Wheel Loader Hydrogen Tank Placement With Integrated Armor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional work machines with internal combustion engines emit high CO2 levels, necessitating the development of alternative drive concepts and energy sources to reduce emissions.
Innovation Solution
A hydrogen-powered work machine with hydrogen tanks arranged below the cabin, surrounded by armor for protection, located between the axles for optimal visibility and accessibility, and designed to minimize installation complexity and maintain existing vehicle structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If hydrogen tanks are arranged below the cabin next to the cabin, then operator visibility is maintained and accessibility for maintenance is improved, but protection against mechanical damage is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The hydrogen storage system is segmented into multiple separate tanks rather than a single large tank, allowing them to be distributed in protected areas between the drive axles and under the cabin, balancing accessibility and protection
Solution Approach 2:
The armor plating is integrated into the existing vehicle frame structure, with the armor nested within the frame's protective framework, providing enhanced protection without requiring a completely separate armor structure
2Object-affected harmful factors
If hydrogen tanks are arranged inside the vehicle frame, then protection against mechanical damage is improved, but operator visibility and accessibility for maintenance are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Different areas of the vehicle are used for different functions: the armored areas inside the frame provide protection, while the areas below the cabin next to the cabin provide accessibility and maintain visibility, creating local optimization of properties
Solution Approach 2:
The armor plating is positioned in a third dimension relative to the tank - arranged longitudinally along the tank rather than just laterally, providing protection along the length of the tank while maintaining accessibility
3Object-affected harmful factors
If armor plating is provided around hydrogen tanks, then protection against mechanical damage is improved, but device complexity and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The armor plating is merged with the existing vehicle frame structure, utilizing the frame's inherent protective framework and integrating the armor into the vehicle's existing structural elements rather than adding a completely separate armor system
Solution Approach 2:
The armor plating serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical protection against damage, integrates with the vehicle frame structure, and can be positioned to protect multiple tanks simultaneously, reducing overall system complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a work machine, in particular a wheel loader, with a cab for the operator of the work machine, wherein the work machine has a drive that can be operated with hydrogen and that one or more tanks for receiving hydrogen are provided, wherein components for receiving the tanks are provided, wherein the tank(s) are arranged below the cab and, in a top view of the work machine, next to the cab of the work machine, wherein the components for receiving the tanks do not have a direct mechanical connection to the cab and that armor plating is provided that partially or completely surrounds the tank.