Operating manifold for pressurized fluid storage and dispensing assembly for a vehicle

Abstract

Operating manifold (3) for a pressurized fluid storage and dispensing assembly (1) for vehicles, said fluid storage and dispensing assembly comprising a plurality of pressurized fluid tanks (4), said operating manifold comprising: a main body (6) having a plurality of communication holes (9) configured to be in fluid communication with the tanks; a fluid dispensing channel (7) for dispensing the fluid stored in the tanks, arranged in the main body and configured to be in fluid communication with each tank via an electromagnetic valve (10) and a manual valve (11); and a filling channel (8) of the tanks arranged in said main 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 tanks and each tank.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

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

[0002] In the prior art, operating manifolds (also called "manifolds" in English) for pressurized fluid storage and dispensing assemblies for vehicles are known, for example in document WO2021 / 110707. These operating manifolds are notably used to facilitate the management of the circulation of fluid, in particular gas, between a plurality of pressurized fluid tanks. Such a plurality of tanks is notably used for motor vehicles, for example for storing pressurized hydrogen. Indeed, when the available space does not allow the integration of a single large-capacity storage tank, the use of such a plurality of small-capacity tanks makes it possible to increase the storage capacity on board the vehicle. However, the use of a plurality of tanks requires the use of an operating manifold and a plurality of functional members, such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors or valves, to enable the management of the circulation of fluid between the tanks and the rest of the vehicle, in particular for filling, dispensing and / or draining the fluid. Thus, even if the volume is reduced due to the use of a plurality of reduced-volume tanks, the volume of the storage assembly comprising the tanks, the operating manifold and the functional members on the vehicle can still be relatively complex to manage. Furthermore, the assembly of a plurality of functional members 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 WO2021 / 220128. SUMMARY

[0004] The object of the present invention is notably to reduce the footprint of a pressurized fluid storage and dispensing assembly for a vehicle in a simple and economical manner, the assembly comprising an operating manifold.

[0005] To this end, the subject of the present invention is an operating manifold for a pressurized fluid storage and dispensing assembly for a vehicle, the assembly comprising a plurality of pressurized fluid tanks, the 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 tank,

[0007] - an electromagnetic valve,

[0008] - a manual valve,

[0009] - a fluid dispensing channel for dispensing the fluid stored in the reservoirs, the fluid dispensing channel being arranged in the main body and being configured to be in fluid communication with the reservoirs via the solenoid valves and the manual valve, the fluid dispensing channel comprising a first check valve intended to block the passage of fluid in a first direction towards the reservoirs and to allow the passage of fluid in a second direction opposite to the first direction,

[0010] - a filling channel of the reservoirs, provided in the main body and configured to be in fluid communication with the reservoirs, the filling channel of the reservoirs comprising a second check valve intended to allow the passage of fluid in a first direction towards the reservoirs and to block the passage of fluid in the opposite direction,

[0011] characterized in that the manual valve is also used to ensure the fluid communication between the filling channel of the reservoirs and the reservoirs.

[0012] Thus, a dispensing channel and a fluid filling channel are proposed which are at least partially separate from each other and share the same manual valve to ensure their fluid communication with the reservoirs. As a result, the number of functional components used is reduced, in particular the number of manual valves used, which makes it possible to save costs during the production of the operating manifold, and to reduce its footprint and weight.

[0013] Moreover, it can be understood that, according to the application, the functional means, i.e. the solenoid valves, the manual valve and the first and second check valves, are directly carried by the operating manifold and housed in the main body of the operating manifold. Thus, the storage assembly comprising the operating manifold, the functional means and the reservoirs has a reduced footprint. Moreover, it is easier to assemble it on a vehicle, since it is possible to simply install the operating manifold which integrates the functional means already installed, without having to assemble each component separately on the vehicle. Moreover, since the functional means are carried by the operating manifold, their functions can be concentrated in the operating manifold, which avoids having to equip each reservoir with at least one of these functional means, which makes it possible to reduce the total number of functional means used. Alternatively, the functions integrated in the operating manifold avoid having to equip the reservoir end pieces, as in the storage assembly described in document WO2021 / 110707, between each reservoir and the operating manifold. Thus, the manufacturing costs, the footprint and the weight of the storage assembly comprising such an operating manifold are reduced, while facilitating its use.

[0014] Thus, it can be understood that the operating manifold is distinct from the communication end pieces arranged on each reservoir or between each reservoir and the operating manifold.

[0015] The dispensing channel and the filling channel are obtained, for example, by machining the main body of the manifold. This is a simple, efficient and lightweight method of obtaining these dispensing and filling channels.

[0016] The first and second check valves (also referred to as check valves) make it possible to prescribe a single flow direction to the fluid and thus to prevent the fluid flowing in the dispensing channel and in the filling channel from flowing back 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 fluid through a duct, optionally by means of different intermediate positions that limit the valve opening size. Here, the solenoid valve thus makes it possible to selectively block or release the passage of fluid in the dispensing channel. By allowing or preventing the passage of fluid from the tank to the fluid consumption member via the dispensing channel, the solenoid valve can easily manage fluid dispensing via the dispensing channel.

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

[0019] The tank for pressurized fluid is for example a tank that can store pressurized hydrogen gas at ambient temperature, typically at a pressure of 35 MPa (350 bar) or even 70 MPa (700 bar). Tanks are also known that can store pressurized natural gas (known as CNG) at ambient temperature, said pressurized natural gas typically being at a pressure of 20 MPa (200 bar) or even 30 MPa (300 bar). "Ambient temperature" refers to a temperature range of 20°C ± 10°C.

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

[0021] According to one embodiment, the body of the operating header is an elongated body along a main longitudinal axis between two axial ends. This configuration is particularly suitable for using the operating header 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 a respective communication endpiece of a tank.

[0022] The invention can also comprise one or more of the following optional features taken alone or in combination.

[0023] The operating manifold also comprises a first discharge channel for discharging the fluid stored in the tank, which is arranged in the body of the operating manifold and is intended to put the interior of the tank in fluid communication with the outside, the first discharge channel for discharging the fluid stored in the tank comprising a manual discharge valve intended to allow or prevent fluid communication between the interior of the tank and the outside. It is thus possible to simply discharge the fluid from the tank and from the operating manifold. This is particularly advantageous for performing maintenance operations on the operating manifold or on the tank in a simple and safe manner. Moreover, the fluid channel for discharging the fluid stored in the tank is provided in the body of the operating manifold, which makes it possible to facilitate the handling and installation of the operating manifold on the tank and on the vehicle and to reduce its footprint.

[0024] The operating manifold also comprises a second discharge channel for discharging the fluid stored in the tank, which is arranged in the body of the operating manifold and is intended to put the interior of the tank in fluid communication with the outside, the second discharge channel for discharging the fluid stored in the tank comprising a first thermal and pressure relief device intended to allow or prevent fluid communication between the interior of the tank and the outside. The presence of a first thermal and pressure relief device ensures the safety of the tank, which allows the fluid in the tank to be discharged to the outside in the event of a risk of overpressure of the fluid inside the tank, for example in the event of a fire. Such a device is also known as an overpressure safety valve or TPRD (for "Thermal and Pressure Relief Device"). Since the thermal and pressure relief device is integrated in the second discharge channel for discharging the fluid stored in the tank, i.e. in the body of the operating manifold, it is possible to directly integrate its safety function in the operating manifold, which facilitates the installation of the operating manifold and makes it possible to further reduce the footprint of the operating manifold.

[0025] Preferably, the operating manifold also comprises a third discharge channel for discharging the fluid stored in the tank, which is arranged in the body of the operating manifold and is intended to put the interior of the tank in fluid communication with the outside, the third discharge channel for discharging the fluid stored in the tank comprising a second thermal and pressure relief device intended to allow or prevent fluid communication between the interior of the tank and the outside. This further improves the safety of the assembly comprising the operating manifold. Indeed, since two thermal and pressure relief devices cover a greater surface area than a single thermal and pressure relief device, it is possible to more easily and more quickly detect phenomena liable to cause overpressure of the fluid inside the tank, generally the presence of a fire in the vicinity of the tank, by using two instead of a single thermal and pressure relief device.

[0026] The operating manifold also comprises a temperature sensor housed within the body of the operating manifold and intended 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, to facilitate its use and to reduce the footprint of the assembly comprising the operating manifold. Moreover, it is particularly advantageous for this embodiment that the whole operating manifold and the tanks connected to the operating manifold can be sufficient with a common temperature sensor, whereas in the prior art, several temperature sensors are needed and fixed to several tanks, or even one temperature sensor per tank. Moreover, since the temperature sensor is located in the operating manifold, it can accurately measure the temperature of the fluid in the operating manifold and thus of the dispensed fluid, which is advantageous because the thermal insulation of the tanks is generally better than the operating manifold which has a greater heat transfer. Conversely, in the prior art, the temperature sensors used are mounted on the tanks, for example at their end pieces, and thus only give a measure of the temperature of the stored fluid, and not accurately of the temperature of the dispensed fluid. Preferably, at least one temperature sensor is provided in or in close proximity to the tanks, but not on each of the tanks, since all the tanks are connected together, it is sufficient to make the measurement on one or several of the tanks. Thus, it is understood that the number of temperature sensors is reduced, which makes it possible to reduce the manufacturing and maintenance costs, to reduce the weight and the footprint of the operating manifold.

[0027] The operating manifold also comprises a pressure sensor housed within the body of the operating manifold and 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, to facilitate the use of the operating manifold and to reduce the footprint of the assembly comprising the operating manifold and the tanks. Moreover, a single pressure sensor is sufficient for the whole operating manifold and the tanks connected to the operating manifold, whereas in the prior art, several pressure sensors fixed to the tanks are needed. Since the pressure sensor is located in the operating manifold, it is able to accurately measure the pressure of the fluid in the operating manifold, and thus of the dispensed fluid. Conversely, in the prior art, the pressure sensors used are mounted on the tanks, for example at their end pieces, and thus only give a measure of the pressure of the stored fluid, and not accurately of the pressure of the dispensed fluid. It is also understood that the number of pressure sensors is reduced, which makes it possible to reduce the manufacturing and maintenance costs, to reduce the weight and the footprint of the operating manifold.

[0028] The operation manifold further comprises 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 operation manifold, thereby facilitating its use and reducing the footprint of the assembly comprising the operation manifold and the reservoirs. Moreover, since the filtering function is centralized in the operation manifold, there is no need to provide a filter for each reservoir. Thus, the number of filters used is reduced, which is economical and enables to reduce the weight of the operation manifold. The filter can be located upstream or downstream of the manual valve. The upstream or downstream position is defined with respect to the direction of flow of the fluid in the operation manifold. For example, if the filter is located upstream of the manual valve when the fluid flows in the filling passage in a first direction towards the reservoir, the filter will be considered as located downstream of the manual valve when the fluid flows in the dispensing passage in a second direction opposite to the first direction. Conversely, if the filter is located downstream of the manual valve when the fluid flows in the filling passage in a first direction towards the reservoir, the filter will be considered as located upstream of the manual valve when the fluid flows in the dispensing passage in a second direction opposite to the first direction. According to one particular embodiment, the operation manifold comprises two particle filters. For example, a first filter is located upstream of the manual valve when the fluid flows in the operation manifold in a first direction towards the reservoir, and a second filter is located upstream of the manual valve when the fluid flows in the operation manifold in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0029] The dispensing passage for dispensing the fluid stored in the reservoir comprises a dispensing orifice opening into an end region of the body of the operation manifold, the filling passage comprises a supply orifice distinct from the dispensing orifice, the supply orifice opening into the same end region of the operation manifold as the dispensing orifice. Since it is possible to concentrate the conduits for fluidically connecting respectively the dispensing orifice and the supply orifice in the same limited region, the compactness of the operation manifold is further improved. Moreover, it is understood that the installation of the operation manifold is also facilitated. According to one embodiment, the end region of the body of the operation manifold comprises an end face of the body and a peripheral edge face of the body extending from the end face of the body towards the first one of the communication orifices. The first one of the communication orifices corresponds to the communication orifice that is spatially closest to the end face of the body. In a preferred embodiment, the body extends along its main longitudinal axis between two axial ends, the end region corresponding to one of the two axial ends of the body.

[0030] The dispensing passage comprises a flow restriction valve disposed between the solenoid valve and the manual valve. Thus, the function of limiting the dispensing flow rate of the fluid is integrated into the operation manifold, thereby facilitating the use of the operation manifold and reducing the footprint of the assembly comprising the operation manifold. The flow restriction valve is also called a flow restriction valve or a valve forming a flow restrictor.

[0031] The main body of the operation manifold is integrally formed and made of a material that can be used for the circulation of pressurized gas, in particular a material certified for hydrogen applications, such as aluminum or stainless steel. Thereby, an operation manifold is obtained that is easy to manufacture, compact and robust. It is in particular noted that functional components of the operation manifold, such as a manual valve, a solenoid valve, first and second non-return valves or temperature or pressure sensors, can be conveniently integrated into the main body of the operation manifold in a particularly compact manner, for example with only few or no regions protruding outside the envelope surface delimited by the main body of the operation manifold. According to a particular embodiment, the main body of the operation 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 gas can also be used.

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

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

[0034] The present invention also relates to a method for dispensing pressurized fluid to a vehicle by means of an operation manifold as described above, the method comprising the steps of: a) opening the solenoid valve in the open state of the manual valve, and b) dispensing fluid from the tanks to the fluid consuming member via the dispensing channel.

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

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

[0037] This method allows to fill tanks from a fluid supply source in a simple manner.

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

[0039] Therefore, the fluid present in the operating manifold and in the reservoirs can be simply discharged, for example, for maintenance operations. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

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

[0041] [ Figure 1 ] is a schematic view of a vehicle comprising a pressurized fluid storage and dispensing assembly according to the present application;

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

[0043] [ Figure 3 ] is a schematic view of the pressurized fluid storage and dispensing assembly of Figure 1 and Figure 2 ;

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

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

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

[0047] [ Figure 4D ] is a top view of the fluid storage and dispensing assembly of Figure 2 ;

[0048] [ Figure 4E ] is a sectional view along section a-a of Figure 2 ;

[0049] [ Figure 4F ] is a sectional view along section B-B of Figure 4E ; 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 dispensing assembly 1 is shown, which is installed on a motor vehicle 2 and comprises an operating manifold (also known in English as "manifold") 3 according to the present application and a plurality of pressurized fluid reservoirs 4.

[0052] In the present example, the fluid intended to be stored and dispensed by the pressurized fluid storage and dispensing assembly 1 is a gas, for example pressurized hydrogen. The pressurized fluid storage tanks 4 are then tanks 4 able to contain pressurized hydrogen at a storage pressure of 350 bars or even 700 bars at ambient temperature. The pressurized fluid storage tanks 4 are fixed to each other by a carrying structure (not shown) and the operating manifold 3. In the present embodiment, the tanks 4 are identical to each other. Each tank 4 has a substantially long cylindrical shape and comprises an inner shell also called inner liner (not shown). The inner liner is for example made of a polymeric material and comprises at least one neck-shaped opening. Each tank 4 also comprises an end piece 5 located above the neck and intended to cooperate with the operating manifold 3 to allow the fixing of the operating manifold 3 on the respective tank 4 (see Figure 4F ). According to other embodiments, at least one tank is different from the other tanks. In the present embodiment, the tanks 4 extend in the longitudinal direction, are arranged parallel and aligned to each other (see Figure 1 and Figure 2 ). The number of tanks 4 varies according to the embodiments, in particular according to the desired gas storage capacity and 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 the example (only three tanks 4 are shown in Figure 2 and Figures 4A to 4F and four tanks 4 are shown in Figures 4A to 4F ).

[0053] The operating manifold 3 has an elongated overall shape and comprises notably a main body 6, a dispensing 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 monolithically formed (see Figure 2 and 4E ). It is made of a material able to be used for the circulation of pressurized gas, in particular pressurized hydrogen, for example an aluminum or stainless steel material. It should be understood that, according to variant embodiments, materials other than aluminum or stainless steel, in particular metallic materials, can be used. The main body 6 has a plurality of communication holes 9 each configured to be in fluid communication with a tank 4 (see Figure 3 and 4F ). For example, the tanks 4 are screwed, snapped or fastened by their end pieces 5 on the communication holes 9 of the operating manifold 3 so as to put the interior of the tanks 4 in fluid communication with the communication holes 9 on which they are fixed.

[0055] The dispensing channel 7 for dispensing the fluid stored in the tanks 4 is provided in the main body 6 of the operating manifold 3 (see Figure 3 and 4E). The dispensing channel 7 is configured to be in fluid communication with each tank 4 via an electromagnetic valve 10 and a manual valve 11. The dispensing channel 7 comprises a dispensing orifice 12 opening into an end region of the body 6 of the operating manifold 3, more particularly into an end face 13 (see Figure 4F ) of the body 6 of the operating manifold 3. This dispensing orifice 12 is intended to be fluidly connected to a fluid supply duct (not shown) of a fluid-consuming member.

[0056] The electromagnetic valve 10 is an electrically controlled valve that selectively prevents or allows the passage of fluid in the dispensing channel 7. Thus, when the electromagnetic valve 10 is closed, it prevents the passage of fluid in the dispensing channel 7 and thus prevents the dispensing of fluid to the fluid-consuming member. When the electromagnetic valve 10 is open, it allows the passage of fluid in the dispensing channel 7 and thus allows the dispensing of fluid to the fluid-consuming member. The manual valve 11 performs the same function, i.e. prevents or allows the passage of fluid in the dispensing channel 7, with the difference that it is not electrically controlled but manually controlled, for example by an operator. Thus, fluid can only flow from the tank 4 to the member consuming this fluid via the dispensing channel 7 when both the electromagnetic valve 10 and the manual valve 11 are open. In the present example, the fluid is a gas, namely hydrogen, and the device for consuming this fluid is a fuel cell capable of using hydrogen as fuel to produce electricity. According to other embodiments, the fluid can have different properties, for example the fluid can be a gas other than hydrogen.

[0057] The dispensing channel 7 also comprises a first check valve 14 intended to prevent the passage of fluid in the dispensing channel 7 in a first direction towards the tank 4 and to allow the passage of fluid in the dispensing channel 7 in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0058] The dispensing channel 7 also comprises a flow restriction valve 15 (see Figure 3 and 4E ) arranged between the electromagnetic valve 10 and the manual valve 11. The flow restriction valve 15 allows to regulate the dispensing flow rate of fluid to the fluid-consuming member.

[0059] The dispensing channel 7 comprises a first particle filter 16 (see Figure 3 and 4EIn other words, the first particle filter 16 is arranged downstream of the manual valve 11 when the fluid flows in the dispensing channel 7 in the second direction from the tank 4 to the dispensing orifice 12 of the dispensing channel 7. The characteristics of the first filter 16 are chosen according to the particles to be filtered and to the level of purity required for the fluid to be dispensed by the fluid storage and dispensing assembly 1 to the fluid consuming member. 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, the first particle filter 16 is arranged upstream of the manual valve 11 when the fluid flows in the dispensing channel 7 in the second direction from the tank 4 to the dispensing orifice 12 of the dispensing channel 7.

[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 comprises a second check valve 17 intended to allow the fluid to flow in the filling channel 8 of the tank 4 in a first direction towards the tank 4 and to prevent the 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 the fluid communication between the filling channel 8 of the tank 4 and the tank 4 (see Figure 3 and 4E ). The use of the same manual valve 11 for both the filling channel 8 of the tank 4 and the dispensing channel 7 is advantageous because it makes it possible to reduce the number of manual valves 11 used, which is economical and reduces the footprint of the operating manifold 3. It should also be noted that this manual valve 11 is located in the operating manifold 3 and not, for example, in the end piece 5 of the tank, which makes it possible to concentrate the functions of this manual valve 11 in the operating manifold 3 and thus facilitates the use of the fluid storage and dispensing assembly 1.

[0062] The filling channel 8 of the tank 4 comprises a supply orifice 18 opening into the same end face 13 of the operating manifold 3 as the dispensing orifice 12 (see Figure 4A ). More particularly, the supply orifice 18 opens into the same end face 13 of the operating manifold 3 as the dispensing orifice 12. This facilitates the installation of the operating manifold 3 and makes it possible to optimize the arrangement of the pipes for the passage of fluid in the vehicle 2, thereby reducing the footprint of the operating manifold 3. The supply orifice 18 is configured to be fluidically connected to a fluid supply source. Here, the fluid supply source is a source of pressurized hydrogen gas.

[0063] The filling channel 8 of the tank 4 comprises a second particle filter 19. In the present case, the second particle filter 19 is arranged between the supply orifice 18 and the second check valve 17 (see Figure 3 and 4E). According to alternative embodiments (not shown), the second particulate filter 19 can be arranged in other positions in the filling passage 8 of the tank 4, for example between the second check valve 17 and the manual valve 11. The second particulate filter 19 can remove some impurities that can be present in the fluid when it is introduced into the operating header 3.

[0064] The operating header 3 also comprises a first discharge passage 20 (see Figure 3 and Figure 4E ) for discharging the fluid stored in the tank 4. The first discharge passage 20 for discharging the fluid stored in the tank is arranged in the main body 6 of the operating header 3 and is intended to put the inside of the tank 4 in fluid communication with the outside. The first discharge passage 20 for discharging the fluid stored in the tank has a first discharge hole 21 which opens onto the surface of the main body 6 of the operating header 3. In the present case, the first discharge hole 21 opens onto the end face 13 of the main body 6 of the operating header 3 which is opposite to the end face 13 onto which the dispensing hole 12 and the supply hole 18 open (see Figure 4B ). According to other embodiments (not shown), it is possible to provide that the first discharge hole 21 opens elsewhere, for example onto the end face 13 onto which the dispensing hole 12 and the supply hole 18 open. The first passage 20 for discharging the fluid stored in the tank 4 comprises a manual discharge valve 22 which is intended to prevent or allow fluid communication between the inside of the tank 4 and the outside. In this way, if the operator wishes to perform a maintenance operation on the fluid storage and dispensing assembly 2, it is necessary for the fluid to be absent, it is possible to easily discharge the fluid by opening the manual discharge valve 22, so that the fluid present in the tank 4 and in the operating header 3 (here hydrogen) is discharged to the outside via the first discharge passage 20 for discharging the fluid present in the tank 4 and through the first discharge hole 21.

[0065] The operating header 3 also comprises a second discharge passage 23 (see Figure 3 and Figure 4E). A second discharge channel 23 for discharging the fluid stored in the tank 4 is arranged in the body 6 of the operating header 3 and is intended to put the interior of the tank 4 in fluid communication with the outside. The second discharge channel 23 for discharging the fluid stored in the tank 4 has a second discharge orifice 24 which opens onto the surface of the body 6 of the operating header 3. The second discharge channel 23 for discharging the fluid stored in the tank 4 comprises a first thermally piloted pressure relief device 25, whose acronym in English is TPRD. The first thermally piloted pressure relief device 25 is intended to allow or prevent fluid communication between the interior of the tank 4 and the outside. Typically, when there is no abnormal heat source, generally in the absence of a fire, the thermally piloted pressure relief device 25 prevents fluid communication between the interior of the tank 4 and the outside via the second discharge channel 23. If a fire occurs, the thermally piloted pressure relief device 25 is structurally modified so as to allow fluid communication between the interior of the tank 4 and the outside via the second discharge channel 23. This communication makes it possible to discharge the fluid present in the tank 4 and in the operating header 3 to the outside via the second discharge channel 23 and through the second discharge orifice 24. This thermally piloted pressure relief device 25 improves the safety of the fluid storage and distribution assembly 1 by avoiding overpressure inside the tank 4 which could lead to an explosion of the tank 4. In the present case, the second discharge orifice 24 opens onto the lower surface of the body 6 of the operating header 3 at an axial end of the body 6 which comprises the end face 13 to which the dispensing orifice 12 and the supply orifice 18 open (see Figure 4C ) According to other embodiments (not shown), it is also possible to provide the second discharge orifice 24 to open elsewhere, for example to the end face 13 of the body 6 of the operating header 3 to which the dispensing orifice 12 and the supply orifice 18 open.

[0066] In the present case, the operating header 3 also comprises a third discharge channel 26 for discharging the fluid stored in the tank 4. The third discharge channel 26 for discharging the fluid stored in the tank 4 is arranged in the body 6 of the operating header 3 and is intended to put the interior of the tank 4 in fluid communication with the outside. The third discharge channel 26 for discharging the fluid in the tank 4 has a third discharge orifice 27 which opens onto the surface of the body 6 of the operating header 3. The third discharge channel 26 for discharging the fluid stored in the tank 4 comprises a second thermally piloted pressure relief device 28, whose acronym is TPRD. Like the first thermally piloted pressure relief device 25, the second thermally piloted pressure relief device 28 is intended to allow or prevent fluid communication between the interior of the tank 4 and the outside. By providing this second thermally piloted pressure relief device 28, it is possible to increase the detection surface of a possible fire in order to further improve the safety of the assembly 1 for storing and distributing pressurized fluids. In the present case, the third discharge orifice 27 opens onto the lower surface of the body 6 of the operating header 3 at an axial end opposite to the axial end to which the second discharge orifice 24 opens (see Figure 4C). Thus, this is the axial end of the end face 13 to which the first discharge hole 21 opens. According to other embodiments (not shown), it is also possible to provide that the third discharge hole 27 opens elsewhere, for example to the end face 13 to which the first discharge hole 21 opens.

[0067] Since Figure 3 is schematic, it does not precisely show the positions of the different functional components relative to each other, for simplicity, unless otherwise specified. It should be noted in particular that the positions of the first discharge hole 21, of the second discharge hole 24 and of the third discharge hole 27 relative to each other do not correspond to those shown. Figure 4E

[0068] The operating header 3 also comprises a plug 6a configured to close a hole formed in the manufacturing process of the body 6 of the operating header 3, in a manner sealing the fluid intended to circulate in the operating header 3, in particular in order to create the different passages formed in the body 6 (see Figure 4D and Figure 4E ). Thus, it is advantageously and in a simple manner prevented that the fluid circulating in the operating header 3 flows out to the outside.

[0069] The operating header 3 also comprises a temperature sensor 29 housed inside the body 6 of the operating header 3 and intended to measure the temperature of the fluid in the operating header 3. Thus, this temperature sensor 29 can measure the temperature of the fluid dispensed, i.e. in the present embodiment, the temperature of the hydrogen gas supplied to the fuel cell.

[0070] The operating header 3 also comprises a pressure sensor 30 housed inside the body 6 of the operating header and intended to measure the pressure inside the operating header 3. It should be understood that it is advantageous to use a single pressure sensor 30 to measure the fluid pressure in the header, rather than using multiple pressure sensors to measure the fluid pressure in each tank.

[0071] The measurements acquired by the temperature sensor 29 and by the pressure sensor 30 are transmitted to an electronic control unit (not shown) which is able to process this information and, if necessary, to control actions intended to correct the temperature and / or the pressure if these parameters do not include 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 6c carried by the body 6 of the operating header 3 (see Figure 4A , 4C and 4F). In the embodiment shown, the electronic connector 6c is carried by the lower face of the body 6 of the operating header 3.

[0072] A hollow 6b Figure 4A and 4B ​). Here, each hollowed-out portion 6b axially penetrates the body 6 of the operating manifold 3 and opens at both end faces 13 of the body 6. These hollowed-out portions 6b can advantageously reduce the weight of the operating manifold 3.

[0073] It should be noted that the operating manifold 3 according to the application is particularly advantageous in that it integrates a large number of functional components, such as the manual valve 11, the solenoid valve 10, the manual discharge valve 22, the temperature sensor 29, the pressure sensor 30, the first thermal control pressure reduction device 25 or the second thermal control pressure reduction device 28. Thus, these functions are concentrated in the operating manifold 3, which makes it possible to optimize the number of functional components used and to simplify the installation and use of the operating manifold 3. In particular, the use of a single manual valve 11 for both the dispensing channel 7 and the filling channel 8 of the reservoir 4 is particularly advantageous, since it allows the saving of a manual valve and saves space and weight. Furthermore, it should be noted that, since the functional components are housed within the body 6 of the operating manifold, the appearance thereof is particularly sleek, with no or very few functional components protruding outside the envelope surface defined by the body 6 of the operating manifold 3. The footprint of the operating manifold 3 is thus also optimized. In the figures, in particular in Figure 4E , the functional assemblies are shown schematically.

[0074] The advantages of the application are particularly evident when comparing the fluid storage and dispensing assembly 1 according to the application with a fluid storage and dispensing assembly 1'of the prior art as shown in Figure 5 . Elements that are identical to those of the application are denoted by the same reference numerals on the elements representative of the prior art, while a prime "'" has been added to show the difference.

[0075] The fluid storage and dispensing assembly 1'of the prior art comprises an operating manifold 3' comprising a body 6' having a generally elongated shape between two axial end portions. The operating manifold 3' of the prior art is fixed by end pieces 5' on a pressurized fluid reservoir 4'. The body 6' comprises a filling channel (not shown) for filling the reservoir 4' and a dispensing channel (not shown) for dispensing the fluid stored in the reservoir 4'. The filling channel has a supply hole 18' opening into an end face 13' of the body 6' of the operating manifold 3'. The dispensing channel has a dispensing hole (not shown) opening into the other end face of the body 6' of the operating manifold 3', which is axially opposite the end face 13' into which the supply hole 18' opens. The dispensing channel and the filling channel each comprise a manual valve (not shown) intended to block or allow fluid communication between the reservoir and these channels. It can thus be known that more manual valves are used in the prior art relative to the application.

[0076] The fluid storage and dispensing assembly 1' of the prior art comprises a plurality of functional components which form protrusions from the outer surface of the body 6' of the operating manifold 3'. In particular, a thermal control pressure reduction device 25' and a discharge channel 20' for discharging the fluid stored in the reservoirs 4' are shown. It can be seen that these functional components are not located in the body 6' of the operating manifold 3', but increase its footprint.

[0077] The mode of operation of the pressurized fluid storage and dispensing assembly 1 for a vehicle 2 according to the application is described below.

[0078] The first step of using the fluid storage and dispensing assembly 1 comprises filling the reservoirs 4 with pressurized fluid, here pressurized hydrogen, with the operating manifold 3. To this end, the following steps are performed:

[0079] - with the manual valve 11 open, the electromagnetic valve 10 is closed or it is ensured that the electromagnetic valve 10 is closed. In this way, the fluid can only flow in the filling channel 8 of the reservoirs 4; and

[0080] - supplying the reservoirs 4 with fluid, here hydrogen, from a fluid supply. The supply takes place via the filling channel 8 through the supply holes 18, the second particle filter 19, the second non-return valve 17, the manual valve 11, the communication holes 9 of the operating manifold 3 and finally the end pieces 5 of the respective reservoirs 4 in this order. During this filling, the second non-return valve 17 prevents the fluid from flowing back towards the fluid supply and the closed electromagnetic valve 10 prevents the fluid from flowing out of the operating manifold 3 towards the fluid consumer, here corresponding to the fuel cell.

[0081] Once the reservoirs 4 have been filled, the fluid, here hydrogen, is used by the motor vehicle 2 as an energy source to supply the fluid consumer, here the fuel cell, to generate electrical power. The second step of using the fluid storage and dispensing assembly 1 therefore comprises dispensing the fluid, here hydrogen, stored in the reservoirs 4 to the fluid consumer, here the fuel cell, by using the operating manifold 3. To this end, the following steps are performed:

[0082] - with the manual valve 11 open, the electromagnetic valve 10 is opened. In this way, the fluid can only flow in the dispensing channel 7 for dispensing the fluid stored in the reservoirs 4; and

[0083] - dispensing fluid, here hydrogen, from the tank 4 to a fluid consuming member, here a fuel cell. This dispensing can be achieved because the solenoid valve 10 and the manual valve 11 are open. The dispensing passes in sequence via the dispensing channel 7 through the end piece 5 of the tank 4, the communication hole 9 of the operation header 3, the manual valve 11, the first filter 16, the flow restriction valve 15, the solenoid valve 10, the first check valve 14 and the dispensing hole 12. During this dispensing, the first check valve 14 prevents the fluid from flowing back towards the tank 4 and the second check valve 17 prevents the fluid from leaking via the supply hole 18 of the filling channel 8 of the tank 4.

[0084] Furthermore, during the lifetime of the fluid storage and dispensing assembly 1, various maintenance operations need to be performed on it, in particular on the operation header 3. For some of these maintenance operations, the operation header 3 and the tank 4 must not contain fluid, i.e. here they must not contain pressurized hydrogen. To this end, the fluid, in particular stored in the tank, must be drained from the tank and the operation header 3. To this end, the following steps are performed:

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

[0086] - opening the manual vent valve 22. Since the fluid is under pressure in the tank 4 and the operation header 3, it naturally escapes from the tank 4 and the operation header 3 outwards through the first drain channel 20 and the first drain hole 21 for draining the fluid stored in the tank 4. Thus, the fluid is simply drained from the operation header 3 and the tank 4 and the operator can perform the necessary maintenance operations.

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

[0088] List of reference signs

[0089] 1 : pressurized fluid storage and dispensing assembly for a vehicle

[0090] 2: motor vehicle

[0091] 3: operation header

[0092] 4: tank

[0093] 5: tank end piece

[0094] 6: body of the operation header

[0095] 6a: plug

[0096] 6b: hollowed-out portion

[0097] 6c: electrical connector

[0098] 7: fluid dispensing channel for dispensing fluid stored in a reservoir

[0099] 8: filling channel of a reservoir

[0100] 9: communication hole for operating a manifold

[0101] 10: solenoid valve

[0102] 11: manual valve

[0103] 12: dispensing hole

[0104] 13: end face for operating a manifold

[0105] 14: first check valve

[0106] 15: flow restriction valve

[0107] 16: first filter

[0108] 17: second check valve

[0109] 18: supply opening of a reservoir filling channel

[0110] 19: second particle filter

[0111] 20: first discharge channel for discharging fluid stored in a reservoir

[0112] 21: first discharge hole

[0113] 22: manual discharge valve

[0114] 23: second discharge channel for discharging fluid stored in a reservoir

[0115] 24: second discharge hole

[0116] 25: first thermally controlled pressure relief device

[0117] 26: third discharge channel for discharging fluid stored in a reservoir

[0118] 27: third discharge hole

[0119] 28: second thermally controlled pressure relief device

[0120] 29: temperature sensor

[0121] 30: pressure sensor

Claims

1. An operating manifold (3) for a pressurized fluid storage and distribution assembly (1) for a vehicle (2), the assembly comprising a plurality of pressurized fluid tanks (4), the operating manifold (3) comprising: - A main body (6) having a plurality of connecting holes (9), each connecting hole (9) being configured to be in fluid communication with a storage tank (4). -Solenoid valve (10), - Manual valve (11), - A fluid distribution channel (7) for distributing fluid stored in the storage tanks (4), the fluid distribution channel (7) being arranged in the body (6) and configured to be in fluid communication with each storage tank (4) via the solenoid valve (10) and the manual valve (11), the fluid distribution channel (7) including a first check valve (14) designed to prevent fluid from passing through in a first direction toward each storage tank (4) and to allow fluid to pass through in a second direction opposite to the first direction. - The filling passage (8) of the storage tank (4), disposed in the body (6) and configured to be in fluid communication with each storage tank (4), the filling passage (8) of the storage tank (4) includes a second check valve (17) designed to allow fluid to pass in a first direction toward each storage tank (4) and to prevent fluid from passing in the opposite direction. The manual valve (11) is characterized in that it 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 includes a first discharge passage (20) for discharging fluid stored in the storage tank (4), which is arranged in the body (6) of the operating manifold (3) and is intended to allow fluid communication between the interior and exterior of the storage tank (4), the first discharge passage (20) for discharging fluid stored in the storage tank including a manual discharge valve (22) which is intended to allow or prevent fluid communication between the interior and exterior 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 fluid stored in the storage tank (4), which is disposed in the body (6) of the operating manifold (3) and is intended to allow fluid communication between the interior and exterior of the storage tank (4), the second discharge channel (23) for discharging fluid stored in the storage tank (4) including a first thermal control pressure reducing device (25) which is intended to allow or prevent fluid communication between the interior and exterior of the storage tank (4).

4. The operating manifold (3) according to claim 3 further includes a third discharge channel (26) for discharging fluid stored in the storage tank (4), which is arranged in the body (6) of the operating manifold (3) and is intended to allow fluid communication between the interior and exterior of the storage tank (4), the third discharge channel (26) for discharging fluid in the storage tank (4) including a second thermal control pressure reducing device (28) which is intended to allow or prevent fluid communication between the interior and exterior of the storage tank (4).

5. The operating manifold (3) according to claim 1 or 2 further includes a temperature sensor (29) which is housed within the body (6) of the operating manifold (3) and is intended to measure the temperature of the fluid in the operating manifold (3).

6. The operating manifold (3) according to claim 1 or 2 further includes a pressure sensor (30) which is housed within the body (6) of the operating manifold (3) and is used to measure the pressure inside the operating manifold (3).

7. The operating manifold (3) according to claim 1 or 2 further includes at least one particulate filter (16) located upstream or downstream of the manual valve (11).

8. The operating manifold (3) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The fluid distribution channel (7) for distributing the fluid stored in the tank (4) includes a distribution hole (12) leading to the end region of the body (6) of the operating manifold (3), and the filling channel (8) includes a supply hole (18) different from the distribution hole (12), the supply hole (18) leading to the same end region of the operating manifold (3) as the distribution hole (12).

9. The operating manifold (3) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The distribution channel (7) includes a flow-limiting valve (15) disposed between the solenoid valve (10) and the manual valve (11).

10. The operating manifold (3) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The main body (6) of the operating manifold (3) is integrally formed and made of a material that can be used for pressurized gas flow.

11. The operating manifold (3) according to claim 10, wherein, The main body (6) of the operating manifold (3) is integrally formed and made of aluminum or stainless steel.

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

13. A vehicle (2) comprising a pressurized fluid storage and dispensing assembly (1) according to the preceding claim.

14. The vehicle (2) according to claim 13 is a motor vehicle.

15. A method for distributing pressurized fluid to a vehicle (2) by means of an operating manifold (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising the following steps: a) With the manual valve (11) in the open state, open the solenoid valve (10), and b) Distribute fluid from the storage tank (4) to the fluid consumption component via the distribution channel (7).

16. A method for filling the storage tank (4) with pressurized fluid via an operating manifold (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising the steps of: a) With the manual valve (11) open, close the solenoid valve (10), and b) Supply fluid from the fluid supply source to the storage tank (4) via the filling channel (8).

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

Images