Modular Fuel Container Support Assembly for Reconfigurable Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fuel storage systems are often custom-built and difficult to assemble or disassemble, making it challenging to change configurations or mix and match components, which limits their versatility and efficiency in storing and transporting fuels.
Innovation Solution
A modular fuel storage system with detachable end and side support members that can be easily assembled and disassembled, featuring interchangeable components and mechanisms for pressure release, allowing for various configurations and efficient fuel container support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If fuel storage systems are custom-built with fixed structures, then structural strength and stability are improved, but ease of assembly and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The support assembly is divided into multiple detachable components including end support members, side support members, and cross support members that can be assembled and disassembled independently. Each member features standardized coupling mechanisms with alignment features that ensure proper positioning while enabling easy assembly and disassembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The support assembly components are designed as universal, interchangeable parts that can be used in various configurations. The end support members, side support members, and cross support members can be mixed and matched to create different support assembly configurations, allowing the same components to serve multiple functions and applications.
2Stability of the object's composition
If fuel storage systems use fixed and integrated components, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability and ease of reconfiguration deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The support assembly is segmented into detachable members that can be independently assembled and disassembled. The end support members, side support members, and cross support members are designed as separate components with standardized coupling interfaces, enabling flexible reconfiguration while maintaining structural integrity when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The support assembly transitions from a static, fixed structure to a dynamic, reconfigurable system. The detachable coupling mechanisms allow the assembly to be easily assembled, disassembled, and reconfigured into different configurations, providing adaptability while maintaining structural stability during use.
3Ease of operation
If modular detachable components are used, then ease of assembly and adaptability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
While the support assembly is divided into multiple detachable members (end support members, side support members, cross support members), each member features simple, standardized coupling mechanisms with alignment features. This segmentation enables easy assembly through straightforward coupling operations without requiring complex joining processes or specialized tools.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple support functions are merged into a single integrated assembly structure. The end support members, side support members, and cross support members work together as a unified support system, providing combined structural support, positioning, and stability functions that would otherwise require multiple separate components or complex mechanisms.
4Manufacturing precision
If custom-built fuel storage systems are used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of manufacture and cost-effectiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The support assembly components are designed as universal, standardized parts that can be manufactured using the same processes and specifications regardless of the final configuration. The end support members, side support members, and cross support members are interchangeable components that can be produced in bulk with consistent precision, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost compared to custom-built systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The support assembly is segmented into standardized members that can be manufactured independently and then assembled. This segmentation allows for specialized manufacturing processes to be applied to each component type, improving manufacturing precision while enabling parallel production and reducing overall manufacturing complexity through modularity.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for modular fuel storage and transportation are provided. In an embodiment, a fuel storage system includes one or more fuel containers each supported by a fuel container support assembly. The fuel storage system may be mounted to a transportation device such as a vehicle or used in a stand-alone fashion. Each support assembly may include a plurality of detachable end support members such as end support members configured to support the end portions of the fuel container and side support members configured to support the body portion of the fuel container. Some of the end support members may include neck grooves such that when the end support members are coupled, the neck grooves form an enclosure around the neck portion of the fuel container. In an embodiment, the support assembly is configured to facilitate release of excess pressure in the fuel container.