Rectangular LNG Tank With Partition Plates For Space Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid storage tanks, particularly those for liquefied natural gas (LNG), face challenges in achieving high spatial efficiency and strength, especially when used in limited spaces such as vessels, where cylindrical tanks require significant space due to their small size and the need for multiple units.
Innovation Solution
A fluid storage tank design featuring a first casing wall with partition plates that divide the cavity into sub-cavities, end units with reinforcing plate parts, and bracket units to enhance structural integrity and fluid flow, allowing for efficient use of space and reduced sloshing, while maintaining strength through strategically placed openings and stiffeners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If cylindrical storage tanks are used for LNG storage in vessels, then the tanks can maintain structural strength, but the spatial efficiency is reduced due to the large space required for multiple small tanks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple small cylindrical storage tanks into a single large rectangular storage tank. This combining approach increases spatial efficiency by utilizing the available vessel space more effectively, while the rectangular geometry allows for better space utilization compared to multiple circular cross-sections
Solution Approach 2:
The single large storage tank is segmented into multiple compartments using partition plates. This segmentation provides structural reinforcement similar to having multiple tanks, while maintaining the space efficiency of a single integrated structure. The partition plates create sub-cavities that can be independently managed
2Volume of moving object
If the storage tank is designed as a single large tank, then spatial efficiency is improved, but the structural strength and stress distribution are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The storage tank is divided into multiple compartments by partition plates, creating sub-cavities. This segmentation reinforces the overall structure by distributing stresses across multiple smaller sections, preventing stress concentration in a single large volume while maintaining the space efficiency of an integrated tank design
Solution Approach 2:
Bracket units are positioned at three-dimensional intersections of partition plates and casing walls, providing reinforcement in multiple spatial dimensions. This multi-dimensional bracing approach strengthens the rectangular tank structure against various loading directions
3Strength
If partition plates are added to divide the cavity, then structural strength is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage tank is divided into compartments using partition plates, which provides structural reinforcement and stress distribution benefits. The segmentation approach maintains relative simplicity by using flat plates rather than complex curved structures, and the modular nature facilitates manufacturing and assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The partition plates serve multiple functions: they provide structural reinforcement, create compartmentalization for stress management, and enable fluid flow control between sub-cavities through integrated passage holes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components
Data Source
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AI summary
A fluid storage tank according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a first outer wall section that forms a front face in the length direction, the width direction and the height direction so as to form a space portion in which a fluid is stored; a plurality of partition plates arranged along the length direction of the first outer wall portion to divide the space portion into the plurality of sub-space portions; and an end portion located between the outermost partition plate of the plurality of partition plates and the first outer wall portion, wherein each of the partition plates is formed with a fluid through hole comprising: a gas through hole located on the top of the partition plate; and a liquid through hole located on the bottom of the partition plate so that fluids between the sub-pace portions are in communication with each other.