Vertical CNG Tank Mounting Reduces Wheelbase
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional concrete mixer vehicles with CNG fuel tanks positioned along the chassis or laterally across the chassis have a longer wheelbase, making them less maneuverable and potentially exceeding maximum allowable wheelbase regulations.
Innovation Solution
Positioning CNG fuel tanks in a generally-vertical orientation on the chassis reduces the wheelbase, allowing for a shorter turning radius and compliance with regulatory maximums, while also protecting the tanks from damage with a cover system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If CNG fuel tanks are positioned along the chassis or laterally across the chassis, then the vehicle has a longer wheelbase, but this makes the vehicle less maneuverable and may exceed maximum allowable wheelbase regulations
Solution Approach 1:
The CNG fuel tanks are repositioned from a horizontal arrangement (along the chassis length or lateral across) to a vertical arrangement (upward from the chassis). This dimensional change allows the tanks to occupy vertical space rather than horizontal space, thereby reducing the wheelbase length while maintaining adequate fuel capacity, which improves maneuverability and compliance with regulations
2Length of moving object
If CNG fuel tanks are positioned along the chassis or laterally across the chassis, then the vehicle has a longer wheelbase, but this may exceed maximum allowable wheelbase regulations
Solution Approach 1:
By transitioning the fuel tank arrangement from horizontal to vertical orientation, the invention reduces the wheelbase dimension while maintaining fuel storage capacity. This dimensional reconfiguration enables the vehicle to meet maximum allowable wheelbase regulations without sacrificing fuel capacity or requiring alternative fuel system designs
Data Source
AI summary
A concrete mixer vehicle includes a chassis having a frame member extending in a generally-horizontal direction, an engine coupled to the chassis, and a CNG tank coupled to the engine and configured to provide fuel thereto. The CNG tank is positioned in a generally-vertical orientation relative to the frame member.