Compressed gas storage containers and vehicles

Abstract

A compressed gas storage container (7) for pressurized storage of gas (H2), particularly hydrogen, includes a wall (9) surrounding a receiving area (10) for receiving gas (H2); and a depressurization mechanism (24) for discharging gas (H2) from the receiving area (10), wherein the depressurization mechanism (24) has a pyroelectric sensor fiber (28), wherein the depressurization mechanism (24) has a thermoelectric sensor fiber (29), wherein the depressurization mechanism (24) has a switching element (35) connected to the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28) and the thermoelectric sensor fiber (29), and wherein the thermoelectric sensor fiber (29) is configured to turn on the switching element (35) when heat (Q) caused by combustion is input into the wall (9), such that the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28) triggers the depressurization mechanism (24) to discharge gas (H2) from the receiving area (10).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a compressed gas storage container for pressurized storage of gas and a vehicle having such a compressed gas storage container. Background Technology

[0002] For storage and transportation of hydrogen, it can be stored in a gaseous state in a compressed gas storage container under an overpressure of several hundred bar, or in a liquid state at a condensation temperature. For applications in or at vehicles, especially in or at passenger cars, it is advantageous for space reasons to store hydrogen in a gaseous state in a compressed gas storage container as described above.

[0003] Legal requirements mandate that, in the event of intense heat, such as during vehicle combustion, hydrogen must be able to be released from compressed gas storage containers in a controlled manner to reliably prevent the containers from rupturing. For this purpose, industry knowledge dictates the use of so-called Pressure Release Devices (PRDs or Thermally Activated Pressure Release Devices, TPRDs), which are thermally triggered during combustion to release hydrogen in a controlled manner.

[0004] In this context, the law stipulates that this type of pressure relief unit can only be triggered mechanically or via analog circuitry. For safety reasons, triggering via software, such as through the vehicle's control instruments, is not permitted. The pressure relief unit can only be triggered when heat, such as heat from the vehicle's combustion, is directly introduced into it. Therefore, it is essentially only possible to perform localized thermal or fire detection. This requires improvement. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In this context, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved compressed gas storage container.

[0006] Therefore, a compressed gas storage container for pressurized storage of gases, particularly hydrogen, is proposed. The compressed gas storage container includes a wall that surrounds a receiving area for receiving the gas; and a depressurization mechanism for discharging the gas from the receiving area. The depressurization mechanism has pyroelectric sensor fibers and thermoelectric sensor fibers, and has a switching element connected to the pyroelectric sensor fibers and thermoelectric sensor fibers. The thermoelectric sensor fibers are configured to activate the switching element when heat from combustion is input into the wall, causing the pyroelectric sensor fibers to trigger the depressurization mechanism to discharge the gas from the receiving area.

[0007] By using a thermoelectric sensor fiber to connect the switching element, the triggering of the depressurization mechanism can be reliably prevented in the event of an impact on the compressed gas storage container, as the thermoelectric sensor fiber is insensitive to impact. Undesirable venting is reliably prevented in the event of an impact. Triggering the depressurization mechanism via the pyroelectric sensor fiber allows it to be activated without external power, thus releasing gas from the receiving area. This is particularly advantageous in combustion situations, especially in terms of meeting legal requirements. Alternatively, the depressurization mechanism can also be triggered using a thermoelectric sensor fiber that can also provide electrical energy to activate it.

[0008] The compressed gas storage container may also be referred to as a compressed gas storage tank, a hydrogen compressed gas storage container, a hydrogen compressed gas storage vessel, a hydrogen storage container, or the like. In particular, this compressed gas storage container is suitable for storing and / or transporting hydrogen. However, any other gas may also be stored in this compressed gas storage container. Hereinafter, it is assumed that the gas is hydrogen. Therefore, the terms "gas" and "hydrogen" are used interchangeably.

[0009] The term "compressed gas storage container" as used herein means that gas can be stored in its gaseous, condensed state under pressure within the container. For example, the gas inside the compressed gas storage container may be subjected to a pressure of 800 to 1000 bar. Liquefaction of the gas is not specifically addressed herein. The gas may be introduced or injected into the receiving area in a gaseous state.

[0010] Compressed gas storage containers are preferably part of a vehicle. The vehicle may have multiple such compressed gas storage containers. These containers are suitable for supplying gas at appropriate supply pressures and temperatures to the vehicle's consumers, particularly fuel cells. The compressed gas storage container can be part of the consumer's gas supply system or hydrogen supply system. However, compressed gas storage containers can also be used in stationary applications, such as in building technology. In particular, compressed gas storage containers can be used in building heating or in central thermal power plants.

[0011] The wall portion preferably includes a load-bearing covering, which is at least sectionally made of fiber-reinforced plastic. The covering surrounds an optional liner. The liner is disposed inside the covering. Therefore, the covering preferably completely encloses the liner. The liner is preferably airtight. The liner may also be referred to as a lining. The liner may include plastic materials, metal materials, and / or fiber-reinforced plastic.

[0012] The compressed gas storage container, and therefore its walls, are preferably cylindrical. The compressed gas storage container or its walls are associated with an axis of symmetry or a central axis, and can be configured to be rotationally symmetrical about this axis of symmetry or central axis. The walls preferably comprise a hollow cylindrical or tubular base section, which is closed on both sides by cap-shaped or dome-shaped wall end sections. Coverings and linings are provided both in the regions of the base section and in the regions of the wall end sections.

[0013] In this context, the term "enclosed" or "defined" by the wall specifically means that the wall defines the geometry or boundary of the receiving area. Therefore, the gas is received within the receiving area inside the wall. The receiving area is, in particular, a cavity surrounded by the wall. The receiving area particularly has a cylindrical geometry. The receiving area is hermetically isolated from the environment of the compressed gas storage container by means of the wall. The receiving area can be constructed to be rotationally symmetric about a central axis.

[0014] The pressure relief mechanism preferably has a pressure relief unit. The pressure relief unit is a component of the pressure relief mechanism. This specifically means that the pressure relief mechanism may have other components besides the pressure relief unit, such as pyroelectric sensor fibers, thermoelectric sensor fibers, or switching elements. The pressure relief unit is particularly a so-called pressure relief device (PRD) or thermally activated pressure relief device (TPRD). The pressure relief unit preferably includes a valve and a pyrotechnic loading section for triggering or opening the valve.

[0015] The pressure relief mechanism is configured to "drain" gas from the receiving area. In this context, this specifically means that, with the aid of the pressure relief mechanism, and especially with the aid of the pressure relief unit, gas can be completely drained from the receiving area within a very short time period, such as a few seconds to a few minutes. However, the draining or evacuation depends in principle on the size of the compressed gas storage container and may also take several minutes. This reliably avoids an undesirable pressure rise inside the compressed gas storage container during a combustion event, which could lead to an explosion of the compressed gas storage container.

[0016] By using pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers, combustion detection can be at least partially spatially decoupled from the pressure relief mechanism or unit. Pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers are used herein, in particular, as both sensors and energy sources. The entire outer side of the wall can be completely monitored using pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers. For this purpose, pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers are arranged on the outer side or embedded in the covering portion of the wall.

[0017] Pyroelectric sensor fibers can also be referred to as first sensor fibers. Therefore, the terms "pyroelectric sensor fiber" and "first sensor fiber" are used interchangeably herein. Thermoelectric sensor fibers can also be referred to as second sensor fibers. Therefore, the terms "thermoelectric sensor fiber" and "second sensor fiber" are used interchangeably herein.

[0018] The pressure relief unit, together with the pyroelectric sensor fibers, thermoelectric sensor fibers, and switching elements, forms the pressure relief mechanism. However, this does not preclude the pressure relief mechanism from having other components. The pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers are particularly deformable or bendable, and therefore can be wound into the wall in a helical or spiral shape.

[0019] The pyroelectric sensor fiber comprises a pyroelectric material, which can be a piezoelectric semiconductor crystal. Temperature changes in the pyroelectric material cause a measurable change in the voltage between the first and second electrodes of the pyroelectric sensor fiber. Therefore, the pyroelectric sensor fiber provides electrical energy. This electrical energy can be used to trigger a pressure relief mechanism.

[0020] In this context, "triggering" of a pressure relief mechanism or unit specifically means that the pyrotechnic loading section of the pressure relief unit is ignited, thereby opening the valve of the pressure relief unit to release gas into the environment. This triggering of the pressure relief mechanism is achieved by means of electrical energy generated by heat input from pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers.

[0021] Since pyroelectric materials are preferably piezoelectric semiconductor crystals, they also possess piezoelectric properties. "Piezoelectricity" should be understood herein as the change in polarization at a solid site when the solid undergoes elastic deformation, thus resulting in a voltage. Therefore, pyroelectric sensor fibers can also be referred to as pyroelectric and piezoelectric sensor fibers.

[0022] This specifically means that deformation of the pyroelectric material, such as deformation caused by impact events as described above acting on the pyroelectric sensor fiber, can also lead to a measurable change in the voltage between the two electrodes of the pyroelectric sensor fiber. For example, this type of impact event during a vehicle accident can act on the pyroelectric sensor fiber. However, the triggering of the pressure relief mechanism during a vehicle accident must be ruled out. Triggering of the pressure relief mechanism should only be caused by a combustion event.

[0023] To prevent the pressure relief mechanism from being triggered in an impact event, it incorporates thermoelectric sensor fibers and a switching element. The thermoelectric sensor fibers operate based on the so-called Seebeck effect. This specifically means that the thermoelectric sensor fibers can generate electrical energy when the temperature fluctuates. On the one hand, this electrical energy is used to switch the element, causing the electrical energy generated by the pyroelectric sensor fibers to trigger the pressure relief mechanism. On the other hand, in addition to the energy generated by the pyroelectric sensor fibers, the electrical energy generated by the thermoelectric sensor fibers is also used to trigger the pressure relief mechanism.

[0024] When an impact event occurs to the thermoelectric sensor fiber, the fiber does not generate electrical energy, preventing the switching element from being activated and thus the fiber from triggering the pressure relief mechanism. To manufacture the thermoelectric sensor fiber, two different precious metals can be joined together, particularly by welding, using a material-fitting method.

[0025] Therefore, a pressure relief mechanism can be used to distinguish between combustion events and impact events. "Combustion event" in this document should be understood as combustion or fire acting on the compressed gas storage container, particularly on the walls, thereby introducing heat into the walls and thus also into the pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers. Heat can be introduced into the walls and pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers, especially by infrared radiation. In other words, a combustion event should be understood as a fire or combustion acting on the pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers. Therefore, the terms "combustion event" and "combustion" are used interchangeably in this document. That is, the terms "combustion event" and "combustion" can be used as synonyms.

[0026] In this context, "impact event" should be understood as an impact, such as an impact caused by a vehicle accident, acting on the wall and thus also on the pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers, without heat being introduced into the wall and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers. Therefore, the terms "impact event" and "impact" are used interchangeably herein. That is, the terms "impact event" and "impact" can be used synonymously. In particular, "impact event" should be understood as a brief force pulse acting on a compressed gas storage container. However, this does not preclude the possibility that this type of impact event can also include multiple consecutive impacts.

[0027] The term "connection" of pyroelectric sensor fibers and thermoelectric sensor fibers to switching elements, in particular here, means that the pressure relief mechanism has a circuit, especially an analog circuit, comprising pyroelectric sensor fibers, thermoelectric sensor fibers, and switching elements. The pyroelectric sensor fibers, thermoelectric sensor fibers, and switching elements are electrically connected to each other to form a circuit. The switching elements can be, for example, transistors, especially npn-transistors (negative-positive-negative) or relays.

[0028] In the event of a combustion event, the thermoelectric sensor fiber supplies power to the switching element, thereby activating the switching element and allowing the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber to supply power to the glowing bridge of the pyrotechnic loading section to ignite the pyrotechnic loading section. As mentioned above, the switching element is not activated in an impact event, so the electrical current generated by the impact event in the pyroelectric sensor fiber cannot be used to trigger the pressure relief mechanism.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the depressurization mechanism has a valve for discharging gas from the receiving area and a pyrotechnic loading section, wherein a pyroelectric sensor fiber ignites the pyrotechnic loading section to open the valve.

[0030] As previously described, the pyroelectric sensor fiber generates electrical energy that can be used to ignite the pyrotechnic loading section. Additionally, the thermoelectric sensor fiber also generates electrical energy during the combustion event. This electrical energy, along with the energy generated by the pyroelectric sensor fiber, can also be used to ignite the pyrotechnic loading section. The valve is preferably closed in its initial state. By igniting the pyrotechnic loading section, the valve changes from a closed state to an open state. The valve is preferably an on-off valve; that is, the valve is either completely closed or completely open. The pyrotechnic loading section can be ignited by means of a glow bridge as previously described, which can be powered by the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber. The glow bridge begins to glow, thereby igniting the pyrotechnic loading section. This opens the valve to release gases into the environment. Igniting the pyrotechnic loading section can move valve components, such as the valve body or valve stem, to open the valve.

[0031] According to other embodiments, pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers are arranged in or on the wall portion.

[0032] Pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers can be incorporated into the covering portion, particularly the fiber composite plastic of the covering portion, during the winding process of the covering portion of the wall. The degree to which the pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers are covered by the fiber composite plastic can be adjusted by the winding process, and thus the detection area for combustion detection can be adjusted.

[0033] According to other embodiments, pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers are at least segmentally embedded in the wall portion.

[0034] In this case, the pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers can be at least sectionally covered by the fiber composite plastic. Alternatively, the pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers can be completely covered by the fiber composite plastic. Thus, the pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers are protected from damage within the fiber composite plastic. Viewed radially from the compressed gas storage container, the pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers can be embedded in the wall to a depth of 1 mm to a maximum of 5 mm.

[0035] According to other embodiments, when viewed along the longitudinal direction of the compressed gas storage container, pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers are spirally wound around the wall.

[0036] The longitudinal direction extends along the aforementioned central axis. This specifically means that the pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers have a helical or vortex geometry. Here, the pyroelectric sensor fibers and thermoelectric sensor fibers extend intersecting or parallel to each other. Multiple vortices or cross-vortices can also be present. Furthermore, the pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers can be designed in particular to be helical, multiple vortex, cross-vortex, or similar shapes. The pitch of this helical geometry of the pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers can be arbitrarily chosen. For example, the coils of the pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers can be arranged closer together or further apart. This can affect the sensitivity of the pressure relief mechanism. Viewed along the longitudinal direction, the spacing or loop distance of the pyroelectric sensor fibers and / or thermoelectric sensor fibers can preferably be a maximum of 100 mm. Particularly preferably, the aforementioned loop distance is a maximum of 50 mm.

[0037] According to other embodiments, pyroelectric sensor fibers and thermoelectric sensor fibers extend parallel to each other to form a sensor fiber assembly of a pressure relief mechanism.

[0038] Pyroelectric sensor fibers and thermoelectric sensor fibers can be interwoven or twisted together. Alternatively, pyroelectric sensor fibers and thermoelectric sensor fibers can also extend parallel to each other without this type of twisting. A sensor fiber assembly can also be referred to as a sensor fiber bundle. Therefore, the terms "sensor fiber assembly" and "sensor fiber bundle" are used interchangeably herein. However, this parallel arrangement of the two types of sensor fibers is not mandatory. Sensor fibers can also cross each other.

[0039] According to other embodiments, when heat caused by combustion is input into the wall, both the pyroelectric sensor fiber and the thermoelectric sensor fiber trigger the depressurization mechanism to discharge the gas from the receiving area.

[0040] As previously mentioned, in the case of heat input caused by combustion, both the pyroelectric sensor fiber and the thermoelectric sensor fiber generate electrical energy. This electrical energy can be used to trigger the pressure relief mechanism. Additionally, the electrical energy generated by the thermoelectric sensor fiber due to combustion is also used to switch on the switching element.

[0041] According to other embodiments, the pressure relief mechanism has a circuit, wherein the pyroelectric sensor fiber, the thermoelectric sensor fiber, and the switching element are part of the circuit.

[0042] The circuit is an analog circuit. The pyroelectric sensor fiber can be connected to the switching element circuit via the first line of the circuit. Similarly, the pyroelectric sensor fiber can be connected to the switching element circuit via the second line of the circuit.

[0043] According to other embodiments, the circuit is configured to distinguish between combustion events acting on the compressed gas storage container and impact events acting on the compressed gas storage container, such that the circuit triggers the pressure relief mechanism only in the event of a combustion event.

[0044] Therefore, a circuit can be used to distinguish between an impact event and a combustion event acting on the compressed gas storage container. This distinction is made such that the circuit triggers the pressure relief mechanism via a switching element only in the event of a combustion event. In the case of an impact event, the pressure relief mechanism is not triggered. As mentioned earlier, this distinction can be achieved by ensuring that the thermoelectric sensor fiber generates electrical energy only when a combustion event occurs. When an impact event occurs, the thermoelectric sensor fiber does not generate electrical energy.

[0045] According to other embodiments, the switching element has a collector, and a pyroelectric sensor fiber is connected to the collector circuit, wherein the switching element has a base, and a pyroelectric sensor fiber is connected to the base circuit.

[0046] In this case, the switching element is a transistor. The pyroelectric sensor fiber is preferably connected to the collector circuit via the aforementioned first line of the circuit. The pyroelectric sensor fiber is connected to the base circuit via the aforementioned second line of the circuit.

[0047] In other embodiments, the collector and base are electrically connected to each other.

[0048] This specifically means that the collector and base are electrically connected to each other. For this purpose, a third line can be provided in the circuit, which connects the first line to the second line.

[0049] According to other embodiments, the circuit has a blocking element, particularly a diode, wherein the blocking element is arranged between the collector and the base, and wherein the blocking direction of the blocking element is oriented from the collector toward the base.

[0050] The blocking element is specifically connected to the aforementioned third line of the circuit. Since the blocking direction is oriented from the collector towards the base, the electrical current generated during an impact event acting on the pyroelectric sensor fiber cannot reach the base. Therefore, the base cannot be powered by the pyroelectric sensor fiber, and thus the switching element is not activated.

[0051] According to other embodiments, the circuit has a ground wire, wherein the emitters of the pyroelectric sensor fiber, the thermoelectric sensor fiber, and the switching element are connected to the ground wire circuit.

[0052] The emitter is preferably connected to the ground wire via the fourth line of the circuit. The glow bridge of the pyrotechnic loading section is connected to the fourth line. Power can be supplied to the glow bridge via the emitter.

[0053] According to other embodiments, the pressure relief mechanism is located at the dome-shaped end section of the wall.

[0054] In particular, the pressure relief unit is located at the end section of the domed wall. For example, an inlet nozzle for allowing gas to enter the compressed gas storage container can be installed at the first end section of the wall, while the pressure relief unit is installed at the second end section of the wall. The reverse installation method is also feasible. Furthermore, the pressure relief unit can also be integrated into the inlet nozzle. This results in a compact structure.

[0055] Furthermore, a vehicle, particularly a motorized vehicle, is proposed that has at least one compressed gas storage container of this type.

[0056] The vehicle may have multiple compressed gas storage containers of this type. These containers may, for example, be located in an area at the bottom of the vehicle. The vehicle may have a consumer, particularly a fuel cell, which is supplied with gas via the compressed gas storage containers. The vehicle may be, in particular, an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. However, the vehicle may also have an internal combustion engine. The vehicle may also be a commercial vehicle, such as a truck. Furthermore, the vehicle may also be an aircraft, a watercraft, or a rail vehicle. Particularly preferred is a passenger car.

[0057] The implementation methods and features described for the proposed compressed gas storage container are applicable to the proposed vehicle, and vice versa.

[0058] The word "one" in this document is not to be construed as limiting it to exactly one element. Rather, multiple elements may be specified, such as two, three, or more elements. No other numerals used herein should be interpreted as limiting the number of elements to exactly the number mentioned. Rather, upward and downward deviations in quantity are permitted unless otherwise stated.

[0059] Other possible embodiments of the compressed gas storage container and / or vehicle also include combinations of features or implementations not explicitly mentioned above or below in connection with the embodiments. Those skilled in the art will also add various aspects as improvements or supplements to the corresponding basic forms of the compressed gas storage container and / or vehicle. Attached Figure Description

[0060] Other advantageous designs and aspects of compressed gas storage containers and / or vehicles are the subject of the embodiments described below and the dependent claims. Furthermore, the compressed gas storage containers and / or vehicles will be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments.

[0061] Figure 1 A schematic side view of an embodiment of the vehicle is shown;

[0062] Figure 2 It shows according to Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a compressed gas storage container for a vehicle;

[0063] Figure 3 The basis of the compressed gas storage container is shown. Figure 2 Other schematic cross-sectional views of section line III-III;

[0064] Figure 4 It shows according to Figure 2 Detailed image IV;

[0065] Figure 5 It shows according to Figure 2 A schematic side view of a compressed gas storage container;

[0066] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a pressure relief mechanism for a compressed gas storage container is shown;

[0067] Figure 7 It shows the method for using according to Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the voltage-time graph of the first sensor fiber of the pressure relief mechanism;

[0068] Figure 8 It shows the method for using according to Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the voltage-time graph of the second sensor fiber of the pressure relief mechanism;

[0069] Figure 9 It shows according to Figure 2 Other schematic side views of the compressed gas storage container;

[0070] Figure 10 It shows according to Figure 7Other illustrations of voltage-time graphs;

[0071] Figure 11 It shows according to Figure 8 Other illustrations of voltage-time graphs;

[0072] Figure 12 It shows according to Figure 2 Other schematic side views of the compressed gas storage container;

[0073] Figure 13 It shows according to Figure 6 Other schematic diagrams of the pressure relief mechanism;

[0074] Figure 14 It shows according to Figure 7 Other schematic diagrams of the voltage-time graph; and

[0075] Figure 15 It shows according to Figure 8 Other illustrations of the voltage-time graph.

[0076] In the accompanying drawings, unless otherwise specified, the same or functionally equivalent elements are given the same reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0077] Figure 1 A schematic side view of one embodiment of a vehicle 1 is shown. Vehicle 1 is a motorized vehicle, particularly an electric or hybrid vehicle. However, vehicle 1 may also be driven by an internal combustion engine. Vehicle 1 may also be a commercial vehicle, such as a truck, harvester, or construction machinery. Furthermore, vehicle 1 may also be a military vehicle. Additionally, vehicle 1 may be an aircraft, a watercraft, or a rail vehicle. However, it is assumed below that vehicle 1 is a motorized vehicle, particularly a passenger car.

[0078] The vehicle 1 includes a main body 2 that surrounds the passenger compartment or interior space 3 of the vehicle 1. The driver and passengers can reside in the interior space 3. The main body 2 separates the environment 4 of the vehicle 1 from the interior space 3. Access to the interior space 3 from the environment 4 is possible via a door.

[0079] The vehicle 1 includes a running gear with multiple wheels 5 and 6. The number of wheels 5 and 6 is arbitrary in principle. Preferably, the vehicle 1 has four wheels 5 and 6. However, the vehicle 1 may also have, for example, six wheels 5 and 6. The wheels 5 and 6 are part of the running gear of the vehicle 1. Only two wheels 5 and 6 may be driven. However, all wheels 5 and 6 may also be driven. In this case, the vehicle 1 is an all-wheel drive vehicle.

[0080] The vehicle 1 includes a compressed gas storage container 7 for pressurized storage of gases, particularly hydrogen. The compressed gas storage container 7 is preferably located in or at the bottom of the vehicle 1 or in a region of its bottom structure. The compressed gas storage container 7 may be arranged externally to the main body 2. The vehicle 1 may have multiple compressed gas storage containers 7.

[0081] In principle, the compressed gas storage container 7 is not only suitable for use at the vehicle 1, but can also be used in any other application. For example, the compressed gas storage container 7 can also be used in stationary applications, especially in building technology or for emergency power supply. Furthermore, the compressed gas storage container 7 can be used in building heating or in central thermal power plants. However, in the following description, it is assumed that the compressed gas storage container 7 is used for mobile applications, i.e., applications within or at the vehicle 1.

[0082] Gas stored in compressed gas storage container 7 can be supplied to the verbraucher 8 of vehicle 1 at a suitable supply pressure and temperature using compressed gas storage container 7. Verbraucher 8 is preferably a fuel cell. "Fuel cell" is to be understood herein as a galvanic cell that converts the chemical reaction energy of a continuously supplied fuel (hydrogen) and oxidant (oxygen) into electrical energy. The obtained electrical energy can be used, for example, to drive an electric motor (not shown), which in turn drives wheels 5, 6, or at least two of wheels 5, 6.

[0083] Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the compressed gas storage container 7 as described above is shown. Figure 3 The compressed gas storage container 7 is shown according to Figure 2 Other schematic cross-sectional views of section line III-III. Figure 4 It shows according to Figure 2 Detailed image IV. See also the following text. Figures 2 to 4 .

[0084] The compressed gas storage container 7 is suitable for storing a gas in a gaseous state under high pressure, in this document it being hydrogen (H2), and for releasing it again as needed. For example, the compressed gas storage container 7 operates at pressures of several hundred bar, such as 800 to 1000 bar. The compressed gas storage container 7 may also be referred to as a compressed gas storage tank, a hydrogen compressed gas storage container, a hydrogen compressed gas storage vessel, or a hydrogen storage container.

[0085] In principle, the compressed gas storage container 7 is suitable for receiving or storing any gas. However, it is assumed in the following text that the gas is hydrogen (H2). Therefore, the terms "gas" and "hydrogen" are interchangeable. As mentioned above, hydrogen (H2) is stored in the compressed gas storage container 7 in its gaseous, condensed state. Therefore, hydrogen (H2) is single-phase. Therefore, there is preferably no liquid phase inside the compressed gas storage container 7, and thus no phase boundary exists.

[0086] The compressed gas storage container 7 includes a container wall or wall 9 that surrounds a receiving region 10 for receiving hydrogen gas (H2). Gaseous hydrogen gas (H2) is received within the receiving region 10. The receiving region 10 is cylindrical. The geometry or spatial span of the receiving region 10 is defined or delimited by the wall 9. The receiving region 10 is a cavity completely surrounded by the wall 9. The wall 9 (as will be further explained below) is multi-layered or multi-tiered. That is, different materials are used to form the wall 9 in a layered structure.

[0087] The compressed gas storage container 7 is associated with a coordinate system having a length direction (x), a lateral direction (y), and a vertical direction (z). The x, y, and z directions are oriented perpendicularly to each other. The longitudinal direction L of the compressed gas storage container 7 extends along the x direction. That is, the longitudinal direction L and the x direction are the same. The gravitational direction g is opposite to and parallel to the z direction.

[0088] The compressed gas storage container 7 or wall 9 is associated with an axis of symmetry or a central axis 11, and is configured to be substantially rotationally symmetric with respect to the axis of symmetry or central axis 11. "Substantially" rotationally symmetric here encompasses at least a slightly ovate cross-section. The central axis 11 extends parallel to the x-direction x. Correspondingly, the central axis 11 also extends along the longitudinal direction L. The radial direction R of the compressed gas storage container 7 or wall 9 is perpendicular to the central axis 11 and oriented away from the central axis toward the wall 9.

[0089] The wall portion 9 can also be referred to as a container wall, shell, sheath, or wall. The wall portion 9 is configured to be rotationally symmetrical about the central axis 11. In cross-section, the wall portion 9 is therefore preferably circular. However, instead, the cross-section of the wall portion 9 can also be configured to be oval or slightly oval. The wall portion 9 includes a tubular or hollow cylindrical base segment 12, which is configured to be rotationally symmetrical about the central axis 11.

[0090] Correspondingly on the end side, that is, at Figure 2On the left and right sides of the orientation, a first cover section or first wall end section 13 and a second cover section or second wall end section 14 are provided at the base section 12. The wall end sections 13 and 14 are constructed to be dome-shaped or arch-shaped and are rotationally symmetrical about the central axis 11. The wall end sections 13 and 14 can also be referred to as cover sections. The wall end sections 13 and 14 arch outward relative to the receiving area 10. The base section 12 and the wall end sections 13 and 14 are firmly, and in particular, inseparable from each other. The wall 9 has a columnar geometry.

[0091] The wall portion 9 includes a load-bearing covering portion 15 ( Figure 3 and Figure 4 The covering portion is made of fiber-reinforced plastic or fiber-composite plastic. The covering portion 15 is located on the outside and therefore faces the environment 4. That is, the covering portion 15 is adjacent to the environment 4. The covering portion 15 is "load-bearing," which in particular means herein that the covering portion 15 bears all or at least most of the load acting on the wall portion 9 or the compressed gas storage container 7. The load here can come from the pressurized hydrogen gas (H2) itself and / or from external loads, for example, in a traffic accident.

[0092] The covering portion 15 may also be referred to as the outer layer, outer layer, load-bearing layer, outer jacket, or sheath of the wall portion 9. The covering portion 15 itself is preferably constructed of fiber-reinforced composite plastic in a layered or multi-layered manner. However, this does not preclude the covering portion 15 from having metallic components. The covering portion 15 has an outer side 16 facing the environment 4 and an inner side 17 facing the receiving area 10. Figure 4 ).

[0093] The fiber-reinforced composite plastics described above have a plastic material, particularly a plastic matrix, in which fibers, such as natural fibers, glass fibers, carbon fibers, aramid fibers, or the like, are embedded. The plastic material can be a thermosetting plastic, such as an epoxy resin or a vinyl ester-based resin. However, the plastic material can also be a thermoplastic. The fibers can be continuous fibers.

[0094] The covering portion 15 is preferably a one-piece component, especially a one-piece material component. "One-piece" or "unibody" is to be understood herein as meaning that the covering portion 15 forms a single component and is not assembled from different components or parts that can be separated from each other again. "One-piece material" means herein that the covering portion 15 is always made of the same material, i.e., fiber composite plastic. The covering portion 15 is provided both at the base section 12 and at the two wall end sections 13, 14.

[0095] In addition to the covering portion 15, the wall portion 9 also has a liner 18 that lines the covering portion 15. The liner 18 may also be referred to as the inner layer or inner layer level of the wall portion 9. To manufacture the covering portion, the covering portion 15 may be wound onto the liner 18 or onto a mold or mandrel (not shown). The liner 18 is airtight. The covering portion 15 is not required to be airtight. The liner 18 may include fiber composite plastics, various plastic materials, and / or metal raw materials. The liner 18 is a so-called lining or may be referred to as the lining of the compressed gas storage container 7.

[0096] The liner 18 has a tubular or hollow cylindrical geometry. The liner 18 is configured to be rotationally symmetrical about the central axis 11. The liner 18 is located both at the base section 12 and at the end sections 13 and 14 of the wall. The liner 18 itself may have a layered or hierarchical structure. The covering section 15 completely surrounds or completely encloses the liner 18.

[0097] Liner 18 includes outer side 19 facing inner side 17 of covering portion 15. Figure 4 And the inner side 20 facing the receiving area 10. The inner side 20 is in contact with the hydrogen H2 received in the receiving area 10. The inner side 20 may also be referred to as the inner side of the wall 9 or the inner side of the compressed gas storage container 7. The inner side 20 completely surrounds the cylindrical receiving area 10 and thus defines its spatial span.

[0098] The covering portion 15 and the liner portion 18 are connected to each other, particularly bonded, by a material mating manner at the inner side 17 of the covering portion 15 and the outer side 19 of the liner portion 18. In a material mating connection, the mating parts are held together by atomic or molecular forces. The material mating connection is an inseparable connection, which can only be separated again by breaking the connection means and / or the mating parts.

[0099] The compressed gas storage container 7 also has an injection nozzle or an inlet nozzle 21 ( Figure 2 The inlet nozzle 21 is used to inject hydrogen (H2) into or into the receiving area 10. The inlet nozzle 21 is preferably located at the first wall end section 13 of the wall portion 9. Alternatively, the inlet nozzle 21 may also be located at the second wall end section 14. Preferably, the inlet nozzle 21 is guided through both the covering portion 15 and the liner portion 18. The inlet nozzle 21 may be made of a metallic material.

[0100] The inlet nozzle 21 is preferably configured such that it is designed to be rotationally symmetrical with respect to the central axis 11. In particular, the inlet nozzle 21 is arranged centered or centrally relative to the central axis 11. Alternatively, the inlet nozzle 21 can also be arranged eccentrically, that is, oriented offset from the central axis 11. The inlet nozzle 21 is preferably tubular or hollow cylindrical, and in particular has an annular cross-section. However, unlike this, the inlet nozzle 21 can also have various other arbitrary cross-sections.

[0101] The inlet nozzle 21 may have multiple channels, perforations, nozzles, valves, switches, and / or sensors, enabling the filling or filling of gaseous hydrogen H2 into the compressed gas storage container 7. The inlet nozzle 21 may protrude beyond the inner side 20 of the liner 18 in the region of the first wall end section 13 and thus protrude into the receiving area 10. The inlet nozzle 21 is configured to allow hydrogen H2 to enter or be sprayed into the receiving area 10 parallel to the central axis 11, or along the longitudinal direction L, or along the x-direction x.

[0102] Figure 5 A schematic side view of the compressed gas storage container 7 is shown.

[0103] According to legal requirements, in the event of intense heat, such as during vehicle combustion, hydrogen (H2) must be able to be discharged from the compressed gas storage container 7 in a controlled manner to reliably prevent the compressed gas storage container 7 from rupturing. For this purpose, the compressed gas storage container 7 has at least one pressure release device 22 (PRD or Thermally Activated Pressure Release Device, TPRD) installed at the wall 9.

[0104] Specifically, the pressure relief unit 22 is installed at the end section 14 of the second wall portion, while the inlet nozzle 21 can be installed at the end section 13 of the first wall portion. The reverse installation method is also possible. Furthermore, the pressure relief unit 22 can also be integrated into the inlet nozzle 21.

[0105] The depressurization unit 22 is configured to discharge hydrogen (H2) from the compressed gas storage container 7 within a short period of time. For this purpose, the depressurization unit 22 may have, for example, a valve and a pyrotechnic mixture or pyrotechnic loading section for opening the valve. By law, the depressurization unit 22 can only be triggered mechanically or by means of analog circuitry. For safety reasons, triggering by means of software, such as via the control instruments of the transport vehicle 1, is not permitted.

[0106] Since the pressure relief unit 22 is located at the end of the wall 9, it can only be triggered when heat Q, particularly in the form of infrared radiation, such as heat caused by the burning of the vehicle, is introduced into the pressure relief unit 22 and / or the end section 14 of the second wall. Therefore, it is essentially only possible to perform localized thermal or fire detection.

[0107] If the compressed gas storage container 7 has a large span along the longitudinal direction L, heat input, for example, due to combustion, may be detected too late at the end section 13 of the first wall. To prevent this, an additional pressure relief unit 22 can be installed. However, this results in higher installation costs, higher expenses, and worse space utilization. This requires improvement.

[0108] To avoid the aforementioned drawbacks, in the compressed gas storage container 7, combustion detection is at least partially spatially decoupled from the pressure relief unit 22. For this purpose, the compressed gas storage container 7 has a sensor fiber assembly 23, by which the entire outer side 16 of the wall 9 can be monitored. The sensor fiber assembly 23 is arranged on the outer side 16 or embedded in the covering portion 15. The pressure relief unit 22 and the sensor fiber assembly 23 together form a pressure relief mechanism 24. The sensor fiber assembly 23 is deformable or bendable, and therefore can be wound helically or spirally onto the wall 9. Here, the sensor fiber assembly 23 can be embedded in the wall 9, especially in the covering portion 15.

[0109] The sensor fiber assembly 23 can be incorporated into the covering portion 15, particularly into the fiber composite plastic of the covering portion 15, during the winding process. The degree to which the sensor fiber assembly 23 is covered by the fiber composite plastic can be adjusted through the winding process, thereby adjusting the detection area for combustion detection. The sensor fiber assembly 23 responds with a temporary voltage, particularly to externally introduced infrared radiation, such as that present in combustion or fire. The amplitude of this voltage depends on the selected pyroelectric material 27 and the intensity of the infrared radiation.

[0110] The electrical energy generated by the sensor fiber assembly 23 can be used to trigger the depressurization unit 22. To trigger the depressurization unit 22, for example, the pyrotechnic loading section described above can be ignited, which opens the valve of the depressurization unit 22 as described above to discharge hydrogen H2 from the compressed gas storage container 7, thus causing depressurization. Triggering the depressurization unit 22 does not require additional energy. Therefore, the depressurization mechanism 24 advantageously does not require additional energy for detecting, outputting, and processing the sensor signal from the sensor fiber assembly 23. Therefore, the aforementioned legal requirements can be met.

[0111] Therefore, the pressure relief mechanism 24 can determine the location of a fire or combustion on the outer side 16 of the compressed gas storage container 7 in a decentralized and / or comprehensive manner, thereby improving system safety. The location of the pressure relief unit 22 at the compressed gas storage container 7 can thus be decoupled from the detection location, which has a direct and positive impact on the design freedom when designing the installation space of the compressed gas storage container 7.

[0112] The sensor fiber assembly 23 is primarily positioned in the outermost layer of the covering 15, which is typically a fiber-reinforced plastic, for example, in the form of a laminate. However, the sensor fiber assembly 23 can also be wound into deeper layers. This protects the sensor fiber assembly 23 from external influences. Nevertheless, the sensor fiber assembly 23 remains sufficiently close to the site of combustion for detection.

[0113] By selecting a suitable winding path during the manufacture of the compressed gas storage container 7, the coverage of the sensor fiber assembly 23 surrounding the compressed gas storage container 7 can be adjusted, and thus the surface of the compressed gas storage container 7 that can be used for detection can be adjusted. To protect the sensor fiber assembly 23 from damage during the winding process, it can be laid as part of a fiber strand, which may be composed of, for example, carbon fiber, glass fiber, plastic fiber, or the like. For redundancy, multiple sensor fiber assemblies 23 can be introduced.

[0114] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the pressure relief mechanism 24 as described above for the compressed gas storage container 7 is shown.

[0115] The pressure relief mechanism 24 has an analog circuit 25, by means of which the sensor fiber assembly 23 and the pressure relief unit 22 are electrically connected to each other. The pressure relief unit 22 here has a valve 26, especially a gas valve, and a pyrotechnic loading section 27 associated with the valve 26. The sensor fiber assembly 23 is part of the circuit 25.

[0116] The sensor fiber assembly 23 includes pyroelectric and piezoelectric sensor fibers 28. The pyroelectric and piezoelectric sensor fibers 28 are hereinafter referred to as the first sensor fiber of the sensor fiber assembly 23. The first sensor fiber 28 may have a linear internal electrode or a first electrode and a tubular external electrode or a second electrode. The first electrode is disposed inside the second electrode. However, the electrode may also have any other geometry. For example, the electrode may be foil-shaped or strip-shaped. A pyroelectric material is disposed between the first and second electrodes, with the first electrode embedded in the pyroelectric material such that the first and second electrodes do not contact each other.

[0117] The first electrode of the first sensor fiber 28 comprises a conductive material, such as a metal, a plastic filled with conductive particles, a carbon-based fiber, or the like. A pyroelectric material is applied to the first electrode, which is then coated with other conductive materials to form a second electrode.

[0118] The pyroelectric material can be a piezoelectric semiconductor crystal. Temperature changes in the pyroelectric material result in a measurable change in the voltage between the two electrodes. Therefore, the sensor fiber provides electrical energy. This electrical energy can be used to trigger the depressurization unit 22. The "triggering" of the depressurization unit 22 should be understood in particular herein as the ignition of the pyrotechnic loading section 27 of the depressurization unit 22, thereby causing the depressurization unit 22 to release hydrogen H2 into the environment 4 via valve 26.

[0119] Since pyroelectric materials are piezoelectric semiconductor crystals, they also possess piezoelectric properties. In this context, "piezoelectricity" should be understood as the change in polarization that occurs at a solid site when the solid undergoes elastic deformation, thus resulting in a voltage.

[0120] The electrical energy generated by the first sensor fiber 28 can be used to trigger the depressurization unit 22. To trigger the depressurization unit 22, for example, the pyrotechnic loading section 27 can be ignited, which opens the valve 26 of the depressurization unit 22 to discharge hydrogen H2 from the compressed gas storage container 7, thus causing depressurization.

[0121] In addition to the first sensor fiber 28, the sensor fiber assembly 23 also includes a thermoelectric sensor fiber 29. The two sensor fibers 28 and 29 together form the sensor fiber assembly 23. The thermoelectric sensor fiber 29 is hereinafter referred to as the second sensor fiber of the sensor fiber assembly 23. The sensor fiber assembly 23 may include any number of first sensor fibers 28 and any number of second sensor fibers 29. The two sensor fibers 28 and 29 may extend parallel to each other. In this case, the sensor fiber assembly 23 is bundled and therefore may also be referred to as a sensor fiber bundle. Therefore, the terms "sensor fiber assembly" and "sensor fiber bundle" are interchangeable herein. However, this parallel arrangement is not mandatory. The sensor fibers 28 and 29 may also cross each other.

[0122] Two sensor fibers 28 and 29 are isolated and embedded in the covering portion 15 as a sensor fiber assembly 23, preferably in the form of a sensor fiber bundle. The function of the second sensor fiber 29 is based on the Seebeck effect. That is, the second sensor fiber 29 can generate electrical energy when the temperature fluctuates. To manufacture the second sensor fiber 29, different precious metals are connected to each other in a material fit, especially by welding.

[0123] The first sensor fiber 28 is connected to the first line 30 of circuit 25. The second sensor fiber 29 is connected to the second line 31 of circuit 25. The two sensor fibers 28 and 29 are electrically connected to the ground line 32 of circuit 25 (not shown). The two lines 30 and 31 are connected by a third line 33. A blocking element 34, especially a blocking element in the form of a diode, preferably a blocking element in the form of a semiconductor diode, is connected to the third line 33.

[0124] The blocking element 34 is an electronic structural element that allows current to flow in one direction while blocking it in the other. The blocking element 34 has both a conducting direction and a blocking direction. Figure 6 In terms of orientation, the conduction direction is from bottom to top, or in other words, from the second line 31 to the first line 30. Figure 6 In terms of orientation, the blocking direction is from top to bottom, or in other words, from the first line 30 to the second line 31. That is, when current flows from the second line 31 to the first line 30, the blocking element 34 allows current to pass through. Conversely, when current flows from the first line 30 to the second line 31, the blocking element 34 does not allow current to pass through.

[0125] Furthermore, circuit 25 has a switching element 35, which can be controlled by means of a second sensor fiber 29. Switching element 35 is a transistor, particularly an npn-transistor (negative-positive-negative). Switching element 35 can also be a relay. Switching element 35 has a base 36, an emitter 37, and a collector 38. Base 36 is connected to the second sensor fiber 29 circuit via a second line 31. Collector 38 is connected to the first sensor fiber 28 circuit via a first line 30. Emitter 37 is connected to ground 32 circuit via a fourth line 39. Power can be supplied to the glow bridge of the ignition pyrotechnic loading section 27 via the fourth line 39. Circuit 25 may also include a capacitor, particularly a pulse capacitor.

[0126] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the voltage-time graph of the first sensor fiber 28 as described above is shown. Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the voltage-time graph of the second sensor fiber 29 as described above is shown.

[0127] According to the following text Figures 5 to 8 The function of the pressure relief mechanism 24 is explained. Combustion origin 40 ( Figure 5 Heat Q is introduced into the sensor fiber assembly 23, and thereby into the two sensor fibers 28 and 29.

[0128] exist Figure 7 and Figure 8A graph is shown, plotting the voltage U generated by the introduced heat Q of the respective sensor fibers 28 and 29 over time t. Voltage U is plotted on the vertical axis, and time t is plotted on the horizontal axis.

[0129] Figure 7 The sensor signal 41 of the first sensor fiber 28 is shown, which has a typical voltage U trend over time for combustion. Sensor signal 41 is a voltage curve and therefore can also be referred to as a voltage curve. In particular, sensor signal 41 has a steep rise 43 from a first plateau 42 to a second plateau 44. Sensor signal 41 can also be referred to as a fire signal or combustion signal.

[0130] Figure 8 The sensor signal 45 of the second sensor fiber 29 is shown, which also exhibits a typical voltage U-time trend for combustion. Sensor signal 45 is a voltage curve, and therefore can also be referred to as a voltage curve. In particular, sensor signal 45 has a steep rise 47 from the first plateau 46 to the second plateau 48.

[0131] Sensor signal 45 can also be referred to as a fire signal or combustion signal. Unlike sensor signal 41, sensor signal 45 has a more gently curved trajectory and a less steep rise 47.

[0132] The collector 38 is powered via the first sensor fiber 28. The second sensor fiber 29 also powers the collector 38 via the third line 33 and the blocking element 34. Simultaneously, only the second sensor fiber 29 powers the base 36. If power is supplied to the base 36, the switching element 35 is activated, causing the glowing bridge to supply power to the pyrotechnic loading section 27, thereby igniting the pyrotechnic loading section 27. The pyrotechnic loading section 27 is ignited, and the valve 26 opens to expel hydrogen H2 from the compressed gas storage container 7. Ignition of the pyrotechnic loading section 27 generates an explosion or shock wave 49. The shock wave 49 can move components of the valve 26, such as the valve body or valve stem, to open the valve.

[0133] Figure 9 Other schematic side views of the compressed gas storage container 7 are shown. Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the voltage-time graph of the first sensor fiber 28 as described above is shown. Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the voltage-time graph of the second sensor fiber 29 as described above is shown. In the following text, reference is also made to... Figures 9 to 11 .

[0134] and Figure 5The difference is that the compressed gas storage container 7 is now heated by multiple combustion sites 40 instead of a single combustion site 40, where only one combustion site is heated. Figure 9 The accompanying diagram is provided with reference numerals. In other words, heat Q is introduced into the compressed gas storage container 7 over a large area. The combustion site 40 can completely surround or enclose the compressed gas storage container 7.

[0135] according to Figure 10 The voltage-time graph of the first sensor fiber 28 is compared with that of... Figure 7 The difference in the voltage-time graph lies only in that, due to the higher heat in the input first sensor fiber 28, the second plateau 44 of the sensor signal 41 is located at a higher voltage U. Therefore, according to Figure 11 The voltage-time graph of the second sensor fiber 29 is compared with that of... Figure 8 The difference in the voltage-time graph is only that, due to the higher heat in the input second sensor fiber 29, the second plateau 48 of the sensor signal 45 is located at a higher voltage U. Therefore, the pressure relief mechanism 24 is triggered and the valve 26 is opened, as previously referenced. Figures 5 to 8 What is being explained.

[0136] Figure 12 Other schematic side views of the compressed gas storage container 7 are shown. Figure 13 Other schematic diagrams of the pressure relief mechanism 24 are shown. Figure 14 A schematic diagram of the voltage-time graph of the first sensor fiber 28 as described above is shown. Figure 15 A schematic diagram of the voltage-time graph of the second sensor fiber 29 as described above is shown. In the following text, reference is also made to... Figures 12 to 15 .

[0137] and Figure 5 The difference is that the compressed gas storage container 7 is now not subjected to heat Q by the combustion site 40, but rather by impact, which also acts on the sensor fiber assembly 23, as in Figure 12 The symbolic hammer 50 is used to represent this impact. This impact, or multiple impacts, could be caused, for example, by an accident involving the vehicle 1; however, there is no combustion at point 40, and therefore the pressure relief mechanism 24 should not be triggered. In other words, valve 26 should remain closed.

[0138] and Figure 7 and Figure 10 compared to, Figure 14The sensor signal 51 of the first sensor fiber 28 is shown, which has a typical voltage U trend over time for an impact acting on the first sensor fiber 28 (e.g., in the aforementioned accident involving the vehicle 1). Sensor signal 51 is a voltage curve and therefore can also be referred to as a voltage curve. Sensor signal 51 can also be referred to as an impact signal. In particular, before returning to the second platform 54, sensor signal 51 has a voltage peak 53 starting from the first platform 52. The two platforms 52, 54 have substantially the same voltage U. The pressure relief mechanism 24 is not allowed to be triggered by the voltage peak 53.

[0139] and Figure 8 and Figure 11 compared to, Figure 15 The sensor signal 55 of the second sensor fiber 29 is shown, which has a typical voltage U changing over time in response to an impact acting on the second sensor fiber 29. The sensor signal 55 is a voltage curve and therefore can also be referred to as a voltage curve. The sensor signal 55 can also be referred to as an impact signal. Figure 15 As shown, the second sensor fiber 29 reacts very little or not at all to impacts. Therefore, the second sensor fiber 29 generates no electrical energy or generates very little electrical energy upon impact.

[0140] Although power is supplied to the collector 38 of the switching element 35 through the generation of voltage peak 53, the switching element 35 cannot be turned on because the second sensor fiber 29 does not supply power to the base 36 of the switching element 35 or the power supply to the base 36 of the switching element 35 is insufficient. Consequently, the pyrotechnic loading section 27 cannot be powered either. In addition, the blocking element 34 prevents the first sensor fiber 28 itself from supplying power to the base 36.

[0141] Therefore, the pressure relief mechanism 24 cannot be triggered. In other words, when an impact is applied to the compressed gas storage container 7, the pyrotechnic loading section 27 is not ignited, and the valve 26 thus remains closed.

[0142] The pressure relief mechanism 24 enables safe operation of the compressed gas storage container 7. In the event of combustion, the pressure relief mechanism 24 ensures that hydrogen (H2) is discharged from the compressed gas storage container 7 in a controlled and non-explosive manner. The valve 26 can be operated with high precision and safety. Accidental triggering, which has extremely negative consequences, namely the loss of hydrogen (H2), can be reliably prevented. Here, active control is an additional safety factor; in active control, the sensor fiber assembly 23 simultaneously provides electrical power for opening the valve 26.

[0143] In principle, there are two types of self-powered active thermal sensor technologies: thermoelectric and pyroelectric. Pyroelectric active materials always possess piezoelectric properties. That is, these materials are also triggered upon impact or deformation, but with excellent dynamic response. Thermoelectric active material combinations are relatively slow and have lower energy. The pressure relief mechanism 24 can distinguish between the two sensor signals 41, 45, 51, and 55, and thus can better interpret the entire signal, i.e., whether it is the combustion site 40 or an impact acting on the compressed gas storage container 7. In addition, the advantages of the two sensor types are combined, and therefore, the valve 26 can be opened in an emergency in a self-powered, simple, safe, and definitive manner during combustion.

[0144] The sensor fiber assembly 23 generates energy through two effects: pyroelectric and thermoelectric. Sensor fibers 28 and 29 monitor each other to prevent false triggering of the pressure relief mechanism 24. These two different physical principles serve as a redundancy safety strategy for the pressure relief mechanism 24. Both sensor fibers 28 and 29 are directly laminated into the covering portion 15, thereby improving the structural stability of the covering portion 15. The sensor fibers 28 and 29 can be arranged in parallel or crossed. When the sensor fibers 28 and 29 are arranged in parallel, the sensor fiber assembly 23 is a sensor fiber bundle. The sensor fibers 28 and 29 can also be interwoven or twisted together.

[0145] The pressure relief mechanism 24 can accurately and safely detect localized combustion sites and combustion sites 40 surrounding the compressed gas storage container. The pressure relief mechanism 24 provides energy for triggering the valve 26. To ensure electromagnetic and network security, the pressure relief mechanism 24 is designed to be self-sufficient.

[0146] Two sensor fibers 28 and 29 respond with a temporary voltage U to externally applied infrared radiation, such as that present in combustion conditions. The voltage U caused by deformation occurs only in the first sensor fiber 28 and can therefore be filtered out. The magnitude of the voltage U depends on the selected material, the intensity of the infrared radiation or deformation, and the active area. The voltage U is used to ignite the pyrotechnic loading section 27, which in turn opens valve 26 to depressurize. The depressurization mechanism 24 can further distinguish sensor signals 41, 45, 51, and 55 and thereby differentiate the events that have occurred, which can infer the load on the compressed gas storage container 7 during its service life.

[0147] The pressure relief mechanism 24 enables decentralized detection of combustion and impact events at the outer side 16 of the compressed gas storage container 7, thereby improving system safety. Furthermore, the pressure relief mechanism 24 is implemented redundantly with the two sensor fibers 28 and 29, which enhances safety. The possibility of false triggering of the pressure relief unit 22 can be reduced by using dual sensor signals 41, 45, 51, and 55. By maintaining the piezoelectric effect, the mechanical load on the compressed gas storage container 7 can be visualized, thus improving structural safety. The pressure relief mechanism 24 maintains real-time responsiveness.

[0148] The sensor fiber assembly 23 is primarily located in the outermost layer of the covering portion 15, but it can also be wound into deeper layers. The goal is to protect the sensor fiber assembly 23 from external influences while ensuring sufficient proximity to one or more combustion sites 40 for detection. Additionally, the second sensor fiber 29 is particularly dependent on a specific temperature gradient, thus the second sensor fiber 29 can, of course, be laminated slightly inwards.

[0149] Since the combustion occurs directly at the compressed gas storage container 7 and thus directly at the sensor fiber assembly 23, the displacement of the charge center of gravity leads to an increase in temporary voltage. In this case, the first sensor fiber 28 generates electrical energy through the pyroelectric effect, and the second sensor fiber 29 generates electrical energy through the Seebeck effect. Here, the electrical energy generated in the sensor fibers 28 and 29 is considerable. However, since the second sensor fiber 29 does not respond to impacts or collisions, it can additionally be used to control the switching element 35. The temperature can be derived from the amount of energy generated by the sensor fibers 28 and 29, which can be used to control the valve 26.

[0150] Although the invention has been described with reference to embodiments, various modifications may be made thereto.

[0151] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0152] 1. Vehicle

[0153] 2 main bodies

[0154] 3. Internal space of the vehicle

[0155] 4 Environment

[0156] 5 wheels

[0157] 6 wheels

[0158] 7 Compressed Gas Storage Container

[0159] 8 Consumables

[0160] 9 wall sections

[0161] 10 Acceptance Area

[0162] 11 Central Axis

[0163] 12 base section

[0164] 13 Wall end section

[0165] 14 Wall end section

[0166] 15 Covering sections

[0167] 16 outer

[0168] 17 inner side

[0169] 18 Linings

[0170] 19 outer

[0171] 20 inner side

[0172] 21 Entering the nozzle

[0173] 22 pressure relief unit

[0174] 23 Sensor Fiber Assembly

[0175] 24 Pressure Relief Mechanism

[0176] 25 circuits

[0177] 26 valves

[0178] 27 Fireworks Loading Department

[0179] 28 sensor fibers

[0180] 29 sensor fibers

[0181] 30 lines

[0182] Route 31

[0183] 32 ground wire

[0184] Route 33

[0185] 34 blocking elements

[0186] 35 Switching Components

[0187] 36 base

[0188] 37 emitters

[0189] 38 collectors

[0190] Route 39

[0191] 40. Location of combustion

[0192] 41 Sensor Signals

[0193] 42 platform

[0194] 43 rise

[0195] 44 platform

[0196] 45 sensor signals

[0197] 46 platform

[0198] 47 rise

[0199] 48 platform

[0200] 49 shockwave

[0201] 50 hammers

[0202] 51 sensor signals

[0203] 52 platform

[0204] 53 peak voltage

[0205] 54 platform

[0206] 55 sensor signals

[0207] H2 gas / hydrogen gas

[0208] L longitudinal direction

[0209] Q-Hot

[0210] R radial direction

[0211] t time

[0212] U voltage

[0213] xx direction

[0214] yy direction

[0215] zz direction

Claims

1. A compressed gas storage container (7) for pressurized storage of gas (H2), particularly hydrogen, said compressed gas storage container includes Wall portion (9), the wall portion surrounding the receiving area (10) for receiving the gas (H2); and A pressure relief mechanism (24) is provided for discharging the gas (H2) from the receiving area (10). The pressure relief mechanism (24) described therein has a pyroelectric sensor fiber (28). The pressure relief mechanism (24) described therein has a thermoelectric sensor fiber (29). The pressure relief mechanism (24) has a switching element (35) connected to the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28) and the thermoelectric sensor fiber (29), and The thermoelectric sensor fiber (29) is configured to turn on the switching element (35) when heat (Q) caused by combustion is input into the wall (9), so that the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28) triggers the depressurization mechanism (24) to discharge the gas (H2) from the receiving area (10).

2. The compressed gas storage container according to claim 1, Its features are, The pressure relief mechanism (24) has a valve (26) and a pyrotechnic loading section (27), the valve being used to discharge the gas (H2) from the receiving area (10), wherein the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28) ignites the pyrotechnic loading section (27) to open the valve (26).

3. The compressed gas storage container according to claim 1 or 2, Its features are, The pyroelectric sensor fiber (28) and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber (29) are arranged in or on the wall portion (9).

4. The compressed gas storage container according to claim 3, Its features are, The pyroelectric sensor fiber (28) and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber (29) are at least segmentally embedded in the wall portion (9).

5. The compressed gas storage container according to any one of claims 1 to 4, Its features are, Viewed along the longitudinal direction (L) of the compressed gas storage container (7), the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28) and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber (29) are spirally wound around the wall (9).

6. The compressed gas storage container according to any one of claims 1 to 5, Its features are, The pyroelectric sensor fiber (28) and the thermoelectric sensor fiber (29) extend parallel to each other and form the sensor fiber assembly (23) of the pressure relief mechanism (24).

7. The compressed gas storage container according to any one of claims 1 to 6, Its features are, When heat (Q) caused by combustion is input into the wall portion (9), both the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28) and the thermoelectric sensor fiber (29) trigger the depressurization mechanism (24) to discharge the gas (H2) from the receiving area (10).

8. The compressed gas storage container according to any one of claims 1 to 7, Its features are, The pressure relief mechanism (24) has a circuit (25), wherein the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28), the thermoelectric sensor fiber (29) and the switching element (35) are part of the circuit (25).

9. The compressed gas storage container according to claim 8, Its features are, The circuit (25) is configured to distinguish between a combustion event acting on the compressed gas storage container (7) and an impact event acting on the compressed gas storage container (7), such that the circuit (25) triggers the pressure relief mechanism (24) only in the case of the combustion event.

10. The compressed gas storage container according to claim 8 or 9, Its features are, The switching element (35) has a collector (38), the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28) is connected to the collector circuit, wherein the switching element (35) has a base (36), and the pyroelectric sensor fiber (29) is connected to the base circuit.

11. The compressed gas storage container according to claim 10, Its features are, The collector (38) and the base (36) are electrically connected to each other.

12. The compressed gas storage container according to claim 11, Its features are, The circuit (25) has a blocking element (34), in particular a diode, wherein the blocking element (34) is arranged between the collector (38) and the base (36), and wherein the blocking direction of the blocking element (34) is oriented from the collector (38) toward the base (36).

13. The compressed gas storage container according to any one of claims 10 to 12, Its features are, The circuit (25) has a ground wire (32), wherein the emitter (37) of the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28), the thermoelectric sensor fiber (29) and the switching element (35) is connected to the ground wire (32) circuit.

14. The compressed gas storage container according to any one of claims 1 to 13, Its features are, The pressure relief mechanism (24) is located at the dome-shaped end section (13, 14) of the wall (9).

15. A vehicle (1), particularly a motorized vehicle, having at least one compressed gas storage container (7) according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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