Cryogenic Tank Fluid Distribution Container

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional cryogenic containers require complex and costly individual sockets for each line, making it difficult to connect the inner container to multiple lines in a structurally simple manner, especially for large-scale applications.

Innovation Solution

A double-walled cryogenic container design with a fluid distribution container that extends from the inner container into the evacuable space, featuring multiple openings for line connections, allowing for a central arrangement of lines and reducing material usage and production complexity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If individual sockets are provided for each line connection to the inner container, then each line can be connected independently, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveline connection capabilityVSAvoidsocket structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple individual socket functions into a single integrated fluid distribution container that extends from the inner container wall into the evacuable space. This container provides multiple opening(s) for line connections, eliminating the need for separate individual sockets for each line while maintaining independent connection capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The fluid distribution container serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a structural component extending from the inner container, provides a distribution interface for multiple lines, and facilitates fluid communication between the inner container and external lines. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If multiple individual connections are made to the inner container wall, then each line can be connected directly, but the number of holes and weld edges increases manufacturing complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveline connection capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple connection points into a single fluid distribution container structure. Instead of drilling multiple separate holes in the inner container wall for different lines, only one opening is made to accommodate the fluid distribution container, which then provides multiple line connection points. This significantly reduces the number of holes and weld edges required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connection function is segmented between the inner container (providing the main structure and single opening) and the fluid distribution container (providing multiple line connection points). This segmentation allows the inner container to remain simple while the fluid distribution container handles the complexity of multiple connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Manufacturing precision

If predefined calculations and defined spacing are used for nozzle dimensioning, then precise positioning is achieved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenozzle positioning accuracyVSAvoidnozzle arrangement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fluid distribution container provides a universal connection interface that can accommodate multiple lines with different requirements. The container's opening(s) are designed to receive the fluid distribution container, which then provides standardized connection points for lines, eliminating the need for individually calculated and positioned nozzles for each line.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Enables efficient and cost-effective connection of multiple lines to the inner container with reduced material and manufacturing effort, eliminating the need for individual sockets and simplifying the production process.

Implementation Method 1

an evacuable space between the inner container and the outer container that can be evacuated for vacuum insulation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVacuum insulation: Vacuum

Implementation Method 2

An insulating material with low thermal conductivity, such as perlite, can be placed in this space

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal insulation: Thermal Insulation

Data Source

PatentEP3740712B1Cryogenic tank
Publication Date: 2023.04.19 LINDE AG
  • EP3740712B1 patent drawingFigure 1a~1c
  • EP3740712B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2c
  • EP3740712B1 patent drawingFigure 3a

AI summary

The present invention relates to a cryogenic vessel (300a, 300b) having an inner container (301), an outer container (302), an intermediate space (303) between the inner container (301) and the outer container (302) which can be evacuated, and having at least one fluid distribution container (200), which has an internal volume which extends proceeding from one wall of the inner container (301) into the intermediate space (303), is arranged at least partially within the intermediate space (303) and is fluidically connected to the inner container (301), wherein the internal volume of the fluid distribution container (200) is delimited by a wall which has openings (211, 212, 213) that are designed for the connection of one line (311, 312, 313) each or are each connected with one such line (311, 312, 313). The wall (121, 221) has a convex section (101, 201), wherein a wall thickness of the wall at at least one point is less than 90% of a wall thickness of the inner container (301). The invention also relates to a fluid distribution container (100, 200) and to a method for producing a cryogenic vessel (300a, 300b).