Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] This disclosure relates generally to the field of Electric vehicles (EVs), and more particularly to fluid measuring device integrated to a coolant reservoir cap of the EVs.
BACKGROUND
[002] Fluid measuring devices are devices that may measure a level, volume, flow, or other properties of fluids in various containers or systems. Fluid measuring devices are widely used in various industries, such as automotive, aerospace, chemical, oil and gas, and so on. Fluid measuring devices may help monitor and control the fluid conditions and ensure the optimal performance and safety of the systems. One of the applications of fluid measuring devices is in electric vehicles (EVs), which use a combination of traction motor, charger, converter, and control unit to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy and drive the wheels. Traction motors generate a lot of heat during operation, which may reduce their efficiency and lifespan. Therefore, it is important to cool the traction motors with a suitable coolant, such as water or antifreeze.
[003] However, there are some challenges and problems associated with the conventional fluid measuring devices and coolant reservoirs for EVs. For example, the coolant level in the reservoir may decrease over time due to evaporation, leakage, or consumption. This may affect the cooling performance and cause the traction motor to overheat. Therefore, it is necessary to measure the coolant level in the reservoir and refill it when needed. Existing reservoir cap lacks in dipstick for fluid measurement, instead, users rely on markings denoting the minimum and maximum coolant levels directly on the reservoir for fluid measurement. In such scenario, the reservoir may require to be transparent to observe the coolant level from outside. Moreover, the conventional coolant reservoirs may not have a proper venting arrangement, as the venting may be provided in the reservoir cap. This may cause failure and coolant leakage from the cap, as the coolant may expand and contract due to the temperature changes.
[004] Further, dynamic operating conditions of the EV, including acceleration, deceleration, and variations in terrain, contribute to the slippage or leakage of coolant present in the coolant reservoir. This slippage, exacerbated by the lack of a reliable dipstick for accurate level measurements, poses challenges in maintaining the required coolant quantity.
[005] Therefore, there is a need for an improved fluid measuring device that may accurately measure the level of the fluid in the reservoir of the EV and prevent the fluid from spilling out of the reservoir.
SUMMARY
[006] In an embodiment, a fluid measuring device integrated to a reservoir cap is disclosed. The fluid measuring device may include a fluid measuring member. The fluid measuring member may include a proximal end integrated to the reservoir cap. The proximal end may include at least one groove. The fluid measuring member may further include a distal end oppositely disposed to the proximal end. The fluid measuring member may further include a lock member coupled to the proximal end of the fluid measuring member. The lock member may include at least one internal passage in-line to the at least one groove. The lock member may further include a slot disposed between the at least one internal passage. The slot may be configured to receive a locking pin.
[007] In an embodiment, a reservoir is disclosed. The reservoir may include a reservoir cap. The reservoir cap may include a fluid measuring member. The fluid measuring member may further include a proximal end integrated to the reservoir cap. The proximal end may include at least one groove. The fluid measuring member may further include a distal end oppositely disposed to the proximal end. The fluid measuring member may further include a lock member coupled to the proximal end of the fluid measuring member. The lock member may include at least one internal passage in-line to the at least one groove. The lock member may further include a slot disposed between the at least one internal passage. The slot may be configured to receive a locking pin.
[008] In an embodiment, an Electrical Vehicle (EV) is disclosed. The EV may include a reservoir. Further, the reservoir may include a reservoir cap. The reservoir cap may include a fluid measuring member. The fluid measuring member may further include a proximal end integrated to the reservoir cap. The proximal end may include at least one groove. The fluid measuring member may further include a distal end oppositely disposed to the proximal end. The fluid measuring member may further include a lock member coupled to the proximal end of the fluid measuring member. The lock member may include at least one internal passage in-line to the at least one groove. The lock member may further include a slot disposed between the at least one internal passage. The slot may be configured to receive a locking pin.
[009] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[010] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the disclosed principles.
[011] FIG. 1A illustrates a front view of the fluid measuring device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[012] FIG. 1B illustrates a top view of the fluid measuring device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[013] FIG. 2A illustrates a front view of the fluid measuring device integrated to a reservoir cap, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[014] FIG. 2B illustrates a sectional view of the fluid measuring device integrated to the reservoir cap, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[015] FIG. 2C illustrates a half-sectional view of the fluid measuring device integrated to the reservoir cap, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
[016] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the fluid measuring device being inserted in a reservoir, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[017] Exemplary embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever convenient, the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. While examples and features of disclosed principles are described herein, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible without departing from the scope of the disclosed embodiments. It is intended that the following detailed description be considered as exemplary only, with the true scope being indicated by the following claims. Additional illustrative embodiments are listed.
[018] References will now be made to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same numerals have been used to refer to the same or like parts. The following paragraphs describe the present disclosure with reference to FIGs. 1- 3.
[019] As explained earlier, the current reservoir cap lacks a dipstick for fluid measurement, instead, users rely on markings denoting the minimum and maximum coolant levels directly on the reservoir for fluid measurement. In such scenario, the reservoir may require to be transparent to observe the coolant level from outside. Additionally, the existing coolant reservoirs may not have a proper venting arrangement, as the venting may be provided in the reservoir cap. This may cause failure and coolant leakage from the cap, as the coolant may expand and contract due to the temperature changes. To address these problems, a proposed solution provides a device in which a dipstick is integrated to reservoir cap with level markings. This enhancement aims to facilitate easier coolant level checks, ensuring the traction motor operates efficiently with reduced heat generation and extended lifespan. Furthermore, the dipstick is designed with a unique venting arrangement that allows only vapor to escape to external environment without spilling the fluid.
[020] Referring to FIG. 1A, a front view 100A of a fluid measuring device 102 is illustrated, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The fluid measuring device 102 may include a fluid measuring member 104, such as a dipstick, that may be configured to measure a level of fluid in various coolant reservoirs, including state-of-the-art or forthcoming EVs coolant reservoirs, or may be interchangeable between different coolant reservoirs. Additionally, the fluid measuring device 102 may have a venting arrangement that may prevent the fluid or coolant from spilling out of the coolant reservoir and may allow only vapor to escape. A person skilled in the art would understand that the fluid measuring device 102 may not be limited to coolant reservoirs, but may also be inserted in any reservoirs or fluid containers that experience seepage or leakage of fluid stored therein.
[021] The fluid measuring member 104 may have a proximal end 106 and a distal end 108. The proximal end 106 may include at least one groove (not shown in figure) facilitate a passage of vapor. The distal end 108 may be oppositely disposed to the proximal end 106.
[022] Maintaining a proper coolant level in the coolant reservoir is one of the most important factors for efficient cooling of a traction motor, which may affect a life of the traction motor and generate more heat in a cooling system. To address this issue, the fluid measuring member 104 may include a minimum level indicator 114 and a maximum level indicator 116 at the distal end 108, which may indicate the level of the coolant in the coolant reservoir and may help to ensure the optimal performance of the traction motor and reduce heat generation and increase life span.
[023] The fluid measuring member 104 may include a plurality of holes 112 at the distal end 108 that may measure the level of the fluid (e.g., the coolant) in the reservoir. When the fluid measuring device 102 is inserted into the reservoir, the plurality of holes 112 fill up with the fluid and leave a mark on the distal end 108. The user may then remove the fluid measuring device 102 and see the mark as a visual indication of the fluid level. A person skilled in the art would understand that in some embodiments, instead of the plurality of holes 112, the distal end 108 may have other shapes or designs for fluid measurement purposes.
[024] FIG. 1B illustrates a top view 100B of the fluid measuring device 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The fluid measuring member 104 may include the lock member 110 coupled to the proximal end 106 of the fluid measuring member 104.The lock member 110 may include at least one internal passage in-line to the at least one groove. The lock member 110 may further include a slot 118 disposed between the at least one internal passage. The slot 118 may be designed to accommodate a locking pin (not shown in figure).
[025] The existing coolant reservoir lacks in a proper venting arrangement, as the venting may be provided in the cap. This may cause failure and coolant leakage from the cap. Therefore, to solve the problem of coolant leakage, the fluid measuring device 102 may include a venting arrangement (i.e., the internal passage and the at least one groove) that may stop the fluid or coolant from spilling out of the coolant reservoir and may let only vapor to escape. For example, as shown in FIG. 1B, the vapor may exit to an external environment through a four-way internal passage (indicated by four dotted lines). The interaction between the internal passage, grooves, and the slot 118 is further explained in detail in conjunction with FIG. 3. In an embodiment, the fluid measuring device 102 may be made from material including but not limited to elastic material such as elastin, rubber, nylon, silicon, and the like.
[026] Referring now to FIG. 2A, a front view 200A of the fluid measuring device integrated to a reservoir cap is illustrated, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the fluid measuring device 102 may be integrated to the reservoir cap 202. The fluid measuring device 102 may be configured to measure the level of fluid in the reservoir when the reservoir cap 202 is being disposed on the reservoir. To prevent the fluid from spilling from the reservoir, a locking pin 204 may be inserted into the lock member 110. The locking pin 204 may serve dual purpose when engaged with the lock member 110. Firstly, it may secure the fluid measuring device 102 at a predetermined position and secondly, it may restrict the flow of the fluid from the reservoir.
[027] FIG. 2B illustrates a sectional view 200B of the fluid measuring device 102 integrated to the reservoir cap 202, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As mentioned earlier, the fluid measuring device 102 may be integrated to the reservoir cap 202. More particularly, the proximal end 106 of the fluid measuring member 104 may be integrated to the reservoir cap 202 through a sealing gasket 206. The sealing gasket 206 may ensure a secure and leak-proof connection between the proximal end 106 of the fluid measuring member 104 and the reservoir cap 202.The proximal end 106 may include at least one groove 208 to facilitate a passage of vapor. The lock member 110 may include at least one internal passage 210 in-line to the at least one groove 208. The at least one internal passage 210 and the at least one groove 208 may be configured to vent vapor from the reservoir.
[028] Referring now to FIG. 2C, which illustrates a half-sectional view 200C of the fluid measuring device 102 integrated to the reservoir cap 202 to vent vapor present in a reservoir. This may be an exemplary scenario of when the fluid measuring device 102 is placed in the coolant reservoir to measure the level of the coolant. The present FIG. 2C illustrates the coolant and vapor flows through the grooves 208 and the internal passage 210, respectively. The dotted lines indicate the coolant flow, and the solid lines indicate the vapor flow.
[029] In an embodiment, the fluid measuring member 104 may be locked at a predetermined position and the coolant flow from the reservoir may be restricted when the locking pin 204 is inserted into a snap-fit locking structure of the lock member 110 through the slot 118. To further elaborate, the vent arrangement may be designed such that the coolant flow from the coolant reservoir is blocked by the locking pin 204 i.e., the coolant returns as soon as it hits the looking pin 204 (as shown by solid lines) and the vapor is released to the atmosphere through the internal passage 210. This may enhance overall efficiency of the cooling system by preventing pump slippage and reducing coolant loss.
[030] In an embodiment, now referring to FIG. 3, which illustrates a perspective view of the fluid measuring device being inserted in a reservoir, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The reservoir 302 may be a coolant reservoir (for example, a water tank) that may be attached to an EV to supply coolant to a radiator and prevent a traction motor from overheating. Therefore, it may be required to maintain a sufficient amount of coolant in the reservoir 302. To measure the level of coolant, the fluid measuring device integrated with the reservoir cap 202 may be placed inside the coolant reservoir 302. The fluid measuring device may include the measuring member 104 with the plurality of holes 112 that may capture a print of coolant. The fluid measuring device may also include the maximum level indicator 114 and the minimum level indicator 116 that may indicate the level of coolant in the reservoir 302. Additionally, in order to prevent spillage of the coolant and to escape the vapor out of the reservoir, the fluid measuring device may be designed with the vent arrangement. This is already explained in detail in conjunction with FIGs. 1A-2C.
[031] 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 the sake of clarity.
[032] It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as "open" terms (e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to inventions containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and/or "an" should typically be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of "two recitations," without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, or C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" will be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B."
[033] 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, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.
, Claims:I/We claim:
1. A fluid measuring device (102) integrated to a reservoir cap (202), the fluid measuring device (102) comprising:
a fluid measuring member (104), comprising:
a proximal end (106) integrated to the reservoir cap (202), wherein the proximal end (106) comprises:
at least one groove (208);
a distal end (108) oppositely disposed to the proximal end (106); and
a lock member (110) coupled to the proximal end (106) of the fluid measuring member (104), wherein the lock member (110) comprises:
at least one internal passage (210) in-line to the at least one groove (208); and
a slot (118) disposed between the at least one internal passage (210), wherein the slot (118) is configured to receive a locking pin (204).

2. The fluid measuring device (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one internal passage (210) and the at least one groove (208) is configured to vent vapor present in a reservoir (302).

3. The fluid measuring device (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lock member (110) having a snap-fit locking structure is configured to restrict a flow of a fluid out of the reservoir (302) by engaging the locking pin (204).

4. The fluid measuring device (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the locking pin (204) is configured to lock the fluid measuring member (104) at a predefined position.

5. A reservoir (302), comprising:
a reservoir cap (202), wherein the reservoir cap (202) comprises:
a fluid measuring member (104), comprising:
a proximal end (106) integrated to the reservoir cap (202), wherein the proximal end (106) comprises at least one groove (208);
a distal end (108) oppositely disposed to the proximal end (106); and
a lock member (110) coupled to the proximal end (106) of the fluid measuring member (104), wherein the lock member (110) comprises:
at least one internal passage (210) in-line to the at least one groove (208); and
a slot (118) disposed between the at least one internal passage (210), wherein the slot (118) is configured to receive a locking pin (204).

6. The reservoir (302) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the reservoir cap (202) is disposed on the reservoir (302).

7. The reservoir (302) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the internal passage and the at least one groove (208) is configured to vent vapour present in the reservoir.

8. The reservoir (302) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the lock member (110) having a snap-fit locking structure is configured to restrict a flow of a fluid out of the reservoir by engaging the locking pin (204).

9. The reservoir (302) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the locking pin (204) is configured to lock the fluid measuring member (104) at a predefined position.

10. An Electrical Vehicle (EV), comprising:
a reservoir (302), comprising:
a reservoir cap (202) disposed on the reservoir (302), wherein the reservoir cap (202) comprises:
a fluid measuring member (104), comprising:
a proximal end (106) integrated to the reservoir cap (202), wherein the proximal end (106) comprises at least one groove (208);
a distal end (108) oppositely disposed to the proximal end (106); and
a lock member (110) coupled to the proximal end (106) of the fluid measuring member (104), wherein the lock member (110) comprises:
at least one internal passage (210) in-line to the at least one groove (208); and
a slot (118) disposed between the at least one internal passage (210), wherein the slot (118) is configured to receive a locking pin (204).

11. The EV as claimed in claim 10, wherein the internal passage and the at least one groove (208) is configured to vent vapour present in the reservoir (302).

12. The EV as claimed in claim 10, wherein the lock member (110) having a snap-fit locking structure is configured to restrict a flow of a fluid out of the reservoir by engaging the locking pin (204).

13. The EV as claimed in claim 10, wherein the locking pin (204) is configured to lock the fluid measuring member (104) at a predefined position.