Improved fixing device for tank containing pressurized gas

Abstract

The invention relates to a fastening device (20) for a tank for containing pressurized gas for a motor vehicle. The invention relates to a pressurized gas storage tank (10) comprising a support (32) consisting of a single cut and bent sheet metal element, the support comprising a receiving region (34) defined by the edge of a cut open in the central region of the sheet metal and configured to receive the end neck of the pressurized gas storage tank, and a body (40) provided with two opposite reinforcing walls (42), the reinforcing walls (42) being arranged in the receiving region (34) and configured to receive the end neck of the pressurized gas storage tank, the reinforcing walls (42) being arranged between the receiving region (34) and the body (40). The reinforcing wall is formed by bending a metal sheet and extends substantially along a plane transverse to an axis (X) along which the tank extends. The securing device further comprises a retaining collar (50) secured to the support (32), the receiving region and the retaining collar (50) defining therebetween a passage opening (52) configured to receive an end neck of the tank.

Description

[0001] This invention relates to storage tanks for containing pressurized gases, particularly vehicle-mounted storage tanks in motor vehicles. More specifically, the invention relates to a mounting device for securing storage tanks intended to contain pressurized gases. The gases discussed include, but are not limited to, natural gas, biogas, liquefied petroleum gas, and hydrogen.

[0002] The above-mentioned storage tanks have the following multiple functions:

[0003] - To contain pressurized gas, that is, to mechanically resist the force exerted by gas pressure.

[0004] - Ensure a tight seal relative to the outside.

[0005] - Pressurized gas is filled using a solenoid valve installed at the longitudinal end of the storage tank.

[0006] - Use the same solenoid valve to output pressurized gas.

[0007] - Fixed to the load-bearing structure,

[0008] - Tolerates transportation and usage conditions,

[0009] - Resistant to mechanical impacts and thermal erosion from the external environment.

[0010] - Resistant to various operating conditions during the manufacturing process of storage tanks.

[0011] These tanks can be installed on any stationary or mobile equipment (road vehicles, rail vehicles, ships, aircraft, spacecraft). For reasons of lightweighting and safety, pressurized gas tanks are typically made of metal, but composite materials have also been used in recent years.

[0012] When a storage tank is installed on a motor vehicle, it is typically secured to a component such as a crossbeam of the vehicle via a tank neck. This tank neck allows for the installation of a solenoid valve or other conveying device for transporting the gas contained therein. For this purpose, a tank securing device is provided to connect the tank neck to the crossbeam.

[0013] Existing securing devices are typically constructed from a solid metal block, which provides good strength to the device in the event of a vehicle collision, particularly along the longitudinal axis of the tank. However, a disadvantage of this type of securing device is its heavy weight and difficulty in compensating for the assembly gap between the securing device and the tank neck.

[0014] Document WO2021151684 discloses a hydrogen storage tank fixed to a vehicle frame by a fixing device, which mainly includes a semi-circular tongue and an angular member for receiving the tank neck. The angular member is fixed to a block welded to the frame by screws. A disadvantage of this fixing device is that it is difficult to precisely manufacture the angular member to achieve a satisfactory connection between the angular member and the tank, especially since the receiving area for the tank neck is defined only by bending a sheet of metal.

[0015] Document US2019092827 also discloses a fixing element for securing the neck of a pressurized storage tank, particularly for pressurized storage tanks in vehicles. This fixing device includes a clamp that secures to the neck of the tank at an opening, and also includes a retaining element disposed between the neck and the opening. A disadvantage of this fixing device is its low impact resistance in the event of a vehicle collision, particularly along the longitudinal axis of the tank. Positioning the tank neck within this fixing device is also difficult.

[0016] Document DE102018122439 also discloses a high-pressure storage tank for motor vehicles, particularly a high-pressure storage tank for hydrogen. The tank is fixed to the vehicle body by at least one connecting plate, which extends by a support and is bolted to a crossbeam. This fixing device also has the following disadvantages: low impact resistance in the event of a vehicle collision, especially along the longitudinal axis of the tank, and it also makes it difficult to position the neck of the tank within the fixing device.

[0017] Documents CN107120529, US2020248874, US2004075034, US8915682, and KR20180117968 also disclose fixing devices for storage tanks containing pressurized gas for motor vehicles, the fixing devices including a receiving area and a retaining collar defining a channel opening therebetween, the channel opening being configured to receive the neck of the storage tank.

[0018] The main objective of this invention is to overcome these shortcomings and propose a fixing device for securing storage tanks. This device is lightweight and impact-resistant, easy to manufacture, and makes it easy to position the neck of the storage tank.

[0019] Therefore, the present invention relates to a fixing device for a storage tank for containing pressurized gas in a motor vehicle, characterized in that the fixing device comprises: - A support member, comprising a single-piece cut and bent sheet metal element, the support member including a receiving area and a body, the receiving area being defined by the edge of a cut formed in the central region of the sheet metal, and the receiving area being configured to receive the neck of the pressurized gas tank, the body having two opposing reinforcing walls formed by bending the sheet metal and extending substantially in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis along which the tank extends, and - A retaining collar fixed to the support member, a receiving area and the retaining collar defining a channel opening between them, the channel opening being configured to receive the end neck of the storage tank.

[0020] The fastening device according to the invention is particularly lightweight because the support is composed of a single-piece cut and bent metal sheet element and a retaining collar. Good resistance to impact and longitudinal forces on the tank is also ensured by the presence of two opposing reinforcing walls formed by bending the metal sheets, extending substantially in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tank. The receiving area of ​​the pressurized gas tank neck is defined by the edge of a cut in the central region of the metal sheet, allowing for precise definition of the receiving area. Positioning of the neck in the fastening device is thus simplified while maintaining a simple manufacturing process. The flexibility provided by the retaining collar also simplifies neck positioning; this structure compensates for any gaps that may exist by allowing the insertion of an intermediate element between the tank neck and the retaining collar.

[0021] To improve the compactness of the fixing device and its resistance to forces, the reinforcing walls are interconnected by receiving walls for receiving retaining collars, which are designed to receive fasteners for securing the retaining collars to the body.

[0022] Preferably, the channel opening includes an intermediate element, such as an annular receiving element, which is in particular made of a polymer material and configured to receive the neck of the storage tank.

[0023] The annular receiving element is selected to lock a longitudinal end of the tank, such as the longitudinal end of a tank carrying an on-tank valve (English term "on-tank valve" or "OTV"), in particular to prevent the end of the tank from rotating about the longitudinal axis of the tank.

[0024] Alternatively, an annular receiving element is selected as the longitudinal end of the tank to release the tank, for example, the longitudinal end opposite the longitudinal end of the tank carrying the solenoid valve, allowing the neck of the tank to slide in the annular receiving element, thereby allowing the tank to expand unimpeded along its longitudinal axis during filling.

[0025] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, in order to optimize the positioning of the annular receiving element, the annular receiving element includes a protrusion, and the retaining collar includes a groove configured to receive the protrusion.

[0026] To further reduce the weight of the fixing device, the retaining collar is made of a single piece of cut and bent metal sheet.

[0027] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, in order to simplify the manufacture of the fixing device, and in particular to simplify the bending of the metal sheets, the reinforcing walls are substantially parallel to each other.

[0028] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, in order to further simplify the manufacture of the fixing device, especially to simplify the bending of the metal sheet, the support has a U-shaped cross-section.

[0029] To improve the resistance performance of the fixing device, the main body also includes a first pair of reinforcing legs, which are formed by bending metal sheets and connecting to the free ends of the reinforcing walls to partially close the space defined by the two reinforcing walls.

[0030] To further improve the resistance performance of the fixing device, the main body also includes a second pair of reinforcing legs, which are formed by bending metal sheets and connecting the opposite surfaces of the reinforcing walls to partially enclose the space defined by the two reinforcing walls. The second pair of reinforcing legs is opposite to the first pair of reinforcing legs.

[0031] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, in order to simplify the manufacture of the fixing device, and in particular to simplify the bending of the metal sheets, the reinforcing sheets are substantially parallel to each other.

[0032] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, in order to further simplify the manufacture of the fixing device, and in particular to simplify the bending of the metal sheet, the reinforcing support legs extend substantially perpendicular to the reinforcing wall.

[0033] To further improve the resistance performance of the fixing device, the main body also includes at least one reinforcing tongue, which is formed by bending a metal sheet and connecting two opposite sections of the edge of a cut formed in the metal sheet to partially close the space defined by the two reinforcing walls and the receiving area.

[0034] To simplify the fixing of the fixing device on the motor vehicle, the main body also includes several fixing bases, each having at least one fixing hole designed to receive fasteners for fixing the fixing device to the fixing beam of the motor vehicle.

[0035] In order to simplify the fixing of the fixing device in motor vehicles and to simplify the manufacturing of the fixing device, especially to simplify the bending of the metal sheet, the fixing base is formed by bending the extension of the reinforcing support of the first pair of support legs, and the bending angle is preferably 90°.

[0036] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, in order to simplify the structure of the fixing device and to enable different vehicle integration methods, these support walls are configured as fixed crossbeams that accommodate motor vehicles between them.

[0037] To simplify the fixing of the device to the vehicle, at least one of the two reinforcing walls is provided with at least one fixing hole for receiving fasteners for fixing the device to the vehicle's crossbeam.

[0038] The present invention also relates to a storage tank for containing pressurized gas for a motor vehicle, characterized in that the storage tank includes a fixing device according to the present invention. Attached Figure Description

[0039] The invention will be better understood by reading the following description, which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0040] [ Figure 1 [Image 1] is a perspective view of a storage tank for containing pressurized gas according to a first embodiment of the present invention, the storage tank being provided with a fixing device for fixing to a motor vehicle, the fixing device being fixed to a crossbeam of the motor vehicle;

[0041] [ Figure 2 ]yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the fixing device;

[0042] [ Figure 3 ]yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the support components of the fixing device;

[0043] [ Figure 4 ]yes Figure 3 A bottom view of the support component;

[0044] [ Figure 5 ] is used for manufacturing Figure 3 Side view of the metal sheet of the support member shown;

[0045] [ Figure 6 ]yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the retaining collar of the fixing device shown;

[0046] [ Figure 7 ]yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the annular receiving element of the fastening device shown;

[0047] [ Figure 8[Illustration 1] is a perspective view of a fixing device for fixing to a motor vehicle according to a second embodiment of the present invention, the fixing device being fixed to a crossbeam of the motor vehicle;

[0048] [ Figure 9 ]yes Figure 8 A perspective view of the support member of the fixing device shown;

[0049] [ Figure 10 ]yes Figure 9 The bottom view of the support member shown;

[0050] [ Figure 11 ] is used for manufacturing Figure 8 Side view of the metal sheet of the support shown.

[0051] [ Figure 12 [This is a perspective view of a fixing device for fixing to a motor vehicle according to a third embodiment of the present invention, without an annular receiving element;]

[0052] [ Figure 13 ]yes Figure 12 The view shown is a perspective view of a mounting device for fixing to a motor vehicle, with an annular receiving element. Detailed Implementation

[0053] Figure 1 The image shows a storage tank 20 for containing pressurized gas according to a first embodiment of the present invention, the storage tank being equipped with a fixing device 30. In this case, the storage tank 20 has a generally cylindrical or tubular intermediate portion, namely a cylinder 22, which extends along the... Figures 1 to 4 and Figures 8 to 10 The longitudinal axis X of the orthogonal coordinate system XYZ shown in the figure extends.

[0054] At each longitudinal end of the cylindrical body 22, the tank 20 includes a neck 24. The necks 24 are cylindrical or tubular and protrude from the cylindrical body 22, and their cross-section (in a section parallel to the plane YZ) is circular. They can be connected to functional elements for distributing gas outward from the tank 20 through the necks 24, such as solenoid valves (in English, "on tank valve").

[0055] Storage tank 20 is used for loading in motor vehicles, in Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 8 Only two fixed crossbeams 26 in the vehicle are shown. The fixed crossbeams 26 allow the tank 20 to be connected and secured to the rest of the vehicle.

[0056] The fixed crossbeam 26 is a slender element, in this case a hollow beam with a rectangular cross-section, whose extension direction is substantially parallel to the Y-axis, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of the tank.

[0057] In a variant not shown, the fixed crossbeam 26 may have a cross-section with different shapes, such as circular, i.e., the overall shape is cylindrical or tubular.

[0058] The storage tank 20 is fixed to the fixed crossbeam 26 at each of its longitudinal ends via its end neck 24.

[0059] For this purpose, each end neck 24 is received by a fixing device 30, which connects and secures the tank 20 to the fixing beam 26.

[0060] exist Figure 2 The fixing device 30, shown in more detail, includes a support 32, which, in order to reduce its structure, is made of a single-piece cut and bent sheet metal element 32S (English term "sheet metal"). Figure 5 The state of the metal sheet element 32S before bending is shown. The bend line 33 is shown in particular.

[0061] The support 32 of the fixing device 30 includes a receiving area 34, which is defined by the edge 38 of a cut 36 opened in the central region of the metal sheet 32S.

[0062] In the example shown in the figure, the cut 36 has a generally elliptical shape, and more specifically, a Cassini elliptical shape. More specifically, the cut 36 includes a continuous edge 38, which is divided into straight edges 38R parallel to each other, connected at each free end of the straight edges by a semi-circular edge 38C.

[0063] In this first embodiment, the metal sheet 32S is symmetrical about a horizontal axis that passes through the horizontal axis of symmetry of the cut 36 and through the midpoint of the straight edge 38R. It is also symmetrical about the vertical central axis that passes through the vertical axis of symmetry of the cut 36.

[0064] The receiving region 34 is configured to receive the neck 24 of the pressurized gas storage tank. Preferably, the shape of the edges 38 of the cuts forming the receiving region 34 is complementary to the shape of the neck 24 of the storage tank they receive.

[0065] In this first embodiment of the invention, the receiving regions 34 are more specifically formed by the semi-circular edges 38C of the receiving neck 24. Their semi-circular shape is chosen to be complementary to the circular profile of the neck 24.

[0066] As in Figure 3 and Figure 4 As can be seen in more detail, the support member 32 also includes a body 40, which has two opposing reinforcing walls 42 obtained by bending the metal sheet 32S.

[0067] The reinforcing wall 42 extends approximately in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of the tank extension, that is, in the figure, in a plane parallel to the YZ plane.

[0068] In the example shown in the figure, to simplify the manufacturing process of the fixing device 30, especially the bending process of the metal sheet 32S, the reinforcing walls 42 are substantially parallel to each other. More specifically, the reinforcing walls 42 are symmetrically distributed about a midplane parallel to the YZ plane.

[0069] exist Figures 2 to 4 In the example shown, each reinforcing wall 42 includes a generally flat upper section 42T (English term "top section") in which a cut 36 is formed.

[0070] The upper section 42T extends into a generally flat middle section 42M (English term "middle section") on the side opposite to the cut 36. The middle section is arranged at an angle relative to the upper section 42T in order to avoid the fixed crossbeam 26.

[0071] In fact, in this first embodiment, the support walls 42 are configured to receive the fixed beams 26 between them. However, in this case, the spacing between the upper sections 42T is less than the width of the fixed beams 26, and the middle sections 42M must be divergent to avoid the fixed beams 26.

[0072] In other words, the central section 42M allows the support member 32 to bridging the fixed beam 26 fixed by the fixing device 30. The central sections 42M of each reinforcing wall 42 thus extend in opposite directions, i.e., they diverge from each other.

[0073] Each middle section 42M extends a generally flat lower section 42B (English term "bottom section") on the side opposite to the cut 36, the lower section 42B including the free end of the support wall 42.

[0074] More specifically, the lower section 42B is parallel to the front wall 26F of the fixed beam 26, that is, the front wall 26F of the fixed beam 26 extends in a plane parallel to the YZ plane.

[0075] Here, the lower sections 42B are positioned on both sides of the fixed crossbeam 26. Therefore, the distance between them is greater than the width of the fixed crossbeam 26.

[0076] Furthermore, the lower section 42B rests against the front wall 26F of the fixed crossbeam 26. Therefore, since the fixed crossbeam 26 has a rectangular cross-section, the lower sections 42B are flat and parallel to each other. The lower section 42B is also parallel to the upper section 42T.

[0077] To ensure that the fixing device 30 is secured to the fixed crossbeam 26, at least one of the two reinforcing walls 42 is provided with at least one fixing hole 44 for receiving fasteners for securing the fixing device 30 to the fixed crossbeam 26. Figures 1 to 7 (Not shown in the image).

[0078] exist Figures 1 to 7 In the example shown, the fixing hole 44 is formed in the lower section 42B.

[0079] For this purpose, each lower section 42B is provided with a pair of fixing holes 44, which allow fasteners such as screws or rivets to be fastened. Figure 2 (Not shown in the image) passes through. Naturally, the number of fixing holes 44 opened in each lower section 42B can vary.

[0080] In this case, the fasteners used to secure the fixing device 30 to the fixing beam 26 are designed to cooperate with the front wall 26F of the fixing beam 26.

[0081] The reinforcing walls 42 are connected to each other by receiving walls 46, which are divided into two wall segments: a left receiving wall 46L and a right receiving wall 46R, which are placed on both sides of the receiving area 34. In this case, they are more specifically connected to the upper section 42T of the reinforcing wall.

[0082] The receiving wall 46 is substantially flat and extends substantially perpendicular to the upper section 42T, more specifically in a plane parallel to the XY plane.

[0083] Therefore, the main body 40 of the support has an overall U-shaped cross-section in a section parallel to the XZ plane.

[0084] The fixing device 30 also includes a retaining collar 50 fixed to the support member 32. More specifically, in the example shown in the figure, a fastener for securing the retaining collar 50 to the body 40 of the support member is received by the receiving wall 46.

[0085] like Figure 2 As shown, the receiving area 34 and the retaining collar 50 define a channel opening 52 between them, which is configured to receive the end neck 24 of the storage tank. The end neck 24 here has a circular cross-section, and therefore the channel opening 52 here also has a circular cross-section.

[0086] The channel opening 52 extends radially in a plane substantially parallel to the YZ plane, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of the tank 20. In this plane, the channel opening is defined on one hand by the retaining collar 50 and on the other hand by the receiving area 34 of the support member 32. In the direction of the longitudinal axis X, it is defined by the reinforcing wall 42 of the body of the support member.

[0087] Keep the collar 50 at Figure 6 It is shown separately. Preferably, in order to further reduce the weight of the fastening device 30, the fastening device 30 is composed of a single piece of cut and bent metal sheet element, which, according to the example shown, is a generally rectangular sheet with the longitudinal dimension of the rectangle being much larger than its transverse dimension.

[0088] The retaining collar 50 specifically includes a central arch 53 whose shape complements the shape of the end neck 24 of the tank, and is therefore a semi-circular arch. The diameter of the central arch 53 is chosen to be substantially the same as the diameter of the semi-circular edge 38C of the cut 36, so as to form a circular channel opening 5 that can properly hold the end neck 24.

[0089] The retaining collar 50 also includes two retaining pads 54 on both sides of the central arch 53. The retaining pads 54 are separated from the central arch 53 by a shoulder that forms the bend line of the raw metal sheet of the retaining collar 50.

[0090] The retaining pads 54 are fixed to the receiving wall 46 of the main body 40. To maximize the contact surface, they are substantially flat, just like the receiving wall 46.

[0091] Each retaining pad 54 has a retaining hole 56 for inserting a fastener 57 that secures the retaining collar 50 to the receiving wall 46. These fasteners 57 ( Figure 2 Not shown in the image, but Figure 8 (Shown in) Here it is a screw. In a variant not shown, a rivet may also be used.

[0092] Especially Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the receiving wall 46 includes a corresponding receiving hole 58 (in Figure 3 As shown in the text, but Figure 5 (not shown in the image) to allow fastener 57 to pass through. Naturally, the number of retaining holes 56 and receiving holes 58 can vary, but the number of retaining holes 56 preferably corresponds to the number of receiving holes 58, and vice versa.

[0093] Preferably, an annular receiving element 60 is arranged in the channel opening 52, which is made of polymer material and configured to receive the neck 24 of the storage tank.

[0094] The annular receiving element 60 is designed to lock the longitudinal end of the tank 20 (e.g., the longitudinal end of the solenoid valve of the tank 20), in particular to prevent the end neck 24 of the tank from rotating about the longitudinal axis X of the tank 20.

[0095] Alternatively, the annular receiving element 60 may also be designed to release the longitudinal end of the tank 20 (e.g., the longitudinal end opposite the longitudinal end of the solenoid valve of the tank 20), allowing the neck 24 of the tank to slide in the annular receiving element 60, thereby enabling the tank 20 to expand unimpeded along its longitudinal axis X during its filling.

[0096] More specifically, the annular receiving element 60 includes a band 62 with a width corresponding to the width of the retaining collar 50. Optionally, depending on the functional requirements of the annular receiving element 60, the band 62 may extend a flange 64 at each of its free edges to form an annular shoulder of the band 62. In this case, each flange 64 covers the semi-circular edge 38C of the cutout 36 and the free edge of the central arch 53 of the retaining collar 50.

[0097] Preferably, to facilitate insertion into the channel opening 52, the annular receiving element 60 includes one or more slits 66, which specifically divides the annular receiving element 60 into two semi-circular portions 68, particularly as shown in the example. Figure 7 As shown.

[0098] Now refer to Figures 8 to 11 A second embodiment of the fixing device 30 according to the present invention will be described. Only elements different from those in the first embodiment will be described below.

[0099] The support member 32 is still made of a single piece of cut and bent metal sheet element 32S. The metal sheet element 32S is in the state before bending as follows: Figure 11 As shown.

[0100] Conversely, in this second embodiment, the reinforcing wall 42 no longer comprises three sections—upper, middle, and lower—but only a single, substantially flat section. In fact, in this second embodiment, it is unnecessary to provide diverging sections such as the middle section 42M, because the support member 32 no longer spans the fixed beam 26. This is because, in this second embodiment, the support member 32 is not fixed to the front wall 26F of the fixed beam, but rather to its upper wall 26T (i.e., the wall parallel to the plane XY) connecting the two front walls 26F, as described below.

[0101] However, as in the first embodiment, the reinforcing wall 42 is still connected to each other via the left receiving wall 46L and the right receiving wall 46R.

[0102] Furthermore, similar to the first embodiment, a cutout 36 is made in the central region of the metal sheet 32S, and its shape is also similar to the Cassini ellipse, including parallel straight edges 38R, each straight edge 38R being connected at each of its free ends by a semi-circular edge 38C.

[0103] Furthermore, to enhance the resistance of the fixing device 30, in this second embodiment, the body 40 further includes a first pair of reinforcing legs 70. These first pair of reinforcing legs 70 are formed by bending metal sheets and are respectively connected to the corresponding free ends of the reinforcing walls 42 to partially enclose the space defined by the two reinforcing walls 42. More specifically, the reinforcing legs 70 are connected to the free ends of the reinforcing walls 42 extending in the Y direction.

[0104] In this case, the reinforcing support 70 is defined by a generally rectangular edge.

[0105] Especially in Figure 11 As shown, each of the first pair of reinforcing support legs 70 is connected to the left receiving wall 46L and the right receiving wall 46R respectively via the left connecting wall 71L and the right connecting wall 71R, the width of the left connecting wall 71L and the right connecting wall 71R being smaller than the width of the reinforcing support leg 70.

[0106] In a variant not shown, the first pair of reinforcing legs 70 are welded to the free end of the reinforcing wall 42.

[0107] To simplify the manufacturing of the fixing device 30, and especially to simplify the bending of the metal sheet 32S, the reinforcing legs 70 are made to be basically parallel to each other.

[0108] In this particular embodiment, the reinforcing legs 70 extend substantially perpendicular to the reinforcing wall 42. Therefore, in this particular case, each reinforcing leg 70 extends in a plane parallel to the XZ plane.

[0109] Therefore, the space defined by the first pair of reinforcing legs 70, the reinforcing wall 42 and the receiving wall 46 is approximately parallelepiped.

[0110] To further enhance the resistance performance of the fixing device, in this second embodiment, the main body 40 also includes a second pair of reinforcing support legs 72, which are formed by bending metal sheets 32S and respectively connected to the opposite surfaces of the reinforcing walls 42 to partially enclose the space defined by the two reinforcing walls 42.

[0111] The lugs of the second pair of reinforcing legs 72 are opposite to those of the first pair of reinforcing legs 70, and are specifically positioned on both sides of the receiving area 34. They are preferably parallel to the first reinforcing legs 70. Thus, in this particular case, each of the second pair of reinforcing legs 72 extends in a plane parallel to the XZ plane.

[0112] Preferably, such as Figure 10 As shown, the second pair of reinforcing legs 72 are located within the space defined by the first reinforcing leg 70, the receiving wall 46, and the reinforcing wall 42. This arrangement improves the performance of the fixing device 30 in resisting forces applied along the longitudinal axis X.

[0113] To further enhance the resistance performance of the fixing device 30, in this second embodiment, the main body 40 also includes at least one reinforcing tongue 74, which is formed by bending a metal sheet 32S. The metal sheet 32S connects two opposite sections of the edge 38 of the cutout 36 in the metal sheet 32S to partially close the space defined by the two reinforcing walls 42 and the receiving area 34.

[0114] exist Figures 8 to 11 In the example shown, the body 40 includes two reinforcing tongues 74. More specifically, the reinforcing tongues connect two semicircular edges 38C to fill the gap between the two reinforcing walls 42 at the receiving area 34, as shown in... Figure 9 It can be seen in the image.

[0115] like Figure 11 As shown, before bending the metal sheet 32S, the reinforcing tongue 74 extends obliquely relative to the first reinforcing support 70, forming an angle of approximately 45° with the straight edge 38R of the cut 36. Preferably, the reinforcing tongue 74 protrudes symmetrically from the semi-circular edge 38C relative to the receiving area 34 to better fill the gap between the two reinforcing walls 42 in the receiving area 34. It should be noted that in variations not shown, a single reinforcing tongue 74 may be provided, or more than two reinforcing tongues 74, such as three or four reinforcing tongues 74.

[0116] In this second embodiment, and particularly as Figure 8 As shown, the main body 40 also includes a fixing base 76, which is provided with at least one fixing hole 78, designed to receive a fastener 80 for fixing the fixing device 30 to the fixing beam 26. In this case, the device 80 for fixing the fixing device 30 to the fixing beam 26 is a screw, but it could also be, for example, a rivet.

[0117] The fixed base 76 is formed by bending the extension of the reinforcing support leg of the first pair of support legs 70, preferably at an angle of 90°.

[0118] In this second embodiment, the receiving area 34 of the neck 24 of the storage tank is formed by the semi-circular edge 38C of the cut and the reinforcing tongue 74. In a variant of this second embodiment (not shown), the support 32 does not include the reinforcing tongue 74, and the receiving area is formed only by the semi-circular edge 38C of the cut.

[0119] Now refer to Figure 12 and Figure 13 A third embodiment of the fixing device 30 according to the present invention is described. Its components are similar to those of the second embodiment, except for the retaining collar 50, the annular receiving element 60, and the reinforcing tongue 74.

[0120] like Figure 12As shown, the retaining collar 50 has a groove 51, such as a through groove, in its semi-circular central portion. The groove 51 is arc-shaped and substantially parallel to the edge of the retaining collar 50.

[0121] Furthermore, in this third embodiment, the main body 40 includes only a single reinforcing tongue 74, the shape of which is complementary to the shape of the retaining collar 50, together forming an annular structure that grips the neck 24 of the storage tank 20. The reinforcing tongue 74 has a groove 75, such as a through groove. The groove 75 is arc-shaped and substantially parallel to the edge of the reinforcing tongue 74, and also parallel to the edge of the retaining collar 50. Preferably, the groove 75 of the reinforcing tongue 74 and the groove 51 of the retaining collar 50 have similar dimensions and shapes.

[0122] like Figure 13 As shown, the groove 51 of the retaining collar 50 and the groove 75 of the reinforcing tongue 74 are configured to receive the protrusion 69 of the annular receiving element 60, respectively. In this case, the protrusion 69 is integrally formed with the annular receiving element 60. In this example, the annular receiving element 60 consists of two semicircular portions 68, each with a protrusion 69, and is preferably integrally formed with each semicircular portion 68. In a variant not shown, the annular receiving element 60 is a monolithic structure and includes two protrusions 69 arranged radially opposite to each other around the annular receiving element 60.

[0123] Each protrusion 69 extends along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of the tank; in the example shown, this direction corresponds to the Z-axis. Figure 13 In the example shown, each protrusion 69 includes a base 69b and a center 69c, the base 69b extending from one end of the groove 51, 75 into which it is inserted to the other end, and the center 69c forming an extension of the base 69b extending along the extension direction of the protrusion 69 (here, the Z-axis).

[0124] Each protrusion 69 is provided with a resilient locking claw 69p, which is formed by a cut in the protrusion 69. The resilient locking claw 69p engages in the grooves 51, 75 into which the protrusion 69 is inserted. Figure 13 In the example, the elastic snap claw 69p is supported by the central portion 69c of the protrusion 69.

[0125] The present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, and other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. In particular, it is conceivable to fix the fixing device 30 according to the first embodiment to the upper wall 26T of the fixing beam, or to fix the fixing device 30 according to the second embodiment to the front wall 26F of the fixing beam.

[0126] List of reference numerals

[0127] 20: Storage tank

[0128] 22: The cylindrical body of the storage tank

[0129] 24: The neck of the storage tank

[0130] 26: Fixed crossbeams of storage tanks

[0131] 26F: Front wall of the beam

[0132] 26T: Upper wall of the crossbeam

[0133] 30: Fixing devices for storage tanks

[0134] 32: Supporting components of the fixing device

[0135] 32S: Metal sheet for support components

[0136] 33: Bending lines of metal sheets

[0137] 34: Receiving Area

[0138] 36: Cuttings in metal sheets

[0139] 38: The edge of the incision

[0140] 38C: The semi-circular edge of the cut

[0141] 38R: Straight edge of the cut

[0142] 40: Main body of the support component

[0143] 42: Reinforcing wall of the main body of the support component

[0144] 42B: Lower section of the reinforced wall

[0145] 42M: Middle section of the reinforced wall

[0146] 42T: Upper section of the reinforced wall

[0147] 44: Fixing holes of the main body

[0148] 46: Receiving wall

[0149] 46L: Left receiving wall

[0150] 46R: Right receiving wall

[0151] 50: Retaining the ring

[0152] 51: Slot

[0153] 52: Channel opening

[0154] 53: Central arched section

[0155] 54: Fixing pad

[0156] 56: Retaining Hole

[0157] 57: Fasteners for collars

[0158] 58: Receiver hole

[0159] 60: Ring receiving element

[0160] 62: The belt of a ring element

[0161] 64: Edge of the ring element

[0162] 66: Gap in the ring element

[0163] 68: The semi-circular portion of the ring element

[0164] 69: Protrusion of the ring-shaped receiving element

[0165] 69b: Base of the protrusion

[0166] 69c: The central part of the protrusion

[0167] 69p: Flexible snap-lock claw

[0168] 70: First pair of reinforced support feet

[0169] 71L: Left connecting wall

[0170] 71R: Right connecting wall

[0171] 72: Second pair of reinforced support feet

[0172] 74: Enhance tongue slices

[0173] 75: slot

[0174] 76: Fixed base

[0175] 78: Fixing hole

[0176] 80: Fasteners used to secure the beam

Claims

1. A fixing device (20) for a tank for containing pressurized gas for a motor vehicle, characterized in that, The fixing device comprises: - a support (32) consisting of a single piece of cut and bent sheet metal element (32S), comprising a receiving area (34) defined by the edges (38) of a cut-out (36) made in a central area of the sheet metal (32S) and configured to receive an end neck (24) of the pressurized gas reservoir, and a main body (40) provided with two opposite reinforcing walls formed by bending the sheet metal (32S) and extending substantially in a plane perpendicular to the axis (X) along which the reservoir (10) extends, and - a retaining collar (50) fixed to the support (32), the receiving area (34) and the retaining collar (50) defining between them a passage opening (52) configured to receive the end neck (24) of the reservoir.

2. The fixture (20) according to the preceding claim, wherein The reinforcing walls (42) are connected to each other by a receiving wall (46) for receiving the retaining collar (50), designed to receive a fastener (57) for fixing the retaining collar (50) to the main body (40).

3. The fixture (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The passage opening (52) comprises an annular receiving element (60), in particular made of polymeric material, configured to receive the end neck (24) of the reservoir.

4. The fixture (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The retaining collar (50) consists of a single piece of cut and bent sheet metal element.

5. The fixture (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The reinforcing walls (42) are substantially parallel to each other.

6. The fixture (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The main body (40) further comprises a first pair of reinforcing struts (70) formed by bending the sheet metal (32S) and connecting the free ends of the reinforcing walls (42) to partially close the space defined by the two reinforcing walls (42).

7. The fixture (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The main body (40) further comprises a second pair of reinforcing struts (72) formed by bending the sheet metal (32S) and connecting respective opposite faces of the reinforcing walls (42) to partially close the space defined by the two reinforcing walls (42), the second pair of reinforcing struts (72) being opposite to the first pair of reinforcing struts (70) two by two.

8. The fixture (20) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein The reinforcing struts (70, 72) are substantially parallel to each other.

9. The fixture (20) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein, The reinforcing struts (70, 72) extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the reinforcing walls (42).

10. The fixture (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The main body (40) further comprises at least one reinforcing tongue (74) formed by bending the sheet metal (32S) and connecting two opposite sections (38C) of the edges (38) of the cut-out (36) made in the sheet metal (32S) to partially close the space defined by the two reinforcing walls (42) and the receiving area (34).

11. The fixture (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The main body (40) also comprises a fixing base (76) provided with at least one fixing hole (78) intended to receive a fastener (80) for fixing the fixing device (20) to a fixing crosspiece (26) of the motor vehicle.

12. The fixture (20) according to any one of claims 6 to 10 in combination with claim 11, wherein, The fixing base (76) is formed by bending the extensions of the reinforcing struts of the first pair of struts (70), the angle of the bend being preferably 90°.

13. The fixture (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The support walls (42) are configured to accommodate the fixing crosspiece (26) of the motor vehicle therebetween.

14. The fixture (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein At least one of the two reinforcing walls (42) is provided with at least one fixing hole (44) for receiving a fastener for fixing the fixing device (20) to the fixing crosspiece (26) of the motor vehicle.

15. A tank containing pressurized gas for a motor vehicle, characterized in that, The tank comprises a fixing device (20) according to any one of the preceding claims.

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