Hydrogen Tank Assembly Layout for Shorter Fuel Cell Pipe Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing work vehicles with hydrogen fuel cells face challenges in efficiently routing hydrogen gas pipes due to space constraints, leading to longer pipe lengths that can hinder vehicle design and functionality.
Innovation Solution
The work vehicle design includes a tank assembly located above the vehicle body with a pipe region in the lower portion, allowing for shorter hydrogen gas pipes to connect the tank and fuel cell, and utilizes an installation frame and clamps to securely attach the pipes, facilitating efficient layout and protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the tank assembly is located above the vehicle body with the pipe region in the lower portion, then the pipe length is reduced, but the space constraint and routing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the pipe region in the lower portion of the tank assembly, utilizing the vertical dimension and lower spatial zone to route the hydrogen gas pipe. This dimensional approach allows the pipe to pass through an underutilized space region, reducing pipe length while managing routing complexity through strategic spatial organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The tank assembly is divided into functional regions, with the pipe region specifically designated in the lower portion. This segmentation isolates the pipe routing path from other components, allowing for optimized pipe layout and reducing overall routing complexity despite the compact arrangement.
2Productivity
If shorter pipes are used to connect the tank and fuel cell, then the vehicle design efficiency is improved, but the installation and securing requirements become more stringent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the pipe securing function directly into the tank assembly structure by incorporating a clamp within the pipe region. This merging of the securing mechanism with the tank assembly simplifies the overall installation process, as the pipe is both routed and secured in a single integrated component, reducing the number of separate installation steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp acts as an intermediary component that facilitates the connection and securing of the hydrogen gas pipe to the tank assembly. This intermediate element simplifies the installation process by providing a dedicated interface for pipe attachment, making the shorter pipe configuration easier to install despite the increased stringency of securing requirements.
3Ease of operation
If the pipe region is located in the lower portion of the tank assembly, then the pipe layout is optimized, but the structural design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lower portion of the tank assembly is designed to serve multiple functions: it houses the pipe region for hydrogen gas routing and incorporates the clamp for pipe securing. This multi-functional design optimizes pipe layout while avoiding additional structural complexity, as the same structural elements fulfill both spatial and securing requirements.
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 configuration reduces pipe length, enhances vehicle stability, and allows for a more compact and efficient arrangement of components without obstructing the operator's view or requiring pipes to bypass covers, thereby improving operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a fuel cell configured to generate electric power from the hydrogen gas supplied from the tank
Data Source
AI summary
A work vehicle includes a vehicle body, a tank assembly including a tank configured to store hydrogen gas, the tank assembly being located above the vehicle body, a fuel cell installed on the vehicle body, and a pipe for hydrogen gas, the pipe connecting the tank and the fuel cell. The tank assembly includes a pipe region where the pipe connected to the tank passes, the pipe region being located in a lower portion of the tank assembly.