| 摘要 |
A novel method and improved apparatus are disclosed for generating fuel vapor from a volatile normally liquid fuel, safely handling and controlling the fuel vapor, and utilizing the same in the operation of an internal combustion engine. Preferably, the fuel vapor is generated by introducing the liquid fuel under pressure into the lower portion of a vessel via an elongated tubular member having a plurality of spaced openings. The pressurized liquid fuel flows from the openings under vigorous conditions of agitation and fuel vapor is evolved from the liquid surface without forming finely subdivided liquid droplets in the vapor phase. Air is mixed with fuel vapor in the upper portion of the vessel in an amount sufficient to lower the dew point, but insufficient to produce an explosive mixture. The mixture is withdrawn from the vessel and, after adding sufficient air to produce an explosive mixture and for efficient combustion, is passed to the intake manifold. Prior to entering the intake manifold, the fuel vapor, the air admixed therewith, and the admixture of air and fuel vapor remain cool and are not heated to an elevated temperature by an extraneous source of heat. They also are maintained under a pressure not greater than atmospheric, and are passed through the system solely in response to suction from the intake manifold and without being placed under superatmospheric pressure. In a further aspect, the above novel method and improved apparatus are used in modifying a conventional internal combustion engine having a prior art carburetor. The resultant modified internal combustion engine operates more efficiently and with lower undesirable exhaust emissions.
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