Gas storage structure, gas cylinder and manufacturing method of gas storage structure

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of high-pressure containers, in particular to a gas storage structure, a gas storage cylinder and a manufacturing method of the gas storage structure. In the gas storage structure, a straight cylinder section is arranged between two head sections; the straight cylinder section is provided with a straight cylinder section end connected with the head sections, an end face of the straight cylinder section end away from the straight cylinder section is provided with a first step face, a second step face and a first slope face, the first step face, the second step face and the first slope face are sequentially connected, and the first step face and the second step face are connected to form a first step structure; the head section is provided with a head section end connected with the straight cylinder section, an end face of the head section end away from the head section is provided with a third step face, a fourth step face and a second slope face, the third step face, the fourth step face and the second slope face are sequentially connected, and the third step face and the fourth step face are connected to form a second step structure; the first step face and the third step face are welded, the second step face and the fourth step face are welded, and the first slope face and the second slope face are welded.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of high-pressure vessel technology, and in particular to a gas storage structure, a gas storage cylinder, and a method for manufacturing the gas storage structure. Background Technology

[0002] Gas cylinders are widely used containers for storing and transporting gases (such as hydrogen). Gas cylinders have various structures; for example, a hydrogen storage cylinder includes a plastic inner liner and a composite material layer. The main function of the plastic inner liner is to limit hydrogen leakage or permeation, while the main function of the composite material layer is to withstand high pressure.

[0003] The plastic liner of a hydrogen storage tank can be manufactured in one piece, but this method is costly, complex, and prone to significant dimensional deviations. Alternatively, the plastic liner can be manufactured in sections and then welded together, but due to its thinness, this results in poor weld strength. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the present invention aims to provide a gas storage cylinder to solve or partially solve the technical problem of poor welding strength in plastic inner liner manufacturing in sections and then welding them together.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a gas storage structure, the gas storage structure comprising a straight cylindrical section and two end cap sections, the straight cylindrical section being disposed between the two end cap sections; the straight cylindrical section having a straight cylindrical section end connected to the end cap sections, the end of the straight cylindrical section having a first stepped surface, a second stepped surface, and a first slope surface on its end face away from the end face of the straight cylindrical section, the first stepped surface, the second stepped surface, and the first slope surface being sequentially connected, the first stepped surface and the second stepped surface being connected to form a first stepped structure; the end cap section having an end cap section connected to the straight cylindrical section, the end cap section having a third stepped surface, a fourth stepped surface, and a second slope surface on its end face away from the end face of the end cap section, the third stepped surface, the fourth stepped surface, and the second slope surface being sequentially connected, the third stepped surface and the fourth stepped surface being connected to form a second stepped structure; the first stepped surface and the third stepped surface are welded, the second stepped surface and the fourth stepped surface are welded, and the first slope surface and the second slope surface are welded.

[0006] Optionally, the first step surface and the third step surface are both arranged along the diameter direction of the straight cylinder section; and / or, the second step surface and the fourth step surface are both arranged along the axial direction of the straight cylinder section.

[0007] Optionally, the first slope and the second slope are parallel, and the angle between the first slope and the axial direction of the straight section is in the range of 35°-45°.

[0008] Optionally, both the second step surface and the fourth step surface are arranged along the axial direction of the straight cylinder section, and the lengths of the second step surface and the fourth step surface are equal, with the length of the second step surface ranging from 2.5mm to 3.5mm.

[0009] Optionally, the end of the straight section is provided with a first boss protruding from the outer surface of the straight section along the diameter direction of the straight section. The first boss has a third slope facing away from the end face of the straight section. The third slope is connected to the end of the first step facing away from the second step. The end of the head section is provided with a second boss protruding from the outer surface of the head section along the diameter direction of the straight section. The second boss has a fourth slope facing away from the end face of the head section. The fourth slope is connected to the end of the third step facing away from the fourth step. The third slope and the fourth slope fit together, and the first boss and the second boss are adapted to be removed after welding at the end of the straight section and the end of the head section.

[0010] Optionally, along the diameter direction of the straight section, the height of the third slope is the same as the height of the fourth slope, the height of the first slope is the same as the height of the second slope, and the height of the third slope is greater than the height of the first slope.

[0011] Optionally, the third slope is parallel to the first slope, and the fourth slope is parallel to the second slope.

[0012] Secondly, embodiments of the present invention also provide a gas storage cylinder, the gas storage cylinder comprising a composite material layer and the aforementioned gas storage structure, the composite material layer being wrapped around the outer periphery of the gas storage structure.

[0013] Thirdly, embodiments of the present invention also provide a method for manufacturing a gas storage structure, applied to the aforementioned gas storage structure. The manufacturing method includes: connecting the end of the straight cylinder section and the end of the end cap section to make the first step surface and the third step surface fit together, the second step surface and the fourth step surface fit together, and the first slope surface and the second slope surface fit together; welding the first step surface and the third step surface, the second step surface and the fourth step surface, and the first slope surface and the second slope surface.

[0014] Optionally, the end of the straight section is provided with a first boss protruding from the outer surface of the straight section along the diameter direction of the straight section. The first boss has a third slope facing away from the end face of the straight section, and the third slope is connected to the end of the first step surface facing away from the second step surface. The end of the head section is provided with a second boss protruding from the outer surface of the head section along the diameter direction of the straight section. The second boss has a fourth slope facing away from the end face of the head section, and the fourth slope is connected to the end of the third step surface facing away from the fourth step surface. The manufacturing method includes: butt-joining the end of the straight section and the end of the head section, so that the first step surface and the third step surface fit together, the second step surface and the fourth step surface fit together, the first slope surface and the second slope surface fit together, and the third slope surface and the fourth slope surface fit together; using a limiting plate to press the first boss and the second boss along the diameter direction of the straight section; welding the first step surface and the third step surface, the second step surface and the fourth step surface, and the first slope surface and the second slope surface; and removing the first boss and the second boss.

[0015] Optionally, the projection onto the axis of the straight section is such that the limiting plate does not intersect with the first step surface, the second step surface, the third step surface, the fourth step surface, the first slope surface, and the second slope surface.

[0016] Optionally, in the step of welding the first step surface and the third step surface, the second step surface and the fourth step surface, the first slope surface and the second slope surface, a first welder and a second welder are used. The first welder is set to correspond to the second step surface and the fourth step surface to weld the second step surface and the fourth step surface, as well as the first step surface and the third step surface; the second welder is set to correspond to the first slope surface and the second slope surface to weld the first slope surface and the second slope surface.

[0017] This invention discloses a gas storage structure in which the first and third step surfaces are welded together, and the second and fourth step surfaces are welded together, forming a locking connection between the first and second step structures. Combined with the welding of the first and second slope surfaces, this results in a large connection area between the ends of the straight cylinder section and the end of the end cap section, facilitating welding and butt jointing. The straight cylinder section and the end cap section can maintain stability and prevent slippage under clamping and compressive forces during welding, effectively avoiding displacement caused by compression during welding, difficulties in welding tool operation, weak welds, and poor weld strength that affect sealing. Furthermore, because the ends of the straight cylinder section and the end cap section are easy to weld and butt joint, the wall thickness of the straight cylinder section and the end cap section can be reduced, increasing the volume of the gas storage structure and reducing its weight.

[0018] The above description is merely an overview of the technical solution of the present invention. In order to better understand the technical means of the present invention and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and in order to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, specific embodiments of the present invention are described below. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments of the present invention will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0020] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of the gas storage structure described in this invention.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the gas storage structure after welding according to the present invention;

[0022] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the head section described in this invention;

[0023] Figure 4 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the end of the straight section and the end of the head section described in this invention;

[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the welding process at the ends of the straight section and the head section as described in this invention. Figure 1 ;

[0025] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the welding process at the ends of the straight section and the head section as described in this invention. Figure 2 ;

[0026] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the welding process at the ends of the straight section and the head section as described in this invention. Figure 3 ;

[0027] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the manufacturing method of the gas storage structure described in this invention. Figure 1 ;

[0028] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the manufacturing method of the gas storage structure described in this invention. Figure 2 .

[0029] Figure label:

[0030] 10. Straight section; 11. End of straight section; 12. First stepped surface; 13. Second stepped surface; 14. First slope; 15. First boss; 16. Third slope; 17. First transition section;

[0031] 20. End cap section; 21. End cap section end; 22. Third step surface; 23. Fourth step surface; 24. Second slope surface; 25. Second boss; 26. Fourth slope surface; 27. Transition area; 28. Bottle neck; 29. ​​Second transition section;

[0032] 40. Limiting plate; 51. First welder; 52. Second welder; 60. Weld seam; 70. Outer surface of gas storage structure. Detailed Implementation

[0033] Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the invention can be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to enable a more thorough understanding of the invention and to fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0034] In this application, the term "parallel" includes not only absolute parallelism but also approximate parallelism as commonly understood in engineering. For example, "parallel" refers to the angle between two lines, a line and a surface, or a surface and another surface, where the angle is -1° to 1°. Similarly, "perpendicular" also includes not only absolute perpendicularity but also approximate perpendicularity as commonly understood in engineering. For example, "perpendicular" refers to the angle between two lines, a line and a surface, or a surface and another surface, where the angle is 89° to 91°. Equal distances or equal angles include not only absolute equality but also approximate equality as commonly understood in engineering, meaning there may be a certain degree of error, such as a tolerance range of -1% to 1%.

[0035] This application provides a gas storage structure, referring to... Figures 1 to 7As shown, the gas storage structure includes a straight cylindrical section 10 and two end cap sections 20. The straight cylindrical section 10 is disposed between and connected to the two end cap sections 20 respectively. The straight cylindrical section 10 has a straight cylindrical section end 11 connected to the end cap sections 20. The end face of the straight cylindrical section end 11 facing away from the straight cylindrical section 10 has a first stepped surface 12, a second stepped surface 13, and a first slope surface 14. The first stepped surface 12, the second stepped surface 13, and the first slope surface 14 are connected sequentially. The first stepped surface 12 and the second stepped surface 13 are connected to form a first platform. The end cap section 20 is provided with an end cap section 21 connected to the straight cylinder section 10. The end cap section 21 facing away from the end cap section 20 is provided with a third step surface 22, a fourth step surface 23, and a second slope surface 24. The third step surface 22, the fourth step surface 23, and the second slope surface 24 are connected in sequence. The third step surface 22 and the fourth step surface 23 are connected to form a second step structure. The first step surface 12 and the third step surface 22 are welded together, the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23 are welded together, and the first slope surface 14 and the second slope surface 24 are welded together.

[0036] In the embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the straight section 10 is disposed between the two end cap sections 20 and is welded to the two end cap sections 20 respectively.

[0037] Further reference Figure 4 As shown, the first step surface 12 is close to the outer peripheral surface of the straight section 10, and the end of the first slope surface 14 away from the second step surface 13 is located on the inner wall of the straight section 10. The first slope surface 14 is inclined from the inner wall of the straight section 10 in a direction away from the straight section 10. The third step surface 22 is close to the outer peripheral surface of the end cap section 20, and the end of the second slope surface 24 away from the fourth step surface 23 is located on the inner wall of the end cap section 20. The second slope surface 24 is inclined from the inner wall of the end cap section 20 in a direction towards the end cap section 20.

[0038] In the gas storage structure of this embodiment, when the straight section 10 is connected to the end cap section 20, the first step surface 12 and the third step surface 22 are welded, and the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23 are welded, forming a locking connection between the first and second step structures. In addition, the first slope surface 14 and the second slope surface 24 are welded, resulting in a large connection area between the end of the straight section 11 and the end cap section 21, facilitating welding and butt jointing. The straight section 10 and the end cap section 20 can remain stable and prevent slippage under clamping and compressive forces during welding, effectively avoiding displacement caused by compression during welding, difficulties in welding tool operation, weak welds, and poor weld strength, which affect sealing performance. Furthermore, because the end of the straight section 11 and the end cap section 21 are easy to weld and butt joint, the wall thickness of the straight section 10 and the end cap section 20 can be reduced, increasing the volume of the gas storage structure and reducing its weight.

[0039] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 4 As shown, both the first step surface 12 and the third step surface 22 are arranged along the diameter direction of the straight section 10, that is, along the X-axis direction. When the welding fixture applies a compressive force in the Y direction to the straight section 10 and the end cap section 20 during welding, the first step surface 12 and the third step surface 22 ensure that the end of the straight section 11 and the end cap section 21 do not slide, thus effectively avoiding displacement due to compression during welding, which could lead to weak welds and poor weld strength.

[0040] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 4 As shown, both the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23 are arranged along the axial direction of the straight section 10, that is, along the Y-axis direction. When the welding fixture applies a clamping force in the X-direction to the straight section 10 and the end cap section 20 during welding, the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23 can ensure that the end of the straight section 11 and the end cap section 21 do not slip, thus effectively avoiding displacement due to compression during welding, which could lead to weak welds and poor weld strength.

[0041] In some embodiments, the first slope 14 and the second slope 24 are parallel, and the angle between the first slope 14 and the axial direction of the straight section 10 ranges from 35° to 45°. (Refer to...) Figure 6 As shown, the inner wall of the straight section 10 is arranged along the axial direction of the straight section 10, and the angle between the first slope 14 and the axial direction of the straight section 10 is α.

[0042] In this embodiment, the first slope 14 and the second slope 24 are parallel, so the first slope 14 and the second slope 24 can make better contact and can be welded better, ensuring the weld firmness and strength between the first slope 14 and the second slope 24, and making the gas storage structure more airtight.

[0043] The first slope 14 and the second slope 24 are parallel. The angle between the first slope 14 and the axis of the straight section 10 is 35°-45°. The first slope 14 and the second slope 24 can better cooperate with the welding fixture, maintain a certain assembly strength, and prevent the molten pool generated during the welding process from flowing downward or being squeezed out of the weld, so as to avoid welding problems.

[0044] In one specific embodiment, the angle between the first slope 14 and the second slope 24 and the axial direction of the straight section 10 is 40°. It can be understood that the angle between the first slope 14 and the second slope 24 and the axial direction of the straight section 10 is specifically set according to the usage requirements. For example, the angle between the first slope 14 and the second slope 24 and the axial direction of the straight section 10 is 35°, 36°, 37°, 38°, 39°, 40°, 41°, 42°, 43°, 44°, 45°, and multiple angles between the above angles.

[0045] In some embodiments, the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23 are both arranged along the axial direction of the straight section 10, and the length of the second step surface 13 and the length of the fourth step surface 23 are equal, with the length of the second step surface 13 ranging from 2.5mm to 3.5mm.

[0046] Reference Figure 6 As shown, along the axial direction of the straight section 10, the length of the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23 are both L, and the range of L is 2.5mm-3.5mm.

[0047] In this embodiment, when the length of the second step surface 13 is within the above-mentioned range, the laser spot diameter and defocusing amount in the welding process parameters of the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23 can achieve higher intensity.

[0048] In one specific embodiment, along the axial direction of the straight section 10, the length of the first slope 14 and the length of the second slope 24 are both 3 mm. It is understood that the lengths of the first slope 14 and the second slope 24 are specifically set according to usage requirements; for example, the lengths of the first slope 14 and the second slope 24 may be 2.5 mm, 2.6 mm, 2.7 mm, 2.8 mm, 2.9 mm, 3 mm, 3.1 mm, 3.2 mm, 3.3 mm, 3.4 mm, 3.5 mm, or multiple values ​​between these values.

[0049] In some embodiments, the end of the straight section 11 is provided with a first boss 15 protruding from the outer surface of the straight section 10 along the diameter direction of the straight section 10. The end face of the first boss 15 facing away from the straight section 10 is provided with a third slope 16. The third slope 16 is connected to the end of the first step surface 12 facing away from the second step surface 13. The end of the head section 21 is provided with a second boss 25 protruding from the outer surface of the head section 20 along the diameter direction of the straight section 10. The end face of the second boss 25 facing away from the end face of the head section 20 is provided with a fourth slope 26. The fourth slope 26 is connected to the end of the third step surface 22 facing away from the fourth step surface 23. The third slope 16 and the fourth slope 26 are fitted together, and the first boss 15 and the second boss 25 are adapted to be removed after welding the end of the straight section 11 and the end of the head section 21.

[0050] In this embodiment, when the straight section 10 is connected to the end cap section 20, the third slope 16 and the fourth slope 26 fit together, resulting in a large connection area between the end of the straight section 11 and the end cap section 21, which is easy to weld and connect. In addition, the first step structure and the second step structure are engaged, and the first slope 14 and the second slope 24 are welded together. The straight section 10 and the end cap section 20 can remain stable and not slip under the clamping and compressing forces applied by the welding fixture during the welding process. This effectively avoids the problems of displacement caused by extrusion during the welding process, difficulty in working the welding fixture, weak welding and poor welding strength, which affect the sealing performance.

[0051] Further reference Figure 4 As shown, the third slope 16 slopes away from the first step surface 12 in a direction away from the straight section 10, and the slope direction of the third slope 16 is the same as that of the first slope 14. The fourth slope 26 slopes towards the end cap section 20 from the third step surface 22. The slope direction of the fourth slope 26 is the same as that of the second slope 24.

[0052] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, along the diameter direction of the straight section 10, i.e. the X-axis direction, the height of the third slope 16 and the fourth slope 26 are the same, the height of the first slope 14 and the second slope 24 are the same, and the height H1 of the third slope 16 is greater than the height H2 of the first slope 14.

[0053] In some embodiments, the third slope 16 and the fourth slope 26 are also parallel, allowing for better contact and engagement. Furthermore, the angle between the third slope 16 and the axial direction of the straight section 10 ranges from 35° to 45°. (Refer to...) Figure 6 As shown, the inner wall of the straight section 10 is arranged along the axial direction of the straight section 10, and the angle between the third slope 16 and the axial direction of the straight section 10 is β.

[0054] In some embodiments, α and β are the same, both ranging from 35° to 45°. When α and β are within the above range, stress concentration during the welding process is effectively avoided under the clamping force applied by the welding fixture. Furthermore, setting the above angles to acute angles of 45° or less can better facilitate the installation of the welder and the adjustment of welding process parameters.

[0055] In some embodiments, a first transition portion 17 is provided between the sidewall of the first boss 15 and the outer peripheral wall of the straight section end 11, and the first transition portion 17 is a first rounded corner with a first preset angle (the first preset angle is, for example, 45°). The provision of the first transition portion 17 can effectively reduce the residual stress generated during welding extrusion and subsequent processing, and reduce the damage to the gas storage structure during the subsequent machining process of removing the first boss 15.

[0056] In some embodiments, the radius of the first fillet is in the range of 5mm-10mm. When the radius of the first fillet is within this range, mechanical damage during welding and machining can be reduced to a large extent, while preserving the mechanical properties around the weld. The specific radius of the first fillet is set according to the usage requirements. For example, the radius of the first fillet is 5mm, 5.5mm, 6mm, 6.5mm, 7mm, 7.5mm, 8mm, 8.5mm, 9mm, 8.5mm, 10mm, and multiple values ​​between the above values.

[0057] In some embodiments, a second transition portion 29 is provided between the sidewall of the second boss 25 and the outer peripheral wall of the end cap section 21, and the second transition portion 29 is a second rounded corner with a second preset angle (for example, 45°). The provision of the second transition portion 29 can effectively reduce the residual stress generated during welding extrusion and subsequent processing, and reduce the damage to the gas storage structure during the subsequent machining process of removing the second boss 25.

[0058] In some embodiments, the radius of the second fillet is in the range of 5mm-10mm. When the radius of the second fillet is within the above range, mechanical damage during welding and machining can be reduced to a large extent, while preserving the mechanical properties around the weld. The specific radius of the second fillet is set according to the application requirements. For example, the radius of the second fillet is 5mm, 5.5mm, 6mm, 6.5mm, 7mm, 7.5mm, 8mm, 8.5mm, 9mm, 8.5mm, 10mm, and multiple values ​​between the above values.

[0059] In some embodiments, the material of the cylindrical section 10 includes at least one selected from polyethylene, polyamide, polyphthalamide, and polyoxymethylene. In this case, the cylindrical section 10 is a thermoplastic polymer part, suitable for welding. It is understood that, in practical use, the material can be modified based on the above-mentioned materials to meet specific application requirements.

[0060] In some embodiments, the material of the end cap 20 includes at least one selected from polyethylene, polyamide, polyphthalamide, and polyoxymethylene. In this case, the end cap 20 is a thermoplastic polymer part, suitable for welding. It is understood that, in practical use, the above materials can be modified to meet specific application requirements.

[0061] When the straight section 10 and the end cap section 20 are made of the aforementioned materials, the gas storage structure is a plastic structural component, such as a plastic inner liner.

[0062] In some embodiments, the material of the end 11 of the straight section also includes carbon black. In this case, during the process of using laser welding of the gas storage structure, the end 11 of the straight section can absorb heat, thereby achieving better laser welding.

[0063] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 1 As shown, the straight section 10 is a straight cylindrical structure open at both ends. (Refer to...) Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the head section 20 has an ellipsoidal structure. The end face of the straight section 11 facing away from the straight section 10 and the end face of the head section 21 facing away from the head section 20 are completely fitted together, forming a sealed weld under the welding process.

[0064] In one embodiment, the end cap section 20 is a semi-ellipsoidal structure with a major axis to minor axis ratio of 2:1. In this case, the end cap section 20 is a stable pressure-bearing structure. The curvature of the end cap section 20 is suitable for setting a composite material layer on the outside of the gas storage structure, and it helps to reduce the overlap and gaps in the composite material layer during the manufacturing process.

[0065] The gas storage structure in this embodiment is a thin-walled inner liner structure, as shown in the reference... Figure 7 As shown, the wall thickness H0 of the straight section 10 is 3mm-4mm, which can maximize the volume while ensuring the sealing of high-pressure gas. Since the end cap section 20 bears a large pressure, its wall thickness gradually increases, transitioning to a transition region 27 at a preset position from the end cap section 21. The wall thickness of the end cap section 20 gradually increases to 5mm-6mm at the bottle mouth 28. In this embodiment, the two end cap sections 20 have identical structures and are symmetrically arranged.

[0066] In the gas storage structure of this embodiment, when the straight section 10 is connected to the end cap section 20, the first step surface 12 and the third step surface 22 are welded, and the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23 are welded, forming a locking connection between the first and second step structures. In addition, the first slope surface 14 and the second slope surface 24 are welded, and the third slope surface 16 and the fourth slope surface 26 contact each other. This results in a large connection area between the end of the straight section 11 and the end cap section 21, facilitating welding and butt jointing. The straight section 10 and the end cap section 20 can remain stable and prevent slippage under clamping and compressive forces during welding, effectively avoiding displacement caused by compression during welding, difficulties in welding tool operation, weak welds, and poor weld strength, which affect sealing performance. Furthermore, because the end of the straight section 11 and the end cap section 21 are easy to weld and butt joint, the wall thickness of the straight section 10 and the end cap section 20 can be reduced, thereby reducing the wall thickness of the gas storage structure, increasing its volume, and reducing its overall weight.

[0067] This application provides a gas storage cylinder, which includes a composite material layer and the aforementioned gas storage structure, with the composite material layer wrapping around the outer periphery of the gas storage structure.

[0068] In this embodiment, the gas storage cylinder uses the above-mentioned gas storage structure, which has the advantages of strong welding, high welding strength, and good sealing performance.

[0069] Furthermore, the gas storage structure can serve as the inner liner, and when the material of the straight section 10 includes at least one of polyethylene, polyamide, polyphthalamide, and polyoxymethylene, and the material of the end cap section 20 includes at least one of polyethylene, polyamide, polyphthalamide, and polyoxymethylene, the gas storage structure is a plastic inner liner. Compared to metal inner liners, plastic inner liners are more fatigue-resistant, have a longer lifespan, and are less expensive during the filling and discharging of high-pressure gases (such as hydrogen). Combined with the pressure-bearing composite material layer, the thickness of the plastic inner liner can be reduced to a few millimeters. Compared to gas cylinders with metal inner liners, they can store more gas while being lighter, resulting in a higher gas storage density ratio. When storing hydrogen in a plastic inner liner, the hydrogen embrittlement problem caused by metal in hydrogen can be avoided, and the leakage and permeation of hydrogen molecules can be effectively prevented.

[0070] In some embodiments, the composite material layer is wound around the outer periphery of the gas storage structure. The composite material layer includes fibers such as carbon fiber and glass fiber, which are laid out at a certain angle to cover the outer periphery of the gas storage structure to resist deformation and failure of the plastic liner under high pressure. The thickness of the composite material layer can be set according to usage requirements, for example, a thickness of 20mm-30mm. The plastic liner and the composite material layer work together to provide high-pressure resistant sealing performance.

[0071] This application provides a method for manufacturing a gas storage structure, which is applied to the aforementioned gas storage structure, with reference to... Figure 8 As shown, the manufacturing method includes the following steps:

[0072] S11, connect the end of the straight section 11 and the end of the head section 21, so that the first step surface 12 and the third step surface 22 are in contact, the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23 are in contact, and the first slope surface 14 and the second slope surface 24 are in contact.

[0073] In this step, the straight section end 11 of the straight section 10 and the end cap section 21 of the end cap section 20 are joined together. A welding fixture is used to apply pressure so that the first step surface 12 and the third step surface 22 are joined together, the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23 are joined together, and the first slope surface 14 and the second slope surface 24 are joined together.

[0074] In some embodiments, both the cylindrical section 10 and the end cap section 20 are injection molded parts. Two sets of molds can be used for injection molding, with the first set of molds used for injection molding the cylindrical section 10 and the second set of molds used for injection molding the end cap section 20.

[0075] S12, weld the first step surface 12 and the third step surface 22, the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23, the first slope surface 14 and the second slope surface 24.

[0076] In this step, the first step surface 12 and the third step surface 22, the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23, the first slope surface 14 and the second slope surface 24 are connected through the first step surface 12 and the third step surface 22, the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23, and the first slope surface 14 and the second slope surface 24.

[0077] After welding, a vertical weld along the diameter direction of the straight cylinder section 10, a horizontal weld along the axial direction of the straight cylinder section 10, and a first slope weld located between the first slope 14 and the second slope 24 are formed. The vertical weld, the horizontal weld, and the first slope weld are connected sequentially.

[0078] In this step, the straight section 10 and the two end cap sections 20 can be welded simultaneously, which has the advantage of high welding efficiency.

[0079] In some embodiments, the end 11 of the straight section is provided with a first boss 15 protruding from the outer surface of the straight section 10 along the diameter direction of the straight section 10. The first boss 15 has a third slope 16 on the end face away from the straight section 10, and the third slope 16 is connected to the end of the first step surface 12 away from the second step surface 13. The end 21 of the head section is provided with a second boss 25 protruding from the outer surface of the head section 20 along the diameter direction of the straight section 10. The second boss 25 has a fourth slope 26 on the end face away from the head section 20, and the fourth slope 26 is connected to the end of the third step surface 22 away from the fourth step surface 23. In this case, the manufacturing method includes the following steps, referring to... Figure 9 As shown:

[0080] S21, connect the end of the straight section 11 and the end of the head section 21, so that the first step surface 12 and the third step surface 22 are in contact, the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23 are in contact, the first slope surface 14 and the second slope surface 24 are in contact, and the third slope surface 16 and the fourth slope surface 26 are in contact.

[0081] In this step, to connect the straight section end 11 of the straight section 10 and the end cap section end 21 of the end cap section 20, a welding fixture is used to apply pressure so that the straight section end 11 and the end cap section end 21 are fully fitted together, that is, the first step surface 12 and the third step surface 22 are fitted together, the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23 are fitted together, the first slope surface 14 and the second slope surface 24 are fitted together, and the third slope surface 16 and the fourth slope surface 26 are fitted together.

[0082] S22, using a limiting plate 40 to press the first boss 15 and the second boss 25 along the diameter direction of the straight section 10.

[0083] In this step, pressure is applied to the first boss 15 and the second boss 25 along the diameter direction of the straight section 10 and toward the inside of the straight section 10, so that the first step surface 12 and the third step surface 22 are in contact, the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23 are in contact, the first slope surface 14 and the second slope surface 24 are in contact, and the third slope surface 16 and the fourth slope surface 26 are in contact, and the contact between the above surfaces is ensured.

[0084] The limiting plate 40 is a component in the welding fixture. Furthermore, the welding fixture presses down on the two end cap sections 20 and applies force, causing the end cap section ends 21 to press against the straight cylinder section ends 11 along the axial direction of the straight cylinder section 10. This causes the first step surface 12 and the third step surface 22 to fit together, the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23 to fit together, the first slope surface 14 and the second slope surface 24 to fit together, and the third slope surface 16 and the fourth slope surface 26 to fit together. The force between the first slope surface 14 and the second slope surface 24, and between the third slope surface 16 and the fourth slope surface 26, creates an upward sliding tendency. The limiting plate 40 presses down on the first boss 15 and the second boss 25, causing the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23 to fit completely together, while simultaneously suppressing the relative sliding between the first slope surface 14 and the second slope surface 24, and between the third slope surface 16 and the fourth slope surface 26.

[0085] S23, weld the first step surface 12 and the third step surface 22, the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23, the first slope surface 14 and the second slope surface 24.

[0086] In this step, a certain pressure is maintained after welding is completed, and the welded surface is allowed to cool and solidify.

[0087] In some embodiments, when projected onto the axis of the straight section 10, the limiting plate 40 and the first step surface 12, second step surface 13, third step surface 22, fourth step surface 23, first slope surface 14, and second slope surface 24 do not intersect. Therefore, the limiting plate 40 will not obstruct the welding of the first step surface 12, second step surface 13, third step surface 22, fourth step surface 23, first slope surface 14, and second slope surface 24, ensuring no interference with the welding process. During welding, the welding pressure allows for more complete melting, reducing gaps in the weld pool.

[0088] In some embodiments, welding includes at least one of laser welding, infrared welding, ultrasonic welding, hot plate welding, and vibration friction welding. The above-mentioned welding methods are all relatively conventional, and this application does not specifically limit them.

[0089] Furthermore, the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23 are both set along the axial direction of the straight section 10. The lengths of the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23 are equal, and the length range of the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23 is 2.5mm-3.5mm. At this time, laser welding can be used in conjunction with the laser spot diameter and defocusing amount in the welding process parameters to achieve higher strength.

[0090] Furthermore, when using laser welding, the material of the end cap section 21 also includes carbon black, resulting in a darker color for the end cap section 21, such as black. The opacity of the black end cap section 21 allows it to absorb laser energy. The straight cylindrical section end 11 does not use carbon black; it is made of white, translucent plastic, allowing the laser to penetrate and absorbing a small amount of laser energy. During laser welding, the second step surface 13 is located above the fourth step surface 23, and the first slope surface 14 is located above the second slope surface 24. The laser melts the third step surface 22, the fourth step surface 23, and the second slope surface 24 of the black end cap section 21, and the heat is conducted to the first step surface 12, the second step surface 13, and the first slope surface 14 to form a molten pool. After melting, the pool is pressed and solidified to form a weld 60, achieving a good sealing effect.

[0091] In this embodiment, the combined weld formed by welding the third step surface 22, the fourth step surface 23, the second slope surface 24, and the first step surface 12, the second step surface 13, and the first slope surface 14 can resist the forces on the gas storage structure along the X-axis and Y-axis directions, and work together to improve the weld strength.

[0092] In some embodiments, in the step of welding the first step surface 12 and the third step surface 22, the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23, the first slope surface 14 and the second slope surface 24, a first welder 51 and a second welder 52 are used. The first welder 51 is set to correspond to the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23, and welds the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23, as well as the first step surface 12 and the third step surface 22. The second welder 52 is set to correspond to the first slope surface 14 and the second slope surface 24, and welds the first slope surface 14 and the second slope surface 24.

[0093] In this embodiment, two welders, the first welder 51 and the second welder 52, are used for simultaneous welding, which has the advantages of high welding efficiency, accurate welding position, and good welding effect.

[0094] In one specific embodiment, when both the first welder 51 and the second welder 52 are laser welders, the gas storage structure is used for dual-laser beam transmission welding, simultaneously irradiating with lasers at a power of 50-90W, as shown in the reference. Figure 5As shown, the first welder 51 acts on the second step surface 13 and the fourth step surface 23, and the second welder 52 acts on the first slope surface 14 and the second slope surface 24. Both welding surfaces begin to melt simultaneously. After welding, the pressure on both sides and the pressure of the limiting plate 40 are maintained for a preset time, such as 20-40 seconds, to allow cooling, forming two weld seams, one horizontal and one inclined. (Refer to...) Figure 7 As shown, the fusion merges into a single weld seam 60. It is then removed from the welding fixture for the next step.

[0095] S23, remove the first boss 15 and the second boss 25.

[0096] In this step, after welding is completed, the first boss 15 and the second boss 25 are removed by machining. Figure 6 (Part B) The machining process in this embodiment includes at least one of grinding and polishing, turning, milling, and thermal cutting. The preferred machining process is grinding and polishing, followed by sanding with a grinding wheel and sandpaper until the outer surface of the gas storage structure is smooth and flat.

[0097] The manufacturing method of the gas storage structure in this application embodiment can save the process time of mass production and avoid the problems of high cost of one-piece molding of gas storage structure and large dimensional deviation of injection-molded large parts in the melt cavity.

[0098] The structure and manufacturing method of the straight cylinder end 11 and the end cap section 21 in the gas storage structure can maintain welding quality while reducing the wall thickness of the gas storage structure, increase the volume, ensure the sealing effect of the weld, and ensure the strength of the gas storage structure in different directions. It can better resist the multi-directional tensile and compressive forces generated by the high-pressure gas inside the cylinder around the weld. The welding fixture provides welding pressure in both horizontal and vertical directions and controls the holding time. In terms of welding process, it is conducive to batch welding of the inner liner in conjunction with the welding fixture, reducing processing steps and saving time. At the same time, it saves costs and improves production efficiency.

[0099] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0100] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a related manner. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to mutually. Each embodiment focuses on describing the differences from other embodiments. For embodiments of devices, electronic devices, computer-readable storage media, and computer program products containing instructions, the descriptions are relatively simple because they are basically similar to the method embodiments; relevant parts can be referred to the descriptions of the method embodiments.

[0101] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention are included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A gas storage structure, characterized in that, The gas storage structure includes a straight section (10) and two end cap sections (20), wherein the straight section (10) is disposed between the two end cap sections (20); The straight section (10) is provided with a straight section end (11) connected to the end cap section (20). The end face of the straight section end (11) facing away from the straight section (10) is provided with a first step surface (12), a second step surface (13) and a first slope surface (14). The first step surface (12), the second step surface (13) and the first slope surface (14) are connected in sequence. The first step surface (12) and the second step surface (13) are connected to form a first step structure. The end cap section (20) is provided with an end cap section end (21) connected to the straight cylinder section (10). The end cap section end (21) facing away from the end cap section (20) is provided with a third step surface (22), a fourth step surface (23) and a second slope surface (24). The third step surface (22), the fourth step surface (23) and the second slope surface (24) are connected in sequence. The third step surface (22) and the fourth step surface (23) are connected to form a second step structure. The first step surface (12) and the third step surface (22) are welded together, the second step surface (13) and the fourth step surface (23) are welded together, and the first slope surface (14) and the second slope surface (24) are welded together. The end of the straight section (11) is provided with a first boss (15) protruding from the outer surface of the straight section (10) along the diameter direction of the straight section (10). The end face of the first boss (15) away from the straight section (10) is provided with a third slope (16). The third slope (16) is connected to the end of the first step surface (12) away from the second step surface (13). The end cap section (21) is provided with a second boss (25) protruding from the outer surface of the end cap section (20) along the diameter direction of the straight section (10). The end face of the second boss (25) away from the end cap section (20) is provided with a fourth slope (26). The fourth slope (26) is connected to the end of the third step surface (22) away from the fourth step surface (23). The third slope (16) and the fourth slope (26) are fitted together, and the first boss (15) and the second boss (25) are adapted to be removed after welding at the end of the straight section (11) and the end of the head section (21).

2. The gas storage structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first step surface (12) and the third step surface (22) are both arranged along the diameter direction of the straight cylindrical section (10); and / or, The second step surface (13) and the fourth step surface (23) are both arranged along the axial direction of the straight section (10).

3. The gas storage structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first slope (14) and the second slope (24) are parallel, and the angle between the first slope (14) and the axis of the straight section (10) is 35°-45°.

4. The gas storage structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second step surface (13) and the fourth step surface (23) are both arranged along the axial direction of the straight section (10). The length of the second step surface (13) and the length of the fourth step surface (23) are equal. The length range of the second step surface (13) is 2.5mm-3.5mm.

5. The gas storage structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, Along the diameter direction of the straight section (10), the height of the third slope (16) is the same as the height of the fourth slope (26), the height of the first slope (14) is the same as the height of the second slope (24), and the height of the third slope (16) is greater than the height of the first slope (14).

6. The gas storage structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The third slope (16) is parallel to the first slope (14), and the fourth slope (26) is parallel to the second slope (24).

7. A gas storage cylinder, characterized in that, The gas storage cylinder includes a composite material layer and a gas storage structure as described in any one of claims 1-6, wherein the composite material layer is wrapped around the outer periphery of the gas storage structure.

8. A method for manufacturing a gas storage structure, characterized in that, The method of manufacturing the gas storage structure described in any one of claims 1-6 includes, The end of the straight section (11) and the end of the head section (21) are joined together, so that the first step surface (12) and the third step surface (22) are in contact, the second step surface (13) and the fourth step surface (23) are in contact, and the first slope surface (14) and the second slope surface (24) are in contact. Weld the first step surface (12) and the third step surface (22), the second step surface (13) and the fourth step surface (23), the first slope surface (14) and the second slope surface (24).

9. The method for manufacturing the gas storage structure according to claim 8, characterized in that, The end of the straight section (11) is provided with a first boss (15) protruding from the outer surface of the straight section (10) along the diameter direction of the straight section (10). The first boss (15) has a third slope (16) on the end face away from the straight section (10). The third slope (16) is connected to the end of the first step surface (12) away from the second step surface (13). The end of the head section (21) is provided with a second boss (25) protruding from the outer surface of the head section (20) along the diameter direction of the straight section (10). The second boss (25) has a fourth slope (26) on the end face away from the head section (20). The fourth slope (26) is connected to the end of the third step surface (22) away from the fourth step surface (23). The manufacturing method includes... The end of the straight section (11) and the end of the head section (21) are joined together, so that the first step surface (12) and the third step surface (22) are fitted together, the second step surface (13) and the fourth step surface (23) are fitted together, the first slope surface (14) and the second slope surface (24) are fitted together, and the third slope surface (16) and the fourth slope surface (26) are fitted together; The first boss (15) and the second boss (25) are pressed together along the diameter of the straight section (10) using a limiting plate (40). Weld the first step surface (12) and the third step surface (22), the second step surface (13) and the fourth step surface (23), the first slope surface (14) and the second slope surface (24). Remove the first boss (15) and the second boss (25).

10. The method for manufacturing the gas storage structure according to claim 9, characterized in that, Projecting onto the axis of the straight section (10), the limiting plate (40) and the first step surface (12), the second step surface (13), the third step surface (22), the fourth step surface (23), the first slope surface (14), and the second slope surface (24) do not intersect.

11. The method for manufacturing the gas storage structure according to claim 9, characterized in that, In the steps of welding the first step surface (12) and the third step surface (22), the second step surface (13) and the fourth step surface (23), the first slope surface (14) and the second slope surface (24), a first welder (51) and a second welder (52) are used. The first welder (51) is provided corresponding to the second step surface (13) and the fourth step surface (23) to weld the second step surface (13) and the fourth step surface (23), as well as the first step surface (12) and the third step surface (22). The second welder (52) is set to correspond to the first slope (14) and the second slope (24) to weld the first slope (14) and the second slope (24).

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