Hydrogen fueling stations and systems and methods of use thereof

Abstract

A system and method for dispensing liquefied fuel, such as hydrogen, is provided. The system includes a cryogenic tank for storing the liquefied fuel, a first liquid pump and a second liquid pump. The first pump has a first maximum flow rate and pumps a first stream of the liquefied fuel having a first pressure. The second pump has a second and lower maximum flow rate and pumps a second stream of the liquefied fuel having a second and higher pressure. Each pump is connected to a heat exchanger to vaporize the stream of liquefied fuel to provide a respective vaporized substream. Each pump is also connected to a mixer that combines the respective vaporized substream and a respective second substream of the liquefied fuel to provide a respective gaseous fuel stream. The gaseous fuel streams can be individually or collectively dispensed to one or more vehicles through a conduit manifold and at least one dispenser.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a system and method for refueling liquefied fuels. More specifically, this invention relates to a refueling station, system, and method for refueling vehicles with hydrogen. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, most motor vehicles are powered by internal combustion engines that use fossil fuels. Due to the limited supply and adverse environmental impact of burning petroleum-derived fuels, vehicles powered by alternative, environmentally friendly fuels such as hydrogen are now being developed. Fuel cells provide electricity to motor vehicles by electrochemically reacting hydrogen fuel with an oxidant such as air. Hydrogen refueling stations for fuel cell vehicles can store the fuel as a liquid before it is dispensed to the vehicle in the form of compressed gaseous hydrogen. Supplying or refueling hydrogen for fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) and other hydrogen-powered vehicles presents different challenges compared to adding petroleum-based fuels such as gasoline to vehicles. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention provides a fuel refueling station, system, and method for dispensing liquefied fuel and refueling vehicles. For example, the liquefied fuel may include or be hydrogen, and the system may be a hydrogen refueling station or a system for dispensing hydrogen. In some embodiments, the system is used to refuel vehicles using fuel cells with hydrogen.

[0004] According to some embodiments, the system includes a cryogenic tank configured to store liquefied fuel, a first pump, and a second pump. The first pump has a first maximum flow rate and is configured to compress and supply a first flow of liquefied fuel at a first pressure from the cryogenic tank. The second pump has a second maximum flow rate and is configured to supply a second flow of liquefied fuel at a second pressure from the cryogenic tank. The second maximum flow rate is lower than the first maximum flow rate, and the second pressure is higher than the first pressure.

[0005] The system also includes a first heat exchanger, a first mixer, a second heat exchanger, and a second mixer. The first heat exchanger is fluidly connected to a first pump and configured to evaporate a first sub-stream from a first feed stream of liquefied fuel to provide a first evaporated sub-stream. The first mixer is fluidly connected to the first pump and the first heat exchanger and configured to mix the first evaporated sub-stream and a second sub-stream from the first feed stream of liquefied fuel to provide a first gaseous fuel stream. The second heat exchanger is fluidly connected to a second pump and configured to evaporate a third sub-stream from a second feed stream of liquefied fuel to provide a second evaporated sub-stream. The second mixer is fluidly connected to the second pump and the second heat exchanger and configured to mix the second evaporated sub-stream and a fourth sub-stream from the second feed stream of liquefied fuel to provide a second gaseous fuel stream.

[0006] The system also includes a piping manifold and at least one distributor. The piping manifold is fluidly connected to two mixers and is configured to deliver either or both of a first gaseous fuel stream and a second gaseous fuel stream to the at least one distributor, which is configured to distribute either or both of the first gaseous fuel stream and the second gaseous fuel stream to an onboard tank in a vehicle or to a corresponding tank in multiple vehicles.

[0007] In some implementations, the liquefied fuel is liquid hydrogen, and the system is a hydrogen refueling station or hydrogen fuel system. Each of the first and second pumps is configured to be housed within a cryogenic tank. The pumps are submerged liquid pumps.

[0008] In some embodiments, the first gaseous fuel stream is a compressed gaseous stream with a pressure of 25 MPa-50 MPa and a temperature of -50°C to ambient temperature such as 20°C. The second gaseous fuel stream is a compressed gaseous stream with a pressure of 50 MPa-90 MPa and a temperature of -50°C to ambient temperature such as 20°C. For example, in some embodiments, the first and second gaseous fuel streams have pressures that satisfy refueling capacities of 35 MPa and 70 MPa, respectively. The first maximum flow rate of the first pump is up to 280 kg / hr. The second maximum flow rate of the second pump is less than 200 kg / hr.

[0009] In some implementations, there are at least two distributors configured to simultaneously refuel at least two vehicles.

[0010] In some embodiments, the system also includes one or more additional pumps. The system may comprise a total of three or more pumps with different pressure and flow capabilities. The system may include multiple sets of dual-pump combinations, including a first pump, a second pump, a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, a first mixer, and a second mixer as described herein.

[0011] In some implementations, the system also includes an additional cryogenic tank, in which at least one pump is configured.

[0012] According to some embodiments, the present invention provides a hydrogen refueling station comprising a cryogenic tank configured for storing liquefied hydrogen fuel, a first pump, and a second pump. The first pump has a first maximum flow rate and is configured to compress and supply a first flow of liquefied fuel at a first pressure from the cryogenic tank. The second pump has a second maximum flow rate and is configured to compress and supply a second flow of liquefied fuel at a second pressure from the cryogenic tank. The second maximum flow rate is lower than the first maximum flow rate, and the second pressure is higher than the first pressure.

[0013] The hydrogen refueling station also includes a heat exchanger and a mixer corresponding to each pump described herein. A first heat exchanger is fluidly connected to a first pump and configured to evaporate a first sub-stream from a first feed stream of liquefied fuel to provide a first evaporated sub-stream. A first mixer is fluidly connected to the first pump and the first heat exchanger and configured to mix the first evaporated sub-stream and a second sub-stream from the first feed stream of liquefied fuel to provide a first gaseous fuel stream. A second heat exchanger is fluidly connected to a second pump and configured to evaporate a third sub-stream from the second feed stream of liquefied fuel to provide a second evaporated sub-stream. A second mixer is fluidly connected to the second pump and the second heat exchanger and configured to mix the second evaporated sub-stream and a fourth sub-stream from the second feed stream of liquefied fuel to provide a second gaseous fuel stream.

[0014] The system (hydrogen refueling station) also includes a piping manifold fluidly connected to a first mixer and a second mixer, and at least one distributor fluidly connected to the piping manifold. The piping manifold is configured to deliver either or both of a first gaseous fuel stream and a second gaseous fuel stream to the at least one distributor, which distributes one or more such gaseous fuel streams to one or more vehicles.

[0015] In some implementations, the first and second gaseous fuel streams have pressures that satisfy refueling capacities of 35 MPa and 70 MPa, respectively. The first and second pumps are capable of refueling at 35 MPa and 70 MPa, respectively. At least two distributors are present, configured to simultaneously refuel at least two vehicles.

[0016] In some implementations, the system and hydrogen refueling station also include a controller configured to adjust the ratio of the first gaseous fuel stream and the second gaseous fuel stream to be distributed to the at least one distributor.

[0017] On the other hand, the present invention provides a method for using the system or a hydrogen refueling station. For example, according to some embodiments, the method includes the steps of: providing a liquefied fuel, such as hydrogen, stored in a cryogenic tank; connecting one of the at least one dispenser to an onboard tank of a fuel cell vehicle; initiating a refueling process by dispensing a first gaseous fuel stream with a lower pressure into the onboard tank; and completing the refueling process by dispensing at least a portion of a second gaseous fuel stream with a higher pressure into the onboard tank. A mixture of the first and second gaseous fuel streams may also be dispensed during the refueling process.

[0018] In some embodiments, the at least one distributor includes a first distributor and a second distributor. The method includes providing liquefied fuel, such as hydrogen, stored in a cryogenic tank, and sequentially providing it to at least two vehicles. The arrival time between the at least two vehicles is less than the time required to refuel either of the at least two vehicles. The method also includes connecting the first distributor to the onboard tank of a first vehicle to refuel the first vehicle, and connecting the second distributor to the onboard tank of a second vehicle to refuel the second vehicle.

[0019] The process of refueling the first vehicle may include: initiating refueling the first vehicle by distributing a first gaseous fuel stream to the first vehicle's onboard tank, and completing refueling the first vehicle by distributing at least a portion of a second gaseous fuel stream to the first vehicle's onboard tank. For refueling the second vehicle, in the initial stage, when the first gaseous fuel stream is distributed to the first vehicle's onboard tank, the second gaseous fuel stream may be distributed to the second vehicle's onboard tank, or vice versa. When the second gaseous fuel stream is distributed to the first vehicle, the first gaseous fuel stream may be distributed to the second vehicle. In the completion stage of refueling the second vehicle, at least a portion of the second gaseous fuel stream (i.e., the stream with higher pressure) may be distributed to the second vehicle's onboard tank. This is done when refueling the first vehicle is complete to avoid both vehicles requiring the second stream with higher pressure.

[0020] The pump has the capabilities described herein. For example, the first gaseous fuel flow and the second gaseous fuel flow have pressures that satisfy refueling capacities of 35 MPa and 70 MPa, respectively.

[0021] The systems and methods provided by this invention have numerous advantages as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, the invention provides a system for simultaneously refueling multiple fuel cell vehicles with hydrogen via multiple distributors and multiple fluid loops. The fluid loops can provide various pressure capabilities. The refueling rate and vehicle throughput of refueling stations can be significantly improved. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The invention can be best understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be emphasized that, by convention, the various features in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Rather, for clarity, the dimensions of the various features have been arbitrarily enlarged or reduced. Throughout the specification and drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same features.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary system comprising multiple pumps and multiple fluid circuits, shown according to some implementation schemes.

[0024] Figure 2This is shown according to some implementation schemes. Figure 1 A schematic block diagram of an exemplary portion of an exemplary system that uses two pumps with filling capacities of 35 MPa and 70 MPa, respectively.

[0025] Figure 3 This is a schematic block diagram of a comparative example with two independent pumps, each with a filling capacity of 70 MPa.

[0026] Figure 4-5 An exemplary calculation is shown to determine in Figure 3 The comparative example uses a single pump to deliver 90 kg of hydrogen to a refueling pressure of 70 MPa, with a discharge pressure of 96 MPa, a maximum flow rate of 5 kg / min, and a peak power of 200 kW. Figure 4 The tank pressure (P), tank temperature (T), and instantaneous power (kW) as functions of time are shown. Figure 5 The tank pressure, instantaneous flow rate (mdot, kg / min), and state of charge (SOC) as functions of time are shown.

[0027] Figure 6-7 An exemplary calculation is shown to determine the use of Figure 1 The exemplary system uses two pumps to deliver 90 kg of hydrogen to the required filling time at 70 MPa, with discharge pressures of 45 MPa and 96 MPa, a maximum flow rate of 5 kg / min, and a peak power of 200 kW; wherein, Figure 6 The tank pressure (P), tank temperature (T), and instantaneous power (kW) as functions of time are shown. Figure 7 The tank pressure, instantaneous flow rate (mdot, kg / min), and state of charge (SOC) as functions of time are shown.

[0028] Figure 8 The probability distribution function (pdf) for the arrival time intervals calculated for a sample of 60 vehicles is shown.

[0029] Figure 9 The probability distribution function (pdf) for the departure time intervals calculated for a sample of 60 vehicles is shown.

[0030] Figure 10 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating an exemplary system configuration including two pumps and multiple fluid loops, according to some implementation schemes.

[0031] Figure 11 This is shown according to some implementation schemes. Figure 10 An exemplary state machine diagram of an exemplary system.

[0032] Figure 12 This is shown according to some implementation schemes. Figure 10 An exemplary state machine diagram of a low-pressure pump (e.g., an H35 with a filling capacity of 35 MPa) in an exemplary system.

[0033] Figure 13 This is shown according to some implementation schemes. Figure 10 An exemplary state machine diagram of a high-pressure pump (e.g., an H70 with a filling capacity of 70 MPa) in an exemplary system.

[0034] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method according to some implementation schemes.

[0035] Figure 15-16 This is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for refueling at least two vehicles, according to some implementation schemes. Detailed Implementation

[0036] The description of exemplary embodiments is intended to be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are considered an integral part of the entire written description. In this specification, related terms such as “down,” “up,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “above,” “below,” “upward,” “downward,” “top,” and “bottom,” and their derivatives (e.g., “horizontally,” “downward,” “upward,” etc.) should be interpreted as referring to the orientation as described subsequently or as shown in the drawings discussed. These related terms are for ease of description and do not require the device to be constructed or operated in a particular orientation. Terms such as “connection” and “interconnection” refer to a relationship in which structures are directly or indirectly fixed or connected to each other through intermediate structures, and to active or rigid connections or relationships, unless otherwise explicitly described.

[0037] For the purposes described below, it should be understood that alternative variations and embodiments may be taken from the examples described below. It should also be understood that the specific articles, compositions and / or methods described herein are exemplary and should not be considered limiting.

[0038] In this invention, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural forms, and references to a particular numerical value include at least that particular value unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise. When a value is expressed as an approximation using the antecedent “about,” it should be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. As used herein, “about x” (where x is a numerical value) preferably refers to ±10% of the referenced value, including the end value. For example, the phrase “about 8” preferably refers to a value from 7.2 to 8.8, including the end value. When present, all ranges are inclusive and composable. For example, when listing a range of “1 to 5,” the listed range should be interpreted as including the ranges “1 to 4,” “1 to 3,” “1-2 and 4-5,” “1-3 and 5,” “2-5,” etc. Furthermore, when an affirmative list of alternatives is provided, such a list can be interpreted as meaning that any alternative can be excluded, for example, by negative limitation in the claims. For example, when listing the range “1 to 5”, the listed range can be interpreted to include cases where any one of 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 is negatively excluded; thus, the statement “1 to 5” can be interpreted as “1 and 3-5, but not 2”, or simply “excluding 2”. It is intended here that negative limitations in the claims can explicitly exclude any component, element, property, or step expressly listed herein, whether such component, element, property, or step is listed as an alternative or is listed separately.

[0039] Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the terms “substantially” and “substantially the same” as used herein shall be understood to cover parameters that fluctuate within a suitable range, such as ±10% or ±15%. In some embodiments, the fluctuation range is within ±10%.

[0040] Unless otherwise explicitly stated, liquefied fuels such as hydrogen are stored in tanks and pumped out in liquid form using pumps. They can be dispensed as either gaseous or liquid fuels into the vehicle's receiving tanks. In this invention, the terms "fuel" and "replenishment fuel" are used interchangeably.

[0041] As described herein, when an element or component is described as forming a “connection” or “coupled” with another element or component, it can be a direct connection, coupling, or connection to a specific element or component via an intermediate element or component. When an element or component is described as “directly connected” or “directly coupled” to another element, there is no intermediate element or component.

[0042] As used herein, the term "thermally coupled to" is understood to mean that components are coupled together directly or through an intermediate component, allowing heat transfer between the components, and that the components are in direct contact with each other or through an intermediate component. As used herein, the term "fluid connection" is understood to mean that a component is connected to a pipe or line and configured to allow gas or liquid to flow through the component. As used herein, the term "electrical connection" is understood to encompass electrical connections using wired or wireless connections.

[0043] As used herein, the term "fluid loop" will be understood as the path for liquefied fuels in the liquid or gas phase from cryogenic tanks and pumps to distributors, particularly the fuel path between pumps and pipeline manifolds.

[0044] The check valve described herein is a one-way valve that automatically opens or closes in only one direction. A switching valve, as described herein, can be controlled to be closed or open to allow fluid to flow in only one direction. An isolation valve, as described herein, can be controlled to be closed or open to prevent or allow fluid to flow in one or more directions.

[0045] The term “ambient temperature” as used in this article will be understood as the temperature under ambient conditions, such as room temperature of 20-22°C.

[0046] This invention provides a fuel refueling station, system, and method for dispensing liquefied fuel and refueling vehicles. For example, when the liquefied fuel includes or is hydrogen, the system is a hydrogen refueling station or a system for dispensing hydrogen. In some embodiments, the system is used to refuel fuel cell-based vehicles with hydrogen. In said system or hydrogen refueling station, at least two cryogenic pumps with different pressures and flow rates of liquid H2 are used to deliver compressed gaseous H2 to the vehicle's storage tank.

[0047] The present invention also provides a method for refueling one or more hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. The vehicle's onboard tank is filled with compressed gaseous H2 from at least two different pump circuits (or fluid circuits).

[0048] In existing hydrogen refueling stations, a single dispenser is supported by a single fluid loop connected to a hydrogen storage tank. In the system or refueling station provided by this invention, multiple dispensers can be fluidly connected to multiple fluid loops. A single fluid loop can be connected to one or more dispensers, and a single dispenser can also be connected to and supported by multiple fluid loops, which are connected to the same hydrogen storage tank. During refueling, hydrogen can be delivered to the vehicle through a single dispenser using multiple fluid loops. At a refueling station, multiple fuel cell vehicles can be refueled in series (sequentially) or in parallel (simultaneously).

[0049] exist Figure 1 , 2In Figures 1 and 10, the same components are represented by the same reference numerals, and for the sake of brevity, the structural descriptions provided above with reference to the aforementioned figures will not be repeated. Reference Figure 1 , 2 And the exemplary structure described in 10 to describe Figure 14 The method described in [the document / article].

[0050] refer to Figure 1 An exemplary system 100 is shown according to some embodiments. The housing 10 is a service area. System 100 includes a cryogenic tank 20 and at least two pumps 40, including a first pump 42 and a second pump 44.

[0051] The cryogenic tank 20 may be a double-walled cryogenic tank with an outer wall and an inner wall. The space between the two walls is either vacuum-sealed or filled with insulating material. The cryogenic tank 20 is configured to store liquefied fuel 30, such as liquid hydrogen, therein. The cryogenic tank 20 may be an insulated tank suitable for storing liquefied fuel 30, such as liquid hydrogen, at cryogenic temperatures and pressures. In some embodiments, the liquefied fuel 30 comprises hydrogen or hydrogen vapor. The gaseous phase (evaporation) of the liquefied fuel 30 may exist in the top space within the cryogenic tank 20 above the liquid phase of the liquefied fuel 30. The cryogenic tank 20 may have a suitable capacity, such as 400 kg (1500 gallons), 1200 kg (4500 gallons), or 4800 kg (18,000 gallons).

[0052] Pump 40 is configured to be disposed within cryogenic tank 20 and to provide a flow of liquefied fuel from cryogenic tank 20. Pump 40 is a submersible pump with a pump inlet that is submerged in liquefied fuel 30 within cryogenic tank 20 during operation. Pump 40 is inserted into cryogenic tank 20 and can be removed for maintenance.

[0053] A first pump 42 has a first maximum flow rate and is configured to compress and provide a first flow 11 of liquefied fuel 30 at a first pressure from cryogenic tank 20. A second pump 44 has a second maximum flow rate and is configured to provide a second flow 21 of liquefied fuel 30 at a second pressure from cryogenic tank 20. The second maximum flow rate is lower than the first maximum flow rate, and the second pressure is higher than the first pressure.

[0054] System 100 also includes a first heat exchanger 62, a first mixer 72, a second heat exchanger 64, and a second mixer 74. The first heat exchanger 62 is fluidly connected to a first pump 42 and configured to evaporate a first sub-stream 12 from a first feed stream 11 of liquefied fuel 30 to provide a first evaporated sub-stream 13. The first mixer 72 is fluidly connected to the first pump 42 and the first heat exchanger 62 and configured to mix the first evaporated sub-stream 13 and a second sub-stream 14 from the first feed stream 11 of liquefied fuel 30 to provide a first gaseous fuel stream 32. The second heat exchanger 64 is fluidly connected to the second pump 44 and configured to evaporate a third sub-stream 22 from the second feed stream 21 of liquefied fuel 30 to provide a second evaporated sub-stream 23. The second mixer 74 is fluidly connected to the second pump 44 and the second heat exchanger 64 and configured to mix the second evaporated sub-stream 23 and a fourth sub-stream 24 from the second feed stream 21 of liquefied fuel 30 to provide a second gaseous fuel stream 34.

[0055] System 100 also includes a piping manifold 80 and at least one distributor 90. For example, at least one distributor includes, for example, a piping manifold 80 and at least one distributor 90. Figure 1 The first distributor 92 and the second distributor 94 shown have a manifold 80 fluidly connected to two mixers 72 and 74 and configured to deliver either or both of a first gaseous fuel stream 32 and a second gaseous fuel stream 34 to at least one distributor 90. Distributors 90, such as distributors 92 or 94, are configured to distribute compressed gaseous fuel streams 36 or 38 from either or both of the first gaseous fuel stream 32 and the second gaseous fuel stream 34 to onboard tanks (not shown) in vehicles or corresponding tanks in multiple vehicles. In some embodiments, at least one distributor 90 includes at least two distributors configured to simultaneously refuel at least two vehicles.

[0056] exist Figure 1 In the diagram, the two dashed boxes represent fluid loops 52 and 54 associated with each pump, respectively. Each fluid loop may include a pump, a corresponding heat exchanger, and a corresponding mixer. Sometimes, a fluid loop may also include a piping manifold 80 and a distributor 90.

[0057] The manifold 80 can switch airflow from the first fluid circuit 52 to the second fluid circuit 54 without disconnecting the distributor hose from the vehicle. The manifold 80 can also direct fluid from either fluid circuit to the first distributor 92, and from different fluid circuits to different distributors. The manifold 80 can also combine fluid from two fluid circuits and direct the fluid to a single distributor.

[0058] In some embodiments, the first gaseous fuel stream 32 is a compressed gaseous stream with a pressure between 25 MPa and 50 MPa and a temperature between -50°C and an ambient temperature, such as 20°C. For example, the first gaseous fuel stream 32 may have a pressure in the range of 35 MPa-45 MPa or 35 MPa-40 MPa. The second gaseous fuel stream 34 is a compressed gaseous stream with a pressure between 50 MPa and 90 MPa and a temperature between -50°C and an ambient temperature, such as 20°C. For example, in some embodiments, the first gaseous fuel stream and the second gaseous fuel stream have pressures that satisfy refueling capacities of 35 MPa and 70 MPa, respectively. Figure 1 The pressure values ​​of 35 MPa and 70 MPa, respectively, marked on the first pump 42 and the second pump 44, are for illustrative purposes only. These values ​​exemplarily represent the capabilities of the two pumps. Corresponding to these two pressure values, in some embodiments, the first maximum flow rate of the first pump 42 is up to 280 kg / hr, and the second maximum flow rate of the second pump 44 is less than 200 kg / hr.

[0059] In some embodiments, system 100 also includes one or more additional pumps 40. System 100 includes a total of three or more pumps 40 with different combinations of pressure and flow capabilities. For example, four distributors may be supplied by four pumps. The system may also include multiple sets of dual-pump combinations, including a first pump 42, a second pump 44, a first heat exchanger 62, a second heat exchanger 64, a first mixer 72, and a second mixer 74 as described above.

[0060] In some embodiments, system 100 also includes an additional cryogenic tank 20 configured to have at least one pump 40. For example, system 100 may include two cryogenic tanks 20, one cryogenic tank having two 35 MPa pumps, while the other cryogenic tank houses one or more 70 MPa pumps.

[0061] The dispenser 90 can have an average filling rate of 5 kg / min or 4 kg / min. The final pressure in the vehicle's fuel tank can be greater than 66.5 MPa, corresponding to 95% SOC.

[0062] According to some embodiments, the present invention provides a hydrogen refueling station as an example of an exemplary system 100. The refueling station includes a cryogenic tank 20 as described above, a first pump 42, and a second pump 44. The second pump 44 has a lower maximum flow rate than the first pump 42 and is capable of compressing and supplying a second feed stream 21 of liquefied fuel 30 at a higher pressure from the cryogenic tank 20.

[0063] The hydrogen refueling station also includes heat exchangers and mixers corresponding to each pump, namely, a first heat exchanger 62, a first mixer 72, a second heat exchanger 64, and a second mixer 74, as described above, in a first fluid circuit 52 and a second fluid circuit 54. The first mixer 72 is configured to provide a first gaseous fuel flow 32, and the second mixer is configured to provide a second gaseous fuel flow 34.

[0064] The refueling station also includes a manifold 80 fluidly connected to a first mixer 72 and a second mixer 74, and at least one distributor 90 fluidly connected to the manifold 80. The manifold 80 is configured to deliver either or both of a first gaseous fuel flow 32 and a second gaseous fuel flow 34 to the at least one distributor, which distributes such gaseous fuel flow or multiple gaseous fuel flows 36 and 38 to one or more vehicles. Multiple liquid pumps with different pressures and flow rates can be used. The manifold 80 allows fuel to be delivered in series or parallel using different pump circuits without disconnecting the distributor from the vehicles.

[0065] In some embodiments, the first gaseous fuel stream 32 and the second gaseous fuel stream 34 have pressures that satisfy refueling capacities of 35 MPa and 70 MPa, respectively. The first pump 42 and the second pump 44 satisfy refueling capacities of 35 MPa and 70 MPa, respectively. At least one distributor 90 includes at least two distributors 92 and 94 configured to simultaneously refuel at least two vehicles.

[0066] In some embodiments, such as a fuel replenishment station, the system 100 also includes a controller (not shown) configured to adjust the ratio of a first gaseous fuel flow and a second gaseous fuel flow to be distributed to at least one distributor.

[0067] System 100 offers several advantages. For example, the system includes at least two pumps and fluid circuits, where the first pump has a higher flow rate and lower outlet pressure, while the second pump has a lower flow rate but higher outlet pressure. The at least two pumps and two fluid circuits are used to deliver high-flow-rate, high-pressure vehicle refueling. The system provides a configuration station where at least two distributors are connected to the fluid circuits enabled by the two pumps. This system is used for high-throughput vehicle refueling under high pressure.

[0068] The performance advantage is also reflected in the refueling time for multiple vehicles at a single station. Compared to stations using the same total number of pumps, this design offers higher vehicle throughput, but uses only a single high-pressure, low-flow pump to deliver refueling for each vehicle. During multi-vehicle queuing, more than one fluid loop is used to deliver the refueling fluid.

[0069] In comparison, when using a single fluid loop, or a single type of loop, the filling rate is limited to the flow rate of the high-pressure pump. To achieve the required flow rate, more pumps are needed. Otherwise, using a low-pressure pump will result in incomplete filling.

[0070] In System 100, a portion of the full filling can be quickly delivered using a fluid circuit activated by a low-pressure pump, followed by the completion of the filling using a fluid circuit activated by a high-pressure pump without disconnecting the vehicle from the dispenser.

[0071] Compared to a single fluid loop with a 70 MPa refueling capacity, this dual-pump system can complete a 70 MPa refueling in less time. This dual-pump system can use two distributors to complete two 70 MPa refuelings simultaneously, or it is faster than a system with two pumps each having a 70 MPa refueling capacity independently connected to two distributors. In other words, when using the same number of pumps, system 100 offers an advantage in refueling time. For example, compared to a configuration with two independent pump loops having a 70 MPa refueling capacity, the dual-pump hybrid system described herein provides a faster average refueling time. When the interval between vehicle arrivals at the station is longer than the time required for a single pump loop with a 70 MPa refueling capacity to complete refueling, the only advantage of the system of the present invention is reduced operating time. However, when the interval between vehicle arrivals at the station becomes shorter than the time required for a single pump loop with a 70 MPa refueling capacity to complete refueling, the dual-pump system can complete refueling at a faster average rate, increasing station throughput and reducing operating time and labor costs.

[0072] According to some implementation plans Figure 2 A portion of an exemplary system 100 is shown, which uses two pumps with filling capacities of 35 MPa and 70 MPa, respectively. Figure 3 A comparative example with two independent pumps is shown, each with a filling capacity of 70 MPa.

[0073] Reference Figure 2 An exemplary design for a service area 102 for refueling fuel cell vehicles such as buses 91, 93, and 95 is shown. This design includes two fluid circuits 52 and 54, each having two pumps 42 and 44, and as shown in the diagram. Figure 1 The other components shown have refueling capacities of 35 MPa and 70 MPa, respectively. This service area has two refueling locations (e.g., Figure 1 (As shown at the top and bottom), each refueling location is served by a dispenser. The dashed lines with arrows indicate the direction of vehicle movement. Bus 91 in the queue will move to the next available open refueling location.

[0074] In comparison, Figure 3 In Comparative Example 104 shown, only one fluid circuit 54 with pump 44 is used. Two pumps are used, each with a filling capacity of 70 MPa. The two fluid circuits 54 of the same type are not connected. Each fluid circuit supplies gaseous hydrogen to a corresponding distributor.

[0075] The exemplary design of the system 100, featuring service area 102, utilizes a pump circuit 52 with a 35 MPa refueling capacity (50 MPa pump discharge) and a pump circuit 54 with a 70 MPa refueling capacity (96 MPa pump discharge). According to some embodiments, each refueling begins with a portion from the pump circuit 52 with the 35 MPa refueling capacity, followed by a portion from the pump circuit 54 with the 70 MPa refueling capacity. Subsequent vehicles are refueled in this sequence by these circuits upon arrival, and the corresponding circuit becomes available after completing its current refueling portion. In this embodiment, the high-flow-rate pump circuit with the 35 MPa refueling capacity delivers the first portion of the refueling without disconnecting the dispenser hose from the vehicle, and the high-flow-rate pump circuit with the 70 MPa refueling capacity delivers the second portion of the refueling.

[0076] The system also utilizes at least two distributors to refuel at least two vehicles in parallel, starting with an airflow from one pump followed by an airflow from a second pump, without switching distributor hoses. A manifold 80 is used to switch the flow from either of the two pump circuits 52, 54 to either of the two vehicles being refueled. In the dual-vehicle dual-distributor system, the first vehicle receives a first portion of fuel from a pump circuit with a 35 MPa refueling capacity, followed by a second portion from a pump circuit with a 70 MPa refueling capacity. The second vehicle is connected to a second distributor and begins receiving a first portion of fuel from the 35 MPa refueling capacity pump circuit after that pump circuit has completed refueling the first vehicle with the first portion. The second vehicle receives the first portion of fuel from the 35 MPa refueling capacity pump circuit in parallel with the first vehicle receiving the second portion from the 70 MPa refueling capacity pump circuit. Then, when the first part of the second vehicle has been filled and the pump circuit with a filling capacity of 70 MPa has finished filling the second part of the first vehicle, the second vehicle receives the filled second part from the pump circuit with a filling capacity of 70 MPa.

[0077] Consider a variation when the second vehicle arrives and the pump circuit with a 70 MPa refueling capacity is idle, since the first vehicle is still receiving the first portion of its fuel from the pump circuit with a 35 MPa refueling capacity. In this case, the pump circuit with a 70 MPa refueling capacity begins refueling as soon as the pump circuit with a 35 MPa refueling capacity has completed refueling the first portion of the fuel to the first vehicle. The manifold switches the flow of the pump circuits such that the pump circuit with a 70 MPa refueling capacity delivers the second portion of the fuel to the first vehicle, and the pump circuit with a 35 MPa refueling capacity completes refueling the first portion of the fuel to the second vehicle. Once the pump circuit with a 70 MPa refueling capacity has completed refueling the second portion of the fuel to the first vehicle, and the pump circuit with a 35 MPa refueling capacity has completed refueling the first portion of the fuel to the second vehicle, the manifold switches the flow to deliver the second portion of the fuel to the second vehicle. Subsequent vehicles repeat the refueling sequence, allowing multiple vehicles to be refueled quickly and continuously. Figure 2 In the implementations shown, fuel is supplied to any single dispenser using only a single pump circuit at any given time.

[0078] For those with such Figure 2 The exemplary design of system 100 for service area 102 shown calculates the refueling time required to refuel 90 kg of hydrogen fuel at 70 MPa. The first pump 42 is a high-flow, low-pressure pump capable of 240 kg / hr at 45 MPa discharge, with a pressure of 35 MPa at the distributor. The second pump 44 is a low-flow, high-pressure pump capable of 120 kg / hr at 96 MPa discharge, with a pressure of 70 MPa at the distributor. Calculations are performed using data from the RefProp thermodynamic database and SAE J2601, "Fuel Protocol for Light-Duty Gaseous Hydrogen Ground Vehicles".

[0079] Figure 4-5 An exemplary calculation is shown to determine in Figure 3 The comparative example uses a single pump to deliver 90 kg of hydrogen to the required filling time at 70 MPa, with a discharge pressure of 96 MPa. Figure 4 The tank pressure (P), tank temperature (T), and instantaneous power (kW) are shown as functions of time. Figure 5 The tank pressure, instantaneous flow rate (mdot, kg / min), and state of charge (SOC) as a function of time are shown. It complies with SAE J2601 requirements, with a maximum flow rate of 5 kg / min, a peak power of 200 kW, and a refueling time of 29.1 minutes.

[0080] Figure 6-7 An exemplary calculation is shown to determine when there are Figure 2The design shown Figure 1 The exemplary system uses two pumps to deliver 90 kg of hydrogen to the filling time required for 70 MPa filling, with discharge pressures of 45 MPa and 96 MPa, a maximum flow rate of 5 kg / min, and a peak power of 200 kW. Figure 6 The tank pressure (P), tank temperature (T), and instantaneous power (kW) are shown as functions of time. Figure 7 The tank pressure, instantaneous flow rate (mdot, kg / min), and state of charge (SOC) as functions of time are shown.

[0081] This configuration uses a 45 MPa pump to deliver 59 kg, followed by a 96 MPa pump to complete the filling. It meets J2601 requirements, with a maximum output of 5 kg / min and a peak power of 200 kW. The total filling time is 15.5 minutes: 9 minutes with the 45 MPa pump, followed by 6.5 minutes with the 96 MPa pump.

[0082] In having Figure 1-2 In the designed system 100, two scenarios are considered. In scenario 1, the arrival time intervals of vehicles such as bus 91 are wide and longer than the average refueling time required by a dispenser 90. In scenario 2, the arrival time intervals of vehicles are close and shorter than the required average refueling time.

[0083] In Scenario 1, vehicle arrival times are random, but the average interval is longer than the time required to complete refueling using a single pump. This solution utilizes multiple pumps, but only one pump is used for each refueling cycle to provide the fastest average refueling time.

[0084] Within a wider constraint that the time interval between vehicle arrivals is greater than the time required to refuel the vehicle, the preferred refueling time for a direct comparison is the mixed solution (15.5 minutes vs. 29.1 minutes). In alternative configurations using the same total number of pumps, the results show that the average refueling time is almost equivalent. Figure 3 In the comparative example, in two independent pump circuits, the filling time was 14.55 minutes. In such... Figure 2 In the mixed pump configuration shown, the filling time is 15.5 minutes, and the system has the advantage of filling time at the system level, but not on a per-pump basis.

[0085] In Scenario 2, where arrival intervals are close together, a queue is formed when vehicles arrive randomly but faster than the refueling time. In the comparative example, vehicles alternate between two refueling locations, each staying at the station for 29.1 minutes before departing. In the example of this invention, the first vehicle receives a first portion of refueling from a pump circuit with a 35 MPa refueling capacity over 9 minutes, and then receives the remaining portion from a pump circuit with a 70 MPa refueling capacity. The second vehicle arriving at the second refueling location receives its first portion of refueling from the pump circuit with the 35 MPa refueling capacity when it is available; the remaining refueling is delivered from the pump circuit with the 70 MPa refueling capacity when it is available.

[0086] Figure 8-9 An example of the arrival and departure time intervals is shown. Figure 8 The probability distribution function (pdf) for arrival time intervals calculated from a sample of 60 vehicles is shown. Figure 8 As shown, the average arrival interval can be approximately 20 minutes, ranging from 15 to 25 minutes.

[0087] Figure 9 The probability distribution function (pdf) for departure time intervals calculated from a sample of 60 vehicles is shown. The average departure interval is 4 minutes, ranging from 3 to 5 minutes.

[0088] A total of 20 simulations were conducted with 30 vehicles, with average arrival intervals of 5 minutes, 10 minutes, and 20 minutes. When vehicles arrived randomly at an average interval of 10 minutes, the average vehicle throughput was approximately 31% higher than the comparison example. When vehicles arrived randomly at an average interval of 20 minutes, the average vehicle throughput was approximately 1% higher than the comparison example. When vehicles arrived randomly at an average interval of 5 minutes, the average vehicle throughput was approximately 38% higher than the comparison example.

[0089] According to some implementation plans Figure 10 Another configuration 110 of the exemplary system 100 is shown, which includes two pumps and multiple fluid loops. The pumps in the cryogenic tank 20 are P200H35 units serving as the first pump 42, with a discharge of 45 MPa and a flow rate of 250 kg / h, and P200H70 units serving as the second pump 44, with a discharge of 96 MPa and a flow rate of 125 kg / h. At least two fluid loops 52 and 54 are present. Figure 10 As shown, Figure 10Configuration 110 also includes heat exchangers 62 and 64, evaporators 63 and 65, buffer tanks 67a and 67b, pressure control valves 68a and 68b, flow meters 69a and 69b, and temperature control valves 66a and 66b, for a pump circuit (H35) with a capacity of 35 MPa and a pump circuit (H70) with a capacity of 70 MPa, respectively. Piping manifold 80 includes valves 70a and 70b and a check valve 71, which are used to select one or both gaseous hydrogen fuels from the two fluid circuits 52 and 54 and then supply them to one of the two nozzles 92 and 94. For example, for each nozzle, at least three options include gaseous hydrogen fuels from only the first fluid circuit 52, only the second fluid circuit 54, or a combination of both circuits 52 and 54. The fuels from the two circuits can be mixed in different proportions.

[0090] have Figure 10 The system 100 configured as shown and the method of using the system are related to having Figure 2 The system 100 shown is similar, except that the manifold 80 allows for the possibility of at least two pump circuits simultaneously supplying fuel to a single distributor 90, such as distributor 92 or 94. Using a pump circuit with a higher pressure of 70 MPa allows for the application of two guidelines: (1) maximizing pump utilization, and (2) striving to achieve the highest possible tank pressure when the pump circuit is available.

[0091] There are four scenarios: (1) When the first vehicle arrives, fluid begins from both the pump circuit with a 35 MPa refueling capacity and the pump circuit with a 70 MPa refueling capacity. When refueling reaches an intermediate level (above the maximum pressure of the pump circuit with a 35 MPa refueling capacity), the pump circuit with a 35 MPa refueling capacity stops refueling the first vehicle, and the pump circuit with a 70 MPa refueling capacity is used to complete the refueling. (2) When the second vehicle arrives while the first vehicle is receiving refueling, the pump circuit with a 35 MPa refueling capacity switches after the tank of the first vehicle reaches the maximum pressure capacity of the pump circuit with a 35 MPa refueling capacity. The pump with a 70 MPa refueling capacity completes the refueling of the first vehicle, and then switches to the second vehicle to complete the refueling. (3) In the case where both vehicles arrive at both distributors simultaneously, both pumps operate simultaneously to deliver the first portion of the refueling to the first vehicle, while the second vehicle waits. Once the tank pressure of the first vehicle reaches the maximum pressure capacity of the pump with a 35 MPa refueling capacity, the 35 MPa refueling capacity pump circuit switches to the second vehicle. (4) If the pressure in the onboard tank of the second vehicle is higher than that of the first vehicle when the second distributor is connected to the vehicle, the pump circuit with a 70 MPa refueling capacity switches to the second part of the refueling, while the pump circuit with a 35 MPa refueling capacity completes the refueling of the first part of the first vehicle. If the first part of the first vehicle reaches the maximum pressure capacity of the pump with a 35 MPa refueling capacity before the second vehicle reaches the same pressure, the 70 MPa refueling capacity pump switches back to the first vehicle to complete its refueling, and then the refueling of the second vehicle is completed. Subsequent vehicles repeat the refueling sequence, allowing for rapid and continuous refueling of multiple vehicles.

[0092] According to some implementation plans Figure 11 yes Figure 10 An exemplary state machine diagram of an exemplary system. This diagram illustrates the states of a pump, such as the H35 pump being idle or abnormally terminated, the nozzle filling status of a pump, and related conditions.

[0093] According to some implementation plans Figure 12 yes Figure 10 An exemplary state machine diagram of a low-pressure pump (e.g., an H35 with a 35 MPa filling capacity) in an exemplary system. The condition statements for the H35 pump are shown in... Figure 12 As shown on the right, for example, "35SA" means the first nozzle, nozzle A, which receives a filling request and whose pressure is lower than the target pressure of the H35 pump. In this case, the H35 pump fills nozzle A.

[0094] According to some implementation plans Figure 13 Yes Figure 10An exemplary state machine diagram of a high-pressure pump (e.g., an H70 with a capacity of 70 MPa) in an exemplary system. The condition statements for the H70 pump are shown in... Figure 12 The right side is shown. For example, "70SA" means the first nozzle, nozzle A, receives the filling request, and the pressure of nozzle A is lower than the target pressure of the H70 pump. In this case, the H70 pump fills nozzle A.

[0095] exist Figure 12-13 In the H35 pump, the higher pressure of the active nozzle is preferred at any given time, as long as it is below the H35 limit. Similarly, the higher pressure of the H70 pump is preferred at any given time, as long as it is below the H70 limit.

[0096] The simulation was conducted using a total tank capacity of 40 kg, average dispensing rates of 4 kg / min for H35 pumps and 2 kg / min for H70 pumps, and a maximum pressure capacity of 45 MPa for H35 pumps. The simulation aimed to minimize H35 idle time while attempting to operate H70 pumps continuously. Nozzles A and B were both H70 nozzles, and the target dispensing pressure was H70. The H35 pump was used as a fast-flow pump for partial dispensing to accelerate dispensing.

[0097] In one type of simulation, it is assumed that the vehicle arrives with an empty tank. The simulation shows that, in comparison with example systems (e.g., Figure 3 In the system shown, the average vehicle throughput of the two independently operating H70 pumps is about 6 vehicles / h, while the H35-H70 system 100 can achieve a vehicle flow rate between 9 and 10 vehicles / h.

[0098] In another type of simulation, it is assumed that the random initial state of charge of the vehicles upon arrival varies from 0 to 35 kg. The simulation shows that, in the comparative example, the average vehicle throughput of two independently operating H70 pumps is about 6 vehicles / h, while the H35-H70 system 100 can achieve a vehicle flow rate between 9 and 10 vehicles / h.

[0099] From a reliability standpoint, if the H70 pump stops, the vehicle can be refueled to 70% SOC (28 kg of total capacity for 40 kg). If the H35 pump stops, refueling the vehicle is slower. For a system with two independent H70 pumps (comparative example), based on the parameters here, the vehicle throughput is approximately 6 units / hr, while for the hybrid approach it is approximately 9 or 10 units / hr.

[0100] In another aspect, the present invention provides one or more methods for using the system or site. (See references) Figure 14 The present invention provides an exemplary method 200 for using the system 100 as described herein.

[0101] In step 202, liquefied fuel 30 is provided and stored in cryogenic tank 20. In some embodiments, liquefied fuel 30 includes hydrogen or hydrogen.

[0102] In step 204, at least one of the distributors 90 is connected to the onboard storage tank of the fuel cell vehicle.

[0103] In step 206, the refueling process is initiated by distributing a first gaseous fuel stream 32 with a lower pressure to the onboard storage tank.

[0104] In step 208, at least a portion of the second gaseous fuel stream 34, which has a higher pressure, is dispensed into the onboard storage tank. The refueling process may be nearing completion. During the refueling process, a mixture of the first gaseous fuel stream 32 and the second gaseous fuel stream 34 may also be dispensed. In some embodiments, the liquefied fuel comprises hydrogen, and the method is used to refuel a fuel cell vehicle with hydrogen. The hydrogen fuel may be dispensed into the vehicle at a suitable pressure, such as 35 MPa or 70 MPa. Compressed hydrogen may be at a temperature of -40°C and dispensed at a temperature of, for example, -20°C. The gaseous fuel may be at a higher discharge pressure prior to dispensing. For example, discharge pressures of 45 MPa and 96 MPa correspond to refueling pressures of 35 MPa and 70 MPa, respectively.

[0105] In some embodiments, at least one distributor 90 includes a first distributor 92 and a second distributor 94. (See reference...) Figure 15 A corresponding exemplary method 210 is provided.

[0106] In step 202, a liquefied fuel, such as hydrogen, is provided in a cryogenic tank.

[0107] In step 214, at least two vehicles are supplied sequentially. The arrival time between the at least two vehicles is less than the time required for either of the at least two vehicles to be refueled. The pump has the capabilities described herein. For example, the first gaseous fuel stream 32 and the second gaseous fuel stream 34 have pressures that satisfy refueling capacities of 35 MPa and 70 MPa, respectively.

[0108] In step 216, the first distributor 92 is connected to the onboard storage tank of the first vehicle. In step 220, the first vehicle is refueled.

[0109] In step 230, the second distributor 94 is connected to the onboard storage tank of the second vehicle. In step 240, the second vehicle is refueled.

[0110] See Figure 16Step 220, which refuels the first vehicle, may include steps 222 and 224, and step 240, which refuels the second vehicle, may include steps 242 and 244.

[0111] In step 222, during the initial stage of refueling the first vehicle, a first gaseous fuel stream 32 is distributed into the vehicle's onboard storage tank. During the later and final stages of refueling the first vehicle, at least a portion of a second gaseous fuel stream 34, which has a higher pressure, enters the vehicle's onboard storage tank.

[0112] In step 242, during the initial stage of refueling the second vehicle, when the first gaseous fuel stream 32 is allocated to the onboard tank of the first vehicle, the second gaseous fuel stream 34 may be allocated to the onboard tank of the second vehicle. Alternatively, when the second gaseous fuel stream 34 is allocated to the first vehicle, the first gaseous fuel stream 32 may be allocated to the second vehicle.

[0113] In step 244, during the completion phase of refueling the second vehicle, at least a portion of the second gaseous fuel stream 34 (i.e., the stream with higher pressure) may be distributed to the onboard tank of the second vehicle. This is completed when refueling the first vehicle is finished, to avoid both vehicles needing the second stream with higher pressure 34.

[0114] The exemplary system 100 may also include a controller for controlling the steps and components of the methods described herein. The controller may include one or more processors and at least one tangible, non-transitory machine-readable medium encoded with one or more programs and executed by one or more processors to perform the steps in the method.

[0115] In some embodiments, the method of refueling a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle using the above system includes connecting a first fuel cell vehicle to a distributor and filling an onboard tank with compressed gaseous H2 from at least two different pump circuits, and connecting a second hydrogen fuel cell vehicle to a second distributor and filling the onboard tank with compressed gaseous H2 from at least two different pump circuits. Fluid from the two different pump circuits is directed to the first distributor and then to the second distributor. During vehicle tank refueling, fluid from the at least two different pump circuits can be distributed in series (sequentially), in parallel (simultaneously), or in both modes.

[0116] The systems and methods provided in this invention offer numerous advantages as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, the invention provides a system for simultaneously refueling multiple fuel cell vehicles with hydrogen via multiple distributors and multiple fluid loops. The fluid loops can provide various pressure capabilities. The refueling rate and vehicle throughput of refueling stations can be significantly improved.

[0117] The methods and systems described herein can be embodied, at least in part, in the form of computer-implemented processes and apparatus for performing these processes. The disclosed methods can also be embodied, at least in part, in the form of tangible, non-transient machine-readable storage media encoded with computer program code. The media may include, for example, RAM, ROM, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, BD-ROM, hard disk drive, flash memory, or any other non-transient machine-readable storage media, or any combination of these media, wherein when the computer program code is loaded into and executed by the computer, the computer becomes an apparatus for performing the method. The methods can also be embodied, at least in part, in the form of a computer, in which computer program code is loaded into and / or executed, such that the computer becomes an apparatus for performing the method. When implemented on a general-purpose processor, computer program code segments configure the processor to create specific logic circuits. The methods may optionally be implemented, at least in part, in a digital signal processor formed by application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) for performing the methods. The computer or control unit can be operated remotely using a cloud-based system.

[0118] Although the subject matter has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is not limited thereto. Rather, the appended claims should be interpreted broadly to include other variations and embodiments that may be made by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A system comprising: A cryogenic tank configured for storing liquefied fuel; A first pump, having a first maximum flow rate and configured to provide a first flow of the liquefied fuel having a first pressure from the cryogenic tank; A second pump, having a second maximum flow rate and configured to provide a second flow of the liquefied fuel at a second pressure from the cryogenic tank, wherein the second maximum flow rate is lower than the first maximum flow rate and the second pressure is higher than the first pressure; A first heat exchanger is fluidly connected to a first pump and configured to evaporate a first sub-stream from a first feed stream of liquefied fuel in order to provide a first evaporation sub-stream; A first mixer, fluidly connected to a first pump and a first heat exchanger, is configured to mix a first evaporation sub-stream and a second sub-stream from a first feed stream of liquefied fuel in order to provide a first gaseous fuel stream; A second heat exchanger is fluidly connected to a second pump and configured to evaporate a third sub-stream from a second feed stream of liquefied fuel in order to provide a second evaporation sub-stream; A second mixer, which is fluidly connected to a second pump and a second heat exchanger, is configured to mix a second evaporation sub-stream and a fourth sub-stream from a second feed stream of liquefied fuel in order to provide a second gaseous fuel stream; Pipe manifold; and at least one distributor, The manifold is configured to deliver one or both of the first gaseous fuel stream and the second gaseous fuel stream to at least one distributor, and the at least one distributor is configured to distribute one or both of the first gaseous fuel stream and the second gaseous fuel stream to the vehicle's onboard storage tank. The first gaseous fuel flow is a compressed gaseous flow having a pressure between 25 MPa and 45 MPa and a temperature between -50°C and 20°C; The second gaseous fuel flow is a compressed gaseous flow with a pressure between 50 MPa and 90 MPa and a temperature between -50°C and 20°C; A manifold is used to switch flow from either of two pump circuits to either of two vehicles being refueled. In a dual-vehicle dual-distributor system, the at least one distributor includes a first distributor and a second distributor. The first vehicle receives a first portion of fuel from a first pump circuit having a first gaseous fuel flow, and subsequently receives a second portion of fuel from a second pump circuit having a second gaseous fuel flow. The second vehicle is connected to the second distributor and begins receiving the first portion of fuel from the first pump circuit having the first gaseous fuel flow. After the first pump circuit has completed refueling the first portion of fuel to the first vehicle, the second vehicle receives the first portion of fuel from the first pump circuit having the first gaseous fuel flow in parallel with the first vehicle receiving the second portion of fuel from the second pump circuit having the second gaseous fuel flow. Then, when the first portion of fuel to the second vehicle has been refueled and the second pump circuit having the second gaseous fuel flow has completed refueling the second portion of fuel to the first vehicle, the second vehicle receives the second portion of fuel from the second pump circuit having the second gaseous fuel flow.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The liquefied fuel is liquid hydrogen, and the system is a hydrogen fuel refueling system.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the first pump and the second pump is configured to be located inside the cryogenic tank.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The first gaseous fuel stream and the second gaseous fuel stream have pressures that meet the requirements of 35 MPa and 70 MPa refueling capacity, respectively.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein, The first pump has a first maximum flow rate of up to 280 kg / hr, and the second pump has a second maximum flow rate of less than 200 kg / hr.

6. The system according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein, It also includes one or more additional pumps, wherein the system comprises a total of three or more pumps having different combinations of pressure and flow capacity.

7. The system according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein, The system includes multiple sets of dual-pump combinations, each including a first pump, a second pump, a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, a first mixer, and a second mixer.

8. The system according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein, It also includes an additional cryogenic tank, in which at least one pump is configured.

9. A hydrogen refueling station, comprising: A cryogenic tank configured for storing a liquefied fuel, wherein the liquefied fuel is hydrogen; A first pump, having a first maximum flow rate and configured to compress and provide a first flow of the liquefied fuel at a first pressure from the cryogenic tank; A second pump, having a second maximum flow rate and configured to compress and provide a second flow of the liquefied fuel from the cryogenic tank at a second pressure, wherein the second maximum flow rate is lower than the first maximum flow rate and the second pressure is higher than the first pressure; A first heat exchanger is fluidly connected to a first pump and configured to evaporate a first sub-stream from a first feed stream of liquefied fuel in order to provide a first evaporation sub-stream; A first mixer, fluidly connected to a first pump and a first heat exchanger, is configured to mix a first evaporation sub-stream and a second sub-stream from a first feed stream of liquefied fuel in order to provide a first gaseous fuel stream; A second heat exchanger is fluidly connected to a second pump and configured to evaporate a third sub-stream from a second feed stream of liquefied fuel in order to provide a second evaporation sub-stream; A second mixer, which is fluidly connected to a second pump and a second heat exchanger, is configured to mix a second evaporation sub-stream and a fourth sub-stream from a second feed stream of liquefied fuel in order to provide a second gaseous fuel stream; A piping manifold, fluidly connected to the first mixer and the second mixer; and at least one distributor, fluidly connected to the piping manifold. The pipeline manifold is configured to deliver one or both of the first gaseous fuel stream and the second gaseous fuel stream to the at least one distributor, and the at least one distributor is configured to distribute one or both of the first gaseous fuel stream and the second gaseous fuel stream to an on-board storage tank in the vehicle. The first gaseous fuel flow is a compressed gaseous flow having a pressure between 25 MPa and 45 MPa and a temperature between -50°C and 20°C; The second gaseous fuel flow is a compressed gaseous flow with a pressure between 50 MPa and 90 MPa and a temperature between -50°C and 20°C; A manifold is used to switch flow from either of two pump circuits to either of two vehicles being refueled. In a dual-vehicle dual-distributor system, the at least one distributor includes a first distributor and a second distributor. The first vehicle receives a first portion of fuel from a first pump circuit having a first gaseous fuel flow, and subsequently receives a second portion of fuel from a second pump circuit having a second gaseous fuel flow. The second vehicle is connected to the second distributor and begins receiving the first portion of fuel from the first pump circuit having the first gaseous fuel flow. After the first pump circuit has completed refueling the first portion of fuel to the first vehicle, the second vehicle receives the first portion of fuel from the first pump circuit having the first gaseous fuel flow in parallel with the first vehicle receiving the second portion of fuel from the second pump circuit having the second gaseous fuel flow. Then, when the first portion of fuel to the second vehicle has been refueled and the second pump circuit having the second gaseous fuel flow has completed refueling the second portion of fuel to the first vehicle, the second vehicle receives the second portion of fuel from the second pump circuit having the second gaseous fuel flow.

10. The hydrogen refueling station according to claim 9, wherein, The first gaseous fuel stream and the second gaseous fuel stream have pressures that meet the requirements of 35 MPa and 70 MPa refueling capacity, respectively.

11. The hydrogen refueling station according to any one of claims 9-10, wherein, It also includes a controller configured to adjust the ratio of the first gaseous fuel flow and the second gaseous fuel flow to be distributed to the at least one distributor.

12. A method of using the system according to any one of claims 1-8, comprising: Provides liquefied fuel stored in a cryogenic tank, wherein the liquefied fuel includes hydrogen; Connect any one of at least one distributor to the onboard storage tank of the fuel cell vehicle. The refueling process is initiated by distributing a first gaseous fuel stream to the onboard storage tank. The refueling process is completed by distributing at least a portion of the second gaseous fuel stream into the on-board storage tank.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein, The method further includes distributing a mixture of the first gaseous fuel stream and the second gaseous fuel stream into the on-board storage tank.

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, wherein, The method includes: Provides liquefied fuel stored in a cryogenic tank, wherein the liquefied fuel includes hydrogen; At least two vehicles are provided sequentially, wherein the arrival time between the at least two vehicles is less than the time required to refuel either of the at least two vehicles. Connect the first distributor to the onboard storage tank of the first vehicle; Refuel the first vehicle; Connect the second distributor to the onboard storage tank of the second vehicle; and Refuel the second vehicle.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein, Refueling the first vehicle includes: Refueling of the first vehicle begins by distributing a first gaseous fuel stream into the vehicle's onboard storage tank; and Refueling of the first vehicle is accomplished by distributing at least a portion of the second gaseous fuel stream into the onboard storage tank of the first vehicle.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, Refueling the second vehicle includes: When the first gaseous fuel stream is distributed to the onboard tank of the first vehicle, refueling of the second vehicle begins by distributing the second gaseous fuel stream to the onboard tank of the second vehicle. And when refueling the first vehicle is completed, refueling the second vehicle is completed by distributing at least a portion of the second gaseous fuel stream into the on-board storage tank of the second vehicle.

17. The method of claim 12, wherein, The first gaseous fuel stream and the second gaseous fuel stream have pressures that meet the refueling capacity of 35 MPa and 70 MPa, respectively.

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