Modular Composite Tank Segmentation for Assembly and Repair
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tank designs lack modularity and flexibility in construction, making them difficult to assemble, repair, and expand, and they often require full replacement when damaged or when capacity changes, which increases costs and complicates transportation and installation.
Innovation Solution
A modular composite tank assembly with interlocking cylindrical side wall segments, reversible end covers, internal divider walls, and adjustable reinforcing ribs, allowing for easy assembly, repair, and expansion, as well as flexible orientation and transport configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional non-modular tank design is used, then the tank structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the tank cannot be easily assembled, repaired, or expanded, requiring full replacement when damaged or when capacity changes
Solution Approach 1:
The tank is divided into multiple modular segments including cylindrical side wall portions, end covers, and internal divider walls. Each segment can be independently manufactured, assembled, and replaced. The side wall portions are further segmented into arcuate segments that interconnect via flanges and fasteners, enabling modular construction and flexibility in assembly configurations.
2Ease of repair
If a modular composite tank design is used, then the tank can be easily assembled, repaired, and expanded, but the construction and assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The tank structure is segmented into replaceable modules including side wall portions, end covers, and internal divider walls. Damaged segments can be individually removed and replaced without affecting the entire tank structure. Fastener connections allow for straightforward disassembly and reassembly of segments during repair operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular segments are designed with standardized flanges and connection interfaces that can be used across different tank configurations and sizes. The same basic segment design can serve multiple functions and be adapted to various tank capacities and orientations, simplifying the repair process through component interchangeability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-capacity tank design is used, then the tank structure is simpler, but the tank cannot be easily expanded or adapted when capacity changes are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The tank capacity can be adjusted by adding or removing modular side wall portions and internal divider walls. The segmented construction allows for flexible configuration of tank volume without requiring complete tank replacement, enabling capacity adaptation through incremental module addition.
Solution Approach 2:
The tank structure incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements including removable divider walls and extensible side wall portions that can be dynamically modified to change capacity. The modular design enables the tank to adapt its configuration based on storage requirements rather than being fixed in a single capacity state.
4Ease of operation
If a large monolithic tank is used, then fewer components are needed, but transportation and installation become more difficult and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The large tank capacity is achieved by assembling multiple smaller modular segments rather than using a single monolithic structure. These segments can be transported separately using standard transportation equipment and then assembled on-site to form the complete large-capacity tank, significantly improving transportation ease while maintaining the desired storage capacity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A tank assembly of modular composite construction has a body (2) comprising a side wall with end covers (6) at each end of the side wall. A side wall is formed by a plurality of arcuate side wall segments (4,5,8) interconnected by fasteners. Outwardly projecting peripheral connector flanges (18) on the side wall segments (4,5,8) and the end covers (6) are interconnected by fasteners to assemble the tank. One of the side wall portions is provided with an access hatch. Integral legs (19) project outwardly of some of the side wall segments (4) for supporting the tank. A number of reinforcing ribs (16) are provided on each side wall segment (4,5,8). Pipe fitting guide slots (26) may be provided on some of the side wall segments (4,5,8). The end covers (6) are dished and preferably are provided with pipe mounting elements (32) for connection of pipes to the tank.