Modular Cryogenic Storage Tank for Insulation and Pressure Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cryogenic fluid storage tanks face challenges in maintaining improved insulation and pressure resistance performance, leading to reduced holding time and potential tank failure due to sloshing and vaporization.
Innovation Solution
A cryogenic fluid storage tank design comprising an inner tank with modular tanks and a center pipe, featuring distinct flow rates through different holes and vacuum-insulated support and manifold portions, along with a heat exchanging mechanism to manage pressure and temperature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If conventional storage tank design is used, then structure is simpler, but insulation performance deteriorates and holding time is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested tank structure where an inner tank is placed inside an outer tank, creating a vacuum space between them for thermal insulation. This nested configuration increases holding time by reducing heat transfer while adding structural complexity through the dual-tank design and vacuum maintenance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The vacuum space acts as an intermediary layer between the inner and outer tanks, providing thermal insulation that extends holding time. The vacuum barrier mediates heat transfer from the external environment to the cryogenic fluid, achieving improved insulation without direct contact between tank walls.
2Reliability
If conventional single-tank design is used, then device complexity is lower, but pressure resistance performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The storage tank is segmented into multiple modular tanks (first modular tank, second modular tank, third modular tank) that can be connected in series. This segmentation distributes pressure loads across multiple units, improving overall pressure resistance and reliability while increasing device complexity through modular assembly requirements.
3Productivity
If uniform flow rate is used in all holes, then manufacturing is simpler, but fluid distribution efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating hole sizes in the center pipe based on their specific functions: larger fluid supply holes for main fluid delivery to modular tanks, and smaller ullage holes for vapor venting and pressure equalization. This localized differentiation optimizes fluid distribution efficiency while maintaining manufacturability through standardized drilling processes.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If no vacuum insulation is used, then structure is simpler, but heat transfer increases and holding time decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes vacuum (pneumatics) insulation by maintaining a vacuum space between the inner and outer tanks. This vacuum barrier dramatically reduces thermal conduction and convection, extending holding time while adding complexity through vacuum maintenance systems and sealed connections.
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
Enhances insulation and pressure resistance, preventing tank damage and extending the holding time of cryogenic fluids by managing pressure and temperature fluctuations effectively.
Implementation Method 1
an interspace, which is in vacuum, is formed between the inner tank and the outer tank
Implementation Method 2
since hydrogen can be liquefied and vaporized at a cryogenic temperature of approximately minus 250° C.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a cryogenic fluid storage tank comprising: an inner tank, which stores a cryogenic fluid and comprises a first modular tank and a second modular tank; a center pipe, which is arranged to pass through the first modular tank and the second modular tank, and has holes so that the first modular tank and the second modular tank are in communication with each other; and an outer tank, which houses the inner tank and the center pipe.