Tank system and method for monitoring the filling of a tank system

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for monitoring the filling of a gas tank system, by means of which the occurrence of an impermissible pressure loss on a valve device, which connects a high-pressure line system to a corresponding tank, can be determined. Furthermore, a gas tank system is described.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a gas tank system and various methods for monitoring the filling of a gas tank system having one or more tanks. Background Art

[0002] Fuel cells are increasingly being used as energy converters, especially in vehicles, to directly convert the chemical energy stored in a fuel such as hydrogen together with oxygen into electrical energy. A fuel cell has an anode, a cathode, and an electrolyte membrane disposed between the anode and the cathode. Oxidation of the fuel occurs at the anode, and reduction of oxygen occurs at the cathode.

[0003] The fuel is typically supplied from a tank to the fuel cell via a pipeline system, and the gaseous fuel is stored in the tank under high pressure. A disconnect valve or a shut-off valve is typically provided between the tank and the high-pressure portion of the pipeline system. The high-pressure portion is typically also connected via a flow regulating valve to a pipeline portion connected to a fuel cell.

[0004] U.S. Patent US10030816B2 discloses a method and a system for filling a gas tank system. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention provides a method for monitoring the filling of a gas tank system having the features of claim 1, a method for monitoring the filling of a gas tank system having the features of claim 2, a method for monitoring the filling of a gas tank system having the features of claim 5, a method for monitoring the filling of a gas tank system having the features of claim 6, a method for monitoring the filling of a gas tank system having the features of claim 7, and a gas tank system having the features of claim 10.

[0006] Advantageous embodiments and improvements can be derived from the dependent claims and the description in conjunction with the drawings.

[0007] One of the ideas underlying the present invention is to detect inadmissible high pressure losses occurring during the filling of a tank in a valve device connecting a high-pressure pipeline system to the tank. Such inadmissible pressure losses in the valve device result in underfilling of the tank. Especially in a system with multiple tanks, this can lead to an unwanted pressure compensation process following the end of filling. According to the present invention, the pressure loss is detected, and this detection is carried out in particular by detecting the pressure in the high-pressure pipeline system during filling and additionally evaluating thermodynamic state variables in one or more tanks during filling, by detecting the pressure in the high-pressure pipeline system and additionally evaluating thermodynamic state variables in one or more tanks before or after filling, by evaluating the temperature change in multiple tanks when gas is withdrawn from multiple tanks after filling, or by evaluating the pressure change curve in the high-pressure pipeline system after gas is withdrawn from multiple tanks after filling.

[0008] If an inadmissible high pressure loss is determined based on the detected or determined parameters, for example by comparison with a corresponding threshold value, a fault signal is generated by means of an electronic control device. This can include, for example, writing a record to a data memory and / or outputting a warning signal.

[0009] An advantage of the present invention is that it is possible to quickly and efficiently identify the presence of valve devices whose flowability is reduced and which make it difficult to fully fill the corresponding tanks. According to some embodiments, the individual valve devices can be advantageously located. Description of the Drawings

[0010] Below, the present invention will be described in conjunction with the drawings. Shown in the drawings are:

[0011] Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing a hydraulic connection diagram of a fuel cell system having a gas tank system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0012] Figure 2 A flowchart showing a method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0013] Figure 3 A flowchart showing a method according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0014] Figure 4 A flowchart showing a method according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0015] Figure 5 A flowchart showing a method according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0016] Figure 6 A flowchart showing a method according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] In the respective drawings, unless otherwise specified, the same reference numerals denote the same or functionally equivalent components. Detailed Description

[0018] Figure 1 A fuel cell system 200 is schematically shown, which can be used, for example, in a vehicle. The fuel cell system 200 includes a gas tank system 100 and a consumption system 205.

[0019] As Figure 1 schematically shown only, the consumption system 205 has a fuel cell assembly 210. The fuel cell assembly 210 has at least one fuel cell, but preferably has a plurality of fuel cells connected in series electrically, and these fuel cells are arranged to directly convert the chemical energy stored in a gaseous fuel such as hydrogen together with oxygen into electrical energy. As Figure 1 further schematically shown, the fuel cell assembly 210 has a fuel supply interface 211, through which gaseous fuel can be supplied to the fuel cell assembly 210, especially to the anode of at least one fuel cell.

[0020] Hereinafter, the gas tank system 100 will be described in conjunction with the fuel cell system 200, but the gas tank system is not limited to this use. As Figure 1 schematically shown, the gas tank system 100 has a plurality of tanks 1, a high-pressure pipeline system 2, a plurality of first valve devices 3 corresponding in number to the number of tanks 1, an optional flow regulating device 5, a first pressure sensor 4, and a control device 6. The gas tank system 100 also has a filling interface or supply interface 20. In addition, as Figure 1 exemplarily shown only, each tank 1 can be equipped with a second pressure sensor 7 and / or a temperature sensor 9.

[0021] In Figure 1 a gas tank system 100 having three tanks 1A, 1B, and 1C is exemplarily shown only. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Generally, at least two tanks 1 can be provided, and more than three tanks 1 can also be provided. Each tank 1 is configured to store gas, especially hydrogen. For example, each tank 1 can be designed to store gas at a pressure of up to 800 bar.

[0022] The high-pressure pipeline system 2 can especially have a connecting pipeline 21, a plenum chamber 24 connected to the connecting pipeline 21, and a plurality of attachment pipelines 23 corresponding in number to the number of tanks 1, and these attachment pipelines respectively connect the plenum chamber 24 to the corresponding tank 1. As Figure 1Shown only by way of example, the first tank 1A can be connected to the gas collecting chamber 24 via the first attachment pipeline 23A, the second tank 1B is connected to the gas collecting chamber via the second attachment pipeline 23B, and the third tank 1C is connected to the gas collecting chamber via the third attachment pipeline 23C. The connection pipeline 21 connects the gas collecting chamber 24 to the consumption system 205. In addition, a supply pipeline 22 can be optionally provided, which is connected to the gas collecting chamber 24 and an optional supply device 20.

[0023] These first valve devices 3 can each have a switchable solenoid valve 3, which can be switched between a closed state and an open state. Generally speaking, each first valve device 3 can be switched between a closed state and an open state. Optionally, each first valve device 3 can also have a filter 30, as Figure 1 shown schematically in. As Figure 1 shown schematically in, each valve device 3 is arranged between the tank 1 and the high-pressure pipeline system 2. For example, each first valve device 3 can be arranged in the corresponding attachment pipeline 23, as Figure 1 shown by way of example in. In the open state, the corresponding first valve device 3 connects the corresponding tank 1 to the high-pressure pipeline system 2. In the closed state, the corresponding first valve device 3 disconnects the tank 1 from the high-pressure pipeline system 2 from each other.

[0024] The optional flow regulating device 5 can likewise be switched between a closed state and an open state. The flow regulating device 5 can also be referred to as a pressure regulator and is generally constructed to change the gas flow rate or pressure of the flowing gas. In particular, the flow regulating device 5 can have a second valve device, for example a second valve device in the form of a solenoid valve, which can be switched between a closed state and an open state. As Figure 1 shown schematically in, the flow regulating device 5 is arranged between the consumption system 205 and the high-pressure pipeline system 2, in particular between the consumption system 205 and the connection pipeline 21. In the open state, the flow regulating device 5 connects the consumption system 205 to the high-pressure pipeline system 2. In the closed state, the flow regulating device 5 disconnects the consumption system 205 from the high-pressure pipeline system 2 from each other.

[0025] Therefore, the tanks 1 are connected to the high-pressure pipeline system 2 in parallel with each other or attached to the high-pressure pipeline system. When the first valve device 3 is open and the second valve device 5 is open, the tanks 1 jointly supply a gas mass flow to the consumption system 205.

[0026] The supply pipeline 22 is connected to the supply interface 20, which can be constructed, for example, as a plug-in interface for a tank connection. As Figure 1As shown in FIG, a check valve 8 can be arranged in the supply line 22, which closes the supply connection 20 to prevent gas from flowing out of the high-pressure line system 2. Via the supply connection 20, when the first valve device 3 is open, gas can be supplied to the tanks 1 from a supply source, such as a filling station, through the high-pressure line system 2 during the filling process.

[0027] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first pressure sensor 4 is connected to the high-pressure pipeline system 2 and is configured to detect the pressure in the high-pressure pipeline system 2. Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , the pressure sensor 4 can detect the pressure in the gas collecting chamber 24 , for example.

[0028] The second pressure sensor 7 is associated with the tank 1, wherein each second pressure sensor 7 is configured to detect the pressure in each tank 1. Similarly, instead of or in addition to the second pressure sensor 7, a temperature sensor 9 is associated with the tank 1, wherein each temperature sensor 9 is configured to detect the pressure in each tank 1. The temperature sensor 9 does not necessarily have to be Figure 1 As shown only by way of example, it is arranged in the interior of the tank 1 , but may also be arranged on the outside of the tank 1 , wherein in this case the temperature inside the tank 1 is approximately determined based on the value detected by the temperature sensor 9 .

[0029] The control device 6 Figure 1 It is only schematically shown as a block in FIG. 1 and is implemented as an electronic control device 6. Figure 1 As shown in the example, the control device 6 may have a computing unit 61, such as a CPU, ASIC, FPGA, etc., and a data storage 62, especially a non-volatile data storage, such as a flash memory, SD memory, etc., which can be read by the computing unit 61. Figure 1 As schematically shown in FIG, the control device 6 is connected to the first valve device 3, to the flow control device 5 and to the pressure sensor 4 in a signal transmission manner, for example, via a wired connection, such as via a bus system. Alternatively, a wireless connection can also be provided, such as via WiFi or the like.

[0030] The control device 6 is configured to cause the gas cylinder system 100 to execute Figures 2 to 6 For example, software may be stored in the data memory 62, which may be executed by the computing unit 61 to cause the system 100 to execute the corresponding method U, V, W, X, Y.

[0031] As described above, via the supply interface 20, during the filling process, with the first valve device 3 open, gas can be supplied from a supply source, such as a filling station, to the tank 1 through the high-pressure pipeline system 2. Here, it is desired that at the end of the filling process, all tanks 1 store substantially the same gas mass. When gas is supplied to the tank 1, a pressure loss naturally occurs at the first valve device 3. If the pressure loss at one of the valve devices in the valve device 3 becomes large, especially significantly greater than the pressure losses at the other valve devices 3, this may result in the desired filling amount not being achieved in the corresponding tank. An unacceptable high pressure loss may occur, for example, when the flowability of the filter 30 of the corresponding first valve device 3 decreases. By the methods U, V, W, X, Y described below, it is possible to identify that there is an unacceptable high pressure loss at at least one of the first valve devices in the first valve device 3.

[0032] Figure 2 shows the flow of the method U for monitoring the filling of the gas tank system 100. The method U can be executed on Figure 1 the gas tank system 100 shown in, and will also be described below with reference to Figure 1 it. Alternatively, the method U can also be executed in a system with only one tank 1.

[0033] In step U1, gas is supplied to the tank 1 through the high-pressure pipeline system 2. Here, the first valve device 3 is in the open state.

[0034] In step U2, during the supply of gas to the tank 1 (step M1), the first pressure in the high-pressure pipeline system 2 is detected within a predetermined detection time period. For example, the first pressure can be continuously detected by the first pressure sensor 4 and transmitted to the control device 6. Thus, the control device 6 can record the pressure change curve over time in the high-pressure pipeline system 2. The detection time period can, for example, extend from the start of the gas supply in step M1 until the time point at which the gas supply to the high-pressure pipeline system 2 ends. Alternatively, the detection time period can include discrete time periods, such as greater than 10 seconds, which are between the start time point and the end time point of the gas supply to the high-pressure pipeline system 2.

[0035] In step U3, the pressure gradient in the high-pressure pipeline system is obtained from the detected pressure, for example, by means of the control device 6. For example, the pressure gradient can be obtained for a determined detection time interval of this detection time period, such as for a time interval of 5 seconds each.

[0036] After step U3, the method U can alternatively or cumulatively execute step U41, U51, U61, or execute step U42, U52, U62.

[0037] In step U41, during the detection time period, the second pressure in the one or more tanks 1 is detected, in particular continuously. This can be done, for example, by means of the second pressure sensor 7, which transmits the detected pressure values to the control device 6. Thus, the control device 6 can record the pressure profile in the tank 1 during the detection time period.

[0038] Similarly, alternatively or additionally, in step U42, the temperature in the one or more tanks 1 can be detected during the detection time period and transmitted to the control device 6, in particular continuously. Thus, the control device 6 can record the temperature profile in the tank 1 during the detection time period.

[0039] In step U51, the pressure difference between the first pressure and the second pressure is determined. For example, the control device 6 can calculate the difference between the first pressure and the second pressure for all the first and second pressure values detected during the detection time period. In step U52, the temperature change during the detection time period is determined. For example, the control device 6 can determine the difference between the temperature at the end of the detection time period and the temperature at the start of the detection time period.

[0040] In step U61, the determined pressure difference is compared with a pressure threshold that is related to the first pressure and the pressure gradient. The determined pressure difference is representative of the pressure loss at the corresponding first valve device 3. However, the pressure loss changes depending on the gas flow rate and density. This is taken into account by the correlation of the pressure threshold of the maximum allowable pressure loss. For example, a functional relationship that describes the correlation of the pressure threshold with the first pressure and the pressure gradient can be stored in the data memory 62, and the calculation unit 61 can calculate the corresponding pressure threshold with the aid of this functional relationship. Alternatively, a look-up table can also be stored in the data memory 62, in which a value of the pressure gradient and a value of the first pressure are assigned to a defined pressure threshold. The comparison step U62 can be carried out, for example, for each time interval in which the pressure gradient is determined.

[0041] If the determined pressure difference exceeds the pressure threshold, as Figure 2 indicated by the symbol “+” therein, there is an unacceptable high pressure loss at the corresponding valve device 3, and method U transitions to step M7. If this is not the case, as Figure 2 indicated by the symbol “-” therein, method U can, for example, end (block E).

[0042] In contrast, in step U62, the determined temperature change is compared, for example by means of the control device 6, with the temperature change threshold value associated with the first pressure and the pressure gradient. The temperature change also represents the pressure loss occurring at the corresponding valve device 3, wherein the greater the pressure loss, the smaller the temperature change. As described above, the pressure loss is also related to the flow rate and density of the gas. Therefore, the temperature change threshold value can vary as a function of the first pressure and the pressure gradient. For example, a functional relationship can be stored in the data memory 62, which describes the correlation between the temperature threshold value and the first pressure and the pressure gradient, and the calculation unit 61 can calculate the corresponding temperature threshold value with the aid of this functional relationship. Alternatively, a look-up table can also be stored in the data memory 62, in which a value of the pressure gradient and a value of the first pressure are assigned to a defined temperature threshold value.

[0043] Step U62 can be carried out individually for each tank 1. Here, the determined temperature change for the corresponding tank 1 can be compared with an individualized temperature change threshold value for this tank 1 or with a threshold value which is applicable to all tanks 1. Alternatively, it is also possible to consider using the maximum permitted difference in the temperature changes in the individual tanks 1 as the temperature change threshold value and to compare the determined temperature change with the temperature change threshold value. U62 includes determining the difference in the temperature changes of the individual tanks 1 and comparing this difference with the maximum permitted difference. That is to say, it is checked whether the individual tanks 1 are heated to different extents. If one of these tanks 1 is heated significantly less than the other tanks, in particular than the tank 1 with the greatest degree of heating, it can be inferred that there is an inadmissible pressure loss at the first valve device 3. For this purpose, the control device 6 can compare the individualized temperature changes of these tanks 1 with one another and calculate the difference between the maximum temperature change and the minimum temperature change among the determined temperature changes and compare this difference with the threshold value in the form of the maximum permitted difference. Thereby, it is possible in a simple manner, in particular using an algorithm which requires little computing power, to identify the tank 1 and the associated valve device 3 at which the greatest pressure loss occurs.

[0044] Similar to step U61, if the determined temperature change is below the temperature change threshold value, as indicated by the symbol "+" in Figure 2 then method U transitions in step U62 to step U7; or, if this is not the case, the method proceeds to block E, as indicated by the symbol "-" in Figure 2 then method U transitions in step U62 to step U7; or, if this is not the case, the method proceeds to block E, as indicated by the symbol "-" in

[0045] In step U7, i.e., when the determined pressure difference exceeds a pressure threshold value or the determined temperature change is below a temperature change threshold value, the control device 6 generates a fault signal. For example, this may include the writing of a fault record by the calculation unit 61 into a data memory 62. Alternatively or additionally, the control device 6, in particular the calculation device, may output a warning signal, for example in the form of an audible or visual warning signal. In steps U61, U62, in the case of multiple tanks 1, the individualized determined temperature change or pressure difference for each tank 1 and the associated first valve device 3 is compared with a threshold value. Optionally, generating a fault signal in step U7 may also include writing information identifying the tank 1 and the associated first valve device 3 together with the fault record into the data memory 62. For example, the fault record may contain an index, which (is used to) identify the tank 1 and the associated first valve device 3.

[0046] Figure 2 The method U schematically shown in FIG. 1 makes it possible to simply and efficiently detect an inadmissibly high pressure loss at the first valve device 3 when filling the tank 1 .

[0047] Figure 3 Another method V for monitoring the filling of the gas cylinder system 100 is shown as an example, and will be referred to below. Figure 1 The system 100 described in FIG. 1 is described as an example. Alternatively, the method U can also be performed in a system having only one tank 1 .

[0048] In step V1, a first pressure is detected in the high-pressure pipeline system 2. For example, the first pressure can be continuously detected by the first pressure sensor 4 and transmitted to the control device 6. Therefore, the control device 6 can record the pressure change curve of the pressure in the high-pressure pipeline system 2 over time.

[0049] In step V2, a first temperature in the tank 1 or each tank 1 is detected, for example continuously, in particular by means of a temperature sensor 9. The detected temperature can be transmitted to the control device 6. The control device 6 can thus record the temperature profile in the tank 1.

[0050] In step V3, in the state where the first valve device 3 is open, gas is supplied to the tank 1 or multiple tanks 1 via the high-pressure pipeline system 2. Here, gas is supplied from a supply source to the high-pressure pipeline system 2 at the supply device 20, and the high-pressure pipeline system 2 continues to transport the gas to the tank 1. The flow control device 5 is preferably closed here. The first temperature and the first pressure can be detected, especially before the supply of gas in the high-pressure pipeline system 2 begins, especially when the first valve device 3 is open and the flow control device 5 is closed. The pressure that stably occurs in this state can be detected as the first pressure, and the temperature that stably occurs can be detected as the first temperature.

[0051] In step V4, the gas supply to the high-pressure pipeline system 2 is stopped. For example, the control device 6 can output a control signal to an interface (not shown) that communicates with the control device of the supply source to stop the gas supply. For example, when a predetermined pressure is reached in the high-pressure pipeline system 2, the gas supply can be stopped.

[0052] In step V5, after the gas supply is stopped in step V4, the second pressure in the high-pressure pipeline system 2 is detected, for example, by means of the first pressure sensor 4.

[0053] In step V6, after the gas supply (step V4) is stopped, the second temperature in the tank 1 is detected. Here, the first valve device 3 can be opened, and the flow rate regulating device 5 can be closed. The pressure that stably occurs in this state can be detected as the second pressure, and the temperature that stably occurs can be detected as the second temperature.

[0054] In step V7, the pressure change in the high-pressure pipeline system 2 is obtained from the first pressure and the second pressure, and the temperature change in the tank 1 or each tank 1 is obtained from the first temperature and the second temperature. For example, the control device 6 can calculate the pressure difference for the high-pressure pipeline system 2 respectively, and calculate an individualized temperature difference corresponding to the corresponding temperature change for each tank 1.

[0055] In step V8, the obtained temperature change is compared with a temperature change threshold value related to the obtained pressure change, for example, by means of the control device 6. The temperature change threshold value can additionally be related to one or more of the following boundary conditions: the first pressure, the first temperature, the ambient temperature. The ambient temperature can be detected, for example, by means of a further temperature sensor (not shown) and transmitted to the control device 6. For example, a functional relationship that describes the correlation between the temperature change threshold value and the pressure change and possibly other boundary conditions can be stored in the data memory 62, and the calculation unit 61 can calculate the corresponding temperature change threshold value by means of this functional relationship. Alternatively, a look-up table can also be stored in the data memory 62, in which each value of the boundary condition is assigned a respective determined temperature change threshold value.

[0056] If the comparison in step V8 yields that the obtained temperature change is lower than the temperature change threshold value, as indicated by the symbol “+” in Figure 3 then the method transitions to step V9. Otherwise, as indicated by the symbol “-” in Figure 3 the method V can end, for example (block E).

[0057] Step V8 can be performed individually for each tank 1. Here, the temperature change obtained for the corresponding tank 1 can be compared with an individualized temperature change threshold for the tank 1 or with a threshold applicable to all tanks 1. Alternatively, it can also be considered to use the maximum allowable difference in the temperature change in each tank 1 as the temperature change threshold, and compare the obtained temperature change with the temperature change threshold. Step V8 includes obtaining the difference in the temperature change of each tank 1 and comparing it with the maximum allowable difference. That is, it is checked whether each tank 1 is heated to different degrees. If the heating of one tank 1 is significantly lower than that of the other tanks, especially lower than that of the tank 1 with the greatest heating degree, it can be inferred that there is insufficient filling due to the presence of an unacceptable pressure loss at the first valve device 3. For this purpose, the control device 6 can compare the individualized temperature changes of these tanks 1 with each other, calculate the difference between the maximum temperature change and the minimum temperature change in the obtained temperature change, and compare the difference with a threshold in the form of the maximum allowable difference. Thus, the tank 1 and the associated valve device 3 with the maximum pressure loss can be determined in a simple manner, especially using an algorithm that requires little computing power.

[0058] In step V9, the control device 6 generates a fault signal. This can, for example, include the writing of a fault record by the calculation unit 61 into the data memory 62. Alternatively or additionally, the control device 6, in particular the calculation unit, can output a warning signal, for example in the form of an acoustic or visual warning signal. In step V8, in the case of a plurality of tanks 1, the temperature change determined individually for each tank 1 and the associated first valve device 3 is compared with a threshold value. Optionally, the generation of the fault signal in step V9 can also include writing information identifying the tank 1 and the associated first valve device 3 together with the fault record into the data memory 62. For example, the fault record can contain an index, which identifies the tank 1 and the associated first valve device 3.

[0059] Figure 3 The method V schematically shown in FIG. 1 makes it possible to simply and efficiently detect an impermissibly high pressure loss at the first valve device 3 when filling the tank 1 . Figure 2 Unlike the method U shown in FIG. 1 , it is not necessary to continuously monitor the pressure in the high-pressure line system 2 and the temperature in the tank 1 during filling. In method V, it is sufficient for monitoring the valve device 3 to detect the pressure and temperature before and after the start of filling. This further simplifies data processing and can be carried out with lower computing effort.

[0060] Figure 4 Another method W for monitoring the filling of the gas cylinder system 100 is shown by way of example, and reference is made to Figure 1 The system 100 described in FIG. 1 is described by way of example.

[0061] In step W1, with the first valve device 3 open, gas is supplied to the tank 1 via the high-pressure pipeline system 2. Here, the gas is supplied from the supply source to the high-pressure pipeline system 2 at the supply device 20, and the high-pressure pipeline system 2 continues to convey the gas to the tank 1. The flow rate regulating device 5 is preferably closed here.

[0062] In step W2, the gas supply to the high-pressure pipeline system 2 is stopped. For example, the control device 6 can output a control signal to an interface (not shown), which communicates with the control device of the supply source to stop the gas supply. For example, when a predetermined pressure is reached in the high-pressure pipeline system 2, the gas supply can be stopped, and the predetermined pressure is optionally detected by the first pressure sensor 4 in step W3 described below and transmitted to the control device 6.

[0063] In step W3, the pressure in the high-pressure pipeline system 2 is detected. This pressure can be detected, for example, by the first pressure sensor 4 and transmitted to the control device 6. Step W3 can optionally be performed during the gas supply (step W1), and after the gas supply is stopped in step W2, it is at least performed within a predetermined time period, for example, within a time period in the range between 2 seconds and 20 seconds. The detection of the pressure and the transmission to the control device 6 can be carried out continuously in particular.

[0064] In step W4, for example, by means of the control device 6, at least within a predetermined time period after the gas supply is stopped (step W2), the pressure gradient in the high-pressure pipeline system 2 is obtained from the detected pressure. After the gas supply is stopped, the first valve device 3 remains open within a predetermined time period. Thereby, if the tanks 1 are filled unevenly, pressure compensation can be carried out between these tanks 1. This compensation process results in a negative pressure gradient. Uneven filling indicates that a high pressure loss occurs at one of the first valve devices 3.

[0065] In step W5, the pressure gradient obtained within the time period after the gas supply is stopped (step W2) is compared with a threshold value W5. For example, the control device 6 can first check the (positive or negative) sign of the pressure gradient, and if the pressure gradient has a negative sign, it will also compare the magnitude of the pressure gradient with the threshold value for the pressure gradient. If the obtained pressure gradient is negative and the magnitude of the obtained pressure gradient exceeds the threshold value, the method proceeds to step W6, as shown by the symbol “+” in Figure 4 Otherwise, the method W can end (block E), as shown by the symbol “-” in Figure 4 as shown.

[0066] In step W6, the control device 6 generates a fault signal. For example, this can include the computing unit 61 writing a fault record into the data memory 62. Alternatively or additionally, the control device 6, in particular the computing unit, can output a warning signal, for example in the form of an audible or visual warning signal.

[0067] Figure 4 The method W schematically shown in can simply and efficiently identify an inadmissible high pressure loss present at the first valve device 3 during the filling of the filling tank 1.

[0068] Figure 5 Another method X for monitoring the filling of the gas tank system 100 is shown and will be explained below with reference to the Figure 1 gas tank system 100 shown in Figure 1 by way of example.

[0069] In step X1, gas is supplied to the tank 1 via the high-pressure pipeline system 2. Here, the first valve device 3 is open and the flow rate regulating device 5 is preferably closed. The gas is supplied from the supply source to the high-pressure pipeline system 2 at the supply device 20, and the high-pressure pipeline system 2 continues to convey the gas into the tank 1.

[0070] In step X2, the supply of gas to the high-pressure pipeline system 2 is stopped. For example, the control device 6 can output a control signal to an interface (not shown) that communicates with the control device of the supply source to stop the gas supply. For example, when a predetermined pressure is reached in the high-pressure pipeline system 2, the gas supply can be stopped, and this predetermined pressure is optionally detected by means of the first pressure sensor 4 during the execution of step X1 and transmitted to the control device 6.

[0071] In step X3, the first valve device 3 is closed so that the tank 1 is disconnected from the high-pressure pipeline system 2. For example, the control device 6 can output a control signal to the first valve device 3 to switch it from the open state to the closed state.

[0072] Subsequently, in step X4, the first valve device 3 is opened again, for example by means of a control signal output by the control device 6, so that the tank 1 is connected to the high-pressure pipeline system 2 again. Optionally, the flow rate regulating device 5 can additionally be opened so that gas is supplied from the tank 1 to the consumption system 205 via the high-pressure pipeline system 2.

[0073] After the first valve device 3 is opened in step X4, in step X5, the temperature in each tank 1 is detected at least within a predetermined detection time period after the opening of the first valve device 3 (step X4). This can be done continuously, for example, by means of the temperature sensor 9, which transmits the detected temperature to the control device 6.

[0074] In step X6, within a pre-determined detection time period, for example, by means of control device 6, the temperature change in these tanks 1 is determined or obtained from the detected temperature. For example, this can first include simply determining whether a temperature increase or a temperature decrease has occurred in the corresponding tank 1. If the temperature change corresponds to a temperature increase, the magnitude of the temperature change can additionally be obtained.

[0075] In step X7, the obtained temperature change is compared with a temperature change threshold, for example, by means of a control device. Here, the obtained temperature change for the corresponding tank 1 can be compared with an individualized temperature change threshold for that tank 1 or with a threshold applicable to all tanks 1. If it is determined in step X7 that the temperature change in at least one tank 1 corresponds to a temperature increase and the obtained temperature change for that tank 1 exceeds the temperature change threshold, method X transitions to step X8, as indicated by the symbol “+” in Figure 5 Otherwise, as indicated by the symbol “-” in Figure 5 method X can end (block E), for example. The temperature increase in tank 1 after the first valve device 3 is reopened may occur due to replenishment filling of this tank 1 from other tanks 1. Therefore, the filling level of this tank 1 is different from that of other tanks 1, which indicates a reduction in the flow rate or an increase in the pressure loss in the associated first valve device 3.

[0076] In step X8, control device 6 generates a fault signal. For example, this can include the calculation unit 61 writing a fault record into the data memory 62. Alternatively or additionally, control device 6, especially the calculation unit, can output a warning signal, for example, in the form of an audible or visual warning signal. In step X7, the temperature change individually obtained for each tank 1 and the associated first valve device 3 is compared with a threshold. Optionally, generating a fault signal in step X8 can also include writing information identifying the tank 1 and the associated first valve device 3 together with the fault record into the data memory 62. For example, the fault record can contain an index that identifies the tank 1 and the associated first valve device 3.

[0077] Figure 5 The method X schematically shown in

[0078] can simply and efficiently identify an unacceptable high pressure loss existing at the first valve device 3 during the filling of tank 1. In method X, it is not necessarily required to monitor the pressure in the high-pressure pipeline system 2 and the temperature in tank 1 during filling to determine the pressure loss at the first valve device 3

[0079] Figure 6Another method Y for monitoring the filling of the gas tank system 100 is shown and will be described below with reference to the gas tank system 100 shown in Figure 1 exemplarily.

[0080] In step Y1, gas is supplied to the tank 1 via the high-pressure pipeline system 2. Here, the first valve device 3 is opened and the flow rate regulating device 5 is preferably closed. The gas is supplied from the supply source to the high-pressure pipeline system 2 at the supply device 20, and the high-pressure pipeline system 2 continues to convey the gas into the tank 1.

[0081] In the optional step Y2, during the supply of gas to the tank 1 (step Y1), for example, the filling pressure in the high-pressure pipeline system 2 is detected by means of the first pressure sensor 4 and transmitted to the control device 6.

[0082] In step Y3, the supply of gas to the high-pressure pipeline system 2 is stopped. For example, the control device 6 can output a control signal to an interface (not shown), which communicates with the control device of the supply source to stop the gas supply. For example, when the detected filling pressure in the high-pressure pipeline system 2 reaches a reference value, the gas supply can be stopped.

[0083] Furthermore, the valve device 3 is closed (step Y4) so that the tank 1 is disconnected from the high-pressure pipeline system 2. For example, the control device 6 can output a control signal to the first valve device 3 to switch it from the open state to the closed state.

[0084] Subsequently, in step Y5, the first valve device 3 is opened again, for example, by a control signal output by the control device 6, so that the tank 1 is connected to the high-pressure pipeline system 2 again.

[0085] In step Y6, a predetermined gas mass flow is withdrawn from the tank 1 via the high-pressure pipeline system 2. For example, the flow rate regulating device 5 can be opened so that gas is supplied from the tank 1 to the consumption system 205 through the high-pressure pipeline system 2. For this purpose, the control device 6 outputs a control signal to the flow rate regulating device 5 to switch it to the open state. The mass flow can be determined by the electric power output by the fuel cell assembly 210.

[0086] In step Y7, the pressure curve in the high-pressure pipeline system 2 is detected during the withdrawal of the predetermined mass flow (step Y6). For example, the first pressure sensor 4 can continuously detect the pressure in the high-pressure pipeline system 2 and transmit it to the control device 6, so that the control device 6 records the pressure curve.

[0087] In step Y8, in particular by means of the control device 6, the detected pressure change curve is compared with a reference pressure change curve associated with the withdrawn mass flow. The reference pressure change curve can in particular be associated with the filling pressure achieved in steps Y1 - Y3. Comparing the detected pressure change curve with the reference pressure change curve can in particular include determining the pressure gradient of the detected pressure change curve and comparing it with the reference pressure gradient of the reference pressure change curve. When gas is withdrawn from the tank 1, as the tank 1 is emptied, the pressure in the high-pressure pipeline system 2 continuously decreases. The resulting pressure gradient is related to the filling pressure, where, if all the tanks 1 are filled evenly, the mass of gas present in the tank 1 can be approximately calculated from the filling pressure with a known temperature, for example by means of the ideal gas equation. If a known mass flow is withdrawn from the system 100, a typical decreasing pressure change curve (reference pressure change curve) is obtained in the high-pressure pipeline system 2. However, if one of the tanks 1 is not filled completely, or in extreme cases hardly filled at all, because the pressure loss at the associated first valve device 3 during filling (step Y1) is very high, the pressure in the high-pressure pipeline system 2 decreases faster than expected with a known mass flow. In this case, the deviation between the magnitude of the pressure gradient and the magnitude of the pressure gradient of the reference pressure change curve exceeds a threshold value.

[0088] If it is determined in step Y8 that the detected pressure change curve lies outside a predefined tolerance range of the reference pressure change curve, for example because the deviation between the pressure gradient of the detected pressure change curve and the reference pressure gradient exceeds a threshold value, as indicated by the symbol “+” in Figure 6 then the method transitions to step Y9. Otherwise, the method Y can end, for example (block E), as indicated by the symbol “-” in Figure 6 then the method transitions to step Y9. Otherwise, the method Y can end, for example (block E), as indicated by the symbol “-” in

[0089] In step Y6, the control device 6 generates a fault signal. For example, this can include the computing unit 61 writing a fault record into the data memory 62. Alternatively or additionally, the control device 6, in particular the computing unit, can output a warning signal, for example in the form of an audible or visual warning signal.

[0090] Figure 6 The method Y schematically shown in

[0091] Figures 2 to 6 Figures 3 to 6 Figures 3 to 6 The methods V, W, X, Y as well asFigure 2 Variations of the execution steps U42, U52, and U62 of method U herein do not provide for the detection of the pressure in tank 1. Figures 2 to 6 The methods U, V, W, X, Y shown herein can also be executed in combination.

[0092] Although the present invention has been described by way of example with reference to the embodiments above, the present invention is not limited thereto, but can be modified in various ways. In particular, combinations of the above embodiments are also possible.

Claims

1. A method (U) for monitoring the filling of a gas tank system (100), the method comprising: Supplying (U1) gas to the tank (1) of the gas tank system (100) via a high-pressure pipeline system (2), the high-pressure pipeline system being connected to the tank (1) via a valve device (3) in an open state; During the supply of gas (U1) to the tank (1), detecting (U2) a first pressure in the high-pressure pipeline system (2) within a predetermined detection time period; Deriving (U3) a pressure gradient in the high-pressure pipeline system from the detected pressure; During the detection time period, detecting (U41) a second pressure in the tank (1) or detecting (U42) the temperature in the tank; Deriving (U51) a pressure difference between the first pressure and the second pressure, or deriving (U52) a temperature change during the detection time period; And Comparing (U61) the derived pressure difference with a pressure threshold, the pressure threshold being related to the first pressure and the pressure gradient, or comparing (U62) the derived temperature change with a temperature change threshold, the temperature change threshold being related to the first pressure and the pressure gradient; and If the derived pressure difference exceeds the pressure threshold, or the derived temperature change is lower than the temperature change threshold, generating (U7) a fault signal by means of a control device (6).

2. A method (V) for monitoring the filling of a gas tank system (100), the method comprising: Detecting (V1) a first pressure in a high-pressure pipeline system (2), the high-pressure pipeline system being connected to the tank (1) of the gas tank system (100) via a valve device (3); Detecting (V2) a first temperature in the tank (1); Supplying (V3) gas to the tank (1) via the high-pressure pipeline system (2); Stopping (V4) the gas supply; After stopping (V4) the gas supply, detecting (V5) a second pressure in the high-pressure pipeline system (2); After stopping (V4) the gas supply, detecting (V6) a second temperature in the tank (1); Deriving (V7) a pressure change in the high-pressure pipeline system (2) from the first pressure and the second pressure, and deriving a temperature change in the tank (1) from the first temperature and the second temperature; Comparing (V8) the derived temperature change with a temperature change threshold, the temperature change threshold being related to the derived pressure change; and If the derived temperature change is lower than the temperature change threshold, generating (V9) a fault signal by means of a control device (6).

3. The method (V) according to claim 2, wherein, The temperature change threshold is additionally related to one or more of the following boundary conditions: the first pressure, the first temperature, the ambient temperature.

4. The method (U, V) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, The gas tank system (100) has a plurality of tanks (1), each of the plurality of tanks being connected to the high-pressure pipeline system (2) via a valve device (3), and gas being supplied to all of the plurality of tanks via the high-pressure pipeline system (2), wherein the maximum allowable difference in the temperature change in each tank (1) is used as a temperature threshold, and wherein the comparison (U62, V8) of the determined temperature change with the temperature change threshold includes determining the difference in the temperature change of each tank (1) and includes comparing it with the maximum allowable difference.

5. A method (W) for monitoring the filling of a gas tank system (100) having a plurality of tanks (1), the method comprising: Supplying (W1) gas into the plurality of tanks (1) via a high-pressure pipeline system (2), the high-pressure pipeline system being connected to each tank (1) via a valve device (3) in an open state; Stopping (W2) the supply of gas into the high-pressure pipeline system (2); Detecting (W3) the pressure in the high-pressure pipeline system (2); Determining (W4) the pressure gradient in the high-pressure pipeline system (2) from the detected pressure at least for a period of time after stopping (W2) the supply of gas; Comparing (W5) the pressure gradient determined during the period of time after stopping (W2) the supply of gas with a threshold value; and If the determined pressure gradient is negative and the magnitude of the determined pressure gradient exceeds the threshold value, generating (W6) a fault signal by means of a control device (6).

6. A method (X) for monitoring the filling of a gas tank system (100) having a plurality of tanks (1), the method comprising: Supplying (X1) gas into the plurality of tanks (1) via a high-pressure pipeline system (2), the high-pressure pipeline system being connected to each tank (1) via a valve device (3) in an open state; Stopping (X2) the supply of gas into the high-pressure pipeline system (2); Closing (X3) the valve devices (3) so that the plurality of tanks (1) are disconnected from the high-pressure pipeline system (2); Opening (X4) the valve devices (3) so that the plurality of tanks (1) are connected to the high-pressure pipeline system (2) again; After opening (X4) the valve devices (3), detecting (X5) the temperature in each tank (1) within a predetermined detection period; Determining (X6) the temperature change in the plurality of tanks (1) within the predetermined detection period from the detected temperature; Comparing (X7) the determined temperature change with a temperature change threshold; and If the temperature change in at least one tank (1) corresponds to a temperature increase and the determined temperature change for that tank (1) exceeds the temperature change threshold, generating (X8) a fault signal by means of a control device (6).

7. A method (Y) for monitoring the filling of a gas tank system (100) having a plurality of tanks (1), the method comprising: Gas is supplied (Y1) to the plurality of tanks (1) via a high-pressure pipeline system (2), and the high-pressure pipeline system is connected to each tank (1) via one valve device (3) in an open state; Stop (Y3) the gas supply to the high-pressure pipeline system (2); Close (Y4) the valve device (3) so that the plurality of tanks (1) are disconnected from the high-pressure pipeline system (2); Open (Y5) the valve device (3) so that the plurality of tanks (1) are connected to the high-pressure pipeline system (2) again; Withdraw (Y6) gas of a predetermined mass flow from the plurality of tanks (1) via the high-pressure pipeline system (2); During the withdrawal (Y6) of the predetermined mass flow, detect (Y7) the pressure change curve in the high-pressure pipeline system (2); Compare (Y8) the detected pressure change curve with a reference pressure change curve, the reference pressure change curve being related to the withdrawn mass flow; and If the detected pressure change curve is outside a predetermined tolerance range of the reference pressure change curve, generate (Y9) a fault signal by means of a control device (6).

8. The method (Y) according to claim 7, further comprising: During the supply (Y1) of gas to the plurality of tanks (1), detect (Y2) the filling pressure in the high-pressure pipeline system (2); Wherein, if the detected filling pressure reaches a reference value, stop (Y3) the gas supply; and Wherein the reference pressure change curve is related to the filling pressure.

9. The method (Y) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein The comparison (Y8) of the detected pressure change curve with the reference pressure change curve includes obtaining the pressure gradient of the detected pressure change curve and includes comparing it with the reference pressure gradient of the reference pressure change curve, wherein, if the deviation of the pressure gradient of the detected pressure change curve from the reference pressure gradient exceeds a threshold value, the fault signal is generated.

10. A gas tank system (100), in particular a gas tank system for a fuel cell system (200), the gas tank system having: A plurality of tanks (1) for accommodating gas; A high-pressure pipeline system (2); A plurality of valve devices (3) corresponding in number to the number of the plurality of tanks (1), each of the plurality of valve devices being switchable between an open state and a closed state, in the open state, the valve device connects the corresponding tank (1) to the high-pressure pipeline system (2), and in the closed state, the valve device disconnects the corresponding tank (1) from the high-pressure pipeline system (2); A first pressure sensor (4) for detecting the pressure in the high-pressure pipeline system (2); A plurality of second pressure sensors (7) and / or temperature sensors (9) corresponding in number to the number of the plurality of tanks (1), the second pressure sensors for detecting the pressure in each tank (1) and / or the temperature sensors for detecting the temperature in each tank; A supply interface (20) connected to the high-pressure pipeline system (2) for attaching a filling system; And A control device (6), which is connected to the valve device (3), the first pressure sensor (4), the second pressure sensor (7) and / or the second temperature sensor (9) in a signal-transmitting manner, and is configured to cause the gas tank system (100) to perform the method (M, V, W, X, Y) according to one of the above claims.

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