Layout for a vehicle comprising a first tank, a second tank, and a traction and / or propulsion battery arranged below the first tank.

Abstract

Layout for a vehicle comprising a first tank, a second tank, and a traction and / or propulsion battery arranged below the first tank.The invention relates to an arrangement (2) for a vehicle, in particular for a motor vehicle (1), comprising an electric motor (4) for traction and / or propulsion of the vehicle, a traction and / or propulsion battery (5) for powering the electric motor (4), an internal combustion engine (3), in particular for traction and / or propulsion of the vehicle, a first tank (10) for storing a first fuel for the internal combustion engine (3), in particular Liquefied Petroleum Gas, a second tank (6) for storing a second fuel for the internal combustion engine (3), in particular gasoline, a starting battery (20) for the internal combustion engine (3), the traction and / or propulsion battery (5) being arranged below the first tank (10) in the vertical direction. Figure for the abstract: Fig. 1.

Description

Title of the invention: Arrangement for a vehicle comprising a first tank, a second tank, and a traction and / or propulsion battery arranged below the first tank.

[0001] The invention relates to a vehicle arrangement comprising an electric motor for traction and / or propulsion of the vehicle, a traction and / or propulsion battery for powering the electric motor, an internal combustion engine, a first tank for storing a first fuel for the internal combustion engine, a second tank for storing a second fuel for the internal combustion engine, the traction and / or propulsion battery being arranged below the first tank in a vertical direction. The invention further relates to a body comprising such an arrangement. The invention further relates to a vehicle comprising such a body or such an arrangement.

[0002] A hybrid vehicle, in particular a hybrid motor vehicle, generally includes a heat engine or internal combustion engine for traction and / or propulsion. Such a vehicle then includes at least one fuel storage tank for fuel to be consumed by such a heat engine, for example, gasoline. Such a vehicle also includes at least one electric motor for traction and / or propulsion. Such a vehicle then generally includes a battery for storing electrical energy and powering such an electric motor.

[0003] If a device is installed to allow such a thermal engine to consume another fuel, for example Liquefied Petroleum Gas, another tank must be installed within such a vehicle.

[0004] Thus, such a vehicle must include a first tank for a first fuel, a second tank for a second fuel, and a traction and / or propulsion battery, which takes up a considerable amount of space in a low area and / or under the chassis of such a vehicle. Furthermore, such components are generally arranged at the rear of such a vehicle, particularly for safety reasons.

[0005] However, such a vehicle generally includes a rear trunk for storing and / or transporting luggage or other items. In the prior art, it is known to encroach on the trunk volume to accommodate at least part of the traction and / or propulsion battery, and / or at least part of one of the fuel tanks.

[0006] Thus, when a vehicle has a significant range thanks to two tanks allowing the supply of a combustion engine via two fuels, possibly supplemented by the range provided by a traction battery and / or Because it uses a propulsion system to power an electric motor, the vehicle has a very limited trunk capacity. Conversely, when a vehicle has a spacious trunk, it only has a single fuel tank, which reduces the vehicle's range.

[0007] The objective of the present invention is to overcome the above drawbacks, namely to have a substantial driving range while offering a large trunk volume. Furthermore, the invention makes it possible to house a starter battery for an internal combustion engine within a cavity formed in one of the fuel tanks intended for storing fuel for a combustion engine. Summary of the invention

[0008] To achieve this objective, the invention relates to an arrangement for a vehicle, in particular for a motor vehicle, comprising: - an electric motor for the traction and / or propulsion of such a vehicle, - a traction and / or propulsion battery to power the electric motor, - an internal combustion engine, particularly for the traction and / or propulsion of such a vehicle, - a first tank intended to store a first fuel for the internal combustion engine, in particular Liquefied Petroleum Gas, - a second tank intended to store a second fuel for the internal combustion engine, in particular gasoline, - a starting battery for the internal combustion engine, the traction and / or propulsion battery being arranged below the first tank in the vertical direction.

[0009] The first reservoir may have a toroidal or substantially toroidal shape and may have a vertical or substantially vertical axis.

[0010] The starter battery can be arranged within a cavity extending around the axis of the toroidal shape of the first reservoir.

[0011] The arrangement may include a receptacle for housing the starter battery, the receptacle being able to be arranged in the cavity.

[0012] The invention further relates to a body for a vehicle, in particular for a motor vehicle, comprising an arrangement as defined above, the body comprising a right rear longitudinal member and a left rear longitudinal member, the first tank being fixed to the right rear longitudinal member and the left rear longitudinal member, in particular by means of a right support and a left support fixed respectively to the right rear longitudinal member and the first tank and to the left rear longitudinal member and the first tank.

[0013] The body may include a cross member, in particular tubular, which can be fixed to the right and left side members, the traction and / or propulsion battery being able to be fixed under the cross member.

[0014] The cross member can be arranged, in the longitudinal direction, at the center of gravity of the first tank, in particular so that the cross member supports the weight of the starter battery.

[0015] The body may include a structure for a row of rear seats, the second tank being able to be arranged under the structure of the row of rear seats.

[0016] The body may include a rear floor behind the rear row of seats, in particular a rear floor at the level of a trunk, the first tank being able to be arranged under the rear floor.

[0017] The invention further relates to a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, comprising a body as defined above or an arrangement 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 an embodiment, a first variant and a second variant, given by way of non-limiting reference in relation to the accompanying figures, among which:

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

[0020] Figure [Fig. 2] is a partial perspective view of the vehicle according to the mode of realization of the invention.

[0021] Figure 3 is a partial cross-sectional view along a vertical and longitudinal plane of a arrangement according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0022] Figure 4 is a partial view from below of the arrangement according to the mode of realization of the invention.

[0023] Figure 5 is a partial exploded view of the arrangement according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0024] Figure 6 is a partial rear view of the arrangement according to the embodiment of the invention.

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

[0026] Figure 8 is a partial view from below of a first reservoir and means of fixing the first tank relative to longitudinal members according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0027] Fig. 9 is a detailed perspective view of the arrangement according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0028] The [Fig. 10] is a partial bottom view of an arrangement according to a first variant of the embodiment of the invention.

[0029] The [Fig. 11] is a partial bottom view of an arrangement according to a second variant of the embodiment of the invention. Detailed description

[0030] The direction in which a vehicle, particularly a motor vehicle, moves in a straight line is defined as the longitudinal direction X. By convention, the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, located in a plane parallel to the ground, is called the transverse direction Y. The third direction, perpendicular to the other two, is called the vertical direction Z. Thus, a right-handed coordinate system XYZ is used in which X is the longitudinal direction in the front-to-back direction of the vehicle, i.e., directed towards the rear, Y is the transverse direction directed to the right, and Z is the vertical direction directed upwards. The forward direction corresponds to the direction in which the vehicle usually moves in the longitudinal direction and is opposite to the backward direction.

[0031] As illustrated in [Fig. 1], a vehicle 1 is preferably a motor vehicle. The vehicle 1 is a hybrid vehicle, generally referred to as a HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) or a PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle). Thus, the vehicle 1 comprises at least one electric motor 4 for traction and / or propulsion. The vehicle 1 also comprises at least one battery 5 capable of storing and delivering electrical energy to at least one electric motor 4 to provide traction and / or propulsion. The hybrid vehicle 1 further comprises at least one internal combustion engine or heat engine 3. Preferably, at least one heat engine 3 is used for traction and / or propulsion. The vehicle 1 also comprises a battery 20 for starting at least one heat engine 3.For example, battery 20 has a voltage across its terminals of approximately 12 V. Battery 20 can also be used to power electrical and / or electronic devices or equipment installed within vehicle 1.

[0032] The vehicle 1 further includes a first tank 10 for storing a first fuel. The first fuel is preferably Liquefied Petroleum Gas or a similar fuel. The first fuel provides energy to the internal combustion engine 3.

[0033] The vehicle 1 also includes a second tank 6 for storing a second fuel. The second fuel is, for example, gasoline or a fuel similar. The second fuel can also power the internal combustion engine 3. Thus, the first fuel and the second fuel are suitable for powering the internal combustion engine(s) 3.

[0034] Alternatively, or in addition, at least one internal combustion engine 3 produces electrical energy to recharge the battery 5.

[0035] Vehicle 1 includes a body 8. Vehicle 1 or body 8 includes an arrangement 2.

[0036] More specifically, arrangement 2 includes the electric motor(s) 4 for traction and / or propulsion of the vehicle 1. Arrangement 2 further includes the traction and / or propulsion battery 5 to power the electric motor 4. Arrangement 2 further includes the internal combustion engine(s) 3, preferably for traction and / or propulsion of the vehicle 1. Arrangement 2 further includes the first tank 10 for storing the first fuel for the internal combustion engine 3. Arrangement 2 further includes the second tank 6 for storing the second fuel for the internal combustion engine 3. Arrangement 2 further includes the starting battery 20 for the internal combustion engine 3.

[0037] As illustrated in Figures 2, 3, 4, and 7, the traction and / or propulsion battery 5 is arranged below the first tank 10 in the vertical direction. As illustrated in [Fig. 4] in particular, preferably any point or substantially any point of the battery 5 is located below the first tank 10. Preferably, as illustrated in [Fig. 3], the battery 5 extends mainly under one half of the first tank 10 arranged towards the front of the first tank 10. In other words, a downward vertical projection of the center of gravity G10 of the tank 10 is arranged behind, or even just behind, the battery 5.

[0038] Preferably, the first reservoir 10 has a torus shape or is substantially torus-shaped with an axis of revolution A10. In other words, the first reservoir 10 is toroidal, or substantially toroidal. The first reservoir 10 then preferably has its axis A10 extending vertically or substantially vertically. Note that a section of the torus along a plane passing through the axis A10 of the torus is not necessarily circular. This section, as illustrated in Figures 3 and 7, may be square or rectangular, each corner of the square or rectangle then preferably being rounded.

[0039] In this case, the first reservoir 10 comprises a cavity, a hole, an orifice 11, that is to say, the torus shape of the reservoir 10 is such that a space exists between the axis of revolution A10 and the shell of the reservoir 10. Note that in [Fig. 8], the upward vertical projection of the largest section of the battery 5 is schematically illustrated by dashed lines in the shape of a rectangle. In this case, this projection battery 5 extends over a front half of cavity 11 and over a front part of the tank 10 in an overall torus shape.

[0040] In the preferred embodiment illustrated in Figures 2 to 9, the starter battery 20 is arranged within the cavity 11 extending around the axis A10 of the toroidal shape of the first reservoir 10. Advantageously, the arrangement 2 further comprises a receptacle, a box, a housing, a casing 21 for housing the starter battery 20. The receptacle 21 is housed, arranged, placed within the cavity 11. For example, as illustrated in [Fig. 7] (section along a vertical and transverse plane), the receptacle 21 protrudes a few centimeters at most below and / or above the cavity 11. Alternatively, the receptacle 21 does not protrude above or below the cavity 11, or only above, or only below. As illustrated in figures 2, 3 and 7, the starter battery 20 is preferably entirely housed in the receptacle 21.For example, arrangement 2 further includes a fuse box 22, and the fuse box is also housed within the receptacle 21, near the battery 20. For example, to facilitate access to the fuses, the fuse box 22 is arranged in the upper part of the receptacle 21. Preferably, the receptacle 21 is open at the top. In other words, the receptacle 21 is, for example, a hollow cylinder or substantially a hollow cylinder with a vertical axis, lacking an upper wall. Preferably, as illustrated in particular in Figures 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 9, arrangement 2 includes a cover 23, a cap, or a plug suitable for closing the receptacle 21, which houses at least the starter battery 20. The cover 23 thus allows the receptacle 21 to be closed, for example, in a watertight or substantially watertight manner. For example, lid 23 is circular and has essentially a disc shape.

[0041] Preferably, as illustrated in particular in Figures 3, 5, 7 and 9, the arrangement 2 or the body 8 or the vehicle 1 comprises a hood 12, a cover, and a shield extending over the first tank 10. The hood 12 has, for example, an overall quarter-torus shape, as illustrated in particular in [Fig. 5]. Preferably, the hood 12 is made of sheet metal, for example, sheet steel or aluminum alloy. Preferably, fastening means 24, for example screws, for example four of them spaced every 90 degrees, are provided, as illustrated in [Fig. 9]. The fastening means 24 allow the circular cover 23 to be fixed to, relative to, the hood 12, which has an overall quarter-torus shape. For example, threads are provided in the hood 12 so as to allow the screwing of screws 24. Alternatively, insert nuts are fixed to the hood 12, preferably under the hood 12, possibly by welding.Alternatively, the means 24 are sheet metal and / or self-tapping screws, so that only initial holes are required in the hood 12, or even that the means 24 are capable of drilling and tapping the wall of the hood 12 during their first insertion.

[0042] Preferably, as illustrated in particular in Figures 2, 4, 5 and 9, the arrangement 2 or the body 8 or the vehicle 1 comprises a partition 13. Preferably, the partition is a sheet of steel or aluminum alloy. Preferably, this partition 13 extends in a transverse and longitudinal plane. As illustrated in [Fig. 5], the partition 13 comprises a circular hole 14. The circular hole 14 preferably has a diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the torus portion of the hood 12. Indeed, preferably the partition 13 is fixed under the hood 12, preferably with the two halves centered with respect to each other, i.e., the center of the hole 14 is located on the axis of the torus portion constituting the hood 12.Thus, the hood 12 extends over the separation 13, possibly after application of a seal, for example of the type cord or strip of flexible material, possibly rubber, extending around the perimeter of the hole 14, between the hood 12 and the separation 13 so as to ensure a total seal between the hood 12 and the separation 13.

[0043] As illustrated in Figures 4, 5, 6, and 9, the body 8, vehicle 1, or arrangement 2 further comprises a right rear side member 80 and a left rear side member 81. Preferably, the partition 13 is arranged, preferably fixed, above the rear side members 80 and 81, as illustrated in particular in [Fig. 9]. Since the hood 12 is arranged above the partition wall 13, the side members 80 and 81 bear the weight of the partition 13 and the hood 12.

[0044] Furthermore, as illustrated in particular in [Fig. 6], the first tank 10 is fixed to the right rear side member 80 and the left rear side member 81. Preferably, the arrangement 2 or the body 8 comprises a right support 40 and a left support 41, illustrated in particular in Figures 4, 5, and 8. For example, each support 40, 41 is a tubular structure, for example, with a square or rectangular cross-section. Preferably, each support 40, 41 comprises, respectively, a first part 42, 43 extending longitudinally or substantially longitudinally, as illustrated in particular in [Fig. 8]. In addition, preferably, each support 40, 41 comprises, respectively, a first arm 44, 45, for example, bent, extending transversely or substantially transversely. Preferably, each support 40, 41 further comprises, respectively, a second arm 46, 47 extending transversely or substantially transversely.Each first arm 44, 45 extends, for example, from a rear end of the respective first part 42, 43 in a downward vertical direction, then in a transverse direction outwards from the vehicle 1 via a 90-degree or substantially 90-degree bend. Each second arm 46, 47 extends, for example, from a front end of the respective first part 42, 43 in a downward vertical direction, then in a transverse direction outwards from the vehicle 1 via a 90-degree or substantially 90-degree bend. Preferably, as illustrated in Figures 6, 8 and 9. The arrangement 2 or the body 8 includes bridges or interfaces 84 extending, for example in the vertical direction, between the first and second arms of each support 40, 41 and the corresponding rear side member. Preferably, two bridges 84 are fixed, for example by welding, under the right rear side member 80 and two bridges 84 are fixed, for example by welding, under the left rear side member 81. The bridges 84 then preferably include threaded holes or nuts inserted, for example within the bridges, which may be tubular. Thus, screws 48, illustrated in particular in figures 5 and 6, allow the supports 40, 41 to be fixed to the brackets 84, preferably under the brackets 84, and consequently to the respective rear longitudinal members 80, 81. Preferably, the arrangement 2 also includes brackets or fixing points 15. These brackets 15 are fixed to the tank 10, preferably at the level of the outer radius RE illustrated in [Fig.8].Preferably, each bridge 15 extends transversely or substantially transversely. Preferably, as illustrated in [Fig. 8], two bridges 15 are fixed to the first reservoir 10 and to the first part 42 of the right support 40. Preferably, two bridges 15 are fixed to the first reservoir 10 and to the first part 43 of the left support 41. Obviously, other mountings are possible between the bridges 15 and the supports 40, 41. Preferably, each bridge 15 is fixed to the first reservoir 10, for example, by bonding or overmolding, depending on the material of the first reservoir, particularly in the case of composite materials. Preferably, each bridge 15 includes a threaded hole or a nut, for example, within the bridge 15, particularly in the case of a tubular bridge 15.In this case, fastening means, for example screws 16, allow the first part of each support to be fixed to the respective bridges 15, and consequently each support 40, 41 to be fixed to the first reservoir 10 (see [Fig.6]).

[0045] Thus, by means of the brackets 15 fixed to the first tank 10, the brackets 84 fixed to the right and left rear longitudinal members 80, 81 and the supports 40, 41 extending between these brackets, the first tank 10 is fixed relative to the longitudinal members 80, 81, preferably under the longitudinal members.

[0046] The arrangement 2, or the body 8, or the vehicle 1, further comprises a cross member 30 extending transversely or substantially transversely, as illustrated in particular in Figures 4 to 7. Advantageously, the cross member 30 is tubular, or at least comprises a tubular portion, for example, of circular cross-section. For example, the cross member 30 comprises a central tubular portion 31, a right end 32, and a left end 33, as illustrated in Figures 4, 5, and 6. Optionally, as illustrated in [Fig. 4], the cross member 30 comprises two bends 34 such that the right end 32 is offset in the longitudinal direction, forward or backward, from the left end 33. For example, each end 32, 33 comprises a mounting plate, preferably welded. Each The mounting plate is not necessarily tubular. Holes, and / or notches, and / or threaded rods are provided in each mounting plate. Thus, the cross member 30 is fixed to the right side member 80 and the left side member 81, preferably via each mounting plate arranged at each end 32, 33. Fasteners such as screws / nuts, for example at least one screw passing through each mounting plate and screwing into a nut on the corresponding side member, are provided. Preferably, the cross member 30 is fixed so that it is arranged entirely or partially under each side member 80, 81. Optionally, each mounting plate at each end 32, 33 includes a clevis to facilitate the fixing of each cross member plate to the corresponding side member.

[0047] Preferably, as illustrated in [Fig.7], the traction and / or propulsion battery 5 is fixed, arranged, under the cross member 30. In this case, preferably, the battery 5 includes rear studs 50 for example overmolded or attached to the casing or housing of the battery 5, as illustrated in [Fig.5]. Such fixing points 50 are arranged at the rear of the battery 5. For example, screws or studs or threaded rods extend from the cross member 30 in the vertical direction and pass through respective holes provided in each point 50. It is then simply a matter of screwing nuts under these points 50, making them cooperate with such screws, studs or threaded rods to ensure rear fixing points for the battery 5. In the illustrated embodiment, two rear points 50 are provided, each receiving, for example, only one screw or stud or threaded rod.Alternatively, more lugs or a single lug are provided, possibly with several screws, studs, or threaded rods passing through each lug. Alternatively again, or in addition, screws pass through the rear lug(s) 50 of battery 5 and are screwed into nuts or threaded holes in the cross member 30. In any case, preferably, it is the cross member 30 that supports the rear of the traction and / or propulsion battery 5 of the vehicle. Preferably, as illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, battery 5 includes front lugs 51, for example, two of them. The body 8, or the vehicle 1, or the arrangement 2, also includes a cross member 88 illustrated in [Fig. 4]. The front studs 51, for example overmolded, attached to battery 5, or at least to its casing, also called "casing" in Anglo-Saxon terms, allow for attachment to the front of battery 5 relative to the cross member 88.Preferably, the front of the battery 5 is fixed under the crossmember 88, for example, by a screw passing through each front terminal 51 and engaging in a threaded hole or nut provided under or in the crossmember 88. Thus, the battery 5 is preferably fixed below the crossmember 88 and / or the screws are inserted, preferably vertically, from bottom to top. Preferably, the same applies to the rear terminals in order to fix the battery 5 from bottom to top, as will be explained later. If disassembly is required, it is then easy to remove and disassemble the battery by lowering it, once the front terminals 51 have been detached from the cross member 88 and the rear terminals 50 have been detached from the cross member 30. Thus, for example, battery 5 is fixed via four terminals 50, 51, two at the front of the battery relative to the cross member 88 and two at the rear of the battery relative to the cross member 30.

[0048] Advantageously, the cross member 30 is arranged, in the longitudinal direction, at the center of gravity of the first tank 10. As a reminder, the first tank 10 has a toroidal shape. Thanks to the toroidal shape which provides a cavity 11 for housing the starter battery 20, the cross member 30, extending under the reservoir 10, supports the weight of the starter battery 20. As illustrated in [Fig. 7], the receptacle 21 for the battery 20 is then arranged above the cross member 30, preferably just above, possibly in contact with, the cross member 30. Preferably, as illustrated in Figures 4, 5 and 6, the cross member 30 comprises two supports 35, 36 extending longitudinally above the central part 31 of the cross member 30. The support 35 preferably extends in a transverse and longitudinal plane, for example by mainly comprising a metal "flat".The support 36 is generally in the shape of an inverted Omega, with the head pointing downwards, such that each of the two legs of the Omega extends in a transverse and longitudinal plane. The support 35 preferably includes two holes for the passage of two screws to fix the receptacle 21. The support 36 preferably includes a hole in each leg of the Omega for the passage of two screws to fix the receptacle 21. Indeed, preferably, the receptacle 21, arranged within the cavity 11 of the reservoir 10, is placed, abutted, in contact, on the two supports 35, 36 so that the bottom 25 of the receptacle 21 extends in a transverse and longitudinal plane. In the case of a receptacle 21 made of plastic material, for example the screws pass through the supports 35, 36 and screw directly into the material or into holes provided for this purpose, or cooperate with added nuts or added threads.The screws fixing the tray 21 to the supports 35, 36 preferably extend vertically.

[0049] As illustrated in [Fig.1], the vehicle 1 includes a row of rear seats 7. The vehicle 1 or the body 8 includes a structure 87, a support, a load transfer for the row of rear seats 7. The second tank 6, preferably intended to contain gasoline, is arranged under the structure 87 of the row of rear seats 7.

[0050] As illustrated in [Fig. 3], the vehicle or body 8 includes a trunk 9. The vehicle 1 or body 8 includes a rear floor 82 arranged behind the rear row of seats 7. For example, the rear floor 82 is at the level of the trunk 9, extending to create the lower floor extending transversely and longitudinally from the trunk 9. The first tank 10 is then arranged under the rear floor 82. For As a reminder, the starting battery 20 for the internal combustion engine 3 is housed in the cavity of the toroidal tank 10, and the traction and / or propulsion battery 5 is arranged below the tank 10 and therefore below the battery 20. The second tank 6 extends in front of the battery 5, under the rear seats as seen previously. Preferably, the height H6, or ground clearance, under the second tank 6, intended for storing, for example, gasoline, is greater than the height H5, or ground clearance, under the battery 5, as illustrated in [Fig. 3].

[0051] As illustrated in [Fig. 10], according to a first embodiment, the starter battery 120 is arranged next to the second tank 106 for storing the second fuel. The battery 120 and the tank 106 are preferably arranged under a row of rear seats. Preferably, the battery 120 is at the same level, or substantially at the same level, in the vertical direction as the tank 106. In this case, the first tank 110, possibly generally torus-shaped, has no cavity or a small cavity. If a cavity is present in the first tank 110, it is, for example, used to store tools, for example a tow hook and / or an inflator, or provides free storage space. In this first embodiment, the tank 106 is, for example, not centered with respect to a vertical and longitudinal median plane of the vehicle coinciding with plane A illustrated in [Fig. 2]. In [Fig.

[10] , the 106 tank is further offset to the right and the 120 battery is placed on the left. Alternatively, the starter battery can be on the right and the tank can be on the left, or significantly to the left. In any case, the traction and / or propulsion battery 105 is arranged under the first 110 tank.

[0052] As illustrated in [Fig. 1 1], according to a second embodiment, the starter battery 220 is arranged next to the first tank 210 for storing the first fuel. Preferably, the battery 220 is at the same level, or substantially at the same level, in the vertical direction as the tank 210. In this case, the first tank 210 has, for example, a substantially parallelepiped shape and does not include a cavity. In this second embodiment, the tank 210 is, for example, not centered with respect to the vertical and longitudinal median plane of the vehicle. In [Fig. 1 1], the first tank 210 is further offset to the right, and the battery 220 is positioned to the left of the tank. Optionally, a protrusion 217 extends from one face of the first tank so as to increase the storage volume of the tank 210.Preferably, this protrusion 217 extends from a vertical and longitudinal face of the reservoir 210, for example behind the battery 220, where space is available. Note that the first reservoir 210 and its protrusion or extension are, for example, molded or injection-molded. Advantageously, the reservoir 210 and / or its protrusion 217 incorporate fibers. Alternatively, the starter battery may be on the right and the first... The tank may be on the left, or significantly to the left. In any case, the traction and / or propulsion battery 205 is arranged under the first tank 110. The second tank 206 is preferably arranged under a row of rear seats.

[0053] In summary, as illustrated mainly in [Fig.3] illustrating the preferred embodiment, the solution involves stacking the first tank 10, preferably intended for storing Liquefied Petroleum Gas, and the traction and / or propulsion battery 5. The battery 5 is then arranged at least partially under the tank 10. In addition, in the preferred embodiment, the battery 20 is judiciously arranged, centered, or substantially centered, within the cavity 11 from the first toroidal-shaped tank.

[0054] Similarly, in the first variant and the second variant illustrated respectively in figures 10 and 11, the traction and / or propulsion battery 105; 205 extends at least partially under the first tank 110; 210 intended to preferably store Liquefied Petroleum Gas.

[0055] Note that the solution is particularly suitable for vehicles with high ground clearances, for example greater than 200 mm. Preferably, as illustrated in [Fig. 3], the ground clearance H6 at the level of the second tank 6 is greater than the ground clearance H5 at the level of the battery 5. As a reminder, the second tank 6 is preferably intended for storing gasoline.

[0056] Thanks to the solution, a substantial trunk volume is maintained even though the vehicle 1 is a hybrid, being equipped with an internal combustion engine 3 fueled either by Liquefied Petroleum Gas stored in the first tank 10, or by gasoline stored in the second tank 6. In particular, the rear floor 82 is not raised vertically. For example, the storage volume of the first tank is at least 51 liters. Furthermore, the solution allows the use of a common, standard fuel tank 6, without requiring any modifications to it or its position under the chassis. The solution also allows the use of a standard battery 5, without requiring any modifications to the battery.

[0057] In other words, the solution makes it possible to add a Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) type energy source to a hybrid vehicle. This provides three energy sources available for the traction and / or propulsion of vehicle 1, namely LPG, gasoline, and electrical energy where applicable.

[0058] It should be noted that the H5 ground clearance rules at the level of battery 5 are respected to ensure its protection, in particular with regard to sidewalks.

[0059] As mentioned previously and illustrated in particular in [Fig. 6], the 12V battery is mounted in a box 21, notably because the assembly is located under the bodywork, i.e., outside the vehicle. Indeed, it is therefore necessary to protect The starter battery 20 is protected from potential water splashes. The cover 23 is preferably attached to the hood 12 above the reservoir 10 so as to seal, possibly watertight, the top of the box 21 housing the battery 20, as illustrated in [Fig. 9]. For example, screws 24, possibly four in number, secure the cover 23 to the hood 12, possibly with a gasket between the two. For example, the cover 23 is made of plastic, possibly reinforced. Preferably, the box 21 has at least one opening in its base 25 to allow passage for a drain hose connected to the battery 20, as will be seen later. The gap between the hose and the opening is preferably small to prevent water from splashing into the receptacle 21. Indeed, it is important to avoid splashing into the receptacle 21 which houses the battery.

[0060] As a reminder, particularly in order to comply with dimensional and / or clearance constraints, for example between battery 5 and tank 10 and / or between battery 20 and battery 5, the tank 10 is attached using brackets 15, preferably welded to the tank 10 and extending in the transverse direction. Furthermore, as previously mentioned, the right and left supports 40, 41 are attached to the brackets 15 on the one hand and to the respective side rails 80, 81 on the other. As a reminder, as illustrated in [Fig. 8], each support 40, 41 comprises respectively a first arm 44, 45 and a second arm 46, 47 extending transversely from respective first sections 42, 43. Preferably, the supports 40, 41 have a square or rectangular cross-section, particularly to allow their attachment to the brackets 84, for example, welded to the rear side rails.The supports 40, 41 are, for example, fixed using screws extending in the vertical direction, preferably inserted from below.

[0061] For example, the capacity of the two tanks 6, 10 provides an operating range of the internal combustion engine of more than 1300 km on the motorway.

[0062] The placement of the 12V battery in the "centre" of the toroidal shape of the tank 10 makes it possible not to impact, encroach on the trunk volume.

[0063] For example, the inner radius RI of the toroidal shape of the tank 10 is approximately 205 mm to allow for the installation of the battery 20. The outer radius RE is then, for example, approximately 380 mm. The height or thickness along the vertical direction is, for example, approximately 220 mm. The external volume is then, for example, approximately 65 liters, while the usable or internal storage volume of the tank 10 is approximately 52 liters.

[0064] The solution is based on stacking along the vertical axis Z of the Hybrid Electric Vehicle type battery 5 and the LPG tank 10, the battery 20 being preferably installed in the center of the toroidal tank 10.

[0065] In terms of assembly, preferably, the assembly is pre-mounted on a plate with prior preparation for each component. For example, the assembly first involves assembling the battery 5 with the crossmember 30, preferably on a preparation table, advantageously via the rear mounting points 50 of the battery 5 shown in [Fig. 7], and / or assembling the tank 10 with the brackets 40, 41, preferably again on a preparation table, advantageously via the brackets 15 shown in [Fig. 8]. Next, the battery 5 and crossmember 30 assembly and the tank 10 and brackets 40, 41 assembly are mounted on a dedicated plate, preferably. It is then easy to raise these two assemblies to the rear floor, for example, to the partition 13, before carrying out all the screwing operations.

[0066] The tank 10 is secured via supports 40, 41 under the side members 80, 81. Threaded holes or threaded or welded nuts are provided on the rear side members, or brackets 84 are arranged under the rear side members and are equipped with threaded holes or nuts as illustrated in [Fig. 9]. Thus, the tank 10 is secured under the rear side members by means of screws 48 passing through the supports 40, 41 as illustrated in [Fig. 6].

[0067] The battery 5 is secured by screwing it into two front mounting points 51, as shown in [Fig. 4]. These mounting points 51 extend, for example, from a casing or housing of the battery 5. Preferably, screws pass vertically through the front mounting points 51 from below and engage with nuts welded to the body or chassis 8, or with added nuts, or with threaded holes in extensions provided from the body 8. Such extensions are, for example, provided at the level of the side rail 88, or even extend from this rail 88 (see [Fig. 4]). Note that the ends 32, 33 of the cross member 30 are also secured to the body 8, preferably by screwing, for example, under the rear side members 80, 81, as shown in [Fig. 4]. Threaded holes or nuts, either added or welded, are then provided on the rear side members.Thus, the battery 5 is fixed under the case 8 via four fixing points in the illustrated embodiment, preferably via four screws in total inserted from below in order to facilitate ergonomics during assembly and in case of possible removal of the battery for maintenance or replacement.

[0068] Next, the rear floor cover or lid 12 is fixed, preferably by screwing, from the trunk 9 onto the partition 13. As a reminder, this partition 13 is, for example, made of sheet metal.

[0069] The receptacle 21 is then attached to the vehicle's trunk 9. More specifically, the receptacle 21 is placed on the supports 35, 36 of the crossmember 30 after being inserted through the central hole in the hood 12 and positioned within the cavity 11 of the tank 10. Preferably, each support 35, 36 is threaded or includes an attached or welded nut, so that screws can be screwed vertically downwards from the trunk to sandwich the bottom 25 of the receptacle 21 between the screw heads and the supports 35, 36. The tray 21, which holds the battery 20, is thus fixed to each support 35, 36 of the cross member 30. Preferably, as illustrated in [Fig. 6], a metal plate 26 is interposed between at least one screw head (at least one screw extending vertically and inserted from above - not shown) and the bottom 25 of the tray 21 so that the plate 26 sandwiches the bottom 25 with the support 35 beneath the tray 21. Similarly, another metal plate 26 (or the same one) is interposed between at least one screw head and the bottom 25 to sandwich the bottom 25 of the tray 21 with the support 36 beneath the tray 21. Preferably, each metal plate 26 is pierced by two screws screwing into each support 35; 36 so as to rigidly hold the tray 21 onto the crossbar 30 via four screws.For example, each plate 26 is rectangular, of the flat metal type, and extends longitudinally. This method of fixing the receptacle 21 is particularly suitable in the case of a receptacle made of plastic and / or composite material so as to have substantial contact surfaces, in particular to avoid cracks and / or tears in the material, especially in the case of a thin tray 21.

[0070] Next, the battery 20 is fixed in its receptacle 21, again from the trunk 9, preferably by interposing a flange or spacer and by screwing at least one screw, for example through this flange, into the central part 31 of the cross member or at least one of the supports 35, 36 of the cross member 30. If a fuse box 22 is housed in the receptacle 21, this box 22 is preferably fixed to a vertical wall of the receptacle 21.

[0071] Next, the cover 23 is fixed above the receptacle 21, preferably via screws 24 screwed into the cover 12 as illustrated in [Fig.9].

[0072] The arrangement of the battery 5 under the first tank 10 allows a substantial storage volume of the tank 10 without impacting the volume of the trunk 9 and facilitates the assembly process.

[0073] It should be noted that the dimensions of the tank 10 have been adapted, particularly with regard to its outer and inner radii and its height in the vertical direction, so as to allow the battery 20 to be housed in its cavity 11 while offering a usable volume greater than or equal to 51 liters. Indeed, the objective is also to optimize and improve the vehicle's driving range using the fuel from the tank 10. In particular, the cross-section of the tank 10 along a plane including the axis A10 is essentially a rectangle or a square, which increases the usable volume compared to a circular cross-section having the same inner radius RI and the same outer radius RE (see [Fig. 8]).

[0074] Note that the method of fixing the tank 10 using four brackets 15 extending transversely from the tank 10 (possibly welded) and being fixed with the two supports 40, 41, themselves fixed in the vertical direction under the rear longitudinal members 80, 81 via four brackets 84 (see [Fig.6]) makes it possible to optimize the overall dimensions while satisfying the installation rules, maintaining a large trunk, and offering a substantial autonomy resulting from the fuel storage of the tank 10.

[0075] It should be noted that the receptacle 21 has a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical shape, although the battery 20 has a parallelepiped or even cubic shape. The cylindrical shape with a vertical axis, preferably centered on the axis of revolution of the toroidal shape of the reservoir 10, eliminates sharp edges, particularly external ones, and facilitates the assembly of the 12 V battery in the center of the reservoir 10.

[0076] As previously mentioned, the floor area includes the flat plate or partition 13 with a hole 14 of a diameter allowing partial passage of the tank 10 during its upward movement during assembly. The floor area also includes the cover or hood 12, preferably obtained by stamping, in the shape of a portion of a torus, to ensure a seal against any potential gas leaks from the tank 10 from the outside to the inside of the passenger compartment. These two parts meet the requirements in terms of packaging, assembly, bodywork, and safety. Indeed, a seal is provided between the partition 13 and the hood 12 (for example, via a rubber strip) and between the receptacle 21 and the hood 12, in particular via the cover 23, which is preferably sealed onto the hood 12. Thus, the tank 10 and the battery 20 are located outside the vehicle.Preferably, the bottom 25 of the receptacle 21 is drilled to allow the introduction of a conduit or hose for draining the battery acids 20 through the tray 21. In this case, for example, the hollow or cavity extending between the head of the Omega and the legs of the support 36 provides a passage for this acid drain conduit, allowing it to be guided without pinching or obstructing it.

[0077] In summary, the solution provides three energy sources for the traction and / or propulsion of the vehicle 1, namely electrical energy stored in the battery 5 and usable by at least the electric motor 4, fuel stored in the first tank 10, preferably Liquefied Petroleum Gas, and fuel stored in the second tank 6, preferably gasoline, both of which can be used in at least one internal combustion engine 3. This results in improved range for the vehicle 1, especially since the tank 10 preferably has a large capacity. The solution does not reduce the capacity of the trunk 9 because the energy storage elements extend under the trunk floor without encroaching on it. Securing the tank 10 via the lateral supports and the transversely extending brackets improves the Impact behavior, particularly in the event of an impact from the rear of the vehicle. Securing the fuel tank 10 under the rear side members 80, 81 reduces the load on the rear floor, which is then freed from the burden of supporting the tank. This frees the rear floor to bear other loads, particularly those related to cargo in the vehicle's trunk 9.

[0078] Thus, vehicle 1 includes a rear trunk 9 with a large storage capacity, although vehicle 1 has a long driving range, particularly during driving phases using the internal combustion engine, thanks to the two fuel tanks 6 and 10. The specific placement of the starter battery in the middle of the first tank 10 contributes to optimizing the space under the body.

[0079] In addition, the solution allows the bulky and / or heavy fuel tanks and traction and / or propulsion battery to be arranged in the lower area of ​​the vehicle, which lowers the overall center of gravity of the vehicle and improves road handling.

[0080] As a note, the solution therefore achieves the desired objective of offering a spacious trunk while having a very high autonomy and can therefore be adapted to other land vehicles such as buses, coaches, or heavy goods vehicles for example.

Claims

Demands

1. Vehicle arrangement (2), in particular for a motor vehicle (1), comprising: - an electric motor (4) for the traction and / or propulsion of such a vehicle, - a traction and / or propulsion battery (5) for supplying the electric motor (4), - an internal combustion engine (3), in particular for the traction and / or propulsion of such a vehicle, - a first tank (10) for storing a first fuel for the internal combustion engine (3), in particular Liquefied Petroleum Gas, - a second tank (6) for storing a second fuel for the internal combustion engine (3), in particular gasoline, - a starting battery (20) for the internal combustion engine (3), the traction and / or propulsion battery (5) being arranged below the first tank (10) in the vertical direction.

2. Arrangement (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the first reservoir (10) has a toroidal or substantially toroidal shape having a vertical or substantially vertical axis (A 10).

3. Arrangement (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the starter battery (20) is arranged within a cavity (11) extending around the axis (A10) of the toroidal shape of the first reservoir (10).

4. Arrangement (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the arrangement (2) comprises a receptacle (21) for housing the starter battery (20), the receptacle being arranged in the cavity (H).

5. Body (8) for vehicle, in particular for motor vehicle, comprising an arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the body (8) comprises a right rear side member (80) and a left rear side member (81), the first tank (10) being fixed to the right rear side member (80) and the left rear side member (81), in particular by means of a right support (40) and a left support (41) fixed respectively to the right rear side member (80) and the first tank (10) and to the left rear side member (81) and the first tank (10).

6. Body (8) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the body (8) comprises a cross member (30), in particular tubular, fixed to the right side member (80) and to the left side member (81), the traction and / or propulsion battery (5) being fixed under the cross member (30).

7. Casing (8) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the cross member (30) is arranged, in the longitudinal direction, at the center of gravity of the first tank (10), in particular so that the cross member (30) supports the weight of the starter battery (20).

8. Body (8) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the body (8) comprises a structure (87) for a row of rear seats (7), the second tank (6) being arranged under the structure (87) of the row of rear seats (7).

9. Body (8) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the body (8) comprises a rear floor (82) behind the rear row of seats (7), in particular a rear floor (82) at the level of a trunk (9), the first tank (10) being arranged under the rear floor (82).

10. Vehicle (1), in particular motor vehicle, characterized in that the vehicle (1) comprises a body (8) according to any one of claims 5 to 9 or an arrangement (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

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