Cryogenic Tank Pocket Structure Preserving Storage Volume
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cryogenic tanks face a challenge in maximizing internal container volume while accommodating functional components, leading to reduced storage capacity due to the need for these components to be positioned at the front or in the vacuum space, which shortens the axial length of the inner vessel.
Innovation Solution
A cryogenic tank design featuring a pocket or indentation within the inner container that houses functional components, allowing these components to be separated from the cryogenic medium and positioned within the inner container's usual volume, with pipes and a lid providing access from the vacuum space, thereby minimizing volume loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If functional components are arranged at the front of the cryogenic tank outside the outer vessel or in the vacuum space, then the functional components are accessible and can be installed, but the axial length of the inner vessel must be shortened, reducing the storage volume
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nesting principle by creating a pocket structure that extends from the vacuum space into the inner container, allowing functional components to be nested within the inner container's volume while remaining accessible from the vacuum space. This nested configuration resolves the contradiction by enabling component accessibility without sacrificing storage volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dimensional transformation by creating a pocket that extends axially into the inner container from the vacuum space. This dimensional approach allows functional components to be positioned in a different spatial arrangement, utilizing the axial dimension to accommodate components while preserving the radial storage capacity of the inner vessel.
2Length of stationary object
If the axial length of the inner vessel is shortened to accommodate functional components, then the tank length is reduced, but the internal container volume decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a localized pocket structure at specific positions on the inner container where functional components are needed. This localized modification allows components to be accommodated without affecting the overall axial length and volume of the inner vessel, as the pocket only occupies a局部 region rather than requiring global dimensional reduction.
3Volume of stationary object
If functional components are placed within the inner container volume, then storage capacity is maximized, but the components are exposed to the cryogenic medium which may affect their operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the vacuum space as an intermediary medium, creating a thermal barrier between the cryogenic medium inside the inner container and the functional components arranged in the pocket. The vacuum space acts as a mediator that allows components to be positioned within the inner container volume while protecting them from direct exposure to the harmful cryogenic environment.
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
This design maintains a larger internal volume for cryogenic storage by integrating functional components within the inner container without reducing its length, while protecting them from the medium and optimizing space utilization.
Implementation Method 1
A vacuum is typically created between the inner and outer containers to reduce heat transfer from the outside to the inside.
Implementation Method 2
A vacuum space is provided between the inner container and the outer container
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
A cryogenic tank comprising an inner container (1) for holding a cryogenic medium, in particular hydrogen, and an outer container (2) surrounding the inner container (1), wherein a vacuum space (3) is provided between the inner container (1) and the outer container (2), wherein a pocket (4) extends at least from the vacuum space (3) into the interior of the inner container (1), wherein one or more functional components (5) are arranged in the pocket (4), such as one or more heat exchangers (6), valves, control components and/or pipes (7).