Compressed gas storage container and vehicle

Abstract

A compressed gas storage container (7) for the pressurized storage of a gas (H2), in particular hydrogen, having a wall (9) which encloses a receiving region (10) for receiving the gas (H2); and a pressure relief device (24, 24A, 24B) for discharging the gas (H2) from the receiving region (10), the pressure relief device (24, 24A, 24B) having a pyroelectric sensor fibre (23) which is designed to trigger the pressure relief device (24, 24A, 24B) in order to discharge the gas (H2) from the receiving region (10), and the pressure relief device (24, 24A, 24B) having a distinguishing unit (29, 58) which is designed to distinguish the gas (H2) from the receiving region (10). A fire event acting on the pyroelectric sensor fiber (23) and an impact event acting on the pyroelectric sensor fiber (23) are distinguished in such a way that the pyroelectric sensor fiber (23) only triggers the pressure relief mechanism (24, 24A, 24B) in the event of a fire event.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a compressed gas storage container for pressurized storage of gas and a vehicle having such a compressed gas storage container. Background Technology

[0002] For storage and transportation of hydrogen, it can be stored in a gaseous state in a compressed gas storage container under an overpressure of several hundred bar, or in a liquid state at a condensation temperature. For applications in or at vehicles, especially in or at passenger cars, it is advantageous for space reasons to store hydrogen in a gaseous state in a compressed gas storage container as described above.

[0003] Legal requirements mandate that, in the event of intense heat, such as a vehicle fire, hydrogen must be able to be released from compressed gas storage containers in a controlled manner to reliably prevent the containers from rupturing. For this purpose, industry knowledge dictates the use of pressure release devices (PRDs or Thermally Activated Pressure Release Devices, TPRDs), which are thermally triggered in the event of a fire and release hydrogen in a controlled manner.

[0004] In this context, the law stipulates that this type of pressure relief unit can only be triggered mechanically or via analog circuitry. For safety reasons, triggering via software, such as through the vehicle's control instruments, is not permitted. The pressure relief unit can only be triggered when heat, such as heat from a vehicle fire, is directly introduced into it. Therefore, it is essentially only possible to perform localized thermal or fire detection. This requires improvement. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In this context, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved compressed gas storage container.

[0006] Therefore, a compressed gas storage container for pressurized storage of gases, particularly hydrogen, is proposed. The compressed gas storage container includes a wall that surrounds a receiving area for receiving the gas; and a depressurization mechanism for discharging the gas from the receiving area, wherein the depressurization mechanism has a pyroelectric sensor fiber configured to trigger the depressurization mechanism to discharge the gas from the receiving area, and wherein the depressurization mechanism has a distinguishing unit configured to distinguish between fire events acting on the pyroelectric sensor fiber and impact events acting on the pyroelectric sensor fiber, such that the pyroelectric sensor fiber triggers the depressurization mechanism only in the event of a fire.

[0007] The pressure relief mechanism, triggered by a pyroelectric sensor fiber, can be activated without external power, thus venting gas from the receiving area. This is particularly advantageous in the event of a fire, especially in compliance with legal regulations. Because the pressure relief mechanism has a distinguishing unit, it can be reliably prevented from being triggered by an impact event acting on the wall and thus indirectly on the sensor fiber. This reliably prevents unwanted gas release in the event of an impact.

[0008] The compressed gas storage container may also be referred to as a compressed gas storage tank, a hydrogen compressed gas storage container, a hydrogen compressed gas storage vessel, a hydrogen storage container, or the like. In particular, this compressed gas storage container is suitable for storing and / or transporting hydrogen. However, any other gas may also be stored in this compressed gas storage container. Hereinafter, it is assumed that the gas is hydrogen. Therefore, the terms "gas" and "hydrogen" are used interchangeably.

[0009] The term "compressed gas storage container" as used herein means that gas can be stored in its gaseous, condensed state under pressure within the container. For example, the gas inside the compressed gas storage container may be subjected to a pressure of 800 to 1000 bar. Liquefaction of the gas is not specifically addressed herein. The gas may be introduced or injected into the receiving area in a gaseous state.

[0010] Compressed gas storage containers are preferably part of a vehicle. The vehicle may have multiple such compressed gas storage containers. These containers are suitable for supplying gas at appropriate supply pressures and temperatures to the vehicle's consumers, particularly fuel cells. The compressed gas storage container can be part of the consumer's gas supply system or hydrogen supply system. However, compressed gas storage containers can also be used in stationary applications, such as in building technology. In particular, compressed gas storage containers can be used in building heating systems or in central pyroelectric power plants.

[0011] The wall portion preferably includes a load-bearing covering, which is at least sectionally made of fiber-reinforced plastic. The covering surrounds an optional liner. The liner is disposed inside the covering. Therefore, the covering preferably completely encloses the liner. The liner is preferably airtight. The liner may also be referred to as a lining. The liner may include plastic materials, metal materials, and / or fiber-reinforced plastic.

[0012] The compressed gas storage container, and therefore its walls, are preferably cylindrical. The compressed gas storage container or its walls are associated with an axis of symmetry or a central axis, and can be configured to be rotationally symmetrical about this axis of symmetry or central axis. The walls preferably comprise a hollow cylindrical or tubular base section, which is closed on both sides by cap-shaped or dome-shaped wall end sections. Coverings and linings are provided both in the regions of the base section and in the regions of the wall end sections.

[0013] In this context, the term "enclosed" or "defined" by the wall specifically means that the wall defines the geometry or boundary of the receiving area. Therefore, the gas is received within the receiving area inside the wall. The receiving area is, in particular, a cavity surrounded by the wall. The receiving area particularly has a cylindrical geometry. The receiving area is hermetically isolated from the environment of the compressed gas storage container by means of the wall. The receiving area can be constructed to be rotationally symmetric about a central axis.

[0014] The pressure relief mechanism preferably has a pressure relief unit. The pressure relief unit is a component of the pressure relief mechanism. This specifically means that the pressure relief mechanism may have other components besides the pressure relief unit, such as pyroelectric sensor fibers. The pressure relief unit is in particular a so-called pressure relief device (PRD) or thermally activated pressure relief device (TPRD). The pressure relief unit preferably includes a valve and a pyrotechnic loading section for triggering or opening the valve.

[0015] The pressure relief mechanism is configured to "drain" gas from the receiving area. In particular, this means that, with the aid of the pressure relief mechanism, especially with the aid of the pressure relief unit, gas can be completely drained from the receiving area within a very short time period, such as milliseconds to seconds. This reliably avoids undesirable pressure rises inside the compressed gas storage container during a fire, which could lead to an explosion of the compressed gas storage container.

[0016] By using pyroelectric sensor fibers, fire detection can be at least partially spatially decoupled from the pressure relief mechanism or unit. Pyroelectric sensor fibers are used herein, in particular, as both a sensor and a power source. The entire outer side of a wall can be completely monitored using pyroelectric sensor fibers. For this purpose, pyroelectric sensor fibers are arranged on the outer side or embedded in the covering portion of the wall.

[0017] The pressure relief unit, together with the pyroelectric sensor fiber, forms the pressure relief mechanism. However, this does not preclude the pressure relief mechanism from having other components. The pyroelectric sensor fiber is particularly deformable or bendable, and therefore can be wound into the wall in a helical or spiral shape.

[0018] The pyroelectric sensor fiber comprises a pyroelectric material. The pyroelectric material can be a piezoelectric semiconductor crystal. Temperature changes in the pyroelectric material cause a measurable change in the voltage between the first and second electrodes of the pyroelectric sensor fiber. Therefore, the pyroelectric sensor fiber provides electrical energy. This electrical energy can be used to trigger a pressure relief mechanism. The term "triggered" in this context specifically means that the pyroelectric loading section of the pressure relief unit is ignited, thereby opening the valve of the pressure relief unit to release gas into the environment.

[0019] Since pyroelectric materials are preferably piezoelectric semiconductor crystals, they also possess piezoelectric properties. "Piezoelectricity" should be understood herein as the change in polarization at a solid site when the solid undergoes elastic deformation, thus resulting in a voltage. Therefore, pyroelectric sensor fibers can also be referred to as pyroelectric and piezoelectric sensor fibers.

[0020] This specifically means that deformation of the pyroelectric material, such as deformation caused by impact events as described above acting on the pyroelectric sensor fiber, can also lead to a measurable change in the voltage between the two electrodes of the pyroelectric sensor fiber. For example, this type of impact event during a vehicle accident can act on the pyroelectric sensor fiber. However, the triggering of the pressure relief mechanism during a vehicle accident must be ruled out. Triggering of the pressure relief mechanism should only be caused by a fire event.

[0021] Therefore, the distinguishing unit can differentiate between whether an impact event or a fire event is acting on the sensor fiber. This differentiation occurs in such a way that the distinguishing unit only triggers the pressure relief mechanism in the event of a fire event. In the case of an impact event, the pressure relief mechanism is not triggered. The distinguishing unit is preferably an analog circuit.

[0022] In this document, "fire event" should be understood as a fire or ignition acting on a compressed gas storage container, particularly on its walls, thereby introducing heat into the walls and consequently into the pyroelectric sensor fibers. Heat can be introduced into the walls and pyroelectric sensor fibers, especially by infrared radiation. In other words, a fire event should be understood as a fire or ignition acting on the pyroelectric sensor fibers. Therefore, the terms "fire event" and "fire" are used interchangeably in this document. That is, the terms "fire event" and "fire" can be used as synonyms.

[0023] In this context, "impact event" should be understood as an impact—for example, an impact caused by a vehicle accident—that acts on the wall and thus also on the pyroelectric sensor fibers, without heat being introduced into the wall and pyroelectric sensor fibers. Therefore, the terms "impact event" and "impact" are used interchangeably herein. That is, the terms "impact event" and "impact" can be used synonymously. In particular, "impact event" should be understood as a brief force pulse acting on a compressed gas storage container. However, this does not preclude the possibility that this type of impact event may include multiple consecutive impacts.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the differentiation unit is configured to differentiate between fire events and impact events based on sensor signals generated by pyroelectric sensor fibers.

[0025] Depending on whether the pyroelectric sensor fiber is subjected to a fire or an impact event, a typical sensor signal will be generated for either the fire event or the impact event. The sensor signal is, in particular, a voltage curve, and therefore may also be referred to as a voltage curve. In the case of a fire event, the sensor signal may be called a fire signal or fire alarm signal, for example. In the case of an impact event, the sensor signal may also be called an impact signal.

[0026] According to other embodiments, the distinguishing unit is configured to distinguish between fire events and impact events by taking into account the polarization of the sensor signal, i.e., no polarization change occurs in fire events, but a polarization change occurs in impact events.

[0027] The "change" in polarization should be understood as a reversal of polarization. This specifically means that in a fire event, the corresponding sensor signal does not cross zero, while in an impact event, the sensor signal has at least one zero-crossing.

[0028] According to other embodiments, the distinguishing unit is configured to distinguish between fire events and impact events by taking into account the time history (Zeitverlauf) of the sensor signals, i.e., the time history is longer in fire events than in impact events.

[0029] For example, in an impact event, the sensor signal has a brief peak or voltage spike, reaching its peak again after a fraction of a second, such as 0.1 to 0.3 seconds. In a fire event, the sensor signal initially rises and then remains essentially constant on the platform.

[0030] According to other embodiments, the depressurization mechanism includes a depressurization unit having a valve for discharging gas from the receiving area and a pyrotechnic loading section, wherein the separating unit is configured to ignite the pyrotechnic loading section to open the valve.

[0031] The valve is preferably closed in its initial state. Ignition of the pyrotechnic loading section changes the valve from closed to open. The valve is preferably an on-off valve; that is, the valve is either completely closed or completely open. The pyrotechnic loading section can be ignited via a glow bridge, which can be powered by a pyroelectric sensor fiber. The glow bridge begins to heat up, thereby igniting the pyrotechnic loading section. This opens the valve, releasing gas into the environment. Ignition of the pyrotechnic loading section can move valve components, such as the valve body or valve stem, to open the valve.

[0032] According to other embodiments, the pyroelectric sensor fiber has a first electrode, a second electrode, and a pyroelectric material disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0033] For example, the first electrode comprises a conductive material, such as a metal, a plastic filled with conductive particles, a carbon-based fiber, or the like. This can be applied to the second electrode accordingly. A pyroelectric material can be applied to the first electrode, which is then coated with another conductive material that forms the second electrode. The cross-section of the pyroelectric sensor fiber can have various arbitrary geometries. For example, the pyroelectric sensor fiber has a linear first electrode and a tubular second electrode. Here, the first electrode can be arranged inside the second electrode. A pyroelectric material is arranged between the first and second electrodes, with the first electrode embedded in the pyroelectric material such that the first and second electrodes do not contact each other. The pyroelectric material can also be referred to as a sensor material. The electrodes can also be plate-shaped or foil-shaped.

[0034] According to other embodiments, pyroelectric sensor fibers are arranged in or on the wall portion, wherein the pyroelectric sensor fibers are particularly embedded in the wall portion at least in sections.

[0035] The pyroelectric sensor fiber can be embedded in the covering portion, particularly the fiber composite plastic of the covering portion, during the winding process of the covering portion of the wall. The degree to which the pyroelectric sensor fiber is covered by the fiber composite plastic can be adjusted through the winding process, thereby adjusting the detection area for fire detection. The pyroelectric sensor fiber can be at least partially covered by the fiber composite plastic. The pyroelectric sensor fiber can also be completely covered by the fiber composite plastic. Thus, the pyroelectric sensor fiber is protected from damage within the fiber composite plastic. Viewed radially from the compressed gas storage container, the pyroelectric sensor fiber can be embedded in the wall to a depth of 1 mm to a maximum of 5 mm.

[0036] According to other embodiments, when viewed along the longitudinal direction of the compressed gas storage container, the pyroelectric sensor fiber is spirally wound around the wall.

[0037] The longitudinal direction extends along the aforementioned central axis. This specifically means that the pyroelectric sensor fibers have a helical or vortex geometry. Multiple vortices or cross vortices are also possible. Furthermore, the pyroelectric sensor fibers can be designed in particular to be helical, multiple vortex, cross vortex, or similar shapes. The pitch of this helical geometry of the pyroelectric sensor fibers can be arbitrarily chosen. For example, the loops of the pyroelectric sensor fibers can be arranged closer together or further apart. This can affect the sensitivity of the pressure relief mechanism. Viewed along the longitudinal direction, the spacing or loop distance of the pyroelectric sensor fibers is preferably a maximum of 100 mm. Particularly preferably, the aforementioned loop distance is a maximum of 50 mm. The compressed gas storage container can have multiple pyroelectric sensor fibers, all of which are collectively associated with the pressure relief mechanism. This specifically means that one pressure relief unit can be associated with multiple pyroelectric sensor fibers. This can improve the sensitivity of the pressure relief mechanism. The multiple pyroelectric sensor fibers can have different lengths. Pyroelectric sensor fibers can be arranged parallel to each other or intersecting each other. They can also be arranged at least partially parallel and partially intersecting each other. In the case where the pyroelectric sensor fibers intersect each other, a mesh-like arrangement of the fibers can be achieved at or within the wall.

[0038] According to other embodiments, the distinguishing unit has a capacitor for storing energy generated by means of pyroelectric sensor fibers.

[0039] Capacitors are specifically connected between the pyroelectric sensor fiber and the pressure relief unit. The capacitor can be a so-called impulse or pulse capacitor. "Pulse capacitor" should be understood herein as a DC voltage capacitor used to receive or release strong, mostly brief but high-energy current impulses. Thus, the pyrotechnic loading section can be ignited by means of the current impulse released by the capacitor.

[0040] According to other embodiments, the distinguishing unit is configured to release the electrical energy stored in the capacitor based on a parameter indicating the charging status of the capacitor, thereby triggering the pressure relief mechanism.

[0041] The parameter indicating the charging status of the capacitor can be a voltage measured at the capacitor or applied at the capacitor. For example, when a predetermined voltage is reached, the capacitor discharges to trigger the pressure relief unit by igniting the pyrotechnic loading section of the pressure relief unit, thereby opening the valve of the pressure relief unit.

[0042] According to other embodiments, the distinguishing unit has a control element and a switching element for acquiring indicative parameters. The switching element can be controlled by the control element according to the indicative parameters to release electrical energy stored in the capacitor to trigger the pressure relief mechanism.

[0043] In particular, the control element is connected to the switching element circuit so that the control element controls the switching element when the indicated parameter reaches a predetermined value, causing the capacitor to discharge and triggering the depressurization unit.

[0044] According to other embodiments, the control element is connected in parallel with the capacitor, wherein the switching element is connected in parallel with the capacitor, and wherein the control element controls the switching element by means of a control output.

[0045] Therefore, the control element is connected to the switching element circuit via a control output terminal. The switching element can be, for example, a relay or a transistor. The control element can be, in particular, a voltmeter. Specifically, the transistor can be an npn-transistor (negative-positive-negative). The transistor has a base, an emitter, and a collector. The control output terminal of the control element is connected to the base circuit.

[0046] According to other embodiments, the distinguishing unit has a first sub-circuit having a pyroelectric sensor fiber; and a second sub-circuit for triggering the pressure relief mechanism, wherein the first sub-circuit and the second sub-circuit are galvanically isolated from each other.

[0047] Galvanic isolation, for example, can prevent "sparks" from jumping from the first sub-circuit to the second sub-circuit when a strong impact is applied to the pyroelectric sensor fiber. Galvanic isolation is preferably achieved by means of a transformer. The transformer operates, in particular, as a flyback converter, also known as a buck-boost converter or inverter. This type of operation is used to transfer electrical energy between the input and output sides of a galvanic-isolated DC voltage.

[0048] According to other embodiments, the pressure relief mechanism is located at the dome-shaped end section of the wall.

[0049] In particular, the pressure relief unit is located at the end section of the domed wall. For example, an inlet nozzle for allowing gas to enter the compressed gas storage container can be installed at the first end section of the wall, while the pressure relief unit is installed at the second end section of the wall. The reverse installation method is also possible. Furthermore, the pressure relief unit can also be integrated into the inlet nozzle. This results in a compact construction.

[0050] Furthermore, a vehicle, particularly a motorized vehicle, is proposed that has at least one compressed gas storage container of this type.

[0051] The vehicle may have multiple compressed gas storage containers of this type. These containers may, for example, be located in an area at the bottom of the vehicle. The vehicle may have a consumer, particularly a fuel cell, which is supplied with gas via the compressed gas storage containers. The vehicle may be, in particular, an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. However, the vehicle may also have an internal combustion engine. The vehicle may also be a commercial vehicle, such as a truck. Furthermore, the vehicle may also be an aircraft, a watercraft, or a rail vehicle. Particularly preferred is a passenger car.

[0052] The implementation methods and features described for the proposed compressed gas storage container are applicable to the proposed vehicle, and vice versa.

[0053] The word "one" in this document is not to be construed as limiting it to exactly one element. Rather, multiple elements may be specified, such as two, three, or more elements. No other numerals used herein should be interpreted as limiting the number of elements to exactly the number mentioned. Rather, upward and downward deviations in quantity are permitted unless otherwise stated.

[0054] Other possible embodiments of the compressed gas storage container and / or vehicle also include combinations of features or implementations not explicitly mentioned above or below in connection with the embodiments. Those skilled in the art will also add various aspects as improvements or supplements to the corresponding basic forms of the compressed gas storage container and / or vehicle. Attached Figure Description

[0055] Other advantageous designs and aspects of compressed gas storage containers and / or vehicles are the subject of the embodiments described below and the dependent claims. Furthermore, the compressed gas storage containers and / or vehicles will be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments.

[0056] Figure 1 A schematic side view of an embodiment of the vehicle is shown;

[0057] Figure 2 It shows that according to Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a compressed gas storage container for a vehicle;

[0058] Figure 3 The basis of the compressed gas storage container is shown. Figure 2 Other schematic cross-sectional views of section line III-III;

[0059] Figure 4 It shows that according to Figure 2 Detailed image IV;

[0060] Figure 5 It shows that according to Figure 2 A schematic side view of a compressed gas storage container;

[0061] Figure 6 It shows the method for using according to Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a pyroelectric sensor fiber for a compressed gas storage container;

[0062] Figure 7 It shows the method for using according to Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the depressurization mechanism for a compressed gas storage container;

[0063] Figure 8 It shows that according to Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the voltage-time graph of the sensor fiber;

[0064] Figure 9 It shows that according to Figure 7 Other schematic diagrams of the pressure relief mechanism;

[0065] Figure 10 It shows that according to Figure 8 Other schematic diagrams of the voltage-time graph; and

[0066] Figure 11 It shows the method for using according to Figure 2 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the depressurization mechanism of the compressed gas storage container.

[0067] In the accompanying drawings, unless otherwise specified, the same or functionally equivalent elements are given the same reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0068] Figure 1 A schematic side view of one embodiment of a vehicle 1 is shown. Vehicle 1 is a motorized vehicle, particularly an electric or hybrid vehicle. However, vehicle 1 may also be driven by an internal combustion engine. Vehicle 1 may also be a commercial vehicle, such as a truck, harvester, or construction machinery. Furthermore, vehicle 1 may also be a military vehicle. Additionally, vehicle 1 may be an aircraft, a watercraft, or a rail vehicle. However, it is assumed below that vehicle 1 is a motorized vehicle, particularly a passenger car.

[0069] The vehicle 1 includes a main body 2 that surrounds the passenger compartment or interior space 3 of the vehicle 1. The driver and passengers can reside in the interior space 3. The main body 2 separates the environment 4 of the vehicle 1 from the interior space 3. Access to the interior space 3 from the environment 4 is possible via a door.

[0070] The vehicle 1 includes a running gear with multiple wheels 5 and 6. The number of wheels 5 and 6 is arbitrary in principle. Preferably, the vehicle 1 has four wheels 5 and 6. However, the vehicle 1 may also have, for example, six wheels 5 and 6. The wheels 5 and 6 are part of the running gear of the vehicle 1. Only two wheels 5 and 6 may be driven. However, all wheels 5 and 6 may also be driven. In this case, the vehicle 1 is an all-wheel drive vehicle.

[0071] The vehicle 1 includes a compressed gas storage container 7 for pressurized storage of gases, particularly hydrogen. The compressed gas storage container 7 is preferably located in or at the bottom of the vehicle 1 or in a region of its bottom structure. The compressed gas storage container 7 may be arranged externally to the main body 2. The vehicle 1 may have multiple compressed gas storage containers 7.

[0072] In principle, the compressed gas storage container 7 is not only suitable for use at the vehicle 1, but can also be used in any other application. For example, the compressed gas storage container 7 can also be used in stationary applications, especially in building technology or for emergency power supply. Furthermore, the compressed gas storage container 7 can be used in building heating or in central pyroelectric power plants. However, in the following description, it is assumed that the compressed gas storage container 7 is used for mobile applications, i.e., applications within or at the vehicle 1.

[0073] Gas stored in compressed gas storage container 7 can be supplied to the verbraucher 8 of vehicle 1 at a suitable supply pressure and temperature using compressed gas storage container 7. Verbraucher 8 is preferably a fuel cell. "Fuel cell" is to be understood herein as a galvanic cell that converts the chemical reaction energy of a continuously supplied fuel (hydrogen) and oxidant (oxygen) into electrical energy. The obtained electrical energy can be used, for example, to drive an electric motor (not shown), which in turn drives wheels 5, 6, or at least two of wheels 5, 6.

[0074] Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the compressed gas storage container 7 as described above is shown. Figure 3 The compressed gas storage container 7 is shown according to Figure 2 Other schematic cross-sectional views of section line III-III. Figure 4 It shows that according to Figure 2 Detailed image IV. See also the following text. Figures 2 to 4 .

[0075] The compressed gas storage container 7 is suitable for storing a gas in a gaseous state under high pressure, in this document it being hydrogen (H2), and for releasing it again as needed. For example, the compressed gas storage container 7 operates at pressures of several hundred bar, such as 800 to 1000 bar. The compressed gas storage container 7 may also be referred to as a compressed gas storage tank, a hydrogen compressed gas storage container, a hydrogen compressed gas storage vessel, or a hydrogen storage container.

[0076] In principle, the compressed gas storage container 7 is suitable for receiving or storing any gas. However, it is assumed in the following text that the gas is hydrogen (H2). Therefore, the terms "gas" and "hydrogen" are interchangeable. As mentioned above, hydrogen (H2) is stored in the compressed gas storage container 7 in its gaseous, condensed state. Therefore, hydrogen (H2) is single-phase. Therefore, there is preferably no liquid phase inside the compressed gas storage container 7, and thus no phase boundary exists.

[0077] The compressed gas storage container 7 includes a container wall or wall 9 that surrounds a receiving region 10 for receiving hydrogen gas (H2). Gaseous hydrogen gas (H2) is received within the receiving region 10. The receiving region 10 is cylindrical. The geometry or spatial span of the receiving region 10 is defined or delimited by the wall 9. The receiving region 10 is a cavity completely surrounded by the wall 9. The wall 9 (as will be further explained below) is multi-layered or multi-tiered. That is, different materials are used to form the wall 9 in a layered structure.

[0078] The compressed gas storage container 7 is associated with a coordinate system having a length direction (x), a lateral direction (y), and a vertical direction (z). The x, y, and z directions are oriented perpendicularly to each other. The longitudinal direction L of the compressed gas storage container 7 extends along the x direction. That is, the longitudinal direction L and the x direction are the same. The gravitational direction g is opposite to and parallel to the z direction.

[0079] The compressed gas storage container 7 or wall 9 is associated with an axis of symmetry or a central axis 11, and is configured to be substantially rotationally symmetric with respect to the axis of symmetry or central axis 11. "Substantially" rotationally symmetric here encompasses at least a slightly ovate cross-section. The central axis 11 extends parallel to the x-direction x. Correspondingly, the central axis 11 also extends along the longitudinal direction L. The radial direction R of the compressed gas storage container 7 or wall 9 is perpendicular to the central axis 11 and oriented away from the central axis toward the wall 9.

[0080] The wall portion 9 can also be referred to as a container wall, shell, sheath, or wall. The wall portion 9 is configured to be rotationally symmetrical about the central axis 11. In cross-section, the wall portion 9 is therefore preferably circular. However, instead, the cross-section of the wall portion 9 can also be configured to be oval or slightly oval. The wall portion 9 includes a tubular or hollow cylindrical base segment 12, which is configured to be rotationally symmetrical about the central axis 11.

[0081] Correspondingly on the end side, that is, at Figure 2 On the left and right sides of the orientation, a first cover section or first wall end section 13 and a second cover section or second wall end section 14 are provided at the base section 12. The wall end sections 13 and 14 are constructed to be dome-shaped or arch-shaped and are rotationally symmetrical about the central axis 11. The wall end sections 13 and 14 can also be referred to as cover sections. The wall end sections 13 and 14 arch outward relative to the receiving area 10. The base section 12 and the wall end sections 13 and 14 are firmly, and in particular, inseparable from each other. The wall 9 has a columnar geometry.

[0082] The wall portion 9 includes a load-bearing covering portion 15 ( Figure 3 and Figure 4 The covering portion is made of fiber-reinforced plastic or fiber-composite plastic. The covering portion 15 is located on the outside and therefore faces the environment 4. That is, the covering portion 15 is adjacent to the environment 4. The covering portion 15 is "load-bearing," which in particular means herein that the covering portion 15 bears all or at least most of the load acting on the wall portion 9 or the compressed gas storage container 7. The load here can come from the pressurized hydrogen gas (H2) itself and / or from external loads, such as in a traffic accident.

[0083] The covering portion 15 may also be referred to as the outer layer, outer layer, load-bearing layer, outer jacket, or sheath of the wall portion 9. The covering portion 15 itself is preferably constructed of fiber composite plastic in a layered or multi-layered manner. However, this does not preclude the covering portion 15 from having metallic components. The covering portion 15 has an outer side 16 facing the environment 4 and an inner side 17 facing the receiving area 10. Figure 4 ).

[0084] The fiber-reinforced composite plastics described above have a plastic material, particularly a plastic matrix, in which fibers, such as natural fibers, glass fibers, carbon fibers, aramid fibers, or the like, are embedded. The plastic material can be a thermosetting plastic, such as an epoxy resin or a vinyl ester-based resin. However, the plastic material can also be a thermoplastic. The fibers can be continuous fibers.

[0085] The covering portion 15 is preferably a one-piece component, especially a one-piece material component. "One-piece" or "unibody" is to be understood herein as meaning that the covering portion 15 forms a single component and is not assembled from different components or assemblies that can be separated from each other again. "One-piece material" means herein that the covering portion 15 is always made of the same material, i.e., fiber composite plastic. The covering portion 15 is provided both at the base section 12 and at the two wall end sections 13, 14.

[0086] In addition to the covering portion 15, the wall portion 9 also has a liner 18 that lines the covering portion 15. The liner 18 may also be referred to as the inner layer or inner layer level of the wall portion 9. To manufacture the covering portion, the covering portion 15 may be wound onto the liner 18 or onto a mold or mandrel (not shown). The liner 18 is airtight. The covering portion 15 is not required to be airtight. The liner 18 may include fiber composite plastics, various plastic materials, and / or metal raw materials. The liner 18 is a so-called lining or may be referred to as the lining of the compressed gas storage container 7.

[0087] The liner 18 has a tubular or hollow cylindrical geometry. The liner 18 is configured to be rotationally symmetrical about the central axis 11. The liner 18 is located both at the base section 12 and at the end sections 13 and 14 of the wall. The liner 18 itself may have a layered or hierarchical structure. The covering section 15 completely surrounds or completely encloses the liner 18.

[0088] Liner 18 includes outer side 19 facing inner side 17 of covering portion 15. Figure 4 And the inner side 20 facing the receiving area 10. The inner side 20 is in contact with the hydrogen H2 received in the receiving area 10. The inner side 20 may also be referred to as the inner side of the wall 9 or the inner side of the compressed gas storage container 7. The inner side 20 completely surrounds the cylindrical receiving area 10 and thus defines its spatial span.

[0089] The covering portion 15 and the liner portion 18 are connected to each other, particularly bonded, by a material mating manner at the inner side 17 of the covering portion 15 and the outer side 19 of the liner portion 18. In a material mating connection, the mating parts are held together by atomic or molecular forces. The material mating connection is an inseparable connection, which can only be separated again by breaking the connection means and / or the mating parts.

[0090] The compressed gas storage container 7 also has an injection nozzle or an inlet nozzle 21 ( Figure 2 The inlet nozzle 21 is used to inject hydrogen (H2) into or into the receiving area 10. The inlet nozzle 21 is preferably located at the first wall end section 13 of the wall portion 9. Alternatively, the inlet nozzle 21 may also be located at the second wall end section 14. Preferably, the inlet nozzle 21 is guided through both the covering portion 15 and the liner portion 18. The inlet nozzle 21 may be made of a metallic material.

[0091] The inlet nozzle 21 is preferably configured such that it is designed to be rotationally symmetrical with respect to the central axis 11. In particular, the inlet nozzle 21 is arranged centered or in the center with reference to the central axis 11. In contrast, the inlet nozzle 21 can also be arranged eccentrically, that is, in an off-center orientation with respect to the central axis 11. The inlet nozzle 21 is preferably tubular or hollow cylindrical, and in particular has an annular cross-section. However, in contrast, the inlet nozzle 21 can also have various other arbitrary cross-sections.

[0092] The inlet nozzle 21 may have multiple channels, perforations, nozzles, valves, switches, and / or sensors, enabling the filling or filling of gaseous hydrogen H2 into the compressed gas storage container 7. The inlet nozzle 21 may protrude beyond the inner side 20 of the liner 18 in the region of the first wall end section 13 and thus protrude into the receiving area 10. The inlet nozzle 21 is configured to allow hydrogen H2 to enter or be sprayed into the receiving area 10 parallel to the central axis 11, or along the longitudinal direction L, or along the x-direction x.

[0093] Figure 5 A schematic side view of the compressed gas storage container 7 is shown.

[0094] According to legal requirements, in the event of intense heat, such as a fire in a vehicle, hydrogen (H2) must be able to be discharged from the compressed gas storage container 7 in a controlled manner to reliably prevent the compressed gas storage container 7 from rupturing. For this purpose, the compressed gas storage container 7 has at least one pressure release device 22 (PRD or Thermally Activated Pressure Release Device, TPRD) installed at the wall 9.

[0095] Specifically, the pressure relief unit 22 is installed at the end section 14 of the second wall portion, while the inlet nozzle 21 can be installed at the end section 13 of the first wall portion. The reverse installation method is also possible. Furthermore, the pressure relief unit 22 can also be integrated into the inlet nozzle 21.

[0096] The depressurization unit 22 is configured to discharge hydrogen H2 from the compressed gas storage container 7 within a short period of time.

[0097] Therefore, the pressure relief unit 22 may have, for example, a valve and a pyrotechnischenSatz or pyrotechnischenSatz for opening the valve. By law, the pressure relief unit 22 can only be triggered mechanically or by means of analog circuitry. For safety reasons, triggering by means of software, such as via the control instruments of the transport vehicle 1, is not permitted.

[0098] Because the pressure relief unit 22 is located at the end of the wall 9, it can only be triggered when heat Q, particularly in the form of infrared radiation, such as that caused by a vehicle fire, is introduced into the pressure relief unit 22 and / or the end section 14 of the second wall. Therefore, it is essentially only possible to perform localized thermal or fire detection.

[0099] If the compressed gas storage container 7 has a large span along the longitudinal direction L, heat input, such as that caused by a fire, may be detected too late at the end section 13 of the first wall. To prevent this, an additional pressure relief unit 22 can be installed. However, this results in higher installation costs, higher expenses, and worse space utilization. This requires improvement.

[0100] To avoid the aforementioned drawbacks, in the compressed gas storage container 7, fire detection is at least partially spatially decoupled from the depressurization unit 22. For this purpose, the compressed gas storage container 7 has a sensor fiber 23, by which the entire outer side 16 of the wall 9 can be monitored. The sensor fiber 23 is arranged on the outer side 16 or embedded in the covering portion 15. The depressurization unit 22, together with the sensor fiber 23, forms a depressurization mechanism 24. The sensor fiber 23 is deformable or bendable, and therefore can be wound helically or spirally onto the wall 9. Here, the sensor fiber 23 can be embedded in the wall 9, especially in the covering portion 15. Any number of such sensor fibers 23 can be provided.

[0101] Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the sensor fiber 23 as described above is shown.

[0102] The sensor fiber 23 has a linear internal electrode or first electrode 25 and a tubular external electrode or second electrode 26. Here, the first electrode 25 is disposed inside the second electrode 26. However, the electrodes 25 and 26 can also have various other arbitrary geometries. For example, the electrodes 25 and 26 can be foil-shaped or strip-shaped. A pyroelectric material 27 is disposed between the first electrode 25 and the second electrode 26, with the first electrode 25 embedded in the pyroelectric material such that the first electrode 25 and the second electrode 26 do not contact each other. The sensor fiber 23 can be referred to as a pyroelectric sensor fiber. The cross-section of the sensor fiber 23 can be circular or rectangular. The pyroelectric material 27 can be referred to as a sensor material.

[0103] The first electrode 25 of the sensor fiber 23 comprises a conductive material, such as a metal, a plastic filled with conductive particles, a carbon-based fiber, or the like. A pyroelectric material 27 is applied to the first electrode 25, and the pyroelectric material 27 is coated with other conductive materials, which form the second electrode 26.

[0104] The pyroelectric material 27 can be a piezoelectric semiconductor crystal. Temperature changes in the pyroelectric material 27 result in a measurable change in the voltage between the two electrodes 25 and 26. Therefore, the sensor fiber 23 provides electrical energy. This electrical energy can be used to trigger the depressurization unit 22. The depressurization unit 22 being “triggered” herein should be understood in particular as the ignition of the pyrotechnic loading section of the depressurization unit 22, thereby causing the depressurization unit 22 to release hydrogen H2 into the environment 4.

[0105] Since the pyroelectric material 27 is a piezoelectric semiconductor crystal, it also possesses piezoelectric properties. "Piezoelectricity" should be understood in this text as the change in polarization at a solid site when the solid undergoes elastic deformation, thus resulting in a voltage. Therefore, the sensor fiber 23 can also be referred to as a pyroelectric and piezoelectric sensor fiber.

[0106] This specifically means that deformation of the pyroelectric material 27, for example, due to impact on the sensor fiber 23, could also cause a measurable change in the voltage between the two electrodes 25, 26. This type of impact could, for example, act on the sensor fiber 23 during an accident involving the vehicle 1. However, it must be ruled out that the pressure relief unit 22 is triggered during an accident involving the vehicle 1.

[0107] The pressure relief unit 22 should only be triggered by a fire. Therefore, it is necessary to distinguish between whether an impact or a fire is acting on the sensor fiber 23. In the case of a fire, the sensor fiber 23 generates a typical pyroelectric signal for a fire. Correspondingly, in the case of an impact, the sensor fiber 23 generates a typical piezoelectric signal for an impact. In particular, it is necessary to decouple the piezoelectric signal from the pyroelectric signal.

[0108] For example, the piezoelectric signal can be suppressed and / or the pyroelectric signal can be enhanced. This prevents false triggering of the pressure relief unit 22 and allows for the evaluation of both signals. It is possible to utilize the fact that these two signals differ in at least one of the following factors: frequency, amplitude, polarization direction, and / or signal duration, for example. Furthermore, the measured signals can be stored. For example, by storing and / or evaluating the piezoelectric signal, damage to the wall 9 that occurs over time, such as damage due to stone impact, can be inferred.

[0109] The sensor fiber 23 can be incorporated into the covering portion 15, particularly into the fiber composite plastic of the covering portion 15, during the winding process. The degree to which the sensor fiber 23 is covered by the fiber composite plastic can be adjusted through the winding process, thereby adjusting the detection area for fire detection. The sensor fiber 23 responds with a temporary voltage, particularly to infrared radiation introduced from the outside, such as infrared radiation present in a fire or blaze. The amplitude of this voltage depends on the appropriate selection of the pyroelectric material 27 and the intensity of the infrared radiation.

[0110] The electrical energy generated by the sensor fiber 23 can be used to trigger the depressurization unit 22. To trigger the depressurization unit 22, for example, the pyrotechnic loading section as described above can be ignited, which opens the valve of the depressurization unit 22 as described above, to discharge hydrogen H2 from the compressed gas storage container 7, thus causing depressurization. Triggering the depressurization unit 22 does not require additional energy. Therefore, the depressurization mechanism 24 advantageously does not require additional energy for detecting, outputting, and processing the sensor signal from the sensor fiber 23. Therefore, the aforementioned legal requirements can be met.

[0111] Therefore, the depressurization mechanism 24 enables the location of a fire or ignition on the outer side 16 of the compressed gas storage container 7 to be determined in a decentralized and / or comprehensive manner, thereby improving system safety. The location of the depressurization, i.e., the position of the depressurization unit 22 at the compressed gas storage container 7, can thus be decoupled from the detection location, which has a direct and positive impact on the design freedom when designing the installation space of the compressed gas storage container 7.

[0112] The sensor fiber 23 is primarily positioned in the outermost layer of the covering 15, which is typically a fiber-reinforced plastic, for example, in the form of a laminate. However, the sensor fiber 23 can also be wound into deeper layers. This protects the sensor fiber 23 from external influences. Nevertheless, the sensor fiber 23 remains sufficiently close to the location of the fire for detection.

[0113] By selecting a suitable winding path during the manufacture of the compressed gas storage container 7, the coverage of the sensor fibers 23 surrounding the compressed gas storage container 7 can be adjusted, and thus the detectable surface of the compressed gas storage container 7 can be adjusted. To protect the sensor fibers 23 from damage during the winding process, they can be laid as part of a fiber strand, which may be composed of, for example, carbon fiber, glass fiber, plastic fiber, or the like. To create redundancy, multiple sensor fibers 23 can be introduced.

[0114] Since the fire occurs directly at the compressed gas storage container 7 and therefore directly at the sensor fiber 23, the displacement of the charge center of gravity causes a temporary increase in voltage. From the magnitude of this voltage, a temperature threshold that can be used as the valve to trigger the depressurization unit 22 can be derived. This achieves depressurization in the compressed gas storage container 7.

[0115] Now return to Figure 5 The pressure relief mechanism 24 includes a capacitor 28 located in front of the pressure relief unit 22. The capacitor 28 may be a so-called impulse and pulse capacitor. This type of "pulse capacitor" should be understood herein as a DC capacitor used to receive or release strong, mostly very brief but high-energy current surges.

[0116] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the pressure relief mechanism 24A as described above for the compressed gas storage container 7 is shown. Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the voltage-time graph of the sensor fiber 23 as described above is shown. Figure 9 Other schematic diagrams of the pressure relief mechanism 24A are shown. Figure 10 Further schematic diagrams of the aforementioned voltage-time graph of sensor fiber 23 are shown. Reference is also made below. Figures 7 to 10 .

[0117] The pressure relief mechanism 24A has a distinguishing unit 29 by means of which the sensor fiber 23, the pressure relief unit 22, and the capacitor 28 are electrically connected to each other. The distinguishing unit 29 is an analog circuit and therefore can also be referred to as an analog circuit. The terms "distinguishing unit" and "circuit" are used interchangeably herein. The distinguishing unit 29 enables the differentiation of whether a fire or an impact has acted on the sensor fiber 23.

[0118] The differentiation unit 29 is configured to trigger the pressure relief unit 22 only when a fire acts on the sensor fiber 23. Therefore, when an impact acts on the sensor fiber 23, the differentiation unit 29 does not trigger the pressure relief unit 22. Thus, the differentiation unit 29 can distinguish between whether a fire or an impact acts on the sensor fiber 23, as will be explained below.

[0119] The pressure relief unit 22 includes a valve 30, particularly a gas valve, and a pyrotechnic loading section 31 associated with the valve 30. The pyrotechnic loading section 31 is ignited only when a fire acts on the sensor fiber 23. Figure 7 In the sensor fiber 23, the first electrode 25 is connected as either a cathode or a negative electrode. The second electrode 26 is... Figure 7 It is connected as either the anode or the positive electrode. Figure 9 Electrodes 25 and 26 with opposite polarities are provided. Figure 7 and Figure 9 Pyroelectric material 27 is not shown in the figure.

[0120] Electrodes 25 and 26 are attached to the first line 32 and the second line 33. A third line 34 connects the two lines 32 and 33 to each other, with capacitor 28 connected to the third line 34. The distinguishing unit 29 also includes a control element 35. The control element 35 may be a voltmeter. The control element 35 is connected in parallel with capacitor 28 via a fourth line 36 and a fifth line 37 branching off from the third line 34. The capacitance of capacitor 28 may be designed or selected such that the capacitance of capacitor 28 predetermines a threshold value for triggering the depressurization unit 22.

[0121] Furthermore, the distinguishing unit 29 has a switching element 38, which can be controlled by the control element 35. The switching element 38 is a transistor, especially an npn-transistor (negative-positive-negative). The switching element 38 can also be a relay. The switching element 38 has a base 39, an emitter 40, and a collector 41. The control output terminal 42 of the control element 35 is circuitically connected to the base 39. The emitter 40 is circuitically connected to the pyrotechnic loading section 31 via a sixth line 43, and is also additionally connected to the first line 32. The collector 41 is connected to the second line 33.

[0122] The distinguishing unit 29 has a blocking element 44 connected to the second line 33. The blocking element 44 is an electronic structural element that allows current to flow in one direction while blocking it in the other. The blocking element 44 has a conducting direction and a blocking direction. Figure 7 and Figure 9 In terms of orientation, the conduction direction is from left to right. Figure 7 and Figure 9 In terms of orientation, the blocking direction is from right to left. That is, when the first electrode 25 is connected as the negative terminal and the second electrode 26 is connected as the positive terminal, the blocking element 44 allows current to flow. Conversely, when the first electrode 25 is connected as the positive terminal and the second electrode 26 is connected as the negative terminal, the blocking element 44 does not allow current to flow. The blocking element 44 is a diode, especially a semiconductor diode.

[0123] exist Figure 8 and Figure 10A graph is shown, plotting the change of voltage U generated by sensor fiber 23 over time t. Voltage U is plotted on the vertical axis, and time t is plotted on the horizontal axis. Figure 8 The sensor signal 45 of sensor fiber 23 is shown, which has a typical time-varying trend of voltage U for a fire. Sensor signal 45 is a voltage curve, and therefore can also be referred to as a voltage curve. In particular, sensor signal 45 has a steep rise 47 from a first plateau 46 to a second plateau 48. Sensor signal 45 can also be referred to as a fire signal or a fire alarm signal.

[0124] On the contrary, Figure 10 The sensor signal 49 of the sensor fiber 23 is shown, which has a typical time-varying trend of voltage U for, for example, an impact acting on the sensor fiber 23 during a vehicle 1 accident. The sensor signal 49 is a voltage curve and therefore can also be referred to as a voltage curve. Specifically, the sensor signal 49 has a first zero-crossing point 51, a negative voltage peak 52, a second zero-crossing point 53, and a positive voltage peak 54, starting from a first plateau 50. That is, the sensor fiber 23 undergoes a polarity reversal, such that the electrodes 25 and 26 undergo a polarity reversal at each zero-crossing point 51, 53.

[0125] For example, at the first zero-crossing point 51, the first electrode 25 moves from the negative electrode ( Figure 7 The polarity changes to positive ( Figure 9 Correspondingly, at the first zero-crossing point 51, the second electrode 26 originates from the positive electrode ( Figure 7 The polarity changes to the negative pole. Figure 9 Therefore, the polarization changes. The sensor signal 49 can have multiple zero-crossing points 51, 53 as described above. The sensor signal 49 can also be referred to as an impact signal.

[0126] The function of the pressure relief mechanism 24 is explained below. One or more fire locations 55 (in...) Figure 7 (Only one of them is shown with reference numerals) Heat Q is introduced into the sensor fiber 23. This applies a voltage between electrodes 25 and 26. Since the first electrode 25 is connected as the negative terminal and the second electrode 26 as the positive terminal, current flows through the blocking element 44, thereby charging the capacitor 28.

[0127] Capacitor 28 serves as an energy storage device, and it is charged with electrical energy via sensor fiber 23. Capacitor 28 stores electrical energy until there is enough electrical energy to trigger the depressurization unit 22. The voltage applied to capacitor 28 is used as a parameter to indicate the charging status of capacitor 28, and this voltage is obtained via control element 35.

[0128] When capacitor 28 is charged sufficiently to ignite pyrotechnic loading section 31, control element 35 supplies power to base 39 of switching element 38 via control output terminal 42. The timing of power supply to base 39 by control element 35 can be influenced by its design. For example, a specific voltage can be predetermined as a trigger criterion, which must be applied at least at capacitor 28. In particular, the voltage difference between the platforms 46 and 48 of sensor signal 45 can be used as the trigger criterion. Switching element 38 can be designed to activate itself due to this voltage difference.

[0129] If power is supplied to base 39, switching element 38 is switched on, specifically by capacitor 28 via lines 32, 33, 34, and 43 to the glow bridge of ignition pyrotechnic loading section 31. Pyrotechnic loading section 31 is ignited and valve 30 opens to expel hydrogen H2 from compressed gas storage container 7. Ignition of pyrotechnic loading section 31 generates an explosion or shock wave 56. The shock wave 56 can move components of valve 30, such as valve body or valve stem, to open the valve.

[0130] Therefore, igniting the pyrotechnic loading section 31 requires two conditions. First, the sensor fiber 23 must generate a sensor signal 45 with sufficient amplitude, as described above, to trigger the switching element 38.

[0131] On the other hand, electrodes 25 and 26 must have the correct polarity so that blocking element 44 does not prevent capacitor 28 from charging. Therefore, sensor signal 45 is not allowed to have zero crossings 51 and 53, which would occur when an impact is applied to sensor fiber 23.

[0132] However, in the case of an impact acting on sensor fiber 23 (such as in Figure 9 As symbolically represented by hammer 57, the pyrotechnic loading section 31 is not ignited. A first zero-crossing point 51 is achieved due to the impact on sensor fiber 23. Electrodes 25 and 26 undergo a polarity reversal, thereby blocking element 44 from allowing current flow. The negative voltage peak 52 cannot be used to charge capacitor 28. Switching element 38 is designed such that the positive voltage peak 54 is too small to activate it. In particular, capacitor 28 is also designed such that the positive voltage peak 54 is insufficient to charge capacitor 28 to a level sufficient to ignite the pyrotechnic loading section 31. Therefore, the pyrotechnic loading section 31 is not ignited, and valve 30 remains closed.

[0133] The signal in the form of sensor signal 49 generated by the mechanical deformation of sensor fiber 23, such as the mechanical deformation that occurs when sensor fiber 23 is subjected to an impact, will result in a charge distribution opposite to the pyroelectric effect. This will in turn cause the output signal to be opposite to sensor signal 45, and therefore can be filtered out by the discrimination unit 29.

[0134] In particular, thanks to the distinguishing unit 29, only positive signals are allowed to pass through for use. Negative signals are blocked. Therefore, impacts can be ignored. Even if the sensor fiber 23 is continuously clamped, for example, during an accident involving vehicle 1, no impact will be generated. Figure 10 The different sensor signals 49 are shown. That is to say, even if the sensor fiber 23 is continuously clamped, the pyrotechnic loading part 31 will not be ignited.

[0135] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the pressure relief mechanism 24B as described above for the compressed gas storage container 7 is shown.

[0136] The function of the pressure relief mechanism 24B is basically the same as that of the pressure relief mechanism 24A. Therefore, the following discussion will only focus on the differences between the two embodiments of pressure relief mechanisms 24A and 24B.

[0137] The pressure relief mechanism 24B includes a distinguishing unit 58. Like distinguishing unit 29, distinguishing unit 58 is an analog circuit and therefore can also be referred to as an analog circuit. Distinguishing unit 58 has a first sub-circuit 59 and a second sub-circuit 60. Overall, distinguishing unit 58 has substantially the same function as the aforementioned distinguishing unit 29, as will be explained below.

[0138] Sub-circuits 59 and 60 are coupled to each other via transformer 61. Transformer 61 includes a first coil 62 associated with the first sub-circuit 59, a second coil 63 associated with the second sub-circuit 60, and an iron core 64. The iron core 64 is a ferrite core. The first coil 62 has more turns than the second coil 63. Transformer 61 is a DC transformer. In particular, transformer 61 is a step-up chopper, step-up regulator, step-up converter, or step-up converter.

[0139] Sensor fiber 23 is associated with a first sub-circuit 59 via two electrodes 25 and 26 and pyroelectric material 27 (not shown). The first electrode 25 is connected to a first coil 62 via a first line 65 of the first sub-circuit 59. The second electrode 26 is coupled to a second coil 63 via a second line 66 of the first sub-circuit 59.

[0140] Switch 67 is connected to the second line 66. Switch 67 may have a switching frequency of more than 20 kHz. Switch 67 may be a transistor. Switch 67 is part of transformer 61. Furthermore, the first sub-circuit 59 has a main inductor 68, which is connected between lines 66 via a third line 69 of the first sub-circuit 59. The main inductor 68 is also part of transformer 61.

[0141] The first sub-circuit 59 also includes a filter capacitor 70. The filter capacitor 70 is a parallel-plate capacitor. The filter capacitor 70 is connected between lines 65 and 66 via a fourth line 71. A blocking element 72 in the form of a diode is located in front of the filter capacitor 70.

[0142] Transformer 61 operates as a flyback converter, also known as a buck-boost converter or inverter. This type of operation is used to transfer electrical energy between the input and output sides of a galvanically isolated DC voltage. In particular, this means that sub-circuits 59 and 60 are galvanically isolated from each other by means of transformer 61.

[0143] Similar to the distinguishing unit 29, the second sub-circuit 60 includes a pressure relief unit 22 having a valve 30 and a pyrotechnic loading section 31, a capacitor 28 in the form of a pulse capacitor, a control element 35 in the form of a voltmeter, and a switching element 38 in the form of a transistor having a base 39, an emitter 40, and a collector 41, the collector being circuitically connected to the control output terminal 42 of the control element 35. The second sub-circuit 60 also has lines 34, 36, 37, and 43 as explained for the distinguishing unit 29.

[0144] The second coil 63 is connected to the first line 73 and the second line 74 of the second sub-circuit 60. The first line 73 is connected to the pyrotechnic loading section 31. The second line 74 is connected to the collector 41 of the switching element 38. A blocking element 75 in the form of a diode is connected to the second line 74. Figure 11 In terms of orientation, the conduction direction of the blocking element 75 is oriented from left to right. Figure 11 In terms of orientation, the blocking direction is from right to left. Blocking element 75 is part of transformer 61. Capacitor 76 is located after blocking element 75, and is connected between lines 73 and 74 via the third line 77 of the second sub-circuit 60. Capacitor 76 is also part of transformer 61.

[0145] During operation of the pressure relief mechanism 24B, the filter capacitor 70 can mitigate voltage spikes caused by impacts on the sensor fiber 23. The filter capacitor 70 acts as a time buffer and absorbs brief impacts on the sensor fiber 23. The filter capacitor 70 is charged and releases electrical energy again as heat. The functions of the control element 35 and the switching element 38 correspond to the functions explained for the differentiation unit 29.

[0146] In the event of a fire (as indicated by fire location 55), a higher control voltage for the pyrotechnic loading unit 31 can be achieved by means of transformer 61 compared to the distinguishing unit 29. Galvanic isolation of sub-circuits 59 and 60 prevents "sparks" from jumping to the second sub-circuit 60 in the event of a very strong impact on the sensor fiber 23.

[0147] Although the invention has been described with reference to embodiments, various modifications may be made thereto.

[0148] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0149] 1. Vehicle

[0150] 2 main bodies

[0151] 3. Internal space of the vehicle

[0152] 4 Environment

[0153] 5 wheels

[0154] 6 wheels

[0155] 7 Compressed Gas Storage Container

[0156] 8 Consumables

[0157] 9 wall sections

[0158] 10 Acceptance Area

[0159] 11 Central Axis

[0160] 12 base sections

[0161] 13 Wall end section

[0162] 14 Wall end section

[0163] 15 Covering sections

[0164] 16 outer

[0165] 17 inner side

[0166] 18 Linings

[0167] 19 outer

[0168] 20 inner side

[0169] 21 Entering the nozzle

[0170] 22 pressure relief unit

[0171] 23 sensor fibers

[0172] 24 Pressure Relief Mechanism

[0173] 24A pressure relief mechanism

[0174] 24B pressure relief mechanism

[0175] 25 electrodes

[0176] 26 electrodes

[0177] 27 materials

[0178] 28 capacitor

[0179] 29 Distinction Units

[0180] 30 valve

[0181] 31 Fireworks Loading Department

[0182] Route 32

[0183] Route 33

[0184] Route 34

[0185] 35 control elements

[0186] Route 36

[0187] Route 37

[0188] 38 switching elements

[0189] 39 base

[0190] 40 emitters

[0191] 41 collectors

[0192] 42 control output terminal

[0193] Route 43

[0194] 44 blocking elements

[0195] 45 sensor signals

[0196] 46 platform

[0197] 47 rise

[0198] 48 platform

[0199] 49 sensor signals

[0200] 50 platform

[0201] 51 Crossing the midnight point

[0202] 52 peak voltage

[0203] 53 Crossing Zero

[0204] 54 peak voltage

[0205] 55 Fire Location

[0206] 56 shockwaves

[0207] 57 hammers

[0208] 58 Distinguishing Units

[0209] 59 sub-circuits

[0210] 60 sub-circuits

[0211] 61 Transformer

[0212] 62 coils

[0213] 63 coil

[0214] 64 iron core

[0215] Route 65

[0216] Route 66

[0217] 67 switch

[0218] 68 main inductor

[0219] Route 69

[0220] 70 filter capacitor

[0221] Route 71

[0222] 72 blocking elements

[0223] Route 73

[0224] Route 74

[0225] 75 blocking element

[0226] 76 capacitor

[0227] Route 77

[0228] H2 gas / hydrogen gas

[0229] L longitudinal direction

[0230] Q-Hot

[0231] R radial direction

[0232] t time

[0233] U voltage

[0234] xx direction

[0235] yy direction

[0236] zz direction

Claims

1. A compressed gas storage container (7) for pressurized storage of gas (H2), particularly hydrogen, said compressed gas storage container having Wall portion (9), the wall portion surrounding the receiving area (10) for receiving the gas (H2); and Depressurization mechanisms (24, 24A, 24B) are used to discharge the gas (H2) from the receiving area (10). The pressure relief mechanisms (24, 24A, 24B) have pyroelectric sensor fibers (23) configured to trigger the pressure relief mechanisms (24, 24A, 24B) to discharge the gas (H2) from the receiving area (10), and The pressure relief mechanism (24, 24A, 24B) has a distinguishing unit (29, 58) configured to distinguish between fire events acting on the pyroelectric sensor fiber (23) and impact events acting on the pyroelectric sensor fiber (23), such that the pyroelectric sensor fiber (23) triggers the pressure relief mechanism (24, 24A, 24B) only in the event of a fire event.

2. The compressed gas storage container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The distinguishing units (29, 58) are configured to distinguish between the fire event and the impact event based on the sensor signals (45, 49) generated by the pyroelectric sensor fiber (23).

3. The compressed gas storage container according to claim 2, characterized in that, The distinguishing units (29, 58) are configured to distinguish between the fire event and the impact event, taking into account the polarization of the sensor signals (45, 49), in such a way that no polarization change occurs in the fire event, but a polarization change occurs in the impact event.

4. The compressed gas storage container according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The distinguishing units (29, 58) are configured to distinguish the fire event from the impact event by taking into account the time history of the sensor signals (45, 49) in such a way that the time history is longer in the fire event than in the impact event.

5. The compressed gas storage container according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The pressure relief mechanism (24, 24A, 24B) includes a pressure relief unit (22) having a valve (30) and a pyrotechnic loading section (3l), the valve being used to discharge the gas (H2) from the receiving area (10), wherein the separating unit (29, 58) is configured to ignite the pyrotechnic loading section (3l) to open the valve (30).

6. The compressed gas storage container according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The pyroelectric sensor fiber (23) has a first electrode (25), a second electrode (26), and a pyroelectric material (27) disposed between the first electrode (25) and the second electrode (26).

7. The compressed gas storage container according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The pyroelectric sensor fiber (23) is arranged in or on the wall portion (9), wherein the pyroelectric sensor fiber (23) is embedded in the wall portion (9) at least in sections.

8. The compressed gas storage container according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, Viewed along the longitudinal direction (L) of the compressed gas storage container (7), the pyroelectric sensor fiber (23) is spirally wound around the wall (9).

9. The compressed gas storage container according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The distinguishing units (29, 58) have capacitors (28) for storing electrical energy generated by means of the pyroelectric sensor fiber (23).

10. The compressed gas storage container according to claim 9, characterized in that, The distinguishing units (29, 58) are configured to release electrical energy stored in the capacitor (28) according to a parameter indicating the charging status of the capacitor (28) to trigger the pressure relief mechanism (24, 24A, 24B).

11. The compressed gas storage container according to claim 10, characterized in that, The distinguishing unit (29, 58) has a control element (35) for acquiring an indicative parameter and a switching element (38), the switching element being controllable by the control element (35) according to the indicative parameter to release electrical energy stored in the capacitor (28) to trigger the pressure relief mechanism (24, 24A, 24B).

12. The compressed gas storage container according to claim 11, characterized in that, The control element (35) is connected in parallel with the capacitor (28), wherein the switching element (38) is connected in parallel with the capacitor (28), and wherein the control element (35) controls the switching element (38) by means of a control output terminal (42).

13. The compressed gas storage container according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The distinguishing unit (58) has a first sub-circuit (59) having a pyroelectric sensor fiber (23); and a second sub-circuit (60) for triggering the pressure relief mechanism (24, 24A, 24B), wherein the first sub-circuit (59) and the second sub-circuit (60) are galvanically isolated from each other.

14. The compressed gas storage container according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that, The pressure relief mechanisms (24, 24A, 24B) are located at the dome-shaped end sections (13, 14) of the wall portion (9).

15. A vehicle (l), particularly a motorized vehicle, having at least one compressed gas storage container (7) according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

Images