Arrangement for fixing a tank to a vehicle side member.

Abstract

Arrangement for fixing a tank to a vehicle side member. The invention relates to an arrangement (2) for a vehicle comprising a tank (10), in particular a tank intended to store dihydrogen, the tank (10) comprising wells (11) passing right through the tank (10) in the vertical or substantially vertical direction, a side member (20) for a body (3) of such a vehicle, a reinforcement (30) of the side member (20) extending at least partially under the side member (20), the reinforcement (30) furthermore being an interface for fixing the tank (10). Figure for abstract: figure 2

Description

Title of the invention: Arrangement for fixing a tank to a vehicle side member. Technical field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to an arrangement for fixing a tank intended to store an energy fluid, in particular dihydrogen, on a vehicle side member. The invention also relates to a body comprising such an arrangement. The invention also relates to a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, comprising such a body or such an arrangement. State of the prior art

[0002] In order to make the use of vehicles less polluting, vehicles are known that are equipped with a fuel cell powered by dihydrogen. These vehicles therefore carry a tank in which hydrogen is stored before being consumed by the fuel cell. The pressure of the dihydrogen in such tanks can be very high, for example of the order of 700 bars. Such tanks must therefore be particularly resistant to the mechanical stresses exerted by pressurized hydrogen. In addition, hydrogen is an explosive gas, which creates risks of fire and / or explosion in the event of a leak. Such hydrogen tanks must therefore also be shock-resistant, so as to guarantee the safety of passengers in the event of a vehicle accident.

[0003] However, the tanks known from the state of the art generally take the form of one or more cylinders embedded in the vehicle, for example cylinders positioned under the vehicle's seats. Such tanks are very heavy, which increases the total weight of the vehicle and makes them particularly complex to attach to the body. Since such tanks are very bulky, their integration penalizes the volume available for passengers and / or for loading objects, in particular for utility vehicles whose loading capacity is essential. Presentation of the invention

[0004] The object of the invention is to provide an arrangement for a vehicle which overcomes the above drawbacks.

[0005] More specifically, an object of the invention is to provide a utility vehicle equipped with a tank intended to store an energy fluid such as hydrogen, easy to assemble while retaining a loading volume similar to, or even greater than, that of a utility vehicle not equipped with such a tank. Summary of the invention

[0006] To achieve this objective, the invention relates to an arrangement for a vehicle including: - a tank, in particular a tank intended for storing dihydrogen, the tank comprising wells passing right through the tank in the vertical or substantially vertical direction, - a side member for a body of such a vehicle, - a reinforcement of the spar extending at least partially under the spar, the reinforcement furthermore being an interface for fixing the tank.

[0007] The arrangement may comprise fixing means for fixing the tank to the reinforcement, each fixing means being able to extend at least partially into a well.

[0008] Each well cooperating with a fixing means may comprise a lower tulip-shaped orifice, the fixing means being able to comprise a screw whose head is housed within the lower orifice of the reservoir.

[0009] A washer, in particular made of polymer, may be interposed between a screw head and a lower orifice of the reservoir, in particular a washer comprising a counterbore so as to at least partially embed the screw head.

[0010] The arrangement may comprise a shield, the shield being able to be arranged between the reservoir and the reinforcement so as to avoid direct contact between the reinforcement and the reservoir.

[0011] The reinforcement may be fixed to the spar, in particular by means of screws passing through the reinforcement and the spar, the screws possibly cooperating with nuts welded or crimped onto the spar.

[0012] The reinforcement may comprise threaded means for cooperating with the tank fixing means.

[0013] At least one threaded means of the reinforcement may have a non-cylindrical external shape, in particular an oblong external shape extending mainly in the longitudinal direction, so as to constitute a key and / or a centering device for the tank.

[0014] The invention also relates to a vehicle body, in particular a motor vehicle, the body comprising an arrangement as defined above.

[0015] The invention also relates to a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, comprising an arrangement as defined above. Presentation of figures

[0016] These objects, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will be explained in detail in the following description of a particular embodiment made without limitation in relation to the attached figures among which:

[0017] [Fig.l] is a schematic side view of a vehicle according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0018] [Fig.2] is a partial sectional view along a vertical and longitudinal plane passing through an arrangement according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0019] [Fig. 3] is a partial sectional view of the vehicle along a vertical and transverse plane crossing the tank.

[0020] [Fig.4] is a perspective view of a body of the vehicle according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0021] [Fig.5] is another perspective view of the vehicle body according to the embodiment of the invention, the tank being fixed to the body.

[0022] [Fig.6] is a detailed sectional view along a vertical and longitudinal plane of the arrangement according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0023] [Fig.7] is a detailed sectional view along a vertical and transverse plane of the arrangement according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0024] [Fig.8] is a perspective view of the arrangement according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0025] [Fig.9] is a detailed sectional view along a vertical and transverse plane at the level of a tank attachment.

[0026] [Fig. 10] is a perspective view of reinforcements and means for fixing the tank according to one embodiment of the invention. Detailed description

[0027] [Fig.l] schematically illustrates a vehicle 1, preferably a motor vehicle. The vehicle 1 may be a private vehicle or, preferably, a utility vehicle, for example of the van type. Alternatively, it could be a truck, a bus, a lifting machine, an agricultural machine or even any other type of land vehicle. The vehicle 1 comprises a body 3. The vehicle 1, or the body 3, comprises at least one arrangement 2 which will be described later.

[0028] In this document, the X axis designates the longitudinal axis of the vehicle 1. When moving forward and in a straight line, the vehicle 1 moves from the rear to the front in a direction parallel to its longitudinal axis. The X axis is oriented from the front to the rear of the vehicle, that is to say in the direction of reverse travel. The Y axis designates the transverse axis of the vehicle. The Y axis is oriented from left to right, left and right being defined according to the point of view of a driver of the vehicle 1. The Z axis designates the axis perpendicular to the X axis and the Y axis. The vehicle 1 is considered to be resting on horizontal ground. The Z axis is a vertical axis, oriented from bottom to top. The X, Y and Z axes form an orthogonal reference frame.

[0029] The vehicle 1 is equipped with, comprises, a tank 10. The tank 10 is intended to contain an energy fluid, preferably a fluid forming a reserve of energy convertible into an electromotive force capable of moving the vehicle. The tank 10 is therefore a member of the vehicle 1 which gives it a certain autonomy. The tank comprises in particular an inlet opening for filling the tank with an energy fluid and an outlet opening for delivering and then consuming the energy fluid contained in the tank. According to a preferred embodiment, the tank 10 is intended to store hydrogen or more precisely dihydrogen. The vehicle 1 then preferably comprises a fuel cell 101 capable of transforming the hydrogen into an electric current, and at least one electric motor 102 powered by an electric current from the fuel cell 101. The vehicle 1 may also comprise an electrochemical battery 50, for example of the lithium-ion type. The electrochemical battery 50 can be recharged by an electric current from the fuel cell 101 and / or by a connection to an electricity distribution network.The electric motor 102 can also be powered by an electric current from the electrochemical battery 50. The tank 10 associated with the fuel cell 101 can thus act as a range extender for the vehicle, when the electrochemical battery 50 is discharged.

[0030] Alternatively, the architecture of the vehicle 1 could be different. The vehicle 1 could not include an electrochemical battery, so that the tank 10 constitutes the sole energy source of the vehicle 1. According to another variant, the vehicle could include an internal combustion engine powered by hydrogen instead of a fuel cell. According to other variants, the tank 10 could be configured to store other forms of energy gases, for example liquefied petroleum gas or natural gas. The tank could even be intended to store a liquid fuel such as gasoline, diesel or even ethanol.

[0031] The tank 10 is preferably intended to store an energetic fluid under pressure, that is to say at a pressure strictly higher than atmospheric pressure. In this case, the tank 10 is intended to store hydrogen at a pressure greater than or equal to 700 bars. Alternatively, the tank 10 could be intended to store the energetic fluid at a different pressure, for example a pressure greater than or equal to 300 bars, or 500 bars, or 1000 bars, or any other value. The tank 10 thus comprises a rigid structure capable of withstanding the forces exerted by the pressurized fluid that it contains, in particular centrifugal forces acting from inside the tank 10 and which tend to cause it to burst.

[0032] Furthermore, the tank may have a capacity greater than or equal to 50 liters, preferably greater than or equal to 100 liters, or even greater than or equal to 150 liters. A 100-liter tank can store, for example, approximately 4 kg of dihydrogen at 700 bars, which gives the vehicle a range of around 300 km, for example.

[0033] The structure of the tank is also capable of withstanding significant shocks, in particular impacts occurring in the event of an accident of vehicle 1, without generating any leakage of the energy fluid to the outside. Accident data and / or simulations and / or crash tests make it possible to size the structure, in particular the required wall thicknesses, so that no energy fluid leakage occurs, even in the most violent accidents.

[0034] For example, the tank, the high strength of which is necessary to withstand high pressures of the energy fluid it contains as well as to guarantee the safety of the passengers of the vehicle 1 in the event of an accident, is advantageously used to form a structural element of the vehicle. A structural element designates an element of the vehicle participating in the overall rigidity of the vehicle. In other words, the tank 10 forms a part of the body of the vehicle, that is to say a part of the frame of the vehicle. In particular, the tank 10 forms a part of the body 3 of the vehicle, that is to say a part of the vehicle capable of supporting the weight exerted by other equipment of the vehicle, such as for example the weight exerted by at least part of the body of the vehicle. Optionally, not only does the tank support the weight of certain equipment, but it also provides a support for fixing this equipment.

[0035] Possibly, the body 3 of the vehicle 1 would not have sufficient rigidity if it were not equipped with the tank 10. That is to say that the body of the vehicle 1 without the tank 10 would deform easily, in particular in the event of a collision of the vehicle 1, even at very low speed. In particular, the integration of the tank 10 makes it possible to reduce the quantity of material used to produce the vehicle, in particular to eliminate cross members. Thus, thanks to the invention, it is possible to eliminate certain metal elements traditionally used to design the body and in particular the chassis of a vehicle.

[0036] The solution is therefore particularly original in that the tank 10, which was conventionally supported by the body, becomes a constituent element thereof. In addition, the solution goes against the received idea that a tank should be highly protected due to the flammable and / or explosive nature of the energy fluid it contains. According to this received idea, the tank should not withstand, under normal conditions of use, any other stress than that exerted by the energy fluid it contains.

[0037] Optionally, the tank 10 is capable of supporting loads. These loads may be static loads such as, for example, those exerted by the weight of the vehicle body, and / or the weight of equipment such as vehicle seats and / or the weight of the vehicle passengers and / or a load contained in the vehicle. These loads may also be dynamic loads such as those which appear in particular situations such as, for example, during an impact against the vehicle. These different static or dynamic loads can exert compressive or shear forces on the tank. These forces are therefore oriented in a different direction from the centrifugal forces exerted by the pressurized energy fluid inside the tank. Advantageously, the resistance of the tank necessary to resist the pressure exerted by the energy fluid it contains is therefore also used to support loads that are exerted in different directions.

[0038] More specifically, the arrangement 2 for the vehicle 1 comprises the tank 10. As illustrated in particular in Figures 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, the tank 10 comprises wells 11 passing right through the tank 10 in the vertical or substantially vertical direction. As illustrated in particular in Figures 3, 6 and 7, the arrangement 2 comprises at least one side member 20 for the body 3 of the vehicle 1. By "side member" is meant a structural part of the body extending longitudinally or substantially longitudinally. The arrangement 2 further comprises a reinforcement 30 of the side member 20 extending at least partially under the side member 20. The reinforcement 30 of the side member 20 constitutes an interface for fixing the tank 10. Thus, the reinforcement 30 contributes to the rigidity of the side member 20 and to fixing the tank 10.For example, the reinforcement 30 is “flat”, that is to say a parallelepiped plate whose thickness extending in the vertical direction is less than the width in the transverse direction and whose length in the longitudinal direction is the largest dimension. Alternatively, the reinforcement is an angle iron, or a U, or a tube preferably of rectangular or square section, or substantially rectangular or square extending longitudinally under the spar (embodiments not illustrated).

[0039] As illustrated in particular in Figures 6, 7 and 9, the arrangement 2 comprises at least one fixing means 4 for fixing the tank 10 to the reinforcement 30. Each fixing means 4 extends, at least partially, into a well 11 of the tank.

[0040] More specifically, as illustrated in [Fig.9], each well 11 of the reservoir, at least each well cooperating with a fixing means 4, comprises a lower orifice 12 in the shape of a tulip or substantially in the shape of a tulip. For example, the shape of the lower orifice 12 corresponds substantially to the external casing of a cylindrical valve head with a stem used at the level of a combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine. Preferably, the cavity at the level of the orifice 12 is oblong, preferably in the longitudinal direction.

[0041] More preferably, the fixing means 4 comprises a screw 5 whose head 6 is housed within the lower orifice 12 of the tank 10 after assembly, as illustrated in [Fig.9]. The head 6 is for example hexagonal, preferably of the hollow hexagonal type so as to be screwed / unscrewed with an Allen key which makes it possible to house, to embed, the entirety of the head 6 in the orifice 12 of the tank without requiring a space consequently in this hole to insert a tightening / loosening key.

[0042] More preferably, as illustrated in Figures 9 and 10, the arrangement 2 comprises a washer 40 arranged within the orifice 12. Thus, the washer 40 is interposed between the head 6 of the screw 5 and the lower orifice 12 of the reservoir 10. Advantageously, the washer 40 comprises a counterbore 41 so as to at least partially embed the head 6 of the screw 5 in the counterbore 41. Preferably, the washer 40 is made of a flexible material, at least, having a hardness lower than that of the structure of the reservoir 10 and that of the screw head and the screw so that the washer 40 crushes, adapts, deforms to avoid any damage to the reservoir 10 when tightening the screw 5. Obviously, the tightening torque of the screw 5 is pre-calibrated in order to avoid excessive deterioration of the washer 40 which can cause local crushing of the tank when tightening the screw. For example, the material of the washer is a polymer.Advantageously, the washer 40 matches the tulip shape of the reservoir 10 at the level of its cavity 12 opening into a well 11. Thus, the clamping force exerted by the head 6 of the screw 5 is distributed over the specific shape of the orifice 12. As mentioned, the lower orifices 12 extend for example substantially in an oblong manner in the longitudinal direction. The washers 40 then have, if necessary, a substantially complementary shape, that is to say a rectangular parallelepiped of which two upper edges 42 extending longitudinally are chamfered, in particular rounded, in particular in a concave manner, as illustrated in section in [Fig. 9] and in perspective in [Fig. 10].

[0043] Advantageously, as illustrated in particular in Figures 6 and 7, the arrangement 2 also comprises a protection 7. The protection 7 is arranged between the reservoir 10 and the reinforcement 30. The protection avoids direct contact between the reinforcement 30 and the reservoir 10. For example, the protection 7 is a sheet, having a small thickness, for example less than 1 mm. The protection is for example made of rubber or obtained from another material having similar properties.

[0044] The reinforcement 30 is fixed to the side member 20. Preferably, screws 8 pass through the reinforcement 30 and the side member 20 (see Figures 6 and 10). Advantageously, the screws are inserted from the bottom to the top, that is to say from below the vehicle. Preferably, nuts 9, for example welded or crimped onto the side member 20, preferably on a face of the side member extending in a longitudinal and transverse plane, are also provided in the arrangement. Thus, the screws 8 cooperate with the nuts 9 to ensure the fixing of the reinforcement 30 under the corresponding side member. In other words, each reinforcement 30 is sandwiched between the heads of the screws 8 and the side member 20 which it reinforces, the nut 9 being above the side member. Preferably, a reinforcement 30 extends parallel under the spar 20. For example, a reinforcement does not protrude in the longitudinal and transverse directions from the surface of the spar against which it is pressed. Preferably, the screw heads 8 are embedded, at least partially, in the thickness of the reinforcements in the vertical direction.

[0045] More preferably, as illustrated in particular in [Fig. 10], the reinforcement 30 comprises threaded means 35, for example added nuts, in particular welded, or else protuberances or projections, preferably cylindrical, threaded. The fixing means 4 of the tank 10, namely the screws 5, cooperate by screwing with the threaded means 35. For example, at least on one reinforcement 30, at least one threaded means 35 has a non-cylindrical external shape 36, preferably an oblong external shape 36 extending mainly in the longitudinal direction. Thus, at least one threaded means having a non-cylindrical shape plays a role of foolproofing and / or centering during the assembly of the tank at the reinforcements 30. As a reminder, only the protection 7, if applicable, extends between the tank 10 and the reinforcements 30.

[0046] Note that the side members are not illustrated in [Fig. 10].

[0047] For example, the reinforcement is made of steel, the threaded means 35 then being preferably fixed by welding. Alternatively, the reinforcement is made of aluminum alloy, for example from a foundry, the threads of the threaded means 35 preferably being machined.

[0048] Advantageously, the vehicle 1 comprises two side members 20 and a reinforcement 30 is arranged under each side member 20. Thus, two reinforcements are provided.

[0049] Alternatively, two or more reinforcements, for example attached or not to each other in the longitudinal direction, can be provided under the same side member (embodiment not illustrated).

[0050] With reference to Figures 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 and 8, the tank 10 preferably comprises substantially an inverted T-shaped section (the horizontal bar of the T being at the bottom) while being generally parallelepipedal. The tank 10 comprises an upper wall 14 and a lower wall 15 both extending in substantially longitudinal and transverse planes. Preferably, the upper wall 14 of the tank 10 is flush under a floor 51 of the vehicle 1. An element, for example of the sheet type, is preferably interposed between the floor 51 and the upper face 14, or a space of a few millimeters for example is left between the floor and the tank. The vertical bar of the T of the tank extends substantially between the left and right side members of the body. Thus, the space available in the three directions between the side members is used to optimize the tank and increase its internal volume.Alternatively, any other shape of the tank could be considered.

[0051] By connecting the two side members 20 together via the reinforcements, the tank 10 therefore plays the role of a cross member of the vehicle. The tank 10 therefore makes it possible to hold the two side members rigidly in position relative to each other. The use of the tank therefore makes it possible to save one or more cross members. Preferably, the vehicle 1 does not include any structural cross member connecting the two side members above or below the tank 10.

[0052] Preferably, the body 3 does not include an additional structural element arranged between the tank 10 and the floor 51. The weight and volume occupied by these components can thus be saved. A protective partition, possibly flexible, supple, or separating, can nevertheless be provided between the tank and the floor. However, this partition would not be intended to support the load of the floor and its thickness could be reduced accordingly.

[0053] Optionally, the vehicle comprises a protective casing fixed to the tank 10 (not shown). The protective casing extends horizontally under the tank. It can be fixed directly to the tank, without an intermediate part. The protective casing has an upper face facing the lower wall 15 of the tank, and a lower face exposed to projections coming from the road. Thus, the lower wall 15 of the tank is protected from impacts caused by the projection of stones in particular or when crossing sidewalks. Such a protective casing makes it possible to provide a vehicle with a flat bottom. A flat bottom improves the aerodynamics of the vehicle and reduces the risk of foreign bodies in the vehicle catching on the lower face of the protective casing. Note that in the absence of a protective casing, the shape of the tank 10 also ensures a substantially flat bottom and addresses aerodynamic issues.

[0054] With reference to [Fig.5], it is also observed that the electrochemical battery 50 extends at the front of the tank 10 along the longitudinal axis X. The electrochemical battery 50 extends in particular between the two side members 20 and is possibly fixed to the two side members. The electrochemical battery 50 comprises a lower wall facing the ground. The vehicle may comprise a second protective casing (not shown) configured to protect the lower wall of the electrochemical battery.

[0055] Advantageously, the structure 16 of the tank 10 is made of composite material. Such a material is lighter than steel and even than any other metal for equivalent strength. In addition, the methods for manufacturing components made of composite material make it possible to produce structures with a wide variety of geometric shapes. More complex structural shapes 16 than those obtained from metal can thus be envisaged so as to exploit all available volume of the vehicle and thus increase the capacity of the tank. More complex tank shapes can in particular be recommended when the tanks are intended to store a pressurized gas rather than a liquid because, unlike a liquid, the gas does not present a risk of retention in the tank.

[0056] The composite material may comprise a draped or preformed structure, and / or Braided and resin-impregnated materials. The composite material may consist of reinforcing elements and a matrix. The reinforcing elements may include carbon or glass fibers, which are lightweight materials, or Kevlar (registered trademark), which has greater impact resistance. The matrix may be an organic matrix, for example, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, or a modified polyester. The matrix may also be a metal matrix.

[0057] Figures 3, 5 and 8 illustrate in particular the structure 16 of an embodiment of the tank 10. The walls 14 and 15 of the tank are connected to each other by the wells 11. Similarly, the front and rear vertical or substantially vertical walls are connected to each other by longitudinal wells 13. Optionally, the right and left vertical or substantially vertical walls of the tank are connected to each other by transverse wells (not shown). The wells, possibly extending along the three axes X, Y and Z, are perpendicular to each other so as to optimally stiffen the tank. The wells pass through the tank from one side to the other between two opposite walls. The wells act as tie rods reinforcing the resistance of the tank: they are subjected to traction when the energy fluid contained in the tank exerts pressure on the walls.The wells are arranged inside the casing of the tank 10 and not on the periphery of this casing. Preferably, each well is distinct from the other wells, that is to say that the wells are without contact between them, do not touch each other inside the tank. Thus, the tank 10 is not compartmentalized and the energy fluid can circulate easily inside the tank. The wells are hollow. In particular, the reinforcement wells or connecting elements, can be tubes and have a circular section. However, the section of the connecting elements is not necessarily circular. For example, the section of the wells is square, rectangular, polygonal, ovoid, or preferably oval or even oblong. As a reminder, the lower orifices 12 preferably also have an oblong or oval section, while being flared downwards while extending along the vertical axis.For example, upper orifices opening at the level of the upper wall 14 of the tank are similar or even identical, that is to say flared upwards.

[0058] Figures 6 and 9 illustrate in more detail a well-type connecting element 11, the other connecting elements being designed in a similar manner. Each connecting element 11 comprises a tubular shape provided with an external face 17 and an internal face 18. The external face 17 is turned towards the inside of the tank and is therefore intended to be in contact with the energy fluid, while the internal face 18 communicates with the outside of the tank and is therefore intended to be in contact with the ambient air. The connecting elements 11 may be made of composite material or metal. They may also comprise both a composite material and metal. They may in particular comprise a metal tube arranged inside a structure made of composite material. The internal face 18 may be provided in a material different from that forming the structure 16 of the tank. The internal face may in particular be equipped with a metal tube which extends over the entire length of the connecting element or only at the ends of the connecting elements. The metal tube may optionally be ringed on its external periphery so as to guarantee good support in the structure 16.

[0059] Each connecting element 11 comprises two opposite ends at the two opposite walls that it connects. Due to the hollow nature of the connecting elements, the tank comprises, for each connecting element, an opening passing right through the tank. These openings do not communicate with the energy fluid storage volume. These openings are therefore not useful for delivering an energy fluid, in particular for delivering pressurized hydrogen to the fuel cell 101. On the other hand, the openings can be used for the passage of electrical wires and / or hydraulic conduits. It is thus possible to save the space provided outside the tank for the passage of these electrical wires and / or these hydraulic conduits while providing them with a means of holding them in position and protection.The openings can also be used to allow liquid to drain from the vehicle, or even to create vents to cool or heat the passenger compartment. Optionally, the openings can be used to attach various vehicle equipment.

[0060] To manufacture the vehicle 1, it is first possible to manufacture a body 3, then fix the reinforcements 30 under the side members, then fix the tank 10 under the side members 20, on the reinforcements, preferably after having interposed the protections 7. As a reminder, preferably, specific shapes 36 at the level of certain threaded means of the reinforcement 30 provide a foolproof and / or centering role so that the tank can only be mounted in one position, in particular in the correct direction along the longitudinal direction. Indeed, the upside-down T shape along a vertical and transverse plane of the tank cooperating between the side members prevents any other assembly. Thus, the reinforcements 30 are fixed by assembly from the bottom up, the screws 8 cooperating with the nuts 9 already provided on the side members. Above all, the tank 10 is also fixed following a vertical translation upwards, the threaded means 35, 36 being provided on the reinforcements 30.The screws 5 are screwed in from below to assemble the tank 10 onto the reinforcements 30. If disassembly is necessary, it is sufficient to unscrew the screws 5 to remove the tank downwards, i.e. to lower it under the effect of gravity. Thus, it is easy to disassemble a tank 10 only with access under the vehicle, for example by having the vehicle on a bridge, or when the operator has a pit.

[0061] Finally, thanks to the invention, we benefit from a vehicle equipped with a tank for a lighter energy fluid because we save part of the metal chassis with which vehicles are usually equipped. The vehicle also offers more space for passengers and / or for loading, in particular for utility vehicles of the van type, because the tank occupies part of the volume previously occupied by the chassis and fits more closely to the chassis, in particular the side members and the space between them under the vehicle. Alternatively, this available volume can also be used to increase the size of the tank and therefore to offer a vehicle with greater autonomy.

[0062] Above all, the tank can be fixed to a body not designed to support the tank intended in particular to store dihydrogen. Indeed, although the side members are not initially sized to support such a tank which can weigh around 200 kg, the addition of reinforcements allows this overload. Equipping a vehicle with a fuel cell requiring a hydrogen tank where appropriate is greatly facilitated.

[0063] Note that, preferably, more fasteners are provided between the reinforcements and the side members (for example, ten screw 8 / nut 9 systems in the illustrated embodiment) than fasteners between the tank and the reinforcements (for example, eight screw 5 / threaded means 35, 36 systems in the illustrated embodiment). This proportion of numbers of fasteners, or even these numbers of fasteners, may be different. In addition, the fasteners on each side member are not necessarily spaced the same distance apart and / or the fasteners on each reinforcement are not spaced the same distance apart either. As a reminder, the washers between the screw heads 5 and the tank are provided to prevent any deformation of the tank (it is the washers that deform if necessary) and their specific shape facilitates their self-centering within the lower orifices 12 of the tank. For example, the screws 5 are of the M14 type.

[0064] The spacer 7 provided between the tank and the reinforcement prevents friction from being created between the tank and the reinforcement, so as to avoid wear of the reinforcement and / or wear of the tank by abrasion linked to vibrations. Indeed, the frequency of the natural mode of the reinforcement (for example in steel or in aluminum alloy) is different from the frequency of the natural mode of the tank (in composite materials) so that friction can be created between the reinforcement and the tank even though they are fixed relative to each other.

[0065] The arrangement therefore comprises a semi-structural tank since, thanks to its indirect fixings on the side members, its rigidity due to its method of production and its materials, the tank absorbs forces, completes the chassis, in particular by replacing cross members. Possibly, part of the load of the vehicle rests on the tank.

[0066] The addition of rail-type reinforcements under each side member aims to stiffen a chassis not designed to support such a heavy tank. Indeed, the solution allows the use of an existing chassis, i.e. one already designed and tested, and allows it to be adapted to add the relatively heavy composite tank, for example of the order of 180 kg empty and nearly 200 kg filled with dihydrogen at around 700 bars. Thus, a vehicle can be equipped with such a tank even though its body was not initially designed for this. In other words, a generic chassis with thin side members is used and they are reinforced to support the composite tank.

[0067] Thanks to the shape of the tank substantially matching the inter-spar space and coming close to or even in contact with the floor (subject to preferably interposing protection similar to the protection between the reinforcement and the tank), the storage capacity of the tank is maximized. As a reminder, it is possible to do without a cross member along the length of the tank since the tank absorbs the forces. Thus, the tank replaces part of the structure for the floor, namely cross members and the floor sheet can be in contact with the tank to keep the floor flat and distribute the forces on the side members.

[0068] Note that the oblong wells are preferably only those arranged under the side members. These oblong wells are shorter than the length of the wells arranged between the side members (thickness of the side members in addition). Thus, the oblong wells are arranged at the ends of the horizontal bar of the T of the general shape of the tank.

[0069] As mentioned, the solution makes it easy to add an additional tank to an existing vehicle thanks to the specific reinforcements and the specific tank. Unlike bottles, the tank adapts to the highly constrained space under a vehicle and is easier to assemble and also to disassemble in the event of subsequent intervention on the vehicle. The proposed solution is simple to implement and inexpensive. Indeed, the reinforcements are easy to manufacture and the modifications to be made to the side members are minimal (drilling and addition of nuts). Unlike usual dihydrogen bottles, there is no need for a connection or protection, the tank itself being particularly resistant. Thus, the number of parts is reduced as is the risk of hydrogen leaks.

[0070] In summary, the polymorphic composite tank fits the floor and side members of the vehicle. The tank has a section close to a T, upside down, and at the widest and thinnest part (the bar of the T) for example, the reinforcement wells 11 have for example a section of strongly radiated rectangular shape, almost oval or oblong. The through wells 11 are used to hold the tank on the two side members of the vehicle. The screws 5 with their washers 40 fit the shape of the reinforcement wells 11, and the screws are inserted into the reinforcement rails 30 via the drilled and tapped bosses 35. The two rails 30 are fixed by screwing screws 8 which sandwich them with nuts 9 welded inside the side members 20. For example, the heads of the screws 8 are hidden, housed via counterbores, in the thickness of the rails 30. Thus, the rails 30 are held to the side members 20. The tank being rigid and very little deformable, the rigidity of the structure of the vehicle is increased. The loading floor of the vehicle is simplified, in straight and flat sheet for example (see [Fig.4]), since it rests on a rigid and flat tank. Optionally, the tank supports part of the load contained in the vehicle by passing the forces to its own fixings to the side members. If necessary, several fixings are provided, for example by screwed elements, between the tank and the side members of the vehicle.Only a few adaptation elements for the structure of the vehicle, namely the holes in the side members opposite the nuts welded to the side members, are necessary, the shape of the tank adapting to the available space. The tank is fastened by screw elements passing through the thickness of the tank as mentioned above. The heads 6 of the screws 5 are hidden inside the reinforcement wells 11, and / or within the washers 40, which makes it possible to obtain a flat bottom, a guarantee of aerodynamic performance in particular. The rails 30 serve to guide the tank 10 and the oblong centers 36 guarantee the correct position of the tank 10 on the chassis. Thus, the rails 30 serve as spacers between the chassis, more precisely between the side members 20, and the tank 10.As a reminder, thick sheets or protection 7 are arranged between the composite tank and the metal elements, such as the centering / guiding rails 30 and the floor 51 of the vehicle to avoid direct contact between the composite materials and the steel or equivalent where appropriate. As a reminder, the washers 40 under the screw heads are made of polymers and they are flared to match the shape of the well 11 at the radius between the circular or oblong tube and the flat of the exterior of the tank (lower wall 15 of the tank in particular). Thus, the compressive forces resulting from the tightening of the fixing means 4 are distributed over the flared areas of the orifices 12 of the through reinforcement wells 11 used to fix the tank.

[0071] As mentioned above, the solution allows cross members to be removed from the chassis to save weight. The tank may extend over a portion of the vehicle, notably substantially at the rear, and a battery 50 for example may extend in front where space is available. Optionally, the battery or another element of the vehicle may be attached to the tank (not shown).

[0072] Alternatively, the fixings may be visible, for example protruding under the tank, an angle iron for example being arranged between the heads of the screws and the tank (embodiment not illustrated).

[0073] Note that a clearance remains between the bodies 5 of the screws 4 and the external walls 18 of the well 11 of the tank 10 so as to avoid wear of the tank and / or the screw, and / or noise, by friction between the tank and the screws 5, in particular due to different natural vibration modes between the tank and the fixing means. Alternatively, a damping means such as a hollow tube, for example made of rubber, is interposed between the screw and the well. In such an embodiment not illustrated, there is possibly no play, this being taken up by the rubber damping tube which prevents any contact between the screw and the tank. Preferably, for the same reasons, a protection extends above the tank so that it is not in direct contact with the underside of the floor 51.

[0074] The solution makes it possible to easily integrate a tank having a large storage volume, in particular for explosive and / or flammable high-pressure gas, without penalizing the volume available for passengers and / or for loading objects, in particular for utility vehicles, and this, in complete safety.

[0075] The invention is particularly suitable for a utility vehicle of the van type, and can be used for a truck, a bus, a coach, an agricultural machine, a lifting machine and any other machine.

Claims

Claims

1. Arrangement (2) for a vehicle (1) comprising: - a tank (10), in particular a tank intended to store di-hydrogen, the tank (10) comprising wells (11) passing right through the tank (10) in the vertical or substantially vertical direction, - a side member (20) for a body (3) of such a vehicle (1), - a reinforcement (30) of the side member (20) extending at least partially under the side member (20), characterized in that the reinforcement (30) is furthermore an interface for fixing the tank (10).

2. Arrangement (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the arrangement (2) comprises fixing means (4) for fixing the tank (10) on the reinforcement (30), each fixing means (4) extending at least partially into a well (11).

3. Arrangement (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that each well (11) cooperating with a fixing means (4) comprises a lower orifice (12) in the shape of a tulip, the fixing means (4) comprising a screw (5) whose head (6) is housed within the lower orifice (12) of the reservoir (10).

4. Arrangement (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that a washer (40), in particular made of polymer, is interposed between a head (6) of screw (5) and a lower orifice (12) of the reservoir (10), in particular a washer (40) comprising a counterbore (41) so as to at least partially embed the head (6) of screw (5).

5. Arrangement (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the arrangement (2) comprises a protection (7), the protection (7) being arranged between the reservoir (10) and the reinforcement (30) so as to avoid direct contact between the reinforcement (30) and the reservoir (10).

6. Arrangement (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the reinforcement (30) is fixed to the spar (20), in particular by means of screws (8) passing through the reinforcement (30) and the spar (20), the screws (8) possibly cooperating with nuts (9) welded or crimped onto the spar (20).

7. Arrangement (2) according to one of claims 1, 3, 4, 5, or 6 in combination with claim 2, characterized in that the reinforcement (30) comprises threaded means (35) for cooperating with the means of fixings (4) of the tank (10).

8. Arrangement (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that at least one threaded means (35) of the reinforcement (30) has a non-cylindrical external shape (36), in particular an oblong external shape (36) extending mainly in the longitudinal direction, so as to constitute a foolproofing device and / or a centering device for the reservoir (10).

9. Body (3) of a vehicle, in particular of a motor vehicle (1), characterized in that the body (3) comprises an arrangement (2) according to one of the preceding claims.

10. Vehicle, in particular motor vehicle (1), characterized in that it comprises an arrangement (2) according to one of claims 1 to 8, or a body (2) according to claim 9.

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