Arrangement for the lateral attachment of a tank to a vehicle side member.

Abstract

Arrangement for the lateral attachment of a tank to a vehicle side member. The invention relates to an arrangement (2) for a vehicle comprising a tank (10), the tank (10) comprising a transverse well (11) passing through the tank (10) in a transverse or substantially transverse direction, a left side member (21) and a right side member (22) for a body (3) of such a vehicle, a left lateral support (31) fixed to the left side member (21) and a right lateral support (32) fixed to the right side member (22), the arrangement (2) comprising a transverse attachment means extending through the left lateral support (31), the transverse well (11) and the right lateral support (32) so as to sandwich the tank (10) between the left lateral support (31) and the right lateral support (32). Figure for the abstract: Figure 4

Description

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

[0001] The invention relates to an arrangement for securing a tank for storing an energy fluid, in particular dihydrogen, between lateral supports fixed to vehicle side members. The invention further 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. Prior art

[0002] In order to make vehicle use less polluting, vehicles equipped with a fuel cell powered by hydrogen are known. These vehicles therefore carry a tank in which hydrogen is stored before being consumed by the fuel cell. The pressure of hydrogen in such tanks can be very high, for example, on the order of 700 bar. Such tanks must therefore be particularly resistant to the mechanical stresses exerted by hydrogen under pressure. 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 impact-resistant, in order to guarantee the safety of passengers in the event of a vehicle accident.

[0003] However, known prior art fuel tanks generally take the form of one or more cylinders mounted in the vehicle, for example, cylinders positioned under the vehicle seats. Such tanks are very heavy, which increases the overall weight of the vehicle and makes them particularly complex to attach to the body. Since such tanks are very bulky, their integration reduces the available space for passengers and / or cargo, especially for commercial vehicles where cargo capacity is paramount. Presentation of the invention

[0004] The object of the invention is to provide an arrangement for a vehicle that remedies the above disadvantages.

[0005] More specifically, an object of the invention is to provide a utility vehicle equipped with a tank for storing an energy fluid such as hydrogen, easy to assemble while maintaining a similar, or even greater, loading volume than 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 comprising a reservoir, in particular a reservoir intended for storing dihydrogen, the reservoir comprising a transverse well passing through the reservoir in a transverse or substantially transverse direction, - a left and a right longitudinal member for the body of such a vehicle, - a left side support fixed to the left side member and a right side support fixed to the right side member, the arrangement comprising a transverse fixing means extending through the left side support, the transverse well and the right side support so as to sandwich the tank between the left side support and the right side support.

[0007] The arrangement may include a rear support for the tank and a rear cross member, in particular a rear cross member attached to the left and right side members, the rear support being able to be attached to the rear cross member.

[0008] The tank may include a longitudinal well passing through the tank in the longitudinal or substantially longitudinal direction, the arrangement may include a longitudinal fastening means extending through the rear support and the longitudinal well so as to fix the tank with the rear support.

[0009] The arrangement may include a front support for the tank and a front cross member, in particular a front cross member attached to the left and right side members, the front support being able to be attached to the front cross member.

[0010] The tank can be sandwiched longitudinally between the front support and the rear support by means of the longitudinal fastening means which also passes through the front support.

[0011] The transverse fixing means may include a cylindrical part comprising a thread at each end of the cylindrical part, in particular a hollow cylindrical part, and two screws each comprising a head, each screw cooperating with each thread so that each head comes into contact with each right and left lateral support.

[0012] The left side support can be fixed to the left side member by a screw-nut system and the right side support can be fixed to the right side member by a screw-nut system.

[0013] The rear support can be fixed to the rear cross member by means of a screw-nut system.

[0014] The front support can be fixed to the front crossmember by a screw-nut system.

[0015] The arrangement may include a damping means extending between the transverse fixing means and the transverse well.

[0016] The invention also relates to a vehicle body, in particular a motor vehicle body, the body comprising an arrangement as defined above.

[0017] The invention further relates to a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, comprising an arrangement as defined above, or a body as defined above. Presentation of the figures

[0018] These objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be described in detail in the following description of a particular embodiment, given by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the accompanying figures, among which:

[0019] Fig. 1 is a schematic profile view of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0020] Fig. 2 is a partial perspective view of a vehicle body according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0021] Fig. 3 is another partial perspective view of the case according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0022] Fig. 4 is another partial perspective view of the vehicle body according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0023] Fig. 5 is a detailed perspective view of an arrangement according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0024] Fig. 6 is a detailed cross-sectional view along a transverse and longitudinal plane of the arrangement according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0025] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view along a vertical and transverse plane of the arrangement according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0026] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a reservoir and supports according to an embodiment of the invention. Detailed description

[0027] Figure 1 schematically illustrates a vehicle 1, preferably a motor vehicle. The vehicle 1 may be a passenger car or, preferably, a commercial vehicle, for example, a van. 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 an arrangement 2, which will be described later.

[0028] In this document, the X-axis denotes the longitudinal axis of vehicle 1. When moving forward in a straight line, vehicle 1 progresses from rear to 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, in the direction of reverse movement. The Y-axis denotes the transverse axis of the vehicle. The Y-axis is oriented from left to right, left and right being defined from the perspective of a driver of vehicle 1. The Z-axis denotes the axis perpendicular to the X-axis and the Y-axis. Vehicle 1 is assumed to be resting on a horizontal surface. The Z-axis is a vertical axis, oriented from bottom to top. The X, Y, and Z axes form an orthogonal coordinate system.

[0029] Vehicle 1 is equipped with, and includes, a tank 10. Tank 10 is intended to The tank 10 contains an energy fluid, preferably a fluid that forms an energy reserve convertible into an electromotive force capable of moving the vehicle. The tank 10 is therefore a component of the vehicle 1 that provides it with a certain degree of autonomy. The tank includes, in particular, an inlet opening for filling it with an energy fluid and an outlet opening for delivering and then consuming the energy fluid contained in the tank. In a preferred embodiment, the tank 10 is intended to store hydrogen, or more precisely, dihydrogen. The vehicle 1 then preferably includes a fuel cell 101 capable of converting 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 include an electrochemical battery 103, for example, of the lithium-ion type.The electrochemical battery 103 can be recharged by an electric current from the fuel cell 101 and / or by connection to an electricity distribution network. The electric motor 102 can also be powered by an electric current from the electrochemical battery 103. The tank 10 associated with the fuel cell 101 can thus act as a range extender for the vehicle when the electrochemical battery 103 is discharged.

[0030] Alternatively, the architecture of vehicle 1 could be different. Vehicle 1 might not include an electrochemical battery, so that the tank 10 constitutes the sole energy source for vehicle 1. According to another alternative, the vehicle could include an internal combustion engine powered by hydrogen instead of a fuel cell. According to other alternatives, 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 ethanol.

[0031] The tank 10 is preferably designed to store an energy fluid under pressure, that is, at a pressure strictly greater than atmospheric pressure. In this case, the tank 10 is designed to store hydrogen at a pressure greater than or equal to 700 bar. Alternatively, the tank 10 could be designed to store the energy fluid at a different pressure, for example, a pressure greater than or equal to 300 bar, or 500 bar, or 1000 bar, or any other value. The tank 10 thus comprises a rigid structure capable of withstanding the forces exerted by the pressurized fluid it contains, in particular centrifugal forces acting from inside the tank 10 that 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, for example, can store approximately 4 kg of dihydrogen at 700 bar, giving the vehicle a range of around 300 km. For example.

[0033] The tank structure is also capable of withstanding significant impacts, particularly those occurring in the event of an accident involving vehicle 1, without generating any leakage of the energy fluid to the outside. Accident data and / or simulations and / or crash tests allow the structure to be dimensioned, including the required wall thicknesses, so that no energy fluid leakage occurs, even in the most violent accidents.

[0034] Optionally, the tank 10 is capable of supporting loads. These loads can be static loads, such as those exerted by the weight of the vehicle body, and / or the weight of equipment such as vehicle seats, and / or the weight of vehicle passengers, and / or cargo contained within the vehicle. These loads can also be dynamic loads, such as those that occur in specific situations, such as during an impact with the vehicle. These various 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 reservoir required to withstand the pressure exerted by the energy fluid it contains is therefore also used to support loads acting in different directions.

[0035] The arrangement 2 for the vehicle 1 includes the tank 10. As illustrated in particular in Figures 3, 4, 5, 7 and 8, the tank 10 includes wells 11 passing through the tank 10 in the transverse or substantially transverse direction. As illustrated in particular in Figures 2, 3, 4, 5 and 7, the arrangement 2 includes a left longitudinal member 21 and a right longitudinal member 22 for the body 3 of the vehicle 1. By "longitudinal member" is meant a structural part of the body, or chassis, extending longitudinally or substantially longitudinally.

[0036] Arrangement 2 further includes a left lateral support 31 fixed to the left side member 21. Arrangement 2 further includes a right lateral support 32 fixed to the right side member 22. As illustrated in particular in Figures 3, 4, 5, and 8, each lateral support extends mainly or substantially in a vertical and longitudinal plane. For example, each lateral support 31, 32 has a T-shaped cross-section in a vertical and transverse plane, the horizontal bar of the T extending in the transverse direction. Thus, as illustrated in Figures 5, 7, and 8, each lateral support 31, 32 is a T-beam, each upper face 311, 321 (the face above the horizontal bar of the T) coming into contact under each respective side member 21, 22. Thus, each lateral support comprises a first plate 312, 322, for example substantially parallelepiped-shaped, extending sen possibly in a transverse and longitudinal plane, under each stringer and a second plate 313, 323, for example substantially parallelepiped-shaped, extending in a vertical and longitudinal plane. Preferably, particularly for the purposes of saving material and / or reducing weight, each second plate 313, 323 is perforated, for example pierced, or even includes openings 314, 324 of various shapes, for example rectangular.

[0037] Alternatively, each lateral support is an angle bracket, one wing being fixed to a longeron, in particular under a longeron, and the other wing extending vertically and longitudinally (not illustrated embodiment). Other forms of lateral support suitable for fixing to a longeron and providing a fixing face extending vertically and longitudinally so as to be able to sandwich the tank transversely may also be suitable.

[0038] The arrangement 2 further comprises at least one transverse fastening means 40 extending through the left lateral support 31, a transverse well 11 of the reservoir 10, and the right lateral support 32. This at least one transverse fastening means 40 sandwiches, wedges, and locks the reservoir 10 between the left lateral support 31 and the right lateral support 32. As illustrated in particular in Figures 5 and 7, a transverse fastening means 40 comprises a cylindrical portion 41. For example, the cylindrical portion 41 is solid. Preferably, the cylindrical portion 41 is hollow. In any case, the cylindrical part 41 includes a thread 43 at each of its ends 46. Note that the cylindrical part 41 is advantageously longer than the transverse well 11 which it crosses so as to protrude on both sides of this transverse well as illustrated in figures 5 and 8.Advantageously, the cylindrical portion 41 of each fastening means 40 is centered in the transverse direction between the two lateral supports 31, 32, preferably with each end 46 in contact with each adjacent lateral support. The transverse fastening means 40 further includes two screws 42. Each screw 42 has a head 44. Each screw 42 passes through a lateral support such that the thread of each screw 42 cooperates with a tapped hole 43 in the cylindrical portion 41 and its head 44 remains in contact on the outside of an adjacent lateral support. Thus, two screws 42 screwed into the ends 46 of the same cylindrical portion 41 sandwich the left lateral support, the cylindrical portion 41, and the right lateral support between their respective heads 44. Indeed, preference is given to the absence of contact between the structure 16 of the tank and the supports 31, 32, the cylindrical part coming to rest between the supports 31, 32. .

[0039] Alternatively, the transverse fastening means is a screw having a head arranged against one of the lateral supports, the screw passing through the transverse well, a nut cooperating with the thread of the screw to sandwich the cylindrical part of the transverse fastening means between the two lateral supports (embodying of the (Means of attachment not shown).

[0040] Preferably, as illustrated in [Fig. 7], the left side support 31 is fixed to the left side member 21 by at least one screw-nut system 61 and / or the right side support 32 is fixed to the right side member 22 by at least one screw-nut system 62. For example, three screw-nut pairs 61 are arranged to sandwich the left side support 31 at its first plate 312, between a screw head and the left side member 21. Thus, the first plate 312 is drilled for the passage of the screw-nut systems 61. The nut is preferably arranged above the side member 21 or within the side member, for example in the case of a side member with a closed section. Advantageously, the nut of the system 61 is fixed to the longitudinal member 21, for example by being crimped or welded to the longitudinal member so as to allow the side support 31 to be fixed to the longitudinal member 21 from underneath the vehicle.Similarly, for example, three screw-nut pairs 62 are arranged to sandwich the right-hand side support 32 at its first plate 322, between a screw head and the right-hand side member 22. The first plate 322 is drilled for the passage of the screw-nut systems 62. The nut is preferably arranged above the side member 22 or within the side member, for example, in the case of a side member with a closed cross-section. Advantageously, the nut of the system 62 is fixed to the side member 22, for example, by being crimped or welded to the side member so as to allow the side support 32 to be fixed to the side member 22 from below the vehicle. Alternatively, more systems 61, 62, for example at least four, or fewer systems 61, 62, for example two, are provided to fix the side supports under the side members.

[0041] Advantageously, as illustrated in particular in Figures 3, 4, 6, 7 and 8, the tank 10 comprises at least one longitudinal well 12 passing completely through the tank 10 in the longitudinal or substantially longitudinal direction. The arrangement 2 then comprises a longitudinal fastening means 50 extending through the rear support 34 and the longitudinal well 12 so as to fix the tank 10 to the rear support 34. As illustrated in Figures 2 and 4, the arrangement 2 then comprises a rear support 34 for the tank 10. For example, the rear support 34 is substantially flat and extends in a substantially vertical and transverse plane. For example, the rear support is a plate or sheet metal cut in a general T shape. Preferably, the body 3 or the arrangement 2 then includes a rear cross member 24. Advantageously, the rear cross member 24 is fixed, directly or indirectly, to the left side member 21 and to the right side member 22.The rear support 34 is then fixed to the rear cross member 24. Preferably, the rear support 34 is fixed on or against the rear cross member 24 by at least one screw-nut system 64, preferably two systems 64 sandwiching the rear support 34 and the rear cross member 24, or at least at least one wall of the rear cross member 24. The two screw-nut systems 64. then pass through the horizontal bar of the T of support 34 via two holes made for this purpose, in particular at the two ends of the bar of the T.

[0042] Preferably, the arrangement 2 further includes a front support 33 for supporting the tank 10, as illustrated in Figures 6 and 8. In this case, a front crossmember 23, or at least a reinforcement, attached to the left side member 21 and the right side member 22, is provided. The front support 33 is attached to the front crossmember 23, or to the reinforcement as appropriate. Note that Figures 3 and 8 illustrate a reinforcement 23 that may be considered equivalent to a crossmember. For example, the reinforcement 23 is thinner than a crossmember. The front support 33 is, for example, attached to the front crossmember or the front reinforcement 23 by at least one screw-nut system 63, preferably two screw-nut systems. The screw-nut systems 63 preferably sandwich the front support 33 and the front crossmember (or reinforcement) 23.

[0043] Thus, preferably the tank 10 is sandwiched longitudinally between the front support 33 and the rear support 34 by means of at least one longitudinal fastening means 50 further passing through the front support 33, the rear support 34 and a longitudinal well 12 extending between these two supports.

[0044] For example, as illustrated in particular in [Fig. 6], the longitudinal fastening means 50 comprises a cylindrical portion 51. For example, the cylindrical portion is solid. Preferably, the cylindrical portion 51 is hollow. In any case, the cylindrical portion 51 comprises a threaded hole 53 at each of its ends 56. It should be noted that the cylindrical portion 51 is preferably longer than the longitudinal well 12 through which it passes so as to extend beyond both sides of this longitudinal well 12, as illustrated in [Fig. 6]. Advantageously, the cylindrical portion 51 of each fastening means 50 is centered in the longitudinal direction between the front and rear supports 33, 34, preferably with each end 56 in contact with each adjacent support. The longitudinal fastening means 50 further comprises two screws 52. Each screw 52 comprises a head 54.Each screw 52 cooperates with a threaded hole 53 in the cylindrical portion 51 so that each head 54 comes into contact with a corresponding adjacent support. Thus, two screws 52 screwed into the ends 56 of the same cylindrical portion 51 sandwich the front support, the cylindrical portion 51 of the longitudinal fastening means 50, and the right lateral support between their respective heads 44. Indeed, the absence of contact between the structure 16 of the tank and the front and rear supports is preferred, the cylindrical portion being supported between the front and rear supports.

[0045] Alternatively, the longitudinal fastening means is a screw having a head arranged against one of the front or rear supports, the screw passing through the longitudinal well, a nut cooperating with the screw thread to sandwich the cylindrical part of a longitudinal fastening means between the front and rear supports (mode (of the realization of the fastening means not illustrated).

[0046] Advantageously, as illustrated in particular in [Fig. 5], the arrangement 2 further comprises a damping means 45 extending between each transverse fastening means 40 and the transverse well 11 housing it. More precisely, the damping means 45 extends radially between the cylindrical portion 41 and the inner wall of the transverse well 11. Preferably, the damping means 45 is shorter in the transverse direction than the cylindrical portion 41 against which it rests, or even against which it is fixed prior to its insertion into the transverse well.

[0047] Advantageously, as illustrated in particular in [Fig. 6], the arrangement 2 further comprises a damping means 55 extending between each longitudinal fastening means 50 and the longitudinal well 12 housing it. More precisely, the damping means 55 extends radially between the cylindrical portion 51 and the inner wall of the longitudinal well 12. Preferably, the damping means 55 is shorter in the longitudinal direction than the cylindrical portion 51 against which it rests, or even against which it is fixed prior to its insertion into the transverse well.

[0048] Optionally, the vehicle includes a protective cover attached to the tank 10 (not shown). The protective cover extends horizontally under the tank. It can be attached directly to the tank, without an intermediate part. The protective cover has an upper face facing the lower wall 15 of the tank, and a lower face exposed to road spray. Thus, the lower wall 15 of the tank (see Figures 7 and 8 in particular) is protected from impacts caused by flying stones or when crossing curbs. Such a protective cover makes it possible to have a vehicle with a flat floor. A flat floor improves the vehicle's aerodynamics and reduces the risk of foreign objects becoming entangled on the underside of the protective cover.Note that in the absence of a protective casing, the shape of tank 10 also ensures a relatively flat bottom and addresses aerodynamic issues.

[0049] Optionally, an electrochemical battery 103 extends forward of the tank 10 along the longitudinal axis X. The electrochemical battery 103 extends, in particular, between the two side members 21 and 22 and is optionally attached to the two side members. The electrochemical battery 103 includes a lower wall facing the ground. The vehicle may include a second protective housing (not shown) configured to protect the lower wall of the electrochemical battery.

[0050] 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. Moreover, the manufacturing processes for components made of materials Composites allow for the creation of structures with a wide variety of geometric shapes. More complex structural shapes than those obtained with metal can thus be considered in order to utilize all available vehicle volume and thereby increase tank capacity. More complex tank shapes may be particularly recommended when the tanks are intended to store a pressurized gas rather than a liquid because, unlike a liquid, gas does not present a risk of retention within the tank.

[0051] The composite material may comprise a draped or preformed structure, and / or braided and resin-impregnated materials. The composite material may be composed of reinforcing elements and a matrix. The reinforcing elements may include carbon or glass fibers, which are lightweight materials, or Kevlar (registered trademark), which offers 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 metallic matrix.

[0052] Figures 3, 4, 7, and 8 illustrate, in particular, the structure 16 of an embodiment of the tank 10. The tank has an overall rectangular parallelepiped shape. Preferably, the length along the longitudinal direction is greater than the width along the transverse direction, with the width being greater than the height along the vertical direction. The side walls of the tank are connected to each other by transverse shafts 11. The front and rear walls of the tank are connected to each other by longitudinal shafts 12. Optionally, the upper and lower walls of the tank are connected to each other by vertical shafts 13 (see, in particular, [Fig. 8]). The shafts, which may extend along the three axes X, Y, and Z, are perpendicular to each other so as to optimally stiffen the tank. The shafts pass completely through the tank between two opposing walls.The wells act as tie rods, reinforcing the tank's strength: they are subjected to tensile stress when the energy fluid inside the tank exerts pressure on the walls. The wells are located inside the tank's shell 10, not around its perimeter. Preferably, each well is separate from the others; that is, the wells are not in contact with each other and do not touch within the tank. Thus, the tank 10 is not compartmentalized, and the energy fluid can circulate freely within it. The wells are hollow. In particular, the reinforcement wells or connecting elements can be tubes and have a circular cross-section. However, the cross-section of the connecting elements is not necessarily circular. For example, the wells can have a square, rectangular, polygonal, ovoid, or preferably oval or even oblong cross-section.Preferably, the openings from the wells onto the envelope of structure 16 are rounded, chamfered, possibly with a . oblong or oval cross-section, while flared towards the flat or substantially flat walls. For example, the side walls 17 of the tank extending substantially vertically and longitudinally are slightly inclined, slightly rounded, or even slightly curved as illustrated in [Fig. 7] so as to best fit the longitudinal members and / or the side supports and / or other elements of the body. Where applicable, only the upper wall 14 and lower wall 15 are, for example, substantially flat.

[0053] As illustrated in [Fig. 2], preferably the body comprises one or more cross members 25 arranged between the left and right side members. Thus, the particularly rigid tank 10 contributes little, if at all, to the rigidity of the body 3 in the transverse direction. Indeed, the side members 21, 22, reinforced laterally by the cross members 24, 25, are sufficient to obtain a very robust body.

[0054] It should be noted that the body 3 comprises body sides 4, 5 extending substantially longitudinally at relatively long intervals along the transverse direction of the side members 21, 22. Indeed, preferably the side members 21, 22 are close together so as to obtain a particularly rigid body 3 at the floor level. Preferably, the body 3 is intended for a utility vehicle and is thus capable of supporting very heavy loads. The side members 21, 22, reinforced by the cross members 24, 25, are sufficient to support such loads and can also support, between themselves and / or below, the weight of the tank 10.

[0055] Figures 5 and 7 illustrate in more detail a well-type connecting element transverse 11, the other connecting elements (longitudinal wells 12 and vertical wells 13) being designed similarly. More precisely, as illustrated in [Fig. 6], each connecting element comprises a tubular shape with an external face 18 and an internal face 19. The external face 18 faces inward toward the interior of the tank and is therefore intended to be in contact with the energy fluid, while the internal face 19 communicates with the exterior of the tank and is therefore intended to be in contact with the ambient air. The connecting elements may be made of composite material or metal. They may also comprise both a composite material and metal. In particular, they may include a metal tube arranged inside a composite material structure. The internal face 19 may be made of a different material than that forming the tank structure 16.The inner face may be fitted with a metal tube extending along the entire length of the connecting element or only at the ends of the connecting elements. The metal tube may optionally be corrugated around its outer circumference to ensure a secure fit within the structure 16.

[0056] Each connecting element 11 comprises two opposite ends at the two opposite walls it connects. Due to the hollow nature of the connecting elements, The tank includes, for each connecting element, an opening that passes completely through the tank. These openings do not communicate with the energy fluid storage volume. Therefore, these openings are not used to deliver an energy fluid, particularly for delivering pressurized hydrogen to the fuel cell 101. However, the openings can be used for the passage of electrical wires and / or hydraulic lines. This saves the space outside the tank intended for these electrical wires and / or hydraulic lines while providing them with a means of securing and protecting them. The openings can also be used to allow the drainage of a liquid from the vehicle, or even to create vents for cooling or heating the passenger compartment. Optionally, the openings can be used to mount various vehicle equipment.

[0057] To manufacture the vehicle 1, a body 3 comprising the side members 21, 22 can first be made. The side supports 31, 32 are then fixed under the side members, preferably by means of the screw-nut systems 61, 62. If necessary, the cross member 23 is fixed between the side members 21, 22 and then the front support 33 onto the cross member 23, preferably by means of the screw-nut systems 63 illustrated in [Fig. 6]. If necessary, the cross member 24 is fixed between the side members 21, 22, possibly onto the side members or elsewhere on the body, and then the rear support 34 onto the cross member 24, preferably by means of the screw-nut systems 64 illustrated in [Fig. 4].

[0058] At the end of the chain, for example, i.e., during masked operation, a damping means 45, 55, for example made of rubber, is inserted or placed in each well 11, 12 retained in the reservoir for its attachment. The damping means may be partial or total, i.e., covering the entire length of the well in question. The transverse attachment means 40, 50, more precisely the cylindrical parts 41, 51, are then inserted into the wells 11, 12 retained and already fitted with the damping means 45, 55 (see Figures 5 and 6).

[0059] Next, under the vehicle, the tank is moved upwards to align the holes in the supports 31, 32 with the retained transverse wells 11 and / or to align the holes in the front and rear supports with the retained longitudinal well(s) 12 for fastening. For example, as illustrated in [Fig. 8], the tank is arranged so that three transverse wells 11 are traversed by the cylindrical portions 41 of transverse fastening means 40 and so that one longitudinal well 12 is traversed by the cylindrical portion of a longitudinal fastening means 50. In other words, the tank 10 is placed between the side members 21, 22, sandwiched between the supports 31, 32, more precisely between the second plates 313, 323 of the side supports, and, where applicable, between the front and rear plates 33, 34.

[0060] It is then simply a matter of screwing screws 42 into the threads 43 at each end 46 of the cylindrical parts 41 to ensure the clamping of the cylindrical parts 41 between the supports 31, 32, and where appropriate, screwing screws 52 into the threads 53 at the ends 56 of the cylindrical part 51 to ensure the clamping of the cylindrical part 51 between the supports 33, 34.

[0061] Thus, the tank 10 is secured by a simple upward vertical movement. If disassembly is necessary, it is sufficient to unscrew the screws 42 and 52 to remove the tank downwards, i.e., to lower it under the effect of gravity. Therefore, it is easy to remove a tank 10 only when access is available under the vehicle, for example, with the vehicle on a lift, or when the operator has access to a pit.

[0062] Finally, thanks to the invention, a vehicle equipped with a tank for an energy fluid offers the same space for passengers and / or cargo as a vehicle not equipped with such a large and complex-to-attach tank, particularly for van-type utility vehicles. The tank fits more closely to the chassis, especially the side members and cross members, as well as the spaces between them under the vehicle. Alternatively, this available volume can also be used to increase the size of the tank and thus offer a vehicle with greater range.

[0063] Most importantly, the tank can be mounted on a body not specifically designed to support a tank intended for storing hydrogen. For example, on a utility vehicle designed to carry very heavy loads, the frame rails are strong enough to perform their function under significant loads, while also supporting a tank weighing approximately 200 kg filled with hydrogen at 700 bar. Equipping a vehicle with a fuel cell requiring a hydrogen tank is therefore greatly simplified. For instance, it is sufficient to add holes and insert nuts (welded or crimped) to the frame rails 21, 22 and to manufacture suitable supports 31, 32, 33, 34, which are simple and inexpensive to produce.In addition, possibly holes must be made on a rear cross member 24, and possibly a reinforcement or front cross member 23 must be added, and holes made, possibly with added nuts to facilitate the subsequent mounting of the tank, on these elements 23, 24.

[0064] Preferably, three transverse wells 11 are planned to be used, the one between the other two preferably being at the center of gravity of the tank in the longitudinal direction. Preferably, a single longitudinal well 12 is sufficient, preferably a longitudinal well centered at the center of gravity of the tank in the transverse direction. More transverse wells and / or more longitudinal wells, or fewer transverse wells and / or fewer longitudinal wells may also be suitable. Furthermore, the number of fasteners 61, 62 between each The number of side supports and each longitudinal member can be three, or even fewer or more. Furthermore, the number of fixings 63, 64 between each front / rear support and each corresponding crossmember can be two, or even fewer or more.

[0065] The spacer or damping means 45, 55 provided between each well and the fastening means passing through it prevents friction from forming between the tank and the fastening means, thereby avoiding wear on the fastening means, particularly the cylindrical portion 41, 51, and / or wear on the tank due to abrasion caused by vibrations. Indeed, the natural frequency of a fastening means (for example, made of steel) is different from the natural frequency of the tank (made of composite materials), so friction can occur between the fastening means and the tank even though they are fixed to each other. For the same reason, the cylindrical portions 41, 51 come into contact with the adjacent supports and not with the tank, in order to avoid any friction that could cause wear and / or noise between the tank and the supports.

[0066] Optionally, part of the vehicle's load rests on the tank if the tank is in contact with a floor 6 of the body illustrated in [Fig. 7]. In this case, a protective element (not shown) is inserted between the floor 6 and the tank 10 to prevent any wear on the floor and / or the tank due to differences in natural modes during vibrations as seen above.

[0067] Thanks to the shape of the tank which closely follows the space between stringers and comes close to the floor which can be flat or substantially flat, the storage capacity of the tank is maximized.

[0068] Unlike cylinders, the tank adapts to the highly confined space under a vehicle and is easier to install and also to remove in the event of subsequent work on the vehicle. The proposed solution is simple to implement and inexpensive. Indeed, the supports 31, 32, 33, 34, and the optional additional crossmember 23 are easy to manufacture, preferably from inexpensive steel, and the modifications required to the frame rails are minimal (drilling and adding insert nuts). Unlike conventional hydrogen cylinders, there is no need for fittings or protection, as the tank itself is particularly robust. Thus, the number of parts is reduced, as is the risk of hydrogen leaks.

[0069] In summary, the polymorphic composite tank adapts to the vehicle's floor and side members. Since the tank is rigid, has very little deformation, and is fixed to the structure, the rigidity of the vehicle's structure is potentially increased. The vehicle's cargo floor 6 is thus simplified, for example, by using straight, flat sheet metal, since it extends at least partially over a rigid, flat tank. Optionally, the tank supports part of the vehicle's load by transferring the forces to its own fixings to the side members. As mentioned, only Some modifications to the vehicle's structure are necessary, namely drilling holes in the frame rails to align with the nuts welded to them, as the shape of the tank is adapted to the available space. The removable tank is secured by components that pass through the tank in both transverse and / or longitudinal directions, thus having no impact on the underside of the tank. This allows the vehicle to have a flat floor (either the tank itself or a protective cover conforming to its underside) extending beneath the vehicle, which is particularly beneficial for aerodynamic performance.

[0070] The tank can extend over part of the vehicle, particularly substantially at the rear, and a battery 103, for example, can extend in front where space remains available. Optionally, the battery or another vehicle component can be at least partially attached to the tank (not shown).

[0071] The solution makes it possible to easily integrate a tank with a large storage volume, in particular for high-pressure explosive and / or flammable gas, without penalizing the volume available for passengers and / or for loading objects, in particular for utility vehicles, and this in complete safety.

[0072] In summary, the additional high-pressure tank is secured by transverse tubes passing through the tank. The polymorphic composite tank adapts to the floor, floor reinforcement cross members, and vehicle side members. The tank has an almost rectangular cross-section between the longitudinal side members, the floor or cross members, and the ground clearance. The tank is mounted between the side members and as close as possible to the floor, and its geometry allows it to bypass the cross members. The tubes 41, 51 are strategically positioned to distribute the loads in the reinforcement wells 11, 12, which pass through the tank in both the width and length directions. In the illustrated embodiment, the vertically extending reinforcement wells 13 are not used for mounting the tank to the vehicle structure. Additionally, wells 13 could accommodate fastening means for securing the tank along its vertical axis.

[0073] As previously seen, the tank is secured by means of hollow or solid circular tubes 41, 51, passing through the tank 10 in the transverse and longitudinal directions. Screws 42, 52 passing through the thickness of the supports 31, 32, 33, 34 fixed to the longitudinal members 21, 22 and to the front and rear cross members 23, 24 cooperate with the threaded holes in these cylindrical parts 41, 51.

[0074] Assembly remains simple for the assembly plant and especially for after-sales service. The tank is thus secured in all directions: vertically to counteract gravity, and in other directions to absorb the vehicle's acceleration and deceleration, even those resulting from an accident. Indeed, it is preferable for the tank to remain fixed to the vehicle regardless of the type of impact. encountered. Thus, we take into account such possible efforts when dimensioning the fixings, in particular the supports 31, 32, 33, 34, the fixing screws on these supports, the stringers, the cross members, and the screws 42, 52 of the transverse and longitudinal fixing means.

[0075] Optionally, it is possible to reduce the structural part of the chassis in order to save vehicle mass by using the tank in a semi-structural way.

[0076] As mentioned, the shape of the tank adapts to the shape of the vehicle's structure, utilizing all available space and providing a flat underside since no mounting points protrude below. Optionally, part of the vehicle's load can rest on the tank. The tank, along with its mounting brackets, can stiffen the chassis, potentially reducing the amount of material on the chassis. Disassembly and reassembly are easy for the factory or aftermarket.

[0077] Alternatively, in an embodiment not shown, the tank can be fixed with at least two opposing comb-shaped parts extending in a transverse and longitudinal plane, fitting into the transverse wells in place of the cylindrical parts of the transverse fastening means. For example, rods of each lateral comb extend over half the length of the transverse wells.

[0078] The solution is particularly original in that the tank 10, which was conventionally supported by the casing, may also contribute to its rigidity. Furthermore, the solution contradicts the common belief that a tank should be heavily protected due to the flammable and / or explosive nature of the energy fluid it contains. According to this belief, the tank should not, under normal operating conditions, be subjected to any stress other than that exerted by the energy fluid it contains.

[0079] The invention is particularly suited to 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

Demands

1. Arrangement (2) for a vehicle (1) comprising: - a tank (10), in particular a tank for storing di-hydrogen, the tank (10) comprising a transverse well (11) passing through the tank (10) in the transverse or substantially transverse direction, - a left side member (21) and a right side member (22) for a body (3) of such a vehicle (1), - a left side support (31) fixed to the left side member (21) and a right side support (32) fixed to the right side member (22), characterized in that the arrangement (2) comprises a transverse fastening means (40) extending through the left side support (31), the transverse well (11) and the right side support (32) so as to sandwich the tank (10) between the left side support (31) and the right side support (32).

2. Arrangement (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the arrangement (2) comprises a rear support (34) for the tank (10) and a rear cross member (24), in particular a rear cross member (24) attached to the left side member (21) and the right side member (22), the rear support (34) being attached to the rear cross member (24).

3. Arrangement (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the tank (10) comprises a longitudinal well (12) passing through the tank (10) in the longitudinal or substantially longitudinal direction, the arrangement (2) comprising a longitudinal fastening means (50) extending through the rear support (34) and the longitudinal well (12) so as to fix the tank (10) with the rear support (34).

4. Arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the arrangement (2) comprises a front support (33) for the tank (10) and a front cross member (23), in particular a front cross member (23) attached to the left side member (21) and the right side member (22), the front support (33) being attached to the front cross member (23).

5. Arrangement (2) according to claims 3 and 4, characterized in that the tank (10) is sandwiched longitudinally between the front support (33) and the rear support (34) by means of the longitudinal fastening means (50) further passing through the front support (33).

6. Arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transverse fixing means (40) comprises a cylindrical part (41) including a thread (43) at each end (46) of the cylindrical part, in particular a hollow cylindrical part (41), and two screws (42) each comprising a head (44), each screw (42) cooperating with each thread (43) so that each head (44) comes into contact with each right and left lateral support (31, 32).

7. Arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the left side support (31) is fixed to the left side member (21) by a screw-nut system (61) and in that the right side support (32) is fixed to the right side member (22) by a screw-nut system (62).

8. Arrangement (2) according to any one of claims 1, 4, 5, 6 or 7 in combination with any one of claims 2 or 3, characterized in that the rear support (34) is fixed to the rear cross member (24) by a screw-nut system (64).

9. Arrangement (2) according to any one of claims 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 or 8 in combination with any one of claims 4 or 5, characterized in that the front support (33) is fixed to the front cross member (23) by a screw-nut system (63).

10. Arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the arrangement (2) comprises a damping means (45) extending between the transverse fixing means (40) and the transverse well (11).

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

12. Vehicle, in particular motor vehicle (1), characterized in that it comprises an arrangement (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, or a body (3) according to the preceding claim.

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