Filler modules and vehicles

Abstract

The present invention provides a filling module and a vehicle equipped with the same, which can prevent interference even when two filling ports are arranged adjacent to each other. The filling module (10) comprises: a first filling port (11) connected to a first filling nozzle (23) on the gas station (2) side; a second filling port (12) connected to a second filling nozzle (24) on the gas station side; a first transmitting unit (13) arranged near the first filling port and transmitting infrared rays to a first receiving unit (25) arranged at the front end of the first filling nozzle; a second transmitting unit (14) arranged near the second filling port and transmitting infrared rays to a second receiving unit (26) arranged at the front end of the second filling nozzle; and a first blocking unit (15) and a second blocking unit (16) arranged between the first sending unit and the second sending unit and protruding toward the gas station side. In the protruding direction of the first blocking unit, the front end of the first blocking unit protrudes longer than the front end of the first sending unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a filling module for filling a tank mounted on a vehicle or the like with fuel gas, and a vehicle including the filling module. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, vehicles equipped with fuel cells that generate electricity through the electrochemical reaction of fuel gas and oxidizing gas have been put into practical use. Such vehicles, for example, as described in Patent Document 1 below, have a receptacle that serves as a fuel gas filling port. The fuel gas is filled into a tank mounted on the vehicle by connecting the receptacle to a filling nozzle disposed on the gas station side. Furthermore, in order to safely perform the fuel gas filling operation, wireless communication is performed between the receptacle and the filling nozzle. Specifically, a transmitter that transmits infrared rays is provided near the receptacle, and a receiver that receives infrared rays is provided at the front end of the filling nozzle. The transmitter and receiver are used to transmit information such as the amount of fuel gas filled into the tank and the filling speed to the gas station side. The control device on the gas station side controls the amount of fuel gas filled and the filling speed based on the received information.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-118694

[0004] To promote the widespread use and improve the quality of fuel cell vehicles, it is necessary to be able to refill fuel gas in a short time. For example, research is underway to install two filling nozzles at the gas station and two refueling ports on the vehicle, using these filling nozzles and refueling ports to simultaneously fill the tank with fuel gas. Specifically, the refueling port on the vehicle and the refueling nozzle on the gas station form a pair, and two such pairs are prepared to simultaneously refill the fuel gas. In this case, a transmitter is provided for the refueling port and a receiver is provided for the refueling nozzle in each pair to transmit and receive refueling information within each pair.

[0005] Furthermore, to achieve modularization of components and miniaturization of vehicles, it is desirable to place the two refueling ports in close proximity. However, because the infrared radiation emitted from the transmitter has a relatively wide range (e.g., a sector with a central angle of 110°), if the two refueling ports are placed close together, the infrared radiation emitted from the transmitter of one refueling port can enter the receiver on the filling nozzle side connected to the other refueling port, causing crosstalk. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention has been made to solve such technical problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a filling module capable of preventing crosstalk even when two filling ports are arranged adjacent to each other, and a vehicle equipped with the filling module.

[0007] The filling module involved in the present invention is a filling module for filling a tank with fuel gas, and is characterized in that it comprises: a first filling port, which can be connected to a first filling nozzle arranged on the gas station side; a second filling port, which can be connected to a second filling nozzle arranged on the above-mentioned gas station side and is close to the above-mentioned first filling port; a first sending part, which is arranged near the above-mentioned first filling port and sends infrared rays to a first receiving part arranged at the front end portion of the above-mentioned first filling nozzle; a second sending part, which is arranged near the above-mentioned second filling port and sends infrared rays to a second receiving part arranged at the front end portion of the above-mentioned second filling nozzle; and a baffle part, which is arranged between the above-mentioned first sending part and the above-mentioned second sending part and protrudes toward the above-mentioned gas station side, and in the protruding direction of the above-mentioned baffle part, the front end of the above-mentioned baffle part protrudes longer than the front end of at least one of the above-mentioned first sending part and the above-mentioned second sending part.

[0008] In the filling module of the present invention, a barrier portion disposed between the first and second transmitting portions protrudes toward the gas station, with its front end extending longer than the front end of at least one of the first and second transmitting portions. This prevents infrared light emitted from the first transmitting portion, located near the first filling port, from entering the second receiving portion at the front end of the second filling nozzle connected to the second filling port, or from entering the first receiving portion at the front end of the first filling nozzle connected to the first filling port. Consequently, even when the two filling ports (i.e., the first and second filling ports) are positioned close together, crosstalk can be prevented.

[0009] In the filling module involved in the present invention, it is preferred that, in the protruding direction of the above-mentioned baffle portion, the front end of the above-mentioned baffle portion protrudes longer than a straight line connecting the front end of the above-mentioned first sending portion and the above-mentioned second receiving portion of the above-mentioned second filling nozzle in a state connected to the above-mentioned second filling port, or a straight line connecting the front end of the above-mentioned second sending portion and the above-mentioned first receiving portion of the above-mentioned first filling nozzle in a state connected to the above-mentioned first filling port.

[0010] In this way, the anti-interference effect can be improved because it is possible to more reliably prevent the infrared rays sent from the first sending unit located near the first filling port from entering the second receiving unit at the front end of the second filling nozzle connected to the second filling port, or the infrared rays sent from the second sending unit located near the second filling port from entering the first receiving unit at the front end of the first filling nozzle connected to the first filling port.

[0011] In addition, in the filling module involved in the present invention, it is preferred that the above-mentioned partition portion has a first partition portion positioned relatively close to the above-mentioned first filling port and a second partition portion positioned relatively close to the above-mentioned second filling port. When the above-mentioned first filling nozzle and the above-mentioned second filling nozzle are respectively formed into a cylindrical shape having a filling flow path in the center, the side surface of the above-mentioned first partition portion facing the above-mentioned first filling port is in an arc shape imitating the shape of the above-mentioned first filling nozzle, and the side surface of the above-mentioned second partition portion facing the above-mentioned second filling port is in an arc shape imitating the shape of the above-mentioned second filling nozzle.

[0012] In this manner, since the first blocking portion guides the first filling nozzle with its arcuate side surface, the connection operation between the first filling nozzle and the first filling port can be performed more smoothly, and interference between the first filling nozzle and the second filling port adjacent to the first filling port can be prevented. Similarly, since the second blocking portion guides the second filling nozzle with its arcuate side surface, the connection operation between the second filling nozzle and the second filling port can be performed more smoothly, and interference between the second filling nozzle and the first filling port adjacent to the second filling port can be prevented.

[0013] In addition, in the filling module involved in the present invention, it is preferred to further include a first cover portion that is installed in a manner that can be freely loaded and unloaded with the above-mentioned first filling port and a second cover portion that is installed in a manner that can be freely loaded and unloaded with the above-mentioned second filling port, and the closest distance between the above-mentioned first partition portion and the above-mentioned second partition portion is smaller than the outer diameter of either the above-mentioned first cover portion or the above-mentioned second cover portion.

[0014] This allows the first or second cover to be placed in the gap between the first and second barrier sections, ensuring the proper placement of the first or second cover. Consequently, one of the removed first or second cover 17 or 18 can be placed in its proper placement position within the filling port cover box, as is conventionally the case, while the other can be placed in the gap between the first and second barrier sections. This prevents the first or second cover from interfering with the vehicle body due to a missing placement position, thus minimizing the risk of the missing first or second cover interfering with the connection process.

[0015] Furthermore, in the filling module according to the present invention, it is preferable that the arcuate side surface of the first partition portion facing the first filling port and the arcuate side surface of the second partition portion facing the second filling port are respectively covered with resin.

[0016] In this manner, even if the first filling nozzle contacts the first barrier portion and the second filling nozzle contacts the second barrier portion, damage to the first filling nozzle or the second filling nozzle due to the contact can be suppressed.

[0017] In addition, in the filling module involved in the present invention, it is preferred that the above-mentioned partition portion is one, and when the above-mentioned first filling nozzle and the above-mentioned second filling nozzle are respectively formed into a cylindrical shape having a filling flow path in the center, the side surface of the above-mentioned partition portion facing the above-mentioned first filling port is in an arc shape imitating the shape of the above-mentioned first filling nozzle, and the side surface of the above-mentioned partition portion facing the above-mentioned second filling port is in an arc shape imitating the shape of the above-mentioned second filling nozzle.

[0018] In this manner, since the blocking portion guides the first filling nozzle using the arcuate side surface facing the first filling port, the connection operation between the first filling nozzle and the first filling port can be performed more smoothly, and interference between the first filling nozzle and the second filling port adjacent to the first filling port can be prevented. Furthermore, since the blocking portion guides the second filling nozzle using the arcuate side surface facing the second filling port, the connection operation between the second filling nozzle and the second filling port can be performed more smoothly, and interference between the second filling nozzle and the first filling port adjacent to the second filling port can be prevented.

[0019] In addition, the filling module involved in the present invention is a filling module for filling a tank with fuel gas, and is characterized in that it comprises: a first filling port, which can be connected to a first filling nozzle arranged on the gas station side; a second filling port, which can be connected to a second filling nozzle arranged on the above-mentioned gas station side and is close to the first filling port; a first receiving part, which is arranged near the above-mentioned first filling port and receives infrared rays sent from a first sending part arranged at the front end of the above-mentioned first filling nozzle; a second receiving part, which is arranged near the above-mentioned second filling port and receives infrared rays sent from a second sending part arranged at the front end of the above-mentioned second filling nozzle; and a baffle part, which is arranged between the above-mentioned first receiving part and the above-mentioned second receiving part and protrudes toward the above-mentioned gas station side, and in the protruding direction of the above-mentioned baffle part, the front end of the above-mentioned baffle part protrudes longer than the front end of at least one of the above-mentioned first receiving part and the above-mentioned second receiving part.

[0020] In the filling module of the present invention, a barrier portion disposed between the first and second receiving portions protrudes toward the gas station, with its front end extending longer than the front end of at least one of the first and second receiving portions. This prevents infrared light emitted from the first transmitting portion, located at the front end of the first filling nozzle connected to the first filling port, from entering the second receiving portion located near the second filling port, or from entering the first receiving portion located near the first filling port. Consequently, even when the two filling ports (i.e., the first and second filling ports) are positioned close together, crosstalk can be prevented.

[0021] Furthermore, the vehicle according to the present invention is characterized by comprising the above-mentioned filling module. This can prevent crosstalk, thereby enabling the fuel gas filling operation to be performed more accurately and in a shorter time.

[0022] According to the present invention, even when two filling ports are arranged adjacent to each other, crosstalk can be prevented. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Figure 1 It is a three-dimensional diagram showing a vehicle and a gas station.

[0024] Figure 2 It is a perspective view showing the filling module according to the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 3 It is a plan view showing a state in which a first filling nozzle and a second filling nozzle are connected to the filling module according to the first embodiment.

[0026] Figure 4 It is a perspective view showing a filling module according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] The following describes embodiments of the filler module and vehicle according to the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. Identical elements are denoted by the same reference numerals throughout the drawings, and duplicate descriptions are omitted. In the following description, references to up-down, left-right, and front-back directions and positions are based on a vehicle equipped with a filler module.

[0028] [First embodiment]

[0029] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional diagram showing a vehicle and a gas station. Figure 1 As shown, vehicle 1 is, for example, a fuel cell vehicle, which receives fuel gas (here, hydrogen) from gas station 2 while performing infrared communication with the vehicle. The fuel gas is not limited to hydrogen, but may be various gases such as CNG (compressed natural gas), LNG (liquefied natural gas), and LPG (liquefied petroleum gas).

[0030] Gas station 2 is, for example, an on-site hydrogen station that supplies compressed hydrogen to vehicles such as fuel cell vehicles and fuel cell buses (in other words, fills them with hydrogen). In order to quickly fill vehicle 1 with hydrogen, gas station 2 includes a main body 20 that houses a storage tank for storing hydrogen, two hoses (a first hose 21 and a second hose 22) each connected to the storage tank at one end, and filling nozzles (a first filling nozzle 23 and a second filling nozzle 24) connected to the other end of each hose. Here, an example is assumed in which the first filling nozzle 23 is connected to the front end of the first hose 21, and the second filling nozzle 24 is connected to the front end of the second hose 22. Furthermore, the first filling nozzle 23 and the second filling nozzle 24 are each formed into a cylindrical shape with a filling flow path in the center.

[0031] In addition, in order to safely carry out the hydrogen filling operation, infrared communication is performed between the gas station 2 and the vehicle 1. Specifically, as described later Figure 3 As shown, a first receiving unit 25 for receiving infrared rays transmitted from the first transmitting unit 13 on the vehicle 1 side is disposed at the front end of the first filling nozzle 23, and a second receiving unit 26 for receiving infrared rays transmitted from the second transmitting unit 14 on the vehicle 1 side is disposed at the front end of the second filling nozzle 24. The first receiving unit 25 is embedded in the front end of the first filling nozzle 23 so that its front end surface is flush with the front end surface of the first filling nozzle 23. Similarly, the second receiving unit 26 is embedded in the front end of the second filling nozzle 24 so that its front end surface is flush with the front end surface of the second filling nozzle 24.

[0032] Furthermore, the gas station 2 uses the first transmitter 13 and the first receiver 25 to monitor the connection status of the first filling nozzle 23 and the first refueling port 11 on the vehicle 1 side, and uses the second transmitter 14 and the second receiver 26 to monitor the connection status of the second filling nozzle 24 and the second refueling port 12 on the vehicle 1 side. Furthermore, the gas station 2 uses these transmitters and receivers to obtain information such as the hydrogen filling amount and filling speed. The control device on the gas station 2 performs various controls related to the filling operation based on this information.

[0033] Vehicle 1 includes a filling module 10. Filling module 10 is a module used to fill a tank mounted on vehicle 1 with hydrogen gas and is a so-called lid box. Filling module 10 is mounted, for example, on the left rear side of vehicle 1 and is covered by a filling lid 34 rotatably mounted on the vehicle body.

[0034] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing a filling module according to the first embodiment. Figure 3This is a top view showing a state where the first filling nozzle and the second filling nozzle are connected to the filling module according to the first embodiment. The filling module 10 of this embodiment mainly includes a first filling port 11 and a second filling port 12 that are adjacent to each other, a first delivery unit 13 disposed near the first filling port 11, and a second delivery unit 14 disposed near the second filling port 12.

[0035] The first filling port 11 and the second filling port 12 are components that function as hydrogen filling ports on the vehicle 1 side. They are formed of, for example, a metal material into the same cylindrical shape and the same size, and are fixed to a panel member 30 joined to the vehicle body. More specifically, the first filling port 11 and the second filling port 12 are arranged side by side on the outer wall surface 31 of the panel member 30 along the front-to-rear direction of the vehicle 1, and protrude from the outer wall surface 31 toward the outside of the vehicle 1 (the gas station 2 side) (see FIG. Figure 1 ).

[0036] The first filling port 11 is formed to be connectable to a first filling nozzle 23 on the gas station 2 side, and the second filling port 12 is formed to be connectable to a second filling nozzle 24 on the gas station 2 side. Specifically, the first filling port 11 corresponds to the first filling nozzle 23 on the gas station 2 side and forms a pair with the first filling nozzle 23. The second filling port 12 corresponds to the second filling nozzle 24 on the gas station 2 side and forms a pair with the second filling nozzle 24.

[0037] The connection between the first filling port 11 and the first filling nozzle 23 is achieved using, for example, a ball locking mechanism. For example, a locking ball is provided at the tip of the first filling nozzle 23, and an engaging groove that engages with the locking ball is provided in the first filling port 11. Similarly, the connection between the second filling port 12 and the second filling nozzle 24 is also achieved using a ball locking mechanism.

[0038] like Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, the first filling port 11 has a large diameter portion 111 fixed to the panel member 30 and having a relatively large outer diameter, and a small diameter portion 112 formed integrally with the large diameter portion 111 and having a relatively small outer diameter. An engaging groove 113 with a semicircular cross-section that can engage with a locking ball provided on the side of the first filling nozzle 23 is formed throughout the outer periphery of the front end portion of the small diameter portion 112. Furthermore, a tapered step surface 114 is formed between the small diameter portion 112 and the large diameter portion 111. When the first filling port 11 is connected to the first filling nozzle 23, the step surface 114 becomes a contact step surface that abuts the front end surface of the first filling nozzle 23.

[0039] Similarly, the second filling port 12 has a large diameter portion 121 fixed to the panel member 30 and having a relatively large outer diameter, and a small diameter portion 122 integrally formed with the large diameter portion 121 and having a relatively small outer diameter. An engaging groove 123 with a semicircular cross-section is formed along the entire periphery of the front end portion of the small diameter portion 122, which engages with a locking ball provided on the side of the second filling nozzle 24. Furthermore, a tapered step surface 124 is formed between the small diameter portion 122 and the large diameter portion 121. When the second filling port 12 is connected to the second filling nozzle 24, this step surface 124 serves as an abutting step surface that abuts the front end surface of the second filling nozzle 24.

[0040] The first transmitting unit 13 is located between the first and second filling ports 11, 12, and near the first filling port 11. The first transmitting unit 13 has a sectoral annular cross-section when viewed from the outside toward the inside of the vehicle 1. The first transmitting unit 13 is attached to the outer wall 31 of the panel member 30 and transmits infrared light toward the first receiving unit 25 located at the front end of the first filling nozzle 23.

[0041] The second transmitting unit 14 is located between the first and second filling ports 11, 12, and near the second filling port 12. The second transmitting unit 14 has a sectoral annular cross-section when viewed from the outside toward the inside of the vehicle 1. The second transmitting unit 14 is attached to the outer wall 31 of the panel member 30 and transmits infrared light toward the second receiving unit 26 located at the tip of the second filling nozzle 24.

[0042] Furthermore, two partitions (a first partition 15 and a second partition 16 ) are provided between the first transmitting unit 13 and the second transmitting unit 14 so as to protrude toward the outside of the vehicle 1 (toward the gas station 2 ).

[0043] The first barrier portion 15 is disposed between the first transmitting portion 13 and the second transmitting portion 14 at a position relatively close to the first transmitting portion 13 to prevent infrared rays emitted from the first transmitting portion 13 from entering the second receiving portion 26 at the front end of the second filling nozzle 24 connected to the second filling port 12. The first barrier portion 15 is erected from the outer wall surface 31 of the panel member 30.

[0044] like Figure 2As shown, when viewed from the outside toward the inside of the vehicle 1, the first baffle 15 is formed in a sectoral annular cross-section, extending along the outer circumference of the first delivery unit 13. Specifically, an inner side surface 151 of the first baffle 15, facing the first filling port 11, is arcuate, mimicking the shape of the first filling nozzle 23 connected to the first filling port 11. The distance between the inner side surface 151 and the first filling port 11 is set so as not to hinder the insertion of the first filling nozzle 23 when connected to the first filling port 11. Furthermore, an outer side surface 152, opposite the inner side surface 151, is also arcuate. Furthermore, the first baffle 15 is not limited to a sectoral annular cross-section; it may also have a crescent-shaped cross-section or other shape.

[0045] In addition, if Figure 3 As shown, in the protruding direction of the first barrier 15, the front end of the first barrier 15 protrudes further than the front end of the first transmitter 13. Here, in the protruding direction of the first barrier 15, the front end of the first barrier 15 preferably protrudes further than a straight line L1 connecting the front end of the first transmitter 13 and the second receiving portion 26 of the second filling nozzle 24 when connected to the second filling port 12. More specifically, straight line L1 is, for example, a line connecting the center of the front end of the first transmitter 13 and the center of the second receiving portion 26 when the second filling port 12 and the second filling nozzle 24 are connected.

[0046] The second barrier 16 is disposed between the first transmitter 13 and the second transmitter 14, relatively close to the second transmitter 14, to prevent infrared rays emitted from the second transmitter 14 from entering the first receiver 25 at the front end of the first filling nozzle 23 connected to the first filling port 11. The second barrier 16 is erected from the outer wall 31 of the panel member 30.

[0047] like Figure 2 As shown, when viewed from the outside toward the inside of the vehicle 1, the second baffle 16 is formed in a sectoral annular cross-section, extending along the outer circumference of the second delivery unit 14. Specifically, an inner side surface 161 of the second baffle 16, facing the second filling port 12, is arcuate, mirroring the shape of the second filling nozzle 24 connected to the second filling port 12. The distance between the inner side surface 161 and the second filling port 12 is set so as not to hinder the insertion of the second filling nozzle 24 when connected to the second filling port 12. Furthermore, an outer side surface 162, opposite the inner side surface 161, is also arcuate. Furthermore, the second baffle 16 is not limited to a sectoral annular cross-section and may also have a crescent-shaped cross-section or other shape.

[0048] In addition, if Figure 3As shown, in the direction in which the second barrier 16 protrudes, the front end of the second barrier 16 protrudes further than the front end of the second transmitting portion 14. Here, in the direction in which the second barrier 16 protrudes, the front end of the second barrier 16 preferably protrudes further than a straight line L2 connecting the front end of the second transmitting portion 14 and the first receiving portion 25 of the first filling nozzle 23 when connected to the first filling port 11. More specifically, straight line L2 is, for example, a line connecting the center of the front end of the second transmitting portion 14 and the center of the first receiving portion 25 when the first filling port 11 and the first filling nozzle 23 are connected.

[0049] In this embodiment, the inner side surface 151 of the first baffle 15 facing the first filling port 11 and the inner side surface 161 of the second baffle 16 facing the second filling port 12 are respectively covered with resin. For example, in the case of the first baffle 15, the portion including the inner side surface 151 is formed of a resin material, and the other portion is formed of a metal material. Similarly, in the case of the second baffle 16, the portion including the inner side surface 161 is formed of a resin material, and the other portion is formed of a metal material. Examples of resin materials include polypropylene (PP), polyamide (PA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), and epoxy resin. Examples of metal materials include iron and aluminum.

[0050] Furthermore, the filling module 10 of this embodiment includes a first cover 17 that is detachably mounted to the first filling port 11, and a second cover 18 that is detachably mounted to the second filling port 12. The first cover 17 is connected to one end of a string-like member 32. The other end of the string-like member 32 is fixed to the outer wall 31 of the panel member 30, for example, by screws. Similarly, the second cover 18 is connected to one end of a string-like member 33. The other end of the string-like member 33 is fixed to the outer wall 31 of the panel member 30, for example, by screws.

[0051] In this embodiment, since the first filling port 11 and the second filling port 12 have the same shape and the same size, the first cover portion 17 and the second cover portion 18 also have the same shape and the same size. Alternatively, the first filling port 11 and the second filling port 12 may have different shapes. In this case, the first cover portion 17 and the second cover portion 18 also have different shapes.

[0052] Furthermore, the closest distance between the first barrier 15 and the second barrier 16 is smaller than the outer diameter of either the first cover 17 or the second cover 18. The closest distance between the first barrier 15 and the second barrier 16 is the shortest distance between the outer side surface 152 of the first barrier 15 and the outer side surface 162 of the second barrier 16.

[0053] In this way, since the first cover 17 or the second cover 18 can be placed on the gap generated between the first barrier 15 and the second barrier 16, the placement position of the first cover 17 or the second cover 18 can be ensured. Figure 2 As shown, the first cover 17 removed from the first filling port 11 and the second cover 18 removed from the second filling port 12 can be placed in the placement position arranged in the filling port cover box as in the conventional manner, and the first cover 17 can be placed on the gap formed between the first barrier 15 and the second barrier 16. As a result, it is possible to prevent the first cover 17 or the second cover 18 from interfering with the vehicle body due to the lack of placement position, and to suppress the obstruction of the connection operation between the filling port and the filling nozzle due to the lack of placement position.

[0054] When the first cover 17 is placed on the gap between the first barrier 15 and the second barrier 16, the string member 32 connected to the first cover 17 can be passed through the first filling port 11 and the top of the first barrier 15 (see FIG. Figure 2 ), or the string-shaped member 32 may be passed through the gap between the first barrier portion 15 and the second barrier portion 16.

[0055] In the filling module 10 of this embodiment, the first barrier 15 protrudes toward the gas station 2, with its front end extending longer than the front end of the first transmitter 13. This first barrier 15 prevents infrared rays emitted from the first transmitter 13, located near the first filling port 11, from entering the second receiver 26 at the front end of the second filling nozzle 24 connected to the second filling port 12. Furthermore, the second barrier 16 protrudes toward the gas station 2, with its front end extending longer than the front end of the second transmitter 14. This second barrier 16 prevents infrared rays emitted from the second transmitter 14, located near the second filling port 12, from entering the first receiver 25 at the front end of the first filling nozzle 23 connected to the first filling port 11. As a result, crosstalk can be prevented even when the first and second filling ports 11, 12 are arranged close together.

[0056] Furthermore, in the direction of projection of the first barrier 15, the tip of the first barrier 15 projects further than the straight line L1 connecting the tip of the first transmitter 13 and the second receiver 26 of the second filling nozzle 24 connected to the second filling port 12. This more reliably prevents infrared rays emitted from the first transmitter 13 from entering the second receiver 26 at the tip of the second filling nozzle 24 connected to the second filling port 12, thereby enhancing the crosstalk prevention effect. Similarly, in the direction of projection of the second barrier 16, the tip of the second barrier 16 projects further than the straight line L2 connecting the tip of the second transmitter 14 and the first receiver 25 of the first filling nozzle 23 connected to the first filling port 11. This more reliably prevents infrared rays emitted from the second transmitter 14 from entering the first receiver 25 at the tip of the first filling nozzle 23 connected to the first filling port 11, thereby enhancing the crosstalk prevention effect.

[0057] Furthermore, an inner surface 151 of the first barrier 15, facing the first filling port 11, has an arcuate shape that mimics the shape of the first filling nozzle 23 connected to the first filling port 11. Therefore, since the first barrier guides the first filling nozzle 23 using the arcuate inner surface 151, the connection operation between the first filling nozzle 23 and the first filling port 11 can be performed more smoothly, and interference between the first filling nozzle 23 and the second filling port 12 adjacent to the first filling port 11 can also be prevented. Similarly, an inner surface 161 of the second barrier 16, facing the second filling port 12, has an arcuate shape that mimics the shape of the second filling nozzle 24 connected to the second filling port 12. Since the second partition portion guides the second filling nozzle 24 using the arc-shaped inner surface 161 , the connection operation between the second filling nozzle 24 and the second filling port 12 can be performed more smoothly, and the second filling nozzle 24 can be prevented from interfering with the first filling port 11 adjacent to the second filling port 12 .

[0058] Furthermore, the inner surface 151 of the first barrier 15 facing the first filling port 11 and the inner surface 161 of the second barrier 16 facing the second filling port 12 are each covered with resin. Thus, even if the first filling nozzle 23 contacts the first barrier 15 or the second filling nozzle 24 contacts the second barrier 16 during the connection operation, damage to the first filling nozzle 23 or the second filling nozzle 24 due to such contact can be suppressed.

[0059] Furthermore, according to the vehicle 1 including the filling module 10 having the above-described structure, since crosstalk can be prevented, the fuel gas filling operation can be performed more accurately and in a shorter time.

[0060] [Second embodiment]

[0061] Below, refer to Figure 4A second embodiment of a filling module will be described. A filling module 10A of this embodiment differs from the first embodiment described above in that it has a single baffle. Only the differences from the first embodiment will be described below.

[0062] like Figure 4 As shown, a baffle portion 19 protruding toward the outside of the vehicle 1 (the gas station 2 side) is provided between the first transmitting portion 13 and the second transmitting portion 14. The baffle portion 19 is arranged in the center of the first transmitting portion 13 and the second transmitting portion 14, and is erected from the outer wall surface 31 of the panel component 30. In the protruding direction of the baffle portion 19, it is sufficient as long as the front end of the baffle portion 19 protrudes longer than the front end of at least one of the first transmitting portion 13 and the second transmitting portion 14. However, since the first transmitting portion 13 and the second transmitting portion 14 of the present embodiment have the same protruding length, the front end of the baffle portion 19 protrudes longer than the front ends of both the first transmitting portion 13 and the second transmitting portion 14. In addition, the front end of the baffle portion 19 protrudes longer than, for example, the straight line L1 connecting the front end of the first transmitting portion 13 and the second receiving portion 26 of the second filling nozzle 24 in a state connected to the second filling port 12 (refer to Figure 3 ).

[0063] A first side surface 191 of the partition portion 19, which faces the first filling port 11, has an arcuate shape that mimics the shape of the first filling nozzle 23 connected to the first filling port 11. The distance between the first side surface 191 and the first filling port 11 is set so as not to hinder the insertion of the first filling nozzle 23 when the first filling nozzle 23 is connected to the first filling port 11.

[0064] Furthermore, a second side surface 192 of the partition portion 19, which faces the second filling port 12, has an arcuate shape that mimics the shape of the second filling nozzle 24 connected to the second filling port 12. The distance between the second side surface 192 and the second filling port 12 is set so as not to hinder the insertion of the second filling nozzle 24 when the second filling nozzle 24 is connected to the second filling port 12.

[0065] like Figure 4 As shown, the upper surface 193 of the partition portion 19 is formed into a concave shape for placing the first cover portion 17 or the second cover portion 18. That is, the upper surface 193 can be used as a placement position for the first cover portion 17 or the second cover portion 18.

[0066] Furthermore, a first side surface 191 of the barrier 19 facing the first filling port 11 and a second side surface 192 of the second barrier 16 facing the second filling port 12 are each covered with resin. For example, the portion of the barrier 19 including the first side surface 191 and the portion including the second side surface 192 are each formed of a resin material, and the remaining portion is formed of a metal material.

[0067] In filling module 10A of this embodiment, first side surface 191 of barrier 19, facing first filling port 11, has an arcuate shape that mimics the shape of first filling nozzle 23 connected to first filling port 11. Therefore, since barrier 19 guides first filling nozzle 23 using first side surface 191, connection between first filling nozzle 23 and first filling port 11 can be performed more smoothly, while also preventing interference between first filling nozzle 23 and second filling port 12, which is adjacent to first filling port 11. Furthermore, second side surface 192 of barrier 19, facing second filling port 12, has an arcuate shape that mimics the shape of second filling nozzle 24 connected to second filling port 12. Since the partition portion 19 guides the second filling nozzle 24 using the second side surface 192 , the second filling nozzle 24 can be connected to the second filling port 12 more smoothly, and interference with the first filling port 11 adjacent to the second filling port 12 can be prevented.

[0068] In the above-mentioned first embodiment, an example is given in which the sending unit for sending infrared rays is arranged on the filling module 10 side and the receiving unit for receiving infrared rays is arranged on the filling nozzle side of the gas station 2. However, the arrangement positions of the sending unit and the receiving unit may be replaced, that is, the sending unit may be arranged on the filling nozzle side of the gas station 2 and the receiving unit may be arranged on the filling module 10 side.

[0069] For example, a first infrared transmitter is located at the tip of the first filling nozzle 23, and a second infrared transmitter is located at the tip of the second filling nozzle 24. These transmitters are embedded in the tip of the filling nozzles, with their respective tip surfaces flush with the tip of the filling nozzles. A first infrared receiver is located near the first filling port 11, receiving infrared radiation from the first transmitter. A second infrared receiver is located near the second filling port 12, receiving infrared radiation from the second transmitter.

[0070] In this case, first barrier 15 is positioned between the first and second receiving sections, near the first receiving section, and projects toward gas station 2 so that infrared rays emitted from the second transmitting section on the second filling nozzle 24 side do not enter the first receiving section, which is positioned near first filling port 11. Furthermore, in the direction of projection of first barrier 15, the front end of first barrier 15 projects further than the front end of the first receiving section. Preferably, the front end of first barrier 15 projects further than a straight line connecting the front end of the first receiving section and the second transmitting section of second filling nozzle 24, which is connected to second filling port 12.

[0071] Similarly, second barrier 16 is positioned between the first and second receiving sections, near the second receiving section, and projects toward gas station 2 to prevent infrared radiation emitted from the first transmitting section on the first filling nozzle 23 side from reaching the second receiving section, located near second filling port 12. Furthermore, in the direction in which second barrier 16 projects, the distal end of second barrier 16 projects further than the distal end of the second receiving section. Preferably, the distal end of second barrier 16 projects further than a straight line connecting the distal end of the second receiving section and the first transmitting section of first filling nozzle 23 connected to first filling port 11.

[0072] In this manner, the same operational effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained. That is, even when the first filling port 11 and the second filling port 12 are arranged close to each other, crosstalk can be prevented.

[0073] In the second embodiment described above, the transmitter may be disposed on the filling nozzle side of the gas station 2, and the receiver may be disposed on the filling module 10 side. In this case, the same operational effects as those of the second embodiment can be obtained.

[0074] While the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various design changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention as described in the claims for protection.

[0075] Description of Reference Numerals

[0076] 1: Vehicle; 2: Gas station; 10, 10A: Filling module; 11: First filling port; 12: Second filling port; 13: First sending unit; 14: Second sending unit; 15: First barrier; 16: Second barrier; 17: First cover; 18: Second cover; 19: Barrier; 20: Main body; 21: First hose; 22: Second hose; 23: First filling nozzle; 24: Second filling nozzle; 25: First receiving unit; 26: Second receiving portion; 30: Panel component; 31: Outer wall surface; 32, 33: Rope-like component; 34: Filling port cover; 111, 121: Large diameter portion; 112, 122: Small diameter portion; 113, 123: Engaging groove; 114, 124: Step surface; 151, 161: Inner surface; 152, 162: Outer surface; 191: First side surface; 192: Second side surface; 193: Upper surface; L1, L2: Straight line.

Claims

1. A filling module for filling a tank with fuel gas, characterized in that: have: The first filling port is connectable to a first filling nozzle disposed on the gas station side; a second filling port, connectable to a second filling nozzle disposed on the gas station side and close to the first filling port; a first transmitting unit, provided near the first filling port, for transmitting infrared rays to a first receiving unit disposed at a front end portion of the first filling nozzle; a second transmitting unit, provided near the second filling port, for transmitting infrared rays to a second receiving unit disposed at a front end portion of the second filling nozzle; as well as A barrier portion is provided between the first sending portion and the second sending portion and protrudes toward the gas station side. In a protruding direction of the barrier portion, a front end of the barrier portion protrudes longer than a front end of at least one of the first transmitting portion and the second transmitting portion.

2. The filling module according to claim 1, wherein In the protruding direction of the partition part, the front end of the partition part protrudes longer than the straight line connecting the front end of the first sending part and the second receiving part of the second filling nozzle in a state connected to the second filling port, or the straight line connecting the front end of the second sending part and the first receiving part of the first filling nozzle in a state connected to the first filling port.

3. The filling module according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The barrier portion includes a first barrier portion located relatively close to the first filling port and a second barrier portion located relatively close to the second filling port. When the first filling nozzle and the second filling nozzle are respectively formed into a cylindrical shape having a filling flow path in the center, the side surface of the first partition portion facing the first filling port is in an arc shape imitating the shape of the first filling nozzle, and the side surface of the second partition portion facing the second filling port is in an arc shape imitating the shape of the second filling nozzle.

4. The filling module according to claim 3, wherein: The invention further comprises a first cover portion detachably mounted on the first filling port and a second cover portion detachably mounted on the second filling port. The closest distance between the first barrier portion and the second barrier portion is smaller than the outer diameter of either the first cover portion or the second cover portion.

5. The filling module according to claim 3, wherein: The arcuate side surface of the first partition portion facing the first filling port and the arcuate side surface of the second partition portion facing the second filling port are respectively covered with resin.

6. The filling module according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: There is one baffle, When the first filling nozzle and the second filling nozzle are respectively formed into a cylindrical shape having a filling flow path in the center, the side surface of the partition portion facing the first filling port is in an arc shape imitating the shape of the first filling nozzle, and the side surface of the partition portion facing the second filling port is in an arc shape imitating the shape of the second filling nozzle.

7. A filling module for filling a tank with fuel gas, characterized in that: have: The first filling port is connectable to a first filling nozzle disposed on the gas station side; a second filling port, connectable to a second filling nozzle disposed on the gas station side and close to the first filling port; a first receiving unit disposed near the first filling port and receiving infrared rays transmitted from a first transmitting unit disposed at a front end portion of the first filling nozzle; a second receiving unit provided near the second filling port and receiving infrared rays transmitted from the second transmitting unit provided at the front end portion of the second filling nozzle; as well as A barrier portion is provided between the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion and protrudes toward the gas station side. In a protruding direction of the barrier portion, a front end of the barrier portion protrudes longer than a front end of at least one of the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion.

8. A vehicle, characterized in that: A filling module according to claim 1 or 7 is provided.

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