US20170326975A1 - Assembly for mounting at least one component in a tank of a motor vehicle - Google Patents

Assembly for mounting at least one component in a tank of a motor vehicle Download PDF

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Publication number
US20170326975A1
US20170326975A1 US15/526,875 US201515526875A US2017326975A1 US 20170326975 A1 US20170326975 A1 US 20170326975A1 US 201515526875 A US201515526875 A US 201515526875A US 2017326975 A1 US2017326975 A1 US 2017326975A1
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United States
Prior art keywords
clamp
tank
assembly
mounting module
attachment portion
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
Application number
US15/526,875
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English (en)
Inventor
Stephane Leonard
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Plastic Omnium Advanced Innovation and Research SA
Original Assignee
Plastic Omnium Advanced Innovation and Research SA
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Assigned to PLASTIC OMNIUM ADVANCED INNOVATION AND RESEARCH reassignment PLASTIC OMNIUM ADVANCED INNOVATION AND RESEARCH ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: LEONARD, STEPHANE
Publication of US20170326975A1 publication Critical patent/US20170326975A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
    • B60K15/00—Arrangement in connection with fuel supply of combustion engines or other fuel consuming energy converters, e.g. fuel cells; Mounting or construction of fuel tanks
    • B60K15/03—Fuel tanks
    • B60K15/063—Arrangement of tanks
    • B60K15/067—Mounting of tanks
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
    • B60K15/00—Arrangement in connection with fuel supply of combustion engines or other fuel consuming energy converters, e.g. fuel cells; Mounting or construction of fuel tanks
    • B60K15/03—Fuel tanks
    • B60K15/03177—Fuel tanks made of non-metallic material, e.g. plastics, or of a combination of non-metallic and metallic material
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
    • B60K15/00—Arrangement in connection with fuel supply of combustion engines or other fuel consuming energy converters, e.g. fuel cells; Mounting or construction of fuel tanks
    • B60K15/03—Fuel tanks
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D25/00—Details of other kinds or types of rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D25/20—External fittings
    • 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
    • B60K2015/0319—Fuel tanks with electronic systems, e.g. for controlling fuelling or venting
    • 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
    • B60K2015/03421—Arrangements or special measures related to fuel tanks or fuel handling to protect the fuel tank against heat
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
    • B60K15/00—Arrangement in connection with fuel supply of combustion engines or other fuel consuming energy converters, e.g. fuel cells; Mounting or construction of fuel tanks
    • B60K15/03—Fuel tanks
    • B60K2015/03328—Arrangements or special measures related to fuel tanks or fuel handling
    • B60K2015/03453—Arrangements or special measures related to fuel tanks or fuel handling for fixing or mounting parts of the fuel tank together
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
    • B60K15/00—Arrangement in connection with fuel supply of combustion engines or other fuel consuming energy converters, e.g. fuel cells; Mounting or construction of fuel tanks
    • B60K15/03—Fuel tanks
    • 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
    • B60K2015/03467—Arrangements or special measures related to fuel tanks or fuel handling for fixing or mounting parts of the fuel tank together by clip or snap fit fittings
    • 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
    • B60K2015/03486—Fuel tanks characterised by the materials the tank or parts thereof are essentially made from
    • B60K2015/03493—Fuel tanks characterised by the materials the tank or parts thereof are essentially made from made of plastics

Definitions

  • the field of the invention relates to assemblies for mounting at least one component in a tank of a motor vehicle, and to tanks comprising such an assembly. Particular embodiments relate to the field of ammonia precursor tanks and fuel tanks.
  • Liquid and gas tanks carried on board vehicles generally have to satisfy sealing and permeability standards related to the type of use for which they are designed and the requirements in terms of environmental considerations that they have to meet. Incorporating one or more components into such tanks presents the problem of attaching them in a sealed and impermeable way in an opening made in these tanks. To that end it is known to use a mounting module, also called baseplate, which carries the one or more components, and to attach the mounting module to an attachment portion of the tank.
  • baseplate which carries the one or more components
  • the one or more components be mounted to the tank so as to be removable for service and repair purposes.
  • Various techniques for attaching a mounting module to a tank are already known.
  • cam lock systems or mason jar systems are well known by the skilled person.
  • these known systems use a ring or a lock nut configured to be screwed onto a thread on the tank side.
  • the attachment operation of the component to the tank is typically complex, time-consuming and expensive. Further, an adequate protection of any components arranged at an outer side of the mounting module is difficult to achieve.
  • the objects of embodiments of the invention is to provide an improved assembly for mounting at least one component in a tank for a motor vehicle, said tank having a wall portion and an attachment portion projecting outward from said wall portion, said attachment portion defining an opening in said wall portion. More in particular it is desirable to provide an assembly which improves the protection of any components arranged at an outer side of the mounting module, and to limit or avoid turbulence caused by such components when the assembly is used in a motor vehicle.
  • an assembly for mounting at least one component in a tank for a motor vehicle comprising a mounting module, a clamp and a cover.
  • the mounting module is configured for carrying said at least one component and for closing of the opening in the wall portion of the tank.
  • the mounting module has an outer side intended for being accessible from outside the tank.
  • At least one connector is arranged at the outer side of the mounting module.
  • the at least one connector is connected to the at least one component.
  • the clamp is configured for clamping the mounting module to the attachment portion of the tank.
  • the cover is attached to the clamp and covers at least partially the at least one connector.
  • the mounting module can be attached to the attachment portion using the clamp, and the one or more connectors can be protected using the cover, by attaching the cover to the clamp after the connectors have been suitably connected to other parts, e.g. a power source, an exhaust line, etc. mounted in the motor vehicle. Also the cover will limit any turbulence caused by the one or more connectors. Finally by attaching the cover to the clamp no special fixation points are needed on the tank.
  • the mounting module is provided with a mounting flange at an outer circumference thereof, and the clamp is configured for engaging around said mounting flange and around a corresponding flange of the attachment portion of the tank.
  • the corresponding flange of the attachment portion of the tank may either be a flange which is formed integrally with the tank or a flange created by fixing a ring-shaped member to the tank, e.g. by overmolding.
  • the at least one connector comprises any one of the following connectors, or a combination thereof: a hydraulic connector, an electrical connector.
  • a first electrical connector can be connected to an electronic control unit to provide power to the control unit and/or to exchange data between the control unit and other components in the vehicle.
  • a further electrical connector may be connected to any components on/in the mounting module that need to be fed by an electrical power source, e.g. a pump, a heater, etc.
  • a hydraulic connector may be an outlet of the tank and may be connected to a hydraulic line for evacuating liquid, e.g. fuel or an ammonia precursor out of the tank.
  • the clamp is provided with a plurality of fixation points for attaching the cover.
  • the clamp is substantially circular, at least in the mounted position, and the fixation points are provided in the form of radially outwardly protruding ears, optionally provided with orifices for screws.
  • fixation points on the clamp will allow an easy attachment and removal of the cover, and will lead to a very compact assembly.
  • the one or more fixation points may be used to fix other external elements, such as a hydraulic line to the clamp.
  • an electronic control unit is mounted on the outer side of the mounting module, and the cover at least partially covers said electronic control unit.
  • Such an electronic control unit and one or more electrical connectors may be mounted on a PCB, wherein an electrical connector is connected to the electronic control unit, and the PCB is fixed to the outer side of the mounting module.
  • the assembly further comprising a sealing ring disposed between the mounting module and the attachment portion, wherein the sealing ring is clamped between the mounting module and said attachment portion by the clamp.
  • the clamp is a plastic clamp.
  • the clamp comprises at least a first clamp shell and a second clamp shell, said first clamp shell having a first end pivotally connected to a first end of said second clamp shell.
  • the clamp may have more than two clamp shells which are pivotally connected.
  • each clamp shell can be relatively rigid, whilst still allowing an easy mounting of the clamp around a flange of the mounting module and a corresponding flange of the attachment portion.
  • the first clamp shell may have a second end configured for being connected to a second end of the second clamp shell.
  • the second end of the first clamp shell is connected to the second end of the second clamp shell through a snap-fit connection.
  • the clamp comprises at least one attachment strip having a first end equipped with a toothed portion; and a second end equipped with at least one head, said head comprising a complementary toothed portion, said head being configured to receive and lock the strip by means of the complementary toothed portion; wherein said clamp engages and is closed onto said mounting module and said attachment portion by pulling tight the strip through the head.
  • the toothed portion and/or the complementary toothed portion may comprise teeth obtained by overmolding metal inserts with plastic material.
  • the clamp comprises at an inner surface thereof at least one internal mouth configured to receive a mounting flange of the mounting module and a corresponding flange of the attachment portion of the tank.
  • the or each internal mouth has a tapered inner surface, narrowing towards the interior of the mouth, to facilitate the centering of the clamp around mounting flange of the mounting module and a corresponding flange of the attachment portion of the tank.
  • the clamp comprises a plurality of strengthening ribs extending radially between the or each internal mouth and an outer surface of the clamp.
  • the clamp comprises at least one integral injection molded part.
  • each shell may be an injection molded part.
  • the cover may function as a protection cover and/or as a heatshield.
  • the cover may comprises a layer of a heat shielding material which is configured for reducing the transfer of heat through the cover.
  • the heat insulation material may be a foam material.
  • the heat insulation material has a thermal conductivity (K-value), which is lower than 0.06 W/mK preferably lower than 0.04 W/mK.
  • a tank assembly for a motor vehicle comprising a tank and an assembly according to any one of the previous embodiments.
  • a fuel tank assembly for a motor vehicle comprising a fuel tank and an assembly according to any one of the previous embodiments.
  • an ammonia precursor tank assembly for a motor vehicle comprising an ammonia precursor tank and an assembly according to any one of the previous embodiments.
  • the tank comprises an attachment portion in which a ring-shaped member is partially embedded.
  • the ring shaped member may comprise a top flange, a bottom flange and a side wall, preferably a frustoconical side wall, connecting the top flange and the bottom flange.
  • the bottom flange and a portion of the side wall may be embedded in the attachment portion.
  • the ring shaped member may further comprise a plurality of peripheral tabs extending outwardly from the top flange, and the clamp may comprises a plurality of engaging claw parts, each engaging claw part being configured to engage one of said plurality of peripheral tabs and to press the mounting module against said attachment portion of the tank.
  • the tabs may be created in the top flange, by providing suitable cut-outs in the top flange, and the engaging claw parts may be inserted in the cut-outs to engage the tabs.
  • the side wall may comprise a plurality of through-holes in the portion which is embedded in the attachment portion to improve the fixation of the ring-shaped member in the attachment portion.
  • the clamp may be an annular lock plate comprising the plurality of engaging claw parts. In such an embodiment a plurality of fixation points for attaching the cover may be provided in the form of peripheral extension parts of the annular lock plate.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates schematically a perspective view of a first exemplary embodiment of a clamp
  • FIG. 2 illustrates schematically a cross sectional view of a first exemplary embodiment of an assembly comprising the clamp of FIG. 1 fixed to an attachment portion of a tank;
  • FIGS. 3A-3E illustrate schematically an exemplary embodiment of a method for fixing the assembly of FIG. 2 on a tank
  • FIG. 4 illustrates schematically a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an assembly similar to the assembly of FIG. 2 ;
  • FIG. 5 illustrates schematically a perspective view of the exemplary embodiment of the assembly of FIG. 4 with a cover attached to the clamp;
  • FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate schematic perspective views of a second exemplary embodiment of a clamp in an open and a closed position
  • FIG. 7 illustrates schematically a cross sectional view of a third exemplary embodiment of an assembly fixed to an attachment portion of a tank
  • FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate schematically a perspective view of a lock plate and a clamp of the third exemplary embodiment of FIG. 7 , respectively;
  • FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of a tank assembly.
  • FIG. 1 represents an exemplary embodiment of a plastic clamp according to a first embodiment.
  • the plastic clamp 1100 comprises a strip 1111 equipped with a toothed section 1120 and two heads 1131 , 1132 formed onto an outer surface of the strip 1111 , at one end thereof.
  • the toothed section 1120 comprises a tab 1121 equipped with two series of teeth 1222 , 1223 .
  • the first series of teeth 1222 is used for pre-closing operation and the second series of teeth 1223 is used for final closing operation. It is an advantage to have a flat section (i.e. section with no teeth) between the first and second series of teeth 1222 , 1223 , since the pull force for intermediate closing of the plastic clamp 1100 can be reduced.
  • the heads 1131 , 1132 are configured to receive and lock the tab 1121 .
  • Each head 1131 , 1132 accommodates complementary teeth (not illustrated) which cooperate with the first and second series of teeth 1222 , 1223 .
  • the plastic clamp 1100 comprises twelve internal mouths 1115 regularly spaced along the strip 1111 .
  • each internal mouth 1115 has a contact surface having a conical like structure.
  • the plastic clamp 1100 comprises a plurality of ribs 1116 placed between the internal mouths 1115 and the strip 1111 .
  • the plastic clamp 1100 comprises six ribs 1116 , three on the top side and three other on the bottom side, per internal mouth 1115 .
  • FIG. 2 represents a partial cross-section of a first exemplary embodiment of a tank assembly attached to an attachment portion 1220 of a tank.
  • the assembly comprises the clamp 1100 of FIG. 1 .
  • the tank assembly is attached to a tank having a wall portion 1210 and a tubular attachment portion 1220 projecting outward from said wall portion 1210 .
  • the attachment portion 1220 defines an opening 1230 in the wall portion 1210 of the tank.
  • the tank assembly comprises a mounting module 1300 which is attached to the attachment portion 1220 by means of the plastic clamp 1100 . 2.
  • the mounting module 1300 is provided with a mounting flange 1310 at an outer circumference thereof, and the clamp 1100 is configured for engaging around mounting flange 1310 and around a corresponding flange 1222 of attachment portion 1220 of the tank.
  • the corresponding flange 1222 is a radially outwardly protruding upper part of attachment portion 1220 .
  • the flange 1222 of attachment portion 1220 comprises a groove 1225 .
  • An 0 ring seal 1400 is arranged in the groove 1225 .
  • an O-ring may be arranged in flange 1310 of mounting module 1300 .
  • the plastic clamp 1100 is in a final closing position. Accordingly, the mounting module 1300 is tightly pressed against the attachment portion 1220 .
  • the O ring seal 1400 is compressed axially between the attachment portion 1220 and the mounting module 1300 .
  • the tank 1220 may be a urea tank and the mounting module 1300 , also called a baseplate or carrying structure, may incorporate and/or support at least one component such as, for example, a pump, a filter, a level sensor, a quality sensor, a temperature sensor or a heater.
  • a part of this mounting module 1300 is positioned through the opening 1230 . More in particular one or more components may be provided at the inner side or the outer side of the mounting module, or may be integrated in the mounting module, e.g. in a chamber in the mounting module.
  • FIGS. 3A to 3E illustrate an example of steps for attaching the mounting module 1300 to the attachment portion 1220 by means of the plastic clamp 1100 .
  • the O ring seal 1400 is arranged in the groove 1225 .
  • the plastic clamp 1100 is pre-closed while being positioned on the attachment portion 1220 of the tank.
  • the mounting module 1300 is placed on the attachment portion 1220 .
  • an operator or a machine starts pulling the tab 1221 to make the plastic clamp 1100 self-centering with respect to the flange 1310 of the mounting module 1300 and the attachment portion 1220 .
  • the internal mouths 1115 start engaging the flange 1310 of the mounting module 1300 and the flange 1222 attachment portion 1220 .
  • the tab 1221 is pulled tight such that the internal mouths 1115 close onto the mounting module 1300 and the attachment portion 1220 . Accordingly, the mounting module 1300 is securely attached to the tank. Further, the O ring seal 1400 is compressed axially between the attachment portion 1220 and the mounting module 1300 .
  • FIG. 4 represents a plastic clamp 1100 similar to clamp 1100 of FIG. 1 with this difference that clamp 1100 is provided with a plurality of fixation points 1141 , 1142 , 1143 for attaching the cover.
  • the fixation points 1141 , 1142 , 1143 are provided in the form of outwardly protruding ears.
  • the plastic clamp 1100 is used to attach a mounting module 1300 to an attachment portion (not visible) on a wall portion 1210 of a tank, as has been described above.
  • Each extension or ear 1141 , 1142 , 1143 is provided with an orifice 1145 , 1146 , 1147 .
  • These orifices 1145 , 1146 , 1147 can be used to attach, for example, a cover functioning as protection plate or as heatshield, clips for hydraulic lines or wiring harnesses.
  • these ears 1141 , 1142 , 1143 can advantageously be used as fixation points.
  • FIG. 5 illustrates the assembly of FIG. 4 but with components arranged on the outer side of the mounting module 1300 and with a cover 1500 .
  • the mounting module 1300 is configured for carrying at least one component on an inner side intended for being directed towards the interior of the tank, and/or on an outer side intended for being directed towards the exterior of the tank, so that this component is accessible from outside the tank. More generally one or more components may be provided at the inner side or the outer side of the mounting module, or may be integrated in the mounting module, e.g. in a chamber in the mounting module.
  • an electronic control unit (ECU) 1700 is mounted on the outer side of the mounting module 1300 , and the cover 1500 covers electronic control unit 1700 . Further a hydraulic connector 1620 , and two electrical connectors 1610 , 1630 are arranged at the outer side of the mounting module 1300 .
  • the electrical connectors 1610 , 1630 are typically connected to the ECU 1700 , and to any components that need to be fed by an electrical power source, e.g. a pump, a heater, a sensor, etc.
  • One electrical connector 1610 may be used for signal communication (typically Controller Area Network CAN signals) with the ECU 1700
  • the other electrical connector 1630 may be used for the power supply of the ECU 1700 and of any other components.
  • the hydraulic connector 1620 is intended for connecting an outlet of the tank to a hydraulic line for evacuating liquid out of the tank.
  • the ECU 1700 and the electrical connectors 1610 , 1630 may be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB, wherein at least one electrical connector 1610 , 1630 is connected to the ECU 1700 .
  • PCB printed circuit board
  • the cover 1500 is attached to the clamp 1100 and covers at least partially the various connectors 1610 , 1620 , 1630 . More in particular, the cover 1500 is attached to the plurality of fixation points 1141 , 1142 , 1143 of clamp 1100 using screws 1151 , 1152 , 1153 or other fixations means.
  • the cover functions here as a protection plate protecting the connectors 1610 , 1620 , 1630 and the ECU 1700 against damage and/or the infiltration of dirt.
  • the cover 1500 may have a heat shield function, e.g. to limit the heating of the ECU 1700 .
  • there may be provided one or more fixation points for attaching e.g. a hydraulic line to the clamp.
  • FIGS. 6A and 6B a second exemplary embodiment of a clamp 2100 .
  • the clamp 2100 is typically a plastic clamp.
  • the clamp 2100 comprises a first clamp shell 2111 and a second clamp shell 2112 .
  • First clamp shell 2111 has a first end pivotally connected to a first end of second clamp shell 2112 , see 2160 . To that end the first end of first clamp shell 2111 may be provided with a shaft element which fits in a corresponding bearing element provided at the first end of second clamp shell 2112 .
  • First clamp shell 2111 has a second end configured for being connected to a second end of the second clamp shell 2112 , see 2170 .
  • the second end of the first clamp shell 2111 is connected to the second end of the second clamp shell 2112 though a snap-fit connection.
  • the second end of the second clamp shell 2112 is provided with an arrow-like element 2171 which can be snap-fitted in a corresponding passage 2172 provided at the second end of the first clamp shell 2111 .
  • the clamp shells 2111 , 2112 each comprise at an inner surface thereof at least one internal mouth 2115 configured to receive a mounting flange of the mounting module and a corresponding flange of the attachment portion of the tank, in a similar manner as has been described above with reference to FIGS. 3A-3E .
  • the internal mouth 2115 may have a tapered inner surface to promote the self-centering of the clamp 2100 around the respective flanges of the mounting module and attachment portion.
  • the clamp 2100 comprises a plurality of strengthening ribs 2116 extending radially between the internal mouth 2115 and an outer surface of the clamp shells 2111 , 2112 .
  • clamp shells 2111 , 2112 are integral injection molded parts.
  • FIG. 7 represents a partial cross-section of an assembly according to a third exemplary embodiment.
  • the assembly is mounted in an opening in a wall portion 3210 of a plastic tank.
  • a ring shaped member 3200 illustrated in FIG. 8A is embedded in wall portion 3210 in order to form a portion of an attachment portion 3220 .
  • a clamp in the form of an annular lock plate 3100 see also FIG. 8B , is used to attach a mounting module 3300 to attachment portion 3220 .
  • Tubular attachment portion 3220 projects outwardly from wall portion 3210 .
  • the wall portion 3210 is formed by injection moulding simultaneously with a circular support portion 3212 located within ring shaped member 3200 .
  • Ring shaped member 3200 together with circular support portion 3212 form attachment portion 3220 .
  • Mounting module 3300 is supported against circular support portion 3212 .
  • FIG. 8A illustrates the ring shaped member 3200 which is used for forming attachment portion 3220 .
  • the ring shaped member 3200 comprises a top flange 3221 , a bottom flange 3222 and a frustoconical side wall 3223 connecting the top flange 3221 and the bottom flange 3222 .
  • the ring shaped member 3200 further comprises peripheral tabs 3224 extending outwardly from the top flange 3221 .
  • the ring shaped member 3200 comprises six peripheral tabs 3224 regularly spaced along the top flange 3221 .
  • each peripheral tab 3224 can be equipped with a tooth or a series of teeth.
  • FIG. 8A illustrates the ring shaped member 3200 which is used for forming attachment portion 3220 .
  • the ring shaped member 3200 comprises a top flange 3221 , a bottom flange 3222 and a frustoconical side wall 3223 connecting the top flange 3221 and the bottom flange 3
  • each peripheral tab 3224 is equipped with a tooth having a V-shape profile.
  • the frustoconical side wall 3223 comprises a plurality of through-holes 3225 .
  • the top flange 3221 comprises a recess 3226 which is used as a point of reference for precisely positioning a mounting module 3300 with respect to the ring shaped member 3200 .
  • the ring shaped member 3200 is made of metal.
  • the attachment portion 3220 defines an opening in the wall portion of the tank.
  • the assembly comprises a mounting module 3300 which is attached to the attachment portion 3220 by means of a clamp in the form of an annular lock plate 3100 .
  • the attachment portion 3220 comprises a groove in which an O ring seal 3400 is arranged. The groove is arranged such that the O ring seal 3400 is positioned in-between a flange of the mounting module 3300 and the attachment portion 3220 .
  • the ring shaped member 3200 and the annular lock plate 3100 are in a final closing position.
  • the engaging claw parts of the annular lock plate 3100 are engaged with the peripheral tabs 3224 of the ring shaped member 3200 .
  • the mounting module 3300 is tightly pressed towards the attachment portion 3220 .
  • the O ring seal 3400 is compressed axially between the attachment portion 3220 and the mounting module 3300 .
  • the tank may be a urea tank and the mounting module 3300 may be a baseplate which incorporates and/or supports at least one component such as, for example, a pump, a filter, a level sensor, a quality sensor, a temperature sensor or a heater. A part of this mounting module 3300 is positioned through the opening in the tank.
  • FIG. 8B represents the annular lock plate 3100 .
  • the annular lock plate 3100 comprises six engaging claw parts 3160 .
  • Each engaging claw part 3160 has a teethed portion adapted to engage with one of the teeth illustrated in FIG. 8A .
  • At least one of the engaging claws 3160 comprise a stopper 3162 which is used to block the rotation of the engaging claws once the teeth are matching with the corresponding teeth of the ring shaped member 3200 .
  • the annular lock plate 3100 comprises a flat portion 3110 adapted to contact with a part of the mounting module 3300 .
  • the flat portion 3110 comprises a recess 3170 which is used as a point of reference for precisely positioning the annular lock plate 3100 with respect to the mounting module 3300 .
  • the annular lock plate 3100 can optionally comprise one or several peripheral extension part(s) 3141 , 3142 , 3143 .
  • Each extension 3141 , 3142 , 3143 is provided with an orifice 3145 .
  • These orifices 3145 can be used to attach, for example, a cover, one or more clips for hydraulic lines or wiring harnesses.
  • these extensions 3141 , 3142 , 3143 can advantageously be used as fixation points.
  • the annular lock plate 3100 is made of metal.
  • each independent engaging claw part 3160 comprises a teethed portion adapted to engage a peripheral tab 3224 of the ring shaped member 3200 and a flat portion 3110 adapted to press a part of the mounting module 3300 against the attachment portion 3220 .
  • FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of a tank assembly.
  • the tank assembly comprises a tank 4200 , a mounting module 4300 incorporating a plurality of components 4350 , a clamp 4100 , and a cover 4500 attached to the clamp 4100 .
  • the clamp 4100 is provided with fixation points 4140 .
  • Screws 4150 fix the cover 4500 to fixation points 4140 .
  • the mounting module is shown to be mounted at a top face of the tank, but that it could also be mounted at a bottom face of the tank.

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)
  • Cooling, Air Intake And Gas Exhaust, And Fuel Tank Arrangements In Propulsion Units (AREA)
  • Details Of Rigid Or Semi-Rigid Containers (AREA)
  • Closures For Containers (AREA)
US15/526,875 2014-11-27 2015-09-30 Assembly for mounting at least one component in a tank of a motor vehicle Abandoned US20170326975A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP14195268.9 2014-11-27
EP14195268.9A EP3026251A1 (en) 2014-11-27 2014-11-27 Assembly with improved system for attaching a component to a container
PCT/EP2015/072631 WO2016082996A1 (en) 2014-11-27 2015-09-30 Assembly for mounting at least one component in a tank of a motor vehicle

Publications (1)

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US20170326975A1 true US20170326975A1 (en) 2017-11-16

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US15/526,875 Abandoned US20170326975A1 (en) 2014-11-27 2015-09-30 Assembly for mounting at least one component in a tank of a motor vehicle
US14/950,444 Active 2037-03-14 US10562391B2 (en) 2014-11-27 2015-11-24 Assembly with improved system for attaching a component to a container

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US14/950,444 Active 2037-03-14 US10562391B2 (en) 2014-11-27 2015-11-24 Assembly with improved system for attaching a component to a container

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US (2) US20170326975A1 (ko)
EP (3) EP3026251A1 (ko)
JP (1) JP2016107980A (ko)
KR (1) KR102522222B1 (ko)
CN (2) CN107000577A (ko)
WO (1) WO2016082996A1 (ko)

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
KR102522222B1 (ko) 2023-04-14
JP2016107980A (ja) 2016-06-20
EP3026251A1 (en) 2016-06-01
EP3224468A1 (en) 2017-10-04
US10562391B2 (en) 2020-02-18
EP3026252A1 (en) 2016-06-01
CN105644348B (zh) 2019-07-02
US20160152379A1 (en) 2016-06-02
CN105644348A (zh) 2016-06-08
WO2016082996A1 (en) 2016-06-02
EP3026252B1 (en) 2018-10-03
KR20160064022A (ko) 2016-06-07
CN107000577A (zh) 2017-08-01

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