US010746354B2

( 12 ) Moutray
United States Patent ( 10) Patent No .: US 10,746,354 B2
(45) Date of Patent : Aug. 18 , 2020
( 54 ) THREADED BOSS FOR PRESSURE VESSEL ( 56 ) References Cited
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
( 71 ) Applicant: Hexagon Technology AS , Alesund
(NO ) 5,819,978 A * 10/1998 Hlebovy F17C 1/16
220/601
5,979,692 A * 11/1999 West F17C 1/16
(72) Inventor: Brad James Moutray , Sioux Falls , SD 220/586
(US ) (Continued )
(73 ) Assignee : Hexagon Technology, AS , Alesund FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
(NO ) DE 102014213610 Al 1/2016
WO 2010080948 A1 7/2010
( * ) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this ( Continued )
patent is extended or adjusted under 35
U.S.C. 154 ( b ) by 232 days . OTHER PUBLICATIONS
( 21 ) Appl . No .: 15 /969,002 International Search Report and Written Opinion dated Sep. 5 , 2018 ,
in corresponding international application No. PCT /US2018 /
033100 , filed May 17 , 2018 .
(22 ) Filed : May 2 , 2018
Primary Examiner Andrew T Kirsch
( 65 ) Prior Publication Data Assistant Examiner Don M Anderson
( 74 ) Attorney, Agent, or Firm Mai - Tram D. Lauer ;
US 2018/0340653 A1 Nov. 29 , 2018 Westman , Champlin & Koehler, P.A.
(57 ) ABSTRACT
Related U.S. Application Data A boss includes a neck and a flange that extends radially
( 60 ) Provisional application No. 62 / 510,328 , filed on May outward from the neck . The neck includes a bore there
24 , 2017 . through with a longitudinal axis . The flange includes an
exterior surface, an interior surface, and a peripheral surface
at a farthest extent from the longitudinal axis . The peripheral
(51 ) Int. Cl. surface connects the interior surface and the exterior surface
F17C 1/06 ( 2006.01 ) and includes, along any radius of the boss , a first circum
F17C 1/00 ( 2006.01 ) ferential ridge and a second circumferential ridge , wherein
( 52 ) U.S. Cl . the first circumferential ridge is located closer to the exterior
CPC F17C 1/00 ( 2013.01 ) ; F17C 1/06 surface than the second circumferential ridge. In another
(2013.01 ) ; F17C 2201/0109 ( 2013.01 ) ; aspect, a pressure vessel includes a boss and a liner. In yet
(Continued ) another aspect , a method of assembling a pressure vessel is
described, which includes inserting the boss through the
( 58 ) Field of Classification Search aperture of the liner and connecting the boss and liner so that
CPC F17C 1/00 ; F17C 2205/0305 ; F17C the peripheral surface of the boss mates with the perimeter
223/0123 ; F17C 2221/035 ; F17C surface of the liner .
2221/012 ; F17C 1/06
See application file for complete search history . 17 Claims , 5 Drawing Sheets

150
17
152
f 140 137 128
124 160
10 120

to
2LX2
12 14

16
142135 138
130
-158

19
158 "

114
126
-116 136

122 -123
 US 10,746,354 B2
Page 2

( 52) U.S. CI .
CPC .. F17C 2201/054 (2013.01 ) ; F17C 2201/056
(2013.01 ) ; F17C 2203/0604 (2013.01 ) ; F17C
2203/066 (2013.01 ) ; F17C 2203/0619
(2013.01 ) ; F17C 2203/0639 (2013.01 ) ; F17C
2203/0646 (2013.01 ) ; F17C 2203/0648
(2013.01 ) ; F17C 2203/0663 (2013.01 ) ; F170
2205/0305 (2013.01 ) ; F17C 2209/224
( 2013.01 ) ; F17C 2221/011 (2013.01 ) ; F17C
2221/012 (2013.01 ) ; F17C 2221/014
( 2013.01 ) ; F170 2221/033 ( 2013.01 ) ; F17C
2221/035 (2013.01 ) ; F17C 2223/0123
( 2013.01 )
( 56 ) References Cited
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
6,186,356 B1 2/2001 Berkley
7,648,042 B2 1/2010 Lee
7,819,613 B2 10/2010 Strom
8,397,938 B2 3/2013 Strack
8,448,808 B2 5/2013 Tani
8,733,581 B1 5/2014 Olson
8,820,570 B2 9/2014 Strack
9,151,447 B2
10/2015 Strack
9,316,357 B2
4/2016 Heo
2014/0318691 Al 10/2014 Olson
2017/0284601 A1 * 10/2017 Kusaba F17C 1/08

FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS

WO 2010096517 A1 8/2010
WO 2016018679 Al 2/2016
* cited by examiner
U.S. Patent Aug. 18, 2020 Sheet 1 of 5 US 10,746,354 B2

14 10
12 14

2LX2 16
16
FIG . 1
( PRIOR ART)
14 18
10

60 20

35 24
19
-34
23
32
17
26

62
16 - 37
22 24

38
60 20

18
FIG . 2
(PRIOR ART)
U.S. Patent Aug. 18, 2020 Sheet 2 of 5 US 10,746,354 B2

150
17

7--7
152
124 .
140 137
160
128

120
158 "
-158
130

142135 138 19 114

126
136
-116

FIG . 3
122 123

-150
-137 128
140 146 -160

10 €
158 "
124
120
-158

130 162
138
135 136
142
116
FIG . 4
U.S. Patent Aug. 18, 2020 Sheet 3 of 5 US 10,746,354 B2

154
17

FIG . 5
V
|
130 128
126
152 - 160
120
135
116 136
142 19
140
123
144

1154
154

128
17
| 130
FIG . 6 1126 160 '
152
19
120 '
116 ' 135
136
1123
I 140
142
144 '

154

1 140.
t154 17

130 128
FIG . 7 426 160 ' 19
1521
135
120
116 ''1
136 142
123 144
U.S. Patent Aug. 18, 2020 Sheet 4 of 5 US 10,746,354 B2

140 124
128

116 130
*****
148 138

FIG . 8

ning
***

123

FIG . 9
160

136 120 "

142

144
156
135
U.S. Patent Aug. 18, 2020 Sheet 5 of 5 US 10,746,354 B2

128a 1280
128b
158a "
158b " 158c "
158a ' 158b ' 158c '

A B ?

A B ?

116a - 116b 116c

123 123 123

FIG . 10A FIG . 10B FIG . 10C

128d 128e

158d " 158e "

158
158d'
E
D

5
123
FIG . 10D
1160
D

123

FIG . 10E
E

116e
 US 10,746,354 B2
1 2
THREADED BOSS FOR PRESSURE VESSEL “ Boss for a filament wound pressure vessel, ” which is
hereby incorporated by reference . Boss 16 includes neck 22
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED having exterior surface 23 and a port 26. The port 26
APPLICATION perpendicularly traverses the exterior surface 23 of the boss
5 16 and allows fluid communication between the exterior
This application claims the benefit of priority from U.S. environment 19 and the interior environment 17 of pressure
Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 510,328 , filed May vessel 10. The boss 16 also includes a flange 24 (depicted as
24,2017 , whereby fully incorporated by reference an annular flange ) extending radially outward from port 26
BACKGROUND 1
of neck 22. As shown , FIG . 2 illustrates an interface 60
between the shell 18 and the liner 20. FIG . 2 also illustrates
an interface 62 between the liner 20 and the boss 16. In this
Pressure vessels are commonly used for containing a disclosure, surfaces, directions , and elements facing interior
variety of fluids under pressure , such as hydrogen , oxygen , environment 17 are referred to with the descriptor “ interior,”
natural gas , nitrogen, propane, methane and other fuels, for
example. Generally, pressure vessels can be of any size or and surfaces, directions , and elements facing exterior envi
15 ronment
configuration . The vessels can be heavy or light, single -use 19 are referred to with the descriptor “ exterior. ” It
( e.g. , disposable ), reusable , subjected to high pressures is to be understood that this notation is not limiting ; rather,
( greater than 50 pounds per square inch ( psi) ( 344,738 it is provided for convenience and ease of comprehension ,
pascal ) , for example ), low pressures ( less than 50 psi or and other descriptors may also be used and / or suitable .
344,738 pascal , for example ), or used for storing fluids at 20 Generally, flange 24 of boss 16 is contained between
elevated or cryogenic temperatures, for example. portions of liner 20 and / or is sandwiched between the liner
Suitable pressure vessel shell materials include metals , 20 and the shell 18. Typically, shell 18 abuts neck 22. In
such as steel ; or composites, which may include laminated certain embodiments, flange 24 includes an exterior side 38
layers of wound fiberglass filaments or other synthetic and an interior side 37. Flange 24 may include at least one
filaments bonded together by a thermal - setting or thermo- 25 groove 32 (depicted as an annular groove ) that is shaped to
plastic resin . The fiber may be fiberglass, aramid , carbon, accept a tab 34 ( such as an annular tab ) of liner 20. This
graphite , or any other generally known fibrous reinforcing construction secures the boss 16 to the pressure vessel 10
material. The resin material used may be pxy , polyester, and provides a seal at interface 62 between the boss 16 and
vinyl ester, thermoplastic, or any other suitable resinous liner 20 .
material capable of providing fiber - to - fiber bonding, fiber 30 A method of forming a pressure vessel 10 includes
layer - to -layer bonding, and the fragmentation resistance mounting a boss on a mandrel and allowing a fluid polymer
required for the particular application in which the vessel is material for liner 20 to flow around flange 24 and into
to be used . The composite construction of the vessels groove 32 of boss 16. The liner material then solidifies ,
provides numerous advantages such as lightness in weight thereby forming, in some embodiments, a portion 35 of liner
and resistance to corrosion, fatigue and catastrophic failure. 35 20 adjacent to exterior side 38 of flange 24 , and tab 34
These attributes are due to the high specific strengths of the received within groove 32. Liner 20 is thereby mechanically
reinforcing fibers or filaments. interlocked with boss 16. Accordingly, even under extreme
A polymeric or other non -metallic resilient liner or blad pressure conditions, separation of liner 20 from boss 16 is
der is often disposed within a composite shell to seal the prevented .
vessel and prevent internal fluids from contacting the com- 40 Typically, shell 18 is formed from wound fibers and
posite material. The liner can be manufactured by compres surrounds the liner 20 and at least a portion of flange 24 of
sion molding, blow molding, injection molding, or any other boss 16. In one method, a dispensing head for the fibers
generally known technique. Alternatively, the liner can be moves in such a way as to wrap the fiber on the liner 20 in
made of other materials, including steel , aluminum , nickel, a desired pattern . If the pressure vessel 10 is cylindrical,
titanium , platinum , gold , silver, stainless steel , and any 45 rather than spherical, fiber winding is normally applied in
alloys thereof. Such materials can be generally characterized both a substantially longitudinal ( helical) and circumferen
as having a high modulus of elasticity. In one embodiment, tial (hoop ) wrap pattern . This winding process is defined by
a liner is formed of blow molded high density polyethylene a number of factors , such as resin content, fiber configura
tion , winding tension , and the pattern of the wrap in relation
FIG . 1 illustrates an elongated pressure vessel 10 , such as 50 to the axis of the liner 20. Details relevant to the formation
that disclosed in U.S. Pat . No. 5,476,189 , entitled “ Pressure of an exemplary pressure vessel are disclosed in U.S. Pat.
vessel with damage mitigating system , ” which is hereby No. 4,838,971 , entitled “ Filament Winding Process and
incorporated by reference. Pressure vessel 10 has a main Apparatus, ” which is incorporated herein by reference .
body section 12 and substantially hemispherical or dome
shaped end sections 14. A boss 16 , typically constructed of 55 SUMMARY
aluminum , is provided at one or both ends of the pressure
vessel 10 to provide a port for communication between the In one aspect , a boss includes a neck and a flange that
interior environment 17 of the pressure vessel 10 and the extends radially outward from the neck . The neck includes
exterior environment 19. As shown in FIG . 2 , pressure a bore therethrough, wherein the bore has a longitudinal
vessel 10 is formed with liner 20 ( such as an inner polymer 60 axis . The flange includes an exterior surface, an interior
liner ) covered by a shell 18. In an example, the shell 18 can surface, and a peripheral surface at a farthest extent from the
be a filament -wound composite shell . The shell 18 resolves longitudinal axis . The peripheral surface connects the inte
structural loads on the pressure vessel 10 , while liner 20 rior surface and the exterior surface and includes , along any
provides a gas barrier. radius of the boss , a first circumferential ridge and a second
FIG . 2 illustrates a partial cross - sectional view , taken 65 circumferential ridge , wherein the first circumferential ridge
along line 2-2 of FIG . 1 , of an end section 14 including boss is located closer to the exterior surface than the second
16 , such as that disclosed in U.S. Pat . No.5,429,845 , entitled circumferential ridge.
 US 10,746,354 B2
3 4
In another aspect , a pressure vessel includes a boss and a triangular cross - sectional shape having first and second
liner. The boss includes a neck and a flange that extends surfaces that meet at an apex .
radially outward from the neck . The neck includes a bore 7. The boss of item 6 , wherein at least one of the first and
therethrough , wherein the bore has a longitudinal axis. The second surfaces is substantially perpendicular to the longi
flange includes an exterior surface, an interior surface, and 5 tudinal axis .
a peripheral surface at a farthest extent from the longitudinal 8. The boss of any of items 1-7 , wherein at least one of the
axis . The peripheral surface connects the interior surface and first and second circumferential ridges has a convex curve
the exterior surface and includes , along any radius of the shape.
boss , a first circumferential ridge and a second circumfer 10 9. The boss of any of items 1-8 , wherein the first and second
ential ridge , wherein the first circumferential ridge is located circumferential ridges are spaced apart.
closer to the exterior surface than the second circumferential 10. A pressure vessel including a boss and a liner, wherein :
ridge . The liner includes a perimeter surface that interfaces the boss includes :
with the peripheral surface of the boss , wherein the perim a neck including a bore therethrough , wherein the bore
eter surface has contours that mate with the first circumfer 15 has a longitudinal axis ; and
ential ridge and a second circumferential ridge. a flange that extends radially outward from the neck ,
In yet another aspect , a method of assembling a pressure wherein the flange includes :
vessel is described, wherein the pressure vessel includes a an exterior surface;
boss and a liner. The boss includes a neck and a flange that an interior surface ; and
extends radially outward from the neck . The neck includes 20 a peripheral surface at a farthest extent from the
a bore therethrough, wherein the bore has a longitudinal longitudinal axis ;
axis . The flange includes an exterior surface , an interior wherein the peripheral surface connects the inte
surface , and a peripheral surface at a farthest extent from the rior surface and the exterior surface; and
longitudinal axis . The peripheral surface connects the inte wherein the peripheral surface includes, along any
rior surface and the exterior surface and includes, along any 25 radius of the boss , a first circumferential ridge
radius of the boss , a first circumferential ridge and a second and a second circumferential ridge , wherein the
circumferential ridge, wherein the first circumferential ridge first circumferential ridge is located closer to
is located closer to the exterior surface than the second the exterior surface than the second circumfer
circumferential ridge . The liner includes an aperture having ential ridge; and
a perimeter surface . The method includes inserting the boss 30 the liner includes a perimeter surface that interfaces with
through the aperture of the liner and connecting the boss and the peripheral surface of the boss , wherein the perim
liner so that the peripheral surface of the boss mates with the eter surface has contours that mate with the first cir
perimeter surface of the liner. cumferential ridge and a second circumferential ridge.
This disclosure, in its various combinations, either in
apparatus or method form , may also be characterized by the 35 11.theTheboss
pressure vessel of item 10 , wherein :
includes an annular tab on an exterior surface of
following listing of items:
1. A boss including: the flange; and
a neck including a bore therethrough , wherein the bore the liner includes a groove configured to accept the tab .
has a longitudinal axis ; and 12. The pressure vessel of item 11 , wherein the tab and the
a flange that extends radially outward from the neck , 40 groove are configured so that an interference fit is achieved
wherein the flange includes : at an interface of the tab and the groove .
an exterior surface; 13. The pressure vessel of any of items 11-12 , further
an interior surface; and including a gasket disposed between the tab and the groove .
a peripheral surface at a farthest extent from the lon 14. The pressure vessel of any of items 10-13 , wherein the
gitudinal axis; 45 peripheral surface includes a helical screw .
wherein the peripheral surface connects the interior 15. A method of assembling a pressure vessel including a
surface and the exterior surface; and boss and a liner, wherein :
wherein the peripheral surface includes , along any the boss includes :
radius of the boss , a first circumferential ridge and a neck including a bore therethrough , wherein the bore
a second circumferential ridge , wherein the first 50 has a longitudinal axis ; and
circumferential ridge is located closer to the exte a flange that extends radially outward from the neck ,
rior surface than the second circumferential ridge . wherein the flange includes :
2. The boss of item 1 , wherein the peripheral surface an exterior surface;
includes a helical screw thread . an interior surface ; and
3. The boss of any of items 1-2 , wherein a first distance 55 a peripheral surface at a farthest extent from the
between the longitudinal axis and the first circumferential longitudinal axis;
ridge is equal to a second distance between the longitudinal wherein the peripheral surface connects the inte
axis and the second circumferential ridge. rior surface and the exterior surface; and
4. The boss of any of items 1-3 , wherein a first distance wherein the peripheral surface includes, along any
between the longitudinal axis and the first circumferential 60 radius of the boss , a first circumferential ridge
ridge is less than a second distance between the longitudinal and a second circumferential ridge , wherein the
axis and the second circumferential ridge. first circumferential ridge is located closer to
5. The boss of any of items 1-4 , wherein the first circum the exterior surface than the second circumfer
ferential ridge is smaller than the second circumferential ential ridge; and
ridge . 65 the liner includes an aperture having a perimeter surface ;
6. The boss of any of items 1-5 , wherein at least one of the the method including:
first and second circumferential ridges has a substantially inserting the boss through the aperture of the liner ; and
 US 10,746,354 B2
5 6
connecting the boss and liner so that the peripheral all cases , this disclosure presents the disclosed subject
surface of the boss mates with the perimeter surface of matter by way of representation and not limitation. It should
the liner. be understood that numerous other modifications and
16. The method of item 15 , wherein connecting the boss and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art
liner includes snap - fitting the peripheral surface of the boss 5 which fall within the scope of the principles of this disclo
with the perimeter surface of the liner. sure .
17. The method of any of items 15-16 , wherein connecting The figures may not be drawn to scale . In particular, some
the boss and liner includes rotating the peripheral surface of features may be enlarged relative to other features for clarity.
the boss against the perimeter surface of the liner to remove Moreover, where terms such as interior, exterior, above ,
material from the perimeter surface of the liner. 10 below, over, under, top , bottom , side , right, left, horizontal,
18. The method of item 17 , further including advancing the vertical, etc. , are used, it is to be understood that they are
boss along the longitudinal axis relative to the liner. used only for ease of understanding the description . It is
19. The method of any of items 15-18 , further including contemplated that structures may be oriented otherwise .
achieving an interference fit at an interface between the
peripheral surface of the boss and the perimeter surface of 15 DETAILED DESCRIPTION
the liner .
20. The method of any of items 15-19 , further including The orientations of the components of FIGS . 3-10E are
flexing the liner to allow passage of the boss through the different from those in FIG . 2 , in that the exterior surface
aperture , wherein the aperture has a circumferential dimen 123 of boss 116 is shown as a horizontal surface at the
sion smaller than a circumferential dimension of the periph- 20 bottom of each of the respective drawing figures. Moreover,
eral surface . in the drawings of the boss 116 of the present disclosure,
This summary is provided to introduce concepts in sim only half of the boss 116 is illustrated . It is to be understood
plified form that are further described below in the Detailed that each boss 116 is a generally annular, symmetrical
Description . This summary is not intended to identify key member, similar to boss 16 of FIG . 2. In exemplary embodi
features or essential features of the disclosed or claimed 25 ments, boss 116 is radially symmetrical about longitudinal
subject matter and is not intended to describe each disclosed axis 152 .
embodiment or every implementation of the disclosed or As shown in FIG . 3 , the present disclosure describes a
claimed subject matter. Specifically, features disclosed boss 116 for a pressure vessel . Boss 116 includes neck 122
herein with respect to one embodiment may be equally having a port or bore 126 therethrough. Bore 126 has a
applicable to another. Further, this summary is not intended 30 longitudinal axis 152. Boss 116 has a flange 124 that extends
to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed radially outward from neck 122. Flange 124 includes an
subject matter. Many other novel advantages, features , and exterior side 138 facing toward exterior environment 19 and
relationships will become apparent as this description pro an interior side 137 facing interior environment 17. Periph
ceeds . The figures and the description that follow more eral surface 128 is located on flange 124 at a farthest extent
particularly exemplify illustrative embodiments. 35 from bore 126. Peripheral surface 128 connects exterior side
138 and interior side 137 of flange 124 .
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIGS . 3-10E show radial cross - sectional views of boss
116 and / or liner 120 .
The disclosed subject matter will be further explained Viewing a cross - section along any radius of boss 116 ,
with reference to the attached figures, wherein like structure 40 peripheral surface 128 includes circumferential ridges 158 .
or system elements are referred to by like reference numer A first circumferential ridge 158 ' is located closer to the
als throughout the several views . Moreover, analogous exterior side 138 of flange 124 than a second circumferential
structures may have reference numerals that are indexed by ridge 158 " .
one hundred. In an exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS . 3 and 4 ,
FIG . 1 is a side view of a typical conventional pressure 45 peripheral surface 128 includes a helical screw thread .
vessel . Accordingly, in the cross - sectional view along any radius of
FIG . 2 is a partial cross - sectional view of one end of the boss 116 , first circumferential ridge 158 ' and a second
pressure vessel of FIG . 1 , taken along line 2-2 of FIG . 1 and circumferential ridge 158 " appear to be separate ; in three
showing a typical boss , liner and shell . dimensions , however, it is to be understood that in some
FIG . 3 is a partial cross sectional view of an end portion 50 embodiments, they are connected in a helical orientation
of an exemplary pressure vessel boss and liner assembly. about peripheral surface 128. In other embodiments, an
FIG . 4 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG . 3 . adjacent circumferential ridges 158 are discrete structures
FIG . 5 is an exploded view of the exemplary boss and that are separated by a valley therebetween .
liner components of FIG . 3 . Boss 116 may be inserted into a pre -fabricated dome
FIG . 6 is similar to FIG . 5 but shows second exemplary 55 shaped end 114 of liner 120 and annealed to secure the
embodiments of a pressure vessel boss and liner. attachment of the boss 116 and the liner 120 in assembly
FIG . 7 is similar to FIGS . 5 and 6 but shows the boss of 150. Such pre - fabrication may be accomplished by known
FIG . 6 being used with the liner of FIG . 5 . means including molding and machining, for example. An
FIG . 8 is a partial cross sectional view of a boss and additional locking feature, such as a tab 130 in the boss 116
gasket assembly. 60 to be inserted into a groove 136 in the liner 120 , may be also
FIG . 9 is a partial cross sectional view of a portion of a included on an exterior side 138 of the flange 124 to improve
liner in an intermediate formation step . sealing and to prevent movement of the boss 116 relative to
FIGS . 10A - 10E show different embodiments for a periph the liner 120 after formation of assembly 150. Moreover, an
eral surface of a boss of the present disclosure . annular groove 140 in the boss 116 can be configured to
While the above - identified figures set forth one or more 65 accept an annular tab 142 of liner 120 to improve sealing and
embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, other embodi to prevent movement of the boss 116 relative to the liner
ments are also contemplated , as noted in the disclosure . In 120. While no shell 18 is illustrated in FIGS . 3-10E , it is to
 US 10,746,354 B2
7 8
be understood that in a typical pressure vessel , such a shell features to allow the boss 116 and liner 120 to be snap - fit
would be formed over the assembly 150 of boss 116 and together (i.e. , wherein cooperating elements flex and return
liner 120 . to their respective unflexed configurations to allow mutual
The described concepts lead to reduced stress concentra passage of complementary structures ). In another assembly
tions in the boss 116 , thereby increasing the potential 5 method , boss 116 including threaded peripheral surface 128
lifetime of the boss 116. Moreover, the boss 116 can be can be used as a tap to create a corresponding cooperating
secured the liner 120 after the liner 120 is molded . In an feature in opening 144 of liner 120 as boss 116 is inserted
exemplary embodiment, structures such as ridges, which can into opening 144. In such a method of assembly, the boss
be connected in the form of threads, on peripheral surface 116 would be rotated about its longitudinal axis 152
128 are positioned at a far extent of the flange 124 , distant 10 ( through a center of port 126 ) as it is inserted into liner 120
from port 126. In an exemplary embodiment, an opening in direction 154. The combination of the turning and axial
144 in the liner 120 ( labeled in FIG . 9 ) is smaller than the advancement motions causes the threaded peripheral surface
outer diameter of flange 124 at peripheral surface 128. Thus, 128 to carve out and remove portions of the liner material at
the liner 120 is typically flexed to allow passage of the larger perimeter surface 160 of opening 144 of liner 120 to form an
boss flange 124 , which can be connected to the liner 120 15 interlocked interface 162 .
from the interior 17 of the liner 120 ( as shown in FIGS . 5-7 , FIG . 5 shows a boss 116 having a threaded peripheral
for example ). This leads to a secure connection, wherein surface 128 that is oriented substantially parallel to longi
boss 116 and liner 120 are connected not only by cooper tudinal axis 152. Moreover, perimeter surface 160 of open
ating mechanical structures at peripheral surface 128 of boss ing 144 of liner 120 is also substantially parallel to longi
116 and opening 144 of liner 120 , but also by a liner portion 20 tudinal axis 152. In FIG . 6 , components are shown wherein
135 that overlies part of the boss flange 124. It is contem boss 116 ' has a threaded peripheral surface 128 ' that is
plated that a snap - lock configuration can also be used inclined relative to longitudinal axis 152. Liner 120 ' has an
instead of a threaded engagement. opening 144 ' having perimeter surface 160 ' with a comple
FIG . 4 is an enlarged view of the joint between boss 116 mentary inclined orientation. In FIG . 7 , the boss 116 ' of FIG .
and liner 120 at interface 162. In the illustrated embodiment, 25 6 having an inclined threaded peripheral surface 128 ' is
an interference fit is provided between tab 130 of boss 116 shown with a liner 120 having an opening 144 with a
and groove 136 of liner 120 on the exterior surface of flange perimeter surface 160 that is substantially parallel to longi
124. In the illustrated embodiment, liner 120 is formed so tudinal axis 152. Accordingly, in the assembly of boss 116 '
that an uncompressed surface of groove 136 would extend to and liner 120 of FIG . 7 , an interference fit is provided at a
the dotted line 146 in the absence ofboss 116. Once boss 116 30 portion of interface 162 between peripheral surface 128 ' and
and liner 120 are assembled together, that portion of groove perimeter surface 160 , for a robust seal there between .
136 of liner 120 is compressed by tab 130 of boss 116. This As shown in FIGS . 3 and 4 , when boss 116 and liner 120
interference fit thereby provides a robust seal between boss are attached in assembly 150 to form at least a portion of a
116 and liner 120 at the interface of tab 130 of boss 116 and pressure vessel , perimeter surface 160 of liner 120 interfaces
groove 136 of liner 120 . 35 with peripheral surface 128 of boss 116 at interface 162 .
FIG . 8 illustrates another mechanism that can be used in Perimeter surface 160 has contours that mate with the
addition or alternatively. In FIG . 8 , a sealing element 148 is contours ( e.g. , circumferential ridges 158 ) of peripheral
shown on a surface of flange 124 on exterior side 138 that surface 128. Perimeter surface 160 may be manufactured
will be adjacent portion 135 of liner 120. Such a sealing with such contours. In another embodiment, the contours are
element 148 may be formed as an annular gasket in one 40 imparted to perimeter surface 160 as boss 116 and liner 120
embodiment. In another embodiment, sealing element 148 are assembled together.
can be provided on flange 124 and / or portion 135 as a FIG . 9 shows liner 120 in an intermediate formation step ,
coating or layer of caulking material, for example. wherein a molded portion of liner 120 " includes stand -offs
An assembly 150 of boss 116 and liner 120 , as shown in 156 , formed by liner material in cavities of the mold . Such
FIG . 3 , can be formed by the methods described above with 45 cavities are provided so that excess liner material can be
reference to FIG . 2 , wherein a molten liner material is received therein . This helps to ensure a high fidelity of
allowed to flow around portions of boss 116 , thereby mold surface molding at opening 144 , as the use of excess liner
ing to flange 124. In another method of manufacture , liner material in molding liner 120 helps to eliminate bubbles ,
120 may be pre - fabricated separately from boss 116. Such voids , and other molding irregularities. After the molding
pre - fabrication may be accomplished by known means 50 and curing of liner 120 " , stand - offs 156 can be removed by
including molding and machining, for example. FIGS . 5-7 means including cutting or breaking from the desired form
illustrate several embodiments of cooperating bosses 116 , of the completed liner 120 .
116 ' and liners 120 , 120 ' for forming assembly 150. In an FIGS . 10A - 10E show different embodiments of a ridged
exemplary method , boss 116 is inserted into opening 144 of peripheral surface 128a - 128e for a boss 116a - 116e of the
liner 120 so that boss 116 is attached to liner 120 from an 55 present disclosure . While several variations are explicitly
interior 17 of liner 120. In some embodiments, insertion of illustrated , it is contemplated that other configurations can
boss 116 through opening 144 includes flexing of liner 120 , also be devised .
especially in a case where opening 144 has a circumferential FIG . 10A shows a boss 116a with a threaded peripheral
dimension smaller than a circumferential dimension of surface 128a having variable pitch diameter threads. For
flange 124 (e.g. , at peripheral surface 128 , measured 60 example, first circumferential ridge 158a ' is smaller than
orthogonally from axis 152 ) . As used in this description, the second circumferential ridge 158a " . A thread of this form
terms “ circumferential, ” “ circumference” and the like refer makes it easier to install the boss 116a into an unthreaded
to perimeter references for shapes that may or may not be plastic liner 120 , as shown in FIG . 5. In such a case , threaded
circles , including polygons , oval , ellipses , and other sub peripheral surface 128a carves out complementary grooves
stantially closed shapes . 65 in liner 120 when boss 116a is twisted into opening 144 of
In one embodiment, the surfaces of boss 116 and liner 120 liner 120. A lead - in thread 158a ' is smaller, allowing for easy
at interface 162 are formed with cooperating structural insertion of boss 116a into the liner opening 144 , thereby
 US 10,746,354 B2
9 10
acting as a pilot for a larger thread 158a " . In this embodi a peripheral surface at a farthest extent from the lon
ment, a reduced pitch is also provided, as first circumfer gitudinal axis ;
ential ridge 158a ' and second circumferential ridge 158a " wherein the peripheral surface includes a helical
are spaced apart, as viewed as a radial cross section . With screw thread ;
this reduced or lower pitched thread , few revolutions are 5 wherein the peripheral surface connects the interior
needed to seat the boss 116a into the opening 144 of liner surface and the exterior surface; and
120. A resulting benefit is a reduction in assembly time wherein the peripheral surface includes, along any
required to form assembly 150 . radius of the boss , a first circumferential ridge and
FIG . 10B shows a boss 116b with a threaded peripheral a second circumferential ridge , wherein the first
surface 128b that is inclined, as discussed with reference to 10 circumferential ridge is located closer to the exte
FIGS . 6 and 7. With such an inclination of peripheral surface rior surface than the second circumferential ridge.
128b , first circumferential ridge 1586' is closer to longitu 2. The boss of claim 1 , wherein a first distance between
dinal axis 152 ( shown in FIG . 7 ) than second circumferential the longitudinal axis and the first circumferential ridge is
ridge 1586 " . As shown with reference to FIG . 7 , this type of equal to a second distance between the longitudinal axis and
thread configuration increases the sealing potential at inter- 15 the second circumferential ridge.
face 162 because of an interference between the surface 3. The boss of claim 1 , wherein a first distance between
128b and perimeter surface 160 of liner 120 . the longitudinal axis and the first circumferential ridge is
FIG . 10C shows a boss 116c with a threaded peripheral less than a second distance between the longitudinal axis and
surface 128c having few , spaced -apart threads or ridges 158 . the second circumferential ridge.
Thus, first circumferential ridge 158c ' and second circum- 20 4. The boss of claim 1 , wherein the first circumferential
ferential ridge 158c " are spaced apart, as viewed as a radial ridge is smaller than the second circumferential ridge.
cross section . With this reduced or lower pitched thread , 5. The boss of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first and
fewer revolutions are needed to seat the boss 116e into the second circumferential ridges has a substantially triangular
opening 144 of liner 120. A resulting benefit is a reduction cross - sectional shape having first and second surfaces that
in assembly time required to form assembly 150 . 25 meet at an apex .
FIG . 10D shows a boss 116d having a threaded peripheral 6. The boss of claim 5 , wherein at least one of the first and
surface 128d with buttress threads. With a surface of each of second surfaces is substantially perpendicular to the longi
the circumferential ridges 158d oriented substantially nor tudinal axis .
mal to longitudinal axis 152 , there is more shear area contact 7. The boss of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first and
at interface 162 than with a standard configuration of 30 second circumferential ridges has a convex curve shape .
threaded peripheral surface 128 shown in FIG . 4. Accord 8. The boss of claim 1 , wherein the first and second
ingly, once assembled into opening 144 of liner 120 , this circumferential ridges are spaced apart.
configuration of threads 158d resists separation from liner 9. A pressure vessel including a boss and a liner, wherein :
120 in the direction opposite the insertion direction 154 . the boss includes :
This design increases the axial load capability in one direc- 35 a neck including a bore therethrough, wherein the bore
tion . Thus, the connection between the boss 116d and the has a longitudinal axis ; and
liner 120 remains robust during the filament winding process a flange that extends radially outward from the neck ,
for forming a shell 18 and during the service life of the wherein the flange includes:
pressure vessel 10 . an exterior surface;
In the embodiments of FIGS . 10A - 10D , each of the 40 an interior surface ;
circumferential ridges 158a- 158d has a substantially trian a peripheral surface at a farthest extent from the
longitudinal axis ;
gular cross - sectional shape having first and second surfaces
that meet at an apex . However, other ridge configurations are wherein the peripheral surface connects the inte
also possible. rior surface and the exterior surface; and
For example, FIG . 10E shows a boss 116e having a 45 wherein the peripheral surface includes, along any
threaded peripheral surface 128e with knuckle threads, in radius of the boss , a first circumferential ridge
which circumferential ridges 158e have convexly curved , and a second circumferential ridge , wherein the
rather than sharply angled , edges . This can reduce stress in first circumferential ridge is located closer to
the interface 162 between the threaded surface 128e and in the exterior surface than the second circumfer
opening 144 in liner 120 , which can prevent the plastic 50 ential ridge ; and
material of the liner 120 from forming defects. an annular tab on an exterior surface, of the flange;
Although the subject of this disclosure has been described and
with reference to several embodiments, workers skilled in the liner includes ;
the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and a perimeter surface that interfaces with the peripheral
detail without departing from the scope of the disclosure . In 55 surface of the boss , wherein the perimeter surface
addition , any feature or description disclosed with respect to has contours that mate with the first circumferential
one embodiment is applicable to and may be incorporated in ridge and the second circumferential ridge; and
another embodiment, and vice - versa . a groove configured to accept the tab ;
wherein a gasket is disposed between the tab and the
What is claimed is : 60 groove .
1. A boss including : 10. The pressure vessel of claim 9 , wherein the tab and the
a neck including a bore therethrough, wherein the bore groove are configured so that an interference fit is achieved
has a longitudinal axis; and at an interface of the tab and the groove .
a flange that extends radially outward from the neck , 11. The pressure vessel of claim 9 , wherein the peripheral
wherein the flange includes : 65 surface includes a helical screw .
an exterior surface; 12. A method of assembling a pressure vessel including a
an interior surface; and boss and a liner, wherein :
 US 10,746,354 B2
11 12
the boss includes : connecting the boss and liner so that the peripheral
a neck including a bore therethrough , wherein the bore surface of the boss mates with the perimeter surface
has a longitudinal axis ; and of the liner.
a flange that extends radially outward from the neck , 13. The method of claim 12 , wherein connecting the boss
wherein the flange includes: 5 and liner includes snap - fitting the peripheral surface of the
an exterior surface; boss with the perimeter surface of the liner.
an interior surface ; and 14. The method of claim 12 , wherein connecting the boss
a peripheral surface at a farthest extent from the and liner includes rotating the peripheral surface of the boss
longitudinal axis ; against the perimeter surface of the liner to remove material
wherein the peripheral surface connects the inte- 10 from15.the
Theperimeter
method ofsurface
claim of14 the liner.including advancing
, further
rior surface and the exterior surface ; and
wherein the peripheral surface includes, along any the16.bossThealong the longitudinal axis relative to the liner.
radius of the boss , a first circumferential ridge an interference fit ofat claim
method 12 , further including achieving
an interface between the peripheral
and a second circumferential ridge , wherein the
first circumferential ridge is located closerto 15 surface ofthe boss and the perimeter surface of the liner.
17. The method of claim 12 , further including flexing the
the exterior surface than the second circumfer
ential ridge; and liner to allow passage of the boss through the aperture,
the liner includes an aperture having a perimeter sur wherein the aperture has a circumferential dimension
face; smaller than a circumferential dimension of the peripheral
the method including: 20 surface .
inserting the boss through the aperture of the liner, and