System and method for generating and providing hydrogen gas to a combustion engine

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system and method for generating and providing hydrogen to a combustion engine, and for controlling the generation and provision of hydrogen to a combustion engine;

Description

[0001] SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GENERATING AND PROVIDING HYDROGEN GAS TO A COMBUSTION ENGINE

[0002] Field of the invention

[0003] The present invention relates to a system and method for generating and providing hydrogen to a combustion engine, and for controlling the generation and provision of hydrogen to a combustion engine. More specifically, the present invention relates to a system and method comprising a combustion engine; an electrolysis cell for converting water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas, wherein the electrolysis cell is at least fluidly connected to the combustion engine; an electronic process control system is at least operatively connected to the electrolysis cell to control the generation of hydrogen gas and delivery of hydrogen gas to the combustion engine; and an enclosure comprising an explosion protection system and / or walls of glass fibre or carbon fibre reinforced thermosetting polymer or metallic material, and wherein the enclosure comprises at least part of the electronic process control system.

[0004] Background of the invention

[0005] Hydrogen is considered a clean fuel as it can react with oxygen in a fuel cell or combustion engine to produce energy and water, with essentially no other reaction by-products. The use of hydrogen as a fuel for combustion engines has, however, been limited due to safety issues, e.g. lack of systems and methods for controlling the generation of hydrogen and ensuring safe delivery thereof to the combustion engine. Producing combustible or explosive hydrogen gas is not desirable if the combustion engine is not running and using up the hydrogen gas as it is produced since the gas can accumulate, combust, or explode if not stored or disposed of properly.

[0006] It is known in the art to use systems in which hydrogen is prepared and stored in a holding tank on a vehicle, which involves the use of electrolysis to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. Large- scale electrolysis cells are able to produce large quantities of hydrogen gas which is then stored in a storage tank as a gas or liquid. In each case, it is necessary for the hydrogen to be first generated in an appropriate facility and then transferred to the site of use whereby it is then used as a fuel. However, this may create additional risks and safety problems due to the need to transport hydrogen gas, being a highly flammable gas.

[0007] It would be desirable to provide new and improved systems and methods for generating and providing hydrogen to a combustion engine. Further, it would be desirable to provide systems and methods for generating and providing hydrogen to a combustion engine, wherein the safety aspects are improved. of the invention

[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide a system and method suitable for generating and providing hydrogen to a combustion engine.

[0009] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a system and method for safely generating and providing hydrogen to a combustion engine.

[0010] The present invention leads to several advantages. The present invention makes it possible to increase the safety, reduce the risk of explosion and / or limit the negative consequences and / or damage of explosion when generating and providing hydrogen to a combustion engine, generate and provide hydrogen gas on demand to a combustion engine, reduce gasoline or diesel fuel consumption and reduce the emissions, e.g. carbon monoxide and NOx, of the combustion engine. Hereby the present invention leads to improved safety, less maintenance, reduced need for service, repair and replacement and / or longer working life for the devices and equipment used, reduced fuel consumption and emissions, thus resulting in significant technical, environmental and economic benefits.

[0011] Accordingly, a first aspect provides a system for generating and providing hydrogen gas to a combustion engine, or for controlling the generation and provision of hydrogen to a combustion engine, wherein the system comprises:

[0012] (a) a combustion engine;

[0013] (b) an electrolysis cell for converting water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas, wherein the electrolysis cell is at least fluidly connected to the combustion engine;

[0014] (c) an electronic process control system operatively connected to the electrolysis cell to control the generation of hydrogen gas and delivery of hydrogen gas to the combustion engine; and

[0015] (d) an enclosure comprising an explosion protection system and / or walls of glass fibre or carbon fibre reinforced thermosetting polymer or metallic material; wherein the enclosure comprises at least part of the electronic process control system.

[0016] A second aspect provides a method for generating and providing hydrogen gas to a combustion engine, or for controlling the generation and provision of hydrogen gas to a combustion engine, wherein the method comprises:

[0017] (i) providing a combustion engine;

[0018] (ii) providing an electrolysis cell for converting water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas, wherein the electrolysis cell is at least fluidly connected to the combustion engine;

[0019] (iii) providing an electronic process control system operatively connected to the electrolysis cell, wherein the electronic process control system is able to control the generation of hydrogen gas and delivery of hydrogen gas to the combustion engine; (iv) providing an enclosure comprising an explosion protection system and / or walls of glass fibre or carbon fibre reinforced thermosetting polymer or metallic material, wherein the enclosure comprises at least part of the electronic process control system; and

[0020] (v) controlling the generation of hydrogen gas in the electrolysis cell and delivery of hydrogen gas to the combustion engine.

[0021] The above-mentioned and further objects and aspects of the invention will be described in further detail hereinafter.

[0022] In one example, the first aspect provides a system for generating and providing hydrogen gas to a combustion engine, or for controlling the generation and provision of hydrogen to a combustion engine, wherein the system comprises: a combustion engine; an electrolysis cell for converting water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas, wherein the electrolysis cell is at least fluidly connected to the combustion engine; an electronic process control system operatively connected to the electrolysis cell to control the generation of hydrogen gas and delivery of hydrogen gas to the combustion engine; and an enclosure comprising an explosion protection system and / or walls of glass fibre or carbon fibre reinforced thermosetting polymer or metallic material; wherein the enclosure comprises at least part of the electronic process control system.

[0023] In one example, the second aspect provides a method for generating and providing hydrogen gas to a combustion engine, or for controlling the generation and provision of hydrogen to a combustion engine, wherein the method comprises: providing a combustion engine; providing an electrolysis cell for converting water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas, wherein the electrolysis cell is at least fluidly connected to the combustion engine; providing an electronic process control system operatively connected to the electrolysis cell, wherein the electronic process control system is able to control the generation of hydrogen gas and delivery of hydrogen gas to the combustion engine; providing an enclosure comprising an explosion protection system and / or walls of glass fibre or carbon fibre reinforced thermosetting polymer or metallic material, wherein the enclosure comprises at least part of the electronic process control system; and controlling the generation of hydrogen gas in the electrolysis cell and delivery of hydrogen gas to the combustion engine.

[0024] In one example of the system and / or the method, the enclosure comprises an explosion protection system and walls, and optionally cable glands and / or cable entries, of glass fibre or carbon fibre reinforced thermosetting polymer or metallic material, preferably a metallic material; preferably a metallic material selected from aluminium, alloys of aluminium, stainless steel, and alloys of iron; a metallic material selected from aluminium and stainless steel. In one example of the system and / or the method, the enclosure is able to prevent entry and exit of flammable liquid, vapor, gas, dust and / or fibre, sparks, flames, fire and / or explosion; preferably the enclosure is able to withstand an internal fire and / or explosion, and / or an external fire and / or explosion, without being destroyed.

[0025] In one example of the system and / or the method, the enclosure comprises parts or components of the electronic process control system that are electronic and / or carrying current; preferably the enclosure comprises parts or components of the electronic process control system that may cause sparks and / or flames, or the electronic process control system.

[0026] In one example of the system and / or the method, the electronic process control system is operatively connected to and / or able to control the electrolysis cell and its operations and / or parameters, and the combustion engine and its operations and / or parameters.

[0027] In one example of the system and / or the method, the electronic process control system controls the electrolysis cell, whereby the electrolysis cell can be activated to generate hydrogen gas, and convert water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas, and whereby the electrolysis cell can be deactivated to stop generating hydrogen gas, and stop converting water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas.

[0028] In one example of the system and / or the method, the electronic process control system is operatively connected to one or more sensors; preferably including one or more pressure monitoring devices or sensors to monitor the pressure of hydrogen gas generated by the electrolysis cell and delivered to the combustion engine.

[0029] In one example of the system and / or the method, the electronic process control system is operatively connected to, and / or is able to control, one or more operations, units and / or parameters of the electrolysis cell, human machine interface (180), heating and cooling system, combustion engine, power module, and / or water reservoir; preferably the electronic process control system is able to control one or more operations, units and / or parameters by determining, setting, monitoring, adjusting, regulating and / or displaying:

[0030] (1) for the electrolysis cell:

[0031] (a) electrical current flowing through the electrolysis cell;

[0032] (b) pressure or amount of hydrogen gas generated by the electrolysis cell;

[0033] (c) pressure or amount of oxygen gas generated by the electrolysis cell;

[0034] (d) pressure or amount of hydrogen gas delivered to the combustion engine;

[0035] (e) pressure or amount of oxygen gas delivered to the combustion engine;

[0036] (f) electrolysis cell temperature;

[0037] (g) electrolysis cell water temperature; and / or

[0038] (h) electrolysis cell water level; (2) for the combustion engine:

[0039] (a) pressure or amount of hydrogen gas received from the electrolysis cell;

[0040] (b) pressure or amount of oxygen gas received from the electrolysis cell;

[0041] (c) amount of gasoline or diesel fuel consumed;

[0042] (d) amount of gasoline or diesel fuel remaining;

[0043] (e) amount of electrical energy consumed;

[0044] (f) amount of electrical energy remaining;

[0045] (g) emissions;

[0046] (h) emission control system;

[0047] (i) selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system;

[0048] (j) diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system;

[0049] (k) temperature, preferably engine oil temperature;

[0050] (l) pressure, preferably engine oil pressure; and / or

[0051] (m) vibrations;

[0052] (3) for the heating and cooling system:

[0053] (a) water temperature;

[0054] (b) power for heating or cooling of the water; and / or

[0055] (c) flow of water of the heating and cooling system;

[0056] (4) for the water reservoir:

[0057] (a) water temperature;

[0058] (b) water level; and / or

[0059] (c) amount of water flowing to the electrolysis cell.

[0060] In one example of the system and / or the method, the electronic process control system is operatively connected to, and able to control, means for monitoring, metering, dispensing and / or adjusting one or more of the above features (1) (a) to (h); (2) (a) to (m); (3) (a) to (c); and / or (4) (a) to (c).

[0061] In one example of the system and / orthe method, the electronic process control system is operatively connected to, and able to control, one or more pressure monitoring devices to monitor, meter, dispense and / or adjust the pressure of hydrogen generated by the electrolysis cell and delivered to the combustion engine; preferably the electronic process control system is operatively connected to at least one of the pressure monitoring devices to activate a shut-off switch to disable the electrolysis cell at a predefined pressure.

[0062] In one example of the system and / or the method, the electronic process control system is operatively connected, and able to control, one or more metering valves to feed hydrogen gas, and optionally oxygen gas, generated in the electrolysis cell to the combustion engine; preferably the electronic process control system is able to activate (start), increase, decrease or deactivate (stop) the feed of hydrogen gas and oxygen gas to the combustion engine. In one example of the system and / or the method, the electrolysis cell is at least fluidly connected to the combustion engine; preferably the hydrogen (gas) line and oxygen line of the electrolysis cell are at least fluidly connected to the combustion engine intake.

[0063] In one example of the system and / or the method, the electrolysis cell comprises at least one anode, cathode, and a proton exchange membrane.

[0064] In one example of the system and / or the method, the electrolysis cell generates hydrogen gas when the combustion engine is in operation; preferably the electrolysis cell stops to generate hydrogen gas if the combustion engine is not in operation or stops operating.

[0065] In one example of the system and / or the method, hydrogen gas is separated from the oxygen gas to reduce the risk of inadvertent combustion or explosion of the hydrogen gas prior to the combustion chambers of the combustion engine.

[0066] In one example of the system and / or the method, the human machine interface is able to display parameter values of one or more operations of the electrolysis cell, human machine interface (180), heating and cooling system, combustion engine, power module, and / or water reservoir; and alarm if any parameter value goes outside or beyond a pre-set limit or range.

[0067] In one example of the system and / or the method, the combustion engine has gasoline or diesel fuel as a primary fuel source, hydrogen, or hydrogen and oxygen, as a secondary fuel source, and optionally a battery as an electrical power source.

[0068] In one example of the system and / or the method, the system or method further comprises a water purity system; preferably the water purity system is able to measure the purity of water present in and / or circulating through the electrolysis cell, water reservoir and / or heating and cooling system, and replace any water that has a degree of purity outside or beyond a pre-set limit or range.

[0069] In one example of the system and / orthe method, the system or method further comprises one or more water purity sensors that are in fluid connection with water present in or circulating through the electrolysis cell, water reservoir and / or heating and cooling system.

[0070] Brief description of the drawings

[0071] The invention is described hereinafter, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0072] Figures 1 to 5 are schematic illustrations of one embodiment of the system and method according to the invention. Description of reference numbers

[0073] The following reference numbers refer to the drawings:

[0074] Detailed description of the invention

[0075] The present invention generally relates to a system for generating and providing hydrogen gas to a combustion engine, or for controlling the generation and provision of hydrogen to a combustion engine, wherein the system comprises:

[0076] (a) a combustion engine;

[0077] (b) an electrolysis cell for converting water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas, wherein the electrolysis cell is at least fluidly connected to the combustion engine;

[0078] (c) an electronic process control system operatively connected to the electrolysis cell to control the generation of hydrogen gas and delivery of hydrogen gas to the combustion engine; and (d) an enclosure comprising an explosion protection system and / or walls of glass fibre or carbon fibre reinforced thermosetting polymer or metallic material; wherein the enclosure comprises at least part of the electronic process control system.

[0079] Further, the present invention generally relates to a method for generating and providing hydrogen gas to a combustion engine, or for controlling the generation and provision of hydrogen to a combustion engine, wherein the method comprises:

[0080] (i) providing a combustion engine;

[0081] (ii) providing an electrolysis cell for converting water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas, wherein the electrolysis cell is at least fluidly connected to the combustion engine;

[0082] (iii) providing an electronic process control system operatively connected to the electrolysis cell, wherein the electronic process control system is able to control the generation of hydrogen gas and delivery of hydrogen gas to the combustion engine;

[0083] (iv) providing an enclosure comprising an explosion protection system and / or walls of glass fibre or carbon fibre reinforced thermosetting polymer or metallic material; and

[0084] (v) controlling the generation of hydrogen gas in the electrolysis cell and delivery of hydrogen gas to the combustion engine; wherein the enclosure comprises at least part of the electronic process control system.

[0085] The terms “operatively connected” and “operative connection”, as used herein, refer to a wired or wireless connection between a first component and a second component, and optionally further components, e.g. between two or more components. Each component may be a unit, cell, engine, module, sensor, device, interface or system. Examples of suitable wired connections include power lines and electric cables. Examples of suitable wireless connection include wireless wi-fi and Bluetooth™, and wireless networks, including cellular networks, cell phone or mobile phone networks, including 4G, 5G and 6G networks, wireless local area networks (WLAN), global area networks (GAN), wireless sensor networks, satellite communication networks and microwave networks, including terrestrial microwave networks.

[0086] The terms “fluidly connected” and “fluid connection”, as used herein, means that fluid, e.g. gas or liquid, is able to flow from a first component to a second component, and optionally further components, but the first and second components, and / or optional further components, need not to be physically connected to one another, there may be a piping in between.

[0087] The terms “connected” ad “connection”, as used herein, referto an operative, fluid and / or physical connection between a first component and a second component, and optionally further components. Accordingly, the first component and the second component, and optionally further components, are then operatively, fluidly and / or physically connected.

[0088] The combustion engine of the invention may be an engine having gasoline or diesel fuel as a primary fuel source, and having hydrogen, or hydrogen and oxygen, as a secondary fuel source. Preferably, the combustion engine has diesel as a primary fuel source. The combustion engine may also have an electrical power source, e.g. a battery, usually referred to as a hybrid combustion engine. Accordingly, the combustion engine of the invention may have gasoline or diesel fuel as a primary fuel source, hydrogen, or hydrogen and oxygen, as a secondary fuel source, and a battery as an electrical power source.

[0089] The combustion engine of the invention may comprise an emission control system, a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system, i.e. , an active emissions control system that reduces tailpipe emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx), and / or a diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system.

[0090] According to the invention, the electrolysis cell is preferably at least fluidly connected to the combustion engine, and / or units or systems thereof. Accordingly, the hydrogen gas, and optionally oxygen gas, generated by the electrolysis cell may be fed into the combustion engine intake system and / or into the combustion engine exhaust system, e.g. a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system, either directly from the electrolysis cell, or via one or more variable electronically controlled valves. Preferably, the hydrogen gas, and optionally oxygen gas, generated is fed into the combustion engine intake, or combustion engine air intake. Fuel from the fuel tank of the combustion engine can be added to the hydrogen, oxygen and / or air mixture, which can be burned in the combustion chambers of the combustion engine to increase the performance of the combustion engine.

[0091] Preferably, the combustion engine is connected to one or more sensors, that may be used to control, e.g. by determining, setting, monitoring metering, adjusting, regulating and / or displaying information about, the emissions, emission control system, selective catalytic reduction (SRC) system, diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system, temperature, or oil temperature, pressure, or oil pressure and / or vibrations of the combustion engine.

[0092] The electrolysis cell of the invention is used for generating hydrogen gas and / or converting water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas. The electrolysis cell can comprise one or more cell stacks, preferably a plurality of cell stacks, that comprise at least one anode, cathode, and a proton exchange membrane (PEM). The proton exchange membrane can separate water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas when water is drawn through the proton exchange membrane and an electrical current is applied across the proton exchange membrane, or when an electrical current is applied across the at least one cathode and at least one anode. The proton exchange membrane allows the use of distilled or deionized water.

[0093] Examples of suitable proton exchange membranes include polyflouride ionomer material or resin coated with a catalyst coating, such as platinum, that promotes electrolysis of the water molecule. When water is separated into hydrogen and oxygen by the proton exchange membrane, substantially pure hydrogen gas is collected on one side of the proton exchange membrane and oxygen is collected on an opposite side of the proton exchange membrane. The amount of hydrogen gas and oxygen gas produced can be proportional to the electrical current passed through the cell stack and can be easily controlled.

[0094] A hydrogen line can draw the hydrogen off the cell stacks and a water line can draw off excess water and oxygen. An oxygen separator can receive the excess water and oxygen and can separate the water from the oxygen. The water can be returned to the cell stack and an oxygen line can receive the oxygen. The hydrogen and oxygen lines can be formed from a hollow tube, pipes, channels, and the like. Preferably, the electrolysis cell generates hydrogen and oxygen from water and separate the hydrogen gas from the oxygen gas in order to reduce the risk of inadvertent combustion or explosion of the hydrogen gas prior to the combustion chambers of the combustion engine.

[0095] Preferably, the electrolysis cell is in operation and generates hydrogen gas when the combustion engine is in operation. Preferably, the electrolysis cell stops to operate and generate hydrogen gas if the combustion engine is not in operation or stops operating.

[0096] The electronic process control system of the invention, herein also referred to as EPCS, or controller, can be an electronic, programmable device, e.g. a computer, microcomputer, erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) or integrated circuit board, which may include hardware, firmware and / or software, that can be programmed. That is, in one example, the electronic process control system comprises and / or is an electronic, programmable device for example a computer, a microcomputer, an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) or an integrated circuit board, which may include hardware, firmware and / or software. In one example, the electronic process control system does not comprise the combustion engine; the electrolysis cell; a water reservoir; a heating and cooling system; the enclosure; and / or a human machine interface. In one example, the electronic process control system does not comprise one or more sensors, for example one or more sensors operatively coupled thereto, for example one or more sensors to enable determining, setting, monitoring, metering, controlling, adjusting, regulating and / or displaying the operations, parameters and / or units of the combustion engine; the electrolysis cell; a water reservoir; a heating and cooling system; the enclosure; and / or a human machine interface.

[0097] The electronic process control system, or its hardware, firmware and / or software, can be operatively connected to one or more sensors, and can receive input from the one or more sensors. Preferably, the electronic process control system is operatively connected to, and / or able to control, the electrolysis cell, human machine interface, heating and cooling system, combustion engine, power module, and / or water reservoir, as well as the operations, parameters and / or units thereof. Preferably, the electronic process control system can control the electrolysis cell, whereby the electrolysis cell can be activated to generate hydrogen gas, and convert water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas, and whereby the electrolysis cell can be deactivated to stop generating hydrogen gas, and stop converting water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas. According to the invention, the electronic process control system can control one or more operations, units and / or parameters of the electrolysis cell, human machine interface, heating and cooling system, combustion engine, power module, and / or water reservoir; preferably the electronic process control system can control one or more operations, units and / or parameters by determining, setting, monitoring, adjusting, regulating and / or displaying the features:

[0098] (1) for the electrolysis cell:

[0099] (a) electrical current flowing through the electrolysis cell;

[0100] (b) pressure or amount of hydrogen gas generated by the electrolysis cell;

[0101] (c) pressure or amount of oxygen gas generated by the electrolysis cell;

[0102] (d) pressure or amount of hydrogen gas delivered to the combustion engine;

[0103] (e) pressure or amount of oxygen gas delivered to the combustion engine;

[0104] (f) electrolysis cell temperature;

[0105] (g) electrolysis cell water temperature; and / or

[0106] (h) electrolysis cell water level;

[0107] (2) for the combustion engine:

[0108] (a) pressure or amount of hydrogen gas received from the electrolysis cell;

[0109] (b) pressure or amount of oxygen gas received from the electrolysis cell;

[0110] (c) amount of gasoline or diesel fuel consumed;

[0111] (d) amount of gasoline or diesel fuel remaining;

[0112] (e) amount of electrical energy consumed;

[0113] (f) amount of electrical energy remaining;

[0114] (g) emissions;

[0115] (h) emission control system;

[0116] (i) selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system;

[0117] (j) diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system;

[0118] (k) temperature, preferably engine oil temperature;

[0119] (l) pressure, preferably engine oil pressure; and / or

[0120] (m) vibrations;

[0121] (3) for the heating and cooling system:

[0122] (a) water temperature;

[0123] (b) power for heating or cooling of the water; and / or

[0124] (c) flow of water of the heating and cooling system;

[0125] (4) for the water reservoir:

[0126] (a) water temperature;

[0127] (b) water level; and / or

[0128] (c) amount of water flowing to the electrolysis cell.

[0129] Preferably, the electronic process control system is operatively connected to, and able to control, means for monitoring, metering, dispensing and / or adjusting one or more of the above features (1) (a) to (h); (2) (a) to (m); (3) (a) to (c); and / or (4) (a) to (c). Examples of suitable means include (i) one or more pressure monitoring devices to monitor, meter, dispense and / or adjust the pressure of hydrogen generated by the electrolysis cell and delivered to the combustion engine, preferably the electronic process control system is operatively connected to, and able to control, at least one pressure monitoring device to activate a shut-off switch to disable the electrolysis cell at a predefined pressure; and / or (ii) one or more metering valves to feed hydrogen gas, and optionally oxygen gas, generated in the electrolysis cell to the combustion engine; preferably the electronic process control system is operatively connected to, and able to control, at least one metering valve to activate (start), increase, decrease or deactivate (stop) the feed of hydrogen gas and oxygen gas to the combustion engine.

[0130] According to the invention, the electronic process control system may be operatively connected to a human machine interface, also referred to herein as HML The human machine interface may be a liquid crystal display (LCD), organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, computer, tablet or mobile phone. Preferably, the human machine interface is able to show parameter values of the system and method of the invention, including parameter values of one or more operations and / or units of the electrolysis cell, human machine interface, heating and cooling system, combustion engine, power module, water reservoir and / or enclosure defined herein. Further, the human machine interface is able to alarm, for example output or display an alarm, if any parameter value goes outside or beyond a pre-set limit or range.

[0131] Preferably, the water reservoir of the invention is at least fluidly connected to the electrolysis cell. The water reservoir can supply water, preferably distilled or deionized water, to the electrolysis cell by means of a water circulation pump. Hereby water consumed in the electrolysis cell by the conversion of water into hydrogen and oxygen can be replaced with the corresponding amount of water from the water reservoir.

[0132] Preferably, the heating and cooling system of the invention is at least fluidly connected to the electrolysis cell. The heating and cooling system can be able to either cool or warm I heat the water, preferably distilled or deionized water, that is present or circulating through the electrolysis cell. The heating and cooling system may comprise a water circulation pump and a passive or fan assisted heat exchanger for cooling with an optional resistive heater pad for heating. If needed, the water in the system may be circulated by the pump through the electrolysis cell and into the heat exchanger. The electronic process control system may use a temperature sensor attached to the electrolysis cell to monitor its temperature to determine when cooling or heating is required. The circulation pump may be running continuously to clear the electrolysis cell of gas and circulating the water through the heat exchanger.

[0133] The enclosure of the invention may be selected from enclosures with increased safety that are suitable for use in harsh and / or hazardous environments and / or having an explosion protection system. In this way, safety aspects ofthe system and method are improved because at least part of the electronic process control system is comprised, for example enclosed or contained, in the enclosure. For example, the enclosure may comprise, enclose or contain parts or components of the electronic process control system that may cause sparks and / or flames. In this way, a risk of an external fire and / or explosion in the event of a leak of hydrogen and / or oxygen outside of the enclosure may be reduced or eliminated, for example, since the enclosure of the invention may be able to prevent entry and exit of flammable liquid, vapor, gas, dust and / or fibre; sparks and / or flames; fire and / or explosion, and the spread thereof. In this way, a risk of an internal fire and / or explosion in the event of a leak of hydrogen and / or oxygen inside the enclosure may be reduced or eliminated, for example, since the enclosure of the invention may be able to prevent entry and exit of flammable liquid, vapor, gas, dust and / or fibre; sparks and / or flames; fire and / or explosion, and the spread thereof.

[0134] Examples of suitable enclosures include:

[0135] (i) enclosures having walls of a glass or carbon fibre reinforced thermosetting polymer or resin, thereby preferably providing impact resistance;

[0136] (ii) enclosures in which the electrical energy within the enclosure is restricted to a level which is below what could cause an explosion;

[0137] (iii) enclosures having a gas pressure within the enclosure to prevent entry of flammable gas, dust or fibre, thereby preferably preventing a possible ignition or explosion; and / or

[0138] (iv) enclosures that prevent the spread of sparks, flames and hot gases, thereby preferably preventing a possible ignition or explosion.

[0139] Enclosures, orsafety enclosures or boxes, according to (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) are commercially available, and usually referred to as (i) EXE enclosures, or enclosures with Ex e protection and / or certificate; (ii) EXIA enclosures, or enclosures with Ex ia protection and / or certificate; (iii) EXP enclosures, or enclosures with Ex p protection and / or certificate; and (iv) EXD enclosures, or enclosures with Ex d protection and / or certificate. In one example, the enclosure comprises and / or is (i) an EXE enclosure, or an enclosures with Ex e protection and / or certificate; (ii) an EXIA enclosure, or an enclosure with Ex ia protection and / or certificate; (iii) an EXP enclosure, or an enclosure with Ex p protection and / or certificate; and / or (iv) an EXD enclosure, or an enclosure with Ex d protection and / or certificate.

[0140] The enclosure of the invention may comprise, for example have, walls, and optionally junctions, relays, cable glands and / or cable entries, of glass fibre or carbon fibre reinforced thermosetting polymer or resin or a metallic material. Examples of suitable metallic materials include aluminium, alloys of aluminium, stainless steel, and alloys of iron, preferably aluminium or stainless steel. The walls of the enclosure may be internal, external or intermediate walls, including coated walls.

[0141] Preferably, due to the explosion protection system, the enclosure of the invention is able to prevent entry and / or exit of flammable liquid, vapor, gas, dust and / or fibre; sparks and / or flames; fire and / or explosion, and / orthe spread thereof. Preferably, the enclosure of the invention is able to withstand an internal fire and / or explosion, and / or an external fire and / or explosion, without being destroyed.

[0142] According to the invention, the enclosure may comprise at least part of the electronic process control system. It should be understood that by comprising at least part of the electronic process control system, the enclosure encloses or contains at least part of the electronic process control system. That is, at least part of the electronic process control system is enclosed or contained by the enclosure, for example sealingly enclosed or contained by the enclosure or hermetically sealingly enclosed or contained by the enclosure. In this way, the enclosure is able (i.e. adapted) to prevent entry and exit of flammable liquid, vapor, gas, dust and / or fibre; sparks and / or flames; fire and / or explosion, and the spread thereof. In this way, the enclosure is able (i.e. adapted) to withstand an internal fire and / or explosion, and / or an external fire and / or explosion, without being destroyed. In one example, the enclosure comprises and / or is a sealed enclosure, for example a hermetically sealed enclosure. In one example, the enclosure, for example walls such as external walls thereof, comprises no open perforations, passageways or apertures therethrough. It should be understood that perforations, passageways or apertures through the enclosure, for example through walls such as external walls thereof, for cables are closed (i.e. sealed) by the cable and / or cable glands and / or cable entries. In one example, the enclosure comprises a (re)closeable access port or hatch, having a lid or a door, for example for access to the electronic process control system enclosed or contained therein.

[0143] According to the invention, the enclosure may comprise, for example enclose or contain, at least part of the electronic process control system, preferably the enclosure comprises, for example encloses, or contains, parts or components of the electronic process control system that are electronic and / or carrying current, or electronic and / or current-carrying parts or components, e.g. parts or components that may cause sparks and / or flames, orthe enclosure may comprise, for example enclose or contain, the complete electronic process control system. Preferably, the enclosure does not comprise, for example enclose or contain, the combustion engine and electrolysis cell, nor the one or more sensors to enable determining, setting, monitoring, metering, controlling, adjusting, regulating and / or displaying the operations, parameters and / or units of the combustion engine and electrolysis cell. In one example, the enclosure does not comprise, for example enclose or contain: the combustion engine; the electrolysis cell; and / or one or more sensors to enable determining, setting, monitoring, metering, controlling, adjusting, regulating and / or displaying the operations, parameters and / or units of the combustion engine and electrolysis cell.

[0144] In one example, the enclosure is disposed proximal to the electrolysis cell and / or the combustion engine, for example attached thereto directly or indirectly. In one example, the enclosure is not disposed distal to the electrolysis cell and / or the combustion engine, for example remote therefrom.

[0145] In one example, the system comprises a housing, configured to house the electrolysis cell and the enclosure (comprising at least part of the electronic process control system) and optionally, the combustion engine, a heating and cooling system, a water reservoir, an HMI. In one example, the system comprises a housing, configured to house the electrolysis cell and the enclosure (comprising at least part of the electronic process control system) and optionally, all other components of the system. In this way, safety aspects of the system and method are further improved because at least part of the electronic process control system is comprised, for example enclosed or contained, in the enclosure. For example, the enclosure may comprise, enclose or contain parts or components of the electronic process control system that may cause sparks and / or flames. In this way, a risk of an external fire and / or explosion in the event of a leak of hydrogen and / or oxygen inside the housing while outside of the enclosure may be reduced or eliminated, for example, since the enclosure of the invention may be able to prevent entry and exit of flammable liquid, vapor, gas, dust and / or fibre; sparks and / or flames; fire and / or explosion, and the spread thereof. In this way, a risk of an internal fire and / or explosion in the event of a leak of hydrogen and / or oxygen inside the enclosure may be reduced or eliminated, for example, since the enclosure of the invention may be able to prevent entry and exit of flammable liquid, vapor, gas, dust and / or fibre; sparks and / or flames; fire and / or explosion, and the spread thereof.

[0146] Preferably, a water purity system is used to measure water purity of any water used according to the invention, e.g. electrolysis cell, water reservoir and / or heating and cooling system, and replace any water that has a degree of purity outside or beyond a pre-set limit or range. For this purpose, one or more water purity sensors may be used that are in fluid connection with the water present in or circulating through the electrolysis cell, water reservoir and / or heating and cooling system.

[0147] The invention will now be illustrated with reference to the non-limiting drawings. Elements and features illustrated in the drawing are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the invention. This invention may be provided in other specific forms and embodiments without departing from the essential characteristics described herein.

[0148] Figures 1 to 5 are schematic illustrations of one embodiment of the system and method of the invention.

[0149] As illustrated in Fig. 1 , a system (100) comprises a power module (110), combustion engine (120), electrolysis cell (130), water reservoir (140), heating and cooling system (150), electronic process control system (160), enclosure (170) and human machine interface (180). The power module (110) supplies power needed in the system, e.g. to the electrolysis cell (130), electronic process control system (160), human machine interface (180), and any other appropriate unit or device connected thereto, that needs power.

[0150] As illustrated in Fig. 2, the combustion engine (120) has an air intake (121), exhaust (122), fuel tank (123) and emission control system (124). According to this embodiment, the combustion engine is a diesel engine that has a selective catalytic reduction (SRC) system (125) and diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system (126). The electronic process control system (160) is operatively connected to several sensors (127) to sense and monitor the operating parameters of the combustion engine (120), including an oil pressure sensor, battery condition sensor, engine RPM sensor, engine temperature sensor, NOx exhaust sensor, SRC system sensor, DEF system sensor, vibration sensor, and other appropriate sensors. The signals from the combustion engine sensors (127) are directed and fed into the electronic process control system (160). The electronic process control system (160) is able to deactivate the electrolysis cell (130), and / or the generation of hydrogen gas in the electrolysis cell (130), if the combustion engine (120) is not operating. Deactivation of the electrolysis cell (130), and / or the generation of hydrogen gas in the electrolysis cell (130), can be based on input or a signal from, e.g. the oil pressure sensor, or vibration sensor.

[0151] The electronic process control system (160) is operatively connected to several sensors (131) to sense and monitor the operating parameters of the electrolysis cell (130), including electrolysis cell temperature sensor, electrolysis cell water temperature, electrolysis cell water level, and other appropriate sensors. By sensing and monitoring the electrolysis cell, water level and / or water temperature, the electronic process control system (160) is able to determine when water needs be supplied and when cooling or heating is required.

[0152] Further, the electronic process control system (160) is operatively connected to several devices to sense and control the electrical current applied across at least one cathode and at least one anode, and the amount of hydrogen gas and oxygen gas generated by the electrolysis cell (130), wherein the hydrogen gas is separated (i.e. isolated) from the oxygen gas to reduce the risk of inadvertent combustion or explosion of the hydrogen gas prior to the combustion chambers of the combustion engine (120). The devices include at least one pressure monitoring device (132) to monitor, meter, dispense and / or adjust the pressure of hydrogen gas generated by the electrolysis cell (130) and delivered to the combustion engine (120) and its air intake (121); at least one pressure monitoring device (132) to monitor, meter, dispense and / or adjust the pressure of oxygen gas generated by the electrolysis cell (130) and delivered to the combustion engine (120) and its air intake (121); at least one shut-off switch (133) that can be activated to disable the electrolysis cell (130) to generate hydrogen gas and oxygen gas at a predefined gas pressure; and one or more metering valves (128) to feed hydrogen gas and oxygen gas generated in the electrolysis cell to the combustion engine (120) and its air intake (121). Hereby the electronic process control system (160) is able to control the metering valves (128) to activate (start), increase, decrease or deactivate (stop) the feed of hydrogen gas and oxygen gas to the combustion engine (120). Thus, the electronic process control system (160) is able to deactivate the supply of hydrogen gas and oxygen gas to the combustion engine.

[0153] As illustrated in Fig. 3, the electronic process control system (160) is operatively connected to several sensors (141) and devices to sense, monitor and control the parameters, or operating parameters, of the water reservoir (140). The sensors (141) include a water level sensor and water temperature sensor, and other appropriate sensors. The devices include a water flow device (142), e.g. at least one water circulation pump, and other appropriate devices. The water of the water reservoir (140) is distilled or deionized water. The water reservoir (140) is fluidly connected to the electrolysis cell (130). The electronic process control system (160) is able to control the water reservoir (140) and water flow device (142) to activate (start), increase, decrease or deactivate (stop) the flow of water to the electrolysis cell (130). As illustrated in Fig. 4, the electronic process control system (160) is operatively connected to several sensors (151) and devices to sense, monitor and control the parameters, or operating parameters, of the heating and cooling system (150). The sensors (151) include a water temperature sensor, and other appropriate sensors. The devices include a water flow device (152), e.g. at least one water circulation pump, and other appropriate devices. The water of the heating and cooling system (150) is distilled or deionized water. The heating and cooling system (150) is fluidly connected to the electrolysis cell (130). The electronic process control system (160) is able to control the heating and cooling system (150) and water flow device (152) to activate (start), increase, decrease or deactivate (stop) the heating or cooling of water, and the flow of water, to the electrolysis cell (130).

[0154] As illustrated in Fig. 5, the enclosure (170), or safety box, comprises the electronic process control system (160) and has an EX d type of protection that prevents the spread of sparks, flames and hot gases, Hereby the enclosure prevents a possible ignition or explosion. The enclosure has cast aluminium walls, junctions and relays and is powder coated.

[0155] The electronic process control system (160) is operatively connected to a human machine interface (180) in the form of a computer. The human machine interface (180) shows parameter values of the system and method of the invention, and is able to alarm if any parameter value goes outside or beyond a pre-set limit or range, including any parameter value of the enclosure.

[0156] Clauses

[0157] The invention may relate to one or more of the following clauses:

[0158] 1 . System (100) for generating and providing hydrogen gas to a combustion engine (120), or for controlling the generation and provision of hydrogen to a combustion engine (120), wherein the system comprises: a) a combustion engine (120); b) an electrolysis cell (130) for converting water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas, wherein the electrolysis cell (130) is at least fluidly connected to the combustion engine (120); c) an electronic process control system (160) operatively connected to the electrolysis cell (130) to control the generation of hydrogen gas and delivery of hydrogen gas to the combustion engine (120); and d) an enclosure (170) comprising an explosion protection system (160) and / or walls of glass fibre or carbon fibre reinforced thermosetting polymer or metallic material; wherein the enclosure (170) comprises at least part of the electronic process control system (160).

[0159] 2. Method for generating and providing hydrogen gas to a combustion engine (120), or for controlling the generation and provision of hydrogen to a combustion engine (120), wherein the method comprises:

[0160] (i) providing a combustion engine (120);

[0161] (ii) providing an electrolysis cell (130) for converting water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas, wherein the electrolysis cell (130) is at least fluidly connected to the combustion engine (120);

[0162] (iii) providing an electronic process control system (160) operatively connected to the electrolysis cell (130), wherein the electronic process control system (160) is able to control the generation of hydrogen gas and delivery of hydrogen gas to the combustion engine (120);

[0163] (iv) providing an enclosure (170) comprising an explosion protection system (160) and / or walls of glass fibre or carbon fibre reinforced thermosetting polymer or metallic material, wherein the enclosure (170) comprises at least part of the electronic process control system (160); and

[0164] (v) controlling the generation of hydrogen gas in the electrolysis cell (130) and delivery of hydrogen gas to the combustion engine (120).

[0165] 3. System according to clause 1 , or method according to clause 2, wherein the enclosure (170) comprises an explosion protection system and walls, and optionally cable glands and / or cable entries, of glass fibre or carbon fibre reinforced thermosetting polymer or metallic material, preferably a metallic material; preferably a metallic material selected from aluminium, alloys of aluminium, stainless steel, and alloys of iron; a metallic material selected from aluminium and stainless steel.

[0166] 4. System according to any one of clauses 1 and 3, or method according to any one of clauses 2 to 3, wherein the enclosure (170) is able to prevent entry and exit of flammable liquid, vapor, gas, dust and / or fibre, sparks, flames, fire and / or explosion; preferably the enclosure (170) is able to withstand an internal fire and / or explosion, and / or an external fire and / or explosion, without being destroyed.

[0167] 5. System according to any one of clauses 1 and 3 to 4, or method according to any one of clauses 2 to 4, wherein the enclosure (170) comprises parts or components of the electronic process control system (160) that are electronic and / or carrying current; preferably the enclosure (170) comprises parts or components of the electronic process control system (160) that may cause sparks and / or flames, or the electronic process control system (160).

[0168] 6. System according to any one of clauses 1 and 3 to 5, or method according to any one of clauses 2 to 5, wherein the electronic process control system (160) is operatively connected to and / or able to control the electrolysis cell (130) and its operations and / or parameters, and the combustion engine (120) and its operations and / or parameters.

[0169] 7. System according to any one of clauses 1 and 3 to 6, or method according to any one of clauses 2 to 6, wherein the electronic process control system (160) controls the electrolysis cell (130), whereby the electrolysis cell (130) can be activated to generate hydrogen gas, and convert water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas, and whereby the electrolysis cell (130) can be deactivated to stop generating hydrogen gas, and stop converting water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas.

[0170] 8. System according to any one of clauses 1 and 3 to 7, or method according to any one of clauses 2 to 7, wherein the electronic process control system (160) is operatively connected to one or more sensors (131); preferably including one or more pressure monitoring devices or sensors to monitor the pressure of hydrogen gas generated by the electrolysis cell (130) and delivered to the combustion engine (120).

[0171] 9. System according to any one of clauses 1 and 3 to 8, or method according to any one of clauses 2 to 8, wherein the electronic process control system (160) is operatively connected to, and / or is able to control, one or more operations, units and / or parameters of the electrolysis cell (139), human machine interface (180), heating and cooling system (150), combustion engine (120), power module (1 10), and / or water reservoir (140); preferably the electronic process control system (160) is able to control one or more operations, units and / or parameters by determining, setting, monitoring, adjusting, regulating and / or displaying:

[0172] 1) for the electrolysis cell (130): a) electric current flowing through the electrolysis cell (130); b) pressure or amount of hydrogen gas generated by the electrolysis cell (130); c) pressure or amount of oxygen gas generated by the electrolysis cell (130); d) pressure or amount of hydrogen gas delivered to the combustion engine (120); e) pressure or amount of oxygen gas delivered to the combustion engine (120); f) electrolysis cell temperature; g) electrolysis cell water temperature; and / or h) electrolysis cell water level;

[0173] 2) forthe combustion engine (120): a) pressure or amount of hydrogen gas received from the electrolysis cell (130); b) pressure or amount of oxygen gas received from the electrolysis cell (130); c) amount of gasoline or diesel fuel consumed; d) amount of gasoline or diesel fuel remaining; e) amount of electrical energy consumed; f) amount of electrical energy remaining; g) emissions; h) emission control system (124); i) selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system (125); j) diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system (126); k) temperature, preferably engine oil temperature; l) pressure, preferably engine oil pressure; and / or m) vibrations;

[0174] 3) forthe heating and cooling system (150): a) water temperature; b) power for heating or cooling of the water; and / or c) flow of water of the heating and cooling system;

[0175] 4) for the water reservoir (140): a) water temperature; b) water level; and / or c) amount of water flowing to the electrolysis cell;

[0176] 10. System according to any one of clauses 1 and 3 to 9, or method according to any one of clauses 2 to 9, wherein the electronic process control system (160) is operatively connected to, and able to control, means for monitoring, metering, dispensing and / or adjusting one or more of the above features 1) a) to h), 2) a) to m), 3) a) to c), and 4) a) to c). 1 . System according to any one of clauses 1 and 3 to 10, or method according to any one of clauses 2 to 10, wherein the electronic process control system (160) is operatively connected to, and able to control, one or more pressure monitoring devices to monitor, meter, dispense and / or adjust the pressure of hydrogen generated by the electrolysis cell (130) and delivered to the combustion engine (120); preferably the electronic process control system (160) is operatively connected to at least one of the pressure monitoring devices (132) to activate a shut-off switch to disable the electrolysis cell (130) at a predefined pressure. 2. System according to any one of clauses 1 and 3 to 11 , or method according to any one of clauses 2 to 11 , wherein the electronic process control system (160) is operatively connected, and able to control, one or more metering valves (128) to feed hydrogen gas, and optionally oxygen gas, generated in the electrolysis cell (130) to the combustion engine (120); preferably the electronic process control system (160) is able to activate (start), increase, decrease or deactivate (stop) the feed of hydrogen gas and oxygen gas to the combustion engine (120). 3. System according to any one of clauses 1 and 3 to 12, or method according to any one of clauses 2 to 12, wherein the electrolysis cell (130) is at least fluidly connected to the combustion engine (120); preferably the hydrogen (gas) line and oxygen line of the electrolysis cell are at least fluidly connected to the combustion engine intake (128). 4. System according to any one of clauses 1 and 3 to 13, or method according to any one of clauses 2 to 13, wherein the electrolysis cell (130) comprises at least one anode, cathode, and a proton exchange membrane. 5. System according to any one of clauses 1 and 3 to 14, or method according to any one of clauses 2 to 14, wherein the electrolysis cell (130) generates hydrogen gas when the combustion engine (120) is in operation; preferably the electrolysis cell (130) stops to generate hydrogen gas if the combustion engine (120) is not in operation or stops operating. 6. System according to any one of clauses 1 and 3 to 15, or method according to any one of clauses 2 to 15, wherein hydrogen gas is separated from the oxygen gas to reduce the risk of inadvertent combustion or explosion of the hydrogen gas prior to the combustion chambers of the combustion engine (120). 7. System according to any one of clauses 1 and 3 to 16, or method according to any one of clauses 2 to 16, wherein the human machine interface (180) is able to display parameter values of one or more operations of the electrolysis cell (130), human machine interface (180), heating and cooling system (150), combustion engine (120), power module (1 10), and / or water reservoir (140); and alarm if any parameter value goes outside or beyond a pre-set limit or range. System according to any one of clauses 1 and 3 to 17, or method according to any one of clauses 2 to 17, wherein the combustion engine (120) has gasoline or diesel fuel as a primary fuel source, hydrogen, or hydrogen and oxygen, as a secondary fuel source, and optionally a battery as an electrical power source. System according to any one of clauses 1 and 3 to 18, or method according to any one of clauses 2 to 1 , wherein it further comprises a water purity system; preferably the water purity system is able to measure the purity of water present in and / or circulating through the electrolysis cell, water reservoir and / or heating and cooling system, and replace any water that has a degree of purity outside or beyond a pre-set limit or range. System according to any one of clauses 1 and 3 to 19, or method according to any one of clauses 2 to 19, wherein it further comprises one or more water purity sensors that are in fluid connection with water present in or circulating through the electrolysis cell, water reservoir and / or heating and cooling system.

Claims

Claims1 . A system (100) for generating and providing hydrogen gas to combustion engines (120), wherein the system (100) comprises:(a) a combustion engine (120);(b) an electrolysis cell (130) for converting water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas, wherein the electrolysis cell (130) is at least fluidly connected to the combustion engine (120);(c) an electronic process control system (160) operatively connected to the electrolysis cell (130) to control the generation of hydrogen gas and delivery of hydrogen gas to the combustion engine (120); and(d) an enclosure (170) comprising an explosion protection system (160) and / or walls of glass fibre and / or carbon fibre reinforced thermosetting polymer or metallic material; wherein the enclosure (170) comprises the electronic process control system (160).

2. The system (100) according to claim 1 , wherein the enclosure (170) comprises an explosion protection system and walls, and optionally cable glands and / or cable entries, of glass fibre or carbon fibre reinforced thermosetting polymer or metallic material, preferably a metallic material; preferably a metallic material selected from aluminium, alloys of aluminium, stainless steel, and alloys of iron; a metallic material selected from aluminium and stainless steel.

3. The system (100) according to any previous claim, wherein the enclosure (170) is adapted to prevent entry and exit of flammable liquid, vapor, gas, dust and / or fibre, sparks, flames, fire and / or explosion; preferably the enclosure (170) is adapted to withstand an internal fire and / or explosion, and / or an external fire and / or explosion, without being destroyed.

4. The system (100) according to any previous claim, wherein the enclosure (170) comprises parts or components of the electronic process control system (160) that are electronic and / or carrying current; preferably the enclosure (170) comprises parts or components of the electronic process control system (160) that may cause sparks and / or flames, or the electronic process control system (160).

5. The system (100) according to any previous claim, wherein the electronic process control system (160) is operatively connected to and / or is configured to control: the electrolysis cell (130) and its operations and / or parameters; and / or the combustion engine (120) and its operations and / or parameters.

6. The system (100) according to any previous claim, wherein the electronic process control system (160) is configured to control the electrolysis cell (130), whereby the electrolysis cell (130) can be activated to generate hydrogen gas, and convert water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas, and / or whereby the electrolysis cell (130) can be deactivated to stop generating hydrogen gas, and / or stop converting water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas.

7. The system (100) according to any previous claim, wherein the electronic process control system (160) is operatively connected to one or more sensors (131); preferably including one or more pressure monitoring devices or sensors to monitor the pressure of hydrogen gas generated by the electrolysis cell (130) and / or delivered to the combustion engine (120).

8. The system (100) according to any previous claim, wherein the electronic process control system (160) is operatively connected to, and / or is configured to control, one or more operations, units and / or parameters of: the electrolysis cell (130); a human machine interface (180); a heating and cooling system (150); the combustion engine (120); a power module (110); and / or a water reservoir (140); preferably wherein the electronic process control system (160) is configured to control one or more operations, units and / or parameters by determining, setting, monitoring, adjusting, regulating and / or displaying:(1) for the electrolysis cell (130):(a) electrical current flowing through the electrolysis cell;(b) pressure or amount of hydrogen gas generated by the electrolysis cell;(c) pressure or amount of oxygen gas generated by the electrolysis cell;(d) pressure or amount of hydrogen gas delivered to the combustion engine;(e) pressure or amount of oxygen gas delivered to the combustion engine;(f) electrolysis cell temperature;(g) electrolysis cell water temperature; and / or(h) electrolysis cell water level;(2) for the combustion engine (120):(a) pressure or amount of hydrogen gas received from the electrolysis cell;(b) pressure or amount of oxygen gas received from the electrolysis cell;(c) amount of gasoline or diesel fuel consumed;(d) amount of gasoline or diesel fuel remaining;(e) amount of electrical energy consumed;(f) amount of electrical energy remaining;(g) emissions;(h) emission control system;(i) selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system;(j) diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system;(k) temperature, preferably engine oil temperature;(l) pressure, preferably engine oil pressure; and / or(m) vibrations;(3) for the heating and cooling system (150):(a) water temperature;(b) power for heating or cooling of the water; and / or(c) flow of water of the heating and cooling system;(4) for the water reservoir (140):(a) water temperature;(b) water level; and / or(c) amount of water flowing to the electrolysis cell.

9. The system (100) according to any previous claim, wherein the electronic process control system (160) is operatively connected to, and configured to control, means for monitoring, metering, dispensing and / or adjusting one or more of the above features (1) (a) to (h); (2) (a) to (m); (3) (a) to (c); and / or (4) (a) to (c).

10. The system (100) according to any previous claim, wherein the electronic process control system (160) is operatively connected to, and configured to control, one or more pressure monitoring devices to monitor, meter, dispense and / or adjust the pressure of hydrogen generated by the electrolysis cell (130) and delivered to the combustion engine (120); preferably wherein the electronic process control system (160) is operatively connected to at least one of the pressure monitoring devices (132) to activate a shut-off switch to disable the electrolysis cell (130) at a predefined pressure.11 . The system (100) according to any previous claim, wherein the electronic process control system (160) is operatively connected, and configured to control, one or more metering valves (128) to feed hydrogen gas, and optionally oxygen gas, generated in the electrolysis cell (130) to the combustion engine (120); preferably wherein the electronic process control system (160) is configured to activate (start), increase, decrease or deactivate (stop) the feed of hydrogen gas and oxygen gas to the combustion engine (120).

12. The system (100) according to any previous claim, wherein the electrolysis cell (130) is at least fluidly connected to the combustion engine (120); preferably wherein the hydrogen (gas) line and oxygen line of the electrolysis cell (130) are at least fluidly connected to the combustion engine intake (128).

13. The system (100) according to any previous claim, wherein the electrolysis cell (130) comprises at least one anode, cathode, and a proton exchange membrane.

12. The system (100) according to any previous claim, wherein the electrolysis cell (130) is configured to generate hydrogen gas when the combustion engine (120) is in operation; preferably wherein the electrolysis cell (130) is configured to stop generating hydrogen gas if the combustion engine (120) is not in operation or stops operating.

15. The system (100) according to any previous claim, wherein the hydrogen gas is isolated from the oxygen gas to reduce the risk of inadvertent combustion or explosion of the hydrogen gas prior to the combustion chambers of the combustion engine (120).

16. The system (100) according to any previous claim, comprising a human machine interface (180) configured to display parameter values of one or more operations of: the electrolysis cell (130);the human machine interface (180); a heating and cooling system (150); the combustion engine (120); a power module (110); and / or a water reservoir (140); and output an alarm if any parameter value goes outside or beyond a pre-set limit or range.

17. The system (100) according to any previous claim, wherein the combustion engine (120) has gasoline or diesel fuel as a primary fuel source; hydrogen, or hydrogen and oxygen as a secondary fuel source; and optionally, a battery as an electrical power source.

18. The system (100) according to any previous claim, further comprising a water purity system; preferably wherein the water purity system is configured to measure the purity of water present in and / or circulating through the electrolysis cell (130); a water reservoir (140) and / or a heating and cooling system (150); and optionally to replace any water that has a degree of purity outside or beyond a pre-set limit or range.

19. The system (100) according to any previous claim, further comprising one or more water purity sensors that are in fluid connection with water present in or circulating through: the electrolysis cell (130); a water reservoir (140); and / or a heating and cooling system (150).

20. A method for controlling the generation and provision of hydrogen to a combustion engine, wherein the method comprises:(i) providing a combustion engine;(ii) providing an electrolysis cell for converting water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas, wherein the electrolysis cell is at least fluidly connected to the combustion engine;(iii) providing an electronic process control system operatively connected to the electrolysis cell, wherein the electronic process control system is able to control the generation of hydrogen gas and delivery of hydrogen gas to the combustion engine;(iv) providing an enclosure comprising an explosion protection system and / or walls of glass fibre or carbon fibre reinforced thermosetting polymer or metallic material, wherein the enclosure comprises the electronic process control system; and(v) controlling the generation of hydrogen gas in the electrolysis cell and delivery of hydrogen gas to the combustion engine.

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