Fuel Tank Assembly Using Pin-Shaped Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for assembling fuel tanks, particularly those with internal reinforcement pillars or walls, are complex and delicate due to the need for precise welding of non-accessible components, making them difficult to assemble robustly and simply.
Innovation Solution
The use of a pin-shaped element that can be inserted before or after welding to connect the shells, providing a reliable fixation and limiting deformation, while also allowing integration of additional functions such as a filler spud, venting system, or electrical ducts, and can be oriented or reinforced for enhanced strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional welding methods are used to connect internal pillar parts, then the tank can be assembled, but the assembly operation becomes complex and delicate due to non-accessibility of components
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of welding internal pillar parts from the difficult-to-access internal position, the invention inverts the approach by providing access holes in the tank walls that allow welding tools to reach the pillar connection points from the external side. This inversion of the welding approach simplifies the assembly operation while maintaining connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces access holes as intermediary elements that facilitate the welding process. These holes serve as mediators between the welding tools and the internal pillar connection points, enabling simple assembly operations while maintaining the structural integrity of the tank
2Strength
If reinforcement pillars are placed at a distance from the perimeter welding path, then tank stability is improved, but welding tool accessibility becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The invention resolves the accessibility problem by changing the dimension of access - instead of trying to reach internal pillars from the tank interior, access holes are created in the tank wall to provide external access. This dimensional change allows welding tools to reach distant pillars without compromising tank stability
3Stress or pressure
If internal connecting members are used to resist pressure, then tank pressure resistance is improved, but the assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies preliminary action by pre-forming the pillar parts with integrated connection features during the shell molding process. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex assembly operations later, as the pillars are already ready to be connected through simple welding access from external holes
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
It is proposed a method for assembling a tank comprising: - providing a first shell (1) and a second shell (2); - putting edges of the first and second shells into contact with each other and mutually connecting the edges; - providing the first shell with a first connecting member (3) extending inwardly from an inner surface of the first shell, the first connecting member being provided with a hole; and - after the edges of the first and second shells are put into contact with each other, connecting the first connecting member to the second shell by inserting a pin shaped element (6) through a hole in the second shell and the hole in the first connecting member.