Fuel tank made of plastic for a motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a fuel tank (1) made of plastic, the fuel tank comprising a first wall (10) that comprises an opening (100) configured for attaching a fuel routing module and a second wall (11) to which at least one surface of a first end (20) of an internal reinforcing element (2) is attached, wherein a perpendicular projection of the opening (100) defines, on the second wall, a surface that at least partially covers the surface of the first end of the internal reinforcing element attached to the second wall. The internal reinforcing element comprises a second end (21) directed towards the opening and configured to accommodate a swirl pot of the fuel routing module, wherein the internal reinforcing element comprises at least one guide means (22) and at least one means (23) for securing the swirl pot, and wherein the first end and the second end are connected by at least one coupling element (24).

Description

Plastic fuel tank for motor vehicle 1. Field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to the technical field of plastic fuel tanks for motor vehicles and motor vehicles containing such tanks. More particularly, the invention relates to a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle comprising an internal reinforcing element configured to receive therein an accumulation pot of a fuel delivery module. 2. Solutions of the prior art

[0002] A fuel tank for a motor vehicle generally contains fuel in gaseous and liquid form. Under specific conditions, such as during an increase in temperature for example, a dangerous build-up of pressure can occur inside the fuel tank. It is known to use internal reinforcement elements within a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle to limit possible deformations of the tank linked to these phenomena of overpressure or underpressure relative to atmospheric pressure caused by a variation in temperature.

[0003] These internal reinforcement elements can be implanted inside the tank during its manufacture, at specific locations. Different forms of internal reinforcement element exist in order to limit the deformations generated by such pressure variations. An example of a fuel tank comprising an internal reinforcement element for a plastic fuel tank is described in patent application WO2023008206A1, the disclosed internal reinforcement element comprises a plurality of pillars mechanically connected to each other in order to form an annular structure, the annular structure comprising at its center a coupling means configured to improve the rigidity of the annular structure, the tank comprising an opening in which a fuel pump can be installed. Another example of a fuel tank comprising an internal reinforcement element for a plastic fuel tank is described in document US8596249B2.

[0004] The internal reinforcing element is however limited in its ability to reduce the deformation of the tank in the region of insertion of an accumulation pot of a fuel delivery module. In addition, such a tank requires the presence of protrusions within the tank in order to fix the accumulation pot, said protrusions leading to greater complexity in manufacturing the tank on the one hand and requiring on the other hand a greater input of material in order to obtain a sufficient thickness of the wall of the tank at the end of a stretching process leading to the obtaining of said protrusions. Furthermore, it is generally necessary to provide an external reinforcing element by applying a prepreg sheet or prepreg on the external part of the tank to be reinforced. 3. Objectives of the invention

[0005] The invention aims in particular to overcome these drawbacks of the prior art.

[0006] More specifically, an objective of the invention, in at least one of its embodiments, is to provide a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle having improved resistance to deformation in the insertion region of the accumulation pot of a fuel delivery module. 4. Statement of the invention

[0007] According to a particular embodiment, the invention relates to a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle comprising a first wall comprising an opening configured for the attachment of a fuel delivery module and a second wall on which is attached at least one surface of a first end of an internal reinforcement element, the first wall and the second wall being opposite each other, a perpendicular projection of the opening configured for the attachment of the fuel delivery module defining on the second wall a surface at least partially covering the surface of the first end of the internal reinforcement element attached to the second wall.

[0008] According to the invention, the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle is such that a second end of the internal reinforcing element is directed towards the opening configured for fixing the fuel delivery module and that the internal reinforcing element is configured to receive within it an accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module, the internal reinforcing element comprising at least one means for guiding the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module during its insertion into the tank and at least one means for locking the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module, the first end and the second end of the internal reinforcing element being connected by at least one coupling element.

[0009] The general principle of the invention is based on the fact that the internal reinforcement element is configured to receive within it an accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module, the internal reinforcement element comprising a second end directed towards the opening configured for fixing the delivery module, at least one means for guiding the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module during its insertion into the tank and at least one means for blocking the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module, the first end and the second end of the internal reinforcement element being connected by at least one coupling element.

[0010] Thus, the invention is based on a completely new and inventive approach to a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle, said tank comprising an internal reinforcing element fixed to a second wall of the tank, the internal reinforcing element being configured to receive within it an accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module and to block the latter, said internal reinforcing element comprising at least one means for guiding the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module during its insertion into the tank and at least one means for blocking the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module.

[0011] By the expression "a second end of the internal reinforcing element is directed towards the opening configured for the attachment of the fuel delivery module", it is meant that the second end of the internal reinforcing element faces the first wall of the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle comprising the opening and is free from any contact with the first wall of the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle when the pressure inside the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle is equal to atmospheric pressure, thus in such conditions the distance between the first wall of the tank and the second end of the internal reinforcing element is preferably greater than or equal to 50 mm, more preferably between 150 and 350 mm.In other words, the second end of the internal reinforcing member faces the first wall of the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle comprising the opening and is not in contact with the first wall of the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle when the pressure inside the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle is equal to atmospheric pressure.

[0012] The expression "the second end of the internal reinforcing element faces the first wall of the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle comprising the opening" is intended to denote the fact that the second end of the internal reinforcing element faces the opening or that the second end of the internal reinforcing element faces the first wall of the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle as such, preferably the second end of the internal reinforcing element faces the first wall of the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle as such.

[0013] The expression "the internal reinforcing element is configured to receive within it an accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module" is intended to designate the fact that the internal reinforcing element is configured to receive within it at least 30% of the height of the accumulation pot, preferably at least 50% of the height of the accumulation pot, more preferably at least 75% of the height of the accumulation pot, the height of the accumulation pot being measured relative to the second wall of the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle. An internal reinforcing element configured to receive within it at least 30% of the height of the accumulation pot, preferably at least 50% of the height of the accumulation pot, more preferably at least 75% of the height of the accumulation pot allows better guidance of the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module and better blocking of the latter.

[0014] Advantageously, the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention is such that the means for guiding the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module comprises at least one guide rib on the coupling element. Preferably, the guide rib is configured to be inserted into a recess in the accumulation pot.

[0015] Thus, the presence of a guide rib on the coupling element makes it possible to guide the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module during its insertion but also to maintain it in position during the life cycle of the vehicle, in other words when the tank is subjected to a centrifugal or centripetal force during cornering, acceleration, braking but also to the constraints linked to the movements of the fuel during the movement of the vehicle. A guide rib configured to be inserted within a recess of the accumulation pot makes it possible to improve the maintenance in position of the accumulation pot when the latter is subjected to such constraints.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment of the preceding embodiment, the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle is such that the guide rib extends along the coupling element preferentially to an inner face of the first end of the internal reinforcing element.

[0017] Thus, a guide rib extending along the coupling element, preferably up to an inner face of the first end of the internal reinforcing element, makes it possible, on the one hand, to stiffen the internal reinforcing element and, on the other hand, to better distribute the stresses linked to the movements of the vehicle on the guide rib as well as on the coupling element comprising it but also on a possible additional structure, such as a frame, comprising the internal reinforcing element, said additional structure comprising mechanical connection elements between the first and second walls, in the form of pillars or retention members welded to the first and second walls. The shape of a retention member comprises a wall provided with a central recess, a portion of the wall comprising reinforcing ribs. The wall of the retention member may be flat or curved.The retention member may also be in the form of a structure having a central portion having a cross section in the shape of a crown sector, defining a main axis of the reinforcing element and having a first area, the main axis passing through the center of rotation of the crown sector perpendicular to the crown sector, the central portion preferably comprising a network of ribs extending radially relative to the main axis, called a network of radial ribs, and two axial end portions located on either side of the central portion considering the main axis, each of the axial end portions having an end surface of oblong and curved shape, inscribed in the cross section of the central portion, having a second area preferably smaller than the first area.In the case of a pillar, the latter is preferably in the form of a column or a diabolo, the pillar being preferably made up of a central part 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 with high density polyethylene (HPDE).

[0018] The expression "inner face of the first end of the internal reinforcing element" is understood to mean the face of the first end of the internal reinforcing element facing towards the inside of said internal reinforcing element.

[0019] Advantageously, the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention is such that the means for locking the accumulation pot comprises at least one locking rib on the inner face of the first end of the internal reinforcing element.

[0020] Thus, a means for locking the accumulation pot comprising at least one locking rib on the inner face of the first end of the internal reinforcing element makes it possible, on the one hand, to maintain the accumulation pot in position during the life cycle of the vehicle, in other words when the tank is subjected to a centrifugal or centripetal force during cornering, acceleration, braking but also to the constraints linked to the movements of the fuel during the movement of the vehicle and, on the other hand, offers an advantageous alternative to systems for locking the accumulation pot using internal protuberances of the second wall, said protuberances leading to greater complexity in manufacturing the tank on the one hand and requiring, on the other hand, a greater input of material in order to obtain a sufficient thickness of the wall of the tank at the end of the stretching process leading to the production of said protuberances.The term "internal protrusions of the second wall" is intended to mean that the protrusions of the second wall extend towards the inside of the tank. In addition, the at least one locking rib makes it possible to increase the rigidity of the internal reinforcing element.

[0021] Advantageously, the inner face of the first end of the internal reinforcing element and / or the inner face of the coupling element may comprise at least one stiffening rib which is not associated with a means for guiding or blocking the accumulation pot within the internal reinforcing element.

[0022] The expression "the inner face of the coupling element" is intended to designate the face of the coupling element of the internal reinforcing element directed towards the inside of said internal reinforcing element. In other words, the inner face of the coupling element is the face of the coupling element which is configured to be opposite the accumulation pot.

[0023] Advantageously, the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention is such that the coupling element comprises at least one strip, preferably in the shape of an arc of a circle.

[0024] Thus, a lamella-shaped coupling element makes it possible to easily connect the first and second ends while defining an insertion region of the accumulation pot within the reinforcement element. A circular arc-shaped lamella makes it possible to have a coupling element having improved rigidity.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment of the previous mode, the reservoir is such that the coupling element comprises at least two blades in the shape of an arc of a circle, preferably located opposite each other.

[0026] Thus, a coupling element comprising at least two circular arc-shaped slats provides an internal reinforcing element configured to better grip the accumulation pot while increasing the rigidity of said element. Advantageously, an internal reinforcing element comprising two circular arc-shaped slats located opposite each other provides a better grip on a cylindrical accumulation pot.

[0027] According to a preferred embodiment of the previous mode, the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention is such that the internal reinforcing element comprises at least one securing element between the at least two circular arc-shaped strips.

[0028] Thus, the presence of a securing element between the two circular arc-shaped blades makes it possible to obtain better rigidity of the coupling element. Advantageously, the securing element is in the form of a reinforcing ring whose dimensions are larger than the dimensions of the accumulation pot, such a reinforcing ring makes it possible to maintain the accumulation pot in position during the life cycle of the vehicle but also to limit the deformations of the internal reinforcing element when the latter is subjected to stresses during pressurization for example.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment, the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention is such that the first end has an annular shape. The means for locking the accumulation pot then preferably comprises at least one locking rib on the inner face of the first end of the internal reinforcing element in the form of a radial rib relative to the annular shape and / or a rib in an arc of a circle relative to the annular shape.

[0030] The expression "a rib radial to the annular shape" means a rib arranged along a radius of a circle delimiting the outer part of the annular shape.

[0031] The expression "a rib in the form of an arc of a circle relative to the annular shape" means a rib in the form of an arc of a circle inscribed in the annular shape.

[0032] Thus, an internal reinforcement element comprising a first end having an annular shape has a shape optimized for receiving a cylindrical accumulation pot. Furthermore, such an annular shape makes it possible to have a first end having a resistance to mechanical stress which is isotropic relative to the surface of the second wall with which it is in contact and on which it is fixed.

[0033] Advantageously, the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle is such that the coupling element comprises a connection means on an external face.

[0034] Thus, the presence of a connection means on an external face of the coupling element makes it possible to connect the internal reinforcement element to a possible additional structure, such as a frame, comprising the internal reinforcement element, said additional structure also being able to comprise mechanical connection elements between the first and second walls, in the form of pillars or retention members welded to the first and second walls of the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle. The expression "on an external face of the coupling element" is intended to designate a face of the coupling element which is opposite the face of the coupling element which is configured to be opposite the accumulation pot.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment of the previous mode, the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle is such that the connection means comprises a clipping means in the form of tabs.

[0036] Thus, a connection means comprising a clipping means in the form of tabs makes it possible to connect to the internal reinforcing element at least one mechanical connection element between the first and second walls, said mechanical connection element being in the form of a pillar or a retention member welded to the first and second walls. This also makes it possible to hold the internal reinforcing element and the mechanical connection element together during the manufacturing process of the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle by extrusion blow molding of a parison.

[0037] Advantageously, the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention is such that the internal reinforcing element is welded to the second wall.

[0038] Thus, an internal reinforcing element welded to the second wall allows optimal reinforcement of the lower area of ​​the fuel delivery module in relation to the opening configured for fixing the fuel delivery module.

[0039] Advantageously, the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention is such that the first end comprises a deformable portion. Preferably, the first end comprises at least two deformable portions, said deformable portions being located on the first end opposite one another. When the first end has an annular shape, a plurality of deformable portions can be arranged equidistant from one another on the first end. The deformable portion(s) have a U, V, or W shape inverted relative to the second wall. The expression "deformable portion" is intended to denote the fact that these are portions of the first end which are configured to deform more easily than the other portions constituting the first end.

[0040] Thus, a first end comprising a deformable part makes it possible to absorb the mechanical stresses generated during the manufacture of the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle by extrusion blow molding of a parison, in particular the mechanical stresses linked to post-blowing shrinkage.

[0041] According to a preferred embodiment, the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention is such that the perpendicular projection of the opening configured for fixing the fuel delivery module defines on the second wall a surface circumscribing or equal to the surface of the first end of the internal reinforcing element fixed on the second wall.

[0042] By the expression "the perpendicular projection of the opening configured for the attachment of the fuel delivery module defines on the second wall a surface circumscribing or equal to the surface of the first end of the internal reinforcement element fixed on the second wall", it is intended to designate the fact that the perpendicular projection of the opening configured for the attachment of the fuel delivery module defines on the second wall a surface which completely covers the surface of the first end of the internal reinforcement element fixed on the second wall.

[0043] Thus, a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle, the perpendicular projection of the opening configured for fixing the fuel delivery module of which defines on the second wall a surface circumscribing or equal to the surface of the first end of the internal reinforcing element fixed on the second wall, has improved rigidity and resistance to mechanical stress.

[0044] According to an alternative embodiment to the previous embodiment, the perpendicular projection of the opening configured for fixing the fuel routing module defines on the second wall a surface inscribed inside the surface of the first end of the internal reinforcement element fixed on the second wall.

[0045] Advantageously, the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention is such that the internal reinforcing element comprises at least one stiffening rib on an external face of the coupling element. The height of the at least one stiffening rib relative to the surface of the external face of the coupling element may vary depending on where one is along the stiffening rib.

[0046] Thus, the presence of at least one stiffening rib on an external face of the coupling element makes it possible to have an internal reinforcing element having improved rigidity, more particularly when this element is integrated into an additional structure, such as a frame, via a connection means present on said external face.

[0047] According to a preferred embodiment, the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention is such that the internal reinforcing element is based on a material chosen from the group of materials consisting of polyoxymethylene (POM), polyphthalamide (PPA), polyketone (PK), polyamide (PA), metal and polyethylene (PE), preferably high density polyethylene (HDPE). More particularly, the outer face of the first end comprises a welding means made of high density polyethylene (HDPE). The expression "the internal reinforcing element is based on a material" is intended to denote the fact that the internal reinforcing element is made of at least 50% by weight of said material, preferably at least 75% by weight of said material, more preferably at least 95% by weight of said material.

[0048] The invention also relates to motor vehicles comprising fuel tanks as described above. 5. List of figures

[0049] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the following description of a preferred embodiment, given as a simple illustrative and non-limiting example, and the appended drawings, among which:lapresents a block diagram of a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle according to the invention.laillustrates a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle as shown in lain top view, said tank further comprising mechanical connection elements between the first and second walls and an additional structure.ladescribes an internal reinforcement element and its location relative to an opening configured for the attachment of a fuel delivery module, as shown within the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle in la.Illustrates the reinforcement element shown in a slightly offset top view. Illustrates the internal reinforcement element as such. Illustrates the internal reinforcement element shown in a different view.

[0050] 6. Description of at least one embodiment of the invention

[0051] In connection with the, an embodiment of the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle 1 according to the invention is presented. The plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle 1 comprises a first wall 10 comprising an opening (not shown) configured for the attachment of a fuel delivery module and a second wall 11 on which is attached at least one surface of a first end 20 of an internal reinforcing element 2. The first end 20 is preferably attached by welding to the second wall 11. The first end 20 has an annular shape and comprises two deformable parts 201 distributed equidistant from each other on the first end 20, in other words the deformable parts 201 are located opposite each other on the first end 20. These deformable parts 201 are in the shape of an inverted U relative to the second wall 11.The internal reinforcing element 2 is located within the tank 1 and appears transparently. The first wall 10 and the second wall 11 of the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle 1 are opposite each other. The plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle 1 is such that the perpendicular projection of the opening configured for fixing the fuel delivery module defines on the second wall 11 a surface at least partially covering the surface of the first end 20 of the internal reinforcing element 2 fixed to the second wall 11. A second end 21 of the internal reinforcing element 2 is directed towards the opening (not shown) which is configured for fixing the fuel delivery module, the internal reinforcing element 2 being configured to receive within it an accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module.The internal reinforcing element 2 also comprises at least one means 22 for guiding the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module during its insertion into the tank, the means 22 for guiding the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module comprising at least one guide rib 220 on a coupling element 24, this guide rib 220 extending along the coupling element 24 to an inner face 200 of the first end 20 of the internal reinforcing element 2. The internal reinforcing element also comprises at least one means 23 for locking the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module, the locking means 23 of the accumulation pot comprises at least one locking rib 230 on the inner face 200 of the first end 20 of the internal reinforcing element 2. The first end 20 and the second end 21 of the internal reinforcing element 2 are connected to each other by at least one coupling element 24.The coupling element 24 comprises at least two circular arc-shaped slats 240 located opposite each other, the two circular arc-shaped slats 240 being secured to each other by a securing element 25. The internal reinforcing element 2 comprises a connection means 241 on an external face 242 of the coupling element 24, this connection means 241 comprising a clipping means 2410 in the form of tabs 2411. The internal reinforcing element 2 comprises at least one stiffening rib 243 on an external face 242 of the coupling element 24. The internal reinforcing element 2 is based on a material chosen from the group of materials consisting of polyoxymethylene (POM), polyphthalamide (PPA), polyketone (PK), polyamide (PA), metal and polyethylene (PE), preferably high density polyethylene (HPDE).

[0052] Illustrates a plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle 1 as shown in a top view, said tank further comprising mechanical connection elements 4 between the first and second walls 10, 11 and an additional structure 3. The plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle 1 therefore comprises a first wall 10 comprising an opening 100 configured for the attachment of a fuel delivery module and a second wall 11 on which is attached at least one surface of a first end 20 of an internal reinforcement element 2. The first end 20 is attached by welding to the second wall 11. The internal reinforcement element 2 is located within the tank 1 and appears transparently. The first wall 10 and the second wall 11 of the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle 1 are opposite each other.The plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle 1 is such that the perpendicular projection of the opening 100 configured for fixing the fuel delivery module defines on the second wall 11 a surface circumscribing the surface of the first end 20 of the internal reinforcement element 2 fixed on the second wall 11. A second end 21 of the internal reinforcement element 2 is directed towards the opening 100 which is configured for fixing the fuel delivery module, the internal reinforcement element 2 being configured to receive within it an accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module.The internal reinforcing element 2 also comprises at least one means 22 for guiding the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module during its insertion into the tank, the means 22 for guiding the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module comprising at least one guide rib 220 on the coupling element 24 mechanically connecting the first and second ends 20, 21, this guide rib 220 extending along the coupling element 24 to an inner face 200 of the first end 20 of the internal reinforcing element 2. The internal reinforcing element 2 also comprises at least one means 23 for locking the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module, the means 23 for locking the accumulation pot comprises at least one locking rib 230 on the inner face 200 of the first end 20 of the internal reinforcing element 2.The internal reinforcing element 2 comprises a connection means 241 on an external face 242 of the coupling element 24, this connection means 241 comprising a clipping means in the form of tabs. The internal reinforcing element 2 comprises at least one stiffening rib on an external face 242 of the coupling element 24. The mechanical connection elements 4 between the first and second walls 10, 11 are in the form of pillars 41 or retention members 40 welded to the first and second walls. The shape of a retention member 40 comprises a wall provided with a central recess, a portion of the wall comprising reinforcing ribs. The wall of the retention member may be flat or curved.The retention member 40 may also be in the form of a structure having a central portion having a cross section in the shape of a crown sector, defining a main axis of the reinforcing element and having a first area, the main axis passing through the center of rotation of the crown sector perpendicular to the crown sector, the central portion preferably comprising a network of ribs extending radially relative to the main axis, called a network of radial ribs, and two axial end portions located on either side of the central portion considering the main axis, each of the axial end portions having an end surface of oblong and curved shape, inscribed in the cross section of the central portion, having a second area preferably smaller than the first area.In the case of a pillar 41, the latter is preferably in the form of a column or a diabolo, the latter is preferably made up of a central part 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 with high density polyethylene (HPDE). The mechanical connection elements 4 can be fixed directly to the internal reinforcement element 2 by the connection means 241 present on an external face 242 of the coupling element 24 and / or be mechanically secured to the internal reinforcement element by means of an additional structure 3, this additional structure 3 being in the form of a frame 6 comprising the internal reinforcement element 2 and the mechanical connection elements 4.The opening 100 which is configured for attachment of the fuel delivery module comprises a fixing flange 5.

[0053] The invention describes an internal reinforcing element 2 and its location relative to an opening 100 as shown in the within the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle, the internal reinforcing element 2 being configured to receive within it an accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module. The opening 100 which is configured for fixing the fuel delivery module comprises a fixing flange 5. The internal reinforcing element comprises a first end 20 fixed by welding to a wall of the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle. The first end 20 has an annular shape and comprises two deformable parts 201 distributed equidistant from each other on the first end 20, in other words the deformable parts 201 are located opposite each other on the first end 20. These deformable parts 201 are in the shape of an inverted U relative to the wall.The internal reinforcing element 2 comprises a second end 21 which is directed towards the opening 100 configured for fixing the fuel delivery module. The internal reinforcing element 2 also comprises at least one guide means 22 for guiding the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module during its insertion into the tank, the guide means 22 for guiding the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module comprising at least one guide rib 220 on a coupling element 24, this guide rib 220 extending along the coupling element 24 to an inner face 200 of the first end 20 of the internal reinforcing element 2. The coupling element 24 connects the first end 20 and the second end 21 of the internal reinforcing element 2 together.The internal reinforcing element 2 also comprises at least one blocking means 23 for the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module, the blocking means 23 for the accumulation pot comprises at least one blocking rib 230 on the inner face 200 of the first end 20 of the internal reinforcing element 2. The coupling element 24 comprises at least two circular arc-shaped strips 240 located opposite each other, the two circular arc-shaped strips 240 being secured to each other by a securing element 25. The internal reinforcing element 2 also comprises a connection means 241 on an outer face 242 of the coupling element 24.The connection means 241 allows the attachment of mechanical connection elements 4 in the form of retention members 40 which are welded to two opposite walls of the tank, the first wall comprising the opening 100 configured for the attachment of the fuel delivery module and the second wall being the wall on which the first end 20 of the internal reinforcement element 2 is welded. The mechanical connection elements are in the form of retention members 40. The shape of a retention member 40 comprises a wall provided with a central recess, a portion of the wall comprising reinforcing ribs. The wall of the retention member may be flat or curved.The retention member 40 may also be in the form of a structure having a central portion having a cross section in the shape of a crown sector, defining a main axis of the reinforcing element and having a first area, the main axis passing through the center of rotation of the crown sector perpendicular to the crown sector, the central portion preferably comprising a network of ribs extending radially relative to the main axis, called a network of radial ribs, and two axial end portions located on either side of the central portion considering the main axis, each of the axial end portions having an end surface of oblong and curved shape, inscribed in the cross section of the central portion, having a second area preferably smaller than the first area.It is noted that the perpendicular projection of the opening 100 configured for the attachment of the fuel delivery module defines on the second wall a surface at least partially covering the surface of the first end 20 of the internal reinforcement element 2 attached to the second wall. More particularly, the perpendicular projection of the opening 100 configured for the attachment of the fuel delivery module defines on the second wall a surface circumscribing or equal to the surface of the first end 20 of the internal reinforcement element 2 attached to the second wall.

[0054] Illustrates the reinforcing element shown in a slightly offset top view. The presence of at least one stiffening rib 243 can be seen on an external face 242 of the coupling element 24. Illustrates also in more detail the presence of the connection means 241 on an external face of the coupling element 24, the connection means 241 comprising a clipping means 2410 in the form of tabs 2411.

[0055] Figures 5 and 6 illustrate the internal reinforcing element 2 configured to receive within it an accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module according to two different views. It is noted that the internal reinforcing element comprises a first end 20 which is fixed by welding on a wall of the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle. The first end 20 has an annular shape and comprises two deformable parts 201 distributed equidistant from each other on the first end 20, in other words the deformable parts 201 are located opposite each other on the first end 20. These deformable parts 201 are in the shape of an inverted U relative to the wall. The internal reinforcing element 2 comprises a second end 21 which is directed towards an opening configured for fixing the fuel delivery module on the plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle.The internal reinforcing element 2 also comprises at least one means 22 for guiding the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module during its insertion into the tank, the means 22 for guiding the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module comprising at least one guide rib 220 on a coupling element 24, this guide rib 220 extending along the coupling element 24 to an inner face 200 of the first end 20 of the internal reinforcing element 2. The coupling element 24 connects the first end 20 and the second end 21 of the internal reinforcing element 2 to each other. The internal reinforcing element 2 also comprises at least one means 23 for locking the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module, the locking means 23 of the accumulation pot comprises at least one locking rib 230 on the inner face 200 of the first end 20 of the internal reinforcing element 2.The coupling element 24 comprises at least two circular arc-shaped strips 240 located opposite each other, the two circular arc-shaped strips 240 being secured to each other by a securing element 25. The internal reinforcing element 2 also comprises a connection means 241 on an external face 242 of the coupling element 24. The connection means 241 allows the attachment of mechanical connection elements in the form of retention members which are welded to two opposite walls of the tank, the first wall comprising the opening configured for the attachment of a fuel delivery module and the second wall being the wall on which the first end 20 of the internal reinforcing element 2 is welded. The connection means 241 comprises a clipping means 2410 in the form of tabs 2411.The internal reinforcing element 2 also comprises at least one stiffening rib 243 on an external face 242 of the coupling element 24.

Claims

Plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle (1) comprising a first wall (10) comprising an opening (100) configured for the attachment of a fuel delivery module and a second wall (11) on which is attached at least one surface of a first end (20) of an internal reinforcement element (2), the first wall (10) and the second wall (11) being opposite each other, a perpendicular projection of the opening (100) configured for the attachment of the fuel delivery module defining on the second wall (11) a surface at least partially covering the surface of the first end (20) of the internal reinforcement element (2) attached to the second wall (11),characterized in that a second end (21) of the internal reinforcing element (2) is directed towards the opening (100) configured for fixing the fuel delivery module and in that the internal reinforcing element (2) is configured to receive within it an accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module, the internal reinforcing element (2) comprising at least one guiding means (22) of the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module during its insertion into the tank and at least one blocking means (23) of the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module, the first end (20) and the second end (21) of the internal reinforcing element (2) being connected by at least one coupling element (24)., Plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle (1) according to claim 1, such that the guide means (22) of the accumulation pot of the fuel delivery module comprises at least one guide rib (220) on the coupling element (24). Plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle (1) according to claim 2, such that the guide rib (220) extends along the coupling element (24) preferably up to an inner face (200) of the first end (20) of the internal reinforcing element (2). Plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, such that the blocking means (23) of the accumulation pot comprises at least one blocking rib (230) on the inner face (200) of the first end (20) of the internal reinforcing element (2). Plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, such that the coupling element (24) comprises at least one strip (240), preferably in the shape of an arc of a circle. Plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle (1) according to claim 5, such that the coupling element (24) comprises at least two blades (240) in the shape of an arc of a circle, preferably located opposite each other. Plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle (1) according to claim 6, such that the internal reinforcing element (2) comprises at least one securing element (25) between the at least two arc-shaped strips (240). A plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle (1) according to any preceding claim, such that the first end (20) has an annular shape. A plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle (1) according to any preceding claim, such that the coupling element (24) comprises a connection means (241) on an external face (242). Plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle (1) according to claim 9, such that the connection means (241) comprises clipping means (2410) in the form of tabs (2411). A plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle (1) according to any preceding claim, such that the internal reinforcing element (2) is welded to the second wall (11). A plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle (1) according to any preceding claim, such that the first end (20) comprises a deformable portion (201). Plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, such that the perpendicular projection of the opening (100) configured for fixing the fuel delivery module defines on the second wall (11) a surface circumscribing or equal to the surface of the first end (20) of the internal reinforcing element (2) fixed on the second wall (11). Plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, such that the internal reinforcing element (2) comprises at least one stiffening rib (243) on an external face (242) of the coupling element (24). Plastic fuel tank for a motor vehicle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, such that the internal reinforcing element (2) is based on a material chosen from the group of materials consisting of polyoxymethylene (POM), polyphthalamide (PPA), polyketone (PK), polyamide (PA), metal and polyethylene (PE), preferably high density polyethylene (HPDE).

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