Method and system for preventing fluid from flowing along a fluid path in a watercraft
US6773317B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 18, 2002 |
| Grant date | Aug 10, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 18, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB63H21/38
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus and method are provided for selectively preventing fluid from flowing through a fluid path when a vehicle is in a predetermined orientation. When an orientation sensor signals to a controller that the vehicle is inverted, the controller closes a valve to prevent fluid from flowing therethrough. If the fluid path is part of an open-loop oil system, closing the valve may prevent oil in the oil system from leaking into the ambient environment when the vehicle flips over. Similarly, if the fluid path is part of an exhaust system for an engine of a watercraft, closing the valve may prevent water from entering the exhaust system and/or the engine when the watercraft flips over. Alternatively, the controller may alert an operator that a vehicle has been uprighted in an incorrect direction.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.