Fuel coupler with wireless port door unlatching actuator
US8627860B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 6, 2012 |
| Grant date | Jan 14, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 6, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T292/1021
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A fuel delivery system and method of use are provided that may be used to open the door covering the charge port of an electric vehicle, or the door covering the fuel filler port of a conventional vehicle. The system includes a fuel coupler (e.g., a charging connector or a gas nozzle) designed to transfer fuel from the source to the vehicle via the vehicle's fuel port. The fuel coupler includes a switch that when toggled, causes a control signal to be wirelessly transmitted over a short distance. Upon receipt of the control signal by a receiver integrated into a vehicle that is in close proximity to the fuel port, an unlatching actuator within the vehicle unlatches the port door, thereby allowing it to open and provide port access.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.