Cryogenic Tank Panel Fixing via Common Anchor Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tank designs for cryogenic fluid storage, such as LNG, require a high number of anchors in the concrete structure and impose fixed anchor point positions, limiting the proximity of adjacent panels due to drilling constraints and structural defects.
Innovation Solution
A tank design featuring a common fixing member with a plate, a stud anchored in the concrete, and additional studs anchored in adjacent panels, allowing for flexible anchor point positioning and reduced anchor count, enabling panels to be positioned closely or in contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If each panel is fixed to the concrete structure with separate anchors at each corner, then the panels are securely fixed, but the number of anchors required is high and the anchor positions are constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fixation functions into a single common fixing member that serves multiple adjacent panels simultaneously. This fixing member includes a plate with multiple studs that can be anchored in the concrete structure, and additional studs that anchor into each panel, thereby reducing the total number of separate anchors needed while maintaining secure fixation for all panels.
Solution Approach 2:
The common fixing member is designed as a universal component that can fix multiple different panels (first panels and second panels) at the same time. The plate with multiple studs configuration allows it to serve as a multi-functional fixation device, eliminating the need for separate fixation devices for each panel and enabling flexible positioning.
2Reliability
If anchor positions are fixed by panel positions, then panels are securely anchored, but the ability to position panels arbitrarily close to each other is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing member design allows for dynamic adaptation of anchor positions. The plate can be positioned at various locations, and the studs can be arranged in different configurations depending on the specific panel layout requirements. This enables the system to adapt to different panel spacing arrangements, including positioning panels arbitrarily close to each other, while maintaining anchoring reliability.
3Ease of manufacture
If a minimum distance is maintained between adjacent panels for tie rod passage, then tie rod installation is possible, but the panels cannot be positioned arbitrarily close to each other
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a linear tie rod passage requirement to a multi-dimensional stud arrangement. Instead of requiring horizontal passage space between panels for tie rods, the solution uses vertically extending studs that anchor into the panels from the plate. This dimensional change eliminates the need for minimum horizontal spacing between panels while still providing secure mechanical connection.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a tank for storing cryogenic fluid, comprising a concrete supporting structure, at least one impermeable barrier and at least one thermally insulating barrier. According to the invention, the thermally insulating barrier comprises a plurality of panels that are fixed to the supporting structure and said panels comprise at least two first adjacent panels fastened to the supporting structure by a common fastening member. The invention is characterized in that the fastening member comprises a plate (2), a first pin (3) that extends from a first side of the plate and at least a second pin (4) and a third pin (5) that extend from a second side of the plate, whereby the first pin is anchored in the supporting structure and the second and third pins are each anchored in one of the aforementioned first panels respectively.