System

Abstract

This system supplies fuel of a fuel cell to a work vehicle in which the fuel cell is mounted, and is provided with: the work vehicle; a trolley on which the fuel is loaded; and a supply pipe that is detachably provided between the work vehicle and the trolley and that is capable of supplying the fuel loaded on the trolley to the work vehicle, the work vehicle receiving the supply of the fuel loaded on the trolley in a state in which the work vehicle travels while pulling the trolley.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system.

[0002] The present invention claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-181594 filed on November 14, 2022, and incorporates its content herein. Background Art

[0003] Towards carbon neutrality, zero-emission of mining machinery, construction machinery, etc. is an urgent task. As one of the means for achieving zero-emission, there is a fuel cell system. For example, a fuel cell system includes a fuel cell (FC: Fuel Cell), a storage battery, and a hydrogen tank that stores hydrogen as fuel. Hydrogen as fuel has a lower volumetric energy density compared to other fuels such as light oil. For example, even if high-pressure hydrogen (about 70 MPa) is stored in the volume of a current light oil tank, the installed energy is less than one-tenth of that in the case of light oil. In other words, when hydrogen is used as fuel, it means a shorter operation time compared to when light oil is used as fuel. In addition, there are also problems with hydrogen filling. For example, it is difficult to fill hydrogen at high speed in the prior art. Therefore, at a site operating 24 hours a day, it takes time to replenish hydrogen, and there is a concern that the actual operable time will be reduced.

[0004] For example, there are the following two problems when hydrogen is used as fuel.

[0005] (1) It is difficult to mount a large number of hydrogen tanks that store hydrogen with a low volumetric energy density in a limited space.

[0006] (2) Hydrogen filling takes time, resulting in waste during overall operation (e.g., fuel replenishment).

[0007] Therefore, a system for solving the above two problems is needed.

[0008] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a system including a vehicle and a moving body connected to the vehicle. The vehicle is equipped with a fuel cell that generates electricity using hydrogen as fuel and a hydrogen supply unit that stores hydrogen. The moving body is connected to the vehicle in a manner capable of towing and energy transfer. The moving body has a space and equipment used by people. The moving body includes a heat storage unit and an electricity storage unit. The heat storage unit recovers the heat generated during the power generation of the fuel cell from the vehicle, heats a specified amount of water with the recovered heat, and stores the heated warm water in a hot water storage tank for heat storage. The electricity storage unit recovers the surplus power that is not required for driving the vehicle from the power generated during the power generation of the fuel cell and accumulates it in a storage battery. The system accumulates and utilizes the energy generated by the fuel cell that is not used for driving the vehicle in the moving body.

[0009] Prior Art Documents

[0010] Patent Documents

[0011] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-317787 Summary of the Invention

[0012] Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0013] However, it is difficult to mount a large amount of a hydrogen supply unit that stores hydrogen with a low volumetric energy density in a limited space of a vehicle. In addition, it is difficult to fill hydrogen into the hydrogen supply unit mounted on the vehicle at high speed, and it takes time to replenish hydrogen. Therefore, there is room for improvement in solving the above two problems.

[0014] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a system that can mount a large amount of fuel and can suppress the generation of waste during overall operation.

[0015] Means for Solving the Problems

[0016] A system according to an aspect of the present invention supplies fuel for a fuel cell to a work vehicle equipped with the fuel cell, wherein the system includes: the work vehicle; a carriage that mounts the fuel; and a supply pipe that is detachably provided between the work vehicle and the carriage and can supply the fuel mounted on the carriage to the work vehicle. The work vehicle receives the supply of the fuel mounted on the carriage through the supply pipe while traveling while towing the carriage.

[0017] Advantages of the Invention

[0018] According to the above aspect, it is possible to mount a large amount of fuel and suppress the generation of waste during overall operation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Figure 1 FIG. is a side view of the system according to the embodiment.

[0020] Figure 2 FIG. is a side view when discharging the load in the system according to the embodiment.

[0021] Figure 3 FIG. is a block diagram of the system according to the embodiment.

[0022] Figure 4 FIG. is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the system according to the embodiment.

[0023] Figure 5 FIG. is an explanatory diagram of an example of the operation of the system according to the embodiment.

[0024] Figure 6 FIG. is an explanatory diagram of an example of the operation of a vehicle according to a comparative example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments, as an example of a system including a work vehicle, an example in which a dump truck, which is a transport vehicle for transporting goods at a work site such as a mine, is applied as the work vehicle will be described.

[0026] <System>

[0027] Figure 1 is a side view of the system 1 of the embodiment. Figure 2 is a side view when discharging the load in the system 1 of the embodiment.

[0028] Refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 together, the system 1 includes a dump truck 2, a trolley 3, a supply pipe 4, a wiring harness 5, a towing arm 6, and a loading and unloading mechanism 7. The system 1 supplies fuel for the fuel cell 36 to the dump truck 2 equipped with the fuel cell 36 (hereinafter also referred to as "FC"). The dump truck 2 receives the supply of fuel carried on the trolley 3 while traveling while towing the trolley 3.

[0029] <Dump Truck>

[0030] The dump truck 2 includes: a body frame 10 equipped with a fuel cell 36, a tipping body 12 (equivalent to a dump body) that is rotatably coupled to the body frame 10 through a rotating portion 11 and carries a load, and a traveling device 13 having a rear wheel axle 23 that supports the rear wheels 22. For example, the dump truck 2 can be an unmanned dump truck that is unmanned and does not depend on the driving operation of the driver, or a manned dump truck that is driven based on the driving operation of the driver.

[0031] Hereinafter, the forward direction (front of the vehicle body), the backward direction (rear of the vehicle body), and the vehicle width direction (left and right of the vehicle body) of the dump truck 2 will be referred to as "front of the vehicle (one side of the vehicle longitudinal direction)", "rear of the vehicle (the other side of the vehicle longitudinal direction)", and "vehicle width direction". The vehicle width direction may sometimes be referred to as "left side (one side of the vehicle width direction)" or "right side (the other side of the vehicle width direction)". The right hand is referred to as the right side with respect to the direction in which the dump truck 2 advances, and the left hand is referred to as the left side with respect to the advancing direction of the dump truck 2. The vehicle up and down direction (up and down of the vehicle body), the vehicle upper side (above the vehicle body), and the vehicle lower side (below the vehicle body) of the dump truck 2 are simply referred to as "up and down direction", "upper side", and "lower side". In the example of the figure, the dump truck 2 is arranged on a horizontal plane (horizontal ground). The vehicle up and down direction (up and down of the vehicle body), the vehicle upper side (above the vehicle body), and the vehicle lower side (below the vehicle body) of the dump truck 2 coincide with the up and down direction (vertical direction), the vertical upper side, and the vertical lower side in the state where the dump truck 2 is arranged on the horizontal plane, respectively.

[0032] The vehicle body frame 10 extends in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The vehicle body frame 10 supports the unloading vehicle body 12 via the rotating portion 11 so as to be rotatable. The rotating portion 11 is a portion including a shaft portion (equivalent to the rotation center axis of the unloading vehicle body 12) that extends in the vehicle width direction on the vehicle body frame 10. The vehicle body frame 10 is supported by the traveling device 13.

[0033] The unloading vehicle body 12 is rotatably coupled to the vehicle body frame 10 via the rotating portion 11. The unloading vehicle body 12 is a member for loading goods (equivalent to a cargo box). At least a part of the unloading vehicle body 12 is disposed at a position above the vehicle body frame 10. The unloading vehicle body 12 can perform an unloading operation and a lowering operation.

[0034] The unloading operation is an operation of separating the unloading vehicle body 12 from the vehicle body frame 10 and tilting it in the unloading direction. The unloading direction is the rear of the vehicle body frame 10. In the embodiment, the unloading operation includes raising the front end portion of the unloading vehicle body 12 and tilting the unloading vehicle body 12 backward. By the unloading operation, the loading surface of the unloading vehicle body 12 faces backward and tilts downward.

[0035] The lowering operation is an operation of bringing the unloading vehicle body 12 closer to the vehicle body frame 10. The lowering operation is an operation in the direction opposite to the unloading operation. In the embodiment, the lowering operation includes lowering the front end portion of the unloading vehicle body 12.

[0036] By the unloading operation and the lowering operation, the unloading vehicle body 12 is adjusted to an unloading posture and a loading posture. The unloading posture is a posture in which the unloading vehicle body 12 is raised. The loading posture is a posture in which the unloading vehicle body 12 is lowered. In Figure 2 the example, the unloading vehicle body 12 in the loading posture is represented by a solid line, and the unloading vehicle body 12 in the unloading posture is represented by a double-dashed line.

[0037] For example, in the case of performing a soil discharging operation, the unloading vehicle body 12 performs an unloading operation so as to change from the loading posture to the unloading posture. When the unloading vehicle body 12 is loaded with goods, the goods are discharged rearward from the rear end portion of the unloading vehicle body 12 by the unloading operation. On the other hand, in the case of performing a loading operation, the unloading vehicle body 12 is adjusted to the loading posture.

[0038] The unloading vehicle body 12 is provided with a protection device 16 that protects the cab 15 from above. The protection device 16 is disposed so as to cover the cab 15 from above when the unloading vehicle body 12 is in the loading posture. The protection device 16 is provided on the front end side of the unloading vehicle body 12. The protection device 16 is disposed at a position above the cab 15. The protection device 16 extends in the vehicle width direction. For example, the cab 15 is disposed at a position to the left of the center in the vehicle width direction.

[0039] The cab 15 is supported by the platform 17. The platform 17 is provided as a footrest when the operator gets on and off the cab 15. The platform 17 is provided as a footrest when inspecting the equipment mounted on the dump truck 2. The platform 17 is arranged at a position lower than the protective device 16. The platform 17 is arranged at a position higher than the wheels 21, 22. The platform 17 extends in the vehicle width direction. The platform 17 is formed in a plate shape parallel to the vehicle longitudinal direction and the vehicle width direction.

[0040] The traveling device 13 supports the body frame 10. The traveling device 13 makes the dump truck 2 travel. The traveling device 13 makes the dump truck 2 move forward or backward. At least a part of the traveling device 13 is arranged at a position lower than the body frame 10. The traveling device 13 includes a plurality of wheels 21, 22. The plurality of wheels 21, 22 includes front wheels 21 and rear wheels 22 arranged behind the front wheels 21.

[0041] The front wheels 21 are steering wheels that steer to change the traveling direction of the dump truck 2. A pair of left and right front wheels 21 are arranged. The pair of left and right front wheels 21 are arranged at intervals in the vehicle width direction via the front part of the body frame 10. One front wheel 21 is provided on each of the left and right sides (two in total).

[0042] The rear wheels 22 are drive wheels driven by a traveling motor 39 (see Figure 3 ). A pair of left and right rear wheels 22 are arranged. The pair of left and right rear wheels 22 are arranged at intervals in the vehicle width direction via the rear part of the body frame 10. Two rear wheels 22 are provided on each of the left and right sides (four in total).

[0043] The rear wheels 22 are supported by a rear wheel axle 23 (equivalent to a rear axle). The rear wheel axle 23 extends in the vehicle width direction so as to support the pair of left and right rear wheels 22. For example, the rear wheel axle 23 is built in a rear axle housing (not shown).

[0044] <Trolley>

[0045] The trolley 3 carries fuel. The trolley 3 is arranged behind the dump truck 2. The trolley 3 disconnects or connects to the dump truck 2 according to an instruction from the dump truck 2. For example, when the dump truck 2 is a manned dump truck, the instruction from the dump truck 2 includes an instruction based on the driver's driving operation.

[0046] The trolley 3 is configured to be able to carry a plurality of cylindrical hydrogen tanks 25 (an example of a tank). The hydrogen tanks 25 store hydrogen as fuel. In Figure 1 the example, six (an example of a plurality) hydrogen tanks 25 are arranged longitudinally.

[0047] It should be noted that the number and configuration of the hydrogen tanks 25 are not limited to the above. For example, the number of hydrogen tanks 25 can also be less than 5 or more than 7. For example, the hydrogen tanks 25 can also be arranged horizontally. For example, the number and configuration of the hydrogen tanks 25 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0048] The carriage 3 functions as a hydrogen tank mounting carriage 3 (hereinafter also simply referred to as "hydrogen carriage 3") for mounting the hydrogen tanks 25. The carriage 3 also functions as a hydrogen storage towing carriage 3 (hereinafter also simply referred to as "towing carriage 3") towed by the dump truck 2 in a state where the hydrogen tanks 25 are mounted.

[0049] <Supply pipe>

[0050] The supply pipe 4 is configured to supply the fuel mounted on the carriage 3 to the dump truck 2. For example, the supply pipe 4 is composed of a metal pipe. The supply pipe 4 is detachably provided between the dump truck 2 and the carriage 3.

[0051] The supply pipe 4 includes a first pipe 4A provided on the dump truck 2 and a second pipe 4B provided on the carriage 3 and detachable from the first pipe 4A. The rear end of the first pipe 4A and the front end of the second pipe 4B are detachably connected to each other by a loading and unloading mechanism 7.

[0052] At least a part of the first pipe 4A is arranged above the rear wheel axle 23. In a side view, at least a part of the first pipe 4A is arranged between the unloading body 12 and the rear wheel axle 23. In a side view, the first pipe 4A extends forward from the part connected to the loading and unloading mechanism 7 toward the fuel cell 36.

[0053] The rear end of the first pipe 4A is arranged at a position in front of the rear end of the unloading body 12. For example, when the unloading body 12 is in the unloading posture, it is preferable that the rear end of the first pipe 4A is arranged at a position in front of the rear end of the unloading body 12. According to this structure, it is possible to prevent the first pipe 4A from becoming an obstacle when discharging the load (when the unloading body 12 is unloading).

[0054] <Wiring harness>

[0055] The wiring harness 5 is configured to transmit the control signal from the controller 30 mounted on the dump truck 2 to the carriage 3. For example, the wiring harness 5 is composed of a plurality of electric wires (for example, a wire harness). The wiring harness 5 is detachably provided between the dump truck 2 and the carriage 3.

[0056] The wiring harness 5 includes a first wiring harness 5A provided on the dump truck 2 and a second wiring harness 5B provided on the carriage 3 and detachable from the first wiring harness 5A. The rear end of the first wiring harness 5A and the front end of the second wiring harness 5B are detachably connected to each other by a loading and unloading mechanism 7.

[0057] At least a part of the first wire harness 5A is disposed above the rear wheel axle 23. When viewed from the side, at least a part of the first wire harness 5A is disposed between the unloading vehicle body 12 and the rear wheel axle 23. When viewed from the side, the first wire harness 5A extends forward from the portion combined with the loading and unloading mechanism 7 toward the controller 30.

[0058] The rear end of the first wire harness 5A is disposed at a position forward of the rear end of the unloading vehicle body 12. For example, when the unloading vehicle body 12 is in the unloading posture, it is preferable that the rear end of the first wire harness 5A is disposed at a position forward of the rear end of the unloading vehicle body 12. According to this structure, it is possible to prevent the first wire harness 5A from becoming an obstacle when discharging the load (when the unloading vehicle body 12 is unloading).

[0059] <Traction arm>

[0060] The traction arm 6 is a member for the dump truck 2 to tow the trolley 3. For example, the traction arm 6 is made of a metal member. The traction arm 6 is detachably provided between the dump truck 2 and the trolley 3.

[0061] The traction arm 6 includes a first arm 6A provided on the dump truck 2 and a second arm 6B provided on the trolley 3 and detachably relative to the first arm 6A. The rear end of the first arm 6A and the front end of the second arm 6B are detachably coupled to each other through the loading and unloading mechanism 7.

[0062] At least a part of the first arm 6A is disposed above the rear wheel axle 23. When viewed from the side, the first arm 6A extends forward and upward from the portion combined with the loading and unloading mechanism 7 toward the rear part of the vehicle body frame 10. For example, the front end of the first arm 6A is rotatably coupled to the upper part of the rear axle housing (not shown).

[0063] The rear end of the first arm 6A is disposed at a position forward of the rear end of the unloading vehicle body 12. For example, when the unloading vehicle body 12 is in the unloading posture, it is preferable that the rear end of the first arm 6A is disposed at a position forward of the rear end of the unloading vehicle body 12. According to this structure, it is possible to prevent the first arm 6A from becoming an obstacle when discharging the load (when the unloading vehicle body 12 is unloading).

[0064] <Loading and unloading mechanism>

[0065] For example, the loading and unloading mechanism 7 is a connection tool such as a quick coupler. The loading and unloading mechanism 7 is provided in the middle of each of the supply pipe 4, the wire harness 5, and the traction arm 6. The loading and unloading mechanism 7 is configured to be able to load and unload the supply pipe 4, the wire harness 5, and the traction arm 6 between the dump truck 2 and the trolley 3 in the middle of each. The loading and unloading mechanism 7 disconnects or connects the dump truck 2 and the trolley 3 according to an instruction from the dump truck 2.

[0066] In Figure 2In the example, the loading and unloading mechanism 7 is coupled to the rear ends of the first piping 4A, the first wiring harness 5A, and the first arm 6A. The loading and unloading mechanism 7 is disposed at a position forward of the rear end of the unloading vehicle body 12. For example, when the unloading vehicle body 12 is in the unloading posture, it is preferable that the entire loading and unloading mechanism 7 is disposed at a position forward of the rear end of the unloading vehicle body 12. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the loading and unloading mechanism 7 from becoming an obstacle when discharging the loaded material (when the unloading vehicle body 12 is unloading).

[0067] Figure 3 is a block diagram of the system 1 of the embodiment.

[0068] Refer to Figure 3 collectively, the components of the system 1 are mounted on the vehicle body frame 10 and the towing dolly 3. It should be noted that, in Figure 3 the illustration of the towing arm 6 and the like is omitted.

[0069] <Vehicle body side system structure>

[0070] A first wiring harness 5A (hereinafter also referred to as "the vehicle body side wiring harness 5A")、a controller 30、a working oil tank 31、a hydraulic pump 32、a lift valve 33、a lift cylinder 34、a first piping 4A (hereinafter also referred to as "the vehicle body side hydrogen supply piping 4A")、a pressure reducing valve 35、a fuel cell 36 (FC)、an FC DCDC converter 37、an inverter 38、a travel motor 39、a storage battery 40、and a storage battery DCDC converter 41 are mounted on the vehicle body frame 10.

[0071] One end of the vehicle body side wiring harness 5A (the end opposite to the end coupled to the loading and unloading mechanism 7) is connected to the controller 30. For example, the controller 30 includes a processor such as a CPU (i.e., a processing unit), a storage unit such as a RAM, a ROM, and a combination thereof, and an input / output unit. The processing unit controls the operations of the components of the system 1. The storage unit stores a computer program for implementing the functions of the processing unit and information required for the processing of the processing unit. The input / output unit is an interface circuit between the controller 30 and other devices.

[0072] The working oil tank 31 stores working oil. The working oil tank 31 is connected to the hydraulic pump 32. The working oil discharged from the hydraulic pump 32 is supplied to the lift cylinder 34 via the lift valve 33. The lift valve 33 is electrically connected to the controller 30. The lift cylinder 34 generates power for performing the unloading operation or the lowering operation of the unloading vehicle body 12.

[0073] One end of the vehicle body side hydrogen supply piping 4A (the end opposite to the end coupled to the loading and unloading mechanism 7) is connected to a pressure reducing valve 35 for reducing the pressure of the fuel. The pressure reducing valve 35 is connected to the fuel cell 36. The pressure reducing valve 35 has a function of releasing the high pressure in the vehicle body side hydrogen supply piping 4A (primary side) and maintaining the pressure on the fuel cell 36 side (secondary side) at a specified pressure.

[0074] The fuel cell 36 generates electricity by causing a chemical reaction between hydrogen as the fuel gas and oxygen as the oxidizing gas. For example, the fuel cell 36 has a stack structure formed by laminating a plurality of unit cells. For example, the fuel cell 36 generates electricity using oxygen contained in external air. It should be noted that the fuel cell 36 can also supply air containing oxygen through an oxidizing gas supply device (not shown).

[0075] The FC DCDC converter 37 adjusts the voltage output by the fuel cell 36. The FC DCDC converter 37 is electrically connected to the fuel cell 36. For example, the FC DCDC converter 37 boosts the voltage generated by the fuel cell 36. The FC DCDC converter 37 supplies the direct current generated by the fuel cell 36 to the inverter 38.

[0076] The inverter 38 converts the direct current from the FC DCDC converter 37 into a three-phase alternating current and supplies it to each motor (for example, a pump drive motor and a traveling motor 39 not shown). The pump drive motor and the traveling motor 39 are respectively driven based on the three-phase alternating current supplied from the inverter 38.

[0077] The pump drive motor drives the hydraulic pump 32. The working oil discharged from the hydraulic pump 32 is supplied to a steering cylinder (not shown) and a lift cylinder 34 respectively. The steering cylinder generates the power to steer the front wheels 21. The traveling motor 39 is connected to the rear wheels 22 of the traveling device 13. The rotational force generated by the traveling motor 39 is transmitted to the rear wheels 22 of the traveling device 13.

[0078] The storage battery 40 stores the electricity generated in the fuel cell 36. The storage battery 40 functions as a power source for the dump truck 2 in the same way as the fuel cell 36. The storage battery 40 supplies the stored electricity to each motor (for example, the pump drive motor and the traveling motor 39). For example, the storage battery 40 is a secondary battery such as a lithium-ion battery.

[0079] For example, the storage battery 40 drives the traveling motor 39 when the dump truck 2 starts under the control of the controller 30. For example, the storage battery 40 stores the regenerative power during deceleration and regeneration of the dump truck 2. For example, the storage battery 40 is charged by power supply from the fuel cell 36 according to the load.

[0080] The battery DCDC converter 41 adjusts the voltage output by the storage battery 40. The battery DCDC converter 41 is electrically connected to the storage battery 40. For example, the battery DCDC converter 41 raises the voltage of the storage battery 40. The battery DCDC converter 41 controls the charge and discharge of the storage battery 40 so that the storage battery 40 and the fuel cell 36 can be integrated to supply power to the inverter 38.

[0081] For example, when the storage battery 40 serves as the main power source of the dump truck 2, the fuel cell 36 can also function to charge the storage battery 40. Thereby, the installation amount of the fuel cell 36 can be suppressed. In addition, by suppressing the installation amount of the fuel cell 36, the control of the fuel cell 36 becomes easier.

[0082] <Trolley-side system structure>

[0083] The hydrogen tank 25, the hydrogen filling connector 50, the upstream pipe 51 for hydrogen filling, the hydrogen filling manifold 52, the downstream pipe 53 for hydrogen filling, the pressure sensor 54 for hydrogen filling, the upstream pipe 55 for hydrogen supply on the trolley side, the hydrogen supply manifold 56, the second pipe 4B (hereinafter also referred to as the "downstream pipe 4B for hydrogen supply on the trolley side"), the solenoid valve 57, the hydrogen discharge pipe 58, the pressure sensor 59 for hydrogen supply, and the second wire harness 5B (hereinafter also referred to as the "wire harness 5B on the trolley side") are mounted on the towing trolley 3.

[0084] The hydrogen tank 25 stores hydrogen to be supplied to the fuel cell 36. The hydrogen in the hydrogen tank 25 is supplied to the fuel cell 36 through the downstream pipe 4B for hydrogen supply on the trolley side and the pipe 4A for hydrogen supply on the vehicle body side that constitute the supply pipe 4. The fuel cell 36 generates electricity by causing an electrochemical reaction between the hydrogen supplied through the supply pipe 4 and the oxygen contained in the external air.

[0085] The hydrogen filling connector 50 is connected to the hydrogen filling manifold 52 via the upstream pipe 51 for hydrogen filling. The hydrogen filling manifold 52 is connected to the hydrogen tank 25 via the downstream pipe 53 for hydrogen filling. The hydrogen filling manifold 52 has a structure that branches one pipe (corresponding to the upstream pipe 51 for hydrogen filling) into multiple pipes (corresponding to the multiple downstream pipes 53 for hydrogen filling corresponding to the multiple hydrogen tanks 25). Hydrogen is filled into the hydrogen tank 25 through the hydrogen filling connector 50, the upstream pipe 51 for hydrogen filling, the hydrogen filling manifold 52, and the downstream pipe 53 for hydrogen filling.

[0086] The pressure sensor 54 for hydrogen filling is connected to the hydrogen filling manifold 52. The pressure sensor 54 for hydrogen filling measures the pressure inside the hydrogen filling manifold 52.

[0087] The hydrogen tank 25 is connected to the hydrogen supply manifold 56 via the upstream pipe 55 for hydrogen supply on the trolley side. The hydrogen supply manifold 56 is connected to the fuel cell 36 via the downstream pipe 4B for hydrogen supply on the trolley side and the like. The hydrogen supply manifold 56 has a structure that gathers multiple pipes (corresponding to the multiple upstream pipes 55 for hydrogen supply on the trolley side corresponding to the multiple hydrogen tanks 25) into one pipe (corresponding to the downstream pipe 4B for hydrogen supply on the trolley side). Hydrogen is supplied to the fuel cell 36 through the hydrogen tank 25, the upstream pipe 55 for hydrogen supply on the trolley side, the hydrogen supply manifold 56, and the downstream pipe 4B for hydrogen supply on the trolley side and the like.

[0088] The hydrogen discharge pipe 58 branches off from the hydrogen supply manifold 56. The hydrogen discharge pipe 58 is connected to the hydrogen supply manifold 56 via the solenoid valve 57. For example, in an emergency, the hydrogen gas in the hydrogen supply manifold 56 can also be discharged to the outside through the hydrogen discharge pipe 58.

[0089] The hydrogen supply pressure sensor 59 is connected to the hydrogen supply manifold 56. The hydrogen supply pressure sensor 59 measures the pressure inside the hydrogen supply manifold 56.

[0090] The cart-side wiring harness 5B is electrically connected to the hydrogen filling pressure sensor 54, the hydrogen supply pressure sensor 59, and the solenoid valve 57. The detection results (pressure detection signals) of the hydrogen filling pressure sensor 54 and the hydrogen supply pressure sensor 59 are input to the controller 30 through the cart-side wiring harness 5B and the body-side wiring harness 5A that make up the wiring harness 5.

[0091] <Configuration of System Components>

[0092] Refer to together Figure 1 , the fuel cell 36 is arranged at a position in front of the pressure reducing valve 35 in the vehicle body. The storage battery 40 is arranged at a position below the fuel cell 36. The fuel cell 36 and the storage battery 40 are arranged at a position below the platform 17. The controller 30 is arranged at a position above the fuel cell 36. The controller 30 is arranged at a position above the platform 17.

[0093] The fuel cell 36, the storage battery 40, and the pressure reducing valve 35 are mounted on the vehicle body frame 10. The fuel cell 36, the storage battery 40, and the pressure reducing valve 35 are preferably arranged within the vehicle width direction range of the vehicle body frame 10. According to this structure, the fuel cell 36, the storage battery 40, and the pressure reducing valve 35 are covered by the vehicle body frame 10 from below the vehicle body. Therefore, it is possible to suppress interference (such as flying stones, etc.) from spreading to the fuel cell 36, the storage battery 40, and the pressure reducing valve 35 from below the vehicle body.

[0094] <An Example of System Operation>

[0095] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the system 1 of the embodiment. Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram of an example of the operation of the system 1 of the embodiment. Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram of an example of the operation of a vehicle of the comparative example.

[0096] Refer to together Figures 4 to 6 , in the system 1 of the embodiment, the dump truck 2 disconnects the cart 3 when discharging the load, and after the operation of discharging the load is completed, connects the cart 3 and drives.

[0097] First, start the dump truck 2 (step S1). For example, in step S1, the battery 40 drives the traveling motor 39 of the dump truck 2 under the control of the controller 30. After step S1, move to step S2.

[0098] In step S2, the controller 30 determines whether the dump truck 2 is connected to the hydrogen truck 3. The case where the dump truck 2 is connected to the hydrogen truck 3 corresponds to the case where the dump truck 2 is connected to the hydrogen truck 3 via the loading and unloading mechanism 7 or the like. In the case where the dump truck 2 is connected to the hydrogen truck 3 (Yes in step S2), move to step S5. On the other hand, in the case where the dump truck 2 is not connected to the hydrogen truck 3 (No in step S2), move to step S3.

[0099] In step S3, the dump truck 2 moves to the hydrogen truck filling area in battery mode. The hydrogen truck filling area is an area for filling the hydrogen truck 3 or hydrogen (corresponding to a hydrogen filling station). The battery mode is a mode in which the dump truck 2 operates with the battery 40 as a power source. For example, in the hydrogen truck filling area ( Figure 5 the station shown), there are multiple (three in the Figure 5 example) hydrogen trucks 3 with filling completed. For example, during the unloading of the hydrogen truck 3, hydrogen is not supplied, so the dump truck 2 only travels, loads, or discharges soil by the battery 40. After step S3, move to step S4.

[0100] In step S4, select and connect the hydrogen truck 3 with filling completed. For example, in step S4, the loading and unloading mechanism 7 connects the dump truck 2 and the hydrogen truck 3 according to an instruction from the dump truck 2. After step S4, move to step S5.

[0101] For example, it is expected that the amount of hydrogen carried on the hydrogen truck 3 will be large, so usually the filling of hydrogen takes time. For example, if the filling speed of high-pressure gaseous hydrogen is 8 - 10 kg / min, it takes about 1 hour to fill 500 kg of hydrogen. In contrast, in the present embodiment, there are multiple hydrogen trucks 3 with prior filling completed in the hydrogen truck filling area. Thus, only by replacing the hydrogen truck 3, the filling of hydrogen does not take time.

[0102] In step S5, the dump truck 2 travels to the temporary standby area of the hydrogen truck at the loading / dumping site in FC mode. The temporary standby area of the hydrogen truck is an area set near the loading site or the dumping site and is used for temporarily standby of the hydrogen truck 3. The FC mode is a mode in which the dump truck 2 operates with the fuel cell 36 (FC) as a power source. For example, during the connection of the hydrogen truck 3, hydrogen is supplied, so the dump truck 2 travels, loads, or discharges soil using the fuel cell 36. For example, when going uphill or downhill, the dump truck 2 travels while towing the hydrogen truck 3. After step S5, move to step S6.

[0103] In step S6, the controller 30 determines whether the hydrogen remaining amount of the hydrogen truck 3 is above the threshold value. The case where the hydrogen remaining amount of the hydrogen truck 3 is above the threshold value corresponds to the case where the dump truck 2 can continuously operate in the FC mode for a specified time or more. When the hydrogen remaining amount of the hydrogen truck 3 is above the threshold value (Yes in step S6), it moves to step S7. On the other hand, when the hydrogen remaining amount of the hydrogen truck 3 is not above the threshold value (No in step S6), it moves to step S10.

[0104] In step S10, the dump truck 2 moves to the hydrogen truck filling area in the FC mode. After step S10, it moves to step S11.

[0105] In step S11, the connection between the current hydrogen truck 3 and the dump truck 2 is released in the hydrogen truck filling area. For example, in step S11, the loading and unloading mechanism 7 disconnects the dump truck 2 from the hydrogen truck 3 according to an instruction from the dump truck 2. After step S11, it moves to step S12.

[0106] In step S12, a hydrogen truck 3 with the filling completed is selected and connected. For example, in step S12, the loading and unloading mechanism 7 connects the dump truck 2 to the hydrogen truck 3 according to an instruction from the dump truck 2. After step S12, it moves to step S5 (return).

[0107] In step S7, the controller 30 determines whether there is a charge for operation only in the battery mode. The case where there is a charge for operation only in the battery mode corresponds to the case where the battery 40 is charged in such a way that the dump truck 2 can continuously operate in the battery mode for a specified time or more. When there is a charge for operation in the battery mode (Yes in step S7), it moves to step S9. On the other hand, when there is no charge for operation in the battery mode (No in step S7), it moves to step S8.

[0108] In step S8, it stands by in the connected state for a certain time for the charging of the battery 40. The certain time corresponds to the time required for the charging in the battery mode. The connected state corresponds to the state where the dump truck 2 is connected to the hydrogen truck 3 via the loading and unloading mechanism 7 or the like. After step S8, it moves to step S7 (return).

[0109] In step S9, the connection between the hydrogen truck 3 and the dump truck 2 is released. For example, in step S9, the loading and unloading mechanism 7 disconnects the dump truck 2 from the hydrogen truck 3 according to an instruction from the dump truck 2. After step S9, it moves to step S13.

[0110] In step S13, the dump truck 2 moves to the loading site / dump site in the battery mode. The loading site / dump site corresponds to a location for performing the operation of loading or discharging the loaded material. After step S13, it moves to step S14.

[0111] In step S14, the dump truck 2 performs loading or soil discharging. In the case where the dump truck 2 performs loading (loading in step S14), it moves to step S17. On the other hand, in the case where the dump truck 2 performs soil discharging (soil discharging in step S14), it moves to step S15.

[0112] In step S15, the controller 30 determines whether the connection between the hydrogen truck 3 and the dump truck 2 is disconnected. The case where the connection between the hydrogen truck 3 and the dump truck 2 is disconnected corresponds to the case where the hydrogen truck 3 is not connected to the dump truck 2 via the loading and unloading mechanism 7 or the like. In the case where the connection between the hydrogen truck 3 and the dump truck 2 is disconnected (Yes in step S15), it moves to step S16. On the other hand, in the case where the connection between the hydrogen truck 3 and the dump truck 2 is not disconnected (No in step S15), it moves to step S5 (return).

[0113] In step S16, the dump truck 2 performs soil discharging (unloading). In the present embodiment, since the hydrogen truck 3 is removed from the dump truck 2 in advance, it is possible to prevent the truck 3 from becoming an obstacle when discharging the loaded material (when unloading the unloading vehicle body 12). After step S16, it moves to step S17.

[0114] In step S17, the dump truck 2 moves to the temporary standby area of the hydrogen truck near the loading site / soil discharging site. After step S17, it moves to step S18.

[0115] In step S18, the selected hydrogen truck 3 is connected to the dump truck 2. For example, in step S18, the loading and unloading mechanism 7 connects the dump truck 2 and the hydrogen truck 3 according to an instruction from the dump truck 2. After step S18, it moves to step S19.

[0116] In step S19, the dump truck 2 travels to the loading site / soil discharging site in FC mode. After step S19, it moves to step S5 (return).

[0117] Refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 , the work vehicle 2X in the comparative example ( Figure 6 example) is a dump truck that does not tow the hydrogen truck 3 of the present embodiment ( Figure 5 example) (equivalent to a normal vehicle). The comparative example has a structure in which a hydrogen tank is mounted on the vehicle body. In the case of the comparative example, since the hydrogen loading amount is small, the operating time is likely to be short. If the operating time is short, the number of trips (frequency) to the station becomes more, and the possibility of spending refueling time is high.

[0118] In contrast, in the present embodiment, since the hydrogen vehicle 3 is provided, the hydrogen carrying capacity is larger than that of the comparative example. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the operation time is longer than that of the comparative example. In addition, the number of trips (frequency) to the station becomes smaller. In addition, since only the hydrogen vehicle 3 needs to be replaced, the refueling time is shorter than that of the comparative example.

[0119] <Effect>

[0120] As described above, the system 1 of the present embodiment supplies fuel for the fuel cell 36 to the dump truck 2 equipped with the fuel cell 36. The system 1 includes: a dump truck 2, a vehicle 3 carrying fuel, and a supply pipe 4 that is detachably provided between the dump truck 2 and the vehicle 3 and can supply the fuel carried on the vehicle 3 to the dump truck 2. While towing the vehicle 3, the dump truck 2 receives the supply of the fuel carried on the vehicle 3 through the supply pipe 4.

[0121] According to this structure, by providing the vehicle 3 carrying fuel, it is not necessary to carry a large amount of fuel in the limited space of the dump truck 2. In addition, at the time of refueling, only the vehicle 3 carrying fuel needs to be replaced, so the refueling time can be short. In addition, while the dump truck 2 is towing the vehicle 3 through the supply pipe 4 and traveling, the dump truck 2 receives the supply of the fuel carried on the vehicle 3, so that the time spent on refueling can be shortened as much as possible during the overall operation. Therefore, a large amount of fuel can be carried and the generation of waste during the overall operation can be suppressed.

[0122] In the present embodiment, the supply pipe 4 includes a first pipe 4A provided on the dump truck 2 and a second pipe 4B provided on the vehicle 3 and detachable from the first pipe 4A.

[0123] According to this structure, with a simple structure including the first pipe 4A and the second pipe 4B, the supply pipe 4 can be detached between the dump truck 2 and the vehicle 3.

[0124] In the present embodiment, the dump truck 2 includes: a body frame 10 on which a fuel cell 36 is mounted, a discharge body 12 that is rotatably coupled to the body frame 10 through a rotating portion 11 and carries a load, and a traveling device 13 having a rear wheel axle 23 that supports the rear wheels 22. The vehicle 3 is disposed behind the dump truck 2. At least a part of the first pipe 4A is disposed above the rear wheel axle 23.

[0125] According to this structure, compared with the case where the entire first pipe 4A is disposed below the rear wheel axle 23, it is possible to suppress interference from spreading from below the rear wheel axle 23 to the first pipe 4A. Therefore, damage to the first pipe 4A can be suppressed. For example, the possibility that the first pipe 4A contacts the ground or collides with the first pipe 4A by flying stones bounced by the rear wheels 22 can be reduced.

[0126] In this embodiment, the rear end of the first pipe 4A is arranged at a position in front of the rear end of the unloading vehicle body 12.

[0127] According to this structure, compared with the case where the rear end of the first pipe 4A is arranged at a position behind the rear end of the unloading vehicle body 12, it is possible to prevent the first pipe 4A from becoming an obstacle when discharging the loaded material (when unloading the unloading vehicle body 12).

[0128] In this embodiment, the dump truck 2 disconnects the carriage 3 when discharging the loaded material, and connects the carriage 3 after the operation of discharging the loaded material is completed and then travels.

[0129] According to this structure, it is possible to prevent the carriage 3 from becoming an obstacle when discharging the loaded material (when unloading the unloading vehicle body 12). In addition, after the operation is completed, the dump truck 2 can travel while receiving the supply of fuel carried on the carriage 3.

[0130] In this embodiment, the carriage 3 is disconnected from or connected to the dump truck 2 according to an instruction from the dump truck 2.

[0131] According to this structure, manual work is not required for disconnecting or connecting to the dump truck 2. Therefore, it contributes to the automation of the system 1. For example, the loading and unloading operation of the supply pipe 4 can be automatically performed.

[0132] In this embodiment, the carriage 3 is configured to be able to carry a plurality of cylindrical hydrogen tanks 25.

[0133] According to this structure, compared with the case where the carriage 3 is configured to be able to carry only one huge tank, a large number of hydrogen tanks 25 can be carried on the carriage 3, and the replacement of the hydrogen tanks 25 can be easily performed.

[0134] <Variation>

[0135] In the above embodiment, an example in which the supply pipe includes a first pipe provided on the work vehicle and a second pipe provided on the carriage and capable of being loaded and unloaded relative to the first pipe has been described, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the supply pipe may not include the first pipe and the second pipe. For example, the supply pipe may be provided on either the work vehicle or the carriage, and may be configured to be loaded and unloaded relative to the other. For example, the structural form of the supply pipe can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0136] In the above embodiment, an example in which the work vehicle is a dump truck has been described, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the work vehicle may be other work vehicles such as an excavator, a bulldozer, a wheel loader, etc. For example, the form of the work vehicle can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0137] In the above-mentioned embodiment, the example of trolley being arranged at the rear of the dump truck is cited for explanation, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the trolley may be arranged at the front or side of the dump truck. For example, the arrangement of the trolley may be changed according to the design specifications.

[0138] In the above-mentioned embodiment, an example is given in which at least a part of the first pipe is arranged above the rear wheel axle, but the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the entire first pipe may be arranged below the rear wheel axle. For example, the arrangement of the first pipe may be changed according to the design specifications.

[0139] In the above-mentioned embodiment, the rear end of the first pipe is arranged in front of the rear end of the unloading vehicle body, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the rear end of the first pipe may be arranged in the rear of the unloading vehicle body. For example, the arrangement of the rear end of the first pipe may be changed according to the design specifications.

[0140] In the above-mentioned embodiment, an example is given in which the dump truck disconnects the trolley when unloading the load, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the dump truck may disconnect the trolley when loading the load. For example, the dump truck may keep the trolley connected when unloading or loading the load. For example, the timing of disconnecting the trolley can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0141] In the above-mentioned embodiment, an example is given in which the trolley is disconnected from or connected to the dump truck according to the instruction from the dump truck, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the disconnection or connection with the dump truck may also require manual work. For example, the loading and unloading operation of the supply pipe may also be performed manually. For example, the corresponding means for disconnection or connection with the dump truck can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0142] In the above-mentioned embodiment, an example in which the trolley is configured to carry a plurality of cylindrical hydrogen tanks is cited for explanation, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the trolley may be configured to carry only one giant tank. For example, the form of the hydrogen tank carried on the trolley may be changed according to the design specifications.

[0143] In the above-mentioned embodiment, the tank mounted on the trolley is an example of a hydrogen tank storing hydrogen as fuel, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the tank mounted on the trolley may also include a tank storing fuel other than hydrogen (such as hydraulic oil, etc.). For example, the form of the fuel stored in the tank can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0144] In the above-described embodiments, an example in which the towing arm is provided separately from the supply pipe has been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the supply pipe may also serve as the towing arm for the towing vehicle. For example, the supply pipe may be passed through the inside of the towing arm. For example, a fuel supply path may be provided inside the towing arm.

[0145] According to this structure, the supply pipe also serves as the towing arm for the towing vehicle, so that there is no need to provide a towing arm separately from the supply pipe. Therefore, the number of components can be reduced.

[0146] As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and additional, omission, replacement, and other changes in the structure can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention, and the above-described embodiments can also be appropriately combined.

[0147] (Supplementary Note 1)

[0148] A system that supplies fuel for a fuel cell to a work vehicle equipped with the fuel cell, wherein,

[0149] The system includes:

[0150] The work vehicle;

[0151] A trolley that carries the fuel; and

[0152] A supply pipe that is detachably provided between the work vehicle and the trolley and can supply the fuel carried on the trolley to the work vehicle,

[0153] The work vehicle receives the supply of the fuel carried on the trolley through the supply pipe while towing the trolley and traveling.

[0154] (Supplementary Note 2)

[0155] According to the system described in Supplementary Note 1, wherein,

[0156] The supply pipe includes:

[0157] A first pipe that is provided on the work vehicle; and

[0158] A second pipe that is provided on the trolley and can be detached from and attached to the first pipe.

[0159] (Supplementary Note 3)

[0160] According to the system described in Supplementary Note 2, wherein,

[0161] The work vehicle is a dump truck,

[0162] The dump truck includes:

[0163] A vehicle body frame on which the fuel cell is mounted;

[0164] A discharging vehicle body that is rotatably coupled to the vehicle body frame via a rotating portion and on which a load is mounted; and

[0165] A traveling device having a rear wheel axle that supports rear wheels,

[0166] The carriage is disposed behind the dump truck,

[0167] At least a part of the first pipe is disposed above the rear wheel axle.

[0168] (Supplementary Note 4)

[0169] The system according to Supplementary Note 3, wherein,

[0170] The rear end of the first pipe is disposed at a position forward of the rear end of the discharging vehicle body.

[0171] (Supplementary Note 5)

[0172] The system according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 4, wherein,

[0173] The supply pipe also serves as a towing arm for towing the carriage.

[0174] (Supplementary Note 6)

[0175] The system according to any one of Supplementary Notes 3 to 5, wherein,

[0176] The dump truck disconnects the carriage when discharging or loading the load,

[0177] After the operation of discharging or loading the load is completed, the carriage is connected and the vehicle travels.

[0178] (Supplementary Note 7)

[0179] The system according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 6, wherein,

[0180] The carriage disconnects or connects to the work vehicle according to an instruction from the work vehicle.

[0181] (Supplementary Note 8)

[0182] The system according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 7, wherein,

[0183] The carriage is configured to be able to carry a plurality of cylindrical tanks.

[0184] Explanation of reference numerals:

[0185] 1...System; 2...Dump truck (work vehicle); 3...Carriage; 4...Supply pipe; 4A...Body-side hydrogen supply pipe (first pipe); 4B...Carriage-side downstream hydrogen supply pipe (second pipe); 6...Traction arm; 10...Body frame; 11...Rotating part; 12...Dumping body; 13...Traveling device; 22...Rear wheel; 23...Rear wheel axle; 25...Hydrogen tank (tank); 36...Fuel cell.

Claims

1. A system for supplying fuel of a fuel cell to a work vehicle equipped with a fuel cell, in, The system has: the working vehicle; a trolley carrying the fuel; and a supply pipe which is detachably provided between the working vehicle and the trolley and can supply the fuel carried on the trolley to the working vehicle, The work vehicle receives supply of the fuel mounted on the vehicle through the supply pipe while traveling while towing the vehicle.

2. The system according to claim 1, in, The supply piping includes: A first pipe provided in the work vehicle; and The second pipe is provided on the carriage and is attachable to and detachable from the first pipe.

3. The system according to claim 2, in, The working vehicle is a dump truck, The dump truck has: a vehicle body frame on which the fuel cell is mounted; A dump truck body, which is rotatably connected to the truck body frame via a rotating portion and carries a load; and A traveling device having a rear wheel axle supporting a rear wheel, The trolley is arranged at the rear of the dump truck. At least a portion of the first pipe is disposed above the rear wheel axle.

4. The system according to claim 3, in, The rear end of the first pipe is arranged forward of the rear end of the dump truck body.

5. The system according to claim 1 or 2, in, The supply pipe also serves as a traction arm for traction of the carriage.

6. The system according to claim 3, in, The dump truck disconnects the trolley when discharging or loading the load. After the operation of discharging or loading the load is completed, the carriage is connected and travels.

7. The system according to claim 1 or 2, in, The dolly is connected to or disconnected from the work vehicle in accordance with a command from the work vehicle.

8. The system according to claim 1 or 2, in, The carriage is configured to be able to carry a plurality of cylindrical tanks.

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