Patent ID: 6257360
Filing Date: 2001-07-10
Classification: B60K,F17C,Y02E,Y10T

Abstract:
An integrated compressed gas vehicle fuel storage system, comprising:a plurality of compressed gas pressure cells of the type incorporating domed ends and cylindrical bodies;a container for said plurality of compressed gas pressure cells, the container having valleys between the adjacent compressed gas pressure cells;means for securing said plurality of compressed gas pressure cells within said container and for isolating said plurality of compressed gas pressure cells from each other and from said container, the means for securing and isolating comprising:shock absorbing foam bumpers positioned in the ends of said container and dimensioned to cradle the said domed ends of said compressed gas pressure cells; andan elastomeric cap positioned between each of said domed ends and said bumpers;whereby expansion of one of said compressed gas pressure cells will not apply pressure against adjacent compressed gas pressure cells or the inside of said container;a gas control assembly pnemnatically interconnecting said plurality of compressed gas pressure cells; andflexible straps for securing said system to a vehicle, the straps laying in the valleys in the container and being attached to the vehicle thereby allowing for defornation of the vehicle chassis for protection of the passenger compartment in the event of a high-impact collision.