Deformable Pressure Vessel Mounting for Vehicle Impact Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Composite pressure vessels used in vehicles are susceptible to damage and failure during impact events, such as crashes, due to inadequate mounting systems that fail to effectively absorb and distribute impact loads, leading to deformation, leakage, or rupture.
Innovation Solution
A pressure vessel mounting system comprising a front bracket with a tank neck cavity, a rear bracket with a deformable tank mount, and outboard rails that are coupled to both brackets, providing a secure and flexible attachment to the vehicle chassis to absorb impact forces and prevent damage to the pressure vessel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid mounting system is used to securely attach the pressure vessel to the vehicle chassis, then the vessel is well-supported during normal operation, but the vessel is susceptible to damage and rupture during impact events
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates energy-absorbing elements and deformable components that are pre-designed to cushion impact forces before they reach the pressure vessel. The deformable tank mount and bracket configurations are engineered to deform in controlled ways during impact, absorbing energy and protecting the vessel from damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system acts as an intermediary between the vehicle chassis and the pressure vessel, introducing compliant components and mounting structures that mediate the transmission of impact forces. The system includes intermediate elements such as deformable mounts and energy-absorbing features that reduce the direct transfer of harmful forces to the vessel.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a deformable mounting system is used to absorb impact forces, then the vessel is protected during crashes, but the vessel may experience excessive movement during normal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic system that adapts its characteristics based on operating conditions. During normal operation, the system maintains sufficient rigidity to prevent excessive movement, while during impact events, it becomes more compliant to absorb forces. This is achieved through deformable components and energy-absorbing mechanisms that activate under specific load conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system changes its mechanical parameters (stiffness, damping) based on the magnitude and type of forces applied. Under normal operating loads, the system maintains appropriate stiffness for stability, while under impact conditions, it transitions to a more compliant state with increased energy absorption capability, effectively changing its mechanical properties in response to external conditions.
3Reliability
If a complex mounting system with multiple components is used to distribute impact forces, then the vessel protection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into distinct functional segments including front and rear brackets, deformable tank mounts, and energy-absorbing elements. Each segment is designed to perform specific functions in the force distribution chain, allowing the complex protection mechanism to be broken down into manageable, modular components that can be independently optimized and assembled.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The proposed mounting system enhances the safety and reliability of pressure vessels by distributing impact forces and reducing the risk of deformation or rupture during crashes, ensuring the integrity of the vessel and maintaining its functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a rear bracket having a deformable tank mount
Data Source
AI summary
A pressure vessel mounting system for mounting a pressure vessel to a vehicle chassis is disclosed. The system includes a deformable bracket for dissipating force, for example force applied to an end of the pressure vessel. Via use of the pressure vessel mounting system, impact damage to pressure vessels may be reduced and/or eliminated.