Plastic Fuel Tank Frame With Movable Support for Component Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing technology for manufacturing plastic fuel tanks is limited by the size of the frame inserted inside the tubular parison, which restricts the positioning of internal components due to the defined diameter of the tubular parison, leading to reduced tank dimensions and increased hydrocarbon emissions.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a frame with a movable support means for fuel system components that can change distance relative to the frame, allowing easy insertion and optimal positioning of components within the tank, reducing contact with the parison and minimizing the need for post-manufacturing interventions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a frame with fuel system components is inserted inside a tubular parison during extrusion blow-molding, then internal components can be positioned within the tank, but the size of the frame is limited by the internal diameter of the tubular parison, restricting component positioning and reducing tank dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The support means is made movable relative to the frame, allowing it to transition between a retracted position (during insertion) and an extended position (during component positioning). This dynamic capability enables the device to overcome the size limitation imposed by the parison internal diameter while still achieving optimal component positioning in the final tank configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The support means extends in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the frame, utilizing a spatial dimension that does not conflict with the parison diameter constraint. This allows components to be positioned at optimal distances from the frame without increasing the radial footprint that would interfere with insertion
2Ease of manufacture
If the frame size is limited by the tubular parison diameter, then insertion is easier, but the positioning of internal components is restricted and tank dimensions are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The movable support means allows the system to adapt its configuration: compact during insertion for ease of manufacture, then extendable to precise positions for accurate component positioning. This dynamic transformation resolves the contradiction between insertion ease and positioning precision
Solution Approach 2:
The frame and support means are designed with preliminary considerations for both insertion constraints and final positioning requirements. The support means is pre-configured to be movable, allowing it to be inserted in a compact state and then positioned precisely in the final state, achieving both ease of manufacture and manufacturing precision
3Ease of operation
If more openings are provided in the tank wall for post-manufacturing interventions, then component positioning can be improved, but hydrocarbon emissions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables component positioning to be accomplished during the manufacturing process itself, with all necessary positioning actions performed before the tank is sealed. This preliminary action eliminates the need for subsequent openings and interventions, thereby preventing hydrocarbon emissions while achieving optimal component positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The movable support means extracts the need for post-manufacturing interventions by providing comprehensive positioning capability during the initial manufacturing process. By taking out the requirement for additional openings, the system eliminates the associated harmful emissions while maintaining full component positioning capability
Data Source
AI summary
A device is for a plastic gasoline tank for a motor vehicle. The device includes a frame, an internal reinforcing element of a gasoline system, and a movable support of the component. The movable support is attached to the frame and movable relative to the frame between an initial configuration in which the reinforcing element is at a first distance from the frame and a final configuration in which the reinforcing element is at a second distance from the frame. The first distance is smaller than the second distance. The frame is provided with a structure for stopping the movement of the movable support when the movable support is in the final configuration.