Lateral Hydrogen Tank Layout for Tracked Vehicle Space Constraints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hydrogen storage tanks in hydrogen-powered tracked vehicles occupy significant space, limiting the vehicle's operating potential and requiring bulky arrangements that hinder the operator's view and the installation of additional equipment.
Innovation Solution
The hydrogen storage tanks are positioned along lateral axes parallel to the vehicle's longitudinal axis on opposite sides of the vehicle, allowing for a rear view and space for additional equipment, with removable tanks for easy replacement and maintenance, and integrated with a winch for enhanced mobility on steep slopes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If hydrogen storage tanks are installed in conventional configurations, then the vehicle has sufficient hydrogen storage capacity, but the tanks occupy significant space and limit the operating potential of the tracked vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the supply tanks laterally on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis rather than placing them centrally or longitudinally, utilizing the lateral dimension of the vehicle to distribute volume occupancy and free up central and rear spaces for other equipment and operations
2Quantity of substance
If supply tanks are arranged to maximize hydrogen storage, then the vehicle has extended operating range, but the rear view is blocked and additional equipment cannot be installed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the hydrogen storage system into multiple separate supply tanks positioned on opposite lateral sides, which segments the overall storage volume into distributed units that free up central and rear spaces for installing additional equipment such as winches while maintaining total hydrogen capacity
Solution Approach 2:
By transitioning from a centralized or longitudinal tank arrangement to a lateral distribution arrangement, the patent utilizes the lateral dimension to position tanks away from the rear view area, enabling unobstructed operator visibility and space for rear-mounted equipment
3Device complexity
If supply tanks are fixed in position, then the vehicle structure is simplified, but maintenance operations and tank replacement are difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements removable supply tanks that can be detached and replaced, transforming the static fixed structure into a dynamic configurable system where tanks can be easily removed for maintenance or replacement while maintaining structural simplicity through standardized mounting interfaces
Data Source
AI summary
A hydrogen-powered tracked vehicle extends along a longitudinal axis and includes a frame, a driver cab mounted on the frame, a first track and a second track which are configured to move the tracked vehicle forward in a travel direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. The hydrogen-powered tracked vehicle also includes a hydrogen storage comprising a first supply tank and a second supply tank, which are configured to contain hydrogen, extend along respective lateral axes substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, and are arranged on opposite bands of the longitudinal axis at respective distances from the longitudinal axis.