Automotive Type Patents (Class 220/86.2)
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Patent number: 7461673Abstract: A closure device for tank filler necks in motor vehicles. The closure device has the object of configuring the tank filling operation to be more comfortable. This objective is achieved in that at least two closure elements are swivel-mounted on the tank filler neck, the closure elements having insertion bevels on their top that are designed in such a way that when a fuel nozzle is placed on them the closure elements swivel and open the tank filler neck.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2004Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Assignee: Alfred Engelmann Holding GmbHInventors: Marcus Busch, Etzhard Bultmann
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Publication number: 20080277394Abstract: A filler tube assembly for vehicles is disclosed. The filler tube assembly includes a fuel supply tube made of aluminum for injecting a fuel into a fuel tank of the vehicle, a gas circulation tube having one end coupled to a front end of the fuel supply tube and the other end coupled to the fuel tank, so as to circulate a gas when the fuel is supplied, a tube cap made of aluminum and fixed to the front end of the fuel supply tube, and a shutter fixed to an inner portion of the front end of the fuel supply tube to prevent reverse current of the fuel supplied in the fuel tank.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2008Publication date: November 13, 2008Inventor: Ho Soon Jung
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Publication number: 20080237230Abstract: A filler neck an actuation ring (16) having a slot (18) and an entrance portion which is conically narrowed towards the tank, the most narrow cross-section of the entrance portion being smaller than the diameter of a diesel-nozzle and larger than that of an otto-nozzle the actuation ring (16) has an actuation portion at the end facing the tank at least on one side of the slot a closing mechanism is associated with the end of the actuation ring facing the tank and designed such that in closing position thereof it stops the otto nozzle inserted into the actuation ring and the actuation portion of the actuation ring engages the closing mechanism, whereby the closing mechanism is moved from the closing position into an opened position by the actuation portion if the actuation ring is radially expanded by the diesel-nozzle inserted into the actuation ring.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2005Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: ITW AUTOMOTIVE PRODUCTS GMBH & CO. KGInventor: Roland Och
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Publication number: 20080237231Abstract: The filler neck of a fuel tank with an arrangement for preventing incorrect fueling has a rotatable ring and closing elements which are actuated by said ring, with a transmission device having the following features being arranged between the movable part and the rotatable ring: there are two slides which are situated opposite one another and which have run-on faces which face toward one another in the support body, the two slides are connected to one another by means of a rigid bar, which rigid bar is movably articulatedly connected with its first end to the first slide and with its second end to the second slide, the second end of the bar is a bolt which engages into a first slot of the second slide and into a second slot of the rotatable ring.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: MAGNA STEYR FUEL SYSTEMS GESMBHInventor: Stefan Feichtinger
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Patent number: 7426946Abstract: A pipe structure of a windshield washer fluid feeding device for a vehicle includes a refill pipe which is used for the feeding of windshield washer fluid into a windshield washer fluid reservoir tank and has a multiply-curved form ensuring a sufficient working space between the refill pipe and a head lamp unit of the vehicle, and an auxiliary pipe connected at both ends thereof to certain portions of the refill pipe. With the combined configuration of the refill pipe and auxiliary pipe, even if the windshield washer fluid freezes, a joint region between the windshield washer fluid reservoir tank and the refill pipe is protected from damage.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2004Date of Patent: September 23, 2008Assignee: Hyundai Mobis Co., Ltd.Inventor: Sook-kie Kim
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Patent number: 7415997Abstract: A seal assembly is provided for a fill pipe of a vehicle fuel system to provide a pliable seal between an end of the fuel pipe and a refueling nozzle inserted in the fill pipe.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2006Date of Patent: August 26, 2008Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Franco A. Cisternino, Bryan K. Happel
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Publication number: 20080164255Abstract: A conducting system for a fuel tank filling pipe, including a filling bowl made of a conducting plastic, a filling nozzle guide, also made of a conducting plastic, provided with deformable teeth, and in direct contact with the filling bowl, and a metal head. The bowl and the guide are inserted into the metal head such that the teeth are in permanent radial contact with the metal head when the bowl and the guide are mounted in the filling pipe.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2006Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: INERGY AUTOMOTIVE SYS. RESEARCH ( SOCIETE ANONYME)Inventors: Emmanuel Dufays, Gwereg Paolini, Philippe Coulon
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Publication number: 20080128415Abstract: A filler neck assembly includes a funnel member having a tubular body defining a transition portion between an inlet opening and an outlet opening and a nozzle receptor disposed within the tubular body. The nozzle receptor positions a nozzle relative to the transition portion to create a suctioning effect that prevents fuel vapors from escaping into the atmosphere during fueling.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 12, 2008Publication date: June 5, 2008Applicant: Shelby Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Patrick R. O'Connell
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Patent number: 7377559Abstract: The tank flap of an automobile is locked via a wire spring with which an extension connected to the tank flap will cooperate. A spring-biased locking body keeps the wire spring in the releasing position when the tank flap initially is forced inwards.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2005Date of Patent: May 27, 2008Assignee: ITW Automotive Products GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Rainer Gramss, Carsten Albracht
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Patent number: 7343942Abstract: A method of forming a gas tank filler neck includes configuring at least a portion of a seamless tubular member to induce a swirl to passing fuel for venting vapors from the gas tank during fuel filling. The configuration may include deep drawing a seamless funnel member, forming a relatively large inlet at one end thereof, and forming a relatively small outlet at the opposite end thereof, the inlet having an axis offset from the axis of the outlet. A filler neck includes a seamless funnel member defining a relatively large inlet opening and relatively small outlet opening, the position of the inlet opening relative the outlet opening inducing a swirl to the fuel being supplied.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2003Date of Patent: March 18, 2008Assignee: Shelby Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Patrick R. O'Connell
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Patent number: 7318462Abstract: A closure device for a filler pipe of a tank intended to contain a liquid, the device including a valve that includes a valve body in communication with the pipe and a plug that can be moved in the valve body between a closed position and an open position of the valve. The body of the valve includes an inlet opening closed off by a flap that can be moved between an open position and a closed position, and an outlet opening. The flap is connected to the plug by a coupling such that a thrust exerted on the flap by a tubular end of a nozzle for admitting liquid into the tank causes the flap to tilt into the valve body and the plug to rotate, placing a cylindrical opening in the plug in alignment with inlet and outlet openings in the valve body.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2004Date of Patent: January 15, 2008Assignee: Inergy Automotive Systems Research (Société Anonyme)Inventor: Patrick Ganachaud
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Patent number: 7311348Abstract: A housing apparatus of a fuel neck includes a main housing with a first connecting portion connected to a vehicle body, and a hole with a door connected thereto; and a sub housing with a second connecting portion connected to the main housing by an elastic force. The sub housing is elastically connected to the fuel neck. The first connecting portion is elastically connected to the vehicle body, and includes a first protruding portion secured to the vehicle body; and a second protruding portion at a lower portion of the first protruding portion. The second connecting portion includes a connecting hole to which the main housing is inserted; and at least one protrusion securing the main housing to the sub housing. The main housing further includes a third protruding portion inserted to the connecting hole.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 2006Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Kia Motors CorporationInventor: Jae Chul Bang
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Patent number: 7306017Abstract: A capless seal door for a fuel tank filler tube employs a door valve with a flexible annular seal which, upon closing against a seat on the undersurface of a nozzle-receiving orifice formed in a bulkhead across the tube, initially wipes on the seat and is subsequently compressed thereon.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2005Date of Patent: December 11, 2007Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventors: Paul D. Walkowski, Robert P. Benjey
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Patent number: 7302977Abstract: A nozzle inhibitor is positioned in a filler neck closure assembly to prevent a user from pumping unleaded fuel into a diesel fuel tank. The nozzle inhibitor blocks full insertion of a small-diameter unleaded fuel nozzle into the filler neck closure assembly yet allows full insertion of a large-diameter diesel fuel nozzle into the filler neck closure assembly.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2005Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Stant Manufacturing Inc.Inventors: Timothy J. King, J Bradley Groom, Poul Hedevang
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Patent number: 7293586Abstract: A nozzle inhibitor is positioned in a filler neck closure assembly between a pivotable outer door and a pivotable inner door to prevent a user from pumping unleaded fuel into a diesel fuel tank. The nozzle inhibitor blocks full insertion of a small-diameter unleaded fuel nozzle into the filler neck closure assembly yet allows full insertion of a large-diameter diesel fuel nozzle into the filler neck closure assembly.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2006Date of Patent: November 13, 2007Assignee: Stant Manufacturing Inc.Inventors: J Bradley Groom, Chad A. McClung, Michael S. Brock, Jeffrey E. Devall
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Patent number: 7290673Abstract: A cap device or fuel cap has a cap main body, a cover, and a torque plate that transmits a rotational torque. The torque plate is attached to the cap main body in a rotatable manner through engagement of catching claws formed on the outer circumference of the torque plate with catching projections formed on the cap main body. The cover is held on the torque plate in a rotatable manner through engagement of engagement projections formed on the inner wall of the cover with catching claws formed on respective fixation elements. The engagement projections are arranged about an axis of the cap main body and outside the catching claws. The engagement projections are thus readily released from engagement with the catching claws under application of an external force in any of diverse directions, for example, due to a collision of a vehicle, so as to maintain the sufficient sealing properties of the cap main body.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2004Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hiroyuki Hagano
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Patent number: 7278453Abstract: A fuel inlet assembly is provided for receiving fuel from a fuel-dispensing nozzle. The fuel inlet assembly has a filler pipe and a restrictor secured to the filler pipe. The restrictor has a diametrical opening. The assembly also has a protrusion that is attached to the restrictor and extends at an angle across a portion of the diametrical opening below the restrictor. The protrusion is made of an electrically conductive material and is sized, shaped, and positioned so as to contact the fuel-dispensing nozzle when the nozzle is inserted into the diametrical opening, thereby creating an electrical ground path between the nozzle and the fuel inlet assembly.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2005Date of Patent: October 9, 2007Assignee: Fluid Routing Solutions, Inc.Inventor: Glen R. Jansheski
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Patent number: 7258145Abstract: A fuel filler neck assembly having a uniform hemmed connection between an outer funnel portion and an inner funnel portion. The outer funnel portion is typically defined by an offset-expanded cylinder and sidewalls of varying thickness. The inner funnel portion includes sidewalls that have an internal thread, which is configured to mate with the threads of a gas cap. A hemmed connection is used to join one end of the outer funnel portion to one end of the inner funnel portion. The sidewalls at one end of the outer funnel portion are folded or bent inwardly and around the rim portion to define a curled portion. A tooling assembly for producing a uniform hemmed connection between one end of the outer funnel portion and one end of the inner funnel portion. A method of producing a uniform hemmed connection between portions of a fuel filler neck.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2004Date of Patent: August 21, 2007Assignee: Dayco Products, LLCInventors: Douglas D. McCracken, Thomas Barber, Jamie R. Pritchard
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Patent number: 7246642Abstract: A filler neck closure unit includes a frangible portion that is configured to break along a fracture line when an outer portion of the closure unit is hit by a strong blow. The closure unit includes an inner portion that remains coupled to a filler neck to block discharge of liquid fuel and fuel vapor from the filler neck and an outer portion that takes the blow and separates from the inner portion at the fracture line.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2005Date of Patent: July 24, 2007Assignee: Stant Manufacturing Inc.Inventors: Dean C. Foltz, Jason K. Jobe, Wallace D. Tallent
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Patent number: 7243678Abstract: A fuel fill system includes a funnel having an inlet port configured to receive a nozzle from an external fuel source, a fuel filler tube coupled to an outlet port of the funnel, and a vapor recirculation tube coupled to the funnel. Fuel vapor entering the funnel from the vapor recirculation tube is directed toward the outlet port at a first angle less than 90° from a longitudinal axis of the funnel. The fuel vapor entering the funnel may also be directed at a second angle less than 90° from a line tangent to an inner surface of the funnel at a point where fuel vapor enters the funnel. The second angle being in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the funnel.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2004Date of Patent: July 17, 2007Assignee: Dayco Products, LLCInventors: Raja Banerjee, Darrell L. Klein
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Patent number: 7204279Abstract: A vehicle tank includes an intake tube, on the end of which is placed a filling-fixture containing an automatic tank closure. The filling-fixture is made of one piece with the intake tube. The automatic tank closure is integrated in an insert. The filling-fixture forms a recess on its upper end into which the insert can be placed. A fissure joint is sealed with the aid of a sealing element between the filling-fixture and the insert and the securement of the insert in its recess is assured by a retaining flange. The flange is circumferentially connected in a radially outlying area with the filling-fixture and the flange extends so far radially inward that it covers the fissure joint and an inward extending area of the upper side of the insert.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2004Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: Alfmeier Prazision Ag Baugruppen und SystemlosungenInventor: Matthias Bäuerle
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Patent number: 7198078Abstract: A filler device or pipe comprising: a filler neck including a pouring inlet, a neck connection portion, and a connection pipe which includes a bellows part and which is connected to the neck connection portion. Fuel is injected through the pouring inlet and fed into the fuel tank through a filling passage of the filler device. The filler device further includes an inner tube including a tube body formed of a flexible elastomer material, which is inserted into the connection pipe. The tube body and the connection pipe having cooperating engaging members for holding the tube body within the connection pipe. The tube body covers an inner wall of the bellows part.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2004Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.Inventors: Natsushi Miura, Zenichi Yasuda, Masahiro Ando, Tomokazu Hori
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Patent number: 7191810Abstract: Sealing and safety device made from flexible elastomer material, for filing a hollow body with a liquid using a delivery nozzle, which includes an annular seal for surrounding the nozzle and preventing the exit of gases from the hollow body and also a valve capable of opening, in the event of excess overpressure in the hollow body, only towards the external atmosphere so as to create a passage allowing the escape of liquid and/or of gas.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2005Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Assignee: Inergy Automotive Systems Research (Société Anonyme)Inventors: Patrick Ganachaud, Jacques Covet
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Patent number: 7191912Abstract: A brake fluid reservoir (10) for a vehicle hydraulic brake system has a filler neck (16), a lid (18) which closes the filler neck, and a device for pressure compensation between the reservoir interior and the ambient atmosphere. In order, when the brake fluid reservoir (10) is in a steeply inclined position, to prevent an escape of brake fluid, in the lid (18) a first brake fluid forced-flow channel (32) is formed, which has an inlet (34) at the inside of the lid and an outlet (36) towards the outside of the lid. The forced-flow channel (32) extends between the inlet (34) and the outlet (36) along a curved path, which in relation to a plan view of the lid (18) runs through at least two quadrants.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2002Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Assignee: Lucas Industries LimitedInventor: Hans-Christoph Lange
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Patent number: 7182109Abstract: A discharge nozzle for the filling pipe of a motor vehicle fuel tank for the introduction of fuel into the tank includes a check flap which is held by spring loading in a closed position, being caused to bear pivotably against the mouth opening of the nozzle. The check flap is sealed in relation to the mouth opening of the nozzle by way of at least one sealing element with a peripherally extending sealing lip. The sealing lip extends radially outwardly in relation to the cross-section of the discharge mouth opening.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2006Date of Patent: February 27, 2007Assignee: Kautex Textron GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Ralf Kolberg
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Patent number: 7182111Abstract: A nozzle inhibitor is positioned in a filler neck closure assembly between a pivotable outer door and a pivotable inner door to prevent a user from pumping unleaded fuel into a diesel fuel tank. The nozzle inhibitor blocks full insertion of a small-diameter unleaded fuel nozzle into the filler neck closure assembly yet allows full insertion of a large-diameter diesel fuel nozzle into the filler neck closure assembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2005Date of Patent: February 27, 2007Assignee: Stant Manufacturing Inc.Inventors: Chad A. McClung, Kevin M. Frank, Wayne O. Harris
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Patent number: 7168466Abstract: Fuel safety system, made of plastic, comprising a liquid fuel tank equipped with a fill tube provided with a guide for a delivery nozzle, which includes a sealing device, a normally-open float valve, for degassing and venting the tank, and a vapour breather pipe that also fixes the maximum level of liquid in the tank, the pipe connecting the top of this tank to a point located downstream of the sealing device and being completely located inside both the tank and the fill tube.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2003Date of Patent: January 30, 2007Assignee: Inergy Automotive Systems ResearchInventors: Patrick Ganachaud, Jacques Covet
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Patent number: 7165583Abstract: A capless filler neck creates a vapor-tight closure for a fuel system using a spring-loaded door and a latch structure that anchors the door to create a vapor-tight seal. The filler neck includes a spring that biases the door shut and a wedge arrangement that acts as the latching structure. The wedge arrangement includes a movable plate that selectively engages with the door to pull the door shut with sufficient force to form and maintain the vapor-tight seal.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2005Date of Patent: January 23, 2007Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventors: Paul D. Walkowski, Kenneth M. Spink, Robert P. Benjey
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Patent number: 7163037Abstract: A capless filler tube closure door has a pair of spaced axles or pins which are guided by slots to initially upon being opened by a refueling nozzle move in translation away from the nozzle orifice seat and then pivot out of the way so as not to obstruct the nozzle. Upon nozzle removal as the door approaches the seat, it moves in linear translation to close on the seat to ensure uniform sealing.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2005Date of Patent: January 16, 2007Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventor: Paul D. Walkowski
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Patent number: 7159741Abstract: A cap for covering an opening of a spout. The cap includes a top that defines an inner surface and an outer surface. An engagement portion extends from the inner surface and is adapted to engage the spout. A wall extends from the inner surface to define a container-receiving space and a pierce point extends from the inner surface and is at least partially disposed within the container-receiving space.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2005Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Assignee: Briggs & Stratton CorporationInventors: James J. Dehn, Thomas G. Guntly, Peter D. Shears, Bradley Deml, Marvin Klowak
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Patent number: 7152639Abstract: In a venting device for a fuel tank 1 of a motor vehicle having a filler neck and a venting valve, a circulation pipe is provided which, due to the suction jet effect when refueling circulates gas from the fuel tank back into the tank with the fuel so as to prevent an excessive inflow of fresh air, and which includes a venting pipe extending between venting valve 2 and a filter for discharging excess gases through a filter in order to prevent the escape of fuel vapors into the environment.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2005Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AGInventors: Barbara Aschoff, legal representative, Dorothee Aschoff, legal representative, Henning Aschoff, legal representative, Wolfgang Ludwig Winfried Aschoff, deceased
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Patent number: 7147018Abstract: The invention concerns a filling fitting for a fuel tank of a motor vehicle having an automatic tank closure. The filling fitting includes a carrier with an inlet opening and a closure cover, which closes the inlet opening with a sealing element. An upper side of the closure cover has a closure component, which, in a closed position of the closure cover, penetrates the inlet opening. Above the carrier is a circumferential section placed directly or indirectly on a supporting closure ring. The section extends inward to coact with closure elements on the closure component in the manner of a screw drive. To prevent permeation, in a force transmission path between the sealing element of the closure cover and the carrier, at least one axial, effective spring element is inserted.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2004Date of Patent: December 12, 2006Assignee: Alfmeier Prazision AG Baugruppen und SystemlosungenInventors: Martin Krach, Reinhard Enzelberger
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Patent number: 7147019Abstract: A cover for a filler neck includes a body portion and a movable protective door that covers and exposes an opening in the filler neck. The protective door includes a ledge that protrudes from the plane of the door so that the door can be easily moved to an open position by pressing a tip of a fuel nozzle against the door. The door itself may be biased to move into a closed position automatically when the fuel nozzle is removed from the ledge.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2005Date of Patent: December 12, 2006Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventors: Paul D. Walkowski, Robert P. Benjey, Russell C. Jahnke, Andrew W. McIntosh
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Patent number: 7128232Abstract: An adjustable assembly of a first structural part and a second structural part, in particular for automobiles having a flap and a pivotable arm for the flap, is such that the first structural part is displaceable along two orthogonal axis with respect to the second structural part and is fixed against movement along a third axis extending perpendicular to the first and second axis. A first adjusting element is moveably supported on the second structural part. Actuation of this first adjustable element moves the first structural part along the first axis. A second adjustable element is movably supported on the second structural part. Actuation of the second adjustable element moves the first structural part along the second axis. Devices are associated with the first and second adjustable elements for releasable fixation thereof in selected positions.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2004Date of Patent: October 31, 2006Assignee: ITW Automotive Products GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Christian Beck
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Patent number: 7100645Abstract: The present invention is related to a filler pipe structure for connecting a filler neck and fuel tank inside of a vehicle, and the filler pipe structure is equipped with a first filler pipe extending from the filler neck; a chamber that is arranged at an end to which the first filler pipe extends, and forms a space fronting the end of the first filler pipe; an inlet check valve attached to the end of the first filler pipe; and a second filler pipe that connects the space of the chamber and the fuel tank inside, wherein an inside section area of the second filler pipe is larger than that of the first filler pipe.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2005Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yasuhiro Hasegawa, Yukio Hirata
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Patent number: 7096899Abstract: An automatic tank closure for a motor vehicle tank with a housing having a penetrating input opening and having an opening and closing closure flap with pivotal bearings, which is subjected to spring loading in the closing direction is provided. The closure flap is located within the input opening for the closing of the same and whereby in the closed position between the closure flap and the housing is placed a sealing surface with a sealing seat, which conically widens itself toward the interior of the tank and coacts with a sealing ring. The sealing ring is designed with at least one lip seal and sealingly coacts with the sealing surface.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2004Date of Patent: August 29, 2006Assignee: Alfmeier Prazision AG BaugruppenInventors: Siegfried Vetter, Markus Stephan
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Patent number: 7082969Abstract: A closed loop system is disclosed for transferring fluid from a fluid storage vessel to a fluid receiving container. The system is adapted to vent the fluid receiving container while preventing discharge of both vapor and fluid into the surrounding environment. The system includes an enclosed fluid receiving container having upper and lower portions. A fluid flow receiving unit is mounted proximate the fluid receiving container. The receiving unit has a pair of spaced fluid ports and a pair of non-spill coupling connectors extending from the fluid ports, one port being a fluid inlet port and one being a vapor-fluid exit port. A movable cover element is provided for selectively covering and protecting the fluid ports and coupling connectors from contaminants when not in use.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2005Date of Patent: August 1, 2006Inventor: Christopher J. Hollerback
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Patent number: 7082973Abstract: Sealing and safety device made from flexible elastomer material, for filling a hollow body with a liquid using a delivery nozzle, comprising an annular seal for surrounding the nozzle and preventing the exit of gases from the hollow body and also a valve capable of opening, in the event of excess overpressure in the hollow body, only towards the external atmosphere so as to create a passage allowing the escape of liquid and/or of gas.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2003Date of Patent: August 1, 2006Assignee: Inergy Automative Systems Research (Societe Anonyme)Inventors: Patrick Ganachaud, Jacques Covet
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Patent number: 7077178Abstract: A nozzle inhibitor is positioned in a filler neck closure assembly between a pivotable outer door and a pivotable inner door to prevent a user from pumping unleaded fuel into a diesel fuel tank. The nozzle inhibitor blocks full insertion of a small-diameter unleaded fuel nozzle into the filler neck closure assembly yet allows full insertion of a large-diameter diesel fuel nozzle into the filler neck closure assembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2005Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Assignee: Stant Manufacturing Inc.Inventor: Poul Hedevang
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Patent number: 7063113Abstract: A closure head for a fuel tank filler pipe allowing automatic opening of a shutter under action of thrust of a nozzle on a device integrated into the top of the filler pipe and closing of the shutter when the nozzle is withdrawn. The locking of the shutter is achieved by a mechanism connected to a bodywork flap such that locking and squashing of a seal are achieved upon the closing of the bodywork flap and the opening of the bodywork flap cannot unlock the shutter without the nozzle additionally being introduced into the system. A method for opening a filler head employs the device.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2002Date of Patent: June 20, 2006Assignee: Inergy Automotive Systems Research (Societe Anonyme)Inventors: Jerome Ropert, Guillaume Blanc-Brude, Dominique Girard, Thierry Rouxel
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Patent number: 7063226Abstract: A fuel tank with an opening, on which a lid is mounted in a removable manner by means of thread or bayonet, is intended to provide a sustained and sealed closure under all conditions. For this purpose, two sealing rings are arranged between the sealing surfaces, the inner one being liquid-tight and the outer one being made of an elastomer with high permeation resistance. The sealing surfaces within the outer sealing ring have a narrow gap leading as far as the outer sealing ring, and the fuel tank has a reinforcement surrounding the opening.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2002Date of Patent: June 20, 2006Assignee: Tesma Motoren und GetriebetechnikInventors: Sander Palvoelgyi, Gunther Pozgainer
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Patent number: 7059365Abstract: A fuel tank filler assembly includes a filler neck configured to receive a fuel supply nozzle. The filler neck includes a one-piece seamless funnel member having a tubular body configured to swirl supplied fuel and reduce vapor escape. The tubular body includes integrally formed threads for receiving a gas cap. The funnel member defines in off-set axial relation a relatively large inlet opening adapted for attachment to a receptor for the nozzle and a relatively small necked down outlet opening adapted for attachment to the inlet of a filler tube. The filler tube is in communication with the fuel tank. A method for manufacturing the fuel tank filler neck is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2003Date of Patent: June 13, 2006Assignee: Shelby Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Patrick R. O'Connell
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Patent number: 7059187Abstract: A seamless marine fuel tank having directly mechanically fastened component parts such as a fuel withdrawal assembly and a direct-sight fuel gauge system. The fuel withdrawal system contains a split-nut fastening device which fastens the system to the tank and allows for 360 rotation of fuel withdrawal outlet. The direct-sight gauge contains a threaded gauge neck with a cradle and tabs in its interior wall into which a one-piece float arm is snapped.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2001Date of Patent: June 13, 2006Assignee: Tempo Products Co., Inc.Inventors: John Clarke, III, Ronald Eureka
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Patent number: 7055560Abstract: A protective cover for a filler tube for a fuel tank includes a body portion and a movable door that covers and exposes an opening in the filler tube. To guide the movement of the nozzle, the cover includes a nozzle guide that contacts the nozzle and acts as a fulcrum with a radius of rotation. When force is applied to the nozzle, the nozzle guide amplifies the force and causes the nozzle to act as a lever against the feature on a sliding door, allowing the door to slide open with minimal force from the user.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2005Date of Patent: June 6, 2006Assignee: Gaton CorporationInventor: Ronald E. Sexton
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Patent number: 7048020Abstract: The device according to the invention comprises a connector on-board the vehicle, connected to the fuel tank via a pouring conduit and provided with a closure valve, and a filling element adapted to be connected to this connector. The filling element is provided with at least one member for detecting the abutment of the filling element on a fixed part of the connector, this member being adapted to control the displacement of a hook for locking the aforementioned element on the connector, between a first position where the hook is disengaged with respect to the connector and a second position where the hook is in engagement on the connector.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2004Date of Patent: May 23, 2006Assignee: Staubli FavergesInventors: Christophe Durieux, Alain-Christophe Tiberghien
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Patent number: 7040669Abstract: A fuel feeding pipe having a first feed oil pipe extending from an oil filler port, a second feed oil pipe projecting from a fuel tank, and a tightening belt for connecting and tightening these oil pipes together, comprising an outer fitting pipe provided to the first feed oil pipe, and an inner fitting portion provided to the second feed oil pipe having low-temperature resisting and ozone resisting seal rings fitted therearound. The fuel feeding pipe is formed in one body by fitting the outer pipe around the inner fitting portion having the seal rings, then tightening the tightening belt fitted over at least the engaged region of the outer fitting pipe and the inner fitting portion. The invention achieves the minimization of a fuel permeation, high hermeticity without influences from various environments, the promotion of efficiency of replacement operation, and the vibration and impact resisting connection of the pipes.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2003Date of Patent: May 9, 2006Assignee: Asteer Co., Ltd.Inventors: Toru Kenmotsu, Hiroshi Yoshida, Hiroshi Goto
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Patent number: 7025222Abstract: A fuel cap has a torque member that is attached to a casing body in a freely rotatable manner. A tether mechanism is attached to the torque member and functions to link the fuel cap with a fuel lid. The tether mechanism includes a tether rotation support that is set on the torque member in a freely rotatable manner, and a connector member. The torque member is mainly composed of a resin material, for example, polyacetal, whereas the tether rotation support is mainly composed of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPEE). The resin material of the torque member has a liquid swelling property substantially equal to or less than that of the tether rotation support. This structure of the invention ensures the good operation ability of the fuel cap even in wet weather.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2003Date of Patent: April 11, 2006Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hiroyuki Hagano, Masayuki Nakagawa
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Patent number: 7021344Abstract: A method for preventing use of an unapproved fuel in a diesel engine uses a fuel tank that does not have a conventional fueling opening and has a puncturable fitting for connection to fuel lines of the engine. The engine fuel lines terminate in a mount that has fangs adapted for puncturing the fuel tank fitting. The tank is against the mount so that the fangs puncture the fitting to allow fuel to flow from the tank to the fuel line. Since the tank does not have a fuel filling opening, it cannot be refilled without special equipment and must be removed from the engine for refilling.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2004Date of Patent: April 4, 2006Assignee: Hugr Systems, Inc.Inventor: John P. Patten
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Patent number: 7021343Abstract: A fuel filler pipe interconnecting a fuel tank and canister, and a fuel supply port of an automobile includes a fuel filler pipe body having an upper end and a circulation tube and an air vent tube each of which has an end communicating with the upper end of the fuel filler pipe body. Each of the filler pipe body, circulation tube and air vent tube includes a clad tube made of an aluminum and having a double-layer structure including a core made of an aluminum alloy and a outer cladding layer made of an aluminum alloy and having an effect of sacrificial anode for the core.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2005Date of Patent: April 4, 2006Assignees: Horie Metal Co., Ltd., Sumitomo Light Metal Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Jun Okada, Kenji Kamiya, Takahiro Koyama, Masahito Sasaki
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Patent number: 7017336Abstract: A motor vehicle having an internal combustion engine, which is adapted to be supplied with fuel from a fuel tank, is provided. A preliminary muffler and a main muffler are disposed in an exhaust gas section of the engine. A hydrolysis catalytic converter and optionally at least one oxidation catalytic converter are disposed in the preliminary muffler. A dosing mechanism supplies a urea-water solution to the hydrolysis catalytic converter from a UWS tank. A structural unit is provided that is comprised of a fuel tank, the UWS tank, and the preliminary muffler, with the structural unit being adapted to be secured in its entirety to the chassis frame of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2004Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Assignee: MAN Nutzfahrzeuge AGInventor: Erwin Stiermann