Fluid storage device

Abstract

The present invention provides a fluid storage device comprising: a storage unit including one or more storage tanks that store a fluid therein, extend in a first direction, and are arranged in a second direction, the second direction being a direction intersecting the first direction; and an impact absorbing portion covering at least a portion of the storage tank, the impact absorbing portion being configured such that a volume thereof becomes larger under a specific reference condition.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority from Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0018270 filed on February 6, 2024, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a fluid storage device. Background Art

[0004] A fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) is a vehicle that uses a fuel cell to supply electricity to an electric motor. FCEVs use hydrogen as fuel. Therefore, to use hydrogen as fuel, hydrogen is stored in a hydrogen tank. In recent years, miniaturized hydrogen tanks have been developed, using multiple small-diameter hydrogen tanks connected to a manifold to reduce space requirements.

[0005] In addition, recent research is underway into technologies that utilize electric vehicle platforms as FCEV platforms. In order to accommodate hydrogen storage in the space currently occupied by battery packs on electric vehicle platforms, a structure is required in which multiple hydrogen storage tanks having long lengths and small diameters are provided.

[0006] However, when a plurality of small-diameter, long-axis hydrogen storage tanks are provided, the length thereof becomes greater, and thus the hydrogen storage tank is susceptible to impacts that may occur from the side of the vehicle.

[0007] In addition, for safety in the event of a fire, a thermally activated pressure reducing device (TPRD) is installed in the hydrogen storage tank of the FCEV, and when multiple small-diameter, long-axis hydrogen storage tanks are set up, their area becomes larger than before, so an area where the temperature-sensitive safety valve does not respond may be formed. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The present disclosure is intended to solve the above-mentioned problems occurring in the prior art while maintaining the advantages achieved by the prior art.

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a fluid storage device that can absorb the impact of a side collision.

[0010] One aspect of the present disclosure also provides a fluid storage device capable of extinguishing a fire occurring in a lower portion.

[0011] The technical issues to be solved by the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned problems, and any other technical problems not mentioned herein will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains from the following description.

[0012] In one embodiment, a fluid storage device includes: a storage portion including one or more storage tanks configured to store fluid therein and extending along a first direction, the one or more storage tanks being arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction; and a shock absorbing portion configured to cover a portion of the one or more storage tanks, the shock absorbing portion being configurable so that a volume thereof increases under a baseline condition.

[0013] In another example, a direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction is defined as a third direction, and an imaginary plane containing the centers of the one or more storage tanks and perpendicular to the third direction is defined as a reference plane, the impact absorbing portion covers an area of any one of the one or more storage tanks, which may be located in either the third direction or an opposite direction of the reference plane, and covers an area of another one of the one or more storage tanks adjacent to the one of the one or more storage tanks, which may be located in the other of the third direction or an opposite direction of the reference plane.

[0014] In another example, the shock absorbing portion may further include: a shock absorbing portion that at least partially covers the one or more storage tanks; and an expansion portion that is connected to either the second direction or the opposite direction of the shock absorbing portion and changes the volume of the shock absorbing portion under the reference condition.

[0015] In another example, the shock absorbing portion may further include: a first reaction capsule disposed inside the expansion portion, and a first reactant disposed inside the first reaction capsule; and a second reactant that generates a reference gas when reacting with the first reactant, and the reference gas may flow into the shock absorbing portion to increase the volume of the shock absorbing portion.

[0016] In another example, the impact absorbing part may further include: a breaking portion that is disposed inside the expansion part and breaks the first reaction capsule under a reference condition.

[0017] In another example, the fluid storage device described above may further include a protection portion disposed adjacent to at least one of the second direction side and the opposite direction side of the one or more storage tanks, and the expansion portion is disposed inside the protection portion.

[0018] In another example, the impact absorbing portion may include a connecting portion connecting the impact absorbing part and the expansion part, and the protecting portion may include a through hole through which the connecting portion passes.

[0019] In another example, the fluid storage device may further include: at least one impact sensor portion coupled to the protection portion and sensing an amount of impact applied to the protection portion; and a controller electrically connected to the impact sensor portion and configured to acquire information sensed by the impact sensor portion, the controller being electrically connected to the destruction portion to control an operation of the destruction portion, and the controller may destroy the first reaction capsule by operating the destruction portion when the amount of impact detected by the impact sensor portion having an impact reference number or more is a reference impact amount or greater.

[0020] In another example, the protection portion may include: a protection portion body; and a shock absorbing member coupled to a surface of the protection portion body facing the one or more storage tanks and absorbing shock applied to the one or more storage tanks.

[0021] In another example, a pair of protection portion bodies may be arranged to be adjacent to the second direction side and the opposite direction side of the storage tank, respectively, and the protection portion may further include: a first connecting member extending along the second direction and connecting the third direction sides of the pair of protection portion bodies; and a second connecting member extending along the second direction and connecting the opposite direction sides of the third direction of the pair of protection portion bodies.

[0022] In another example, the fluid storage device may further include: a refractory portion located below the one or more storage tanks and covering the bottom of the one or more storage tanks; at least one temperature sensor portion coupled to the refractory portion and sensing information about the ambient temperature; and a controller electrically connected to the temperature sensor portion and configured to acquire information sensed by the temperature sensor portion, the controller being electrically connected to the destruction portion to control the operation of the destruction portion, and the controller may destroy the first reaction capsule by operating the destruction portion when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor portion of the temperature reference number is a reference temperature or higher.

[0023] In another example, the impact absorbing portion may further include a fire extinguishing capsule disposed inside the impact absorbing portion located below the reference plane and including a fire extinguishing agent for extinguishing a fire therein.

[0024] In another example, the impact absorbing portion may be formed of a material having a first melting temperature, and the fire extinguishing capsule may be formed of a material having a second melting temperature higher than the first melting temperature.

[0025] In another example, the fluid storage apparatus may further include a fire-resistant portion located below the storage tank and covering the bottom of the storage tank, and the through-hole extends through the fire-resistant portion in an up / down direction and is configured to allow the fire extinguishing capsule to pass therethrough.

[0026] In another example, the through hole may be formed in a shape in which the size becomes smaller as going toward the lower side.

[0027] In another example, a length of the impact absorbing portion along the first direction may be smaller than a length of the one or more storage tanks along the first direction.

[0028] In another example, one or more storage tanks may include outlets located on a first direction side and an opposite direction side thereof, and the storage portion may further include: a manifold coupled to the outlets of the one or more storage tanks in the first direction, and an interior of the manifold being connected to the interiors of the one or more storage tanks; a bracket coupled to the outlets of the one or more storage tanks in a direction opposite to the first direction, the bracket being configured to allow the one or more storage tanks to expand in a direction opposite to the first direction, and an interior of the bracket being connected to the interiors of the one or more storage tanks; and a heat-activated decompression device connected to at least one of the manifold and the bracket.

[0029] In another example, the fluid storage apparatus may further include: a regulator connected to the storage portion and reducing the pressure of the fluid in the one or more storage tanks discharged from the one or more storage tanks; a fluid supply system connected to the regulator and receiving the fluid from the regulator and supplying the fluid to the stack portion; a fluid supply pipe connecting the fluid supply system and the stack portion; a fluid branch pipe branching from the fluid supply pipe and connected to the shock absorbing portion; and a fluid on / off valve that opens and closes the fluid branch pipe.

[0030] In another example, the impact absorbing portion may be a material subjected to a coating treatment having an antistatic effect.

[0031] In another example, the fluid storage device may further include: a compressor that compresses air introduced from the outside; a cooler that cools air discharged from the compressor; an air supply pipe that connects the compressor and the cooler; an air branch pipe that branches from the air supply pipe and is connected to the shock absorbing portion; and an air on / off valve that opens and closes the air branch pipe, and a plurality of holes may be formed in an outer surface of the shock absorbing portion. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings:

[0033] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a fluid storage device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 2 A diagram illustrating a fluid storage device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure viewed from the top;

[0035] Figure 3 A diagram illustrating a fluid storage device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure viewed from a first direction;

[0036] Figure 4 A diagram illustrating a fluid storage device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure viewed from the bottom;

[0037] Figure 5 A diagram illustrating a storage unit;

[0038] Figure 6 A diagram illustrating a shock absorbing portion;

[0039] Figure 7 for Figure 6 An enlarged view of the dotted part;

[0040] Figure 8 A diagram conceptually illustrating an expansion portion;

[0041] Figure 9 A diagram illustrating a state in which the storage portion, the impact absorbing portion, and the protecting portion are coupled to each other;

[0042] Figure 10 A diagram illustrating a first fire extinguishing capsule;

[0043] Figure 11 A perspective view illustrating the protection portion;

[0044] Figure 12 A diagram illustrating a protection portion viewed along a first direction;

[0045] Figure 13 For illustration Figure 11 A diagram of the state of being cut along line A-A';

[0046] Figure 14A and 14B A diagram illustrating the refractory portion;

[0047] Figure 15 A diagram illustrating a manifold and a heat-activated pressure relief device incorporated into a reservoir;

[0048] Figure 16 A diagram illustrating a bracket and a heat-activated pressure relief device coupled to a storage portion;

[0049] Figure 17 A flowchart illustrating the operation of the fluid storage device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0050] Figure 18 A diagram conceptually illustrating a fluid storage device according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0051] Figure 19 A diagram conceptually illustrating a fluid storage device according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Description of Reference Numerals

[0053] 110, 210, 310: Storage

[0054] 111: Storage tank

[0055] 112: Exit

[0056] 113: Manifold

[0057] 114: Bracket

[0058] 115: Heat-activated pressure relief device

[0059] 116: Solenoid valve

[0060] 120, 220, 320: Shock absorption part

[0061] 121: Shock absorbing part

[0062] 122: Expansion part

[0063] 123: Connection

[0064] 124: Destruction Part

[0065] 125: First Response Capsules

[0066] 125': First reactant

[0067] 126: Second reactant

[0068] 127: Dropped Fire Extinguishing Capsule

[0069] 127': Fire extinguishing agent

[0070] 130: Protection Department

[0071] 131: Protection Department

[0072] 132: Through hole

[0073] 133: Impact absorbing member

[0074] 134: First connecting member

[0075] 135: Second connecting member

[0076] 140: Refractory Department

[0077] 141: Through hole

[0078] 150: Shock sensor unit

[0079] 160, 280, 380: Controller

[0080] 170: Temperature sensor unit

[0081] 230: Regulator

[0082] 240: Fluid supply system

[0083] 250: Fluid supply pipeline

[0084] 260: Fluid branch pipeline

[0085] 270: Fluid on / off valve

[0086] 290, 390: stacking part

[0087] 330: Compressor

[0088] 340: Cooler

[0089] 350: Air supply duct

[0090] 360: Air branch duct

[0091] 370: Air on / off valve

[0092] 391: Air filter

[0093] 392: Air velocity sensor

[0094] 393: Humidifier

[0095] D1: First direction

[0096] D2: Second direction. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0097] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. When adding reference numerals to components of the drawings, it should be noted that the same components are represented by the same reference numerals even when drawn in different drawings. In addition, when describing embodiments of the present disclosure, if it is determined that a detailed description of related known configurations and functions would hinder understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0098] The fluid storage device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be a fluid storage device for a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV). As an example, the fluid may be hydrogen. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and is not limited as long as it is a fluid that can be used as a fuel.

[0099] In the specification, for the convenience of description, reference is made to the front / rear direction, the left / right direction, the up / down direction, and the vertical direction, and these may be directions perpendicular to each other. However, these directions are determined relative to the direction in which the fluid storage device is arranged, and the up / down direction does not necessarily mean the vertical direction.

[0100] Figure 1is a perspective view of a fluid storage device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 A diagram illustrating a fluid storage device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the top.

[0101] Figure 3 A diagram illustrating a fluid storage device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from a first direction. Figure 4 A diagram illustrating the fluid storage device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the bottom. Figure 5 A diagram illustrating the storage unit. Figure 6 A diagram illustrating a shock absorbing portion.

[0102] Figure 7 for Figure 6 An enlarged view of the dotted part. Figure 8 This figure conceptually illustrates the expansion portion.

[0103] Figure 9 A diagram illustrating a state in which the storage portion, the impact absorbing portion, and the protecting portion are coupled to each other. Figure 10 A diagram illustrating the first fire extinguishing capsule.

[0104] First embodiment

[0105] The fluid storage device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure may include a storage portion 110 and an impact absorbing portion 120. The storage portion 110 may include one or more storage tanks 111. The storage tanks 111 may be configured to store fluid therein and may extend along a first direction D1. The first direction D1 may be the forward direction of the vehicle. The storage tanks 111 may be arranged along a second direction D2, which intersects the first direction D1.

[0106] The third direction D3 may be a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. The third direction D3 may be an upward direction.

[0107] The shock absorber 120 may be configured to cover at least a portion of the storage tank 111. The shock absorber 120 may be configured to expand in volume under a specific reference condition. The reference condition may be a condition under which an impact is determined to have been applied to the vehicle. The expansion of the shock absorber 120 absorbs the impact applied to the storage tank 111. For example, the shock absorber 120 may be an airbag.

[0108] Hereinafter, for ease of description, an imaginary plane including the center of the storage tank 111 and perpendicular to the third direction D3 is referred to as a reference plane RP. The reference plane RP can be understood as a plane that bisects the plurality of storage tanks 111. The reference plane RP may extend through the center of each storage tank 111.

[0109] The area of the impact absorber 120 covering any one storage tank 111 may be located in either the third direction D3 or the direction opposite to the reference plane RP. The area of the impact absorber 120 covering another storage tank 111 adjacent to the one storage tank 111 may be located in either the third direction D3 or the direction opposite to the reference plane RP. In some embodiments, the position of the impact absorber 120 covering the storage tanks 111 alternates along the second direction D2. The length of the impact absorber 120 along the first direction D1 may be less than the length of the storage tank 111 along the first direction D1.

[0110] The shock absorbing portion 120 may include a shock absorbing portion 121 and an expansion portion 122. The shock absorbing portion 121 may be a portion covering the storage tank 111. The expansion portion 122 may be connected to at least one of opposite ends of the shock absorbing portion 121 in the second direction D2 or the opposite direction thereof, and may be configured to change the volume of the shock absorbing portion 121 under a reference condition.

[0111] The shock absorbing portion 120 may further include a first reaction capsule 125 and a second reactant 126. The first reaction capsule 125 may be disposed within the expansion portion 122, and the first reactant 125' may be disposed therein. The first reactant 125' may be sodium azide (NaN3). Under baseline conditions, the destruction portion 124, which will be described later, may be ignited to damage the first reaction capsule 125.

[0112] The second reactant 126 may be configured to react with the first reactant 125' to generate a reference gas. The second reactant 126 may be iron oxide (Fe2O3). Alternatively, the reference gas may be nitrogen. The reference gas may be introduced into the shock absorbing portion 121 to increase the volume of the shock absorbing portion 121.

[0113] The impact absorber 120 may further include a rupture portion 124. The rupture portion 124 may be disposed within the expansion portion 122 and configured to rupture the first reaction capsule 125 under a baseline condition. For example, the rupture portion 124 may be an igniter ignited by an electric current. When the rupture portion 124 corresponds to the baseline condition, it may generate a spark and rupture the first reaction capsule 125. Because its detailed operating principles are similar to those of conventional airbags, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0114] Figure 11 A perspective view illustrating the protection portion. Figure 12 This is a diagram for explaining the protection portion when viewed from the first direction. Figure 13 To illustrate the Figure 11 The figure is taken along the line AA'.

[0115] The fluid storage device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a protective portion 130. The protective portion 130 may be positioned adjacent to at least one of the second direction D2 and the opposite direction of the storage tank 111, and the expansion portion 122 may be disposed therein. The protective portion 130 may be configured to shield the storage tank 111 from impacts applied to the sides. Furthermore, the protective portion 130 may protect the expansion portion 122 from impacts applied thereto and prevent malfunction of the destructive portion 124.

[0116] The protection portion 130 may include a protection portion body 131 and a shock absorbing member 133. The shock absorbing member 133 may be coupled to a surface of the protection portion body 131 facing the storage tank 111 to absorb shock applied to the storage tank 111. The surface of the protection portion body 131 facing the storage tank 111 may have a shape corresponding to and matching the shape of the storage tank 111. A plurality of shock absorbing members 133 may be arranged along the first direction D1.

[0117] A pair of protection portion bodies 131 may be provided and positioned adjacent to the storage tank 111 on the second direction D2 side and the opposite side thereof. The protection portion 130 may include a first connecting member 134 and a second connecting member 135. The first connecting member 134 may extend along the second direction D2 and connect the pair of protection portion bodies 131 on the third direction D3 side. The second connecting member 135 may extend along the second direction D2 and connect the pair of protection portion bodies 131 on the opposite side of the third direction D3. A plurality of first connecting members 134 and a plurality of second connecting members 135 may be provided and arranged along the first direction D1.

[0118] The shock absorbing portion 120 may include a connection portion 123 connecting the shock absorbing part 121 and the expansion portion 122. The protective portion 130 may include a through-hole 132 through which the connection portion 123 passes. The through-hole 132 may be formed in the protective portion body 131. Under a reference condition, the expansion portion 122 may damage the first reaction capsule 125, and the reference gas may be injected into the shock absorbing portion 121 through the connection portion 123.

[0119] Hereinafter, the operation of the fluid storage apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure to expand the impact absorbing portion 121 based on an externally applied impact will be described in detail. This may be an operation when an impact such as a collision is applied to the vehicle.

[0120] The fluid storage apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure may further include an impact sensor unit 150 and a controller 160. The impact sensor unit 150 may be coupled to the protection unit 130 to sense the amount of impact applied to the protection unit 130. At least one impact sensor unit 150 may be provided.

[0121] The controller 160 may be electrically connected to the shock sensor portion 150 to acquire information sensed by the shock sensor portion 150. In addition, the controller 160 may be electrically connected to the breaking portion 124 to control the operation of the breaking portion 124.

[0122] The controller 160 may include a processor and a memory. The processor may include a microprocessor, such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or a central processing unit (CPU). The memory may store control instructions that form the basis for the processor to generate instructions for determining whether the destructing portion 124 has been operated. The memory may be a data storage device, such as a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), a volatile medium, or a non-volatile medium.

[0123] When the impact amount detected by the impact sensor unit 150 is greater than the impact reference number, the controller 160 may destroy the first reaction capsule 125 by operating the destroying part 124. The impact reference number may be a value smaller than the total number of the impact sensor units 150.

[0124] This may mean that the reference condition is a case where the impact amount detected by the impact sensor unit 150 is greater than the reference impact amount. For example, when three integral impact sensor units 150 are combined with a pair of protection units 130 and the impact reference number is 2, when the impact amount detected by two or more impact sensor units 150 is greater than the reference impact amount, the controller 160 may operate the destructible portion 124 to increase the volume of the impact absorbing portion 121.

[0125] Hereinafter, the operation of the fluid storage apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure to expand the impact absorbing portion 121 based on the external temperature will be described in detail. This may be the operation when a fire occurs in a vehicle.

[0126] Figure 14A and 14B 1 is a diagram illustrating a refractory portion. The fluid storage device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a refractory portion 140 and a temperature sensor portion 170. The refractory portion 140 may be a component located on the lower side of the storage tank 111 and covering the lower side of the storage tank 111. The temperature sensor portion 170 may be coupled to the refractory portion 140 and may be configured to sense information regarding the ambient temperature. At least one temperature sensor portion 170 may be provided. As an example, the temperature sensor portion 170 may be coupled to the upper surface of the refractory portion 140.

[0127] The controller 160 may be electrically connected to the temperature sensor unit 170 to obtain information sensed by the temperature sensor unit 170. When the temperature detected by the temperature sensor unit 170 of the temperature reference number is above the reference temperature, the controller 160 may operate the destruction unit 124 to destroy the first reaction capsule 125. The temperature reference number may be a value less than the total number of temperature sensors 170.

[0128] This may mean that the reference condition is a case where the temperature detected by the temperature sensor unit 170 is greater than or equal to the reference temperature. For example, if a total of four temperature sensor units 170 are provided and the temperature reference number is 3, when the temperature detected by three or more temperature sensor units 170 is greater than or equal to the reference temperature, the controller 160 may operate the destructible portion 124 to increase the volume of the impact absorbing portion 121.

[0129] In addition, this reference condition may be applied in parallel with the case of the impact sensor unit 150. For example, even when the impact amount sensed by the impact sensor unit 150 having an impact reference number or more is not the reference impact amount, the controller 160 may operate the destroying portion 124 when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor unit 170 having a temperature reference number or more is equal to or higher than the reference temperature.

[0130] Furthermore, when a fire occurs in a vehicle, it is necessary to extinguish the fire to prevent damage to the storage tank 111. In particular, when such a fire occurs below a fluid storage device, there is a risk that the storage tank 111 may be damaged and the fluid inside may explode. The following describes in detail a structure for extinguishing a fire below a fluid storage device.

[0131] The impact absorbing portion 120 may further include a fire extinguishing capsule 127 ( Figure 7 The fire extinguishing capsule 127 may be disposed inside at least a portion of the region below the reference plane RP of the impact absorbing portion 121. A fire extinguishing agent 127' for extinguishing a fire may be disposed inside the fire extinguishing capsule 127. As an example, the fire extinguishing agent 127' may be ammonium phosphate (NH4H2PO4).

[0132] The impact absorbing portion 121 may be formed from a material that melts at a first temperature, and the fire extinguishing capsule 127 may be formed from a material that melts at a second temperature higher than the first temperature. For example, the impact absorbing portion 121 may be formed from a material having a first melting temperature, and the fire extinguishing capsule 127 may be formed from a material having a second melting temperature higher than the first melting temperature. The first temperature may be higher than the reference temperature. For example, the first temperature may be 110 degrees Celsius, and the second temperature may be 600 degrees Celsius.

[0133] Furthermore, a through hole 141 may be formed in the fireproof portion 140. Through hole 141 may be configured to penetrate in the up / down direction, allowing the fire extinguishing capsule 127 to pass therethrough. Specifically, the fire extinguishing capsule 127 disposed within the impact absorbing portion 121 may pass through through hole 141 of the fireproof portion 140 and be directed to the area where the fire has occurred. The directed fire extinguishing capsule 127 may melt at the second temperature, and the fire extinguishing agent 127′ within it may extinguish the fire.

[0134] In addition, the through hole 141 may have a shape in which the size thereof becomes smaller as it goes downwards. This is to have an advantageous structure for preventing the inflow of flames from below and guiding the fire extinguishing agent 127 ′ located on the upper side of the fire-resistant portion 140 downwards.

[0135] Figure 15 A diagram illustrating a manifold and a heat-activated pressure relief device coupled to a reservoir. Figure 16 A diagram illustrating a bracket and a heat-activated pressure-reducing device coupled to a storage portion.

[0136] Hereinafter, a structure that may be further provided in the fluid storage apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail: The storage tank 111 may have outlets 112 in the first direction D1 and in the opposite direction thereof, respectively.

[0137] The storage portion 110 may further include a manifold 113, a bracket 114, and a heat-activated decompression device 115. The manifold 113 may be coupled to the outlets 112 of the storage tanks 111 in the first direction D1, and the interiors of the storage tanks 111 may communicate with each other. A solenoid valve 116 for discharging fluid may be coupled to the manifold 113.

[0138] The bracket 114 may be coupled to the outlet 112 of the storage tank 111 in the opposite direction D1 and configured to allow the storage tank 111 to expand in the opposite direction D1. The interior of the bracket 114 may communicate with the interior of the storage tank 111.

[0139] The heat-activated pressure-reducing device 115 may be a valve that opens at a specific temperature to discharge the fluid inside the storage tank 111. The heat-activated pressure-reducing device 115 may be connected to at least either one of the manifold 113 or the bracket 114.

[0140] As an example, the heat-activated decompression device 115 may be connected to opposite ends of the manifold 113 in the second direction D2 and an opposite direction thereof, and may be coupled adjacent to the center of the bracket 114 .

[0141] As another example, the heat-activated decompression device 115 may be connected to opposite ends of the manifold 113 in the second direction D2 and the opposite direction thereof, and may be connected to opposite ends of the bracket 114 in the second direction D2 and the opposite direction thereof.

[0142] As another example, the heat-activated pressure reducing devices 115 may be connected to opposite ends of the manifold 113 in the second direction D2 and the opposite direction thereof.

[0143] Figure 17 The flow chart for explaining the operation of the fluid storage device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure is as follows. Figure 17 Together with the foregoing, the operation of the fluid storage device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure is described in detail.

[0144] First, the controller 160 may operate the destroying portion 124 under a reference condition. The reference condition may mean that a collision occurs on the side of the vehicle and the impact amount detected by the impact sensor unit 150 is greater than the reference impact amount, or that a fire occurs under the fluid storage device and the reference condition corresponds to a temperature detected by the temperature sensor unit 170 is greater than the reference temperature.

[0145] The operated breaking portion 124 breaks the first reaction capsule 125, and the first reactant 125' discharged from the broken first reaction capsule 125 reacts with the second reactant 126 to generate a reference gas. The generated reference gas flows toward the shock absorbing portion 121 and expands the shock absorbing portion 121.

[0146] In addition, when the temperature of a portion located on the lower side of the storage tank 111 of the impact absorbing portion 121 becomes higher than the first temperature due to a fire, the portion melts, and the fire extinguishing capsule 127 falls downward.

[0147] The fallen fire extinguishing capsule 127 passes through the through hole 141 via the fireproof portion 140 and goes to the fire location. Then, when the temperature of the fire extinguishing capsule 127 is above the second temperature, the fire extinguishing capsule 127 may melt, and the fire extinguishing agent 127' inside the fire extinguishing capsule 127 may extinguish the fire.

[0148] Second embodiment

[0149] Figure 18 FIG2 is a diagram conceptually illustrating a fluid storage device according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 18 A fluid storage device according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. The fluid storage device according to the second embodiment differs from the fluid storage device according to the first embodiment in the method of expanding the impact absorber 220. Components identical or equivalent to those of the fluid storage device according to the first embodiment are given identical or equivalent reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0150] The fluid storage apparatus according to the second embodiment may further include a regulator 230, a fluid supply system 240, a fluid supply pipe 250, a fluid branch pipe 260, and a fluid on / off valve 270. The fluid may be hydrogen gas.

[0151] A regulator 230 may be connected to the reservoir 210 to reduce the pressure of the fluid in the reservoir 210 being discharged from the reservoir 210. A fluid supply system (FPS) 240 may be connected to the regulator 230 to receive the fluid from the regulator 230 and supply the fluid to the stack 290. A fluid supply pipe 250 may connect the fluid supply system 240 and the stack 290. A fluid branch pipe 260 may branch from the fluid supply pipe 250 and may be connected to the shock absorbing portion 220. A fluid on / off valve 270 may be configured to open and close the fluid branch pipe 260. A controller 280 may open the fluid branch pipe 260 by controlling the fluid on / off valve 270 under a baseline condition. Under the baseline condition, air may be introduced into the shock absorbing portion 220 through the fluid branch pipe 260, thereby allowing the shock absorbing portion 220 to protect the reservoir 210.

[0152] The shock absorbing part 220 of the fluid storage device according to the second embodiment can be made of a material with an antistatic coating. Since the shock absorbing part 220 is made of a material coated with an antistatic coating, the reaction between the shock absorbing part 220 and the fluid can be disturbed.

[0153] In the case of the fluid storage device according to the second embodiment, the shock absorbing portion 220 may expand without any components such as the separate breaking portion 124 , the first reaction capsule 125 , or the second reactant 126 .

[0154] Third embodiment

[0155] Figure 19 FIG is a diagram conceptually illustrating a fluid storage device according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 19 A fluid storage device according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. The fluid storage device according to the third embodiment differs from the fluid storage device according to the first embodiment in the method of expanding the impact absorber 320. Components identical or equivalent to those of the fluid storage device according to the first embodiment are given identical or equivalent reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0156] The fluid storage device according to the third embodiment may further include a compressor 330, a cooler 340, an air supply pipe 350, an air branch pipe 360, and an air on / off valve 370. The compressor 330 may be configured to compress air introduced from the outside. An air filter 391 and an air flow rate sensor 392 may be provided on the upstream side of the compressor 330.

[0157] The cooler 340 may be configured to cool air discharged from the compressor 330. The humidifier 393 may be provided on a downstream side of the cooler.

[0158] The air supply duct 350 may connect the compressor 330 and the cooler 340. An air branch duct 360 branches from the air supply duct 350 and may be connected to the shock absorber 320. An air on / off valve 370 may be configured to open and close the air branch duct 360. The controller 380 may open the air branch duct 360 by controlling the air on / off valve 370 under a reference condition. Under the reference condition, air may be introduced into the shock absorber 320 through the air branch duct 360, thereby protecting the storage portion 310.

[0159] In the case of the fluid storage device according to the third embodiment, the shock absorbing portion 320 may expand without any components such as a separate breaking portion, a first reaction capsule, or a second reactant.

[0160] In addition, since the pressure at the rear end of the compressor 330 is approximately 2.1 bar, there is a risk of damaging the shock absorbing portion 320 when air at the rear end of the compressor 330 is continuously introduced into the shock absorbing portion 320. Therefore, a plurality of fine pores may be formed on the outer surface of the shock absorbing portion 320. Since the air inside the shock absorbing portion 320 can be discharged through the fine pores, the internal pressure of the shock absorbing portion 320 can also be maintained at approximately 2.1 bar.

[0161] According to the present disclosure, the impact absorbing portion surrounding the hydrogen tank may operate based on the amount of impact generated due to a side collision of the vehicle, thereby absorbing the impact due to the side collision of the vehicle.

[0162] Furthermore, according to the present disclosure, the fire extinguishing agent may be released to the lower side based on the temperature, so that the fire occurring on the lower side may be extinguished.

[0163] The above description is an exemplary description of the technical ideas of the present disclosure, and a person skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs may make various corrections and modifications without departing from the basic features of the present disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in the present disclosure are not intended to limit the technical ideas of the present disclosure, but to describe them, and the scope of the technical spirit of the present disclosure is not limited by the embodiments. All technical spirits within the equivalent range of the protection scope of the present disclosure should be interpreted as included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A fluid storage device comprising: a storage portion including one or more storage tanks configured to store a fluid therein and extending along a first direction, wherein the one or more storage tanks are arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction; as well as The shock absorbing portion is configured to cover at least a portion of the one or more storage tanks, wherein the shock absorbing portion is configured to increase in volume under a reference condition.

2. The fluid storage device according to claim 1, wherein: When a direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction is defined as a third direction, defining an imaginary plane containing the centers of the one or more storage tanks and perpendicular to the third direction as a reference plane, The impact absorbing portion covers a region of any one of the one or more storage tanks and is located in any one of the third direction or the opposite direction of the reference plane, and The shock absorbing portion covers a region of another one of the one or more storage tanks adjacent to the any one of the one or more storage tanks, located in the other of the third direction or the opposite direction of the reference plane.

3. The fluid storage device according to claim 1, wherein: The shock absorbing portion includes: a shock absorbing portion at least partially covering the one or more storage tanks; and An expansion portion is connected to the impact absorbing portion in at least one of the second direction and an opposite direction thereof and is configured to change a volume of the impact absorbing portion under the reference condition.

4. The fluid storage device according to claim 3, wherein: The shock absorbing portion further comprises: a first reaction capsule disposed inside the expansion portion, wherein a first reactant is disposed inside the first reaction capsule; and a second reactant configured to produce a reference gas upon reaction with the first reactant, and The reference gas is configured to flow into the shock absorbing portion to increase a volume of the shock absorbing portion.

5. The fluid storage device according to claim 4, wherein: The shock absorbing portion further comprises: A destruction portion is provided inside the expansion portion and is configured to destroy the first reaction capsule under the reference condition.

6. The fluid storage device according to claim 5, further comprising: A protection portion is provided adjacent to at least one of the second direction side and the opposite direction side of the one or more storage tanks, and the expansion portion is provided inside the protection portion.

7. The fluid storage device according to claim 6, wherein: The shock absorbing portion includes: a connecting portion connecting the impact absorbing portion and the expansion portion, and The protection portion includes a through hole for the connection portion to pass through.

8. The fluid storage device according to claim 6, further comprising: at least one impact sensor portion coupled to the protection portion and configured to sense an amount of impact applied to the protection portion; as well as a controller electrically connected to the impact sensor portion and configured to acquire information sensed by the impact sensor portion, the controller electrically connected to the destruction portion to control the operation of the destruction portion, and The controller is configured to: When the impact amount detected by the impact sensor portion that impacts a reference number or more is a reference impact amount or more, the first reaction capsule is destroyed by operating the destruction portion.

9. The fluid storage device according to claim 6, wherein: The protection unit includes: Protection of the Ministry's main body; and An impact absorbing member is coupled to a surface of the protection portion main body facing the one or more storage tanks and is configured to absorb impact applied to the one or more storage tanks.

10. The fluid storage device according to claim 9, wherein: A pair of protection portion bodies are provided adjacent to the second direction side and the opposite direction side of the storage tank, respectively, and The protection unit further includes: a first connecting member extending along the second direction and connecting the third direction sides of the pair of protection portion bodies; and A second connecting member extends along the second direction and connects the pair of protection portion main bodies on opposite sides in the third direction.

11. The fluid storage device according to claim 5, further comprising: a refractory portion located below the one or more storage tanks and covering the bottom of the one or more storage tanks; at least one temperature sensor portion coupled to the refractory portion and configured to sense information regarding an ambient temperature; as well as a controller electrically connected to the temperature sensor portion and configured to acquire information sensed by the temperature sensor portion, the controller electrically connected to the destruction portion to control the operation of the destruction portion, and The controller is configured to: When the temperature detected by the temperature sensor portion of the temperature reference number is a reference temperature or higher, the first reaction capsule is destroyed by operating the destruction portion.

12. The fluid storage device according to claim 5, wherein: The shock absorbing portion further comprises: A fire extinguishing capsule is provided inside the impact absorbing portion below the reference plane and contains a fire extinguishing agent therein for extinguishing a fire.

13. The fluid storage device according to claim 12, wherein: The impact absorbing portion is formed of a material having a first melting temperature, and The fire extinguishing capsule is formed of a material having a second melting temperature higher than the first melting temperature.

14. The fluid storage device according to claim 13, further comprising: a refractory portion located below the storage tank and covering the bottom of the storage tank, The through hole extends through the fire-resistant portion in an up / down direction and is configured to allow the fire extinguishing capsule to pass therethrough.

15. The fluid storage device according to claim 14, wherein: The through hole is formed in a shape in which the size becomes smaller as it goes downward.

16. The fluid storage device according to claim 1, wherein A length of the impact absorbing portion along the first direction is smaller than a length of the one or more storage tanks along the first direction.

17. The fluid storage device according to claim 1, wherein: The one or more storage tanks include outlets located on the first direction side and the opposite direction side thereof, and The storage unit further comprises: a manifold coupled to the outlets of the one or more storage tanks in the first direction, the interior of which is in communication with the interiors of the one or more storage tanks; a bracket coupled to an outlet of the one or more storage tanks in a direction opposite to the first direction, the bracket being configured to allow the one or more storage tanks to expand in a direction opposite to the first direction, and an interior of the bracket communicating with an interior of the one or more storage tanks; and A heat-activated pressure relief device is coupled to at least one of the manifold and the bracket.

18. The fluid storage device according to claim 1, further comprising: a regulator connected to the storage portion and configured to reduce the pressure of the fluid in the one or more storage tanks discharged from the one or more storage tanks; a fluid supply system connected to the regulator and configured to receive the fluid from the regulator and supply the fluid to the stack; a fluid supply pipe connecting the fluid supply system and the stacking portion; a fluid branch pipe branched from the fluid supply pipe and connected to the shock absorbing portion; as well as A fluid on / off valve is configured to open and close the fluid branch conduit.

19. The fluid storage device according to claim 18, wherein: The impact absorbing portion is made of a material subjected to a coating treatment having an antistatic effect.

20. The fluid storage device according to claim 1, further comprising: a compressor configured to compress air introduced from the outside; a cooler configured to cool the air discharged from the compressor; an air supply pipe connecting the compressor and the cooler; an air branch duct branched from the air supply duct and connected to the shock absorbing portion; as well as An air on / off valve is configured to open and close the air branch duct, wherein a plurality of holes are formed in an outer surface of the impact absorbing portion.

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