US20050127078A1 - Fuel tank assembly and method of assembly - Google Patents
Fuel tank assembly and method of assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20050127078A1 US20050127078A1 US10/734,064 US73406403A US2005127078A1 US 20050127078 A1 US20050127078 A1 US 20050127078A1 US 73406403 A US73406403 A US 73406403A US 2005127078 A1 US2005127078 A1 US 2005127078A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- component
- fuel tank
- induction
- welding
- access opening
- 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.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- 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
- B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
- B29C65/02—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure
- B29C65/34—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated elements which remain in the joint, e.g. "verlorenes Schweisselement"
- B29C65/36—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated elements which remain in the joint, e.g. "verlorenes Schweisselement" heated by induction
- B29C65/3604—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated elements which remain in the joint, e.g. "verlorenes Schweisselement" heated by induction characterised by the type of elements heated by induction which remain in the joint
- B29C65/362—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated elements which remain in the joint, e.g. "verlorenes Schweisselement" heated by induction characterised by the type of elements heated by induction which remain in the joint comprising at least a single wire, e.g. in the form of a winding
-
- 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
- B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
- B29C65/78—Means for handling the parts to be joined, e.g. for making containers or hollow articles, e.g. means for handling sheets, plates, web-like materials, tubular articles, hollow articles or elements to be joined therewith; Means for discharging the joined articles from the joining apparatus
- B29C65/7841—Holding or clamping means for handling purposes
- B29C65/7847—Holding or clamping means for handling purposes using vacuum to hold at least one of the parts to be joined
-
- 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
- B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
- B29C66/01—General aspects dealing with the joint area or with the area to be joined
- B29C66/05—Particular design of joint configurations
- B29C66/10—Particular design of joint configurations particular design of the joint cross-sections
- B29C66/11—Joint cross-sections comprising a single joint-segment, i.e. one of the parts to be joined comprising a single joint-segment in the joint cross-section
- B29C66/112—Single lapped joints
-
- 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
- B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
- B29C66/01—General aspects dealing with the joint area or with the area to be joined
- B29C66/05—Particular design of joint configurations
- B29C66/10—Particular design of joint configurations particular design of the joint cross-sections
- B29C66/13—Single flanged joints; Fin-type joints; Single hem joints; Edge joints; Interpenetrating fingered joints; Other specific particular designs of joint cross-sections not provided for in groups B29C66/11 - B29C66/12
- B29C66/131—Single flanged joints, i.e. one of the parts to be joined being rigid and flanged in the joint area
-
- 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
- B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
- B29C66/50—General aspects of joining tubular articles; General aspects of joining long products, i.e. bars or profiled elements; General aspects of joining single elements to tubular articles, hollow articles or bars; General aspects of joining several hollow-preforms to form hollow or tubular articles
- B29C66/51—Joining tubular articles, profiled elements or bars; Joining single elements to tubular articles, hollow articles or bars; Joining several hollow-preforms to form hollow or tubular articles
- B29C66/53—Joining single elements to tubular articles, hollow articles or bars
- B29C66/532—Joining single elements to the wall of tubular articles, hollow articles or bars
- B29C66/5324—Joining single elements to the wall of tubular articles, hollow articles or bars said single elements being substantially annular, i.e. of finite length
- B29C66/53245—Joining single elements to the wall of tubular articles, hollow articles or bars said single elements being substantially annular, i.e. of finite length said articles being hollow
-
- 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
- B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
- B29C66/50—General aspects of joining tubular articles; General aspects of joining long products, i.e. bars or profiled elements; General aspects of joining single elements to tubular articles, hollow articles or bars; General aspects of joining several hollow-preforms to form hollow or tubular articles
- B29C66/61—Joining from or joining on the inside
-
- 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
- B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
- B29C66/70—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material
- B29C66/72—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the structure of the material of the parts to be joined
- B29C66/723—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the structure of the material of the parts to be joined being multi-layered
- B29C66/7234—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the structure of the material of the parts to be joined being multi-layered comprising a barrier layer
-
- 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
- B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
- B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
- B29C66/81—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps
- B29C66/816—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the mounting of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps
- B29C66/8161—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the mounting of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps said pressing elements being supported or backed-up by springs or by resilient 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
- B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
- B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
- B29C66/84—Specific machine types or machines suitable for specific applications
- B29C66/863—Robotised, e.g. mounted on a robot arm
-
- 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
- B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
- B29C65/02—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure
- B29C65/34—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated elements which remain in the joint, e.g. "verlorenes Schweisselement"
- B29C65/36—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated elements which remain in the joint, e.g. "verlorenes Schweisselement" heated by induction
- B29C65/3604—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated elements which remain in the joint, e.g. "verlorenes Schweisselement" heated by induction characterised by the type of elements heated by induction which remain in the joint
- B29C65/3608—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated elements which remain in the joint, e.g. "verlorenes Schweisselement" heated by induction characterised by the type of elements heated by induction which remain in the joint comprising single particles, e.g. fillers or discontinuous fibre-reinforcements
- B29C65/3612—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated elements which remain in the joint, e.g. "verlorenes Schweisselement" heated by induction characterised by the type of elements heated by induction which remain in the joint comprising single particles, e.g. fillers or discontinuous fibre-reinforcements comprising fillers
-
- 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
- B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
- B29C65/02—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure
- B29C65/34—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated elements which remain in the joint, e.g. "verlorenes Schweisselement"
- B29C65/36—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated elements which remain in the joint, e.g. "verlorenes Schweisselement" heated by induction
- B29C65/3672—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated elements which remain in the joint, e.g. "verlorenes Schweisselement" heated by induction characterised by the composition of the elements heated by induction which remain in the joint
- B29C65/3676—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated elements which remain in the joint, e.g. "verlorenes Schweisselement" heated by induction characterised by the composition of the elements heated by induction which remain in the joint being metallic
-
- 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
- B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
- B29C66/70—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material
- B29C66/71—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the composition of the plastics material of the parts to be joined
-
- 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
- B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
- B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
- B29C66/83—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof characterised by the movement of the joining or pressing tools
- B29C66/832—Reciprocating joining or pressing tools
- B29C66/8324—Joining or pressing tools pivoting around one axis
-
- 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
- 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
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a fuel tank assembly and method of securing a component in a fuel tank using induction welding.
- thermoplastic fuel tanks generally have lower material cost, lower manufacturing costs, increased longevity, and are not subject to corrosion.
- One problem with thermoplastic fuel tanks is that vapors may permeate through the fuel tanks walls.
- manufacturers have added permeation resistant layers to fuel tanks and have attempted to form fuel tanks out of as few pieces as possible.
- the component is secured to an interior surface readily accessible from the access hole by directly welding the component to the fuel tank using hot plate welding.
- hot plate welding a plate disposed between the component and fuel tank is heated, typically through resistive heating, until the component is capable of being bonded to the fuel tank and the plate is displaced so that the component may be placed into contact with the fuel tank to form a bond area as the component and fuel tank cool. While this approach reduces the number of potential permeation pathways, the components generally are located approximately opposite the opening within the fuel tank wall in a limited bonding area.
- the limited bonding area typically includes a pump and fuel level sensor assembly held by spring loaded rods against the bottom of the fuel tank. Attempts to offset the component from the limited bonding area have resulted in prolonged manufacturing cycle times due to the delay in cooling the heating elements used to weld the component to the tank wall before removal from the fuel tank. Further, commonly used heating elements (such as hot plates) have significant mass requiring excessive time to heat and cool the heating element. In view of the above, a need exists for an apparatus and method having faster cycle times for welding components to an inner surface of a fuel tank and, preferably, for an apparatus and method that permits the component to be secured to a tank surface offset from the access opening.
- the present invention relates to a fuel tank assembly and method of securing a component in a fuel tank and to the fuel tank wall using induction welding.
- the method generally includes the steps of placing the component in contact with the inner surface of the fuel tank and inductively welding the component to the inner surface of the fuel tank.
- the step of inductively welding the component may further include the steps of energizing an emitter coil to heat an induction receiver positioned in welding proximity to a weld surface of the component and deenergizing the induction coil after the component is welded to the fuel tank.
- a holder may grip the component and insert the component through the access opening of the fuel tank.
- the component is generally displaced to a position offset from the access opening, and placed in contact with the inner surface before welding the component to the inner surface.
- the arm generally manipulates the component to a position in contact with the inner surface at a location offset from the access opening.
- the induction welding apparatus may include an emitter coil and an induction receiver in welding proximity to the component to induction weld a surface of the component to the fuel tank.
- the method includes the steps of energizing the emitter coil to heat the induction receiver coupled to the arm and deenergizing the emitter coil after the component is inductively welded to the inner surface of the fuel tank.
- the fuel tank assembly may include a fuel tank having a wall defining a cavity, an inner surface, an outer surface, and an access opening extending through the wall and communicating with the cavity and a component inductively welded to the inner surface.
- the component is generally offset from the access opening and includes a weld surface and an induction receiver fixed to said component in welding proximity to the weld surface.
- the induction receiver may be an element integrally molded into the component.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fuel tank
- FIG. 2 is a partial sectional view of the fuel tank in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is an enlarged sectional view of the fuel tank wall
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the arm holding a component within the fuel tank
- FIG. 5 is an enlarged sectional view of the bond area between the component and fuel tank wall.
- FIG. 6 is an alternative enlarged sectional view of the bond area between the component and fuel tank wall.
- the fuel tank assembly 10 constructed in accordance with the illustrated embodiment is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 .
- the fuel tank assembly 10 generally includes a fuel tank 20 defining an access opening 24 and having an inner surface 26 to which a component 30 is induction welded.
- Induction welding the component 30 to the fuel tank 20 allows the component to be displaced from the opening 24 without encountering many of the problems typically associated with using a heating element to directly weld the component.
- the ability to place the component 30 where desired in the fuel tank, including in areas offset from the access opening 24 provides additional mounting locations, eliminates many packaging concerns and may improve performance of certain components.
- Induction welding also decreases cycle times by reducing the wait time associated with heating and cooling of conventional heating elements.
- a variety of induction welding assemblies may be used to secure components 30 to the fuel tank inner surface 26 .
- a representative assembly 49 is illustrated and described herein and generally includes an articulating arm 50 having a holder 52 configured to releasably hold the component.
- the arm 50 is controllable from the exterior of the tank through conventional techniques to selectively position and induction weld components to sections of the inner surface 26 that are offset from the limited bonding area typically used with conventional welding techniques.
- the method of the present invention generally includes the steps of securing the component 30 to the holder 52 ( FIG. 4 ), operating the arm 50 to position the component in the fuel tank, induction welding the component to the fuel tank 20 , releasing the component from the holder, and removing the arm and holder from the fuel tank.
- the fuel tank 20 includes a wall 22 defining a cavity 21 .
- the fuel tank 20 is blow molded.
- the wall 22 includes the inner surface 26 , an outer surface 28 , and a permeation resistant layer 27 therebetween.
- the access opening 24 extends through the wall 22 and permits insertion and removal of components 30 such as rollover valves, vapor vent valves, fuel pumps, floats, and tubes held by clips.
- the layers forming the inner and outer surfaces 26 , 28 are typically formed from a polymer material such as a polyolefin or other suitable thermoplastic material.
- the permeation resistant layer 27 is generally formed from a material having a suitable permeation rate such as nylon, -ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH), liquid crystal polymers (LCPs), or other permeation resistant materials.
- EVOH ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer
- LCPs liquid crystal polymers
- the fuel tank 20 may be formed in a variety of sizes, shapes, and configurations depending on vehicle packaging, safety requirements and other design objectives.
- the component 30 includes a weld surface 32 ( FIGS. 4 and 5 ) formed out of a material that is suitable for welding to the inner surface 26 of the fuel tank 20 .
- the shape or configuration of the weld surface 32 may be modified as needed to improve cycle times or provide a more secure weld between the fuel tank 20 and component.
- the assembly 49 of the present invention includes an emitter coil 40 and a receiver 41 .
- the emitter coil 40 is located outside the fuel tank 20 and is positionable within the proximity needed to the area of the tank surface where the component 30 is to be secured.
- the receiver 41 may be separate from the holder and component, coupled to the holder 52 or arm 30 ( FIG. 5 ), or included in the component itself ( FIG. 6 ).
- FIG. 4 a weld surface 32
- FIG. 6 shows an induction insert 34 , such as a metal coil, fixed to or molded within the component near the weld surface 32 , to facilitate melting a portion of the weld surface for bonding to the fuel tank 20 .
- induction particles may be added to the component 30 , proximate the weld surface in place of the induction insert 34 . Integrally molding the induction insert 34 into the component 30 or otherwise fixing the receiver to the component itself eliminates the need to remove any heating element from the tank after welding, thereby improving cycle times.
- the component 30 may be made without induction insert 34 or integrally molded induction particles such as by placing the induction receiver 41 , such as the illustrated induction element 56 on the holder 52 or arm 50 in close proximity to the weld surface 32 .
- the arm 50 is a robotic arm that articulates to position the component 30 .
- a robotic arm allows position feedback and can follow appropriate instructions in placing the component. Any other device capable of placing the component 30 in a position offset or displaced from the access opening 24 may be used, such as a pick-n-place, fixed jig, or a semi-flexible linkage.
- the type of arm 50 used may depend on the position of the component. 30 .
- each attached component 30 is attached to the fuel tank 20 at a bond area 14 , when the weld surface 32 of the component 30 melts to the inner surface 26 of the fuel tank.
- the component 30 is secured within the holder 52 on the end of the arm 50 .
- the holder 52 and the arm 50 may be of any configuration capable of holding the component 30 and offsetting the component to the desired position.
- the arm 50 is an articulated arm with the holder 52 at one end.
- the holder 52 includes an open-ended cavity 60 configured to receive the component 30 .
- the assembly 49 may include a vacuum passage 68 communicating with the cavity 60 as well as biasing elements, such as the illustrated spring assembly 58 .
- a vacuum source or other means of actuation control communicates with the passage 68 and is selectively energized to hold the component in the holder 52 while the component 30 is displaced from the opening 24 to the desired position within the fuel tank 20 .
- the arm 50 and holder 52 typically are inserted through the access opening 24 and displaced to the proper position.
- the phrases displaced or offset from the access opening is intended to encompass movement of the component within the tank anywhere outside the limited bonding area 12 illustrated in FIG. 2 .
- the limited bonding area 12 is the area on the inner surface 26 opposite the access opening 24 and within view from the access opening where conventional welding mechanisms could possibly operate.
- the present invention provides numerous mounting options not previously available in the art and corresponding improvements in packaging and performance. Further, displacement of or offsetting the component from the opening allows the component 30 to be welded to the same side of the fuel tank as the access opening 24 , as illustrated in FIG. 2 .
- the weld surface 32 of the component 30 is placed in contact with the inner surface 26 of the fuel tank 20 .
- the vacuum or other actuation source may be de-energized to release the vacuum in the chamber 51 whereupon the spring assembly 58 urges the component 30 toward the inner surface 26 .
- the component 30 specifically the weld surface 32 , in contact with the inner surface 26 , the component is ready to be welded to the fuel tank.
- the induction emitter coil 40 With the component 30 in place, the induction emitter coil 40 is placed in an opposing relationship to the receiver 41 with the fuel tank wall 22 therebetween ( FIGS. 5 and 6 ).
- the induction emitter coil 40 may be any system or induction coil well known in the art for use in induction welding.
- the induction emitter coil 40 may also be disposed in place before the component 30 is displaced to the proper position.
- the actual position of the emitter coil 40 as well as the size, shape, and configuration may be varied as needed to maximize efficiency of the induction welding.
- power is supplied to the induction emitter coil to cause the induction receiver 41 , such as the induction insert 34 , to increase in temperature.
- Induction emitter coil 40 Power is supplied to the emitter coil 40 until the induction insert 34 becomes heated sufficiently for enough time to weld the component 30 to the fuel tank. More specifically, the induction emitter coil 40 causes the induction receiver 56 to increase in temperature so that the thermoplastic material of the component 30 melts to create a bond between the component 30 and inner surface 26 of the fuel tank 20 . Induction receivers 56 generally have less mass than, and therefore heat and cool faster than, conventional heating elements, thereby improving cycle times.
- induction receiver 56 e.g., induction insert 34
- the holder 52 and arm 50 may be removed from the fuel tank once the bond area 14 hardens enough to secure the component 30 on the fuel tank 20 .
- the induction receiver 56 is located in the holder 52 , the induction receiver is allowed to cool sufficiently to prevent damage during disengagement of the holder.
- power supply cords may be eliminated resulting in a lightweight and controllable arm.
- induction heating permits a significant heat flux to be applied without the need for the relatively large, preheated masses required for conventional resistive heating elements, thus reducing the likelihood of damaging the fuel tank assembly during insertion and removal of the apparatus.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Sustainable Development (AREA)
- Sustainable Energy (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Robotics (AREA)
- Lining Or Joining Of Plastics Or The Like (AREA)
- Cooling, Air Intake And Gas Exhaust, And Fuel Tank Arrangements In Propulsion Units (AREA)
- Details Of Rigid Or Semi-Rigid Containers (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to a fuel tank assembly and method of securing a component in a fuel tank using induction welding.
- To save time and money and improve reliability, manufacturers have been switching from metal fuel tanks to thermoplastic fuel tanks. Thermoplastic fuel tanks generally have lower material cost, lower manufacturing costs, increased longevity, and are not subject to corrosion. One problem with thermoplastic fuel tanks is that vapors may permeate through the fuel tanks walls. To address this permeation problem and in view of stricter emissions requirements, manufacturers have added permeation resistant layers to fuel tanks and have attempted to form fuel tanks out of as few pieces as possible.
- While permeation resistant layers and blow molded fuel tanks reduce permeation, problems still arise when components, such as fill tubes, vent tubes, roll over valves, and vent valves, are attached to the fuel tank. During attachment many manufacturers drill holes through the wall of the fuel tank and weld the component to the outside of the fuel tank. However, each opening breaches the permeation resistant layer creating permeation pathways.
- As an alternative to creating separate holes for each component, some manufacturers have attempted to move the attached components inside the container using a single access hole. In this approach, the component is secured to an interior surface readily accessible from the access hole by directly welding the component to the fuel tank using hot plate welding. In hot plate welding, a plate disposed between the component and fuel tank is heated, typically through resistive heating, until the component is capable of being bonded to the fuel tank and the plate is displaced so that the component may be placed into contact with the fuel tank to form a bond area as the component and fuel tank cool. While this approach reduces the number of potential permeation pathways, the components generally are located approximately opposite the opening within the fuel tank wall in a limited bonding area. The limited bonding area typically includes a pump and fuel level sensor assembly held by spring loaded rods against the bottom of the fuel tank. Attempts to offset the component from the limited bonding area have resulted in prolonged manufacturing cycle times due to the delay in cooling the heating elements used to weld the component to the tank wall before removal from the fuel tank. Further, commonly used heating elements (such as hot plates) have significant mass requiring excessive time to heat and cool the heating element. In view of the above, a need exists for an apparatus and method having faster cycle times for welding components to an inner surface of a fuel tank and, preferably, for an apparatus and method that permits the component to be secured to a tank surface offset from the access opening.
- The present invention relates to a fuel tank assembly and method of securing a component in a fuel tank and to the fuel tank wall using induction welding. The method generally includes the steps of placing the component in contact with the inner surface of the fuel tank and inductively welding the component to the inner surface of the fuel tank. The step of inductively welding the component may further include the steps of energizing an emitter coil to heat an induction receiver positioned in welding proximity to a weld surface of the component and deenergizing the induction coil after the component is welded to the fuel tank. A holder may grip the component and insert the component through the access opening of the fuel tank. The component is generally displaced to a position offset from the access opening, and placed in contact with the inner surface before welding the component to the inner surface. The arm generally manipulates the component to a position in contact with the inner surface at a location offset from the access opening.
- The induction welding apparatus may include an emitter coil and an induction receiver in welding proximity to the component to induction weld a surface of the component to the fuel tank. The method includes the steps of energizing the emitter coil to heat the induction receiver coupled to the arm and deenergizing the emitter coil after the component is inductively welded to the inner surface of the fuel tank.
- The fuel tank assembly may include a fuel tank having a wall defining a cavity, an inner surface, an outer surface, and an access opening extending through the wall and communicating with the cavity and a component inductively welded to the inner surface. The component is generally offset from the access opening and includes a weld surface and an induction receiver fixed to said component in welding proximity to the weld surface. The induction receiver may be an element integrally molded into the component.
- Further scope of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, claims, and drawings. However, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art.
- The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description given here below, the appended claims, and the accompanying drawings in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fuel tank; -
FIG. 2 is a partial sectional view of the fuel tank inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is an enlarged sectional view of the fuel tank wall; -
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the arm holding a component within the fuel tank; -
FIG. 5 is an enlarged sectional view of the bond area between the component and fuel tank wall; and -
FIG. 6 is an alternative enlarged sectional view of the bond area between the component and fuel tank wall. - A
fuel tank assembly 10 constructed in accordance with the illustrated embodiment is shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 . Thefuel tank assembly 10 generally includes afuel tank 20 defining an access opening 24 and having aninner surface 26 to which acomponent 30 is induction welded. Induction welding thecomponent 30 to thefuel tank 20 allows the component to be displaced from theopening 24 without encountering many of the problems typically associated with using a heating element to directly weld the component. Of particular note is that the ability to place thecomponent 30 where desired in the fuel tank, including in areas offset from theaccess opening 24 provides additional mounting locations, eliminates many packaging concerns and may improve performance of certain components. Induction welding also decreases cycle times by reducing the wait time associated with heating and cooling of conventional heating elements. - A variety of induction welding assemblies may be used to secure
components 30 to the fuel tankinner surface 26. A representative assembly 49 is illustrated and described herein and generally includes an articulatingarm 50 having aholder 52 configured to releasably hold the component. Thearm 50 is controllable from the exterior of the tank through conventional techniques to selectively position and induction weld components to sections of theinner surface 26 that are offset from the limited bonding area typically used with conventional welding techniques. The method of the present invention generally includes the steps of securing thecomponent 30 to the holder 52 (FIG. 4 ), operating thearm 50 to position the component in the fuel tank, induction welding the component to thefuel tank 20, releasing the component from the holder, and removing the arm and holder from the fuel tank. - The
fuel tank 20 includes awall 22 defining acavity 21. In the illustrated embodiment, thefuel tank 20 is blow molded. Thewall 22 includes theinner surface 26, anouter surface 28, and a permeationresistant layer 27 therebetween. The access opening 24 extends through thewall 22 and permits insertion and removal ofcomponents 30 such as rollover valves, vapor vent valves, fuel pumps, floats, and tubes held by clips. The layers forming the inner andouter surfaces resistant layer 27 is generally formed from a material having a suitable permeation rate such as nylon, -ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH), liquid crystal polymers (LCPs), or other permeation resistant materials. Thefuel tank 20 may be formed in a variety of sizes, shapes, and configurations depending on vehicle packaging, safety requirements and other design objectives. - The
component 30 includes a weld surface 32 (FIGS. 4 and 5 ) formed out of a material that is suitable for welding to theinner surface 26 of thefuel tank 20. The shape or configuration of theweld surface 32 may be modified as needed to improve cycle times or provide a more secure weld between thefuel tank 20 and component. As with conventional induction welding assemblies, the assembly 49 of the present invention includes anemitter coil 40 and areceiver 41. Theemitter coil 40 is located outside thefuel tank 20 and is positionable within the proximity needed to the area of the tank surface where thecomponent 30 is to be secured. Thereceiver 41 may be separate from the holder and component, coupled to theholder 52 or arm 30 (FIG. 5 ), or included in the component itself (FIG. 6 ). By way of illustration,FIG. 6 shows aninduction insert 34, such as a metal coil, fixed to or molded within the component near theweld surface 32, to facilitate melting a portion of the weld surface for bonding to thefuel tank 20. Alternatively, induction particles (not shown) may be added to thecomponent 30, proximate the weld surface in place of theinduction insert 34. Integrally molding the induction insert 34 into thecomponent 30 or otherwise fixing the receiver to the component itself eliminates the need to remove any heating element from the tank after welding, thereby improving cycle times. As shown inFIG. 5 and noted above, thecomponent 30 may be made withoutinduction insert 34 or integrally molded induction particles such as by placing theinduction receiver 41, such as the illustratedinduction element 56 on theholder 52 orarm 50 in close proximity to theweld surface 32. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
arm 50 is a robotic arm that articulates to position thecomponent 30. A robotic arm allows position feedback and can follow appropriate instructions in placing the component. Any other device capable of placing thecomponent 30 in a position offset or displaced from the access opening 24 may be used, such as a pick-n-place, fixed jig, or a semi-flexible linkage. The type ofarm 50 used may depend on the position of the component. 30. - After the
component 30 is attached to theinner surface 26 of thefuel tank 20 additional elements for operation of the component may be assembled as well known in the art for fuel tanks. Multiple components may be bonded to the fuel tank with induction welding. In general, each attachedcomponent 30 is attached to thefuel tank 20 at abond area 14, when theweld surface 32 of thecomponent 30 melts to theinner surface 26 of the fuel tank. - The method of fuel tank assembly will now be described in greater detail. In the illustrated embodiment, the
component 30 is secured within theholder 52 on the end of thearm 50. Theholder 52 and thearm 50 may be of any configuration capable of holding thecomponent 30 and offsetting the component to the desired position. As shown inFIG. 4 , thearm 50 is an articulated arm with theholder 52 at one end. Theholder 52 includes an open-ended cavity 60 configured to receive thecomponent 30. As is shown inFIGS. 5 and 6 , the assembly 49 may include avacuum passage 68 communicating with the cavity 60 as well as biasing elements, such as the illustratedspring assembly 58. A vacuum source or other means of actuation control, schematically illustrated byreference numeral 62, communicates with thepassage 68 and is selectively energized to hold the component in theholder 52 while thecomponent 30 is displaced from theopening 24 to the desired position within thefuel tank 20. - The
arm 50 andholder 52 typically are inserted through the access opening 24 and displaced to the proper position. As used in this application, the phrases displaced or offset from the access opening is intended to encompass movement of the component within the tank anywhere outside thelimited bonding area 12 illustrated inFIG. 2 . Thelimited bonding area 12 is the area on theinner surface 26 opposite the access opening 24 and within view from the access opening where conventional welding mechanisms could possibly operate. By permitting efficient welding of components to areas outside thelimited bonding area 12 used in the prior art, the present invention provides numerous mounting options not previously available in the art and corresponding improvements in packaging and performance. Further, displacement of or offsetting the component from the opening allows thecomponent 30 to be welded to the same side of the fuel tank as the access opening 24, as illustrated inFIG. 2 . - After the
arm 50,holder 52, andcomponent 30 are inserted through the opening and displaced to the proper position, theweld surface 32 of thecomponent 30 is placed in contact with theinner surface 26 of thefuel tank 20. For example, the vacuum or other actuation source may be de-energized to release the vacuum in thechamber 51 whereupon thespring assembly 58 urges thecomponent 30 toward theinner surface 26. With thecomponent 30, specifically theweld surface 32, in contact with theinner surface 26, the component is ready to be welded to the fuel tank. - With the
component 30 in place, theinduction emitter coil 40 is placed in an opposing relationship to thereceiver 41 with thefuel tank wall 22 therebetween (FIGS. 5 and 6 ). Theinduction emitter coil 40 may be any system or induction coil well known in the art for use in induction welding. Theinduction emitter coil 40 may also be disposed in place before thecomponent 30 is displaced to the proper position. The actual position of theemitter coil 40 as well as the size, shape, and configuration may be varied as needed to maximize efficiency of the induction welding. With theemitter coil 40 in place, power is supplied to the induction emitter coil to cause theinduction receiver 41, such as theinduction insert 34, to increase in temperature. Power is supplied to theemitter coil 40 until theinduction insert 34 becomes heated sufficiently for enough time to weld thecomponent 30 to the fuel tank. More specifically, theinduction emitter coil 40 causes theinduction receiver 56 to increase in temperature so that the thermoplastic material of thecomponent 30 melts to create a bond between thecomponent 30 andinner surface 26 of thefuel tank 20.Induction receivers 56 generally have less mass than, and therefore heat and cool faster than, conventional heating elements, thereby improving cycle times. - With the
component 30 welded to the tank, power to theinduction emitter coil 40 is interrupted thereby allowing theinduction receiver 56, e.g.,induction insert 34, to cool. If thecomponent 30 contains the induction insert, theholder 52 andarm 50 may be removed from the fuel tank once thebond area 14 hardens enough to secure thecomponent 30 on thefuel tank 20. If theinduction receiver 56 is located in theholder 52, the induction receiver is allowed to cool sufficiently to prevent damage during disengagement of the holder. Further, by using an induction receiver instead of a heating element, power supply cords may be eliminated resulting in a lightweight and controllable arm. Furthermore, induction heating permits a significant heat flux to be applied without the need for the relatively large, preheated masses required for conventional resistive heating elements, thus reducing the likelihood of damaging the fuel tank assembly during insertion and removal of the apparatus. - The foregoing discussion discloses and describes an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from such discussion, and from the accompanying drawings and claims that various changes, modifications and variations can be made therein without departing from the true spirit and fair scope of the invention as defined by the following claims.
Claims (11)
Priority Applications (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/734,064 US20050127078A1 (en) | 2003-12-11 | 2003-12-11 | Fuel tank assembly and method of assembly |
GB0424611A GB2408972A (en) | 2003-12-11 | 2004-11-08 | Fuel tank assembly with welded component |
DE200410058179 DE102004058179A1 (en) | 2003-12-11 | 2004-12-02 | Fuel tank assembly and method of assembly |
FR0413024A FR2863554A1 (en) | 2003-12-11 | 2004-12-07 | METHOD FOR FASTENING A COMPONENT TO A FUEL TANK |
US11/592,857 US7385163B2 (en) | 2003-12-11 | 2006-11-03 | Fuel tank assembly and method of assembly |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/734,064 US20050127078A1 (en) | 2003-12-11 | 2003-12-11 | Fuel tank assembly and method of assembly |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/592,857 Division US7385163B2 (en) | 2003-12-11 | 2006-11-03 | Fuel tank assembly and method of assembly |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20050127078A1 true US20050127078A1 (en) | 2005-06-16 |
Family
ID=33541672
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/734,064 Abandoned US20050127078A1 (en) | 2003-12-11 | 2003-12-11 | Fuel tank assembly and method of assembly |
US11/592,857 Expired - Fee Related US7385163B2 (en) | 2003-12-11 | 2006-11-03 | Fuel tank assembly and method of assembly |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/592,857 Expired - Fee Related US7385163B2 (en) | 2003-12-11 | 2006-11-03 | Fuel tank assembly and method of assembly |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US20050127078A1 (en) |
DE (1) | DE102004058179A1 (en) |
FR (1) | FR2863554A1 (en) |
GB (1) | GB2408972A (en) |
Cited By (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20090101657A1 (en) * | 2005-05-20 | 2009-04-23 | Yanmar Co. | Traveling Vehicle |
US20090308881A1 (en) * | 2008-06-11 | 2009-12-17 | Kautex Textron Gmbh & Co. Kg | Method for producing a fuel container for motor vehicles and fuel container for motor vehicles |
US20110083771A1 (en) * | 2009-10-09 | 2011-04-14 | Sean Whelan | Overflow prevention apparatus for use with fuel tanks |
JP2012509206A (en) * | 2008-11-21 | 2012-04-19 | ニューフレイ リミテッド ライアビリティ カンパニー | Joining method and joining apparatus |
US20120168446A1 (en) * | 2006-01-10 | 2012-07-05 | Koegel Alexander | Container for Operating Media of Motor Vehicles |
JP2013528259A (en) * | 2010-05-21 | 2013-07-08 | イートン コーポレーション | Valve housing for fuel tank mounting valve assembly and method of manufacturing the same |
US20140224346A1 (en) * | 2013-02-08 | 2014-08-14 | Christopher Bostwick, IV | Apparatus and methods to couple fuel components to a fuel tank |
CN104260635A (en) * | 2014-10-11 | 2015-01-07 | 亚普汽车部件股份有限公司 | Three-dimensional multi-wall plastic hollow box |
US9316354B2 (en) | 2013-02-08 | 2016-04-19 | Brunswick Corporation | Methods and apparatus to couple components to a fuel tank |
CN105517831A (en) * | 2013-09-06 | 2016-04-20 | 全耐塑料高级创新研究公司 | Tank with internal connecting part and method for assembling such a tank |
US20190092413A1 (en) * | 2017-09-28 | 2019-03-28 | Honda Motor Co., Ltd. | Resin-made tank |
US10377229B2 (en) * | 2017-05-11 | 2019-08-13 | GM Global Technology Operations LLC | Fuel storage assembly for a vehicle |
US10464263B2 (en) * | 2017-07-17 | 2019-11-05 | Dong Hee Industrial Co., Ltd. | Heat welding apparatus for combining plastic fuel tank and plastic parts and method of combining plastic fuel tank and plastic parts using the apparatus |
Families Citing this family (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7913712B2 (en) * | 2004-01-21 | 2011-03-29 | Raval A.C.S. Ltd. | Fuel accessory for fuel tank and method for internally attaching same |
US7829819B2 (en) * | 2007-02-08 | 2010-11-09 | Automotive Components Holdings, Llc | Attaching a component to an internal surface of a tank formed of polymer |
US20090107565A1 (en) * | 2007-10-29 | 2009-04-30 | Textron Inc. | Fuel Tank |
DE102008027824A1 (en) * | 2008-06-11 | 2009-12-17 | Kautex Textron Gmbh & Co. Kg | Process for the production of hollow bodies made of thermoplastic material and device for the production of hollow bodies made of thermoplastic material |
DE102008059243A1 (en) | 2008-11-21 | 2010-05-27 | Newfrey Llc, Newark | Joining component and method for producing a joining component |
DE102009005826A1 (en) | 2009-01-22 | 2010-07-29 | Magna Steyr Fuel Systems Gmbh | Fuel tank with built-in additional tank |
US8134469B2 (en) * | 2010-10-27 | 2012-03-13 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Wireless fuel level sensor for a vehicle fuel tank |
US8485389B2 (en) * | 2011-06-17 | 2013-07-16 | Eaton Corporation | Assembly with vapor vent valve and liquid trap for static leak prevention in vapor control system |
DE102011105340A1 (en) * | 2011-06-21 | 2012-12-27 | Newfrey Llc | Method for producing an article and connection arrangement therefor |
US10253787B2 (en) | 2013-02-01 | 2019-04-09 | Eaton Intelligent Power Limited | Self-aligning jet pump assembly |
DE102014110908A1 (en) | 2014-07-31 | 2016-02-04 | Newfrey Llc | Thermoplastic joining system and method |
Citations (21)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US465717A (en) * | 1891-12-22 | Robert s | ||
US2809399A (en) * | 1952-08-30 | 1957-10-15 | Gen Motors Corp | Method of uniting metal to plastic |
US3238346A (en) * | 1963-08-05 | 1966-03-01 | George P Savko | Apparatus for making joint between thermo plastic pipe and fittings thereof |
US3798094A (en) * | 1972-01-27 | 1974-03-19 | A Costa | Method of securing a closure member to a plastic container |
US3923580A (en) * | 1971-04-08 | 1975-12-02 | Heller William C Jun | Fabricating method and article formed thereby |
US3976529A (en) * | 1973-01-15 | 1976-08-24 | Sherwood Medical Industries Inc. | Method of sealing filter in tubular fitting for medical injection equipment and the like |
US4035547A (en) * | 1974-02-26 | 1977-07-12 | William C. Heller | Bonding element having separate heating and agitating particles |
US4880580A (en) * | 1987-12-03 | 1989-11-14 | Ashland Oil, Inc. | Reusable plastic drum container assembly and process for refitting such plastic drum container assembly |
US4961796A (en) * | 1989-03-06 | 1990-10-09 | James River Corporation | System for bonding objects together |
US5047605A (en) * | 1989-05-10 | 1991-09-10 | Abbott Laboratories | Induction welding apparatus and method |
US5340428A (en) * | 1991-07-30 | 1994-08-23 | E. I. Du Pont De Nemours And Company | Method for induction heating of composite material |
US5453149A (en) * | 1990-02-02 | 1995-09-26 | Ashland Oil Company | Improved process for effecting electromagnetic bonding of plastic parts |
US5530227A (en) * | 1991-04-05 | 1996-06-25 | The Boeing Company | Method and apparatus for consolidating organic matrix composites using induction heating |
US5770296A (en) * | 1996-08-05 | 1998-06-23 | Senco Products, Inc. | Adhesive device |
US5833799A (en) * | 1994-12-09 | 1998-11-10 | The Boeing Company | Articulated welding skate |
US5935475A (en) * | 1996-06-06 | 1999-08-10 | The Boeing Company | Susceptor integration into reinforced thermoplastic composites |
US6193834B1 (en) * | 1996-01-24 | 2001-02-27 | Uponor Aldyl Company | Apparatus and method for fusion joining a pipe and fittings |
US6203306B1 (en) * | 1996-09-30 | 2001-03-20 | Kabushiki Kaisha Kobe Seiko Sho | Apparatus for manufacturing a rubber-metal plate composite |
US20010013516A1 (en) * | 2000-02-14 | 2001-08-16 | Albert Boecker | Fuel tank and method for its production |
US6395215B1 (en) * | 1999-04-13 | 2002-05-28 | Mannesmann Vdo Ag | Method of producing a plastic component and fuel tank for a motor vehicle |
US20030168853A1 (en) * | 2000-08-04 | 2003-09-11 | Friatec Aktiengesellschaft | Device for joining components made of fusible plastic |
Family Cites Families (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
FR2416078A2 (en) * | 1976-10-05 | 1979-08-31 | Tocco Stel | INDUCTION BRAZING PRESS FOR METAL PARTS WITH CURVED OR RAISED PERIPHERAL PORTIONS |
JPH04358044A (en) | 1991-06-04 | 1992-12-11 | Nippon Steel Corp | High corrosion resistant steel sheet for molten carbonate type fuel cell separator |
JPH11197704A (en) | 1998-01-16 | 1999-07-27 | Nippon Steel Corp | Plating steel plate having excellent color tone, adhesion and weldability and its manufacture |
JP3269479B2 (en) | 1999-02-24 | 2002-03-25 | 住友金属工業株式会社 | Ferritic stainless steel for polymer electrolyte fuel cell separator |
DE19912099A1 (en) * | 1999-03-18 | 2000-09-28 | Rasmussen Gmbh | Welding of thermoplastic components, involves use of thermoplastic filler part containing metal particles suitable for induction heating |
CN1117882C (en) | 1999-04-19 | 2003-08-13 | 住友金属工业株式会社 | Stainless steel material for solid polymer fuel battery |
CA2372326C (en) * | 2001-02-22 | 2007-09-11 | Kawasaki Steel Corporation | Stainless steel separator for fuel cells, method for making the same, and solid polymer fuel cell including the same |
JP3893987B2 (en) * | 2001-03-16 | 2007-03-14 | 東海ゴム工業株式会社 | Molding method for tank joint parts and ring-shaped resin moldings |
JP3991701B2 (en) | 2002-02-08 | 2007-10-17 | 大同特殊鋼株式会社 | Metal separator for fuel cell and manufacturing method thereof |
JP2003317735A (en) | 2002-04-18 | 2003-11-07 | Nec Corp | Solid high polymer electrolyte fuel cell, method for manufacturing solid high polymer electrolyte film for fuel cell and fuel cell |
-
2003
- 2003-12-11 US US10/734,064 patent/US20050127078A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2004
- 2004-11-08 GB GB0424611A patent/GB2408972A/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2004-12-02 DE DE200410058179 patent/DE102004058179A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2004-12-07 FR FR0413024A patent/FR2863554A1/en not_active Withdrawn
-
2006
- 2006-11-03 US US11/592,857 patent/US7385163B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Patent Citations (21)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US465717A (en) * | 1891-12-22 | Robert s | ||
US2809399A (en) * | 1952-08-30 | 1957-10-15 | Gen Motors Corp | Method of uniting metal to plastic |
US3238346A (en) * | 1963-08-05 | 1966-03-01 | George P Savko | Apparatus for making joint between thermo plastic pipe and fittings thereof |
US3923580A (en) * | 1971-04-08 | 1975-12-02 | Heller William C Jun | Fabricating method and article formed thereby |
US3798094A (en) * | 1972-01-27 | 1974-03-19 | A Costa | Method of securing a closure member to a plastic container |
US3976529A (en) * | 1973-01-15 | 1976-08-24 | Sherwood Medical Industries Inc. | Method of sealing filter in tubular fitting for medical injection equipment and the like |
US4035547A (en) * | 1974-02-26 | 1977-07-12 | William C. Heller | Bonding element having separate heating and agitating particles |
US4880580A (en) * | 1987-12-03 | 1989-11-14 | Ashland Oil, Inc. | Reusable plastic drum container assembly and process for refitting such plastic drum container assembly |
US4961796A (en) * | 1989-03-06 | 1990-10-09 | James River Corporation | System for bonding objects together |
US5047605A (en) * | 1989-05-10 | 1991-09-10 | Abbott Laboratories | Induction welding apparatus and method |
US5453149A (en) * | 1990-02-02 | 1995-09-26 | Ashland Oil Company | Improved process for effecting electromagnetic bonding of plastic parts |
US5530227A (en) * | 1991-04-05 | 1996-06-25 | The Boeing Company | Method and apparatus for consolidating organic matrix composites using induction heating |
US5340428A (en) * | 1991-07-30 | 1994-08-23 | E. I. Du Pont De Nemours And Company | Method for induction heating of composite material |
US5833799A (en) * | 1994-12-09 | 1998-11-10 | The Boeing Company | Articulated welding skate |
US6193834B1 (en) * | 1996-01-24 | 2001-02-27 | Uponor Aldyl Company | Apparatus and method for fusion joining a pipe and fittings |
US5935475A (en) * | 1996-06-06 | 1999-08-10 | The Boeing Company | Susceptor integration into reinforced thermoplastic composites |
US5770296A (en) * | 1996-08-05 | 1998-06-23 | Senco Products, Inc. | Adhesive device |
US6203306B1 (en) * | 1996-09-30 | 2001-03-20 | Kabushiki Kaisha Kobe Seiko Sho | Apparatus for manufacturing a rubber-metal plate composite |
US6395215B1 (en) * | 1999-04-13 | 2002-05-28 | Mannesmann Vdo Ag | Method of producing a plastic component and fuel tank for a motor vehicle |
US20010013516A1 (en) * | 2000-02-14 | 2001-08-16 | Albert Boecker | Fuel tank and method for its production |
US20030168853A1 (en) * | 2000-08-04 | 2003-09-11 | Friatec Aktiengesellschaft | Device for joining components made of fusible plastic |
Cited By (30)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7931301B2 (en) * | 2005-05-20 | 2011-04-26 | Yanmar Co., Ltd. | Traveling vehicle |
US20090101657A1 (en) * | 2005-05-20 | 2009-04-23 | Yanmar Co. | Traveling Vehicle |
US8714390B2 (en) * | 2006-01-10 | 2014-05-06 | Magna Steyr Fuel Systems Gmbh | Container for operating media of motor vehicles |
US20120168446A1 (en) * | 2006-01-10 | 2012-07-05 | Koegel Alexander | Container for Operating Media of Motor Vehicles |
US20090308881A1 (en) * | 2008-06-11 | 2009-12-17 | Kautex Textron Gmbh & Co. Kg | Method for producing a fuel container for motor vehicles and fuel container for motor vehicles |
US8276778B2 (en) * | 2008-06-11 | 2012-10-02 | Kautex Textron Gmbh & Co. Kg | Fuel container for motor vehicles |
JP2012509206A (en) * | 2008-11-21 | 2012-04-19 | ニューフレイ リミテッド ライアビリティ カンパニー | Joining method and joining apparatus |
US20110083772A1 (en) * | 2009-10-09 | 2011-04-14 | Sean Whelan | Apparatus and methods to couple fuel delivery system components to fuel tanks |
US9222450B2 (en) | 2009-10-09 | 2015-12-29 | Brunswick Corporation | Pressure relief apparatus for use with fuel delivery systems |
US20110084073A1 (en) * | 2009-10-09 | 2011-04-14 | Sean Whelan | Apparatus and methods for mounting fuel delivery system components to fuel tanks |
US20110084076A1 (en) * | 2009-10-09 | 2011-04-14 | Sean Whelan | Pressure relief apparatus for use with fuel delivery systems |
US20110083989A1 (en) * | 2009-10-09 | 2011-04-14 | Sean Whelan | Apparatus and methods for permanently attaching fuel delivery system components to fuel tanks |
US8789719B2 (en) | 2009-10-09 | 2014-07-29 | Brunswick Corporation | Apparatus and methods for permanently attaching fuel delivery system components to fuel tanks |
US20110083771A1 (en) * | 2009-10-09 | 2011-04-14 | Sean Whelan | Overflow prevention apparatus for use with fuel tanks |
US8833346B2 (en) | 2009-10-09 | 2014-09-16 | Brunswick Corporation | Apparatus and methods for mounting fuel delivery system components to fuel tanks |
US10086691B2 (en) | 2009-10-09 | 2018-10-02 | Brunswick Corporation | Pressure relief apparatus for use with fuel delivery systems |
JP2013528259A (en) * | 2010-05-21 | 2013-07-08 | イートン コーポレーション | Valve housing for fuel tank mounting valve assembly and method of manufacturing the same |
US9010351B2 (en) | 2010-05-21 | 2015-04-21 | Eaton Corporation | Valve housing for a fuel tank-mounted valve assembly and method of manufacturing same |
US20140224346A1 (en) * | 2013-02-08 | 2014-08-14 | Christopher Bostwick, IV | Apparatus and methods to couple fuel components to a fuel tank |
US9316354B2 (en) | 2013-02-08 | 2016-04-19 | Brunswick Corporation | Methods and apparatus to couple components to a fuel tank |
US9605803B2 (en) * | 2013-02-08 | 2017-03-28 | Brunswick Corporation | Apparatus and methods to couple fuel components to a fuel tank |
US10227108B2 (en) | 2013-02-08 | 2019-03-12 | Brunswick Corporation | Methods and apparatus to couple components to a fuel tank |
CN105517831A (en) * | 2013-09-06 | 2016-04-20 | 全耐塑料高级创新研究公司 | Tank with internal connecting part and method for assembling such a tank |
US20160200189A1 (en) * | 2013-09-06 | 2016-07-14 | Pierre De Keyzer | Tank with internal connecting member and method for assembling such a tank |
US10399278B2 (en) * | 2013-09-06 | 2019-09-03 | Plastic Omnium Advanced Innovation And Research | Tank with internal connecting member and method for assembling such a tank |
CN104260635A (en) * | 2014-10-11 | 2015-01-07 | 亚普汽车部件股份有限公司 | Three-dimensional multi-wall plastic hollow box |
US10377229B2 (en) * | 2017-05-11 | 2019-08-13 | GM Global Technology Operations LLC | Fuel storage assembly for a vehicle |
US10464263B2 (en) * | 2017-07-17 | 2019-11-05 | Dong Hee Industrial Co., Ltd. | Heat welding apparatus for combining plastic fuel tank and plastic parts and method of combining plastic fuel tank and plastic parts using the apparatus |
US20190092413A1 (en) * | 2017-09-28 | 2019-03-28 | Honda Motor Co., Ltd. | Resin-made tank |
US10717489B2 (en) * | 2017-09-28 | 2020-07-21 | Honda Motor Co., Ltd. | Resin-made tank |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
DE102004058179A1 (en) | 2005-09-01 |
US7385163B2 (en) | 2008-06-10 |
US20070051730A1 (en) | 2007-03-08 |
GB2408972A (en) | 2005-06-15 |
FR2863554A1 (en) | 2005-06-17 |
GB0424611D0 (en) | 2004-12-08 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US7385163B2 (en) | Fuel tank assembly and method of assembly | |
US20080283196A1 (en) | Fuel accessory for fuel tank and method for internally attaching same | |
EP1955887B1 (en) | Fuel tank with attached component and method of making same | |
EP0941884B1 (en) | Weldable vapor vent valve for fuel tanks | |
KR101529347B1 (en) | Process for manufacturing a plastic fuel tank | |
JP2004505812A (en) | Adapter for welding objects to plastic | |
US9181902B2 (en) | Fuel tank and method for producing same | |
US7378624B2 (en) | Method of welding a component inside a hollow vessel | |
KR100799342B1 (en) | Clip | |
JP2007518627A5 (en) | ||
US7913712B2 (en) | Fuel accessory for fuel tank and method for internally attaching same | |
US7137439B2 (en) | Tank-integrated shroud, and method and jig for manufacturing the same | |
JP6042582B2 (en) | Working fluid container with reinforcing element | |
US20090114476A1 (en) | Vehicle Resonator Structure and Attachment Method | |
EP1285804A1 (en) | Liquid / vapor separator assembly for fuel tank | |
JP2011011571A (en) | Fuel tank and method of manufacturing the same | |
JP2013119342A (en) | Component welding structure of fuel tank | |
US20040144779A1 (en) | Mounting clip for plastic containers | |
JP6788939B2 (en) | How to install the filler pipe | |
JP2009234406A (en) | Welding part for tank | |
JP5090753B2 (en) | Socket storage structure of hot water storage tank | |
JP2017024275A (en) | Fusion-bonding apparatus for fuel tank components | |
KR101028031B1 (en) | Jig for laser brazing | |
JPH05231787A (en) | Heat accumulator | |
JP2003011248A (en) | Paper container heater |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: VISTEON GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC., MICHIGAN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:VORENKAMP. ERICH J.;SCHULTE, KALE S.;KNAGGS, RICHARD A.;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:014796/0665;SIGNING DATES FROM 20031201 TO 20031204 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: AUTOMOTIVE COMPONENTS HOLDINGS, LLC, MICHIGAN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:VISTEON GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.;REEL/FRAME:016835/0448 Effective date: 20051129 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |