Twin Container Connector Assembly for Fast Stable Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container systems for vehicles and agricultural machines with SCR systems require complex and time-consuming assembly processes to connect multiple fluid containers, often resulting in increased mechanical instability and space inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A container system comprising two separate container bodies with aligned external connector passageways and a connector having complementary rotary fastening formations, allowing for easy assembly and secure mounting to a supporting structure using a fastener.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If two separate containers are connected using multiple connection elements (straps, screws), then mechanical stability is improved, but assembly time increases and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple connection functions into a single integrated connector that simultaneously provides mechanical stability and simplifies assembly. The connector integrates the functions of straps and screws into one component that can be installed in a single operation, resolving the contradiction between needing multiple connection elements for stability and the time penalty for installing them separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed as a multi-functional component that performs both mechanical fastening and structural stabilization in a single element. This universal connector replaces the need for separate straps and screws, providing both the mechanical stability of multiple connection elements and the assembly simplicity of a single component.
2Volume of moving object
If two containers are located next to each other with complementary outer contours, then space utilization is improved, but connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: an first engagement portion that interfaces with the first container, a second engagement portion that interfaces with the second container, and a connecting body that links them. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the connector have different geometric properties tailored to their specific functions. The first engagement portion has characteristics optimized for the first container's geometry, while the second engagement portion is optimized for the second container, allowing each to fit complementary contours while the connector as a whole remains simple.
3Adaptability or versatility
If sleeves are used to attach containers to supporting structure, then mounting capability is improved, but alignment difficulty increases when connecting two containers
Solution Approach 1:
The connector serves as an intermediary component between the two containers, providing a standardized interface that eliminates the need for direct alignment between the containers themselves. The connector's standardized geometry acts as a mediator that simplifies the connection process while maintaining mounting capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A container system (10) includes first and second separate container bodies (12, 14) and a connector (20) for holding the container bodies together as a container sub-assembly (16). The container bodies each define an external connector passageway (30, 32) which are aligned co-axially for assembly. The connector is a hollow screw with a threaded shaft (26a) which passes through the passageway (30) of a first container body and engages with a thread in the passageway (32) of a second container body. The connector has a head (26b) which engages the first container body to clamp the container bodies together as it is tightened. The sub-assembly (16) is affixed to a supporting structure (18) by a fastener (38) having a threaded shaft (28a) which passes through the connector to engage a threaded mounting formation (60) on the structure and a head (28b) which engages the head (26b) on the connecter to clamp the connector to the mounting formation. The clamp load is taken by the connector to prevent the container bodies being damaged when the fastener is tightened. The container system is particularly suited for providing twin tanks for fuel and a fuel additive on a vehicle or agricultural machine.