Hydrogen Tank Layout in Tracked Vehicles for Rear View and Winch Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hydrogen storage tanks in tracked vehicles occupy significant space, limiting the vehicle's operational potential and requiring bulky designs that hinder the installation of additional equipment and obstruct the operator's view.
Innovation Solution
The hydrogen storage tanks are arranged along lateral axes parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, positioned on opposite sides or behind the driver cab, allowing for a free rear view and central space for additional equipment, with removable tanks for easy replacement and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If hydrogen storage tanks are installed in traditional configurations, then hydrogen storage capacity is achieved, but the rear view for the operator is obstructed and central space for additional equipment is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The hydrogen storage tanks are arranged laterally along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle rather than occupying the rear central space. This dimensional repositioning allows the tanks to extend outward from the longitudinal axis, preserving the rear view and central space while maintaining hydrogen storage capacity
2Adaptability or versatility
If hydrogen storage tanks occupy central rear space, then hydrogen storage is provided, but installation of additional equipment such as winch is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The tanks are positioned laterally along the longitudinal axis at distances from the longitudinal axis, freeing the central rear space for equipment installation while maintaining hydrogen storage through optimized lateral placement
Solution Approach 2:
The hydrogen storage system is divided into multiple tanks (first and second supply tanks) arranged on opposite bands, allowing flexible space utilization and equipment installation in the central region
3Ease of repair
If traditional hydrogen storage arrangement is used, then hydrogen containment is achieved, but maintenance operations on parts below or behind tanks are difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By positioning tanks laterally rather than overhead or in the central rear, the arrangement provides clear access to the central and lower regions of the vehicle for maintenance operations while preserving hydrogen storage capacity through optimized lateral placement
4Quantity of substance
If hydrogen storage tanks are positioned to maximize capacity, then hydrogen storage is optimized, but vehicle width exceeds road requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The tank arrangement parameters (distance from longitudinal axis, lateral positioning) are optimized to balance hydrogen storage capacity with vehicle width constraints, ensuring compliance with road requirements while maintaining adequate storage
Data Source
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AI summary
A hydrogen-powered tracked vehicle extends along a longitudinal axis and comprises a frame (2); a driver cab (3) mounted on the frame (2); a first track (4) and a second track (5), which are configured to move the tracked vehicle (1) forward in a travel direction (D) substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis (A1); and a hydrogen storage (6; 14; 21) comprising a first supply tank (7; 15) and a second supply tank (8; 16), which are configured to contain hydrogen, extend along respective lateral axes (A2, A3) substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis (Al), and are arranged on opposite bands of the longitudinal axis (A1) at respective distances from the longitudinal axis (Al).