Annular Space Separating Mechanism for Cryogenic Tank Thermal Bridge Inhibition
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current support systems for cryogenic tanks form thermal bridges and are not designed to be temporary, leading to heat loss and inefficiency, as they are permanent and do not effectively separate the inner and outer tanks during transportation and operation.
Innovation Solution
An annular space separating mechanism that supports the inner tank during horizontal transportation and separates when the tank is positioned vertically, using a combination of components like non-slippery surfaced parts, a threaded rod, yellow brass bearing, and expansion joint to distribute loads and prevent vacuum leakage, while inhibiting thermal bridges by becoming inactive in the vertical position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If permanent supports are placed between inner tank and outer tank, then the inner tank is supported against transport loads during horizontal transportation, but thermal bridges are formed causing heat loss during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The support mechanism transitions from an active state during transportation to an inactive state during operation. The threaded rod can be rotated to retract the support arms, and the expansion joint allows the mechanism to adapt its configuration, dynamically changing the thermal bridge characteristics based on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The support mechanism is divided into separable components including support arms, a threaded rod for adjustment, and an expansion joint. This segmentation allows the support structure to be reconfigured or disconnected, enabling removal of thermal bridges when supports are no longer needed for transportation stability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the support mechanism remains active during vertical operation, then structural stability is maintained, but thermal bridges continue to cause heat loss
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism is designed to be dynamically adjustable rather than permanently fixed. During vertical operation, the threaded rod can be rotated to retract the support arms, and the expansion joint allows the mechanism to adapt its configuration, dynamically changing the thermal bridge characteristics based on operational requirements.
3Loss of energy
If the support mechanism is made retractable, then thermal bridges can be inhibited during operation, but the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The complex multi-component adjustment system is replaced with a simple threaded rod mechanism that converts rotational motion into linear retraction of support arms. This mechanical substitution maintains retractability while minimizing complexity through straightforward screw-mechanism physics.
Solution Approach 2:
The support mechanism utilizes parameter changes in the expansion joint to adapt its configuration. By changing the expansion state of the joint, the mechanism can adjust its length and configuration, enabling thermal bridge inhibition without requiring complex active control systems.
4Loss of energy
If isolation materials are used in support systems, then heat transfer is reduced, but the support strength and reliability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The solution extracts and removes the support mechanism from the thermal bridge path during operation. By retracting the support arms and utilizing the annular space, the physical connection that would conduct heat is eliminated, achieving thermal isolation without relying on insulating materials that would compromise structural reliability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The mechanism effectively supports the inner tank during transportation, reduces friction and heat transfer, and maintains the tank's vacuum by becoming inactive in the vertical position, enhancing operational efficiency and preventing thermal bridges.
Implementation Method 1
at least two pieces of non-slippery surfaced part (PTFE) which are contacted above and below the said cover plate and reduce the friction constant under load
Implementation Method 2
an expansion joint which enables the compression movement when the said threaded rod turns
Implementation Method 3
a yellow brass bearing, which enables the up and down movement of the said bearing member by turning inside the bearing member when the said threaded rod turns
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention specifically relates to a annular space separating mechanism (1) which enables support to the inner tank of cryogenic tanks, against transport loads arising from transportation systems such as sea route, land route and train during the transportation at horizontal position, and the support mechanism (1) separates after the tank that is transported to the work field is positioned vertically and inhibits the occurring of a thermal bridge between the inner tank and outer tank.