WO2018092024A1 - An opening and closing system of a supply inlet of a fuel tank and a blocking and unblocking method of a cap which is applicable to a supply inlet of a fuel tank - Google Patents

An opening and closing system of a supply inlet of a fuel tank and a blocking and unblocking method of a cap which is applicable to a supply inlet of a fuel tank Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2018092024A1
WO2018092024A1 PCT/IB2017/057107 IB2017057107W WO2018092024A1 WO 2018092024 A1 WO2018092024 A1 WO 2018092024A1 IB 2017057107 W IB2017057107 W IB 2017057107W WO 2018092024 A1 WO2018092024 A1 WO 2018092024A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
unit
stem
supply inlet
control unit
cap
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2017/057107
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Mario Tabellario
Original Assignee
Zenner Gas S.R.L.
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 Zenner Gas S.R.L. filed Critical Zenner Gas S.R.L.
Publication of WO2018092024A1 publication Critical patent/WO2018092024A1/en

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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
    • B60K15/04—Tank inlets
    • B60K15/0406—Filler caps for fuel tanks
    • B60K15/0409—Provided with a lock
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C13/00—Details of vessels or of the filling or discharging of vessels
    • F17C13/06—Closures, e.g. cap, breakable member
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C3/00—Vessels not under pressure
    • 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
    • B60K15/04—Tank inlets
    • B60K15/0406—Filler caps for fuel tanks
    • B60K15/0409—Provided with a lock
    • B60K2015/0416—Provided with a lock electrically actuated
    • 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
    • B60K15/04—Tank inlets
    • B60K15/0406—Filler caps for fuel tanks
    • B60K2015/0432—Filler caps for fuel tanks having a specific connection between the cap and the vehicle or tank opening
    • B60K2015/0438—Filler caps for fuel tanks having a specific connection between the cap and the vehicle or tank opening using screw or bayonet
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2201/00—Vessel construction, in particular geometry, arrangement or size
    • F17C2201/01—Shape
    • F17C2201/0104—Shape cylindrical
    • F17C2201/0109—Shape cylindrical with exteriorly curved end-piece
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2201/00—Vessel construction, in particular geometry, arrangement or size
    • F17C2201/03—Orientation
    • F17C2201/035—Orientation with substantially horizontal main axis
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2201/00—Vessel construction, in particular geometry, arrangement or size
    • F17C2201/05—Size
    • F17C2201/054—Size medium (>1 m3)
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2203/00—Vessel construction, in particular walls or details thereof
    • F17C2203/06—Materials for walls or layers thereof; Properties or structures of walls or their materials
    • F17C2203/0602—Wall structures; Special features thereof
    • F17C2203/0612—Wall structures
    • F17C2203/0614—Single wall
    • F17C2203/0617—Single wall with one layer
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/01—Mounting arrangements
    • F17C2205/0153—Details of mounting arrangements
    • F17C2205/018—Supporting feet
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2221/00—Handled fluid, in particular type of fluid
    • F17C2221/03—Mixtures
    • F17C2221/032—Hydrocarbons
    • F17C2221/035—Propane butane, e.g. LPG, GPL
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2223/00—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel
    • F17C2223/01—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel characterised by the phase
    • F17C2223/0146—Two-phase
    • F17C2223/0153—Liquefied gas, e.g. LPG, GPL
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2223/00—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel
    • F17C2223/03—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel characterised by the pressure level
    • F17C2223/033—Small pressure, e.g. for liquefied gas
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2250/00—Accessories; Control means; Indicating, measuring or monitoring of parameters
    • F17C2250/03—Control means
    • F17C2250/034—Control means using wireless transmissions
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2260/00—Purposes of gas storage and gas handling
    • F17C2260/02—Improving properties related to fluid or fluid transfer
    • F17C2260/028—Avoiding unauthorised transfer
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2270/00—Applications
    • F17C2270/01—Applications for fluid transport or storage
    • F17C2270/0134—Applications for fluid transport or storage placed above the ground

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the blocking and unblocking of a cap which is applied to the supply inlet of a fuel tank, for example for LPG fuel.
  • These fuel tanks are generally the property of the company providing the fuel supply, which stipulates an exclusive contract with the user for supply of the fuel: for this purpose the cost of a refill of fuel can include a percentage of the cost of the fuel tank, which over time enables the company to recuperate the costs relating to the fuel tank.
  • the company that has stipulated the contract with the user usually obstructs free access to the supply inlet of the fuel tank.
  • a blocking and unblocking lock can be mounted on the supply inlet of the fuel tank: in other words, when the cap is applied to the supply inlet, by inserting a special key in the lock the cap can be blocked, preventing removal thereof, or unblocked, allowing removal thereof.
  • Unfortunate the key to the lock can be duplicated or can fall into the hands of an operator of a competitor company, who can fill the fuel tank illicitly.
  • the aim of the invention consists in obviating this drawback.
  • the above aim is attained with an opening and closing system of a supply inlet of a fuel tank, according to claim 1 , and by means of a blocking and unblocking method of a cap which is applicable to a supply inlet of a fuel tank, according to claim 10.
  • the command signal can be transmitted by the operator of the fuel company which has the right to supply the fuel tank to be replenished, which operator can be in proximity of the above-mentioned fuel tank in order to be able to carry out the refilling operation.
  • the blocking and unblocking of the cap applied to the supply inlet of the fuel tank can take place only after the enabling signal has been received; this enabling signal can be remotely sent by the same fuel supply company.
  • the company can advantageously thus control the blocking and unblocking of the cap when the cap is applied to the supply inlet, thus preventing the filling of the fuel tank by unauthorised third parties.
  • FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a blocking and unblocking system of a cap that is applicable to the supply inlet of a fuel tank which is part of an opening and closing system of a fuel tank, object of the invention, according to a first embodiment
  • FIG. 2 schematically illustrates the blocking and unblocking system, according to a second embodiment
  • FIG. 3 schematically illustrates the blocking and unblocking system, according to a third embodiment
  • FIG. 4 schematically illustrates the blocking and unblocking system, according to a fourth embodiment
  • FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a part of an opening and closing system of the supply inlet of the fuel tank, object of the invention
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a fuel tank and a supply inlet, of known type
  • - figure 7 is a lateral view of the fuel tank of figure 6, in which a part of the opening and closing system of the invention is also visible, comprising a cap applied to the supply inlet of the fuel tank;
  • - figure 8 is a larger-scale perspective view of a part of the opening and closing system illustrated in figure 7, which is sectioned;
  • FIG. 9 is a larger-scale perspective view of a part of the opening and closing system of the invention.
  • figure 10 is a perspective view of a part of the opening and closing system of figure 7 and a mechanical key;
  • figure 1 1 is a larger-scale view of detail K of figure 10, in which some parts have been omitted to better illustrate others;
  • figure 12 is the same view as in figure 11 , where the mechanical key has been rotated by ninety degrees;
  • FIG. 13 is views from above of the part of the opening and closing system of figure 7, in which some parts have been omitted better to illustrate others, in which the opening and closing system is in three operating configurations;
  • FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a part of the opening and closing system of figure 7, in which the external cladding has been partly removed;
  • figure 17 is a view from below of a device that is a part of the opening and closing system, also illustrated in figure 9, in which the external cladding has been partly removed;
  • figure 18 is a perspective view from below of the supply inlet and the part of the opening and closing system of figure 7, in which some parts have been omitted (in particular the first member) in order better to view others;
  • figure 19 is an exploded view of a part of the opening and closing system of figure 7;
  • FIG. 20 is an exploded view of the device of figures 9, 17.
  • reference numeral (28) denotes in its entirety an opening and closing system of the supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4), object of the present invention, which comprises: a cap (2) which is applicable to a supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4); and a blocking and unblocking system (1) of the cap (2) which is applicable to a supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4).
  • the blocking of the cap (2) when the cap (2) is applied to the supply inlet (3) of the fuel tank (4) prevents the cap (2) from being removed.
  • a first embodiment of the blocking and unblocking system (1) comprises:
  • a first unit (5) which comprises: a first control unit (U1 ); an electromechanical actuator (7) which is connected to the first control unit (U1); and which is activatable for enabling blocking or unblocking of the cap (2) when the cap (2) is applied to the supply inlet (3); a first antenna (8) which is connected to the first control unit (U1);
  • a second unit (9) which is portable by an operator and which in turn comprises: a second control unit (U2); a first user interface (IU1 ) which is connected to the second control unit (U2); a second antenna (12) which is connected to the second control unit (U2);
  • a third unit (13) which in turn comprises: a third control unit (U3); a third antenna (15) which is connected to the third control unit (U3).
  • the second unit (9) is configured for transmitting, via the second antenna (12), a command signal for activating the electromechanical actuator (7);
  • the third unit (13) is configured for transmitting, via the third antenna (15), an enabling signal for activating the electromechanical actuator (7);
  • the first unit (5) is configured for activating the electromechanical actuator (7) once the first unit (5) has received, via the first antenna (8), the command signal and the enabling signal.
  • the second unit (9) is preferably configured for transmitting a command signal to the first unit (5) in order to activate the electromechanical actuator (7), when the second unit (9) is in proximity of the first unit (5); in fact, the operator carrying the second unit (9) is the same as the one who carries out the refilling operation, so she or he needs to be in the vicinity of the fuel tank (4) in order to carry out the refilling operation.
  • the first unit (5) is preferably mounted on board the cap (2).
  • the second unit (9) is further preferably at a distance that is not greater than about 100 metres from the first unit (5).
  • the first antenna (8) and the second antenna (12) are preferably predisposed for transmitting signals via a Bluetooth system.
  • the third unit (13) is preferably arranged in a remote location with respect to the first unit (5); for example it could be located at various kilometres therefrom.
  • the third unit (13) can comprise a second user interface (IU2), as illustrated in figures 1 , 2, 3 and 4.
  • IU2 second user interface
  • the third unit (13) can transmit the enabling signal directly to the first unit (5).
  • the third unit (13) can transmit the enabling signal directly to the second unit (9), which second unit (9) can transmit the enabling signal, possibly modified, to the first unit (5).
  • the opening and closing system (28) further comprises electromagnetic induction means (16) for powering the first unit (5), in turn comprising: a first coil (17) which is mounted on-board the cap (2) (see also figure 16) and which is connected to the first unit (5); a power supply source (PS); and a second coil (19) which is connected to the power supply source (PS); the first coil (17) and the second coil (19) being dimensioned so that when the second coil (19) is neared to the first coil (17) and supplied by the power supply source (PS), the magnetic field produced by the second coil (19) links with the first coil (17) and determines supply of the first unit (5).
  • electromagnetic induction means (16) for powering the first unit (5) in turn comprising: a first coil (17) which is mounted on-board the cap (2) (see also figure 16) and which is connected to the first unit (5); a power supply source (PS); and a second coil (19) which is connected to the power supply source (PS); the first coil (17) and the second coil (19) being dimensioned so that
  • the power supply source (PS) preferably comprises a battery.
  • the second coil (19) and the relative power supply source (PS) are preferably portable by an operator, so that when it is necessary to block or unblock the cap (2), the operator can near them to the first coil (17) by an amount sufficient for the second coil (19) to power the first unit (5) by electromagnetic induction.
  • the electromagnetic induction means (16) can also be suitable for transmitting data, as will be clarified in the following.
  • the first unit (5) which is preferably mounted on-board the cap (2), can advantageously be powered by the power supply source (PS) of the electromagnetic induction means (16) when it is necessary to block or unblock the cap (2). Therefore it is not necessary to mount, on-board the cap (2), a further power supply source, for example a battery, which in time might run down or be wrongly removed by unauthorised persons, making the first unit (5) useless and thus preventing the unblocking of the cap (2).
  • PS power supply source
  • the first antenna (not further illustrated) can be incorporated in the first coil (17) and the blocking and unblocking system (1 ) can comprise: a fourth unit (20) which is portable by an operator and which comprises: the second coil (19), the power supply source (PS), a fourth control unit (U4) which is connected to the power supply source (PS) and which is connected to the second coil (19); and a fourth antenna (22) which is connected to the fourth control unit (U4) (see also figure 20).
  • figure 17 illustrates the fourth unit (20) without the external cladding so as to better illustrate the position of the second coil (19).
  • the fourth unit (20) is configured for receiving the command signal from the second unit (9) via the fourth antenna (22) and for transmitting the command signal to the first unit (5) via the second coil (19) and the first coil (17).
  • the advantage of this third embodiment consists in the fact that it has been possible to incorporate the first antenna (8) in the first coil (17), in fact saving the costs of the first antenna (8).
  • the data exchange between the second unit (9) and the fourth unit (20), and vice versa, can take place for example with a Bluetooth system.
  • the electromagnetic induction means (16) are therefore configured not only for powering the first unit (5) but also for making possible an exchange of data between the second unit (9) and the first unit (5), and vice versa, via the fourth unit (20).
  • figure 9 shows the reciprocal position which the fourth unit (20) and the cap (2) can assume, so that the first unit (5) can be powered by the electromagnetic induction means (16) and so that the exchange of signals between the fourth unit (20) and the first unit (5) is possible via the second coil (19) and the first coil (17).
  • the blocking and unblocking system (1) of the second and/or third embodiment can preferably comprise a mobile telephone or a tablet or a portable pc which in turn comprises the second unit (9).
  • the blocking and unblocking system (1) comprises: a fifth antenna (23) (also visible in figure 18) which is mounted on-board the cap (2) and which is connected to the first control unit (U1 ); a sixth antenna (24) which is mounted at the supply inlet (3); a fifth control unit (U5) which is connected to the sixth antenna (24).
  • the sixth antenna (24) and the fifth control unit (U5) are mounted internally of a collar (26).
  • the fifth antenna (23) and the sixth antenna (24) are arranged with respect to one another at a reciprocal distance that is minimum when the cap (2) is applied to the supply inlet (3).
  • the fifth control unit (U5) is configured so as to be supplied by a first signal of a predetermined power and which is transmitted by the first control unit (U1) via the fifth antenna (23), and so as to subsequently send a second signal to the first control unit (U1) via the sixth antenna (24).
  • the power of the first signal is preferably selected in such a way that: when the fifth antenna (23) and the sixth antenna (24) are arranged with respect to one another at a reciprocal distance, i.e. when the cap (2) is applied to the supply inlet (3), the first signal powers the fifth control unit (U5), which is able to send the second signal to the first control unit (U1 ); and when the fifth antenna (23) and the sixth antenna (24) are at a reciprocal distance that is greater than the minimum distance, i.e.
  • the first signal is not able to power the fifth control unit (U5), or in any case the fifth control unit (U5) is not able to send the second signal to the first control unit (U1 ), or the second signal is so weak as not to be received or in any case interpreted by the fifth control unit (U1).
  • the second signal received by the first control unit (U1 ) can be interpreted as reporting the fact that the cap (2) has been correctly applied to the supply inlet (3).
  • the cap (2) must be newly applied to the supply inlet (3) and then be blocked by means of the blocking and unblocking system (1 ), so that the supply inlet is inaccessible.
  • the information confirming the blocking might be recorded by the third control unit (U3), but it is not sufficient to show that the inlet has become inaccessible to third parties.
  • An operator in fact might limit him or herself only to resting the cap (2) on the supply inlet (3) and then command the blocking of the cap (2): the cap (2) might therefore be easily removed at a later time, enabling subsequent unauthorised refuelling, for example by other companies.
  • the operator can limit himself or herself to resting the cap (2) on the supply inlet (3), without screwing it up (as has been done in figure 8) on the first threaded portion (29), which would make successive refuelling illicit, as described in the foregoing.
  • the third control unit (U3) is informed by the first control unit (U1) of having received or not the second signal, it is advantageously possible to know whether any illicit behaviour by the operator has taken place.
  • another operator can be sent to the place to: unblock the cap (2), correctly apply the cap (2) on the supply inlet (3) and lastly block the cap (2).
  • the blocking and unblocking system (1) of the fourth embodiment, illustrated in figure 4, can preferably comprise a transponder (26) (visible also in figure 18) which in turn comprises the fifth control unit (U5) and the sixth antenna (24).
  • the supply inlet (3) preferably comprises a first threaded portion (29) which projects from the fuel tank (4).
  • the cap (2) can comprise: a first member (30) which comprises a second threaded portion (31 ) (figure 8) for engaging with the first threaded portion (29) and a plurality of teeth (32) (figures 8, 11-15); a second member (33) which rotatably bears the first member (30) (figures 8, 1 1-15), which embraces the first member (30) in order to make the first member (30) inaccessible from outside, and which comprises a first housing (34) and a second housing (35) (figures 18, 19).
  • the electromechanical actuator (7) is positionable in the first housing (34) and comprises an electrically-commanded piston (36) that is mobile between an extended position (X) (figures 14, 15) and a retracted position (Y) (see figure 13).
  • the opening and closing system (28) further comprises a stem (37) which comprises a toothed portion (38) (figures 12, 15) for engaging with the plurality of teeth (32) of the first member (30) and which is positionable in the second housing (35) so as to be rotatable between a first angular position (A) (figure 14) and a second angular position (B) (figure 15).
  • the stem (37) and the first member (30) are arranged with respect to one another and conformed so that when the stem (37) is in the second housing (35) then: the toothed portion (38) of the stem (37) engages with the plurality of teeth (32) of the first member (30) when the stem (37) is in the first angular position (A) the first member (30), the stem (37) and the second member (33) are solidly constrained to one another, making possible a screwing or unscrewing of the second threaded portion (31) of the first member (30) with the first threaded portion (29) of the supply inlet (3) possible; the toothed portion (38) of the stem (37) is disengaged from the plurality of teeth (32) of the first member (30), when the stem (37) is in the second angular position (B) so that the first member (30) is free to rotate with respect to the second member (33).
  • the electromagnetic actuator (7) and the stem (37) are arranged with respect to one another, when they are respectively in the first housing (34) and in the second housing (35), so that when the piston (36) is activated to move into the extended position (X) thereof, then the piston (36) blocks the stem (37), preventing rotation thereof, and that when the piston (36) is activated to move into the retracted position (Y) thereof, then the piston (36) unblocks the stem (37), enabling the rotation of the stem (37).
  • the first member (30) preferably substantially has a beaker shape (figures 8, 19), having a bottom (47), an internal wall (48) and an external wall (49); the second threaded portion (31) can be realised in the internal wall (48), while the plurality of teeth (32), preferably arranged in a circular configuration, can be arranged on the external wall (49), for example in proximity of the bottom (47) (see figures from 11 to 15 and figure 19).
  • the second member (33) preferably comprises a through-hole (50) dimensioned for enabling at least partial insertion of the first threaded portion (29) of the supply inlet (3) and for enabling receiving the first member (30); further, it can comprise a support (51) arranged in the internal wall (48) of the through-hole (50) so as to rotatably support the second member (33).
  • This support (51) can have an annular shape (see figures 8 and 19).
  • the cap (2) can preferably comprise a third member (55) (figures 8, 10, 16) which is positionable for abutting the first member (30) so that the first member (30), when arranged in the through-hole (50) is confined between the support (51) of the second member (33) and the third member (55).
  • a third member (55) (figures 8, 10, 16) which is positionable for abutting the first member (30) so that the first member (30), when arranged in the through-hole (50) is confined between the support (51) of the second member (33) and the third member (55).
  • the third member (55) can preferably bear the first unit (5), as can be seen in figure 19.
  • the electromechanical actuator (7) can preferably be an electromagnetic piston (36) (see figures from 1 1 to 15 and figure 19).
  • the stem (37) can preferably have a substantially cylindrical shape and afford an undercut in which the toothed portion (38) is applied, being configured for enmeshing with the plurality of teeth (32) of the first member (30).
  • the stem (37) preferably has a first hole (52) and a second hole (53) having radial axes which lie on a same plane that is perpendicular to the axis of the stem, which first hole (52) and second hole (53) are angularly spaced with respect to one another on the plane.
  • the first hole (52), second hole (53) and the piston (36) are dimensioned in such a way that the piston (36) can alternatively engage in the first hole (52) and the second hole (53).
  • the electromagnetic actuator and the stem (37) are arranged with respect to one another, when they are respectively in the first housing (34) and in the second housing (35), so that when the stem (37) is in the first angular position (A) the activating of the piston (36) to move into the extended position (X) determines the engagement of the piston (36) in the first hole (52), with a consequent blocking of the stem (37), as shown in figure 15, and so that when the stem (37) is in the second angular position (B), the activating of the piston (36) to move into the extended position (X) determines the engagement of the piston (36) in the second hole (53), with a consequent blocking of the stem (37), as illustrated in figure 14.
  • the opening and closing system (28) can preferably comprise a mechanical key (39) (figures 11 , 12); the stem (37) and the second member (33) are conformed with respect to one another so that when the stem (37) is arranged in the second housing (35), a relative end of the stem (40) is accessible from outside; the end of the stem (40) comprises a seating (41) for engaging with the mechanical key (39), so that the activating of the mechanical key (39) determines the rotation of the stem (37) (see figures 11 and 12).
  • a mechanical key (39) (figures 11 , 12)
  • the stem (37) and the second member (33) are conformed with respect to one another so that when the stem (37) is arranged in the second housing (35), a relative end of the stem (40) is accessible from outside; the end of the stem (40) comprises a seating (41) for engaging with the mechanical key (39), so that the activating of the mechanical key (39) determines the rotation of the stem (37) (see figures 11 and 12).
  • the opening and closing system (28) can preferably comprise a first magnet (42) (figures 5, 13, 14) which is borne by the stem (37) and a second magnet (43) (figures 5, 15) which is borne by the stem (37), the first magnet (42) and the second magnet (43) being arranged at a predetermined reciprocal distance measured along the axis of the stem (37) and being arranged at a predetermined reciprocal angle measured on a perpendicular plane to the axis of the stem (37).
  • the opening and closing system (28) further comprises a first sensor (44) (figure 5) for detecting the magnetic field which first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field is solidly constrained to the second member (33) and a second sensor (45) (figure 5) for detecting the magnetic field which second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field is solidly constrained to the second member (33).
  • the first magnet (42), the second magnet (43), the first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field and the second sensor for detecting the magnetic field (45) are arranged with respect to one another so that from the detecting of the magnetic field carried out by the first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field and by the second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field it is possible to detect the angular position of the stem (37) when the stem (37) is arranged in the second housing (35), i.e. if the stem (37) is in the first angular position (A) or in the second angular position (B).
  • the first magnet (42) and the second magnet (43) are preferably permanent magnets (54).
  • the first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field and the second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field are preferably Hall effect sensors, able to detect the presence of a magnetic field at a certain distance.
  • the first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field and the second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field are preferably connected to the first control unit (U1 ) for transmitting, to the first control unit (U1), data relating to the angular position of the stem (37), see figure 5.
  • the position of the first magnet (42), the second magnet (43), the first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field and the second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field can be, for example, such that when the stem (37) is in the first angular position (A) only the first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field detects the presence of a magnetic field and when the stem (37) is in the second angular position (B) only the second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field detects the presence of the magnetic field.
  • the stem (37) is in a position comprised between the first angular position (A) and the second angular position (B). This position can be interpreted as a wrong position.
  • the stem (37) comprises the first hole (52) and the second hole (53)
  • the first control unit can send an error signal to the second control unit (U2) and/or to the third control unit (U3).
  • the cap (2) To carry out the refilling of the fuel tank (4), the cap (2) must be removed (figures 7, 8) of the opening and closing system (28) from the supply inlet (3) on which it is applied, and to do this it is necessary to unblock the blocking and unblocking system (1 ), after the third unit (13) has transmitted the enabling signal to the second unit (9) and the second unit (9) has transmitted the command signal to the fourth unit (20).
  • the fourth unit (20) must be positioned on the cap (2) in order to be able to transmit the command signal to the first unit (5) and in order to be able to power the first unit (5) via the electromagnetic induction means (16), see figure 9.
  • the first unit (5) can activate the piston (36) so as to move into the retracted position (Y) and unblock the stem (37), making rotation possible (see figure 13) using the special mechanical key (39) (see figures 11 and 12).
  • the stem can rotate the stem from the second angular position (B), figures 1 1 , 13, in which the piston (36) is engaged in the second hole (53), towards the first angular position (A), figure 12, 15, in which the toothed portion (38) of the stem (37) engages with the plurality of teeth (32) of the first member (30), making possible the unscrewing of the second threaded portion (31) of the first member (30) from the first threaded portion (29) of the supply inlet (3) once the stem (37) is blocked in the first angular position (A) by the activation of the piston (36) which returns to the extended position (X), engaging in the first hole (52).
  • the piston (36) which returns to the extended position (X), engaging in the first hole (52).
  • the cap (2) must be newly applied to the supply inlet (3) and the data relating to the correct application or not of the cap (2) on the fuel inlet (3) is transmitted from the first unit (5), which receives it from the fifth control unit (U5) via the fifth antenna (23), to the third unit (13). At this point the cap (2) should be blocked using the blocking and unblocking system (1), after the second unit (9) has transmitted the command signal to the fourth unit (20).
  • the first unit (5) activates the piston (36) to move into the retracted position (Y) and to unblock the stem (37), making rotation possible using the special mechanical key (39) in order to rotate the stem (37) from the first angular position (A) (see figure 15) towards the second angular position (B) (see figure 14).
  • the piston (36) returns into the extended position (X) and engages in the second hole (53) and blocks the stem (37), so that the first member (30) is free to rotate with respect to the second member (33) and the cap (2) is newly in the blocked configuration.
  • the present invention relates to a blocking and unblocking method of a cap (2) which is applicable to a supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4), which method comprises steps of: providing an electromechanical actuator (7) which is activatable for enabling blocking or unblocking of the cap (2) when the cap (2) is applied to the supply inlet (3); receiving a command signal for activating the electromechanical actuator (7); receiving a remote enabling signal for activating the electromechanical actuator (7); activating the electromechanical actuator (7) once the command signal and the enabling signal have been received.

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Abstract

An opening and closing system (28) of a supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4) is described, comprising: a cap (2) which is applicable to a supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4); and a blocking and unblocking system (1) of the cap (2) which in turn comprises: a first unit (5) which in turn comprises: a first control unit (6); an electromechanical actuator (7) which is connected to the first control unit (6) and which is activatable for enabling blocking or unblocking of the cap (2); a first antenna (8) connected to the first control unit (6); a second unit (9) which is portable and which in turn comprises: a second control unit (10); a first user interface (11) connected to the second control unit (10); a second antenna (12) connected to the second control unit (10); a third unit (13) which comprises: a third control unit (14) and a third antenna (15) connected to the third control unit (14); the second unit (9) is configured for transmitting a command signal for activating the electromechanical actuator (7); the third unit (13) is configured for transmitting an enabling signal for activating the electromechanical actuator (7); the first unit (5) is configured for activating the electromechanical actuator (7) once the first unit (5) has received the command signal and the enabling signal.

Description

AN OPENING AND CLOSING SYSTEM OF A SUPPLY INLET OF A FUEL TANK AND A BLOCKING AND UNBLOCKING METHOD OF A CAP WHICH IS APPLICABLE TO A SUPPLY INLET OF A FUEL TANK
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to the blocking and unblocking of a cap which is applied to the supply inlet of a fuel tank, for example for LPG fuel.
As is known, where there is no gas dispenser network, users are supplied by fuel tanks (figures 6 illustrates a fuel tank of known type) which are periodically replenished.
These fuel tanks are generally the property of the company providing the fuel supply, which stipulates an exclusive contract with the user for supply of the fuel: for this purpose the cost of a refill of fuel can include a percentage of the cost of the fuel tank, which over time enables the company to recuperate the costs relating to the fuel tank.
To prevent the user from using other companies (for example owing to a better price) the company that has stipulated the contract with the user usually obstructs free access to the supply inlet of the fuel tank.
In particular, a blocking and unblocking lock can be mounted on the supply inlet of the fuel tank: in other words, when the cap is applied to the supply inlet, by inserting a special key in the lock the cap can be blocked, preventing removal thereof, or unblocked, allowing removal thereof.
Unfortunate the key to the lock can be duplicated or can fall into the hands of an operator of a competitor company, who can fill the fuel tank illicitly.
The aim of the invention consists in obviating this drawback.
The above aim is attained with an opening and closing system of a supply inlet of a fuel tank, according to claim 1 , and by means of a blocking and unblocking method of a cap which is applicable to a supply inlet of a fuel tank, according to claim 10.
The command signal can be transmitted by the operator of the fuel company which has the right to supply the fuel tank to be replenished, which operator can be in proximity of the above-mentioned fuel tank in order to be able to carry out the refilling operation. However, the blocking and unblocking of the cap applied to the supply inlet of the fuel tank can take place only after the enabling signal has been received; this enabling signal can be remotely sent by the same fuel supply company. The company can advantageously thus control the blocking and unblocking of the cap when the cap is applied to the supply inlet, thus preventing the filling of the fuel tank by unauthorised third parties.
Specific embodiments of the invention will be described in the following part of the present description, according to what is set down in the claims and with the aid of the accompanying tables of drawings, in which:
- figure 1 schematically illustrates a blocking and unblocking system of a cap that is applicable to the supply inlet of a fuel tank which is part of an opening and closing system of a fuel tank, object of the invention, according to a first embodiment;
- figure 2 schematically illustrates the blocking and unblocking system, according to a second embodiment;
- figure 3 schematically illustrates the blocking and unblocking system, according to a third embodiment;
- figure 4 schematically illustrates the blocking and unblocking system, according to a fourth embodiment;
- figure 5 schematically illustrates a part of an opening and closing system of the supply inlet of the fuel tank, object of the invention;
- figure 6 is a perspective view of a fuel tank and a supply inlet, of known type;
- figure 7 is a lateral view of the fuel tank of figure 6, in which a part of the opening and closing system of the invention is also visible, comprising a cap applied to the supply inlet of the fuel tank; - figure 8 is a larger-scale perspective view of a part of the opening and closing system illustrated in figure 7, which is sectioned;
- figure 9 is a larger-scale perspective view of a part of the opening and closing system of the invention;
- figure 10 is a perspective view of a part of the opening and closing system of figure 7 and a mechanical key;
- figure 1 1 is a larger-scale view of detail K of figure 10, in which some parts have been omitted to better illustrate others;
- figure 12 is the same view as in figure 11 , where the mechanical key has been rotated by ninety degrees;
- figures 13, 14, 15 are views from above of the part of the opening and closing system of figure 7, in which some parts have been omitted better to illustrate others, in which the opening and closing system is in three operating configurations;
- figure 16 is a perspective view of a part of the opening and closing system of figure 7, in which the external cladding has been partly removed;
- figure 17 is a view from below of a device that is a part of the opening and closing system, also illustrated in figure 9, in which the external cladding has been partly removed;
- figure 18 is a perspective view from below of the supply inlet and the part of the opening and closing system of figure 7, in which some parts have been omitted (in particular the first member) in order better to view others;
- figure 19 is an exploded view of a part of the opening and closing system of figure 7;
- figure 20 is an exploded view of the device of figures 9, 17.
With reference to the appended tables of drawings, reference numeral (28) denotes in its entirety an opening and closing system of the supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4), object of the present invention, which comprises: a cap (2) which is applicable to a supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4); and a blocking and unblocking system (1) of the cap (2) which is applicable to a supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4). In particular, the blocking of the cap (2) when the cap (2) is applied to the supply inlet (3) of the fuel tank (4), prevents the cap (2) from being removed.
With reference to figure 1 , a first embodiment of the blocking and unblocking system (1) comprises:
a first unit (5) which comprises: a first control unit (U1 ); an electromechanical actuator (7) which is connected to the first control unit (U1); and which is activatable for enabling blocking or unblocking of the cap (2) when the cap (2) is applied to the supply inlet (3); a first antenna (8) which is connected to the first control unit (U1);
a second unit (9) which is portable by an operator and which in turn comprises: a second control unit (U2); a first user interface (IU1 ) which is connected to the second control unit (U2); a second antenna (12) which is connected to the second control unit (U2);
a third unit (13) which in turn comprises: a third control unit (U3); a third antenna (15) which is connected to the third control unit (U3).
The second unit (9) is configured for transmitting, via the second antenna (12), a command signal for activating the electromechanical actuator (7); the third unit (13) is configured for transmitting, via the third antenna (15), an enabling signal for activating the electromechanical actuator (7); the first unit (5) is configured for activating the electromechanical actuator (7) once the first unit (5) has received, via the first antenna (8), the command signal and the enabling signal.
The second unit (9) is preferably configured for transmitting a command signal to the first unit (5) in order to activate the electromechanical actuator (7), when the second unit (9) is in proximity of the first unit (5); in fact, the operator carrying the second unit (9) is the same as the one who carries out the refilling operation, so she or he needs to be in the vicinity of the fuel tank (4) in order to carry out the refilling operation. The first unit (5) is preferably mounted on board the cap (2). The second unit (9) is further preferably at a distance that is not greater than about 100 metres from the first unit (5). The first antenna (8) and the second antenna (12) are preferably predisposed for transmitting signals via a Bluetooth system.
The third unit (13) is preferably arranged in a remote location with respect to the first unit (5); for example it could be located at various kilometres therefrom.
Further, the third unit (13) can comprise a second user interface (IU2), as illustrated in figures 1 , 2, 3 and 4.
The third unit (13) can transmit the enabling signal directly to the first unit (5). Alternatively, the third unit (13) can transmit the enabling signal directly to the second unit (9), which second unit (9) can transmit the enabling signal, possibly modified, to the first unit (5).
In a second embodiment illustrated in figure 2, the opening and closing system (28) further comprises electromagnetic induction means (16) for powering the first unit (5), in turn comprising: a first coil (17) which is mounted on-board the cap (2) (see also figure 16) and which is connected to the first unit (5); a power supply source (PS); and a second coil (19) which is connected to the power supply source (PS); the first coil (17) and the second coil (19) being dimensioned so that when the second coil (19) is neared to the first coil (17) and supplied by the power supply source (PS), the magnetic field produced by the second coil (19) links with the first coil (17) and determines supply of the first unit (5).
The power supply source (PS) preferably comprises a battery.
The second coil (19) and the relative power supply source (PS) are preferably portable by an operator, so that when it is necessary to block or unblock the cap (2), the operator can near them to the first coil (17) by an amount sufficient for the second coil (19) to power the first unit (5) by electromagnetic induction.
The electromagnetic induction means (16) can also be suitable for transmitting data, as will be clarified in the following.
The first unit (5), which is preferably mounted on-board the cap (2), can advantageously be powered by the power supply source (PS) of the electromagnetic induction means (16) when it is necessary to block or unblock the cap (2). Therefore it is not necessary to mount, on-board the cap (2), a further power supply source, for example a battery, which in time might run down or be wrongly removed by unauthorised persons, making the first unit (5) useless and thus preventing the unblocking of the cap (2).
In a third embodiment illustrated in figure 3, the first antenna (not further illustrated) can be incorporated in the first coil (17) and the blocking and unblocking system (1 ) can comprise: a fourth unit (20) which is portable by an operator and which comprises: the second coil (19), the power supply source (PS), a fourth control unit (U4) which is connected to the power supply source (PS) and which is connected to the second coil (19); and a fourth antenna (22) which is connected to the fourth control unit (U4) (see also figure 20). In detail, figure 17 illustrates the fourth unit (20) without the external cladding so as to better illustrate the position of the second coil (19). The fourth unit (20) is configured for receiving the command signal from the second unit (9) via the fourth antenna (22) and for transmitting the command signal to the first unit (5) via the second coil (19) and the first coil (17).
The advantage of this third embodiment consists in the fact that it has been possible to incorporate the first antenna (8) in the first coil (17), in fact saving the costs of the first antenna (8). In fact, account should be taken of the fact that the first unit (5) is installed on each fuel tank (4), while the fourth unit (20) and the second unit (9) are used in a much smaller number, as they are portable by the operator, who can use them on an even very high number of fuel tanks (4) for blocking and unblocking the cap (2). Therefore reducing the costs of the first unit (U1), even though increasing the costs of the fourth unit (U4), has the overall effect of producing a considerable saving.
The data exchange between the second unit (9) and the fourth unit (20), and vice versa, can take place for example with a Bluetooth system.
The electromagnetic induction means (16) are therefore configured not only for powering the first unit (5) but also for making possible an exchange of data between the second unit (9) and the first unit (5), and vice versa, via the fourth unit (20).
In detail, figure 9 shows the reciprocal position which the fourth unit (20) and the cap (2) can assume, so that the first unit (5) can be powered by the electromagnetic induction means (16) and so that the exchange of signals between the fourth unit (20) and the first unit (5) is possible via the second coil (19) and the first coil (17).
The blocking and unblocking system (1) of the second and/or third embodiment can preferably comprise a mobile telephone or a tablet or a portable pc which in turn comprises the second unit (9).
In particular, mobile telephones, tablets and portable personal computers are widely available devices, and can already comprise the components of the second unit (9). It is advantageously possible to cut costs for production of the second unit (9) by using one of these devices: it will be sufficient to include, on these devices, a special software program able to dialogue with the first unit (5), with the third unit (13) and possibly with the fourth unit (20), if included. In a fourth embodiment illustrated in figure 4, the blocking and unblocking system (1) comprises: a fifth antenna (23) (also visible in figure 18) which is mounted on-board the cap (2) and which is connected to the first control unit (U1 ); a sixth antenna (24) which is mounted at the supply inlet (3); a fifth control unit (U5) which is connected to the sixth antenna (24). In figure 18 the sixth antenna (24) and the fifth control unit (U5) are mounted internally of a collar (26). The fifth antenna (23) and the sixth antenna (24) are arranged with respect to one another at a reciprocal distance that is minimum when the cap (2) is applied to the supply inlet (3). The fifth control unit (U5) is configured so as to be supplied by a first signal of a predetermined power and which is transmitted by the first control unit (U1) via the fifth antenna (23), and so as to subsequently send a second signal to the first control unit (U1) via the sixth antenna (24).
The power of the first signal is preferably selected in such a way that: when the fifth antenna (23) and the sixth antenna (24) are arranged with respect to one another at a reciprocal distance, i.e. when the cap (2) is applied to the supply inlet (3), the first signal powers the fifth control unit (U5), which is able to send the second signal to the first control unit (U1 ); and when the fifth antenna (23) and the sixth antenna (24) are at a reciprocal distance that is greater than the minimum distance, i.e. for example when the cap (2) is only rested at the supply inlet (3), the first signal is not able to power the fifth control unit (U5), or in any case the fifth control unit (U5) is not able to send the second signal to the first control unit (U1 ), or the second signal is so weak as not to be received or in any case interpreted by the fifth control unit (U1). The second signal received by the first control unit (U1 ) can be interpreted as reporting the fact that the cap (2) has been correctly applied to the supply inlet (3).
It is therefore possible to know if the cap (2) has really been applied on the supply inlet (3), which is advantageous for the reasons that follow.
Once a supply has been concluded, the cap (2) must be newly applied to the supply inlet (3) and then be blocked by means of the blocking and unblocking system (1 ), so that the supply inlet is inaccessible. The information confirming the blocking might be recorded by the third control unit (U3), but it is not sufficient to show that the inlet has become inaccessible to third parties. An operator in fact might limit him or herself only to resting the cap (2) on the supply inlet (3) and then command the blocking of the cap (2): the cap (2) might therefore be easily removed at a later time, enabling subsequent unauthorised refuelling, for example by other companies. By way of example, if the supply inlet (3) comprises a first threaded portion (29) and the cap (2) comprises a second threaded portion (31), see figure 8 for example, for engaging with the first threaded portion (29), the operator can limit himself or herself to resting the cap (2) on the supply inlet (3), without screwing it up (as has been done in figure 8) on the first threaded portion (29), which would make successive refuelling illicit, as described in the foregoing.
Therefore if the third control unit (U3) is informed by the first control unit (U1) of having received or not the second signal, it is advantageously possible to know whether any illicit behaviour by the operator has taken place. In an affirmative case, another operator can be sent to the place to: unblock the cap (2), correctly apply the cap (2) on the supply inlet (3) and lastly block the cap (2).
The blocking and unblocking system (1) of the fourth embodiment, illustrated in figure 4, can preferably comprise a transponder (26) (visible also in figure 18) which in turn comprises the fifth control unit (U5) and the sixth antenna (24).
The supply inlet (3) preferably comprises a first threaded portion (29) which projects from the fuel tank (4).
With particular reference to figures 5, 7-20, which illustrate the opening and closing system (28), the cap (2) can comprise: a first member (30) which comprises a second threaded portion (31 ) (figure 8) for engaging with the first threaded portion (29) and a plurality of teeth (32) (figures 8, 11-15); a second member (33) which rotatably bears the first member (30) (figures 8, 1 1-15), which embraces the first member (30) in order to make the first member (30) inaccessible from outside, and which comprises a first housing (34) and a second housing (35) (figures 18, 19). The electromechanical actuator (7) is positionable in the first housing (34) and comprises an electrically-commanded piston (36) that is mobile between an extended position (X) (figures 14, 15) and a retracted position (Y) (see figure 13). The opening and closing system (28) further comprises a stem (37) which comprises a toothed portion (38) (figures 12, 15) for engaging with the plurality of teeth (32) of the first member (30) and which is positionable in the second housing (35) so as to be rotatable between a first angular position (A) (figure 14) and a second angular position (B) (figure 15). The stem (37) and the first member (30) are arranged with respect to one another and conformed so that when the stem (37) is in the second housing (35) then: the toothed portion (38) of the stem (37) engages with the plurality of teeth (32) of the first member (30) when the stem (37) is in the first angular position (A) the first member (30), the stem (37) and the second member (33) are solidly constrained to one another, making possible a screwing or unscrewing of the second threaded portion (31) of the first member (30) with the first threaded portion (29) of the supply inlet (3) possible; the toothed portion (38) of the stem (37) is disengaged from the plurality of teeth (32) of the first member (30), when the stem (37) is in the second angular position (B) so that the first member (30) is free to rotate with respect to the second member (33). The electromagnetic actuator (7) and the stem (37) are arranged with respect to one another, when they are respectively in the first housing (34) and in the second housing (35), so that when the piston (36) is activated to move into the extended position (X) thereof, then the piston (36) blocks the stem (37), preventing rotation thereof, and that when the piston (36) is activated to move into the retracted position (Y) thereof, then the piston (36) unblocks the stem (37), enabling the rotation of the stem (37).
The first member (30) preferably substantially has a beaker shape (figures 8, 19), having a bottom (47), an internal wall (48) and an external wall (49); the second threaded portion (31) can be realised in the internal wall (48), while the plurality of teeth (32), preferably arranged in a circular configuration, can be arranged on the external wall (49), for example in proximity of the bottom (47) (see figures from 11 to 15 and figure 19).
The second member (33) preferably comprises a through-hole (50) dimensioned for enabling at least partial insertion of the first threaded portion (29) of the supply inlet (3) and for enabling receiving the first member (30); further, it can comprise a support (51) arranged in the internal wall (48) of the through-hole (50) so as to rotatably support the second member (33). This support (51) can have an annular shape (see figures 8 and 19).
The cap (2) can preferably comprise a third member (55) (figures 8, 10, 16) which is positionable for abutting the first member (30) so that the first member (30), when arranged in the through-hole (50) is confined between the support (51) of the second member (33) and the third member (55).
The third member (55) can preferably bear the first unit (5), as can be seen in figure 19.
The electromechanical actuator (7) can preferably be an electromagnetic piston (36) (see figures from 1 1 to 15 and figure 19).
With particular reference to figures 11-15 and 19, the stem (37) can preferably have a substantially cylindrical shape and afford an undercut in which the toothed portion (38) is applied, being configured for enmeshing with the plurality of teeth (32) of the first member (30).
The stem (37) preferably has a first hole (52) and a second hole (53) having radial axes which lie on a same plane that is perpendicular to the axis of the stem, which first hole (52) and second hole (53) are angularly spaced with respect to one another on the plane. The first hole (52), second hole (53) and the piston (36) are dimensioned in such a way that the piston (36) can alternatively engage in the first hole (52) and the second hole (53). The electromagnetic actuator and the stem (37) are arranged with respect to one another, when they are respectively in the first housing (34) and in the second housing (35), so that when the stem (37) is in the first angular position (A) the activating of the piston (36) to move into the extended position (X) determines the engagement of the piston (36) in the first hole (52), with a consequent blocking of the stem (37), as shown in figure 15, and so that when the stem (37) is in the second angular position (B), the activating of the piston (36) to move into the extended position (X) determines the engagement of the piston (36) in the second hole (53), with a consequent blocking of the stem (37), as illustrated in figure 14.
The opening and closing system (28) can preferably comprise a mechanical key (39) (figures 11 , 12); the stem (37) and the second member (33) are conformed with respect to one another so that when the stem (37) is arranged in the second housing (35), a relative end of the stem (40) is accessible from outside; the end of the stem (40) comprises a seating (41) for engaging with the mechanical key (39), so that the activating of the mechanical key (39) determines the rotation of the stem (37) (see figures 11 and 12).
With particular reference to figure 5, the opening and closing system (28) can preferably comprise a first magnet (42) (figures 5, 13, 14) which is borne by the stem (37) and a second magnet (43) (figures 5, 15) which is borne by the stem (37), the first magnet (42) and the second magnet (43) being arranged at a predetermined reciprocal distance measured along the axis of the stem (37) and being arranged at a predetermined reciprocal angle measured on a perpendicular plane to the axis of the stem (37). The opening and closing system (28) further comprises a first sensor (44) (figure 5) for detecting the magnetic field which first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field is solidly constrained to the second member (33) and a second sensor (45) (figure 5) for detecting the magnetic field which second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field is solidly constrained to the second member (33). The first magnet (42), the second magnet (43), the first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field and the second sensor for detecting the magnetic field (45) are arranged with respect to one another so that from the detecting of the magnetic field carried out by the first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field and by the second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field it is possible to detect the angular position of the stem (37) when the stem (37) is arranged in the second housing (35), i.e. if the stem (37) is in the first angular position (A) or in the second angular position (B).
The first magnet (42) and the second magnet (43) are preferably permanent magnets (54).
The first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field and the second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field are preferably Hall effect sensors, able to detect the presence of a magnetic field at a certain distance.
The first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field and the second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field are preferably connected to the first control unit (U1 ) for transmitting, to the first control unit (U1), data relating to the angular position of the stem (37), see figure 5.
By way of example, the position of the first magnet (42), the second magnet (43), the first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field and the second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field can be, for example, such that when the stem (37) is in the first angular position (A) only the first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field detects the presence of a magnetic field and when the stem (37) is in the second angular position (B) only the second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field detects the presence of the magnetic field. In other words, when the first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field detects a magnetic field, and the second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field does not detect a magnetic field, this means that the stem (37) is in the first angular position (A) (see figure 15), while when the second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field detects a magnetic field and the first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field does not detect a magnetic field, this means that the stem (37) is in the second angular position (B), see figures 13,14. Instead, in a case where the first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field and the second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field both detect a magnetic field or no magnetic field, this suggests that the stem (37) is in a position comprised between the first angular position (A) and the second angular position (B). This position can be interpreted as a wrong position. In a case where the stem (37) comprises the first hole (52) and the second hole (53), this means that the piston (36) in the extended position (X) abuts the stem (37) in a position comprises between the first hole (52) and the second hole (53). In a case where the first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field and the second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field are preferably connected to the first control unit (U1), the first control unit can send an error signal to the second control unit (U2) and/or to the third control unit (U3).
Using the data detected by the first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field and the second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field it will advantageously be possible to control the blocking and unblocking of the cap (2) when the cap (2) is applied to the supply inlet (3).
A description is given in the following of the opening and closing system (28) and the blocking and unblocking system (1) comprised therein, according to a preferred embodiment which is a combination of the third embodiment illustrated in figure 3 and of the fourth embodiment illustrated in figure 4.
To carry out the refilling of the fuel tank (4), the cap (2) must be removed (figures 7, 8) of the opening and closing system (28) from the supply inlet (3) on which it is applied, and to do this it is necessary to unblock the blocking and unblocking system (1 ), after the third unit (13) has transmitted the enabling signal to the second unit (9) and the second unit (9) has transmitted the command signal to the fourth unit (20). The fourth unit (20) must be positioned on the cap (2) in order to be able to transmit the command signal to the first unit (5) and in order to be able to power the first unit (5) via the electromagnetic induction means (16), see figure 9.
Once the command signal has been received, the first unit (5) can activate the piston (36) so as to move into the retracted position (Y) and unblock the stem (37), making rotation possible (see figure 13) using the special mechanical key (39) (see figures 11 and 12). At this point it will be possible to rotate the stem from the second angular position (B), figures 1 1 , 13, in which the piston (36) is engaged in the second hole (53), towards the first angular position (A), figure 12, 15, in which the toothed portion (38) of the stem (37) engages with the plurality of teeth (32) of the first member (30), making possible the unscrewing of the second threaded portion (31) of the first member (30) from the first threaded portion (29) of the supply inlet (3) once the stem (37) is blocked in the first angular position (A) by the activation of the piston (36) which returns to the extended position (X), engaging in the first hole (52). At this point it will be possible to unscrew the cap (2) from the supply inlet (3) and carry out the refuelling.
Once refuelling has completed, the cap (2) must be newly applied to the supply inlet (3) and the data relating to the correct application or not of the cap (2) on the fuel inlet (3) is transmitted from the first unit (5), which receives it from the fifth control unit (U5) via the fifth antenna (23), to the third unit (13). At this point the cap (2) should be blocked using the blocking and unblocking system (1), after the second unit (9) has transmitted the command signal to the fourth unit (20).
Once the command signal has been received, the first unit (5) activates the piston (36) to move into the retracted position (Y) and to unblock the stem (37), making rotation possible using the special mechanical key (39) in order to rotate the stem (37) from the first angular position (A) (see figure 15) towards the second angular position (B) (see figure 14). Once the second angular position (B) has been reached, the piston (36) returns into the extended position (X) and engages in the second hole (53) and blocks the stem (37), so that the first member (30) is free to rotate with respect to the second member (33) and the cap (2) is newly in the blocked configuration. The present invention relates to a blocking and unblocking method of a cap (2) which is applicable to a supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4), which method comprises steps of: providing an electromechanical actuator (7) which is activatable for enabling blocking or unblocking of the cap (2) when the cap (2) is applied to the supply inlet (3); receiving a command signal for activating the electromechanical actuator (7); receiving a remote enabling signal for activating the electromechanical actuator (7); activating the electromechanical actuator (7) once the command signal and the enabling signal have been received.
It is understood that the above has been described by way of non-limiting example and that any technical-functional variants are considered to fall within the protective scope of the present technical solution, as claimed in the following.

Claims

1) An opening and closing system (28) of a supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank
(4) , comprising:
a cap (2) which is applicable to a supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4);
a blocking and unblocking system (1) of the cap (2), comprising:
a first unit (5) which comprises: a first control unit (U1); an electromechanical actuator (7) which is connected to the first control unit (U1); and which is activatable for enabling blocking or unblocking of the cap (2) when the cap (2) is applied to the supply inlet (3); a first antenna (8) which is connected to the first control unit (U1);
a second unit (9) which is portable by an operator and which comprises: a second control unit (U2); a first user interface (IU1 ) which is connected to the second control unit (U2); a second antenna (12) which is connected to the second control unit (U2);
a third unit (13) which comprises: a third control unit (U3); a third antenna (15) which is connected to the third control unit (U3);
the second unit (9) being configured for transmitting, via the second antenna (12), a command signal for activating the electromechanical actuator (7);
the third unit (13) being configured for transmitting, via the third antenna (15), an enabling signal for activating the electromechanical actuator (7);
the first unit (5) being configured for activating the electromechanical actuator (7) once the first unit (5) has received, via the first antenna (8), the command signal and the enabling signal.
2) The opening and closing system (28) of the supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4) of the preceding claim, wherein it comprises electromagnetic induction means (16) for powering the first unit (5), in turn comprising: a first coil (17) which is mounted on-board the cap (2) and which is connected to the first unit
(5) ; a power supply source (PS); and a second coil (19) which is connected to the power supply source (PS); the first coil (17) and the second coil (19) being dimensioned so that when the second coil (19) is neared to the first coil (17) and supplied by the power supply source (PS), the magnetic field produced by the second coil (19) links with the first coil (17) and determines supply of the first unit (5).
3) The opening and closing system (28) of the supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4) of claim 2, wherein:
the first antenna (8) is integrated in the first coil (17);
the blocking and unblocking system (1) comprises a fourth unit (20) which is portable by an operator and which comprises: the second coil (19), the power supply source (PS), a fourth control unit (U4) which is connected to the power supply source (PS) and which is connected to the second coil (19); and a fourth antenna (22) which is connected to the fourth control unit (U4);
the fourth unit (20) is configured for receiving the command signal from the second unit (9) via the fourth antenna (22) and for transmitting the command signal to the first unit (5) via the second coil (19).
4) The opening and closing system (28) of the supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4) of claim 2 or 3, wherein the blocking and unblocking system (1) comprises a mobile telephone or a tablet or a portable pc which in turn comprises the second unit (9).
5) The opening and closing system (28) of the supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the blocking and unblocking system (1) comprises: a fifth antenna (23) which is mounted onboard the cap (2) and which is connected to the first control unit (U1); wherein it comprises a sixth antenna (24) which is mounted at the supply inlet (3); wherein it comprises a fifth control unit (U5) which is connected to the sixth antenna (24); wherein the fifth antenna (23) and the sixth antenna (24) are arranged with respect to one another at a reciprocal distance that is minimum when the cap (2) is applied to the supply inlet (3), the fifth control unit (U5) being configured so as to be supplied by a first signal of a predetermined power which has been transmitted by the first control unit (U1); and so as to subsequently send a second signal to the first control unit (U1).
6) The opening and closing system (28) of the supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4) of the preceding claim, wherein the blocking and unblocking system (1 ) comprises a transponder (26) which in turn comprises the fifth control unit (U5) and the sixth antenna (24).
7) The opening and closing system (28) of the supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4) of any one of claims from 1 to 6, wherein the supply inlet (3) comprises a first threaded portion (29) which projects from the fuel tank (4); and wherein the cap (2) comprises: a first member (30) which comprises a second threaded portion (31 ) for engaging with the first threaded portion (29) and a plurality of teeth (32); a second member (33) which rotatably bears the first member (30), which embraces the first member (30) in order to make the first member (30) inaccessible from outside, and which comprises a first housing (34) and a second housing (35); wherein the electromechanical actuator (7) is positionable in the first housing (34) and comprises an electrically-commanded piston (36) that is mobile between an extended position (X) and a retracted position (Y); wherein it comprises a stem (37) which comprises a toothed portion (38) for engaging with the plurality of teeth (32) of the first member (30) and which is positionable in the second housing (35) so as to be rotatable between a first angular position (A) and a second angular position (B); the stem (37) and the first member (30) being arranged with respect to one another and conformed so that when the stem (37) is in the second housing (35) then: the toothed portion (38) of the stem (37) engages with the plurality of teeth (32) of the first member (30) when the stem (37) is in the first angular position (A) so that the first member (30), the stem (37) and the second member (33) are solidly constrained to one another, making possible a screwing or unscrewing of the first threaded portion (29) of the supply inlet (3) with the second threaded portion (31) of the first member (30); the toothed portion (38) of the stem (37) is disengaged from the plurality of teeth (32) of the first member (30) when the stem (37) is in the second angular position (B) so that the first member (30) is free to rotate with respect to the second member (33); the electromagnetic actuator and the stem (37) being arranged with respect to one another, when they are respectively in the first housing (34) and in the second housing (35), so that when the piston (36) is activated to move into the extended position (X) thereof, then the piston (36) blocks the stem (37), preventing rotation thereof, and so that when the piston (36) is activated to move into the retracted position (Y) thereof, then the piston (36) unblocks the stem (37), enabling the rotation of the stem (37).
8) The opening and closing system (28) of the supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4) of the preceding claim wherein it comprises a mechanical key (39); wherein the stem (37) and the second member (33) are conformed with respect to one another so that when the stem (37) is arranged in the second housing (35), then a relative end of the stem (40) is accessible from outside; wherein the said end of the stem (40) comprises a seating (41 ) for engaging with the mechanical key (39), so that the activating of the mechanical key (39) determines the rotation of the stem (37).
9) The opening and closing system (28) of the supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4) of the preceding claim, wherein it comprises a first magnet (42) which is borne by the stem (37) and a second magnet (43) which is borne by the stem (37), the first magnet (42) and the second magnet (43) being arranged at a predetermined reciprocal distance measured along the axis of the stem (37) and being arranged at a predetermined reciprocal angle measured on a perpendicular plane to the axis of the stem (37); and wherein it comprises a first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field which is solidly constrained to the second member (33) and a second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field which second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field is solidly constrained to the second member (33); the first magnet (42), the second magnet (43), the first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field and the second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field being arranged with respect to one another so that from the detecting of the magnetic field carried out by the first sensor (44) for detecting the magnetic field and by the second sensor (45) for detecting the magnetic field it is possible to detect the angular position of the stem (37) when it is arranged in the second housing (35).
10) The opening and closing system (28) of the supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4) of any one of the preceding claims wherein the third unit (13) is arranged in a remote location with respect to the first unit (5).
11 ) A blocking and unblocking method of a cap (2) which is applicable to a supply inlet (3) of a fuel tank (4), comprising steps of:
providing an electromechanical actuator (7) which is activatable for enabling blocking or unblocking of the cap (2) when the cap (2) is applied to the supply inlet (3);
receiving a command signal for activating the electromechanical actuator (7); receiving a remote enabling signal for activating the electromechanical actuator (7);
activating the electromechanical actuator (7) once the command signal and the enabling signal have been received.
PCT/IB2017/057107 2016-11-15 2017-11-14 An opening and closing system of a supply inlet of a fuel tank and a blocking and unblocking method of a cap which is applicable to a supply inlet of a fuel tank WO2018092024A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IT102016000115227A IT201600115227A1 (en) 2016-11-15 2016-11-15 SYSTEM AND METHOD OF LOCKING AND UNLOCKING A CAP THAT IS APPLICABLE TO THE SUPPLY ENTRANCE OF A FUEL TANK
IT102016000115227 2016-11-15

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2018092024A1 true WO2018092024A1 (en) 2018-05-24

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PCT/IB2017/057107 WO2018092024A1 (en) 2016-11-15 2017-11-14 An opening and closing system of a supply inlet of a fuel tank and a blocking and unblocking method of a cap which is applicable to a supply inlet of a fuel tank

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Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102008032584A1 (en) * 2008-07-11 2010-01-14 Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst Gmbh & Co. Kg Safety system with a fuel cap
US20130158744A1 (en) * 2011-12-14 2013-06-20 Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho Lid lock controller
WO2015154102A1 (en) * 2014-02-12 2015-10-08 Van Der Merwe, Schalk Willem Fuel gap locking system and method of unlocking a fuel cap

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102008032584A1 (en) * 2008-07-11 2010-01-14 Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst Gmbh & Co. Kg Safety system with a fuel cap
US20130158744A1 (en) * 2011-12-14 2013-06-20 Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho Lid lock controller
WO2015154102A1 (en) * 2014-02-12 2015-10-08 Van Der Merwe, Schalk Willem Fuel gap locking system and method of unlocking a fuel cap

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