Boss integrated tank system

Abstract

A boss integrated tank system for storing a fluid or a gas under pressure includes a pressure vessel and an on-tank-valve (OTV). The pressure vessel includes a polymeric liner, a hard outer shell, and a first tank boss. The first tank boss includes a stem, a flange, a threaded portion adjacent a distal end thereof, a feed bore, and a central bore. The on-tank-valve includes a valve body which further includes a first passageway and a transfer bore. The stem extends through the first passageway in the valve body with the feed bore fluidically connected to the transfer bore in the valve body. The on-tank-valve also includes a mechanical fastener fixedly coupled to the threaded portion of the stem, which also retains the flange abutted against the outer surface of the valve body.

Description

BOSS INTEGRATED TANK SYSTEMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application 63 / 752,922, filed on February 3, 2025, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to an on-tank-valve (OTV) for Type IV pressure vessels. More specifically, the present invention relates to a boss integrated tank system which includes a tank boss on a Type IV conformable pressure vessel configured to fluidically connect to an on-tank-valve (OTV).DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART

[0003] Pressure vessels are commonly used to store fluids and / or gases under pressure, such as natural gas, oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen, propane, and the like. An exemplary known Type IV pressure vessel has a metal-free body typically comprising a thermoplastic polymeric liner having a tank opening, an end boss inserted into the tank opening, a carbon fiber reinforced polymer composite wound and / or braided over the thermoplastic polymeric liner, and an on-tank-valve coupled to the end boss and fluidically connected to an interior of the polymeric liner. Certain known on-tank-valves includes a single valve port for transferring a compressed fluid into and out of the known pressure vessel. Other known on-tank-valves include a valve port which have an inlet section and an outlet section, wherein fluid and / or gases are supplied to the known pressure vessel through the inlet section and removed from the pressure vessel through the outlet section.

[0004] It is common for a plurality of the known pressure vessels to be fluidically connected together forming a known tank assembly. The known tank assembly includes a plurality of tubes fluidically coupled to the respective valve port on each of the known pressure vessels for supplying and removing compressed fluid from the known pressure vessels. The end boss on each of the known pressure vessels includes a fuel / defuel port, as is commonly known in the art. The known tank assembly also includes a plurality7of main tubes, a plurality7of secondary tubes, and a plurality of tube junctions for distributing compressed fluid between the plurality of known pressure vessels. Fluid is supplied to and removed from the known tank assembly145264234.1 / 118622.00446via the main tubes. The plurality of secondary7tubes distribute fluid between the main tubes and the plurality of known pressure vessels. Each of the known tube junctions includes a first port and a second port, which are fluidically connected to adjacent main tubes. Each one of the known tube junctions also includes a third port and a fourth port, which are fluidically connected to respective secondary7tubes, which in turn are fluidically connected to the fuel / defuel port on the associated known pressure vessel.

[0005] However, the on-tank-valves and the end bosses on the known pressure vessels are often bulky7and include multiple components with multiple sealing interfaces between components. Further, the main tubes and the secondary tubes connected between the on-tank-valves and / or the end bosses are unprotected, which may allow the main tubes and the secondary tubes to be damaged and develop leaks. In certain known conformable pressure vessel and on-tank-valve assemblies, multiple parts are needed to form the mechanical and gas sealing interface. For example, one known conformable pressure vessel and on-tank valve assembly includes a plurality of stems, a plurality of ferrules, a plurality of glands, a plurality of collars, an on-tank valve, and a high pressure piece.

[0006] Therefore, it is desirable to have an on-tank-valve that is volume optimized to reduce the space required for the pressure vessels. Further, it is desirable for the on-tank-valve to be weight optimized for use in vehicles, where reduction in total weight improves fuel efficiency. It is also desirable to reduce the stresses caused by7the w eight of the on-tank-valve acting upon the composite metal interface of the pressure vessel, which is a gas sealing interface. In addition, it is desirable to decrease the amount of sealing interfaces used in the on-tank-valve to ensure there are minimal leak paths. It is also desirable to reduce the total part count in the on-tank-valve to improve manufacturing efficiency.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] According to one embodiment, there is provided a boss integrated tank system for storing a fluid or a gas under pressure. The boss integrated tank system includes a pressure vessel and an on-tank-valve (OTV). The pressure vessel includes a polymeric liner which includes a liner opening, a hard outer shell comprising a composite surrounding an outer periphery7of the polymeric liner, and a first tank boss fixedly coupled to the composite and including a boss opening fluidically connected to the liner opening. The first tank boss further includes a stem, a flange projecting radially from the stem, a threaded portion extending245264234.1 / 118622.00446circumferentially around the stem adjacent a distal end thereof, a feed bore extending radially through the stem and spaced between the flange and the threaded portion, and a central bore fluidically connecting the feed bore and the boss opening. The on-tank-valve includes a valve body which further includes an aperture, a port, and a stem opening spaced apart on an outer surface thereof, a first passageway fluidically connecting the aperture and the stem opening, and a transfer bore fluidically connecting the first passageway and the port. The stem extends through the first passageway in the valve body with the feed bore fluidically connected to the transfer bore in the valve body. The on-tank-valve also includes a mechanical fastener fixedly coupled to the threaded portion of the stem, which also retains the flange abutted against the outer surface of the valve body.

[0008] According to another embodiment, there is provided a boss integrated tank system for storing a fluid or a gas under pressure. The boss integrated tank system includes a pressure vessel and an on-tank-valve (OTV). The pressure vessel includes a polymeric liner which includes a liner opening, a hard outer shell comprising a composite surrounding an outer periphery of the polymeric liner, and a tank boss fixedly coupled to the composite. The tank boss includes a stem extending from a stem end, a central bore extending in an axial direction through the stem and fluidically connected to the liner opening, a stem threaded portion extending circumferentially around the stem, an O-ring extending circumferentially around the stem and spaced axially between the stem threaded portion and the stem end. and a guide ring extending circumferentially around the stem adjacent the stem end. The on-tank-valve includes a valve body, a gland, and a collar. The valve body includes a passageway which further includes a seal section spaced axially apart from a gland section and a gland internal thread extending circumferentially around the gland section. The gland includes a center passage extending axially therethrough and an external threaded portion extending circumferentially around an exterior of the gland. The collar includes a collar passage extending axially therethrough and an internal threaded portion extending circumferentially around the collar passage. The stem extends axially through the collar passage on the collar, extends axially through the center passage on the gland, and extends at least partially along the passageway in the valve body. The internal threaded portion on the collar is meshingly engaged with the stem threaded portion on the stem. The external threaded portion on the gland is meshingly engaged with the gland internal thread in the passageway. Further, the O-ring is frictionally engaged with the seal section of the passageway.345264234.1 / 118622.00446BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein:

[0010] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first boss integrated tank system (hereinafter, '‘first tank system”), according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0011] Figure 2 is a perspective view of portion 2 of the first tank system of Figure 1;

[0012] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional top view of the first tank system of Figure 2 taken along line 3-3;

[0013] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional top view of a portion of a second tank system, according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0014] Figure 5 is a front view of a third tank system, which includes an upper tank system in a stacked and inverted arrangement with a lower tank system, according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0015] Figure 6 is an enlarged perspective view of portion 6 of the lower tank system of Figure 5;

[0016] Figure 7 is a top view of a portion of the low er tank system of Figure 6, with the antitamper covers removed;

[0017] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional top view of the lower tank system of Figure 7;

[0018] Figure 9 is a perspective view of a portion of a polymeric liner of Figure 8;

[0019] Figure 10 is a perspective view' of a tank boss of Figure 8;

[0020] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the tank boss of Figure 10 assembled with the polymeric liner of Figure 9;

[0021] Figure 12 is a perspective view of the tank boss and polymeric liner of Figure 11, wherein the polymeric liner and a portion of the tank boss are wrapped in braided fiber strands;445264234.1 / 118622.00446

[0022] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional top view of a portion of a fourth tank system, according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional top view of a portion of a fifth tank system, according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 15 is a front view of a sixth tank system, which includes a left-hand tank system in a lateral arrangement with a right-hand tank system, according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 16 shows a left front perspective view of portion 16 of the right-hand tank system of Figure 15;

[0026] Figure 17 shows a right rear perspective view of a portion of the right-hand tank system of Figure 16;

[0027] Figure 18 shows a left rear perspective view of a right-hand valve body of Figure 17;

[0028] Figure 19 shows a right side view of a portion of the right-hand tank system of Figure 17;

[0029] Figure 20 shows a cross-sectional right side view of the right-hand tank system of Figure 16, taken along line 20-20;

[0030] Figure 21 shows a cross-sectional front view of the right-hand tank system of Figure 17, taken along line 21-21;

[0031] Figure 22 shows a front view of a seventh tank system, which includes a pair of the sixth tank systems of Figure 15 in a stacked and inverted arrangement, according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 23 shows a cross-sectional top view of an eighth tank system, according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 24 is an exploded view of a first tank boss assembly of Figure 23;

[0034] Figure 25 is an exploded view of a second tank boss assembly of the Figure 23;545264234.1 / 118622.00446

[0035] Figure 26 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of portion 26 of the first tank boss of Figure 24; and

[0036] Figure 27 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of portion 27 of the second tank boss of Figure 25.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0037] Figures 1-27 illustrate a boss integrated tank system 10, according to embodiments described herein. Directional references employed or shown in the description, figures, or claims, such as top, bottom, upper, lower, upward, downward, lengthwise, widthwise, left, right, and the like, are relative terms employed for ease of description and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any respect. Referring to the Figures, like numerals indicate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views.

[0038] Figures 1-3 illustrate a first embodiment of the boss integrated tank system 10 (hereinafter, “first tank system"’), according to one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Figures 1-3, the first tank system 10 includes an on-tank-valve (OTV) 12 having a simple stem through system. The OTV 12 is fluidically connected to a pressure vessel 14 for storing fluid and / or gases under pressure, such as natural gas, oxygen, hydrogen, propane, and the like. The first tank system 10 incorporates a multifunctional tank boss interface as well as critical components needed to satisfy recirculation performance for conformable tanks, such as the pressure vessel 14. Further, the first tank system 10 allows fluid connectivity between multiple pressure vessels 14 (i.e., multi-tank connectivity). In addition, the first tank system 10 improves modularity and optionally incorporates venturi nozzle(s), ejectors, or gas inject or(s) at one or more tank interfaces. The first tank system 10 provides a substantial improvement for assembly, safety, and performance over other known systems.

[0039] Depicted in Figures 1- 3, the pressure vessel 14 is atype IV conformable pressure vessel or tank having a metal-free construction typically comprising a carbon fiber or composite 16 wound and / or braided over a thermoplastic polymeric liner 18. The composite 16 forms a hard outer shell surrounding an outer periphery of the polymeric liner 18 and which protects the polymeric liner 18. The pressure vessel 14 comprises an elongated vessel having a plurality of chambers 20 for storage of gas w hich can be configured as pressurized gaseous fuel tanks for use in vehicles. The pressure vessel 14 also includes a plurality of connector sections 22 which fluidically connect adjacent chambers 20. In addition, the pressure vessel 14 includes an inlet 645264234.1 / 118622.00446section 24 and an outlet section 26 fluidically connected to a first chamber 20A and a last chamber 20B, respectively. The inlet and outlet sections 24, 26 include a respective liner opening 28 at a liner end 29 for providing access to the interior of the polymeric liner 18, which are also described herein as a first liner opening 28 and a second liner opening 28. It will be appreciated that the designations of inlet and outlet sections 24, 26 is arbitrary and that fluid and / or gases might be provided to or removed from either one of the inlet and outlet sections 24. 26.

[0040] The pressure vessel 14 also includes a first tank boss 30 and a second tank boss 31 configured to pass fluid and / or gases into and / or out of the liner opening 28 in the inlet and outlet sections 24, 26, respectively. One function of the first and second tank bosses 30, 31 is to mechanically bond the carbon fiber composite 16 of the type IV pressure vessel 14 to the metallic valve components. The first and second tank bosses 30, 31 also create a gas sealing barrier with the polymeric liner 18. Further, the first and second tank bosses 30, 31 increases thermal conductivity into the composite 16 and functions as a local cooling sink where most of the mixing will occur of the fluid and / or gas within the pressure vessel 14.

[0041] Depicted in Figure 3, each one of the first and second tank bosses 30, 31 are formed out of a metal material and includes a stem 32, a flange 34, a central bore 36, a shoulder 38, an upper surface 40, a threaded portion 42, a distal end 44, a boss opening 46, a lower surface 48, a bore tip 50, a shoulder rim 52, an interior surface 54, and an exterior surface 56. Each stem 32 has a generally cylindrical shape and projects axially from the upper surface 40 of the associated flange 34 and includes the threaded portion 42 adjacent the distal end 44. The central bore 36 extends axially within the associated stem 32 between the boss opening 46 in the lower surface 48 of the associated flange 34 and the bore tip 50 near the distal end 44. Each shoulder 38 projects axially away from the lower surface 48 of the associated flange 34 towards the shoulder rim 52 and extends circumferentially around the boss opening 46. Each shoulder 38 has a generally conical shape with the interior surface 54 configured to mate against an outer surface 58 of the polymeric liner 18. The composite 16 extends along the exterior surface 56 of the shoulder 38 and abuts against the lower surface 48 of the flange 34. It will be appreciated that components of the first tank boss 30 might be described as a first stem 32, a first flange 34, and the like while the components of the second tank boss 31 might be described as a second stem 32. a second flange 34, and the like without altering the scope of the present invention and to improve clarity.745264234.1 / 118622.00446

[0042] Depicted in Figure 3, each one of the first and second tank bosses 30, 31 also includes a pair of feed bores 60, an outer stem surface 62. an upper O-ring groove 64, a lower O-ring groove 66, a first O-ring 67, and a second O-ring 67. The feed bores 60 in each tank boss 30, 31 oppose each other and extend radially between the outer surface 62 of the stem 32 and the central bore 36. The upper O-ring groove 64 and the lower O-ring groove 66 extend circumferentially around the stem 32 of each tank boss 30, 31. The upper O-ring groove 64 is spaced axially along the stem 32 between the feed bores 60 and the threaded portion 42. The lower O-ring groove 66 is spaced axially along the stem 32 between the feed bores 60 and the flange 34. The first and second O-rings 67 are inserted into the upper and lower O-ring grooves 64, 66, respectively, and to form a high-pressure gas seal between each of the tank bosses 30, 31 and the OTV 12.

[0043] Depicted in Figures 2 and 3, the OTV 12 includes a valve body 68, which fluidically connects and supports the first and second tank bosses 30, 31. The valve body 68 has a generally cubic shape formed out of a metal material and includes a left wall 70, a right wall 72, a top wall 74, a bottom wall 76, a face wall 78, and a proximal wall 80. The left and right walls 70, 72 extend generally vertically between the top and bottom walls 74, 76 and extend longitudinally between the face and proximal walls 78, 80. In addition, the valve body 68 includes a first passageway 82, a first stem opening 84. a first aperture 86, a second passageway 88. a second stem opening 90, and a second aperture 92. The first passageway 82 extends axially through the valve body 68 between the first stem opening 84 in the face wall 78 and the first aperture 86 in the proximal wall 80. The second passageway 88 extends axially through the valve body 68 between the second stem opening 90 in the face wall 78 and the second aperture 92 in the proximal wall 80. In addition, the second passageway 88 is spaced laterally between the first passageway 82 and the right wall 72.

[0044] Referring to Figures 2 and 3, the valve body 68 includes an axial bore 94, a center opening 96, a center aperture 98, a transfer bore 100, a left port 102, a right port 104, and a bore junction 106. The axial bore 94 extends in an axial direction between the center opening 96 in the face wall 78 and the center aperture 98 in the proximal wall 80 of the valve body 68. In addition, the axial bore 94 is spaced laterally between the first and second passageways 82, 88. The transfer bore 100 extends laterally between the left port 102 in the left wall 70 and the right port 104 in the right wall 72 of the valve body 68. In addition, the transfer bore 100 extends laterally through the first and second passageways 82, 88 and fluidically connects to845264234.1 / 118622.00446the axial bore 94 at the bore junction 106. The OTV 12 also includes afirst mechanical fastener 108 and a second mechanical fastener 110. which are hex nuts or the like, as is commonly know n in the art. The first and second mechanical fasteners 108, 110 are fixedly coupled to the threaded portion 42 of the first and second tank bosses 30, 31, respectively.

[0045] The assembly of the OTV 12 with the pressure vessel 14 is described below with reference to Figure 3. First, the distal end 44 of the first tank boss 30 is inserted into the first aperture 86 of the valve body 68 and through the first passageway 82 such that the first threaded portion 42 of the first stem 32 extends out of the first stem opening 84 and the upper surface 40 of the first flange 34 abuts against the proximal wall 80 of the valve body 68. In addition, the first tank boss 30 is rotationally aligned within the first passageway 82 such that the associated feed bore 60 is fluidically connected to the transfer bore 100. Next, the first mechanical fastener 108 is mechanically fastened to the first threaded portion 42 on the first tank boss 30 and abuts against the valve body 68, which retains the first flange 34 of the first tank boss 30 frictionally engaged with the proximal wall 80 of the valve body 68. Next, the distal end 44 of the second tank boss 31 is inserted into the second aperture 92 of the valve body 68 and through the second passageway 88 such that the second threaded portion 42 of the second stem 32 extends out of out of the second stem opening 90 and the upper surface 40 of the second flange 34 abuts against the proximal wall 80 of the valve body 68. Further, the second tank boss 31 is rotationally aligned within the second passageway 88 such that the associated feed bore 60 is fluidically connected to the transfer bore 100. Next, the second mechanical fastener 110 is mechanically fastened to the second threaded portion 42 on the second tank boss 31, which retains the second flange 34 of the second tank boss 31 frictionally engaged with the proximal wall 80 of the valve body 68.

[0046] After assembly of the OTV 12 w ith the first and second tank bosses 30, 31, the first and second O-rings 67 in the upper and lower O-ring grooves 64, 66 form a pair of high pressure gas seals between the first and second passageways 82, 88 and the respective stem 32 of the first and second tank bosses 30, 31. It will be appreciated that the first and second tank bosses 30, 31 optionally include additional back-up O-rings 67 (not shown) in respective O-ring grooves (not shown), which protects the O-rings 67 during installation and service to maintain a tight seal with the valve body 68. In addition, the center opening 96, the center aperture 98, the left port 102. and the right port 104 are optionally fluidically connected to additional on-tank-valves 12 (not shown) and / or to tubes (not shown) configured to transfer fluid and / or gas.945264234.1 / 118622.00446It will be appreciated that the OTV 12 optionally includes fewer or more passageways 82, 88, bores 94, 100. tank bosses 30, 31, and the like, without altering the scope of the present invention. The assembly of the OTV 12 and the first and second tank bosses 30, 31 provides improved sealing interfaces over conventional valves and ensures that there are minimal leak paths while reducing the amount of sealing interfaces.

[0047] Further, the OTV 12 and the first and second tank bosses 30, 31 include alignment features (not shown) for assembly, which locate the stems 32 axially and rotationally with respect to the OTV 12. High-pressure gas seals between the first and second tank bosses 30, 31 and the OTV 12 are achieved through multiple piston ring style O-ring grooves 64. 66. In contrast, it is typical for conventional valves to create a sealing interface using a single large face-sealing O-ring, which may be easily damaged. The OTV 12 of the present invention uses a plurality of smaller O-ring seals 67 to create a sealing interface, which decreases the total sealing area and decreases the potential for leaks to develop. Further, the OTV 12 of the present invention provides a more robust interface with the pressure vessel 14 that is resistant to vibrations and shear loading caused by the weight of the OTV 12 onto the stems 32.

[0048] In addition, the first tank system 10 of the present invention allows for lower torque requirements to ensure seal-tightness at the OTV 12 and the connection interface with the pressure vessel 14. One known conformable tank sealing system (not shown) includes a known on-tank-valve, a known pressure vessel, a cone, a thread, a gland, and a collar. The known conformable tank sealing system requires between 100 to 200 Nm to achieve seal tightness at the interface between the known on-tank-valve and the known pressure vessel. In contrast, the first tank system 10 requires between 30 to 40 Nm of torque on the hex nuts 108, 110 to ensure seal tightness between the OTV 12 and the pressure vessel 14, which is a substantial improvement for the assembly process and overall system performance.

[0049] Depicted in Figures 1-3, the first tank system 10 includes a system of on-tank-valves (OTV) 12 and tank bosses 30, 31 that allow' for the conformable tank stem connections to be hollowed and to have through orifices to facilitate flow? of fluid and / or gases under many conditions. The OTV 12 and the high-pressure tank bosses 30, 31 for hydrogen storage applications provide a function to connect a conformable type IV hydrogen composite system comprising one or more pressure vessels 14 to a high-pressure balance of plant in a vehicle application. The combination of the OTV 12 and the tank bosses 30, 31 is conformable storage specific and is preferably intended for non-cylindrical hydrogen storage composites. In 1045264234.1 / 118622.00446addition, the OTV 12 carries out standard functions of a ty pical high-pressure hydrogen valve and optionally includes an excess flow valve (not shown), a gas filter (not shown), a temperature pressure relief device (TPRD, not shown), one or more manual access valves (not shown), a solenoid (not shown), one or more temperature measurement sensors (not shown), and the like as non-limiting examples. The OTV 12 includes ty pical functionality7of known on-tank-valves required for related regulations, including a shut off valve (not shown), check valve(s) (not shown), and temperature pressure relief device(s) (not shown), and the like. In addition, the OTV 12 optionally includes additional functions provided by one or more of temperature devices (not shown), pressure sensing devices (not shown), filters (not shown), excess flow7limiting valves (not shown), and / or manual valves (not shown) for servicing. Further, the first tank system 10 includes a minimal number of components, such as two standard hex nuts 108, 110 and one on-tank valve 12. The assembly of the OTV 12 and the tank bosses 30, 31 reduces the total part count in comparison to other known systems, while maintaining the OTV 12 and the tank bosses 30, 31 fixed rotationally w ith respect to each other. In addition, the first tank system 10 allows for multiple on-tank valves 12 to be interconnected since there is a constant orientation betw een the pressure vessel 14 and the OTV 12.

[0050] The interior geometry7of the OTV 12 optionally7includes venturi mixing components (not shown) that work to maximize the flow rate of fluid and / or gases into the pressure vessel 14 during fueling, without causing an overheat condition. In certain embodiments, the OTV 12 provides fluid and / or gas to one tank boss 30 flui dical ly connected to the inlet section 24 of the pressure vessel 14 and functions as an inlet to the pressure vessel 14. The second tank boss 31 is fluidically connected to the outlet section 26 of the pressure vessel 14 and functions as an outlet from the pressure vessel 14. Hydrogen is directly injected into the stem 32 of the inlet tank boss 30 with the stem 32 of the outlet tank boss 31 fluidically connected to the stem 32 of the inlet tank boss 30 by a venturi nozzle (not shown), creating a recirculation effect that mixes and cools the gas added to the inlet section 24 of the pressure vessel 14.

[0051] A second embodiment of a boss integrated tank system 120 (hereinafter, '‘second tank system”) is illustrated in Figure 4, according to another embodiment of the present invention. Elements in Figure 4 that are the same or similar to those used above in Figures 1-3 have the same reference numbers for simplicity. Only significant differences between the two embodiments are reflected in the Figures and the description below. The second tank system 120 includes a dual on-tank -valve (dual OTV) 122 configured to fluidically connect two or1145264234.1 / 118622.00446more pressure vessels 14, 14A within a valve body 124 and provides for a multi-tank connection. In contrast, the OTV 12 of the first embodiment is configured to fluidically connect a single pressure vessel 14 within the valve body 68 forming the first tank system 10.

[0052] Referring to Figure 4, the second tank system 120 includes the dual OTV 122, the valve body 124, a first pressure vessel 14, a second pressure vessel 14A, and a plurality of hex nuts 108, 108A, 110, 110A. The valve body 124 includes a first pair of passageways 82, 88, a second pair of passageways 82 A, 88 A, a pair of axial bores 94, 94A, a pair of transfer bores 100,100A, and a pair of bore junction 106, 106A. Further, the valve body 124 includes a connector bore 126 fluidically connecting the adjacent transfer bores 100, 100A. The first pressure vessel 14 includes a first pair of tank bosses 30. 31. The second pressure vessel 14A includes a second pair of tank bosses 30 A, 31 A. The tank bosses 30, 31, 30A, 31 A are similar to the first and second tank bosses 30, 31 of the first embodiment depicted in Figure 3.

[0053] The first pressure vessel 14 is assembled with the valve body 124 by inserting the stem 32 of each one of the first pair of tank bosses 30, 31 into and through the respective one of the first pair of passageways 82, 88 extending through the valve body 124. Next, the second pressure vessel 14A is assembled with the valve body 124 by inserting the stem 32 of each one of the second pair of tank bosses 30A, 31 A into and through the respective one of the second pair of passageways 82A, 88A in the valve body 124. Next, ahex nut 108, 108A, 110, 110A is mechanically fastened to each one of the stems 32, fixedly coupling the pressure vessels 14, 14A to the valve body 124. The stems 32 of the tank bosses 30, 31, 30A, 31A extend through the valve body 124, which allows for multi-tank connectivity. The embodiment shown in Figure 4 includes two pressure vessels 14, 14A, however, it will be appreciated that the number, relative position, and orientation of the connected pressure vessels 14, 14A may vary without altering the scope of the present invention. It will be appreciated that the number, relative position, and orientation of the passageways 82, 88, 82A, 88A and the bores 94, 94A, 100, 100A, 126 within the valve body 124 might vary without altering the scope of the present invention.

[0054] A third embodiment of the boss integrated tank system 129 (hereinafter, “third tank system”) is illustrated in Figures 5-12, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. Elements in Figures 5-12 that are the same or similar to those used above in Figures 1-4 have the same reference numbers for simplicity. Only significant differences between the third embodiment and the prior embodiments are reflected in the Figures and the description 1245264234.1 / 118622.00446below. The third tank system 129 includes a lower tank system 130 in a stacked arrangement with an upper tank system 130 A. Each of the lower and upper tank systems 130. 130Aincludes a respective enclosed on-tank-valve (enclosed OTV) 132, 132 A configured to fluidically connect to a respective pair of short tank bosses 134, 135 (Figure 8) having a short stem 136. In contrast, the OTV(s) 12, 122 of the first and second embodiments are configured to fluidically connect to tank bosses 30, 31 having a long stem 32 and which extend through the valve body 68. 124.

[0055] Depicted in Figure 5, the upper tank system 130A is shown as having a mirror-image configuration of the lower tank system 130. It will be appreciated that the general configuration of the lower and upper tank systems 130. BOA might vary without altering the scope of the present invention. Further, it will be appreciated that the third tank system 129 might comprise either one of the upper and lower tank systems 130, BOA without altering the scope of the present invention. Depicted in Figures 5 and 6, the lower tank system 130 includes a first enclosed on-tank-valve (enclosed OTV) 132 fluidically connected to the inlet and outlet sections 24, 26 of the first pressure vessel 14. The upper tank system BOA includes a second enclosed on-tank-valve (enclosed OTV) 132A fluidically connected to the inlet and outlet sections 24, 26 of the second pressure vessel 14A. The first and second enclosed OTV(s) 132, 132A are in a stacked arrangement with each other and are optionally fixedly coupled together. It will be appreciated that the first and second enclosed OTV(s) 132. 132A are similarly constructed.

[0056] Referring to Figures 6-8, the enclosed OTV 132 includes a valve body 138 having a generally ovoid shape in cross-section and formed out of a metal. The valve body 138 includes an upper surface 140, a right surface 142, a lower surface 144, and a left surface 146 extending between a proximal surface 148 and a face surface 150. It will be appreciated that the shape of the valve body 138 might vary without altering the scope of the present invention. Further, the shape of the valve body 138 is selected to fit within the available space between the adjacent pressure vessels 14, 14A. For example, the upper and lower surfaces 140, 144 along with the right and left surfaces 142, 146 are selected based on the silhouette of the pressure vessels 14, 14 A.

[0057] The enclosed OTV 132 in Figures 6-8 includes a left anti-tamper cover 151 and aright anti-tamper cover 152. The valve body 138 also includes a first slot opening 153, a left slot wall 154, a left distal wall 155, an end wall 156, a first slot 157, a second slot opening 158, a 1345264234.1 / 118622.00446right slot wall 159, a right distal wall 160, a base wall 161, and a second slot 162. The first slot opening 153 is formed in the left surface 146 and the upper and lower surfaces 140, 144 of the valve body 138. The left slot wall 154 and the left distal wall 155 are spaced apart and extend between the first slot opening 153 and the end wall 156 defining the first slot 157 therebetween. The second slot opening 158 is formedin the right surface 142 and the upper and lower surfaces 140, 144 and is spaced apart from the first slot opening 153. The right slot wall 159 and the right distal wall 160 are spaced apart and extend between the second slot opening 158 and the base wall 161 defining the second slot 162 therebetween. The first and second anti-tamper covers 151, 152 are inserted into and fixedly coupled to the first and second slot openings 153, 158, respectively, in the valve body 138 to enclose the first and second slots 157, 162. The enclosed OTV 132 is shown in Figures 7 and 8 with the anti-tamper covers 151, 152 removed. The valve body 138 also includes a first mounting hole 163 and a second mounting hole 164 for fixedly coupling the enclosed OTV 132 to an adj acent enclosed OTV 132 A or to an adj acent support surface (not shown). The first and second mounting holes 163, 164 are spaced laterally apart and extend through the valve body 138 between the upper and lower surfaces 140, 144.

[0058] Referring to Figures 6-8, the valve body 138 also includes an axial bore 94 extending between a center opening 96 in the face surface 150 and a center aperture 98 in the proximal surface 148. The valve body 138 also includes a transfer bore 100 extending between a left port 102 in the left surface 146 and a right port 104 in the right surface 142. The transfer bore 100 is fluidically connected to the axial bore 94 by a bore junction 106. The transfer bore 100 is spaced axially between the first and second slots 157, 162 and the proximal surface 148. The axial bore 94 is spaced laterally between the end wall 156 of the first slot 157 and the base w all 161 of the second slot 162. The valve body 138 also includes a first passageway 82, a first stem opening 84, a first aperture 86, a second passageway 88, a second stem opening 90, and a second aperture 92. The first passagew ay 82 extends axially betw een the first stem opening 84 in the left slot wall 154 and the first aperture 86 in the proximal surface 148. The second passageway 88 extends axially between the second stem opening 90 in the right slot wall 159 and the second aperture 92 in the proximal surface 148.

[0059] Depicted in Figure 8, the enclosed OTV 132 is fluidically connected to the inlet and outlet sections 24, 26 of the pressure vessel 14 via a pair of short tank bosses 134, 135 having a short stem 136. The pressure vessel 14 includes the polymeric liner 18, the first and second short tank bosses 134, 135, and the composite 1 . Depicted in Figure 9, the polymeric liner 181445264234.1 / 118622.00446includes one or more grooves 170, an outer surface 58, a control surface 171A, a trimming feature 171B, a liner opening 28, and a liner end 29. The one or more grooves 170 and other liner interlocking features (not shown) extend circumferentially around the outer surface 58 of the polymeric liner 18 and are spaced axially apart. In addition, the outer surface 58 of the polymeric liner 18 includes one or more control surfaces 171 A for guiding the braid which forms the composite 16. Further, the trimming feature 171B extends circumferentially around liner opening 28 of the polymeric liner 18 adjacent the liner end 29.

[0060] Depicted in Figures 8-11, the first and second short tank bosses 134, 135 are constructed similarly to the first and second tank bosses 30, 31 of the first embodiment with the primary difference being the relative length of the stems 32, 136. In more detail, each of the first and second short tank bosses 134, 135 are formed out of a metal and includes the short stem 136, a flange 172 having upper and lower surfaces 40, 48, a central bore 36, a boss opening 46, a bore tip 50, a feed bore 60, upper and lower O-ring grooves 64, 66, a shoulder 38, and a shoulder rim 52. The short stem 136 projects axially from the upper surface 40 of the flange 172 and includes a threaded portion 42 adjacent a distal end 44. The central bore 36 extends between the boss opening 46 in the lower surface 48 of the flange 172 and the bore tip 50, which is spaced apart from the distal end 44. In addition, the feed bore 60 extends radially through the short stem 136 and is spaced axially between the upper and lower O-ring grooves 64, 66. The shoulder 38 projects axially away from the lower surface 48 of the flange 172 towards the shoulder rim 52 and extends circumferentially around the boss opening 46 forming a shoulder cavity 173. Each of the first and second short tank bosses 134, 135 includes one or more ribs 174 which extend circumferentially around an exterior surface 56 of the shoulder 38 and which are spaced axially apart. The ribs 174 on each short tank boss 134, 135 improve heat dissipation by about 10% since the amount of surface area has been increased for cooling. The ribs 174 increase thermal conductivity into the composite 16 and function as local cooling sinks where most of the mixing of fluid occurs as fluid is added to the pressure vessel 14. Further, the heat transfer from the fluid to the outer composite 16 is proportional to the number of ribs 174. It will be appreciated that the relative position, number, and shape of the ribs 174 may be adjusted without altering the scope of the present invention.

[0061] In addition, the ribs 174 and other optional external geometry on the shoulder 38 increase mechanical engagement with the composite 16. The primary method for mechanically joining the composite 1 to the short tank bosses 134, 135 is through the interior taper geometry1545264234.1 / 118622.00446of the shoulder 38 on each of the short tank bosses 134, 135. When the pressure vessel 14 is pressurized, the shoulder 38 will be forced against the composite 16. The ribs 174 function as a secondary bonding feature between the composite 16 and the shoulder 38. In addition, the ribs 174 separate the exterior surface 56 of the shoulder 38 into spaced apart sections to prevent debonding propagation, as well increasing the amount of surface area that gets bonded by the composite 16. The interior surface 54 of the shoulder 38 optionally includes interlocking features 175. which engage with the grooves 170 on the polymeric liner 18 during assembly, which improves the interlocking between the short tank boss 134, 135 and the polymeric liner 18.

[0062] Depicted in Figures 8-12, the polymeric liner 18 is assembled with each of the first and second short tank bosses 134, 135 by inserting the liner end 29 into the shoulder cavity 173 until the liner end 29 abuts against the flange 172 with the liner opening 28 aligned with the boss opening 46. The interior surface 54 of the shoulder 38 is matingly engaged with the outer surface 58 of the polymeric liner 18. Depicted in Figure 11. the liner interlocking features 175 mechanically engage with grooves 170 on the polymeric liner 18, which allow the polymeric liner 18 to mechanically engage with the short tank bosses 134, 135 prior to overbraiding and without requiring an adhesive bond. Next, a plurality' of carbon fibers 178 are braided and / or wrapped around the outer surface 58 of the polymeric liner 18 and the shoulder 38 of each of the short tank bosses 134,135, as depicted in Figure 12. The ribs 174 on each of the short tank bosses 134, 135 improve the engagement between the overbraided carbon fibers 178 and the adjacent shoulder 38. The distal end 180 of the carbon fibers 178 are adjacent the lower surface 48 of the flange 172 on the short tank boss 134, 135. The carbon fibers 178 are coated and / or impregnated with resin (not shown), which is cured to form the hard outer composite 16. Next, the first and second O-rings 67 are inserted into the upper and lower O-ring grooves 64, 66 (Figure 12), respectively.

[0063] Referring to Figure 8, the distal end 44 of the first and second short tank bosses 134, 135 are inserted into the first and second apertures 86, 92, respectively, of the valve body 138 to assemble the enclosed OTV 132. The threaded portion 42 of the first and second short tank bosses 134, 135 extend into the respective one of the first and second slots 157, 162 in the valve body 138 and the upper surface 40 of the first and second flanges 172 abut the proximal surface 148 of the valve body 138 when fully assembled. Next, hex nuts 108, 110 are fastened onto the threaded portions 42 of the respective first and second short tank bosses 134, 135. As1645264234.1 / 118622.00446assembled, the hexnuts 108, 110 abut against the left and right slot walls 154, 159, respectively, and maintain the first and second flanges 172 in contact with the proximal surface 148 of the valve body 138.

[0064] Next, the first and second covers 151, 152 are inserted into and fixedly coupled to the first and second slot openings 153, 158, respectively, on the valve body 138. as depicted in Figure 8. The first and second covers 151, 152 are anti-tamper barriers, which prevent access to the hex nuts 108, 110. However, the first and second covers 151, 152 are removable for sendee. The first and second covers 151, 152 protect the main high pressure mechanical hex nuts 108, 110 to prevent accidental loosening of these components by an operator. Unintended operation of the hex nuts 108, 110 on the high-pressure system could result in an undesired leakage or other undesirable conditions. Sealing off the hex nuts 108, 1 10 with a semipermanent anti-tamper barrier adds an additional layer of protection while still retaining the ability to remove the covers 151, 152, if needed.

[0065] A fourth embodiment of a boss integrated tank system 183 (hereinafter, “fourth tank system’’) is illustrated in Figure 13, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. Elements in Figure 13 that are the same or similar to those used above in Figures 1-12 have the same reference numbers for simplicity. Only significant differences between the fourth embodiment and the prior embodiments are reflected in the Figures and the description below. The fourth tank system 183 includes a double on-tank-valve (double OTV) 184 configured to fluidically connect two or more pressure vessels 14, 14A within the valve body 185, which provides for a multi -tank connection. In contrast, the OTV 12 of the first embodiment (Figures 1-3) is configured to fluidically connect a single pressure vessel 14 within the valve body 68 forming the first tank system 10.

[0066] Depicted in Figure 13, the double OTV 184 fluidically connects a first pressure vessel 14 and a second pressure vessel 14A in an end-to end configuration. Further, each of the first and second pressure vessels 14, 14A include a pair of double OTV short tank bosses 134, 134A, 135, 135A substantially similar to the short tank bosses 134, 135 of the third embodiment. The double OTV 184 includes a valve body 185 having a primary' wall 186 opposing a secondary wall 187, wherein the primary’ wall 186 interfaces with the first pressure vessel 14 and the secondary wall 187 interfaces with the second pressure vessel 14A.1745264234.1 / 118622.00446

[0067] The valve body 185 also includes a first pair of slots 157, 162. a second pair of slots 157A, 162A, a first pair of passageways 82, 88, a second pair of passageways 82A, 88A, a first transfer bore 100, a second transfer bore 100 A, an axial bore 94, a first bore junction 106, and a second bore junction 106A. The first and second pairs of slots 157, 157A, 162, 162A are spaced axially apart and are positioned adjacent the primary' and secondary' walls 186, 187, respectively. The first pair of the passageways 82, 88 are spaced laterally apart and extend in an axial direction between the primary wall 186 and the adjacent one of the first pair of slots 157, 162. The second pair of the passageways 82A, 88 A are spaced laterally apart and extend in an axial direction between the secondary' wall 187 and the adjacent one of the second pair of slots 157A, 162A. The first transfer bore 100 extends in a lateral direction and is spaced axially between the primary wall 186 and the first pair of slots 157, 162. The second transfer bore 100A also extends in a lateral direction and is spaced axially between the secondary wall 187 and the second pair of slots 157A, 162A. The axial bore 94 extends in the axial direction between the primary and secondary walls 186, 187 and is spaced laterally between the first slots 157, 157A and the second slots 162, 162A. The axial bore 94 fluidically connects to the first and second transfer bores 100, 100A at the first and second bore junctions 106. 106 A, respectively. The embodiment shown in Figure 13 includes the first and second pressure vessels 14, 14A, however, it will be appreciated that the number, relative position, and orientation of the connected pressure vessels 14, 14A may vary' without altering the scope of the present invention. It will be appreciated that the number, relative position, and orientation of the passageways 82, 82A, 88, 88 A and the bores 94, 100, 100A within the double OTV 184 might vary without altering the scope of the present invention.

[0068] Referring to Figure 13, the pressure vessels 14, 14A are assembled with the valve body 185 by inserting the short stem 136 of each one of the short tank bosses 134, 135, 134A, 135A into and through the respective passageway 82, 88, 82A, 88A extending through the valve body 185. Next, a hex nut 108, 108A, 110, 110A is mechanically fastened to each one of the short stems 136, fixedly coupling the pressure vessels 14, 14A to the valve body 185. The double OTV 184 also includes a plurality of anti-tamper covers 151, 151A, 152, 152A, which are inserted into and fixedly coupled to a respective one of the slot openings 153, 153A, 158, 158A to enclose the slots 157, 157A, 162, 162A and provide a removable barrier protecting the hex nuts 108, 108 A, 110, 110A.1845264234.1 / 118622.00446

[0069] A fifth embodiment of a boss integrated tank system 188' (hereinafter, “fifth tank system”) is illustrated in Figure 14, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. Elements in Figure 14 having like primed reference numerals represent similar elements as those described above. Only significant differences between the fifth embodiment and the prior embodiments are reflected in Figure 14 and the description below. The fifth tank system 188' includes a pressure vessel 189' having a threaded tank boss 190', 191' mechanically connected to a removable stem 192', 193'. In contrast, the first and second short tank bosses 134, 135 of the third embodiment (Figures 5-12) are assembled with the pressure vessel 14 and include a short stem 136 integrally formed with a flange 172 and a shoulder 38.

[0070] Referring to Figure 14. the fifth tank system 188' includes an enclosed OTV 132' having a valve body 138' substantially similar to the enclosed OTV 132 and valve body 138 of the third embodiment depicted in Figure 8. The valve body 138' includes a first passageway 82' extending axially between a first aperture 86' on a proximal surface 148' and a first stem opening 84' on a left slot wall 154' in a first slot 157'. The valve body 138' also includes a second passageway 88' extending axially between a second aperture 92' on the proximal surface 148' and a second stem opening 90' on a right slot wall 159' in a second slot 162'. In addition, the valve body 138' includes a transfer bore 100' extending laterally through the valve body 138' and through the first and second passageways 82’, 88'. The valve body 138' also includes an axial bore 94' extending axially therethrough and intersecting the transfer bore 100' at a bore junction 106'.

[0071] Each threaded tank boss 190', 191' includes an end boss 194', a side surface 195', a mounting surface 196'. a lower wall 197', astern bore 198', an exterior opening 199', an interior opening 200', and bore threads 201'. The end boss 194' has a generally cylindrical shape with the side surface 195' extending in a circumferential direction and extending axially between the mounting surface 196' and the lower wall 197'. The stem bore 198' extends axially between the exterior opening 199' on the mounting surface 196' and the interior opening 200' on the lower wall 197'. The bore threads 20T extend circumferentially around an interior surface of the stem bore 198' adjacent the mounting surface 196'. Each threaded tank boss 190', 19T also includes an interior surface 54', an exterior surface 56', a shoulder 38', a shoulder rim 52', a shoulder cavity 173', and an interior rim 202'. The interior and exterior surfaces 54’, 56' of the shoulder 38' project axially between the lower wall 197' and the shoulder rim 52'. The shoulder 38' has a generally conical shape and extends circumferentially around the interior opening1945264234.1 / 118622.00446extends radially between the interior opening 200' and the shoulder 38'.

[0072] Depicted in Figure 14, the pressure vessel 189' also includes an inlet section 24' and an outlet section 26' fixedly coupled to a respective one of the threaded tank bosses 190', 191'. In more detail, the pressure vessel 189' includes a polymeric liner 18' having an outer surface 58' extending from opposing liner ends 29' and surrounding a plurality of chambers 20'. Each one of the liner ends 29' is inserted into the shoulder cavity 173' on the respective threaded tank boss 190', 191' and abuts against the interior rim 202'. The outer surface 58' of the polymeric liner 18' abuts against the interior surface 54' of the shoulder 38'. The pressure vessel 189' also includes a composite 16', which extends along the exterior surface 56' of the shoulder 38' and abuts the lower wall 197' of the end boss 194'. The composite 16' also extends along the outer surface 58' of the polymeric liner 18' which is not covered by the shoulder 38'.

[0073] Depicted in Figure 14, each removable stem 192', 193' includes a stem segment 203', a flange 204' having upper and lower surfaces 205', 206', a threaded portion 42', a distal end 44', upper and lower O-ring grooves 64', 66', a first O-ring 67', and a second O-ring 67'. The stem segment 203’ projects axially from the upper surface 205' of the flange 204'. The threaded portion 42' is spaced along the stem segment 203' adjacent the distal end 44'. The upper and lower O-ring grooves 64', 66' extend circumferentially around an outer surface 62' of the stem segment 203' and are spaced axially between the flange 204' and the threaded portion 42'. The first and second O-rings 67' are inserted into the upper and lower O-ring grooves 64', 66', respectively. Each removable stem 192', 193' also includes a lower stem 207', a proximal end 208', a threaded portion 209', a stem O-ring groove 210', a central bore 36', a boss opening 46', a bore tip 50', and a feed bore 60'. The lower stem 207' projects axially between the lower surface 206' of the flange 204' and the proximal end 208'. The threaded portion 209' extends circumferentially around an outer surface of the lower stem 207' adjacent the flange 204'. The stem O-ring groove 210' extends circumferentially around the lower stem 207' and is spaced axially between the threaded portion 209' and the proximal end 208'. An O-ring 67' is inserted into the stem O-ring groove 210'. The central bore 36' extends axially from the boss opening 46' in the proximal end 208' to the bore tip 50', which is spaced apart from the distal end 44'. The feed bore 60' extends radially through the stem segment 203' and is spaced axially between the upper and lower O-ring grooves 64'. 66'.2045264234.1 / 118622.00446

[0074] Referring to Figure 14, the pressure vessel 189' is assembled with the removable stems 192', 193' after the O-rings 67' are inserted into the O-ring grooves 64'. 66', 210'. In more detail, the proximal end 208' of the first and second removable stems 192, 193' is inserted into the exterior opening 199' in the first and second threaded tank bosses 190', 191', respectively. Further, the threaded portion 209' on each of the lower stems 207' is mechanically coupled to the bore threads 201' in the respective stem bore 198'. In addition, the lower surface 206' of the flange 204' on each removable stem 192', 193' abuts against the mounting surface 196' on the adjacent end boss 194'. Next, the removable stems 192', 193' are assembled with the valve body 138' by inserting the distal end 44' of each removable stems 192', 193' into the adjacent aperture 86', 92', through the passagew ay 82', 88', and out through the stem opening 84', 90' in the slot wall 154', 159' of the first and second slots 157', 162'. respectively. The feed bores 60' in the removable stems 192', 193' are rotationally aligned and fluidically coupled to the transfer bore 100' in the valve body 138'. Next, a hex nut 108', 110' is mechanically fastened to the threaded portion 42' of each removable stem 192', 193', which retains the upper surface 205' of each flange 204' abutted against the proximal surface 148' of the valve body 138'. The enclosed OTV 132' also includes first and second anti -tamper covers 15T, 152', which are inserted into and fixedly coupled to a respective one of the slot openings 153', 158', to enclose the first and second slots 157', 162' and provide a removable barrier protecting the hex nuts 108', 110'.

[0075] A sixth embodiment of the boss integrated tank system 211 (hereinafter, ‘‘sixth tank system”) is illustrated in Figures 15-21, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. Elements in Figures 15-21 that are the same or similar to those used above in Figures 1-13 have the same reference numbers for simplicity’. Only significant differences between the sixth embodiment and the prior embodiments are reflected in the Figures and the description below. The sixth tank system 211 includes a pair of asymmetrical on-tank-valves (asymmetrical OTV) 212, 213, which have an asymmetrical shape and are generally mirror images of each other. In contrast, the enclosed OTV 132 of the third embodiment has a symmetrical shape lacking left-hand and right-hand variations. In addition, the asymmetrical OTV(s) 212, 213 and the enclosed OTV 132 are both configured to fluidically connected to a respective pair of short tank bosses 134, 135 having a short stem 136, as described above in the third embodiment (Figures 5-12).2145264234.1 / 118622.00446

[0076] Depicted in Figure 15, the sixth tank system 211 includes a right-hand tank system 214 in a lateral arrangement with a left-hand tank system 215, wherein the right-hand and left-hand tank systems 214, 215 are generally mirror images of each other. The right-hand and left-hand tank systems 214, 215 include a right-hand on-tank-valve 212 (right-hand OTV) and a lefthand on-tank-valve 213 (left-hand OTV), which are fluidically connected to a right-hand pressure vessel 216 and a left-hand pressure vessel 217, respectively, via a respective pair of short tank bosses 134, 135. The pressure vessels 216, 217 are conformable tank systems which are inherently unique in their ability to match available vehicle space with minimal redesign. It will be appreciated that the left-hand and right-hand pressure vessels 216, 217 are similar in construction to each other and generally similar to the pressure vessels 14, 14A described above in the third embodiment.

[0077] The exterior shape of the right-hand and left hand OTV(s) 212, 213 is constrained by the geometries defined by the pressure vessels 216, 217 in a stacked and / or lateral arrangement. Further, the right-hand and left-hand OTV(s) 212. 213 and the short tank bosses 134, 135 forming the end fitting systems can be adjusted to fit within the available space. Each OTV 212, 213 is optimized for volume and weight, which is desirable for vehicles, where reduction in total weight improves fuel efficiency. Additionally, reduction in the size of the OTV(s) 212, 213 reduce stresses caused by the weight of the OTV(s) 212, 213 acting upon the interface between the composite 16 and the tank boss 134, 135. which is a critical gas sealing interface.

[0078] Depicted in Figure 15, each of the right-hand and left-hand OTV(s) 212, 213 includes a valve body 220, 221 having a generally triangular shape in cross-section. Each valve body 220, 221 includes an outboard surface 222.223, an inboard surface 224, 225, and abase surface 226, 227. As assembled, the inboard surface 224 of the right-hand OTV 212 abuts against the inboard surface 225 of the left-hand OTV 213. In addition, the right-hand and left-hand OTV(s) 212, 213 are optionally fixedly coupled together by one or more mechanical fasteners 228. The outboard surface 222, 223. the inboard surface 224. 225, and the base surface 226. 227 of the valve bodies 220, 221 are defined directly by the silhouette of the adjacent pressure vessels 216, 217. The outboard surface 222, 223 and the inboard surface 224, 225 of each valve body 220, 221 are defined by a hexagonal packing density outline such that outboard surface 222, 223 of the valve body 220. 221 is the centerline of an equilateral triangle that would touch the centerlines of two chambers 20 or connector sections 22 of the adjacent pressure vessel 216, 217. Because the outboard surface 222, 223 of the valve body 220, 221 will border the2245264234.1 / 118622.00446boundary of the total space allowed for the hydrogen tank system 211, the geometry of the valve body 220, 221 utilizes otherwise vacant space and reduces the length required, in the axial direction of the pressure vessel(s) 216, 217. It will be appreciated that the cross-sectional shape of the OTV(s) 212, 213 might vary without altering the scope of the present invention.

[0079] For simplicity, the construction of the right-hand tank system 214 having a right-hand OTV 212 is described in Figures 16-21. It will be appreciated that the left-hand OTV 213 is similarly constructed and has a mirror-image configuration to the right-hand OTV 212. The valve body 220 also includes a face surface 229, a proximal surface 230, a ledge 231, a ledge wall 232, a slot 233, a back wall 234, a distal wall 235, and a slot wall 237. The outboard surface 222, the inboard surface 224, and the base surface 226 extend axially between the face surface 229 and the proximal surface 230. In addition, the outboard surface 222 projects away from the inboard surface 224 at generally an acute angle. Further, the base surface 226 extends at generally a right angle away from the inboard surface 224. The ledge 231 extends axially inward from the face surface 229 and is vertically offset from the base surface 226. In addition, the ledge wall 232 extends in a generally vertical direction from an inboard end of the ledge 231 and adjoins the outboard surface 222 and the inboard surface 224. The slot 233 extends partially through the valve body 220 along the outboard surface 222 and between the back w all 234, the distal wall 235, and the slot wall 237. The slot wall 237 is spaced axially adjacent the proximal surface 230.

[0080] The valve body 220 also includes a first passagew ay 82, a first stem opening 84, a first aperture 86, a second passagew ay 88, a second stem opening 90, and a second aperture 92. The first passageway 82 extends axially between the first stem opening 84 in the slot wall 237 and the first aperture 86 in the proximal surface 230. The second passageway 88 extends axially between the second stem opening 90 in the slot wall 237 and the second aperture 92 in the proximal surface 230. The valve body 220 also includes a support hole 238, a temperature port 239, a transverse port 240, a first mounting hole 241, a second mounting hole 242, a base port 243, a solenoid port 244, and a front port 245.

[0081] The support hole 238 extends axially between the proximal surface 230 and the slot wall 237. The support hole 238 serves as a mount support hole for fixedly coupling the righthand OTV 212 to a support bracket (not shown), an adjacent OTV 213, or the like. The temperature port 239 extends inward from the proximal surface 230. The transverse port 240 extends inward from the inboard surface 224. The first and second mounting holes 241, 2422345264234.1 / 118622.00446extend laterally through the valve body 220 between the inboard surface 224 and the back wall 234 of the slot 233. The base port 243 extends inwardly and upwardly from the base surface 226. The solenoid port 244 extends downwardly from the ledge 231. The front port 245 extends in an axial direction from the face surface 229.

[0082] Depicted in Figures 16-21, the valve body 220 also includes a transverse bore 246, a transverse opening 247, a vertical bore 248, a vertical opening 249, a primary junction 250, a secondary bore 252, a secondary junction 254, a solenoid bore 256, and a valve junction 258. The transverse bore 246 extends laterally between the transverse port 240 in the inboard surface 224 and the transverse opening 247 in the first passageway 82. The vertical bore 248 extends between the base port 243 in the base surface 226 and the vertical opening 249 in the second passageway 88. The transverse bore 246 fluidically connects with the vertical bore 248 at the primary junction 250. The secondary bore 252 extends axially between the temperature port 239 in the proximal surface 230 and the front port 245 in the face surface 229. The secondary bore 252 fluidically connects to the transverse bore 246 at the secondary junction 254. Further, the secondary junction 254 is spaced apart from the primary junction 250 along the transverse bore 246. The solenoid bore 256 fluidically connects to the secondary bore 252 at the valve junction 258 and extends in a vertical direction to the solenoid port 244 in the ledge 231.

[0083] The right-hand OTV 212 also includes a valve 260, a solenoid 262, and a temperature sensor 264. The valve 260 is operatively coupled to the valve junction 258 and configured to selectively prevent fluid flow through the valve junction 258. The solenoid 262 is fixedly coupled to the ledge 231 and operatively coupled to the valve 260. The solenoid 262 selectively repositions the valve 260 to allow or prevent fluid flow through the valve junction 258. as is commonly known in the art. The temperature sensor 264 is fixedly coupled to the proximal surface 230 and fluidically connected to the temperature port 239. The temperature sensor 264 determines a temperature of the fluid within the secondary bore 252, as is commonly known in the art.

[0084] The assembly of the pressure vessel 216 and the OTV 212 is described in reference to Figures 15-21. The pressure vessel 216 includes a polymeric liner 18 extending between an inlet section 24 and an outlet section 26, a pair of first and second short tank bosses 134, 135 having a shoulder 38 fixedly coupled to a respective end of the polymeric liner 18, and a composite 16 extending along an exterior surface 56 of the shoulder 38 and along an outer surface 58 of the polymeric liner 18. Referring to Figures 18-21, the distal end 44 of the first 2445264234.1 / 118622.00446and second short tank bosses 134, 135 is inserted into the first and second apertures 86, 92, through the first and second passageways 82. 88, and through the first and second stem openings 84, 90, respectively, in the slot wall 237 of the valve body 220. The threaded portion 42 of the first and second short tank bosses 134, 135 extends into the slot 233. The first and second short tank bosses 134, 135 are assembled with the first and second passageways 82, 88 such that the feed bores 60 are rotationally aligned with the transverse opening 247 and the vertical opening 249, respectively. Depicted in Figure 19, the OTV 212 also includes a first and second hex nuts 108, 110 and an anti-tamper cover 268. The first and second hex nuts 108, 110 are meshingly engaged with the threaded portion 42 of the first and second short tank bosses 134, 135, respectively, and abut against the slot wall 237, which maintains the flanges 172 on the first and second short tank bosses 134, 135 in frictional contact with the proximal surface 230 of the valve body 220. Next, the anti-tamper cover 268 is inserted into and fixedly coupled to the slot 233 to enclose the slot 233 and protect the hex nuts 108, 110.

[0085] A seventh embodiment of the boss integrated tank system 270 (hereinafter, “quad tank system”) is illustrated in Figure 22, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. The quad tank system 270 comprises a pair of the sixth tank systems 211, 211A stacked in an inverted and alternating arrangement. Elements in Figure 22 that are the same or similar to those used above in Figures 15-21 have the same or similar reference numbers for simplicity. Only significant differences between the seventh embodiment and the sixth embodiment are reflected in the Figures and the description below.

[0086] The quad tank system 270 includes a pair of right-hand tank systems 214, 214A having a right-hand OTV 212. 212A fluidically connected to a right-hand pressure vessel 216, 216A, respectively. The quad tank system 170 also includes a pair of left-hand tank systems 215, 215A having a left-hand OTV 213, 213A fluidically connected to a left-hand pressure vessel 217, 217A, respectively. The right-hand and left-hand OTV(s) 212, 212A, 213, 213A include a base surface 226, 226A, 227, 227 A. an inboard surface 224, 224A. 225, 225A, and an outboard surface 222, 222A, 223, 223A, respectively. Further, the quad tank system 270 is arranged such that the OTV(s) 212, 212A, 213, 213A are centrally located with the inboard surface 224, 224A of the right-hand OTV 212, 212A laterally adjacent the inboard surface 225, 225A of the left-hand OTV 213, 213A, respectively. Further, the base surfaces 226, 227 of the upper right-hand and left-hand OTV(s) 212, 213 are vertically adjacent the base surfaces 227 A, 226A of the lower left-hand and right-hand OTV(s) 213 A, 212A, respectively. It will be2545264234.1 / 118622.00446appreciated that one or more of the OTV(s) 212, 212A, 213, 213A are optionally fixedly coupled to an adjacent one of the OTV(s) 212. 212A, 213. 213A. It will be appreciated that the individual configuration of the pressure vessels 216, 216A, 217, 217A might vary without altering the scope of the present invention.

[0087] An eighth embodiment of the boss integrated tank system 272" (hereinafter, “eighth tank system’7), is illustrated in Figures 23-27, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. Elements in Figures 23-27 having like double primed reference numerals represent similar elements as those described above. Only significant differences between the eighth embodiment and the prior embodiments are reflected in Figures 23-27 and the description below. The eighth tank system 272" includes a pressure vessel 274" having a pair of first and second tank bosses 276", 278", wherein each tank boss 276", 278" includes a guide ring 279", 280", an O-ring 281", 282", and a back-up ring 283", 284", respectively. In contrast, the tank bosses 30, 31, 134, 135 of the prior embodiments include a plurality of O-rings 67, 67' and lack the guide ring 279", 280" and the back-up ring 283". 284".

[0088] Depicted in Figure 23, the eighth tank system 272" includes an on-tank-valve 285" comprising a valve body 286" formed out of a metal material. The valve body 286" includes a first passageway 288", a first aperture 290", a proximal wall 292". a first opening 294", a distal wall 296", a second passageway 298", a second aperture 300", and a second opening 302". The first passageway 288" extends between the first aperture 290" formed in the proximal wall 292" and the first opening 294" formed in the distal wall 296". The second passageway 298" is laterally spaced apart from the first passageway 288" and extends between the second aperture 300" formed in the proximal wall 292" and the second opening 302" formed in the distal wall 296". The first and second passageways 288", 298" are generally similarly constructed and include an inlet section 304", 306", a distal step 308", 310", a seal section 312", 314", a gland section 316", 318", a gland internal thread 319", 320", a proximal step 321", 322", a collar section 325". 326". a collar step 328", 330", and a transition surface 332", 334", respectively.

[0089] The inlet section 304", 306" extends inwardly from the respective opening 294", 302" formed in the distal wall 296", respectively. The distal step 308", 310" extends in a radial direction outwardly from an inboard end of the inlet section 304", 306" and adjoins an adjacent end of the seal section 312", 314", respectively. The gland section 316", 318" extends inwardly from the respective aperture 290", 300" formed in the proximal wall 292". The gland internal thread 319", 320" extends in a circumferential direction around the respective gland section 2645264234.1 / 118622.00446316", 318". The proximal step 321", 322" extends radially inwardly from an inner end of the gland section 316", 318". respectively. The collar section 324", 326" extends in an axial direction from an inner end of the respective proximal step 321", 322". The collar step 328", 330" extends radially inwardly from an inner end of the collar section 324", 326", respectively. The transition surface 332", 334" extends between an inner end of the collar step 328", 330" and an adjacent end of the seal section 312", 314", respectively. The transition surface 332", 334" has a curved, tapered, or inclined shape. It will be appreciated that the size and shape of the first and second passageways 288", 298" might vary without altering the scope of the present invention.

[0090] Depicted in Figure 23. the pressure vessel 274" includes an inlet section 24" and an outlet section 26", which are fixedly coupled to a respective one of the first and second tank bosses 276", 278". The first and second tank bosses 276", 278" transfer fluid and / or gases between the respective passageways 288", 298" in the valve body 286" and the interior of the pressure vessel 274". The first and second tank bosses 276", 278" are similarly constructed and are configured to matingly engage with the respective one of the first and second passageways 288", 298". It will be appreciated that the first and second tank bosses 276", 278" might vary in size, shape, and may contain more or fewer features without altering the scope of the present invention.

[0091] Depicted in Figures 24-27, each of the first and second tank bosses 276", 278" has a generally cylindrical shape and includes a base section 336", 338", a tank end 340", 342", a first flange 344", 346", a ring section 348", 350", a second flange 352", 354", a stem shaft 356", 358". a tapered section 360", 362", a stem threaded portion 364", 366". a seal section 368", 370", a stem end 372", 374", a central bore 376", 377", a bore opening 378", 379", and a tank opening (not shown), respectively. The base section 336", 338" extends axially between the tank end 340", 342" and the first flange 344", 346", respectively. The ring section 348", 350" extends axially between the first flange 344", 346" and the second flange 352", 354", respectively. The stem shaft 356", 358" extends axially between the second flange 352", 354" and an outer end of the tapered section 360", 362", respectively. The stem threaded portion 364", 366" extends circumferentially around the stem shaft 356", 358" adjacent the tapered section 360", 362". respectively. The seal section 368", 370" projects axially between an inner end of the tapered section 360". 362" and the stem end 372", 374", respectively. The central bore 376", 377" extends axially through the tank boss 276", 278" between the bore opening2745264234.1 / 118622.00446378", 379" in the stem end 372". 374" and the tank opening (not shown) in the tank end 340", 342". respectively.

[0092] Depicted in Figures 26 and 27, each of the first and second tank bosses I " , 278" also includes a guide notch 380", 382", an inlet portion 384", 386", a recessed slot 388", 390", and an O-ring slot 392", 394", respectively. The guide notch 380", 382" extends in a circumferential direction around the seal section 368", 370" and includes the inlet portion 384", 386" adjacent the stem end 372", 374" and the recessed slot 388", 390" spaced axially apart from the stem end 372", 374", respectively. The O-ring slot 392", 394" extends circumferentially around the seal section 368", 370" of the tank boss 276", 278" and is spaced axially between the guide notch 380", 382" and the tapered section 360", 362", respectively.

[0093] Depicted in Figures 23-27, each of the first and second tank bosses 276" , 278" also includes the guide ring 279", 280", the O-ring 281", 282", and the back-up ring 283", 284", respectively. The guide ring 279", 280" has a ring-shape and is formed out of a low friction gliding material comprising a thermoplastic polymer, such as polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polytetraflouroethylene (PTFE), or the like as non-limiting examples. Each of the guide rings 279", 280" includes a main ring 408", 410" extending in a circumferential direction and a rim 412". 414" projecting in an axial direction therefrom. Each of the back-up rings 283", 284" has a ring shape and is formed out of a low friction gliding material comprising a thermoplastic polymer, such as polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polytetraflouroethylene (PTFE), or the like as non-limiting examples. The guide rings 279", 280", the O-rings 281", 282", and the backup rings 283", 284" are assembled with the respective tank bosses 276", 278" prior to assembling the first and second tank bosses 276", 278" with the valve body 286". The guide ring 279", 280" is inserted into and matingly engages with the guide notch 380", 382" in the respective tank boss 276", 278". Further, the main ring 408", 410" is frictionally engaged with the recessed slot 388", 390" and the rim 412", 414" is frictionally engaged with the inlet portion 384". 386". The O-rings 281", 282" are inserted into the respective O-ring slots 392", 394". The back-up rings 283", 284" are also inserted into the associated O-ring slot 392", 394" and is spaced axially between the O-ring 281", 282" and the tapered section 360", 362". It will be appreciated that the back-up rings 283", 284" might be inserted into a secondary7slot (not shown) adjacent the O-ring slots 392", 294" in the respective first and second tank bosses 276", 278" without altering the scope of the present invention. The guide rings 279", 280" and the back-up rings 283", 284" protect the O-rings 281 ", 282" on the tank bosses 276", 278" during2845264234.1 / 118622.00446assembly and disassembly of the on-tank-valve 285", which in turn improves the seal between the tank bosses 276", 278" and the on-tank-valve 285" and reduces potential leaks around the O-rings 281", 282". It will be appreciated that the guide ring 279", 280" and / or the back-up ring 283", 284" might be included w ithin the prior embodiments in order to improve protection of the O-rings 67, 67' during assembly.

[0094] Depicted in Figures 23-25, the on-tank-valve 285" includes a first tank boss assembly 416" and a second tank boss assembly 418". The first tank boss assembly 416" includes the first tank boss 276", a first gland 420", and a first collar 422". The second tank boss assembly 418" includes the second tank boss 278", a second gland 424", and a second collar 426". The first and second glands 420", 424" are configured as is commonly known in the art and are substantially similar. In more detail, each of the first and second glands 420", 424" includes a shaft surface 428", 430", a gland base 432", 434", a gland end 436", 438", a center passage 440", 442", and an external threaded portion 444", 446", respectively. The first and second collars 422", 426" are threaded collars as is commonly known in the art. In more detail, each of the first and second collars 422", 426" includes a collar base 448", 450", a collar end 452", 454", a collar passage 456", 458", an internal threaded portion 460", 462", and a collar outer surface 464", 466".

[0095] Referring to Figures 23-27, the on-tank-valve 285" is assembled by sliding each one of the first and second glands 420", 424" onto the stem shaft 356", 358" of the respective first and second tank boss 276", 278". Next, the first and second collars 422", 426" are assembled with the respective first and second tank bosses 276", 278" with the internal threaded portion 460", 462" meshingly engaged with the stem threaded portion 364", 366". Next, the stem end 372", 374" of the first and second tank bosses 276", 278" is inserted into the first and second passageway 288", 298", respectively, and the external threaded portion 444", 446" of the first and second glands 420", 424" are meshingly engaged with and frictionally coupled to the gland internal thread 319", 320" in the first and second passageway 288", 298", respectively. As assembled, the central bore 376", 377" of the first and second tank bosses 276", 278" are fluidically connected to the first and second passageways 288", 298", respectively, in the valve body 286". In addition, the O-rings 281", 282" are frictionally engaged with the respective first and second seal sections 312", 314", which prevents leaks of fluid and / or gases between the exterior surface of the first and second tank bosses 276", 278" and the seal section 312". 314" of the first and second passageway 288", 298", respectively.2945264234.1 / 118622.00446

[0096] As described above, the boss integrated tank system 10, 120, 130, 130A, 130', 199, 209, 209A, 272" of the present invention includes an on-tank-valve (OTV) 12. 122, 132, 132', 201, 211, 211 A, 285" which is volume optimized to reduce the space required for the pressure vessels 14, 14A, 216, 216A, 217, 217A, 274". Further, the OTV(s) 12, 122, 132, 132', 201, 211, 211 A, 285" of the present invention are weight optimized for use in vehicles. The reduced weight of the OTV(s) 12, 122, 132, 132'. 201, 211, 211A. 285" also reduces the amount of stress acting upon the interface between the composite 16 and the associated tank boss 30. 30A, 31, 31 A, 134, 134A, 135, 135A, 276", 278". The OTV(s) 12, 122, 132, 132', 201, 211, 211 A, 285" include a reduced part count and a decreased amount of sealing interfaces in comparison to other known on-tank-valves.

[0097] The invention has been described in an illustrative manner, and it is to be understood that the terminology', which has been used, is intended to be in the nature of words of description rather than of limitation. Many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is, therefore, to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced other than as specifically described.3045264234.1 / 118622.00446

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A boss integrated tank system for storing a fluid or a gas under pressure, the boss integrated tank system comprising:a pressure vessel comprising a polymeric liner which includes a liner opening, a hard outer shell comprising a composite surrounding an outer periphery of the polymeric liner, and a first tank boss fixedly coupled to the composite and including a boss opening fluidically connected to the liner opening;the first tank boss further comprising a stem, a flange proj ecting radially from the stem, a threaded portion extending circumferentially around the stem adjacent a distal end thereof, a feed bore extending radially through the stem and spaced between the flange and the threaded portion, and a central bore fluidically connecting the feed bore and the boss opening; and an on-tank-valve comprising a mechanical fastener fixedly coupled to the threaded portion of the stem, a valve body which further includes an aperture, a port, and a stem opening spaced apart on an outer surface thereof, a first passageway fluidically connecting the aperture and the stem opening, and a transfer bore fluidically connecting the first passageway and the port;wherein the stem extends through the first passageway in the valve body with the feed bore fluidically connected to the transfer bore in the valve body; andwherein the mechanical fastener fixedly coupled to the threaded portion of the stem also retains the flange abutted against the outer surface of the valve body.

2. The boss integrated tank system as set forth in claim 1, the on-tank-valve further comprising:an O-ring extending circumferentially around the stem which forms a seal between the stem and the first passageway.

3. The boss integrated tank system as set forth in claim 2, the first tank boss further comprising:a second O-ring extending circumferentially around the stem which forms a second seal between the stem and the first passageway;wherein the O-ring is spaced axially along the stem between the feed bore and the threaded portion and the second O-ring is spaced axially along the stem between the feed bore and the flange.

4. The boss integrated tank system as set forth in any one of claims 1 through 3, the first tank boss further comprising:3145264234.1 / 118622.00446a shoulder extending circumferentially around the boss opening and projecting axially away from the flange;wherein the shoulder includes an interior surface which abuts against the polymeric liner, an exterior surface which abuts against the composite, and one or more ribs extending circumferentially around the exterior surface and projecting radially therefrom.

5. The boss integrated tank system as set forth in any one of claims 1 through 4, the valve body further comprising:a slot wall and a distal wall extending from a slot opening in the outer surface and defining a slot therebetween;wherein the stem opening is formed in the slot wall, the threaded portion extends through the stem opening and into the slot, and the mechanical fastener is abutted against the slot wall.

6. The boss integrated tank system as set forth in claim 5, further comprising:a cover fixedly coupled to the slot opening to enclose the slot opening.

7. The boss integrated tank system as set forth in any one of claims 1 through 6, wherein: the pressure vessel further comprises a second tank boss fluidically connected to a second liner opening in the polymeric liner;the second tank boss further comprises a second stem including a second threaded portion and a second flange projecting radially therefrom;the valve body further comprises a second aperture and a second stem opening spaced apart on the outer surface thereof and a second passageway fluidically connecting the second aperture and the second stem opening; andthe on-tank-valve further comprises a second mechanical fastener fixedly coupled to the second threaded portion;wherein the second mechanical fastener fixedly coupled to the second threaded portion of the second stem also retains the second flange abutted against the outer surface of the valve body.

8. The boss integrated tank system as set forth in claim 7, wherein:the pressure vessel comprising the first tank boss and the second tank boss defining a first pressure vessel having a first pair of tank bosses;3245264234.1 / 118622.00446the first passageway and the second passageway in the valve body defining a first pair of passageways;the boss integrated tank system further comprises a second pressure vessel having a second pair of tank bosses; andthe valve body further comprises a second pair of passageways spaced apart from the first pair of passageways;wherein the second pair of tank bosses extend through the respective one of the second pair of passageways.

9. The boss integrated tank system as set forth in any one of claims 1 through 7, the first tank boss further comprising:a threaded tank boss fixedly coupled to the pressure vessel; anda removable stem fixedly coupled to the threaded tank boss.

10. The boss integrated tank system as set forth in any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising:a second pressure vessel fluidically and mechanically connected to a second on-tank-valve;wherein the on-tank-valve is fixedly coupled to the second on-tank-valve.

11. The boss integrated tank system as set forth in any one of claims 1 through 10, wherein the valve body of the on-tank-valve has an asymmetrical shape.

12. The boss integrated tank system as set forth in any one of claims 1 to 11, the first tank boss further comprising:a guide ring extending circumferentially around the stem; ora back-up ring extending circumferentially around the stem.

13. A boss integrated tank system for storing a fluid or a gas under pressure, the boss integrated tank system comprising:a pressure vessel comprising a polymeric liner which includes a liner opening, a hard outer shell comprising a composite surrounding an outer periphery of the polymeric liner, and a tank boss fixedly coupled to the composite;the tank boss further comprising a stem extending from a stem end, a central bore extending in an axial direction through the stem and fluidically connected to the liner opening, a stem threaded portion extending circumferentially around the stem, an O-ring extending circumferentially around the stem and spaced axially between the stem threaded portion and 3345264234.1 / 118622.00446the stem end, and a guide ring extending circumferentially around the stem adjacent the stem end; andan on-tank-valve further comprising a valve body, a gland, and a collar, the valve body further comprising a passageway which includes a seal section spaced axially apart from a gland section and a gland internal thread extending circumferentially around the gland section, the gland including a center passage extending axially therethrough and an external threaded portion extending circumferentially around an exterior of the gland, and the collar including a collar passage extending axially therethrough and an internal threaded portion extending circumferentially around the collar passage;wherein the stem extends axially through the collar passage on the collar, extends axially through the center passage on the gland, and extends at least partially along the passageway in the valve body; andwherein the internal threaded portion on the collar is meshingly engaged with the stem threaded portion on the stem, the external threaded portion on the gland is meshingly engaged with the gland internal thread in the passageway, the O-ring is frictionally engaged with the seal section of the passageway.

14. The boss integrated tank system as set forth in claim 13, the tank boss further comprising:a back-up ring extending circumferentially around the stem and spaced axially between the O-ring and the stem threaded portion; andwherein at least one of the guide ring and the back-up ring is formed out of a thermoplastic material.

15. The boss integrated tank system as set forth in claim 14, the tank boss further comprising:a guide notch extending circumferentially around the stem adjacent the stem end; and a recessed slot extending circumferentially around the stem and spaced axially between the guide notch and the stem threaded portion;wherein the guide ring engaged with the guide notch, the back-up ring is at least partially inserted into the recessed slot.3445264234.1 / 118622.00446

Images