U.S. patent application number 12/674626 was filed with the patent office on 2011-06-09 for fuel supply adaptor device and fuel supply device.
Invention is credited to Takeshi Fukumasa, Yasushi Hirakawa, Katsumi Kozu.
Application Number | 20110132493 12/674626 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40451697 |
Filed Date | 2011-06-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110132493 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kozu; Katsumi ; et
al. |
June 9, 2011 |
FUEL SUPPLY ADAPTOR DEVICE AND FUEL SUPPLY DEVICE
Abstract
It is a fuel supply adaptor device which connects the apparatus
having a fuel injecting portion including a power generator formed
of fuel cells to the fuel cartridge having a fuel supplying portion
and delivers the fuel in the fuel cartridge to the power generator,
comprising a second connector for making connection to the fuel
injecting portion of at least one apparatus, a first connector for
making connection to the fuel supplying portion of at least one
fuel cartridge, a connecting pipe for connecting the first
connector to the second connector, and a holder, wherein the first
connector, the second connector, and the connecting pipe are held
by the holder.
Inventors: |
Kozu; Katsumi; (Hyogo,
JP) ; Hirakawa; Yasushi; (Osaka, JP) ;
Fukumasa; Takeshi; (Osaka, JP) |
Family ID: |
40451697 |
Appl. No.: |
12/674626 |
Filed: |
August 5, 2008 |
PCT Filed: |
August 5, 2008 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2008/002105 |
371 Date: |
February 22, 2010 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
141/383 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H01M 8/04089 20130101;
Y02E 60/50 20130101; H01M 8/04208 20130101; H01M 8/1011 20130101;
H01M 2250/30 20130101; Y02E 60/523 20130101; H01M 8/04201 20130101;
Y02B 90/10 20130101; H01M 8/0438 20130101; Y02B 90/18 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
141/383 |
International
Class: |
B65B 3/00 20060101
B65B003/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Sep 11, 2007 |
JP |
2007-234939 |
Claims
1. A fuel supply adaptor device which connects an apparatus having
a fuel injecting portion including at least a part of a power
generator formed of fuel cells to a fuel cartridge having a fuel
supplying portion in order to deliver fuel in the fuel cartridge to
the power generator, comprising: a first connector for making
connection to the fuel injecting portion of the apparatus, a second
connector for making connection to the fuel supplying portion of
the fuel cartridge, a connecting pipe for connecting the first
connector to the second connector, and a holder, wherein the first
connector, the second connector, and the connecting pipe are held
by the holder.
2. The fuel supply adaptor device of claim 1, comprising a
plurality of the second connectors whose shape corresponds to each
of the fuel supplying portions different in shape of a plurality of
the fuel cartridges identical in fuel type and concentration and
different in capacity.
3. The fuel supply adaptor device of claim 1, comprising a
plurality of first connectors whose shape corresponds to each of
the plurality of the apparatuses different or identical in shape of
the fuel injecting portion.
4. The fuel supply adaptor device of claim 1, comprising a pair of
mechanical keys capable of connection between the first connector
and the fuel injecting portion corresponding thereto and between
the second connector and the fuel injecting portion corresponding
thereto.
5. The fuel supply adaptor device of claim 1, wherein the fuel
cartridge is a pressure type, and the connecting pipe is provided
with a pressure adjusting device for adjusting pressures of the
fuel fed to the fuel injecting portion of the apparatus.
6. The fuel supply adaptor device of claim 1, wherein the fuel
cartridge is a non-pressure type, and the connecting pipe is
provided with a pressure generating device for pressurizing the
fuel fed to the fuel injecting portion of the apparatus.
7. The fuel supply adaptor device of claim 1, wherein the holder is
provided with a remodeling preventive portion.
8. The fuel supply adaptor device of claim 7, wherein as the
remodeling preventive portion, the first connector, the second
connector, and the connecting pipe are integrated by the holder
formed by weld.
9. The fuel supply adaptor device of claim 7, wherein as the
remodeling preventive portion, at least a part of the holder is
provided with a remodeling checking portion.
10. The fuel supply adaptor device of claim 9, wherein the
remodeling checking portion is formed by affixing a hologram seal
or fine laser print.
11. A fuel supply device characterized in that the holder of the
fuel supply adaptor device of claim 1 is provided with a cartridge
holder for holding the fuel cartridge and an apparatus holder for
holding the apparatus.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a fuel supply adaptor
device for supplying fuel in a fuel cartridge to a power generator
by connecting a fuel cartridge to an apparatus including a power
generator formed of fuel cells.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] Recently, electronic apparatuses are rapidly becoming more
and more portable and cordless, and as a driving source for these,
there is an increasing demand for secondary cells being
small-sized, light-weight, and having high energy density. Further,
fuel cells which can be continuously used for a longer period of
time through fuel supply as compared with secondary cells necessary
to be charged are attracting special attention.
[0003] As a small-sized fuel cell to be mounted in a small-sized
portable electronic apparatus, such a type of fuel cell using
liquid fuel such as methanol, methanol aqueous solution or formic
acid aqueous solution is spotlighted. Such fuel is harmful to human
body. Therefore, now examined is a supplying method such that the
fuel is filled into a fuel cartridge, and a connector of the fuel
cartridge is directly connected to a connector at the electronic
apparatus side mounted with a fuel cell, thereby enabling injection
of the fuel into the electronic apparatus without fuel leakage.
Further, developments are directed toward providing a connector
having a shape designed to prevent fuel leakage even when forces
are accidentally applied to the connector in making connection
between connectors or in fuel supplying (for example, see Patent
document 1).
[0004] On the other hand, as for a fuel cartridge, although it has
a connector same in shape as that of the electronic apparatus,
various types of fuel cartridges are available ranging from small
size and capacity types attaching great importance to portability
to large size and capacity types attaching great importance to
inexpensiveness and versatility.
[0005] However, electronic apparatuses mounted with fuel cells are
increasingly reduced in size as is represented by portable
telephones, and as a result, the connectors are also increasingly
reduced in size. Accordingly, the connectors of fuel cartridges and
connectors of electronic apparatuses are further lowered in
mechanical strength, becoming easier to be damaged. Particularly,
connections between small-sized electronic apparatus and
inexpensive large-capacity type fuel cartridge are liable to become
defective, and it is required to use a small size and capacity type
fuel cartridge. Thus, there are problems to be solved for the user
with respect to convenience and increase in running cost.
[0006] Also, in electronic apparatuses different in shape,
connectors are also generally different in shape every electronic
apparatus, and even in the case of using same fuel, there is a
problem such that it is necessary to individually use fuel
cartridges different in shape of connectors corresponding
thereto.
[0007] Patent document 1 Unexamined Japanese Patent Publication
2007-128850.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The fuel supply adaptor device of the present invention is a
fuel supply adaptor device for supplying fuel in a fuel cartridge
to a power generator, connecting an apparatus having a fuel
injecting portion including at least a part of the power generator
formed of fuel cells to a fuel cartridge having a fuel supplying
portion, which comprise a first connector for making connection to
the fuel injecting portion of at least one apparatus, a second
connector for making connection to the fuel supplying portion of at
least one fuel cartridge, a connecting pipe for making connection
between the first connector and the second connector, and a holder,
and is configured in that the first connector, second connector,
and connecting pipe are held by the holder.
[0009] In this configuration, even in case the fuel supplying
portion of fuel cartridge and fuel injecting portion of the
apparatus are different in shape, the fuel can be injected from
various types of fuel cartridges to various types of apparatuses,
greatly improving the convenience. Also, since it is not necessary
to directly connect the fuel supplying portion of fuel cartridge to
the fuel injecting portion of the apparatus, it is possible to
prevent occurrence of damage in making connection and damage in the
course of fuel injection.
[0010] Also, the fuel supply device of the present invention is
configured in that the holder of the fuel supply adaptor device is
provided with a cartridge holder for holding the fuel cartridge and
an apparatus holder for holding the apparatus. In this way, it is
possible to realize a small-sized and highly reliable fuel supply
device, integrating the apparatus and fuel cartridge.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0011] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective plan view for describing
the structure of a fuel supply adaptor device in the first
embodiment of the present invention.
[0012] FIG. 2A is a schematic top view of a fuel supplying portion
of a fuel cartridge in the first embodiment of the present
invention.
[0013] FIG. 2B is a sectional view along the line 2B-2B of FIG.
2A.
[0014] FIG. 2C is a schematic top view of a first connector of the
fuel supply adaptor device in the first embodiment of the present
invention.
[0015] FIG. 2D is a sectional view along the line 2D-2D of FIG.
2C.
[0016] FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective plan view for describing
the structure of a fuel supply adaptor device in the second
embodiment of the present invention.
[0017] FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective plan view for describing
another example of structure of the fuel supply adaptor device in
the first embodiment or the second embodiment of the present
invention.
[0018] FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective plan view for describing
the structure of a fuel supply adaptor device in the third
embodiment of the present invention.
[0019] FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective plan view for describing
the structure of a fuel supply adaptor device in the fourth
embodiment of the present invention.
[0020] FIG. 7A is a schematic perspective plan view for describing
the structure of a fuel supply adaptor device in the fifth
embodiment of the present invention.
[0021] FIG. 7B is a side view in one longitudinal direction of FIG.
7A.
[0022] FIG. 7C is a side view on the other longitudinal direction
of FIG. 7A.
[0023] FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective plan view for describing
the structure of a fuel supply device in the sixth embodiment of
the present invention.
[0024] FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective plan view for describing
another example of structure of the fuel supply device in the sixth
embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0025] The preferred embodiments of the present invention will be
described in the following with reference to the drawings. The
present invention is not limited to the following contents provided
that it is based on the basic feature mentioned in this
specification.
First Embodiment
[0026] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective plan view for describing
the structure of a fuel supply adaptor device in the first
embodiment of the present invention. Shown in FIG. 1 is an example
of connection via fuel supply adaptor device 10 between a plurality
of different shapes of fuel cartridges 20, 22, 24 to be installed
in fuel supply adaptor device 10 and for example apparatus 30 such
as a portable telephone. Also, in FIG. 1, a perspective view is
shown in order to make clear the shapes of fuel cartridges 20, 22,
24. Here, fuel cartridge 20 is for example a pencil-like cartridge
of small size and capacity type, and fuel cartridge 22 is for
example a square medium size and capacity type. Or, fuel cartridge
24 is for example a cylindrical cartridge of large size and
capacity type. Shown above is an example, and as for fuel
cartridges having same fuel supplying portion, about 10 shapes such
as cylindrical and square types are now proposed.
[0027] As shown in FIG. 1, fuel supply adaptor device 10 in the
first embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of
first connectors 12, 13, 14, second connector 16, and connecting
pipe 18 for connecting the first connectors to the second
connector, which are integrally built in holder 11.
[0028] Also, fuel cartridges 20, 22, 24 comprise fuel cartridge
main bodies 20a, 22a, 24a, and fuel supplying portions 20b, 22b,
24b. In this case, first connectors 12, 13, 14 have shapes
corresponding to fuel supplying portions 20b, 22b, 24b of fuel
cartridges 20, 22, 24 having different shapes. In the present
preferred embodiment, as described in detail in the following by
using FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D, the fuel supplying portion of the fuel
cartridge and the first connector of fuel supply adaptor device 10,
and a mechanical key formed of a pair of projection and depression
having exclusive shapes corresponding to each of them are disposed
as shown in the example.
[0029] Further, apparatus 30 comprises apparatus main body 32
provided with power generator 34 formed of fuel cells, and fuel
injecting portion 36 connected to second connector 16 of fuel
supply adaptor device 10. Here, power generator 34 includes at
least a fuel cell and a tank for storing fuel of the fuel cell. The
inside detailed structures of fuel cartridge 20 and apparatus 30
are omitted.
[0030] As a method of integrating a plurality of first connectors
12, 13, 14, second connector 16, and connecting pipe 18 for
connecting the first connectors to the second connector by using
holder 11, for example, it is allowable to employ a method of
molding with resin, and also, a method of forming a remodeling
preventive portion by welding and bonding. In this way, it is
possible to prevent the fuel supply adaptor device from being
remodeled and to avoid supplying a different type of fuel to the
apparatus.
[0031] In the above configuration, the fuel is delivered to
connecting pipe 18 from fuel supplying portion 24b of fuel
cartridge 24, for example, which is fitted to first connector 12 of
fuel supply adaptor device 10, and the predetermined fuel is fed to
apparatus 30 from fuel injecting portion 36 of apparatus 30
connected to second connector 16 of fuel supply adaptor device 10.
In this case, fuel cartridge 24 is allowable to be a non-pressure
type which externally pressurizes and delivers the fuel or a
pressure type with its internal pressure set at a high degree which
delivers the fuel by using the internal pressure. For example, in
the case of a non-pressure type, the fuel can be fed by pressing
fuel cartridge main body 24a installed in fuel supply adaptor
device 10. Similarly, in the case of using other fuel cartridge, it
is allowable to deliver the fuel by connecting all the fuel
cartridges corresponding to all of the first connectors.
[0032] In this case, the fuel is supposed to be a liquid fuel such
as methanol or its aqueous solution, and formic acid.
[0033] Also, first connector 12, second connector 16, holder 11,
and connecting pipe 18 are for example formed from resin material
having ethanol resistive property such as polyethylene (PE),
polypropylene (PP), polyethyl ether ketone (PEEK), polyphenylene
sulfide (PPS), super engineer plastic such as liquid crystal
polymer, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene
terephthalate (PBT), and polyacetal (POM). Particularly, first
connector 12, second connector 16, and connecting pipe 18 are
preferable to be formed from material free from elution of residue
or metallic cation from the base material due to coming in contact
with the fuel.
[0034] An example of mechanical key is described in detail in the
following by using FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D.
[0035] FIG. 2A is a schematic top view of fuel supplying portion
24b of fuel cartridge 24 in the first embodiment of the present
invention. FIG. 2B is a sectional view along the line 2B-2B of FIG.
2A. Also, FIG. 2C is a schematic top view of first connector 12 of
fuel supply adaptor device 10 in the first embodiment of the
present invention, and FIG. 2D is a sectional view along the line
2D-2D of FIG. 2C. In FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D, fuel supplying portion 24b
of fuel cartridge 24 and first connector 12 are described as an
example, but as shown in FIG. 1, same holds true with respect to
the relationship between projection 20c, 22c of fuel supplying
portion 20b, 22b of other fuel cartridge 20, 22 and depression 13c,
14c of first connector 13, 14. Further, same holds true with
respect to the relationship between projection 16c of second
connector 16 and depression 36c of fuel injecting portion 36 of
apparatus 30.
[0036] As shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B, through-hole 25 for the
fuel to pass through is disposed at the center of fuel supplying
portion 24b, and there are provided two projections 24c at the
outer periphery. Also, as shown in FIG. 2C and FIG. 2D, in the
central portion of first connector 12 are disposed space 26 for
accommodating fuel supplying portion 24b of the fuel cartridge, and
through-hole 27 for the fuel to pass through which is connected
thereto. Also, depression 12c is disposed in the position
corresponding to projection 24c, leading to the outside of space
26. And, with projection 24c engaged to depression 12c, it enables
fuel supplying portion 24b and first connector 12 to engage each
other. That is, a pair of mechanical keys having exclusive shapes
capable of engaging each other are formed by projection 24c of fuel
supplying portion 24b and depression 12c of first connector 12. The
shape of mechanical key is not limited to this, but it is optional
provided that it is a pair of shapes that may engage each other. In
this way, it is possible for example to prevent different types of
fuel cartridge not suited for the apparatus from being connected to
the apparatus or the second connector of the fuel supply adaptor
device. Here, the types of fuel cartridges are related to factors
such as the kind of fuel, concentration, and internal pressure for
fuel delivery.
[0037] According to the present preferred embodiment, the fuel can
be fed to the apparatus with a plurality of fuel cartridges
different in shape and capacity simultaneously installed in the
fuel supply adaptor device, and therefore, it is possible to
improve the convenience and to reduce the fuel running cost. Also,
for example, it is possible to avoid forced connection due to
accidental forces or the like that is liable to take place when the
fuel supplying portion of a large capacity fuel cartridge is
directly connected to the apparatus, and to prevent the occurrence
of damage or leakage trouble.
[0038] Also, according to the present preferred embodiment, due to
the mechanical key disposed, it is possible to reliably prevent the
performance of fuel cells in the power generator from lowering or
becoming defective that is liable to take place when the fuel used
is not suited for the power generator of the apparatus.
[0039] In the preferred embodiment, the power generator of the
apparatus is built in the apparatus, as an example in the
description, but it is not limited to this configuration. For
example, it is allowable to install the power generator separate
from the apparatus and to use it with the apparatus main body of
the apparatus. Also, it is allowable to install only the tank or
fuel cell separate from the apparatus. That is, it is just enough
for the apparatus to comprise at least a part of the power
generator formed of fuel cells.
[0040] Also, in the preferred embodiment, three types of the fuel
supplying portions of fuel cartridges and the first connectors are
different in shape, as an example in the above description, but the
configuration is not limited to this, and the shapes are allowable
to be identical.
[0041] Further, in the preferred embodiment, the fuel supplying
portions of all fuel cartridges and the fuel injecting portions of
the apparatus are different in shape, as an example in the above
description, but the configuration is not limited to this. For
example, at least one fuel supplying portion and one fuel injecting
portion are preferable to be shaped so as to be capable of engaging
each other. In this way, since the fuel supplying portion and fuel
injecting portion being same in shape are able to engage each
other, it is possible to make direct connection or connection via
the fuel supply adaptor device.
Second Embodiment
[0042] FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective plan view for describing
the structure of the fuel supply adaptor device in the second
embodiment of the present invention. Shown in FIG. 3 is an example
of connecting fuel cartridge 40 installed in fuel supply adaptor
device 100 to a plurality of apparatuses comprising first apparatus
50 such as portable telephone and second apparatus 60 such as PDA
for example via fuel supply adaptor device 100. Also, in FIG. 3, a
perspective view is shown in order to make clear the shape of fuel
cartridge 40. The apparatus is an example, and it is allowable to
be a portable electronic apparatus or an installation type
electronic apparatus.
[0043] As shown in FIG. 3, fuel supply adaptor device 100 in the
second preferred embodiment of the present invention includes first
connector 112, a plurality of second connectors 114, 116, and
connecting pipe 118 for connecting the first connector to the
second connectors, which are integrally built in holder 111.
[0044] Here, fuel cartridge 40 is formed of fuel cartridge main
body 42 and fuel supplying portion 44a. In this case, first
connector 112 has a shape corresponding to fuel supplying portion
44a of fuel cartridge 40.
[0045] Same as in the first embodiment, the fuel supplying portion
of fuel cartridge and first connector 112 of fuel supply adaptor
device 100. Projection, 44 of the fuel supplying portion of fuel
cartridge and depression 112c of the first connector 112 of fuel
supply adaptor device 100 have particular shapes, and correspond to
each other as shown in the example. Similarly, second connectors
114, 116 of first apparatus 50, second apparatus 60, and fuel
supply adaptor device 100 are also provided with a mechanical key
formed of a pair of projections 114c, 116c, and depressions 56c,
66c having exclusive shapes corresponding to each of them.
[0046] Also, first apparatus 50 comprises first apparatus main body
52 provided with power generator 54 formed of fuel cells, and fuel
supplying portion 56 connected to second connector 114 of fuel
supply adaptor device 100. Similarly, second apparatus 60 comprises
second apparatus main body 62 provided with power generator 64
formed of fuel cells, and fuel injecting portion 66 connected to
second connector 116 of fuel supply adaptor device 100. Here, power
generator 54, 64 includes at least a fuel cell and a tank for
storing the fuel of the fuel cell. The detailed inside structures
of fuel cartridge 40, first apparatus 50, and second apparatus 60
are omitted.
[0047] Further, as a method of integrating first connector 112,
second connectors 114, 116, and connecting pipe 118 for connecting
the first connector to the second connectors by means of holder
111, same as in the first embodiment, it is allowable to employ a
method of molding with resin for example, and also allowable to
dispose a remodeling preventive portion by welding and bonding. In
this way, it is possible to prevent the fuel supply adaptor device
from being remodeled and to avoid supplying a different type of
fuel to the apparatus.
[0048] In the above configuration, the fuel is delivered to
connecting pipe 118 from fuel supplying portion 44a of fuel
cartridge 40 which is fitted to first connector 112 of fuel supply
adaptor device 100, and the predetermined fuel is fed to first
apparatus 50 and second apparatus 60 from fuel injecting portion 56
of first apparatus 50 and fuel injecting portion 66 of second
apparatus 60 which are connected to second connectors 114, 116 of
fuel supply adaptor device 100. In this case, fuel cartridge 40 is
allowable to be a non-pressure type which externally pressurizes
and delivers the fuel or a pressure type with its internal pressure
set at a high degree which delivers the fuel by using the internal
pressure. For example, in the case of a non-pressure type, the fuel
can be fed by pressing fuel cartridge main body 42 installed in
fuel supply adaptor device 100.
[0049] Here, the fuel is supposed to be a liquid fuel such as
methanol or its aqueous solution, and formic acid the same as in
the first embodiment. Also, first connector 112, second connector
114, 116, holder 111, and connecting pipe 118 are formed from, for
example, resin material such as polyethylene (PE) having ethanol
resistive property, polypropylene (PP), polyethyl ether ketone
(PEEK), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), super engineer plastic such as
liquid crystal polymer, polyethylene terephthalate (PET),
polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), and polyacetal (POM).
Particularly, first connector 112, second connector 114, 116, and
connecting pipe 18 are preferable to be formed from material that
is free from elution of residue or metallic cation from the base
material due to coming in contact with the fuel.
[0050] As for the mechanical key, the description is omitted
because it is same as the content described by using FIG. 2A to
FIG. 2D in the first embodiment.
[0051] According to the present preferred embodiment, the fuel can
be fed to a plurality of apparatuses operated with same fuel from
one fuel cartridge installed in the fuel supply adaptor device, and
therefore, it is possible to improve the convenience and
workability. Also, for example, it is possible to avoid forced
connection due to accidental forces or the like that is liable to
take place when the fuel supplying portion of a large capacity fuel
cartridge is directly connected to the small apparatus (first
apparatus for example), and to prevent damage of connections or
leakage trouble.
[0052] In the preferred embodiment, the power generator of the
apparatus is built in the apparatus, as an example in the above
description, but it is not limited to this configuration. For
example, it is allowable to install the power generator separate
from the apparatus and to combine it with the apparatus main body
of the apparatus. Also, it is allowable to install only the tank or
fuel cell separate from the apparatus. That is, it is just enough
for the apparatus to comprise at least a part of the power
generator formed of fuel cells.
[0053] Also, in the preferred embodiment, two types of examples are
described with respect to different shapes of the fuel injecting
portion and second connector of the first apparatus and the second
apparatus, but the configuration is not limited to this, and the
shapes are allowable to be identical, and further, it is allowable
to dispose a plurality of second connectors.
[0054] Also in the preferred embodiment, the fuel supplying portion
of the fuel cartridge and the fuel injecting portion of each
apparatus are different in shape, as an example in the above
description, but the configuration is not limited to this. For
example, at least one fuel supplying portion and one fuel injecting
portion are preferable to have shapes that may engage each other.
In this way, the fuel supplying portion and fuel injecting portion
same in shape are able to engage each other, and can be directly
connected or via the fuel supply adaptor device.
[0055] In the first embodiment and second embodiment, an example of
supplying the fuel from a plurality of fuel cartridges to one
apparatus or an example of supplying the fuel from one fuel
cartridge to a plurality of apparatuses is described, but the
configuration is not limited to this. For example, as shown in FIG.
4, it is allowable to configure fuel supply adaptor device 150
connected to a plurality of fuel cartridges 20, 22, 24, and a
plurality of apparatuses such as first apparatus 50 and second
apparatus 60. In this way, it is possible to further improve the
convenience and to lower the running cost.
[0056] Also, in the first embodiment and second embodiment, the
first connector and the second connector of the fuel supply adaptor
device are provided with a valve mechanism which opens and closes
when connected to a fuel cartridge or apparatus as assumed in the
description. However, in case of no valve mechanism, it is
preferable to be configured in that the connecting pipe to which
each fuel cartridge is individually connected is provided with a
one-way valve. In this case, it is necessary to provide at least
the second connector connected to the apparatus with a valve
mechanism in order to prevent leakage trouble. Thus, it is possible
to simplify the first connector mechanism and to prevent back
flowing of the fuel due to the simplified structure.
Third Embodiment
[0057] FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view for describing the
structure of the fuel supply adaptor device in the third embodiment
of the present invention. In FIG. 5, the fuel cartridge and
apparatus are same as in the first embodiment, and the illustration
is omitted. Also, the same component elements as in FIG. 1 are
given same reference numerals, and the description is sometimes
omitted.
[0058] As shown in FIG. 5, fuel supply adaptor device 200 in this
preferred embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that
a part of connecting pipe 18 is provided with a pressure adjusting
device.
[0059] That is, as shown in FIG. 5, fuel supply adaptor device 200
of the third embodiment of the present invention comprises a
plurality of first connectors 12, 13, 14, second connector 16, and
connecting pipe 18 for connecting the first connectors to the
second connector, which are integrally built in holder 11, pressure
adjusting device 210 disposed in a part of connecting pipe 18, and
control circuit 220 for controlling the pressure adjusting device.
In this case, for example, a solenoid valve or the like can be used
as pressure adjusting device 210. When the pressure adjusting
device is a mechanically adjusting mechanism, there is no
particular need of disposing a control circuit.
[0060] And, when a pressure type fuel cartridge is used, pressure
adjusting device 210 serves to supply the fuel under optimum
conditions to the tank of the power generator of the apparatus into
which the fuel is injected, for example, reducing the fuel pressure
to a desired pressure.
[0061] According to the present preferred embodiment, in pressure
type fuel cartridge, a plurality of fuel cartridges different in
pressure are installed in the fuel supply adaptor device, and the
fuel can be efficiently fed at an appropriate pressure suited for
the apparatus. As a result, it is possible to realize a highly
reliable fuel supply adaptor device free from leakage trouble.
[0062] In this preferred embodiment, the pressure adjusting device
is disposed in the position after engagement of the connecting pipe
connected to the second connector, as an example in the above
description, but the configuration is not limited to this. For
example, it is allowable to individually dispose pressure adjusting
devices so as to individually adjust the pressures applied to first
connectors 12, 13, 14 connected to individual fuel cartridges. In
this way, with respect to a plurality of fuel cartridges of
pressure type which are different in internal pressure, it is
possible to prevent back flowing of the fuel caused due to pressure
difference.
Fourth Embodiment
[0063] FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view for describing the
structure of the fuel supply adaptor device in the fourth
embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 6, the fuel cartridge
and apparatus are same as in the second embodiment, and the
illustration is omitted. Also, the same component elements as in
FIG. 3 are given same reference numerals, and the description is
sometimes omitted.
[0064] As shown in FIG. 6, fuel supply adaptor device 300 in this
preferred embodiment is different from the second embodiment in
that a part of connecting pipe 18 is provided with a pressure
generating device.
[0065] That is, as shown in FIG. 6, fuel supply adaptor device 300
in the fourth embodiment of the present invention comprises first
connector 112, a plurality of second connectors 114, 116, and
connecting pipe 118 for connecting the first connector to the
second connectors, which are integrally built in holder 111,
pressure generating device 310 disposed in a part of connecting
pipe 118, and control circuit 320 for controlling the pressure
generating device. In this case, for example, a centrifugal pump,
diaphragm pump, syringe pump or the like can be used as pressure
generating device 310.
[0066] And, when a non-pressure type fuel cartridge is used,
pressure generating device 310 serves to supply the fuel to the
tank of the power generator of the apparatus into which the fuel is
injected, increasing the fuel pressure to a desired pressure.
[0067] According to the present preferred embodiment, in
non-pressure type fuel cartridge, a fuel cartridge is installed in
the fuel supply adaptor device, and the fuel can be efficiently fed
at an appropriate pressure suited for the apparatus. As a result,
it is possible to realize a highly reliable fuel supply adaptor
device free from leakage trouble without lowering of the function
at the power generator of the apparatus.
[0068] In this preferred embodiment, the pressure generating device
is disposed between first connector 112 and the branch of the
connecting pipe connected to the first connector as described as an
example, but the configuration is not limited to this. For example,
it is allowable to individually dispose pressure generating devices
so as to individually generate pressures applied to second
connectors 114, 116 connected to individual apparatuses. In this
way, the fuel can be individually fed at optimum pressures to a
plurality of apparatuses.
[0069] In the third embodiment, a pressure adjusting device is
installed in the fuel supply adaptor device of the first
embodiment, and in the fourth embodiment, a pressure generating
device is installed in the fuel supply adaptor device of the second
embodiment, respectively described as examples, but the
configurations are not limited to these, and compatible with each
other. Also, the pressure adjusting device and pressure generating
device are individually disposed, as an example in the description,
but it is allowable to install both devices in the fuel supply
adaptor device. In this way, irrespective of pressure type and
non-pressure type, it is possible to use optional fuel cartridges
being identical in type and concentration of the fuel.
Fifth Embodiment
[0070] The structure of the fuel supply adaptor device in the fifth
embodiment of the present invention will be described in the
following with reference to FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C.
[0071] FIG. 7A is a schematic perspective view for describing the
structure of the fuel supply adaptor device in the fifth embodiment
of the present invention. FIG. 7B is a side view in one
longitudinal direction of FIG. 7A, and FIG. 7C is a side view in
the other longitudinal direction of FIG. 7A. In FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C,
the fuel cartridge and apparatus are same as in the first
embodiment, and the illustration is omitted. Also, same component
elements as in FIG. 1 are given same reference numerals, and the
description is sometimes omitted.
[0072] As shown in FIG. 7B and FIG. 7C, fuel supply adaptor device
400 of this preferred embodiment is different from the first
embodiment in that a remodeling checking portion is disposed at the
outer periphery of holder 11 as a remodeling preventing portion.
The other configuration is same as in the first embodiment, and the
description is omitted.
[0073] That is, as shown in FIG. 7A, fuel supply adaptor device 400
in the fifth embodiment of the present invention comprises a
plurality of first connectors 12, 13, 14, second connector 16, and
connecting pipe 18 for connecting the first connectors to the
second connector, which are integrally built in holder 11, and
remodeling checking portion 410 mounted on the engagement portion
at the outer periphery of holder 11. Here, as remodeling preventive
portion 410, for example, it can be formed by affixing hologram
seal 420 as shown in FIG. 7B or by fine laser print 430 printed on
the surface of holder 11 with use of fine laser as shown in FIG.
7C.
[0074] According to the present preferred embodiment, remodeling or
imitation of the fuel supply adaptor device can be prevented by the
remodeling checking portion. As a result, supplying of different
fuel to the apparatus by remodeling such as replacement of the
first connector or second connector can be avoided, and it is
possible to realize an excellent fuel supply adaptor device which
assures reliability and safety.
[0075] In the preferred embodiment, both of hologram seal 420 and
fine laser print 430 are formed at the outer periphery of holder
11, as an example in the description, but the configuration is not
limited to this, and it is allowable to separately dispose
them.
Sixth Embodiment
[0076] FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view for describing the
structure of the fuel supply adaptor device in the sixth embodiment
of the present invention. In FIG. 8, same as in the first
embodiment, a plurality of fuel cartridges 20, 22, 24 and apparatus
30 such as portable telephone are connected to fuel supply adaptor
device 10, as an example in the description.
[0077] As shown in FIG. 8, fuel supply device 500 comprises
cartridge holder 510 for holding a plurality of fuel cartridges and
apparatus holder 520 for holding apparatus 30 which are integrally
installed in holder 11 of fuel supply adaptor device 10. And, fuel
supply adaptor device 10 comprises a plurality of first connectors
12, 13, 14, second connector 16, and connecting pipe 18 for
connecting the first connectors to the second connector, which are
integrally built in holder 11. Further, there are provided grooves
(not shown) corresponding to the shapes of the plurality of fuel
cartridges installed in cartridge holder 510, and the fuel
cartridges can be easily connected to first connectors 12, 13, 14
by sliding them along the grooves. Also, same as described above,
apparatus holder 520 is also provided with a groove (not shown)
corresponding to the shape of apparatus 30 and can be easily
connected to second connector 16 by sliding the apparatus along the
groove. The configurations of the fuel cartridge and apparatus are
same as in the first embodiment, and the description is
omitted.
[0078] And, fuel supply device 500 is configured in that fuel
injecting portion 36 of apparatus 30 held in apparatus holder 520
is connected to second connector 16, and fuel supplying portions
20b, 22b, 24b of a plurality of fuel cartridges 20, 22, 24 held in
cartridge holder 510 are connected to first connector 12, and the
fuel in the fuel cartridge is fed to power generator 34 of
apparatus 30 through connecting pipe 18.
[0079] According to the present preferred embodiment, fuel
cartridges 20, 22, 24 and apparatus 30 are reliably held and can be
easily installed. Further, the fuel of fuel cartridges can be
efficiently fed to apparatus 30 via fuel supply adaptor device
10.
[0080] Also, the fuel injecting portion of the apparatus reduced in
size can be connected to the second connector for example by
sliding via the groove nearly same in shape as the apparatus in the
apparatus holder, and therefore, it is possible to effectively
prevent damage of the second connector due to accidental pressures
or deforming when connected. Similarly, the cartridge holder which
holds a plurality of cartridges different in shape may serve to
prevent the fuel supplying portion and the first connector from
being damaged or the like.
[0081] In the present preferred embodiment, the first connector and
the second connector are connected to each other just by using a
connecting pipe, as an example in the description, but the
configuration is not limited to this. For example, as in another
example of the fuel supply adaptor device shown in FIG. 9, it is
allowable to dispose individual one-way valve 550 in the connecting
pipe connected to each first connector. In this way, when the
internal pressures of individual fuel cartridges are different,
back flowing of the fuel from each other can be prevented. Here,
the above configuration can be applied to each of the above
preferred embodiments.
[0082] In each of the above preferred embodiments, liquid fuel is
used as an example in the description, but the configuration is not
limited to this. For example, gaseous fuel such as butane and
hydrogen can be applied.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0083] With use of the fuel supply adaptor device of the present
invention, the connection to a plurality of fuel cartridges or a
plurality of apparatuses can be easily made. Accordingly, making
the connection of a plurality of fuel cartridges or a plurality of
apparatuses, it is effective to improve the fuel supply workability
and to reduce the fuel running cost.
* * * * *