Vertically Split Fuel Tank With Horizontal Bottom Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing straddle type vehicles with vertically split fuel tanks face challenges in arranging a fuel pump suitably within the tank, particularly in distributing fuel evenly and managing loads during vehicle movements.
Innovation Solution
A straddle type vehicle design featuring a vertically split fuel tank with a horizontally positioned fuel pump on a titanium plate, where the pump is integrated with a closure member and positioned on a substantially horizontal flat portion of the tank's bottom plate, allowing even fuel distribution and reduced fuel collection below the pump, and using inclined frame members to secure the tank's mating portions effectively under load.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the fuel pump is arranged within the vertically split fuel tank, then the fuel pump can be integrated into the tank structure, but it becomes difficult to arrange the fuel pump suitably and distribute fuel evenly
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel tank is divided into upper and lower tanks that are vertically split and joined by welding. The fuel pump is arranged within the lower tank, which segments the fuel storage space and allows the pump to be positioned at the bottom for effective fuel suction and even distribution throughout the tank.
Solution Approach 2:
The fuel pump is positioned at the bottom of the lower tank, utilizing the vertical dimension to achieve proper fuel distribution. The pump's location at the lowest point ensures fuel is drawn from the bottom and distributed upward and outward, achieving even fuel supply to the engine.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the fuel tank is vertically split into upper and lower parts, then the tank can be arranged along the frame members, but excessive load acts on the mating portions during vehicle movements
Solution Approach 1:
The bottom plate of the lower tank is designed with a substantially horizontal flat portion, providing local structural reinforcement at the location where the fuel pump is mounted. This local quality enhancement strengthens the mating portions to withstand excessive loads during vehicle movements such as jumping, while maintaining the overall vertical split configuration.
3Device complexity
If the fuel pump is positioned on an inclined bottom plate, then the pump can be arranged within the tank, but fuel collects below the pump causing uneven fuel distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The bottom plate of the lower tank is designed with a substantially horizontal flat portion, creating an equipotential surface for fuel distribution. This horizontal configuration ensures that fuel does not collect below the pump due to gravitational effects, allowing the fuel pump to draw fuel evenly from all directions and distribute it uniformly throughout the tank system.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional materials are used for the fuel tank, then the tank structure is simple to manufacture, but the upper vehicle body weight is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel tank is constructed using titanium, a lightweight material that significantly reduces the upper vehicle body weight compared to conventional materials like steel or aluminum. The titanium construction maintains the tank's structural integrity and durability while achieving weight reduction, which improves the vehicle's overall performance and handling characteristics.
Data Source
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AI summary
A fuel tank of a straddle type vehicle comprises vertically split upper tank (31 U) and lower tank (31 L) which have flanges (31 a) joined by welding. The flanges (31 a) extend along an upper part of a pair of inclined left and right main frames (22) which extend longitudinally. A fuel pump (73) is arranged within the fuel tank and extends through an opening (31 r) provided in the lower tank (31 L). A pump flange section (73 a) is provided on the fuel pump (73) so as to close the opening (31 r). The lower tank (31 L) is provided with a substantially horizontal flat portion (31 q), which has the opening (31 r) which is located on the lower side in an inclined direction of the main frames (22).