Auxiliary Fuel Tank Layout for Off-Road Range Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Off-road vehicles, such as ATVs and UTVs, often lack sufficient fuel capacity for extended use in areas with limited refueling opportunities, necessitating an auxiliary fuel tank solution.
Innovation Solution
An auxiliary fuel tank design for off-road vehicles, featuring a top wall, front and side walls, a bottom wall with securement tab members, and a threaded inlet tube for receiving a fuel tank cap, which can be coupled to the main fuel tank through an opening created by removing the passenger side glove box.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the fuel capacity of off-road vehicles is increased, then the range and utility of the vehicle is improved, but the vehicle's weight and structural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel storage system is divided into two separate tanks: a main fuel tank and an auxiliary fuel tank. The auxiliary fuel tank is installed in the cargo box area, allowing fuel capacity to be increased without modifying the original fuel tank structure or compromising vehicle structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary fuel tank serves multiple functions: it increases fuel capacity for extended range, utilizes the existing cargo box space (replacing or coexisting with storage compartments), and integrates with the vehicle's existing fuel delivery system through the fuel pump and line connections.
2Quantity of substance
If an auxiliary fuel tank is added to increase fuel capacity, then the range is improved, but the ease of operation and installation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary fuel tank is designed with pre-configured mounting features including tabs that engage with slots in the cargo box, pre-positioned fuel line connection points, and integrated cap assembly. This preliminary configuration simplifies installation by eliminating the need for custom fabrication or complex assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The fuel pump acts as an intermediary component that automatically manages fuel transfer between the auxiliary fuel tank and the main fuel tank. This automated mechanism eliminates the need for manual fuel transfer operations and simplifies the overall system operation.
3Reliability
If securement features are added to the auxiliary fuel tank, then the reliability of installation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The securement features are integrated directly into the auxiliary fuel tank structure itself. Tabs are formed as part of the tank body, and mounting slots are built into the cargo box structure, eliminating the need for separate mounting brackets or fastening mechanisms while ensuring reliable installation.
Data Source
AI summary
An auxiliary fuel tank for off-road vehicles is provided. The auxiliary fuel tank may include a top wall, multiple angled front and side walls and a bottom wall. Securement tabs with apertures are provided on the bottom wall and the top wall for securing the auxiliary fuel tank within an upright receptacle, such as a passenger side glove box.