Fuel Tank Module Frame for Collision Deformation Redirection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fuel tank assemblies for pressurized fuel in vehicles face challenges in accommodating compact designs while providing adequate protection against damage in accidents, as deformation forces are not effectively managed, leading to potential tank damage.
Innovation Solution
A fuel tank assembly with a frame structure comprising transverse and longitudinal struts that redirects deformation forces around the tank, using cross braces to stabilize the tank and the vehicle compartment, and incorporates a cylindrical pressure vessel design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a fuel tank system with separate filler nozzle and cap components is used, then the fuel filling function is achieved, but the number of parts increases and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the filler nozzle, cap, and sealing elements into a single integrated fuel filler assembly. The cap serves as both a protective cover and a mounting structure for the nozzle and sealing components, eliminating the need for separate parts and simplifying assembly while maintaining fuel filling functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The cap structure performs multiple functions: it protects the fuel opening, provides a mounting base for the filler nozzle, incorporates sealing elements to prevent leakage, and includes threaded engagement features for secure attachment. This multi-functional design reduces the overall number of components needed in the fuel tank system.
2Device complexity
If a integrated fuel filler assembly with multiple functions is used, then the number of parts decreases, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated fuel filler assembly is designed with pre-formed sealing surfaces and pre-positioned sealing elements during the molding process. The cap is manufactured with integrated threading and mounting features that ensure proper alignment, reducing the need for post-assembly adjustments and maintaining manufacturing precision while simplifying the overall assembly.
3Productivity
If the fuel tank cap is removed during fuel filling, then fuel can be added to the tank, but the risk of foreign objects entering and contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filler nozzle assembly acts as an intermediary component that interfaces between the external fuel source and the fuel tank interior. It includes integrated sealing elements and filtering features that prevent foreign objects and contaminants from entering the tank during fuel filling, allowing the cap to remain in place while maintaining contamination protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The design converts the potential harm of cap removal (contamination risk) into a benefit by incorporating sealing and filtering features within the integrated filler assembly. The system maintains the protective function of the cap while enabling fuel filling through a controlled interface that prevents contaminant ingress.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The invention relates to a fuel tank module for a motor vehicle, comprising at least one tank (1) and first and second struts (14, 9, 10) for fastening the at least one tank to the motor vehicle, which struts are connected to one another to form a frame, in which the at least one tank (1) is caught.