Fuel Tank Bracket for Work Machine Bonnet
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing work machines face challenges in efficiently arranging the fuel tank relative to the engine and bonnet, leading to issues with deformation, maintenance access, and space constraints, particularly in skid steer loaders and track loaders.
Innovation Solution
A design where the fuel tank is positioned between the engine and a bonnet that can be opened, supported by a bracket system that includes shock-absorbing members and a support member with a circular edge to separate the tank from the bonnet, allowing for easy access and protection without increasing the machine's height or width.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the fuel tank is arranged in the engine room with the motor, then the space utilization is improved, but the tank is prone to deformation and maintenance access is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the engine room space into two separate compartments: one for the motor and another for the fuel tank. The tank is positioned between the motor and the bonnet, creating distinct functional zones that improve maintenance accessibility while maintaining compact space utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The support bracket acts as an intermediary element that positions the fuel tank in the intermediate space between the motor and the bonnet. This bracket system allows the tank to be securely mounted while maintaining easy access for maintenance operations.
2Area of stationary object
If the tank is placed close to the bonnet, then the machine width is reduced, but the tank is vulnerable to deformation from external forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates shock-absorbing members in the support bracket system that cushion the fuel tank from external impacts before they can cause deformation. These members are positioned to absorb shocks from the rear direction, protecting the tank while maintaining compact dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The support bracket system combines rigid structural elements with shock-absorbing materials to create a composite support structure that both protects the tank from deformation and maintains compact machine dimensions.
3Ease of operation
If the bonnet is made openable for maintenance, then the ease of operation is improved, but the tank may be exposed to external forces
Solution Approach 1:
The support bracket system serves as an intermediary that secures the fuel tank in place while allowing the bonnet to open for maintenance. The bracket structure provides continuous protection against external forces regardless of the bonnet's position.
4Quantity of substance
If the tank capacity is increased, then the fuel storage is improved, but the machine height or width must be increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the longitudinal dimension (front-to-back direction) to accommodate increased fuel tank capacity. By positioning the tank between the motor and the bonnet in the longitudinal direction, the design achieves greater fuel storage without increasing the machine's height or width.
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 configuration enhances the protection of the fuel tank, simplifies maintenance, and maintains a compact machine design by absorbing impacts and allowing the fuel tank to move slightly, while providing sufficient capacity without increasing the bonnet's height or machine width.
Implementation Method 1
a support member including a bracket supporting the tank on the bonnet such that the tank is separated from the bonnet
Data Source
AI summary
A work machine includes a machine body, a motor provided in a rear portion of the machine body, a bonnet which covers a rear of the motor and which is openable, a tank disposed between the motor and the bonnet, and a support member. The support member includes a bracket supporting the tank on the bonnet such that the tank is separated from the bonnet.