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

Abstract

The invention relates to an arrangement (2) for a vehicle, in particular for a motor vehicle (1), the arrangement comprising an electric motor (4) for driving and / or propelling the vehicle, a traction and / or propulsion battery (5) for supplying the electric motor (4) with power, an internal combustion engine (3), in particular for driving and / or propelling the vehicle, a first tank (10) intended to store a first fuel for the internal combustion engine (3), in particular liquefied petroleum gas, a second tank (6) intended to store a second fuel for the internal combustion engine (3), in particular petrol, a starter battery (20) for starting the internal combustion engine (3), the traction and / or propulsion battery (5) being arranged vertically below the first tank (10).

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] TITLE: Layout for a vehicle comprising a first tank, a second tank, and a traction and / or propulsion battery arranged below the first tank.

[0003] The invention relates to a vehicle arrangement comprising an electric motor for traction and / or propulsion, 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, and the traction and / or propulsion battery arranged below the first tank in a vertical direction. The invention further relates to a body comprising such an arrangement. The invention also relates to a vehicle comprising such a body or such an arrangement.

[0004] A hybrid vehicle, particularly a hybrid car, typically includes a combustion engine for traction and / or propulsion. Such a vehicle includes at least one fuel storage tank for the combustion engine, for example, gasoline. It also includes at least one electric motor for traction and / or propulsion. This vehicle typically includes a battery to store electrical energy and power the electric motor.

[0005] If a device is installed to allow such an internal combustion engine to run on a different fuel, such as Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), another tank must be installed within the vehicle. Therefore, such a vehicle must include a first tank for one fuel, a second tank for a second fuel, and a traction and / or propulsion battery, which takes up considerable space in a low area and / or under the vehicle's chassis. Furthermore, these components are generally located at the rear of the vehicle, primarily for safety reasons.

[0006] However, such a vehicle typically 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's volume to accommodate at least part of the traction and / or propulsion battery, and / or at least part of one of the fuel tanks.

[0007] Thus, when a vehicle boasts a significant driving range thanks to two fuel tanks powering a combustion engine with two different fuels, possibly supplemented by a traction and / or propulsion battery powering an electric motor, the vehicle's trunk capacity is very limited. Conversely, when a vehicle has a spacious trunk, it contains only one fuel tank, which reduces the vehicle's driving range.

[0008] The objective of the present invention is to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, namely to achieve significant autonomy while offering a large trunk volume. Furthermore, the invention allows for the housing of 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.

[0009] Summary of the invention

[0010] 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,

[0011] - a traction and / or propulsion battery to power the electric motor,

[0012] - an internal combustion engine, particularly for the traction and / or propulsion of such a vehicle,

[0013] - a first tank intended to store a first fuel for the internal combustion engine, in particular Liquefied Petroleum Gas,

[0014] - a second tank intended to store a second fuel for the internal combustion engine, in particular gasoline,

[0015] - a starting battery for the internal combustion engine, the traction and / or propulsion battery being arranged below the first tank in the vertical direction.

[0016] The first reservoir may have a toroidal or substantially toroidal shape and may have a vertical or substantially vertical axis.

[0017] The starter battery can be arranged within a cavity extending around the axis of the toroidal shape of the first tank.

[0018] The arrangement may include a receptacle to house the starter battery, the receptacle being able to be arranged in the cavity.

[0019] 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 side member and a left rear side member, the first tank being attached to the right and left rear side members, in particular by means of a right and a left support fixed respectively to the right rear side member and the first tank and to the left rear side member and the first tank. The body may include a crossmember, in particular tubular, which can be attached to the right and left side members, the traction and / or propulsion battery being able to be fixed under the crossmember.

[0020] The cross member can be arranged, according to the longitudinal direction, at the level of the center of gravity of the first tank, in particular so that the cross member supports the weight of the starter battery.

[0021] The body can include a structure for a row of rear seats, with the second tank being able to be arranged under the structure of the rear row of seats.

[0022] The body may include a rear floor behind the rear row of seats, including a rear floor at the level of a trunk, with the first tank being arranged under the rear floor.

[0023] The invention also relates to a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, comprising a body as defined above or an arrangement as defined above.

[0024] Presentation of the figures

[0025] 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 example, in relation to the accompanying figures, among which:

[0026] Figure 1 is a schematic view of a vehicle according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0027] Figure 2 is a partial perspective view of the vehicle according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0028] Figure 3 is a partial cross-sectional view along a vertical and longitudinal plane of an arrangement according to the embodiment of the invention. Figure 4 is a partial view from below of the arrangement according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0029] Figure 5 is a partial exploded view of the arrangement according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0030] Figure 6 is a partial rear view of the arrangement according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0031] Figure 7 is a partial cross-sectional view along a vertical and transverse plane of the arrangement according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0032] Figure 8 is a partial view from below of a first tank and means of fixing the first tank relative to stringers according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0033] Figure 9 is a detailed perspective view of the arrangement according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0034] Figure 10 is a partial bottom view of an arrangement according to a first variant of the embodiment of the invention.

[0035] Figure 11 is a partial bottom view of an arrangement according to a second variant of the embodiment of the invention.

[0036] Detailed description

[0037] 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, lying 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, we use a right-handed coordinate system XYZ in which X is the longitudinal direction in the front-to-back direction of the vehicle, i.e., directed backward, Y is the transverse direction directed to the right, and Z is the vertical direction directed upward. The forward direction corresponds to the direction in which the vehicle usually moves in the longitudinal direction and is opposite to the backward direction. As illustrated in Figure 1, a vehicle 1 is preferably a motor vehicle.Vehicle 1 is a hybrid vehicle, generally referred to as a HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) or a PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle). Vehicle 1 includes at least one electric motor 4 for traction and / or propulsion. Vehicle 1 also includes at least one battery 5 capable of storing and delivering electrical energy to at least one electric motor 4 for traction and / or propulsion. Hybrid vehicle 1 further includes at least one internal combustion engine 3. Preferably, at least one internal combustion engine 3 is used for traction and / or propulsion. Vehicle 1 also includes a battery 20 for starting at least one internal combustion engine 3. For example, the battery 20 has a voltage of approximately 12 V across its terminals.Battery 20 can also be used to power electrical and / or electronic devices or equipment arranged within vehicle 1.

[0038] Vehicle 1 also 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.

[0039] Vehicle 1 also includes a second tank 6 for storing a second fuel. The second fuel is, for example, gasoline or a similar fuel. The second fuel can also power the internal combustion engine 3. Thus, both the first and second fuels are suitable for powering the internal combustion engine(s) 3.

[0040] Alternatively, or in addition, at least one internal combustion engine 3 produces electrical energy to recharge the battery 5. The vehicle 1 includes a body 8. The vehicle 1 or the body 8 includes an arrangement 2.

[0041] More specifically, arrangement 2 includes the electric motor(s) 4 for traction and / or propulsion of vehicle 1. Arrangement 2 also includes the traction and / or propulsion battery 5 to power the electric motor 4. Arrangement 2 also includes the internal combustion engine(s) 3, preferably for traction and / or propulsion of vehicle 1. Arrangement 2 also includes the first tank 10 for storing the first fuel for the internal combustion engine 3. Arrangement 2 also includes the second tank 6 for storing the second fuel for the internal combustion engine 3. Arrangement 2 also includes the starting battery 20 for the internal combustion engine 3.

[0042] 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 Figure 4 in particular, preferably, every point or substantially every point of the battery 5 lies below the first tank 10. Preferably, as illustrated in Figure 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.

[0043] 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 cross-section of the torus along a plane passing through the axis A10 of the torus is not necessarily circular. This cross-section, as illustrated in Figures 3 and 7, can be square or rectangular, with each corner of the square or rectangle preferably rounded.

[0044] In this case, the first reservoir 10 comprises a cavity, a hole, an orifice 11; that is, 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 Figure 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 of the battery 5 extends over a front half of the cavity 11 and over a front portion of the overall torus-shaped reservoir 10.

[0045] 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 includes a receptacle 21 for housing the starter battery 20. The receptacle 21 is housed, arranged, placed within the cavity 11. For example, as illustrated in Figure 7 (cross-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 also 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.

[0046] Preferably, as illustrated in particular in Figures 3, 5, 7, and 9, the arrangement 2, 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 Figure 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 Figure 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 needed 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.

[0047] Preferably, as illustrated in particular in Figures 2, 4, 5, and 9, the arrangement 2, 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 Figure 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 parts centered with respect to each other, that is, 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.

[0048] As illustrated in Figures 4, 5, 6 and 9, the body 8 or the vehicle 1 or the 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, 81 as illustrated in particular in Figure 9. Since the hood 12 is arranged above the partition wall 13 preferably, the side members 80, 81 bear the weights of the partition 13 and the hood 12.

[0049] Furthermore, as illustrated in particular in Figure 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 Figure 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, and 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, and 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 a vertical direction, between the first and second arms of each support 40, 41 and the corresponding rear side member.Preferably, two brackets 84 are fixed, for example by welding, under the right rear side member 80, and two brackets 84 are fixed, for example by welding, under the left rear side member 81. The brackets 84 then preferably include threaded holes or nuts, for example within the brackets, 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 side 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 outer radius RE illustrated in Figure 8. Preferably, each bracket 15 extends transversely or substantially transversely. Preferably, as illustrated in figure 8, two bridges 15 are fixed to the first reservoir 10 and to the first part 42 of the right support 40.Preferably, two brackets 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 brackets 15 and the supports 40, 41. Preferably, each bracket 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 bracket 15 includes a threaded hole or a nut, for example, within the bracket 15, especially in the case of a tubular bracket 15. In this case, fastening means, for example, screws 16, allow the first part of each support to be fixed to the respective brackets 15, and consequently each support 40, 41 to be fixed to the first reservoir 10 (see Figure 6).

[0050] 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 in relation to the longitudinal members 80, 81, preferably under the longitudinal members.

[0051] The arrangement 2, or the body 8, or the vehicle 1, further includes 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 includes a tubular portion, for example, of circular cross-section. For example, the cross member 30 includes 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 Figure 4, the cross member 30 includes 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 includes a mounting plate, preferably welded. Each mounting plate need not be 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. Fastening methods such as screws and nuts are provided, for example, at least one screw passing through each mounting plate and screwing into a nut attached to the corresponding side member. 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.

[0052] Preferably, as illustrated in Figure 7, the traction and / or propulsion battery 5 is fixed and arranged under the cross member 30. In this case, preferably, the battery 5 includes rear mounting points 50, for example, overmolded or attached to the battery casing or housing, as illustrated in Figure 5. Such mounting points 50 are arranged at the rear of the battery 5. For example, screws, studs, or threaded rods extend vertically from the cross member 30 and pass through respective holes provided in each mounting point 50. Nuts are then screwed under these mounting points 50, making them cooperate with such screws, studs, or threaded rods to provide rear attachment points for the battery 5. In the illustrated embodiment, two rear mounting points 50 are provided, each receiving, for example, only one screw, stud, or threaded rod.Alternatively, more terminals or a single terminal may be provided, possibly with several screws, studs, or threaded rods passing through each terminal. Alternatively, or in addition, screws may pass through the rear terminal(s) 50 of battery 5 and be screwed into nuts or threaded holes in the crossmember 30. In any case, preferably, the crossmember 30 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 terminals 51, for example, two of them. The crate 8, or vehicle 1, or arrangement 2, still includes a cross member 88 illustrated in figure 4. The front studs 51, for example overmolded, attached to the battery 5, or at least to its casing, also called "casing" in Anglo-Saxon terms, allow for attachment to the front of the battery 5 relative to the cross member 88.Preferably, the front of battery 5 is secured under crossmember 88, for example, by a screw passing through each front terminal 51 and engaging in a threaded hole or inserting a nut provided under or within crossmember 88. Thus, battery 5 is preferably secured under 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 secure 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.

[0053] 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 Figure 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 secure the receptacle 21. The support 36 preferably includes a hole in each leg of the Omega for the passage of two screws to secure 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.

[0054] As illustrated in Figure 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.

[0055] As illustrated in Figure 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. 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 under the tank 10 and therefore under 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 Figure 3.

[0056] As illustrated in Figure 10, according to a first embodiment, the starter battery 120 is arranged next to the second tank 106, which is used to store 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 the first tank 110 has a cavity, it is used, for example, to store tools, such as 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, as illustrated in Figure 2.In Figure 10, the tank 106 is positioned further to the right and the battery 120 is located to the left. Alternatively, the starter battery could be on the right and the tank on the left, or significantly so. In any case, the traction and / or propulsion battery 105 is arranged below the first tank 110.

[0057] As illustrated in Figure 11, according to a second embodiment, the starter battery 220 is arranged next to the first tank 210, which is used to store 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, for example, has 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 Figure 11, 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 extension 217 extends from a vertical and longitudinal face of the tank 210, for example, behind the battery 220, where space is available. It should be noted that the first tank 210 and its extension are, for example, molded or injection-molded. Advantageously, the tank 210 and / or its extension 217 incorporate fibers. Alternatively, the starter battery can be on the right and the first tank can be on the left, or substantially 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.

[0058] In summary, as illustrated mainly in Figure 3 showing 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 coming from the first toroidal-shaped tank.

[0059] 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.

[0060] Note that this solution is particularly well-suited for vehicles with high ground clearance, for example, greater than 200 mm. Preferably, as illustrated in Figure 3, the ground clearance H6 at the second tank 6 is greater than the ground clearance H5 at the battery 5. As a reminder, the second tank 6 is preferably intended for storing gasoline.

[0061] Thanks to this solution, a substantial trunk volume is maintained even though the vehicle 1 is a hybrid, equipped with an internal combustion engine 3 powered either by Liquefied Petroleum Gas stored in the first tank 10 or by gasoline stored in the second tank 6. Notably, 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 for 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 itself.

[0062] In other words, the solution allows adding a Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) energy source, for example, to a hybrid vehicle. This provides three energy sources available for the vehicle's traction and / or propulsion: LPG, gasoline, and, where applicable, electricity.

[0063] It should be noted that the H5 ground clearance rules at the level of battery 5 are respected to ensure its protection, particularly with regard to sidewalks.

[0064] As mentioned previously and illustrated in Figure 6, the 12V battery is mounted in a box 21, particularly because the assembly is located under the bodywork, i.e., outside the vehicle. It is therefore necessary to protect the starter battery 20, especially from potential water splashes. The cover 23 is preferably attached to the hood 12 above the tank 10 so as to seal, possibly watertight, the top of the box 21 housing the battery 20, as illustrated in Figure 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 includes 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, splashing into the receptacle 21, which houses the battery, must be avoided.

[0065] As a reminder, particularly 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 secured using brackets 15, preferably welded to the tank 10 and extending transversely. Furthermore, as previously mentioned, the right and left supports 40, 41 are attached to the brackets 15 on one side and to the respective side rails 80, 81 on the other. As illustrated in Figure 8, each support 40, 41 comprises a first arm 44, 45 and a second arm 46, 47 respectively, extending transversely from their 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 via screws extending in the vertical direction, preferably by inserting from below.

[0066] For example, the capacity of the two tanks 6, 10 provides an internal combustion engine operating range of over 1300 km on the motorway.

[0067] The placement of the 12V battery in the "center" of the toroidal shape of tank 10 allows it not to impact or encroach on the trunk volume.

[0068] For example, the inner radius RI of the toroidal shape of tank 10 is approximately 205 mm to accommodate 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 tank 10 is approximately 52 liters. The solution is based on stacking the Hybrid Electric Vehicle type battery 5 and the LPG tank 10 along the vertical axis Z, with battery 20 preferably installed in the center of the toroidal-shaped tank 10.

[0069] In terms of assembly, preferably the entire unit is pre-mounted on a base plate with each component prepared beforehand. For example, the assembly first involves attaching the battery 5 to the crossmember 30, preferably on a preparation table, advantageously using the rear mounting points 50 of battery 5 shown in Figure 7, and / or attaching the tank 10 to the brackets 40 and 41, again preferably on a preparation table, advantageously using the mounting brackets 15 shown in Figure 8. Next, the battery 5 and crossmember 30 assembly, and the tank 10 and brackets 40 and 41 assembly, are mounted on a dedicated base plate, preferably. It is then easy to lift these two assemblies to the rear floor, for example, to the partition 13, before carrying out all the screwing operations.

[0070] The tank 10 is secured via supports 40, 41 under the side members 80, 81. Threaded holes or nuts, either inserted or welded, 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 Figure 9. Thus, the tank 10 is secured under the rear side members via screws 48 passing through the supports 40, 41 as illustrated in Figure 6.

[0071] The battery 5 is secured by screwing it into two front mounting points 51, as shown in Figure 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 provided, for example, at the level of the crossmember 88, or even extend from this crossmember 88 (see Figure 4). Note that the ends 32, 33 of the crossmember 30 are also secured to the body 8, preferably by screwing, for example, under the rear side members 80, 81, as shown in Figure 4. Threaded holes or added or welded nuts 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 dismantling of the battery for maintenance or replacement.

[0072] 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.

[0073] Next, the receptacle 21 is attached from the trunk 9 of the vehicle. More precisely, the receptacle 21 is placed on the supports 35, 36 of the crossmember 30 after the receptacle 21 has been inserted through the central hole of the hood 12 and positioned within the cavity 11 of the reservoir 10. Preferably, each support 35, 36 is threaded or includes a nut, either attached or welded, so that screws can be driven 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 receives the battery 20, is thus fixed to each support 35, 36 of the crossmember 30. Preferably, as illustrated in Figure 6, a metal plate 26 is interposed between at least one screw head (the at least one screw extending vertically and being inserted from above – not shown) and the bottom 25 of the tray 21 so that the plate 26 sandwiches the base 25 with the support 35 under the tray 21.Similarly, another metal plate 26 (or the same one) is interposed between at least one screw head and the base 25 to sandwich the base 25 of the container 21 with the support 36 beneath the container 21. Preferably, each metal plate 26 has two screws through it, screwing into each support 35 and 36 so as to rigidly hold the container 21 onto the cross member 30 via four screws. For example, each plate 26 is rectangular, of the flat metal type, and extends longitudinally. This method of fixing the container 21 is particularly suitable for containers made of plastic and / or composite materials, as it provides substantial contact surfaces, notably to prevent cracking and / or tearing of the material, especially in the case of a thin container 21.

[0074] Next, the battery 20 is fixed in its receptacle 21, again from the trunk 9, preferably by interposing a flange or spacer and 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 there is a fuse box 22 housed in the receptacle 21, this box 22 is preferably fixed to a vertical wall of the receptacle 21.

[0075] Next, the cover 23 is fixed above the receptacle 21, preferably via screws 24 which screw into the cover 12 as illustrated in figure 9.

[0076] The placement of battery 5 under the first tank 10 allows for a substantial storage volume of tank 10 without impacting the volume of the trunk 9 and facilitates the assembly process.

[0077] It should be noted that the dimensions of the tank 10 have been adapted, particularly its outer and inner radii and its height in the vertical direction, to accommodate the battery 20 in its cavity 11 while providing a usable volume of 51 liters or more. Indeed, the objective is also to optimize and improve the vehicle's driving range using the fuel from tank 10. Specifically, the cross-section of tank 10 along a plane including axis A10 is essentially a rectangle or a square, which increases the usable volume compared to a circular cross-section with the same inner radius RI and the same outer radius RE (see Figure 8).

[0078] 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 figure 6) allows the overall dimensions to be optimized while satisfying the installation rules, maintaining a large trunk, and offering a substantial range resulting from the fuel storage in the tank 10.

[0079] It should be noted that the receptacle 21 has a cylindrical or nearly 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.

[0080] 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 ensure compliance with packaging, assembly, bodywork, and safety requirements. Indeed, a seal is provided between the partition 13 and the hood.

[0081] 12 (for example, via a rubber track) and between the receptacle 21 and the cover 12, in particular via the cover 23, which is preferably sealed onto the cover 12. Thus, the reservoir 10 and the battery 20 are outside the vehicle. Preferably, the bottom 25 of the receptacle 21 is drilled to allow the introduction of a drain tube or hose for the battery 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 drain tube, allowing it to be guided without pinching or obstructing it.

[0082] In summary, the solution provides three energy sources for the traction and / or propulsion of vehicle 1: electrical energy stored in battery 5, usable by at least one 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 vehicle 1, especially since tank 10 preferably has a large capacity. The solution does not reduce the trunk capacity 9, as the energy storage elements extend under the trunk floor without encroaching on it. Securing tank 10 via lateral supports and transversely extending brackets improves crashworthiness, particularly in the event of a rear-end collision.Securing the tank 10 under the rear side members 80, 81 reduces the load on the rear floor, which is no longer required to support this tank. The rear floor can then support other loads, particularly those related to the cargo in the vehicle's trunk 9.

[0083] Thus, vehicle 1 includes a rear trunk 9 with a large storage capacity, despite its long driving range, particularly during phases powered by the internal combustion engine, thanks to its two fuel tanks 6 and 10. The specific placement of the starter battery in the middle of the first tank 10 contributes to optimizing underbody space. Furthermore, this solution allows for the placement of bulky and / or heavy fuel tanks and traction / propulsion battery in the lower part of the vehicle, thereby lowering its overall center of gravity and improving handling.

[0084] As a point of note, the solution therefore achieves the desired objective of offering a spacious trunk while having a very high range and can therefore be adapted to other land vehicles such as buses, coaches, or heavy goods vehicles for example.

Claims

DEMANDS 1. Fitting (2) for vehicle, in particular for motor vehicle (I), comprising: - an electric motor (4) for the traction and / or propulsion of such a vehicle, - a traction and / or propulsion battery (5) to power the electric motor (4), - an internal combustion engine (3), particularly for the traction and / or propulsion of such a vehicle, - a first tank (10) intended to store a first fuel for the internal combustion engine (3), in particular Liquefied Petroleum Gas, - a second tank (6) intended to store 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 (A10).

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 (II)- 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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