CN111886153B

CN111886153B - Fuel storage system

Info

Publication number: CN111886153B
Application number: CN201980020048.XA
Authority: CN
Inventors: B·S·索雷甘卡; S·杜贝
Original assignee: Shangyinuo Motorcycle Co ltd
Current assignee: Shangyinuo Motorcycle Co ltd
Priority date: 2018-02-20
Filing date: 2019-02-20
Publication date: 2024-07-09
Anticipated expiration: 2039-02-20
Also published as: CN111886153A; WO2019162962A1

Abstract

A vehicle (100) includes a frame (130) and a fuel storage system (156, 200, 356) disposed on the frame (130). The fuel storage system (156, 200, 356) includes a first fuel tank (158, 206, 358), a second fuel tank (170, 204, 370), a first fuel hose (178, 214, 378) having a second end (182, 218, 382), a second fuel hose (188, 228, 388) having a fourth end (192, 224, 392) disposed within the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370), and a valve (184, 228, 384) disposed within the first fuel hose (178, 214, 378). The first fuel hose (178, 214, 378) and the second fuel hose (188, 228, 388) fluidly couple the first fuel tank (158, 206, 358) and the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370). The fourth end (192, 224, 392) extends into the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370) up to a level above the second end (182, 218, 382).

Description

Fuel storage system

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a fuel storage system, and more particularly to a fuel storage system for a vehicle.

Background

Vehicles, particularly vehicles configured to ride, such as motor scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and quadricycles such as all-terrain vehicles, have a fuel storage system for storing fuel for powering the vehicle. The fuel storage system may include a reserve chamber within the fuel tank or tanks to store reserve fuel to power the vehicle if and when required. Further, the fuel storage system may include different fuel delivery arrangements to control fuel flow. However, due to the limited space within the vehicle, conventional fuel storage systems do not provide additional fuel storage capacity and efficient fuel delivery arrangements.

Japanese patent application publication JP 2000-282993 discloses a reserve chamber of the type of fuel supply apparatus that includes an injector. The fuel supply apparatus includes: a fuel tank separated from the main tank portion by a partition wall; and a reserve chamber formed to constitute an upwardly open space. The bottom of the reserve chamber constitutes an upper section which is higher than the bottom of the main tank part. The fuel supply apparatus includes a fuel pump including a suction port located near a bottom of the main tank portion near the upper section. The main tank portion near the fuel suction port communicates with the bottom portion of the reserve chamber through a reserve passage, and a fuel cock capable of being skillfully opened is provided in the middle. Furthermore, the fuel in the tank is fed from the pump to the injector, while the remaining part is returned as overflow fuel via a return pipe to a reserve chamber in the fuel tank. Fuel overflowed from the reserve chamber flows out from the top of the partition wall into the main tank portion. When the fuel in the main tank portion is consumed, the fuel tap is opened, and the reserve fuel is supplied from the bottom of the reserve chamber to the vicinity of the fuel suction port. According to the' 993 patent, fuel is supplied to the main fuel tank rather than the reserve fuel tank, and therefore, in low fuel fill conditions, i.e., during a fuel fill operation, a smaller amount of fuel is supplied to the main fuel tank, the amount of reserve fuel available for vehicle operation is indeterminate.

Disclosure of Invention

In one embodiment, a vehicle is disclosed. The vehicle includes a frame including a first frame portion and a second frame portion. The fuel storage system is disposed on the frame. The fuel storage system includes a first fuel tank disposed on the second frame portion. The fuel storage system also includes a second fuel tank configured to receive fuel, wherein the second fuel tank is disposed on the first frame portion. The fuel storage system also includes a first fuel hose including a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is fluidly coupled to the first fuel tank and the second end is fluidly coupled to the second fuel tank. Further, the fuel storage system includes a valve disposed within the first fuel hose to control fuel flow between the first fuel tank and the second fuel tank. The valve is configured to operate between an open position in which the valve allows fuel flow between the second fuel tank and the first fuel tank and a closed position in which fuel flow between the second fuel tank and the first fuel tank is restricted. In addition, the fuel storage system includes a second fuel hose fluidly coupled to the first fuel tank and the second fuel tank to allow fuel to flow between the first fuel tank and the second fuel tank. The second fuel hose includes a third end fluidly coupled to the first fuel tank. The second fuel hose includes a fourth end disposed within the second fuel tank. The fourth end extends into the second fuel tank to a level above the second end of the first fuel hose.

In one embodiment, a fuel storage system is disclosed. The fuel storage system includes a first fuel tank disposed on a second frame portion. The fuel storage system also includes a second fuel tank configured to receive fuel, wherein the second fuel tank is disposed on the first frame portion. The fuel storage system also includes a first fuel hose including a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is fluidly coupled to the first fuel tank and the second end is fluidly coupled to the second fuel tank. Further, the fuel storage system includes a valve disposed within the first fuel hose to control fuel flow between the first fuel tank and the second fuel tank. The valve is configured to operate between an open position in which the valve allows fuel flow between the second fuel tank and the first fuel tank and a closed position in which fuel flow between the second fuel tank and the first fuel tank is restricted. In addition, the fuel storage system includes a second fuel hose fluidly coupled to the first fuel tank and the second fuel tank to allow fuel to flow between the first fuel tank and the second fuel tank. The second fuel hose includes a third end fluidly coupled to the first fuel tank. The second fuel hose includes a fourth end disposed within the second fuel tank. The fourth end extends into the second fuel tank to a level above the second end of the first fuel hose.

In one embodiment, a vehicle includes an Electronic Control Unit (ECU). In one embodiment, the valve is a semi-automatic fuel cock and the valve is electrically coupled to the ECU. In an embodiment, the valve is adapted to be operated in an open position upon receipt of a manual input and in a closed position upon receipt of a signal from an ECU (electronic control unit) based on detection of opening of the fuel cap and detection of filling of fuel in the first fuel tank. In an embodiment, the second end of the first fuel hose is fluidly coupled at the bottom of the second fuel tank. In an embodiment, the valve is a manual fuel cock, wherein the valve is operated between an open position and a closed position. In one embodiment, the valve is an automatic valve in electrical communication with the ECU and operates between an open position and a closed position. In an embodiment, the second end of the first fuel hose extends into the second fuel tank. In an embodiment, at least a portion of the first fuel tank is located at a liquid level below the second fuel tank. In one embodiment, the first fuel tank includes a fuel pump. In one implementation, the first fuel tank includes a second detection device. In one embodiment, the first fuel tank is disposed below the foot pedal. In one embodiment, the fuel storage system includes a fuel fill tube. The fuel fill tube is coupled to the second fuel tank, and the fuel fill tube is configured to ensure a flow of fuel within the second fuel tank.

In one embodiment, a method of operating a fuel storage system of a vehicle is disclosed. The method includes detecting a position of a fuel cap by a first detection device. Furthermore, the method comprises receiving, by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU), a signal from the first detection means. Then, it is determined by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) whether the fuel cap is in the open position based on the signal received from the first detection means. If so, the fuel level in the first fuel tank is detected by the second detection means. Furthermore, the method comprises receiving, by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU), a signal from the second detection means. Then, it is determined by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) whether the fuel level in the first fuel tank rises based on the signal received from the second detection device. In addition, the method includes determining, by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU), whether the valve is in one of an open position and a closed position.

In an embodiment, the method of determining, by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU), whether the valve is in one of an open position and a closed position includes detecting, by a third detection device, a position of the valve disposed within the first fuel hose, and receiving, by the Electronic Control Unit (ECU), a signal from the third detection device.

Drawings

The invention itself, as well as additional features and noted advantages, will be apparent from a consideration of the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. One or more embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements, and in which:

FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 shows a view of a frame of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates a view of a fuel storage system disposed on a frame of a vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 illustrates a view of a fuel storage system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 illustrates a view of a fuel storage system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 illustrates a view of a fuel storage system according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 illustrates a view of a fuel storage system according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 illustrates a view of a fuel storage system according to another embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 9 illustrates a flow chart of a method for operating a fuel storage system according to an embodiment of the invention.

The drawings referred to in this description should not be understood as being drawn to scale, except if specifically noted, and are merely exemplary in nature.

Detailed Description

While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described below. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention.

The terms "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a list of elements, structures, or methods that comprise a list of elements or steps does not include only those elements or steps, but may include other elements or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such list. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus beginning with "comprising" does not exclude the presence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus without further constraints.

For a better understanding of the present invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and described below, and in the following drawings, like reference numerals are used to identify like elements in the various views.

However, while the present invention is shown in the context of a vehicle, the fuel storage system and its aspects and features can also be used with other types of vehicles. The terms "vehicle", two-wheeled vehicle "and" motorcycle "have been used interchangeably throughout the specification. The term "vehicle" includes vehicles such as motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, scooters, pedal-powered vehicles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and the like.

The terms "front/forward", "rear/rearward", "up/top", "down/lower, bottom", "left/left", "right/right" as used herein refer to directions seen by a vehicle driver when riding over a seat, and these directions are indicated by arrows Fr, rr, U, lr, L, R in the drawings.

Referring to fig. 1, a vehicle (100) according to an embodiment of the invention is shown. The vehicle (100) referred to herein is embodied as a motorized pedal vehicle. Alternatively, without limiting the scope of the invention, the vehicle (100) may be implemented as any other ride-on vehicle, such as a motorcycle, scooter, ATV, or the like.

A vehicle (100) includes a front end assembly (102), a rear end assembly (104), and a step plate (106). The front end assembly (102) forms a front portion of the vehicle (100). The rear end assembly (104) forms a rear of the vehicle (100). A foot pedal (106) is located between the front (102) and rear (104) portions. The foot pedal (106) provides a foot pedal for a rider of the ride-on vehicle (100).

The rear end assembly (104) includes a seating area (108), a storage area (not shown), a rear ground engaging member (112), and a power unit (not shown). The seating area (108) provides a seat for a rider of the vehicle (100). The storage area is disposed below the seating area (108). The storage area allows for the storage of small items within the vehicle (100). A rear ground engaging member (112) is located below the seating area (108) and is driven by the power unit. The power unit includes an engine and a transmission unit. Furthermore, without limiting the scope of the invention, the back end assembly (104) may include additional components such as suspension systems, tail lights, rear grips, and the like.

The front end assembly (102) includes a front ground engaging member (114), a fuel cap (166), and a steering mechanism (116). The front ground engaging member (114) is operatively connected to a steering mechanism (116). The steering mechanism (116) includes a handle (118). The handle (118) is configured to be rotated by a rider to maneuver the vehicle (100). In addition, the front end assembly (102) includes a leg shield (120) disposed forward of the seating area (108). A leg shield (120) surrounds the steering mechanism (116). The leg shield (120) includes an inner leg shield (122) and an outer leg shield (not shown). The leg shield (120) provides protection for the feet of a rider of the vehicle (100).

The front end assembly (102) includes an instrument panel assembly (124). The instrument panel assembly (124) includes a display unit (126). A display unit (126) displays information about the vehicle (100) to the rider. In the embodiment shown, the display unit (126) is analog. The display unit (126) includes a speedometer (not shown) and a fuel indicator (not shown). Alternatively, the display unit (126) may be digital without any limitation. Further, the display unit (126) may include a plurality of visual indicators (not shown) to indicate various functional parameters related to the vehicle (100). Without limiting the scope of the invention, the dashboard assembly (124) may include additional components such as LCD, GPS, graphical User Interface (GUI), and the like. Furthermore, without limiting the scope of the invention, the front end assembly (102) may also include additional components such as reflectors, headlights, front fenders, and the like.

Further, the vehicle (100) includes an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110). An Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) is configured to communicate and control various functions within the vehicle (100). An Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) communicates with a number of sensors, including but not limited to position sensors, pressure sensors, etc., to monitor various functional parameters of components such as the engine, transmission, etc.

Referring to fig. 2, a vehicle (100) includes a frame (130). The frame (130) supports a front end assembly (102), a step (106), and a rear end assembly (104) of the vehicle (100). The frame (130) includes a head pipe (132), a left main frame (134), and a right main frame (136). The left main frame (134) and the right main frame (136) extend obliquely rearward and downward from the head pipe (132). Furthermore, the frame (130) comprises a first cross member (138) and a second cross member (140). A first cross member (138) and a second cross member (140) extend between the left main frame (134) and the right main frame (136).

The frame (130) includes a first frame portion (142), a second frame portion (144), and a third frame portion (146). The first frame portion (142) is operatively connected to the front end assembly (102) via the head tube (132). The second frame portion (144) supports the foot pedal (106). The power unit is operably coupled to the third frame portion (146). The frame (130) includes a first mounting bracket (148), a second mounting bracket (150), a third mounting bracket (152), and a fourth mounting bracket (154). A first mounting bracket (148) and a third mounting bracket (152) are provided on the left main frame (134). A second mounting bracket (150) and a fourth mounting bracket (154) are provided on the right main frame (136).

Referring to FIG. 3, a vehicle (100) includes a fuel storage system (156). A fuel storage system (156) is disposed on a frame (130) of the vehicle (100). The fuel storage system (156) delivers fuel required by the power unit to power the vehicle (100). The fuel storage system (156) includes a first fuel tank (158), a fuel cap (166), and a second fuel tank (170). In the illustrated embodiment, the first fuel tank (158) and the second fuel tank (170) are disclosed as two separate components. Alternatively, the first fuel tank (158) and the second fuel tank (170) may be integrated into a single component with a partition member (not shown) to have two different fuel storage spaces. In the illustrated embodiment, the fuel storage system (156) is electrically connected to an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) of the vehicle (100). Alternatively, the fuel storage system (156) may include a separate control unit to control various operations of the fuel storage system (156), without limiting the scope of the invention.

The first fuel tank (158) is disposed on the second frame portion (144) of the frame (130). In addition, a first fuel tank (158) is provided below a step (106) of the vehicle (100). In the illustrated embodiment, a rear portion of the first fuel tank (158) is connected to the second cross member (140) via a plurality of fastening members (159). A front portion of the first fuel tank (158) is connected to the third mounting bracket (152) via a fastening member (161), and is connected to the fourth mounting bracket (154) via a fastening member (163). In another embodiment, the first fuel tank (158) may be welded to the second frame portion (144) without any limitation.

The second fuel tank (170) is provided on a frame (130) of the vehicle (100). More specifically, the second fuel tank (170) is disposed on the first frame portion (142) of the frame (130). In the example shown, the top of the second fuel tank (166) is connected to the first cross member (138) (shown in fig. 2) via a plurality of fastening members (172). The bottom of the second fuel tank (166) is connected to the first mounting bracket (148) via a fastening member (174), and to the second mounting bracket (150) via a fastening member (176). In another example, the second fuel tank (166) may be welded to the first frame portion (142) without any limitation.

Referring to fig. 4, the first fuel tank (158) is implemented as a main fuel tank delivering fuel to a power unit of the vehicle (100). The first fuel tank (158) includes a fuel pump (160) and a fuel gauge (162). A fuel pump (160) delivers fuel present in the first fuel tank (158) to an engine of the vehicle (100). A fuel gauge (162) detects the amount/level of fuel present in the first fuel tank (158) and communicates this information to a fuel indicator on the instrument panel assembly (124) and to an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) of the vehicle (100). The first fuel tank (158) may include a tank vent (not shown). In the illustrated embodiment, the first fuel tank (158) is made of metal. Alternatively, the first fuel tank 158 may be made of a resin material or any other material known in the art.

The fuel storage system (156) includes a fuel inlet opening (164). The fuel inlet opening (164) allows insertion of a nozzle of a fuel supply (not shown). The fuel storage system (156) includes a fuel fill tube (168) and a second fuel tank (170). The fuel fill tube (168) allows fuel to flow from the fuel supply into the second fuel tank (170). The second fuel tank (170) includes a tank vent hole (171). The second fuel tank (170) is embodied as a reserve fuel tank, which reserves and delivers fuel to the first fuel tank (158), i.e. the main fuel tank. In the example shown, the second fuel tank (170) is made of metal. In another example of the present invention, the second fuel tank (170) is made of a resin material. Alternatively, the second fuel tank 170 may be made of any other material known in the art.

Referring to FIG. 5, the fuel storage system (156) includes a first fuel hose (178). The first fuel hose (178) is configured to allow fuel to flow between the second fuel tank (170) and the first fuel tank (158). The first fuel hose (178) includes a first end (180) and a second end (182). The first end (180) is fluidly connected to a front portion of the first fuel tank (158). The first end (182) is fluidly connected to a bottom of the second fuel tank (170). Alternatively, the second end (182) is disposed within the second fuel tank (170), and the second end (182) extends into the second fuel tank (170).

The fuel storage system (156) includes a second fuel hose (188). A second fuel hose (188) is fluidly connected between the second fuel tank (170) and the first fuel tank (158). The second fuel hose (188) includes a third end (190) and a fourth end (192). The third end (190) is fluidly connected to the first fuel tank (158). The fourth end (192) is disposed within the second fuel tank (170). Furthermore, the fourth end (192) extends into the second fuel tank (170) to a level above the second end (182) of the first fuel hose (178). A fourth end (192) of the second fuel hose (188) defines a hose opening (194).

In one embodiment, the fuel storage system (156) includes a valve (184). A valve (184) is disposed inside the first fuel hose (178). A valve (184) controls fuel flow between the first fuel tank (158) and the second fuel tank (170). The valve (184) operates between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the valve (184) restricts fuel flow from the second fuel tank (170) to the first fuel tank (158). In the open position, the valve (184) allows fuel to flow from the second fuel tank (170) to the first fuel tank (158). In the illustrated embodiment, the valve (184) is implemented as a manual fuel cock. The valve (184) includes a knob (185) (shown in fig. 4) to operate the valve (184) between an open position and a closed position. The knob (185) is accessible from an opening (186) (shown in fig. 1) provided on a step (106) of the vehicle (100). In another example, the valve (184) may be actuated by a switch (not shown). The switch may be provided on the instrument panel assembly (124) or may be provided on any other area of the vehicle (100) that is readily accessible to a rider without any limitation.

During a fueling operation, the valve (184) is operated to a closed position. Fuel from the fuel supply flows into the second fuel tank (170) through the fuel fill tube (168). The fuel is filled in the second fuel tank (170). Thereafter, the fuel flowing over the hose opening (194) flows into the first fuel tank (158), thereby filling the first fuel tank (158). Fuel under the hose opening (194) is retained in the second fuel tank (170) and serves as a reserve fuel.

During vehicle operation, when a fuel gauge (162) present on the first fuel tank (158) indicates a low fuel condition to the rider via a fuel indicator on the display unit (126). The valve (184) is operated to an open position which allows the reserve fuel present in the second fuel tank (170) to flow into the first fuel tank (158). Thereby, continuous operation of the vehicle is ensured.

Referring to FIG. 6, another embodiment of a fuel storage system (200) is shown. The fuel storage system (200) includes a fuel fill tube (202), a second fuel tank (204), and a first fuel tank (206). The fuel fill tube (202) allows fuel to flow from the fuel supply into the second fuel tank (204). The second fuel tank (204) includes a tank vent (208). The second fuel tank (204) is embodied as a reserve fuel tank, which reserves and delivers fuel to the first fuel tank (206), i.e. the main fuel tank. The first fuel tank (206) is implemented as a main fuel tank delivering fuel to a power unit of the vehicle (100). The first fuel tank (206) includes a fuel pump (260) and a fuel gauge (not shown). The fuel pump delivers fuel present in the first fuel tank (206) to an engine of the vehicle (100). The fuel gauge detects the amount of fuel present inside the first fuel tank (206).

The fuel storage system (200) includes a first fuel hose (214). The first fuel hose (214) is configured to allow fuel to flow between the second fuel tank (204) and the first fuel tank (206). The first fuel hose (214) includes a first end (216) and a second end (218). The first end (216) is fluidly connected to a front portion of the first fuel tank (206). The first end (218) is fluidly connected to a bottom of the second fuel tank (204). Alternatively, the second end (218) is disposed within the second fuel tank (204), and the second end (218) extends into the second fuel tank 204.

The fuel storage system (200) includes a second fuel hose (220). A second fuel hose (220) is fluidly connected between the second fuel tank (204) and the first fuel tank (206). The second fuel hose (220) includes a third end (222) and a fourth end (224). The third end (222) is fluidly connected to a front portion of the first fuel tank (206). The fourth end (224) is fluidly connected to the second fuel tank (204). In addition, the fourth end (224) extends into the second fuel tank (204) to a level above the second end (218) of the first fuel hose (214). A fourth end (224) of the second fuel hose (220) defines a hose opening (226).

Further, the fuel storage system (200) includes a valve (228). The valve (228) is an automatic valve. In one example, the automatic valve is a solenoid valve. Hereinafter, the electromagnetic valve (228). A solenoid valve (228) is disposed within the first fuel hose (214). A solenoid valve (228) controls fuel flow between the first fuel tank (206) and the second fuel tank (204). A solenoid valve (228) operates between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the solenoid valve (228) restricts fuel flow from the second fuel tank (204) to the first fuel tank (206). In the open position, the solenoid valve (228) allows fuel to flow from the second fuel tank (204) to the first fuel tank (206). The solenoid valve (228) is actuated by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) of the vehicle (100). An Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) is in continuous communication with a fuel gauge (not shown) of the first fuel tank (206). Further, an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) communicates with the fuel cap (166). More specifically, an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) receives information about the position of the fuel cap (166), i.e., whether the fuel cap (166) is open or closed.

During fuel filling, an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) of the vehicle (100) detects opening of a fuel cap (166). Then, an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) operates the solenoid valve (228) to a closed position. Fuel from the fuel supply flows through the fuel fill tube (202) into the second fuel tank (204). The fuel is filled in the second fuel tank (204). Thereafter, the fuel flowing over the hose opening (226) flows into the first fuel tank (206), thereby filling the first fuel tank (206). Fuel under the hose opening (226) is retained in the second fuel tank (204) and serves as a reserve fuel.

During operation of the vehicle, when a fuel gauge present on the first fuel tank (204) indicates a low fuel condition, it is communicated to an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) of the vehicle (100). An Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) actuates a solenoid valve (228) to an open position, which allows reserve fuel present in the second fuel tank (204) to flow into the first fuel tank (206). Thereby, continuous operation of the vehicle is ensured.

Referring to FIG. 7, yet another embodiment of a fuel storage system (356) is shown. The first fuel tank (358) is implemented as a main fuel tank delivering fuel to a power unit of the vehicle (100). The first fuel tank (358) includes a fuel pump (360) and a fuel gauge (362). A fuel pump (360) delivers fuel present in the first fuel tank (358) to an engine of the vehicle (100). A fuel gauge (362) detects the amount of fuel present in the first fuel tank (358) and communicates that information to a fuel indicator on the instrument panel assembly (124). In the illustrated embodiment, the first fuel tank (358) is made of metal. Alternatively, the first fuel tank (358) may be made of a resin material or any other material known in the art.

The fuel storage system (356) includes a fuel inlet opening (364). The fuel inlet opening (364) allows insertion of a nozzle of a fuel supply (not shown). The fuel storage system (356) includes a fuel fill pipe (368) and a second fuel tank (370). The fuel fill tube (368) allows fuel to flow from the fuel supply into the second fuel tank (370). The second fuel tank (370) includes a tank vent hole (371). The second fuel tank (370) is embodied as a reserve fuel tank, which reserves and delivers fuel to the first fuel tank (358), i.e. the main fuel tank. In the example shown, the second fuel tank (370) is made of metal. In another example of the present invention, the second fuel tank (370) is made of a resin material. Alternatively, the second fuel tank (370) may be made of any other material known in the art.

Referring to FIG. 8, the fuel storage system (356) includes a first fuel hose (378). The first fuel hose (378) is configured to allow fuel to flow between the second fuel tank (370) and the first fuel tank (358). The first fuel hose (378) includes a first end (380) and a second end (382). The first end (380) is fluidly connected to a front portion of the first fuel tank (358). The second end (382) is fluidly connected to the second fuel tank (370). Alternatively, the second end (382) is disposed within the second fuel tank (370) and the second end (382) extends into the second fuel tank 370.

The fuel storage system (356) includes a second fuel hose (388). A second fuel hose (388) is fluidly connected between the second fuel tank (370) and the first fuel tank (358). The second fuel hose (388) includes a third end (390) and a fourth end (392). The third end (390) is fluidly connected to the first fuel tank (358). The fourth end (392) is disposed within the second fuel tank (370). In addition, the fourth end (392) extends into the second fuel tank (370) to a level above the second end (382) of the first fuel hose (378). A fourth end (392) of the second fuel hose (388) defines a hose opening (394).

In one embodiment, the fuel storage system (356) includes a valve (384). A valve (384) is disposed inside the first fuel hose (378). A valve (384) controls the flow of fuel between the first fuel tank (358) and the second fuel tank (370). The valve (384) operates between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the valve (384) restricts fuel flow from the second fuel tank (370) to the first fuel tank (358). In the open position, the valve (384) allows fuel to flow from the second fuel tank (370) to the first fuel tank (358).

In the illustrated embodiment, the valve (384) is a semi-automatic fuel cock. The valve (384) is electrically connected to an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110). The valve (384) is adapted to be operated to a closed position upon receiving a manual input and to an open position upon receiving a signal from an ECU (electronic control unit) (110) based on detecting the opening of the fuel cap (366) and detecting the filling of the first fuel tank (358) with fuel. More specifically, the valve (384) includes a knob (387). The manual operating knob (387) is from a closed position to an open position, thereby allowing fuel to flow from the second fuel tank (370) to the first fuel tank (358). Manual movement of the knob (385) from the open position to the closed position is limited. In one example, manual movement of the knob (385) is limited by means of a stop mechanism (not shown), including but not limited to a ratchet mechanism. This provides a visual indication to the operator that only a limited/reserved amount of fuel is available. It also acts as a fail safe in the event of a failure of the fuel indicator or in the event of a fuel indicator not operating.

Movement of the knob (385) from the open position to the closed position is actuated by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) of the vehicle (100). An Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) is always in communication with a fuel gauge (362), a first detection device (1), a second detection device (2), and a third detection device (3), the fuel gauge (362) is used for detecting the fuel level, the first detection device (1) detects whether a fuel cap (366) is open or closed, the second detection device (2) detects the rise of the fuel level in a first fuel tank (358), and the third detection device (3) detects the open or closed position of a knob (385). Further, an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) communicates with the fuel cap (366).

During a fuel filling operation, an ECU of the vehicle (100) detects an opening of a fuel cap (366) and an increase (358) in fuel level inside a first fuel tank (358) due to a fuel filling inside the first fuel tank. Then, the ECU operates the knob (385) to the closed position. Fuel from the fuel supply flows into the second fuel tank (370) through the fuel fill pipe (368). The fuel is filled in the second fuel tank (370). Thereafter, the fuel flowing over the hose opening (394) flows into the first fuel tank (358), thereby filling the first fuel tank (358). The fuel under the hose opening (394) is retained in the second fuel tank (370) and serves as a reserve fuel.

During vehicle operation, when a fuel gauge (362) present on the first fuel tank (358) indicates a low fuel condition to the rider via a fuel indicator on the display unit (326). The valve (384) is operated by the rider to an open position which allows the reserve fuel present within the second fuel tank (370) to flow into the first fuel tank (358). Thereby, continuous operation of the vehicle is ensured.

During vehicle operation, if the engine is stopped (358) due to no supply from the first fuel tank, or if the fuel indicator indicates to the vehicle operator that the fuel is insufficient, the operator can manually operate the valve (384) by operating from the closed position to the open position, thereby allowing fuel to flow from the second fuel tank (370) to the first fuel tank (358). Manual movement of the valve (384) from the open position to the closed position is limited. The fuel in the second fuel tank (370) flows into the first fuel tank (358), and operation of the vehicle is continued.

During a fuel filling operation, when an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) of the vehicle (100) detects that the fuel cap (366) is open and the fuel level in the first fuel tank (358) rises, the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) actuates an actuator to move the valve (384) from the open position to the closed position. This ensures that fuel added during a fuel filling operation is first filled in the second fuel tank (370). Now, if the vehicle (100) utilizes the fuel available in the second fuel tank (370) by operating the valve (384) from the closed position to the open position in the event of an engine stop due to a low fuel condition in the vehicle (100).

FIG. 9 illustrates a flow chart of a method (900) for operating a fuel storage system (356) according to an embodiment of the invention. The method (900) begins when fuel is supplied to the fuel storage system (356). At (901), the position of a fuel cap (366) of a second fuel tank (370) is detected by a first detection device (1). At (902), a signal from a first detection device (1) is received by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110). At (903), it is determined by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) whether the fuel cap (366) is in an open position based on a signal received from the first detection device (1). If not, the method returns to step (901). If so, the method proceeds to step (904). At (904), a rise in the fuel level in the first fuel tank (358) is detected by the second detection means (2). At (905), a signal from the second detection device (2) is received by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110). At (906), it is determined by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) whether the fuel level in the first fuel tank (358) is increasing based on the signal received from the second detection device (2). If not, the method returns to step (901). In one embodiment, the second detection device (2) is a fuel gauge (362) mounted in the first fuel tank (358). If so, the method proceeds to step (907). At (907), the position of a valve (384) provided in the first fuel hose (378) is detected by the third detection means (3). At (908), a signal from the third detection device (3) is received by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110). At (909), it is determined by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) whether the valve (384) is in the open position based on the signal received from the third detection means (3). If not, the method returns to step (907). If so, the method proceeds to step (910). At (910), the actuator is actuated by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (110) to close the valve (384).

Alternatively, in any of the embodiments described above, the first fuel tank (158, 206, 358) may include a second fuel cap (not shown) for filling fuel in the first fuel tank (158, 206, 358), without any limitation.

Furthermore, in any of the embodiments described above, the second end (182, 218, 382) is fluidly coupled at the bottom of the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370), which results in no fuel accumulating in the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370) when the valve (184, 228, 384) is open.

In contrast to modern fuel injection type vehicles, the present invention provides reserve fuel storage. Furthermore, since the reserve fuel tank is filled first during a fueling operation, a certain amount of reserve fuel is always available to the rider even if the rider is unaware of low fuel conditions.

Although a few embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and that appropriate modifications can be made within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Although specific features of the invention have been emphasized here too much, it should be appreciated that various modifications can be made without departing from the principles of the invention, and that many modifications are possible in the preferred embodiments. These and other modifications in the nature of the invention or the preferred embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be clearly understood that the foregoing illustrative aspects are to be construed as merely illustrative and not limiting of the present invention.

Claims

1.A saddle-ride type vehicle (100), comprising:

-a frame (130) comprising a first frame portion (142) and a second frame portion (144);

a fuel storage system (156, 200, 356) disposed on the frame (130), wherein the fuel storage system (156, 200, 356) comprises:

a first fuel tank (158, 206, 358) disposed on the second frame portion (144);

A second fuel tank (170, 204, 370) configured to receive fuel, wherein the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370) is disposed on the first frame portion (142);

a first fuel hose (178, 214, 378) comprising a first end (180, 216, 380) and a second end (182, 218, 382), wherein the first end (180, 216, 380) is fluidly coupled to the first fuel tank (158, 206, 358) and the second end (182, 218, 382) is fluidly coupled to the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370);

A valve (184, 228, 384) disposed within the first fuel hose (178, 214, 378) to control fuel flow between the first fuel tank (158, 206, 358) and the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370), wherein the valve (184, 228, 384) is configured to operate between an open position and a closed position, wherein the valve (184, 228, 384) allows Xu Ranliao to flow between the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370) and the first fuel tank (158, 206, 358) in the open position and restricts fuel flow between the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370) and the first fuel tank (158, 206, 358) in the closed position; and

A second fuel hose (188, 228, 388) fluidly coupled to the first fuel tank (158, 206, 358) and the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370) to allow fuel to flow between the first fuel tank (158, 206, 358) and the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370), wherein the second fuel hose (188, 228, 388) comprises:

a third end (190, 222, 390) fluidly coupled to the first fuel tank (158, 206, 358); and

A fourth end (192, 224, 392) disposed within the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370), wherein the fourth end (192, 224, 392) extends into the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370) to a position above the second end (182, 218, 382) of the first fuel hose (178, 214, 378), wherein,

The first fuel tank (158, 206, 358) is a primary fuel tank delivering fuel to a power unit of the saddle type vehicle, the fuel storage system (156, 200),

356 Includes a fuel fill tube (168, 202, 368) that allows fuel to flow from a fuel supply into the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370), the first fuel tank (158, 206, 358) being located below the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370).

2. The vehicle (100) according to claim 1, wherein the vehicle (100) comprises an electronic control unit ECU (110).

3. The vehicle (100) of claim 2, wherein the valve (384) is a semi-automatic fuel cock, wherein the valve (384) is electrically coupled to the electronic control unit ECU (110), wherein the valve (384) is adapted to operate to:

an open position upon receipt of a manual input; and

A closed position upon receipt of a signal from an electronic control unit ECU (110) based on detection of opening of a fuel cap (366) on the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370) and detection of fuel filling in the first fuel tank (358).

4. The vehicle (100) of claim 1, wherein the second end (182, 218, 382) of the first fuel hose (178, 214, 378) is fluidly coupled at a bottom of the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370).

5. The vehicle (100) of claim 1, wherein the valve (184) is a manual fuel cock, wherein the valve (184) operates between an open position and a closed position.

6. The vehicle (100) of claim 2, wherein the valve (228) is an automatic valve in electronic communication with the electronic control unit ECU (110), wherein the valve (228) operates between an open position and a closed position.

7. The vehicle (100) of claim 1, wherein the second end (182, 218, 382) of the first fuel hose (178, 214, 378) extends into the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370).

8. The vehicle (100) of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the first fuel tank (158, 206, 358) is located at a position below the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370).

9. The vehicle (100) of claim 1, wherein the first fuel tank (158, 206, 358) includes a fuel pump (160, 260, 360).

10. The vehicle (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first fuel tank (158, 206, 358) comprises a second detection device (2) for detecting the fuel level in the first fuel tank (358).

11. The vehicle (100) of claim 1, wherein the first fuel tank (158, 206, 358) is disposed below the step (106).

12. The vehicle (100) of claim 1, wherein the fuel fill tube (168, 202, 368) is coupled to the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370), wherein the fuel fill tube (168, 202, 368) is configured to ensure a flow of fuel within the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370).

13. A method of operating a fuel storage system (356) of a vehicle (100) according to any one of claims 1-12, comprising:

Detecting the position of the fuel cap (166) by the first detection means (1);

Receiving, by an electronic control unit ECU (110), a signal from the first detection device (1);

Determining, by the electronic control unit ECU (110), whether the fuel cap (166) is in an open position based on a signal received from the first detection device (1);

Detecting an increase in the fuel level in the first fuel tank (358) by the second detection device (2);

Receiving, by the electronic control unit ECU (110), a signal from the second detection means (2);

Determining, by the electronic control unit ECU (110), whether the fuel level in the first fuel tank (358) rises based on the signal received from the second detection device (2);

Determining, by the electronic control unit ECU (110), whether the valve (384) is in one of an open position and a closed position;

The valve (384) is operated to a closed position (110) by the electronic control unit ECU.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein determining, by the electronic control unit ECU (110), whether the valve (384) is in one of an open position and a closed position comprises:

detecting a position of a valve (384) arranged in the first fuel hose (378) by a third detection means (3);

A signal from the third detection means (3) is received by the electronic control unit ECU (110).

15. A fuel storage system (156, 200, 356) comprising:

a first fuel tank (158, 206, 358);

a second fuel tank (170, 204, 370) configured to receive fuel;

A third end (190, 222, 390) fluidly coupled to the first fuel tank (158, 206, 358);

The first fuel tank (158, 206, 358) is a primary fuel tank delivering fuel to a power unit of a saddle-type vehicle, the fuel storage system (156, 200, 356) includes a fuel fill pipe (168, 202, 368) allowing fuel to flow from a fuel supply into the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370), the first fuel tank (158, 206, 358) being located below the second fuel tank (170, 204, 370).