Modular Interlocking Panels for Large Capacity Storage Tanks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for storing fracturing fluid in the oil and gas industry are inefficient, as they require frequent transportation of limited capacity trailers or time-consuming assembly of large capacity tanks, which can slow down drilling processes.
Innovation Solution
The development of interlocking panels for large capacity tanks, featuring flanges, retaining ribs, and vertical support members, allowing for easy assembly and connection of panels using guide pins and fasteners, enabling faster installation and increased storage capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If large capacity tanks are transported as one unit or in bulk pieces to be assembled at the work site, then the storage capacity is increased, but the assembly time is extended and the drilling process is slowed down
Solution Approach 1:
The tank is divided into multiple modular panels that can be independently transported and then quickly assembled at the work site. Each panel is a self-contained unit with standardized connection features, allowing for rapid assembly without requiring complex alignment or positioning procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The panels are pre-fabricated with integrated flanges, guide pins, and alignment features during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation of connection elements eliminates the need for on-site fabrication or complex alignment procedures, significantly reducing assembly time while maintaining structural integrity.
2Quantity of substance
If the tank pieces are transported in bulk pieces to be assembled at the work site, then the storage capacity is increased, but the complexity of assembly and positioning precision is increased
Solution Approach 1:
All panels use standardized, universal connection features including identical flange designs, guide pin configurations, and alignment mechanisms. This universality allows any panel to connect to any other panel in any orientation, simplifying the assembly process and reducing the need for specialized positioning procedures for different tank sections.
Solution Approach 2:
Guide pins and alignment features serve as intermediary elements that automatically establish proper positioning between panels during assembly. These intermediaries eliminate the need for complex measurement and positioning procedures by providing self-aligning connection mechanisms that guide the assembly process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If trailers are used to store fracturing fluid, then the storage capacity is limited, but the transportation flexibility is maintained, however frequent transportation is required
Solution Approach 1:
The tank system is segmented into multiple modular panels that can be configured in different arrangements. These panels can be transported separately on standard trailers and then assembled on-site to create large capacity storage, combining the transportation flexibility of multiple small units with the storage capacity of a large tank.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from horizontal transportation of single large trailers to vertical stacking and radial assembly of multiple panels. Panels can be transported flat on trailers and then assembled in three-dimensional configurations, effectively increasing storage capacity without requiring proportionally larger transportation resources.
Data Source
AI summary
A large capacity above ground impoundment tank includes a number of first-level interlocking panels connected to one another to form a generally circular tank. The first-level interlocking panels include a plate, a first flange, a second flange, a third flange, and a fourth flange. The first-level interlocking panels include at least retaining rib and at least one vertical support member. The third flange of each first-level interlocking panel includes a guide pin. The first flange of a first-level interlocking panel is connected via suitable fasteners to the second flange of an adjacent first-level interlocking panel. A number of second-level interlocking panels may be positioned on a top surface of the first-level interlocking panels. The second-level interlocking panels may be similar to the first-level interlocking panels. The guide pin of a first-level interlocking panel is inserted into a corresponding guide pin hole on the fourth flange of a corresponding second-level panel.