초록 ▼

A method and apparatus for testing leaks in a compressed natural gas fuel system on an assembly line. The apparatus includes a filling receptacle, a filling conduit, a fuel tank assembly, a supply conduit, a pressure regulating assembly, and a joint box. The filling conduit extends between the filli

A method and apparatus for testing leaks in a compressed natural gas fuel system on an assembly line. The apparatus includes a filling receptacle, a filling conduit, a fuel tank assembly, a supply conduit, a pressure regulating assembly, and a joint box. The filling conduit extends between the filling receptacle and the fuel tank assembly. The supply conduit extends between the fuel tank assembly and the pressure regulating assembly. The joint box includes a valve which regulates fluid communication between the filling conduit and the supply conduit. In the method according to the present invention, the tank assembly is fluidly isolated from the remainder of the fuel system and the filling conduit and supply conduit are fluidly connected, by opening the joint box valve, to permit pressurization and leak detection of a first portion of the fuel system. Thereafter, the joint box valve is closed to isolate the filling conduit from the supply conduit, and the pressure regulating assembly is activated to pressurize a second portion of the fuel system for leak detection purposes.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A fuel system for an automobile, comprising:a filling receptacle;a fuel tank assembly adapted to receive and store compressed natural gas;a filling conduit fluidly connecting said filling receptacle to said fuel tank assembly;a pressure regulating assembly;a supply condui

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A fuel system for an automobile, comprising:a filling receptacle;a fuel tank assembly adapted to receive and store compressed natural gas;a filling conduit fluidly connecting said filling receptacle to said fuel tank assembly;a pressure regulating assembly;a supply conduit fluidly connecting said fuel tank assembly to said pressure regulating assembly; and,a bypass operable to provide fluid communication between said filling conduit and said supply conduit.