CNG Tank Mounting Structure for Durable Multi-Tank Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mounting techniques for compressed natural gas storage tanks on machines are not durable and robust, limiting the number of tanks that can be mounted due to space constraints, and machines relying on these tanks face issues with low energy density and high emissions from conventional fuel sources.
Innovation Solution
A mounting system with a tank support structure that defines a hollow space for receiving one or more tanks, featuring fixed and removable mounting brackets for secure retention, and coupling arrangements with bosses and fastening members to integrate with the machine's sweeps assembly, allowing for efficient and robust mounting of tanks proximate to the operator cabin.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional mounting techniques are used to mount storage tanks on the machine, then the mounting process is simple, but the mounting durability and robustness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into multiple components: a tank support structure with hollow space, first mounting brackets fixedly coupled to the support structure, and second mounting brackets removably coupled to the first brackets. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall durability without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The first mounting brackets are pre-fixed to the tank support structure during manufacturing, creating a stable base framework. This preliminary action ensures that the mounting system has inherent structural integrity before the tanks are actually installed, improving mounting durability from the outset.
2Quantity of substance
If more storage tanks are mounted on the machine to increase gas storage capacity, then the energy density and runtime improve, but the space constraints and mounting complexity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The tank support structure utilizes the hollow space above the operator cabin, effectively using the vertical dimension and previously unused space. This allows additional tanks to be mounted without occupying lateral mounting space, thereby increasing gas storage capacity while respecting space constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system with its standardized brackets and support structure can accommodate multiple tanks of different sizes and configurations. The same mounting framework serves multiple functions: structural support, tank retention, and flexible configuration for different numbers of tanks, maximizing space utilization.
3Strength
If conventional mounting techniques are used, then the manufacturing cost is low, but the robustness and security of tank retention deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates both fixed and removable coupling mechanisms. The first brackets are fixedly coupled to provide permanent structural support, while the second brackets are removably coupled to allow for tank installation and removal. This dynamic combination ensures strong retention security while maintaining reasonable manufacturing simplicity through modular assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting system for a machine includes a tank support structure adapted to mount tanks proximate to an operator cabin of the machine, a first mounting bracket fixedly coupled to the tank support structure, and a second mounting bracket adapted to be removably coupled to the first mounting bracket. The tank support structure defines a hollow space. The tanks are received within the hollow space. The tank support structure includes a first surface and a second surface spaced apart from the first surface. The hollow space is defined between the first surface and the second surface. The first surface is configured to be coupled to a portion of the machine for mounting the tank support structure on the machine. The first mounting bracket and the second mounting bracket are adapted to receive a section of the tanks for retaining the tanks within the tank support structure.