Modular Reservoir Volume Adaptability via Segmented Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing liquid storage tanks have fixed volumes, limiting flexibility in meeting user needs for storage capacity.

Innovation Solution

A modular tank design comprising adjustable terminal and intermediate hollow elements with semi-cylindrical casings and flaps, allowing for customizable volume by assembling and disassembling components, with seals ensuring tightness.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed-volume tank design is used, then the structural simplicity is maintained, but the adaptability to different storage needs deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage volume adaptabilityVSAvoidtank structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tank is divided into multiple detachable cylindrical modules that can be assembled in series. Each module has identical connection interfaces with flaps and sealing elements, allowing flexible combination to achieve different total storage volumes while maintaining structural simplicity through standardization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The tank system transitions from a static fixed-volume design to a dynamic configurable system. Users can add or remove modules based on storage requirements, and the connection flaps enable easy assembly and disassembly, making the tank adaptable to changing needs without redesigning the entire structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If modular components with connection elements are added, then the adaptability improves, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule configurabilityVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

All connection flaps and sealing elements across different modules use identical designs and dimensions. This universal interface allows any module to connect with any other module of the same type, simplifying manufacturing by producing standardized components that serve multiple functions and positions in the assembled tank.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The semi-cylindrical envelopes are positioned to nest around the cylindrical modules, with flaps that fold over and connect to adjacent modules. This nesting arrangement allows compact storage during transport and simplifies the assembly process by guiding modules into place through the envelope structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentEP3358090B1Modular reservoir
Publication Date: 2019.06.12 EAUX VIVES
  • EP3358090B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3358090B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

The present invention relates to a modular tank. The tank according to the invention comprises two cylindrical end elements (2), closed at one end (3) which has a base (4) and open at the other end (5). The latter end has a semi-cylindrical casing (6) with two ends (7) arranged astride said open end (5) for approximately half its circumference. These ends (7) have a flap (8) forming a right angle with the semi-cylindrical casing (6) at their ends (7). In one embodiment, the tank according to the invention also comprises at least one intermediate element (9) disposed between said end elements (2). The tank according to the invention is intended to receive and store liquids, such as water, particularly rainwater.