Secure CNG filling station

Abstract

A vehicle fuel tank filling station (10) using natural gas supplied by a natural gas source, said station (10) comprising at least one safety device (130) adapted to vent excess explosive gases under pressure emitted by the station (10) during its operation, said station (10) being characterized in that it comprises a treatment module (140) configured to collect and treat said excess explosive gases under pressure emitted by at least one safety device (130) so as to prevent their release into the atmosphere. Figure for the abbreviation: Fig 1

Description

Title of the invention: Secure CNG filling station Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of natural gas distribution for vehicles and more particularly concerns a station for filling a vehicle tank. Prior art

[0002] Nowadays, filling stations for vehicles running on compressed natural gas (CNG) are equipped with one or more vent pipes allowing the degassing into the atmosphere of the station's pipes and equipment, in particular safety valves. Conventionally, the gases discharged via the vent pipes are explosive gases, which generate an explosive mixture when they are discharged into the atmosphere. The outlet of the vent pipes is thus classified as a hazardous area of ​​several cubic meters, according to the regulations and standards in force, by creating a safety perimeter around the outlet of the vent pipes.

[0003] Existing filling stations require bulky compressors, which are not necessarily suitable for urban areas.

[0004] Furthermore, particularly in urban areas, it may be advantageous to reduce the noise level of existing filling stations.

[0005] Furthermore, in existing filling stations, the storage and distribution of CNG, including gas metering, the supply of electrical energy to the station, as well as user or vehicle authentication are not necessarily optimized or taken into account.

[0006] The installation and use of a fuel gas station are therefore particularly complex in busy areas such as urban areas, particularly in areas with high building or population density.

[0007] There is therefore a need for a simple and effective solution to at least partially overcome these drawbacks, particularly for installation in dense urban areas. Statement of the invention

[0008] To this end, the invention firstly relates to a station for filling a vehicle tank from compressed natural gas or bioCNG delivered by a source of natural gas or biomethane.

[0009] Each of the technical characteristics presented below can be used alone in the filling station or combined with any other characteristic presented below. In other words, all the technical characteristics of the filling station, for one or more characteristics combined with each other, are explicitly considered for the filling station in this document.

[0010] The source of natural gas or biomethane may be a gas distribution network or a gas storage module for a vehicle, for example a set of storage cylinders.

[0011] Advantageously, when the source of natural gas or biomethane is a network of gas distribution, the gas distribution network is adapted to deliver gas at a predetermined pressure, for example between 4 and 10 bars, to the station.

[0012] According to one aspect of the invention, the station comprises at least one safety device, for example of the valve type, adapted to evacuate excess explosive gas under pressure emitted during the operation of said station. The term "excess gas" means the volumes of gas whose pressure is greater than a predefined safety pressure beyond which the at least one safety device opens to allow said gas to escape.

[0013] Preferably, the station comprises a treatment module configured to collect and treat the surplus explosive gases under pressure emitted by the at least one safety device so as to prevent them from being released into the atmosphere. Thus, by treating the surplus explosive gases to prevent them from being released into the atmosphere, the treatment module makes it possible to avoid the formation of a hazardous area (ATEX) around the station, which can thus be more easily installed in an urban area.

[0014] In one embodiment, the treatment module is configured to convey the surplus explosive gases under pressure emitted by the at least one safety device into a gas network, for example a low pressure gas network, or into a storage tank.

[0015] In this case, the processing module may optionally be configured to adapt the pressure of the gas emitted by the at least one safety device to the pressure of the gas network, for example using a pressure regulator.

[0016] In another embodiment, the processing module is configured to inert the excess pressurized explosive gases emitted by the at least one safety device and to evacuate the inerted gases into the atmosphere, for example via at least one vent.

[0017] In a first inerting embodiment, the treatment module is configured to carry out the oxidation of the explosive gases emitted by the at least one safety device and to evacuate the oxidized gases into the atmosphere, for example via at least one vent.

[0018] Advantageously, the treatment module comprises an intake for surplus gas, an air intake, an oxidation chamber (thermal or catalytic), an automatic ignition system for the air and surplus gas mixture, a exhaust chimney into the atmosphere of oxidized gases.

[0019] Advantageously, the ignition system is instantaneous and autonomous (i.e. independent of an external energy source).

[0020] In one embodiment, the ignition system is a mechanically triggered pyrotechnic ignition system. For example, the ignition system includes a firing pin and a primer connected to a mechanical trigger.

[0021] Advantageously, the ignition system comprises a mechanical trigger comprising a drive member connected to a spark generator, said drive member being adapted to move, for example to tilt, when it is subjected to the force of the flow of surplus explosive gas entering the treatment module and to exert in turn a force on the spark generator in order to generate at least one spark making it possible to initiate the combustion reaction of the explosive gases.

[0022] In one embodiment, the spark generator comprises an element capable of generating at least one spark by metallic contact. For example, the spark generator may comprise a ferrocerium element, for example a ferrocerium bar or a wheel comprising ferrocerium, adapted to generate at least one spark when it is rubbed by a metallic element driven by the drive member.

[0023] In another embodiment, the spark generator comprises a piezoelectric element electrically powered by an autonomous device, for example a battery and adapted to generate at least one spark when it is powered by said battery, the passage of the electric current being triggered mechanically via a switch by the movement of the drive member.

[0024] In a second embodiment by inerting, the surplus explosive gases under pressure emitted by the at least one safety device are made inert by dilution, in particular by adding air or another inert gas, such as for example nitrogen. The explosive gases are thus diluted in a flow of inert gas of sufficiently high flow rate to lower the concentration of explosive gases below the lower explosive limit.

[0025] Advantageously, the station comprising at least one vent connected to the at least one safety device by at least one conduit, the flow of inert gas is added to the surplus explosive gas under pressure in said at least one vent conduit so that the mixture of explosive and inerting gases is homogeneous by dilution and therefore inert at the end of the vent conduit, before its emission into the atmosphere.

[0026] Advantageously again, in the case of dilution with ambient air, the latter may be introduced by means of a Venturi effect ejector system operating at variable flow rate making it possible to recover the energy from the expansion of the high-pressure gases. to suck in the dilution air.

[0027] In one embodiment, the station comprises a storage module for natural gas for vehicles (NGV), for example compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquid natural gas (LNG). This storage module may comprise a plurality of storage cylinders.

[0028] In one embodiment, the station comprises a compressor, preferably driven by an electric motor, adapted to compress natural gas or biomethane, received for example at a pressure of between 4 and 10 bars, from a gas network, into compressed natural gas (CNG) up to a higher pressure value, for example of between 200 and 300 bars or higher.

[0029] In one embodiment, the station may be without a compressor in order to reduce the noise level of the station, in particular for its installation in an urban area. In this case, the gas source of the station may be a natural gas storage module for vehicles (NGV) and / or a high-pressure gas network.

[0030] When the compressor is present and connected to a gas network, the storage module is connected to the compressor and is adapted to store the compressed gas at a set pressure. The stored gas is characterized in particular by its mass.

[0031] It will be noted that, in one embodiment, both in the absence and in the presence of a compressor, the station can be independent of any gas network, the gas then being supplied solely by the storage module whose storage bottles can be replaced each time they are empty by new full bottles (removable bottles) or filled, for example from a mobile tank of the tanker truck type or any other suitable means.

[0032] Preferably, the storage module comprises a plurality of storage bottles adapted to store liquid or compressed gas in order to supply it to the distribution module to fill the tank of a vehicle, for example by successive pressure balancing phases.

[0033] The storage module can be either a CNG storage or an ambient temperature LNG storage. Ambient temperature LNG will vaporize upon withdrawal, thus increasing the pressure of the gas to transform it into CNG. The storage module can also be filled from very low temperature LNG. The LNG thus stored will gradually vaporize as it heats up to reach the liquid / vapor equilibrium pressure of the gas at ambient temperature. The storage cylinders can be filled with very low temperature LNG, for example, from a tanker truck. In other words, each storage cylinder can contain compressed gas at the set pressure or at a lower pressure, or liquid gas at very low temperature, for example of the order of -160°C or lower, which, as it heats up, will vaporize into compressed natural gas, for example at more than 150 bars.

[0034] In one embodiment, the electric motor of the compressor may be assisted or replaced by the vehicle's thermal engine or by an electric motor of the vehicle. In other words, the compressor may be driven by the vehicle's engine. For example, a device may allow mechanical coupling between the vehicle's engine and the mechanical part of the compressor on the station. The coupling may be carried out once the vehicle is parked on the natural gas distribution track. The starting and operation of the vehicle's engine drives the compressor, thus allowing the vehicles and / or the cylinders of the station's storage module to be filled. The coupling device is preferably equipped with a clutch kit allowing this adaptation to different models of compressors operating at a given distinct nominal speed, of several thousand rpm, which may be variable.Preferably, the vehicle should remain parked for several hours (at least one hour) so that the compressor can fill the station's storage module. The sequence of several vehicles passing through allows the storage module to be filled sufficiently to allow the tanks to be filled.

[0035] Alternatively or additionally, the station may be coupled to a mechanical compressor drive system powered by the work of the weight of vehicles rolling over a component of said system. The component is installed on the station's roadway, and / or may also be installed on the public highway around the station, thus making it possible to increase the number of vehicles rolling over the component. This mechanical drive system may comprise a hydraulic circuit in which an incompressible fluid circulates or a pneumatic circuit in which a compressible fluid circulates.

[0036] Advantageously, the component comprises one or more aprons moving vertically under the effect of the weight of the vehicle, associated with a kinematic chain making it possible to transform this alternating linear movement into rotary movement driving the compressor.

[0037] In another embodiment, the component comprises pneumatic or hydraulic tubes supplying a pneumatic or hydraulic motor, which itself drives the compressor. The weight of the vehicle rolling on the pneumatic or hydraulic tube compresses the fluid circulating inside the pneumatic or hydraulic tube. A multitude of pneumatic or hydraulic tubes allows the pneumatic or hydraulic motor to be sufficiently supplied with compressed fluid. The operating speed of the compressor is controlled by the fluid flow rate in the pneumatic or hydraulic motor.

[0038] Alternatively or additionally, the station may include rollers adapted for be driven by the vehicle's wheels when it is driven over. The rotational motion of the rollers is transmitted to the compressor drive system via belts or by a drive train directly connected to the roller shaft or by any other means leading to the result. When a belt is used, the rotational speed of the compressor is determined by the ratio of the diameters of the rollers and the compressor drive shaft.

[0039] According to another aspect of the invention, the station comprises a distribution module.

[0040] Advantageously, the distribution module comprises a compressed natural gas (CNG) distribution gun.

[0041] In one embodiment, the distribution module is configured to be directly connected to a gas network, for example at 70 bars, in order to fill the vehicle's tank, for example when the station does not have a compressor. In this case, the station is configured to allow the vehicle's tank to be filled directly, i.e. without pressure modification, from natural gas or biomethane supplied by the gas network at an end-of-filling pressure of the vehicle's tank less than or equal to the pressure of the gas network from which the natural gas or biomethane comes.

[0042] Preferably, the station comprises an enclosure in which the equipment mentioned above is mounted.

[0043] Preferably, the enclosure is adapted to mechanically protect the equipment, in particular from vandalism, and to reduce noise emissions.

[0044] More preferably, the enclosure is shaped to limit the free volume around the station equipment so as to reduce the risk of ignition or explosion of the station.

[0045] Alternatively or additionally, the free spaces (volumes included in the enclosure and not occupied by equipment) may be filled with a material, preferably solid or liquid, for example a powdered material, making it possible to reduce the volume of gas that may be trapped in this enclosure in the event of a gas leak from equipment positioned inside the enclosure. By this means, the risks of ignition and explosion of the gas trapped in the residual volumes are reduced as well as the effects resulting from a possible explosion. For example, an expandable fire-retardant foam may be used to fill the empty spaces, in particular around the storage cylinders.

[0046] In one embodiment, the enclosure has the shape of a closed container or box.

[0047] Preferably, the enclosure comprises at least one gas connection terminal adapted to be connected to a gas network.

[0048] Advantageously, the enclosure comprises at least one electrical connection terminal suitable for connecting the station to a power source.

[0049] The equipment installed in the enclosure may vary from one station to another but preferably, the enclosure is identical for all stations in terms of dimensions and the positioning of the gas connection terminal and / or the electrical connection terminal. In other words, one station can be replaced by another at a given location, which makes it possible, for example, to replace one station with another having different characteristics (for example a more powerful compressor, a different number of storage bottles, etc.).

[0050] In one embodiment, the station comprises a solar module comprising at least one solar panel for supplying electrical power to the electrical equipment of the station.

[0051] In one embodiment, the station comprises a control module configured to control the filling of the vehicle tanks, in particular to control the compressor, the storage module, the distribution module, authenticate the users, distribute the gas, carry out the distribution metering, control the treatment module, etc.

[0052] In one embodiment, the station comprises an anti-tearing device configured to fix said station to the ground while preventing or limiting its tearing, in particular in the event of impact by a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle.

[0053] Advantageously, the station comprises a breakaway type disconnection device installed on the pipes which connect the station to the gas network. Thus, in the event of the station being torn off and excessive tension on the pipes, the disconnection device automatically and instantly disconnects and cuts off the gas supply circuit. The disconnection device protects vehicles and installations and guarantees the safety of the user by preventing any release of explosive gases into the atmosphere.

[0054] In order to authenticate a user to authorize him to use the station, the station can propose the use of a QR code on a telephone (if the area is non-ATEX) and / or facial or fingerprint recognition, or an NFD chip (or other technology). In this case, preferably, users are required to be subscribers and must have credit on their account to be able to use the station.

[0055] In one embodiment, chips may be placed in the vehicles and the station may be configured to identify each vehicle from its chip upon arrival at the station. To this end, the station comprises an authentication means adapted to detect the chip within a predefined perimeter around said station. In this case, preferably, users are required to be subscribers and must have credit on their account to be able to use the station.

[0056] An identification means, for example of the QR CODE type on a physical medium (card or paper), or a magnetic badge, or an RFID badge can also be used to identify the user of the station, in particular their user account or their credit. In this case, preferably, users are required to subscribe and must have credit on their account to be able to use the station. The user can therefore help themselves and the amount can be deducted from their credit at the end of delivery.

[0057] According to one aspect of the invention, the station is configured to count the mass of compressed gas delivered into the vehicle's tank and bill the user.

[0058] In one embodiment, a flow meter, for example OIML R139 certified, makes it possible to calculate the mass of CNG delivered. The control module can be coupled to this flow meter in order to calculate the distribution price based on the measured mass of gas.

[0059] Alternatively or additionally, the storage cylinders can be mounted on scales in order to weigh them continuously. When a user uses gas, the compressor is kept stopped. The mass of gas delivered and sold to the user then corresponds to the difference between the initial mass of the storage module and its mass at the end of distribution.

[0060] Alternatively or additionally, the mass of gas delivered can be calculated by measuring the pressure and temperature of the gas in the storage module between the initial instant and the end of distribution, the compressor being stopped. A thermodynamic equation of state adapted to describe the state of the gas then makes it possible to calculate the mass of gas delivered and sold.

[0061] This equation of state can be for example:

[0062] - the ideal gas law corrected with the compressibility factor of natural gas,

[0063] - the thermodynamic laws and calculation rules proposed in the ISO standard 20765-2:2015(fr) “Natural gas — Calculation of thermodynamic properties”.

[0064] Alternatively or additionally, the delivery rate can be set, for example, by using a device that allows CNG to be delivered at the same rate every time, for example, comprising a discharger and a pressure reducer. Recording the delivery time (time counter managed by the machine) then makes it possible to know the mass of CNG delivered and sold.

[0065] Alternatively or in addition, the counting of the mass of CNG delivered can be carried out by the natural gas meter installed by the operator of the gas network which supplies the station.

[0066] The invention also relates to a compressed gas distribution system for a vehicle, said system comprising at least one filling station as presented previously and at least one gas network fluidly connected to said station.

[0067] In one embodiment, the system comprises a plurality of filling stations each provided with an enclosure identical in terms of dimensions and the positioning of the gas connection terminal and / or the electrical connection terminal so that the stations are interchangeable with each other. This makes it possible, for example, to replace one station with another at a given location, the new station being able to have different characteristics (for example a more powerful compressor, a different number of storage cylinders, etc.). The stations thus constitute a fleet of similar stations whose maintenance and development of the CNG production capacity can easily be carried out, without having to modify the locations and infrastructure of the stations, in particular the positions and dimensions of the locations.

[0068] The invention also relates to an assembly comprising a filling station as presented above and a location, said station comprising at least one gas connection terminal and advantageously one electrical connection terminal and said location comprising a gas outlet terminal and an electrical outlet terminal, the gas connection terminal and the electrical connection terminal of the station being shaped to mechanically interlock respectively with the gas outlet terminal and the electrical outlet terminal of the location. The station can thus be directly connected and used (“plug-and-play”) on the location. In addition, this allows the station to be easily and quickly replaced in the event of maintenance or breakdown.

[0069] The invention also relates to a compressed gas distribution system for a vehicle, said system comprising at least one assembly as presented above and at least one gas source fluidly connected to the gas outlet terminal of the location of said assembly.

[0070] The invention also relates to a method for treating surplus explosive gases under pressure emitted by at least one safety device of a filling station as presented previously, said method comprising a step of collecting said surplus explosive gases under pressure emitted by the at least one safety device and a step of treating the collected gases in order to prevent their propagation into the atmosphere.

[0071] In one embodiment, the treatment step comprises routing the collected explosive gases into a gas network or into a storage tank.

[0072] In another embodiment, the treatment step comprises inerting the pressurized explosive gases emitted by the at least one safety device.

[0073] In one embodiment, the inerting is carried out by oxidation of the explosive gases under pressure emitted by the at least one safety device.

[0074] In another embodiment, the inerting is carried out by dilution of the explosive gases. under pressure emitted by at least one safety device.

[0075] Advantageously, the method further comprises the evacuation of the inert gases into the atmosphere.

[0076] The invention also relates to a method for thermally compressing gases from a storage module of a filling station as presented previously, said method comprising two steps:

[0077] - a first stage of gas storage at the pressure of the gas network, for example between 4 and 70 bars, and at low temperature, for example less than or equal to -160°C;

[0078] - a second step of heating the stored gas so as to compress it.

[0079] As it gradually warms up to room temperature, the gas will build up pressure. For example, if filling is carried out at -160°C (113 K), heating to room temperature (283 K) allows the initial pressure to be multiplied by approximately 2.5. Thus, by filling a tank to an initial pressure of 70 bars, the storage pressure reaches approximately 175 bars.

[0080] The invention also relates to a method for filling the tank of a vehicle directly from natural gas or biomethane supplied by a gas network via a filling station as presented above. In this case, the maximum pressure at the end of filling the vehicle's tank cannot exceed the pressure of the gas network from which the natural gas or biomethane originates. Furthermore, the higher the pressure of the gas supplied by the gas network, the more advantageous it is to fill the vehicle directly from the network.

[0081] The invention also relates to a method for filling a tank of a vehicle from a filling station as presented above, said method comprising:

[0082] - a step of completely filling the storage module with Natural Gas Liquefied or liquefied biomethane at atmospheric pressure, said gas having been previously liquefied at very low temperature, for example of the order of -160°C,

[0083] - a step of natural heating of the liquid gas to ambient temperature in order to vaporize said gas at least in part,

[0084] - a step of expansion of the vaporized gas during withdrawal to fill the tank of the vehicle.

[0085] The heating leads to the phase change of this Liquefied Natural Gas or this liquid biomethane from the liquid state to the gaseous or supercritical state. This phase change results in an increase in pressure in the storage module (for example to approximately 600 bars).

[0086] The invention also relates to a method for filling a tank of a vehicle from a filling station as presented above, said method comprising:

[0087] - a step of partially filling the storage module with a pre-filled volume determined from Liquefied Natural Gas or liquefied biomethane at atmospheric pressure, said gas having been previously liquefied at very low temperature, for example of the order of -160°C,

[0088] - a step of natural heating of the liquid gas to ambient temperature in order to vaporize said gas at least in part so that, once heating is complete, the pressure of the gases in the storage module is equal to a predefined pressure,

[0089] - a step of expansion of the vaporized gas during withdrawal to fill the tank of the vehicle.

[0090] Thus, by controlling the final pressure in the storage module, it is ensured that the maximum pressure supported by said storage module is not exceeded and thus the safety of the station is guaranteed.

[0091] According to one aspect of the invention, the predetermined volume of Liquefied Natural Gas or liquefied biomethane to be conveyed into the storage module is determined as a function of the predefined (i.e. desired) pressure and the total internal volume of the storage module, preferably calculated from a suitable equation of state, for example the ideal gas law corrected for the compressibility factor, or else determined from a predetermined correspondence table, for example indicated on the storage module or on any other element of the station.

[0092] The filling of the storage module with Liquefied Natural Gas can, for example, be carried out using a tanker truck.

[0093] The invention also relates to a method for driving a compressor of a filling station as presented previously from a vehicle.

[0094] In one embodiment, the vehicle comprising an engine, the compressor is driven from the engine (thermal or electric).

[0095] In another embodiment, the station being coupled to a mechanical drive system of the compressor, the method comprises powering said mechanical drive system by the work of the weight of the vehicles rolling or placed on a component of said system.

[0096] Advantageously, the power supply to the mechanical drive system is provided from a pneumatic circuit in which a compressible fluid circulates or from a hydraulic circuit in which an incompressible fluid circulates.

[0097] According to one aspect of the invention, the component comprising one or more aprons moving vertically under the effect of the weight of the vehicle associated with a kinematic chain making it possible to transform this alternating linear movement into rotary movement driving the compressor, the power supply of the mechanical drive system includes the vehicle passing over the apron(s).

[0098] Alternatively or additionally, the component comprising rollers adapted to be driven by the wheels of the vehicle when it rolls over it, the power supply to the mechanical drive system comprises the rotation of the rollers and the transmission of the resulting force via a drive module, for example belts or by a kinematic chain directly connected to the axis of the rollers or by any other means leading to the result.

[0099] The invention also relates to a method for producing electrical energy from rollers adapted to be driven by the wheels of the vehicle when it rolls over it in order to power the electric motor of the compressor of a filling station as presented previously.

[0100] The invention also relates to a method for authenticating a vehicle of a user of a filling station as presented previously, said vehicle comprising a chip, the method comprising a step of authenticating the vehicle from said chip upon its arrival at the station, that is to say in a predefined perimeter around the authentication means of the station.

[0101] The invention also relates to a method for authenticating a vehicle of a user of a filling station as presented previously, said method comprising the use of a QR code on a telephone (if the zone is non-ATEX) and / or facial or fingerprint recognition, and / or an NFD chip (or another technology) and / or a QR CODE on a physical medium (card or paper), and / or a magnetic badge, and / or an RFID badge.

[0102] The invention also relates to a method for counting a mass of CNG delivered into the tank of a vehicle, comprising counting the mass of CNG distributed by the distribution module and calculating the cost of filling by multiplying the mass counted by a unit cost, for example per kilogram.

[0103] In one embodiment, a flow meter, for example OIML R139 certified, makes it possible to calculate the mass of CNG delivered. The control module can be coupled to this flow meter in order to calculate the filling price based on the calculated mass.

[0104] The invention also relates to a method for counting a mass of CNG delivered into a vehicle tank, comprising, the storage module, in particular the storage bottles, being mounted on load cells and the compressor being stopped, the weighing of said bottles at the start and at the end of the distribution of a mass of CNG into the tank in order to deduce the difference in mass and therefore the mass distributed.

[0105] The invention also relates to a method for counting a mass of CNG delivered into a vehicle tank, comprising measuring the pressure and temperature of the gas between the initial instant and the final instant of distribution of said mass of gas delivered and calculating the mass of gas delivered using the gas law. perfect.

[0106] The invention also relates to a method for counting a mass of CNG delivered into a vehicle tank, comprising, the delivery flow rate being constant, recording the delivery duration and calculating the mass of CNG delivered.

[0107] The invention also relates to a method for counting a mass of CNG delivered into a vehicle tank, comprising counting the mass of CNG delivered by the natural gas meter installed by the operator of the natural gas distribution network which supplies the station. This meter is installed at the station inlet (between the gas network and the station) to count the gas purchased from the network. In this case, the gas is counted at the station inlet rather than at the outlet (CNG distribution) and it is ensured that the compressor cannot operate during distribution into the vehicle tank.

[0108] The invention also relates to a method for installing a filling station on a complementary location of an assembly as presented previously, said method comprising the installation of the station on the location and, during said installation, the instantaneous connection of the gas connection terminal and the electrical connection terminal of the station respectively with the gas outlet terminal and the electrical outlet terminal of the location. Brief description of the drawings

[0109] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will become apparent from reading the description which follows. This is purely illustrative and must be read in conjunction with the appended drawings in which:

[0110] [Fig-1] [Fig. 1] schematically illustrates a first embodiment of a system according to the invention.

[0111] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] schematically illustrates a second embodiment of a system according to the invention.

[0112] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] schematically illustrates an embodiment of an ignition system of a treatment module for the oxidation of explosive gases.

[0113] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] schematically illustrates a first embodiment of a mechanical drive system of the compressor of the filling station of the system of [Fig.l].

[0114] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] schematically illustrates a second embodiment of a mechanical drive system for the compressor of the filling station of the system of [Fig.l].

[0115] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] schematically illustrates one embodiment of a system Description of the embodiments

[0116] Figures 1 and 2 show two embodiments of the system 1 according to the invention. The system 1 comprises a filling station 10 connected to a gas network 20.

[0117] Station 10

[0118] Station 10 constitutes a natural gas distribution terminal for vehicles intended in particular to be installed in urban areas but which can be installed in any suitable area.

[0119] Station 10 allows the tank of a vehicle to be filled with Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for vehicles.

[0120] The vehicle may be a motor vehicle such as a car, a van, a truck, a bus, a coach or any vehicle running on compressed natural gas, i.e. having a tank for storing compressed natural gas supplying an engine running by combustion of natural gas.

[0121] The station 10 comprises a gas storage module 110, a distribution module 120, a plurality of safety devices 130, a processing module 140 and a control module 150.

[0122] Storage module 110

[0123] The storage module 110 comprises one or more storage bottles.

[0124] In one embodiment, the storage module 110 makes it possible to store natural gas or biomethane in order to fill the vehicle's tank.

[0125] The gas is preferably compressed (Compressed Natural Gas or CNG) but can also be stored in liquid form (Liquid Natural Gas or LNG) for vaporization to compress it, as will be described below. The CNG or LNG can be bioCNG or bio NGV.

[0126] For example, each storage bottle may contain CNG at a set pressure or at a lower pressure or liquid gas at very low temperature, for example of the order of -160°C, which upon heating will vaporize into compressed gas, for example at more than 150 bars. In one embodiment, the storage module 110 makes it possible to store LNG in order to vaporize it into CNG when it is withdrawn.

[0127] In the case of CNG storage, rapid filling, typically in less than 15 minutes, of high-pressure tanks (200 bars and above in particular) on board vehicles can be achieved by successive pressure balancing from the different cylinders, each storage cylinder being characterized by a different minimum pressure threshold and below which the station 10 controls the filling of a vehicle tank from another cylinder whose minimum pressure threshold is higher. Thus, a “cascade” filling is obtained by carrying out a succession of pressure balancings between, on the one hand, the target tank to be filled and, on the other hand, storage cylinders with an increasing minimum pressure threshold (for example 100 bars then 150 bars then 200 bars). For example, the storage module may comprise three storage cylinders at three different storage pressures: low pressure (LP), for example 100 bars, medium pressure (MP), for example 150 bars, and high pressure (HP), for example 200 bars.

[0128] Distribution module 120

[0129] The dispensing module 120 comprises one or more dispensing guns 121 each adapted to be inserted into the vehicle's tank in order to fill it with CNG.

[0130] Safety devices 130

[0131] The safety devices 130 are preferably of the valve type which open to evacuate the surplus explosive gases stored in the storage module 110 or the surplus explosive gases circulating between the storage module 110 and the distribution module 120 or inside the distribution module 120 or in the compressor 160 when the pressure of said gas exceeds a predetermined value. This emission of surpluses by the safety devices 130 makes it possible to avoid any risk linked to the safety of the installation, in particular any risk of explosion.

[0132] Processing module 140

[0133] The treatment module 140 is configured to collect and treat the surplus explosive gases under pressure discharged by the safety devices 130 in order to prevent their release into the atmosphere.

[0134] In one embodiment, illustrated in [Fig.l], the treatment module 140 is configured to collect and convey the surplus explosive gases evacuated by the safety devices 130 into the gas network 20. For example, in this case, the treatment module 140 may be in the form of a set of pipes connecting the safety devices 130 to the gas network 20.

[0135] This set of pipes could possibly include valves to control, for example automatically or manually via the control module 150, the evacuation of explosive gases to the gas network 20 at given times.

[0136] In this embodiment of [Fig.l], the station 10 comprises a first gas connection terminal for receiving the gas from the gas network 20 and a second gas connection terminal for evacuating the surplus explosive gases to the gas network 20.

[0137] The treatment module 140 can optionally be configured to adapt the pressure of the gas evacuated by the safety devices 130 to the pressure of the gas network 20. For example, if the pressure of the gas evacuated by a safety device 130 is between 200 and 300 bars, the treatment module 140 can expand the gas so as to reduce its pressure to an identical pressure between 4 and 10 bars. at the pressure of the gas network 20.

[0138] In another embodiment (not shown), the treatment module 140 is configured to convey the surplus pressurized explosive gases evacuated by the safety devices 130 into a storage tank.

[0139] In another embodiment, illustrated in [Fig.2], the treatment module 140 is configured to inert the excess gases evacuated by the safety devices 130 and to evacuate the inerted gases into the atmosphere.

[0140] Advantageously, the station 10 comprises at least one vent 340 connected to the safety devices 130 by at least one conduit 350 in order to evacuate the flow of inert gases.

[0141] This inerting can for example be carried out by oxidation or by dilution.

[0142] In the case of oxidation, the treatment module 140 comprises, for example, an intake for excess gas, an air intake, an oxidation chamber (thermal or catalytic), an automatic ignition system for the air and excess gas mixture, and a chimney for discharging the oxidized gases into the atmosphere.

[0143] Preferably, the ignition system is instantaneous and autonomous (independent of an external energy source).

[0144] In one embodiment of the ignition system, the ignition system is a mechanically triggered pyrotechnic ignition system. For example, the ignition system includes a firing pin and a primer connected to a mechanical trigger.

[0145] In another embodiment of the ignition system, an example of which is illustrated in [Fig. 3], the ignition system, placed in a vent duct 350, comprises a mechanical trigger comprising a drive member in the form of a plate 400 connected to a spark generator 410 via a connecting rod 420, the plate 400 being adapted to tilt, when it is subjected to the force of the flow of surplus explosive gases entering the treatment module 140 and to exert in turn a force on the spark generator 410 in order to generate at least one spark making it possible to initiate the combustion reaction of the explosive gases.

[0146] Preferably, the spark generator 410 comprises an element capable of generating at least one spark by metallic contact. For example, the spark generator 410 may comprise a ferrocerium element, for example a ferrocerium bar or a wheel comprising ferrocerium, adapted to generate at least one spark when it is rubbed by a metallic element (not illustrated) driven by the plate 400.

[0147] In another embodiment of the spark generator 410, the spark generator 410 may comprise a piezoelectric element electrically powered by a self-contained device, for example a battery and adapted to generate at least one spark when powered by said battery, the passage of the electric current being triggered mechanically via a switch by the movement of the plate 400.

[0148] In the case of inerting by dilution, the treatment module 140 is configured to inert by dilution the surplus explosive gases under pressure emitted by the safety devices 130 and to evacuate the diluted gases into the atmosphere via the vent 340. The surplus explosive gases emitted by the safety devices 130 can be made inert by the addition of air or another inert gas, such as for example nitrogen. The explosive gases are thus diluted in a flow of inert gas of sufficiently high flow rate to lower the concentration of explosive gases below the lower explosive limit. The flow of inerting gas can be added to the surplus explosive gases in the vent pipe 350 so that the mixture of explosive and inerting gases is homogeneous and therefore inert at the end of the vent pipe 350, before its emission into the atmosphere.

[0149] Advantageously again, in the case of dilution with ambient air, the latter may be introduced by means of a Venturi effect ejector system making it possible to recover the energy from the expansion of the high-pressure gases to suck in the dilution air.

[0150] For example, the ejector system may comprise or consist of a gas-gas ejector powered by the expansion of the surplus explosive gases from 300 bars to atmospheric pressure. Such an ejector has an air entrainment mass ratio of 35, which represents a dilution ratio sufficient to lower the explosive gas concentration below its lower explosive limit (4.4% v / v for methane).

[0151] Control module 150

[0152] The control module 150 is configured to control in particular the filling of the vehicle tanks, in particular to authenticate the users, control the compressor 160, the storage module 110, the distribution module 120 to distribute the gas, carry out the distribution metering, and control the processing module 140.

[0153] In the illustrated embodiment, the station 10 further advantageously comprises a compressor 160, an anti-tearing device 170, a decoupling device 175, an enclosure 180 and a solar module 190.

[0154] Compressor 160

[0155] The compressor 160 comprises a motor, preferably electric, adapted to compress the natural gas supplied by the gas network 20, for example at a pressure of between 4 and 10 bars, to a higher pressure value, for example of between 150 and 300 bars or higher.

[0156] In one embodiment, the motor of the compressor 160 may be assisted or replaced by the vehicle's thermal engine or by an electric motor of the vehicle. In other words, in this case, the compressor 160 is driven by the vehicle's engine. For example, a device may allow mechanical coupling between the motor of the vehicle and the mechanical part of the compressor 160 on the station 10. The coupling can be carried out once the vehicle is parked on the natural gas distribution track. The starting and operation of the vehicle engine drives the motor of the compressor 160 thus allowing the filling of the vehicles and / or the bottles of the storage module 110 of the station 10.

[0157] The coupling device is preferably equipped with a declutching kit allowing this adaptation to different models of compressors 160 operating at a given distinct nominal speed, of several thousand revolutions / min, which may be variable. Preferably, the vehicle must remain parked for several hours (at least one hour) so that the compressor 160 can fill the storage module 110 of the station 10. Advantageously, the sequence of the passage of several vehicles makes it possible to sufficiently fill the storage module 110.

[0158] Alternatively or additionally, the station 10 may be coupled to a mechanical drive system for the compressor 160 powered by the work of the weight of the vehicles rolling over a component of said system. The component is installed on the roadway near the station 10, and may also be installed on the public highway around the station 10, thus making it possible to increase the number of vehicles rolling over the component.

[0159] In a first embodiment, an example of which is illustrated in [Fig.4], this component comprises one or more aprons 500 moving vertically under the effect of the weight of the vehicle 600, associated with a kinematic chain 700 making it possible to transform this alternating linear movement into rotary movement driving the compressor 160. For the sake of clarity, only the compressor 160 of the station 10 has been shown in [Fig.4].

[0160] The component may also consist of pneumatic tubes supplying a pneumatic motor (not shown), itself driving the compressor 160: the weight of the vehicle 600 rolling on the pneumatic tube compresses the fluid circulating inside the pneumatic tube. A multitude of pneumatic tubes allows the pneumatic motor to be sufficiently supplied with compressed fluid. The operating speed of the compressor 160 is controlled by the fluid flow rate in the pneumatic motor. Advantageously, this component comprises one or more aprons moving vertically under the effect of the weight of the vehicle, associated with a kinematic chain making it possible to transform this alternating linear movement into rotary movement driving the compressor 160.

[0161] Alternatively or additionally, the station 10 may be coupled to a mechanical drive system for the compressor 160 powered by the work of the weight of the vehicles 600 moving on a component of said system. The component is installed on the roadway near the station 10, and may also be installed on the track public around station 10, thus increasing the number of vehicles traveling on the component. This mechanical drive system may include a hydraulic circuit in which an incompressible fluid circulates or a pneumatic circuit in which a compressible fluid circulates.

[0162] The component may comprise pneumatic or hydraulic tubes supplying a pneumatic or hydraulic motor, which itself drives the compressor 160. The weight of the vehicle 600 rolling on the pneumatic or hydraulic tube compresses the fluid circulating inside the pneumatic or hydraulic tube. A multitude of pneumatic or hydraulic tubes allows the pneumatic or hydraulic motor to be sufficiently supplied with compressed fluid. The operating speed of the compressor is controlled by the fluid flow rate in the pneumatic or hydraulic motor.

[0163] In a second embodiment, an example of which is illustrated in [Fig. 5], the station 10 may be coupled to a mechanical drive system for the compressor 160 powered by the rotation of rollers 800 driven by the wheels of the vehicle 600 when it rolls over it. The rotational movement of the rollers is transmitted to the drive system for the compressor 160 via belts or by a kinematic chain 710 directly connected to the axis of the rollers 800 or by any other suitable means. When a belt is used, the rotational speed of the compressor 160 is determined by the ratio of the diameters of the rollers 800 and the drive axis of the compressor 160. Again, for the sake of clarity, only the compressor 160 of the station 10 has been shown in [Fig. 5].

[0164] Anti-tear device 170

[0165] The anti-tearing device 170 is adapted to prevent the station 10 from being torn off, for example during an impact with a motor vehicle, in order to make the station 10 more secure, particularly in a dense urban area.

[0166] Uncoupling device 175

[0167] The breakaway type disconnecting device 175 is installed on the pipes that connect the station 10 to the gas network 20. Thus, in the event of the station 10 being torn off and excessive tension on the pipes, the disconnecting device 175 automatically and instantly disconnects and cuts off the gas supply circuit. The disconnecting device 175 protects the vehicles and installations and guarantees the safety of the user by preventing any release of explosive gases into the atmosphere.

[0168] Enclosure 180

[0169] The station 10 comprises an enclosure 180 in which the aforementioned equipment is mounted. Preferably, the enclosure 180 is adapted to protect mechanically the equipment, in particular from vandalism, and reduce noise emissions. More preferably, the enclosure 180 is shaped to limit the free volume around the equipment of the station 10 so as to reduce the risk of ignition or explosion of the station 10. Alternatively or additionally, the free spaces (volumes included in the enclosure and not occupied by equipment) can be filled with a material, preferably solid or liquid, for example a powdery material, making it possible to reduce the volume of gas that can be trapped in this enclosure 180 in the event of a gas leak coming from equipment positioned inside the enclosure 180. By this means, the risks of ignition and explosion of the gas trapped in the residual volumes are reduced as well as the effects resulting from a possible explosion. For example, an expandable fireproof foam can be used to fill the empty spaces, in particular around the storage module 110.In one embodiment, the enclosure 180 has the shape of a closed container or box.

[0170] Solar module 190

[0171] The solar module comprises at least one photovoltaic panel for converting sunlight into electricity in order to electrically power the station 10, at least as a supplement. The solar module 190 may be mounted directly on the enclosure 180 or else remote, for example on a post fixed to the enclosure 180 or independent of the enclosure 180.

[0172] In the absence of a solar module 180, the station 10 comprises an electrical connection terminal making it possible to connect the station 10 to an electrical power source, for example an electrical network, in order to electrically supply the equipment of the station 10. It will be noted that the station 10 could also comprise an electrical connection terminal in the presence of a solar module 190.

[0173] Direct filling

[0174] In one embodiment, the station 10 is configured to allow the filling of the vehicle's tank directly from the natural gas supplied by the gas network 20. In this case, the maximum pressure of the tank at the end of filling cannot exceed the pressure of the gas network 20 in order to be able to fill the tank.

[0175] Gas network 20

[0176] In the embodiments of Figures 1 and 2, the station 10 is connected to a gas network 20. The gas network 20 is adapted to deliver natural gas or biomethane at a predetermined pressure to the station 10. The gas network 20 may for example be a distribution or transport network. For example, the gas network 20 may be a so-called “low-pressure” network, the gas pressure of which is for example between 4 and 10 bars, or a so-called “high-pressure” network the pressure of which is gas is for example around 70 bars.

[0177] It will be noted that, in another embodiment, the system 1 could be independent of any gas network 20, the gas then being supplied only by the storage module 110 whose storage bottles can be changed each time they are empty (removable bottles) or filled each time they are empty.

[0178] Authentication

[0179] In order to identify a user to authorize them to use the station 10, the station 10 may offer the use of a QR code on the telephone (if the area is non-ATEX) and / or facial or fingerprint recognition.

[0180] Chips may be placed in the vehicles and station 10 may be configured to identify each vehicle from its chip upon arrival at station 10.

[0181] An identification means (not shown) for example of the QR CODE type on a physical medium (card or paper), or a magnetic badge, or an RFID badge can also be used to identify the user of the station 10, in particular their user account or their credit. In this case, users are required to subscribe and must have credit on their account to be able to use the station 10. The user can therefore help themselves and the amount can be deducted from their credit at the end of delivery.

[0182] Counting

[0183] Station 10 may be configured to count the mass of CNG delivered and bill the user in several ways.

[0184] In one embodiment, a flow meter, for example OIML R139 certified, makes it possible to calculate the mass of CNG delivered. The control module 150 can be coupled to this flow meter in order to calculate the filling price based on the calculated mass.

[0185] Alternatively or additionally, the storage module 110, in particular the storage bottles, can be mounted on scales in order to weigh them permanently, the compressor 160 being stopped when a user uses gas. The mass of gas delivered and sold is the difference between the initial mass of the storage module and its mass at the end of distribution.

[0186] Alternatively or additionally, the mass of gas delivered can be calculated by measuring the pressure and temperature of the gas in the storage module 110 between the initial instant and the final instant of distribution, the compressor 160 being stopped during distribution. A thermodynamic equation of state adapted to describe the state of the gas then makes it possible to calculate the mass of gas delivered and sold. This equation of state can be for example:

[0187] - the ideal gas law corrected with the compressibility factor of natural gas,

[0188] - the thermodynamic laws and calculation rules proposed in the ISO standard 20765-2:2015(fr) “Natural gas — Calculation of thermodynamic properties”.

[0189] Alternatively or additionally, the delivery rate can be set, for example, by using a device enabling CNG to be delivered at the same rate at all times, for example comprising a discharger and a regulator (not shown). Recording the delivery time (time counter managed by an automaton) then makes it possible to know the mass of CNG delivered.

[0190] Alternatively or additionally, the metering of the mass of gas delivered can be carried out by a natural gas meter such as a meter supplied by the operator of the gas network 20.

[0191] In one embodiment, the system 1 comprises a plurality of stations 10 each provided with an enclosure 180 identical in terms of dimensions and positioning of the gas connection and electrical connection terminals so that the stations 10 are interchangeable with each other. This makes it possible, for example, to replace one station 10 with another at a given location, the new station 10 being able to have different characteristics (for example a more powerful compressor 160, a different number of storage bottles, etc.). The stations 10 thus constitute a fleet of identical stations 10 whose maintenance can easily be carried out, in particular the evolution of the stations 10 in terms of performance, without having to modify the locations of the stations 10, in particular the positions and dimensions of the locations.

[0192] [Fig.6] shows an example of an assembly comprising a station 10 provided with an enclosure 180 and a location 5. In this example, the anti-tearing device 170 and the uncoupling device 175 are combined.

[0193] The assembly is modular and generic in that the station 10 comprises a gas connection terminal 1000 and an electrical connection terminal 1100 and in that the location 5 comprises a gas output terminal 2000 and an electrical output terminal 2100.

[0194] The gas connection terminal 1000 and the electrical connection terminal 1100 of the station 10 are shaped to mechanically interlock respectively with the gas output terminal 2000 and the electrical output terminal 2100 of the location 5. The station 10 can thus be directly connected and used (“plug-and-play”) on the location. In addition, this allows the station 10 to be easily and quickly replaced in the event of maintenance or breakdown.

[0195] The invention also relates to a compressed gas distribution system for a vehicle, said system comprising at least one assembly as presented above and at least one gas network fluidly connected to the gas outlet terminal of location 5 of said assembly.

[0196] Implementation

[0197] Treatment of surplus gas

[0198] In one embodiment, the station 10 comprising a treatment module 140, the treatment module 140 collects the surplus gas emitted by the safety device(s) 130 and treats the gas thus collected in order to prevent it from spreading into the atmosphere.

[0199] In one embodiment, the treatment step comprises conveying the pressurized explosive gases collected by the treatment module 140 into the gas network 20 or into a storage tank (not shown).

[0200] In another embodiment, the treatment module 140 performs the inerting of the pressurized explosive gases emitted by the safety devices 130 by oxidation and the evacuation of the oxidized gases into the atmosphere. In the example of [Fig. 3], the treatment module 140 comprises an ignition system, placed in a vent duct 350, comprising a mechanical trigger comprising a drive member in the form of a plate 400 connected to a spark generator 410 via a connecting rod 420. The plate 400 tilts when it is subjected to the force of the flow of surplus explosive gases entering the treatment module 140 and in turn exerts a force on the spark generator 410 which then generates a spark making it possible to initiate the combustion reaction of the explosive gases.

[0201] In another embodiment, the treatment module 140 performs the inerting of the explosive gases under pressure emitted by the safety devices 130 by dilution and the evacuation of the diluted gases into the atmosphere.

[0202] Direct filling

[0203] In one embodiment, the station 10 fills the vehicle's tank directly from the natural gas supplied by the gas network 20, the maximum pressure at the end of filling being equal to the network pressure (for example filling to equilibrium).

[0204] Compression

[0205] The invention also relates to a method for thermally compressing the gases of a storage module of a station 10 as presented previously, said method comprising two steps:

[0206] - a first stage of gas storage at the pressure of the gas network, for example between 4 and 70 bars, and at low temperature, for example less than or equal to -160°C;

[0207] - a second step of heating the stored gas so as to compress it.

[0208] When filling the storage module 110 with gas, the gas is at the initial temperature of the storage module (for example, around -160°C). As it gradually heats up to reach ambient temperature, the gas will increase in pressure. For example, if filling is carried out at -160°C (113 K), heating to room temperature (283 K) allows the initial pressure to be multiplied by 2.5. Thus, by filling a tank to an initial pressure of 70 bars, the storage pressure reaches 175 bars.

[0209] Vaporization by heating

[0210] In a first embodiment, the filling of a vehicle tank may comprise beforehand the complete filling of the storage module 110 with a Liquefied Natural Gas or liquefied biomethane at atmospheric pressure, said gas having been liquefied beforehand at a very low temperature, for example of the order of -160°C, and the natural heating of the liquid gas to ambient temperature in order to vaporize said gas at least in part, and the expansion of the vaporized gas during withdrawal to fill the vehicle tank.

[0211] In this case, the heating leads to the phase change of at least a portion of this Liquefied Natural Gas or this liquid biomethane from the liquid state to the gaseous or supercritical state. This phase change results in an increase in the pressure, in the storage module 110 (for example to approximately 600 bars), a step of expansion of this gas and a step of filling the vehicle tank from the CNG thus obtained.

[0212] In a first embodiment, the filling of a vehicle tank may comprise beforehand the partial filling of the storage module 110 with a predetermined volume of Liquefied Natural Gas or liquefied biomethane at atmospheric pressure, said gas having been liquefied beforehand at a very low temperature, for example of the order of -160°C, the natural heating of the liquid gas to ambient temperature in order to vaporize said gas at least in part so that, once the heating is complete, the pressure of the gases in the storage module 110 is equal to a predefined pressure, and the expansion of the vaporized gas during withdrawal to fill the vehicle tank.

[0213] In this case, the heating leads to the phase change of at least a portion of this Liquefied Natural Gas or this liquid biomethane from the liquid state to the gaseous or supercritical state. This phase change results in an increase in pressure in the storage module 110 up to the predetermined pressure.

[0214] Thus, by controlling the final pressure in the storage module 110, it is ensured that the maximum pressure supported by said storage module 110 is not exceeded and thus the safety of the station 10 is guaranteed. The predetermined volume of Liquefied Natural Gas or liquefied biomethane to be conveyed into the storage cylinder is determined as a function of the predefined (i.e. desired) pressure and the total internal volume of the storage module 110, preferably calculated from an ideal gas equation or determined from a predetermined correspondence table, by example indicated on the storage module 110 or on any other element of the station 10.

[0215] Driven compressor

[0216] The station 10 being coupled to a mechanical drive system of the compressor 160, the power supply of said mechanical drive system can be carried out by the work of the weight of the vehicles rolling on a component of said system.

[0217] The power supply of the mechanical drive system can be provided from a pneumatic circuit in which a compressible fluid circulates or from a hydraulic circuit in which an incompressible fluid circulates.

[0218] In one embodiment ([Fig.4]), the component comprising an apron 500 moving vertically under the effect of the weight of the vehicle 600 associated with a kinematic chain 700 making it possible to transform this alternating linear movement into rotary movement driving the compressor 160, the power supply of the mechanical drive system comprises the passage of the vehicle 600 on the apron 500.

[0219] Alternatively or additionally ([Fig.5]), the component comprising rollers 800 adapted to be driven by the wheels of the vehicle 600 when it rolls over it, the power supply to the mechanical drive system comprises the rotation of the rollers 800 and the transmission of the resulting force via belts or by a kinematic chain 710 directly connected to the axis of the rollers 800 or by any other means leading to the result.

[0220] Chip authentication

[0221] In one embodiment, the vehicle comprising an identification chip and the station 10 comprising a means of wireless authentication of said chip, the station 10 authenticates the vehicle of a user from said chip upon arrival at the station 10, that is to say in a predefined perimeter around the authentication means of the station 10.

[0222] Mass counter counting

[0223] In one implementation mode, the station 10 counts the mass of gas delivered into the tank of a vehicle and calculates the cost of filling by multiplying the mass counted by a unit cost, for example per kilogram.

[0224] In one embodiment, a flow meter, for example OIML R139 certified, makes it possible to calculate the mass of CNG delivered.

[0225] Mass counter counting

[0226] In one embodiment, the storage module 110, in particular the storage cylinders, being mounted on load cells, the station 10 counts the mass of CNG delivered into the vehicle tank by weighing the cylinders at the start and end of the distribution of a mass of natural gas into the tank in order to deduce the difference in mass and therefore the mass distributed. It will be noted that, when the station 10 comprises a compressor 160, the compressor 160 is only stopped when filling the vehicle's tank.

[0227] Counting by P.T measurement

[0228] In one embodiment, the station 10 measures the pressure and temperature of the gas between the initial instant and the final instant of the distribution of the mass of gas delivered and calculates the mass of gas delivered using a thermodynamic equation of state adapted to describe the state of the gas.

[0229] This equation of state can be for example:

[0230] - the ideal gas law corrected with the compressibility factor of natural gas,

[0231] - the thermodynamic laws and calculation rules proposed in the ISO standard 20765-2:2015(fr) “Natural gas — Calculation of thermodynamic properties”.

[0232] Constant flow metering

[0233] In one implementation mode, the distribution flow rate being constant, the station 10 records the distribution duration and calculates the mass of gas delivered.

[0234] Standard meter counting

[0235] In one implementation mode, the station 10 counts the mass of gas delivered by a natural gas meter such as a meter provided by the gas network operator.

[0236] The invention therefore makes it possible to propose a secure (non-ATEX), optimized and efficient station 10, particularly for dense urban areas.

Claims

Claims

1. Station (10) for filling a vehicle tank from natural gas delivered by a natural gas source, said station (10) comprising at least one safety valve (130) adapted to evacuate excess pressurized explosive gases emitted by the station (10) during its operation, said station (10) being characterized in that it comprises a treatment module (140) configured to collect and treat said excess pressurized explosive gases emitted by the at least one safety valve (130) so as to prevent their release into the atmosphere.

2. Station (10) according to claim 1, in which the treatment module (140) is configured to convey the surplus explosive gases under pressure emitted by the at least one safety valve (130) into a natural gas transport network or into a storage tank.

3. Station (10) according to claim 1, in which the treatment module (140) is configured to carry out the oxidation of the surplus explosive gases emitted by the at least one safety valve (130) and to evacuate the oxidized gases into the atmosphere.

4. Station (10) according to the preceding claim, in which the treatment module (140) comprises an intake for surplus gas, an air intake, an oxidation chamber, a system for automatic ignition of the air and surplus gas mixture, and a chimney for discharging the oxidized gases into the atmosphere.

5. Station (10) according to claim 1, in which the treatment module (140) is configured to inert by dilution the surplus explosive gases emitted by the at least one safety valve (130) and to evacuate the diluted gases into the atmosphere.

6. System (1) for distributing compressed natural gas for a vehicle, said system (1) comprising a station (10) according to any one of the preceding claims and a gas network (20) fluidly connected to said station (10).

7. A method of treating surplus explosive gases under pressure emitted by at least one safety valve (130) of a station (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, said method comprising a step of collecting the surplus explosive gases under pressure emitted by the at least one safety valve (130) and a step of treating the gases collected in order to prevent their spread into the atmosphere.

8. Method according to the preceding claim, in which the treatment step comprises routing the collected gases into a natural gas transport network or into a storage tank.

9. The method of claim 7, wherein the treating step comprises oxidizing the pressurized explosive gases emitted by the at least one safety valve (130) and venting the oxidized gases to the atmosphere.

10. The method of claim 7, wherein the treating step comprises inerting by dilution of the pressurized explosive gases emitted by the at least one safety valve (130).

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