Operating header for pressurized fluid storage and dispensing assembly for vehicle

Abstract

An operating header (3) for a pressurized fluid storage and distribution assembly (1) of a vehicle, the fluid storage and distribution assembly comprising a plurality of pressurized fluid storage tanks (4), the operating header comprising: a body (6) having a plurality of communication holes (9) configured to be in fluid communication with the storage tanks; a fluid distribution channel (7) for distributing the fluid stored in the tank, arranged in the body and configured to be in fluid communication with each tank via a solenoid valve (10) and a manual valve (11); and a tank filling channel (8) arranged in the body and configured to be in fluid communication with each tank. The manual valve is also used to ensure fluid communication between the filling channel of the tank and each tank.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an operating manifold for a pressurized fluid storage and distribution assembly for a vehicle. The present invention also relates to a pressurized fluid storage and distribution assembly for a vehicle, comprising an operating manifold according to the present invention, and a vehicle, preferably a motor vehicle, comprising such an assembly. Finally, the present invention relates to a pressurized fluid distribution method for a vehicle, a method for filling a pressurized fluid storage tank and a method for discharging a fluid stored in a pressurized fluid storage tank by means of an operating manifold according to the present invention. Background Art

[0002] In the prior art, for example in document WO2021 / 110707, an operating manifold (also referred to as "manifold" in English) for a pressurized fluid storage and distribution assembly for a vehicle is known. These operating manifolds are particularly used to facilitate the circulation of fluids (especially gases) between multiple pressurized fluid storage tanks. Such multiple tanks are particularly used in motor vehicles, for example, for storing pressurized hydrogen. In fact, when the available space does not allow the integration of a single large-capacity storage tank, the use of such multiple small-capacity tanks makes it possible to increase the storage capacity of the vehicle onboard. However, the use of multiple tanks requires the use of operating manifolds and multiple functional components, such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors or valves, to achieve the management of the fluid circulation between the tank and the rest of the vehicle, particularly for filling, distributing and / or discharging fluids. Therefore, even if the spatial volume is reduced due to the use of multiple reduced-volume tanks, it may still be relatively complicated to manage the volume of the storage assembly including the tank, operating manifold and functional components on the vehicle. In addition, assembling multiple functional components on the operating manifold also leads to an increase in the cost of assembling the storage assembly on the vehicle.

[0003] Other examples of prior art operating manifolds are known from document WO 2021 / 220128. Summary of the invention

[0004] The invention aims in particular at reducing, in a simple and economical manner, the space occupied by a pressurized fluid storage and distribution assembly for a vehicle, the assembly comprising an operating manifold.

[0005] To this end, the subject of the invention is an operating manifold of a pressurized fluid storage and distribution assembly for a vehicle, said assembly comprising a plurality of pressurized fluid reservoirs, said operating manifold comprising:

[0006] - a main body having a plurality of communication holes, each communication hole being configured to be in fluid communication with a storage tank,

[0007] - Solenoid valves,

[0008] - Manual valve,

[0009] a fluid dispensing channel for dispensing the fluid stored in the tanks, the fluid dispensing channel being arranged in the body and being configured to be in fluid communication with each tank via a solenoid valve and a manual valve, the fluid dispensing channel comprising a first check valve intended to prevent the passage of the fluid in a first direction toward each tank and to allow the passage of the fluid in a second direction opposite to the first direction,

[0010] a filling channel of the tanks, arranged in the body and configured to be in fluid communication with the tanks, the filling channel of the tanks comprising a second non-return valve intended to allow the passage of fluid in a first direction towards the respective tank and to prevent the passage of fluid in the opposite direction,

[0011] The invention is characterized in that the manual valve is also used to ensure fluid communication between the filling channel of the storage tank and each storage tank.

[0012] Therefore, a distribution channel and a fluid filling channel are proposed, which are separated from each other at least in part and share the same manual valve to ensure their fluid communication with the respective tanks. As a result, the number of functional components used is reduced, in particular the number of manual valves used is reduced, which makes it possible to save costs during the production of the operating manifold and reduce its occupied space and weight.

[0013] In addition, it is understood that according to the present invention, the functional components of the solenoid valve, the manual valve, and the first and second check valves are directly carried by the operating manifold and accommodated in the main body of the operating manifold. Therefore, the space size occupied by the storage assembly including the operating manifold, the functional components and the storage tank is reduced. In addition, it is easier to assemble it to the vehicle because the operating manifold can be simply installed, which integrates the functional components that have been installed without assembling each component separately to the vehicle. In addition, since the functional components are carried by the operating manifold, their functions can be concentrated in the operating manifold, which avoids equipping each tank with at least one of these functional components, thereby reducing the total number of functional components used. Alternatively, the function integrated in the operating manifold avoids the need to equip the tank end piece between each tank and the operating manifold, as in the case of the storage assembly described in document WO2021 / 110707. Therefore, the manufacturing cost, occupied space and weight of the storage assembly including such an operating manifold are reduced, while facilitating its use.

[0014] Therefore, it can be understood that the operating header is different from the communication terminal arranged on each tank or between each tank and the operating header.

[0015] The distribution channels and the filling channels are obtained, for example, by machining the body of the header. This is a simple, effective and light method of obtaining these distribution channels and the filling channels.

[0016] The first non-return valve and the second non-return valve (also called non-return valves) make it possible to define a single flow direction for the fluid and thus prevent a backflow of the fluid flowing in the dispensing channel and the filling channel during fluid dispensing and during filling of the tank, respectively.

[0017] The term "solenoid valve" refers to an electrically controlled valve that selectively blocks or releases the passage of a fluid through a conduit, optionally by means of different intermediate positions that limit the size of the valve opening. Here, the solenoid valve thus makes it possible to selectively block or release the passage of a fluid in a dispensing channel. The solenoid valve can easily manage the dispensing of a fluid through a dispensing channel by allowing or preventing the fluid from flowing from a tank to a fluid-consuming component through the dispensing channel.

[0018] The term "manual valve" refers to a valve that can be manually controlled by an operator to block or release the flow of fluid through a pipeline. Typically, the manual valve is open under normal use conditions of the tank, i.e. during filling and dispensing, that is, during normal operation of the tank. Closing of the manual valve allows isolating the pressurized tank, for example for performing maintenance operations that require isolating the tank.

[0019] Storage tanks for pressurized fluids are, for example, tanks capable of storing pressurized hydrogen at ambient temperature, typically at a pressure of 35 MPa (350 bar) or even 70 MPa (700 bar). Storage tanks capable of storing pressurized natural gas (known as CNG) at ambient temperature, typically at a pressure of 20 MPa (200 bar) or even 30 MPa (300 bar) are also known. "Ambient temperature" refers to a temperature range of 20°C ± 10°C.

[0020] The term "plurality of tanks" refers to at least two tanks, preferably at least five tanks, or even at least ten tanks.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the main body of the operating manifold is an elongated body along the main longitudinal axis between two axial ends. This configuration is particularly suitable for using the operating manifold for a plurality of tanks arranged side by side. Here, the communication holes are distributed along the elongated body between its two axial ends, so that each communication hole is arranged opposite to a corresponding communication end piece of the tank.

[0022] The present invention may also include one or more of the following optional features, taken alone or in combination.

[0023] The operating manifold also includes a first discharge channel for discharging the fluid stored in the tank, which is arranged in the main body of the operating manifold and is intended to connect the interior of the tank with the external fluid, and the first discharge channel for discharging the fluid stored in the tank includes a manual discharge valve, which is intended to allow or prevent the fluid communication between the interior and the exterior of the tank. Therefore, the fluid can be simply discharged from the tank and the operating manifold. This is particularly advantageous for performing maintenance operations on the operating manifold or the tank in a simple and safe manner. In addition, the fluid channel for discharging the fluid stored in the tank is arranged in the main body of the operating manifold, which can facilitate the operation and installation of the operating manifold on the tank and the vehicle, and reduce its footprint.

[0024] The operation manifold also includes a second discharge channel for discharging the fluid stored in the tank, the second channel is arranged in the main body of the operation manifold and is intended to connect the internal and external fluids of the tank, and the second discharge channel for discharging the fluid stored in the tank includes a first thermal control pressure relief device, the first thermal control pressure relief device is intended to allow or prevent the fluid communication between the inside and outside of the tank. The presence of the first thermal control pressure relief device ensures the safety of the tank. In the event of an overpressure risk in the fluid inside the tank, such as in the event of a fire, it allows the fluid in the tank to be discharged to the outside. This device is also called an overpressure safety valve or TPRD (its English name is "Thermal and Pressure Relief Device"). Since the thermal control pressure relief device is integrated in the second discharge channel for discharging the fluid stored in the tank, that is, integrated in the main body of the operation manifold, its safety function can be directly integrated in the operation manifold, which facilitates the installation of the operation manifold and can further reduce the occupied space of the operation manifold.

[0025] Preferably, the operating manifold further comprises a third discharge channel for discharging the fluid stored in the tank, the third discharge channel being arranged in the body of the operating manifold and intended to allow fluid communication between the interior and the exterior of the tank, the third discharge channel for discharging the fluid stored in the tank comprising a second thermally controlled pressure relief device, the second thermally controlled pressure relief device being intended to allow or prevent fluid communication between the interior and the exterior of the tank. This further improves the safety of the assembly comprising the operating manifold. In fact, since two thermally controlled pressure relief devices cover a larger spatial area than a single thermally controlled pressure relief device, by using two thermally controlled pressure relief devices instead of a single one, phenomena that are prone to cause overpressure of the fluid in the tank, usually the presence of a fire near the tank, can be detected more easily and more quickly.

[0026] The operating manifold also includes a temperature sensor, which is housed in the body of the operating manifold and is used to measure the temperature of the fluid in the operating manifold. Thus, the function of measuring the temperature of the fluid is integrated into the operating manifold, facilitating its use and reducing the footprint of the assembly comprising the operating manifold. In addition, this embodiment is particularly advantageous in that it may be sufficient to use a common temperature sensor for the entire operating manifold and the various tanks connected to the operating manifold, while in the prior art, it is necessary to use multiple temperature sensors and fix them to multiple tanks, or even use one temperature sensor for each tank. In addition, since the temperature sensor is located in the operating manifold, it can accurately measure the temperature of the fluid in the operating manifold and therefore accurately measure the temperature of the distributed fluid, which is advantageous because the insulation of the tank is generally better than that of the operating manifold with greater heat transfer. In contrast, in the prior art, the temperature sensor used is mounted on the tank, for example at its end piece, and can therefore only give a measurement of the temperature of the stored fluid, but cannot accurately measure the temperature of the distributed fluid. Preferably, at least one additional temperature sensor is provided in or in close proximity to the tank, but not on each tank, since all tanks are connected together and it is sufficient to measure only on one or a few tanks. Therefore, it can be appreciated that the number of temperature sensors is reduced, which makes it possible to reduce manufacturing and maintenance costs, and reduce the weight and occupied space of the operating header.

[0027] The operating manifold also includes a pressure sensor, which is housed in the body of the operating manifold and is intended to measure the pressure inside the operating manifold. Thus, the function of measuring the pressure of the fluid is integrated into the operating manifold, so as to facilitate the use of the operating manifold and reduce the occupied space of the assembly including the operating manifold and the tank. In addition, a single pressure sensor is sufficient for the entire operating manifold and the tank connected to the operating manifold, while in the prior art, it is necessary to use multiple pressure sensors fixed to the tank. Since the pressure sensor is located in the operating manifold, it is possible to accurately measure the pressure of the fluid in the operating manifold, thereby accurately measuring the pressure of the distributed fluid. In contrast, in the prior art, the pressure sensor used is mounted on the tank, for example at its end piece, so that only a measurement of the pressure of the stored fluid can be given, but the pressure of the distributed fluid cannot be accurately measured. It should also be understood that the number of pressure sensors is reduced, which makes it possible to reduce manufacturing and maintenance costs, reduce the weight and occupy space of the operating manifold.

[0028] The operating manifold also includes at least one particle filter located upstream or downstream of the manual valve. Thus, the function of filtering particles in the fluid is integrated into the operating manifold, thereby facilitating its use and reducing the occupied space of the assembly including the operating manifold and the tank. In addition, since the filtering function is concentrated in the operating manifold, it is not necessary to provide a filter for each tank. Therefore, the number of filters used is reduced, which is economical and can reduce the weight of the operating manifold. The filter can be located upstream or downstream of the manual valve. The upstream or downstream position is defined relative to the flow direction of the fluid in the operating manifold. For example, if the filter is located upstream of the manual valve when the fluid flows toward the tank in a first direction in the filling channel, the filter will be considered to be located downstream of the manual valve when the fluid flows in a second direction opposite to the first direction in the distribution channel. On the contrary, if the filter is located downstream of the manual valve when the fluid flows toward the tank in a first direction in the filling channel, the filter will be considered to be located upstream of the manual valve when the fluid flows in a second direction opposite to the first direction in the distribution channel. According to a specific embodiment, the operating manifold includes two particle filters. For example, when the fluid flows in the operating manifold in a first direction toward the tank, the first filter is located upstream of the manual valve, and when the fluid flows in the operating manifold in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the second filter is located upstream of the manual valve.

[0029] The distribution channel for distributing the fluid stored in the tank includes a distribution hole leading to the end area of ​​the operating manifold body, and the filling channel includes a supply hole different from the distribution hole, and the supply hole and the distribution hole lead to the same end area of ​​the operating manifold. Since the conduits for fluidly connecting with the distribution hole and the supply hole, respectively, can be concentrated in the same limited area, the compactness of the operating manifold is further improved. In addition, it can be understood that the installation of the operating manifold is also facilitated at the same time. According to one embodiment, the end area of ​​the main body of the operating manifold includes an end face of the main body and a peripheral edge face of the main body, and the peripheral edge face of the main body extends from the end face of the main body toward the first of the communicating holes. The first communicating hole in the communicating holes corresponds to the communicating hole that is spatially closest to the end face of the main body. In a preferred embodiment, the main body extends between two axial ends along its main longitudinal axis, and the end area corresponds to one of the two axial ends of the main body.

[0030] The distribution channel includes a flow limiting valve disposed between the solenoid valve and the manual valve. Thus, the function of limiting the flow rate of fluid distribution is integrated into the operating manifold, thereby facilitating the use of the operating manifold and reducing the occupied space of the components including the operating manifold. The flow limiting valve is also called a flow limiting valve or a valve forming a flow restrictor.

[0031] The body of the operating manifold is integrally formed and made of a material that can be used for the circulation of pressurized gases, in particular a material certified for use in hydrogen applications, such as aluminum or stainless steel. This results in an easy-to-manufacture, compact and robust operating manifold. It should be noted in particular that the functional components of the operating manifold, such as manual valves, solenoid valves, first and second non-return valves or temperature or pressure sensors, can be conveniently integrated into the body of the operating manifold in a particularly compact manner, for example with only few or no areas protruding outside the envelope surface defined by the body of the operating manifold. According to a particular embodiment, the body of the operating manifold is elongated and has the shape of a hollow profile, made of a metal such as aluminum or stainless steel, which are easy-to-use and robust materials. Of course, other metals that can be used for the circulation of pressurized gases can also be used.

[0032] The invention also relates to a pressurized fluid storage and distribution assembly for a vehicle, comprising an operating manifold as described above. Preferably, the assembly comprises a plurality of pressurized fluid storage tanks designed to cooperate with the operating manifold to store and distribute pressurized fluid.

[0033] The invention also relates to a vehicle, preferably a motor vehicle, comprising a pressurized fluid storage and distribution assembly as described above. Preferably, the pressurized fluid is a pressurized gas, such as hydrogen. The pressurized gas can, for example, be advantageously used as a fuel in a fuel cell in order to generate the electricity required for the operation of the vehicle's electric motor.

[0034] The invention also relates to a method for distributing pressurized fluid to a vehicle by means of an operating manifold as described above, the method comprising the steps of: a) opening the solenoid valve with the manual valve open, and b) distributing the fluid from the tank to the fluid consuming components via the dispensing channel.

[0035] The method allows supplying a fluid to a fluid consuming component in a simple manner. For example, the fluid is a pressurized gas, such as hydrogen, and the fluid consuming component is a fuel cell.

[0036] The present invention also relates to a method for filling tanks with pressurized fluid by means of an operating manifold as described above, the method comprising the steps of: a) closing the solenoid valve with the manual valve open, and b) supplying fluid from a fluid supply source via a filling channel to each tank.

[0037] The method allows filling the tank from a fluid supply in a simple manner.

[0038] Finally, the invention relates to a method for draining a fluid stored in a pressurized fluid storage tank by means of an operating manifold as described above, the method comprising the steps of: a) closing the manual valve, and b) opening the manual drain valve.

[0039] Thus, the fluid present in the operating headers and the tanks can be simply drained in order to carry out maintenance operations, for example. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] The invention will be better understood by reading the following description, given purely as a non-limiting example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0041] [ Figure 1 ] is a schematic diagram of a vehicle including a pressurized fluid storage and distribution assembly of an operating manifold according to the present invention;

[0042] [ Figure 2 ]yes Figure 1 A front view of a portion of a pressurized fluid storage and dispensing assembly;

[0043] [ Figure 3 ]yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a pressurized fluid storage and distribution assembly;

[0044] [ Figure 4A ] is a reference Figure 2 a left side view of a portion of a fluid storage and dispensing assembly;

[0045] [ Figure 4B ] is a reference Figure 2 a right side view of a fluid storage and distribution assembly;

[0046] [ Figure 4C ]yes Figure 2 A bottom view of a fluid storage and dispensing assembly;

[0047] [ Figure 4D ]yes Figure 2 A top view of a fluid storage and distribution assembly;

[0048] [ Figure 4E ] is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of section aa;

[0049] [ Figure 4F ] is along Figure 4E A cross-sectional view of section BB of ; and

[0050] [ Figure 5 ] is a perspective view of a portion of a pressurized fluid storage and dispensing assembly of the prior art. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] Figures 1 to 4F A pressurized fluid storage and distribution assembly 1 is shown which is mounted on a motor vehicle 2 and comprises an operating manifold (also referred to in English as a “manifold”) 3 according to the invention and a plurality of pressurized fluid tanks 4 .

[0052] In the present case, the fluid intended to be stored and distributed by the pressurized fluid storage and distribution assembly 1 is a gas, such as pressurized hydrogen. The pressurized fluid storage tank 4 is then a tank 4 capable of containing pressurized hydrogen at a storage pressure of 350 bar or even 700 bar at ambient temperature. The pressurized fluid storage tanks 4 are fixed to each other by a supporting structure (not shown) and an operating manifold 3. In the present embodiment, the tanks 4 are identical to each other. Each tank 4 has a substantially elongated cylindrical shape and comprises an inner shell, also referred to as a liner (not shown). The liner is made of, for example, a polymer material and comprises at least one neck-shaped opening. Each tank 4 also comprises an end piece 5, which is located above the neck and is intended to cooperate with the operating manifold 3 to allow the operating manifold 3 to be fixed to each tank 4 (see Figure 4F ). According to other embodiments, at least one storage tank is different from the other storage tanks. In this embodiment, the storage tanks 4 extend longitudinally and are arranged parallel to each other and aligned (see Figure 1 and Figure 2 ). The number of tanks 4 varies according to the embodiment, in particular according to the desired gas storage capacity and the available space in the motor vehicle 2. Thus, the assembly 1 comprises at least three tanks, preferably at least five or even at least ten tanks, more particularly thirteen tanks in this example (in Figure 2 and Figures 4A to 4F Only three tanks 4 are shown, and Figures 4A to 4F Four storage tanks 4) are shown.

[0053] The operating manifold 3 has an elongated overall shape and comprises, in particular, a body 6 , a distribution channel 7 , a filling channel 8 and functional components.

[0054] The main body 6 of the operating manifold 3 has an elongated overall shape extending between two longitudinal ends and is formed in one piece (see FIG. Figure 2 and 4E ). It is made of a material that can be used for the circulation of pressurized gas, especially pressurized hydrogen, such as aluminum or stainless steel. It should be understood that according to variant embodiments, materials other than aluminum or stainless steel, especially metal materials, can be used. The main body 6 has a plurality of communication holes 9, each of which is configured to be in fluid communication with the storage tank 4 (see Figure 3 and 4F ). For example, the tanks 4 are screwed, snapped or fastened to the communication holes 9 of the operating manifold 3 through their end pieces 5 so that the interior of the tanks 4 is in fluid communication with the communication holes 9 to which the tanks 4 are fixed.

[0055] A distribution channel 7 for distributing the fluid stored in the storage tank 4 is provided in the main body 6 of the operation manifold 3 (see Figure 3 and 4EThe distribution channel 7 is configured to be in fluid communication with each tank 4 via a solenoid valve 10 and a manual valve 11. The distribution channel 7 includes a distribution hole 12, which leads to an end region of the main body 6 of the operating manifold 3, more specifically to an end face 13 of the main body 6 of the operating manifold 3 (see Figure 4F The dispensing hole 12 is used for fluid connection with a fluid supply conduit (not shown) of a fluid consuming component.

[0056] The solenoid valve 10 is an electrically controlled valve that selectively blocks or allows fluid to pass through the distribution channel 7. Therefore, when the solenoid valve 10 is closed, the solenoid valve 10 blocks the fluid from circulating in the distribution channel 7, and thus blocks the fluid from being distributed to the fluid-consuming component. When the solenoid valve 10 is opened, the solenoid valve 10 allows the fluid to pass through the distribution channel 7, and thus allows the fluid to be distributed to the fluid-consuming component. The manual valve 11 performs the same function, i.e., blocks or allows the fluid to pass through the distribution channel 7, except that it is not electrically controlled but manually controlled, such as manually controlled by an operator. Therefore, only when both the solenoid valve 10 and the manual valve 11 are opened, the fluid can flow from the tank 4 to the component that consumes the fluid via the distribution channel 7. In this example, the fluid is a gas, i.e., hydrogen, and the device for consuming the fluid is a fuel cell that can use hydrogen as a fuel to generate electricity. According to other embodiments, the fluid may have different properties, such as a fluid may be a gas other than hydrogen.

[0057] The dispensing channel 7 further comprises a first non-return valve 14 which is intended to prevent the fluid from flowing in the dispensing channel 7 towards the tank 4 in a first direction and to allow the fluid to flow in the dispensing channel 7 in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0058] The distribution channel 7 further includes a flow limiting valve 15 disposed between the solenoid valve 10 and the manual valve 11 (see Figure 3 and 4E The flow limiting valve 15 allows regulating the dispensing flow rate of the fluid to the fluid consuming components.

[0059] The distribution channel 7 includes a first particle filter 16 arranged between the manual valve 11 and the flow limiting valve 15 (see Figure 3 and 4E). In other words, when the fluid flows in the distribution channel 7 from the tank 4 to the distribution hole 12 of the distribution channel 7 along the second direction, the first particle filter 16 is arranged downstream of the manual valve 11. The characteristics of the first filter 16 are selected according to the particles to be filtered and the purity level required for the fluid distributed to the fluid consuming component by the fluid storage and distribution assembly 1. According to a variant embodiment (not shown), the first particle filter 16 is arranged between the manual valve 11 and the tank 4. In other words, according to this variant embodiment, when the fluid flows in the distribution channel 7 from the tank 4 to the distribution hole 12 of the distribution channel 7 along the second direction, the first particle filter 16 is arranged upstream of the manual valve 11.

[0060] The filling channel 8 of the tank 4 is also provided in the body 6 of the operating manifold 3 (see Figure 3 and 4E ). The filling channel 8 of the tank 4 is configured to be in fluid communication with each tank 4. It includes a second check valve 17, which is intended to allow fluid to flow in the filling channel 8 of the tank 4 toward the tank 4 in a first direction and to prevent fluid from flowing in the filling channel 8 of the tank in a direction opposite to the first direction.

[0061] The manual valve 11 used in the dispensing channel 7 is also used to ensure fluid communication between the filling channel 8 of the tank 4 and the tank 4 (see Figure 3 and 4E ). It is advantageous to use the same manual valve 11 for both the filling channel 8 and the dispensing channel 7 of the tank 4, since this makes it possible to reduce the number of manual valves 11 used, which is economical and reduces the space occupied by the operating manifold 3. It should also be noted that the manual valve 11 is located in the operating manifold 3 instead of, for example, in the end piece 5 of the tank, which makes it possible to concentrate the functions of the manual valve 11 in the operating manifold 3 and thus facilitate the use of the fluid storage and dispensing assembly 1.

[0062] The filling channel 8 of the tank 4 comprises a supply orifice 18 which opens into the same end region of the operating manifold 3 as the distribution orifice 12 of the distribution channel 7 opens into (see Figure 4A ). More specifically, the supply hole 18 and the distribution hole 12 lead to the same end surface 13 of the operating manifold 3. This facilitates the installation of the operating manifold 3 and can optimize the arrangement of the pipelines through which the fluid passes in the vehicle 2, thereby reducing the occupied space of the operating manifold 3. The supply hole 18 is configured to be fluidically connected to a fluid supply source. Here, the fluid supply source is a pressurized hydrogen source.

[0063] The filling channel 8 of the tank 4 comprises a second particle filter 19. In the present example, the second particle filter 19 is arranged between the supply opening 18 and the second non-return valve 17 (see Figure 3 and 4EAccording to an alternative embodiment (not shown), the second particle filter 19 may be arranged at other locations in the filling channel 8 of the tank 4, for example between the second check valve 17 and the manual valve 11. The second particle filter 19 may remove some impurities that may be present in the fluid when the fluid is introduced into the operating manifold 3.

[0064] The operation manifold 3 also includes a first discharge passage 20 (see FIG. Figure 3 and Figure 4E ). A first discharge passage 20 for discharging the fluid stored in the tank is arranged in the main body 6 of the operating manifold 3 and is intended to connect the interior of the tank 4 with the external fluid. The first discharge passage 20 for discharging the fluid stored in the tank has a first discharge hole 21 that opens to the surface of the main body 6 of the operating manifold 3. In this example, the first discharge hole 21 opens to the end face 13 of the main body 6 of the operating manifold 3, which is opposite to the end face 13 to which the distribution hole 12 and the supply hole 18 open (see Figure 4B ). According to other embodiments (not shown), the first drain hole 21 may be arranged to lead elsewhere, for example, to the end face 13 to which the dispensing hole 12 and the supply hole 18 lead. The first passage 20 for discharging the fluid stored in the storage tank 4 includes a manual drain valve 22, which is intended to prevent or allow fluid communication between the interior and the exterior of the storage tank 4. In this way, if an operator wishes to perform a maintenance operation on the fluid storage and dispensing assembly 2, requiring the absence of fluid, the fluid can be easily discharged by opening the manual drain valve 22, so that the fluid (here, hydrogen) present in the storage tank 4 and in the operating manifold 3 is discharged to the outside via the first drain passage 20 for discharging the fluid present in the storage tank 4 and through the first drain hole 21.

[0065] The operation manifold 3 also includes a second discharge passage 23 (see Figure 3 and Figure 4E). The second discharge passage 23 for discharging the fluid stored in the storage tank 4 is arranged in the body 6 of the operating manifold 3, and is intended to make the inside of the storage tank 4 communicate with the outside fluid. The second discharge passage 23 for discharging the fluid stored in the storage tank 4 has a second discharge hole 24, which opens to the surface of the body 6 of the operating manifold 3. The second discharge passage 23 for discharging the fluid stored in the storage tank 4 includes a first thermal control pressure relief device 25, whose English acronym is TPRD. The first thermal control pressure relief device 25 is intended to allow or prevent fluid communication between the inside and the outside of the storage tank 4. Generally, when there is no abnormal heat source, that is, usually when there is no fire, the thermal control pressure relief device 25 prevents fluid communication between the inside and the outside of the storage tank 4 via the second discharge passage 23. If a fire occurs, the thermal control pressure relief device 25 is structurally modified so as to allow fluid communication between the inside and the outside of the storage tank 4 via the second discharge passage 23. This communication makes it possible to discharge the fluid present in the storage tank 4 and the operating manifold 3 to the outside via the second discharge passage 23 and through the second discharge hole 24. This thermally controlled pressure relief device 25 improves the safety of the fluid storage and distribution assembly 1 by avoiding overpressure in the storage tank 4 which may cause the storage tank 4 to explode. In this example, the second discharge hole 24 opens to the lower surface of the main body 6 of the operating manifold 3 at the axial end of the main body 6, which includes the end surface 13 to which the distribution hole 12 and the supply hole 18 open (see Figure 4C According to other embodiments (not shown), the second discharge hole 24 may also be arranged to lead to other places, for example, to the end surface 13 of the main body 6 of the operating manifold 3 to which the distribution hole 12 and the supply hole 18 lead.

[0066] In this example, the operating manifold 3 also includes a third discharge channel 26 for discharging the fluid stored in the storage tank 4. The third discharge channel 26 for discharging the fluid stored in the storage tank 4 is arranged in the body 6 of the operating manifold 3 and is intended to connect the interior of the storage tank 4 with the external fluid. The third discharge channel 26 for discharging the flow in the storage tank 4 has a third discharge hole 27, which opens to the surface of the body 6 of the operating manifold 3. The third discharge channel 26 for discharging the fluid stored in the storage tank 4 includes a second thermally controlled pressure relief device 28, the acronym of which is TPRD. Like the first thermally controlled pressure relief device 25, the second thermally controlled pressure relief device 28 is intended to allow or prevent fluid communication between the interior and the exterior of the storage tank 4. By providing this second thermally controlled pressure relief device 28, the detection surface of possible fires can be increased to further improve the safety of the assembly 1 for pressurized fluid storage and distribution. In this example, the third discharge hole 27 opens to the lower surface of the body 6 of the operating manifold 3 at the axial end opposite to the axial end to which the second discharge hole 24 opens (see Figure 4C). Therefore, this is the axial end of the end surface 13 to which the first discharge hole 21 opens. According to other embodiments (not shown), the third discharge hole 27 may also be arranged to open elsewhere, for example, to the end surface 13 to which the first discharge hole 21 opens.

[0067] because Figure 3 The diagram is schematic and does not accurately show the relative positions of different functional components to each other unless otherwise specified for the sake of simplicity. It should be particularly noted that the relative positions of the first discharge hole 21, the second discharge hole 24 and the third discharge hole 27 are in accordance with Figure 4E The positions shown do not correspond.

[0068] The operating manifold 3 also comprises a plug 6a configured to close the orifices formed during the manufacture of the body 6 of the operating manifold 3 in a manner that seals the fluid intended to circulate in the operating manifold 3, in particular in order to produce the different channels formed in the body 6 (see Figure 4D and Figure 4E ). Therefore, the fluid flowing in the operation header 3 is prevented from flowing out to the outside in an advantageous and simple manner.

[0069] The operating manifold 3 also comprises a temperature sensor 29 housed in the body 6 of the operating manifold 3 and intended to measure the temperature of the fluid in the operating manifold 3. This temperature sensor 29 can thus measure the temperature of the fluid being distributed, i.e. in the present embodiment the temperature of the hydrogen supplied to the fuel cell.

[0070] The operating manifold 3 also includes a pressure sensor 30 housed within the body 6 of the operating manifold and intended to measure the pressure within the operating manifold 3. It will be appreciated that it is advantageous to use a single pressure sensor 30 to measure the fluid pressure in the manifold rather than using multiple pressure sensors to measure the fluid pressure in each tank.

[0071] The measured values ​​obtained by the temperature sensor 29 and the pressure sensor 30 are transmitted to an electronic control unit (not shown) capable of processing this information and, if necessary, controlling actions aimed at correcting the temperature and / or pressure if these parameters are not included in a predetermined range of values. The temperature sensor 29, the pressure sensor 30 and the solenoid valve 10 are connected to the electronic control unit via an electronic connector 6 c carried by the body 6 of the operating manifold 3 (see Figure 4A , 4C and 4F). In the embodiment shown, the electronic connector 6c is carried by the lower surface of the body 6 of the operating manifold 3.

[0072] A hollow portion 6b ( Figure 4A and 4BHere, each hollow portion 6b axially penetrates the main body 6 of the operation manifold 3 and leads to two end surfaces 13 of the main body 6. These hollow portions 6b can advantageously reduce the weight of the operation manifold 3.

[0073] It should be noted that the operating manifold 3 according to the present invention is particularly advantageous in that it integrates a large number of functional components, such as a manual valve 11, a solenoid valve 10, a manual drain valve 22, a temperature sensor 29, a pressure sensor 30, a first thermally controlled pressure reducing device 25 or a second thermally controlled pressure reducing device 28. Therefore, these functions are concentrated in the operating manifold 3, which makes it possible to optimize the number of functional components used and simplify the installation and use of the operating manifold 3. In particular, it is particularly advantageous to use only a single manual valve 11 for the distribution channel 7 and the filling channel 8 of the tank 4, because it allows saving manual valves and saving space and weight. In addition, it should be noted that since the functional components are accommodated in the main body 6 of the operating manifold, its appearance is particularly simple, and no or only very few functional components form protrusions outside the envelope surface defined by the main body 6 of the operating manifold 3. Therefore, the occupied space of the operating manifold 3 is also optimized. In the accompanying drawings, especially in Figure 4E , the functional components are schematically shown.

[0074] The fluid storage and dispensing assembly 1 according to the present invention is used in combination with Figure 5 The advantages of the present invention are particularly evident when compared with the prior art fluid storage and dispensing assembly 1' shown. Elements identical to those of the present invention are indicated by the same reference numerals as those representing the prior art, with a prime "'" added to distinguish them.

[0075] The fluid storage and distribution assembly 1' of the prior art includes an operating manifold 3', which includes a main body 6' having a generally elongated shape between two axial ends. The operating manifold 3' of the prior art is fixed to the pressurized fluid storage tank 4' by an end piece 5'. The main body 6' includes a filling channel (not shown) for filling the storage tank 4' and a distribution channel (not shown) for distributing the fluid stored in the storage tank 4'. The filling channel has a supply hole 18' leading to the end face 13' of the main body 6' of the operating manifold 3'. The distribution channel has a distribution hole (not shown) leading to the other end face of the main body 6' of the operating manifold 3', and the other end face of the main body is axially opposite to the end face 13' to which the supply hole 18' leads. The distribution channel and the filling channel each include a manual valve (not shown) intended to prevent or allow fluid communication between the storage tank and these channels. It can therefore be seen that more manual valves are used in the prior art relative to the present invention.

[0076] The prior art fluid storage and distribution assembly 1' includes a plurality of functional components that protrude from the outer surface of the main body 6' of the operating manifold 3'. In particular, a thermally controlled pressure relief device 25' and a discharge passage 20' for discharging the fluid stored in the storage tank 4' are shown. It can be seen that these functional components are not located in the main body 6' of the operating manifold 3', but increase the space occupied by it.

[0077] The mode of operation of the pressurized fluid storage and dispensing assembly 1 for a vehicle 2 according to the invention will now be described.

[0078] The first step in using the fluid storage and distribution assembly 1 consists in filling the storage tank 4 with pressurized fluid (here pressurized hydrogen) using the operating manifold 3. To this end, the following steps are performed:

[0079] - With the manual valve 11 open, close the solenoid valve 10 or ensure that the solenoid valve 10 is closed. In this way, the fluid can circulate only in the filling channel 8 of the tank 4; and

[0080] - Supply of fluid, here hydrogen, from a fluid supply source to the tanks 4. This supply passes in sequence via the filling passage 8 through the supply hole 18, the second particle filter 19, the second non-return valve 17, the manual valve 11, the communication hole 9 of the operating manifold 3 and finally, the end piece 5 of each tank 4. During this filling, the second non-return valve 17 prevents the fluid from flowing back toward the fluid supply source, and the closed solenoid valve 10 prevents the fluid from flowing out of the operating manifold 3 toward the fluid consuming device (corresponding to the fuel cell here).

[0081] Once each tank 4 is filled, the fluid (here hydrogen) is used by the motor vehicle 2 as an energy source to supply a fluid-consuming component (here a fuel cell) to generate electricity. Therefore, the second step of using the fluid storage and distribution assembly 1 consists in distributing the fluid (here hydrogen) stored in the tank 4 to the fluid-consuming component (here a fuel cell) by using the operating manifold 3. To this end, the following steps are performed:

[0082] - When the manual valve 11 is open, the solenoid valve 10 is opened. In this way, the fluid can flow only in the distribution channel 7 for distributing the fluid stored in the storage tank 4; and

[0083] -Distribute the fluid (here hydrogen) from the tank 4 to the fluid consuming member (here the fuel cell). This distribution is possible because the solenoid valve 10 and the manual valve 11 are open. The distribution passes through the end piece 5 of the tank 4, the communication hole 9 of the operating manifold 3, the manual valve 11, the first filter 16, the flow limiting valve 15, the solenoid valve 10, the first check valve 14 and the distribution hole 12 in sequence via the distribution channel 7. During this distribution, the first check valve 14 prevents the fluid from flowing back toward the tank 4, and the second check valve 17 prevents the fluid from leaking through the supply hole 18 of the filling channel 8 of the tank 4.

[0084] Furthermore, during the service life of the fluid storage and distribution assembly 1, various maintenance operations need to be performed on it, in particular on the operating manifold 3. For some maintenance operations, the operating manifold 3 and the tanks 4 must not contain fluid, i.e. here they must not contain pressurized hydrogen. For this purpose, the fluid, in particular the fluid stored in the tanks, must be drained from the tanks and the operating manifold 3. For this purpose, the following steps are performed:

[0085] - closing the manual valve 11. Thus, the risk of fluid leakage via the dispensing orifice 12 or the supply orifice 18 is avoided; and

[0086] - Open the manual exhaust valve 22. Since the fluid is under pressure in the tank 4 and the operating manifold 3, it naturally escapes outward from the tank 4 and the operating manifold 3 through the first exhaust passage 20 and the first exhaust hole 21 for exhausting the fluid stored in the tank 4. Therefore, the fluid is exhausted from the operating manifold 3 and the tank 4 in a simple manner, and the operator can perform necessary maintenance operations.

[0087] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described and other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0088] Reference numerals list

[0089] 1: Pressurized fluid storage and distribution components for vehicles

[0090] 2: Motor Vehicles

[0091] 3: Operation header

[0092] 4: Storage tank

[0093] 5: Tank end fittings

[0094] 6: Main body of the operating manifold

[0095] 6a: Stopper

[0096] 6b: Hollowing

[0097] 6c: Electrical connector

[0098] 7: Fluid distribution channel for distributing the fluid stored in the tank

[0099] 8: Filling channel of the tank

[0100] 9: Connecting hole for operating manifold

[0101] 10: Solenoid valve

[0102] 11: Manual valve

[0103] 12: Distribution hole

[0104] 13: End face of operating header

[0105] 14: First check valve

[0106] 15: Flow limiting valve

[0107] 16: First filter

[0108] 17: Second check valve

[0109] 18: Supply port for tank filling channel

[0110] 19: Second particle filter

[0111] 20: A first discharge passage for discharging the fluid stored in the storage tank

[0112] 21: First discharge hole

[0113] 22: Manual drain valve

[0114] 23: Second discharge channel for discharging the fluid stored in the tank

[0115] 24: Second discharge hole

[0116] 25: The first thermal control pressure reducing device

[0117] 26: A third discharge channel for discharging the fluid stored in the tank

[0118] 27: The third drain hole

[0119] 28: Second thermal control pressure reducing device

[0120] 29: Temperature sensor

[0121] 30: Pressure sensor

Claims

1. An operating manifold (3) of a pressurized fluid storage and distribution assembly (1) for a vehicle (2), the assembly comprising a plurality of pressurized fluid storage tanks (4), the operating manifold (3) comprising: - a main body (6), the main body (6) having a plurality of communication holes (9), each communication hole (9) being configured to be in fluid communication with the tank (4), - a solenoid valve (10), - manual valve (11), a fluid distribution channel (7) for distributing the fluid stored in the tanks (4), the fluid distribution channel (7) being arranged in the body (6) and being configured to be in fluid communication with each tank (4) via the solenoid valve (10) and the manual valve (11), the fluid distribution channel (7) comprising a first check valve (14) intended to prevent the passage of fluid in a first direction towards each tank (4) and to allow the passage of fluid in a second direction opposite to the first direction, a filling channel (8) of the tanks (4), arranged in the body (6) and configured to be in fluid communication with each tank (4), the filling channel (8) of the tanks (4) comprising a second non-return valve (17) intended to allow the passage of fluid in a first direction towards each tank (4) and to prevent the passage of fluid in the opposite direction, It is characterized in that the manual valve (11) is also used to ensure fluid communication between the filling channel (8) of the storage tank (4) and each storage tank (4).

2. The operating manifold (3) according to the preceding claim further comprises a first discharge passage (20) for discharging the fluid stored in the storage tank (4), which is arranged in the main body (6) of the operating manifold (3) and is intended to connect the interior of the storage tank (4) with the external fluid, and the first discharge passage (20) for discharging the fluid stored in the storage tank comprises a manual discharge valve (22), and the manual discharge valve (22) is intended to allow or prevent the fluid communication between the interior and the outside of the storage tank (4).

3. The operating manifold (3) according to claim 1 or 2, further includes a second discharge channel (23) for discharging the fluid stored in the storage tank (4), which is arranged in the main body (6) of the operating manifold (3) and is intended to connect the interior of the storage tank (4) with the external fluid, and the second discharge channel (23) for discharging the fluid stored in the storage tank (4) includes a first thermally controlled pressure reducing device (25), and the first thermally controlled pressure reducing device (25) is intended to allow or prevent fluid communication between the interior and the outside of the storage tank (4).

4. The operating manifold (3) according to the preceding claim further comprises a third discharge passage (26) for discharging the fluid stored in the storage tank (4), which is arranged in the main body (6) of the operating manifold (3) and is intended to connect the internal and external fluids of the storage tank (4), and the third discharge passage (26) for discharging the fluid in the storage tank (4) comprises a second thermally controlled pressure reducing device (28), and the second thermally controlled pressure reducing device (28) is intended to allow or prevent fluid communication between the internal and external parts of the storage tank (4).

5. An operating manifold (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a temperature sensor (29) housed in the body (6) of the operating manifold (3) and intended to measure the temperature of the fluid in the operating manifold (3).

6. The operating manifold (3) according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a pressure sensor (30), which is housed in the body (6) of the operating manifold (3) and is used to measure the pressure inside the operating manifold (3).

7. An operating manifold (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one particle filter (16) located upstream or downstream of the manual valve (11).

8. An operating header (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The fluid distribution channel (7) for distributing the fluid stored in the tank (4) includes a distribution hole (12) leading to the end area of ​​the main body (6) of the operating manifold (3), and the filling channel (8) includes a supply hole (18) different from the distribution hole (12), and the supply hole (18) leads to the same end area of ​​the operating manifold (3) as the distribution hole (12).

9. An operating header (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The distribution channel (7) includes a flow limiting valve (15) arranged between the solenoid valve (10) and the manual valve (11).

10. An operating header (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The main body (6) of the operation manifold (3) is integrally formed and made of a material that can be used for the circulation of pressurized gas, such as aluminum or stainless steel.

11. Pressurized fluid storage and distribution assembly (1) for a vehicle (2) comprising an operating manifold (3) according to any one of the preceding claims.

12. Vehicle (2), preferably a motor vehicle, comprising a pressurized fluid storage and dispensing assembly (1) according to the preceding claim.

13. A method for distributing pressurized fluid to a vehicle (2) by means of an operating manifold (3) according to claims 1 to 10, comprising the following steps: a) opening the solenoid valve (10) while the manual valve (11) is in an open state, and b) dispensing fluid from the tank (4) to fluid consuming components via the dispensing channel (7).

14. A method for filling the tank (4) with pressurized fluid by means of an operating manifold (3) according to claims 1 to 10, comprising the following steps: a) when the manual valve (11) is in the open state, closing the solenoid valve (10), and b) supplying fluid from a fluid supply source to the tank (4) via the filling channel (8).

15. A method for discharging a fluid stored in a tank (4) of pressurized fluid by means of an operating manifold (3) according to any one of claims 2 to 10, comprising the following steps: a) close the manual valve (11), and b) Open the manual drain valve (22).

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