Panel components

Abstract

The panel assembly (100) includes a panel member (116), a frame member (118), and at least one first rod member (120) and at least one second rod member (121). The at least one first rod member (120) and the at least one second rod member (121) divide the panel member (116) into a plurality of first regions (161) defining a first height (H4) and a first width (W4). The panel assembly (100) further includes a plurality of support devices (124) for dividing each first region (161) into a plurality of second regions (163). Each support device (124) includes a first support member (162) defining a first length (L2), such that the first width (W4) defined by the first region (161) is greater than the first length (L2). Each support device (124) also includes a second support member (164) defining a second length (L3), such that the first height (H4) defined by the first region (161) is greater than the second length (L3).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a panel assembly, and more particularly, to an aftertreatment assembly including a plurality of panel assemblies. Background Art

[0002] An aftertreatment system is associated with an engine, such as an internal combustion engine, to reduce and convert particulate matter that may be present in the exhaust gas stream exiting the engine. The aftertreatment system is typically disposed within a housing. The housing includes a plurality of panel assemblies arranged to define a hollow space for receiving the aftertreatment system. The exhaust gas flow can induce exhaust gas pressure pulsations, which can cause one or more components of the aftertreatment system to vibrate. Such vibrations can be transmitted to the panel assemblies and potentially cause them to rupture.

[0003] To prevent or minimize damage to panel assemblies subjected to exhaust pressure pulsations, it may be desirable for the panel assemblies to have a natural frequency outside the pulsation range. Furthermore, conventional panel assemblies used with aftertreatment systems are often expensive and / or complex to manufacture and exhibit repeatability constraints in production environments. Furthermore, there is a lack of panel assemblies that can be scaled to meet the configuration and size requirements of different aftertreatment systems.

[0004] U.S. Patent No. 4,294,330 describes a muffler for a pneumatic impact device operating at a frequency of less than or approximately 60 Hz. The muffler includes an elastomeric housing adapted to receive and discharge exhaust gases. Furthermore, the elastomeric housing is divided into an inlet chamber and a series of muffler chambers. An inlet duct communicates with the inlet chamber and each muffler chamber. An exhaust duct communicates with each muffler chamber and a tail pipe external to the elastomeric housing. A Helmholtz resonator communicates with the inlet chamber. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a panel assembly is provided. The panel assembly includes a panel member defining a longitudinal axis. The panel assembly also includes a frame member secured to the panel member. The panel assembly also includes at least one first rod member extending along the longitudinal axis of the panel member, the at least one first rod member being secured to the panel member and the frame member. The panel assembly includes at least one second rod member extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the panel member, the at least one second rod member being secured to the panel member and the frame member. The at least one first rod member and the at least one second rod member divide the panel member into a plurality of first regions defining a first height and a first width. The panel assembly also includes a plurality of support devices secured to the panel member. Each of the plurality of first regions receives a corresponding support device from the plurality of support devices to divide the first region into a plurality of second regions. Each support device includes a first support member extending along the longitudinal axis of the panel member. The first support member defines a first length such that the first width defined by the first region is greater than the first length. Each support device also includes a second support member secured to the first support member and extending substantially perpendicular to the first support member. The second support member defines a second length such that the first height defined by the first area is greater than the second length.

[0006] In one aspect of the present disclosure, an aftertreatment assembly is provided. The aftertreatment assembly includes an aftertreatment system. The aftertreatment assembly also includes a housing for receiving the aftertreatment system. The housing includes a plurality of panel assemblies arranged to define a hollow space for receiving the aftertreatment system. Each panel assembly includes a panel member defining a longitudinal axis. Each panel assembly also includes a frame member secured to the panel member. Each panel assembly also includes at least one first rod member extending along the longitudinal axis of the panel member, the at least one first rod member being secured to the panel member and the frame member. Each panel assembly includes at least one second rod member extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the panel member, the at least one second rod member being secured to the panel member and the frame member. The at least one first rod member and the at least one second rod member divide the panel member into a plurality of first regions defining a first height and a first width. Each panel assembly also includes a plurality of support devices secured to the panel member. Each of the plurality of first regions receives a corresponding support device from the plurality of support devices for dividing the first region into a plurality of second regions. Each support device includes a first support member extending along the longitudinal axis of the panel member. The first support member defines a first length such that the first width defined by the first area is greater than the first length. Each support device further includes a second support member secured to the first support member and extending substantially perpendicular thereto. The second support member defines a second length such that the first height defined by the first area is greater than the second length. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an aftertreatment assembly having a housing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, with certain components removed for illustration purposes;

[0008] Figure 2 The embodiment according to the present disclosure is shown Figure 1 a perspective view of a first side of a panel assembly associated with the housing;

[0009] Figure 3 Shown Figure 2 a perspective view of a second side of the panel assembly;

[0010] Figure 4 Shown Figure 3 an enlarged partial front view of a portion of a panel assembly;

[0011] Figure 5 Shown roughly along line AA Figure 4 a cross-sectional view of a portion of the panel assembly; and

[0012] Figure 6 Shown roughly along line BB Figure 4 a cross-sectional view of a portion of a panel assembly;

[0013] Figure 7 and 8 Another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 1 The panel component associated with the post-processing component; and

[0014] Figure 9 and 10 Another embodiment according to the present disclosure is shown. Figure 1 The panel component associated with the post-processing component. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

[0016] Figure 1 An exemplary aftertreatment assembly 100 is shown. Aftertreatment assembly 100 is positioned on the exhaust side (not shown) of an engine (not shown), such as an internal combustion engine. Depending on the application requirements, aftertreatment assembly 100 can be associated with a mobile machine (e.g., a construction machine) or a stationary machine. Aftertreatment assembly 100 includes an aftertreatment system 102. Aftertreatment system 102 processes the exhaust flow exiting the exhaust manifold (not shown) of the engine. The exhaust flow can contain emission compounds, such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), unburned hydrocarbons, particulate matter, and other such combustion products. Aftertreatment system 102 can capture or convert NOx, unburned hydrocarbons, particulate matter, combinations thereof, or other combustion products in the exhaust flow before the exhaust flow is released into the atmosphere.

[0017] Aftertreatment system 102 may include multiple components, such as a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) module (not shown), a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) / diesel particulate filter (DPF) section 103, a reductant dosing module 105, a mixing tube 107, an inlet pipe 109, an outlet pipe 111, an inlet wiring control box 113, an outlet wiring control box 115, and the like. DOC / DPF section 103 may include a DOC module and / or a DPF module disposed therein. Inlet pipe 109 allows exhaust gas exiting the engine to be introduced into the components of aftertreatment system 102. Additionally, outlet pipe 111 allows clean air to exit aftertreatment system 102.

[0018] Aftertreatment assembly 100 includes a housing 104 in which aftertreatment system 102 is disposed. More specifically, housing 104 defines a hollow space 106 for receiving aftertreatment system 102. Housing 104 is implemented as a rigid, box-shaped structure. Housing 104 includes a plurality of brackets 108 that can allow aftertreatment assembly 100 to be attached to a surface (not shown). Furthermore, housing 104 defines an opening (not shown) for receiving an inlet pipe 109 of aftertreatment system 102.

[0019] The housing 104 defines a housing length "L1". In some examples, the housing length "L1" can be approximately in the range of 3500 millimeters (mm) to 4000 mm. In addition, the housing 104 defines a housing width "W1". The housing width "W1" can be approximately in the range of 1500 mm to 3000 mm. The housing 104 also defines a housing height "H1". The housing height "H1" can be approximately in the range of 1000 mm to 2000 mm. It should be noted that the ranges of housing length "L1", housing width "W1" and housing height "H1" provided herein are exemplary in nature, and these ranges can vary depending on application requirements. Hereinafter, the housing length "L1", housing width "W1" and housing height "H1" may be referred to as housing dimensions.

[0020] Furthermore, the housing 104 includes a plurality of panel assemblies 110 arranged to define a hollow space 106 for receiving the aftertreatment system 102. In other words, the plurality of panel assemblies 110 are arranged to form the housing 104 for receiving the aftertreatment system 102. Figure 1 Omitted are some components of the panel assembly 110 disposed at locations 117, 119, 129. It should be noted that each panel assembly 110 may have the same dimensions or different dimensions to define the housing 104 based on the configuration and size of the aftertreatment system 102.

[0021] Figure 2 A panel assembly 110 is shown according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the panel assembly 110 can be made of stainless steel. In other embodiments, other metals or alloys can be used to manufacture the panel assembly 110 without limitation. The panel assembly 110 defines a first side 112 and a second side 114 opposite the first side 112. The first side 112 faces away from the aftertreatment system 102 and can be referred to as the outside. The second side 114 faces the aftertreatment system 102 and can be referred to as the inside. In addition, the panel assembly 110 defines a longitudinal axis "X-X1" and a vertical axis "Y-Y1" that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis "X-X1".

[0022] The panel assembly 110 includes a frame member 118, one or more first rod members 120 (in Figure 3 ), one or more second rod members 121, 122, 123 (shown in Figure 3 ) and a plurality of support devices 124 (shown in Figure 3 ), which will be explained in detail later in this section. The panel assembly 110 also includes a panel member 116. The panel member 116 includes one or more panels 126, 128. In the illustrated embodiment, the panel member 116 includes a pair of panels 126, 128, namely a first panel 126 and a second panel 128. It should be noted that the total number of panels 126, 128 can vary depending on the application requirements. For example, the panel member 116 can include three panels, four panels, six panels, etc.

[0023] In addition, the frame member 118, one or more first rod members 120, one or more second rod members 121, 122, 123, and a plurality of support devices 124 are secured to the panel member 116 by welding. Details related to the welding of the various parts of the panel assembly 110 will be described later in this section. Each panel 126, 128 defines a panel width "W2", a panel height "H2", and a panel thickness "T1" (in Figure 5 ). The panel width "W2" and panel height "H2" can vary based on the housing dimensions "L1," "W1," "H1," and / or the total number of panels 126, 128. The maximum value of the panel height "H2" can be approximately in the range of 1300 mm to 1600 mm. Furthermore, the maximum value of the panel width "W2" can be approximately in the range of 2400 mm to 2800 mm. Furthermore, the maximum value of the panel thickness "T1" can be approximately in the range of 1.2 mm to 7 mm.

[0024] The panel assembly 110 includes a frame member 118 secured to the panel member 116. More particularly, the frame member 118 is secured to each panel 126, 128 along three boundary edges of the corresponding panel 126, 128. In other embodiments, the frame member 118 may be secured to each panel 126, 128 along one boundary edge or two boundary edges of the corresponding panel 126, 128. The frame member 118 is secured to each panel 126, 128 by welding. More particularly, the frame member 118 is secured to each panel 126, 128 by a 3 mm to 6 mm fillet weld. The frame member 118 defines an inner surface 130 (at Figure 3 ), outer surface 132, first surface 134 and second surface 136 (shown in Figure 3). The boundary edges of the panels 126, 128 are secured to the first surface 134 of the frame member 118. Additionally, the outer surface 132 of the frame member 118 may be welded to the adjacent panel assembly 110 of the housing 104 (see Figure 1 ) to form the shell 104.

[0025] Frame member 118 includes a plurality of frame segments 140, 142, 144, 146. More specifically, frame member 118 includes a first frame segment 140, a second frame segment 142, a third frame segment 144, and a fourth frame segment 146. Frame segments 140, 142, 144, 146, when secured to one another, collectively define inner surface 130, outer surface 132, first surface 134, and second surface 136 of frame member 118. As shown, each frame segment 140, 142, 144, 146 is substantially perpendicular to adjacent frame segments 140, 142, 144, 146. Frame segments 140, 142, 144, 146 are secured to one another by welding. More specifically, each of the plurality of frame segments 140, 142, 144, 146 is secured to an adjacent frame segment 140, 142, 144, 146 of the plurality of frame segments 140, 142, 144, 146 via a miter joint 148. Furthermore, the frame segments 140, 142, 144, 146 can be secured to one another by full welding and grinding using 3mm to 6mm fillet welds for sealing purposes. In other embodiments, the frame segments 140, 142, 144, 146 can be joined by another type of weld joint that provides an effective seal. Furthermore, each frame segment 140, 142, 144, 146 comprises a tubular frame having a substantially square cross-section. Alternatively, each frame segment 140, 142, 144, 146 can have a C-shaped, rectangular, or circular cross-section, without limitation.

[0026] The frame member 118 defines a height "H3". The maximum value of the height "H3" can be approximately in the range of 1000 mm to 1600 mm. In addition, the frame member 118 defines a width "W3". The maximum value of the width "W3" can be approximately in the range of 1500 mm to 3000 mm. It should be noted that the height "H3" and the width "W3" of the frame member 118 can vary based on changes in the shell dimensions "L1", "W1", "H1". For example, when additional panels 126, 128 are added to the panel assembly 110 according to the desired shell dimensions "L1", "W1", "H1", the height "H3" and the width "W3" of the frame member 118 can increase.

[0027] Now refer to Figure 3, the panel assembly 110 further includes one or more first rod members 120 extending along the longitudinal axis "X-X1" of the panel assembly 110. The one or more first rod members 120 are implemented as horizontally extending members. In the illustrated embodiment, the panel assembly 110 includes a single first rod member 120. In alternative embodiments, the panel assembly 110 may include two or more first rod members 120 arranged parallel to one another. Furthermore, the first rod member 120 illustrated herein comprises a single-piece design. Alternatively, the first rod member 120 may include two or more portions disposed adjacent to one another that together define the first rod member 120.

[0028] One or more first rod members 120 are secured to the panel member 116 and the frame member 118. More particularly, the one or more first rod members 120 and the one or more second rod members 121, 122, 123 are secured to the frame member 118 by welding. The first rod member 120 is secured to the first frame segment 140 at a first end 150 of the first rod member 120 by full welding using 3 mm to 6 mm fillet welds, and is secured to the third frame segment 144 at a second end 152 of the first rod member 120. It should be noted that the first rod member 120 is secured to the inner surface 130 of the frame member 118. In addition, the first rod member 120 is secured to the first panel 126 and the second panel 128 by spot welding using 3 mm to 6 mm fillet welds, as shown in the weld mark 125 (at Figure 2 As shown in ).

[0029] The panel assembly 110 also includes one or more second rod members 121, 122, 123 extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis "X-X1" of the panel assembly 110. The second rod members 121, 122, 123 are implemented as vertically extending members. In one embodiment, the one or more second rod members 121, 122, 123 include two or more second rod members 121, 122, 123. In the illustrated embodiment, the panel assembly 110 includes three second rod members 121, 122, 123. The second rod members 121, 122, 123 are parallel to each other. In alternative embodiments, the panel assembly 110 may include fewer than three second rod members 121, 122, 123 or more than three second rod members 121, 122, 123, such that the second rod members 121, 122, 123 are arranged parallel to each other. In another embodiment, the second rod members 121, 122, 123 may be arranged at an angle relative to each other. In yet another embodiment, the second rod members 121, 122, 123 may be offset relative to one another. Furthermore, one or more second rod members 121, 122, 123 define a first portion 154 and a second portion 156. The first portion 154 and the second portion 156 are aligned with one another and extend along a vertical axis "Y-Y1" to define each second rod member 121, 122, 123. In another example, the first portion 154 and the second portion 156 may be arranged at an angle relative to one another. In yet another example, the first portion 154 and the second portion 156 may be offset relative to one another. Alternatively, the second rod members 121, 122, 123 may comprise a single-piece design.

[0030] One or more second rod members 121, 122, 123 are secured to the panel member 116 and the frame member 118. As shown, the first panel 126 is secured to the first frame segment 140, a portion of the second frame segment 142, a portion of the fourth frame segment 146, and the second rod member 122. Furthermore, the second panel 128 is secured to the third frame segment 144, a portion of the second frame segment 142, a portion of the fourth frame segment 146, and the second rod member 122. The second rod members 121, 122, 123 are secured to the panel member 116 by 3mm to 6mm fillet welds. More particularly, the second rod member 122 is secured to the first panel 126 and the second panel 128 by full welding using 3mm to 6mm fillet welds. Furthermore, the second rod member 123 is secured to the first panel 126, and the second rod member 121 is secured to the second panel 128 by spot welding using 3mm to 6mm fillet welds, as shown in weld mark 127 (at Figure 2 As shown in ).

[0031] In addition, the second rod members 121, 122, 123 are secured to the frame member 118 by full welding using 3mm to 6mm fillet welds and grinding for sealing purposes. In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 154 of each second rod member 121, 122, 123 is secured to the second frame segment 142 at the third end 158 of the second portion 156 by full welding using 3mm to 6mm fillet welds, and is secured to the first rod member 120 at the fourth end 160 of the second portion 156. In addition, the second portion 156 of each second rod member 121, 122, 123 is secured to the first rod member 120 at the third end 158 of the second portion 156 by full welding using 3mm to 6mm fillet welds, and is secured to the fourth frame segment 146 at the fourth end 160 of the second portion 156. It should be noted that the first portion 154 of each second rod member 121 , 122 , 123 proximate the third end 158 and the second portion 156 of each second rod member 121 , 122 , 123 proximate the fourth end 160 are fixed to the inner surface 130 of the frame member 118 .

[0032] Furthermore, the second rod members 121, 122, 123 are secured to the first rod member 120 by welding. More specifically, the second rod members 121, 122, 123 can be secured to the first rod member 120 by full welding using 3mm to 6mm fillet welds and grinding for sealing purposes. Furthermore, the first and second rod members 120, 121, 122, 123 comprise tubular frames having a generally square cross-section. Alternatively, the first and second rod members 120, 121, 122, 123 can have C-shaped, rectangular, or circular cross-sections without limitation.

[0033] It should be noted that in some cases, the panel assembly 110 may be connected to one or more vertically arranged panel assemblies 110 by a plurality of structural members (not shown) to form the housing 104 (see Figure 1 The structural member may be implemented as a gusset. For example, the first rod members 120 of adjacent panel assemblies 110 may be connected to each other by a structural member. In other examples, the second rod members 121, 122, 123 of adjacent panel assemblies 110 may be connected to each other by a structural member.

[0034] In addition, the one or more first rod members 120 and the one or more second rod members 121, 122, 123 divide the panel member 116 into a plurality of first regions 161 defining a first height "H4" and a first width "W4". Each of the one or more panels 126, 128 includes one or more first regions 161. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first panel 126 and the second panel 128 defines four first regions 161. In addition, the first rod member 120 and the second rod member 121, 122, 123 divide the panel member 116 into eight first regions 161. More specifically, the panel height "H2" (see Figure 2 ) and panel width "W2" (see Figure 2 ) is equally divided to define first regions 161. Although the panel member 116 includes eight first regions 161 herein, the panel member 116 may include six first regions 161, ten first regions 161, twelve first regions 161, or any even number of first regions 161. However, in some embodiments, the panel assembly 110 may include an odd number of first regions 161 based on the configuration and size of the aftertreatment system 102.

[0035] Figure 4 An enlarged view of the panel assembly 110 is shown, showing the first region 161. For explanation purposes, Figure 4 Various details relating to the first region 161 of a portion of the panel assembly 110 shown in FIG will be explained. However, the details provided below apply equally to the entire panel assembly 110 without limitation. As shown, the first region 161 defines a first height "H4" and a first width "W4". It should be noted that regardless of the total number of first regions 161, the value of the first height "H4" and the value of the first width "W4" are the same for each first region 161. The maximum value of the first height "H4" can be approximately in the range of 500 mm to 750 mm. In addition, the maximum value of the first width "W4" can be approximately in the range of 400 mm to 600 mm. It should be noted that the ranges of the first height "H4" and the first width "W4" are exemplary in nature, and the size of the first region 161 can vary based on the configuration and size of the aftertreatment system 102.

[0036] The panel assembly 110 further includes a plurality of support devices 124 secured to the panel member 116. In addition, the plurality of support devices 124 are not secured to the frame member 118, the one or more first rod members 120, and the one or more second rod members 121, 122, 123 (see FIG. Figure 3). Each of the first regions 161 receives a corresponding support device 124 from the plurality of support devices 124 for dividing the first region 161 into a plurality of second regions 163. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the one or more second regions 163 includes four second regions 163. In other words, each first region 161 is divided into four second regions 163. In addition, the first height "H4" and the first width "W4" are equally divided to define the second regions 163. Although each first region 161 includes four first regions 161 herein, the total number of second regions 163 may vary, and in some embodiments, the panel assembly 110 may include additional second regions 163 based on the configuration and size of the aftertreatment system 102.

[0037] Each second region 163 includes a second height "H5" and a second width "W5." In some examples, the maximum value of the second height "H5" may be approximately in the range of 250 mm to 400 mm, while the maximum value of the second width "W5" may be approximately in the range of 200 mm to 400 mm. It should be noted that the ranges of the second height "H5" and the second width "W5" are exemplary in nature, and the dimensions of the second region 163 may vary based on the configuration and size of the aftertreatment system 102.

[0038] Each support device 124 includes a longitudinal axis "X-X1" (see FIG. Figure 2 and 3 ) extends from the first support member 162. The first support member 162 is implemented herein as a rectangular plate (see Figure 3 ). First support member 162 defines a first end portion 166 and a second end portion 168. In some examples, first support member 162 can include rounded or chamfered edges proximate first end portion 166 and second end portion 168. First support member 162 defines a first length "L2" such that a first width "W4" defined by first region 161 is greater than first length "L2". In one example, first length "L2" of first support member 162 can be approximately in the range of 150 mm to 350 mm.

[0039] Furthermore, each support device 124 comprises a second support member 164 which is fixed to the first support member 162 and extends substantially perpendicularly to the first support member 162. The second support member 164 is embodied herein as a rectangular plate (see Figure 3Second support member 164 defines a third end portion 170 and a fourth end portion 172. In some examples, second support member 164 can include rounded or chamfered edges proximate third end portion 170 and fourth end portion 172. Second support member 164 defines a second length "L3" such that the first height "H4" defined by first region 161 is greater than second length "L3." In one example, second length "L3" of second first support member 162 can be approximately in the range of 150 mm to 350 mm. In one example, first support member 162 can be engaged or locked with second support member 164 to form support device 124. In some examples, first support member 162 and second support member 164 can be welded to each other. In other examples, support device 124 can include a unitary member defining first support member 162 and second support member 164. Furthermore, first support member 162 and second support member 164 include a thickness "T2." Thickness "T2" can be approximately in the range of 1.2 mm to 7 mm. It should be noted that the thickness "T2" of the first and second support members 162, 164 may vary based on the cross-section of the frame member 118 and / or the panel thickness "T1" (see FIG. Figure 5 ).

[0040] Furthermore, in some examples, the first and second support members 162, 164 can be secured to the panel member 116 at any or all quadrants. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second support members 162, 164 are secured to the respective panels 126, 128 of the panel member 116 by welding using 3 mm to 6 mm fillet welds (see FIG. Figure 2 and 3 ). More specifically, first support member 162 and second support member 164 are secured to respective panels 126, 128 by jump welds, as indicated by weld marker 167. Jump welds may include weld lengths between 25 mm and 75 mm and pitches between 100 mm and 200 mm. In other embodiments, full welds may be used to secure first support member 162 and second support member 164 to respective panels 126, 128.

[0041] Now refer to Figure 5 , showing a graph generally along line AA (see Figure 4 ) is a cross section of the panel assembly 110. Figure 5As shown in FIG, when the first length "L2" of first support member 162 is less than the first width "W4" of first region 161, first support member 162 is spaced apart from frame member 118 and second rod member 121. More specifically, a first gap 174 is defined between frame member 118 and first end portion 166 of first support member 162. First gap 174 comprises a first distance "D1." Furthermore, a second gap 176 is defined between second end portion 168 of first support member 162 and second rod member 121. Therefore, first support member 162 is not secured to frame member 118 and second rod member 121, but rather secured only to panel member 116. Second gap 176 comprises a second distance "D2." The first distance "D1" and the second distance "D2" may be approximately in the range of 2 mm to 30 mm. In some examples, the maximum value of the first distance "D1" and the second distance "D2" may be approximately in the range of 22 mm to 30 mm.

[0042] Now refer to Figure 6 , showing a graph generally along line BB (see Figure 4 ) is a cross section of the panel assembly 110. Figure 6 As shown in FIG, when the second length "L3" of second support member 164 is less than the first height "H4" of first region 161, second support member 164 is spaced apart from frame member 118 and / or first rod member 120. More specifically, a third gap 178 is defined between frame member 118 and third end portion 170 of second support member 164. Third gap 178 comprises a third distance "D3." Furthermore, a fourth gap 180 is defined between fourth end portion 172 of second support member 164 and first rod member 120. Therefore, second support member 164 is not secured to frame member 118 or first rod member 120, but rather only to panel member 116. Fourth gap 180 comprises a fourth distance "D4." Third distance "D3" and fourth distance "D4" may be approximately in the range of 2 mm to 30 mm. In some examples, the maximum value of third distance "D3" and fourth distance "D4" may be approximately in the range of 22 mm to 30 mm.

[0043] refer to Figure 3To assemble panel assembly 110, frame member 118 is provided, and in some examples, frame member 118 can be secured to adjacent panel assembly 110 by welding. Furthermore, first rod member 120 and second rod members 121, 122, 123 can be secured to frame member 118 by welding. In some examples, first rod member 120 and second rod members 121, 122, 123 can be pre-welded to frame member 118. In such examples, frame member 118, along with first rod member 120 and second rod members 121, 122, 123, can be secured to adjacent panel assembly 110 by welding. Furthermore, panel member 116 is secured to frame member 118, first rod member 120, and second rod members 121, 122, 123 by welding. It should be noted that support device 124 can be pre-welded to panel member 116. In other examples, the entire panel assembly 110 can be pre-assembled and then secured to adjacent panel assembly 110 by welding. In an alternative embodiment, the entire panel assembly 110 may be pre-welded and secured to adjacent panel assemblies 110 to form the housing 104 (see Figure 1 ).

[0044] Figure 7 and 8 Another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 7 , a panel assembly 700 is shown. The panel assembly 700 includes a panel member 716. The panel member 716 is similar to that of Figure 2 The panel member 116 of the panel assembly 110 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the panel member 716 includes three panels 726, 728, 729 having the same dimensions. Each of the three panels 726, 728, 729 is similar to the panel assembly 110 described above. Figure 2 The panel assembly 110 is depicted with a first panel 126 and a second panel 128 .

[0045] refer to Figure 8 , the panel assembly 700 includes a frame member 718 and a first rod member 720. The frame member 718 and the first rod member 720 are similar to those described with respect to Figure 2 and 3 The panel assembly 110 is described with reference to the frame member 118 and the first rod member 120. In addition, the first rod member 720 can be fixed to the corresponding panel 726, 728, 729 by spot welding or full welding. In addition, the panel assembly 700 described herein includes two second rod members 721, 722. Each second rod member 721, 722 is similar to the second rod member 721, 722 described with reference to FIG. Figure 31 and 12. The panel assembly 110 is shown in FIG. 1 . In addition, the panel 726 is secured to the frame member 718 and the second rod member 722, the panel 728 is secured to each of the second rod members 721, 722, and the panel 729 is secured to the frame member 718 and the second rod member 721. In addition, each of the second rod members 721, 722 is secured to the corresponding panel 726, 728, 729, the frame member 718, and the first rod member 720 by full welding. In addition, the details regarding the various welded connections between the frame member 718, the panel member 716, the first rod member 720, and the second rod members 721, 722 are similar to those regarding FIG. Figure 3 Details regarding the various welded connections between the frame member 118 , the panel member 116 , the first bar member 120 , and the second bar members 121 , 122 of the panel assembly 110 are described.

[0046] In addition, the first and second rod members 720, 721, 722 divide the panel member 716 into first regions 761. In the illustrated embodiment, the panel assembly 700 defines six first regions 761, which are similar to those described with respect to FIG. Figure 3 and 4 The first region 161 of the panel assembly 110 is described. The panel assembly 700 also includes Figure 4 The plurality of support devices 724 are similar to the support devices 124 of the panel assembly 110 described above. The support devices 724 are fixed to the panel member 716. In addition, the support devices 724 are not fixed to the frame member 718, the first rod member 720 and the second rod members 721 and 722. In addition, each first area 761 is divided into four second areas 763 by the corresponding support device 724. The second areas 763 are similar to those described with respect to Figure 4 A second region 163 of the panel assembly 110 is depicted.

[0047] Each support device 724 includes a first support member 762 and a second support member 764. The design of the first support member 762 and the second support member 764 is similar to that of the Figure 4 The design of the first support member 162 and the second support member 164 of the panel assembly 110 is described. It should be noted that the details regarding the welded connections between the first support member 762 and the second support member 764 and the panel member 716 are similar to those described with reference to FIG. Figure 4 Details regarding the welded connections between first and second support members 162 , 164 and panel member 116 are described.

[0048] Furthermore, the design and details regarding the arrangement of the various portions of panel assembly 700 are similar to the design and details regarding the arrangement of the various portions of panel assembly 110. However, the dimensions of frame member 718, panel member 716, first rod member 720, second rod members 721, 722, first region 761, first support member 762, second support member 764, and second region 763 of panel assembly 700 may vary depending on application requirements.

[0049] Figure 9 and 10 Another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 9 As shown in FIG, a panel assembly 900 is shown. The panel assembly 900 includes a panel member 916. The panel member 916 is similar to the panel member 916 of FIG. Figure 2 The panel assembly 110 of FIG. 1 is depicted as a panel member 116. In the illustrated embodiment, the panel member 916 includes six panels 926 having the same dimensions. Each of the six panels 926 is similar to the panel assembly 110 described with respect to FIG. Figure 2 The panel assembly 110 is depicted with a first panel 126 and a second panel 128 .

[0050] refer to Figure 10 , the panel assembly 900 includes a frame member 918 and a first rod member 920. The frame member 918 and the first rod member 920 are similar to those described with respect to Figure 2 and 3 The panel assembly 110 is shown in FIG. 1 . The first rod member 920 is fixed to the panel member 916 by full welding. In addition, the panel assembly 900 described herein includes five second rod members 921, 922. Each second rod member 921, 922 is similar to the one described with respect to FIG. Figure 3 The second rod members 121, 122, 123 of the panel assembly 110 are shown. In addition, some panels 926 are fixed to the frame member 918 and the second rod member 922 by full welding, and some panels 926 located in the middle are fixed to the second rod member 922 by full welding. In addition, each second rod member 921 is fixed by welding marks 967 (in the Figure 9 926. In addition, the details of the various welded connections between the frame member 918, the panel member 916, the first rod member 920 and the second rod member 921, 922 are similar to those described above. Figure 3 Details regarding the various welded connections between the frame member 118 , the panel member 116 , the first bar member 120 , and the second bar members 121 , 122 , 123 of the panel assembly 110 are described.

[0051] In addition, the first and second rod members 920, 921, 922 divide the panel member 916 into first regions 961. In the illustrated embodiment, the panel assembly 900 defines twelve first regions 961, which are similar to those described with respect to FIG. Figure 3 and 4 The first area 161 of the panel assembly 110 is described. The panel assembly 900 also includes Figure 4 The support devices 924 are similar to the support devices 124 of the panel assembly 110 described above. The support devices 924 are fixed to the panel member 916. In addition, the support devices 924 are not fixed to the frame member 918, the first rod member 920 and the second rod members 921 and 922. In addition, each first area 961 is divided into four second areas 963 by the corresponding support devices 924. The second areas 963 are similar to those described with respect to Figure 4 A second region 163 of the panel assembly 110 is depicted.

[0052] Each support device 924 includes a first support member 962 and a second support member 964. The design of the first support member 962 and the second support member 964 is similar to that of the Figure 4 The design of the first support member 162 and the second support member 164 of the panel assembly 110 is described. It should be noted that the details regarding the welded connections between the first support member 962 and the second support member 964 and the panel member 916 are similar to those described with reference to FIG. Figure 4 Details regarding the welded connections between the first and second support members 162 , 164 of the panel assembly 110 and the panel member 116 are described.

[0053] Furthermore, the design and details regarding the arrangement of the various portions of panel assembly 900 are similar to the design and details regarding the arrangement of the various portions of panel assembly 110. However, the dimensions of frame member 918, panel member 916, first rod member 920, second rod members 921, 922, first region 961, first support member 962, second support member 964, and second region 963 of panel assembly 900 may vary depending on application requirements.

[0054] Industrial Applicability

[0055] The present disclosure relates to various designs of panel assemblies 110, 700, 900. It should be noted that each panel assembly 110, 700, 900 described herein exhibits a minimum natural frequency of 200 Hertz (Hz). The panel assemblies 110, 700, 900 minimize system-level degradation of the natural frequency and vibrations caused by exhaust pressure pulsations. This phenomenon reduces the likelihood of failure of the panel assembly 110, 700, 900 due to pressure pulsations during operation of the aftertreatment assembly 100.

[0056] For illustrative purposes, the Figures 2 to 6 This section will be explained with reference to the panel assembly 110. However, the details provided below also apply to Figure 7 and 8 The panel assembly 700 described and the Figure 9 and 10 Panel assembly 900 is described. Panel assembly 110 is lightweight and provides improved structural rigidity compared to conventional panel assemblies. Furthermore, panel assembly 110 can be assembled from outside of housing 104 of aftertreatment system 102, making the assembly process simpler and more efficient. Furthermore, the design of panel assembly 110 described herein may not require laboratory / field structural validation.

[0057] The various portions of the panel assembly 110 include a modular design and have scalable patterns / geometry that allow for the overlapping of common portions for different configurations of the post-processing system 102. The panel assembly 110 described herein is cost-effective, easy to manufacture, and allows for repeatability in a production environment. Furthermore, due to the modular design of the panel assembly 110, the panel assembly 110 can increase manufacturing speed, reduce production costs, and allow for design standardization. Furthermore, the panel assembly 110 described herein can be retrofitted into existing post-processing assemblies due to its modular and adaptable design.

[0058] The panel assembly 110 includes a sturdy tubular internal frame member 118. In addition, the frame sections 140, 142, 144, 146 of the frame member 118 are secured to each other by fully welded miter joints 148 using 3mm to 6mm fillet welds. The miter joints 148 provide an effective seal and limit the release of exhaust gases into the surrounding environment. In addition, the panel assembly 110 includes panels 126, 128 that are fully welded to the frame member 118 or the second rod member 122 around their boundaries by 3mm to 6mm fillet welds to seal the exhaust gases from leaking into the surrounding environment. In some examples, some of the second rod members 121, 123 can be secured to the panels 126, 128 by spot welding to further increase the structural rigidity of the panel assembly 110. It should be noted that the welded connections between the various parts of the panel assembly 110 can prevent the exhaust gas flow from leaking toward the surrounding environment.

[0059] Furthermore, support assembly 124 includes lightweight support members 162, 164 secured only to panel member 116. It should be noted that support assembly 124 is not secured to frame member 118, first rod member 120, or second rod members 121, 122, 123. Lightweight support members 162, 164 eliminate localized vibration pockets by introducing a damping effect into panel assembly 110. Furthermore, panel member 116 is divided into a second region 163 by first and second support members 162, 164, thereby allowing panel assembly 110 to achieve a minimum natural frequency of 200 Hz. More specifically, first and second regions 161, 163 of panel assembly 110 reduce the unsupported length of panel member 116. Furthermore, in some examples, panel assemblies 110 forming housing 104 can be connected to one another via structural members that further enhance the natural frequency of housing 104. It should be noted that the dimensions of the various portions of panel assembly 110 can vary based on the configuration / size of different aftertreatment systems or other application requirements, thereby increasing the versatility of panel assembly 110.

[0060] While aspects of the present disclosure have been particularly shown and described with reference to the above embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various additional embodiments may be contemplated by modifying the disclosed machines, systems, and methods without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Such embodiments are to be understood as falling within the scope of the present disclosure as determined by the claims and any equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. A panel assembly (100, 700, 900), comprising: a panel member (116, 716, 916) defining a longitudinal axis (X-X1); a frame member (118, 718, 918) secured to the panel member (116, 716, 916); at least one first rod member (120, 720, 920) extending along the longitudinal axis (X-X1) of the panel member (116, 716, 916), the at least one first rod member (120, 720, 920) being secured to the panel member (116, 716, 916) and the frame member (118, 718, 918); at least one second rod member (121, 721, 921) extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X-X1) of the panel member (116, 716, 916), the at least one second rod member (121, 721, 921) being secured to the panel member (116, 716, 916) and the frame member (118, 718, 918), wherein the at least one first rod member (120, 720, 920) and the at least one second rod member (121, 721, 921) divide the panel member (116, 716, 916) into a plurality of first regions (161, 761, 961) defining a first height (H4) and a first width (W4); as well as a plurality of support means (124, 724, 924) secured to the panel member (116, 716, 916), wherein each of the plurality of first regions (161, 761, 961) receives a corresponding support means (124, 724, 924) of the plurality of support means (124, 724, 924) for dividing the first region (161, 761, 961) into a plurality of second regions (163, 763, 963), and wherein each support means (124, 724, 924) comprises: a first support member (162, 762, 962) extending along the longitudinal axis (X-X1) of the panel member (116, 716, 916), the first support member (162, 762, 962) defining a first length (L2) such that the first width (W4) defined by the first area (161, 761, 961) is greater than the first length (L2); as well as A second support member (164, 764, 964) is fixed to the first support member (162, 762, 962) and extends substantially perpendicular to the first support member (162, 762, 962), the second support member (164, 764, 964) defining a second length (L3) such that the first height (H4) defined by the first area (161, 761, 961) is greater than the second length (L3).

2. The panel assembly (100, 700, 900) of claim 1, wherein the panel member (116, 716, 916) comprises one or more panels (126, 128, 726, 728, 729, 926).

3. The panel assembly (100, 700, 900) of claim 2, wherein each of the one or more panels (126, 128, 726, 728, 729, 926) includes at least one first region (161, 761, 961).

4. The panel assembly (100, 700, 900) of claim 1, wherein the at least one second rod member (121, 721, 921) comprises two or more second rod members (121, 721, 921).

5. The panel assembly (100, 700, 900) of claim 1, wherein the frame member (118, 718, 918) includes a plurality of frame sections (140, 142, 144, 146) secured to one another, each frame section (140, 142, 144, 146) of the plurality of frame sections (140, 142, 144, 146) being secured to an adjacent frame section (140, 142, 144, 146) of the plurality of frame sections (140, 142, 144, 146) by a miter joint (148).

6. The panel assembly (100, 700, 900) of claim 1, wherein the frame member (118, 718, 918), the at least one first rod member (120, 720, 920), the at least one second rod member (121, 721, 921) and the plurality of support devices (124, 724, 924) are fixed to the panel member (116, 716, 916) by welding.

7. The panel assembly (100, 700, 900) of claim 1, wherein each of the at least one first bar member (120, 720, 920) and the at least one second bar member (121, 721, 921) is fixed to the frame member (118, 718, 918) by welding.

8. The panel assembly (100, 700, 900) of claim 1, wherein the plurality of support devices (124, 724, 924) are not fixed to the frame member (118, 718, 918), the at least one first rod member (120, 720, 920) and the at least one second rod member (121, 721, 921).

9. The panel assembly (100, 700, 900) of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of first regions (161, 761, 961) includes four second regions (163, 763, 963).

10. The panel assembly (100, 700, 900) of claim 1, wherein the panel assembly (100, 700, 900) is made of stainless steel.

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