Fluid Storage Tank Channels for Ground-Level Strap Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of large fluid storage tanks is complicated by the need for an operator to be positioned on top of the tank to secure straps, which poses safety risks and procedural challenges due to the tank's size and the requirement for proper strap placement.
Innovation Solution
A fluid storage apparatus with channels on its outer surface for receiving anchor straps, allowing securement without an operator on the tank, facilitated by ribs for structural support and positioners to guide the straps from the ground level, enabling safe and efficient installation and transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If an operator positions on top of the tank to secure straps, then proper strap placement can be ensured, but safety risks and procedural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Positioners are introduced as intermediary devices that guide the anchor straps through the channels on the tank surface. These positioners allow ground-level operators to accurately place straps without needing to climb onto the tank, thereby maintaining strap placement accuracy while eliminating the safety risks associated with operators working at height
Solution Approach 2:
The channels are pre-formed as integral parts of the tank structure, providing self-guiding pathways for the anchor straps. This self-service feature eliminates the need for complex manual positioning operations and allows for accurate strap placement through simple threading operations from the ground level
2Manufacturing precision
If an operator positions on top of the tank to secure straps, then proper strap placement can be ensured, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tank surface is segmented with multiple channels distributed at specific locations, each channel serving as an independent guidance pathway for anchor straps. This segmentation allows for modular and systematic strap placement operations from the ground level, reducing the complexity of the overall installation procedure while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
Positioners act as intermediary guides that simplify the strap threading process. These devices are inserted through the channels and provide visual and physical guidance for ground-level operators, transforming a complex top-down positioning task into a simple bottom-up threading operation
3Ease of operation
If channels are added to the tank surface for strap reception, then ground-level securement is enabled, but structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The channels are designed as localized features on the tank surface rather than extensive modifications. Each channel is a discrete, controlled feature that provides the necessary functionality for strap reception while minimizing impact on the overall structural integrity of the tank. The local quality approach allows for easy ground-level installation without compromising the tank's strength
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, a fluid storage apparatus includes a fluid storage tank having a longitudinal axis. The apparatus also includes a channel disposed on an outer surface of the fluid storage tank, the channel configured to receive an anchor strap used to secure the fluid storage tank to a ground surface of an underground installation site.