Compressed-gas storage container and vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a compressed-gas storage container (7) for storing a gas (H2), in particular hydrogen, in a pressurised manner, comprising a wall (9), which encloses a receiving region (10) for receiving the gas (H2), and a pressure relief device (24) for discharging the gas (H2) out of the receiving region (10), wherein: the pressure relief device (24) has a pyroelectric sensor fibre (28); the pressure relief device (24) has a thermoelectric sensor fibre (29); the pressure relief device (24) has a switching element (35) connected to the pyroelectric sensor fibre (28) and to the thermoelectric sensor fibre (29); and the thermoelectric sensor fibre (29) is designed to switch the switching element (35) in such a way that the pyroelectric sensor fibre (28) triggers the pressure relief device (24) in order to discharge the gas (H2) out of the receiving region (10) if heat (Q), produced by a fire, is input into the wall (9).

Description

[0001] COMPRESSED GAS STORAGE TANK AND VEHICLE

[0002] The present invention relates to a compressed gas storage container for the pressurized storage of a gas and a vehicle with such a compressed gas storage container.

[0003] For storage and transport, hydrogen can be stored either in gaseous form in a compressed gas storage container at several hundred bar overpressure or in liquid form at cryogenic temperatures. For use in or on vehicles, especially in or on passenger cars, it is advantageous to store the hydrogen in gaseous form in a compressed gas storage container as mentioned above due to space constraints.

[0004] According to legal regulations, in the event of extreme heat exposure, such as a vehicle fire, the hydrogen must be able to be released from the compressed gas storage vessel in a controlled manner, reliably preventing the vessel from bursting. According to internal company experience, pressure release devices (PRDs or thermally activated pressure release devices, TPRDs) can be used for this purpose. These devices are thermally triggered in the event of a fire and release the hydrogen in a controlled manner.

[0005] Due to legal requirements, such a pressure relief unit may only be triggered mechanically or using an analog circuit. Activation using software, for example, via a vehicle control unit, is not permitted for safety reasons. The pressure relief unit can only be triggered if heat, for example, due to a vehicle fire, is introduced directly into the pressure relief unit. Thus, essentially only local heat or fire detection is possible. This requires improvement. Against this background, one object of the present invention is to provide an improved compressed gas storage container.

[0006] Accordingly, a compressed gas storage container for the pressurized storage of a gas, in particular hydrogen, is proposed. The compressed gas storage container comprises a wall enclosing a receiving area for receiving the gas, and a pressure relief device for releasing the gas from the receiving area. The pressure relief device comprises a pyroelectric sensor fiber. The pressure relief device comprises a thermoelectric sensor fiber. The pressure relief device comprises a switching element connected to the pyroelectric sensor fiber and to the thermoelectric sensor fiber. The thermoelectric sensor fiber is configured to switch the switching element upon fire-related heat input into the wall such that the pyroelectric sensor fiber triggers the pressure relief device to release the gas from the receiving area.

[0007] Because the thermoelectric sensor fiber switches the switching element, the pressure relief device can be reliably prevented from being triggered in the event of an impact on the compressed gas storage container, as the thermoelectric sensor fiber is insensitive to impact. Undesired release of the gas in the event of an impact is reliably prevented. Because the pyroelectric sensor fiber triggers the pressure relief device, the pressure relief device can be triggered without an external energy source, thus releasing the gas from the storage area. This is particularly advantageous with regard to meeting legal requirements in the event of a fire. In addition, the pressure relief device can also be triggered using the thermoelectric sensor fiber, which can also provide electrical energy to trigger the pressure relief device.

[0008] The compressed gas storage vessel may also be referred to as a compressed gas storage tank, hydrogen compressed gas storage vessel, hydrogen compressed gas storage tank, hydrogen storage vessel, or the like. In particular, the compressed gas storage vessel is suitable for storing and / or transporting hydrogen. However, any other gases can also be stored in the compressed gas storage vessel. In the following, it is assumed that the gas is hydrogen. The terms "gas" and "hydrogen" can therefore be interchanged.

[0009] The term "compressed gas storage vessel" in this context means that the gas can be stored in its gaseous state under pressure in the compressed gas storage vessel. For example, the gas within the compressed gas storage vessel can be pressurized to a pressure of 800 to 1,000 bar. In particular, liquefaction of the gas is not intended in this case. The gas can be introduced or injected into the receiving area in gaseous form.

[0010] The compressed gas storage container is preferably part of a vehicle. The vehicle can have a plurality of such compressed gas storage containers. The compressed gas storage container can be suitable for making the gas available to a consumer, in particular a fuel cell, of the vehicle at a suitable supply pressure and a suitable supply temperature. The compressed gas storage container can be part of a gas supply system or hydrogen supply system of the consumer. However, the compressed gas storage container can also be used in immobile applications, for example in building technology. In particular, the compressed gas storage container can be used in the field of building heating or for combined heat and power plants. The wall preferably comprises a load-bearing casing, which is made at least in sections from a fiber composite plastic. The casing encloses an optional lining.The lining is arranged within the casing. The casing thus preferably completely encapsulates the lining. The lining is preferably gas-tight. The lining can also be referred to as a liner. The lining can comprise a plastic material, a metallic material, and / or a fiber-reinforced plastic.

[0011] The compressed gas storage vessel, and thus also the wall, is preferably cylindrical. A symmetry or central axis is assigned to the compressed gas storage vessel or the wall, to which the compressed gas storage vessel or the wall can be constructed rotationally symmetrically. The wall preferably comprises a hollow cylindrical or tubular base section, which is closed on both sides by lid-shaped or dome-shaped wall end sections. The casing and lining are provided both in the area of ​​the base section and in the area of ​​the wall end sections.

[0012] The fact that the wall "encloses" or "limits" the receiving area means, in particular, that the wall defines a geometry or boundaries of the receiving area. The gas is thus contained within the wall in the receiving area. The receiving area is, in particular, a cavity enclosed by the wall. The receiving area has, in particular, a cylindrical geometry. The receiving area is sealed gas-tight from the surroundings of the compressed gas storage container by means of the wall. The receiving area can be constructed rotationally symmetrically to the central axis. The pressure relief device preferably has a pressure relief unit. The pressure loading unit is a component of the pressure relief device.This means, in particular, that in addition to the pressure relief unit, the pressure relief device can comprise additional components, such as the pyroelectric sensor fiber, the thermoelectric sensor fiber, or the switching element. The pressure relief unit is, in particular, a so-called Pressure Release Device (PRD) or Thermally Activated Pressure Release Device (TPRD). The pressure relief unit preferably comprises a valve and a pyrotechnic charge for triggering or opening the valve.

[0013] The fact that the pressure relief device is designed to "blow off" the gas from the receiving area is understood in particular to mean that with the help of the pressure relief device, in particular with the help of the pressure relief unit, the gas can be completely released from the receiving area within a very short period of time, for example, within a few seconds to a few minutes. However, the release or emptying process fundamentally depends on the size of the compressed gas storage container and can also take several minutes. This reliably prevents an undesirable pressure increase within the compressed gas storage container in the event of a fire, which could lead to an explosion of the compressed gas storage container.

[0014] With the help of the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber, the fire detection can be at least partially spatially decoupled from the pressure relief device or the pressure relief unit. In this case, the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber functions in particular as both a sensor and an energy source. With the help of the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber, complete monitoring of the entire outer side of the wall is possible. For this purpose, the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber is arranged on the outer side or embedded in the wall casing.

[0015] The pyroelectric sensor fiber can also be referred to as the first sensor fiber. Accordingly, the terms "pyroelectric sensor fiber" and "first sensor fiber" can be interchanged at will. The thermoelectric sensor fiber can also be referred to as the second sensor fiber. Accordingly, the terms "thermoelectric sensor fiber" and "second sensor fiber" can be interchanged at will.

[0016] The pressure relief unit, together with the pyroelectric sensor fiber, the thermoelectric sensor fiber, and the switching element, forms the pressure relief device. However, this does not preclude the possibility that the pressure relief device may include additional components. The pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber are, in particular, deformable or bendable and can therefore be wound onto the wall in a helical or spiral manner.

[0017] The pyroelectric sensor fiber comprises a pyroelectric material. The pyroelectric material can be a piezoelectric semiconductor crystal. A temperature change of the pyroelectric material leads to a measurable change in an electrical voltage between a first electrode and a second electrode of the pyroelectric sensor fiber. Thus, the pyroelectric sensor fiber provides electrical energy. This electrical energy can be used to trigger the pressure relief device.

[0018] In this case, the "triggering" of the pressure relief device or pressure relief unit means, in particular, that the pyrotechnic charge of the pressure relief unit is ignited, causing the valve of the pressure relief unit to open and release the gas into the environment. This triggering of the pressure relief device occurs with the aid of the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber due to the introduction of electrical energy generated by heat.

[0019] Since the pyroelectric material is preferably a piezoelectric semiconductor crystal, the pyroelectric material also exhibits piezoelectric properties. "Piezoelectricity" is understood to mean the change in electrical polarization and thus the occurrence of an electrical voltage in solids when they are elastically deformed. The pyroelectric sensor fiber can therefore also be referred to as a pyroelectric and piezoelectric sensor fiber.

[0020] This means, in particular, that deformation of the pyroelectric material, for example, due to an impact event on the pyroelectric sensor fiber as mentioned above, can lead to a measurable change in the electrical voltage between the two electrodes of the pyroelectric sensor fiber. Such an impact event can, for example, affect the pyroelectric sensor fiber in the event of a vehicle accident. However, it must be ruled out that the pressure relief device is triggered in the event of a vehicle accident. The pressure relief device should only be triggered by a fire event.

[0021] To prevent the pressure relief device from being triggered in the event of an impact, the pressure relief device comprises a thermoelectric sensor fiber and a switching element. The thermoelectric sensor fiber operates according to the so-called Seebeck effect. This means, in particular, that the thermoelectric sensor fiber can generate electrical energy when a temperature fluctuates. This electrical energy is used, on the one hand, to switch the switching element in such a way that the electrical energy generated by the pyroelectric sensor fiber triggers the pressure relief device. On the other hand, the electrical energy generated by the thermoelectric sensor fiber, in addition to the energy generated by the pyroelectric sensor fiber, is also used to trigger the pressure relief device.

[0022] When the thermoelectric sensor fiber is impacted, it does not generate electrical energy, so the switching element is not activated in the event of an impact. This prevents the pyroelectric sensor fiber from triggering the pressure relief device in the event of an impact. To manufacture the thermoelectric sensor fiber, for example, two different metals of different noble metals can be bonded together, particularly by welding.

[0023] Thus, with the help of the pressure relief device, it is possible to distinguish between a fire event and an impact event. A "fire event" is understood here as a fire or a flame acting on the compressed gas storage container, in particular on the wall, such that heat is introduced into the wall and thus also into the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber. The heat can be introduced, in particular, by infrared radiation into the wall and into the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber. In other words, a fire event is understood as a fire or a flame acting on the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber. Accordingly, the terms "fire event" and "fire" can be interchanged arbitrarily. This means that the terms "fire event" and "fire" can be used as synonyms.

[0024] An "impact event," on the other hand, is understood here to mean that no heat is introduced into the wall and the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber, but rather that an impact, for example resulting from a vehicle accident, acts on the wall and thus also on the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber. Accordingly, the terms "impact event" and "impact" can be interchanged at will. This means that the terms "impact event" and "impact" can be used synonymously. In particular, an "impact event" is understood to mean a short-term force pulse acting on the compressed gas storage container. However, this does not exclude the possibility that such an impact event may also include several consecutive impacts.

[0025] The fact that the pyroelectric sensor fiber and the thermoelectric sensor fiber are "connected" to the switching element means, in particular, that the pressure relief device has an electrical circuit, in particular an analog circuit, which includes the pyroelectric sensor fiber, the thermoelectric sensor fiber, and the switching element. The pyroelectric sensor fiber, the thermoelectric sensor fiber, and the switching element are interconnected to form the circuit. The switching element can be, for example, a transistor, in particular an NPN transistor (negative-positive-negative), or a relay.

[0026] In the event of a fire, the thermoelectric sensor fiber energizes the switching element, causing it to switch in such a way that the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber can energize a glow bridge of the pyrotechnic charge to ignite the pyrotechnic charge. As previously mentioned, the switching element is not switched in the event of an impact, so that the electrical energy of the pyroelectric sensor fiber resulting from the impact cannot be used to trigger the pressure relief device. According to one embodiment, the pressure relief device comprises a valve for venting the gas from the receiving area and a pyrotechnic charge, wherein the pyroelectric sensor fiber ignites the pyrotechnic charge to open the valve.

[0027] As previously mentioned, the pyroelectric sensor fiber generates electrical energy, which can be used to ignite the pyrotechnic charge. In addition, the thermoelectric sensor fiber also generates electrical energy during a fire event. This electrical energy, together with the electrical energy generated by the pyroelectric sensor fiber, can also be used to ignite the pyrotechnic charge. The valve is preferably closed in an initial state. By igniting the pyrotechnic charge, the valve is moved from a closed state to an open state. The valve is preferably an on-off valve. This means that the valve is either completely closed or completely open. The pyrotechnic charge can be ignited using a glow bridge as previously mentioned, which can be energized using the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber.The glow bridge begins to glow, igniting the pyrotechnic charge. This opens the valve to release the gas into the atmosphere. Igniting the pyrotechnic charge can move a component of the valve, such as a valve body or valve stem, to open the valve.

[0028] According to a further embodiment, the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber is arranged in or on the wall.

[0029] The pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber can be installed in the sheathing, particularly in the fiber-reinforced plastic of the sheathing, during the winding process of the sheathing of the wall. The degree of coverage of the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber with the fiber-reinforced plastic, and thus a detection area for fire detection, can be adjusted by the winding process.

[0030] According to a further embodiment, the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber is embedded at least in sections in the wall.

[0031] In this case, the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber can be covered at least partially by the fiber-reinforced plastic. The pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber can also be completely covered by the fiber-reinforced plastic. This protects the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber from damage within the fiber-reinforced plastic. Viewed in a radial direction of the compressed gas storage vessel, the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber can be embedded 1 mm to a maximum of 5 mm deep into the wall.

[0032] According to a further embodiment, the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber winds helically around the wall, viewed along a longitudinal direction of the compressed gas storage container.

[0033] The longitudinal direction runs along the aforementioned central axis. This means, in particular, that the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber has a helical or helical geometry. The pyroelectric sensor fiber and the thermoelectric sensor fiber can cross each other or run parallel to each other. A multiple helix or a crossed helix is ​​also possible. Furthermore, the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber can be designed, in particular, to be spiral, multi-helical, cross-helical, or the like. The pitch of this helical geometry of the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber can be selected arbitrarily. For example, windings of the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber can be arranged closer together or further apart from each other.This can influence the sensitivity of the pressure relief device. Viewed along the longitudinal direction, the pitch of the windings or the pitch of the pyroelectric sensor fiber and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber can preferably be a maximum of 100 mm. This aforementioned pitch is particularly preferably a maximum of 50 mm.

[0034] According to a further embodiment, the pyroelectric sensor fiber and the thermoelectric sensor fiber run parallel to each other and form a sensor fiber arrangement of the pressure relief device.

[0035] The pyroelectric sensor fiber and the thermoelectric sensor fiber can be intertwined or twisted. Alternatively, the pyroelectric sensor fiber and the thermoelectric sensor fiber can run parallel to each other without such twisting. The sensor fiber arrangement can also be referred to as a sensor fiber bundle. Accordingly, the terms "sensor fiber arrangement" and "sensor fiber bundle" are interchangeable. However, this parallel arrangement of the two sensor fibers is not mandatory. The sensor fibers can also cross each other.

[0036] According to a further embodiment, when heat is introduced into the wall due to a fire, both the pyroelectric sensor fiber and the thermoelectric sensor fiber trigger the pressure relief device to expel the gas from the receiving area. As previously mentioned, when heat is introduced due to a fire, both the pyroelectric sensor fiber and the thermoelectric sensor fiber generate electrical energy. This electrical energy can be used to trigger the pressure relief device. The electrical energy generated by the thermoelectric sensor fiber due to a fire is also used to switch the switching element.

[0037] According to a further embodiment, the pressure relief device comprises a circuit, wherein the pyroelectric sensor fiber, the thermoelectric sensor fiber and the switching element are part of the circuit.

[0038] The circuit is an analog circuit. The pyroelectric sensor fiber can be connected to the switching element via a first conductor track of the circuit. The thermoelectric sensor fiber can also be connected to the switching element via a second conductor track of the circuit.

[0039] According to a further embodiment, the circuit is designed to differentiate between a fire event acting on the compressed gas storage container and an impact event acting on the compressed gas storage container in such a way that the circuit triggers the pressure relief device exclusively in the event of the fire event.

[0040] The circuit therefore makes it possible to differentiate between whether an impact event or a fire event is affecting the compressed gas storage vessel. The differentiation is achieved by the circuit triggering the pressure relief device with the aid of the switching element only when a fire event occurs. In the event of an impact event, the pressure relief device is not triggered. As previously mentioned, this differentiation can be achieved by ensuring that the thermoelectric sensor fiber only generates electrical energy when a fire event is affecting it. If an impact event affects the thermoelectric sensor fiber, it does not generate electrical energy.

[0041] According to a further embodiment, the switching element has a collector to which the pyroelectric sensor fiber is connected, wherein the switching element has a base to which the thermoelectric sensor fiber is connected.

[0042] In this case, the switching element is a transistor. The pyroelectric sensor fiber is preferably connected to the collector via the aforementioned first conductor track of the circuit. The thermoelectric sensor fiber is connected to the base via the aforementioned second conductor track of the circuit.

[0043] According to a further embodiment, the collector and the base are interconnected.

[0044] This means, in particular, that the collector and the base are electrically connected to each other. For this purpose, a third conductor track of the circuit can be provided, connecting the first conductor track to the second conductor track.

[0045] According to a further embodiment, the circuit comprises a blocking element, in particular a diode, wherein the blocking element is arranged between the collector and the base, and wherein a blocking direction of the blocking element is oriented from the collector towards the base.

[0046] The blocking element is connected, in particular, to the aforementioned third conductor track of the circuit. Because the blocking direction is oriented from the collector toward the base, electrical energy generated during an impact event acting on the pyroelectric sensor fiber cannot reach the base. Accordingly, the base cannot be energized by the pyroelectric sensor fiber, preventing the switching element from being switched.

[0047] According to a further embodiment, the circuit has a ground, wherein the pyroelectric sensor fiber, the thermoelectric sensor fiber and an emitter of the switching element are connected to the ground.

[0048] The emitter is preferably connected to ground via a fourth conductor track in the circuit. The glow bridge of the pyrotechnic charge is connected to the fourth conductor track. The glow bridge can be energized via the emitter.

[0049] According to a further embodiment, the pressure relief device is attached to a dome-shaped wall end section of the wall.

[0050] In particular, the pressure relief unit is attached to the dome-shaped wall end section. For example, an inlet nozzle for admitting the gas into the compressed gas storage container can be mounted on a first wall end section, with the pressure relief unit being mounted on a second wall end section. Reverse mounting is also possible. Furthermore, the pressure relief unit can also be integrated into the inlet nozzle. This results in a compact design.

[0051] Furthermore, a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, with at least one such compressed gas storage container is proposed.

[0052] The vehicle may have a plurality of such compressed gas storage containers. The compressed gas storage container may, for example, be arranged in the region of a floor of the vehicle. The vehicle may have a consumer, in particular a fuel cell, which is supplied with the gas with the aid of the compressed gas storage container. The vehicle may, in particular, be 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, for example a truck. Furthermore, the vehicle may also be an aircraft, a watercraft, or a rail vehicle. The vehicle is particularly preferably a passenger car.

[0053] The embodiments and features described for the proposed compressed gas storage container apply accordingly to the proposed vehicle and vice versa.

[0054] "One" in this case is not necessarily limited to a single element. Rather, multiple elements, such as two, three, or more, may be included. Any other counting term used here should not be understood as implying a limitation to the exact number of elements mentioned. Rather, numerical deviations upwards and downwards are possible, unless otherwise stated.

[0055] Further possible implementations of the compressed gas storage container and / or the vehicle also include combinations of features or embodiments described above or below with regard to the exemplary embodiments that are not explicitly mentioned. In this case, the person skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the compressed gas storage container and / or the vehicle.

[0056] Further advantageous configurations and aspects of the compressed gas storage container and / or the vehicle are the subject of the dependent claims and the exemplary embodiments of the compressed gas storage container and / or the vehicle described below. The compressed gas storage container and / or the vehicle are explained in more detail below using preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0057] Fig. 1 shows a schematic side view of an embodiment of a vehicle!

[0058] Fig. 2 shows a schematic sectional view of an embodiment of a compressed gas storage container for the vehicle according to Fig. 1;

[0059] Fig. 3 shows a further schematic sectional view of the compressed gas storage container according to the section line III-III of Fig. 2;

[0060] Fig. 4 shows the detailed view IV according to Fig. 2;

[0061] Fig. 5 shows a schematic side view of the compressed gas storage container according to Fig. 2;

[0062] Fig. 6 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a pressure relief device for the compressed gas storage container;

[0063] Fig. 7 shows a schematic view of a voltage-time diagram of a first sensor fiber for the pressure relief device according to Fig. 6;

[0064] Fig. 8 shows a schematic view of a voltage-time diagram of a second sensor fiber for the pressure relief device according to Fig. 6;

[0065] Fig. 9 shows a further schematic side view of the compressed gas storage container according to Fig. 2; Fig. 10 shows a further schematic view of the voltage-time diagram according to Fig. 7!

[0066] Fig. 11 shows a further schematic view of the voltage-time diagram according to Fig. 8;

[0067] Fig. 12 shows a further schematic side view of the compressed gas storage container according to Fig. 2;

[0068] Fig. 13 shows a further schematic view of the pressure relief device according to Fig. 6;

[0069] Fig. 14 shows a further schematic view of the voltage-time diagram according to Fig. 7! and

[0070] Fig. 15 shows another schematic view of the voltage-time diagram according to Fig. 8.

[0071] In the figures, identical or functionally identical elements have been provided with the same reference numerals unless otherwise stated.

[0072] Fig. 1 shows a schematic side view of an embodiment of a vehicle 1. The vehicle 1 is a motor vehicle, in particular an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. However, the vehicle 1 can also be powered by an internal combustion engine. The vehicle 1 can also be a commercial vehicle, for example a truck, a harvester or a construction machine. Furthermore, the vehicle 1 can also be a military vehicle. In addition, the vehicle 1 can also be an aircraft, a watercraft or a rail vehicle. However, it is assumed below that the vehicle 1 is a motor vehicle, in particular a passenger car.

[0073] The vehicle 1 comprises a body 2, which encloses a passenger compartment or vehicle interior 3 of the vehicle 1. A driver and passengers can be located in the vehicle interior 3. The body 2 separates an environment 4 of the vehicle 1 from the vehicle interior 3. The vehicle interior 3 is accessible from the environment 4 by means of doors.

[0074] The vehicle 1 comprises a chassis with several wheels 5, 6. The number of wheels 5, 6 is fundamentally arbitrary. Preferably, the vehicle 1 has four wheels 5, 6. However, the vehicle 1 can also have, for example, six wheels 5, 6. The wheels 5, 6 are part of a chassis of the vehicle 1. Only two wheels 5, 6 can be driven. However, all wheels 5, 6 can also be driven. In this case, the vehicle 1 is an all-wheel drive vehicle.

[0075] The vehicle 1 comprises a compressed gas storage container 7 for the pressurized storage of a gas, in particular hydrogen. The compressed gas storage container 7 is preferably located on or in the region of a floor or floor structure of the vehicle 1. The compressed gas storage container 7 can be arranged outside the body 2. The vehicle 1 can have multiple compressed gas storage containers 7.

[0076] In principle, the compressed gas storage vessel 7 is not only suitable for use on a vehicle 1, but can also be used for any other application. For example, the compressed gas storage vessel 7 can also be used for immobile applications, in particular in building technology or for emergency power supplies. Furthermore, the compressed gas storage vessel 7 can be used in building heating or for combined heat and power plants. However, the following assumes that the compressed gas storage vessel 7 is used for a mobile application, namely in or on the vehicle 1.

[0077] With the aid of the compressed gas storage container 7, the gas stored in the compressed gas storage container 7 can be supplied to a consumer 8 of the vehicle 1 at a suitable supply pressure and a suitable supply temperature. The consumer 8 is preferably a fuel cell. A "fuel cell" is understood here to be a galvanic cell that converts the chemical reaction energy of a continuously supplied fuel, in this case hydrogen, and an oxidizing agent, in this case oxygen, into electrical energy. The resulting electrical energy can be used, for example, to drive an electric motor (not shown), which in turn drives the wheels 5, 6 or at least two of the wheels 5, 6.

[0078] Fig. 2 shows a schematic sectional view of an embodiment of a compressed gas storage container 7 as mentioned above. Fig. 3 shows a further schematic sectional view of the compressed gas storage container 7 according to the section line HI-IH of Fig. 2. Fig. 4 shows the detailed view IV according to Fig. 2. In the following, reference is made simultaneously to Figs. 2 to 4.

[0079] The compressed gas storage container 7 is suitable for storing a gas, in this case hydrogen H2, in gaseous form under high pressure and releasing it again as needed. For example, the compressed gas storage container 7 is operated at a pressure of several hundred bar, for example, from 800 to 1,000 bar. The compressed gas storage container 7 can also be referred to as a compressed gas storage tank, hydrogen compressed gas storage container, hydrogen compressed gas storage tank, or hydrogen storage container.

[0080] In principle, the compressed gas storage vessel 7 is suitable for receiving or storing any gas. However, it is assumed below that the gas is hydrogen H2. The terms "gas" and "hydrogen" are therefore interchangeable. As previously mentioned, the hydrogen H2 is stored in its gaseous state in the compressed gas storage vessel 7. The hydrogen H2 is thus single-phase. Therefore, preferably, no liquid phase and thus no phase boundary are present within the compressed gas storage vessel 7.

[0081] The compressed gas storage container 7 comprises a container wall or wall 9, which encloses a receiving area 10 for receiving the hydrogen H2. The gaseous hydrogen H2 is received in the receiving area 10. The receiving area 10 is cylindrical. A geometry or a spatial extent of the receiving area 10 is defined or limited by the wall 9. The receiving area 10 is a hollow space completely enclosed by the wall 9. The wall 9 is, as explained below, multi-layered or multi-layered. This means that different materials form the wall 9 in a layered structure.

[0082] The compressed gas storage vessel 7 is assigned a coordinate system with a longitudinal direction or x-direction x, a transverse direction or y-direction y, and a vertical direction or z-direction z. The directions x, y, z are oriented perpendicular to each other. A longitudinal direction L of the compressed gas storage vessel 7 runs along the x-direction x. This means that the longitudinal direction L and the x-direction x are identical. A direction of gravity g is opposite and oriented parallel to the z-direction z.

[0083] The compressed gas storage vessel 7 or the wall 9 is assigned a symmetry or central axis 11, to which the compressed gas storage vessel 7 or the wall 9 is constructed to be essentially rotationally symmetrical. "Essentially" rotationally symmetrical includes an at least slightly oval cross-section. The central axis 11 runs parallel to the x-direction x. Accordingly, the central axis 11 also runs along the longitudinal direction L. A radial direction R of the compressed gas storage vessel 7 or the wall 9 is oriented perpendicular to the central axis 11 and away from it in the direction of the wall 9.

[0084] The wall 9 can also be referred to as a container wall, shell, enclosure, or wall. The wall 9 is constructed rotationally symmetrically to the central axis 11. In cross-section, the wall 9 is therefore preferably circular. However, the wall 9 can also be oval or slightly oval in cross-section. The wall 9 comprises a tubular or hollow-cylindrical base section 12, which is constructed rotationally symmetrically to the central axis 11.

[0085] On each end face, i.e., on the left and right in the orientation of Fig. 2, a first cover section or first wall end section 13 and a second cover section or second wall end section 14 are provided on the base section 12. The wall end sections 13, 14 are dome-shaped or cupola-shaped and are each rotationally symmetrical to the central axis 11. The wall end sections 13, 14 can also be referred to as cover sections. The wall end sections 13, 14 are curved outwards with respect to the receiving area 10. The base section 12 and the wall end sections 13, 14 are firmly, in particular non-detachably, connected to one another. The wall 9 has a cylindrical geometry.

[0086] The wall 9 comprises a load-bearing casing 15 (Figs. 3 and 4) made of a fiber-reinforced plastic material or a fiber-reinforced plastic. The casing 15 is external and thus faces the environment 4. This means that the casing 15 borders the environment 4. The "load-bearing" nature of the casing 15 means, in this case, in particular that the casing 15 absorbs all or at least a large portion of the loads acting on the wall 9 or on the compressed gas storage container 7. The loads can result from the pressurized hydrogen H2 itself and / or from external loads, for example, in the event of a traffic accident.

[0087] The sheathing 15 can also be referred to as a jacket, covering, support layer, outer layer, or outer layer of the wall 9. The sheathing 15 is preferably constructed in layers or layers from the fiber-reinforced plastic. However, this does not preclude the sheathing 15 from also containing metallic components. The sheathing 15 has an outer side 16 facing the environment 4 and an inner side 17 facing the receiving area 10 (Fig. 4).

[0088] A fiber-reinforced plastic as mentioned above comprises a plastic material, in particular a plastic matrix, in which fibers, for example natural fibers, glass fibers, carbon fibers, aramid fibers, or the like, are embedded. The plastic material can be a thermoset, 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.

[0089] The sheathing 15 is preferably a one-piece component, in particular a one-piece material component. "One-piece" or "single-piece" in this case means that the sheathing 15 forms a single component and is not composed of different and separable parts or components. "One-piece material" in this case means that the sheathing 15 is made entirely of the same material, namely the fiber-reinforced plastic. The sheathing 15 is provided both on the base section 12 and on the two wall end sections 13, 14. In addition to the sheathing 15, the wall 9 has a lining 18 lining the sheathing 15. The lining 18 can also be referred to as the inner layer or inner ply of the wall 9. To produce the sheathing 15, it can be wound onto the lining 18 or onto a mold or mandrel (not shown). The lining 18 is gas-tight.The casing 15 is not necessarily gas-tight. The lining 18 can be made of a fiber-reinforced plastic, various plastic materials, and / or metallic materials. The lining 18 is a so-called liner or can be referred to as the liner of the compressed gas storage vessel 7.

[0090] The lining 18 has a tubular or hollow-cylindrical geometry. The lining 18 is constructed rotationally symmetrically to the central axis 11. The lining 18 is provided both on the base section 12 and on the wall end sections 13, 14. The lining 18 can have a layered or sheet-like structure. The casing 15 completely surrounds the lining 18 or encapsulates it.

[0091] The lining 18 comprises an outer side 19 (Fig. 4) facing the inner side 17 of the casing 15 and an inner side 20 facing the receiving area 10. The inner side 20 is in contact with the hydrogen H2 held in the receiving area 10. The inner side 20 can also be referred to as the inner side of the wall 9 or as the inner side of the compressed gas storage container 7. The inner side 20 completely encloses the cylindrical receiving area 10 and thus defines its spatial extent.

[0092] The sheath 15 and the lining 18 are integrally bonded, in particular glued, to each other on the inner side 17 of the sheath 15 and on the outer side 19 of the lining 18. In integral bonds, the connecting parts are held together by atomic or molecular forces. Integral bonds are non-detachable connections that can only be separated by destroying the connecting elements and / or the connecting parts.

[0093] The compressed gas storage container 7 further comprises an injection nozzle or inlet nozzle 21 (Fig. 2) for injecting or admitting the hydrogen H2 into the receiving area 10. The inlet nozzle 21 is preferably provided at the first wall end section 13 of the wall 9. Alternatively, the inlet nozzle 21 can also be located at the second wall end section 14. Preferably, the inlet nozzle 21 extends through both the casing 15 and the lining 18. The inlet nozzle 21 can be made of a metallic material.

[0094] The inlet nozzle 21 is preferably designed such that it is rotationally symmetrical to the central axis 11. In particular, the inlet nozzle 21 is centered or arranged centrally with respect to the central axis 11. Alternatively, the inlet nozzle 21 can also be arranged off-center, i.e., offset relative to the central axis 11. The inlet nozzle 21 is preferably tubular or hollow-cylindrical and, in particular, has an annular cross-section. Alternatively, the inlet nozzle 21 can also have any other cross-section.

[0095] The inlet nozzle 21 can have a plurality of channels, bores, nozzles, valves, switches, and / or sensors that enable the compressed gas storage container 7 to be refueled or filled with the gaseous hydrogen H2. The inlet nozzle 21 can protrude beyond the inner side 20 of the lining 18 in the region of the first wall end section 13 and thus into the receiving area 10. The inlet nozzle 21 is configured to admit or inject the hydrogen H2 into the receiving area 10 parallel to the central axis 11, or along the longitudinal direction L, or along the x-direction x.

[0096] Fig. 5 shows a schematic side view of the compressed gas storage container 7.

[0097] According to legal regulations, in the event of severe heat exposure, for example, in the event of a vehicle fire, the hydrogen H2 can be released from the compressed gas storage vessel 7 in a controlled manner, reliably preventing bursting of the compressed gas storage vessel 7. For this purpose, the compressed gas storage vessel 7 has at least one pressure relief unit 22 (Pressure Release Device, PRD or Thermally Activated Pressure Release Device, TP RD) mounted on the wall 9.

[0098] In particular, the pressure relief unit 22 is mounted on the second wall end section 14, whereas the inlet nozzle 21 can be mounted on the first wall end section 13. Reverse mounting is also possible. Furthermore, the pressure relief unit 22 can also be integrated into the inlet nozzle 21.

[0099] The pressure relief unit 22 is designed to release the hydrogen H2 from the compressed gas storage container 7 within a short period of time. For this purpose, the pressure relief unit 22 can, for example, have a valve and a pyrotechnic composition or a pyrotechnic charge for opening the valve. Due to legal requirements, the pressure relief unit 22 may only be triggered mechanically or with the aid of an analog circuit. Triggering with the aid of software, for example via a control unit of the vehicle 1, is not permitted for safety reasons. Since the pressure relief unit 22 is attached to the end of the wall 9, it can only be triggered when heat Q, in particular in the form of infrared radiation, for example due to a vehicle fire, is introduced into the pressure relief unit 22 and / or into the second wall end section 14.Essentially, only local heat detection or fire detection is possible.

[0100] If the compressed gas storage vessel 7 has a large extension along the longitudinal direction L, it may happen that, for example, a fire-related heat input at the first wall end section 13 is localized too late. To prevent this, it is possible to install additional pressure relief units 22. However, this leads to greater installation effort, higher costs, and poorer space utilization. This needs to be improved.

[0101] To avoid these aforementioned disadvantages, the fire detection in the compressed gas storage container 7 is at least partially spatially decoupled from the pressure relief unit 22. For this purpose, the compressed gas storage container 7 has a sensor fiber arrangement 23, with the aid of which monitoring over the entire outer side 16 of the wall 9 is possible. For this purpose, the sensor fiber arrangement 23 is arranged on the outer side 16 or embedded in the casing 15. The pressure relief unit 22, together with the sensor fiber arrangement 23, forms a pressure relief device 24. The sensor fiber arrangement 23 is deformable or bendable and can therefore be wound helically or spirally onto the wall 9. The sensor fiber arrangement 23 can be embedded in the wall 9, in particular in the casing 15.

[0102] The sensor fiber array 23 can be installed in the sheath 15, particularly in the fiber-reinforced plastic of the sheath 15, during a winding process of the sheathing. The degree of coverage of the sensor fiber array 23 with the fiber-reinforced plastic, and thus a detection area for fire detection, can be adjusted by the winding process. The sensor fiber array 23 reacts, in particular, to externally introduced infrared radiation, such as occurs during a fire, with a temporary voltage. The amplitude of this voltage depends on the selected pyroelectric material and the intensity of the infrared radiation.

[0103] The electrical energy generated by the sensor fiber array 23 can be used to trigger the pressure relief unit 22. To trigger the pressure relief unit 22, for example, a pyrotechnic charge as mentioned above can be ignited, which opens a valve of the pressure relief unit 22 as mentioned above to release the hydrogen H2 from the compressed gas storage container 7, resulting in pressure relief. An additional energy source for triggering the pressure relief unit 22 is not required. The pressure relief device 24 therefore advantageously does not require an additional energy source for detecting, outputting, and processing a sensor signal from the sensor fiber array 23. The aforementioned legal requirements can thus be met.

[0104] The pressure relief device 24 thus enables decentralized and / or comprehensive detection of a fire or blaze on the exterior 16 of the compressed gas storage vessel 7, thereby increasing system safety. The location of the pressure relief, namely a position of the pressure relief unit 22 on the compressed gas storage vessel 7, can thus be decoupled from the detection location, which has a directly positive impact on design freedom when designing the installation space for the compressed gas storage vessel 7.

[0105] The sensor fiber array 23 is primarily positioned in an outermost layer of the sheath 15, in particular of the fiber-reinforced plastic, for example, in the form of a laminate. However, the sensor fiber array 23 can also be wrapped into deeper layers. This protects the sensor fiber array 23 from external influences. Nevertheless, the sensor fiber array 23 still has sufficient access to the source of the fire for detection.

[0106] By selecting a suitable winding path during the manufacture of the compressed gas storage container 7, the degree of coverage of the sensor fiber array 23 surrounding the compressed gas storage container 7 and thus a surface of the compressed gas storage container 7 capable of detection can be adjusted. To protect the sensor fiber array 23 from damage during the winding process, it can be laid as part of a fiber strand, for example, made of carbon fibers, glass fibers, plastic fibers, or the like. To create redundancy, multiple sensor fiber arrays 23 can be incorporated.

[0107] Fig. 6 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a pressure relief device 24 as mentioned above for the compressed gas storage container 7.

[0108] The pressure relief device 24 has an analog electrical circuit 25, by means of which the sensor fiber arrangement 23 and the pressure relief unit 22 are interconnected. The pressure relief unit 22 has a valve 26, in particular a gas valve, and a pyrotechnic charge 27 associated with the valve 26. The sensor fiber arrangement 23 is part of the circuit 25.

[0109] The sensor fiber arrangement 23 has a pyroelectric and piezoelectric sensor fiber 28. The pyroelectric and piezoelectric sensor fiber 28 is referred to below as the first sensor fiber of the sensor fiber arrangement 23. The first sensor fiber 28 can have a wire-shaped inner or first electrode and a tubular outer or second electrode. The first electrode is arranged within the second electrode. However, the electrodes can also have any other geometry. For example, the electrodes can be foil-shaped or strip-shaped. A pyroelectric material is arranged between the first electrode and the second electrode, in which the first electrode is embedded such that the first electrode and the second electrode do not contact each other.

[0110] The first electrode of the first sensor fiber 28 comprises a conductive material, such as a metal, a plastic filled with conductive particles, carbon-based fibers, or the like. The pyroelectric material is applied to the first electrode, which in turn is coated with another conductive material that forms the second electrode.

[0111] The pyroelectric material can be a piezoelectric semiconductor crystal. A temperature change of the pyroelectric material leads to a measurable change in the electrical voltage between the two electrodes. Thus, the sensor fiber provides electrical energy. This electrical energy can be used to trigger the pressure relief unit 22. "Triggering" the pressure relief unit 22 is understood here to mean, in particular, that the pyrotechnic charge 27 of the pressure relief unit 22 is ignited, so that the pressure relief unit 22 releases the hydrogen H2 into the environment 4 via the valve 26.

[0112] Since the pyroelectric material is a piezoelectric semiconductor crystal, the pyroelectric material also exhibits piezoelectric properties. "Piezoelectricity" in this context refers to the change in electrical polarization and thus the occurrence of an electrical voltage in solid bodies when they are elastically deformed. The electrical energy generated by the first sensor fiber 28 can be used to trigger the pressure relief unit 22. To trigger the pressure relief unit 22, for example, the pyrotechnic charge 27 can be ignited, which opens the valve 26 of the pressure relief unit 22 to release the hydrogen H2 from the compressed gas storage container 7, resulting in pressure relief.

[0113] In addition to the first sensor fiber 28, the sensor fiber arrangement 23 has a thermoelectric sensor fiber 29. The two sensor fibers 28, 29 together form the sensor fiber arrangement 23. The thermoelectric sensor fiber 29 is referred to below as the second sensor fiber of the sensor fiber arrangement 23. The sensor fiber arrangement 23 can have any number of first sensor fibers 28 and any number of second sensor fibers 29. The two sensor fibers 28, 29 can run parallel to one another. In this case, the sensor fiber arrangement 23 is bundle-shaped and can therefore also be referred to as a sensor fiber bundle. Accordingly, the terms "sensor fiber arrangement" and "sensor fiber bundle" are interchangeable in this case. However, this parallel arrangement is not mandatory. The sensor fibers 28, 29 can also cross one another.

[0114] The two sensor fibers 28, 29 are insulated and embedded in the sheath 15 as a sensor fiber arrangement 23, preferably in the form of a sensor fiber bundle. The functionality of the second sensor fiber 29 is based on the Seebeck effect. This means that the second sensor fiber 29 can generate electrical energy when exposed to a temperature fluctuation. To manufacture the second sensor fiber 29, different noble metals are bonded together, in particular welded together. The first sensor fiber 28 is connected to a first conductor track 30 of the circuit 25. The second sensor fiber 29 is connected to a second conductor track 31 of the circuit 25. The two sensor fibers 28, 29 are electrically connected to a ground 32 of the circuit 25 (not shown). The two conductor tracks 30, 31 are connected by means of a third conductor track 33. A blocking element 34, in particular in the form of a diode, preferably a semiconductor diode, is connected into the third conductor track 33.

[0115] The blocking element 34 is an electronic component that allows electrical current to pass in one direction and blocks it in the other direction. The blocking element 34 has a forward direction and a reverse direction. In the orientation of Fig. 6, the forward direction is oriented from bottom to top, or in other words from the second conductor track 31 to the first conductor track 30. The reverse direction is oriented from top to bottom, or in other words from the first conductor track 30 to the second conductor track 31, in the orientation of Fig. 6. This means that the blocking element 34 allows electrical current to pass if it flows from the second conductor track 31 to the first conductor track 30. In contrast, the blocking element 34 does not allow electrical current to pass if it flows from the first conductor track 30 to the second conductor track 31.

[0116] The circuit 25 further comprises a switching element 35, which can be controlled by the second sensor fiber 29. The switching element 35 is a transistor, in particular an npn transistor (negative-positive-negative). The switching element 35 can also be a relay. The switching element 35 has a base 36, an emitter 37, and a collector 38. The base 36 is connected to the second sensor fiber 29 via the second conductor track 31. The collector 38 is connected to the first sensor fiber 28 via the first conductor track 30. The emitter 37 is connected to ground 32 via a fourth conductor track 39. A glow bridge that ignites the pyrotechnic charge 27 can be energized by the fourth conductor track 39. The circuit 25 can further comprise a capacitor, in particular a pulse capacitor.

[0117] Fig. 7 shows a schematic view of a voltage-time diagram of a first sensor fiber 28 as mentioned above. Fig. 8 shows a schematic view of a voltage-time diagram of a second sensor fiber 29 as mentioned above.

[0118] The functionality of the pressure relief device 24 is explained below with reference to Figs. 5 to 8. A fire source 40 (Fig. 5) introduces heat Q into the sensor fiber arrangement 23 and thus into the two sensor fibers 28, 29.

[0119] Figures 7 and 8 each show a diagram in which a voltage U resulting from the applied heat Q from the respective sensor fiber 28, 29 is plotted against time t. The voltage U is plotted on the vertical or ordinate axis, while the time t is plotted on the right or abscissa axis.

[0120] Figure 7 shows a sensor signal 41 from the first sensor fiber 28, which exhibits a temporal variation of the voltage U characteristic of a fire. The sensor signal 41 is a voltage curve and can therefore also be referred to as such. In particular, the sensor signal 41, starting from a first plateau 42, exhibits a steep rise 43 to a second plateau 44. The sensor signal 41 can also be referred to as a fire signal or a fire signal.

[0121] Fig. 8 shows a sensor signal 45 from the second sensor fiber 29, which also exhibits a voltage U characteristic of a fire. The sensor signal 45 is a voltage curve and can therefore also be referred to as such. In particular, the sensor signal 45, starting from a first plateau 46, has a steep rise 47 to a second plateau 48. The sensor signal 45 can also be referred to as a fire signal or a fire signal. In contrast to the sensor signal 41, the sensor signal 45 has a more curved curve with a less steep rise 47.

[0122] The first sensor fiber 28 energizes the collector 38. The second sensor fiber 29 also energizes the collector 38 via the third conductor track 33 and the blocking element 34. At the same time, only the second sensor fiber 29 energizes the base 36. When the base 36 is energized, the switching element 35 switches in such a way that the glow bridge of the pyrotechnic charge 27 is energized, thereby igniting the pyrotechnic charge 27. The pyrotechnic charge 27 is ignited, and the valve 26 opens to release the hydrogen H2 from the compressed gas storage container 7. When the pyrotechnic charge 27 is ignited, it generates a blast or pressure wave 49. With the aid of the pressure wave 49, a component of the valve 26, for example a valve body or a valve tappet, can be moved to open it.

[0123] Fig. 9 shows a further schematic side view of the compressed gas storage container 7. Fig. 10 shows a schematic view of a voltage-time diagram of the first sensor fiber 28 as explained above. Fig. 11 shows a schematic view of a voltage-time diagram of the second sensor fiber 29 as explained above. In the following, reference is made simultaneously to Figs. 9 to 11.

[0124] In contrast to Fig. 5, the compressed gas storage container 7 is now subjected to heat Q not by one fire source 40, but by several fire sources 40, of which only one is provided with a reference symbol in Fig. 9. In other words, heat Q is introduced into the compressed gas storage container 7 over a large area. The fire sources 40 can completely encompass or enclose the compressed gas storage container 7. The voltage-time diagram of the first sensor fiber 28 according to Fig. 10 differs from the voltage-time diagram according to Fig. 7 only in that, due to the higher heat input into the first sensor fiber 28, the second plateau 44 of the sensor signal 41 lies at a higher voltage U. Accordingly, the voltage-time diagram of the second sensor fiber 29 according to Fig. 11 differs from the voltage-time diagram according to Fig.8 only because, due to the higher heat input into the second sensor fiber 29, the second plateau 48 of the sensor signal 45 is at a higher voltage U. The pressure relief device 24 is accordingly triggered and the valve 26 is opened, as previously explained with reference to Figs. 5 to 8.

[0125] Fig. 12 shows a further schematic side view of the compressed gas storage container 7. Fig. 13 shows a further schematic view of the pressure relief device 24. Fig. 14 shows a schematic view of a voltage-time diagram of the first sensor fiber 28 as explained above. Fig. 15 shows a schematic view of a voltage-time diagram of the second sensor fiber 29 as explained above. In the following, reference is made simultaneously to Figs. 12 to 15.

[0126] In contrast to Fig. 5, the compressed gas storage container 7 is not exposed to heat Q by a fire source 40, but rather a blow is applied to the compressed gas storage container 7 and thus also to the sensor fiber arrangement 23, as indicated in Fig. 12 by means of a symbolic hammer 50. The blow or several blows can result, for example, from an accident involving vehicle 1. However, there is no fire source 40, so the pressure relief device 24 should not be triggered. In other words, the valve 26 should remain closed.

[0127] 7 and 10, Fig. 14 shows a sensor signal 51 of the first sensor fiber 28, which has a temporal profile of the voltage U that is characteristic of an impact on the first sensor fiber 28, for example in the event of an accident involving the vehicle 1 as mentioned above. The sensor signal 51 is a voltage curve and can therefore also be referred to as such. The sensor signal 51 can also be referred to as an impact signal. In particular, the sensor signal 51 has a voltage peak 53 starting from a first plateau 52 before the sensor signal 51 returns to a second plateau 54. The two plateaus 52, 54 have essentially the same voltage U. The pressure relief device 24 must not be triggered by the voltage peak 53.

[0128] In contrast to Figs. 8 and 11, Fig. 15 shows a sensor signal 55 from the second sensor fiber 29, which has a temporal variation of the voltage U characteristic of an impact on the second sensor fiber 29. The sensor signal 55 is a voltage curve and can therefore also be referred to as such. The sensor signal 55 can also be referred to as an impact signal. As Fig. 15 shows, the second sensor fiber 29 does not react, or reacts only minimally, to an impact. Accordingly, the second sensor fiber 29 also generates no or only very little electrical energy upon an impact.

[0129] The collector 38 of the switching element 35 is indeed energized by the generation of the voltage spike 53. However, since the second sensor fiber 29 does not supply current, or does not supply current sufficiently, to the base 36 of the switching element 35, the switching element 35 cannot be switched, which also prevents the glow bridge of the pyrotechnic charge 27 from being energized. Furthermore, the blocking element 34 prevents the first sensor fiber 28 from supplying current to the base 36 itself. Accordingly, the pressure relief device 24 cannot be triggered. In other words, if there is an impact on the compressed gas storage container 7, the pyrotechnic charge 27 is not ignited, and the valve 26 therefore remains closed. The pressure relief device 24 enables safe handling of the compressed gas storage container 7. The pressure relief device 24 ensures that, in the event of a fire, the hydrogen H2 can be released from the compressed gas storage container 7 in a controlled manner and not explosively.Valve 26 can be controlled very precisely and with a high degree of reliability. False triggering with extremely negative consequences, namely the loss of hydrogen H2, can be reliably prevented. Active control, in which the sensor fiber array 23 simultaneously supplies the electrical energy to open valve 26, provides an additional safety factor here.

[0130] There are basically two active thermal sensor technologies that themselves generate electrical energy: thermoelectric and pyroelectric. Pyroelectrically active materials always also have piezoelectric properties. This means that these materials also trigger upon impact or deformation, but are extremely dynamic. Thermoelectrically active material combinations are somewhat slower and less energetic. Pressure relief device 24 enables differentiation between the two sensor signals 41, 45, 51, 55 and thus a better interpretation of the overall signal, namely as to whether a fire source 40 or an impact is acting on the compressed gas storage vessel 7. Furthermore, the advantages of both sensor types are combined, thus enabling energy-autonomous, simple, safe, and unambiguous emergency opening of the valve 26 in the event of a fire.

[0131] The sensor fiber arrangement 23 enables energy generation through two effects, namely the pyroelectric effect and the thermoelectric effect. The sensor fibers 28, 29 monitor each other to prevent false triggering of the pressure relief device 24. Two different physical principles are used as a redundant safety strategy for the pressure relief device 24. Both sensor fibers 28, 29 are laminated directly into the sheath 15, thereby increasing the structural stability of the sheath 15. The sensor fibers 28, 29 can be arranged parallel or crossed. With a parallel arrangement of the sensor fibers 28, 29, the sensor fiber arrangement 23 is a sensor fiber bundle. The sensor fibers 28, 29 can also be interwoven or twisted.

[0132] The pressure relief device 24 is capable of precisely and reliably detecting both local and compressed gas storage container fire sources 40. The pressure relief device 24 provides the energy for triggering the valve 26. To ensure electromagnetic and cyber security, the pressure relief device 24 is designed to be self-sufficient.

[0133] Both sensor fibers 28, 29 react to externally acting infrared radiation, such as occurs in the event of a fire, with a temporary voltage U. Voltages U caused by deformations only occur in the first sensor fiber 28 and can thus be filtered out. The amplitude of the voltage U depends on the selected material, the intensity of the infrared radiation or the deformation, and an active surface. The voltage U is used to ignite the pyrotechnic charge 27, which in turn opens the valve 26 for pressure relief. The pressure relief device 24 enables further differentiation of the sensor signals 41, 45, 51, 55 and thus of the events that have occurred, which allows conclusions to be drawn about the load on the compressed gas storage container 7 during its service life.

[0134] The pressure relief device 24 enables the decentralized detection of a fire or an impact event on the exterior 16 of the compressed gas storage vessel 7, thus increasing system safety. Furthermore, the pressure relief device 24, with its two sensor fibers 28, 29, is designed redundantly, which increases safety. The dual sensor signals 41, 45, 51, 55 reduce the probability of false triggering of the pressure relief unit 22. By maintaining the piezoelectric effect, mechanical loads on the compressed gas storage vessel 7 can be visualized, thus increasing structural safety. The pressure relief device 24 remains capable of real-time operation.

[0135] The sensor fiber array 23 is primarily positioned in an outermost layer of the sheath 15, but can also be wound into deeper layers. The goal is to protect the sensor fiber array 23 from external influences while simultaneously ensuring sufficient access to the fire source 40 or sources 40 for detection. Furthermore, the second sensor fiber 29, in particular, relies on a certain temperature gradient, so the second sensor fiber 29 can certainly be laminated slightly inward.

[0136] A fire source 40 occurring directly at the compressed gas storage container 7 and thus at the sensor fiber arrangement 23 results in a temporary voltage increase due to a shift in the center of gravity. The first sensor fiber 28 generates the electrical energy through the pyroelectric effect, while the second sensor fiber 29 generates it through the Seebeck effect. The electrical energy generated by both sensor fibers 28, 29 is considerable. However, since the second sensor fiber 29 does not react to shocks or impacts, it can also be used to control the switching element 35. A temperature can be derived from the amount of energy generated by the sensor fibers 28, 29, which can be used to control the valve 26.

[0137] Although the present invention has been described using exemplary embodiments, it is capable of being modified in many ways.

[0138] vehicle

[0139] body

[0140] Vehicle interior

[0141] Vicinity

[0142] wheel

[0143] wheel

[0144] Compressed gas storage tank

[0145] consumer

[0146] wall

[0147] Recording ahm eb er eich

[0148] central axis

[0149] Base section

[0150] Wall end section

[0151] Wall end section

[0152] Sheathing

[0153] outside

[0154] inside

[0155] lining

[0156] outside

[0157] inside

[0158] Inlet nozzle

[0159] Pressure relief unit

[0160] Sensor fiber arrangement

[0161] Pressure relief device

[0162] circuit

[0163] Valve pyrotechnic charge

[0164] Sensor fiber 29 Sensor fiber

[0165] 30 conductor tracks

[0166] 31 Conductor track

[0167] 32 mass

[0168] 33 Conductor track

[0169] 34 locking element

[0170] 35 switching element

[0171] 36 Base

[0172] 37 emitters

[0173] 38 collector

[0174] 39 Conductor track

[0175] 40 Fire source

[0176] 41 Sensor signal

[0177] 42 Plateau

[0178] 43 increase

[0179] 44 Plateau

[0180] 45 Sensor signal

[0181] 46 Plateau

[0182] 47 increase

[0183] 48 Plateau

[0184] 49 Pressure wave

[0185] 50 hammers

[0186] 51 Sensor signal

[0187] 52 Plateau

[0188] 53 voltage peak

[0189] 54 Plateau

[0190] 55 Sensor signal

[0191] H2 gas / hydrogen

[0192] L Longitudinal direction Q Heat

[0193] R radial direction t time

[0194] U Voltage x x- direction yy direction z z- direction

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1. Compressed gas storage container (7) for the pressurized storage of a gas (H2), in particular hydrogen, with a wall (9) which encloses a receiving area (10) for receiving the gas (H2), and a pressure relief device (24) for blowing off the gas (H2) from the receiving area (10), wherein the pressure relief device (24) has a pyroelectric sensor fiber (28), wherein the pressure relief device (24) has a thermoelectric sensor fiber (29), wherein the pressure relief device (24) has a switching element (35) connected to the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28) and to the thermoelectric sensor fiber (29), and wherein the thermoelectric sensor fiber (29) is designed to switch the switching element (35) in the event of a fire-related introduction of heat (Q) into the wall (9) in such a way that the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28) Pressure relief device (24) is triggered to blow off the gas (H2) from the receiving area (10).

2. Compressed gas storage container according to claim 1, characterized in that the pressure relief device (24) has a valve (26) for blowing off the gas (H2) from the receiving area (10) and a pyrotechnic charge (27), wherein the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28) ignites the pyrotechnic charge (27) to open the valve (26).

3. Compressed gas storage container according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that that the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28) and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber (29) is arranged in or on the wall (9).

4. Compressed gas storage container according to claim 3, characterized in that the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28) and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber (29) is embedded at least in sections in the wall (9).

5. Compressed gas storage container according to one of claims 1 - 4, characterized in that the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28) and / or the thermoelectric sensor fiber (29) winds helically around the wall (9) when viewed along a longitudinal direction (L) of the compressed gas storage container (7).

6. Compressed gas storage container according to one of claims 1 - 5, characterized in that the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28) and the thermoelectric sensor fiber (29) run parallel to each other and form a sensor fiber arrangement (23) of the pressure relief device (24).

7. Compressed gas storage container according to one of claims 1 - 6, characterized in that in the event of a fire-related introduction of heat (Q) into the wall (9), both the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28) and the thermoelectric sensor fiber (29) trigger the pressure relief device (24) in order to blow off the gas (H2) from the receiving area (10).

8. Compressed gas storage container according to one of claims 1 - 7, characterized in that that the pressure relief device (24) has a circuit (25), wherein the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28), the thermoelectric sensor fiber (29) and the switching element (35) are part of the circuit (25).

9. Compressed gas storage container according to claim 8, characterized in that the circuit (25) is designed to differentiate between a fire event acting on the compressed gas storage container (7) and an impact event acting on the compressed gas storage container (7) in such a way that the circuit (25) triggers the pressure relief device (24) exclusively in the event of the fire event.

10. Compressed gas storage container according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the switching element (35) has a collector (38) to which the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28) is connected, wherein the switching element (35) has a base (36) to which the thermoelectric sensor fiber (29) is connected.

11. Compressed gas storage container according to claim 10, characterized in that the collector (38) and the base (36) are interconnected.

12. Compressed gas storage container according to claim 11, characterized in that the circuit (25) has a blocking element (34), in particular a diode, wherein the blocking element (34) is arranged between the collector (38) and the base (36), and wherein a blocking direction of the blocking element (34) is oriented from the collector (38) in the direction of the base (36).

13. Compressed gas storage container according to one of claims 10 - 12, characterized in that the circuit (25) has a ground (32), wherein the pyroelectric sensor fiber (28), the thermoelectric sensor fiber (29) and an emitter (37) of the switching element (35) are connected to the ground (32).

14. Compressed gas storage container according to one of claims 1 - 13, characterized in that the pressure relief device (24) is attached to a dome-shaped wall end section (13, 14) of the wall (9).

15. Vehicle (1), in particular a motor vehicle, with at least one compressed gas storage container (7) according to one of claims 1 - 14.

Images