A solid-state hydrogen storage system with charge and discharge at both ends and a working method thereof

Abstract

The application belongs to the technical field of hydrogen energy, and particularly relates to a solid-state hydrogen storage system with hydrogen charging and discharging at two ends and a working method. The solid-state hydrogen storage system comprises at least two independent solid-state hydrogen storage units. Each solid-state hydrogen storage unit is independently connected to an upstream hydrogen supply pipeline through a first valve group and is independently connected to a downstream hydrogen utilization pipeline through a second valve group. Each solid-state hydrogen storage unit is selectively connected to a hot circulation loop or a cold circulation loop through a third valve group. The first valve group, the second valve group and the third valve group are controlled so that, when there is a hydrogen supply demand in the upstream hydrogen supply pipeline and there is a hydrogen utilization demand in the downstream hydrogen utilization pipeline, the first solid-state hydrogen storage unit is configured in a hydrogen charging mode, and the second solid-state hydrogen storage unit is configured in a hydrogen discharging mode. The solid-state hydrogen storage unit in the hydrogen charging mode is connected to the upstream hydrogen supply pipeline and the cold circulation loop for hydrogen charging, and the solid-state hydrogen storage unit in the hydrogen discharging mode is connected to the downstream hydrogen utilization pipeline and the hot circulation loop for hydrogen discharging.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of hydrogen energy technology, specifically a solid hydrogen storage system with both ends filled and discharged, and its working method. Background Technology

[0002] The statements in this section merely refer to the background art related to this invention and do not necessarily constitute prior art.

[0003] The mainstream hydrogen storage technologies mainly include high-pressure gaseous hydrogen storage, cryogenic liquid hydrogen storage, and solid-state hydrogen storage. Solid-state hydrogen storage technology stores hydrogen in atomic form in hydrogen storage materials (such as metal hydrides, coordination hydrides, porous materials, etc.) through physical or chemical means. It can achieve high volumetric hydrogen storage density under medium temperature and low pressure conditions and has advantages such as high intrinsic safety and no loss during long-term storage.

[0004] Regardless of whether it's a high-pressure gaseous, cryogenic liquid, or conventionally designed solid-state hydrogen storage system, the processes of "hydrogen charging (storage)" and "hydrogen discharging (supply)" are typically mutually exclusive and independent in time. That is, the system can only perform one function at a time: either receiving and storing hydrogen from an upstream hydrogen source (such as an electrolyzer or pipeline) or supplying hydrogen to downstream hydrogen-using equipment (such as fuel cells, gas turbines, or chemical plants). This operating mode results in discontinuous operation of the entire hydrogen storage system. When upstream hydrogen supply and downstream hydrogen consumption overlap or rapidly alternate in time, traditional systems cannot achieve instantaneous and continuous hydrogen flow matching. They must wait for the current charging or discharging operation to be completely completed before switching to the other mode, causing a delay in supply and demand response and making it difficult to adapt to the intermittent nature of hydrogen production from fluctuating renewable energy sources (such as wind and solar power) or the dynamic changes in downstream loads. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention provides a solid-state hydrogen storage system and its operating method that is charged and discharged at both ends. By setting up at least two independent solid-state hydrogen storage devices, and cooperating with independently controllable hydrogen charging and discharging pipelines and a coordinated thermal management module, multiple devices can perform hydrogen charging and discharging operations separately and simultaneously. Through intelligent switching, a continuous and uninterrupted "hydrogen buffer" function is achieved, thereby solving the core problem that traditional hydrogen storage systems cannot simultaneously respond to fluctuating hydrogen supply and dynamic hydrogen demand.

[0006] The first aspect of the present invention discloses a solid hydrogen storage system with both ends filled and discharged, comprising at least two independent solid hydrogen storage units, each solid hydrogen storage unit being filled with solid hydrogen storage material; it also includes an upstream hydrogen supply pipeline connected to a hydrogen source, and a downstream hydrogen consumption pipeline connected to a hydrogen consumption device; each solid hydrogen storage unit is independently connected to the upstream hydrogen supply pipeline through a first valve group, and independently connected to the downstream hydrogen consumption pipeline through a second valve group. It also includes a thermal management subsystem, which includes a thermal loop and a cold loop. Each solid hydrogen storage unit is selectively connected to either the thermal loop or the cold loop via a third valve group. It also includes a control system, configured as follows: Control the first valve group, the second valve group and the third valve group so that when there is a hydrogen supply demand in the upstream hydrogen supply pipeline and a hydrogen demand in the downstream hydrogen consumption pipeline, the first solid hydrogen storage unit is configured to hydrogen charging mode and the second solid hydrogen storage unit is configured to hydrogen discharging mode. The solid hydrogen storage unit in hydrogen charging mode is connected to the upstream hydrogen supply pipeline and the cold circulation loop to carry out hydrogen absorption reaction; The solid-state hydrogen storage unit in hydrogen release mode is connected to the downstream hydrogen pipeline and the thermal circulation loop to carry out the hydrogen release reaction.

[0007] Furthermore, the solid hydrogen storage unit includes at least a hydrogen storage device A (6) and a hydrogen storage device B (7); the first valve group includes a valve a (10) for controlling the entry of hydrogen into the hydrogen storage device A (6) and a valve d (13) for controlling the entry of hydrogen into the hydrogen storage device B (7).

[0008] Furthermore, the second valve assembly includes: valve b (11) for controlling the flow of hydrogen from hydrogen storage device A (6), and valve e (14) for controlling the flow of hydrogen from hydrogen storage device B (7).

[0009] Furthermore, the second valve group also includes vent valves (12, 15) connected to the outlet lines of hydrogen storage device A (6) and / or hydrogen storage device B (7) for directing hydrogen to the vent line during venting operation.

[0010] Furthermore, the third valve assembly, for any solid-state hydrogen storage unit, includes: Thermal cycle control valves (19, 22; 20, 21) are used to control the flow of media between the thermal cycle loop (8) and the solid hydrogen storage unit; Cold cycle control valves (23, 24; 25, 26) are used to control the flow of media between the cold cycle loop (9) and the solid hydrogen storage unit; The control system switches the solid hydrogen storage unit between hydrogen charging and hydrogen discharging modes by switching the hot cycle control valve and the cold cycle control valve.

[0011] Furthermore, the solid hydrogen storage material is a hydrogen storage alloy, preferably of type AB, type AB2, type AB5, or magnesium-based hydrogen storage alloy.

[0012] Furthermore, it also includes an venting and vacuuming subsystem; the venting and vacuuming subsystem includes an emergency venting line, a venting line, a vacuum pump (5) and corresponding control valves (16, 17, 18); the emergency venting line is connected to the outlet line of the solid hydrogen storage unit, and the venting line is connected to the outlet line of the solid hydrogen storage unit through the vacuum pump (5).

[0013] Furthermore, the control system is a PLC control system, which is used to control the opening and closing status of the first valve group, the second valve group, and the third valve group in real time according to the upstream hydrogen supply pressure, flow rate, and downstream hydrogen demand.

[0014] Furthermore, the hot circulation loop (8) and the cold circulation loop (9) each have independent circulation media and temperature control units.

[0015] A second aspect of the present invention discloses a method for operating a solid-state hydrogen storage system with both ends charged and discharged, comprising the following steps: S1: Determine system operating conditions; If there is only upstream hydrogen supply demand, then enter the hydrogen-only charging mode (Q1). If there is only downstream demand for hydrogen, then the hydrogen release mode will be entered (Q2). If upstream hydrogen supply demand and downstream hydrogen consumption demand exist simultaneously, then the simultaneous charging and discharging mode will be entered (Q3). S2: In simultaneous charge / discharge mode (Q3), perform the following steps: S21: By operating the valve through the control system, the first solid hydrogen storage unit is configured to hydrogen charging mode, connecting it to the upstream hydrogen supply pipeline and the cold circulation loop; S22: By operating the valve through the control system, the second solid hydrogen storage unit is configured to hydrogen release mode, connecting it to the downstream hydrogen pipeline and the thermal circulation loop; S23: Real-time monitoring of the hydrogen storage status of each solid-state hydrogen storage unit; S24: When the hydrogen storage capacity of the first solid hydrogen storage unit reaches the preset upper limit, and / or the hydrogen storage capacity of the second solid hydrogen storage unit is lower than the preset lower limit, the valve state is switched by the control system to switch the mode of the first solid hydrogen storage unit to the hydrogen release mode, and at the same time switch the mode of the second solid hydrogen storage unit to the hydrogen filling mode, so as to achieve uninterrupted hydrogen buffering and supply.

[0016] Compared with existing technologies, one or more of the above technical solutions have the following beneficial effects: 1. Each hydrogen storage unit in the system can dynamically act as a "hydrogen storage tank" or "hydrogen supply source" according to demand, eliminating the need for single-function buffer tanks or backup systems. Modular combination and intelligent scheduling can meet complex operating conditions. The hydrogen storage capacity and power regulation capability can be linearly expanded by increasing the number of solid-state hydrogen storage units, adapting to application scenarios of different scales. Simultaneously, the system has the capability to act as a "hydrogen buffer pool." By receiving input from upstream hydrogen sources (such as hydrogen production from fluctuating renewable energy sources) and simultaneously providing stable hydrogen output to downstream users (such as fuel cells) on demand, it effectively addresses scenarios with overlapping or rapid alternation of supply and demand, greatly improving system response speed and operational continuity.

[0017] 2. By providing an efficient cold source (heat removal) for units in hydrogen charging mode and a stable heat source (heat supply) for units in hydrogen degassing mode, both hydrogen absorption and degassing reactions can proceed efficiently under their respective optimal thermodynamic conditions. This overcomes the thermodynamic limitations of a single hydrogen storage device, avoids heat and cold cancellation through system-level thermal management, improves overall energy utilization efficiency, and reduces overall energy consumption.

[0018] 3. The control system can adjust the operating mode of each hydrogen storage unit in real time according to the dynamic changes in upstream hydrogen supply pressure and flow fluctuations and downstream hydrogen demand, thus smoothing out fluctuations on both the supply and demand sides. This enables the system to effectively integrate fluctuating renewable energy sources and play a crucial role in peak shaving and valley filling and system stabilization in scenarios such as hydrogen refueling stations and microgrids. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this invention, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments of the invention and their descriptions are used to explain the invention and do not constitute an improper limitation of the invention.

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a solid-state hydrogen storage system architecture provided for one or more embodiments of the present invention.

[0021] In the diagram: 1-Hydrogen source, 2-Hydrogen consumption end, 3-Emergency vent, 4-Vent, 5-Vacuum pump, 6-Hydrogen storage device A, 7-Hydrogen storage device B, 8-Thermal circulation system, 9-Cold circulation system, 10-Valve a, 11-Valve b, 12-Valve c, 13-Valve d, 14-Valve e, 15-Valve f, 16-Valve g, 17-Valve h, 18-Valve i, 19-Valve j, 20-Valve k, 21-Valve l, 22-Valve m, 23-Valve n, 24-Valve o, 25-Valve p, 26-Valve q. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0023] It should be noted that the following detailed descriptions are exemplary and intended to provide further illustration of the invention. Unless otherwise specified, all technical and scientific terms used in this invention have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains.

[0024] As described in the background section, in existing hydrogen storage methods, whether high-pressure gaseous, cryogenic liquid, or conventionally designed solid-state hydrogen storage systems, the processes of "hydrogen charging (storage)" and "hydrogen discharging (supply)" are usually mutually exclusive and must be performed sequentially. That is, the system can only perform a single function at any given time: either receiving and storing hydrogen from an upstream hydrogen source (such as an electrolyzer, reformer, or pipeline), or supplying hydrogen to downstream hydrogen-using equipment (such as fuel cells, gas turbines, or chemical equipment).

[0025] In this operating mode, when upstream hydrogen supply and downstream hydrogen consumption overlap or rapidly alternate in time, traditional systems cannot achieve instantaneous and continuous hydrogen flow matching. They must wait until the current hydrogen charging or discharging operation is completely completed before switching to another mode, causing a delay in supply and demand response. This makes it difficult to adapt to the intermittent nature of hydrogen production from fluctuating renewable energy sources (such as wind power and photovoltaics) or the dynamic changes in downstream loads.

[0026] To ensure that hydrogen is still available downstream during hydrogen charging or that hydrogen from upstream can be received during hydrogen release, it is usually necessary to configure additional large buffer tanks or connect multiple independent hydrogen storage systems in parallel, one dedicated to hydrogen charging buffering and another dedicated to hydrogen release supply. This leads to increased equipment investment costs, larger footprint, and low actual utilization rate of each system.

[0027] Furthermore, the hydrogen absorption (storage) process of solid hydrogen storage materials is typically an exothermic reaction, requiring timely heat removal to maintain the reaction rate; while the hydrogen release (release of hydrogen) process is an endothermic reaction, requiring a continuous supply of heat. In the traditional serial operation mode, the system needs to start the cooling and heating systems separately at different times, resulting in frequent equipment start-ups and shutdowns, and the inability to effectively allocate or recover heat between different modes, leading to high overall energy consumption and low thermal management efficiency.

[0028] It is important to note that in complex application scenarios such as smart grids, renewable energy hydrogen production coupling, hydrogen refueling stations, and microgrids with multiple gas sources and multiple users, there is an urgent need for hydrogen storage devices to act like "batteries" or "buffers," dynamically balancing the input and output hydrogen flow in real time to smooth supply and demand fluctuations and achieve "peak shaving and valley filling." Existing technologies have significant shortcomings in this function.

[0029] In solid-state hydrogen storage technology, achieving truly efficient and stable simultaneous hydrogen charging and discharging is extremely difficult at the physical, chemical, and engineering levels for a single solid-state hydrogen storage device (reactor). Taking the most common metal hydride solid-state hydrogen storage as an example, this type of solid-state hydrogen storage is essentially a reversible chemical reaction. Lower temperatures (to remove the heat of reaction) and higher hydrogen pressures are required to initiate hydrogen charging, while discharging hydrogen requires higher temperatures (to provide the heat of reaction) and lower hydrogen pressures. Within the same container, using the same materials, and at the same point in time, it is impossible to maintain both a low-temperature, high-pressure environment (facilitating hydrogen charging) and a high-temperature, low-pressure environment (facilitating hydrogen discharging). Since the system's temperature T and pressure P are unique, the only option is to position the system in a state that is either "partially absorbing hydrogen" or "partially discharging hydrogen."

[0030] Secondly, inside the reactor, hydrogen absorption and release depend on the pressure difference between the material surface and the hydrogen (i.e., the hydrogen partial pressure difference). Hydrogen absorption requires the hydrogen partial pressure at the material surface to be greater than the internal equilibrium pressure, while hydrogen release requires the internal equilibrium pressure to be greater than the hydrogen partial pressure at the material surface. If high-pressure hydrogen is introduced from one end of the same reaction chamber (attempting to fill with hydrogen) while hydrogen is simultaneously extracted from the other end (attempting to release hydrogen), a complex and non-uniform pressure field will quickly form within the chamber. This will result in the material near the inlet possibly meeting the conditions for hydrogen absorption, while the material near the outlet may meet the conditions for hydrogen release, leaving the middle region in an awkward "stagnation zone" where neither absorption nor release occurs. The result is not efficient simultaneous operation, but rather that a portion of the intake gas escapes directly from the outlet without being effectively stored; simultaneously, the chaotic internal pressure management leads to a significant deterioration in the reaction kinetics of both hydrogen absorption and release, resulting in extremely low efficiency.

[0031] Therefore, this solution provides a solid-state hydrogen storage system and its operating method with two-way charging and discharging. It distributes conflicting functions to two or more independent hydrogen storage devices (A and B), allowing one or more devices to operate in a pure hydrogen charging mode ("low temperature, connected to a cold source"), while the other devices operate in a pure hydrogen discharging mode ("high temperature, low pressure, connected to a heat source"). Each device operates within its own optimal, singular, and stable thermodynamic environment. The two parts of the system are integrated into one system through valves and a control system. From a macroscopic perspective of the upstream hydrogen source and the downstream hydrogen consumption end, the system can simultaneously charge and discharge hydrogen, achieving system-level "simultaneous charging and discharging." When the device responsible for charging is full and the device responsible for discharging is empty, their roles are switched via valves, thus achieving continuous operation.

[0032] A solid hydrogen storage system with both ends filled and discharged includes at least two independent solid hydrogen storage units, each of which is filled with solid hydrogen storage material; it also includes an upstream hydrogen supply pipeline connected to a hydrogen source, and a downstream hydrogen consumption pipeline connected to a hydrogen consumption device. Each solid hydrogen storage unit is independently connected to the upstream hydrogen supply pipeline via the first valve group and independently connected to the downstream hydrogen consumption pipeline via the second valve group. The system also includes a thermal management subsystem, which includes a thermal loop and a cold loop. Each solid hydrogen storage unit is selectively connected to either the thermal loop or the cold loop via a third valve group. The system also includes a control system, configured as follows: Control the first valve group, the second valve group and the third valve group so that when there is a hydrogen supply demand in the upstream hydrogen supply pipeline and a hydrogen demand in the downstream hydrogen consumption pipeline, the first solid hydrogen storage unit is configured to hydrogen charging mode and the second solid hydrogen storage unit is configured to hydrogen discharging mode. The solid hydrogen storage unit in hydrogen charging mode is connected to the upstream hydrogen supply pipeline and the cold circulation loop to carry out hydrogen absorption reaction; The solid-state hydrogen storage unit in hydrogen release mode is connected to the downstream hydrogen pipeline and the thermal circulation loop to carry out the hydrogen release reaction.

[0033] The first valve group is used to control the channels through which hydrogen gas enters each solid-state hydrogen storage device from hydrogen source 1. Figure 1 Valve a10 and valve d13 are used in the system. Valve a10 controls the entry of hydrogen into the inlet of hydrogen storage device A7, and valve d13 controls the entry of hydrogen into the inlet of hydrogen storage device B7.

[0034] The second valve group controls the flow of hydrogen from each solid hydrogen storage device to the hydrogen consumption end 2. Figure 1 Valve b11 and valve e14 are used in the system. Valve b11 controls the outlet of hydrogen from hydrogen storage device A6, and valve e14 controls the outlet of hydrogen from hydrogen storage device B7.

[0035] The associated vent valves are valve C12 and valve F15. Valve C12 and valve F15 are connected to the outlet pipelines of the two solid hydrogen storage devices, respectively, and are used to direct hydrogen to the emergency / vent pipeline. They belong to the safety and maintenance function loop and are closed during normal operation (filling / discharging hydrogen). Therefore, they are not included in the "valve group" that defines the core functions, but they are a necessary component of the system.

[0036] The third valve group is selectively connected to the hot or cold cycle loop to distribute the thermal management medium (hot or cold cycle) to each hydrogen storage unit. During cold circulation, corresponding Figure 1 Valve n23 and valve o24 are connected to the cold circulation loop 9. Valve n23 controls the cold medium to enter the hydrogen storage device A, and valve o24 controls the cold medium to flow out of the hydrogen storage device A.

[0037] During thermal cycling, corresponding Figure 1Valve j19 and valve m22 are connected to the heat circulation loop 8. Valve j19 controls the heat medium to enter the hydrogen storage device A, and valve m22 controls the heat medium to flow out of the hydrogen storage device A.

[0038] It should be noted that this example uses hydrogen storage device A; the same principle applies to hydrogen storage device B.

[0039] like Figure 1 As shown, a solid hydrogen storage system with two-end filling and discharging includes a hydrogen source 1, a hydrogen consumption end 2, an emergency vent 3, a vent 4, a vacuum pump 5, a hydrogen storage device A6, a hydrogen storage device B7, a thermal circulation system 8, a cold circulation system 9, and valves (10-26) for each component.

[0040] Hydrogen source 1 is the upstream hydrogen supply end and is the source of hydrogen for the hydrogen storage device.

[0041] Hydrogen terminal 2 is used for downstream hydrogen-consuming equipment, such as fuel cells, hydrogen gas turbines, and industrial and commercial hydrogen-consuming equipment for chemical applications.

[0042] Emergency vent 3 and vent 4, along with vacuum pump 5, are used to release residual hydrogen inside the hydrogen storage device in emergency situations and when the equipment is shut down or under maintenance.

[0043] Hydrogen storage device A6 and hydrogen storage device B7 are the main equipment of the hydrogen storage system, which realize the absorption and release of hydrogen through the internal hydrogen storage alloy.

[0044] The thermal circulation system 8 is the working system for the thermal circulation medium of the hydrogen storage system. It can provide a heat source for the hydrogen storage and loading / unloading process, so that the device can maintain a stable operating temperature.

[0045] The cold circulation system 9 is the working system for the cold circulation medium of the hydrogen storage system. It can provide a cold source for the hydrogen charging process of the hydrogen storage device, so that the hydrogen absorption reaction of the hydrogen storage alloy can proceed stably.

[0046] The valves A10-26 in each stage are controlled by a PLC control system to control the opening and closing of each node in real time according to the upstream and downstream working conditions and equipment status, so as to maintain stable operation of the equipment.

[0047] Preferably, hydrogen storage alloys are used as hydrogen absorption materials, including hydrogen storage alloy materials such as AB, AB2, AB5, and magnesium-based alloys.

[0048] In this embodiment, for ease of understanding, valves (10-26) are respectively associated with valve (aq), and this correspondence is used as an example. Figure 1 Introduce the system architecture.

[0049] The outlet of hydrogen source 1 is connected to the inlet of hydrogen storage device A6 and hydrogen storage device B7 via pipelines. The pipeline connecting hydrogen storage device A6 and hydrogen source 1 is equipped with valve a10, and the pipeline connecting hydrogen storage device B7 and hydrogen source 1 is equipped with valve d13.

[0050] The outlets of hydrogen storage devices A6 and B7 are connected to hydrogen consumption terminal 2 via corresponding pipes. In this embodiment, the outlet pipe of hydrogen storage device A6 is equipped with valves b11 and c12 connected in parallel. The outlet of valve b11 is connected to hydrogen consumption terminal 2; the outlet of valve c12 is connected to valve g16 and valve h17 via pipes respectively.

[0051] The outlet pipe of the hydrogen storage device B7 is equipped with valves e14 and f15 connected in parallel. The outlet of valve e14 is connected to the hydrogen consumption end 2; the outlet of valve f15 is connected to valve g16 and valve h17 respectively through pipes.

[0052] The outlet of valve g16 is connected to emergency vent 3 via a pipeline. The outlet of valve h17 is connected to vacuum pump 5 and valve i18 in sequence, and then connected to vent 4 via a pipeline.

[0053] The system also includes a hot circulation loop and a cold circulation loop.

[0054] The thermal circulation loop includes a thermal circulation system 8. The outlet pipe of the thermal circulation system 8 is connected to the first medium interface of the hydrogen storage device A6 through valve j19, and the outlet pipe of the thermal circulation system 8 is connected to the first medium interface of the hydrogen storage device B7 through valve k20. The inlet pipe of the thermal circulation system 8 is connected to the second medium interface of the hydrogen storage device A6 through valve m22, and the inlet pipe of the thermal circulation system 8 is connected to the second medium interface of the hydrogen storage device B7 through valve l21.

[0055] The cold circulation loop includes a cold circulation system 9. The outlet pipe of the cold circulation system 9 is connected to the second medium interface of the hydrogen storage device A6 through valve n23, and the outlet pipe of the cold circulation system 9 is connected to the second medium interface of the hydrogen storage device B7 through valve p25. The inlet pipe of the cold circulation system 9 is connected to the first medium interface of the hydrogen storage device A6 through valve o24, and the inlet pipe of the cold circulation system 9 is connected to the first medium interface of the hydrogen storage device B7 through valve q26.

[0056] During operation, the system includes at least the following types of working conditions: Q1: Hydrogen is supplied only from upstream, and the hydrogen storage system only stores hydrogen gas; Q2: Hydrogen is only used downstream, and the hydrogen storage system at full capacity is only used to supply hydrogen. Q3: When upstream hydrogen supply and downstream hydrogen consumption occur simultaneously, the hydrogen storage device performs hydrogen absorption and hydrogen release operations respectively. Q4: Drainage operation.

[0057] Q1: Hydrogen is supplied only from upstream, and the hydrogen storage system only stores hydrogen gas.

[0058] When upstream hydrogen source 1 supplies hydrogen, valve a10 is opened, and hydrogen enters hydrogen storage device A6, where it undergoes a hydrogen absorption reaction with the hydrogen storage alloy.

[0059] At the same time, the cold circulation system 9, valves o24 and n23 are opened, so that the cold circulation medium enters the hydrogen storage device A6 and absorbs the heat released during the hydrogen absorption reaction of the hydrogen storage alloy, maintaining the overall temperature of the hydrogen storage device and ensuring that the hydrogen absorption reaction can continue.

[0060] When the hydrogen absorption rate of a single hydrogen storage device A6 decreases or the hydrogen supply is too large, valve d13 opens, allowing hydrogen to simultaneously enter hydrogen storage device B7 for absorption, thus absorbing excess hydrogen.

[0061] Simultaneously open valves q26 and p25 to allow the cold circulation medium to enter the hydrogen storage device synchronously, ensuring the smooth progress of the hydrogen absorption reaction.

[0062] When all hydrogen storage devices reach their maximum hydrogen storage capacity, close all valves and stop upstream hydrogen supply.

[0063] Q2: Hydrogen is only used downstream, and the hydrogen storage system is fully utilized to supply hydrogen.

[0064] When downstream users have a demand for hydrogen, valve b11 opens, allowing the hydrogen in hydrogen storage device A6 to be released to the user.

[0065] Simultaneously, the thermal circulation system 8 is opened, and valves j19 and m22 are opened, allowing the thermal circulation medium to enter the hydrogen storage device A to provide heat for the hydrogen release reaction of the hydrogen storage alloy, enabling the hydrogen storage system to stably deliver hydrogen to the downstream hydrogen-using end.

[0066] When the hydrogen storage capacity of a single hydrogen storage device A6 is insufficient or the hydrogen release capacity does not meet the downstream hydrogen demand, the outlet valve e14 of the hydrogen storage device B7 can be opened to release hydrogen simultaneously.

[0067] Valve K20 and valve L21 are opened to allow the hot circulating medium to flow through the hydrogen storage device B7, ensuring the smooth progress of the hydrogen release reaction and meeting the downstream hydrogen demand.

[0068] When the hydrogen storage capacity in all hydrogen storage units meets the downstream hydrogen demand, close all valves and stop the hydrogen supply from the hydrogen storage units.

[0069] Q3: When upstream hydrogen supply and downstream hydrogen consumption occur simultaneously, the hydrogen storage device performs hydrogen absorption and hydrogen release operations respectively.

[0070] Scenario a: For upstream hydrogen supply, hydrogen storage device A6 is used for hydrogen storage. Valve a10 is opened to allow hydrogen to enter the hydrogen storage device, and valves o24 and n23 are opened to allow the cold circulation medium to absorb the heat released by the alloy hydrogen absorption.

[0071] Scenario b: For downstream hydrogen use, hydrogen storage device B7 is used to release hydrogen. Valve e14 is opened to allow the hydrogen storage device to release hydrogen to supply hydrogen to the downstream. Valve k20 and valve l21 are also opened to allow the heat circulation medium to provide heat for the alloy to release hydrogen.

[0072] Scenario c: When the hydrogen storage capacity of hydrogen storage device A6 reaches its maximum value and the remaining hydrogen capacity of hydrogen storage device B7 is insufficient, mode switching can be performed: 1) Adjust the hydrogen storage device A6 to hydrogen release mode by closing valves a10, o24, and n23, and opening valves b11, a10, and m22 to complete the mode switch.

[0073] 2) Adjust the hydrogen storage device B7 to hydrogen absorption mode by closing valves e14, k20, and l21, and opening valves d13, q26, and p25 to complete the mode switch.

[0074] By switching between the modes of hydrogen storage devices A and B, a dynamic connection between upstream hydrogen supply and downstream hydrogen consumption can be achieved. At the same time, the hydrogen storage devices play a role in buffering hydrogen and smoothing fluctuations, making the hydrogen energy usage route more stable.

[0075] Q4: Drainage Operation Condition Situation a: When the hydrogen storage device experiences an overpressure condition, the emergency venting procedure is initiated, valves b11 and e14 are closed, and valves c12 and g16 are opened to allow hydrogen to be vented through emergency venting port 3.

[0076] Scenario b: When the hydrogen storage device needs to be vented, close valves b11 and e14, and open valves c12, f15, and g16 to allow the hydrogen to be vented first through emergency venting, reducing the pressure of the hydrogen storage device to within the allowable range of the vacuum pump. Then close valve g16, open valves h17 and i18, and start vacuum pump 5 to perform a vacuuming operation, allowing the hydrogen to be vented through vent port 4. When the internal pressure of the hydrogen storage device reaches the required level, close valves c12, f15, h17, i18, and vacuum pump 8 to complete the venting operation.

[0077] Each hydrogen storage unit in the system can dynamically act as a "hydrogen storage tank" or "hydrogen supply source" according to demand, eliminating the need for single-function buffer tanks or backup systems. Modular combination and intelligent scheduling can meet complex operating conditions. The hydrogen storage capacity and power regulation capability can be linearly expanded by increasing the number of solid-state hydrogen storage units, adapting to application scenarios of different scales. Simultaneously, the system serves as a "hydrogen buffer." By receiving input from upstream hydrogen sources (such as hydrogen production from fluctuating renewable energy sources) and simultaneously providing stable hydrogen output to downstream users (such as fuel cells) on demand, it effectively addresses scenarios with overlapping or rapidly alternating supply and demand times, greatly improving system response speed and operational continuity.

[0078] By providing an efficient cold source (heat removal) for units in hydrogen charging mode and a stable heat source (heat supply) for units in hydrogen degassing mode, both hydrogen absorption and degassing reactions can proceed efficiently under their respective optimal thermodynamic conditions. This overcomes the thermodynamic limitations of a single hydrogen storage device, avoids heat and cold cancellation through system-level thermal management, improves overall energy utilization efficiency, and reduces overall energy consumption.

[0079] The control system can adjust the operating mode of each hydrogen storage unit in real time according to the dynamic changes in upstream hydrogen supply pressure and flow fluctuations and downstream hydrogen demand, thus smoothing out fluctuations on both the supply and demand sides. This enables the system to effectively integrate fluctuating renewable energy sources and play a crucial role in peak shaving and valley filling and system stabilization in scenarios such as hydrogen refueling stations and microgrids.

[0080] The system utilizes emergency venting and controlled venting (including vacuuming) pipelines to provide a safe and reliable hydrogen emission path for system overpressure, emergency shutdown, or routine maintenance, thereby improving the system's inherent safety and maintainability. The modular design also facilitates the isolation and maintenance of individual units without affecting the operation of other parts of the system (in the presence of redundant units).

[0081] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A solid-state hydrogen storage system with both ends filled and discharged, characterized in that, It includes at least two independent solid hydrogen storage units, each of which is filled with solid hydrogen storage material; each solid hydrogen storage unit is connected to the upstream hydrogen supply pipeline through a first valve group and to the downstream hydrogen consumption pipeline through a second valve group. It also includes a thermal management subsystem, which includes a thermal loop and a cold loop. Each solid hydrogen storage unit is selectively connected to either the thermal loop or the cold loop via a third valve group. The hot circulation loop (8) and the cold circulation loop (9) each have independent circulation medium and temperature control unit; It also includes a control system, configured as follows: Control the first valve group, the second valve group and the third valve group so that when there is a hydrogen supply demand in the upstream hydrogen supply pipeline and a hydrogen demand in the downstream hydrogen consumption pipeline, the first solid hydrogen storage unit is configured to hydrogen charging mode and the second solid hydrogen storage unit is configured to hydrogen discharging mode. The solid hydrogen storage unit in hydrogen charging mode is connected to the upstream hydrogen supply pipeline and the cold circulation loop to carry out hydrogen absorption reaction; The solid hydrogen storage unit in hydrogen release mode is connected to the downstream hydrogen pipeline and the thermal circulation loop to carry out the hydrogen release reaction. The third valve group, for any solid-state hydrogen storage unit, includes: Thermal cycle control valves (19, 22; 20, 21) are used to control the flow of media between the thermal cycle loop (8) and the solid hydrogen storage unit; Cold cycle control valves (23, 24; 25, 26) are used to control the flow of media between the cold cycle loop (9) and the solid hydrogen storage unit; The control system switches the solid hydrogen storage unit between hydrogen charging and hydrogen discharging modes by switching the hot cycle control valve and the cold cycle control valve.

2. The solid-state hydrogen storage system with both ends filled and discharged as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The solid hydrogen storage unit includes at least a hydrogen storage device A (6) and a hydrogen storage device B (7); the first valve group includes a valve a (10) for controlling the entry of hydrogen into the hydrogen storage device A (6) and a valve d (13) for controlling the entry of hydrogen into the hydrogen storage device B (7).

3. A solid-state hydrogen storage system with both ends filled and discharged as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The second valve group includes: valve b (11) for controlling the flow of hydrogen from hydrogen storage device A (6), and valve e (14) for controlling the flow of hydrogen from hydrogen storage device B (7).

4. A solid-state hydrogen storage system with both ends filled and discharged as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The second valve group also includes vent valves (12, 15) connected to the outlet lines of hydrogen storage device A (6) and / or hydrogen storage device B (7) for directing hydrogen to the vent line during venting operation.

5. A solid-state hydrogen storage system with both ends filled and discharged as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The solid hydrogen storage material is a hydrogen storage alloy.

6. A solid-state hydrogen storage system with both ends filled and discharged as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The solid hydrogen storage material is of type AB, type AB2, type AB5 or magnesium-based hydrogen storage alloy.

7. A solid-state hydrogen storage system with both ends filled and discharged as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a venting and vacuuming subsystem; the venting and vacuuming subsystem includes an emergency venting line, a venting line, a vacuum pump (5) and corresponding control valves (16, 17, 18); the emergency venting line is connected to the outlet line of the solid hydrogen storage unit, and the venting line is connected to the outlet line of the solid hydrogen storage unit through the vacuum pump (5).

8. A solid-state hydrogen storage system with both ends filled and discharged as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The control system is a PLC control system, which is used to control the opening and closing status of the first valve group, the second valve group, and the third valve group in real time according to the upstream hydrogen supply pressure, flow rate, and downstream hydrogen demand.

9. A method for operating a solid-state hydrogen storage system with both ends charged and discharged, implemented based on the solid-state hydrogen storage system according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: If there is only upstream hydrogen supply demand, then it will enter hydrogen-only charging mode; If there is only downstream demand for hydrogen, then it will enter the hydrogen-only release mode; If upstream hydrogen supply demand and downstream hydrogen consumption demand exist simultaneously, then the system will enter a simultaneous charging and discharging mode. In simultaneous charge / discharge mode, perform the following steps: By operating the valves through the control system, the first solid hydrogen storage unit is configured to hydrogen charging mode, connecting it to the upstream hydrogen supply pipeline and the cold circulation loop; By operating the valves through the control system, the second solid hydrogen storage unit is configured to release hydrogen, connecting it to the downstream hydrogen pipeline and the thermal circulation loop. Monitor the hydrogen storage status of each solid-state hydrogen storage unit; when the hydrogen storage capacity of the first solid-state hydrogen storage unit reaches the preset upper limit, and / or the hydrogen storage capacity of the second solid-state hydrogen storage unit is lower than the preset lower limit, switch the valve status through the control system to switch the mode of the first solid-state hydrogen storage unit to hydrogen release mode, and at the same time switch the mode of the second solid-state hydrogen storage unit to hydrogen charging mode, so as to achieve uninterrupted hydrogen buffering and supply.

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