Classifications

• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
  • B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
  • B60K15/00—Arrangement in connection with fuel supply of combustion engines or other fuel consuming energy converters, e.g. fuel cells; Mounting or construction of fuel tanks
  • B60K15/03—Fuel tanks
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
  • B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
  • B60K15/00—Arrangement in connection with fuel supply of combustion engines or other fuel consuming energy converters, e.g. fuel cells; Mounting or construction of fuel tanks
  • B60K15/03—Fuel tanks
  • B60K15/03177—Fuel tanks made of non-metallic material, e.g. plastics, or of a combination of non-metallic and metallic material
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C49/00—Blow-moulding, i.e. blowing a preform or parison to a desired shape within a mould; Apparatus therefor
  • B29C49/20—Blow-moulding, i.e. blowing a preform or parison to a desired shape within a mould; Apparatus therefor of articles having inserts or reinforcements ; Handling of inserts or reinforcements
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29L—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASS B29C, RELATING TO PARTICULAR ARTICLES
  • B29L2031/00—Other particular articles
  • B29L2031/712—Containers; Packaging elements or accessories, Packages
  • B29L2031/7172—Fuel tanks, jerry cans
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
  • B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
  • B60K15/00—Arrangement in connection with fuel supply of combustion engines or other fuel consuming energy converters, e.g. fuel cells; Mounting or construction of fuel tanks
  • B60K15/03—Fuel tanks
  • B60K15/035—Fuel tanks characterised by venting means
  • B60K15/03504—Fuel tanks characterised by venting means adapted to avoid loss of fuel or fuel vapour, e.g. with vapour recovery systems
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
  • B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
  • B60K15/00—Arrangement in connection with fuel supply of combustion engines or other fuel consuming energy converters, e.g. fuel cells; Mounting or construction of fuel tanks
  • B60K15/03—Fuel tanks
  • B60K2015/03032—Manufacturing of fuel tanks
  • B60K2015/03046—Manufacturing of fuel tanks made from more than one layer
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
  • B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
  • B60K15/00—Arrangement in connection with fuel supply of combustion engines or other fuel consuming energy converters, e.g. fuel cells; Mounting or construction of fuel tanks
  • B60K15/03—Fuel tanks
  • B60K2015/03072—Arrangements for reducing evaporation
  • B60K2015/03078—Membranes, layers or the like covering the surface of the fuel
  • B60K2015/03085—Membranes, layers or the like covering the surface of the fuel using inflatable bags or bladders in the tanks
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
  • B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
  • B60K15/00—Arrangement in connection with fuel supply of combustion engines or other fuel consuming energy converters, e.g. fuel cells; Mounting or construction of fuel tanks
  • B60K15/03—Fuel tanks
  • B60K2015/03328—Arrangements or special measures related to fuel tanks or fuel handling
  • B60K2015/03453—Arrangements or special measures related to fuel tanks or fuel handling for fixing or mounting parts of the fuel tank together
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
  • B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
  • B60K15/00—Arrangement in connection with fuel supply of combustion engines or other fuel consuming energy converters, e.g. fuel cells; Mounting or construction of fuel tanks
  • B60K15/03—Fuel tanks
  • B60K15/04—Tank inlets
  • B60K2015/0458—Details of the tank inlet
  • B60K2015/0464—Details of the tank inlet comprising a flexible or extendable filler pipes, e.g. corrugated, foldable or with bellows
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
  • B60Y—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO ASPECTS CROSS-CUTTING VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY
  • B60Y2200/00—Type of vehicle
  • B60Y2200/10—Road Vehicles
  • B60Y2200/12—Motorcycles, Trikes; Quads; Scooters
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
  • B60Y—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO ASPECTS CROSS-CUTTING VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY
  • B60Y2200/00—Type of vehicle
  • B60Y2200/10—Road Vehicles
  • B60Y2200/14—Trucks; Load vehicles, Busses
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
  • B60Y—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO ASPECTS CROSS-CUTTING VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY
  • B60Y2200/00—Type of vehicle
  • B60Y2200/90—Vehicles comprising electric prime movers
  • B60Y2200/92—Hybrid vehicles

Definitions

• the invention relates to a tank in a motor vehicle for receiving a liquid, in particular fuel.
• the tank has a gas-filled volume element with variable volume.
• Hydrocarbon emissions from fuel tanks must be avoided as much as possible due to their harmful effects on the environment. Hydrocarbon vapors arise due to the high partial pressure of
• Hydrocarbons in the fuel especially at higher temperatures.
• One process is the permeation of the hydrocarbon molecules through the outer wall of the tank. This process is largely understood and existing solutions lead to a sufficient reduction of the emission.
• a second process is the refueling process.
• the filling of the tank with liquid fuel requires a displacement of the gas in the tank, which is saturated with hydrocarbons.
• ORVR Onboard Refueling Vapor Recovery
• AMF Large Activated Carbon
• gases are generated during parking or when the internal combustion engine is not running due to a change in the ambient temperature, so-called diurnal or parking emissions. These can also be buffered via an activated carbon filter, if there is a regular enough rinsing process of the activated carbon filter.
• the internal combustion engine must be in operation for this purpose. This can be relatively expensive, especially in hybrid vehicles with electric motor and internal combustion engine, since the internal combustion engine is not always in operation.
• volume element that compensates for the resulting gas volume by changing the volume.
• the volume element must be as possible emission-tight with respect to hydrocarbons, so that there is always air in its interior, which can be pushed out of the tank system directly into the atmosphere, or sucked into it.
• the volume element must be so easily deformable that a pressure difference of a few millibar (up to ⁇ 20mbar) is sufficient to complete To ensure filling and emptying.
• the volume delta (maximum volume minus minimum volume) of the volume element must be designed such that the gas volume resulting from evaporation when the temperature increases can be compensated for pressure neutral or at a low pressure.
• WO 2016/012284 shows various embodiments of the solid.
• a tank in particular designed as a fuel tank.
• the tank is designed for arrangement in a motor vehicle and for receiving a liquid.
• the motor vehicle is in particular a road vehicle, for example a car, truck or motorcycle.
• the motor vehicle is particularly preferably a hybrid vehicle with electric motor and internal combustion engine.
• the liquid to be absorbed by the tank is preferably fuel, for example gasoline or diesel.
• the tank includes an outer wall. This outer wall forms an interior for receiving the liquid. Furthermore, the tank comprises at least one volume element arranged in the interior. The volume element is designed to receive gas. The gas is in particular air from the environment of the tank.
• the container volume formed by the outer wall can thus be used for receiving the liquid, with the exception of the volume occupied by the volume element.
• the tank comprises a conduit between the volume element and the environment of the tank or at least one opening of the volume element to the environment.
• the line connects the volume element gas-conducting through the outer wall with the environment.
• the opening connects the volume element gas permeable through the outer wall with the environment.
• the gas is air which is taken from the atmosphere or flows back out of the line or through the opening into the atmosphere.
• the air from the volume container flows through a filter, preferably dust filter, into the atmosphere.
• the volume element has its minimum volume and is continuously filled with gas when liquid is withdrawn from the tank. In connection with a refilling of the tank, the volume element is then emptied into the environment.
• the function of the volume element is explained below:
• Saturation vapor pressure of a fuel in the tank (e.g., when parking) will compensate for the otherwise resulting pressure change.
• the fuel temperature varies widely throughout the day (e.g., 20 ° C in the morning, 40 ° C in the morning, 20 ° C at noon)
• the change in the saturation vapor pressure by the volume element can be compensated.
• the volume element has its minimum volume at maximum fuel temperature while its volume is maximum at minimum fuel temperature.
• WO 2016/012284 describes in detail the function of the volume element.
• volume elements In the interior of the tank and several of the volume elements described here can be arranged.
• the volume elements can be configured the same or different.
• the at least one volume element is at least partially formed as a bellows.
• the bellows include a plurality of pleats resulting from an alternating array of inward kinks and outward kinks. Between the kinks extend so-called. Intermediate surfaces of the bellows. Also, a bellows with only one, spiral circumferential fold is possible.
• the bellows moves when folding and folding parallel to an imaginary folding axis (also: Z-axis).
• This folding axis, along which the bellows unfolds and folds back together, is preferably perpendicular to the top of the outer wall of the tank.
• the volume element preferably comprises a first element wall and an opposing second element wall.
• the bellows extends between the two element walls.
• the folding axis is preferably perpendicular to the element walls.
• the first element wall and / or the second element wall are preferably formed as plates or comprise plates.
• the plates are preferably stiff.
• the element wall may also be formed by the material of the bellows; possibly reinforced by a structural reinforcement element.
• the bellows to the first element wall and / or second element wall, each formed as a plate is blown.
• the "blowing" takes place, in particular, by the first element wall and / or second element wall being inserted into the blow molding tool together with the preform.
• the preform is blown to the bellows, wherein the material of the preform is pressed against the first element wall and / or second element wall by the blowing pressure, whereby the elements connect.
• the material of the bellows extends over the entire surface of the plate, whereby the bellows and plate connect to each other over their entire surface.
• the plate is introduced into the preform during the blowing process.
• the basic geometry of the plate is adapted to the geometry of the part.
• the edges of the plate are welded circumferentially with the preform.
• the plate can also be connected to the bellows cohesively and / or positively.
• the respective element wall is glued to the bellows, welded and / or riveted. This is done after blowing the bellows.
• the element wall in particular formed as a plate, is formed of a single-layer material.
• the element wall has at least two layers. These two layers are an inner layer and an outer layer.
• the outer layer is made of a different material than the inner layer.
• the element wall has at least three layers. These three layers are an inner layer, a middle layer and an outer layer.
• the middle layer is made of a different material than the inner layer and the outer layer.
• the inner layer and the outer layer may be made of the same material or of different materials.
• the middle layer is formed as a barrier layer to meet the emission requirements; as is preferably also provided in the middle layer of the bellows.
• the middle layer of the element wall and for the middle layer of the bellows different materials can be used as a barrier.
• the middle layer of the element wall it is preferable to use ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVAL or EVOH), polyoxymethylene (POM) or polyamide (PA), especially aliphatic polyamide, aromatic polyamide or partially aromatic polyamide (PPA).
• EVAL or EVOH ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer
• POM polyoxymethylene
• PA polyamide
• PPA polyamide
• the material of the inner layer of the element wall is preferably compatible with the material of the inner layer of the bellows, so that these materials form a material connection.
• the element wall (first and / or second element wall), in particular formed as a plate, is preferably a multi-component injection-molded part or a pressing part from a multi-layer extrusion.
• the element wall can also be formed at least partially by the bellows.
• the element wall when the element wall is formed by the bellows, without the use of rigid plates, one can integrate circumferential radial folds in the bottom of the bellows to allow the bottom to move slightly upward within the outer folds to further the minimum volume (collapsed state of the volume element) to reduce.
• the element wall is not a rigid plate, but the bottom of the bellows forms the second element wall.
• the element wall when the element wall is formed by the bellows, without the use of rigid plates, it is preferably provided that the element wall comprises at least one structural reinforcing element.
• This structural reinforcing element is preferably annular.
• the "ring shape” includes all shapes, eg circular, oval, polygonal, and is not limited to a closed, full-circumference ring.
• the structural reinforcing element may in particular be blown on the bellows or be subsequently connected to the bellows in a materially and / or positively locking manner; in particular glued, welded and / or riveted.
• the Structural reinforcement element can be combined with the radial folds in the bottom of the bellows.
• the first element wall is preferably located on the tank top.
• the first element wall is attached to the tank top.
• a connection for example a nipple, is preferably formed, which protrudes through the outer wall of the tank to the outside and thereby can be connected to the gas-carrying line.
• the fastening of the volume element to the outer wall can also take place in that this connection is inserted in a corresponding hole of the outer wall.
• bellows is formed of a single-layer material.
• the bellows has at least two layers. These two layers are an inner layer and an outer layer.
• the outer layer is made of a different material than the inner layer.
• the bellows has at least three layers. These three layers are an inner layer, a middle layer and an outer layer.
• the middle layer is made of a different material than the inner layer and the outer layer.
• the inner layer and the outer layer may be made of the same material or of different materials.
• the individual layers are preferably glued together or laminated together.
• An adhesive layer may be used between the layers.
• the layers are "functional layers" and can in turn be made of several individual layers.
• the middle layer is formed from a plurality of individual layers.
• the material of the outer layer has, in particular, an elastic modulus of 60 to 1100 MPa (megapascals).
• the material of the outer layer has an E-modulus of 60 to 200 MPa or 500 to 1 100 MPa.
• the material of the inner layer has in particular an E-modulus of 60 to 1100 MPa.
• the material of the inner layer has an E-modulus of 60 to 200 MPa or 500 to 1100 MPa.
• the outer layer and the inner layer are preferably selected materials which have a blocking effect against polar components in liquid and gaseous form (eg water, ethanol, etc.) as well as non-polar components, and preferably a resistance to the liquid, in particular fuel.
• a material is preferably selected which blocks fuel emissions.
• polyethylene or a polyethylene-containing material is used for the outer and / or inner layer.
• more elastic materials such as TPE (thermoplastic elastomer), TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) or ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) can be used.
• the blocking effect in the middle layer can preferably be achieved with ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVAL or EVOH), polyoxymethylene (POM) or polyamide (PA), in particular aliphatic polyamide, aromatic polyamide or partially aromatic polyamide (PPA).
• EVAL ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer
• POM polyoxymethylene
• PA polyamide
• aliphatic polyamide aromatic polyamide or partially aromatic polyamide (PPA).
• the bellows has a total thickness as the sum of the thicknesses of all layers.
• the outer layer has an outer layer thickness
• the inner layer has an inner layer thickness
• the middle layer has a middle layer thickness:
• the middle layer thickness is 5 to 800 ⁇ m, in particular 10 to 300 ⁇ m, particularly preferably 15 to 100 ⁇ m, more preferably 20 to 40 ⁇ m.
• the middle layer thickness is thinner than the outer layer thickness and / or thinner than the inner layer thickness.
• the outer layer thickness is thinner than the inner layer thickness.
• the middle layer thickness is 1% to 25%, preferably 5% to 15%, of the total thickness.
• the outer layer thickness is between 5% and 25%, preferably between 10% and 20%, of the total thickness.
• the deformation force can be reduced by the fuel swelling in the outer layer.
• the total thickness is 100 to 3000 gm, in particular 200 to 1200 gm.
• the bellows has an additional reinforcement layer at at least one location, but preferably not over its entire area. This allows the bellows to be reinforced mechanically at selected locations.
• the bellows is reinforced by structural mechanical components.
• at least one support ring is used.
• the support rings may be inserted at the inwardly facing kinks and / or at the outwardly facing kinks.
• the support rings can be glued to the wall of the bellows and / or welded to the wall and / or plugged into tabs of the wall.
• the support rings in the interior of the wall of the bellows, it is possible to arrange the support rings between the layers described above.
• the support rings are designed such that they do not hinder the required movement of the volume element. They are for this purpose preferably made of a harder material than the wall of the bellows itself.
• the volume element is held in shape and the support rings support the desired movement in only one axial direction, defined here parallel to the folding axis (Z-axis).
• a softer material than for the wall of the bellows can be selected for the support ring, since the stabilizing effect results from the geometry of the support ring.
• the support ring is made of an elastomer, preferably nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR).
• a support ring is inserted.
• the support ring is preferably not connected to the bellows, but only inserted.
• such a support ring is inserted on the inside at the top outer fold and at the bottom outer fold.
• At least one fold, in particular outer fold can be stabilized in the form of a ring by the reinforcing layer already described.
• at least the lowermost fold is thus stabilized, preferably several or all outer folds.
• the reinforcing layer is located on the outside of the bellows.
• the reinforcing layer extends fully to at least one outwardly pointing kink and thus forms a "support ring".
• At least one outer fold can have an annular upset.
• at least the lowermost fold is thus stabilized, preferably several or all outer folds.
• the upset occurs in the blow mold and represents a thickened region of the bellows.
• the upset extends fully to at least one outwardly pointing kink and thus forms a "support ring".
• the bellows bistable it is possible to make some or all of the folds of the bellows bistable, so that the maximum overpressure required for a complete breath of the volume element is lower and the minimum depression is higher than in comparison to a bellows with stable folds. Furthermore, the wrinkles are less stressed overall because only the wrinkles that are "on" actually move.
• the shafts are preferably radially encircling and may also be referred to as "folds in the folds". Shape of the bellows
• the bellows is preferably conical or frusto-conical. This form describes the bellows, especially in its unfolded state.
• the bellows is e.g. spherical or cylindrical.
• conical or “frusto-conical” is not limited to a bellows having a round or oval cross-section (defined perpendicular to the Z-axis). Namely, this form primarily describes a taper of the bellows, starting from a large diameter, in particular on the first element wall, going to a smaller diameter, in particular on the second element wall.
• the bellows may in particular have a round, oval or polygonal shape.
• the corners are preferably rounded.
• the cross-sectional shape of the bellows is formed so that the volume element approaches the inside of the tank contour and / or to the contour of any Tankeinbaumaschine.
• the conical shape or truncated cone shape concerns at least a portion of the bellows, this section comprising a plurality of folds.
• the bellows is preferably completely conical or frusto-conical.
• the bellows may also have a portion which may be e.g. is cylindrical or spherical and another portion of the conical or frusto-conical shape. Each section extends over several folds.
• the bellows may also have a plurality of sections which each extend over a plurality of folds, wherein these individual sections taken by themselves are conical or frusto-conical.
• the bellows along the folding axis (Z-axis) curved, for example, banana-shaped, is formed.
• the bellows may also be advantageous to make one side of the bellows stiffer than another side, so that the bellows moves asymmetrically when breathing.
• a plurality of the volume elements are used in an interior of a tank in order to optimally utilize the installation space. As a result, even more complex tank geometries can be used, which in turn is advantageous for the placement of the tank in the vehicle.
• the bellows is folded spirally. When breathing, so the unfolding and folding of the bellows, the bellows performs a rotational movement. It is also possible to arrange the support rings described above in the form of a helical spring on the inwardly pointing kinks and / or on the outside facing kinks. This form of structural mechanical support can also be used as an elastic element. The function of the "elastic element" will be described in detail.
• the tank includes at least one guide arrangement in the volume element or outside the volume element for guiding the bellows in folding and folding parallel to its folding axis (Z-axis) and limiting movement of the bellows perpendicular to the folding axis. It is also possible to use several identical or different guide arrangements on the same bellows.
• a possible guide arrangement comprises a plurality of guide elements fastened to the bellows and at least one guide; preferably several guides.
• the guide elements are fixedly connected to the bellows and arranged movably on the guide or on the plurality of guides.
• the guide is a rod, in particular a telescoping rod on which the guide elements are slidably guided.
• a possible guide arrangement comprises at least one support element, for example in the form of a wall or a spar. It is preferably provided to arrange at least one such support element in the interior of the tank, which extends directly along the outside of the bellows.
• the support element is firmly connected to the outer wall of the tank.
• the support element may be connected directly to the outer wall or, for example, with a baffle in the tank.
• the support element is in particular arranged so as to prevent this movement of the bellows as far as possible.
• the at least one support element is preferably adapted to the shape of the unfolded bellows and thus may also be conical or frusto-conical.
• the support element can also represent a housing enclosing the bellows.
• the support member may cause the bellows to breathe and limit movement perpendicular to the folding axis.
• the at least one support element is a maximum of 40 mm, preferably a maximum of 20 mm, removed from the unfolded bellows or rests directly on the bellows.
• a possible guide arrangement is formed by the outer wall of the tank, wherein the outer wall extends into the interior of the bellows and so support the bellows at least in the folded state and can lead. Due to the fact that the outer wall extends inwards, there is preferably a free space on its outer side, in which the filter, in particular a dust filter, is preferably arranged.
• At least one elastic element is preferably provided.
• the elastic element is formed for example as a spiral spring.
• the elastic element can be arranged inside the bellows or attack on the outside of the bellows.
• the elastic element may stress the bellows in the direction of its collapsed state and / or unfolded state.
• the loading direction can be chosen so that the elastic element supports the bellows when unfolding or when folding.
• the elastic element When the elastic element is arranged inside the bellows, it is preferably inserted into the bellows via the connection and thus through the first element wall. If the elastic element is arranged outside of the bellows, it may, for example, be supported on the second element wall and the opposite outer wall of the tank. Furthermore, it is possible to engage a lever on the second element wall. This lever in turn can be loaded via the elastic element.
• the manufacturing process can be adjusted so that the bellows contracts on cooling, and thus is folded in its equilibrium state.
• the bellows itself then fulfills the function of the "elastic Elements ".
• the spring force of the bellows is adjusted by material, wall thickness and geometry of the bellows and by its manufacturing process.
• the tank may have an actuator.
• the actuator is, for example, a pump with which the gas is actively pumped or sucked into the volume element.
• the actuator can also mechanically engage the volume element, for example via the lever described above, to actively change the volume of the volume element.
• an electromotive, electromagnetic or piezoelectric actuator is used.
• the active support be it by the elastic element or the actuator, it is possible to increase the efficiency of the volume element, as a faster response, for example, in a refueling is possible. Furthermore, the full functionality of the refueling can be ensured. Furthermore, higher wall thicknesses or material strengths and thus a more robust design can be selected, wherein at the same time the volume element has a rapid response through the active support. The functional reliability at lower temperatures is also improved by the active support.
• the tank has at least one sensor for determining the volume of the volume element.
• the sensor can work, for example, as a distance sensor, as an angle sensor or as a pressure sensor.
• the distance sensor preferably determines the distance between the two opposite element walls of the volume element or, for example, the distance between the second element wall and the opposite outer wall of the tank (preferably the lower outer wall).
• the lever described above which engages in particular on the second element wall of the volume element, is preferably pivotably articulated in the tank.
• the angle of the lever can be detected on the lever with a corresponding sensor.
• known geometry of the structure can be calculated from this angle, the volume of the volume element.
• the pressure in the interior of the tank (outside the volume element) and / or in the volume element can be determined. Based on this pressure and optionally based on the values of the described elastic element and / or the active support with the actuator, the volume of the volume element can be calculated.
• a method for active support of the volume element is provided with the described actuator, wherein the actuator is controlled in dependence of the volume, in particular determined with at least one of the sensors of the volume element.
• the volume element is fastened to a cover so that the volume element is removed by removing the cover which closes the outer wall of the tank.
• a new volume element can be attached. It should be noted, however, that the lid and the hole to be closed by the lid must be designed according to the size of the volume element.
• the tank comprises at least one releasable retaining arrangement.
• This holding arrangement is designed to hold at least two adjacent folds of the bellows in the folded state.
• the releasable holding arrangement for example in the form of a clip attached from outside or inside, holds only some of the folds of the bellows together, allowing the remaining folds to collapse and unfold, thus allowing breathing of the volume element. After a certain period of operation, the holding arrangement can be solved and optionally applied to other, already used wrinkles.
• the folds held together by the holding arrangement thus form a reserve area of the bellows.
• the remaining wrinkles can carry out the breathing and thus form an active area of the bellows.
• Both the active area and the reserve area each comprise several folds.
• the holding arrangement can be solved at the reserve area, so that these wrinkles are active.
• the same holding device or a to set further holding device and thereby to put the previous folds of the active area in a passive state.
• the actuation of the at least one holding arrangement takes place, for example, via a cover in the outer wall of the tank.
• opening the lid can be used, for example, by hand into the interior of the tank and thus to the volume element or directly into the interior of the volume element.
• the holding arrangement is in the interior of the volume element, access to the bellows is preferably made possible via the lid.
• the volume element can also be directly open to the environment, wherein the lid can be dispensed with.
• the holding arrangement can be released and / or set by a trigger signal from the outside.
• a correspondingly controllable actuator is located on the holding arrangement.
• the holding arrangement may be attached to the outside of the bellows.
• a clip can be used which clasps several of the folds and thus holds together in their passive state.
• the bellows is divided in the interior by a partition in two areas, which is an area initially designed as an active area.
• the holding arrangement is provided, which holds the individual folds in the folded state.
• the two areas or the volumes of the two areas are interconnected by an opening in the partition.
• volume elements each with a bellows
• One of the two volume elements is initially active and can breathe through its connection with the gas-carrying line.
• the second volume element is designed as a reserve volume element and remains in its folded state.
• the described retaining arrangement is provided on the reserve volume element in order to maintain the folded state of all folds. After a certain period of operation, after wear or leakage, the active volume element is replaced by the reserve volume element.
• the active volume element for example via its connection, which is located on the first element wall, attached to the outer wall of the tank and connected via the connection with the gas-carrying line.
• the reserve volume element is arranged independently of the active volume element at a suitable location in the interior.
• the described holding arrangement holds the reserve volume element in the folded state.
• this reserve volume element has its own connection.
• This connection is preferably closed by means of a closure, for example a cap, so that no fuel enters the interior of the reserve volume element.
• the first volume element is completed by the gas-carrying line.
• the first volume element can then remain, for example, in the interior of the tank or can be removed from the interior through the corresponding opening.
• a relatively small opening can be used, since it is possible to crush or crumple the first volume element in the interior, so that it can be removed through the relatively small opening. Then the shutter is released at the connection of the reserve volume element and the reserve volume element is connected to the gas-carrying line. Furthermore, the holding arrangement on the reserve volume element is also released so that the reserve volume element can breathe.
• volume elements are arranged in the interior space, each volume element being connected directly to the gas-carrying line via its own connection.
• this volume element has, for example, the holding arrangement described in order to keep its folds in the folded state.
• volume elements is connected via the connection directly to the gas-carrying line.
• the second volume element (reserve volume element) is connected via its connection directly to the first volume element.
• the connection of the reserve volume element is in the second element wall of the first volume element.
• Volume elements are used to define which of the two volume elements to breathe.
• the invention further comprises a motor vehicle with at least one tank described above. Further details, features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description and the figures. Show it:
• FIGS. 10 to 13 show different embodiments of the tank according to the invention with a volume element, the bellows having active and passive areas,
• FIGS. 14 to 17 different configurations of the tank according to the invention with two volume elements, each designed as a bellows,
• Figure 18 is a volume element, designed as a bellows with bistable
• FIG. 19 shows a schematic representation of FIG. 18,
• Figure 20 is a volume element, designed as a bellows with waves on the
• FIG 21 is a volume element with further advantageous embodiments.
• the figures show schematically different embodiments of a tank 1.
• the tank 1 is used in particular in a motor vehicle.
• the tank 1 comprises an outer wall 2, which forms an inner space 3 for receiving fuel.
• In the interior 3 is at least one volume element 4.
• a lid 5 may be formed for opening an opening.
• a gas-carrying line 6 This is gas-conducting connected to the at least one volume element 4.
• Volume element 4 described in detail. These different configurations are preferably combinable with each other.
• FIG. 1 shows that the volume element 4 comprises two opposing element walls, namely an upper first element wall 11 and an opposite second element wall 12.
• the two element walls 11, 12 of the volume element 4 are connected to one another by a bellows 10.
• the bellows 10 moves along the plotted folding axis Z.
• connection 16 in the form of a nipple is formed on the first element wall 11. This terminal 16 protrudes through the outer wall 2 to the outside and is connected to the gas-filling line 6.
• FIG. 1 shows the possibility of arranging at least one spacer 17 between the first element wall 11 and the outer wall 2 of the tank 1.
• the outer wall 2 of the tank 1 can be produced by inflating a plastic mold.
• the volume element 4 may already be arranged in the resulting tank 1 before inflation. After inflation of the outer wall 2, this cools. In order not to damage the volume element 4 by the heating during the inflation or the subsequent cooling, this is preferably spaced by the at least one spacer 17.
• FIG. 1 shows, as an optional embodiment, the schematic arrangement of a guide arrangement 56.
• the guide arrangement 56 comprises several
• the guide elements 57 are firmly connected at different positions with the outside of the bellows. Furthermore, the
• Guide 58 is a guide 58.
• the guide 58 is formed here as a telescoping rod which extends along the folding axis Z.
• the guide elements are slidably guided on the guide 58.
• the schematic representation in FIG. 1 shows, by way of example only, one guide 58. In fact, however, several of these guides 58 can be used. In particular, more than the two guide elements 57 shown are used.
• the guide arrangement 56 guides and supports the bellows 10 during folding and unfolding and thus during its movement parallel to the folding axis Z. A movement perpendicular to the folding axis Z is prevented or limited by the guide arrangement 56.
• FIG. 2 shows a detailed illustration of the multilayer structure of the wall of the bellows 10 with inner layer 13, middle layer 14 and outer layer 15.
• the bellows 10 has a total thickness 10a as the sum of the thicknesses of all layers.
• the outer layer 15 has an outer layer thickness 15a
• the inner layer 13 has an inner layer thickness 13a
• the middle layer 14 has a middle layer thickness 14a.
• the dimensions and materials for the layers have already been advantageously defined in the general part of the description.
• the outer layer thickness 15a is thinner than the inner layer thickness 13a.
• FIG. 2 shows that the bellows alternately has a multiplicity of inwardly pointing kinks 18 and outwardly pointing kinks 19. Between the kinks are each intermediate surfaces 20.
• Figure 2 shows the arrangement of support rings 21 on the inside of the kinks 18, 19. It is possible to arrange support rings 21 at all or some folds. Further, it is possible to arrange the support rings 21 both inside and outside or between the layers 13, 14, 15.
• a support ring 21 is inserted.
• the support ring 21 is preferably not connected to the bellows 10, but only inserted.
• At least one fold, in particular outer fold, can be stabilized by a reinforcing layer 15b.
• the reinforcing layer 15b is preferably located on the outer side of the bellows 10 and extends annularly in full at least one outwardly pointing kink point 19 and thus forms a "support ring".
• At least one outer fold may be one Have upset 71, which forms a "support ring". This variant will be described with reference to FIG. 21.
• a material insertion can be generated on the inside of the kink point by the blow mold, which supports the reinforcing effect of the upset 71.
• Figure 2 shows perpendicular to the Z-axis a large diameter 7 of the
• the diameter 7, 8 results in a frusto-conical volume element 4.
• the side with the larger diameter 7 is preferably arranged above and lies on the outer wall 2 at.
• FIG. 3 shows a support element 30 in the form of an enclosure as a guide arrangement 56.
• This support element 30 is arranged directly on the outside of the unfolded bellows 10 and limits any movement of the bellows 10, for example caused by the liquid moving in the interior 3.
• FIG. 4 shows a further possible embodiment of the guide arrangement 56.
• FIG. 4 shows on the left side the bellows 10 in the unfolded state.
• On the right side of Figure 4 shows the folded bellows. According to Figure 4 is the
• Guide assembly 56 formed by the outer wall 2 extends into the interior of the bellows 10. This area of the outer wall 2 can alternatively also be formed by a cover 5 which forms part of the outer wall 2.
• this area of the outer wall 2 can at least partially support and / or guide the bellows.
• this inwardly curved portion of the outer wall 2 limits movement of the bellows 10 perpendicular to the folding axis Z.
• FIG. 5 shows a possible embodiment of the bellows 10 with a spiral fold.
• the second element wall 12 rotates about the Z-axis relative to the first element wall 11.
• the support ring 21 is designed here in a spiral shape and can also be used as an elastic element 36 at the same time.
• the elastic element 36 will be explained in more detail with reference to FIG.
• Figure 5 shows the use of a distance sensor 31.
• Distance sensor 31 disposed on the inside of the first element wall 11 and measures the distance to the second element wall 12. Preferably, this is on the second element wall 12, a corresponding counterpart 32, for example formed as a reflector.
• the distance sensor 31 may, for example, optical or
• a corresponding control unit can calculate the current volume of the volume element 4.
• the use of the distance sensor 21 is independent of the possible spiral folding of the bellows 10.
• the counterpart 32 rotates relative to the distance sensor 31.
• the distance sensor 31 can also detect a rotation angle to the counterpart 32 and thereby infer the distance.
• Figure 6 shows in addition to the use of a distance sensor 31 inside the
• Volume element 4 even more possible sensors, which can also be used individually to draw conclusions about the volume of the volume element 4:
• FIG. 6 shows a distance sensor 31 at the bottom of the outer wall 2, which measures the distance to the second element wall 12, optionally also with a counterpart 32.
• a pressure sensor 33 may be used which, for example, measures the pressure in the interior 3 outside the volume element 4 or (not shown) the pressure in the volume element 4.
• FIG. 6 shows a possible arrangement of an elastic element 36, here in the form of a spring.
• the elastic element 36 is arranged in the interior of the volume element 4.
• the elastic element 36 is supported in the interior of the volume element 4 against the second element wall 12 and is supported on the opposite side, for example in the interior of the terminal 16.
• this elastic element 36 can also be introduced through the connection 16 into the interior of the volume element 4.
• the elastic element may alternatively be attached to the upper wall; as shown at 36 'in FIG.
• FIG. 6 shows a use of a lever 34, which is articulated in the interior 3 and is connected to the second element wall 12.
• the movement of this lever can be detected, for example, with an angle sensor 35, which in turn allows conclusions to be drawn on the current volume of the volume element 4.
• the tank 1 may comprise at least one actuator 37 with which it is possible to actively influence the volume of the volume element 4. This can be done in particular based on the volume determined by the sensors 31, 33, 35.
• a possible actuator 37 is a pump with which gas 16 can be pumped or sucked into the volume element 4 via the connection 16. Moreover, it is possible, for example, to arrange an actuator 37 in the form of an electric drive on the lever 34. As a result, the lever 34 can be moved with the actuator 37, which in turn moves the second element wall 12 relative to the first element wall 11.
• FIG. 7 shows, purely schematically, an embodiment in which the bellows 10 is stiffer on one side than on an opposite side. This embodiment of the bellows 10 can be combined with all other embodiments presented here.
• FIG. 7 illustrates how the different stiffnesses of the folds of the bellows 10 make it possible for the bellows to open and close asymmetrically. As a result, the bellows 10 can be adapted to specific geometries of the interior 3.
• Figure 8 illustrates purely schematically that the bellows can be directly open to the top and can be connected via a corresponding opening in the outer wall 2 with the environment. In this embodiment, no gas-carrying line 6 is necessary, but the interior of the bellows 10 is directly open to the environment.
• FIG. 9 shows a simple possibility for exchanging the volume element 4.
• a cover 5 is arranged in the outer wall 2.
• Volume element 4 is arranged on the inside of this cover 5.
• the lid 5 closes an opening which is large enough to remove the cover together with volume element 4 from the interior 3.
• Figure 10 shows a variant in which a plurality of adjacent folds of the bellows 10 are held together by means of a holding arrangement 40 in the folded state.
• the holding arrangement 40 is formed as a clamp, which is placed on the bellows 10 from the outside.
• the holding arrangement 40 thus holds together certain folds of the bellows 10 which form a reserve region of the bellows 10.
• FIG. 11 shows that the holding arrangement 40, as explained with reference to FIG. 10, can also be arranged inside the bellows 10. It is provided in particular that the cover 5 is arranged in the outer wall 2 of the tank 1 so that by opening the lid directly the interior of the bellows 10 is accessible. Thereby, the holding arrangement 40 can be released by a person.
• the lid 5 shown in Figure 1 1, which allows direct access into the interior of the bellows 10, can also be used independently of the holding assembly 40 shown, for example, to allow repair of the bellows 10 from the inside.
• FIG. 12 shows an embodiment of the holding arrangement 40 with two opposing elements which snap into one another or otherwise hold one another, for example magnetically, to one another.
• the lower half of the bellows 10 is passive and serves as a reserve.
• the retaining assembly 40 may be set so that the upper half of the bellows 10 becomes passive and the lower half of the bellows 10 is used for breathing.
• Figure 13 shows a similar variant as in Figure 12. However, here is the holding device 40 in the interior of the bellows 10, in the form of an Ouick connector. Advantage of the device is that a leak in the upper part would not affect the emissions because it is sealed.
• FIG. 13 shows that the bellows 10 is subdivided by a partition wall 43.
• the partition wall 43 has an opening, so that the two areas of
• Bellows are interconnected. At this opening as well as at the first one Element wall 1 1 or at the terminal 16 is the holding device 40, which makes it possible to connect this opening of the partition wall 43 directly to the terminal 16. This occurs when the retaining portion 40 of the lower portion of the bellows is released and the upper portion of the bellows 10 is made passive.
• Holding device 40 in the first volume element 4 is at the same time as
• Connection arrangements 41 are formed, which allows a simple and detachable connection of the opening of the partition wall 43 to the gas-carrying line 6.
• To release the lower holding device 40 eg in the workshop, during a repair or service, it is possible, for example, to connect the connecting arrangements 41 at the top and to pressurize the volume element 4 until the holding device 40 tears.
• FIG. 14 shows a variant in which two volume elements 4 are located in the interior 3. While the one volume element 4 is breathing through its connection with the gaseous conduit 6, the reserve volume element 4 remains in the
• connection 16 of the reserve volume element 4 is closed by a closure 42 (cap) so that no fuel enters the interior of the reserve volume element 4 can.
• closure 42 When changing the volume elements 4, the first volume element 4 is subtracted. From the reserve volume element 4, the closure 42 is removed, so that the connection 16 of the reserve volume element 4 can be connected to the corresponding opening in the outer wall 2.
• detachable connection arrangements 41 are provided on the outer wall 2 and at the terminals 16.
• Figure 15 shows a variant in which also two volume elements 4 in
• the reserve volume element 4 is again held in the folded state by means of a holding arrangement 40. Both volume elements 4 are always connected via their own connections 16 with the common gas-carrying line 6. By appropriate release and setting of the holding arrangements 40 in the first volume element 4 or in the reserve volume element 4 it can be determined which volume element remains in the folded state and which volume element 4 is breathing.
• FIG. 16 shows, like FIG. 15, two volume elements 4, in each case as a bellows 10, in the interior of the tank 1. Both volume elements 4 are connected to the environment via their own gas-carrying lines 6. In the variant according to FIG. 16, however, no holding arrangements 40 are required. According to FIG. 16, the two lines 6 are the two Volume elements 4 via a three-way valve 61 connected to each other. By appropriate switching of the three-way valve 61, either the one or the other volume element 4 can be used.
• pressure relief valves 60 used on each volume element 4 to ensure that the locked volume element 4, despite diffusion through its wall always remains in the displaced state.
• Figure 17 also shows an arrangement with two volume elements 4 in the interior 3. This arrangement corresponds to the illustration in Figure 9 with the difference that this is not a single bellows 10, which is divided by a partition wall 43, but by two own Bellows 10, which are interconnected.
• the first volume element 4 according to FIG. 17 has a
• Holding assembly 40 which is constructed independently of the connection assembly 41.
• FIG. 18 shows the possibility of making the folds of the bellows 10 bistable.
• FIG. 18 shows a bistable fold 55, wherein in particular several or all of the folds can be designed as bistable folds 55.
• FIG. 19 shows the advantageous course of the volume of the bellows 10 as a function of the pressure in the volume element 4 as a dashed line using bistable pleats 55 for all pleats compared to conventional solid pleats with the solid line.
• FIG. 20 shows in a purely schematic representation for all shown here
• Embodiments that in order to facilitate uniform movement of the bellows 10 along the folding axis Z and in order to simplify breathing and stabilize the wrinkles at the same time may optionally be provided that the between the kinks located intermediate surfaces have 20 waves 62 and thus wavy or are designed in wave structure.
• the first element wall 1 1 and / or the second element wall 12 may be formed as rigid plates. Alternatively, one can integrate circumferential radial creases in the floor so that the floor can move slightly upwards within the outer creases to further reduce the minimum volume. In this case, the element wall 12 is no longer a rigid plate.
• FIG. 20 shows this embodiment, which can be used with or without the shaft 62.
• FIG. 21 shows further possible embodiments of the volume element 4 which can be used individually or in combination with other features of the invention:
• Support rings 21 or a reinforcing layer 15b for forming a type of "support ring” have been described with reference to Figure 2.
• Figure 21 shows a full upset 71 by way of example of a fold forming a "support ring” by its material thickening.
• FIG. 21 shows a rigid first element wall 11.
• the bellows 10 is blown against the first element wall 11.
• the same structure also results when the first element wall 1 1 is glued or welded to the bellows.
• FIG. 21 shows that the bottom of the bellows 10 or the second element wall 12 can comprise an annular structural reinforcement element 70.

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• Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
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• Sustainable Development (AREA)
• Sustainable Energy (AREA)
• Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
• Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
• Transportation (AREA)
• Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
• Diaphragms And Bellows (AREA)
• Cooling, Air Intake And Gas Exhaust, And Fuel Tank Arrangements In Propulsion Units (AREA)

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• 2018
  • 2018-02-28 DE DE102018203006.5A patent/DE102018203006A1/de active Pending
• 2019
  • 2019-02-26 EP EP19707786.0A patent/EP3758965A1/de active Pending
  • 2019-02-26 WO PCT/EP2019/054711 patent/WO2019166422A1/de unknown
  • 2019-02-26 CN CN201980013916.1A patent/CN112135745B/zh active Active
  • 2019-02-26 JP JP2020545176A patent/JP2021516185A/ja active Pending
  • 2019-02-26 US US16/976,552 patent/US20200406745A1/en not_active Abandoned
  • 2019-02-26 KR KR1020207027858A patent/KR20200123237A/ko not_active Application Discontinuation

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