WO2009116862A1

WO2009116862A1 - Adaptor for a fuel theft protector, a fuel theft protector and a method for the placement thereof

Info

Publication number: WO2009116862A1
Application number: PCT/NL2009/050127
Authority: WO
Inventors: Marijn Regoort
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2008-03-17
Filing date: 2009-03-17
Publication date: 2009-09-24
Anticipated expiration: 2010-09-17
Also published as: NL2001385C1

Abstract

The invention relates to an adaptor (1) for securing a fuel theft protector (2) to a filler mouth of a fuel tank. The invention also relates to a method for securing a fuel theft protector (2) with an adaptor (1) to the filler mouth of a fuel tank. The invention also relates to a fuel theft protector (2). The adaptor or the fuel theft protector is mounted to or into the filler mouth of a fuel tank. The adaptor (1) comprises a substantially cylindrical outer shell (5) suitable for incorporation in the filler mouth. The inner shell (6) of the adaptor (1) is suitable for the incorporation therein of the fuel theft protector (2). According to the invention, a clamping element (11, 12) extending substantially in a radial direction from the outer shell (5) of the adaptor (1) in an outwardly direction is movable in an axial direction. This enables the adaptor (1) to be clamped to the filler mouth, the clamping action being performed between the flange (8) and the clamping element (11, 12), so that the clamping can be arranged and, in particular, be secured.

Description

Adaptor for a fuel theft protector, a fuel theft protector and a method for the placement thereof

The invention relates to an adaptor for securing a fuel theft protector into a filler mouth of a fuel tank, wherein the adaptor is provided with a substantially cylindrical outer shell suitable for insertion into said filler mouth, and with an inner shell suitable for incorporating said fuel theft protector therein.

In addition, the invention also relates to a fuel theft protector and to an adaptor for placing said fuel theft protector. The fuel theft protector is suitable for placement in an adaptor according to the invention, wherein said fuel theft protector comprises a housing provided with a filler mouth for filling a fuel tank with fuel, and with an obstruction chamber to prevent the removal of fuel from the fuel tank, wherein said obstruction chamber is provided with discharge elements for the discharge of the fuel introduced into the fuel tank. The invention also relates to a method for securing a fuel theft protector with an adaptor according to the invention to the filler mouth of a fuel tank.

Fuel theft protectors are used in the transport industry. It has turned out that fuel is being stolen from trucks. To this end, the filler cap of the fuel tank is unscrewed, a tube is inserted into the fuel tank and a portion of the fuel is removed, for example, with the use of a pump.

A fuel theft protector may comprise a hollow, cylindrical or tubular body with a filler mouth. The fuel theft protector is partially incorporated into the fuel tank by inserting it into the filler mouth of the fuel tank and securing it thereto. The tubular body is provided with discharge holes. When a fuel is introduced into the fuel tank, the fuel will be fed through the filler mouth of the tank into the protector and can reach the interior of the tank through the discharge holes. A blocking element may be placed in the tubular body, for example, in the form of a framework of pentagonal stacked elements. This framework ensures that a hose introduced into the fuel tank through the filler mouth is inhibited by the framework, such that only a limited part of the hose may be introduced into the fuel tank. This restricts the amount of fuel that can be removed by theft from the fuel tank.

The existing fuel theft protectors are suitable for placement on the filler mouth of the fuel tank. Both the protector and the filler mouth must have suitably matching dimensions. Placing a fuel theft protector on a filler mouth with a larger diameter requires the use of an adaptor. A known adaptor has dimensions adapted to the filler mouth. In addition, an existing fuel theft protector can also be fitted into the adaptor. A problem with the known adaptor and of the known fuel theft protector is that fuel leakages may occur when the fuel tank is filled. This may cause particular problems in the case of large vehicles or buses in which the fuel is introduced into the fuel tank at high speeds. Fuel leakages may also occur whilst driving as the fuel splashes against the protector or adaptor. At higher temperatures, for example during summertime, the fuel will expand. This may also lead to leakages between the filler neck and the protector. In addition, when filling the fuel tank, the petrol can splash back through the filler mouth due to the presence of, in particular, the framework in the fuel theft protector. This results in the wastage of fossil fuels. In addition, this may also lead to pollution of the environment. It may also have a corrosive effect on the vehicle itself. A further disadvantage is that, in most cases, there will always be play because different filler necks with different dimensions are used. The known fuel theft protector is relatively easy to remove from the known adaptor. In addition, the framework present in the known fuel theft protector is relatively easy to remove. This makes the fuel tank relatively easy to access by a thief, and subsequently it will be relatively easy to steal fuel, for example, with the use of a pump device. It is therefore an object of the invention to provide an adaptor for a fuel theft protector which overcomes or reduces at least one of the aforementioned problems or disadvantages. In addition, it is an object of the invention to provide such a fuel theft protector.

To this end, the invention provides an adaptor, wherein an annular flange extending from the outer shell contacts the filler mouth when mounted. The contact to the filler mouth ensures that the fuel does not easily splash back, thus reducing the risk of leakage. The outer shell may be provided with a clamping element for clamping the adaptor to the filler mouth. The clamped attachment of the adaptor to the filler mouth ensures a firm connection without leakage occurring. In addition, the clamped attachment ensures that the adaptor may not be removed easily. Moreover, the adaptor may be secured with the use of two additional Allen bolts in order to prevent its removal by unscrewing. The clamping element may extend outwardly from the outer shell of the adaptor in a substantially radial direction. The outer shell of the adaptor is disposed, when mounted, within the chamber of the fuel tank. Due to this, the clamping element attached to the outer shell is not easily accessible. This ensures that the adaptor is not as easy to remove.

The clamping element is preferably movable in an axial direction. Being movable in an axial direction results in a relatively tight clamping force. It is possible that the clamping element moves in an axial direction because the clamping element flexes a little. Such an embodiment is relatively cheap. However, it is also possible for the clamping element to be constructed in such a manner that it can be purely translated in an axial direction.

The adaptor may have adjusting elements for moving the clamping element in an axial direction. The adjusting elements may be used to either secure or remove the adaptor. This makes it easy to replace an adaptor that is either broken or damaged. The adjusting elements may serve to move the clamping element in an axial direction. The parts to be secured of both the adaptor and the filler mouth may lie in a substantially radial plane. By moving the clamping element in an axial direction, the adaptor can be relatively firmly secured to the filler mouth.

In one embodiment, the adaptor is mountable to the filler mouth by means of a bayonet-type attachment. A bayonet-type attachment ensures a relatively simple and tight fit between the adaptor and the filler mouth. A radially directed recess may be formed in the filler mouth, through which the clamping element of the adaptor may be inserted. Subsequently, the adaptor may be rotated so that it fits over an upwardly raised wall (rim) of the filler mouth. The raised rim may be provided at an end with a stop so that the adaptor cannot be rotated any further than is necessary. At a distance from the stop, the raised rim may have a recess formed therein, into which the clamping element fits when the adaptor is attached. The recess ensures additional resistance to back-rotation of the adaptor. In this manner, the clamping element may be arranged so as to exert pressure primarily on the raised rim. This increases the resistance to back- rotation, thus making it more difficult for the adaptor to be removed from the filler mouth.

In one embodiment, the adjusting elements are operable by a user from the inner shell when the fuel theft protector is in a removed position. The inner shell is relatively ₄ ' V/ 1 / I Mk_* tW / U O U l Z. / easy to access. In this manner, it is relatively easy to place the adaptor on the filler mouth and to secure the adaptor. The fuel theft protector, in an incorporated position, prevents the adjusting elements from being operable from the inner shell. This prevents the adjusting elements from being accessible after placing the fuel theft protector, so > that the adaptor cannot be removed from the filler mouth.

In one embodiment, the adjusting elements comprise a bore extending in a substantially radial direction. The bore may comprise a pressing element incorporated therein, such as a screw or a dowel plug. The pressing element ensures that the clamping element can be moved in an axial direction. The bore may extend up to the inner shell so that the pressing element is operable from the inner shell. Such a construction is relatively easy and cheap, but in addition also ensures that the clamping element can secure the adaptor to the filler mouth with sufficient force.

In one embodiment, the outer shell has a supporting element mounted at a distance from the clamping element The supporting element is arranged for providing a supporting force to the pressing element when said pressing element moves the clamping element in an axial direction. The supporting element may, for example, be a protruding rim. The clamping element is placed at a distance thereto and the pressing element is mounted movably between the supporting element and the clamping element. When moved, the pressing element will push against the movable clamping element. The supporting element is mounted in a relatively rigid manner. The supporting element ensures that the force of the pressing element is properly transferred to the clamping element, such that the clamping element moves in an axial direction. The use of a supporting element increases the clamping force that can be achieved. In one embodiment, the bore is at least partially provided in both the clamping element and the supporting element. Providing at least part of the hole in both the clamping element and in the supporting element ensures that the pressing element is only movable in a radial direction. In this manner, the pressing element, when in a certain position, will exert an equal force on the clamping element, seeing it will be difficult to move the pressing element in a circumferential direction. In this manner a relatively accurate and reliable clamped attachment can be achieved between the adaptor and the filler mouth.

The adaptor may be provided with a moisture resistant element. The moisture resistant element ensures that any openings and spaces between the adaptor and filler mouth are sealed. The moisture resistant element can be placed, when the adaptor is in its mounted position, between the flange and the filler mouth. Placing it in this way ensures that a firm contact is made between the filler mouth and the adaptor and that the entire assembly is firmly sealed. The moisture resistant element may, in one embodiment, be made of rubber. Rubber has good moisture resistant properties. In addition, rubber is relatively cheap. Rubber also has a relatively high coefficient of friction and ensures that the adaptor has a firmer grip over the filler mouth.

In one embodiment, the inner shell is formed with a screw thread. The screw thread can be used for the incorporation of the fuel theft protector by screwing. A screw thread provides a relatively firm attachment. In addition, a screw thread is relatively free from leakages and thus prevents any leakages between the adaptor and the fuel theft protector from occurring. A screw thread is relatively easy to form and is therefore relatively cheap.

In one embodiment a fixing element is provided for clamping the adaptor to the fuel theft protector. The securing is preferably such that the fuel theft protector is relatively difficult to remove. In a preferred embodiment, a bore with an internal screw thread is formed in an inner shell of the adaptor. The bore can be formed in a radial direction. A bore with an internal screw thread of the same size is also formed on the fuel theft protector. This bore may also be formed in a radial direction. When the fuel theft protector is in its mounted position, a screw or bolt can be screwed onto this screw thread from an inner side of the fuel theft protector. The screw or bolt is such that it can be fastened in both the bore of the fuel theft protector and the bore of the adaptor. The screw or bolt therefore connects the fuel theft protector to the adaptor, thus ensuring a relatively tight fit between the two. The head of the screw or bolt can then be removed so that the fuel theft protector can no longer be removed from the adaptor. It is possible to use a screw or bolt with a specific type of head. For example, it is possible to use a head that can only be turned in one direction, such as a single-revolution or set screw. It is also possible to use a head that can only be tightened (and possibly untightened) with the use of specific tools. Of course, it is also possible to ensure a permanent connection in an alternative manner.

According to an aspect of the invention, the invention provides a fuel theft protector, wherein an obstruction element is integrally attached to a part of the obstruction chamber that is disposed at a distance from the filler mouth. The obstruction element prevents a hose from being inserted to a certain depth into the fuel tank. This restricts the amount of fuel that can be removed by theft from the fuel tank. The obstruction element may extend in the chamber, and in the direction of the filler mouth. In one embodiment, the obstruction chamber comprises a bottom section with peripheral walls, wherein a lower portion of the obstruction element is connected to the bottom section and extends substantially parallel to the peripheral walls at a height up to an uppermost point. This reduces the depth of insertion of the hose so that less fuel can be stolen. Moreover, a fuel theft protector constructed in this manner is relatively compact and therefore easy to insert into the inner shell of the adaptor according to the invention.

According to another aspect of the invention, a fuel theft protector is provided in order to be placed on an outlet/inlet of a fuel tank. The fuel theft protector comprises a filler mouth for the introduction of fuel into a fuel tank and a section disposed at a distance from the filler mouth which forms an obstruction chamber for preventing the removal of fuel from the fuel tank. In addition, the fuel theft protector comprises air- relief elements for the relief of air whilst fuel is introduced into the fuel tank. The air- relief elements are arranged closer to the filler mouth than to the obstruction chamber. The obstruction chamber incorporates an obstruction element, such as an arbor. The air-relief elements are disposed closer to the filler mouth than to the obstruction element. The air-relief elements are preferably disposed at a distance of less than the length of the spout of the fuel filler gun.

The spout of a fuel filler gun in a fuel theft protector preferably lies in abutment with the obstruction element. The obstruction element is preferably arranged for distributing the fuel during filling, through the fuel theft protector into the fuel tank. To this end, the obstruction element is, for example, provided with a number of radial flanks. In this manner, the fluid is controlled in a lateral direction, for example, by means of laterally formed openings in the protector. These laterally formed openings are difficult to access and this therefore makes the theft of fuel much more difficult. The obstruction element is preferably formed in the shape of a cone, the top of which is directed towards the filler mouth. The flank running outwardly from a centre of the obstruction element is preferably disposed at an angle of more than 15 degrees, preferably more than 25 degrees, with the plane perpendicular to a longitudinal axis (from the filler mouth to the obstruction chamber) of the fuel theft protector. At an angle of 15 degrees or more, filling rates of 120 liters per minute can be achieved, and likewise, a filling rate of 150 liters per minute can be achieved at an angle of 25 degrees or more.

In one embodiment, the discharge elements are mounted in a section of the peripheral wall located between the bottom section of the obstruction chamber and the uppermost point The discharge elements may comprise holes. The holes should be relatively large in order to reduce the resistance to the flow of fuel and to ensure that the fuel tank is properly filled. The obstruction element ensures that the relatively large holes are relatively difficult to reach from the filler mouth, thus making it difficult to remove fuel. The air-relief elements may be provided on a section of the perimeter wall located between the uppermost point of the obstruction element and the filler mouth. The air-relief elements may be holes. The air-relief elements are relatively small in order to make the fuel tank difficult to access from the delivery side of the fuel theft protector. The bores of the air-relief elements can be smaller than the bores of the discharge elements.

In one embodiment, the obstruction element has a height which is less than 40% of the height of a chamber formed within the housing. The obstruction element extends only partially from a chamber formed within the housing. This provides sufficient space to provide the obstruction chamber with fuel discharge elements through the protector to the fuel tank. Additionally, the obstruction element is placed at a certain distance from the filler mouth, thus making the obstruction element more difficult to remove.

The obstruction element may be a substantially arbor-shaped element. The arbor- shaped element ensures an effective flow of fuel in the direction of the fuel tank. The arbor-shaped element may be provided with blocking elements. The blocking elements prevent access to the fuel tank from the filler mouth. To this end, the blocking elements may be provided close to the discharge elements in the obstruction chamber.

In one embodiment, the blocking elements are substantially pie-slice shaped protrusions disposed along a peripheral line and positioned at regular intervals from each other. An open interstitial space can be provided between two adjacent blocking elements. This ensures an efficient flow of the fuel in the direction of the fuel tank. On the other side, access in the direction of the fuel tank is made more difficult. The blocking elements may, from a top of the arbor-shaped element, extend radially and distally to the outside. In this manner, resistance to the delivery of fuel is relatively low.

The arbor-shaped element can be formed with a conically shaped top with an apex angle. The conically shaped top portion can be formed by the blocking elements. This enables the petrol to flow in the correct direction of the fuel tank. The blocking elements also ensure that the fuel tank is difficult to access from the filler mouth. The apex angle of the conical body may have an angle of less than 150°. It has been demonstrated that, at such an angle, the filling speed may be equal to about 120 liters per minute. The top angle may also be smaller, for example 130°. With this top angle, relatively high filling rates can be achieved, for example 150 liters per minute, without petrol flowing upstream.

In one embodiment, a number of blocking elements disposed along a peripheral line form a first ring. This ring may be disposed in a substantially radial plane. A number of blocking elements disposed along a peripheral line may form a second ring. This second ring may be disposed in a substantially radial plane. The second ring may be disposed at an axial distance from the first ring. The second ring may also be disposed in a staggered position with respect to the first ring. With this, the two rings can be arranged in such a manner that, in an axial projection of the obstruction element, the blocking elements of the second ring coincide with the interstitial spaces of the first ring. Such placement ensures an efficient flow of the fuel in the direction of the fuel tank and prevents backflow of fuel in the direction of the fuel delivery. In addition, such placement ensures that it is more difficult to gain access to the fuel tank from the filling side. In one embodiment, the blocking elements are substantially pie-slice shaped protrusions. The pie-slice shaped protrusions are formed with a point and a circular end portion. The protrusions can be provided with a point near a centre-line of the obstruction element and extend in a radial direction, the circular end portion thereby extending close to the peripheral wall of the obstruction chamber. It has been demonstrated that such an embodiment provides a good ratio between the flow of fuel and resistance to the removal of fuel from the fuel tank. The construction also ensures that the blocking element is not removable. This is so solidly constructed that it is practically impossible to beat out the bottom plate in any way whatsoever. According to one aspect of the invention, a method is provided for mounting an adaptor according to the invention. The adaptor can be mounted to the filler mouth of a fuel tank. The pressing element of the adaptor can then be made operable by pressing the flange of the adaptor against the filler mouth. Securing will ensure that the adaptor is fixed in the correct position. Adjusting elements can be used for securing the pressing element. The adjusting elements can be formed as freely accessible parts.

The fuel theft protector can then be mounted in the adaptor. This means that it is possible that the adjusting elements are no longer accessible to the pressing element. In this manner, the fuel theft protector can no longer be removed from the filler mouth. Subsequently, it is possible to secure the fuel theft protector to the adaptor. This means of fastening can be performed using a known method, such as, for example, with the use of one or more screws.

In some cases, the protector can be mounted directly to the filler neck, without the need for a separate adaptor. In the case of the filler neck in Scania vehicles, for example, which is already provided with a screw thread, the protector can be mounted directly, without first having to fit an adaptor.

In order to prevent the easy removal of the fuel theft protection device, it is possible to provide a means of security to the connection between fuel theft protector and the adaptor. This can be achieved, for example, by rendering the securing means, such as one or more screws, inoperable. This can be achieved relatively cheaply. Single-revolution screws may also be applied. It is also possible to connect the fuel theft protector to the adaptor by means of welding.

In an embodiment of the method, the adaptor is mounted onto the filler mouth by means of a bayonet attachment. A bayonet attachment ensures a relatively simple and firm connection between the adaptor and the filler mouth.

In one embodiment of the method, the step of moving the clamping element towards the flange of the adaptor is performed by providing adjusting elements onto an inner shell of the adaptor. Because the adjusting elements are attached to the inside, these are easily accessible. This simplifies the attachment of the adaptor to the filler mouth.

The step of mounting the fuel theft protector can be performed with the use of an internal screw thread formed on the inner shell of the adaptor. To this end, the fuel theft protector is provided with a matching screw thread. This will enable the quick attachment of the fuel theft protector. This ensures that attachment can be performed relatively cheaply. Additionally, the screw thread attachment ensures a firm connection. In one embodiment of the method, said method provides the step of rendering the securing elements inoperable by the removal of at least a portion of a securing means. ' By removing a part of the securing means, this means that it is no longer easily accessible. In this manner, the fuel theft protector can no longer be removed. In addition, the removal of a part of the attachment element can be performed relatively easy and cheaply.

It is conceivable that the portion of the attaching element removed comprises at least a head of a screw. By removing the head of the screw, it is relatively easy to render the securing element inoperable. This makes the method relatively quick and cheap.

One embodiment of the invention will be described below in further detail with reference to a description of the accompanying figures, in which: Figure 1 shows a view in perspective of an adaptor for a fuel theft protector according to the present invention;

Figure 2 shows a view in perspective of a fuel theft protector according to the present invention;

Figure 3 shows a view in perspective of an obstruction element for a fuel theft protector according to the present invention;

Figure 4 shows a view in perspective of an arrangement of an adaptor ring and of a fuel theft protector in a mounted position; arid

Figure 4a shows a schematic view of a fuel filler gun.

Figure 1 shows an adaptor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The adaptor 1 can be used to mount a fuel theft protector to a filler mouth of a fuel tank, as shown in Fig. 4. The adaptor shown in Fig. 1 has a substantially cylindrical outer shell 5 and an inner shell 6. The inner shell is provided with an internal screw thread 9. An annular flange 8 is provided at one end of the cylindrical adaptor. A moisture resistant element 24 may be provided in the vicinity of said flange. The moisture resistant element 24 in the embodiment shown is of the annular ring type. The moisture resistant element 24 can be made from rubber, or from any other material known to have moisture resistant properties. Clamping elements 11, 12 are mounted onto the outer shell 5 of the adaptor, at a certain distance from the annular flange 8. The clamping elements 11, 12 extend primarily in a radial direction R from the outer shell 5 of the adaptor 1 in an outwardly direction. In the embodiment shown, the clamping elements 11, 12 form a part of a bayonet attachment. A supporting element 21, 22 is mounted at a distance axially to each clamping element 11, 12, an adjusting element 13, 14 being provided between a clamping element 11, 12 and a supporting element 21, 22. In the embodiment shown, each adjusting element 13, 14 comprises a bore 17, 18 extending substantially in a radial direction R, and a pressing element 15, 16 incorporated therein. The bore 17, 18 partially coincides with the clamping element 11, 12 and partially with the supporting element 21, 22. Accordingly, the portion occupied in the supporting element 21, 22 of the bore 17, 18 is greater than the part occupied in the clamping element 11, 12 of the bore 17, 18. In the embodiment shown, the pressing elements 15, 16 extend up to the inner shell 6 of the adaptor 1. The operation of the adaptor 1 shown in figure 1 and its various parts is as follows: The adaptor 1 can be used to mount a fuel theft protector to a filler mouth of a fuel tank, as shown in Fig. 4. To this end, the cylindrical outer shell 5 is incorporated into the filler mouth of the fuel tank. Accordingly, the annular flange 8 matches in abutment with the filler mouth. The filler mouth of the fuel tank is also provided with a flange. In order to simplify placing the adaptor, the flange of the filler mouth of the fuel tank may be provided with radially extending recesses. These recesses are large enough to ensure the passage of the clamping elements 11, 12. The adaptor 1 and the filler mouth of the fuel tank form as it were a bayonet-type locking arrangement. The adaptor 1 can be subsequently rotated, in such a manner that the flange of the filler mouth is positioned between the clamping elements 11, 12 and the annular flange 8 of the adaptor 1. The clamping elements 11, 12 can then be made operable with the use of the adjusting elements 13, 14. The adjusting elements 13, 14 are arranged to move the clamping elements 11, 12 in an axial direction. The adjusting elements 13, 14 can be operated by a user from the inner shell with the aid of the pressing elements 15, 16 by screwing the latter, in the embodiment shown, into the bore 17, 18. As a result, the pressing elements 15, 16 will move in a distal radial direction. The bore 17, 18 near to the clamping element and the supporting element is formed in such a manner that said bore has a smaller diameter than the diameter of the pressing element 15, 16. The force exerted on the bore 17, 18 by the pressing element 15, 16 will therefore be transferred efficiently to the clamping element 11, 12, so that the clamping element 11, 12 will move in an axial direction. However, it is also possible to form an unround bore near to the clamping element or to shape it in some other manner, as long as the effect of the movement of the clamping element in an axial direction is achieved.

The axial movement of the clamping element 11, 12 ensures that said clamping element is mounted in a clamping position. Here, the supporting element 21, 22 is not required, but will ensure that the force of the pressing element 15, 16 is transferred efficiently to the clamping element. To this end, the supporting element 21 , 22 is constructed thicker than the clamping element 11, 12 so that it is less susceptible to deformation. Because the bore 17, 18 is provided in both the supporting element 21, 22 and the clamping element 11, 12, wherein a relatively large portion of the bore is occupied by part of the supporting element, this also ensures that the forces are transferred more efficiently to the clamping element 11, 12. This embodiment ensures that the pressing element is unable to be moved in a circumferential direction when moved axialiy. The force exerted on the bore 17, 18 by the pressing element 15, 16 will therefore be transferred efficiently to the clamping element 11, 12, thus enabling the latter to move in an axial direction, hi the embodiment shown, the movement is a result of the clamping element 11, 12 flexing around the outer shell 5 of the adaptor 1. However, it is possible to construct the clamping element 11, 12 in such a manner that a pure translation of the clamping element 11, 12 enables movement thereof in an axial direction.

The inner shell 6 of the adaptor 1 is suitable for the incorporation therein of the fuel theft protector. The internal screw thread 9 ensures that the fuel theft protector can be easily incorporated into the adaptor. However, other methods for securing a fuel theft protector to the adaptor, are also conceivable. When mounted, the adjusting elements 13, 14 can no longer be operated by a user. In this manner, the adaptor can no longer be removed from the filler mouth.

Fig. 2 shows a fuel theft protector 2 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The fuel theft protector 2 comprises a housing 3, provided with a filler mouth 31 and an obstruction chamber 32. The obstruction chamber 32 comprises a bottom section 38 with peripheral walls 39. An obstruction element 37 integrally attached to the obstruction chamber 32 is provided on a part the obstruction chamber 32 disposed at a distance from the filler mouth 31. The obstruction element 37 extends substantially parallel to the peripheral walls 39 and at a height H to the uppermost point P, in the direction of the filler mouth 31. hi the embodiment shown, the height H of the obstruction element 37 is equal to approximately 40% of the height h of the obstruction chamber. Preferably, the height H of the obstruction element 37 is more than 40% of the height h of the obstruction chamber 32.

The obstruction chamber is provided with discharge elements 34 and air-relief elements 35. In the embodiment shown, the discharge elements 34 are mounted in a section of the peripheral wall 39 which is located between the bottom section 38 of the obstruction chamber 32 and the uppermost point P. The discharge elements 37 are formed as circular holes. In the embodiment shown, the air-relief elements 35 are provided on a section of the peripheral wall 39 located between the uppermost point P and the filler mouth 31. The air-relief elements are also formed as round holes and have a smaller diameter than the holes of the discharge elements 34. When filling a fuel tank with the fuel theft protector according to the invention, a fuel filler gun can be inserted into the filler mouth 31. The fuel theft protector is arranged in such a manner that the filler mouth of the fuel filler gun can be inserted through the filler mouth 31 beyond the uppermost point P of the obstruction element 37. The point where the fuel is introduced is therefore located between the uppermost point P and a lower side of the air-relief holes 35. Fuel will be introduced under pressure and at a high speed. As the fuel is introduced, it will come into contact with the obstruction element 37 and flow around it. The petrol will flow into the fuel tank through the discharge holes 34. During the filling operation, the air-relief holes 35 are in open connection with the filler mouth 31. Air can flow out from the fuel tank through the air-relief openings 35 and the filler mouth 31. The air-relief holes 35 ensure, when filling the tank with fuel, that the excess pressure in the tank is restricted in order to prevent petrol flowing back through the filler mouth 31. The obstruction element 37 is arranged to prevent the atomization of petrol. This prevents the spill or wastage of petrol. Additionally, the obstruction element ensures that it is much more difficult for an amount of fuel to be stolen. In addition, this restricts the amount of the fuel that can be removed by theft. The obstruction element 37 is shown in more detail in Figure 3. In the embodiment shown, the obstruction element 37 is a substantially arbor-shaped element 41. The arbor-shaped element 41 is provided with blocking elements 42, 44. In the embodiment shown, the blocking elements extend radially and distally in relation to a longitudinal axis of the arbor-shaped element 41. The blocking elements 42, 44 are disposed at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the arbor-shaped element 41 and extend in a downstream direction. The blocking elements form, as it were, an arbor- shaped element 41 with a conical top. In the embodiment shown, the apex angle of the cone is approximately 150°. It has been demonstrated that, at such an angle, the filling speed is equal to about 120 liters per minute, without the reflux of petrol occurring. Other values for the apex angle are also conceivable. For example, at an angle of approximately 65°, the filling speed can be increased to 150 liters per minute without petrol leaving the filler mouth 31.

In the embodiment shown, the blocking elements 42, 44 are substantially pie- slice shaped protrusions disposed along a peripheral line and positioned at regular intervals from each other. This results in an open interstitial space 43 between two adjacent blocking elements. A number of blocking elements 42 disposed along a peripheral line form a first ring 52, and a number of blocking elements 44 disposed at a distance from the first ring along a peripheral line form a second ring 54. The second ring 54 is therefore placed at an axial distance from the first ring 52. The second ring 54 is also positioned offset in relation to the first ring 52, such that in an axial projection of the obstruction element 37, the blocking elements 42 of the second ring 54 coincide with the interstitial spaces 43 of the first ring 52.

The blocking elements 42, 44 are arranged in such a manner that, when the obstruction element 37 is mounted, they are disposed near to the discharge elements 34 placed within the obstruction chamber 32.

The conically shaped obstruction element 37 has a top P which is directed upwardly towards the filler mouth 31. The top point P lies at a distance 50 from the rim 49 of the filler mouth 31. Rim 49 will prevent the insertion of the spout 53 of a fuel filler gun 52. The length of insertion is indicated by the numeral 51. Depth 50 and length 51 may be matched accordingly. The end of the spout 53 preferably lies in abutment with a top of the obstruction element. The obstruction element 37 is formed as a fluid distributor. The inflowing fuel will fall on top P and be subsequently deflected by the flanks 42 of the element 37 in a partially radial direction. Part of the influx can flow between the elements 42, axially, and then fall on flanks 44 radially towards the outside through openings 34. Because the obstruction element has a distributive function, a large portion of the flow rate of fuel can be lead through the filler mouth 31 into the anti-theft unit 2.

Ranks 42, 44 are preferably formed at an angle in relation to the radial plane. The slope of flank 42 is indicated in figure 3. An angle α in respect of the plane perpendicular to the axial direction is also indicated. Angle α is preferably at least 15 degrees and preferably at least 25 degrees. At the aforementioned angle, the obstruction element can manage a flow rate of 150 liters per second.

Claims

1. Adaptor (1) for mounting a fuel theft protector (2) into a filler mouth of a fuel tank, wherein the adaptor (1) is provided with a substantially cylindrical outer shell (5) suitable for insertion into the filler mouth, and with an inner shell (6) suitable for ^l incorporating the fuel theft protector (2) therein, wherein an annular flange (8) extending from the outer shell (5) contacts the filler mouth when mounted, wherein the outer shell (5) is provided with a clamping element (11, 12) for clamping the adaptor

(1) to the filler mouth, wherein the clamping element (11, 12) extends outwardly from the outer shell (5) of the adaptor (1) in a substantially radial direction and wherein the clamping element (11, 12) is at least axially movable in the direction of the flange (8).

2. Adaptor (1) according to claim 1, wherein the adaptor (1) is mountable to the filler mouth by means of a bayonet-type attachment.

3. Adaptor (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the adaptor has adjusting elements (13, 14) for moving the clamping element (11, 12) in an axial direction, wherein the adjusting elements (13, 14) are disposed at a distance from the fuel theft protector (2) and optionally operable by a user from the inner shell (6) when the fuel theft protector

(2) is in a removed position, wherein the fuel theft protector (2), in an incorporated position, prevents the adjusting elements (13, 14) from being operable from the inner shell (6), and/or wherein the adjusting elements (13, 14) optionally comprise a bore extending substantially in a radial direction and a pressing element (15, 16) which can be incorporated therein, said bore (17, 18) extending to the inner shell, wherein the pressing element (15, 16) is operable from the inner shell (6) for moving the clamping element (11, 12) in an axial direction, and/or wherein the outer shell (5) has a supporting element (21, 22) mounted at a distance from the clamping element (11, 12), wherein said supporting element is arranged for providing a supporting force to the pressing element (15, 16) when said pressing element moves the clamping element (11, 12) in an axial direction, wherein the bore (17, 18) is preferably provided, at least partially, in both the clamping element (11, 12) and the supporting element (21, 22), wherein a centre of the bore (17, 18) substantially coincides with the supporting element (21, 22).

4. Adaptor (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, provided with a moisture resistant element (24) which, when the adaptor (1) is mounted, is placed between the flange (8) and the filler mouth, wherein the moisture resistant element (24) optionally is a substantially ring-shaped disc and/or wherein the moisture resistant element (24) is made of rubber.

5. Adaptor (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a cylindrically shaped inner shell (6) of the adaptor (1) is suitable for incorporating a fuel theft protector (2) therein, in particular wherein the inner shell (6) is provided with a screw thread (9) for the incorporation therein of the fuel theft protector (2) by screwing.

6. Adaptor (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a fixing element is provided for clamping the adaptor (1) to the fuel theft protector.

7. Fuel theft protector (2) suitable for mounting in a filler mouth of a fuel tank, wherein the fuel theft protector (2) comprises a housing (3) provided with a filler mouth (31) for the introduction of fuel therein into a fuel tank, with an obstruction chamber (32) disposed distally in relation to the filler mouth (31) to prevent the removal of fuel from the fuel tank, wherein the obstruction chamber(32) is provided with discharge elements (34) for the discharge of the fuel introduced into the fuel tank, and with air-relief elements (35) for the relief of air whilst filling the fuel tank with fuel, wherein an obstruction element is (37) incorporated within the obstruction chamber (32) and is arranged for distributing fuel when fuel is introduced into the fuel tank, and is arranged for partially guiding the flow of fuel to the discharge elements (34).

8. Fuel theft protector (2) suitable for placing in an adaptor (1) according to any one of the claims 1-6, wherein the fuel theft protector (2) comprises a housing (3) provided with a filler mouth (31) for introducing fuel into the fuel tank, with an obstruction chamber (32) disposed distally from the filler mouth (31) for preventing the removal of fuel from the fuel tank, wherein the obstruction chamber (32) is provided with discharge elements (34) for the discharge of the fuel introduced into the fuel tank, and with air-relief elements (35) for the relief of air when fuel is introduced into the fuel tank, wherein an obstruction element (37) is integrally attached to a part of the obstruction chamber (32) that is disposed at a distance from the filler mouth (31), wherein the obstruction element extends in the chamber (32), and in the direction of the filler mouth (31).

9. Fuel theft protector (2) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the obstruction chamber comprises (32) a bottom (38) at an end furthest removed from the filler mouth (31) and peripheral walls (39), wherein a lower portion of the obstruction element (37) is connected to the bottom (38) and extends substantially parallel to the peripheral walls (39) at a height (H) up to an uppermost point (P), wherein the discharge elements (34), such as openings, are provided in a part of the peripheral wall that is located between the bottom section (38) of the obstruction chamber (32) and the uppermost point (P), wherein the air-relief elements (35) are provided on a part of the peripheral wall that is located between the uppermost point (P) and the filler mouth (31), wherein optionally an interstitial cavity is formed between the peripheral wall and the obstruction element (37), wherein the discharge elements (34) are left clear with respect to the interstitial cavity.

10. Fuel theft protector (2) according to any one of the preceding claims 7-9, wherein the obstruction element (37) is a substantially arbor-shaped element (41), which is provided with blocking elements (42, 44), wherein the blocking elements (42, 44) are disposed close to the discharge elements (34) that are located in the obstruction chamber (32), wherein the blocking elements (42, 44) are disposed along a peripheral line and disposed at regular intervals from each other, wherein an open space (43) is provided between two adjacent blocking elements (42, 44), wherein optionally a number of blocking elements (42, 44) disposed along a peripheral line form a first ring (52), wherein a number of blocking elements (42, 44) disposed along a peripheral line form a second ring (54), wherein the second ring (54) is positioned at an axial distance from the first ring (52) and staggered with respect to the first ring (52), such that in an axial projection of the obstruction element, the blocking elements (42, 44) of the second ring (54) coincide with the open spaces (43) of the first ring (52).

11. Fuel theft protector (2) according to claim 10, wherein the blocking elements (42, 44) are legs extending radially and distally from the arbor-shaped element (41).

12. Fuel theft protector (2) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the arbor-shaped element (41) has a conically shaped top with an apex angle, wherein the apex angle is smaller than 150° and preferably smaller than 130°.

13. Fuel theft protector (2) according to any one of the claims 7-12, which is integrated with an adaptor (1) according to any of the claims 1-6.

14. Method for mounting a fuel theft protector (2) to the filler mouth of a fuel tank with the use of an adaptor (1), wherein said method comprises the steps of:

- mounting the adaptor (1) to the filler mouth;

- moving the clamping element (11, 12) towards the flange (8) of the adaptor (1) in order to press the mouth against the flange (8) of the adaptor (1);

- placing the fuel theft protector in the adaptor (1);

- securing the fuel theft protector to the adaptor (1) by means of securing elements;

- rendering the securing elements inoperable, in such a manner that the fuel theft protector (2) cannot be removed from the adaptor (1).

15. Method according to claim 14, wherein the adaptor (1) is mounted to the filler mouth by means of a bayonet-type attachment, and/or wherein the step of moving the clamping element (11, 12) towards the flange (8) of the adaptor (1) is performed using adjusting elements provided on an inner shell (6) of the adaptor ( 1 ), and/or wherein the step of mounting the fuel theft protector is performed with the use of an internal screw thread formed on the inner shell (6) of the adaptor (1), and by a mating screw thread formed on the fuel theft protector (2).

16. Method according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the step of rendering the securing elements inoperable is achieved by the removal of at least a portion of an securing means, and/or wherein the portion of the attaching element removed comprises at least a head of a screw.

17. Method according to any one of the claims 14-16, wherein an adaptor (1) according to any of the claims 1 -7 and/or a fuel theft protector (2) according to any of the claims 8-13 is applied.