Device for a fuel tank for a motor vehicle

Abstract

A device (1) for a plastic gasoline tank (5) for a motor vehicle. The device comprises a bracket (10), an internal reinforcement element (11, 13) of a gasoline system and a movable support (12) of a component (11) mounted on the bracket (10) and movable relative to the bracket (10) between an initial configuration in which the reinforcement element (11, 13) is at a first distance d1 from the bracket (10) and a final configuration in which the reinforcement element (11, 13) is at a second distance d2 from the bracket (10). The movable support (12) has a final configuration in which the reinforcing elements (11, 13) are at a first distance d1 from the support (10) and a final configuration in which the reinforcing elements (11, 13) are at a second distance d2 from the support (10) such that the first distance d1 is smaller than the second distance d2, the support (10) being equipped with a stop (16) for stopping movement of the movable support (12) when the movable support (12) is in the final configuration.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of a device for a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle and a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle comprising such a device. More specifically, the present invention relates to a device for a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle, the device comprising a bracket, a component and at least one movable support for supporting the component. Throughout the description herein, the term "fuel" is understood to mean "gasoline", i.e. a fuel according to the EN228 standard, which consists of a mixture of light hydrocarbons, the main components being C7H 16 .

[0002] The invention also relates to a method for producing a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle. Background Art

[0003] Traditionally, plastic fuel tanks for motor vehicles are obtained by extrusion blow molding of a parison. The extruded parison is usually tubular, into which most of the internal components of the fuel system of the fuel tank are inserted during the extrusion blow molding process. Due to the complexity of the arrangement of the internal components, these components are usually inserted with the aid of a device including a bracket that includes these components, as disclosed in document WO2022073964A1.

[0004] However, this leads to a limitation in the size of the device including the support inserted inside the tubular parison. In fact, the extruded tubular parison usually has a limited diameter. Therefore, the device insertable into the tubular parison must be inscribed in a circle with a diameter less than the internal diameter of the tubular parison, which limits the positioning of the inserted part after the tank is blown, since the internal cavity size of the obtained tank is greater than the internal diameter of the tubular parison.

[0005] The object of the present invention is in particular to overcome these disadvantages of the prior art. Summary of the invention

[0006] To this end, the object of the present invention is to provide a device for a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle, comprising a bracket comprising at least one component of the fuel system, which at least one component has easy insertability into a tubular parison when manufacturing the plastic fuel tank.

[0007] In at least one embodiment, the present invention is also directed to providing a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle.

[0008] Another object of the present invention, in at least one embodiment, is to implement a method for manufacturing a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle.

[0009] According to one particular embodiment, the invention relates to a device for a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle.

[0010] According to the present invention, the device comprises at least one bracket, a component of a fuel system and at least one movable support for supporting the component of the fuel system, wherein the movable support of the component of the fuel system is mounted on the bracket and is movable relative to the bracket between an initial configuration and a final configuration, wherein in the initial configuration the component of the fuel system is at a first distance d1 from the bracket, and in the final configuration the component of the fuel system is at a second distance d2 from the bracket, and the first distance d1 is smaller than the second distance d2, and the bracket is provided with a stopper for stopping the movable support of the component of the fuel system from moving when the movable support of the component of the fuel system is in the final configuration.

[0011] According to the invention, the component of the fuel system is an internal reinforcement element and the fuel is gasoline.

[0012] The general principle of the present invention is based on, on the one hand, the existence of a movable support, which is mounted on a bracket and can be moved relative to the bracket between an initial configuration and a final configuration, in which the component of the fuel system supported by the movable support is at a first distance d1 from the bracket, and in the final configuration the component of the fuel system is at a second distance d2 from the bracket, and the first distance d1 is smaller than the second distance d2; and on the other hand, the existence of a stopper on the bracket, which is used to stop the movable support of the component of the fuel system from moving when the movable support of the component of the fuel system is in the final configuration.

[0013] The invention is therefore based on a completely novel and inventive method for a device comprising a support, a component of a fuel system and at least one movable support for supporting said component of the fuel system, said movable support of said component of the fuel system being movable relative to said support between an initial configuration in which said component of the fuel system is at a first distance d1 from said support and a final configuration in which said component of the fuel system is at a second distance d2 from said support, said first distance d1 being smaller than said second distance d2, said support being equipped with a stopper for stopping the movement of said movable support of said component of the fuel system when it is in the final configuration. This device allows easy insertion into the tubular blank by avoiding contact between the support comprising the internal components of the fuel tank and the tubular blank, and allows the production speed of the tank to be increased. Moreover, this device allows the components of the fuel system to be arranged in the position of the fuel tank that is most suitable for the function they must perform, thus making it possible to arrange internal reinforcement elements in positions subject to the greatest stresses or to position the valves of the ventilation system in positions that reduce the loss of useful volume.

[0014] Finally, this device allows reducing the number of interventions on the fuel tank after the extrusion blow-molding operation, such as the installation of fuel system components that are located at a large distance from the support, and therefore reducing the number and size of the openings that must be reserved in the tank wall to enable such interventions, thereby reducing the hydrocarbon emissions through said openings.

[0015] The expression "in said initial configuration said component of the fuel system is at a first distance d1 from said support, whereas in said final configuration said component of the fuel system is at a second distance d2 from said support, and said first distance d1 is less than said second distance d2" means that in the initial configuration the support and the component occupy a first peripheral volume (volume periphérique) V1, whereas in the final configuration the support and the component occupy a second peripheral volume V2, and said peripheral volume V2 is greater than said peripheral volume V1. The distance d1 is inscribed in the volume V1, whereas the distance d2 is inscribed in the volume V2. In each configuration, the peripheral volumes are defined by the peripheral points of the support and the component, i.e. the points of the support and the component which are farthest from the geometric centre (C) of the device in a given direction. In the above definition of the peripheral volume, depending on the shape of the device, in the case where it is difficult for a person skilled in the art to define the so-called "geometric center" of the device, in particular in the case where there is no center of symmetry or such a part that can be considered as the center of symmetry of the device as a whole, the geometric center can be defined in the following way: consider the median longitudinal plane (X; Y) of the device (i.e. the longitudinal plane that cuts the device as a whole into two parts with similar volumes) and consider the geometric center (C) to be the center of the largest section (S) of the device in this median longitudinal plane. If the latter definition still makes it difficult for a person skilled in the art to define the geometric center of the device, it can be considered that the geometric center corresponds to the center of gravity (barycentre) of the device. The distances d1 and d2 are the shortest distances between the main part of the stent and the peripheral points of the components on the transverse plane (Y; Z) of the device.

[0016] It is understood that the initial configuration is the configuration for insertion into the tank, whereas the final configuration is the configuration for operation. It is also understood that, in the initial configuration, the device has, in the longitudinal plane (X:Y) of the device, dimensions perpendicular to the vertical axis (Z) of the tank and to the axis of the parison, which dimensions allow the device to be inscribed in a circle having a diameter less than the internal diameter of the tubular parison. In the final configuration, the device has, in the same longitudinal plane (X:Y) of the device, dimensions that allow the device to be positioned in the internal cavity of the tank.

[0017] The expression "component of the fuel system" is understood to mean a component selected from the group consisting of a ventilation line, a fuel line, a pump, a level sensor, a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, a quality sensor, a flow guide, an internal reinforcement element or a valve, such as a valve, a roll-over valve (ROV) type valve or a fill limit vent valve (FLVV) type valve.

[0018] Within the meaning of the present invention, "internal" refers to an element situated inside the inner volume of the tank, which is configured so as to be intended to come into contact with the gasoline contained in the tank.

[0019] The purpose of said internal reinforcement elements is to increase the resistance of the tank to the mechanical stresses to which it is subjected during its service life.

[0020] Preferably, the distances d1 and d2 are measured along a longitudinal plane (X:Y) perpendicular to the vertical axis (Z) of the device, which corresponds to the vertical axis of the interior of the fuel tank when the device is housed in the interior of the fuel tank.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment, the device according to the invention for a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle enables a movable support of a component of the fuel system to be moved in translation and / or rotation relative to the support. The combined translation and rotation movement relative to the support can be illustrated, for example, as a pantograph-type movement.

[0022] Thus, a movable support of a component of the fuel system movable in translation and / or rotation relative to the support allows good freedom in the arrangement of the components of the fuel system within the fuel tank and also allows the complexity of the shape of the fuel tank to be taken into account more easily.

[0023] According to a preferred embodiment of the aforementioned embodiment, the device according to the invention for a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle enables a movable support of a component of the fuel system to be rotationally movable relative to the support.

[0024] Thus, a movable support of a component of the fuel system that is rotationally movable relative to the support allows avoiding the use of mechanically or electrically actuated means, but rather using gravity to drive the movement of the movable support.

[0025] According to another object of the invention, the device according to the invention for a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle enables the components of the fuel system to be selected from internal reinforcement elements, valves and sensors.

[0026] Therefore, the components of the fuel system are selected from internal reinforcing elements, valves and sensors: in the case of internal reinforcing elements, this allows the component to be arranged in a position subject to maximum stress; in the case of valves, preferably in the case of valves of the ventilation system, this allows the component to be positioned in a position capable of reducing the loss of useful volume; in the case of sensors, this allows measurement to be performed at a desired position. The internal reinforcing element is columnar, preferably cylindrical, or diabolo-shaped, for example as described in document EP2865553. The column can be straight or have a curved shape, for example as described in document EP3878676. The reinforcing element can also include a plurality of these columns, which are connected to each other by a connector, for example in the form of a connecting rod. The internal reinforcing element can also be in the form of a retaining member, the retaining member comprising a wall provided with a central recess, a portion of the wall comprising reinforcing ribs. The wall of the retaining member can be flat or curved. It may also be in the form of a structure having a central portion and two axial ends, the central portion having a straight section of a crown sector, the straight section defining the main axis of the reinforcing element and having a first area, the main axis passing perpendicularly to the crown sector through the center of rotation of the crown sector, the central portion preferably comprising a network of ribs extending radially relative to the main axis, called a "radial rib network", the two axial ends being located at the ends of the central portion relative to the main axis, each axial end having an elliptical and curved end surface inscribed in the straight section of the central portion, having a second area preferably less than the first area. In the case of a cylindrical or diabolo-shaped internal reinforcing element, the internal reinforcing element is preferably constituted by a central portion based on a material chosen from polyoxymethylene (POM), polyphthalamide (PPA), polyketone (PK), polyamide (PA) and metal, and the ends of the central portion are overmolded with high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The sensor may be a liquid level sensor, a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor or a quality sensor.

[0027] According to a preferred embodiment, the device according to the invention for a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle provides that the bracket comprises a locking element for locking the movable support of the fuel system component so that the movable support of the fuel system component is locked in the initial configuration.

[0028] Thus, the locking element for locking the movable support of the component of the fuel system when it is in the initial configuration allows easier handling of the device when inserting it into the tubular parison.

[0029] In one embodiment, the locking element included in the support for locking the movable support in the initial configuration is in the form of a first rib present on the support. The first rib is adapted to abut against a second rib present on the movable support. Thus, in this embodiment, the device is locked in the initial configuration by direct interaction of the locking element for locking the support with the locking element for locking the movable support, which is a simple way of locking the components in the initial configuration.

[0030] According to a preferred embodiment, the device according to the invention for a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle provides that the movable support of a component of the fuel system comprises a central part, preferably rod-shaped, a first end configured for interaction with an insert, such as an insertion rod, and a second end provided with an attachment for attaching a component of the fuel system.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment, the device according to the invention for a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle provides that the bracket comprises a receiving member configured for receiving an insert, such as an insert rod.

[0032] In one embodiment, the first end of the movable support is configured for interaction with the insert so that withdrawal of the insert drives the movable support towards its initial configuration. Thus, withdrawal of the insert automatically drives the movable support towards its final configuration.

[0033] Optionally, the movable support is configured so that the first end abuts against part of the insert so that the movable support rotates by gravity when the insert is withdrawn.

[0034] Optionally, the movable support is configured such that the first end is attached to part of the inserter such that the driving force of the withdrawal movement of the inserter allows the movable support to move, for example rotate about a hinge mechanism.

[0035] Optionally, the first end of the movable support is configured to be mounted (fixed) on an actuator present on part of the insert, so that the movable support is moved by the driving force of the actuator during the withdrawal movement of the insert.

[0036] In one embodiment, the stop is in the form of a third rib present on the support, and a fourth rib present on the movable support is configured to stop against the third rib. The stop is performed by a clamping-like deformation of the fourth rib. The movement of the movable support relative to the support can be achieved by rotating around a hinge-like mechanism.

[0037] Preferably, the support is based on a material selected from the group of materials consisting of polyethylene (PE), preferably high density polyethylene (HDPE), polyoxymethylene (POM), polyamide (PA), polyphthalamide (PPA) and polyketone (PK). The support can also be used as a support for components of the fuel system, such as ventilation and fuel lines, pumps, level sensors, pressure sensors, temperature sensors, flow guides, internal reinforcement elements or valves, such as valves, valves of the Roll Over Valve (ROV) type or valves of the Fill Limit Vent Valve (FLVV) type. Preferably, the support is in the form of a frame, preferably a monolithic frame. Preferably, the support is in the form of a structure comprising at least four edges, the at least four edges defining the periphery of the support.

[0038] It is an object of the present invention to provide a method for producing a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle.

[0039] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method for producing a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention, the method is such that it comprises at least the following steps:

[0040] Extrusion of tubular parison;

[0041] inserting a device for a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention into the tubular parison, the device being in an initial configuration in which the components of the fuel system are at a first distance d1 from the support;

[0042] deploying the device from an initial configuration in which the fuel system component is at a first distance d1 from the support to a final configuration in which the fuel system component is at a second distance d2 from the support, and the first distance d1 is smaller than the second distance d2;

[0043] - Stopping the deployment of the device when it reaches its final configuration by the stop present on the stent.

[0044] According to a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention for producing a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle, the step of inserting the device into the tubular parison is performed by means of an inserter, such as an insert rod.

[0045] According to a preferred embodiment of the method for manufacturing a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention, the step of unfolding the device is performed by translation and / or rotation of a movable support of a component of the fuel system relative to the support. Preferably, the step of unfolding the device is triggered when withdrawing the insert, more preferably by withdrawing the insert. The expression "withdrawal of the insert" means that the insert is retracted outside the parison and does not remain in the tank obtained at the end of manufacturing. The insert is withdrawn before the parison is blown, so that the tank has its final shape inside the mold.

[0046] According to a preferred embodiment of the method for manufacturing a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention, the deployment step of the device is performed by the rotation of a movable support of a component of the fuel system relative to the support. Preferably, the rotation of the movable support is performed by gravity or by a mechanical part when the insert is withdrawn. When the rotation of the movable support is performed by gravity, the rotation is triggered under the weight of the movable support and the component when the insert is withdrawn. Advantageously, the insert is an insertion rod provided with a retaining notch (encoche de retenue), a part of the movable support is locked on the retaining notch when the device is in the initial configuration, and the withdrawal movement of the insertion rod releases the movable support from the notch, thereby driving the movable support to rotate by gravity. Alternatively, the rotation of the movable support is performed by a mechanical part when the insert is withdrawn. Advantageously, the mechanical part is constituted by the insert, which is equipped with a snap for snapping the movable support.

[0047] According to a preferred embodiment of the method for manufacturing a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle, the step of unfolding the device from an initial configuration to a final configuration is performed by translation of a movable support of the component relative to the support. Preferably, the translation of the movable support is performed by a mechanical member when the insert is withdrawn. The mechanical member comprises the insert and a guide for guiding the movable support. Alternatively, the mechanical member is constituted by a transverse actuator.

[0048] According to a preferred embodiment of the method for manufacturing a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention, the method comprises a step of locking the movable support when the device is in the final position. This locking step can be performed by means of a stop present on the support.

[0049] Another object of the invention is to provide a plastic tank for a motor vehicle, said tank comprising a device for a plastic tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge more clearly on reading the following description of a preferred embodiment given as an illustrative and non-limiting simple example, and the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0051] Figure 1 The device for a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention is shown in an initial configuration;

[0052] Figure 2 depicts a locking member for locking the movable support of the device according to the invention when the device is in an initial configuration;

[0053] Figure 3 The device for a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention is illustrated in its final configuration;

[0054] Figure 4 shows a stopper for stopping the movement of the movable support of the device when the device according to the invention is in its final configuration,

[0055] Figure 5 The device is shown in its initial configuration. Figure 2 A first alternative locking member for a movable support of a fuel system component is shown;

[0056] Figure 6 Depicts the device in its initial configuration Figure 2 A second alternative locking member for a movable support of a fuel system component is shown;

[0057] Figure 7 Depicts the device in its initial configuration Figure 2 A third alternative locking member for a movable support of a fuel system component is shown;

[0058] Figure 8 The device for a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention is depicted in an initial configuration;

[0059] Fig. 9 depicts a device for a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention in its final configuration;

[0060] Fig.10 Depicts the device in its initial configuration Figure 2 A fourth alternative of the locking member of the movable support member of the fuel system component is shown;

[0061] Fig.11 and Fig.12 The step of inserting the device in an initial configuration into a tubular parison and the device in a final configuration in a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle are illustrated respectively. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0062] Figure 1 An embodiment of a device 1 for a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the present invention is shown. The device comprises at least one bracket 10, a component 11 of a fuel system and at least one movable support 12 for supporting the component 11 of the fuel system, wherein the movable support 12 of the component 11 of the fuel system is mounted (fixed) on the bracket and can be moved relative to the bracket between an initial configuration and a final configuration, wherein the component of the fuel system is at a first distance d1 from the bracket in the initial configuration, and the component of the fuel system is at a second distance d2 from the bracket in the final configuration, and the first distance d1 is smaller than the second distance d2. The device has a longitudinal direction along a plane (X:Y) and a height along a Z axis. Due to Figure 1 The device shown in is asymmetrical, so the geometric center (C) of the device is shown in the middle longitudinal plane (X:Y) of the device (i.e., the longitudinal plane that cuts the device as a whole into two parts of similar volume). The geometric center (C) is the middle of the largest section (S) of the device in this middle longitudinal plane. The peripheral volumes (V1, V2) are shown in the figure, which are defined by the peripheral points of the support and components, i.e., their points farthest from the geometric center (C) of the device in a given direction. In the initial configuration (Figure 1), the support and components occupy a first peripheral volume V1, while in the final configuration ( Figure 3 ), the support and the component occupy a second peripheral volume V2, and the peripheral volume V2 is greater than the peripheral volume V1. The distance d1 is inscribed in the volume V1, and the distance d2 is inscribed in the volume V2. The distances d1 and d2 are the shortest distances between the main part of the support and the peripheral points of the component in the transverse plane (Y; Z) of the device. Figure 1The device shown is in an initial configuration. The bracket 10 is equipped with a stopper (not shown) for stopping the movable support 12 of the component 11 of the fuel system from moving when the movable support 12 of the component 11 of the fuel system is in the final configuration. The bracket 10 is also equipped with a locking member (not shown) for locking the movable support 12 of the component 11 of the fuel system when the movable support 12 of the component 11 of the fuel system is in the initial configuration. The component 11 of the fuel system is an internal reinforcement element 13 in the form of a diabolo 130, the central part constituting the diabolo 130 is based on a material selected from polyoxymethylene (POM), polyphthalamide (PPA), polyketone (PK), polyamide (PA) and metal, and the two ends of the central part are overmolded by high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The bracket 10 is in the shape of a frame (cadre) and is made of a material selected from polyethylene (PE), preferably high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyoxymethylene (POM), polyamide (PA), polyphthalamide (PPA) and polyketone (PK). The support 10 also serves as a support for components of the fuel system, such as ventilation lines, fuel lines, pumps, level sensors, pressure sensors, temperature sensors, quality sensors, flow guides, internal reinforcement elements 13 or valves, such as valves, valves of the RollOver Valve (ROV) type or valves of the Fill Limit Vent Valve (FLVV) type. The support 10 also includes a receiving member 14, which is configured to receive an insert, such as an insert rod. The receiving member 14 is preferably in the form of a sleeve, which is configured to allow the insert to slide.

[0063] Relevance Figure 1 of Figure 2 One embodiment of a locking element 15 for locking the movable support 12 of a component of the fuel system when the movable support 12 of the component of the fuel system is in the initial configuration is shown. The locking element 15 is in the form of a first rib 150 present on the bracket 10 and a second rib 151 present on the movable support 12 abutting against each other.

[0064] Figure 3 Shows Figure 1 The device 1 for a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle is shown. The device comprises at least one bracket 10, a component 11 of a fuel system and at least one movable support 12 for supporting the component 11 of the fuel system, wherein the movable support 12 of the component 11 of the fuel system is mounted on the bracket and can be moved relative to the bracket between an initial configuration and a final configuration, wherein the component of the fuel system is at a first distance d1 from the bracket, and in the final configuration, the component of the fuel system is at a second distance d2 from the bracket, and the first distance d1 is smaller than the second distance d2. Figure 2 The device shown is in the final configuration. The bracket 10 is equipped with a stopper (not shown) for stopping the movable support 12 of the component 11 of the fuel system from moving when the movable support 12 of the component 11 of the fuel system is in the final configuration. The bracket 10 is also equipped with a locking member (not shown) for locking the movable support 12 of the component 11 of the fuel system when the movable support 12 of the component 11 of the fuel system is in the initial configuration. The component 11 of the fuel system is an internal reinforcing element 13 in the shape of a diabolo 130, the central part constituting the diabolo 130 is based on a material selected from polyoxymethylene (POM), polyphthalamide (PPA), polyketone (PK), polyamide (PA) and metal, and the two ends of the central part are overmolded by high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The bracket 10 is in the shape of a frame and is made of a material selected from polyethylene (PE), preferably high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyoxymethylene (POM), polyamide (PA), polyphthalamide (PPA) and polyketone (PK). The support 10 also serves as a support for components of the fuel system, such as ventilation lines, fuel lines, pumps, level sensors, pressure sensors, temperature sensors, quality sensors, flow guides, internal reinforcement elements 13 or valves, such as valves, valves of the Roll Over Valve (ROV) type or valves of the Fill Limit Vent Valve (FLVV) type. The support 10 also includes a receiving member 14, which is configured to receive an insert, such as an insertion rod. The receiving member 14 is preferably in the form of a sleeve, which is configured to allow the insert to slide.

[0065] Relevance Figure 3 of Figure 4 An embodiment of a stopper 16 for stopping the movable support 12 of a fuel system component when the movable support 12 of the fuel system component is in the final configuration is shown. The stopper 16 is in the form of a third rib 161 present on the bracket 10 and a fourth rib 160 present on the movable support 12 that stops each other. The stop is achieved by a snap-fit ​​deformation of the fourth rib 160. The movement of the movable support 12 relative to the bracket is achieved by rotation around the hinge mechanism 17.

[0066] Figure 5 The movable support of the component is shown in its initial configuration. Figure 2A first alternative of a locking element for a movable support for locking a component of a fuel system is shown. According to this first alternative, a movable support 12 of a component 11 of a fuel system comprises a preferably rod-shaped central portion 120, a first end 121 configured for interaction with an insert 2, such as an insertion rod, and a second end (not shown), the first end 121 of the movable support 12 being in the form of a rod-shaped extension of the central portion 120 of the movable support 12, the first end 121 and the central portion 120 forming an angle of 90°. The first end 121 is supported on a portion 20 of the insert 2, which is introduced into a receiving member 14 of the support 10, which is in the form of a sleeve, in which the insert 2 is adapted to slide. This arrangement of the first end 121 on the insert enables the movable support to rotate by means of gravity when the insert is withdrawn.

[0067] Figure 6 The movable support of the component is shown in its initial configuration. Figure 2 A second alternative of a locking member for a movable support for locking a component of a fuel system is shown. In this second alternative, the first end 121 of the movable support 12 is supported on an insert 2, which is introduced into a receiving member 14 of the bracket 10. The receiving member is in the form of a sleeve in which the insert 2 is suitable for sliding. The first end 121 of the movable support 12 is supported on a portion 20 of the insert 2, which is in the form of a recess 200. This arrangement of the first end 121 on the insert allows the movable support to rotate by means of gravity when the insert is withdrawn. The presence of the recess 200 allows the positioning of the movable support 12 to be ensured to be more stable when the device 1 is in the initial configuration.

[0068] Figure 7 Depicted when the movable support of the component is in the initial configuration Figure 2A third alternative of a locking element of a movable support for locking a component of a fuel system is shown. According to this third alternative, the movable support 12 comprises a central portion 120, a first end 121 configured for interaction with the insert 2 and a second end 122 provided with an attachment (not shown) for attaching a component 11 of the fuel system. The first end 121 of the movable support 12 is in the form of a rod-shaped extension of the central portion 120 of the movable support 12, the first end 121 and the central portion 120 forming an angle less than or equal to 90°. The first end 121 is attached to the portion 20 of the insert 2 by snapping. The insert 2 is introduced into a receiving member 14 of the bracket 10, which is in the form of a sleeve in which the insert 2 is suitable for sliding. The movable support 12 is moved by the driving force of the withdrawal movement of the insert 2. It can be observed that, in this case, the movement is a rotational movement about the hinge mechanism 17 , this rotation produced by the actuation mechanism of the movable support 12 of the part 11 causing the part 11 to rise relative to its initial position inside the device.

[0069] Figure 8 An embodiment of a device 1 for a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention is shown, wherein the device 1 is assembled on an insert 2. The device comprises at least one support 10, a component 11 of a fuel system and at least one movable support 12 for supporting the component 11 of the fuel system, the movable support 12 of the component 11 of the fuel system being mounted on the support and movable relative to the support between an initial configuration in which the component of the fuel system is at a first distance d1 from the support and a final configuration in which the component of the fuel system is at a second distance d2 from the support, the first distance d1 being smaller than the second distance d2. Figure 8The device shown is in an initial configuration. The bracket 10 is equipped with a stopper (not shown) for stopping the movable support 12 of the component 11 of the fuel system from moving when the movable support 12 of the component 11 of the fuel system is in the final configuration. The component 11 of the fuel system is an internal reinforcement element 13 in the form of a diabolo 130, the central part of which is based on a material selected from polyoxymethylene (POM), polyphthalamide (PPA), polyketone (PK), polyamide (PA) and metal, and the two ends of the central part are overmolded by high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The bracket 10 is frame-shaped and is made of a material selected from polyethylene (PE), preferably high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyoxymethylene (POM), polyamide (PA), polyphthalamide (PPA) and polyketone (PK). The support 10 also serves as a support for components of the fuel system, such as ventilation lines, fuel lines, pumps, level sensors, pressure sensors, temperature sensors, quality sensors, flow guides, internal reinforcement elements 13 or valves, such as valves, valves of the Roll Over Valve (ROV) type or valves of the Fill Limit Vent Valve (FLVV) type. The support 10 also includes a receiving member 14, which is configured to receive an insert 2, such as an insertion rod. The receiving member 14 is preferably sleeve-shaped, in which the insert 2 is suitable for sliding. The movable support 12 of the component 11 of the fuel system comprises a rod-shaped central part 120, a first end 121, which is configured to interact with the insert 2, such as an insertion rod, and a second end 122, which is provided with an attachment 1220 for attaching a component of the fuel system. The central portion 120 of the movable support 12 slides in the guide member 18 present on the support 10. This sliding of the central portion 120 in the support 10 causes a translational movement of the movable support 12 relative to the support 10. This translational movement is caused by the withdrawal movement of the insert 2 through the interaction between the first end 121 of the movable support 12 and the portion 20 of the insert 2. The shape of the portion 20 of the insert 2 will ensure the movement of the movable support 12.

[0070] Fig. 9 Shows the final position according to Figure 8Device 1 for a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle. The device comprises at least one frame-like support 10, a component 11 of a fuel system and at least one movable support 12 for supporting the component 11 of the fuel system, the movable support 12 of the component 11 of the fuel system being mounted on the support and movable relative to the support. The support 10 is equipped with a stopper (not shown) for stopping the movable support 12 of the component 11 of the fuel system from moving when the movable support 12 of the component 11 of the fuel system is in the final configuration. The component 11 of the fuel system is an internal reinforcement element 13 in the form of a diabolo 130, the central part constituting the diabolo 130 being based on a material selected from polyoxymethylene (POM), polyphthalamide (PPA), polyketone (PK), polyamide (PA) and metal, and the two ends of the central part being overmolded by high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The support 10 is in the form of a frame and is made of a material selected from polyethylene (PE), preferably high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyoxymethylene (POM), polyamide (PA), polyphthalamide (PPA) and polyketone (PK). The support 10 also serves as a support for components of the fuel system, such as ventilation lines, fuel lines, pumps, level sensors, pressure sensors, temperature sensors, quality sensors, flow guides, internal reinforcement elements 13 or valves, such as valves, valves of the rollover valve (ROV) type or valves of the fill limit vent valve (FLVV) type. The support 10 also includes a receiving member 14, which is configured to receive an insert 2, such as an insertion rod. The receiving member 14 is preferably in the form of a sleeve, in which the insert 2 is suitable for sliding. The movable support 12 of the component 11 of the fuel system comprises a rod-shaped central part 120, a first end 121 configured to interact with an insert 2 such as an insertion rod, and a second end 122 provided with an attachment 1220 for attaching the component of the fuel system.

[0071] Fig.10 The movable support of the component is shown in its initial configuration. Figure 2A fourth alternative of a locking element of a movable support for locking a component of a fuel system is shown. According to this fourth alternative, the movable support 12 comprises a central portion 120, a first end 121 configured for interaction with the insert 2, and a second end 122 provided with an attachment 1220 for attaching a component 11 of the fuel system. The first end 121 of the movable support 12 is in the form of a rod-shaped extension of the central portion 120 of the movable support 12, the first end 121 and the central portion 120 forming an angle of 180°. The first end 121 is fixed to an actuator 21 present on the portion 20 of the insert 2. The insert 2 is introduced into a receiving member 14 of the support 10, the receiving member 14 being in the form of a sleeve in which the insert 2 is adapted to slide. During the withdrawal movement of the insert 2, the movable support 12 is moved by the driving force of the actuator 21. It can be observed that, in this case, the movement is a translational movement, the central portion 120 sliding in guide members 18 present on the support 10 .

[0072] Fig.11 and Fig.12 The step of inserting the device in its initial configuration into the tubular parison and the device in its final configuration in the tank are shown respectively. The distances d1 and d2 extend in the longitudinal plane (X:Y) of the device relative to an axis L lying in this longitudinal plane (X:Y) and parallel to the longitudinal axis X of the device. Fig.11 The device according to the invention is shown in an initial configuration, without inserting parts, said device 1 being inserted into a tubular parison 3 extruded by means of an extrusion head 4, said device being in an initial configuration in which a component 11 of the fuel system is at a first distance d1 from a support 10. The outline of the final tank 5 in which the device 1 is placed is shown for reference. Fig.12 The tank 5 obtained is shown with the device 1 in its final position. The component 11 of the fuel system is at a second distance d2 from the support 10, and the first distance d1 is smaller than the second distance d2. This final configuration is achieved by stopping the movable support 12 of the component 11 from moving by a stop present on the support 10. Fig.11 and Fig.12The method described in allows solving the problem related to the size of the device inserted in the tubular parison relative to the diameter of the extruded parison. In fact, the extruded tubular parison has a defined diameter. Due to the extrusion stresses, the shape of the parison may change and therefore its diameter may change. Therefore, the device that can be inserted into the tubular parison must be inscribed in a circle with a diameter less than the internal diameter of the tubular parison, which limits the positioning of the inserted parts after the tank is blown, because the internal cavity size of the obtained tank is greater than the internal diameter of the tubular parison. The device according to the invention allows solving this problem of diameter reduction by avoiding the use of smaller-sized devices (in order to have a safety gap between the inserted device and the tubular parison, the allowed size of the inserted device is reduced (for example: to 120 mm)). Therefore, the insert according to the invention is able to meet the performance requirements of the product. For pressurized tanks, the internal reinforcement elements are placed in appropriate and suitable positions. In the case of ventilation systems, the position of the valve does not lead to a loss of useful volume.

Claims

1. A device (1) for a plastic fuel tank (5) for a motor vehicle, characterized in that The device comprises: - at least one support (10), - a component (11) of a fuel system, and - at least one movable support (12) of the component (11) of the fuel system, the movable support (12) of the component (11) of the fuel system being mounted on the support (10) and being movable relative to the support (10) between an initial configuration in which the component (11) of the fuel system is at a first distance d1 from the support (10) and a final configuration in which the component (11) of the fuel system is at a second distance d2 from the support (10), such that the first distance d1 is smaller than the second distance d2, The bracket (10) is provided with a stopper (16) for stopping the movable support (12) of the component (11) of the fuel system when the movable support (12) of the component (11) of the fuel system is in a final configuration, the fuel being gasoline and the component (11) of the fuel system being an internal reinforcement element (13).

2. The device (1) for a plastic fuel tank (5) for a motor vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the movable support (12) of a component of the fuel system is movable in translation and / or rotation relative to the bracket (10).

3. The device (1) for a plastic fuel tank (5) for a motor vehicle according to claim 2, wherein the movable support (12) of a component of the fuel system is rotationally movable relative to the bracket (10).

4. A device (1) for a plastic fuel tank (5) for a motor vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the bracket (10) comprises a locking member (15, 150) for locking the movable support (12) of a component (11) of the fuel system so that the movable support (12) of the component (11) is locked in an initial configuration.

5. A device (1) for a plastic fuel tank (5) for a motor vehicle according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the movable support (12) of the component (11) of the fuel system comprises a central part (120), a first end (121) and a second end (122), wherein the central part (120) is preferably rod-shaped, the first end (121) being configured to interact with an insert (2), such as an insertion rod, and the second end (122) being provided with an attachment (1220) for attaching the component (11) of the fuel system.

6. Device (1) for a plastic fuel tank (5) for a motor vehicle according to the preceding claim, wherein: The first end (121) of the movable support (12) is configured to interact with the insert (2) so that withdrawal of the insert (2) causes the movable support (12) to move towards its final configuration.

7. Device (1) for a plastic fuel tank (5) for a motor vehicle according to any of the preceding claims, so that the bracket (10) comprises a receiving member (14) configured to receive an insert (2), such as an insert rod.

8. A method for manufacturing a plastic fuel tank (5) for a motor vehicle, such that the method comprises at least the following steps: Extruding a tubular parison (3); inserting a device (1) for a plastic fuel tank (5) for a motor vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 7 into the tubular blank (3), the device (1) being in an initial configuration in which the component (11) of the fuel system is at a first distance d1 from the support (10); Deploying the device (1) from an initial configuration in which the fuel system component (11) is at a first distance d1 from the bracket (10) to a final configuration in which the fuel system component (11) is at a second distance d2 from the bracket (10), and the first distance d1 is smaller than the second distance d2; • Stopping the deployment of the device (1) when the device (1) reaches its final configuration by means of the stop (16) present on the support (10).

9. Method for producing a plastic fuel tank (5) for a motor vehicle according to claim 8, so that the step of inserting the device (1) into the tubular parison (3) is performed by means of an inserter (2), such as an insertion rod.

10. Method for manufacturing a plastic fuel tank (5) for a motor vehicle according to any one of claims 8 to 9, such that the step of unfolding the device (1) from the initial configuration to the final configuration is performed while withdrawing the insert (2).

11. Method for manufacturing a plastic fuel tank (5) for a motor vehicle according to any one of claims 8 to 10, such that the step of unfolding the device (1) from the initial configuration to the final configuration is performed by rotating the movable support (12) of the component (11) relative to the support (10).

12. Method for manufacturing a plastic fuel tank (5) for a motor vehicle according to any one of claims 8 to 11, so that the step of unfolding the device (1) from the initial configuration to the final configuration is performed by translating the movable support (12) of the part (11) relative to the support (10).

13. Method for manufacturing a plastic fuel tank (5) for motor vehicles according to claim 11, so that the rotation of the movable support (12) when withdrawing the insert (2) is performed by gravity or by mechanical means.

14. Method for manufacturing a plastic fuel tank (5) for motor vehicles according to claim 12, so that the translation of the movable support (12) is performed mechanically when withdrawing the insert (2).

15. A plastic fuel tank (5) for a motor vehicle, comprising a device (1) for a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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