil filler inlet cover. An outer retaining ferule with an anti-twist device apron engages an outer edge region of the oil fill port in a positive and torsionally rigid manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Inventor: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
  • Publication number: 20130284732
    Abstract: A vehicle tank and/or fill pipe for the vehicle tank, the vehicle tank and/or the fill pipe including a flexible part having an auxetic structure and/or a flexible part including helicoidal corrugations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2011
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Applicant: Inergy Automotive Systems Research (Societe Anonyme)
    Inventor: Jules-Joseph Van Schaftingen
  • Patent number: 8567458
    Abstract: A fuel filler apparatus of a vehicle of the invention, during normal operation, only permits insertion of fuel dispensing nozzles of a diameter within a predefined range, and prevents insertion of fuel dispensing nozzles whose diameter is smaller a lowest value or larger than a highest value of this range. The fuel filler apparatus includes a manual operation override mechanism which by a manual operation permits the insertion of only fuel dispensing nozzles of a diameter smaller than the lowest value of the range under special circumstances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yu Sato, Takeaki Nakajima, Shoichi Hokazono, Shinya Murabayashi
  • Patent number: 8555937
    Abstract: A structure for a fuel filling opening of an automobile is configure such that, when fuel supplied from a fuel supply nozzle flows back to the fuel filling opening side, the fuel flowed back can be slowly discharged to the outside from the fuel filling opening. The structure is provided with ring recesses formed in a ring opening of an operation ring, and also with partitioning recesses formed in an opening in an outer tube partition. The recesses are arranged offset in the circumferential direction to form a labyrinth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinya Murabayashi, Yu Sato
  • Patent number: 8550128
    Abstract: A refilling system for use in refilling a container with a fluid from a fluid source. The container having air space above a fluid space. The fluid having a fluid level within the container. The refilling system comprising a fluid flow control valve connected via a bleed line to a fluid level sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Inventor: Michael J. Mitrovich
  • Patent number: 8544932
    Abstract: An automobile fuel-tank tube comprising a tube body made of a first plastic and fitted at one end with means for its affixation to an automobile body opening, further comprising a base integrally shaped with said tube body and made of a second plastic softer than the first and including an aperture to receive in sealing manner a comparatively hard filling pipe, a reinforcing section being integrated into the base and also consists of the first plastic and counteracts radial and/or circumferential deformation of said base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: ITW Automotive Products GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Jurgen Herzig
  • Patent number: 8539993
    Abstract: A fuel tank opening and closing device is equipped with a flap valve mechanism having an opening and closing member for opening and closing an inlet inside a tank opening forming member. The nozzle positioning guide mechanism has a first support mechanism of an opening peripheral edge of an introduction port of an insertion path of a tank opening forming member, a second support mechanism having an introduction guide surface formed on the top surface of the pressing member of the opening and closing member, and a positioning ridge line that has a curvature almost the same but slightly larger than the outer diameter of the fueling nozzle and which touches by line contact on the outer peripheral surface of the fueling nozzle at the insertion completion position, and a third support mechanism having a valve positioning member which regulates the degree of openness of the opening and closing member by touching the inner wall of the tank opening forming member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Hagano
  • Publication number: 20130233852
    Abstract: A cap attaching structure includes a cylindrical member and a cap member. The cylindrical member has an end plate, a side wall to be inserted into the cylindrical member, and an engagement claw piece in which a proximal end portion is connected to an inserting side end portion of the side wall, while a distal end portion extends towards the end plate via a slit. On an outer circumference of the engagement claw piece, a claw portion adapted to be brought into engagement with an engagement hole of the cylindrical member is provided. The distal end portion of the engagement claw piece is disposed in a cutout portion in the end plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: PIOLAX INC
    Inventor: Kenta Mihara
  • Publication number: 20130228576
    Abstract: The invention relates to a capless filler neck having an upper closure flap 2 and a lower closure flap 3, which are arranged in a pipe section 1. The two closure flaps 2, 3 must be able to seal independently of one another. In known capless filler necks, this has the effect that, when the filler pipe 4 of a fuel nozzle is still partially inserted, the lower closure flap 3 is already closed, whereas the user still has the impression that tank filling can be carried out. As a result, fuel collects between the two closure flaps 2, 3. The invention prevents this in that the lower closure flap 3 is opened or held open by the upper closure flap 2 or by an actuating element even when the filler pipe 4 is no longer in contact with the lower closure flap 2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2011
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Applicant: GERDES GMBH
    Inventor: Ralf Gerdes
  • Publication number: 20130221000
    Abstract: When a driver manipulates a fuel filler lid switch, a tank shutoff valve is opened. Then, time t is calculated, and then, remaining time, obtained by subtracting elapsed time from the time t, is presented on a display device. If the fuel filler lid switch is manipulated again, the tank shutoff valve is closed to seal a fuel tank, and a message to the effect that opening action of the fuel filler lid is cancelled is presented on the display device. If the time t has elapsed without the fuel filler lid switch being manipulated again, the fuel filler lid is opened, determining that internal pressure in the fuel tank has decreased to a level predetermined to ensure that the fuel tank can be filled safely without fuel or fuel evaporative gas spouting from the fuel tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI JIDOSHA KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: MITSUBISHI JIDOSHA KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
  • Publication number: 20130221001
    Abstract: A resin-made fuel inlet pipe that has a light weight, excellent impact resistance, and causes no fuel leakage includes at least one resin layer comprising a resin composition containing (A) a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or a linear short-chain branched polyethylene (LLDPE); (B) a polyethylene polymerized with a metallocene-based catalyst; and (C) a carbon black. A weight mixing ratio (A)/(B) is in a range of from 10/90 to 90/10; a content of component (C) is in a range of from 0.1 to 5 parts by weight with respect to 100 parts by weight of a total of components (A) and (B); a soft tissue (Y) comprising component (B) is inserted between linear crystalline tissues (X) comprising component (A) to expand an interval between the tissues (X); and component (C) is dispersed in the soft tissue (Y).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: TOKAI RUBBER INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventor: TOKAI RUBBER INDUSTRIES, LTD.