Fuel Tank Pump Mounting via Standardized Swirl Pot
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for manufacturing plastic fuel tanks with integrated pumps require specific swirl pots for each pump type, leading to increased costs due to the need for custom geometries and expensive plastic molding, and do not efficiently accommodate various pump models or post-molding shrinkage.
Innovation Solution
A process involving a tubular parison molded into two sheets with a core containing a swirl pot housing, using an intermediate part with a standard external shape and adaptable internal shape for pump mounting, along with flexible supports to absorb vibrations and reduce acoustic emissions, and snap-riveting technology to ensure leak-tightness and mobility, allowing for the fastening of any pump type to a standard swirl pot.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a custom swirl pot geometry is created for each pump type, then the pump can be properly accommodated, but the manufacturing cost increases due to custom molding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a standardized swirl pot housing geometry that can accommodate multiple pump types. Instead of designing custom housings for each pump model, the invention uses a single universal housing design with adaptable internal mounting structures, allowing the same housing to fit different pump configurations through modular mounting mechanisms and adjustable internal components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention segments the swirl pot into modular components: a standardized external housing and separate internal mounting structures. This segmentation allows the housing to remain universal while the internal mounting elements can be configured for different pump types, enabling adaptability without requiring custom molded housings for each application.
2Reliability
If rigid fastening is used to ensure leak-tightness, then sealing is improved, but the ability to accommodate post-molding shrinkage is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from rigid fixed fastening to a dynamic adjustable fastening system. The mounting structure includes adjustable elements that can move and adapt after the initial fastening, allowing the system to maintain leak-tightness while accommodating dimensional changes due to post-molding shrinkage. The fastening mechanism can be adjusted to compensate for shrinkage while maintaining sealing integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes parameter changes by incorporating adjustable fastening parameters. The mounting system allows for adjustment of fastening position, pressure, and orientation after molding, enabling the system to adapt to shrinkage-induced dimensional changes while maintaining the leak-tightness required for reliable operation.
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 approach enables quick, safe, and cost-effective mounting of any pump type to a fuel tank, reduces acoustic emissions, and accommodates post-molding shrinkage, while maintaining mechanical strength and leak-tightness, thus addressing the need for custom swirl pots and improving manufacturing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the parison is pressed against the cavities by blowing through the core
Implementation Method 2
applying a vacuum behind the cavities
Implementation Method 3
the final moulding of the parison is carried out by blow moulding (by injecting a pressurized fluid inside the parison)
Implementation Method 4
thermoforming (by applying a vacuum behind the cavities)
Data Source
AI summary
Process for manufacturing a plastic fuel tank equipped with a pump, by moulding a tubular parison cut into two sheets with the aid of a mould comprising two cavities and a core, said process comprising the following steps: 1. the parison is introduced into the mould cavities; 2. the core is introduced inside the parison, said core having first been fitted with a swirl pot comprising a housing for the pump; 3. the mould is closed so that the cavities come into leaktight contact with the core; 4. the parison is pressed against the cavities by blowing through the core and/or applying a vacuum behind the cavities; 5. using a device firmly attached to the core, the swirl pot is fastened to the parison; 6. the mould is opened to withdraw the core; 7. the final moulding of the parison is carried out by blow moulding (by injecting a pressurized fluid inside the parison) and/or thermoforming (by applying a vacuum behind the cavities); and 8. the tank is demoulded and through an opening in the latter the pump is mounted in the housing of the swirl pot. According to the invention, the mounting of the pump is achieved by way of an intermediate part, the external shape of which is standard and complementary to that of the housing, and the internal shape of which is adapted to the pump.