Exhaust treatment device for exhaust aftertreatment system

Abstract

An exhaust treatment device for an exhaust aftertreatment system includes a housing having a chamber for receiving exhaust gas. The housing extends between a first end and a second end, and the housing includes a first exhaust pipe at the first end and a second exhaust pipe at the second end. The exhaust treatment device includes a pipe fitting for the first exhaust pipe at the first end, the pipe fitting having a fitting body and an annular flange external to the fitting body. The annular flange has a flange interface configured to face a mating flange of a mating pipe fitting. The pipe fitting includes a mounting bracket extending from the fitting body, the mounting bracket configured to attach to a bracket support. The exhaust treatment device includes a band clamp configured to couple to the annular flange to securely couple the annular flange to the mating flange.

Description

Background of the Invention

[0001] The main topic of this article is exhaust aftertreatment systems for vehicles.

[0002] Exhaust aftertreatment systems receive and treat exhaust gas produced by internal combustion engines. A typical exhaust aftertreatment system includes any of a variety of components configured to reduce the level of harmful exhaust emissions present in the exhaust gas. For example, some exhaust aftertreatment systems for diesel-powered internal combustion engines include various components such as a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalyst. In some exhaust aftertreatment systems, the exhaust gas first passes through the diesel oxidation catalyst, then through the diesel particulate filter, and subsequently through the SCR catalyst.

[0003] Each of the DOC, DPF, and SCR catalyst components is configured to perform specific exhaust gas treatment operations on the exhaust gases passing through these components. Typically, the DOC reduces the amount of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons present in the exhaust gases through oxidation technology. The DPF filters out harmful diesel particulate matter and soot present in the exhaust gases. Finally, the SCR catalyst reduces the amount of nitrogen oxides (NOx) present in the exhaust gases.

[0004] Exhaust treatment devices are typically mounted in vehicles using brackets and hangers, such as to the vehicle's frame or other components. These brackets and hangers can be welded or otherwise fixed within the vehicle. The mounting components add to the overall weight of the system, which can potentially compromise their structural durability over time. Furthermore, assembly clearances and tolerances may be very small. Depending on the type of mounting features used and the installation location within the vehicle, the maintainability of the exhaust treatment device can be difficult and time-consuming. Additionally, exhaust leaks at joints and interfaces between various components can be problematic. Invention Summary

[0005] In one embodiment, an exhaust treatment device for an exhaust aftertreatment system is provided, the exhaust treatment device including a housing having a chamber for receiving exhaust gases. The housing extends between a first end and a second end. The housing has a first exhaust tube at the first end and a second exhaust tube at the second end. The exhaust treatment device includes a tubing fitting for the first exhaust tube at the first end. The tubing fitting has a fitting body. The tubing fitting includes an annular flange outside the fitting body. The annular flange has a flange interface configured to face a mating flange of the mating tubing fitting. The tubing fitting includes a mounting bracket extending from the fitting body, the mounting bracket being configured to attach to a bracket support. The exhaust treatment device includes a clip configured to engage with the annular flange to securely engage the annular flange to the mating flange.

[0006] In another embodiment, an exhaust aftertreatment system is provided, comprising a first exhaust treatment device having a first housing having a first chamber for receiving exhaust gases. The first housing has a first exhaust pipe and a first pipe fitting for the first exhaust pipe. The first pipe fitting has a first fitting body and a first annular flange outside the first fitting body. The first annular flange has a first flange engagement. The first pipe fitting includes a mounting bracket extending from the first fitting body, the mounting bracket being configured to attach to a bracket support. The exhaust treatment device includes a second exhaust treatment device having a second housing having a second chamber for receiving exhaust gases. The second housing has a second exhaust pipe and a second pipe fitting for the second exhaust pipe. The second pipe fitting has a second fitting body and a second annular flange outside the second fitting body. The second annular flange has a second flange engagement, the second flange engagement being configured to face the first flange engagement. The exhaust treatment device includes a clip configured to engage with the first and second annular flanges to securely attach the first pipe fitting to the second pipe fitting.

[0007] In another embodiment, an exhaust aftertreatment system is provided, comprising a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) device having a DOC housing with a DOC chamber for receiving exhaust gases. The DOC housing has a DOC exhaust pipe with a DOC pipe fitting having a DOC fitting body and a DOC annular flange external to the DOC fitting body. The DOC pipe fitting includes a DOC mounting bracket extending from the DOC fitting body, configured to attach to a DOC bracket support. The exhaust aftertreatment system also includes a diesel particulate filter (DPF) device having a DPF housing with a DPF chamber for receiving exhaust gases. The DPF housing has a DPF exhaust pipe with a DPF pipe fitting having a DPF fitting body and a DPF annular flange external to the DPF fitting body. The DPF piping fitting includes a DPF mounting bracket extending from the DPF fitting body, configured to attach to a DPF support member. The exhaust aftertreatment system includes a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) unit having an SCR housing with an SCR chamber for receiving exhaust gases. The SCR housing has an SCR exhaust pipe with an SCR piping fitting having an SCR fitting body and an SCR annular flange external to the SCR fitting body. The SCR piping fitting includes an SCR mounting bracket extending from the SCR fitting body, configured to attach to an SCR support member. The exhaust aftertreatment system includes a clip configured to engage with the DOC annular flange, the DPF annular flange, and the SCR annular flange. Brief description of the attached diagram

[0008] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an exhaust aftertreatment system for a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a side view of a pipe fitting for an exhaust treatment apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0010] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a pipe fitting according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0011] Figure 4 This is an end view of a pipe fitting according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0012] Figure 5 This is a side view of the clip according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0013] Figure 6This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the clip according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0014] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an exhaust treatment apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0015] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an exhaust treatment apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment, showing the exhaust treatment apparatus connected to a mating exhaust treatment apparatus.

[0016] Figure 9 A portion of an exhaust aftertreatment system according to an exemplary embodiment is shown, which uses pipe fittings and clips to secure exhaust treatment devices together.

[0017] Figure 10 This is a rear perspective view of a portion of an exhaust aftertreatment system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0018] Figure 11 This is a front perspective view of a portion of an exhaust aftertreatment system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0019] Figure 12 This is a top view of a portion of an exhaust aftertreatment system according to an exemplary embodiment, showing a support assembly that secures a duct fitting from one of the exhaust treatment devices to a bracket support.

[0020] Figure 13 This is a front perspective view of a portion of an exhaust aftertreatment system according to an exemplary embodiment. Detailed description of the invention

[0021] Throughout this specification, the terms "an embodiment," "embodiment," or similar language mean that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the subject matter of this disclosure. The phrases "in one embodiment," "in an embodiment," and similar language appearing throughout this specification may, but not all, refer to the same embodiment. Similarly, the term "implementation" means an implementation having the specific features, structures, or characteristics described in connection with one or more embodiments of the subject matter of this disclosure; however, unless otherwise explicitly indicated, an implementation may be associated with one or more embodiments.

[0022] This document describes various embodiments of an exhaust treatment device for an exhaust aftertreatment system. The exhaust treatment device includes a housing having a chamber for receiving exhaust gases, the chamber having a first exhaust pipe at a first end and a second exhaust pipe at a second end. A pipe fitting is disposed at the first exhaust pipe. The pipe fitting has a fitting body; an annular flange outside the fitting body having a flange engagement portion configured to face a mating flange of a mating pipe fitting; and a mounting bracket extending from the fitting body, the mounting bracket being configured to attach to a bracket support. A clip is used to engage the annular flange to the mating flange to secure the pipe fitting to the mating pipe fitting. The exhaust treatment device may include a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) device and / or a diesel particulate filter (DPF) device and / or a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) device and / or other exhaust purification devices. In various embodiments, the exhaust treatment device includes exhaust pipes routed between other exhaust treatment devices. The exhaust treatment device includes an exhaust inlet at one end and an exhaust outlet at the other end. Piping fittings and clamps can be installed at the exhaust inlet and / or exhaust outlet of any or all exhaust treatment units.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an exhaust aftertreatment system 100 for a vehicle 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. The exhaust aftertreatment system 100 is coupled to an internal combustion engine 12. The exhaust aftertreatment system 100 is capable of receiving and treating exhaust gases generated by the engine 12. After being treated by the exhaust aftertreatment system 100, the exhaust gases are discharged into the atmosphere via a tailpipe as indicated by the arrow. In some embodiments, the exhaust aftertreatment system 100 is fixed to the vehicle 10 housing the engine 12, such as to a frame 14 of the vehicle 10.

[0024] The exhaust aftertreatment system 100 includes a plurality of exhaust treatment devices 110. The exhaust treatment devices 110 may be directly connected to each other, for example, at a separable mating joint 112, or indirectly connected to each other via an exhaust pipe 114. In various embodiments, the plurality of exhaust treatment devices 110 may be combined into a common housing.

[0025] In an exemplary embodiment, each exhaust treatment device 110 includes a housing 120 having a chamber 122 for receiving exhaust gases, wherein a first exhaust pipe 124 is located at a first end 125 and a second exhaust pipe 126 is located at a second end 127. A pipe fitting 200 is disposed at the first exhaust pipe 124 and / or the second exhaust pipe 126. In an exemplary embodiment, the pipe fitting 200 includes a mounting bracket 202 configured to attach to a support member 15 of a frame 14. In an exemplary embodiment, a clip 150 is used to connect the pipe fitting 200 to a pipe fitting 200 of another exhaust treatment device 110. The clip 150 forms a separable mating joint. In an exemplary embodiment, the clip 150 may be a V-shaped clip. For example, the clip 150 may be a Marmon connector.

[0026] In an exemplary embodiment, the exhaust aftertreatment system 100 includes a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) device 40, a diesel particulate filter (DPF) device 60, and a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) device 80. The DPF device 60 is located downstream of the DOC device 40. The SCR device 80 is located downstream of the DPF device 60. In other embodiments, the exhaust aftertreatment system 100 may have a higher... Figure 1 The exhaust treatment devices 110 shown may be fewer or more exhaust treatment devices, which are arranged in a different order relative to each other without departing from the essence of this disclosure.

[0027] In an exemplary embodiment, the DOC device 40 includes a DOC housing 42 having a DOC chamber 43 for receiving exhaust gases. The DOC housing 42 has a DOC exhaust pipe 44 with a DOC pipe fitting 46 having a DOC fitting body and a DOC annular flange outside the SCR fitting body. The DOC pipe fitting 46 includes a DOC mounting bracket 48 extending from the DOC fitting body, the DOC mounting bracket 48 being configured to attach to a DOC bracket support 16.

[0028] In an exemplary embodiment, the DPF device 60 includes a DPF housing 62 having a DPF chamber 63 for receiving exhaust gases. The DPF housing 62 has a DPF exhaust pipe 64 having a DPF pipe fitting 66 having a DPF fitting body and a DPF annular flange outside the DPF fitting body. The DPF pipe fitting 66 includes a DPF mounting bracket 68 extending from the DPF fitting body, the DPF mounting bracket 68 being configured to attach to a DPF bracket support 17.

[0029] In an exemplary embodiment, the SCR device 80 includes an SCR housing 82 having an SCR chamber 83 for receiving exhaust gas. The SCR housing 82 has an SCR exhaust pipe 84 having an SCR pipe fitting 86 having an SCR fitting body and an SCR annular flange outside the SCR fitting body. The SCR pipe fitting 86 includes an SCR mounting bracket 88 extending from the SCR fitting body, the SCR mounting bracket 88 being configured to attach to an SCR bracket support 18.

[0030] Clip 150 is configured to connect to DOC pipe fitting 46, DPF pipe fitting 66, and SCR pipe fitting 86, such as to connect exhaust treatment unit 110 to each other and / or to exhaust pipe 114. Clip 150 may connect to exhaust inlet and / or exhaust outlet of exhaust treatment unit 110.

[0031] Figure 2 This is a side view of a pipe fitting 200 for an exhaust treatment device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a pipe fitting 200 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 4 This is an end view of the pipe fitting 200 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0032] Pipe fitting 200 is used to form a connection with a mating exhaust treatment device 110 (e.g., an upstream or downstream device / upstream exhaust pipe or downstream exhaust pipe). For example, pipe fitting 200 is configured to be secured to the mating exhaust treatment device 110 using clips 150 (e.g., ...). Figure 1 (As shown). In an exemplary embodiment, the pipe fitting 200 forms part of the Marmon connector. In an exemplary embodiment, the pipe fitting 200 is used to mount or secure the exhaust treatment device 110 within the vehicle 10, for example, to mount or secure it to the bracket support 15 (as shown). Figure 1 (As shown). For example, pipe fittings can be welded to a support rod (not shown) between pipe fitting 200 and bracket support 15.

[0033] In an exemplary embodiment, the pipe fitting 200 includes a fitting body 210, an annular flange 230 outside the fitting body 210, and a mounting bracket 250 extending from the fitting body 210. The annular flange 230 is configured to engage with a clip 150 to secure the pipe fitting 200 to a mating venting device 110. The mounting bracket 250 is configured to be secured to a support member 15, such as a support rod welded between the support member 15 and the mounting bracket 250.

[0034] In an exemplary embodiment, accessory 210 is configured to be coupled to housing 120 of exhaust treatment device 110. For example, accessory body 210 may be welded to one end of housing 120. In alternative embodiments, accessory body 210 may be integral with housing 120, for example, as a single integral structure formed by a common forming process. In an exemplary embodiment, accessory body 210 is made of a metallic material such as aluminum. In various embodiments, accessory body 210 is die-cast. Alternatively, accessory body 210 may be manufactured by other processes, such as machining, stamping, and forming.

[0035] The accessory body 210 extends between a front end 212 and a rear end 214. In an exemplary embodiment, the accessory body 210 is annular, such as generally annular. For example, the accessory body 210 surrounds a channel 220 passing through it between the front end 212 and the rear end 214. The channel 220 may be cylindrical or have cylindrical segments along the central longitudinal axis of the accessory body 210. The channel 220 may be stepped along the axis, such as including a larger diameter at the rear end 214 and a smaller diameter at the front end 212, or a smaller diameter at the rear end 214 and a larger diameter at the front end 212. In various other embodiments, the channel 220 may extend along a non-linear axis. The accessory body 210 includes an inner surface 216 defining the channel 220. The accessory body 210 has an outer surface 218 opposite the inner surface 216. The accessory body 210 has a thickness between the inner surface 216 and the outer surface 218. The thickness may vary along the length of the accessory body 210. An annular flange 230 extends from the outer surface 218, for example, near the front end 212. A mounting bracket 250 extends from the outer surface 218, for example, near the rear end 214.

[0036] An annular flange 230 extends circumferentially around the outer surface 218 of the fitting body 210. In the illustrated embodiment, the annular flange 230 is positioned near the front end 212. Optionally, the front end segment 222 of the fitting body 210 is located in front of the annular flange 230. The front end segment 222 provides a mating surface for mating with a mating exhaust treatment device 110. The rear end segment 224 of the fitting body 210 is located behind the annular flange 230. A mounting bracket 250 extends from the rear end segment 224. In the illustrated embodiment, the annular flange 230 may be approximately centered between the front end 212 and the rear end 214. In other embodiments, the annular flange 230 is positioned at the front end 212 (e.g., there is no front end segment 222 in front of the annular flange 230).

[0037] The annular flange 230 includes a front surface 232, a rear surface 236, and an outer end 234 between the front surface 232 and the rear surface 236. The outer end 234 may be a flat surface. Alternatively, the outer end 234 may be a tip or a peak. In an exemplary embodiment, the front surface 232 is angled or inclined. For example, the front surface 232 may not be parallel to the rear surface 236. The front surface 232 may not be perpendicular to the outer end 234. In an exemplary embodiment, the rear surface 236 is angled or inclined. For example, the rear surface 236 may not be parallel to the front surface 232. The rear surface 236 may not be perpendicular to the outer end 234. In an exemplary embodiment, the annular flange 230 is trapezoidal. For example, the annular flange 230 may be wider at the base and narrower at the outer end 234. In an exemplary embodiment, the front surface 232 may be longer than the rear surface 236. For example, front-end segment 222 can be farther from outer segment 234 than back-end segment 224.

[0038] Mounting bracket 250 extends from outer surface 218. Mounting bracket 250 is configured to be secured to bracket support 15, such as a support rod welded between bracket support 15 and mounting bracket 250. Mounting bracket 250 extends from accessory body 210 at a location remote from annular flange 230. For example, mounting bracket 250 extends from rear end segment 224 behind annular flange 230. In the illustrated embodiment, mounting bracket 250 is located at rear end 214. However, a portion of accessory body 210 may extend behind mounting bracket 250.

[0039] In an exemplary embodiment, the mounting bracket 250 includes a first bracket tab 252 and a second bracket tab 254 spaced an angled distance from the first bracket tab 252. In alternative embodiments, more or fewer bracket tabs may be provided, such as a single bracket tab or a third bracket tab located between the first bracket tab 252 and the second bracket tab 254. The first bracket tab 252 and the second bracket tab 254 may be located on opposite sides of the accessory body 210 (e.g., right / left or top / bottom). In an exemplary embodiment, the mounting bracket 250 is asymmetrical. For example, the first bracket tab 252 and the second bracket tab 254 may be offset or non-axially aligned. For example, the first bracket tab 252 and the second bracket tab 254 may be spaced apart at an obtuse angle between 90° and 180°.

[0040] Each bracket tab 252, 254 includes a base 260 at the accessory body 210, an outer edge 262 opposite to the base 260, a first edge 264, and a second edge 266 opposite to the first edge 264. The first edge 264 and the second edge 266 extend between the base 260 and the outer edge 262. The outer edge 262 may be a flat surface. Alternatively, the outer edge 262 may be a pointed tip or a apex. In an exemplary embodiment, the bracket tabs 252, 254 that mount the bracket 250 extend from the accessory body 210 at a radiusd transition 268. For example, a radiusd transition is provided at the base 260.

[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, the first edge 264 is angled or tapered. For example, the first edge 264 may not be parallel to the second edge 266. The first edge 264 may not be perpendicular to the outer edge 262. In an exemplary embodiment, the second edge 266 is angled or tapered. For example, the second edge 266 may not be parallel to the first edge 264. The second edge 266 may not be perpendicular to the outer edge 262. In an exemplary embodiment, the support tabs 252, 254 are trapezoidal. For example, the support tabs 252, 254 may be wider at the base 260 and narrower at the outer edge 262. In the illustrated embodiment, the first support tab 252 and the second support tab 254 may have the same size and shape. Alternatively, the first support tab 252 and the second support tab 254 may have different sizes and / or shapes. In alternative embodiments, the first support tab 252 and the second support tab 254 may have other shapes.

[0042] Each bracket tab 252, 254 includes a front surface 270 and a rear surface 272. In an exemplary embodiment, the front surface 270 and / or the rear surface 272 includes a weld pad 274 configured to be welded to a support member, such as a support rod extending between the mounting bracket 250 and the bracket support 15. The weld pad 274 may be planar.

[0043] Figure 5 This is a side view of the clip 150 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 6This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the clip 150 according to an exemplary embodiment. The clip 150 is used to connect two adjacent exhaust treatment devices 110a, 110b together to form a separable joint between the exhaust treatment devices 110a, 110b. The clip 150 forms a fixed joint between the exhaust treatment devices 110a, 110b. The clip 150 tightly holds the exhaust treatment devices 110a, 110b together to prevent exhaust leakage between the exhaust treatment devices 110a, 110b. Optionally, one or more washers (not shown) may be provided at the joint between the exhaust treatment devices 110a, 110b. In an exemplary embodiment, the clip 150 is a V-shaped clip.

[0044] The belt clip 150 includes an outer belt 152 and a retainer 154 located inside the outer belt 152. The belt clip 150 includes a connector 170 for securing and tightening the belt clip 150. In an exemplary embodiment, the connector 170 includes a trunnion 172 connecting the connector 170 to the outer belt 152 and a T-bolt extending from the trunnion. A nut 176 is threaded onto the threaded end of the bolt 174 to tighten the connector 170. In alternative embodiments, other types of coupling mechanisms may be used to tighten the outer belt 152.

[0045] The retainer 154 includes sidewalls 160, 162 forming an inner recess 164. In an exemplary embodiment, the sidewalls 160, 162 are angled relative to each other to form a wedge-shaped inner recess 164. Optionally, the inner recess 164 may be V-shaped. The inner recess 164 is configured to receive a duct fitting that connects to an exhaust treatment device. The sidewalls 160, 162 are configured to provide compression between portions (e.g., annular flanges 230a, 230b) of the duct fittings 200a, 200b when the strap 150 is tightened to securely engage the duct fittings 200a, 200b together. For example, when the outer strap 152 is tightened, the retainer 154 is compressed radially inward, thereby driving the sidewalls 160, 162 inward toward the annular flanges 230a, 230b, causing a wedging action that presses the duct fittings 200a, 200b together into the inner recess 164.

[0046] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the exhaust treatment apparatus 110 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 7 A pipe fitting 200 extending from the exhaust pipe 124 of the housing 120 is shown. The pipe fitting 200 provides a connection for connecting the exhaust treatment device 110 to a mating exhaust treatment device (such as another exhaust purification device or exhaust pipe).

[0047] In an exemplary embodiment, the pipe fitting 200 is separate and independent from the exhaust pipe 124, and is welded to the exhaust pipe 124 at a weld joint 130. For example, the exhaust pipe 124 may be accommodated in a channel 220 of the fitting body 210. The weld joint 130 is provided at the inner surface 216 of the fitting body 210. The pipe fitting 200 surrounds the end of the exhaust pipe 124 and extends in front of the exhaust pipe 124.

[0048] In an alternative embodiment, the pipe fitting 200 may be integral with the housing 120. For example, components of the pipe fitting 200, such as the annular flange 230 and the mounting bracket 250, may be integrally formed with the housing 120.

[0049] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an exhaust treatment device 110, showing the exhaust treatment device 110 coupled to a cooperating exhaust treatment device 300. The cooperating exhaust treatment device 300 may be an exhaust purification device, such as a DOC device 40, a DPF device 60, an SCR device 80, or other exhaust purification devices. In other embodiments, the cooperating exhaust treatment device 300 may be an exhaust pipe, such as a metal pipe, configured to extend between the exhaust treatment device 110 and another exhaust purification device.

[0050] The cooperating exhaust treatment device 300 includes a housing 302, which has an exhaust pipe 304 at one end. The cooperating exhaust treatment device 300 includes features for use such as with a clip 150 (e.g., Figure 5 (As shown) A pipe fitting 306 is connected to a pipe fitting 200 of an exhaust treatment device 110. In an exemplary embodiment, the pipe fitting 306 includes a fitting body 310 and an annular flange 330 extending from the fitting body 310. In the illustrated embodiment, the fitting body 310 and the annular flange 330 are integral with a housing 302. For example, the annular flange 330 is stamped and formed together with the housing 302.

[0051] In the illustrated embodiment, the annular flange 330 includes a flare 332 formed at one end of the fitting body 310. The flare 332 is angled outward from the fitting body 310. In the illustrated embodiment, the flare 332 is disposed at an obtuse angle (e.g., between 90° and 180°) relative to the housing 302. This angle may correspond to the angle of the annular flange 230 of the pipe fitting 200.

[0052] In an exemplary embodiment, a gasket 340 is disposed between annular flanges 230 and 330. The gasket 340 provides a sealing engagement between the pipe fitting 200 and the mating pipe fitting 306.

[0053] During assembly, gasket 340 is positioned on the front surface 232 of the annular flange 230 of pipe fitting 200. One end of vent pipe 304 slides over the front end of fitting body 210. The front surface 232 of fitting body 210 can be accommodated within vent pipe 304. The flared portion 332 of annular flange 330 faces both gasket 340 and the annular flange 230 of pipe fitting 200. Clip 150 (in...) Figure 5 (As shown in the diagram) is configured to be placed around annular flanges 230 and 330 to form a fixed joint between exhaust treatment devices 110 and 300. Clip 150 is configured to provide compression between annular flange 230 and mating annular flange 330 to securely attach pipe fitting 200 to mating pipe fitting 306 of mating exhaust treatment device 300. For example, clip 150 can be radially tightened to compress annular flange 230 and mating annular flange 330 together.

[0054] Figure 9 A portion of an exhaust aftertreatment system 100 is shown, which uses pipe fittings 200 and clips 150 to secure exhaust treatment devices 110 together. Figure 10 This is a rear perspective view of a portion of an exhaust aftertreatment system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 11 This is a front perspective view of a portion of an exhaust aftertreatment system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. During assembly, the belt clip 150 is tightened to secure the duct fitting 200 of the exhaust treatment device 110 to the fixed joint.

[0055] In an exemplary embodiment, the exhaust aftertreatment system 100 includes a method for use relative to the vehicle 10 ( Figure 1 Support assembly 400 that supports the components of exhaust aftertreatment system 100. Support assembly 400 is configured to be connected to frame 14 of vehicle 10. Figure 1 ) to support components of the exhaust aftertreatment system 100. For example, the support assembly 400 may be coupled to a bracket support 15 extending from the frame 14. Figure 1 In an exemplary embodiment, the support assembly 400 is directly coupled to the pipe fitting 200. For example, the support assembly 400 is directly coupled to the mounting bracket 250.

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, the support assembly 400 includes a support rod 410 configured to engage with bracket tabs 252, 254 of the mounting bracket 250. For example, the support rod 410 may be welded to pads 274 of the bracket tabs 252, 254. The support rod 410 may be a metal rod. In the illustrated embodiment, the support rod 410 is cylindrical. However, in alternative embodiments, the support rod 410 may have other cross-sectional shapes. The support rod 410 may be bent into a predetermined shape for positioning the support rod 410 between the mounting bracket 250 and other components of the support assembly 400. In the illustrated embodiment, the support rod 410 is L-shaped. For example, the support rod 410 includes sections with right-angle bends between segments. In alternative embodiments, the support rod 410 may have other shapes.

[0057] In an exemplary embodiment, a first bracket tab 252 and a second bracket tab 254 of the mounting bracket 250 are positioned around the exterior of the fitting body 210 to accommodate mounting to a support rod 410. For example, the support rod 410 may be positioned on both sides of the exhaust treatment device 110 (e.g., the right and left sides), and the bracket tabs 252, 254 may be positioned within the support rod 410. In an exemplary embodiment, the bracket tabs 252, 254 are positioned to uniformly support the pipe fitting 200. For example, the bracket tabs 252, 254 may be positioned to support both lateral movement or vibration of the exhaust treatment device 110 and vertical movement or vibration of the exhaust treatment device 110. In an exemplary embodiment, the bracket tabs 252, 254 are positioned at gaps selected to allow for the passage of components of the exhaust aftertreatment system 100 or other systems of the vehicle 10. For example, the bracket tabs 252, 254 may be offset or displaced towards the top or bottom depending on the position of pipes, tubes, wires, or other components of the vehicle 10.

[0058] In an exemplary embodiment, the support assembly 400 includes an isolator 430 between the mounting bracket 250 and the support member 15 of the vehicle 10. A support rod 410 may be coupled to the isolator 430. In an exemplary embodiment, the isolator 430 is flexible to provide damping against four types of vibrations. For example, the isolator 430 may be made of a flexible rubber material to allow movement of the support rod 410 relative to the isolator 430. In an exemplary embodiment, the isolator 430 includes a flexible web 432 that allows relative movement of portions of the isolator 430. In an exemplary embodiment, the isolator 430 includes an opening 434 for receiving the support rod 410. The flexible web 432 surrounds the opening 434 and allows relative movement of the support rod 410.

[0059] Figure 12This is a top view of a part of an exhaust aftertreatment system 100, showing a support assembly 400 that secures a pipe fitting 200 of one of the exhaust treatment devices 110 to a bracket support 15. Figure 13 This is a front perspective view of a portion of an exhaust aftertreatment system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. During assembly, the support assembly supports the components of the exhaust aftertreatment system 100 to the frame 14 of the vehicle 10.

[0060] The bracket support 15 includes a mounting panel 20, such as one bolted to a frame 14 of the vehicle 10. The bracket support 15 includes a support panel 22 extending from the mounting panel 20. The support panel 22 may include openings 24 for receiving corresponding support rods.

[0061] In an exemplary embodiment, the support rod 410 of the support assembly 400 is a component side support rod, and may be referred to hereinafter as component side support rod 410. The component side support rod 410 extends between the isolator 430 and the mounting bracket 250 of the pipe fitting 200. The component side support rod 410 supports the pipe fitting 200 relative to the isolator 430. The support assembly 400 also includes a vehicle side support rod 420. The vehicle side support rod 420 extends between the isolator 430 and the bracket support 15. The vehicle side support rod 420 supports the isolator 430 relative to the bracket support 15. The vehicle side support rod 420 may be received in an opening 24 of the support panel 22. In an exemplary embodiment, the vehicle side support rod 420 is configured to be welded to the support panel 22. The vehicle side support rod 420 is received in a corresponding opening 434 in the isolator 430. In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of vehicle side support rods 420 are provided. However, in an alternative embodiment, a single vehicle-side support rod 420 may be used.

[0062] The flexible web 432 of the isolator 430 is disposed between the openings 434. The flexible web 432 allows relative movement between the vehicle-side support rods 420 in the component-side support rods 410, thereby allowing relative movement of the components of the exhaust aftertreatment system 100 relative to the frame 14. The isolator 430 suppresses vibration of the components of the exhaust aftertreatment system 100 relative to the frame 14.

[0063] It should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the above embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Furthermore, many modifications may be made to suit particular circumstances or materials to the teachings of the invention without departing from the scope of the invention. The dimensions, material types, orientations, and quantities and positions of the various components described herein are intended to define parameters of certain embodiments and are by no means restrictive, but merely exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments and modifications within the spirit and scope of the claims will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the above description. Therefore, the scope of the invention should be determined by reference to the entire scope of the appended claims together with the equivalents claimed by those claims. In the appended claims, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as plain English equivalents to the corresponding terms “comprising” and “wherein”. Furthermore, in the appended claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc., are used only as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Furthermore, the limitations of the appended claims are not written in the form of means plus function, and are not intended to be interpreted based on 35 U.S.SC §112(f), unless and until such a claim limitation expressly uses the phrase “means for…” followed by a functional statement without further structure.

Claims

1. An exhaust treatment device for an exhaust aftertreatment system, comprising: A housing having a chamber for receiving exhaust gas, the housing extending between a first end and a second end, the housing having a first exhaust pipe at the first end and a second exhaust pipe at the second end; A pipe fitting for use at a first end for a first exhaust pipe, the pipe fitting having a fitting body, the pipe fitting including an annular flange at the outside of the fitting body, the annular flange having a flange engagement portion configured to face a mating flange of a mating pipe fitting, the pipe fitting including a mounting bracket extending from the fitting body, the mounting bracket being configured to attach to a bracket support. and A clip is configured to engage with the annular flange to securely attach the annular flange to the mating flange.

2. The exhaust gas treatment device according to claim 1, wherein, The mounting bracket extends from the accessory body at a location away from the annular flange, such that the mounting bracket is spaced apart from the clip.

3. The exhaust gas treatment device according to claim 1, wherein, The main body of the accessory extends between the front end and the rear end, with the annular flange positioned near the front end and the mounting bracket positioned near the rear end.

4. The exhaust gas treatment device according to claim 1, wherein, The mounting bracket includes a first bracket tab and a second bracket tab spaced at an angle from the first bracket tab.

5. The exhaust gas treatment device according to claim 4, wherein, The first support tab and the second support tab are located on opposite sides of the main body of the accessory.

6. The exhaust gas treatment device according to claim 4, wherein, The first stent tab and the second stent tab are spaced apart at an obtuse angle between 90° and 180°.

7. The exhaust gas treatment device according to claim 1, wherein, The pipe fitting is separate from and independent of the first exhaust pipe, and is welded to the first exhaust pipe at a weld joint.

8. The exhaust gas treatment device according to claim 1, wherein, The mounting bracket includes solder pads configured to be welded to a support rod extending between the mounting bracket and the bracket support.

9. The exhaust treatment device according to claim 1 further includes a support rod connected between the mounting bracket and the bracket support member.

10. The exhaust treatment apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an insulator, a component-side support rod located between the insulator and the mounting bracket, and a vehicle-side support rod located between the insulator and the bracket support.

11. The exhaust gas treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The mounting bracket includes sloping sidewalls, which are wider at the main body of the accessory and narrower at the distal end.

12. The exhaust gas treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The mounting bracket has a rounded transition portion at the location where it extends from the main body of the accessory.

13. The exhaust gas treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The annular flange is trapezoidal.

14. The exhaust treatment apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a washer connected to the flange engagement portion.

15. The exhaust gas treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The clamp provides compression between the annular flange and the mating flange to securely attach the pipe fitting to the mating pipe fitting.

16. The exhaust gas treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The belt clip includes an inner groove on its inner surface, the inner groove being configured to receive the annular flange and the mating flange, the belt clip being radially tightened to compress the annular flange and the mating flange together within the inner groove.

17. An exhaust aftertreatment system, comprising: A first exhaust treatment device has a first housing having a first chamber for receiving exhaust gas, the first housing having a first exhaust pipe and a first pipe fitting for the first exhaust pipe, the first pipe fitting having a first fitting body and a first annular flange outside the first fitting body, the first annular flange having a first flange engagement, the first pipe fitting including a mounting bracket extending from the first fitting body, the mounting bracket being configured to attach to a bracket support. A second exhaust treatment device has a second housing, the second housing having a second chamber for receiving exhaust gas, the second housing having a second exhaust pipe and a second pipe fitting for the second exhaust pipe, the second pipe fitting having a second fitting body and a second annular flange outside the second fitting body, the second annular flange having a second flange engagement portion configured to face the first flange engagement portion; and A clip is configured to engage with the first annular flange and the second annular flange to securely attach the first pipe fitting to the second pipe fitting.

18. The exhaust aftertreatment system according to claim 17, wherein, The first flange joint and the second flange joint are angled transversely to the mating axis between the first processing device and the second processing device.

19. The exhaust aftertreatment system according to claim 17, wherein, The second fitting body of the second pipe fitting is integrated with the second exhaust pipe.

20. An exhaust aftertreatment system, comprising: A diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) device has a DOC housing having a DOC chamber for receiving exhaust gas, the DOC housing having a DOC exhaust pipe having a DOC pipe fitting having a DOC fitting body and a DOC annular flange outside the DOC fitting body, the DOC pipe fitting including a DOC mounting bracket extending from the DOC fitting body, the DOC mounting bracket being configured to attach to a DOC bracket support; A diesel particulate filter (DPF) device has a DPF housing having a DPF chamber for receiving exhaust gas, the DPF housing having a DPF exhaust pipe having a DPF pipe fitting having a DPF fitting body and a DPF annular flange outside the DPF fitting body, the DPF pipe fitting including a DPF mounting bracket extending from the DPF fitting body, the DPF mounting bracket being configured to attach to a DPF bracket support; A selective catalytic reduction (SCR) device has an SCR housing having an SCR chamber for receiving exhaust gas, an SCR exhaust pipe having an SCR pipe fitting having an SCR fitting body and an SCR annular flange outside the SCR fitting body, the SCR pipe fitting including an SCR mounting bracket extending from the SCR fitting body, the SCR mounting bracket being configured to attach to an SCR bracket support; and A clip is configured to connect to the DOC annular flange, the DPF annular flange, and the SCR annular flange.

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