CA2044988A1 - Discharge valve for a fuel tank - Google Patents
Discharge valve for a fuel tankInfo
- Publication number
- CA2044988A1 CA2044988A1 CA 2044988 CA2044988A CA2044988A1 CA 2044988 A1 CA2044988 A1 CA 2044988A1 CA 2044988 CA2044988 CA 2044988 CA 2044988 A CA2044988 A CA 2044988A CA 2044988 A1 CA2044988 A1 CA 2044988A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- valve
- discharge valve
- cage
- housing
- pressure
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 239000002828 fuel tank Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 31
- 239000000446 fuel Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 61
- 230000033001 locomotion Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 12
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 10
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000000903 blocking effect Effects 0.000 abstract 4
- 230000009194 climbing Effects 0.000 description 4
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000003321 amplification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000003199 nucleic acid amplification method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229910001369 Brass Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000010951 brass Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003638 chemical reducing agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000605 extraction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037406 food intake Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000002347 injection Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007924 injection Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003566 sealing material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K15/00—Arrangement in connection with fuel supply of combustion engines or other fuel consuming energy converters, e.g. fuel cells; Mounting or construction of fuel tanks
- B60K15/03—Fuel tanks
- B60K15/077—Fuel tanks with means modifying or controlling distribution or motion of fuel, e.g. to prevent noise, surge, splash or fuel starvation
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60Y—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO ASPECTS CROSS-CUTTING VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY
- B60Y2200/00—Type of vehicle
- B60Y2200/20—Off-Road Vehicles
- B60Y2200/22—Agricultural vehicles
- B60Y2200/221—Tractors
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Sustainable Development (AREA)
- Sustainable Energy (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Multiple-Way Valves (AREA)
- Cooling, Air Intake And Gas Exhaust, And Fuel Tank Arrangements In Propulsion Units (AREA)
Abstract
DISCHARGE VALVE FOR A FUEL TANK
Abstract of the Disclosure A discharge valve for the fuel tank of a vehicle is provided with two inlet ports that are connected by lines to suction ports in the bottom region of the fuel tank, as well as at least one outlet port connected to a fuel pump. Within the discharge valve blocking means are provided that can close the normally open connecting channels between inlet ports and outlet ports. The blocking means can be controlled by a body that moves under the influence of gravitational or inertia forces, preferably a ball. A simple, cost effective assembly that is easily manufactured results from the fact that the ball is arranged between at least two abutments of a cage that can be moved by the ball. Here the distance between the abutments is greater than the corresponding dimension of the ball. The cage is connected with the blocking means in such a way that the blocking means can be actuated by movement of the cage.
Abstract of the Disclosure A discharge valve for the fuel tank of a vehicle is provided with two inlet ports that are connected by lines to suction ports in the bottom region of the fuel tank, as well as at least one outlet port connected to a fuel pump. Within the discharge valve blocking means are provided that can close the normally open connecting channels between inlet ports and outlet ports. The blocking means can be controlled by a body that moves under the influence of gravitational or inertia forces, preferably a ball. A simple, cost effective assembly that is easily manufactured results from the fact that the ball is arranged between at least two abutments of a cage that can be moved by the ball. Here the distance between the abutments is greater than the corresponding dimension of the ball. The cage is connected with the blocking means in such a way that the blocking means can be actuated by movement of the cage.
Description
DISCHARGE VALVE FOR A FUEL TANK
Backqround of the Invention Field of the Invention This invention relates to a discharge valve for the fuel tank of a vehicle with at least two inlet ports.
A number of motor vehicles, such as utility vehicles and agricultural tractors in particular, require relatively large fuel tanks that have relatively large length and width dimensions with respect to their height dimension, in order to comply with space requirements and to provide large ground clearance for the vehicle. If such elongated fuel tanks are filled only partially, the fuel in the tank will collect on the lower side of the tank if the vehicle is inclined, which can occur during hill climbing or operation in furrows. If the suction port, from which the fuel pump draws the fuel, lies in this lowered side of the tank, then there is no problem. If, however, the suction port lies in another region, it can find itself above the surface of the fuel when the vehicle is inclined, although the tank still may contain a large amount of fuel.
In order to utilize the entire volume of the tank during operation on an incline without ingesting any air, it is advantageous to locate fuel suction ports at various places along the bottom of the tank. Extraction of the fuel could then be performed only on the condition that fuel pumps are connected to each of the suction ports, since the electrically driven pumps are lubricated by the fuel pumped and cannot be allowed to run dry.
Accordingly, it is appropriate to utilize a discharge valve which is inserted between the fuel tank suction ports and the fuel pump which blocks the connection between the suction port that is drawing in air and the fuel pump.
US Patent No. 2,332,007 discloses a known discharge valve for an aircraft fuel tank. This discharge valve permits suction of the fuel from the lower of two suction ports. The discharge valve contains two inlet ports connected to the suction ports and a central outlet port connected to a fuel pump. The valve body contains two ball-shaped valve components that move against and close associated valve seats J ~i~
under the influence of gravity. The two valve components are spaced by a rod in order to avoid closing both suction channels simultaneously. This valve, intended for aircraft applications is a relatively costly configuration.
Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a discharge valve of the type described above suitable for motor vehicles that provides a simple, cost effective assembly.
Summary of the Invention An object of the present invention is to provide a fuel tank discharge valve of the type described above which is - simple and cost effective and suitable for motor vehicles.
This and other objects are achieved by the fuel tank discharge valve of the present invention which has a generally cylindrical housing having a pair of inlets at opposite ends thereof for connecting to fuel tank discharge ports, and a central outlet for connecting to a fuel pump inlet. A cage is movable in the housing and carries at opposite ends seals which can close the inlet ports. The cage includes abutments connected by struks between which a ball can roll freely upon the inner surface of the housing. A ball is movable to move the cage. The struts are guided between a pair of rails that project inwardly and extend axially in the upper part of the housing. These parts are dimensioned so that one of the inlet ports is always connected to the outlet port so that fuel can be pumped from the fuel tank at all times. If the horizontal orientation of the vehicle and therewith the fuel tank and the discharge valve is changed, the ball will roll to the lowest point, impinge against one of the abutments and move the cage and one the seals into sealing engagement with one of the inlets. The discharge valve prevents air from being ingested into the fuel system in hill climbing and operation on terrain that is not horizontal.
Guide sections at each end of the cage are axially slidably supported in bores in the ends of the valve housing.
Grooves extend axially in the outer surface of the guide sections, which permit fuel to flow from one of the inlet ports to the outlet port when the inlet port is open.
- ~3 ~
The closing action of the ball can be aided with a pressure assist according to further embodiments of the invention. In one such embodiment, a pilot valve is movable by the cage and controls communication of fluid pressure to one end or the other of the cage to assist in the closing of the appropriate inlet. The fluid pressure is provided by a part of the fuel flow branched off from that transported by the fuel pump.
~n a further embodiment of the invention the cage and ball are received in separate housing which is connected to the valve housing by a hollow neck. A lever is pivoted in the neck and has one end rigidly connected to the cage and another end engaging the valve body or to a pilot valve movable in the valve housing. Depending upon the length of the lever, the closing force provided by the ball and cage is amplified.
Brief Description of the Drawings Fig. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view of a fuel tank discharge valve according to the present invention;
Fig. 2 is a cross sectional view along lines 2-2 of Fig.
1.
Fig. 3 is a longitudinal sectional view of a fuel tank discharge valve according to a second embodiment of the present invention;
Figs. 4, 5 and 6 are longitudinal sectional views of a third embodiment of the invention including closing pressure amplification shown in various positions;
Figure 7 is a cross sectional view along the line 7-7 in figure 6.
Figures 8 and 9 are longitudinal sectional views of a forth embodiment of the invention showing the discharge valve in two valve positions.
Figure 10 is a cross sectional view along the line 10-10 in figure 6.
Detailed Description The discharge valve according to Figs. 1 and 2 consists of a generally cylindrical valve housing 10 with an inlet port 12 and a hose connection 14 at each end. In the central ;3 region of the valve housing 10 an upward directed outlet port 16 branches off with a further hose connection 18, which is connected to a fuel pump 17. The discharge valve is preferably installed at the level o~ the bottom o~ the fuel tank.
Each of the inlet ports 12 is connected by lines with a suction port in the bottom region of a vehicle fuel tank 19.
One of the suction ports may be located in the forward region of the tank, in the direction of travel, the other suction port may be located in the rear region of the ~ank. When the tank is only partly ~illed and the tractor is climbing up a hill, only the rear suction port may be covered with fuel, and when the tractor is descending a hill, only the forward suction port may be covered with fuel. As long as the discharge valve cnnnects the fuel pump at all times with the suction port that is covered with fuel, an adequate fuel supply is assured at low tank fill levels even in steep hill climbs and descents. The suction ports are preferably cross connected to the inlet ports 12 of the discharge valve. For example, the forward inlet port is connected to the rearward suction port, and the rearward inlet port is connected to the forward suction port. By this means the inlet port connected to the more elevated suction port is always blocked, and hence the discharge valve prevents air from being drawn through the suction port by the fuel pump and reaching the fuel supply system when climbing a hill or operating on inclined terrain.
In the valve housing 10 a valve body or cage 20 is arranged so as to slide freely in the axial direction. The cage 20 has two abutments 22 that are connected to each other by two struts 24. Each abutment 22 carries an outwardly extending guide section 26 which is slidably received in a reducer diameter cylindrical section 28 of the valve housing 10. The cage 20, with its two connecting struts 24 is guided and retained between two axial rails 38 which project inward in the valve housing 10. The rails 38 form bearing surfaces which slidably engage the struts 24. The rails 38 prevent ~ ~ 1 4 ~ ~ ~
rotation of the cage 20 and thereby assure that the struts 24 always remain in the upper region of the valve housing.
Seals 30 of a rubber-like material are attached at the end faces of the guide sections 26. The seals 30 are sealingly engageable with opposed sealing surfaces or valve seats 32 that are located at the inner ends of the inlet ports 12. If the cage 20 is moved axially within the housing 10 to its end position, then the seal 30 is forced against the corresponding valve seat 32 and the associated inlet port 12 is closed. An appropriate sealing material includes metallic surfaces, plastic or rubber, where rubber or rubber-like seals are preferred. The sealing surface may be configured as a plane, ball-shaped, conical or self-centering. In each case the sealing surface may be applied to the valve body or in the area of the inlet port, while the seal material is attached to the mating part in each case.
The guide sections 26 are provided on their circumference with axial ribs 34 which support them within the cylindrical sections 28 in the valve housing 10. The ribs 34 are separated bv axial recesses that are used as connecting channels. When one of the valve seats is opened, fuel flows from the inlet port 12 through the axial recesses to the outlet port 16. The ribs 34 assure a low sliding friction of the cage 20 in the valve housing 10.
The cage 20 can be moved in axial direction by the kinetic energy of a ball 36. The ball 36 is received in the valve housing 10 between the abutments 22 of the cage 20. In the present embodiment the space between the abutments 22 is approximately twice as large as the diameter of the ball 36 so that it can roll freely between the abutments 22 along the inner wall of the valve housing 10. If the vehicle or the fuel tank is oriented horizontally, the ball 36 takes on a central position in the valve housing. If, however, the vehicle with the tank and the discharge valve is inclined, the ball 36 will roll to the lower position due to the inertia forces and apply an impulse to the cage 20, under the force of 2~.7~
which it moves toward and closes the lower inlet port with its seals.
Both the fuel in the fuel tank and the ball 36 are exposed to inertia forces such as those caused by braking or cornering of the vehicle. The ball is able to move within the valve housing 10 to close the appropriate one of the valve seats in response to inertia forces as well as gravity.
Because the ball 36 is able to roll free between the abutments 22, the ball 36 builds up kinetic energy before it impinges upon the abutment 22 of the cage 20 and transmits its kinetic energy to the latter with a corresponding impulse. The ball rolls with little friction so that in practice it avoids an indeterminate position and always has a tendency to make contact with one abutment and to close the corresponding inlet port.
The valve housing 10 is preferably rigidly connected to the vehicle structure (not shown) and is oriented horizontally with respect to the vehicle (not shown). The longitudinal axis of the valve housing 10 is preferably oriented parallel to a imaginary line connecting the two suction ports in the bottom region of the fuel tank 19. If the vehicle (not shown) is inclined, for example, in operating downhill, then the valve housing 10 inclines in the same direction. Under the force of gravity the ball 36 rolls freely toward one end of the valve housing and thereby moves the cage 20 to close one of the valve seats 32 while the other valve seat 32 remains open. The port of the discharge valve that is now lying higher and remains open is connected to the lower fuel tank suction port which is submerged in fuel, so that only fuel will flow to the outlet port 16. Since the other inlet port is closed, no fuel or air will flow through it and no air will be ingested by the fuel pump 17.
In vehicles that are frequently operated at an inclination perpendicular to the direction of travel, which may be the case, for example, with agricultural tractors operating in a furrow, the suction ports and therewith the discharge valve may be arranged in the direction perpendicular to the direction of travel. A diagonal arrangement could also be considered in order to optimize fuel discharge in both longitudinal and crosswise inclination of the vehicle.
The valve housing 10 and the valve body may be manufactured from a plastic that provides a good match in sliding characteristics, while the ball 36 preferably consists of a material with high density, for example steel or brass, in order to apply the necessary impulse.
Figure 3 shows a further embodiment of the inventiQn.
The discharge valve 11 of Fig. 3 includes pressure assisted closing. The valve 11 has a cylindrical valve housing 40 with an inlet port 42 at each end and an upward opening central outlet port 44 connected to a fuel pump 46. The fuel pump 46 pumps the fuel through the line 48 to the fuel injection pump (not shown) of the vehicle engine (not shown). Two lines 50 branch off from line 48 and are connected to upward directed inlet channels 52, 54 in the valve housing 40 which conduct pressurized fuel into the interior of the valve housing 40.
The fittings for the inlet ports 42, the outlet port 44 and the inlet channels 52, 54 may be configured as hose connections.
A valve body 55 is free to slide axially within the valve housing 40. The central region of the valve body 55 forms as a cage 56 which is movable between two separating walls 58 which are connected to the valve housing 40. The cage 56 has two abutments 60 connected to each other by connecting struts 62. Hollow, generally cylindrical projections 64 extend axially outward from the abutments 60. Each projection 64 extends through one of the separating walls 58, and each is connected to a piston 66, which is slidably supported in the valve housing 40. A pair of piston chambers 67 are enclosed between pistons 66 and the separating walls 58. The outer periphery of each piston 66 forms a cylindrical valve surface 68 which is able to close off the corresponding one of the inlet channel 52, 54. A seal 70 of rubber-like material is mounted on an axial outer end face of each piston 66. Each seal 70 is positioned opposite to and is engageable with a r.3 ,~
sealing surface or va]ve seat 72 in the valve housing 40 for closing one of the inlet ports 42.
A channel 74 extends through the piston end face and the hollow cylindrical projection 64 forms a channels 76. When one of the seals 70 is not in contact with the corresponding sealing surface 72 and the corresponding inlet 42 is open, fuel can flow through that inlet port 42, through the channels 74, 76, past the separating wall 58, around the abutment 60 and through the outlet port 44 to the fuel pump 46. This flow is indicated by arrows on the right side of the Fig. 3. When the seal 70 is in contact with the sealing surface 72 the flow of fuel as well as the ingestion of air is stopped.
A ball 78 is free to roll upon the inner wall of the valve housing between the abutments 60 of the cage 56 and is provided with a space for motion between the abutments 60.
Further details of the discharge valve shown in Fig. 3 and its connections to the fuel tank suction ports ar similar what is shown in Figs. 1 and 2, and are not again described here, in order to avoid repetition.
The operation of the discharge valve shown in Fig. 3 is as follows:
If the vehicle accelerates or decelerates, or if the vehicle, and therewith the fuel tank and the discharge valve 11, is inclined, then the ball 78 moves the cage 56 due to gravitational or inertia forces, for example, to the left viewing Fig. 3. Accordingly, the left piston 66 moves to the left and opens the inlet channel 52 so that pressurized fuel from the fuel pump 46 can enter a left piston chamber 67 between the separating wall 58 and piston 66. The pressure in chamber 67 moves the piston 66 further to the left and forces seal 70 against the sealing surface 72 and closes the left inlet port 42. Simultaneously, the right piston 66 moves leftward into the interior of the valve housing 40 and its sealing surface 68 closes the inlet channel 54 so that no pressurized fuel can enter the right piston chamber 69 of the valve housing and thus load the right piston. In this position the right inlet port 42 is open and fuel can flow A S'i ~, ;3 through the connecting channels 74, 76 to the outlet port 44.
A aimilar operation occurs if the ball 78 rolls to the right.
Thus, the movement of the cage 56 body is enhanced by the fuel pressure.
Figs. 4, 5, 6, 7 and lo illustrate a further embodiment of the invention which is a dischar~e valve 101 with closing pressure amplification. This valve 101 has a cylindrical valve housing 80 with an inlet port 82 at each end for connection to the suction ports in the fuel tank. An outlet port 84 branches off from each end of a central portion of the valve housing 80 for connection to the suction side (P0) of the fuel pump 85. A pair of inlets 86 are formed in the central portion of the valve housing 80 between the outlets 84. The inlets 86 are connected with the pressure side (P1) of the fuel pump 85.
A valve body 88 moves axially freely within the valve housing 80 and has seals 90 at each end thereof, in order to close the inlet ports 82. Both end regions of the valve body 88 are slidably received in hollow cylindrical sections 92 of the valve housing 80. Each end region has axially extending slots 94 which permit fuel to flow from the inlet ports 82 to the outlet ports 84. Two spaced apart pistons 96 are fixed to and carried with the central portion of the valve body 88.
A slide 98 is axially moveable within the valve housing 80 and includes two cylindrical segments 98a and 98b, best seen in Fig. 7, and two annular rings 100 connected to the end faces the two segments 98a, 98b. The outer surface of the slide 98 slidably engages the inner surface of the valve housing 80. The two pistons 96 mounted on the valve body 88 slidably and sealingly engage the inner walls of the slide 98 and thus, close off a central region of the slide 98 in the axial direction, as best seen in Fig. 10.
A portion of the valve housing 80 forms a separating wall 102 which lies between the two pistons 96 and which defines two piston chambers 104 within the slide 98. The valve body 88 slides through a central opening in the wall 102. A pair of radial bores 106 extend through the segment 98b of the .
slide 98, each communicating with one of the piston chambers 104. The slide 98 is axially moveable to open communication between one of the piston chambers 104 and one of the two inlet channels 86.
A further housing 110 is connected to the valve housing 80 by a neck 112. The housing 110 r~ceives a cage 114 with two arms 116 which extend away from each other and from an end of a lever 120 which is pivotally supported in the housing 110 on a pivot 124 mounted in the neck 112. A ball 118 is retained in the housing 110 between the arms 116 so that the ball 118 is free to roll back and forth, parallel to the axis of the valve housing 80. The arms form a surface 115 on which the ball 118 rolls and which is bowed upward slightly, so that the ball will be in a stable position when it engages one or the other of the arms 116 and so that it will be at the right or the left side of the cage 114. An inclination of approximately 5 degrees from the horizontal is required before the ball 118 will roll from one position to the other.
An inner end 122 of the lever 120 engages a recess in the slide 98. Thus, a swinging of the cage 114 to the right produces an axial motion of the slide 98 to the left (or the inverse). By the design of the proportions of the lever to each side of the pivot bearing 124 a path relationship and force transmission can be established to conform to the requirements of the particular application. In the illustrated embodiment the segment of the lever 120 that extends into the valve housing 80 is shorter than the distance from the pivot bearing 124 to the center of the ball 118. As a result a certain motion of the cage 114 produces a smaller motion of the slide 98, ~ut the force applied by the ball 118 to the cage 114 is, amplified by the lever ratio as it is transmitted to the slide 98.
The discharge valve 101 of Figs. 4-7 may be oriented in the vehicle in any desired direction. It is necessary only to insure that the surface on which the ball rolls is approximately horizontal when the fuel tank is oriented horizontally. Unlike the discharge valve of Figs.
2 13 ~
1-3, the inlet ports 82 do not have to be cross connected to the suction ports in the bottom of the fuel tank, but are connected directly, that is, the forward inlet port 82 is connected to the forward suction port and the rear inlet port 82 is connected to the rear suction port.
The operation of the discharge valYe according to Figs.
4-7, and 10 is as follows:
If the discharge valve 101 is inclined from its horizontal position, so that one inlet port 82 is higher than the other, then the ball 118 will roll in the housing 110 to the lower lying side, engage the corresponding arm 116 and rotate the cage 114 and lever 120 about the pivot bearing 124.
The free end of the lever 122 moves the slide 98 out of its central position, as illustrated in Fig. 6, to one of the side positions as shown in Fig. 4 or 5. As the slide 98 moves one of the radial bores 106 will be brought at least partially into alignment with one of the inlet channels 86, so that the corresponding chamber 104 is connected to the fuel pump 85 and is subjected to the its pressure Pl. Under the force of this pressure Pl the valve body 88 is moved to its end position whereby one of the seals 90 closes the corresponding inlet port 82.
The other piston chamber 104 is not subjected to the full pressure Pl of the fuel pump, sinc~ the corresponding radial bore 106 is not in alignment with the corresponding inlet channel 86 and the pressure in this other piston chamber 104 is dissipated by leakage past piston 96 to the outlet port 84.
If the ball 118 rolls to the other side, then the slide 98 is moved to the other side by the cage 114, so that the other piston chamber is put under pressure and the valve body 88 closes the other inlet port 82.
The Figs. 8 and 9 show two positions of another embodiment of a discharge valve 121. The valve 121 has a cylindrical valve housing 130 with inlet ports 132 at opposite ends thereof, each for connecting to a suction port in the fuel tank. An outlet port 134 for connecting to a fuel pump opens into the central portion of the valve housing 130. A
2 ~ 8 valve body 136 is axially moveable in the valve housing 130 and has slots 139 which extend axially along its outer surface. A seal 138 i6 attached to each end of the valve body 136 for closing a corresponding one of the inlet ports 132. Fuel can be drawn by the fuel pump through the open inlet port 132, through the slots 139 and to the outlet port 134.
The valve body 134 can be moved axially by the same ball, cage and lever mechanism as already described in connection with Figs. 4 through ~. The discharge valve 121 of Figs. 8 and 9 does not have a pressure assisted closing operation.
While the invention has been described in conjunction with a specific embodiment, it is to be understood that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description. Accordingly, this invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations which fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
Backqround of the Invention Field of the Invention This invention relates to a discharge valve for the fuel tank of a vehicle with at least two inlet ports.
A number of motor vehicles, such as utility vehicles and agricultural tractors in particular, require relatively large fuel tanks that have relatively large length and width dimensions with respect to their height dimension, in order to comply with space requirements and to provide large ground clearance for the vehicle. If such elongated fuel tanks are filled only partially, the fuel in the tank will collect on the lower side of the tank if the vehicle is inclined, which can occur during hill climbing or operation in furrows. If the suction port, from which the fuel pump draws the fuel, lies in this lowered side of the tank, then there is no problem. If, however, the suction port lies in another region, it can find itself above the surface of the fuel when the vehicle is inclined, although the tank still may contain a large amount of fuel.
In order to utilize the entire volume of the tank during operation on an incline without ingesting any air, it is advantageous to locate fuel suction ports at various places along the bottom of the tank. Extraction of the fuel could then be performed only on the condition that fuel pumps are connected to each of the suction ports, since the electrically driven pumps are lubricated by the fuel pumped and cannot be allowed to run dry.
Accordingly, it is appropriate to utilize a discharge valve which is inserted between the fuel tank suction ports and the fuel pump which blocks the connection between the suction port that is drawing in air and the fuel pump.
US Patent No. 2,332,007 discloses a known discharge valve for an aircraft fuel tank. This discharge valve permits suction of the fuel from the lower of two suction ports. The discharge valve contains two inlet ports connected to the suction ports and a central outlet port connected to a fuel pump. The valve body contains two ball-shaped valve components that move against and close associated valve seats J ~i~
under the influence of gravity. The two valve components are spaced by a rod in order to avoid closing both suction channels simultaneously. This valve, intended for aircraft applications is a relatively costly configuration.
Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a discharge valve of the type described above suitable for motor vehicles that provides a simple, cost effective assembly.
Summary of the Invention An object of the present invention is to provide a fuel tank discharge valve of the type described above which is - simple and cost effective and suitable for motor vehicles.
This and other objects are achieved by the fuel tank discharge valve of the present invention which has a generally cylindrical housing having a pair of inlets at opposite ends thereof for connecting to fuel tank discharge ports, and a central outlet for connecting to a fuel pump inlet. A cage is movable in the housing and carries at opposite ends seals which can close the inlet ports. The cage includes abutments connected by struks between which a ball can roll freely upon the inner surface of the housing. A ball is movable to move the cage. The struts are guided between a pair of rails that project inwardly and extend axially in the upper part of the housing. These parts are dimensioned so that one of the inlet ports is always connected to the outlet port so that fuel can be pumped from the fuel tank at all times. If the horizontal orientation of the vehicle and therewith the fuel tank and the discharge valve is changed, the ball will roll to the lowest point, impinge against one of the abutments and move the cage and one the seals into sealing engagement with one of the inlets. The discharge valve prevents air from being ingested into the fuel system in hill climbing and operation on terrain that is not horizontal.
Guide sections at each end of the cage are axially slidably supported in bores in the ends of the valve housing.
Grooves extend axially in the outer surface of the guide sections, which permit fuel to flow from one of the inlet ports to the outlet port when the inlet port is open.
- ~3 ~
The closing action of the ball can be aided with a pressure assist according to further embodiments of the invention. In one such embodiment, a pilot valve is movable by the cage and controls communication of fluid pressure to one end or the other of the cage to assist in the closing of the appropriate inlet. The fluid pressure is provided by a part of the fuel flow branched off from that transported by the fuel pump.
~n a further embodiment of the invention the cage and ball are received in separate housing which is connected to the valve housing by a hollow neck. A lever is pivoted in the neck and has one end rigidly connected to the cage and another end engaging the valve body or to a pilot valve movable in the valve housing. Depending upon the length of the lever, the closing force provided by the ball and cage is amplified.
Brief Description of the Drawings Fig. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view of a fuel tank discharge valve according to the present invention;
Fig. 2 is a cross sectional view along lines 2-2 of Fig.
1.
Fig. 3 is a longitudinal sectional view of a fuel tank discharge valve according to a second embodiment of the present invention;
Figs. 4, 5 and 6 are longitudinal sectional views of a third embodiment of the invention including closing pressure amplification shown in various positions;
Figure 7 is a cross sectional view along the line 7-7 in figure 6.
Figures 8 and 9 are longitudinal sectional views of a forth embodiment of the invention showing the discharge valve in two valve positions.
Figure 10 is a cross sectional view along the line 10-10 in figure 6.
Detailed Description The discharge valve according to Figs. 1 and 2 consists of a generally cylindrical valve housing 10 with an inlet port 12 and a hose connection 14 at each end. In the central ;3 region of the valve housing 10 an upward directed outlet port 16 branches off with a further hose connection 18, which is connected to a fuel pump 17. The discharge valve is preferably installed at the level o~ the bottom o~ the fuel tank.
Each of the inlet ports 12 is connected by lines with a suction port in the bottom region of a vehicle fuel tank 19.
One of the suction ports may be located in the forward region of the tank, in the direction of travel, the other suction port may be located in the rear region of the ~ank. When the tank is only partly ~illed and the tractor is climbing up a hill, only the rear suction port may be covered with fuel, and when the tractor is descending a hill, only the forward suction port may be covered with fuel. As long as the discharge valve cnnnects the fuel pump at all times with the suction port that is covered with fuel, an adequate fuel supply is assured at low tank fill levels even in steep hill climbs and descents. The suction ports are preferably cross connected to the inlet ports 12 of the discharge valve. For example, the forward inlet port is connected to the rearward suction port, and the rearward inlet port is connected to the forward suction port. By this means the inlet port connected to the more elevated suction port is always blocked, and hence the discharge valve prevents air from being drawn through the suction port by the fuel pump and reaching the fuel supply system when climbing a hill or operating on inclined terrain.
In the valve housing 10 a valve body or cage 20 is arranged so as to slide freely in the axial direction. The cage 20 has two abutments 22 that are connected to each other by two struts 24. Each abutment 22 carries an outwardly extending guide section 26 which is slidably received in a reducer diameter cylindrical section 28 of the valve housing 10. The cage 20, with its two connecting struts 24 is guided and retained between two axial rails 38 which project inward in the valve housing 10. The rails 38 form bearing surfaces which slidably engage the struts 24. The rails 38 prevent ~ ~ 1 4 ~ ~ ~
rotation of the cage 20 and thereby assure that the struts 24 always remain in the upper region of the valve housing.
Seals 30 of a rubber-like material are attached at the end faces of the guide sections 26. The seals 30 are sealingly engageable with opposed sealing surfaces or valve seats 32 that are located at the inner ends of the inlet ports 12. If the cage 20 is moved axially within the housing 10 to its end position, then the seal 30 is forced against the corresponding valve seat 32 and the associated inlet port 12 is closed. An appropriate sealing material includes metallic surfaces, plastic or rubber, where rubber or rubber-like seals are preferred. The sealing surface may be configured as a plane, ball-shaped, conical or self-centering. In each case the sealing surface may be applied to the valve body or in the area of the inlet port, while the seal material is attached to the mating part in each case.
The guide sections 26 are provided on their circumference with axial ribs 34 which support them within the cylindrical sections 28 in the valve housing 10. The ribs 34 are separated bv axial recesses that are used as connecting channels. When one of the valve seats is opened, fuel flows from the inlet port 12 through the axial recesses to the outlet port 16. The ribs 34 assure a low sliding friction of the cage 20 in the valve housing 10.
The cage 20 can be moved in axial direction by the kinetic energy of a ball 36. The ball 36 is received in the valve housing 10 between the abutments 22 of the cage 20. In the present embodiment the space between the abutments 22 is approximately twice as large as the diameter of the ball 36 so that it can roll freely between the abutments 22 along the inner wall of the valve housing 10. If the vehicle or the fuel tank is oriented horizontally, the ball 36 takes on a central position in the valve housing. If, however, the vehicle with the tank and the discharge valve is inclined, the ball 36 will roll to the lower position due to the inertia forces and apply an impulse to the cage 20, under the force of 2~.7~
which it moves toward and closes the lower inlet port with its seals.
Both the fuel in the fuel tank and the ball 36 are exposed to inertia forces such as those caused by braking or cornering of the vehicle. The ball is able to move within the valve housing 10 to close the appropriate one of the valve seats in response to inertia forces as well as gravity.
Because the ball 36 is able to roll free between the abutments 22, the ball 36 builds up kinetic energy before it impinges upon the abutment 22 of the cage 20 and transmits its kinetic energy to the latter with a corresponding impulse. The ball rolls with little friction so that in practice it avoids an indeterminate position and always has a tendency to make contact with one abutment and to close the corresponding inlet port.
The valve housing 10 is preferably rigidly connected to the vehicle structure (not shown) and is oriented horizontally with respect to the vehicle (not shown). The longitudinal axis of the valve housing 10 is preferably oriented parallel to a imaginary line connecting the two suction ports in the bottom region of the fuel tank 19. If the vehicle (not shown) is inclined, for example, in operating downhill, then the valve housing 10 inclines in the same direction. Under the force of gravity the ball 36 rolls freely toward one end of the valve housing and thereby moves the cage 20 to close one of the valve seats 32 while the other valve seat 32 remains open. The port of the discharge valve that is now lying higher and remains open is connected to the lower fuel tank suction port which is submerged in fuel, so that only fuel will flow to the outlet port 16. Since the other inlet port is closed, no fuel or air will flow through it and no air will be ingested by the fuel pump 17.
In vehicles that are frequently operated at an inclination perpendicular to the direction of travel, which may be the case, for example, with agricultural tractors operating in a furrow, the suction ports and therewith the discharge valve may be arranged in the direction perpendicular to the direction of travel. A diagonal arrangement could also be considered in order to optimize fuel discharge in both longitudinal and crosswise inclination of the vehicle.
The valve housing 10 and the valve body may be manufactured from a plastic that provides a good match in sliding characteristics, while the ball 36 preferably consists of a material with high density, for example steel or brass, in order to apply the necessary impulse.
Figure 3 shows a further embodiment of the inventiQn.
The discharge valve 11 of Fig. 3 includes pressure assisted closing. The valve 11 has a cylindrical valve housing 40 with an inlet port 42 at each end and an upward opening central outlet port 44 connected to a fuel pump 46. The fuel pump 46 pumps the fuel through the line 48 to the fuel injection pump (not shown) of the vehicle engine (not shown). Two lines 50 branch off from line 48 and are connected to upward directed inlet channels 52, 54 in the valve housing 40 which conduct pressurized fuel into the interior of the valve housing 40.
The fittings for the inlet ports 42, the outlet port 44 and the inlet channels 52, 54 may be configured as hose connections.
A valve body 55 is free to slide axially within the valve housing 40. The central region of the valve body 55 forms as a cage 56 which is movable between two separating walls 58 which are connected to the valve housing 40. The cage 56 has two abutments 60 connected to each other by connecting struts 62. Hollow, generally cylindrical projections 64 extend axially outward from the abutments 60. Each projection 64 extends through one of the separating walls 58, and each is connected to a piston 66, which is slidably supported in the valve housing 40. A pair of piston chambers 67 are enclosed between pistons 66 and the separating walls 58. The outer periphery of each piston 66 forms a cylindrical valve surface 68 which is able to close off the corresponding one of the inlet channel 52, 54. A seal 70 of rubber-like material is mounted on an axial outer end face of each piston 66. Each seal 70 is positioned opposite to and is engageable with a r.3 ,~
sealing surface or va]ve seat 72 in the valve housing 40 for closing one of the inlet ports 42.
A channel 74 extends through the piston end face and the hollow cylindrical projection 64 forms a channels 76. When one of the seals 70 is not in contact with the corresponding sealing surface 72 and the corresponding inlet 42 is open, fuel can flow through that inlet port 42, through the channels 74, 76, past the separating wall 58, around the abutment 60 and through the outlet port 44 to the fuel pump 46. This flow is indicated by arrows on the right side of the Fig. 3. When the seal 70 is in contact with the sealing surface 72 the flow of fuel as well as the ingestion of air is stopped.
A ball 78 is free to roll upon the inner wall of the valve housing between the abutments 60 of the cage 56 and is provided with a space for motion between the abutments 60.
Further details of the discharge valve shown in Fig. 3 and its connections to the fuel tank suction ports ar similar what is shown in Figs. 1 and 2, and are not again described here, in order to avoid repetition.
The operation of the discharge valve shown in Fig. 3 is as follows:
If the vehicle accelerates or decelerates, or if the vehicle, and therewith the fuel tank and the discharge valve 11, is inclined, then the ball 78 moves the cage 56 due to gravitational or inertia forces, for example, to the left viewing Fig. 3. Accordingly, the left piston 66 moves to the left and opens the inlet channel 52 so that pressurized fuel from the fuel pump 46 can enter a left piston chamber 67 between the separating wall 58 and piston 66. The pressure in chamber 67 moves the piston 66 further to the left and forces seal 70 against the sealing surface 72 and closes the left inlet port 42. Simultaneously, the right piston 66 moves leftward into the interior of the valve housing 40 and its sealing surface 68 closes the inlet channel 54 so that no pressurized fuel can enter the right piston chamber 69 of the valve housing and thus load the right piston. In this position the right inlet port 42 is open and fuel can flow A S'i ~, ;3 through the connecting channels 74, 76 to the outlet port 44.
A aimilar operation occurs if the ball 78 rolls to the right.
Thus, the movement of the cage 56 body is enhanced by the fuel pressure.
Figs. 4, 5, 6, 7 and lo illustrate a further embodiment of the invention which is a dischar~e valve 101 with closing pressure amplification. This valve 101 has a cylindrical valve housing 80 with an inlet port 82 at each end for connection to the suction ports in the fuel tank. An outlet port 84 branches off from each end of a central portion of the valve housing 80 for connection to the suction side (P0) of the fuel pump 85. A pair of inlets 86 are formed in the central portion of the valve housing 80 between the outlets 84. The inlets 86 are connected with the pressure side (P1) of the fuel pump 85.
A valve body 88 moves axially freely within the valve housing 80 and has seals 90 at each end thereof, in order to close the inlet ports 82. Both end regions of the valve body 88 are slidably received in hollow cylindrical sections 92 of the valve housing 80. Each end region has axially extending slots 94 which permit fuel to flow from the inlet ports 82 to the outlet ports 84. Two spaced apart pistons 96 are fixed to and carried with the central portion of the valve body 88.
A slide 98 is axially moveable within the valve housing 80 and includes two cylindrical segments 98a and 98b, best seen in Fig. 7, and two annular rings 100 connected to the end faces the two segments 98a, 98b. The outer surface of the slide 98 slidably engages the inner surface of the valve housing 80. The two pistons 96 mounted on the valve body 88 slidably and sealingly engage the inner walls of the slide 98 and thus, close off a central region of the slide 98 in the axial direction, as best seen in Fig. 10.
A portion of the valve housing 80 forms a separating wall 102 which lies between the two pistons 96 and which defines two piston chambers 104 within the slide 98. The valve body 88 slides through a central opening in the wall 102. A pair of radial bores 106 extend through the segment 98b of the .
slide 98, each communicating with one of the piston chambers 104. The slide 98 is axially moveable to open communication between one of the piston chambers 104 and one of the two inlet channels 86.
A further housing 110 is connected to the valve housing 80 by a neck 112. The housing 110 r~ceives a cage 114 with two arms 116 which extend away from each other and from an end of a lever 120 which is pivotally supported in the housing 110 on a pivot 124 mounted in the neck 112. A ball 118 is retained in the housing 110 between the arms 116 so that the ball 118 is free to roll back and forth, parallel to the axis of the valve housing 80. The arms form a surface 115 on which the ball 118 rolls and which is bowed upward slightly, so that the ball will be in a stable position when it engages one or the other of the arms 116 and so that it will be at the right or the left side of the cage 114. An inclination of approximately 5 degrees from the horizontal is required before the ball 118 will roll from one position to the other.
An inner end 122 of the lever 120 engages a recess in the slide 98. Thus, a swinging of the cage 114 to the right produces an axial motion of the slide 98 to the left (or the inverse). By the design of the proportions of the lever to each side of the pivot bearing 124 a path relationship and force transmission can be established to conform to the requirements of the particular application. In the illustrated embodiment the segment of the lever 120 that extends into the valve housing 80 is shorter than the distance from the pivot bearing 124 to the center of the ball 118. As a result a certain motion of the cage 114 produces a smaller motion of the slide 98, ~ut the force applied by the ball 118 to the cage 114 is, amplified by the lever ratio as it is transmitted to the slide 98.
The discharge valve 101 of Figs. 4-7 may be oriented in the vehicle in any desired direction. It is necessary only to insure that the surface on which the ball rolls is approximately horizontal when the fuel tank is oriented horizontally. Unlike the discharge valve of Figs.
2 13 ~
1-3, the inlet ports 82 do not have to be cross connected to the suction ports in the bottom of the fuel tank, but are connected directly, that is, the forward inlet port 82 is connected to the forward suction port and the rear inlet port 82 is connected to the rear suction port.
The operation of the discharge valYe according to Figs.
4-7, and 10 is as follows:
If the discharge valve 101 is inclined from its horizontal position, so that one inlet port 82 is higher than the other, then the ball 118 will roll in the housing 110 to the lower lying side, engage the corresponding arm 116 and rotate the cage 114 and lever 120 about the pivot bearing 124.
The free end of the lever 122 moves the slide 98 out of its central position, as illustrated in Fig. 6, to one of the side positions as shown in Fig. 4 or 5. As the slide 98 moves one of the radial bores 106 will be brought at least partially into alignment with one of the inlet channels 86, so that the corresponding chamber 104 is connected to the fuel pump 85 and is subjected to the its pressure Pl. Under the force of this pressure Pl the valve body 88 is moved to its end position whereby one of the seals 90 closes the corresponding inlet port 82.
The other piston chamber 104 is not subjected to the full pressure Pl of the fuel pump, sinc~ the corresponding radial bore 106 is not in alignment with the corresponding inlet channel 86 and the pressure in this other piston chamber 104 is dissipated by leakage past piston 96 to the outlet port 84.
If the ball 118 rolls to the other side, then the slide 98 is moved to the other side by the cage 114, so that the other piston chamber is put under pressure and the valve body 88 closes the other inlet port 82.
The Figs. 8 and 9 show two positions of another embodiment of a discharge valve 121. The valve 121 has a cylindrical valve housing 130 with inlet ports 132 at opposite ends thereof, each for connecting to a suction port in the fuel tank. An outlet port 134 for connecting to a fuel pump opens into the central portion of the valve housing 130. A
2 ~ 8 valve body 136 is axially moveable in the valve housing 130 and has slots 139 which extend axially along its outer surface. A seal 138 i6 attached to each end of the valve body 136 for closing a corresponding one of the inlet ports 132. Fuel can be drawn by the fuel pump through the open inlet port 132, through the slots 139 and to the outlet port 134.
The valve body 134 can be moved axially by the same ball, cage and lever mechanism as already described in connection with Figs. 4 through ~. The discharge valve 121 of Figs. 8 and 9 does not have a pressure assisted closing operation.
While the invention has been described in conjunction with a specific embodiment, it is to be understood that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description. Accordingly, this invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations which fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
Claims (17)
1. A discharge valve for a vehicle fuel tank, the discharge valve having at least two inlet ports for connecting to suction ports in a lower region of the fuel tank and having an outlet port for connecting to a fuel pump, valve means for closing communication between the outlet port and only one of the inlet ports at a time and the valve means being movable in response to movement of a body movable under the influence of gravitational or inertia forces, characterized by:
the body is received within a cage, the cage having a pair of abutments spaced apart by a distance which is greater than a corresponding dimension of the body, the body moving and engaging the abutments and thereby moving the cage, and means for connecting the cage to the valve means so that movement of the cage causes movement of valve means.
the body is received within a cage, the cage having a pair of abutments spaced apart by a distance which is greater than a corresponding dimension of the body, the body moving and engaging the abutments and thereby moving the cage, and means for connecting the cage to the valve means so that movement of the cage causes movement of valve means.
2. The discharge valve of claim 1, wherein:
body is configured as a ball which can roll against the abutments of the cage under gravitational or inertia forces.
body is configured as a ball which can roll against the abutments of the cage under gravitational or inertia forces.
3. The discharge valve of claim 1, wherein:
the discharge valve has a generally cylindrical valve housing with an inlet port at each end thereof and an outlet port branching off from a central portion of the valve housing; and the valve means comprises a valve member which is movable axially in the valve housing in response to movement of the body, the valve member being movable to an end position wherein communication between the outlet port and one of the inlets is closed.
the discharge valve has a generally cylindrical valve housing with an inlet port at each end thereof and an outlet port branching off from a central portion of the valve housing; and the valve means comprises a valve member which is movable axially in the valve housing in response to movement of the body, the valve member being movable to an end position wherein communication between the outlet port and one of the inlets is closed.
4. The discharge valve of claim 3, wherein:
sealing means are attached to the valve member for closing the inlet ports.
sealing means are attached to the valve member for closing the inlet ports.
5. The discharge valve of claim 3, wherein:
the valve member has a guide segment at each end thereof, each guide segment being received by and slidably supported for axial movement in a guide portion of the valve housing.
the valve member has a guide segment at each end thereof, each guide segment being received by and slidably supported for axial movement in a guide portion of the valve housing.
6. The discharge valve of claim 5, wherein:
a seal is attached to an end face of each guide segment for closing the associated inlet port; and each guide segment has a channel formed therein, fuel flowing from an open inlet port to the outlet port via the channel.
a seal is attached to an end face of each guide segment for closing the associated inlet port; and each guide segment has a channel formed therein, fuel flowing from an open inlet port to the outlet port via the channel.
7. The discharge valve of claim 1, further comprising:
pressure assist means for assisting in the closing of the valve means.
pressure assist means for assisting in the closing of the valve means.
8. The discharge valve of claim 7, wherein:
the pressure assist means utilizes fuel pressure generated by the fuel pump.
the pressure assist means utilizes fuel pressure generated by the fuel pump.
9. The discharge valve of claim 7, wherein:
a sliding piston is connected to the valve means and is exposed to fluid pressure in a piston chamber; and a pressure inlet communicates a pressure source to the piston chamber.
a sliding piston is connected to the valve means and is exposed to fluid pressure in a piston chamber; and a pressure inlet communicates a pressure source to the piston chamber.
10. The discharge valve of claim 9, wherein:
the sliding piston is movable to open and close the pressure inlet upon an axial movement of the valve means.
the sliding piston is movable to open and close the pressure inlet upon an axial movement of the valve means.
11. The discharge valve of claim 10, wherein:
a pair of pressure inlets for connecting to a pressure source are located at opposite ends of the discharge valve;
and the outlet port branches off between the pressure inlets.
a pair of pressure inlets for connecting to a pressure source are located at opposite ends of the discharge valve;
and the outlet port branches off between the pressure inlets.
12. The discharge valve of claim 9, wherein:
a slide is movable axially by the cage and has radial ports for controlling communication between the pressure inlet and the piston chamber.
a slide is movable axially by the cage and has radial ports for controlling communication between the pressure inlet and the piston chamber.
13. The discharge valve of claim 12, wherein:
the discharge valve has a valve housing with an outlet port located in an end region of the valve housing for connecting to the fuel pump, a pair of pressure inlets connected to a central portion of the valve housing and for connecting to a source of pressure, and a wall of the valve housing sealingly separates the pressure inlets from each other.
the discharge valve has a valve housing with an outlet port located in an end region of the valve housing for connecting to the fuel pump, a pair of pressure inlets connected to a central portion of the valve housing and for connecting to a source of pressure, and a wall of the valve housing sealingly separates the pressure inlets from each other.
14. The discharge valve of claim 1, wherein:
the cage comprises struts which connect the abutments to each other, the body being held between the abutments.
the cage comprises struts which connect the abutments to each other, the body being held between the abutments.
15. The discharge valve of claim 14, wherein:
a pair of rails project inwardly from a housing of the discharge valve and extend axially therein; and the rails slidable engage the struts and retain the struts therebetween in an upper region of the valve housing.
a pair of rails project inwardly from a housing of the discharge valve and extend axially therein; and the rails slidable engage the struts and retain the struts therebetween in an upper region of the valve housing.
16. The discharge valve of claim 1, wherein:
the valve means is received in a first housing; and the cage is received in a second housing arranged outside the first valve housing.
the valve means is received in a first housing; and the cage is received in a second housing arranged outside the first valve housing.
17. The discharge valve of claim 16, wherein:
a lever is pivotally mounted in one of the housings, the lever having a first end rigidly connected to the cage and a second end which engages the valve means in order to move the latter.
a lever is pivotally mounted in one of the housings, the lever having a first end rigidly connected to the cage and a second end which engages the valve means in order to move the latter.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
DE19904020830 DE4020830C1 (en) | 1990-06-29 | 1990-06-29 | |
DEP4020830.3 | 1990-06-29 |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
CA2044988A1 true CA2044988A1 (en) | 1991-12-30 |
Family
ID=6409390
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
CA 2044988 Abandoned CA2044988A1 (en) | 1990-06-29 | 1991-06-19 | Discharge valve for a fuel tank |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP0463567A3 (en) |
JP (1) | JPH04232370A (en) |
CA (1) | CA2044988A1 (en) |
DE (1) | DE4020830C1 (en) |
FI (1) | FI913023A (en) |
Families Citing this family (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
FR2712238B1 (en) * | 1993-11-08 | 1996-02-02 | Peugeot | Device for drawing fuel from a motor vehicle tank. |
US5560342A (en) * | 1995-12-01 | 1996-10-01 | Walbro Corporation | In-tank fuel pump and reservoir |
FR2786261B1 (en) * | 1998-11-20 | 2004-02-13 | France Etat | TORPEDO LAUNCHER TUBE |
EP1892137A3 (en) * | 2006-08-21 | 2010-03-03 | Rainer Salzlechner | Valve for a fuel tank and fuel tank with such a valve |
CN203009126U (en) * | 2012-10-15 | 2013-06-19 | 西南大学 | Fluid automatic switching valve |
JP6658502B2 (en) * | 2016-12-27 | 2020-03-04 | 豊田合成株式会社 | Fuel tank switchgear |
FR3137067A1 (en) * | 2022-06-24 | 2023-12-29 | Airbus | TANK SYSTEM WITH A VALVE IN THE FORM OF A PENDULUM SYSTEM |
Family Cites Families (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2332007A (en) * | 1941-03-14 | 1943-10-19 | Arthur L Parker | Sump selector valve for fuel tanks |
JPS5937378A (en) * | 1982-08-25 | 1984-02-29 | Nissan Motor Co Ltd | Car strainer |
JPH0664717B2 (en) * | 1985-04-17 | 1994-08-22 | 三洋電機株式会社 | Magnetoresistive magnetic head |
JPH058183Y2 (en) * | 1985-11-11 | 1993-03-02 | ||
US4878511A (en) * | 1986-10-16 | 1989-11-07 | Borg-Warner Automotive, Inc. | Valve assembly for a vehicular fuel tank |
US4844113A (en) * | 1988-03-17 | 1989-07-04 | Jones Cecil R | Fluid flow safety valve |
-
1990
- 1990-06-29 DE DE19904020830 patent/DE4020830C1/de not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
1991
- 1991-06-19 CA CA 2044988 patent/CA2044988A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1991-06-20 FI FI913023A patent/FI913023A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 1991-06-20 EP EP19910110152 patent/EP0463567A3/en not_active Ceased
- 1991-06-28 JP JP15883491A patent/JPH04232370A/en active Pending
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
JPH04232370A (en) | 1992-08-20 |
EP0463567A3 (en) | 1992-11-19 |
FI913023A (en) | 1991-12-30 |
FI913023A0 (en) | 1991-06-20 |
EP0463567A2 (en) | 1992-01-02 |
DE4020830C1 (en) | 1992-01-09 |
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Legal Events
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EEER | Examination request | ||
FZDE | Dead |