FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT 1970
[39 OF 1970]
&
The Patents Rules, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
[See section 10 and rule 13]
TITLE: “A BIOFUEL TREATMENT SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR A VEHICLE
AND A METHOD THEREOF”
NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE APPLICANT:
TATA MOTORS LIMITED, having address at Bombay House, 24 Homi Mody Street,
Hutatma Chowk, Mumbai 400 001 Maharashtra, India.
Nationality: INDIAN
The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.

TECHNICAL FIELD:
Present disclosure generally relates to the field of sterilizing systems and methods for disinfecting fuel to prevent proliferation of micro-organisms. Particularly, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to an apparatus for sterilizing biofuel present in a fuel tanks of a vehicle.
BACKGROUND OF DISCLOSURE:
The use of automobiles are increasing at rapid pace. The automobiles are equipped with various engines such as petrol engines and diesel engines which generate power required for propulsion of a vehicle by combustion of fuel. Petrol and diesel are the most common fuels used in petrol and diesel engines equipped in the vehicles, respectively. However, the use of these fuels will generate toxic pollutants such as carbon monoxide (CO) which may cause pollution which is harmful to the environment and people. Further, fuels stored in a fuel tank of the vehicle for extended periods of time can undergo polymerization, oxidation, emulsions, and bacterial and fungal contamination. These problems can form residues within the fuel tank. The aging of these fuel residues and fuel lines can cause serious problems in engines and fuel systems. Bacteria and fungi can grow and develop in crude oil and the fuel tanks. Biologically contaminated fuel tanks experience problems related to quality and infrastructure. Biologically contaminated storage tanks experience problems related to fuel quality and fuel storage infrastructure and engine operating system. Microbial contamination problems cause the proliferation of algae or biological mass in a gelatinous form, which is highly corrosive, clogging engine filters, pipes and injectors and literally devouring the metals in the tank that contains it, in addition to reducing the quality of the fuel itself.
In recent times, biofuel such as biodiesel is being recognized as an alternative to the conventional petrol and diesel fuels. Biodiesel is a form of diesel fuel derived from plants or animals and consisting of long-chain fatty acid esters. Biodiesel is typically made by chemically reacting lipids. These lipids are mixed with an alcohol to produce a methyl, ethyl, or propyl ester by the process of transesterification. Biodiesel is compatible with existing diesel engines and distribution infrastructure. However, it is usually blended with diesel fuel (typically to less than 10%) since most engines cannot run on pure biodiesel without modification. The advantages of biodiesel include high brake efficiency, low emissions, and biodegradable in nature. Further, the increase in quantity of biodiesel compared to the diesel also improves the overall efficiency of the diesel

engine. However, such increase in the quantity of biodiesel may lead to a significant growth of microbials such as bacteria and fungi within a fuel tank of the vehicle. This is due to increased moisture absorbing capability of the biodiesel at temperatures between 4°C to 35 °C which inherently results in growth of the microorganisms. This microbial growth results in formation of sludge on a surface or bottom portion of the tank which may clog up the fuel filter. Consequently, this also damages fuel injectors and accelerate the corrosion of the fuel tank. Also, the components such as fuel filter and injectors needs to be frequently replaced due to this microbial growth and thereby increases maintenance costs of the vehicle.
Efforts have been made to provide a sterilization tank which are disposed in a fluid flow path which is connected to a fuel pump and the fuel tank. Although the existing sterilization tanks are used to treat the fuel present in the fuel tank, the sterilization process will carry on until the engine is in ON condition as the fuel pump will be operated continuously to supply fuel to the engine. Further, there is a high possibility that the treated fuel will be contaminated upon mixing with the untreated fuel which is already present in the fuel tank. Also, the treated fuel will be passed continuously through the sterilization tank which is undesirable and this continuous treatment and upon of the sterilization tank will result in damage of the sterilization tank which may require frequent maintenance or replacement of the sterilization tank. Consequently, this increases overall cost of the sterilization for a given volume of fuel in the fuel tank.
The present disclosure is intended to overcome one or more above stated limitations.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE:
One or more shortcomings of conventional fuel treatment systems are overcome, and additional advantages are provided through an apparatus, system a method of the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are realized through the construction and arrangement of the components of the apparatus and system to dis-infect prevent growth of microbials in a biofuel. Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed disclosure.
In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a biofuel treatment apparatus for a vehicle is disclosed. The biofuel treatment apparatus comprises a manifold fluidly connected

with at least one first conduit and at least one second conduit, the manifold is fluidly connectable to a fuel tank. At least one pump is fluidly connected to the fuel tank through the at least one first conduit of the manifold. The at least one pump is defined with an inlet and an outlet to receive and pump out biofuel from the fuel tank. Further, at least one sterilizing tube is fluidly connected to the outlet of the at least one pump and to the fuel tank through the at least one second conduit of the manifold. The at least one sterilizing tube comprises at least one sterilizer therewithin to emit ultraviolet rays on the biofuel passing through the at least one sterilizing tube. The at least one pump is configured to supply the biofuel from the fuel tank to the at least one sterilizing tube for UV radiation to inhibit growth of microbials in the biofuel.
In an embodiment, the biofuel treatment apparatus comprises an enclosure that is configured to accommodate the at least one pump and the at least one sterilizing tube therewithin.
In an embodiment, the at least one sterilizing tube is configured to dispense the biofuel subjected to UV radiation into the fuel tank through the at least one first conduit of the manifold.
In an embodiment, the at least one sterilizing tube is defined with an inlet port and an outlet port, the inlet port is fluidly connected to the outlet of the at least one pump to receive the biofuel supplied from the fuel tank.
In an embodiment, the biofuel treatment apparatus comprises a timer connected to the at least one pump, the timer is configured to record a first time interval and a second time interval which corresponds to an ON condition of the at least one pump and an OFF condition of the at least one pump respectively.
In an embodiment, the at least one pump is operated in the first time interval transfer the biofuel from the fuel tank into the at least one sterilizing tube for the UV radiation of the biofuel.
In an embodiment, wherein the at least one sterilizer may be at least one of a lamp, bulb or a tube which emits ultraviolet rays for sterilization.
In one non-limiting embodiment, a system for treatment of biofuel in a vehicle is disclosed. The system comprises a fuel tank connected to a chassis of the vehicle, the fuel tank is configured

to store and supply a biofuel. At least one sensor is positioned within the fuel tank to measure quantity of biofuel present in the fuel tank. A biofuel treatment apparatus is connected to the chassis of the vehicle and disposed proximate to the fuel tank. The biofuel treatment apparatus comprises a manifold fluidly connected with at least one first conduit and at least one second conduit, the manifold is fluidly connectable to a fuel tank. At least one pump is fluidly connected to the fuel tank through the at least one first conduit of the manifold. The at least one pump is defined with an inlet and an outlet to receive and pump out biofuel from the fuel tank. Further, at least one sterilizing tube is fluidly connected to the outlet of the at least one pump and to the fuel tank through the at least one second conduit of the manifold. The at least one sterilizing tube comprises at least one sterilizer therewithin to emit ultraviolet rays on the biofuel passing through the at least one sterilizing tube. The at least one pump is configured to supply the biofuel from the fuel tank to the at least one sterilizing tube for UV radiation to inhibit growth of microbials in the biofuel. Further, a controller is communicatively coupled to the at least one sensor and the biofuel treatment apparatus. The controller is configured to receive a first signal from the at least one sensor corresponding to a quantity of fuel present in the fuel tank. The Controller then determines a quantity of biofuel based on the first signal. Later, the controller activates the at least one pump for a first time interval to discharge the fuel from the fuel tank into the at least one sterilizing tube for treatment of biofuel by UV radiation. Further, the controller de-activates the at least one pump once the first time interval is lapsed. The controller also receives a second signal from the at least one sensor corresponding to a change in the quantity of biofuel within the fuel tank. Lastly, the controller activates the at least one pump based on the second signal to a predetermined time period for re-treatment of the biofuel followed by de-activating the at least one pump once the predetermined time period is lapsed.
In an embodiment, the system further comprises a nozzle member disposed within the fuel tank and in fluid communication with the at least one second conduit. The nozzle member is configured to distribute the biofuel received from the at least one second conduit within the fuel tank.
In an embodiment, the first time interval depends on a volume of biofuel present in the fuel tank and the predetermined time period depends on a quantity of fuel entering the fuel tank after operation of the at least one pump in the first time interval.

In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of treating biofuel in a vehicle by a biofuel treatment apparatus is disclosed. The biofuel treatment apparatus is connected to the fuel tank through a manifold. The method comprises the steps of initially receiving a first signal, from at least one sensor corresponding to a quantity of biofuel within the fuel tank. The at least one sensor is disposed within the fuel tank and communicatively coupled to the controller. Then, the controller determines the quantity of biofuel within the fuel tank based on the first signal. Later, the controller activates at least one pump to discharge the fuel from the fuel tank into the at least one sterilizing tube for a first time interval for UV radiation of biofuel. The at least one pump is disposed within the biofuel treatment apparatus and communicatively coupled to the controller. Followed by de-activating the at least one pump, by the controller, once the first time interval is lapsed. Further, the controller receives a second signal from the at least one sensor corresponding to a change in the quantity of biofuel within the fuel tank and activates the at least one pump, by the controller, based on the second signal to a predetermined time period for re-treatment of the biofuel. Lastly, the controller de-activates the at least one pump, once the predetermined time period is lapsed.
The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS:
The novel features and characteristics of the disclosure are set forth in the appended description. The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives, and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:
Fig. 1 is a schematic layout of a system for treating a biofuel in a vehicle by a biofuel treatment apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 2a is a sectional front view of the biofuel treatment apparatus of Fig. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Fig. 2b is a sectional view of at least one sterilizing tube of Fig. 2a taken along B-B, showcasing internal components of the at least one sterilizing tube.
Fig. 3 is a front view of a portion of the vehicle installed with the system of Fig. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Fig. 4 is a top view of Fig. 3, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Fig. 5 is a block diagram depicting a controller connected to the system of Fig. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
Fig. 6 is a flowchart diagram of a method of treating biofuel in a vehicle by the biofuel treatment apparatus and the system of Fig. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
The figures depict embodiments of the disclosure for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.
DEATAILED DESCRIPTION:
While the embodiments of the disclosure are subject to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the figures and will be described below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure.
It is to be noted that a person skilled in the art would be motivated from the present disclosure and modify a system and a method for the purpose of treating the biofuel within a fuel tank of the vehicle. However, such modification should be construed within the scope of the present

disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings show only those specific details that are pertinent to understand the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.
The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof used in the present disclosure, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a system, a method, an apparatus or a device, that comprises a list of components does not include only those components but may include other components not expressly listed or inherent to such system, method, apparatus, or the device. In other words, one or more elements in the system or the apparatus preceded by “comprises… a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system, the method, or the apparatus.
In the following description of the embodiments of the disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying figures that form a part hereof, and in which are shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the present disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that, changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.
Embodiments of the present disclosure discloses a biofuel treatment apparatus for a vehicle. Conventionally, biofuel such as biodiesel is being used in vehicles due to its numerous advantages such as low emissions and biodegradable quality of the biofuel. Biodiesel is a form of diesel fuel derived from plants or animals and consisting of long-chain fatty acid esters. Biodiesel is typically made by chemically reacting lipids such as animal fat, soybean oil, or some other vegetable oils. These vegetable oils are mixed with an alcohol to produce a methyl, ethyl or propyl ester by the process of transesterification. Biodiesel is compatible with existing diesel engines and distribution infrastructure. However, it is usually blended with diesel fuel (typically to less than 10%) since most engines cannot run on pure biodiesel without modification. It is evident that the increase in quantity of biodiesel compared to the diesel also improves the overall efficiency of the diesel engine. However, such increase in the quantity of biodiesel may lead to a significant growth of

microbials such as bacteria and fungi within a fuel tank of the vehicle. This is due to increased moisture absorbing capability of the biodiesel at temperatures between 4°C to 35 °C which inherently results in growth of the microorganisms. This microbial growth results in formation of sludge on a surface or bottom portion of the tank which may clog up the fuel filter. Consequently, this also damages fuel injectors and accelerate the corrosion of the fuel tank. Also, the components such as fuel filter and injectors needs to be frequently replaced due to this microbial growth and thereby increases maintenance costs of the vehicle.
In view of the above, a biofuel treatment apparatus for a vehicle is disclosed. The biofuel treatment apparatus comprises a manifold fluidly connected with at least one first conduit and at least one second conduit, the manifold is fluidly connectable to a fuel tank. At least one pump is fluidly connected to the fuel tank through the at least one first conduit of the manifold. The at least one pump is defined with an inlet and an outlet to receive and pump out biofuel from the fuel tank. Further, at least one sterilizing tube is fluidly connected to the outlet of the at least one pump and to the fuel tank through the at least one second conduit of the manifold. The at least one sterilizing tube comprises at least one sterilizer therewithin to emit ultraviolet rays on the biofuel passing through the at least one sterilizing tube. The at least one pump is configured to supply the biofuel from the fuel tank to the at least one sterilizing tube for UV radiation to inhibit growth of microbials in the biofuel.
Referring to Fig.1 which illustrates a schematic layout of a system (300) for treating a biofuel in a vehicle (200). The system (300) comprises a fuel tank (202) connected to a chassis (204) of the vehicle (200). The fuel tank (202) is configured to store and supply a biofuel (203). The fuel tank (202) is generally connected proximate to an engine of the vehicle (200) and is coupled to the chassis using a plurality of brackets (205) and suitable fasteners (not shown in Figs.) such as nuts and bolts, screws, studs etc. The fuel tank (202) is designed as a hollow vessel configured to store a predefined volume of the biofuel- (203). The volume of the biofuel may depend on the type of vehicle (200) and the capacity of the engine. An opening (not shown in Figs.) is defined on an outer surface of the fuel tank (202) to receive the biofuel (203). The opening is covered by a cap (207) to prevent foreign matter from entering the fuel tank (202). At least one sensor (206) is positioned within the fuel tank (202) to measure quantity of the biofuel (203) present in the fuel tank (202). In an embodiment, the at least one sensor (206) may be a fuel level sensor, resistive

sensor, capacitive fuel sensor, ultrasonic sensor etc. A biofuel treatment apparatus (100) connected to the chassis (204) of the vehicle (200) and is disposed proximate to the fuel tank (202).
Referring now to Fig. 2a in conjunction with Fig. 1, the biofuel treatment apparatus (100) comprises a manifold (103) fluidly connected to the fuel tank (202). The manifold (103) is mounted on an upper surface of the fuel tank (202). The manifold (103) is defined with at least two openings (107), each opening is fluidly connected with at least one first conduit (103a) and at least one second conduit (103b). The at least one first conduit (103a) and the second conduit (103b) may include a pipe or a tube having a suitable diameter to allow the fuel flow from the fuel tank (202) through the manifold (103). In an embodiment, the least one first conduit (103a) and at least one second conduit (103b) extend into the fuel tank (202). An enclosure (101) is defined with a base and four sidewalls extending perpendicularly from the base. A top wall is connected to each of the four sidewalls (112) and disposed opposite to the base to define a height of the enclosure. The top wall (109) and the base (110) is defined with a plurality of provisions (not seen in Figs.) for accommodating the at least one first conduit (103a) and the at least one second conduit (103b) of the manifold (103). The enclosure (101) is also connected to the chassis (204) proximate to the fuel tank (202). At least one pump (102) is disposed within the enclosure and fluidly connected to the fuel tank (202) through the at least one first conduit (103a) of the manifold (103). In an embodiment, the at least one pump (102) is preferably disposed at a central position of the enclosure (101) and however this cannot be considered as limiting and the at least one pump (102) can be disposed near the four sidewalls (112) of the enclosure (101). The at least one pump (102) is defined with an inlet (104) and an outlet (106) opposite to the inlet. The inlet (104) of the at least one pump (102) is fluidly connected to the at least one first conduit (103a). The at least one pump (102) is configured to transfer the biofuel (203) from the fuel tank (202) towards the enclosure (101) through the at least one first conduit (103a) by suction. The outlet (106) of the at least one pump (102) is fluidly connected to at least one sterilizing tube (108). In an embodiment, a timer (not shown in Figs,) is connected to the at least one pump (102). The timer is configured to record a time period with respect to operation of the at least one pump (102). For instance, the timer records a first time interval in which the at least one pump (102) is operated in an ON condition. The timer is also configured to record a second time interval which indicates idle condition of the at least one pump (102) or OFF condition of the at least one pump (102).

Still referring to Figs. 2a and 2b, the at least one sterilizing tube (108) is disposed within the enclosure (101) and positioned adjacent to the at least one pump (102). The at least one sterilizing tube (108) is defined with an inlet port (114) and an outlet port opposite to the inlet port (114). The inlet port (114) is fluidly connected to the outlet (106) of the at least one pump (102) through the at least one first conduit (103a). The outlet port (116) is fluidly connected to the fuel tank (202) through the at least one second conduit (103b) of the manifold (103). At least one sterilizer (108b) is defined within the at least one sterilizing tube (108). The at least one sterilizer (108b) is configured to emit ultraviolet (UV) rays which illuminate an internal area of the at least one sterilizing tube (108). Further, a quartz tube (108c) is configured to enclose the at least one sterilizer (108b). The quartz tube (108c) is configured to provide good thermal stability and light transmission from the at least one sterilizer (108b) onto the biofuel. An outer tube (108a) covers the quartz tube (108c) to form the at least one sterilizing tube (108). In an embodiment, the outer tube (108a) is made up of a high strength material such as stainless steel and however this cannot be considered as limiting and the outer tube (108a) may also be manufactured by aluminium and polymeric materials based on the requirement. In an embodiment, the at least one sterilizer (108b) may be any one of a lamp, bulb or a lighting fixture which can emit UV rays upon the biofuel (203) flowing through the at least one sterilizing tube (108). In an embodiment, the at least one sterilizer (108b) may be arranged along a length of the at least one sterilizing tube (108) to provide illumination within an entire internal area of the at least one sterilizing tube (108). The at least one sterilizing tube (108) is configured to receive the biofuel (203) from the outlet (106) of the at least one pump (102) and dispense the biofuel (203) from the outlet port (116). The biofuel (203) flowing within the at least one sterilizing tube (108) is subjected to UV radiation upon being exposed to the UV rays emitted by the at least one sterilizing tube (108). The biofuel (203) is treated or disinfected through the UV radiation such that microbials such as bacteria and fungi are eliminated from the biofuel (203) and further growth of the microbials within the biofuel (203) is prevented. In an embodiment, two sterilizing tubes (108) are provisioned at either end of the enclosure (101) and adjacent to the at least one pump (102) (as shown in Figs. 1 and 2). At least two T-connectors (105) are arranged on the at least one first conduit (103a) and the at least one second conduit (103b). Each of the T-connectors (105) are configured to equally split the flow of biofuel (203) from the at least one pump (102) into each sterilizing tube (108) through the inlet

port (114). Similarly, the biofuel (203) treated with UV radiation is dispensed from the outlet port (116) of each sterilizing tube (108) and is combined by the T-connector (105) to flow through the at least one second conduit (103b) into the fuel tank (202). In an embodiment, the number of sterilizing tubes (108) may be selected as per the requirement depending on the type of vehicle (200) and volume of biofuel (203) to be treated. In an embodiment, at least one nozzle member (214) is disposed within the fuel tank and is coupled to one end of the at least one second conduit (103b). The least one nozzle member (214) is in fluid communication with the at least one second conduit (103b). The at least one nozzle member (214) is configured to distribute the biofuel (203) entering the fuel tank (202) from the at least one second conduit (103b) (treated biofuel). In an embodiment, the nozzle member (214) sprays the treated biofuel away from the strainer (212) to prevent mixing of the treated biofuel with the biofuel (203) that enters the at least one first conduit (103a) upon operation of the at least one pump (102). This results in uniform treatment of the biofuel (203) within the fuel tank (202) and limits of operation of the at least one pump (102) in the first time interval.
Referring to Figs. 3 and 4, an enlarged view of a portion of the vehicle (200) is illustrated. The biofuel treatment apparatus (100) and the fuel tank (202) are connected to the chassis (204). The biofuel treatment apparatus (100) and the fuel tank (202) are positioned adjacent to each other. The fuel tank (202) is connected to the chassis (204) by the plurality of brackets (205) that are fastened to the chassis (204). Further, the biofuel treatment apparatus (100) is also connected to the chassis (204) by a frame structure (not shown in Figs.) or by using suitable fasteners. In an embodiment, the biofuel treatment apparatus (100) and the fuel tank (202) are positioned in line on a common axis with each other.
Now referring to Fig. 5, a controller (210) is communicatively coupled to the at least one sensor (206) and the biofuel treatment apparatus (100). The controller (210) is configured to receive a first signal from the at least one sensor (206) corresponding to a quantity of biofuel (203) present in the fuel tank (202). The controller (210) determines the quantity of biofuel (203) within the fuel tank (202) based on the first signal. The controller (210) is further configured to activate the at least one pump (102) for the first time interval to discharge the fuel from the fuel tank (202) into the at least one sterilizing tube (108) for treatment of biofuel (203) by UV radiation. The first time

interval is recorded by the timer and the first time interval depends on the volume of biofuel (203) present in the fuel tank (202). In other words, higher the volume of biofuel (203), higher will be the first time interval of operation of the at least one pump (102). Further, the controller (210) is configured to de-activate the at least one pump (102) once the first time interval is lapsed, thereby indicating that a total volume of the biofuel (203) within the fuel tank (202) has been treated with UV radiation. The controller (210) is also configured to receive a second signal from the at least one sensor (206) corresponding to a change in the quantity of biofuel (203) within the fuel tank (202). This change in quantity of the biofuel (203) may be observed in two conditions. The first condition refers to a refueling of the vehicle, in which the biofuel (203) (untreated biofuel) is introduced within the fuel tank (202). This refueling is sensed by the at least one sensor by virtue of change in fuel level and accordingly the second signal is generated by the at least one sensor (206). The second signal is also generated by the at least one sensor (206) in a second condition if there is no change in the quantity of fuel for a predefined time period. In an embodiment, the predefined time period corresponds to a time period in which the vehicle is idle or in a stand still condition without utilizing the biofuel (203). This promotes microbial growth within the biofuel (203) which is not desirable. Upon receipt of the second signal in any of the two conditions as aforementioned, the controller (210) activates the at least one pump (102) to a predetermined time period for re-treatment of the biofuel (203). The controller (210) also de-activates the at least one pump (102) once the predetermined time period is lapsed. In an embodiment, the predetermined time period depends on the quantity of fuel entering the fuel tank (202) after operation of the at least one pump (102) in the first time interval. In an embodiment, the controller (210) may be a vehicle electronic controller (VECU) which is communicatively coupled to the at least one sensor and the biofuel treatment apparatus (100).
Referring to Fig. 6, a method (400) of operating the system for the treatment of the biofuel (203) is illustrated through a flow diagram. The method (400) comprises initially receiving a first signal, from at least one sensor corresponding to a quantity of the biofuel (203) within the fuel tank (202) at step (401). Then, at step (402) the controller (210) determines the quantity of biofuel (203) within the fuel tank (202) based on the first signal generated by the at least one sensor (206). The first signal is generated by the sensor upon detecting an ignition ON condition of the vehicle (200). Later, the controller (210) activates at least one pump (102) to discharge

the fuel from the fuel tank (202) into the at least one sterilizing tube (108) for a first time interval for UV radiation of the biofuel (203) at the step (403). Further, at step (404) the controller (210) de-activates the at least one pump (102), once the first time interval is lapsed. In an embodiment, the first time interval corresponds to the operation time of the at least one pump (102) for treating the total volume of the biofuel (203) within the fuel tank (202). For example, consider a capacity of the fuel tank (202) i.e., the total volume of the biofuel (203) that can be filled into the fuel tank (202) be 300 liters and the capacity of the at least one pump (102) is about 3 Lpm (liters per minute). Then, the total time to circulate and treat the biofuel (203) would be 100 minutes (300/3) which denotes that the value of the first time interval to completely treat the biofuel (203) within the fuel tank (202). Further, at step (405) the controller (210) receives a second signal from the at least one sensor (206) corresponding to a change in the quantity of the biofuel (203) within the fuel tank (202). The controller, at step (406) again activates the at least one pump (102), based on the second signal to a predetermined time period for re-treatment of the biofuel (203). Lastly, at step (407) the controller (210) de-activates the at least one pump (102) once the predetermined time period is lapsed.
In an embodiment, the at least one pump (102) is operated thrice in the first time interval to ensure the presence of treated fuel within the fuel tank (202) continuously. However, this cannot be construed as a limitation.
In an embodiment, the treated biofuel (203) from the fuel tank (202) is transferred to the engine through a pump (not shown in Figs.).
In an embodiment, at least one auxiliary sensor (not shown in Figs.) is positioned within the fuel tank (202) to determine quality of biofuel (203) in real time.
In an embodiment, an alarm unit (not shown in Figs.) is connected to the fuel tank (202) and a visual indicator (not shown in Figs.) such as LED is positioned within a cabin of the vehicle (200) to alert a user upon completion of the treatment of the biofuel (203).
In an embodiment, the at least one sterilizing tube (108) and the at least one pump (102) are fixedly mounted within the enclosure (101) using suitable fixing mechanisms. In an

embodiment, the at least one sterilizing tube (108) may be disposed within a bracket (115) that is fastened to at least two side walls (112) through suitable fasteners.
The biofuel treatment apparatus (100) of the present disclosure is simple in construction and is retrofittable to any type of vehicles for treatment of the biofuel (203).
The system (300) of the present disclosure enables continuous treatment of the biofuel (203) present in the fuel tank (202) in an event of refueling and in a stand still condition of the vehicle (200).
The system (300) of the present disclosure ensures effective treatment of the biofuel (203) and prevents growth of diverse types of bacterial and fungi within the biofuel (203). Advantageously this protects the components of the fuel tank (202) and prevents clogging of fuel filter and ensures proper fuel flow to a fuel injector. Consequently, this improves thermal efficiency of the engine.
The biofuel treatment apparatus (100) of the present disclosure includes a lesser number of components. This reduces manufacturing and maintenance costs of the biofuel treatment apparatus (100).
EQUIVALENTS
With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.
While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting.
Reference numerals:

Part Numeral
Biofuel treatment apparatus 100
Vehicle 200
System 300
Method 400
Enclosure 101
At least one pump 102
Manifold 103
At least one first conduit 103a
At least one second conduit 103b
Inlet 104
T-connector 105
Outlet 106
At least two openings 107
At least one sterilizing tube 108
Outer tube 108a
Quartz tube 108b
At least one sterilizer 108c
Top wall 109
Base 110
Four sidewalls 112
Inlet port 114
Bracket 115
Outlet port 116
Vehicle 200
Fuel tank 202
Chassis 204
Plurality of brackets 205
At least one sensor 206

Cap 207
Controller 210
Strainer 212
Nozzle member 214

We Claim:
1. A biofuel treatment apparatus (100) for a vehicle (200), the biofuel treatment apparatus
(100) comprising:
a manifold (103) fluidly connected with at least one first conduit (103a) and at least one second conduit (103b), the manifold (103) is fluidly connectable to a fuel tank (202);
at least one pump (102) fluidly connected to the fuel tank (202) through the at least one first conduit (103a) of the manifold (103), wherein the at least one pump (102) is defined with an inlet (104) and an outlet (106) to receive and pump out a biofuel from the fuel tank (202);
at least one sterilizing tube (108) fluidly connected to the outlet (106) of the at least one pump (102) and to the fuel tank (202) through the at least one second conduit (103b) of the manifold (103), wherein the at least one sterilizing tube (108) comprises at least one sterilizer therewithin to emit ultraviolet (UV) rays on the biofuel passing through the at least one sterilizing tube (108); and
wherein the at least one pump (102) is configured to supply the biofuel
from the fuel tank (202) to the at least one sterilizing tube (108) for UV radiation
to inhibit growth of microbials in the biofuel.
2. The biofuel treatment apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprises an enclosure (101), wherein the enclosure (101) is configured to accommodate the at least one pump (102) and the at least one sterilizing tube (108) therewithin.
3. The biofuel treatment apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one sterilizing tube (108) is configured to dispense the biofuel subjected to UV radiation into the fuel tank through the at least one first conduit (103a) of the manifold (103).
4. The biofuel treatment apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one sterilizing tube (108) is defined with an inlet port (114) and an outlet port (116), the inlet port (114) is fluidly connected to the outlet (106) of the at least one pump (102) to receive the biofuel supplied from the fuel tank (202).

5. The biofuel treatment apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprises a timer
connected to the at least one pump (102), the timer is configured to record a first time
interval and a second time interval which corresponds to an ON condition of the at least
one pump and an OFF condition of the at least one pump (102) respectively.
6. The biofuel treatment apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the at least one pump (102) is operated in the first time interval to transfer the biofuel from the fuel tank (202) into the at least one sterilizing tube (108) for the UV radiation of the biofuel.
7. The biofuel treatment apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one sterilizer may be at least one of a lamp, bulb or a tube which emits ultraviolet (UV) rays for sterilization.
8. A system (300) for treatment of biofuel in a vehicle (200), the system (300) comprising:
a fuel tank (202) connected to a chassis (204) of the vehicle (200), the fuel tank (202) is configured to store and supply a biofuel;
at least one sensor (206) positioned within the fuel tank (202) to measure quantity of biofuel present in the fuel tank (202);
a biofuel treatment apparatus (100) connected to the chassis (204) of the vehicle (200) and disposed proximate to the fuel tank (202), the biofuel treatment apparatus (100) comprising:
a manifold (103) defined with at least one first conduit (103a) and at least
one second conduit (103b), the manifold (103) is connectable to the fuel tank
(202);
at least one pump (102) fluidly connected to the fuel tank (202) through
the at least one first conduit (103a) of the manifold (103), wherein the at least
one pump (102) is defined with an inlet (104) and an outlet (106) to receive and
pump out biofuel from the fuel tank (202);
at least one sterilizing tube (108) fluidly connected to the outlet (106) of
the at least one pump (102) and to the fuel tank (202) through the at least one
second conduit (103b) of the manifold (103), wherein the at least one sterilizing

tube (108) comprises at least one sterilizer therewithin to emit ultraviolet (UV) rays on the biofuel passing through the at least one sterilizing tube (108);
wherein the at least one pump (102) is configured to supply the
biofuel from the fuel tank (202) to the at least one sterilizing tube (108)
for UV radiation to inhibit growth of microbials in the biofuel;
a controller (210) communicatively coupled to the at least one sensor (206) and the biofuel treatment apparatus (100), wherein the controller (210) is configured to:
receive a first signal from the at least one sensor (206) corresponding to a quantity of fuel present in the fuel tank (202);
determine a quantity of biofuel based on the first signal;
activate the at least one pump (102) for a first time interval to discharge the fuel from the fuel tank (202) into the at least one sterilizing tube (108) for treatment of biofuel by UV radiation;
de-activate the at least one pump (102) once the first time interval is lapsed;
receive a second signal from the at least one sensor (206) corresponding to a change in the quantity of biofuel within the fuel tank (202);
activate the at least one pump (102) based on the second signal to a predetermined time period for re-treatment of the biofuel; and
de-activate the at least one pump (102) once the predetermined time period is lapsed.
9. The system (300) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the at least one sterilizing tube (108) is configured to dispense the biofuel subjected to UV radiation into the fuel tank (202) through the at least one first conduit (103a) of the manifold (103).
10. The system (300) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the at least one sterilizing tube (108) is defined with an inlet port (114) and an outlet port (116), the inlet port (114) is fluidly connected to the outlet (106) of the at least one pump (102) to receive the biofuel supplied from the fuel tank (202).

11. The system (300) as claimed in claim 7, comprises a nozzle member (214) disposed within the fuel tank (202) and in fluid communication with the at least one second conduit (103b), wherein the nozzle member (214) is configured to distribute the biofuel received from the at least one second conduit (103b) within the fuel tank (202).
12. The system (300) as claimed in claim 7, comprises a timer connected to the at least one pump (102), the timer is configured to record the first time interval and the second time interval which corresponds to an ON condition of the at least one pump (102) and an OFF condition of the at least one pump (102) respectively.
13. The system (300) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the first time interval depends on a volume of biofuel present in the fuel tank (202) and the predetermined time period depends on a quantity of fuel entering the fuel tank (202) after operation of the at least one pump (102) in the first time interval.
14. A method (400) of treating biofuel in a vehicle by a biofuel treatment apparatus (100), the method (400) comprising:
connecting the biofuel treatment apparatus (100) to the fuel tank (202) through a manifold (103);
receiving a first signal, by a controller (210), from at least one sensor corresponding to a quantity of biofuel within the fuel tank (202), the at least one sensor (206) is disposed within the fuel tank (202) and communicatively coupled to the controller (210);
determining, by the controller (210), the quantity of biofuel within the fuel tank (202) based on the first signal;
activating at least one pump (102), by the controller (210), to discharge the fuel from the fuel tank (202) into the at least one sterilizing tube (108) for a first time interval for UV radiation of biofuel, wherein the at least one pump (102) is disposed within the biofuel treatment apparatus (100) and communicatively coupled to the controller (210);
de-activating the at least one pump (102), by the controller (210), once the first time interval is lapsed;

receiving a second signal, by the controller (210), from the at least one sensor (206) corresponding to a change in the quantity of biofuel within the fuel tank (202);
activating the at least one pump (102), by the controller (210), based on the second signal to a predetermined time period for re-treatment of the biofuel; and
de-activating the at least one pump (102), by the controller (210), once the predetermined time period is lapsed.