×

Apparatus and method for converting conventionally fueled engines to operate on an alternative fuel

  • US 5,150,685 A
  • Filed: 09/11/1991
  • Issued: 09/29/1992
  • Est. Priority Date: 09/11/1991
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
Patent Images

1. Apparatus for converting a conventionally fueled internal combustion engine to operate with an alternative fuel, the engine having an electronic control module which generates a control signal for output to a conventional fuel injector, the apparatus comprising:

  • an alternative fuel introduction assembly including a housing having an interior chamber, an inlet passage in fluid communication with a source of alternative fuel, and an alternative fuel injector moveable between an open position adapted to place the interior chamber in fluid communication with the engine and a closed position adapted to seal the interior chamber from fluid communication with the engine;

    a temperature sensor adapted to measure the temperature of the alternative fuel and to generate an output signal indicative of the measured temperature; and

    an electronic translator in electrical contact with the alternative fuel introduction assembly, the temperature sensor, and the electronic control module, the electronic translator adapted to receive the control signal and the output signal, and to generate an alternative fuel injector control signal in accordance with the energy content differential of conventional fuel and the alternative fuel, and also in accordance with the flow characteristics and operating characteristics of the alternative fuel injector, for output to the alternative fuel introduction assembly, the alternative fuel injector control signal controlling the period of time the alternative fuel injector remains in the open position so as to meter the flow of the alternative fuel to the engine.

View all claims
  • 1 Assignment
Timeline View
Assignment View
    ×
    ×