Fuel Storage Tank Mounting Structure for Positioning and Vibration Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for securing and positioning fuel storage tanks in fuel cell systems fail to precisely position the tank, effectively dampen vibrations, and accommodate thermal expansion and contraction, compromising structural integrity and stability.
Innovation Solution
A fuel storage structure comprising a lower casting with grooves for isolators and a fuel storage tank supported by these isolators, along with a pressure regulator and system controller, to manage fuel pressure and system operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional methods are used to secure fuel storage tanks, then the tank can be held in place, but the positioning precision is insufficient and vibration dampening is ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces isolators as intermediary elements between the fuel storage tank and the lower casting. These isolators serve as mediators that simultaneously achieve precise positioning and vibration dampening functions, resolving the contradiction between positioning precision and structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is segmented into multiple components: the lower casting with integrated grooves, the isolators as separate elements, and the fuel storage tank. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to achieve both precise positioning and vibration isolation.
2Strength
If rigid support structures are used to ensure structural integrity, then stability is improved, but thermal expansion and contraction cannot be accommodated
Solution Approach 1:
The isolators are designed with material properties that allow them to change their physical parameters (such as elasticity and compressibility) in response to thermal variations. This enables the support structure to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction while maintaining structural integrity through the grooves that constrain the isolators.
3Device complexity
If simple support structures are used, then device complexity is reduced, but positioning precision and vibration dampening are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the positioning and vibration dampening functions into a single integrated support system. The lower casting incorporates grooves that simultaneously provide positioning guidance and constrain the isolators, eliminating the need for separate positioning mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining precision.
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
The solution provides precise positioning, vibration dampening, and accommodates thermal expansion, ensuring structural stability and efficient operation of fuel cell systems.
Implementation Method 1
effectively dampen vibrations
Implementation Method 2
accommodate thermal expansion and contraction
Data Source
AI summary
A fuel storage structure in a fuel cell system includes a lower casting with a first groove and a second groove formed on an upper surface of the lower casting. A first lower isolator is positioned within the first groove and a second lower isolator is positioned within the second groove. A fuel storage tank is positioned above the lower casting and is supported by the first lower isolator and the second lower isolator.