WO2021058135A1 - External liquid vapor discriminator system for evaporative emissions fuel tank venting system - Google Patents

Abstract

A vent shut-off assembly configured to manage venting on a fuel tank configured to deliver fuel to an internal combustion engine includes a main housing, a liquid vapor discriminator (LVD), a first vent, a poppet valve assembly, a vapor tube and an accumulator assembly. The main housing selectively vents to a carbon canister. The LVD is disposed at least partially external to the fuel tank. The first vent is disposed in a vapor space of the fuel tank and vents to the LVD. The poppet valve assembly has a first poppet valve arranged in the main housing. The vapor tube fluidly connects the LVD and the main housing. The actuator assembly is at least partially housing in the main housing. The actuator assembly is configured to selectively permit vapor from passing from the fuel tank to the carbon canister.

Description

EXTERNAL LIQUID VAPOR DISCRIMINATOR SYSTEM FOR EVAPORATIVE

EMISSIONS FUEL TANK VENTING SYSTEM

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 62/906,382 filed September 26, 2019. The disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to fuel tanks on passenger vehicles and more particularly to a fuel tank having an electronically controlled module that manages the complete evaporative system for the vehicle, the fuel tank venting system having an external liquid vapor discriminator valve system.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Fuel vapor emission control systems are becoming increasingly more complex, in large part in order to comply with environmental and safety regulations imposed on manufacturers of gasoline powered vehicles. Along with the ensuing overall system complexity, complexity of individual components within the system has also increased. Certain regulations affecting the gasoline-powered vehicle industry require that fuel vapor emission from a fuel tank’s ventilation system be stored during periods of an engine’s operation. In order for the overall vapor emission control system to continue to function for its intended purpose, periodic purging of stored hydrocarbon vapors is necessary during operation of the vehicle. In fuel tanks configured for use with a hybrid powertrain it is also necessary to properly vent the fuel tank. Such fuel tanks need to account for high pressures and can incorporate an over pressure relief (OPR) and over vacuum relief (OVR). Moreover, it may also be necessary to provide a means for OVR in a conventional gasoline fuel tank system.

[0004] The background description provided herein is for the purpose of generally presenting the context of the disclosure. Work of the presently named inventors, to the extent it is described in this background section, as well as aspects of the description that may not otherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are neither expressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art against the present disclosure. SUMMARY

[0005] A vent shut-off assembly configured to manage venting on a fuel tank configured to deliver fuel to an internal combustion engine includes a main housing, a liquid vapor discriminator (LVD), a first vent, a poppet valve assembly, a vapor tube and an accumulator assembly. The main housing selectively vents to a carbon canister. The LVD is disposed at least partially external to the fuel tank. The first vent is disposed in a vapor space of the fuel tank and vents to the LVD. The poppet valve assembly has a first poppet valve arranged in the main housing. The vapor tube fluidly connects the LVD and the main housing. The actuator assembly is at least partially housing in the main housing. The actuator assembly is configured to selectively permit vapor from passing from the fuel tank to the carbon canister.

[0006] According to additional features, a second vent can be disposed in the vapor space of the fuel tank and that vents to the LVD. The first and second vents merge to a common vent line that extends at least partially outside of the fuel tank. The third vent can be disposed in the vapor space of the fuel tank and that vents to the LVD. The LVD can be welded to the fuel tank. The LVD can be disposed entirely external to the fuel tank. The main housing can include a canister line port that is fluidly connected to the carbon canister. [0007] In other features, the actuator assembly can further comprise a cam assembly having a cam shaft that includes a first cam having a profile that one of opens and closes the first poppet valve fluidly coupled to the first LVD. When the first poppet valve is in a closed position, vapor is precluded from passing from the fuel tank to the carbon canister. When the first poppet valve is in an open position, vapor is permitted from passing from the fuel tank to the carbon canister. The actuator assembly can further include a motor that selectively rotates the cam assembly based on operating conditions. The cam assembly can further include a second cam that selectively engages a pump causing the pump to pump liquid fuel out of the main housing. The first cam generally includes a cam surface having a generally high lift surface and a low lift surface. [0008] A vent shut-off assembly according to additional features of the instant disclosure is configured to manage venting on a fuel tank configured to deliver fuel to an internal combustion engine includes a main housing, a liquid vapor discriminator (LVD), a poppet valve assembly, a vapor tube and an accumulator assembly. The main housing selectively vents to a carbon canister. The LVD is disposed at least partially external to the fuel tank and at least partially in a vapor dome of the fuel tank. The poppet valve assembly has a first poppet valve arranged in the main housing. The vapor tube has a first end fluidly coupled to the LVD at a location external to the fuel tank and a second end that is fluidly coupled to the main housing. The actuator assembly is at least partially housing in the main housing. The actuator assembly is configured to selectively permit vapor from passing from the fuel tank to the carbon canister.

[0009] According to other features, the LVD is welded to the fuel tank. The main housing can include a canister line port that is fluidly connected to the carbon canister. The actuator assembly can further include a motor that selectively rotates the cam assembly based on operating conditions. The cam assembly can further include a second cam that selectively engages a pump causing the pump to pump liquid fuel out of the main housing. The first cam generally includes a cam surface having a generally high lift surface and a low lift surface. [0010] In other features, the actuator assembly can further comprise a cam assembly having a cam shaft that includes a first cam having a profile that one of opens and closes the first poppet valve fluidly coupled to the first LVD. When the first poppet valve is in a closed position, vapor is precluded from passing from the fuel tank to the carbon canister. When the first poppet valve is in an open position, vapor is permitted from passing from the fuel tank to the carbon canister.

[0011] A vent shut-off assembly according to other features of the present disclosure is configured to manage venting on a fuel tank configured to deliver fuel to an internal combustion engine includes a main housing, a liquid vapor discriminator (LVD), a first vent, a poppet valve assembly, a vapor tube and an accumulator assembly. The main housing selectively vents to a carbon canister. The LVD is disposed external to the fuel tank. The first vent is disposed in a vapor space of the fuel tank and vents to the LVD. The poppet valve assembly has a first poppet valve arranged in the main housing. The vapor tube fluidly connects the LVD and the main housing. The actuator assembly is at least partially housing in the main housing. The actuator assembly is configured to selectively permit vapor from passing from the fuel tank to the carbon canister. The actuator assembly can further comprise a cam assembly having a cam shaft that includes a first cam having a profile that one of opens and closes the first poppet valve fluidly coupled to the first LVD. When the first poppet valve is in a closed position, vapor is precluded from passing from the fuel tank to the carbon canister. When the first poppet valve is in an open position, vapor is permitted from passing from the fuel tank to the carbon canister.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0012] The present disclosure will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0013] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a fuel tank system having an evaporative emissions control system including a vent shut-off assembly, a controller, an electrical connector and associated wiring in accordance to one example of the present disclosure; [0014] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of an evaporative emissions control system including a vent shut-off assembly configured with solenoids according to one example of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the evaporative emissions control system of FIG.

2; [0016] FIG. 4A is a table illustrating operating conditions for the poppet valve assembly shown in FIG. 4B;

[0017] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the poppet assembly during the conditions shown in FIG. 4A; [0018] FIG. 5A is a table illustrating operating conditions for the poppet valve assembly shown in FIG. 5B;

[0019] FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the poppet assembly during the conditions shown in FIG. 5A; [0020] FIG. 6A is a table illustrating operating conditions for the poppet valve assembly shown in FIG. 6B;

[0021] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the poppet assembly during the conditions shown in FIG. 6A;

[0022] FIG. 7A is a table illustrating operating conditions for the poppet valve assembly shown in FIG. 7B;

[0023] FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the poppet assembly during the conditions shown in FIG. 7A;

[0024] FIG. 8A is a first cross-sectional view of the poppet assembly during the conditions shown in FIGS 4A and 4B; [0025] FIG. 8B is a second cross-sectional view of the poppet assembly during the conditions shown in FIGS 4A and 4B;

[0026] FIG. 9A is a first cross-sectional view of the poppet assembly during the conditions shown in FIGS 5A and 5B;

[0027] FIG. 9B is a second cross-sectional view of the poppet assembly during the conditions shown in FIGS 5A and 5B;

[0028] FIG. 10A is a first cross-sectional view of the poppet assembly during the conditions shown in FIGS 6A and 6B; [0029] FIG. 10B is a second cross-sectional view of the poppet assembly during the conditions shown in FIGS 6A and 6B;

[0030] FIG. 11A is a first cross-sectional view of the poppet assembly during the conditions shown in FIGS 7A and 7B; [0031] FIG. 11 B is a second cross-sectional view of the poppet assembly during the conditions shown in FIGS 7A and 7B;

[0032] FIG. 12A is a cross-sectional view of the vent shut-off assembly taken through a pump and shown with a push pin 118 in an extended position;

[0033] FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view of the vent shut-off assembly taken through the pump and shown with the push pin 118 in a depressed position;

[0034] FIG. 13A is a perspective view of the pump;

[0035] FIG. 13B is an exploded perspective view of the pump of FIG. 13A;

[0036] FIG. 14A is a bottom view of a vent shut-off assembly constructed in accordance to another example of the present disclosure; [0037] FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view of the vent shut-off assembly of FIG. 14A taken along lines 14B-14B;

[0038] FIG. 15A is a front perspective view of the vent shut-off assembly of FIG. 14A;

[0039] FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view of the vent shut-off assembly of FIG. 15A taken along lines 15B-15B; [0040] FIG. 15C is a cross-sectional view of the vent shut-off assembly of FIG. 15A taken along lines 15C-15C;

[0041] FIG. 15D is a cross-sectional view of the vent shut-off assembly of FIG. 15A taken along lines 15D-15D; [0042] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the vent shut-off assembly of FIG. 15A taken along lines 16-16;

[0043] FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of a plunger assembly of the vent shut off assembly of FIG. 14A; [0044] FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view of a camshaft assembly of the vent shut-off assembly of FIG. 14A;

[0045] FIG. 19A is a first perspective view of a plunger assembly of the vent shut-off assembly of FIG. 14A;

[0046] FIG. 19B is a second perspective view of the plunger assembly of FIG. 19A; [0047] FIG. 19C is a sectional view of the plunger assembly of FIG. 19A;

[0048] FIG. 20A is a schematic view of an evaporative emissions control system including a vent shut-off assembly mounted internally to the fuel tank and having an external liquid vapor discriminator system according to one example of the present disclosure; [0049] FIG. 20B is a schematic view of an evaporative emissions control system including a vent shut-off assembly mounted externally to the fuel tank and having an external liquid vapor discriminator system and according to one example of the present disclosure;

[0050] FIG. 21 is a schematic view of an evaporative emissions control system including a vent shut-off assembly having an external liquid vapor discriminator system according to another example of the present disclosure; [0051] FIG. 22 is a schematic view of an evaporative emissions control system including a vent shut-off assembly having an external liquid vapor discriminator system according to another example of the present disclosure; and

[0052] FIG. 23 is a schematic view of an evaporative emissions control system including a vent shut-off assembly having an external liquid vapor discriminator system according to another example of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] With initial reference to FIG. 1 , a fuel tank system constructed in accordance to one example of the present disclosure is shown and generally identified at reference number 10. The fuel tank system 10 can generally include a fuel tank 12 configured as a reservoir for holding fuel to be supplied to an internal combustion engine via a fuel delivery system, which includes a fuel pump 14. The fuel pump 14 can be configured to deliver fuel through a fuel supply line 16 to a vehicle engine. The fuel tank 12 can define a vapor dome 18 generally at an upper portion of the fuel tank 12. An evaporative emissions control system 20 can be configured to recapture and recycle the emitted fuel vapor. As will become appreciated from the following discussion, the evaporative emissions control system 20 provides an electronically controlled module that manages the complete evaporative system for a vehicle. [0054] The evaporative control system 20 provides a universal design for all regions and all fuels. In this regard, the requirement of unique components needed to satisfy regional regulations may be avoided. Instead, software may be adjusted to satisfy wide ranging applications. In this regard, no unique components need to be revalidated saving time and cost. A common architecture may be used across vehicle lines. Conventional mechanical in-tank valves may be replaced. As discussed herein, the evaporative control system 20 may also be compatible with pressurized systems including those associated with hybrid powertrain vehicles. [0055] The evaporative emissions control system 20 includes a vent shut-off assembly

22, a manifold assembly 24, a liquid trap 26, a control module 30, a purge canister 32, a first vapor tube or vent line 40, a second vapor tube or vent line 42, a third vapor tube or vent line 43, an electrical connector 44, a fuel delivery module (FDM) flange 46 and a fuel fill level sensor assembly such as a float level sensor assembly 48. The first vapor tube 40 can terminate at a vent opening or liquid vapor discriminating (LVD) valve 41 A arranged at a top corner of the fuel tank 12. Similarly, the second vapor tube 42 can terminate at a vent opening or LVD valve 41 B arranged at a top corner of the fuel tank 12. The third vapor tube 43 can terminate at a vent opening or LVD valve 41 C arranged at a top of the fuel tank 12. All of the vent openings 41A-41C can terminate at a vapor dome 18. Each of the LVD valves 41 A, 41 B and 41 C are configured to permit vapor to pass from the vapor space 18 to the vent shut-off assembly 22 while inhibiting liquid fuel from entering and passing into the vent shut-off assembly.

[0056] In one configuration, the first, second and third vapor tubes 40, 42 and 43 can merge at a union 47. From the union 47, a vent line connection 49 connects with vent line port 50 defined on the vent shut-off assembly 22. In other examples, some or all of the vapor tubes 41 , 42 and 43 can have a dedicated input port into the vent shut-off assembly 22. In one example, the manifold assembly 24 can be defined within the vent shut-off assembly 22 downstream of the vent line port 50 (or equivalent porting that accepts the respective vapor tubes 41 , 42 and 43).

[0057] As will become appreciated from the following discussion, the vent shut-off assembly 22 can take many forms. In the examples discussed herein, the vent shut-off assembly 22 has an actuator assembly that is configured as a cam actuated system. However, other configurations suitable to selectively open and close vent line port 50 are contemplated including, but not limited to, other mechanical systems, solenoid systems, hydraulic systems, magnetic systems and combinations thereof.

[0058] The control module 30 can further include or receive inputs from system sensors, collectively referred to at reference 60. The system sensors 60 can include a tank pressure sensor 60A that senses a pressure of the fuel tank 12, a canister pressure sensor 60B that senses a pressure of the canister 32, a temperature sensor 60C that senses a temperature within the fuel tank 12, a tank pressure sensor 60D that senses a pressure in the fuel tank 12 and a vehicle grade sensor and or vehicle accelerometer 60E that measures a grade and/or acceleration of the vehicle. It will be appreciated that while the system sensors 60 are shown as a group, that they may be located all around the fuel tank system 10. The control module 30 can additionally include fill level signal reading processing, fuel pressure driver module functionality and be compatible for two-way communications with a vehicle electronic control module (not specifically shown). [0059] The vent shut-off assembly 22 can be configured to control a flow of fuel vapor between the fuel tank 12 and the purge canister 32. The purge canister 32 is adapted to collect fuel vapor emitted by the fuel tank 12 and to subsequently release the fuel vapor to the engine. The control module 30 can also be configured to regulate the operation of evaporative emissions control system 20 in order to recapture and recycle the emitted fuel vapor. The float level sensor assembly 48 can provide fill level indications to the control module 30. As will become appreciated from the following discussion, the control module 30 can send signals to the vent shut-off assembly 22 based on operating conditions such as provided by the sensors 60 to open and close venting from the fuel tank 12 to the purge canister 32.

[0060] With additional reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, the vent shut-off assembly 22 will be further described. The vent shut-off assembly 22 generally comprises a main housing 70, a top housing 72 having a canister line port 73, a poppet valve assembly 74, a cam assembly 76, a motor 78 and a pump 80. The motor 78 and the cam assembly 76 can collectively define an actuator assembly 81. The main housing 70 and the top housing 72 can collectively define a chamber that includes the manifold assembly 24. The main housing 70 can define a poppet assembly receiving bore 84 and a pump outlet opening 88. The poppet assembly receiving bore 84 leads to the vent line port 50 and receives the poppet valve assembly 74. The pump outlet opening 88 generally mounts the pump 80 and provides an outlet for pumping liquid out of the main housing 70 as will be described in detail herein. A vent line 89 can be fluidly connected between the canister line port 73 of the vent shut-off assembly 22 and the canister 32.

[0061] The cam assembly 76 generally includes a first or poppet cam 90 and a second or pump cam 92. The first and second cams 90, 92 are mounted for rotation with a cam shaft 94. A gear 96 is meshingly engaged with a complementary gear (not shown) extending from the motor 78. In other examples the gear 96 can be directly coupled for rotation with a motor drive shaft. The first cam 90 (see FIG. 8A) generally includes a cam surface 100 having a generally high lift surface 102 and a low lift surface 104. The second cam 92 (FIG. 12A) generally includes lift lobes 112, 114 separated by a valley 116. As will become appreciated herein, movement of the cam 92 causes a push pin 118 extending from the pump 80 to translate along its axis as it slidably negotiates along the cam 92 between the lift lobes 112, 114 and the valley 116 causing the pump 80 to pump liquid fuel out of the main housing 70. The push pin 118 is urged into engagement with the cam 92 by a pin biasing member 119.

[0062] With additional reference now to FIG. 4B, the poppet valve assembly 74 will be further described. The poppet valve assembly 74 includes a poppet 120, a disk 122 that supports a seal member 124, a pin 130, a retainer 132 and a poppet carrier 136. A first biasing member 140 is biased between the poppet 120 and the carrier 136. A second biasing member 144 is biased between the disk 122 and the retainer 132. A third biasing member 146 is biased between the retainer 132 and a collar 150 on the pin 130. In some examples, the third biasing member 146 may be omitted as the first and second biasing members 140 and 144 may perform such function. The seal member 124 includes an inner lip seal 154 and an outer lip seal 156.

[0063] As will become appreciated from the following discussion, the poppet valve assembly 74 will be described as moving between fully open and closed positions for achieving various operating functions. However, the poppet valve assembly 74 and other components (such as the disk 122) can move to attain positions intermediate “fully open” and “fully closed”. In this regard, it may be desirable, based on operating conditions, to vent the fuel tank 12 to the carbon canister 30 a predetermined amount between fully open and fully closed. [0064] In general, the poppet valve 74 allows the vent shut-off assembly 22 to operate in various states, depending on operating conditions, to allow vapor to flow along a first path A (from the fuel tank 12 to the carbon canister 32) or a second path B (from the carbon canister 32 to the fuel tank 12). In one operating condition, vapor that enters at least one of the LVD valves 41 A, 41 B, 41 C passes along at least one of the vapor lines 40, 42, 43 and enters the vent shut-off assembly 22. The operating state of the poppet valve 74, as described herein, allows the vapor to pass therethrough and out of the canister line port 73 to the carbon canister 32 (see flow path A, FIG. 2). Flow path A is desirable alleviate high pressure within the vapor space 18 of the fuel tank. Flow path A can also be desirable during a refueling event or other operating conditions that may cause pressure to rise above a threshold. As will become appreciated herein, the poppet valve 74 can be commanded to move (by the controller 30, FIGS. 4A, 4B) to achieve flow path A or, can automatically move to achieve flow path A (over pressure relief condition, FIGS. 6A, 6B). In another operating condition, fresh air is permitted to pass from the carbon canister 32, into the vent shut-off assembly 22. The operating state of the poppet valve 74 allows that fresh air to exit the vent shut-off assembly 22 through the vent line port 50 and backflow into the vapor space 18 through at least one of the LVD valves 41 A, 41 B, 41 C. Flow path B is desirable to alleviate an undesirable vacuum condition within the vapor space 18 of the fuel tank 12. [0065] With specific reference now to FIGS. 4A, 4B, 8A and 8B the poppet valve assembly 74 is shown during normal operation in a fully open position. Explained further, the first cam 90 is rotated to a position wherein the high lift surface 102 urges the pin 130 to be depressed or translated leftward as viewed in the FIGS. Translation of the pin 130 causes the poppet 120 to be lifted off of sealing engagement with the inner lip seal 154 of the seal member 124 and into the bias of the first biasing member 140. When the poppet 120 is in the open position, the vapor flow is permitted along flow path A into the vent line port 50 and out of the canister port 73. Fuel vapor from the vapor space 18 is caused to be vented to the canister 32.

[0066] With specific reference now to FIGS. 5A, 5B, 9A and 9B the poppet valve assembly 74 is shown during normal operation in a fully closed position. Explained further, the first cam 90 is rotated to a position wherein the low lift surface 104 aligned with the pin 130 such that bias of the first biasing member 140 causes the pin to be translated rightward as viewed in the FIGS. Translation of the pin 130 rightward causes the poppet 120 to attain a sealing engagement with the inner lip seal 154 of the seal member 124. When the poppet 120 is in the closed position, the vapor flow is inhibited from flowing into the vent line port 50 and out of the canister port 73. Fuel vapor from the vapor space 18 is precluded from venting to the canister 32. Flow along either of flow paths A or B is inhibited.

[0067] With reference now to FIGS. 6A, 6B, 10A and 10B, the poppet valve assembly 74 is shown during an over pressure relief (OPR) condition. In an OPR condition, pressure within the vapor space 18 of the fuel tank 18 has exceeded a threshold wherein vapor pressure in the fuel tank 12 is great enough to cause the seal member 124 to be lifted off of a sealed position with the carrier 136. In one example, the threshold can be around 14kPa for a conventional fuel vehicle and around 37kPa for a pressurized/hybrid vehicle. Explained further, the seal member 124 is caused to translate rightward as viewed in the FIGS such that the outer lip seal 156 moves off of a sealed relationship with the carrier 136. The outer lip seal 156 acts as an OPR seal. In the OPR condition, fuel vapor from the vapor space 18 is caused to flow along flow path A and be vented to the canister 32. Notably, the seal member 124 can move rightward in an OPR condition without any command from the controller 30. [0068] With reference now to FIGS. 7A, 7B, 11 A and 11 B, the poppet valve assembly

74 is shown during an over vacuum relief (OVR) condition. In an OVR condition, pressure within the vapor space 18 of the fuel tank 18 has dropped below a threshold wherein vapor pressure in the fuel tank is low enough to cause a vacuum wherein the poppet 120 is lifted off of sealing engagement with the inner lip seal 154 of the seal member 124 and into the bias of the first biasing member 140. When the poppet 120 is in the open position, the vapor flow is permitted to equalize pressures. In other words, vapor is permitted to flow along flow path B (from the canister 32 through the canister line 89) out of the vent line port 50 and into the vapor space 18. Notably, the poppet 120 can move leftward in an OVR condition without any command from the controller 30. [0069] With reference now to FIGS. 12A - FIG. 14, the pump 80 will be further described. The pump 80 is configured to pump liquid fluid out of the vent shut off assembly 22. As will become appreciated, rotation of the cam assembly 76 (FIG. 3) ultimately actuates the pump 80. The pump 80 generally includes a piston housing 210, a piston 212, a check valve 220, a check valve housing 222 and a cap 226. The push pin 118 extends through a spring cap 230, a pump spring 232 and a bearing assembly 240 having bearings 242 and 244.

[0070] The push pin 118 further extends into the piston housing 210 and is coupled to the piston 212. In particular, the push pin 118 defines an annular recess 250 that receives a snap ring 252 thereat. The snap ring 252 can be inserted through a window 258 defined in the piston 212 to engage the push pin 118. The push pin 118 therefore engages the cam 92 on a first end and is fixed for translation with the piston on a second end. A seal 260 is received around an annular surface of the piston 212. The seal 260 slidably translates along an inner diameter 264 (FIG. 12A) of the piston housing 210 during pumping. An umbrella seal assembly 270 having an outer seal member 272 and an inner seal member 274 is disposed on an outboard end of the piston 212.

[0071] The piston housing 210 defines a housing window 266. The housing window 266 allows liquid fuel to enter the piston housing 210 where it can be pumped out of the vent shut off assembly 22. The window 266 can also be used to gain access to the pin 118 when assembling the snap ring 252 at the annular recess 250.

[0072] The check valve 220 can cooperate with the check valve housing 222 and the cap 224 to permit liquid fuel from exiting the check valve housing 222 (out of the vent shut off assembly 22) while inhibiting liquid fuel from entering the vent shut off assembly 22 (through the check valve housing 222). The check valve 220 can take many forms for accomplishing one way fluid flow. In this regard, the specific geometry shown in the FIGS is merely exemplary and other check valves may be used within the scope of this disclosure.

[0073] Operation of the pump 80 will now be described according to one exemplary method of operation. When the lift lobes 112 and 114 of the second cam 92 are aligned with the push pin 118 of the pump 80, fluid that may have passed through the LVD valves 41 A, 41 B and 41 C, to be pumped out of the housing 70. When the valley 116 is aligned with the push pin 118, the biasing member 232 urges the push pin 118 to retract. When the push pin moves from the location shown in FIG. 12A to the position shown in FIG. 12B, liquid fuel in the piston housing 210 is urged by the piston 212 to be expelled into the check valve housing 222 where the check valve 220 permits the liquid fuel to exit the check valve housing 222 and ultimately the vent shut off assembly 22. The pump 80 can be a piston pump or any pump suitable to pump liquid fuel out of the vent shut off assembly 22. By way of example only, the pump can be configured to pump 1-3 cubic centimeters of liquid fuel per cycle and have a maximum pump rate of around 8.3 cubic centimeters per minute.

[0074] As identified above, the evaporative emissions control system 20 can replace conventional fuel tank systems that require mechanical components including in-tank valves with an electronically controlled module that manages the complete evaporative system for a vehicle. In this regard, some components that may be eliminated using the evaporative emissions control system 20 of the instant disclosure can include in-tank valves such as GW’s and FLVV’s, canister vent valve solenoid and associated wiring, tank pressure sensors and associated wiring, fuel pump driver module and associated wiring, fuel pump module electrical connector and associated wiring, and vapor management valve(s) (system dependent). These eliminated components are replaced by the control module 30, vent shut-off assembly 22, manifold 24, and associated electrical connector 44. Various other components may be modified to accommodate the evaporative emissions control system 20 including the fuel tank 12. For example, the fuel tank 12 may be modified to eliminate valves and internal lines to pick-up points. The flange of the FDM 46 may be modified to accommodate other components such as the control module 30 and/or the electrical connector 44. In other configurations, the fresh air line of the canister 32 and a dust box may be modified. In one example, the fresh air line of the canister 32 and the dust box may be connected to the control module 30. [0075] Turning now to FIGS. 14A-15A and 18, a vent shut-off assembly constructed in accordance to additional features of the present disclosure is shown and generally identified at reference 522. As will become appreciated from the following discussion, the vent shut off assembly 522 can be configured for use with a fuel tank for a hybrid vehicle. A fuel tank system for a hybrid vehicle can include a fuel tank isolation valve (FTIV) that includes built in OPR and OVR. The vent shut-off assembly 522 according to the present disclosure incorporates OPR and OVR. In this regard, the vent shut-off assembly 522 can be used on fuel tanks configured for use with hybrid powertrains. As will become appreciated from the following discussion, the vent shut-off assembly 522 is similar to the vent shut-off assembly 22 however the vent shut-off assembly 522 has dedicated cams and poppets for each of the LVD valves 41 A, 41 B and 41 C.

[0076] The vent shut-off assembly 522 includes a main housing 502 that at least partially houses an actuator assembly 510. A canister vent line (not shown but see canister vent line 89, FIG. 1) routs to the canister (see canister 32, FIG. 1). The vent shut-off assembly 522 includes a cam assembly 530. The cam assembly 530 includes a cam shaft 532 that includes cams 534, 536 and 538. The cam shaft 532 is rotatably driven by a motor 540 and can be supported in the housing 502 on opposite ends by grommets 542 (FIG. 18). In the example shown the motor 540 is received in the housing 502. The motor 540 is a direct current motor that directly drives the camshaft 532. Other configurations are contemplated. The cams 534, 536 and 538 rotate to interact with respective plunger assemblies (or poppet valve assemblies) 544, 546 and 548 to open and close valves 554, 556 and 558, respectively. The valves 554, 556 and 558 open and close to selectively deliver vapor through ports 564, 566 and 568, respectively. In one example the motor 540 can alternately be a stepper motor. An active drain liquid trap (ADLT) 570 can be provided on the housing 502. [0077] As will be described herein, each of the plunger assemblies 544, 546 and 548 are configured as poppet valves with spring return. With spring return, these plunger assemblies 544, 564 and 548 provide a pressure relief function. In other words, if a pressure experienced on one side of the poppet valve is large enough to overcome a bias of an oppositely acting spring, the valve will open to relieve the pressure. [0078] With reference now to FIG. 17, a plunger assembly 544 is shown in exploded view. Description of the plunger assembly 544 will now be explained with the understanding that the plunger assemblies 546 and 548 are similarly constructed. The plunger assembly 544 includes a stem assembly 600, a roller 606, an O-ring 608, a plunger housing 612, a first biasing member 614 and a collar 630. The stem assembly 600 can include a seal 616 disposed around a stem body 633.

[0079] As shown in FIGS. 18-19C, the plunger sub-assembly 544 can also include an OPR check valve 618. The OPR check valve 618 can include a ball 619, a second biasing member 615 and a disk 648. During operation, the seal 616 of the plunger assembly 544 is normally sealed against a seat 649 on the plunger housing 612. No vapor can pass through plunger assembly 544 in the sealed position. The first biasing member 614 will urge the collar 630 upward (as viewed from FIG. 19C) urging the stem body 633 upward and the seal 616 against the seat 649. It is appreciated that the first biasing member 614 is permitted to urge the collar 630 when the cam 534 is not urging the roller 606 downward. In other words, the cam 534 is sufficiently in a no lift position. If enough pressure builds against an upper surface (as viewed in FIG. 19C) of the collar 630 to overcome the bias of the first biasing member 614, the plunger assembly 544 can open by moving the stem assembly 600 downward and urging the seal 616 off of the seat 649. [0080] If a predetermined pressure is reached in the vapor dome within the fuel tank

(see fuel tank 12, FIG. 1), the OPR check valve 618 will open. Specifically, the ball 619 will urge the second biasing member 615 upward. As the ball 619 moves upward, the ball 619 moves off of a ball seat 664 on the stem body 633 allowing fuel vapor to be relieved from the vapor dome of the fuel tank through passages 660 (FIG. 19B) of the stem body 633, around the ball 619 and through a corresponding passage 670 (FIG. 19C) in the disk 648. The passages 660 can be formed anywhere on the stem body 633. In sum, the plunger assembly 544 can incorporate an OPR/OVR relief function in both directions to relieve pressure on opposite ends of the plunger assembly 544. In other advantages, the OPR/OVR relief function is mechanically operable independent of power supply. In this regard, the OPR/OVR relief will work subsequent to power loss in the vehicle.

[0081] In some examples, the OPR check valve functionality can be incorporated on only the plunger assembly 544. In other examples, an OPR check valve can be additionally or alternatively incorporated on the plunger assemblies 546 and 548. In other arrangements the OPR/OVR functionality can be incorporated elsewhere on the vent shut-off assembly 522 such as through the housing 502. In yet other configurations, the OPR/OVR mechanism can be provided as a snorkel out of the housing 502. The snorkel can be routed to the center of the fuel tank and most likely to always see vapor. In another configuration, the OPR/OVR mechanism can be incorporated into a vapor line leaving the fuel tank downstream of the in-line liquid vapor discriminating (LVD) valve that is part of the vent shut-off assembly 522. The OPR/OVR can also be incorporated into the LVD that is part of the vent shut-off assembly 522. The OPR/OVR can be incorporated at the exit of the ADLT 570. As explained above, the vent shut-off assembly 522 provides an OVR function at each of the plunger assemblies 544, 546 and 548.

[0082] Turning now to FIGS. 20A-23, additional features of the evaporative emissions control system including a vent shut-off assembly having an external liquid vapor discriminator system will be described. The instant disclosure provides an evaporative emissions control system that includes an LVD positioned external to a fuel tank. In advantages, the LVD positioning provides the highest possible shut off height during refueling where almost the entire fuel tank volume can be used to accept liquid fuel. Explained further, as the LVD is a mechanical shut-off valve, by moving the LVD out of the fuel tank, additional fuel tank volume can be gained to fill with liquid fuel. In other advantages only a single, centralized LVD is required to be used. In comparison, when LVD’s are arranged within the fuel tank, multiple LVD’s are desired at different points within the vapor space to account for positioning at various locations within the fuel tank and to also account for various grade differences.

[0083] With particular reference to FIG. 20A, a fuel tank 610 is shown having an evaporative emissions control system 620A including a vent shut-off assembly 622A and a purge canister 632. The vent shut-off assembly 622A is mounted inside of the fuel tank and has a main housing 634A. A central LVD 640 is positioned external to the fuel tank 610. The LVD 640 is fluidly coupled through a vent tube 642 to first, second and third vents 650, 652 and 653. While the first, second and third vents 650, 652 and 653 are shown at specific locations along the vent tube 642 it will be appreciated that they may be located anywhere along the vent tube 642. The LVD 618 is further fluidly coupled to the main housing 634A of the vent shut-off assembly 622A. The LVD 618 is further fluidly coupled to the main housing 634A of the vent shut-off assembly 622A through a vent tube 644. The vent tube 644 has a first end 646 fluildy coupled to the LVD 618 at a location external to the fuel tank 610. Unless otherwise described, the evaporative emissions control system 620A can include other features as described herein.

[0084] With reference to FIG. 20B, an evaporative emissions control system 620B includes a vent shut-off assembly 622B and main housing 634B arranged externally relative to the fuel tank 610. In the externally arranged vent shut off assembly 622B, a recirculation line 680 can fluidly connect with a filler neck 682. In some examples a cam can selectively open a valve connected to the recirculation line. Additional discussion of a vent shut-off assembly positioned external to the fuel tank and incorporating a recirculation line may be found in commonly owned and co-pending International Patent Application WO2019/238270, the contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. The remaining components of the evaporative emissions control system 620B are similar to those described above with the evaporative emissions control system 620A. It will be appreciated that the configurations described below may also incorporate a vent shut-off assembly and main housing arranged externally relative to the fuel tank.

[0085] Turning now to FIG. 21 , an evaporative emissions control system 720 includes a vent shut-off assembly 722, a manifold assembly 724, a liquid trap 726, a control module 730, a purge canister 732, a first vapor tube or vent line 740, a canister vapor line in 742, a canister vapor line out 743, an electrical connector 744, a fuel delivery module (FDM) flange 746 and a fuel fill level sensor assembly such as a float level sensor assembly 748. The first vapor tube 740 can terminate at a liquid vapor discriminating (LVD) valve 741 arranged at an externally mounted position relative to the fuel tank 712. The first vapor tube 740 has a first end 784 that is coupled to the LVD 741 at a location external to the fuel tank 712. A second end 786 of the first vapor tube 740 fluidly connects to the vent shut-off assembly 722. The LVD valve 741 is arranged entirely external to the fuel tank 712. The LVD valve 741 is fluidly coupled to first and second vents 750 and 752 positioned within the fuel tank 712 at opposite ends of a vapor space or vapor dome 718. A pump 754 pumps liquid fuel through a fuel supply line 756 to an internal combustion engine.

[0086] A first vent line 760 fluidly couples the first vent 750 to the LVD valve 741. A second vent line 762 fluidly couples the second vent 752 to the LVD valve 741. The LVD valve 741 is configured to permit vapor to pass from the vapor space 718 (through the respective first and second vents 750, 752) to the main housing 770 of the vent shut-off assembly 722 while inhibiting liquid fuel from entering and passing into the vent shut-off assembly 722. The LVD valve 741 is disposed external to the fuel tank 712. Further, the first and second vent lines 760, 762 merge and enter the LVD valve 741 through a common vent line 764 that extends at least partially outside of the fuel tank 712. In various examples, the components of the evaporative emissions control system 720, unless otherwise described, can function similar to the other evaporative emissions control system described herein. [0087] Turning now to FIG. 22, an evaporative emissions control system 820 includes a vent shut-off assembly 822, a manifold assembly 824, a liquid trap 826, a control module 830, a purge canister 832, a first vapor tube or vent line 840, a canister vapor line in 842, a canister vapor line out 843, an electrical connector 844, a fuel delivery module (FDM) flange 846 and a fuel fill level sensor assembly such as a float level sensor assembly 848. The first vapor tube 840 has a first end 884 that is fluidly coupled to a liquid vapor discriminating (LVD) valve 841 at a location external to the fuel tank 812. A second end 886 of the vapor tube 840 fluidly connects to the vent shut-off assembly 822. The LVD valve 841 is welded into the fuel tank 812, such as hot plate welded. The LVD valve 841 is integrated into a wall 849 of the fuel tank 812. The LVD valve 841 therefore is disposed at least partially outside of the fuel tank 812. The LVD valve 841 is fluidly coupled to first and second vents 850 and 852 positioned within the fuel tank 812 at opposite ends of a vapor space or vapor dome 818. A pump 854 pumps liquid fuel through a fuel supply line 856 to an internal combustion engine. [0088] A first vent line 860 fluidly couples the first vent 850 to the LVD valve 841. A second vent line 862 fluidly couples the second vent 852 to the LVD valve 841. The LVD valve 841 is configured to permit vapor to pass from the vapor space 818 (through the respective first and second vents 850, 852) to the main housing 870 of the vent shut-off assembly 822 while inhibiting liquid fuel from entering and passing into the vent shut-off assembly 822. The LVD valve 841 is disposed external to the fuel tank 812. In various examples, the components of the evaporative emissions control system 820, unless otherwise described, can function similar to the other evaporative emissions control system described herein. [0089] Turning now to FIG. 23, an evaporative emissions control system 920 includes a vent shut-off assembly 922, a manifold assembly 924, a liquid trap 926, a control module 930, a purge canister 932, a first vapor tube or vent line 940, a canister vapor line in 942, a canister vapor line out 943, an electrical connector 944, a fuel delivery module (FDM) flange 946 and a fuel fill level sensor assembly such as a float level sensor assembly 948. The first vapor tube 940 has a first end 984 that is coupled to a liquid vapor discriminating (LVD) valve 941 at a location external to the fuel tank 912. A second end 986 of the vapor tube 940 fluidly connects to the vent shut-off assembly 922. The LVD valve 941 is welded into the fuel tank 912, such as hot plate welded. The LVD valve 941 is integrated into the wall of the fuel tank 912.

[0090] The LVD valve 941 is disposed within the vapor space or vapor dome 918. The LVD valve 941 therefore receives fuel vapor at the vapor dome 918. A pump 954 pumps liquid fuel through a fuel supply line 956 to an internal combustion engine. The LVD valve 941 is configured to permit vapor to pass from the vapor space 918 to the main housing 970 of vent shut-off assembly 922 while inhibiting liquid fuel from entering and passing into the vent shut-off assembly 922. With the LVD valve 941 positioned within the vapor dome 918, vent lines can be eliminated. In various examples, the components of the evaporative emissions control system 920, unless otherwise described, can function similar to the other evaporative emissions control system described herein. [0091] The foregoing description of the examples has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular example are generally not limited to that particular example, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected example, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A vent shut-off assembly configured to manage venting on a fuel tank configured to deliver fuel to an internal combustion engine, the vent shut-off assembly comprising: a main housing that selectively vents to a carbon canister; a liquid vapor discriminator (LVD) disposed at least partially external to the fuel tank; a first vent disposed in a vapor space of the fuel tank and that vents to the

LVD; a poppet valve assembly having a first poppet valve arranged in the main housing; a vapor tube that fluidly connects the LVD and the main housing; and an actuator assembly at least partially housed in the main housing, the actuator assembly configured to selectively permit vapor from passing from the fuel tank to the carbon canister.

2. The vent shut-off assembly of claim 1 , further comprising: a second vent disposed in the vapor space of the fuel tank and that vents to the LVD.

3. The vent shut-off assembly of claim 2 wherein the first and second vents merge to a common vent line that extends at least partially outside of the fuel tank.

4. The vent shut-off assembly of claim 2, further comprising: a third vent disposed in the vapor space of the fuel tank and that vents to the LVD.

5. The vent shut-off assembly of claim 1 wherein the LVD is welded to the fuel tank.

6. The vent shut-off assembly of claim 1 wherein the LVD is disposed entirely external to the fuel tank.

7. The vent shut-off assembly of claim 1 wherein the main housing is disposed external to the fuel tank and has a canister line port that is fluidly connected to the carbon canister.

8. The vent shut-off assembly of claim 6, wherein the actuator assembly further comprises:

a cam assembly having a cam shaft that includes a first cam having a profile that one of opens and closes the first poppet valve fluidly coupled to the LVD, wherein when the first poppet valve is in a closed position, vapor is precluded from passing from the fuel tank to the carbon canister and wherein when the first poppet valve is in an open position, vapor is permitted from passing from the fuel tank to the carbon canister.

9. The vent shut-off assembly of claim 8 wherein the actuator assembly further includes a motor that selectively rotates the cam assembly based on operating conditions.

10. The vent shut-off assembly of claim 8, wherein the cam assembly further includes a second cam that selectively engages a pump causing the pump to pump liquid fuel out of the main housing.

11. The vent shut-off assembly of claim 10 wherein the first cam generally includes a cam surface having a generally high lift surface and a low lift surface.

12. A vent shut-off assembly configured to manage venting on a fuel tank configured to deliver fuel to an internal combustion engine, the vent shut-off assembly comprising: a main housing that selectively vents to a carbon canister; a liquid vapor discriminator (LVD) disposed at least partially externally to the fuel tank and at least partially in a vapor dome of the fuel tank; a poppet valve assembly having a first poppet valve arranged in the main housing; a vapor tube having a first end coupled to the LVD at a location external to the fuel tank and a second end that is fluidly coupled to the main housing; and an actuator assembly at least partially housed in the main housing, the actuator assembly configured to selectively permit vapor from passing from the fuel tank to the carbon canister.

13. The vent shut-off assembly of claim 12 wherein the LVD is welded to the fuel tank.

14. The vent shut-off assembly of claim 12 wherein the main housing is disposed externally relative to the fuel tank and includes a canister line port that is fluidly connected to the carbon canister.

15. The vent shut-off assembly of claim 12 wherein the actuator assembly further includes a motor that selectively rotates the cam assembly based on operating conditions.

16. The vent shut-off assembly of claim 12, wherein the cam assembly further includes a second cam that selectively engages a pump causing the pump to pump liquid fuel out of the main housing.

17. The vent shut-off assembly of claim 12 wherein the first cam generally includes a cam surface having a generally high lift surface and a low lift surface.

18. The vent shut-off assembly of claim 12 wherein the actuator assembly comprises a cam assembly having a cam shaft that includes a first cam having a profile that one of opens and closes the first poppet valve fluidly coupled to the LVD, wherein when the first poppet valve is in a closed position, vapor is precluded from passing from the fuel tank to the carbon canister and wherein when the first poppet valve is in an open position, vapor is permitted from passing from the fuel tank to the carbon canister.

19. A vent shut-off assembly configured to manage venting on a fuel tank configured to deliver fuel to an internal combustion engine, the vent shut-off assembly comprising: a main housing arranged externally relative to the fuel tank and that selectively vents to a carbon canister; a liquid vapor discriminator (LVD) disposed exclusively external to the fuel tank; a first vent disposed in a vapor space of the fuel tank and that vents to the

LVD; a poppet valve assembly having a first poppet valve arranged in the main housing; a vapor tube that fluidly connects the LVD and the main housing; and an actuator assembly at least partially housed in the main housing, the actuator assembly configured to selectively permit vapor from passing from the fuel tank to the carbon canister wherein the actuator assembly comprises a cam assembly having a cam shaft that includes a first cam having a profile that one of opens and closes the first poppet valve fluidly coupled to the LVD, wherein when the first poppet valve is in a closed position, vapor is precluded from passing from the fuel tank to the carbon canister and wherein when the first poppet valve is in an open position, vapor is permitted from passing from the fuel tank to the carbon canister.

20. The vent shut-off assembly of claim 19, further comprising: a second vent disposed in the vapor space of the fuel tank and that vents to the LVD wherein the first and second vents merge to a common vent line that extends at least partially outside of the fuel tank.