Plastic Tank Internal Rib Reinforcement for Bending and Torsion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing plastic fuel tanks for hybrid vehicles face challenges in withstanding axial, bending, and torsional stresses due to dimensional variations and pressure changes, and existing reinforcement structures are cumbersome or ineffective against bending and torsion.

Innovation Solution

A double system of ribs comprising primary and secondary ribs, arranged to withstand axial, bending, and torsional stresses, which are easily injectable and adaptable to various tank shapes, with a central structure and weld regions for secure attachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a honeycomb-shaped reinforcing structure is used, then bending and torsion resistance is improved, but device complexity and adaptability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebending and torsion resistanceVSAvoidreinforcement system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The radial rib structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: primary ribs resist axial compression and tension, secondary ribs provide additional bending resistance, and the overall radial arrangement resists torsional forces. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate reinforcement systems for different load types.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the reinforcement structure have specialized functions: primary ribs are positioned to handle axial loads from the tank bottom, secondary ribs provide localized support on the sides of primary ribs, and the radial arrangement optimizes torsion resistance. This local specialization allows the structure to resist all three stress types with a unified simple design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Manufacturing precision

If cooling shrinkage is considered, then manufacturing precision is improved, but dimensional stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedimensional control during coolingVSAvoiddimensional stability over time

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The reinforcement element is inserted into the parison before blow-molding, allowing it to be positioned and secured while the plastic material is still pliable. This preliminary action ensures proper alignment and integration before the cooling and shrinkage process occurs, preventing dimensional instability that would result from attempting to install the reinforcement after cooling.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS20260014849A1Internal reinforcement element for a tank made of plastic for a motor vehicle

Publication Date: 2026.01.15 PLASTIC OMNIUM ADVANCED INNOVATION & RES SA

AI summary

An internal reinforcement element for a tank made of plastic for a motor vehicle includes: a central structure including a first system of ribs including at least three primary ribs joined to one another and a second system of ribs including at least two secondary ribs. The sides of the primary ribs opposite the sides form a joint and the sides of the secondary ribs opposite the sides joining the primary rib define a projected surface from the central structure having a first peripheral geometric shape. A first end and a second end located on both sides of the central structure include a weld region, the first end and the second end having a second peripheral geometric shape forming a transition between the first peripheral geometric shape and a third peripheral geometric shape.