Automatic LPG Tank Insertion with Rotating Plate
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LPG tank insertion systems face difficulties when the tank length exceeds the trunk opening length, causing interference and making manual insertion challenging, especially as they are not adaptable to different automobile models.
Innovation Solution
An automatic LPG tank insertion apparatus with a rotary column, support arm, clamping devices, and motorized adjustments (yaw, pitch, and roll) that measure the trunk opening area and adjust the LPG tank's position using pneumatic pressure and motorized mechanisms to ensure smooth insertion without interference, regardless of the automobile model.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a typical hanger with wire and pulley is used for manual insertion, then the insertion process is simple and low-cost, but the system cannot handle LPG tanks longer than the trunk opening and is not adaptable to different automobile models
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamically adjustable insertion apparatus with motors that can change the angle and position of the support arm based on detected automobile model characteristics. This allows the same apparatus to adapt to different trunk opening sizes and angles, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity by making the system flexible rather than fixed
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus incorporates an automobile model detecting sensor that automatically identifies the car model and triggers the control computer to select appropriate insertion parameters. This self-service capability eliminates manual configuration and enables automatic adaptation to different models without requiring complex manual intervention
2Volume of moving object
If the LPG tank length is longer than the trunk opening length, then the tank capacity is sufficient, but the tank interferes with the opening edge and cannot be inserted
Solution Approach 1:
The support arm with adjustable angle and the clamping device with position control dynamically adjust the tank's insertion trajectory and angle. By modifying the insertion path rather than the tank itself, the system enables insertion of long tanks that would otherwise interfere with the opening edge
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus introduces angular adjustment as an additional degree of freedom, allowing the tank to be inserted at optimized angles that avoid interference with the opening edge. This dimensional approach transforms a linear insertion problem into a multi-dimensional positioning solution
3Ease of manufacture
If manual insertion is used for long LPG tanks, then equipment cost is low, but worker physical and mental burden increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The automated system performs the insertion operation autonomously based on sensor detection and control computer processing. The apparatus self-adjusts parameters and executes insertion without human physical effort, eliminating worker burden while maintaining reasonable equipment costs through targeted automation of only the insertion function
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 apparatus automatically adjusts the LPG tank's position to fit within the trunk opening of various automobile models, reducing manual labor and ensuring reliable, interference-free insertion, thereby enhancing efficiency and reducing physical and mental burdens on workers.
Implementation Method 1
A pneumatic pressure supply device supplies pneumatic pressure to clamping cylinders provided in the clamping devices
Implementation Method 2
A yaw adjusting motor is mounted to a downwardly bent end of the support in a downward direction. A pitch adjusting motor is mounted to a yawing member and fastened to a rotating shaft of the yaw adjusting motor, in a lateral direction of a trunk of the automobile. A roll adjusting motor is mounted to a rotating shaft of the pitch adjusting motor in a forward-backward direction of the trunk
Data Source
AI summary
An automatic LPG tank insertion apparatus for automobiles has a rotary column provided with a lift body, which has a support arm. A rotating plate is rotatably mounted to the support arm such that yaw, pitch, and roll of the rotating plate can be controlled separately. Clamping devices are mounted on the rotating plate to selectively clamp an LPG tank. A trunk opening area measuring device includes a base unit, a guide shaft, a ruler shaft, and an encoder. Trunk opening sizes and LPG tank dimensions for various vehicle models are stored in a control computer. When vehicle model is input to the control computer, yaw, pitch, and roll of the rotating plate are adjusted so that the LPG tank can be inserted into a vehicle trunk.