JPH08323487A - Fuel tank and its manufacture - Google Patents
Fuel tank and its manufactureInfo
- Publication number
- JPH08323487A JPH08323487A JP7136580A JP13658095A JPH08323487A JP H08323487 A JPH08323487 A JP H08323487A JP 7136580 A JP7136580 A JP 7136580A JP 13658095 A JP13658095 A JP 13658095A JP H08323487 A JPH08323487 A JP H08323487A
- Authority
- JP
- Japan
- Prior art keywords
- box
- shaped body
- peripheral wall
- bead
- shaped
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Withdrawn
Links
Landscapes
- Laser Beam Processing (AREA)
- Cooling, Air Intake And Gas Exhaust, And Fuel Tank Arrangements In Propulsion Units (AREA)
Abstract
Description
【発明の詳細な説明】Detailed Description of the Invention
【０００１】[0001]
【産業上の利用分野】この発明は、２輪自動車、乗用
車、トラック、バス、特殊車等の自動車に用いられる燃
料タンクおよびその製造方法に関する。BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a fuel tank used in a vehicle such as a two-wheeled vehicle, a passenger car, a truck, a bus, and a special vehicle, and a method for manufacturing the fuel tank.
【０００２】この明細書において、各図面の上下をそれ
ぞれ上下というものとする。In this specification, the upper and lower sides of each drawing are referred to as the upper and lower sides, respectively.
【０００３】[0003]
【従来の技術】従来、自動車用燃料タンクとしては、鋼
製のものや、軽量化を目的とした合成樹脂製のものが用
いられていた。鋼製燃料タンクは、鋼板で形成された２
つの箱状体の開口部周縁にそれぞれ外向きフランジが一
体に形成され、２つの箱状体の開口部周縁どうしが突き
合わせられるとともにフランジどうしが重ね合わせら
れ、両箱状体のフランジどうしがシーム溶接されたもの
である。2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as fuel tanks for automobiles, those made of steel and those made of synthetic resin for the purpose of weight reduction have been used. Steel fuel tank is made of steel plate 2
Outer flanges are integrally formed on the peripheries of the openings of the two box-shaped bodies, the peripheries of the openings of the two box-shaped bodies are butted against each other, and the flanges are overlapped, and the flanges of both box-shaped bodies are seam welded. It was done.
【０００４】[0004]
【発明が解決しようとする課題】しかしながら、鋼製ガ
ソリンタンクの場合、次のような問題があった。すなわ
ち、設置スペースとして、フランジの幅を含めた分の広
さが必要になり、限られた設置スペースの中では内容積
を小さくしなければならない。さらに、自動車事故が起
こって燃料タンクの一部が凹んだ場合、内圧が高くな
り、その結果両フランジに、これらを互いに離隔させよ
うとする方向の力が加わり、フランジどうしのシーム溶
接部に応力集中が発生して溶接部が破壊されるおそれが
ある。しかも、このような溶接部の破壊を防止するため
には、燃料タンクが凹みにくいように箱状体の肉厚を大
きくしなければならず、重量が大きくなる。However, the steel gasoline tank has the following problems. That is, the installation space needs to be as wide as the width of the flange, and the internal volume must be reduced in the limited installation space. Furthermore, when a car accident occurs and a part of the fuel tank is dented, the internal pressure increases, and as a result, a force is applied to both flanges in the direction of separating them from each other, and stress is applied to the seam weld between the flanges. Concentration may occur and the weld may be destroyed. In addition, in order to prevent such destruction of the welded portion, the wall thickness of the box-shaped body must be increased so that the fuel tank is unlikely to be dented, resulting in an increase in weight.
【０００５】合成樹脂製燃料タンクの場合、次のような
問題があった。すなわち、ガソリン等の燃料の透過性が
高く、環境が悪くなるとともに危険性が高まる。また、
燃料の透過防止のためには、ナイロンをラミネートした
多層ポリエチレン構造としなければならず、しかも合成
樹脂製燃料タンクの固定は、鋼バンドを使用しているた
めに、鋼製のものと比べても著しい軽量化を図ることは
できない。さらに、リサイクルが困難である。The synthetic resin fuel tank has the following problems. That is, the permeability of fuel such as gasoline is high, and the environment becomes worse and the danger increases. Also,
In order to prevent the permeation of fuel, a multilayer polyethylene structure laminated with nylon must be used, and the steel tank is used to fix the synthetic resin fuel tank, so even if it is made of steel, It is not possible to achieve significant weight reduction. Moreover, recycling is difficult.
【０００６】この発明の目的は、上記問題を解決した燃
料タンクおよびその製造方法を提供することにある。An object of the present invention is to provide a fuel tank and a method for manufacturing the same that solve the above problems.
【０００７】[0007]
【課題を解決するための手段】この発明による燃料タン
クは、下方に開口した金属製上部箱状体および上方に開
口した金属製下部箱状体よりなり、両箱状体のうちの第
１の箱状体の周壁の開口側部分内に同第２の箱状体の周
壁の開口側部分が嵌め入れられ、第１箱状体の周壁の開
口側部分にその周方向に伸びる外方に突出したビードが
形成され、第２箱状体の周壁の開口側部分にその周方向
に伸びかつ第１箱状体のビード内側の溝内に嵌入しうる
外方に突出したビードが形成され、第２箱状体のビード
が第１箱状体のビード内側の溝内に嵌め入れられた状態
で、両箱状体の周壁どうしが重ね合わせ部で溶接されて
いるものである。A fuel tank according to the present invention comprises a metallic upper box-shaped body that opens downward and a metallic lower box-shaped body that opens upward, and is the first of both box-shaped bodies. The opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body is fitted into the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the box-shaped body, and projects outward toward the opening-side portion of the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body extending in the circumferential direction. A bead is formed, and an outwardly projecting bead that extends in the circumferential direction and can be fitted into the groove inside the bead of the first box-shaped body is formed at the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body. In the state where the two box-shaped beads are fitted in the grooves inside the beads of the first box-shaped body, the peripheral walls of both box-shaped bodies are welded at the overlapping portion.
【０００８】上記燃料タンクにおいて、両箱状体のビー
ドは、周壁の全周にわたって連続的に形成されていても
よいし、あるいは断続的に形成されていてもよい。ま
た、両箱状体は、アルミニウム（アルミニウム合金も含
む。以下同じ）、鋼、各種クラッド板により形成され
る。In the above fuel tank, the beads of both box-like bodies may be formed continuously over the entire circumference of the peripheral wall or may be formed intermittently. Both box-like bodies are formed of aluminum (including aluminum alloys; the same applies hereinafter), steel, and various clad plates.
【０００９】この発明による燃料タンクの製造方法は、
下方に開口した金属製上部箱状体および上方に開口した
金属製下部箱状体をプレス成形すること、両箱状体のう
ちの第１の箱状体の周壁の内面の寸法を同第２の箱状体
の周壁の外面の寸法よりも小さくしておくこと、第１箱
状体の周壁の開口側部分にその周方向に伸びる外方に突
出したビードを形成しておくこと、第２箱状体の周壁の
開口側部分にその周方向に伸びかつ第１箱状体のビード
内側の溝内に嵌入しうる外方に突出したビードを形成し
ておくこと、第２箱状体の周壁の開口側部分を第１箱状
体の開口部内に強制的に嵌め入れるとともに、第２箱状
体のビードを第１箱状体のビード内側の溝内に嵌め入れ
ること、ならびに両箱状体の周壁どうしを重ね合わせ部
で溶接することを含むものである。A method of manufacturing a fuel tank according to the present invention is
A metal upper box-shaped body having a downward opening and a metal lower box-shaped body having an upward opening are press-molded, and the inner surface of the first box-shaped body of the two box-shaped bodies has the same inner surface dimension. Smaller than the outer surface of the peripheral wall of the box-like body, forming an outwardly protruding bead extending in the circumferential direction on the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the first box-like body, An outwardly projecting bead extending in the circumferential direction and capable of being fitted into the groove inside the bead of the first box-shaped body is formed on the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the box-shaped body, Forcibly fitting the opening side portion of the peripheral wall into the opening of the first box-shaped body, and fitting the bead of the second box-shaped body into the groove inside the bead of the first box-shaped body, and both box-shaped bodies It involves welding the peripheral walls of the body together at the overlap.
【００１０】上記燃料タンクの製造方法において、両箱
状体のビードは、周壁の全周にわたって連続的に形成し
ておいてもよいし、あるいは断続的に形成しておいても
よい。また、両箱状体は、アルミニウム、鋼、各種クラ
ッド板により形成される。In the above fuel tank manufacturing method, the beads of both box-like bodies may be formed continuously over the entire circumference of the peripheral wall, or may be formed intermittently. Both box-shaped bodies are formed of aluminum, steel, and various clad plates.
【００１１】この発明による燃料タンクの製造方法にお
いて、両箱状体の周壁どうしの重ね合わせ部での溶接
を、ＣＯ2 レーザやＹＡＧレーザを用いたレーザ溶接に
より行うことがある。In the method of manufacturing a fuel tank according to the present invention, the welding at the overlapping portions of the peripheral walls of both box-shaped bodies may be performed by laser welding using a CO 2 laser or a YAG laser.
【００１２】この発明による燃料タンクの製造方法にお
いて、さらに、第１箱状体の周壁の開口側端部に拡開部
を形成しておくこと、第１箱状体の周壁の内面の寸法を
第２箱状体の周壁の外面の寸法よりも小さくするととも
に、第１箱状体の拡開部の先端の内面の寸法を第２箱状
体の周壁の外面の寸法よりも大きくしておくこと、およ
び第２箱状体の周壁の開口側部分を第１箱状体の開口部
内に強制的に嵌め入れるさいに、拡開部をガイドとする
ことを含んでいるのがよい。In the method for manufacturing a fuel tank according to the present invention, further, an expanded portion is formed at an end of the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body on the opening side, and the inner surface of the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body is dimensioned. The size of the outer surface of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body is made smaller, and the size of the inner surface of the tip of the expanded portion of the first box-shaped body is made larger than the outer surface of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body. It is preferable that the expanding portion serves as a guide when the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body is forcibly fitted into the opening of the first box-shaped body.
【００１３】また、この発明による燃料タンクの製造方
法において、さらに、第２箱状体の周壁の開口側部分を
第１箱状体の開口部内に嵌め入れるとともに、第２箱状
体のビードを第１箱状体のビード内側の溝内に嵌め入れ
た後、電磁成形により第１箱状体の周壁を収縮させるこ
とを含んでいるのがよい。Further, in the fuel tank manufacturing method according to the present invention, the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body is fitted into the opening of the first box-shaped body, and the bead of the second box-shaped body is attached. It is preferable to include shrinking the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body by electromagnetic forming after fitting the groove into the bead of the first box-shaped body.
【００１４】また、この発明による燃料タンクの製造方
法において、両箱状体のうちのいずれか一方の周壁の肉
厚を同他方の周壁の肉厚よりも大きくしておくことがあ
る。In the method of manufacturing a fuel tank according to the present invention, the wall thickness of one of the box-shaped bodies may be made larger than the wall thickness of the other peripheral wall.
【００１５】さらに、この発明による燃料タンクの製造
方法において、両箱状体のうちのいずれか一方に時効硬
化処理を施しておくことがある。Further, in the fuel tank manufacturing method according to the present invention, either one of the two box-shaped bodies may be subjected to age hardening treatment.
【００１６】[0016]
【作用】この発明による燃料タンクは、上下２つの金属
製箱状体よりなるので、ガソリンの透過を防止できる。
しかも、ガソリンの透過を防止するための対策を施す必
要がない。さらに、合成樹脂製の燃料タンクに比べてリ
サイクルが容易になる。Since the fuel tank according to the present invention comprises the upper and lower metal box-shaped members, it is possible to prevent the permeation of gasoline.
Moreover, it is not necessary to take measures to prevent the permeation of gasoline. Further, it is easier to recycle than a fuel tank made of synthetic resin.
【００１７】また、下方に開口した金属製上部箱状体お
よび上方に開口した金属製下部箱状体よりなり、両箱状
体のうちの第１の箱状体の周壁の開口側部分内に同第２
の箱状体の周壁の開口側部分が嵌め入れられた状態で、
両箱状体の周壁どうしが重ね合わせ部で溶接されている
ので、従来の鋼製燃料タンクのようなフランジが不要に
なる。したがって、設置スペースとして、このようなフ
ランジの幅を含めた分の広さが不要になる。また、燃料
タンクの一部が凹んで内圧が高くなった場合にも、２つ
の箱状体の周壁どうしの溶接部分、すなわち両箱状体の
周壁の重ね合わせ部分にはこれらを互いに離隔させよう
とする力は加わらず、両者を互いに押付けるような力が
加わる。Further, it is composed of a metal upper box-shaped body opened downward and a metal lower box-shaped body opened upward, and is located in the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body of both box-shaped bodies. Same second
With the opening side part of the peripheral wall of the box-shaped body of is fitted,
Since the peripheral walls of both box-shaped bodies are welded at the overlapping portion, the flange like the conventional steel fuel tank becomes unnecessary. Therefore, the installation space does not need to be as wide as the flange width. In addition, even if a part of the fuel tank is dented and the internal pressure becomes high, the welded portions of the peripheral walls of the two box-shaped bodies, that is, the overlapping portions of the peripheral walls of the two box-shaped bodies should be separated from each other. The force to push the two against each other is not applied.
【００１８】さらに、両箱状体のうちの第１箱状体の周
壁の開口側部分にその周方向に伸びる外方に突出したビ
ードが形成され、同第２箱状体の周壁の開口側部分にそ
の周方向に伸びかつ第１箱状体のビード内側の溝内に嵌
入しうる外方に突出したビードが形成され、第２箱状体
のビードが第１箱状体のビード内側の溝内に嵌め入れら
れた状態で、両箱状体の周壁どうしが重ね合わせ部で溶
接されているので、ビードの働きにより、両箱状体の周
壁の強度が増大する。Further, an outwardly projecting bead extending in the circumferential direction is formed at the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body of the two box-shaped bodies, and the opening side of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body is formed. A bead projecting outwardly is formed in the portion that extends in the circumferential direction and that can be fitted into the groove inside the bead of the first box-shaped body, and the bead of the second box-shaped body is inside the bead of the first box-shaped body. Since the peripheral walls of both box-shaped bodies are welded to each other at the overlapping portions in the state of being fitted in the groove, the bead works to increase the strength of the peripheral walls of both box-shaped bodies.
【００１９】この発明の燃料タンクの製造方法によれ
ば、両箱状体のうちの第１の箱状体の周壁の内面の寸法
を同第２の箱状体の周壁の外面の寸法よりも小さくして
おくこと、第２箱状体の周壁の開口側部分を第１箱状体
の開口部内に強制的に嵌め入れることを含むので、溶接
前の状態において、第２箱状体の周壁が内方に若干弾性
変形するとともに、第１箱状体の周壁が外方に若干弾性
変形し、その反発力により両箱状体の周壁どうしが密着
させられる。したがって、第２箱状体の周壁外面と第１
箱状体の周壁内面との間の隙間を極小化することができ
る。According to the method of manufacturing a fuel tank of the present invention, the inner surface of the first box-shaped body of the two box-shaped bodies has a larger inner surface than the outer surface of the second box-shaped body. Since it includes making it small and forcibly fitting the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body into the opening of the first box-shaped body, the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body in the state before welding. Is slightly elastically deformed inward, and the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body is elastically deformed outwardly, and the repulsive force brings the peripheral walls of both box-shaped bodies into close contact with each other. Therefore, the outer surface of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body and the first
The gap between the inner surface of the peripheral wall of the box-shaped body can be minimized.
【００２０】また、第１箱状体の周壁の開口側部分にそ
の周方向に伸びる外方に突出したビードを形成しておく
こと、第２箱状体の周壁の開口側部分にその周方向に伸
びかつ第１箱状体のビード内側の溝内に嵌入しうる外方
に突出したビードを形成しておくこと、第２箱状体の周
壁の開口側部分を第１箱状体の開口部内に強制的に嵌め
入れるとともに、第２箱状体のビードを第１箱状体のビ
ード内側の溝内に嵌め入れることを含むので、両箱状体
のビードどうしの嵌め合わせにより、溶接のさいの両箱
状体の位置決めを行うことができ、固定治具を必要とし
なくなる。Further, an outwardly projecting bead extending in the circumferential direction is formed in the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body, and the bead protruding in the circumferential direction is formed in the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body. An outwardly projecting bead that extends into the groove of the first box-shaped body and can be fitted into the groove inside the bead of the first box-shaped body. Since it includes forcibly fitting the bead of the second box-shaped body into the groove inside the bead of the first box-shaped body as well as forcibly fitting it in the part, the beads of the both box-shaped bodies are fitted together so that welding of Both box-shaped bodies can be positioned without the need for a fixture.
【００２１】この発明による燃料タンクの製造方法にお
いて、両箱状体の周壁どうしの重ね合わせ部での溶接
を、ＣＯ2 レーザやＹＡＧレーザを用いたレーザ溶接に
より、行うと、溶接速度を大きくすることができ、生産
性を向上させることが可能になる。In the method of manufacturing a fuel tank according to the present invention, if the welding at the overlapping portions of the peripheral walls of both box-shaped bodies is carried out by laser welding using a CO 2 laser or a YAG laser, the welding speed is increased. It is possible to improve productivity.
【００２２】また、この発明の燃料タンクの製造方法に
おいて、第１箱状体の周壁の開口側端部に拡開部を形成
しておくこと、第１箱状体の周壁の内面の寸法を第２箱
状体の周壁の外面の寸法よりも小さくするとともに、第
１箱状体の拡開部の先端の内面の寸法を第２箱状体の周
壁の外面の寸法よりも大きくしておくこと、および第２
箱状体の周壁の開口側部分を第１箱状体の開口部内に強
制的に嵌め入れるさいに、拡開部をガイドとすることを
含んでいると、両箱状体の嵌め合わせ作業を簡単に行う
ことができる。Further, in the method for manufacturing a fuel tank of the present invention, the expanded portion is formed at the opening side end of the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body, and the inner surface of the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body is dimensioned. The size of the outer surface of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body is made smaller, and the size of the inner surface of the tip of the expanded portion of the first box-shaped body is made larger than the outer surface of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body. And second
When the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the box-shaped body is forcibly fitted into the opening of the first box-shaped body, including the use of the expanded portion as a guide, the fitting work of both box-shaped bodies can be performed. Easy to do.
【００２３】また、この発明の燃料タンクの製造方法に
おいて、第２箱状体の周壁の開口側部分を第１箱状体の
開口部内に嵌め入れるとともに、第２箱状体のビードを
第１箱状体のビード内側の溝内に嵌め入れた後、電磁成
形により第１箱状体の周壁を収縮させると、両箱状体の
互いに嵌め合わされた周壁どうしの隙間を一層極小化す
ることができる。Further, in the fuel tank manufacturing method of the present invention, the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body is fitted into the opening of the first box-shaped body, and the bead of the second box-shaped body is set to the first. When the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body is contracted by electromagnetic forming after being fitted into the groove inside the bead of the box-shaped body, the gap between the peripheral walls of the two box-shaped bodies fitted together can be further minimized. it can.
【００２４】また、この発明の燃料タンクの製造方法に
おいて、両箱状体のうちのいずれか一方の周壁の肉厚を
同他方の周壁の肉厚よりも大きくしておくと、両箱状体
を嵌め合わせた場合、肉厚の大きな箱状体の周壁が弾性
変形したさいの反発力が大きくなり、両箱状体の互いに
嵌め合わされた周壁どうしの隙間を一層極小化すること
ができる。In the fuel tank manufacturing method of the present invention, if the wall thickness of one of the two box-shaped bodies is made larger than the wall thickness of the other box-shaped body, both box-shaped bodies are formed. When they are fitted together, the repulsive force becomes large when the peripheral wall of the box-shaped body having a large thickness is elastically deformed, and the gap between the fitted peripheral walls of both box-shaped bodies can be further minimized.
【００２５】さらに、この発明の燃料タンクの製造方法
において、両箱状体のうちのいずれか一方に時効硬化処
理を施しておくと、両箱状体を嵌め合わせた場合、時効
硬化処理の施された箱状体の周壁が弾性変形したさいの
反発力が大きくなり、両箱状体の互いに嵌め合わされた
周壁どうしの隙間を一層極小化することができる。Further, in the fuel tank manufacturing method of the present invention, if one of the two box-shaped bodies is subjected to age hardening treatment, when both box-shaped bodies are fitted together, the age hardening treatment is carried out. When the peripheral wall of the box-shaped body is elastically deformed, the repulsive force increases, and the gap between the peripheral walls of the two box-shaped bodies fitted together can be further minimized.
【００２６】[0026]
【実施例】以下、この発明の実施例を、図面を参照して
説明する。Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
【００２７】図１はこの発明の燃料タンクの全体構成を
示し、図２はその主要部の構成を示す。FIG. 1 shows the overall construction of the fuel tank of the present invention, and FIG. 2 shows the construction of the main parts thereof.
【００２８】図１および図２において、この発明による
自動車用燃料タンクは、下方に開口した方形状のアルミ
ニウム製上部箱状体(1) と、上方に開口した方形状のア
ルミニウム製下部箱状体(2) とよりなる。1 and 2, a fuel tank for an automobile according to the present invention comprises a rectangular upper box-shaped body (1) made of aluminum opened downward and a rectangular lower box-shaped body made of aluminum opened upward. It consists of (2).
【００２９】下部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) の上端部に上方
に向かって外方に拡がった拡開部(4) が全周にわたって
形成されている。下部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) における平
面から見て直線状の各壁部(3a)における拡開部(4) より
も下方の部分にその長さ方向に伸びる外方に突出したビ
ード(5) が形成されている。上部箱状体(1) の周壁(6)
における平面から見て直線状の各壁部(6a)の下部にその
長さ方向に伸びかつ下部箱状体(2) のビード(5) 内側の
溝内に嵌入しうる外方に突出したビード(7) が形成され
ている。そして、下部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) の上部内
に、上部箱状体(1) の周壁(6) の下部が強制的に嵌め入
れられ、上部箱状体(1) のビード(7) が下部箱状体(2)
のビード(5) 内側の溝内に嵌め入れられた状態で、両箱
状体(1)(2)の周壁(6)(3)どうしが重ね合わせ部で相互に
溶接されている。A widened portion (4) is formed on the upper end of the peripheral wall (3) of the lower box-shaped body (2) so as to extend upward and outward. The outer wall (3a) of the lower box-like body (2) projecting outwardly along the lengthwise direction of the linear wall (3a) below the expanding part (4) Beads (5) are formed. Peripheral wall (6) of the upper box (1)
The bead (5) of the lower box-shaped body (2) that can extend into the lower part of each linear wall (6a) when viewed from the plane and can be fitted into the groove inside (7) is formed. Then, the lower part of the peripheral wall (6) of the upper box-shaped body (1) is forcibly fitted into the upper part of the peripheral wall (3) of the lower box-shaped body (2), and the bead of the upper box-shaped body (1) is inserted. (7) is the lower box (2)
The peripheral walls (6) and (3) of the two box-shaped bodies (1) and (2) are welded to each other at the overlapping portion while being fitted in the groove inside the bead (5).
【００３０】なお、上記において、両箱状体(1)(2)のビ
ード(7)(5)は、それぞれの周壁(6)(3)の各壁部(6a)(3a)
にのみ形成されているが、隣り合う各壁部(6a)(3a)の連
接部である平面から見てアール状のコーナ部(6b)(3b)に
も各壁部(6a)(3a)のビード(7)(5)と連なるようにビード
を形成しておいてもよい。In the above, the beads (7) and (5) of both box-like bodies (1) and (2) are the wall portions (6a) (3a) of the respective peripheral walls (6) (3).
Although it is formed only on each of the wall portions (6a) (3a), the wall portions (6a) (3a) are also formed on the corner portions (6b) (3b) that are rounded when viewed from the plane which is the connecting portion of the adjacent wall portions (6a) (3a). The beads may be formed so as to be continuous with the beads (7) and (5).
【００３１】上記構成の自動車用燃料タンクにおいて、
自動車事故が起こって燃料タンクの一部が凹み、内圧が
高くなった場合、両箱状体(1)(2)の周壁(6)(3)どうしの
溶接部には図２に矢印Ａで示す方向の力、すなわち両周
壁(6)(3)を相互に押付けるような力が加わることになる
ので、溶接部において周壁(6)(3)どうしの剥がれが発生
するのを防止することができる。しかも、両箱状体(1)
(2)のビード(7)(5)の働きにより、周壁(6)(3)の各壁部
(6a)(3a)の変形を防止し、溶接部における周壁(6)(3)ど
うしの剥がれを防止することができる。したがって、燃
料の洩れを防止することができる。さらに、上記凹みの
発生や、周壁(6)(3)の各壁部(6a)(3a)の変形の発生を防
止することができるので、両箱状体(1)(2)の薄肉化を図
ることができ、両箱状体(1)(2)がアルミニウム製である
ことと相俟って軽量化を図ることができる。In the fuel tank for automobiles having the above structure,
When a car accident occurs and a part of the fuel tank is dented and the internal pressure becomes high, the welded part between the peripheral walls (6) and (3) of both box-shaped bodies (1) and (2) is indicated by arrow A in FIG. A force in the direction indicated, that is, a force that pushes both peripheral walls (6) (3) against each other, will be applied, so prevent the peripheral walls (6) (3) from peeling off at the weld. You can Moreover, both boxes (1)
By the action of the bead (7) (5) of (2), each wall part of the peripheral wall (6) (3)
It is possible to prevent the deformation of (6a) and (3a) and prevent the peripheral walls (6) and (3) from peeling off from each other in the welded portion. Therefore, fuel leakage can be prevented. Furthermore, since it is possible to prevent the occurrence of the above-mentioned depression and the deformation of the respective wall portions (6a) (3a) of the peripheral walls (6) (3), it is possible to reduce the thickness of both box-shaped bodies (1) (2) In addition to the fact that both box-shaped bodies (1) and (2) are made of aluminum, the weight can be reduced.
【００３２】次に、上記構成の自動車用燃料タンクの製
造方法について図３を参照して説明する。Next, a method of manufacturing the automobile fuel tank having the above structure will be described with reference to FIG.
【００３３】まず、下方に開口したアルミニウム製上部
箱状体(1) および上方に開口したアルミニウム製下部箱
状体(2) を絞り成形する。また、下部箱状体(2) の周壁
(3)の上端部に全周にわたって拡開部(4) を形成してお
くとともに、下部箱状体(2)の周壁(3) の各壁部(3a)に
おける拡開部(4) よりも下方の部分にその長さ方向に伸
びる外方に突出したビード(5) を形成しておく。ここ
で、下部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) の内面の寸法を上部箱状
体(1) の周壁(6) の外面の寸法よりも小さくするととも
に、拡開部(4) の上端の内面の寸法を上部箱状体(1) の
周壁(6) の外面の寸法よりも大きくしておく。一方、上
部箱状体(1) の周壁(6) における各壁部(6a)の下部にそ
の長さ方向に伸びかつ下部箱状体(2) のビード(5) 内側
の溝内に嵌入しうる外方に突出したビード(7) を形成し
ておく。ビード(5)(7)の形成は次のようにして行なう。
すなわち、絞り成形用のオス型のコーナ部を除いた部分
に、オス型の周面から進退自在のビード成形用ポンチを
配置しておくとともに、絞り成形用メス型のコーナ部を
除いた部分に、ビード成形用ポンチが進出したさいに嵌
まる凹溝を形成しておく。そして、絞り成形と同時にビ
ード成形用ポンチを進出させてビード(5)(7)を形成す
る。First, an aluminum upper box-shaped body (1) opened downward and an aluminum lower box-shaped body (2) opened upward are drawn. Also, the peripheral wall of the lower box (2)
The expanded part (4) is formed over the entire circumference at the upper end of (3), and the expanded part (4) of each wall part (3a) of the peripheral wall (3) of the lower box-shaped body (2) is Also, a bead (5) protruding outward is formed in the lower portion so as to extend in the lengthwise direction. Here, the inner wall size of the peripheral wall (3) of the lower box-shaped body (2) is made smaller than the outer surface size of the peripheral wall (6) of the upper box-shaped body (1), and the upper end of the expansion part (4) is The inner surface of the box is made larger than the outer surface of the peripheral wall (6) of the upper box (1). On the other hand, at the bottom of each wall (6a) in the peripheral wall (6) of the upper box-shaped body (1), extending in the lengthwise direction and fitted into the groove inside the bead (5) of the lower box-shaped body (2). A bead (7) protruding outward is formed. The beads (5) and (7) are formed as follows.
That is, a bead forming punch that can be moved back and forth from the peripheral surface of the male die is arranged in a portion excluding the male die corner portion for drawing, and a portion excluding the female die corner portion for drawing forming. , A groove is formed in which the bead forming punch fits when it is advanced. Then, at the same time as the draw forming, the bead forming punch is advanced to form the beads (5) and (7).
【００３４】なお、両箱状体(1)(2)のビード(7)(5)を、
隣り合う各壁部(6a)(3a)の連接部であるコーナ部(6b)(3
b)にも形成する場合には、絞り成形により箱状体(1)(2)
を形成した後、別工程でビード(7)(5)を形成する。The beads (7) and (5) of both box-shaped bodies (1) and (2) are
Corners (6b) (3) that are connecting parts of adjacent wall parts (6a) (3a)
If it is also formed in b), draw it into a box-shaped body (1) (2).
After forming, the beads (7) and (5) are formed in another step.
【００３５】ついで、上部箱状体(1) の周壁(6) が下部
箱状体(2) の周壁(3) の真上に来るように両箱状体(1)
(2)を配置した後（図３(a) 参照）、両箱状体(1)(2)を
互いに接近するように相対的に移動させ、下部箱状体
(2) の拡開部(4) をガイドとして上部箱状体(1) の周壁
(6) の下部を下部箱状体(2) の開口部内に強制的に嵌め
入れるとともに、上部箱状体(1) のビード(7) を下部箱
状体(2) のビード(5) 内側の溝内に嵌め入れる。このと
き、まず上部箱状体(1) の周壁(6) の下端部が下部箱状
体(2) の拡開部(4) に当接し、その後上部箱状体(1) の
周壁(6) が内方に変形するとともに下部箱状体(2) の周
壁(3) が外方に変形し、ついで上部箱状体(1) の周壁
(6) のビード(7) が下部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) における
拡開部(4) とビード(5) との間の部分を通過した後（図
３(b) 参照）、ビード(7) がビード(5)内側の溝に嵌ま
る。ビード(7) がビード(5) 内側の溝に嵌まった状態に
おいても、上部箱状体(1) の周壁(6) が内方に若干弾性
変形するとともに、下部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) が外方に
若干弾性変形し、その反発力により両箱状体(1)(2)の周
壁(6)(3)どうしが密着させられる。その後、両箱状体
(1)(2)の周壁(6)(3)どうしを重ね合わせ部において、１
箇所または複数箇所で全周にわたって溶接する。この溶
接は、ＣＯ2 レーザや、ＹＡＧレーザを用いたレーザ溶
接により行う。Then, the two box-shaped bodies (1) are placed so that the peripheral wall (6) of the upper box-shaped body (1) is directly above the peripheral wall (3) of the lower box-shaped body (2).
After arranging (2) (see Fig. 3 (a)), both box-shaped bodies (1) and (2) are relatively moved so as to approach each other, and the lower box-shaped body is moved.
The peripheral wall of the upper box-shaped body (1) using the expanded portion (4) of (2) as a guide
The lower part of (6) is forcibly fitted into the opening of the lower box (2), and the bead (7) of the upper box (1) is placed inside the bead (5) of the lower box (2). Insert it in the groove. At this time, first, the lower end of the peripheral wall (6) of the upper box-shaped body (1) abuts the expanded portion (4) of the lower box-shaped body (2), and then the peripheral wall (6) of the upper box-shaped body (1). ) Is deformed inward, the peripheral wall (3) of the lower box (2) is deformed outward, and then the peripheral wall of the upper box (1) is deformed.
After the bead (7) of (6) passes through the part between the widened part (4) and the bead (5) in the peripheral wall (3) of the lower box-shaped body (2) (see Fig. 3 (b)). , The bead (7) fits into the groove inside the bead (5). Even when the bead (7) is fitted in the groove inside the bead (5), the peripheral wall (6) of the upper box-shaped body (1) is slightly elastically deformed inward, and the lower box-shaped body (2) is deformed. The peripheral wall (3) is slightly elastically deformed outward, and the repulsive force causes the peripheral walls (6) and (3) of the two box-shaped bodies (1) and (2) to come into close contact with each other. After that, both boxes
(1) In the overlapping part of the peripheral walls (6) and (3) of (2), 1
Weld around the entire circumference at one or more points. This welding is performed by laser welding using a CO 2 laser or a YAG laser.
【００３６】こうして、自動車用燃料タンクが製造され
る。Thus, a fuel tank for automobiles is manufactured.
【００３７】上述した燃料タンクおよび燃料タンクの製
造方法において、下部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) の上端部に
上方に向かって外方に拡がった拡開部(4) が全周にわた
って形成され、下部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) の内面の寸法
が上部箱状体(1) の周壁(6)の外面の寸法よりも小さく
なされるとともに、拡開部(4) の上端の内面の寸法が上
部箱状体(1) の周壁(6) の外面の寸法よりも大きくなさ
れ、下部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) における拡開部(4) より
も下方の部分に周方向に伸びる外方に突出したビード
(5) が形成され、上部箱状体(1) の周壁(6) の下部に周
方向に伸びかつ下部箱状体(2) のビード(5) 内側の溝内
に嵌入しうる外方に突出したビード(7) が形成され、下
部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) の上部内に、上部箱状体(1) の
周壁(6) の下部が強制的に嵌め入れられ、上部箱状体
(1) のビード(7) が下部箱状体(2) のビード(5) 内側の
溝内に嵌め入れられているが、これとは上下逆の態様で
あってもよい。すなわち、上部箱状体(1) の周壁(6) の
下端部に下方に向かって外方に拡がった拡開部が全周に
わたって形成され、下部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) の内面の
寸法が上部箱状体(1) の周壁(6) の外面の寸法よりも小
さくされるとともに、下部箱状体(2) の拡開部の上端の
内面の寸法が上部箱状体(1) の周壁(6) の外面の寸法よ
りも大きくなされ、上部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) における
拡開部よりも上方の部分に周方向に伸びる外方に突出し
たビードが形成され、下部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) の下部
に周方向に伸びかつ上部箱状体(1) のビード内側の溝内
に嵌入しうる外方に突出したビードが形成され、上部箱
状体(1) の周壁(6) の下部内に、下部箱状体(2) の周壁
(3) の上部が強制的に嵌め入れられ、下部箱状体(2) の
ビードが上部箱状体(1) のビード内側の溝内に嵌め入れ
られていてもよい。In the above-mentioned fuel tank and the method for manufacturing the fuel tank, the expanding portion (4) which is outwardly expanded toward the upper end portion of the peripheral wall (3) of the lower box-shaped body (2) extends over the entire circumference. The inner surface of the peripheral wall (3) of the lower box-shaped body (2) is smaller than the outer surface of the peripheral wall (6) of the upper box-shaped body (1). The inner surface of the upper end is made larger than the outer surface of the peripheral wall (6) of the upper box-like body (1), and is located below the expanding part (4) of the peripheral wall (3) of the lower box-like body (2). A bead protruding outward that extends in the circumferential direction on a part
(5) is formed and extends in the circumferential direction at the lower part of the peripheral wall (6) of the upper box-shaped body (1) and can be fitted into the groove inside the bead (5) of the lower box-shaped body (2). A protruding bead (7) is formed, and the lower part of the peripheral wall (6) of the upper box (1) is forcibly fitted into the upper part of the peripheral wall (3) of the lower box (2), and the upper part Box
The bead (7) of (1) is fitted in the groove inside the bead (5) of the lower box-shaped body (2), but it may be upside down. That is, an expanded portion that expands outward downward is formed at the lower end of the peripheral wall (6) of the upper box-shaped body (1) over the entire circumference, and the peripheral wall (3) of the lower box-shaped body (2) is formed. The inner surface is smaller than the outer surface of the peripheral wall (6) of the upper box (1), and the inner surface of the upper end of the expanded part of the lower box (2) has the upper surface of the upper box (6). It is made larger than the dimension of the outer surface of the peripheral wall (6) of (1), and a bead protruding in the circumferential direction is formed in a portion above the expanded portion of the peripheral wall (3) of the upper box-shaped body (2). A bead protruding outward is formed on the lower part of the peripheral wall (3) of the lower box-shaped body (2), which extends in the circumferential direction and can fit into the groove inside the bead of the upper box-shaped body (1). In the lower part of the peripheral wall (6) of the box (1), the peripheral wall of the lower box (2)
The upper part of (3) may be forcibly fitted and the bead of the lower box-shaped body (2) may be fitted in the groove inside the bead of the upper box-shaped body (1).
【００３８】上述した自動車用燃料タンクの製造方法に
おいて、上部箱状体(1) および下部箱状体(2) のうちの
いずれか一方を、熱処理型アルミニウム、たとえばJIS
Ａ６０６１等のようなJIS Ａ６０００系合金で形成して
おき、予め時効硬化処理を施しておくこともある。この
場合、両箱状体(1)(2)を嵌め合わせると、時効硬化処理
の施された箱状体の周壁が弾性変形したさいの反発力が
大きくなり、両箱状体(1)(2)の互いに嵌め合わされた周
壁(6)(3)どうしの隙間を一層極小化することができる。In the above-described method for manufacturing a fuel tank for automobiles, one of the upper box-shaped body (1) and the lower box-shaped body (2) is treated with heat-treated aluminum, for example JIS.
It may be formed from a JIS A6000 series alloy such as A6061 and the like, and may be pre-aged. In this case, when both box-shaped bodies (1) and (2) are fitted together, the repulsive force increases when the peripheral wall of the box-shaped body that has been subjected to age hardening is elastically deformed, and both box-shaped bodies (1) ( It is possible to further minimize the gap between the peripheral walls (6) and (3) fitted together in (2).
【００３９】図４は、この発明の燃料タンクの製造方法
の他の実施例を示す。FIG. 4 shows another embodiment of the fuel tank manufacturing method of the present invention.
【００４０】この場合、上部箱状体(1) の周壁(6) の下
部を下部箱状体(2) の開口部内に強制的に嵌め入れると
ともに、上部箱状体(1) のビード(7) を下部箱状体(2)
のビード(5) 内側の溝内に嵌め入れた後、周壁(6)(3)ど
うしの溶接を行う前に、下部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) の周
囲に配置した電磁コイル(10)を使用して、電磁成形によ
り下部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) を収縮させる。すると、両
箱状体(1)(2)の互いに嵌め合わされた周壁(6)(3)どうし
の隙間を一層極小化することができる。In this case, the lower portion of the peripheral wall (6) of the upper box-shaped body (1) is forcibly fitted into the opening of the lower box-shaped body (2), and the beads (7 ) To the lower box (2)
After being fitted into the groove inside the bead (5) of the above, but before welding the peripheral walls (6) and (3) to each other, the electromagnetic coil (around the peripheral wall (3) of the lower box-shaped body (2) ( Using 10), the peripheral wall (3) of the lower box-shaped body (2) is contracted by electromagnetic forming. Then, it is possible to further minimize the gap between the peripheral walls (6) and (3) fitted to each other in the box-shaped bodies (1) and (2).
【００４１】この実施例の場合にも、上部箱状体(1) の
周壁(6) の下端部に下方に向かって外方に拡がった拡開
部を全周にわたって形成し、上部箱状体(1) の周壁(6)
の内面の寸法を下部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) の外面の寸法
よりも小さくするとともに、上部箱状体(1) の拡開部の
内面の寸法を下部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) の外面の寸法よ
りも大きくし、上部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) における拡開
部よりも上方の部分に周方向に伸びる外方に突出したビ
ードを形成し、下部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) の下部に周方
向に伸びかつ上部箱状体(1) のビード内側の溝内に嵌入
しうる外方に突出したビードを形成し、上部箱状体(1)
の周壁(6) の下部内に、下部箱状体(2)の周壁(3) の上
部を強制的に嵌め入れ、下部箱状体(2) のビードを上部
箱状体(1) のビード内側の溝内に嵌め入れた後、周壁
(6)(3)どうしの溶接を行う前に、上部箱状体(1) の周壁
(6) の周囲に配置した電磁コイル(10)を使用して、電磁
成形により上部箱状体(1) の周壁(6) を収縮させてもよ
い。Also in the case of this embodiment, an expanding portion is formed at the lower end portion of the peripheral wall (6) of the upper box-shaped body (1) so as to spread outwardly downward and is formed over the entire circumference. Perimeter wall of (1) (6)
The inner surface of the lower box-shaped body (2) is made smaller than the outer surface of the peripheral wall (3), and the inner surface of the expanded part of the upper box-shaped body (1) is set to the lower box-shaped body (2). Of the outer wall of the peripheral wall (3) of the upper box-shaped body (2), and a bead protruding outward in the circumferential direction is formed in the upper part of the peripheral wall (3) of the upper box-shaped body (2) above the expanded portion. Forming an outwardly protruding bead that extends circumferentially in the lower part of the peripheral wall (3) of the lower box (2) and can fit into the groove inside the bead of the upper box (1), Body (1)
The upper part of the peripheral wall (3) of the lower box (2) is forcibly fitted into the lower part of the peripheral wall (6) of the lower box (2), and the bead of the lower box (2) is inserted into the bead of the upper box (1). After fitting in the inner groove, the peripheral wall
(6) Before welding (3) to each other, the peripheral wall of the upper box-shaped body (1)
The peripheral wall (6) of the upper box-shaped body (1) may be contracted by electromagnetic forming using the electromagnetic coil (10) arranged around the (6).
【００４２】図５は、この発明の燃料タンクの製造方法
のさらに他の実施例を示す。FIG. 5 shows still another embodiment of the fuel tank manufacturing method of the present invention.
【００４３】この場合、下部箱状体(20)の肉厚を、上部
箱状体(1) の肉厚よりも大きくしておく。すると、両箱
状体(1)(20) を嵌め合わせた場合、下部箱状体(20)の周
壁(21)が弾性変形したさいの反発力が大きくなり、両箱
状体(1)(20) の互いに嵌め合わされた周壁(6)(21) どう
しの隙間を一層極小化することができる。In this case, the wall thickness of the lower box-shaped body (20) is made larger than the wall thickness of the upper box-shaped body (1). Then, when the two box-shaped bodies (1) and (20) are fitted together, the repulsive force becomes large when the peripheral wall (21) of the lower box-shaped body (20) is elastically deformed, and both box-shaped bodies (1) ( It is possible to further minimize the gap between the peripheral walls (6) and (21) fitted together in (20).
【００４４】この実施例の場合、上部箱状体の肉厚を下
部箱状体の肉厚よりも大きくしておいてもよい。する
と、両箱状体を嵌め合わせた場合、上部箱状体の周壁が
弾性変形したさいの反発力が大きくなり、両箱状体の互
いに嵌め合わされた周壁どうしの隙間を一層極小化する
ことができる。In the case of this embodiment, the wall thickness of the upper box-shaped body may be made larger than that of the lower box-shaped body. Then, when both box-shaped bodies are fitted together, the repulsive force becomes large when the peripheral wall of the upper box-shaped body is elastically deformed, and the gap between the fitted peripheral walls of both box-shaped bodies can be further minimized. it can.
【００４５】また、この実施例の場合にも、上部箱状体
(1) の周壁(6) の下端部に下方に向かって外方に拡がっ
た拡開部を全周にわたって形成し、上部箱状体(1) の周
壁(6) の内面の寸法を下部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) の外面
の寸法よりも小さくするとともに、上部箱状体(1) の拡
開部の内面の寸法を下部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) の外面の
寸法よりも大きくし、上部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) におけ
る拡開部よりも上方の部分に周方向に伸びる外方に突出
したビードを形成し、下部箱状体(2) の周壁(3) の下部
に周方向に伸びかつ上部箱状体(1) のビード内側の溝内
に嵌入しうる外方に突出したビードを形成し、上部箱状
体(1) の周壁(6) の下部内に、下部箱状体(2) の周壁
(3) の上部を強制的に嵌め入れてもよい。そして、上部
箱状体および下部箱状体のうちのいずれか一方の肉厚を
同他方の肉厚よりも大きくしておく。Also in the case of this embodiment, the upper box-shaped body
At the lower end of the peripheral wall (6) of (1), an expanded portion that expands outward downward is formed over the entire circumference, and the size of the inner surface of the peripheral wall (6) of the upper box-shaped body (1) is set to the lower box. The outer surface of the peripheral wall (3) of the lower box (2) should be smaller than the outer surface of the peripheral wall (3) of the upper box (1). To form a bead protruding outward in the circumferential direction in a portion of the peripheral wall (3) of the upper box-like body (2) above the widening portion, and forming a bead protruding outward. A bead protruding outwardly that extends in the circumferential direction at the lower part of the peripheral wall (3) of the upper box (1) and can be fitted into the groove inside the bead of the upper box (1), and the peripheral wall of the upper box (1) ( Inside the lower part of 6), the peripheral wall of the lower box (2)
The upper part of (3) may be forcibly fitted. Then, one of the upper box-shaped body and the lower box-shaped body is made thicker than the other.
【００４６】[0046]
【発明の効果】この発明の燃料タンクによれば、上述の
ように、燃料の透過を防止できるので、環境の悪化や、
危険性の増大を防止できる。しかも、ガソリンの透過を
防止するための対策を施す必要がないので、その作業を
省略できるとともにコストが安くなる。さらに、合成樹
脂製の燃料タンクに比べてリサイクルが容易になる。As described above, according to the fuel tank of the present invention, it is possible to prevent the permeation of the fuel, so that the environmental deterioration and
It is possible to prevent an increase in risk. Moreover, since it is not necessary to take measures to prevent the permeation of gasoline, the work can be omitted and the cost can be reduced. Further, it is easier to recycle than a fuel tank made of synthetic resin.
【００４７】また、従来の鋼製燃料タンクのようなフラ
ンジが不要になるので、設置スペースとして、このよう
なフランジの幅を含めた分の広さが不要になる。したが
って、設置スペースが小さくてすみ、限られた設置スペ
ースの中では従来の鋼製燃料タンクに比べて内容積を大
きくすることができる。Further, since a flange such as the conventional steel fuel tank is not required, the installation space does not need to be wide enough to include the width of the flange. Therefore, the installation space is small, and the internal volume can be increased as compared with the conventional steel fuel tank in the limited installation space.
【００４８】さらに、燃料タンクの一部が凹んで内圧が
高くなった場合にも、２つの箱状体の溶接部分、すなわ
ち両箱状体の周壁どうしを互いに押付けるような力が加
わるので、溶接部の剥がれが防止できる。また、両箱状
体のビードの働きにより、両箱状体の周壁の強度が増大
するので、衝撃を受けたさいの周壁の変形を防止するこ
とが可能になり、その結果溶接部の剥がれが防止され
る。しかも、燃料タンクの一部が凹んで内圧が高くなっ
た場合や、衝撃を受けて周壁が変形した場合の溶接部の
剥がれが防止されるので、両箱状体の肉厚を従来の鋼製
燃料タンクの肉厚に比べて薄くすることが可能になり、
その結果軽量化を図ることができる。Further, even when a part of the fuel tank is dented and the internal pressure becomes high, a force for pressing the welded portions of the two box-shaped bodies, that is, the peripheral walls of the two box-shaped bodies against each other, is applied. It is possible to prevent peeling of the welded part. Further, the bead of the both box-shaped bodies increases the strength of the peripheral walls of the both box-shaped bodies, so that it is possible to prevent the peripheral wall from being deformed when an impact is received, and as a result, the welded portion is peeled off. To be prevented. Moreover, peeling of the welded part is prevented when part of the fuel tank is dented and the internal pressure becomes high, or when the peripheral wall is deformed due to impact, so the wall thickness of both box-shaped bodies is It is possible to make it thinner than the wall thickness of the fuel tank,
As a result, the weight can be reduced.
【００４９】この発明の燃料タンクの製造方法によれ
ば、上述のように、溶接前の状態において、第２箱状体
の周壁が内方に若干弾性変形するとともに、第１箱状体
の周壁が外方に若干弾性変形し、その反発力により両箱
状体の周壁どうしが密着させられるので、第２箱状体の
周壁外面と第１箱状体の周壁内面との間の隙間を極小化
することができる。したがって、両箱状体の周壁どうし
の溶接のさいに溶接不良が生じるのを防止できる。両箱
状体の周壁どうしの間に大きな隙間が生じると、周壁ど
うしの溶接のさいに溶接不良が生じ、洩れの原因とな
る。According to the method of manufacturing a fuel tank of the present invention, as described above, in the state before welding, the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body is slightly elastically deformed inward and the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body is slightly deformed. Is elastically deformed outward, and the repulsive force causes the peripheral walls of both box-shaped bodies to come into close contact with each other, so the gap between the outer surface of the second box-shaped body and the inner surface of the first box-shaped body is minimized. Can be converted. Therefore, it is possible to prevent defective welding when welding the peripheral walls of both box-shaped bodies. If a large gap is generated between the peripheral walls of both box-shaped bodies, welding failure may occur during welding of the peripheral walls, which may cause leakage.
【００５０】また、両箱状体のビードどうしの嵌め合わ
せにより、溶接のさいの両箱状体の位置決めを行うこと
ができるので、固定治具を必要としなくなる。Further, by fitting the beads of the two box-shaped bodies to each other, the two box-shaped bodies can be positioned during welding, so that no fixing jig is required.
【００５１】この発明による燃料タンクの製造方法にお
いて、両箱状体の周壁どうしの重ね合わせ部での溶接
を、ＣＯ2 レーザやＹＡＧレーザを用いたレーザ溶接に
より、行うと、溶接速度を大きくすることができ、生産
性を向上させることが可能になる。In the method of manufacturing a fuel tank according to the present invention, when welding is performed at the overlapping portions of the peripheral walls of both box-shaped bodies by laser welding using a CO 2 laser or a YAG laser, the welding speed is increased. It is possible to improve productivity.
【００５２】また、この発明の燃料タンクの製造方法に
おいて、第１箱状体の周壁の開口側端部に拡開部を形成
しておくこと、第１箱状体の周壁の内面の寸法を第２箱
状体の周壁の外面の寸法よりも小さくするとともに、第
１箱状体の拡開部の先端の内面の寸法を第２箱状体の周
壁の外面の寸法よりも大きくしておくこと、および第２
箱状体の周壁の開口側部分を第１箱状体の開口部内に強
制的に嵌め入れるさいに、拡開部をガイドとすることを
含んでいると、両箱状体の嵌め合わせ作業を簡単に行う
ことができる。Further, in the method of manufacturing a fuel tank of the present invention, the expanded portion is formed at the opening side end of the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body, and the inner surface of the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body is dimensioned. The size of the outer surface of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body is made smaller, and the size of the inner surface of the tip of the expanded portion of the first box-shaped body is made larger than the outer surface of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body. And second
When the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the box-shaped body is forcibly fitted into the opening of the first box-shaped body, including the use of the expanded portion as a guide, the fitting work of both box-shaped bodies can be performed. Easy to do.
【００５３】また、この発明の燃料タンクの製造方法に
おいて、第２箱状体の周壁の開口側部分を第１箱状体の
開口部内に嵌め入れるとともに、第２箱状体のビードを
第１箱状体のビード内側の溝内に嵌め入れた後、電磁成
形により第１箱状体の周壁を収縮させると、両箱状体の
互いに嵌め合わされた周壁どうしの隙間を一層極小化す
ることができる。したがって、両箱状体の周壁どうしの
溶接のさいに溶接不良が生じるのを一層確実に防止でき
る。In the fuel tank manufacturing method of the present invention, the opening-side portion of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body is fitted into the opening of the first box-shaped body, and the bead of the second box-shaped body is inserted into the first box-shaped body. When the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body is contracted by electromagnetic forming after being fitted into the groove inside the bead of the box-shaped body, the gap between the peripheral walls of the two box-shaped bodies fitted together can be further minimized. it can. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably prevent defective welding when welding the peripheral walls of the two box-shaped bodies.
【００５４】また、この発明の燃料タンクの製造方法に
おいて、両箱状体のうちのいずれか一方の周壁の肉厚を
同他方の周壁の肉厚よりも大きくしておくと、両箱状体
を嵌め合わせた場合、肉厚の大きな箱状体の周壁が弾性
変形したさいの反発力が大きくなり、両箱状体の互いに
嵌め合わされた周壁どうしの隙間を一層極小化すること
ができる。したがって、両箱状体の周壁どうしの溶接の
さいに溶接不良が生じるのを一層確実に防止できる。In the fuel tank manufacturing method of the present invention, if the wall thickness of one of the two box-shaped bodies is made larger than the wall thickness of the other one of the box-shaped bodies, the two box-shaped bodies are formed. When they are fitted together, the repulsive force becomes large when the peripheral wall of the box-shaped body having a large thickness is elastically deformed, and the gap between the fitted peripheral walls of both box-shaped bodies can be further minimized. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably prevent defective welding when welding the peripheral walls of the two box-shaped bodies.
【００５５】さらに、上記製造方法において、両箱状体
のうちのいずれか一方に時効硬化処理を施しておくと、
両箱状体を嵌め合わせた場合、時効硬化処理の施された
箱状体の周壁が弾性変形したさいの反発力が大きくな
り、両箱状体の互いに嵌め合わされた周壁どうしの隙間
を一層極小化することができる。したがって、両箱状体
の周壁どうしの溶接のさいに溶接不良が生じるのを一層
確実に防止できる。Further, in the above manufacturing method, when either one of the two box-shaped bodies is subjected to age hardening treatment,
When both box-shaped bodies are fitted together, the repulsive force increases when the peripheral walls of the age-hardened box-shaped bodies are elastically deformed, and the gap between the fitted peripheral walls of both box-shaped bodies is further minimized. Can be converted. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably prevent defective welding when welding the peripheral walls of the two box-shaped bodies.
【図１】この発明による燃料タンクの全体構成を示す分
解斜視図である。FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing the overall configuration of a fuel tank according to the present invention.
【図２】同じく要部拡大垂直断面図である。FIG. 2 is likewise an enlarged vertical sectional view of an essential part.
【図３】この発明による燃料タンクの製造方法における
両箱状体を嵌め合わせる方法を示す要部拡大垂直断面図
である。FIG. 3 is an enlarged vertical sectional view of an essential part showing a method of fitting both box-shaped bodies in the method of manufacturing a fuel tank according to the present invention.
【図４】この発明による燃料タンクの製造方法の他の実
施例において両箱状体を嵌め合わせた後下部箱状体の周
壁を収縮させる方法を示す要部拡大垂直断面図である。FIG. 4 is an enlarged vertical sectional view of an essential part showing a method of shrinking the peripheral wall of the lower box-shaped body after fitting both box-shaped bodies in another embodiment of the method for manufacturing a fuel tank according to the present invention.
【図５】この発明による燃料タンクの製造方法のさらに
他の実施例において両箱状体を嵌め合わせた後の状態を
示す要部拡大垂直断面図である。FIG. 5 is an enlarged vertical sectional view of an essential part showing a state after fitting both box-like bodies in still another embodiment of the method for manufacturing a fuel tank according to the present invention.
(1) 上部箱状体（第２の箱状体） (2) 下部箱状体（第１の箱状体） (3) 周壁 (4) 拡開部 (5) ビード (6) 周壁 (7) ビード (1) Upper box-shaped body (second box-shaped body) (2) Lower box-shaped body (first box-shaped body) (3) Peripheral wall (4) Expansion part (5) Bead (6) Peripheral wall (7 ) bead
Claims (7)
上方に開口した金属製下部箱状体よりなり、両箱状体の
うちの第１の箱状体の周壁の開口側部分内に同第２の箱
状体の周壁の開口側部分が嵌め入れられ、第１箱状体の
周壁の開口側部分にその周方向に伸びる外方に突出した
ビードが形成され、第２箱状体の周壁の開口側部分にそ
の周方向に伸びかつ第１箱状体のビード内側の溝内に嵌
入しうる外方に突出したビードが形成され、第２箱状体
のビードが第１箱状体のビード内側の溝内に嵌め入れら
れた状態で、両箱状体の周壁どうしが重ね合わせ部で溶
接されている燃料タンク。1. A metal upper box-shaped body having a downward opening and a metal lower box-shaped body having an upward opening, wherein the first box-shaped body of the both box-shaped bodies is provided in an opening-side portion of a peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body. The opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body is fitted in, and an outwardly protruding bead extending in the circumferential direction is formed on the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body, and the second box-shaped body is formed. A bead projecting outwardly, which extends in the circumferential direction and can be fitted into the groove inside the bead of the first box-shaped body, is formed in the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body. A fuel tank in which the peripheral walls of both box-shaped bodies are welded together at the overlapping portion while being fitted into the groove inside the bead of the body.
上方に開口した金属製下部箱状体をプレス成形するこ
と、両箱状体のうちの第１の箱状体の周壁の内面の寸法
を同第２の箱状体の周壁の外面の寸法よりも小さくして
おくこと、第１箱状体の周壁の開口側部分にその周方向
に伸びる外方に突出したビードを形成しておくこと、第
２箱状体の周壁の開口側部分にその周方向に伸びかつ第
１箱状体のビード内側の溝内に嵌入しうる外方に突出し
たビードを形成しておくこと、第２箱状体の周壁の開口
側部分を第１箱状体の開口部内に強制的に嵌め入れると
ともに、第２箱状体のビードを第１箱状体のビード内側
の溝内に嵌め入れること、ならびに両箱状体の周壁どう
しを重ね合わせ部で溶接することを含む燃料タンクの製
造方法。2. A metal upper box-shaped body having a downward opening and a metal lower box-shaped body having an upward opening are press-molded, and an inner surface of a peripheral wall of a first box-shaped body of both box-shaped bodies is formed. The size of the second box-shaped body should be smaller than the outer surface of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body, and a bead protruding in the circumferential direction should be formed on the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body. Forming a bead projecting outward in the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body, the bead extending in the circumferential direction and can be fitted into the groove inside the bead of the first box-shaped body, (2) Forcibly fitting the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the box-shaped body into the opening of the first box-shaped body, and fitting the bead of the second box-shaped body into the groove inside the bead of the first box-shaped body. And a method for manufacturing a fuel tank, which comprises welding the peripheral walls of both box-shaped bodies together at an overlapping portion.
の溶接をレーザ溶接により行う請求項２記載の燃料タン
クの製造方法。3. The method for manufacturing a fuel tank according to claim 2, wherein the welding at the overlapping portions of the peripheral walls of both box-shaped bodies is performed by laser welding.
に拡開部を形成しておくこと、第１箱状体の周壁の内面
の寸法を第２箱状体の周壁の外面の寸法よりも小さくす
るとともに、第１箱状体の拡開部の先端の内面の寸法を
第２箱状体の周壁の外面の寸法よりも大きくしておくこ
と、および第２箱状体の周壁の開口側部分を第１箱状体
の開口部内に強制的に嵌め入れるさいに、拡開部をガイ
ドとすることを含む請求項２記載の燃料タンクの製造方
法。4. Further, an expanded portion is formed at an end of the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body on the opening side, and the inner surface of the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body is dimensioned to be larger than that of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body. The size of the outer surface is made smaller, and the size of the inner surface of the tip of the expanded portion of the first box-shaped body is made larger than the size of the outer surface of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body. 3. The method of manufacturing a fuel tank according to claim 2, further comprising: using the expanding portion as a guide when the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the above is forcibly fitted into the opening of the first box-shaped body.
を第１箱状体の開口部内に嵌め入れるとともに、第２箱
状体のビードを第１箱状体のビード内側の溝内に嵌め入
れた後、電磁成形により第１箱状体の周壁を収縮させる
ことを含む請求項２記載の燃料タンクの製造方法。5. Further, the opening side portion of the peripheral wall of the second box-shaped body is fitted into the opening of the first box-shaped body, and the bead of the second box-shaped body is inserted into the groove inside the bead of the first box-shaped body. The method for manufacturing a fuel tank according to claim 2, further comprising shrinking the peripheral wall of the first box-shaped body by electromagnetic forming after fitting the inside.
肉厚を同他方の周壁の肉厚よりも大きくしておくことを
特徴とする請求項２記載の燃料タンクの製造方法。6. The method of manufacturing a fuel tank according to claim 2, wherein the thickness of the peripheral wall of one of the two box-shaped bodies is made larger than that of the other peripheral wall.
化処理を施しておくことを特徴とする請求項２記載の燃
料タンクの製造方法。7. The method of manufacturing a fuel tank according to claim 2, wherein either one of the two box-shaped bodies is subjected to age hardening treatment.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| JP7136580A JPH08323487A (en) | 1995-06-02 | 1995-06-02 | Fuel tank and its manufacture |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| JP7136580A JPH08323487A (en) | 1995-06-02 | 1995-06-02 | Fuel tank and its manufacture |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| JPH08323487A true JPH08323487A (en) | 1996-12-10 |
Family
ID=15178607
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| JP7136580A Withdrawn JPH08323487A (en) | 1995-06-02 | 1995-06-02 | Fuel tank and its manufacture |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| JP (1) | JPH08323487A (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US7390023B2 (en) | 2004-11-19 | 2008-06-24 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Motorcycle fuel tank |
-
1995
- 1995-06-02 JP JP7136580A patent/JPH08323487A/en not_active Withdrawn
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US7390023B2 (en) | 2004-11-19 | 2008-06-24 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Motorcycle fuel tank |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| A300 | Withdrawal of application because of no request for examination |
Free format text: JAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: A300 Effective date: 20020806 |