DESC:FIELD
The present disclosure relates to fuel intake valves.
DEFINITION
As used in the present disclosure, the following terms are generally intended to have the meaning as set forth below, except to the extent that the context in which they are used indicates otherwise.
Bush: A bush refers to a cylindrical component typically made of PTFE and configured to be fitted within a fuel intake valve. It serves as a housing for the needle and facilitates its movement within the valve.
Needle: The needle, in this context, is a slender, pointed component of the bush for controlling the flow of fuel within the intake valve.
The above definitions are in addition to those expressed in the art.
BACKGROUND
The background information herein below relates to the present disclosure but is not necessarily prior art.
Fuel intake valves of internal combustion engines are integral for regulating flow of fuel into a combustion chamber, to ensure optimal engine performance. However, conventionally valves have exhibited several challenges over time, particularly related to durability, efficiency, and maintenance.
A key limitation of traditional fuel intake valves is the wear and friction that occurs between the needle and its housing within the valve. This friction arises due to the sliding movement of the needle during operation, which gradually causes material degradation. As a result, the operational lifespan of conventional needle assemblies is restricted, necessitating frequent replacements and increasing maintenance costs.
Another issue is the potential for fuel leakage, which compromises the overall efficiency of the valve. The materials and surface coatings used in the conventional needle-and-bush assemblies are often not equipped to withstand prolonged exposure to petrol and gaseous fuels. Such exposure leads to corrosion, chemical reactions, and degradation, further reducing the effectiveness of the valve. Additionally, traditional assemblies are prone to instability within the valve housing, particularly under conditions of high vibration or mechanical stress. This instability increases the risk of misalignment, dislodgement, or malfunction during operation, which can adversely affect the fuel flow and engine performance.
Therefore, there is a need of a needle-and-bush assembly for a fuel intake valve that alleviates the aforementioned drawback.
OBJECTS
Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies, are as follows:
It is an object of the present disclosure to ameliorate one or more problems of the prior art or to at least provide a useful alternative.
An object of the present disclosure is to provide a needle-and-bush assembly for a fuel intake valve.
Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a needle-and-bush assembly which enhances the durability and longevity of a fuel intake valve.
Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a needle-and-bush assembly having a non-stick, waterproof, noncorrosive, and nonreactive surface capable of enduring exposure to petrol or gas during operation.
Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide a needle-and-bush assembly that can be press-fit in the valve with relatively enhanced stability.
Other objects and advantages of the present disclosure will be more apparent from the following description, which is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
SUMMARY
The present disclosure envisages a needle-and-bush assembly for a fuel intake valve of an internal combustion engine. The valve includes an opening configured thereon to house the assembly.
The assembly comprises a needle with a body featuring an elastomeric operative upper tip portion and a sealing shoulder with a tabbed circular configuration provided at its operative lower portion. A bush is configured to be nested in the opening. The bush is configured to displaceably receive the needle thereinto define a passage between its inner circumference and the periphery of the sealing shoulder. Displacement of the needle into the bush causes the cross-sectional area of the passage to gradually increase or decrease to facilitate controlled fuel flow therethrough.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWING
A needle-and-bush assembly for a fuel intake valve, of the present disclosure, will now be described with the help of the accompanying drawing in which:
Figure 1 illustrates a side view of the intake valve with the needle-and-bush assembly, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 2a and Figure 2b illustrate front views of the needle of figure 1; and
Figure 3 illustrates a cross-sectional top view of the needle in the valve.
LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS
1000 Valve
100 Bush
104 Needle
104a Tip portion of the needle
104b Shoulder of the needle
106 polytetrafluoroethylene coating
108 Crimp
112 Passage
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The present disclosure relates to fuel intake valves.
Embodiments are provided so as to thoroughly and fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to the person skilled in the art. Numerous details are set forth, relating to specific components, and methods, to provide a complete understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to the person skilled in the art that the details provided in the embodiments should not be construed to limit the scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, well-known processes, well-known apparatus structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail.
The terminology used, in the present disclosure, is only for the purpose of explaining a particular embodiment and such terminology cannot be considered to limit the scope of the present disclosure. As used in the present disclosure, the forms "a,” "an," and "the" may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly suggests otherwise. The terms "comprises," "comprising," “including,” and “having,” are open ended transitional phrases and therefore specify the presence of stated features, elements, modules, units and/or components, but do not forbid the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
Embodiments, of the present disclosure, will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawing.
A needle-and-bush assembly of the present disclosure, for a fuel intake valve will now be envisaged with reference to Figure 1 through Figure 3.
The fuel intake valve is part of an internal combustion engine, wherein the valve has an opening configured thereon for receiving fuel therein.
The needle-and-bush assembly comprises a needle 104 and a bush 100. The needle 104 is defined by a body having an elastomeric operative upper tip portion 104a, and a sealing shoulder having a tabbed circular configuration provided at an operative lower portion of the body. The bush 100 is configured to be nested in the opening. The bush 100 is configured to displaceably receive the needle 104 therein to define a passage 112 between its inner circumference and the periphery of the sealing shoulder 104b. Displacement of the needle 104 into the bush 100 causes the cross-sectional area of the passage 112 to gradually increase or decrease to facilitate controlled fuel flow therethrough.
During the operative configuration of the needle 104 and the bush 100, the following interactions occur:
• The needle 104 can be fully inserted into the bush 100 to close the passage 112, thereby limiting fuel flow through the passage 112;
• The needle 104 can be partially removed (in gradual increments) from the bush 100 to partially increase the cross-sectional area of the passage 112, to allow a controlled amount of fuel to flow through the passage 112; and
• The needle 104 can be completely removed from the bush 100 to fully open the passage 112 and facilitate maximum fuel flow.
These interactions helps in facilitating controlled fuel flow therethrough, ensuring precise regulation of the fuel entering the combustion chamber. Further, the snug fit between the needle 104 and the bush 100 minimizes the risk of fuel leakage, enhances operational efficiency, and contributes to the longevity of the valve assembly. Also, allowing the receipt of needle 104 in the bush 100 allows minimization in the friction and bolsters operational efficiency by fostering smoother movement of the needle 104 within the valve 1000. By mitigating frictional resistance, the bush 100 further enhances the longevity and performance of the entire system.
This precise control over the fuel flow enhances the efficiency of the fuel intake system, contributing to improved engine performance.
In an embodiment, the body of the needle 104 is of aluminium, which makes its configuration a balance of lightweight design and durability, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
In another embodiment, the operative upper tip portion 104A is of fluorocarbon elastomer, commonly also known as Viton™ rubber, which provides excellent chemical resistance, high-temperature tolerance, and superior sealing properties. This elastomeric tip ensures a secure seal when the needle 104 is fully seated within the bush 100, thereby regulating fuel flow with precision. The needle 104 thus is equipped with chemical-resistant properties and sealing capabilities essential for regulating fuel flow.
In an embodiment, a polymer coating 106 particularly a polytetrafluoroethylene coating 106, is applied on the needle 104. The application of a specialized black polytetrafluoroethylene coating 106, which in an embodiment, is executed using a spring polytetrafluoroethylene coating method, ensuring a comprehensive coverage and steadfast adhesion to the needle’s surfaces. The PTFE coating provides a non-stick, waterproof, non-corrosive, and non-reactive shield, thereby fortifying the needle 104 against prolonged exposure to petrol and gaseous fuels during engine operation. Post-application, the PTFE coating 106 is cured by subjecting the needle 104 a controlled environment within an oven set at 200°C for five hours. This curing process fosters the fusion of PTFE molecules, ensuring robust adhesion and durability, even under high-temperature and high-vibration operating conditions.
In one embodiment, the bush 100 is of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), which ensures low friction, wear resistance, and compatibility with the fuel environment. This material choice significantly reduces wear and tear on the needle 104, particularly during dry-running conditions of the valve.
Following insertion into the valve assembly, the bush 100 undergoes a crimping process to ensure a secure and stable fit within the valve 1000. The crimps 108 strengthen the attachment, preventing any potential loosening or displacement of the bush 100 even under high vibrations or mechanical stresses. This ensures consistent performance and reliability of the assembly in demanding operating conditions.
The use of advanced materials and coatings extends the operational lifespan of the needle-and-bush assembly to more than four times the observed lifespan of conventional assemblies. The combination of a durable aluminium needle, chemical-resistant elastomeric tip, PTFE coating, and wear-resistant PTFE bush ensures long-lasting performance with minimal maintenance requirements.
By mitigating frictional resistance and ensuring a snug, secure fit of the needle 104 within the bush 100, the assembly minimizes wear, reduces operational noise, and enhances overall system stability. The enhanced durability and reliability of the assembly make it suitable for diverse applications across the automotive and machinery industries.
Advantages of the needle-and-bush assembly:
• Enhanced Stability: The snug fit between the needle 104 and the bush 100 prevents misalignment and ensures stable operation, even under high vibrations.
• Improved Durability: The advanced materials and coatings used in the assembly significantly extend its operational lifespan;
• Resistance to Fuel Exposure: The PTFE coating and fluorocarbon elastomer provide excellent resistance to chemical corrosion and prolonged exposure to fuels;
• Cost-Effectiveness: Reduced wear and maintenance requirements lower the overall cost of ownership; and
• Efficient Fuel Regulation: The precisely defined passage 112 allows for controlled and efficient fuel flow.
The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Individual components of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, are interchangeable. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure.
TECHNICAL ADVANCEMENTS
The present disclosure described hereinabove has several technical advantages including, but not limited to a needle-and-bush assembly for a fuel intake valve, that;
• has a nonstick, waterproof, noncorrosive, and nonreactive surface capable of enduring exposure to petrol and gas during operation;
• can be press-fit within the valve with enhanced stability;
• enhances durability of the valve; and
• extending the operational lifespan of the valve by more than four times.
The foregoing disclosure has been described with reference to the accompanying embodiments which do not limit the scope and ambit of the disclosure. The description provided is purely by way of example and illustration. The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained with reference to the non-limiting embodiments in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.
The foregoing description of the specific embodiments so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.
Any discussion of devices, articles or the like that has been included in this specification is solely for the purpose of providing a context for the disclosure. It is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form a part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the disclosure as it existed anywhere before the priority date of this application.
While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the components and component parts of the preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that many embodiments can be made and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other changes in the preferred embodiment as well as other embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation. ,CLAIMS:WE CLAIM:
1. A needle-and-bush assembly for a fuel intake valve of an internal combustion engine, wherein the valve has an opening configured thereon, the assembly comprising:
• a needle (104) defined by a body having an elastomeric operative upper tip portion (104a), and a sealing shoulder (104b) having a tabbed circular configuration provided at an operative lower portion of the body; and
• a bush (100) configured to be nested in the opening, the bush (100) configured to displaceably receive the needle (104) therein to define a passage (112) between its inner circumference and the periphery of said sealing shoulder (104b), wherein displacement of said needle (104) into the bush (100) causes the cross-sectional area of said passage (112) to gradually increase or decrease to facilitate controlled fuel flow therethrough.
2. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the body of the needle (104) is of aluminium.
3. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the operative upper tip portion (104a) is of fluorocarbon elastomer.
4. The assembly as claimed in claim 3, wherein a polymer coating (106) is applied on the operative upper tip portion (104a).
5. The assembly as claimed in claim 4, wherein the polymer coating (106) is a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coating.
6. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the bush (100) is of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).
7. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the bush (100) is attached to the valve assembly with the help of crimping process.

Dated this 03rd Day of February 2025

_______________________________
MOHAN RAJKUMAR DEWAN, IN/PA – 25
OF R. K. DEWAN & CO.
AUTHORIZED AGENT OF APPLICANT

TO,
THE CONTROLLER OF PATENTS
THE PATENT OFFICE, AT CHENNAI