EP0975484A1 - Fuel tank equipped with a gas evacuating system - Google Patents

Fuel tank equipped with a gas evacuating system

Info

Publication number
EP0975484A1
EP0975484A1 EP99904913A EP99904913A EP0975484A1 EP 0975484 A1 EP0975484 A1 EP 0975484A1 EP 99904913 A EP99904913 A EP 99904913A EP 99904913 A EP99904913 A EP 99904913A EP 0975484 A1 EP0975484 A1 EP 0975484A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
membrane
envelope
fuel tank
fuel
passage
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.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP99904913A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
André ARNAL
Philippe Decobert
Alexis Rosseel
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Plastic Omnium SE
Original Assignee
Plastic Omnium SE
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Plastic Omnium SE filed Critical Plastic Omnium SE
Publication of EP0975484A1 publication Critical patent/EP0975484A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

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
    • B60K15/035—Fuel tanks characterised by venting means
    • 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
    • B60K15/03177—Fuel tanks made of non-metallic material, e.g. plastics, or of a combination of non-metallic and metallic material
    • 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
    • B60K15/035—Fuel tanks characterised by venting means
    • B60K15/03504—Fuel tanks characterised by venting means adapted to avoid loss of fuel or fuel vapour, e.g. with vapour recovery systems
    • 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
    • B60K2015/03328—Arrangements or special measures related to fuel tanks or fuel handling
    • B60K2015/03453—Arrangements or special measures related to fuel tanks or fuel handling for fixing or mounting parts of the fuel tank together

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a fuel tank comprising an envelope for containing fuel and a gas evacuation system. It is known that, to fill a fuel tank without causing backflow in its filling pipe, it is necessary to allow the gases contained in the tank to escape from it as the liquid level rises in the tank.
  • a reservoir with one or more devices which are generally valves, connected to gas discharge conduits, these devices having, in other functions, that of letting the gases pass and of oppose the passage of liquid fuel.
  • This function is commonly referred to as "SLV".
  • these devices can, if the configuration of the reservoir allows it, to perform additional functions such as for example prohibiting overfilling of the reservoir so that a pocket of gas remains above the liquid level to preserve a capacity of expansion to the fuel volume or prevent liquid fuel from flowing through the exhaust pipes in the event of the vehicle overturning.
  • This latter function is known by the abbreviation "ROV"
  • the subject of the present invention is a fuel tank comprising an envelope for containing fuel and a system for evacuating the gases contained in the envelope, said system comprising a passage putting the interior of the envelope in communication with the exterior of the envelope and, closing this passage, a membrane capable of allowing air and fuel vapors to pass through and oppose the passage of liquid fuel, characterized in that the membrane is located in the envelope and extends over most of the upper wall of the envelope.
  • the membrane comprises at least one layer of a porous fluoropolymer with an open cell structure.
  • Such a membrane can be made of material known under the brand GORETEX. To implement the invention, it is also possible to use the membrane
  • the membrane according to the invention can be placed at any point in the reservoir situated above the liquid level, so as to remain in communication with the volume of gas enclosed in the envelope, which allows this volume of gas to remain substantially at atmospheric pressure.
  • the membrane according to the invention has the advantage that in addition to fulfilling the "SLV” function, it replaces the so-called “ROV” device which prevents the liquid fuel from escaping through the fuel vapor evacuation pipe by overturning of the vehicle.
  • the membrane according to the invention fulfills the two functions "SLV” and "ROV”.
  • the passage is achieved by an opening in the upper wall of the envelope, the membrane extending across this opening, the fuel tank further comprising, for covering the membrane and closing the opening, a shutter provided with a connection piece to a discharge duct to put the latter in communication with the space between the membrane and the shutter.
  • the shutter may include a support grid extending substantially parallel to the membrane and providing the latter with support in the event of a thrust exerted by the liquid fuel contained in the envelope, for example during movement. of the vehicle or if the latter overturns following an accident.
  • the envelope is obtained by welding or bonding of two envelope parts from injection molding.
  • the invention also relates to a device comprising a fuel tank as described above and a means of recovering fuel vapors, connected to the passage closed by the membrane and putting the interior and exterior of the vehicle into communication. 'envelope.
  • FIG. 1 schematically represents a device according to the invention
  • FIG. 2 is a sectional view of a fuel tank of the type of that of FIG. 1,
  • FIG. 3 is a close-up sectional view of part of a fuel tank according to another embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 1 schematically, a fuel tank 1 of a motor vehicle, comprising a pipe 2 for its filling.
  • This tubing 2 is provided with a safety valve 3 opening in the event of depression or overpressure exceeding predetermined values, and it is connected by a bypass duct 4 to a point 5 of the tank 1.
  • the opening of the valve 3 is exceptional and the tank is ventilated normally by a circuit 6 for venting, also connected to a high point of the tank 1.
  • a membrane 7 permeable to air and to fuel vapors but impermeable to liquid fuel is placed in this circuit 6 inside the envelope of the tank, to oppose the departure of liquid fuel whatever the position of the tank.
  • the membrane 7 extends over most of the horizontal section of the tank.
  • the membrane 7 thus ensures the two functions of separation between the liquid fuel and the gases, also designated by "SLV” and of anti-overturning safety making it possible to prevent a leak of liquid fuel by the circuit 6 in the event of accidental overturning of the vehicle. , also called “ROV” function. This avoids, thanks to the membrane 7, that droplets of liquid fuel are sucked in by the gas flow circulating in the circuit 6, which could damage a filter 8 placed downstream of the membrane 7 and intended to recover the vapors of fuel.
  • the filter 8 also called “canister”, is known in itself, and contains for example activated carbon to retain the fuel vapors. It is provided with an outlet 9a to the atmosphere and with a drain 9b connected to the fuel supply circuit of the engine.
  • An "ISR" overfill prevention device is placed in the circuit 6 downstream of the membrane 7 and upstream of the filter 8.
  • This device is constituted for example by a ball valve known in itself, arranged to close the circuit 6 when filling the tank in order to cause during this filling a backflow as soon as the liquid level reaches point 5, which leaves in the tank a volume of gas capable of absorbing possible expansions of liquid fuel during taxiing.
  • the membrane 7 consists, in this embodiment of the invention, of "PERMEON", which is a fluoropolymer with an open cell structure sold by the Company EGC Corporation.
  • the fuel tank envelope consists of an upper part 10 and a lower part 11 from injection molding.
  • the membrane 7 has a flattened pocket shape and extends over almost the entire surface of said envelope, that is to say above most of the liquid contained in The reservoir.
  • Said membrane 7 in the form of a flattened pocket is mounted on the inner end 12a of a nozzle 12 passing through the wall of the envelope and comprising an outer end 12b shaped as a quick connector for the connection of a gas evacuation duct (not shown) leading to a device (not shown) for recovering gasoline vapors, such as a canister.
  • the tip 12 thus defines a passage between the inside and the outside of the envelope.
  • the large exchange surface offered by such a membrane 7 contributes very significantly to its efficiency as well as to the gas flow rate in the exhaust duct.
  • the upper part 23a of the envelope 23, also obtained by injection molding, has an opening 24 of fairly large dimensions, that is to say the surface of which occupies more of half the horizontal section of the envelope.
  • a membrane 25 extends across this opening and allows the gases contained in the envelope to pass through it, while preventing the liquid fuel from escaping.
  • a shutter 26 covers the membrane 25 and closes the opening 24 in a sealed manner, delimiting with the membrane 25 a space 27 into which only the gases contained in the envelope can penetrate.
  • This shutter 26 is provided with a connection end piece 28 for the connection of a gas evacuation duct (not shown), which is thus placed in communication with the space 27.
  • a grid 29 integral with the end piece also serves to support the membrane 15 by providing it with a support to prevent it from tearing under the weight of the liquid fuel in the event of the vehicle overturning or under the thrust exerted by the liquid in movement when the vehicle is moving, so that the "ROV" function of the membrane is ensured.
  • the membrane described here allows the smallest amount of gas contained in the envelope to escape, which avoids any overpressure during driving.
  • the envelope 23 of FIG. 3 can be obtained not only by injection molding of two envelope halves as shown, but also by blowing, then cutting out the opening 24. It is understood that the embodiments which have just been described have no limiting character and that they can receive any desirable modifications without departing from the scope of the invention.

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)
  • Cooling, Air Intake And Gas Exhaust, And Fuel Tank Arrangements In Propulsion Units (AREA)

Abstract

The invention concerns a fuel tank comprising a shell for containing fuel and a system for evacuating gases contained in said shell. The system comprises a passage (12) communicating the shell inside with the shell outside and, closing said passage, a membrane (7) allowing air and fuel vapours to pass through and countering the passage of liquid fuel. The membrane (7) is located in the shell and extends over the greater part of the shell top wall.

Description

Réservoir à carburant muni d'un système d'évacuation des gaz Fuel tank fitted with a gas evacuation system
La présente invention concerne un réservoir à carburant comprenant une enveloppe pour contenir du carburant et un système d'évacuation des gaz. On sait que, pour remplir un réservoir à carburant sans provoquer de refoulement dans sa tubulure de remplissage, il faut permettre aux gaz contenus dans le réservoir de s'en échapper à mesure que le niveau de liquide monte dans le réservoir.The present invention relates to a fuel tank comprising an envelope for containing fuel and a gas evacuation system. It is known that, to fill a fuel tank without causing backflow in its filling pipe, it is necessary to allow the gases contained in the tank to escape from it as the liquid level rises in the tank.
On sait également que le roulage d'un véhicule soumet son réservoir à carburant à des secousses qui provoquent l'apparition de vapeurs de carburant au-dessus du carburant liquide, vapeurs de carburant qu'il est impératif d'évacuer sous peine de soumettre le réservoir à de dangereuses montées en pression.It is also known that the running of a vehicle subjects its fuel tank to tremors which cause the appearance of fuel vapors above the liquid fuel, fuel vapors which it is imperative to evacuate on pain of subjecting the reservoir for dangerous pressure build-ups.
Mais on comprend que cette évacuation des vapeurs de carburant doit se faire sans que le carburant liquide ne puisse s'échapper du réservoir avec les vapeurs.However, it is understood that this evacuation of the fuel vapors must be done without the liquid fuel being able to escape from the tank with the vapors.
A cet effet, il est connu de doter un réservoir d'un ou plusieurs dispositifs qui sont en général des clapets, reliés à des conduits d'évacuation des gaz, ces dispositifs ayant, en autres fonctions, celle de laisser passer les gaz et de s'opposer au passage du carburant liquide. Cette fonction est couramment désignée "SLV".For this purpose, it is known to provide a reservoir with one or more devices which are generally valves, connected to gas discharge conduits, these devices having, in other functions, that of letting the gases pass and of oppose the passage of liquid fuel. This function is commonly referred to as "SLV".
En outre, ces dispositifs peuvent, si la configuration du réservoir le permet, remplir des fonctions supplémentaires comme par exemple interdire le surremplissage du réservoir de manière qu'il subsiste une poche de gaz au-dessus du niveau de liquide pour préserver une capacité d'expansion au volume de carburant ou empêcher le carburant liquide de s'écouler à travers les conduits d'évacuation en cas de retournement du véhicule. Cette dernière fonction est connue sous l'abréviation "ROV"In addition, these devices can, if the configuration of the reservoir allows it, to perform additional functions such as for example prohibiting overfilling of the reservoir so that a pocket of gas remains above the liquid level to preserve a capacity of expansion to the fuel volume or prevent liquid fuel from flowing through the exhaust pipes in the event of the vehicle overturning. This latter function is known by the abbreviation "ROV"
Il en résulte que la structure des dispositifs connus est très complexe, ce qui implique des problèmes de coût et de fiabilité, car les parties mobiles desdits dispositifs peuvent se bloquer en position ouverte ou fermée, ce qui les empêche dans les deux cas de remplir leur office.As a result, the structure of known devices is very complex, which involves problems of cost and reliability, since the moving parts of said devices can lock in the open or closed position, which prevents them in both cases from fulfilling their office.
Il existe donc un besoin pour un dispositif fiable et économique d'évacuation des gaz qui soit dépourvu de toute pièce mobile. Le présente invention vise à répondre à ce besoin.There is therefore a need for a reliable and economical device for evacuating gases which is devoid of any moving part. The present invention aims to meet this need.
La présente invention a pour objet un réservoir à carburant comprenant une enveloppe pour contenir du carburant et un système d'évacuation des gaz contenus dans l'enveloppe, ledit système comportant un passage mettant l'intérieur de l'enveloppe en communication avec l'extérieur de l'enveloppe et, obturant ce passage, une membrane apte à laisser passer l'air et les vapeurs de carburant et à s'opposer au passage du carburant liquide, caractérisé par le fait que la membrane est située dans l'enveloppe et s'étend sur la majeure partie de la paroi supérieure de l'enveloppe.The subject of the present invention is a fuel tank comprising an envelope for containing fuel and a system for evacuating the gases contained in the envelope, said system comprising a passage putting the interior of the envelope in communication with the exterior of the envelope and, closing this passage, a membrane capable of allowing air and fuel vapors to pass through and oppose the passage of liquid fuel, characterized in that the membrane is located in the envelope and extends over most of the upper wall of the envelope.
Dans un mode de réalisation particulier de l'invention, la membrane comporte au moins une couche d'un polymère fluoré poreux à structure à cellules ouvertes.In a particular embodiment of the invention, the membrane comprises at least one layer of a porous fluoropolymer with an open cell structure.
Une telle membrane peut être réalisée en matériau connu sous la marque GORETEX. Pour mettre en oeuvre l'invention, on peut aussi utiliser la membraneSuch a membrane can be made of material known under the brand GORETEX. To implement the invention, it is also possible to use the membrane
"PERMEON" de la société EGC Corporation, Houston, Texas, Etats-Unis."PERMEON" from EGC Corporation, Houston, Texas, USA.
La membrane selon l'invention peut être placée en tout point du réservoir situé au- dessus du niveau de liquide, de manière à demeurer en communication avec le volume de gaz enfermé dans l'enveloppe, ce qui permet à ce volume de gaz de rester sensiblement à la pression atmosphérique.The membrane according to the invention can be placed at any point in the reservoir situated above the liquid level, so as to remain in communication with the volume of gas enclosed in the envelope, which allows this volume of gas to remain substantially at atmospheric pressure.
La membrane selon l'invention présente l'avantage qu'en plus de remplir la fonction "SLV", elle remplace le dispositif dit "ROV" qui empêche le carburant liquide de s'échapper par le conduit d'évacuation des vapeurs de carburant en cas de retournement du véhicule. Ainsi, la membrane selon l'invention remplit les deux fonctions "SLV" et "ROV".The membrane according to the invention has the advantage that in addition to fulfilling the "SLV" function, it replaces the so-called "ROV" device which prevents the liquid fuel from escaping through the fuel vapor evacuation pipe by overturning of the vehicle. Thus, the membrane according to the invention fulfills the two functions "SLV" and "ROV".
Dans un mode de réalisation particulier, le passage est réalisé par une ouverture ménagée dans la paroi supérieure de l'enveloppe, la membrane s'étendant en travers de cette ouverture, le réservoir à carburant comportant en outre, pour recouvrir la membrane et fermer l'ouverture, un obturateur muni d'un embout de raccordement à un conduit d'évacuation pour mettre ce dernier en communication avec l'espace compris entre la membrane et l'obturateur.In a particular embodiment, the passage is achieved by an opening in the upper wall of the envelope, the membrane extending across this opening, the fuel tank further comprising, for covering the membrane and closing the opening, a shutter provided with a connection piece to a discharge duct to put the latter in communication with the space between the membrane and the shutter.
Dans ce mode de réalisation, l'obturateur peut comporter une grille de soutien s'étendant sensiblement parallèlement à la membrane et fournissant à cette dernière un appui en cas de poussée exercée par le carburant liquide contenu dans l'enveloppe, par exemple lors des déplacements du véhicule ou si ce dernier se retourne à la suite d'un accident.In this embodiment, the shutter may include a support grid extending substantially parallel to the membrane and providing the latter with support in the event of a thrust exerted by the liquid fuel contained in the envelope, for example during movement. of the vehicle or if the latter overturns following an accident.
Selon un mode de réalisation préféré, l'enveloppe est obtenue par soudage ou collage de deux parties d'enveloppe issues de moulage par injection.According to a preferred embodiment, the envelope is obtained by welding or bonding of two envelope parts from injection molding.
L'invention a également pour objet un dispositif comprenant un réservoir à carburant tel que décrit ci-dessus et un moyen de récupération des vapeurs de carburant, relié au passage obturé par la membrane et mettant en communication l'intérieur et l'extérieur de l'enveloppe.The invention also relates to a device comprising a fuel tank as described above and a means of recovering fuel vapors, connected to the passage closed by the membrane and putting the interior and exterior of the vehicle into communication. 'envelope.
Dans le but de mieux faire comprendre l'invention, on va en décrire maintenant des modes de réalisation donnés à titre d'exemples non limitatifs, en référence au dessin annexé dans lequel :In order to better understand the invention, we will now describe embodiments given by way of non-limiting examples, with reference to the accompanying drawing in which:
- la figure 1 représente schématiquement un dispositif selon l'invention, - la figure 2 est une vue en coupe d'un réservoir à carburant du type de celui de la figure 1,FIG. 1 schematically represents a device according to the invention, FIG. 2 is a sectional view of a fuel tank of the type of that of FIG. 1,
- la figure 3 est une vue rapprochée en coupe d'une partie d'un réservoir à carburant selon un autre mode de réalisation de l'invention.- Figure 3 is a close-up sectional view of part of a fuel tank according to another embodiment of the invention.
On a représenté sur la figure 1 , de façon schématique, un réservoir à carburant 1 de véhicule automobile, comportant une tubulure 2 pour son remplissage.There is shown in Figure 1, schematically, a fuel tank 1 of a motor vehicle, comprising a pipe 2 for its filling.
Cette tubulure 2 est munie d'une soupape de sécurité 3 s'ouvrant en cas de dépression ou de surpression excédant des valeurs prédéterminées, et elle est reliée par un conduit de dérivation 4 à un point 5 du réservoir 1.This tubing 2 is provided with a safety valve 3 opening in the event of depression or overpressure exceeding predetermined values, and it is connected by a bypass duct 4 to a point 5 of the tank 1.
L'ouverture de la soupape 3 est exceptionnelle et la ventilation du réservoir se fait normalement par un circuit 6 de mise à l'air libre, également relié à un point haut du réservoir 1.The opening of the valve 3 is exceptional and the tank is ventilated normally by a circuit 6 for venting, also connected to a high point of the tank 1.
Une membrane 7 perméable à l'air et aux vapeurs de carburant mais imperméable au carburant liquide est placée dans ce circuit 6 à l'intérieur de l'enveloppe du réservoir, pour s'opposer au départ de carburant liquide quelle que soit la position du réservoir. La membrane 7 s'étend sur la majeure partie de la section horizontale du réservoir.A membrane 7 permeable to air and to fuel vapors but impermeable to liquid fuel is placed in this circuit 6 inside the envelope of the tank, to oppose the departure of liquid fuel whatever the position of the tank. The membrane 7 extends over most of the horizontal section of the tank.
La membrane 7 assure ainsi les deux fonctions de séparation entre le carburant liquide et les gaz, également désignée par "SLV" et de sécurité anti-retournement permettant d'empêcher une fuite de carburant liquide par le circuit 6 en cas de retournement accidentel du véhicule, également désignée fonction "ROV". On évite ainsi, grâce à la membrane 7, que des gouttelettes de carburant liquide ne soient aspirées par l'écoulement gazeux circulant dans le circuit 6, ce qui pourrait détériorer un filtre 8 placé en aval de la membrane 7 et destiné à récupérer les vapeurs de carburant.The membrane 7 thus ensures the two functions of separation between the liquid fuel and the gases, also designated by "SLV" and of anti-overturning safety making it possible to prevent a leak of liquid fuel by the circuit 6 in the event of accidental overturning of the vehicle. , also called "ROV" function. This avoids, thanks to the membrane 7, that droplets of liquid fuel are sucked in by the gas flow circulating in the circuit 6, which could damage a filter 8 placed downstream of the membrane 7 and intended to recover the vapors of fuel.
Le filtre 8, encore appelé "canister", est connu en lui-même, et contient par exemple du charbon actif pour retenir les vapeurs de carburant. Il est muni d'une sortie 9a vers l'atmosphère et d'une purge 9b reliée au circuit d'alimentation en carburant du moteur. Un dispositif d'interdiction de sur-remplissage "ISR" est placé dans le circuit 6 en aval de la membrane 7 et en amont du filtre 8.The filter 8, also called "canister", is known in itself, and contains for example activated carbon to retain the fuel vapors. It is provided with an outlet 9a to the atmosphere and with a drain 9b connected to the fuel supply circuit of the engine. An "ISR" overfill prevention device is placed in the circuit 6 downstream of the membrane 7 and upstream of the filter 8.
Ce dispositif est constitué par exemple par un clapet à bille connu en lui-même, agencé pour obturer le circuit 6 lors du remplissage du réservoir afin de provoquer lors de ce remplissage un refoulement dès que le niveau de liquide atteint le point 5, ce qui laisse dans le réservoir un volume de gaz apte à absorber d'éventuelles dilatations de carburant liquide lors du roulage.This device is constituted for example by a ball valve known in itself, arranged to close the circuit 6 when filling the tank in order to cause during this filling a backflow as soon as the liquid level reaches point 5, which leaves in the tank a volume of gas capable of absorbing possible expansions of liquid fuel during taxiing.
La membrane 7 est constituée, dans ce mode de réalisation de l'invention, par du "PERMEON", qui est un polymère fluoré à structure à cellules ouvertes commercialisé par la Société EGC Corporation. L'enveloppe du réservoir à carburant est constituée par une partie supérieure 10 et une partie inférieure 11 issues de moulage par injection.The membrane 7 consists, in this embodiment of the invention, of "PERMEON", which is a fluoropolymer with an open cell structure sold by the Company EGC Corporation. The fuel tank envelope consists of an upper part 10 and a lower part 11 from injection molding.
Dans le mode de réalisation de la figure 2, la membrane 7 présente une forme de poche aplatie et s'étend sur presque toute la surface de ladite enveloppe, c'est-à-dire au- dessus de la majeure partie du liquide contenu dans le réservoir. Ladite membrane 7 en forme de poche aplatie est montée sur l'extrémité intérieure 12a d'un embout 12 traversant la paroi de l'enveloppe et comportant une extrémité extérieure 12b conformée en raccord rapide pour le branchement d'un conduit d'évacuation des gaz (non représenté) aboutissant à un dispositif (non représenté) de récupération des vapeurs d'essence, tel qu'un canister. L'embout 12 délimite ainsi un passage entre l'intérieur et l'extérieur de l'enveloppe.In the embodiment of Figure 2, the membrane 7 has a flattened pocket shape and extends over almost the entire surface of said envelope, that is to say above most of the liquid contained in The reservoir. Said membrane 7 in the form of a flattened pocket is mounted on the inner end 12a of a nozzle 12 passing through the wall of the envelope and comprising an outer end 12b shaped as a quick connector for the connection of a gas evacuation duct (not shown) leading to a device (not shown) for recovering gasoline vapors, such as a canister. The tip 12 thus defines a passage between the inside and the outside of the envelope.
La grande surface d'échange offerte par une telle membrane 7 contribue très sensiblement à son efficacité ainsi qu'au débit de gaz dans le conduit d'évacuation.The large exchange surface offered by such a membrane 7 contributes very significantly to its efficiency as well as to the gas flow rate in the exhaust duct.
Dans le mode de réalisation de la figure 3, la partie supérieure 23 a de l'enveloppe 23, également obtenue par moulage par injection, comporte une ouverture 24 d'assez grandes dimensions, c'est-à-dire dont la surface occupe plus de la moitié de la section horizontale de l'enveloppe. Une membrane 25 s'étend en travers de cette ouverture et permet aux gaz contenus dans l'enveloppe de la traverser, tout en empêchant le carburant liquide de s'échapper.In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the upper part 23a of the envelope 23, also obtained by injection molding, has an opening 24 of fairly large dimensions, that is to say the surface of which occupies more of half the horizontal section of the envelope. A membrane 25 extends across this opening and allows the gases contained in the envelope to pass through it, while preventing the liquid fuel from escaping.
Un obturateur 26 recouvre la membrane 25 et ferme l'ouverture 24 de façon étanche, en délimitant avec la membrane 25 un espace 27 dans lequel seuls les gaz contenus dans l'enveloppe peuvent pénétrer.A shutter 26 covers the membrane 25 and closes the opening 24 in a sealed manner, delimiting with the membrane 25 a space 27 into which only the gases contained in the envelope can penetrate.
Cet obturateur 26 est muni d'un embout de raccordement 28 pour le branchement d'un conduit d'évacuation des gaz (non représenté), qui est ainsi mis en communication avec l'espace 27.This shutter 26 is provided with a connection end piece 28 for the connection of a gas evacuation duct (not shown), which is thus placed in communication with the space 27.
Une grille 29 solidaire de l'embout sert par ailleurs à soutenir la membrane 15 en lui procurant un appui pour éviter qu'elle ne se déchire sous le poids du carburant liquide en cas de retournement du véhicule ou sous la poussée exercée par le liquide en mouvement lors des déplacements du véhicule, afin que la fonction "ROV" de la membrane soit assurée.A grid 29 integral with the end piece also serves to support the membrane 15 by providing it with a support to prevent it from tearing under the weight of the liquid fuel in the event of the vehicle overturning or under the thrust exerted by the liquid in movement when the vehicle is moving, so that the "ROV" function of the membrane is ensured.
Comme dans les modes de réalisation précédents, la membrane décrite ici permet à la moindre quantité de gaz contenue dans l'enveloppe de s'échapper, ce qui évite toute surpression pendant le roulage.As in the previous embodiments, the membrane described here allows the smallest amount of gas contained in the envelope to escape, which avoids any overpressure during driving.
On peut noter par ailleurs que l'enveloppe 23 de la figure 3 peut être obtenue non seulement par moulage par injection de deux moitiés d'enveloppe comme représenté, mais également par soufflage, puis découpe de l'ouverture 24. II est bien entendu que les modes de réalisation qui viennent d'être décrits ne présentent aucun caractère limitatif et qu'ils pourront recevoir toutes modifications désirables sans sortir pour cela du cadre de l'invention. It may also be noted that the envelope 23 of FIG. 3 can be obtained not only by injection molding of two envelope halves as shown, but also by blowing, then cutting out the opening 24. It is understood that the embodiments which have just been described have no limiting character and that they can receive any desirable modifications without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

REVENDICATIONS
1. Réservoir à carburant comprenant une enveloppe pour contenir du carburant et un système d'évacuation des gaz contenus dans l'enveloppe, ledit système comportant un passage (12 ; 24) mettant l'intérieur de l'enveloppe en communication avec l'extérieur de l'enveloppe et, obturant ce passage, une membrane (7 ; 25) apte à laisser passer l'air et les vapeurs de carburant et à s'opposer au passage du carburant liquide, caractérisé par le fait que la membrane (7) est située dans l'enveloppe et s'étend sur la majeure partie de la paroi supérieure de l'enveloppe. 1. Fuel tank comprising an envelope for containing fuel and a system for evacuating the gases contained in the envelope, said system comprising a passage (12; 24) putting the inside of the envelope in communication with the outside. of the envelope and, closing this passage, a membrane (7; 25) capable of letting air and fuel vapors pass and of opposing the passage of liquid fuel, characterized in that the membrane (7) is located in the envelope and extends over most of the upper wall of the envelope.
2. Réservoir à carburant selon la revendication 1, caractérisé par le fait que la membrane (7) est conformée en une poche aplatie.2. Fuel tank according to claim 1, characterized in that the membrane (7) is shaped as a flat pocket.
3. Réservoir à carburant selon la revendication 1, caractérisé par le fait que le passage est réalisé par une ouverture (24) ménagée dans la paroi supérieure de l'enveloppe (23), la membrane (25) s'étendant en travers de cette ouverture, le réservoir à carburant comportant en outre, pour recouvrir la membrane (25) et fermer l'ouverture (24) de façon étanche, un obturateur muni d'un embout de raccordement (28) à un conduit d'évacuation pour mettre ce dernier en communication avec un espace (27)compris entre la membrane et l'obturateur.3. Fuel tank according to claim 1, characterized in that the passage is produced by an opening (24) formed in the upper wall of the casing (23), the membrane (25) extending across this opening, the fuel tank further comprising, for covering the diaphragm (25) and closing the opening (24) in a leaktight manner, a shutter provided with a connection end piece (28) to a discharge duct to put this the latter in communication with a space (27) between the membrane and the shutter.
4. Réservoir à carburant selon la revendication 3, caractérisé par le fait que l'obturateur comporte une grille de soutien (29) s'étendant sensiblement parallèlement à la membrane (25) et fournissant à cette dernière un appui en cas de poussée exercée par le carburant liquide contenu dans l'enveloppe.4. Fuel tank according to claim 3, characterized in that the shutter comprises a support grid (29) extending substantially parallel to the membrane (25) and providing the latter with support in the event of a thrust exerted by the liquid fuel contained in the envelope.
5. Réservoir à carburant selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4, caractérisé par le fait que la membrane (7 ; 25) comporte au moins une couche d'un polymère fluoré poreux à structure à cellules ouvertes.5. Fuel tank according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the membrane (7; 25) comprises at least one layer of a porous fluoropolymer with open cell structure.
6. Réservoir à carburant selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 5, caractérisé par le fait qu'il est obtenu par collage ou soudage de deux parties (10 ; 11) issues de moulage par injection d'une matière plastique.6. Fuel tank according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it is obtained by bonding or welding of two parts (10; 11) from injection molding of a plastic material.
7. Dispositif comprenant un réservoir à carburant selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 6, et un moyen de récupération des vapeurs de carburant relié au passage (12 ; 24) obturé par la membrane (7 ; 25) et mettant l'intérieur de l'enveloppe en communication avec l'extérieur de l'enveloppe. 7. Device comprising a fuel tank according to any one of claims 1 to 6, and a means of recovering fuel vapors connected to the passage (12; 24) closed by the membrane (7; 25) and placing the interior of the envelope in communication with the exterior of the envelope.
EP99904913A 1998-02-19 1999-02-19 Fuel tank equipped with a gas evacuating system Withdrawn EP0975484A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9802020 1998-02-19
FR9802020A FR2774951B1 (en) 1998-02-19 1998-02-19 FUEL TANK PROVIDED WITH A GAS EXHAUST SYSTEM
PCT/FR1999/000380 WO1999042318A1 (en) 1998-02-19 1999-02-19 Fuel tank equipped with a gas evacuating system

Publications (1)

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EP0975484A1 true EP0975484A1 (en) 2000-02-02

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EP99904913A Withdrawn EP0975484A1 (en) 1998-02-19 1999-02-19 Fuel tank equipped with a gas evacuating system

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US (1) US6557719B1 (en)
EP (1) EP0975484A1 (en)
CA (1) CA2287492A1 (en)
FR (1) FR2774951B1 (en)
WO (1) WO1999042318A1 (en)

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO1999042318A1 (en) 1999-08-26
FR2774951A1 (en) 1999-08-20
US6557719B1 (en) 2003-05-06
FR2774951B1 (en) 2000-05-05
CA2287492A1 (en) 1999-08-26

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