Modular Pressure Vessel System with Integrated Sealing and Securing Faces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pressure vessel systems for motor vehicles are complex, costly, and difficult to integrate due to their large size and complexity, especially when multiple pressure vessels are required.
Innovation Solution
A pressure vessel system comprising multiple pressure vessels with a connection piece that includes a sealing face and a securing face, allowing for secure integration and fluid connection, while also incorporating a thermally activatable pressure relief device and a valve unit for safety and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple pressure vessels are integrated in the motor vehicle, then the fuel storage capacity is improved, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure vessel system is divided into multiple individual pressure vessels (first pressure vessel, second pressure vessel, third pressure vessel) that can be independently manufactured, tested, and replaced. Each pressure vessel is a separate unit with its own connection piece, allowing modular integration into the motor vehicle while maintaining overall system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple pressure vessels are combined into a single integrated system that shares common components such as the fuel rail, valve unit, and pressure relief device. The connection pieces of multiple pressure vessels connect to a common fuel rail, creating a unified fuel storage system that achieves economies of scale and reduced complexity compared to separate systems.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple pressure vessels are integrated in the motor vehicle, then the fuel storage capacity is improved, but the integration difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection pieces are designed with universal features including sealing faces and securing faces that enable standardized connection to the fuel rail. The valve unit and pressure relief device serve multiple pressure vessels simultaneously, creating a multi-functional system that simplifies integration while accommodating multiple vessels.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection pieces are pre-configured with sealing faces and securing faces during manufacturing, and the pressure vessels are pre-assembled with their connection pieces before integration into the motor vehicle. The valve unit and pressure relief device are designed to connect to multiple pressure vessels in advance, reducing on-site integration complexity.
3Reliability
If conventional pressure vessel systems are used, then the safety requirements are met, but the system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure relief device is designed to automatically activate when excessive pressure is detected in any pressure vessel, providing self-regulating safety without requiring complex external control systems. The valve unit automatically controls fuel flow based on system conditions, reducing the need for additional active safety components.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection pieces incorporate sealing faces that create redundant sealing paths, and the pressure relief device is pre-positioned to protect against pressure buildup before it becomes dangerous. The valve unit is designed with fail-safe characteristics that maintain safety even if certain components fail.
Data Source
AI summary
A pressure vessel for storing may have a connection piece for forming a fluid connection between the fuel storage volume V of the pressure vessel and an energy converter of a motor vehicle. At least part of the connection piece may extend out of the pressure vessel. An outer surface of the connection piece may have a sealing face and a curved fastening face. The sealing face may be designed to seal off the fluid connection between the pressure vessel and a fuel-conducting section of the motor vehicle. The fastening face may be provided for fastening the pressure vessel to at least one body attachment element.