Leakage detection

Abstract

To provide leakage detection and evaluation.SOLUTION: In order to provide an improved assessment of a leakage, a leakage characterization device (10) is provided which includes a compound (12) having at least two emission generating markers (14a, 14b). The compound is applicable at an outside (16) of an airtight container (18) encapsulating a fuel (20) from the surroundings (22). The applied compound is configured to physically react and / or chemically react upon exposure to an activation energy (24) resulting from a leaking fuel (26) from the inside (28) of the airtight container. The physical reaction and / or the chemical reaction (30) actively produce a detectable emission (32) that indicates at least one measurable parameter (34) of a leakage site (36) on the basis of the at least two emission generating markers.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to leak detection characterization, and more particularly, the present invention relates to a leak characterization device, detection system and method for leak detection. [Background technology]

[0002] Facilities that supply, store or process fluids such as fuels may experience leaks. Fuel leaks may require attention to provide immediate elimination. However, to eliminate the leak, information about the leak is required. To obtain this information, leak supervision or monitoring systems may be applied. However, certain fuel leaks, e.g., hydrogen leaks, have proven difficult to detect. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] Therefore, there is a need to improve leakage assessment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] The object of the present invention is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims, further embodiments are incorporated in the dependent claims. It is noted that the below described aspects of the invention also apply to the leak characterization device, the detection system and the leak detection method.

[0005] According to the present invention, there is provided a leak characterization device that includes a compound having at least two emission generating markers. The compound is applicable to an exterior of an enclosure that encloses a fuel from the environment. The applied compound is configured to undergo a physical and / or chemical reaction when exposed to activation energy from leaking fuel from the interior of the enclosure. The physical and / or chemical reaction actively generates a detectable emission indicative of at least one measurable parameter of the leak site based on the at least two emission generating markers.

[0006] The advantage is that it gives off light instantly after a flame or leak occurs.

[0007] As an added advantage, detection of hydrogen flames and leaks is rapid.

[0008] As an advantage, the application of different detection mixtures to different ignition zones allows localization of a flame or leak, thereby allowing shutdown of only the affected fuel cell subsystem or fuel cell component, preventing shutdown of the entire fuel cell system.

[0009] As an added advantage, the hydrogen flame and leak detection technology is comprehensive.

[0010] As an advantage, the sensing materials, i.e. compounds, are non-flammable and can be applied in potentially explosive environments.

[0011] As an added advantage, hydrogen flame and leak detection is safe.

[0012] The advantage is that no material is burned / consumed, making the method highly reproducible.

[0013] As an added advantage, detection of hydrogen flames and leaks is reliable.

[0014] In one embodiment, the detectable emissions provide a characteristic emission pattern, the characteristic emission pattern comprising a characteristic emission spectrum of emission intensities at different photon wavelengths, the characteristic emission pattern being indicative of at least one measurable parameter of the leak site in the enclosed container.

[0015] As an advantage, they emit a light spectrum with a characteristic "fingerprint" wavelength.

[0016] In one embodiment, the at least two emission generating markers each comprise a different chemical moiety that provides a characteristic photon emission.

[0017] As an added advantage, hydrogen flame and leak detection is false alarm resistant.

[0018] In one embodiment, the at least two emission onset markers are separated in the leak characterization device relative to the enclosure such that they are different distances to an activation energy by the leaking fuel.

[0019] In one embodiment, the at least one measurable parameter further comprises: the size of the leak, and / or the geometry of the leak site, and / or the amount of energy released at the leak site, and / or the duration of the leak at the site of the leak, and / or the velocity of the leaking fuel at the leak site, and / or the presence or absence of flame at the site of the leak; a temperature of at least one of the leak sites; at least one minimum temperature at said leak site; at least one temperature zone at the leak site; or a combination thereof.

[0020] According to the present invention there is also provided a system for detecting a leaked fuel comprising at least one detector and a leak characterization apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, the leak characterization apparatus comprising a compound having at least two emission onset markers, the at least one detector being positioned at a detection distance towards the compound, the compound being configured to provide a specific emission pattern depending on the respective positions of the at least two emission onset markers on the enclosed container, the at least one detector being configured to generate a specific detection signal upon contact with the specific emission pattern at the detection distance.

[0021] In one embodiment, the system further comprises at least one containment vessel for storing the leaked fuel, the at least one containment vessel providing each of the at least two emission occurrence markers at different locations.

[0022] In one embodiment, the system further comprises a shut-off valve of a duct system including at least one specific duct selected from the group consisting of a supply duct, a ventilation duct and an exhaust duct, and a processing unit. The duct system is configured to supply the at least one enclosed vessel. The processing unit is connected to the shut-off valve and to the at least one detector. The at least one detector monitors the at least one enclosed vessel. The processing unit is configured to generate a specific shut-off signal upon receiving a predefined detection signal from the at least one detector. The specific shut-off signal triggers shut-off of the shut-off valve to stop the supply to the at least one enclosed vessel.

[0023] The present invention also provides a method for detecting a leak, the method comprising: providing at least two release occurrence markers at different locations on the exterior of a containment vessel that environmentally encloses the fuel; providing at least one detector at a detection distance to the enclosed container; monitoring the enclosure with the at least one detector; causing the compound to physically and / or chemically react when exposed to activation energy from a leaking fuel from inside the enclosed container, the physical and / or chemical reaction actively producing a detectable emission; detecting an emission indicative of at least one measurable parameter of the leak site based on the at least two emission onset markers; Includes.

[0024] According to one aspect, leak information is provided regarding presence, location and severity, so that even for a particular fuel, such as hydrogen, leaks can still be detected by the leak supervision system's detection capabilities, thereby assisting in the elimination of the leak.

[0025] According to one embodiment, in situ leak characterization is enabled by providing a detectable emission compound having at least two emission onset markers in combination with an optical camera that detects the physical or chemical reaction products of the at least two emission onset markers that are activated by the leak of a fluid, such as a fuel, such as hydrogen.

[0026] These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0027] Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the following drawings:

[0028] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a leak characterization apparatus and its application; [Diagram 2] 1 illustrates an embodiment of a leak characterization device and corresponding detection system for leaks. [Diagram 3] 1 illustrates the basic steps of one embodiment of a method for detecting a leak. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0029] Specific embodiments will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, the same drawing reference numbers are used to indicate the same elements in different drawings. Matters defined in this specification, such as detailed structures and elements, are provided to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the exemplary embodiments. In addition, detailed descriptions of well-known functions or structures are omitted because unnecessary details may obscure the embodiments. In addition, expressions such as "at least one of," when following a list of elements, modify the entire list of elements and do not modify individual elements of the list.

[0030] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a leak characterization device 10 and its application. The leak characterization device 10 includes a compound 12 having at least two emission onset markers 14a, 14b. The compound 12 is applicable to an exterior 16 of a closed vessel 18 that encloses a fuel 20 from an environment 22. The applied compound 12 is configured to undergo a physical and / or chemical reaction when exposed to an activation energy 24 from a leaking fuel 26 from an interior 28 of the closed vessel 18. The physical and / or chemical reaction 30 actively produces a detectable emission 32 indicative of at least one measurable parameter 34 of a leak site 36 based on the at least two emission onset markers 14a, 14b.

[0031] The term "leak sensing device" refers to an object that changes a measurable characteristic in response to changes in its environment, which is each the surroundings 22 in FIG.

[0032] In one embodiment, the leak detection device can be in various configurations and shapes, such as a cover, a net, a cable, a pipe, a pill, a probe, and the like.

[0033] The term "compound" can be understood as a mixture of at least one substance that actively emits, expels or transfers a portion to the environment. The term "compound" can also be associated with an emitter, transmitter, pulse transmitter, pulse emitter, radiator, transducer, projector, sender or source.

[0034] The "leak characterization device" may also be referred to as a leak sensing and activation energy sensing device.

[0035] The term "emission-generating marker" refers to a substance that emits a portion of radiation to provide a unique emission fingerprint that can clearly and uniquely identify at least one of the at least two emission-generating markers 14a, 14b in FIG.

[0036] In one embodiment, instead of just two (14a, 14b), three or five emission onset markers are provided.

[0037] A "compound" may also be referred to as a substance, agent, or release generating compound or material.

[0038] The term "applicable" means that compound 12 does not change its state or condition in closed vessel 18 in FIG. 1, such as to react spontaneously.

[0039] The term "exterior" refers to the opposite side to the interior 28. Exterior 16 refers to the surface that is not in contact with the interior volume of the enclosure 18. Exterior 16 may also include recesses in the enclosure 18 and in flanges (not shown in FIG. 1 ) of supply connections to the enclosure 18.

[0040] The term "enclosure" refers to an entity that divides into two spaces. One space is the environment or surroundings 22 in FIG. 1, and the other space is the internal volume of the interior 28 of the enclosure 18. The internal volume and the environment do not contact each other. The enclosure 18 encloses the internal volume. The internal volume may also be referred to as the interior 28.

[0041] The enclosure 18 may also be referred to as a tank, vessel, container, cistern, or bowl. In one embodiment, the storage unit may be a tube, pipe, or piping system and is not limited to the shape shown in FIG.

[0042] The term "enclosure" refers to the function of the enclosed container 18 to separate the internal volume from the environment so that they do not come into contact with each other.

[0043] The term "fuel" refers to a substance, which may be in a gaseous or liquid state that is a fluid.

[0044] Fuel 20 may also be referred to as a storage material, fluid, storage fluid, or reservoir.

[0045] In one embodiment, fuel 20 is a material that has chemical energy.

[0046] In one embodiment, the fuel 20 includes gaseous hydrogen.

[0047] In another embodiment, fuel 20 is cryogenic or liquid hydrogen.

[0048] In another embodiment, the fuel 20 is pressurized hydrogen.

[0049] In one embodiment, the enclosure 18 is leak-tight to hydrogen.

[0050] The term "ambient" can be understood as a structure to which the enclosed vessel 18 is connected or embedded, which for reasons of clarity is not shown in Figure 1. The ambient 22 is the environment. Outside the ambient 22 is the external environment.

[0051] In one embodiment, perimeter 22 is a storage space in a vehicle.

[0052] In another embodiment, the perimeter 22 is the interior of an aircraft.

[0053] In one embodiment, perimeter 22 is defined by a hydrogen conversion facility.

[0054] The term "physical and / or chemically react" refers to the rearrangement and transfer of electrons between atoms within the substance of compound 12 and / or between the substance of compound 12 and at least two emission generating markers 14a, 14b, also described herein as the term "chemical reaction". In this specification, the term chemistry is understood as the physics of the outer shell electrons of atoms.

[0055] The term "physically and / or chemically react" also relates to the transfer of energy between atoms via electromagnetic energy, such as radiative energy or mechanical energy, during a physical reaction.

[0056] The term "activation energy" can be understood as an energy barrier that must be overcome in order for compound 12 to change its state or condition by itself. The change of state can be irreversible and / or reversible and is caused by the application of a specific amount of energy to compound 12 in Figure 1. The specific amount or quantity of energy may be applied in the form of electromagnetic energy, thermal energy, or mechanical energy.

[0057] "Leaking fuel" may also be referred to as leaked fuel. In Figure 1, this refers to the process of fluid permeating or gradually progressing from the interior volume of the enclosure 18 to the exterior 16 of the enclosure 18 through the channels and pores of the enclosure 18.

[0058] In one embodiment, a "fluid leak" results in a situation that requires immediate resolution and detection.

[0059] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, a "leak fluid" is difficult to observe and requires immediate indication.

[0060] In one embodiment, a "leaking fluid" situation is when the enclosure 18 fails.

[0061] The term "interior of the enclosure" refers to the side opposite the exterior 16 of the enclosure 18, which is essentially the perimeter 22. The interior 28 refers to the surface of the enclosure 18 that is not in contact with the perimeter 22 of the enclosure 18, but is isolated from the perimeter 22 and that contacts the fuel 20 contained in the enclosure 18.

[0062] The term "emission" refers to a process in which a material actively emits, expels, releases or gives off a portion of its matter or photons to the environment. In Figure 1, the compound 12 or at least two emission-generating markers 14a, 14b emit light. The emission does not necessarily involve the material itself, but mainly involves a chemically and / or physically different transformation part of the material, e.g., photons or photoelectrons.

[0063] The term "detectable" refers to a property of emission that can produce a discernible signal upon contact with another entity, for example detection unit 37 in FIG.

[0064] In one embodiment, the detection unit responds to electromagnetic waves, matter waves, such as specific molecules or particles in vibrations or matter waves. Electromagnetic waves include UV (wavelengths between 100nm and 380nm), VIS (wavelengths between 380nm and 780nm), IR (wavelengths between 780nm and 1mm) or microwave radiation (1mm to 30cm).

[0065] The term "indication" refers to a property of the emission that is interpreted as a signal that is unique and specific to the physical and / or chemical context of compound 12.

[0066] "Indication" may also be called indicating, identifying, revealing, suggesting, implying, manifesting, or proving.

[0067] The term "measurable parameters" refers to concepts that can numerically describe the condition of the leak site 36. The measurable parameters 34 relate to the dimensions of space, time, mass and energy.

[0068] The term "leak site" refers to the location of leakage of fuel 20 as leaked fuel relative to the containment vessel 18 as shown in Figure 1. The channels and holes of the leak site can be of various forms and shapes, which may be difficult to assess in the operating conditions of the containment vessel 18. The characteristics of the leak site also determine the activity and nature of the leak.

[0069] In one embodiment, a method of release based on at least two developmental markers can provide unambiguous information regarding the leak site 36 in FIG.

[0070] In the embodiment of Figure 1, the detectable emission 32 provides a characteristic emission pattern 40. The characteristic emission pattern, when viewed in a coordinate system representing a light spectrum, is shown on the right side of Figure 1. The characteristic emission pattern 40 includes a unique emission spectrum of emission intensities 42 at different photon wavelengths 44. The characteristic emission pattern 40 is indicative of at least one measurable parameter 34 of the leak site 36 of the sealed container 18.

[0071] The term "characteristic emission pattern" can also be understood as a fingerprint that is unique to any occurrence of the leak site 36 in FIG. 1. The characteristic emission pattern 40 has a shape based on a spectral analysis of the detectable emission 32 as shown in FIG. 1. The spectrum of the characteristic emission pattern 40 consists of the intensities of emission peaks at different positions of the spectrum that resemble the different photon wavelengths of the emission intensity 42. Several emission peaks at several photon wavelengths in the spectrum result in a shape similar to the characteristic emission pattern 40. The characteristic emission pattern 40 is configured to provide information about the leak site 36 in FIG. 1 by its shape in a way that the leak site 36 is characterized in terms of space, energy, mass, time and temperature.

[0072] In one embodiment, to obtain the spectrum, a light-dispersing prism, not shown in FIG. 1, is applied in front of the detector.

[0073] In one embodiment, this information is provided by the amplitude of the intensity of the emission peak, the width of the peak, or the presence or absence of the emission peak.

[0074] "Unique" may also be referred to as distinctive, particular, or unique.

[0075] In one embodiment, the characteristic emission pattern 40 is configured such that the emission peaks do not overlap or interfere, so that there is no characteristic emission pattern 40 consisting of a single broad emission peak not shown in FIG.

[0076] The term "different photon wavelengths" can also be understood as qualitative information regarding the emission spectrum, providing intensity as quantitative information.

[0077] In one embodiment not shown in Figure 1, the at least two emission-generating markers 14a, 14b each include a different chemical moiety that provides a characteristic photon emission.

[0078] The term "different chemical moieties" may be understood to mean that the markers differ in the types of atoms they comprise or in the types of interactions between the atoms, ie, covalent bonds, ionic bonds, etc.

[0079] In one embodiment, for any different chemical moiety, a different photon emission can be expected if the chemical moiety is energetically excited. This energy excitation can be achieved, for example, by heat, physical and / or chemical reaction 30, or excitation by electromagnetic radiation or application of mechanical stress. All the above types of energy can be provided by the leakage event itself or by a substance added to the compound 12 adjacent to the at least two emission-generating markers 14a, 14b in FIG. 1 at the leakage site 36. This substance can be a pyrotechnic material configured to transfer energy to the at least two emission-generating markers 14a, 14b when it comes into contact with the leakage site 36 in FIG. 1.

[0080] In one embodiment, energy excitation of the at least two emission generating markers 14a, 14b causes photon emissions having wavelengths characteristic of the at least two emission generating markers 14a, 14b involved.

[0081] In one embodiment, photon emission results from decay of an excited electronic state of atoms in the at least two emission-generating markers 14a, 14b.

[0082] The term "characteristic photon emission" can be understood as an elemental fingerprint.

[0083] In one embodiment, a characteristic photon emission of one of the at least two emission generation markers 14a, 14b can electronically excite the other of the at least two emission generation markers 14a, 14b to provide a characteristic photon emission of the other of the at least two emission generation markers 14a, 14b in FIG.

[0084] In one embodiment, the chemical moiety includes a metal ion.

[0085] In one embodiment, the chemical components include alkali metals and / or alkaline earth metals.

[0086] In one embodiment, the chemical components are selected to produce emissions that are chemically unreactive with the environment 22 in FIG.

[0087] In one embodiment, the photon emission includes visible photon radiation.

[0088] Advantageously, visible photon radiation is produced by at least two emission-generating markers 14a, 14b which facilitates detection.

[0089] Photon emission is also called light.

[0090] The term "characteristic photon emission" can be understood as the human perception of visible light, ie, color.

[0091] 1, at least two emission onset markers 14a, 14b each provide a contribution to the emission intensity 42 of the characteristic emission pattern 40. The contribution indicates that the at least one measurable parameter 34 is the location 46 of the leak site 36 relative to the enclosed container 18.

[0092] The term "contribution" refers to the components of compound 12 including more atoms or molecules that emit a characteristic photon emission in one of the at least two emission onset markers 14a, 14b than in the other of the at least two emission onset markers 14a, 14b. The different amounts of the at least two emission onset markers 14a, 14b cause a different overall emission behavior that is present as the characteristic emission pattern 40 in FIG.

[0093] The colors referred to herein can also be viewed as emission intensities 42 at different photon wavelengths 44 in nanometers in FIG.

[0094] In one embodiment, there are more emission generating markers A in compound 12 that emit blue photons with photon wavelengths between 450 and 495 nanometers than emission generating markers B that emit red photons with photon wavelengths between 620 and 750 nanometers. In this embodiment, emission generating markers A and B are located above at least two emission generating markers in Figure 1. The detectable emission 32 (each characteristic emission pattern 40) of compound 12 exhibits a high emission peak of primarily blue photons, but a smaller emission peak of red photons.

[0095] In one embodiment, not shown in FIG. 1 , emission generation marker A, which emits blue photons, is more abundant in compounds 12 in the middle of the sealed container 18 than in compounds in the lower or upper parts of the sealed container 18. Emission generation marker B is more abundant in the lower or upper parts of the sealed container 18 than emission generation marker A. An invisible leak site in the middle part emits blue photons of emission generation marker A, and the characteristic emission pattern 40 of detectable emission 32 shows a high emission peak of blue photons. This indicates the location 46 of a leak site in the middle of the sealed container 18. An invisible leak site in the lower or upper part emits red photons of emission generation marker B, and the characteristic emission pattern 40 of detectable emission 32 shows a high emission peak of red photons. This indicates the location 46 of a leak site in the lower or upper part of the sealed container 18.

[0096] Emission marker A may also be referred to as the blue emission marker.

[0097] Emission marker B may also be referred to as the red emission marker.

[0098] In one embodiment, a gradient of different quantitative amounts of release onset markers A and B is provided for specific locations on the enclosed container.

[0099] In the embodiment of FIG. 1, at least two release onset markers 14a, 14b are separated relative to the enclosure in the leak characterization apparatus such that the distances 48 to the activation energy 24 of the leaking fuel 26 in FIG. 1 are different.

[0100] In one embodiment, at least two emission onset markers 14 a , 14 b are located in different portions of the enclosed container 18 and are separated parallel to the surface of the enclosed container 18 .

[0101] In one embodiment, at least two emission onset markers 14 a , 14 b are separated by a filler material (not shown in FIG. 1) within compound 12 that is perpendicular to the surface of the enclosed container 18 .

[0102] The term "different contact of the leaking fuel 26 with the activation energy" means that one of the at least two emission generating markers 14a, 14b can provide the characteristic photon emission by contacting the activation energy 24, but the other of the at least two emission generating markers 14a, 14b is at a greater distance to the activation energy 24 as shown in FIG. 1 and therefore cannot contact the activation energy 24 and cannot provide the characteristic photon emission, but may provide the characteristic photon emission thereafter.

[0103] 1, compound 12 further comprises at least one release extender 50 having luminescent properties. At least one release extender 50 is configured to extend detectable emission 32 beyond the decay of activation energy 24 by emitting light therefrom.

[0104] The term "emission extender" can also be understood as an entity that causes an echo of a characteristic photon emission such that the time range of detectable emission 32 in FIG. 1 is extended.

[0105] The term "luminescence property" refers to the property of a material to spontaneously emit radiation from electronically or vibrationally excited species of the material that are not in thermal equilibrium with the environment.

[0106] In one embodiment, the at least one release extender 50 is capable of providing chemiluminescence.

[0107] In one embodiment, the at least one release extending agent 50 can provide triboluminescence.

[0108] In one embodiment, the at least one release extender 50 can provide thermoluminescence.

[0109] In one embodiment, the at least one release extender 50 is capable of providing fluorescent emission.

[0110] In one embodiment, at least one release extender 50 is capable of providing phosphorescence.

[0111] In one embodiment, the at least two emissive markers also include luminescent properties.

[0112] In one embodiment, the characteristic photon emission excites at least one release extender 50 to provide luminescence in the device of FIG.

[0113] In one embodiment, contact with fuel 20 from the enclosed container 18 causes at least one release extender 50 to glow.

[0114] 1, at least one of the at least two emission onset markers 14a, 14b of compound 12 is encapsulated in at least one delay layer 52. The at least one delay layer 52 is configured to provide an energy and / or time dependent detectable emission 54 of compound 12 upon contact with activation energy 24.

[0115] In one embodiment, the at least one delay layer 52 delays the impact of the activation energy 24 on at least one of the at least two emission onset markers 14a, 14b.

[0116] In one embodiment, compound 12 includes different layers of release onset markers that provide different release patterns, separated by delay layers (not shown in FIG. 1) of different penetration times or energies.

[0117] As an advantage, the duration of the leak can be estimated.

[0118] As an advantage, it is possible to determine whether or not a flame is present at the leak site 36 .

[0119] The advantage is that false alarms can be prevented.

[0120] As an advantage, the energy loss due to leakage can be estimated.

[0121] In one embodiment not shown in FIG. 1 , the at least one measurable parameter 34 further comprises: the size of the leak site 36, and / or The geometry of the leak site 36, and / or the amount of energy released at the leak site 36, and / or the duration of leakage at the leakage site 36, and / or the velocity of the leaking fuel 26 at the leak site 36, and / or the presence or absence of flame at the leak site 36; a temperature of at least one of the leak sites 36; at least one minimum temperature at the leak site 36; At least one temperature zone at the leak site 36; or a combination thereof.

[0122] In one embodiment, the compound 12 also includes a reaction controller (not shown in FIG. 1). The reaction controller controls the physical and / or chemical reactions 30 of the compound 12 and the at least two emission onset markers 14a, 14b. generating activation energy 24 upon contact with fuel 20; Slowing the physical and / or chemical reaction 30; enhancing the photon emission of the physical and / or chemical reaction 30; Isolating the products of the physical and / or chemical reaction 30 from the environment 22; Confining a physical and / or chemical reaction 30 in a geometrically restricted space; The device is configured to operate at least one of the group consisting of:

[0123] In one embodiment, the compound 12 and the at least two emission generating markers 14 a, 14 b are configured to be combinable with a pyrotechnic material (not shown in FIG. 1) to amplify the detectable emission 32.

[0124] In one embodiment, the temperature and / or minimum temperature can be determined, or at least estimated, based on the characteristic emission spectrum.

[0125] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the leaking fuel 26 is hydrogen, and the physical and / or chemical reactions 30 of the compounds 12 are initiated by the activation energy 24 of the leaking hydrogen from the sealed vessel 18 .

[0126] In one embodiment, the leaking hydrogen in the sealed vessel 18 is combusted and the thermal energy initiates a physical and / or chemical reaction 30 of the compound 12 and the at least two emission-generating markers 14a, 14b.

[0127] In a further embodiment, the leaking hydrogen in the sealed vessel 18 contacts a reaction initiator or activator material in the compound 12. The activation material or activator generates thermal energy upon contact with the hydrogen, which initiates a physical and / or chemical reaction 30 in the compound 12.

[0128] In an optional embodiment not shown in FIG. 1 , the activation energy 24 for compound 12 comes from the thermal energy release of leaking fuel 26 and / or is initially generated in compound 12 itself upon contact of compound 12 with leaking fuel 26.

[0129] In one embodiment, the thermal energy release or release of thermal energy occurs in the combustion spillover fuel 26. The thermal energy is released through the flame of the burning fuel in the form of radiation or convection.

[0130] In one embodiment, the flames of the combustion leaking fuel 26 transfer their thermal energy primarily via convection, making the flames difficult to detect due to their released heat. The compound 12 and the at least two release onset markers 14a, 14b are activated by the thermal convection of the flames, causing a physical and / or chemical reaction 30 and a secondary flame with higher heat release that is more easily detected.

[0131] In one embodiment, the flame is generated from a burning fuel.

[0132] In one embodiment, the flame is generated from burning hydrogen.

[0133] In another embodiment, hydrogen is combusted to generate hydrogen microflames on the exterior 16 surface of the enclosed vessel 18 .

[0134] In one option, activation energy 24 is initially generated in compound 12. Compound 12 includes a reaction initiator or reaction starter that generates activation energy 24 upon contact with leaking fuel 26 from closed vessel 18. In this case, activation energy 24 may be referred to as the energy of the chemical bonds of leaking fuel 26.

[0135] In one embodiment, the initiator contacts hydrogen or hydrogen and oxygen to produce heat as the activation energy 24 .

[0136] In one embodiment, the initiator comprises an organometallic compound.

[0137] In one embodiment, the initiator comprises Pd or Pt.

[0138] In one embodiment, the initiator is Pt, WO 3 and calcium fluoride mixtures.

[0139] In one embodiment, the initiator causes compound 12 to heat and produce a thermofluorescence fingerprint emission spectrum having predominantly characteristic wavelengths in the visible range.

[0140] In one embodiment, a device is provided that can fingerprint and detect normal fuel flames, especially hydrogen flames and / or hydrogen micro-flames in a false alarm resistant manner. The detection is based on the following principle: Hydrogen flames and / or hydrogen micro-flames occur, for example, due to a fault in the fuel cell system. The heat generated by the hydrogen flame stimulates the surrounding "detection" material, i.e. compounds that are, for example, mixtures of alkali metal and / or alkaline earth metal salts or any other suitable metal salts that give rise to a "fingerprint" emission spectrum in the visible range, mainly with a characteristic wavelength "flame coloration". The fingerprint spectrum is detectable by a sensor unit and indicates a flame / hydrogen flame with zero false alarms. A signal from the sensor unit can be used to trigger a cutoff of the hydrogen supply in the fuel cell system to eventually stop the hydrogen flame.

[0141] In one embodiment, localization of the hydrogen flame is achieved by applying different mixtures of "detection" materials, for example two or more metal salts, or other suitable metal and / or metal ion containing materials, and / or any other material that emits light when thermally stimulated, such as zirconium oxide mixed with yttria, or any combination thereof, and a specific fingerprint light signal can be achieved by applying the different mixtures to different ignition zones, for example, in an aircraft, to localize the fire. The light signal can be detected by a light detection unit, such as a light sensor, a light spectrometer, etc., mounted in any suitable position in the surrounding area, and / or the light signal can be transmitted from the flame location to any suitable position of the detection unit via glass fibers. Since the glass fibers can be located in the surrounding area of ​​the light source, the total number of glass fibers can be significantly reduced compared to the prior art optical fiber-based detection means, and no laser is required for activation. The "detection" material can be combined with a pyrotechnic material to enhance the generation of visible light.

[0142] In one embodiment, the choice of specific luminescence caused by the flame is chemiluminescence. The light signal is generated by a chemiluminescence reaction of two materials, luminol and an oxidizer, or any other suitable mixture. The two materials capable of reacting by chemiluminescence are encapsulated in a temperature-sensitive material and separated from each other, e.g., encapsulated in a small-scale thermoplastic sphere, and the heat of the hydrogen flame dissolves the encapsulation of the surrounding "detection" material, so that the different materials can chemically react with each other to produce a "fingerprint" chemiluminescence spectrum with a characteristic wavelength. The light signal is maintained for a certain time after activation, even after the H2 flame is quickly extinguished, so that short-term flame events can be detected, which is beneficial for early detection of hydrogen leaks and / or dangerous situations during proactive (proactive) maintenance.

[0143] In one embodiment, the device is also capable of detecting hydrogen leaks and / or hydrogen microleaks in a fingerprint-like, false alarm-resistant manner. The detection is based on the following principle: A hydrogen leak occurs, for example, due to a malfunction of the fuel cell system. The leaking hydrogen is detected by the surrounding "detection" material, for example Pt, WO3 A mixture of calcium fluoride and calcium carbonate is stimulated to heat the mixture and subsequently "thermoluminescence" produces a thermofluorescence "fingerprint" emission spectrum primarily in the visible range with characteristic wavelengths. The fingerprint spectrum is detectable by a sensor unit and indicates hydrogen leakage with zero false alarms. A signal from the sensor unit can be used to trigger a cutoff of the hydrogen supply in the fuel cell system to eventually stop the hydrogen leakage.

[0144] In one embodiment, localization of the hydrogen leak is realized by applying different mixtures of "detection" materials, for example using different mixtures of different thermoluminescent materials, and a specific fingerprint light signal can be realized to localize the hydrogen leak, for example by applying different mixtures to different ignition zones in the aircraft. The light signal can be transmitted from the leak location to any suitable location of the detection unit via glass fibers. This approach is also suitable for the detection of flames and hydrogen flames, and / or especially hydrogen micro-flames, since heat generation can also be caused by hydrogen flames and / or hydrogen micro-flames. In principle, any suitable combination of detection of hydrogen flames or hydrogen leaks can be applied depending on the specific aircraft requirements. A subsequent rapid hydrogen shutoff function can avoid the propagation of hydrogen flames and / or micro-hydrogen flames and / or hydrogen leaks and / or micro-hydrogen leaks.

[0145] 2 shows an embodiment of a leak characterization device 110 and a corresponding detection system 100 for a leak. The detection system 100 for a leaking fuel 126 includes at least one detector 102 and a leak characterization device 110 according to any of the preceding embodiments and options, including a compound 112 having at least two emission onset markers 114a, 114b. The at least one detector 102 is located at a detection distance 104 toward the compound 112. The compound 112 is configured to provide a specific emission pattern 106 in response to the respective positions of the at least two emission onset markers 114a, 114b in the closed container 118. The at least one detector 102 is configured to generate a specific detection signal 108 upon contact with the specific emission pattern 106 at the detection distance 104.

[0146] The term "at a detection distance" refers to an arrangement in which at least one detector 102 is placed a particular distance away from the leak site, i.e., at least one detector 102 is not placed directly at the site, but is placed away so that an intermediate reaction of compound 112 in Figure 2 can still be detected. At least one detector 102 is spaced apart a determined detection distance 104 in Figure 2.

[0147] In one embodiment, the at least one detector 102 is responsive to the detectable emission 32 of the compound 112 and to photons of at least two emission-generating markers 114a, 114b. In this case, the at least one detector 102 in FIG. 2 samples visible photon emission.

[0148] In one embodiment, the at least one detector 102 may be provided as a light sensor after the prism.

[0149] In one embodiment, the emission is configured to overcome obstacles within a detection distance 104 to the at least one detector 102 .

[0150] In one embodiment, not shown in FIG. 2, glass fibers may be provided to guide the photon emissions to at least one detector 102 .

[0151] In one embodiment, not shown in Figure 2, the system further includes at least one emission receiver configured to collect the specific emission pattern 106 from the compound 112 and to focus and / or enhance the specific emission pattern 106 towards the at least one detector 102.

[0152] In one embodiment, not shown in FIG. 2, at least one spill receptacle is provided as fiberglass.

[0153] In one embodiment, not shown in FIG. 2, at least one emission receptacle is provided as a reflective surface on the enclosure 118 and / or its periphery.

[0154] In one embodiment, the at least one detector 102 is placed in close proximity to the compound 112 to allow successful transmission of the specific emission pattern 106 from the compound 112 to the at least one detector 102 in the event of a fire occurring near or within the detection system 100, producing smoke, or in the event of a dusty environment or other fogging that weakens or blocks transmission of the specific emission pattern 106 in FIG.

[0155] In one embodiment, the compound 112 is configured as part of at least one detector 102 .

[0156] In one embodiment, more than one detector 102 is provided, for example two, three, five or a series of detectors and different types of detectors are combined.

[0157] In one embodiment, the response of a series of detectors with different orientations towards the leak site can yield the location of the leak site.

[0158] As an advantage, only one detector is needed since any possible leak site will produce its own characteristic emission pattern 40.

[0159] 2, the system further includes at least one container 121 for storing the leaked fuel 126. The at least one container 121 provides at least two emission occurrence markers 114a, 114b, respectively, at different locations 160a, 160b.

[0160] 2, a blue light emitting marker is attached to the middle of at least one sealed container 121 and a red light emitting marker is added to the top of at least one sealed container 121. The blue light indicates a leak site in the middle of at least one sealed container 121 and the red light indicates a leak site in the top of at least one sealed container 121.

[0161] In the embodiment of Fig. 2, the system further comprises a shut-off valve 170 of a duct system 172 including at least one specific duct 174 selected from the group consisting of a supply duct, a ventilation duct and an exhaust duct, and a processing unit 180. The duct system 172 is configured to supply the at least one enclosed vessel 121. The processing unit 180 is connected to the shut-off valve 170 and to the at least one detector 102. The at least one detector 102 monitors the at least one enclosed vessel 121. The processing unit 180 is configured to generate a specific shut-off signal 182 upon receiving a predefined detection signal 184 from the at least one detector 102. The specific shut-off signal 182 triggers the closing of the shut-off valve 170 to stop the supply 186 to the at least one enclosed vessel 121.

[0162] In one embodiment, the processing unit 180 in FIG. 2 is configured to generate a specific blocking signal 182 based on a comparison of the specific detection signal 108 to a database of characteristic emission patterns.

[0163] In one embodiment, at least two or more sealed containers 121 are provided, for example, two sealed containers A and B, which are represented in FIG. 2 as sealed containers 121 having two separate internal volumes, and the right internal volume of the interior 128 is, for example, sealed container A. The sealed container A includes a blue light-emitting marker, which is one of the at least two emission occurrence markers 114a, 114b, and is controlled by a shutoff valve A, which may be, for example, a shutoff valve 170 in FIG. 2. The sealed container B includes a red light-emitting marker and is controlled by a shutoff valve B, not shown in FIG. 2. If blue light is detected, the processing unit 180 stops the fuel supply to the sealed container A by the shutoff valve A. If red light is detected, the processing unit 180 stops the fuel supply to the sealed container B by the shutoff valve B, not shown in FIG. 2. If the characteristic emission pattern 40 consists of red light and blue light, both the shutoff valves A and B stop the fuel supply to the sealed containers A and B.

[0164] The advantage is a more rapid and more targeted cessation of leaks in the fuel conversion system.

[0165] In one embodiment, after closing the shutoff valve, it can be determined whether the blue light or the red light goes out, thus providing evidence that the leaking hydrogen has been stopped by the shutoff valve, and the flame has been extinguished, or finally, the leak has stopped.

[0166] As a further advantage, successful control of leak stop is possible.

[0167] In the embodiment of FIG. 2, at least one sealed container 121 includes: a fluid consuming load configured to provide electrical and / or mechanical energy from hydrogen; a supply system configured to supply hydrogen; a storage unit configured to supply hydrogen to the fluid consuming loads and / or functional units via a supply system; A functional unit configured to be accessible to hydrogen; The present invention is configured as at least one of the group consisting of:

[0168] An example of a fluid consuming load is a fuel cell.

[0169] An example of a supply system is a conduit system or piping (not shown in FIG. 2).

[0170] An example of a storage unit is a hydrogen and / or cryogenic hydrogen tank or container (not shown in FIG. 2).

[0171] An example of a functional unit is a sensor (not shown in FIG. 2) that measures hydrogen pressure.

[0172] 3 shows the basic steps of one embodiment of a leak detection method 200. The method 200 includes the following first to fifth steps 202 to 210, and is also referenced to the system shown in FIG.

[0173] In a first step 202, at least two emission occurrence markers 114a, 114b are provided at different locations 160a, 160b on the exterior 116 of a closed vessel 121 enclosing the fuel 120 from its periphery 122.

[0174] In a second step 204 , at least one detector 102 is provided at a detection distance 104 to the sealed container 121 .

[0175] In a third step 206 , the closed vessel 121 is monitored using at least one detector 102 .

[0176] In a fourth step 208, the compound 112 undergoes a physical and / or chemical reaction 30 when exposed to activation energy 124 from the leaking fuel 126 from the interior 128 of the sealed vessel 121. The physical and / or chemical reaction 30 actively produces a detectable emission 132.

[0177] A fifth step 210 is detecting an emission indicative of at least one measurable parameter 134 of the leak site 136 based on the at least two emission onset markers 114a, 114b.

[0178] In one embodiment, the containment vessel 121 is adapted to allow leaking fuel 126 or burning leaking fuel 126 to contact at least one of the two emission occurrence markers 114a, 114b.

[0179] In one embodiment, the method steps also include: generating a specific detectable emission 132 indicative of the location of at least one of the two emission-generating markers 114a, 114b; detecting a particular detectable emission 132 with at least one detector 102; generating a particular detection signal 108 by at least one detector 102; generating a specific blocking signal 182 based on a comparison of the specific detection signal 108 to a database of characteristic emission patterns; shutting off the operation of the sealed container 121 containing the fuel 120 by closing the specific shutoff valve 170 in response to a specific shutoff signal 182; Includes.

[0180] Note that hydrogen flames transfer 90% of their heat primarily through convection, rather than radiation (here only 10%). Thus, hydrogen flames are more localized hot spots, and it is the hydrogen microflames that need to be detected, rather than, for example, kerosene fires, which have a higher proportion of heat radiation, 33% convection and 66% radiation. By providing a compound and using its reaction for detection, the above problem of hydrogen flames being difficult to detect is solved.

[0181] In one embodiment, in the safe and reliable operation of a hydrogen H2-based fuel cell system, i.e. a sealed vessel, it is necessary to quickly and reliably detect hydrogen flames and / or hydrogen micro-flames and / or hydrogen leaks and / or hydrogen micro-leaks, i.e. leaking fuel, in order to stop the H2 flame and / or H2 leak as quickly and reliably as possible.

[0182] As an example, in hydrogen flame detection, the solutions provided in the various embodiments described above offer specific advantages over current technology.

[0183] Unlike temperature sensors, which are less likely to detect localized hot spots or localize small or micro H2 flames, the present solution is resistant to false alarms because it is not directly disturbed by other heat sources.

[0184] Unlike optical sensors / cameras that directly detect the light from H2 leaks, the present solution allows better optical coverage of all areas of possible H2 flame locations and / or H2 micro-flame locations with compounds that compensate for the low intensity of visible light emitted by the H2 flame itself.

[0185] As an example, by providing a compound activated by an H2 leak, it is possible to reduce the considerable effort required to localize the H2 flame, for example via a special optical glass fiber.

[0186] Unlike optical fiber-based temperature sensing, which is for example based on evaluation of the temperature-dependent change in the reflectivity of laser light through a glass fiber, which is considered less suitable since it requires a laser, a glass fiber and a connection to an evaluation unit for each possible measurement location and is an active method, the present solution does not require such considerable efforts.

[0187] Unlike chemical sensors, such as catalytic and / or electrochemical sensors located at a location in the monitored area, the present solution is able to detect hydrogen leak sites not only in the air, which lacks the ability to localize H2 leaks, and is false alarm resistant, since it avoids any issues that may arise due to cross-sensitivity with other compounds in the air.

[0188] By applying a compound to an area with a possible leak opportunity and at least one detector at the detection distance that generates a specific detection signal upon contact with a specific emission pattern, the present solution avoids the need to cover all areas as is required for example in the case of acoustic sensors, which are unlikely to acoustically cover all areas of possible H2 leaks and / or micro-H2 leaks and are not resistant to false alarms due to cross-sensitivity with other acoustic sources.

[0189] Unlike chemical-based color-changing materials that undergo a visible color change upon contact with gaseous hydrogen based on a chemical reaction between hydrogen and the material, the present solution is more suitable for aviation applications as it provides an active luminescent material in which the chemical compounds and emission generating markers actively emit light, whereas the color-changing material does not provide active luminescence.

[0190] It should be noted that the embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to different subject matters. In particular, some embodiments are described with reference to method type claims, while other embodiments are described with reference to device type claims. However, those skilled in the art will understand from the above and following description that, unless otherwise indicated, any combination of features belonging to one type of subject matter, as well as any combination between features relating to different subject matters, is considered to be disclosed in the present application. However, all features can be combined to provide synergistic effects that go beyond the simple sum of the features.

[0191] While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and the foregoing description, such illustration and description are to be considered illustrative or exemplary and not restrictive. The invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the dependent claims.

[0192] In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit may fulfill the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. Any reference signs in the claims should not be interpreted as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A leakage characterization device (10) comprising a compound (12) having at least two release onset markers (14a, 14b), The compound can be applied to the exterior (16) of a closed vessel (18) that encloses a fuel (20) from its surroundings (22); the applied compound is configured to undergo a physical and / or chemical reaction when exposed to activation energy (24) from a leaking fuel (26) from the interior (28) of the containment vessel; The device, wherein the physical and / or chemical reaction (30) actively produces a detectable emission (32) indicative of at least one measurable parameter (34) of the leak site (36) based on the at least two emission-generating markers.

2. said detectable emission providing a characteristic emission pattern (40); the characteristic emission pattern comprises a characteristic emission spectrum of emission intensities (42) at different photon wavelengths (44); The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the characteristic emission pattern is indicative of at least one measurable parameter of the leak site in the enclosed container.

3. each of the at least two release onset markers comprises a different chemical moiety; The device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the different chemical moieties provide characteristic photon emissions.

4. each of the at least two emission onset markers provides a contribution to the emission intensity of the characteristic emission pattern; An apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the contribution is indicative of the at least one measurable parameter being a position (46) of the leak site relative to the enclosure.

5. 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least two emission onset markers are separated relative to the enclosure in the leak characterization apparatus such that the distances (48) to activation energy by the leaking fuel are different.

6. The compound further comprises at least one release extender (50) having luminescent properties; The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the at least one release extender is configured to extend the detectable emission beyond the decay of the activation energy by its emission of light.

7. At least one of said at least two release onset markers of said compound is encapsulated in at least one delay layer (52); The device of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the at least one delay layer is configured to provide an energy and / or time dependent detectable emission (54) of the compound when contacted with the activation energy.

8. The at least one measurable parameter may further include: the size of the leak, and / or the geometry of the leak site, and / or the amount of energy released at the leak site, and / or the duration of the leak at the site of the leak, and / or the velocity of the leaking fuel at the leak site, and / or the presence or absence of flame at the site of the leak; a temperature of at least one of the leak sites; at least one minimum temperature at said leak site; At least one temperature zone at the leak site; or a combination thereof.

9. An apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the leaking fuel is hydrogen and the physical and / or chemical reactions of the compounds are initiated by the activation energy of the leaking hydrogen from the closed vessel.

10. The activation energy of the compound is i) resulting from the release of thermal energy from the leaking fuel; and / or ii) initially generated within the compound itself by contact of the compound with the leaking fuel.

11. A fuel leak detection system (100), comprising: At least one detector (102); A leakage characterization device (110) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising a compound (112) having at least two emission onset markers (114a, 114b); Including, the at least one detector is positioned at a detection distance (104) towards the compound; the compound is configured to provide a specific release pattern (106) depending on the respective positions of the at least two release onset markers in the enclosed container (118); The at least one detector is configured to generate a specific detection signal (108) upon contact with the specific emission pattern at the detection distance.

12. at least one sealed container (121) for storing the leaked fuel; The system of claim 11 , wherein the at least one enclosure provides each of the at least two emission onset markers in different locations (160a, 160b).

13. a shutoff valve (170) of a duct system (172) including at least one particular duct (174) selected from the group consisting of a supply duct, a ventilation duct, and an exhaust duct; A processing unit (180) Further comprising: the duct system is configured to supply the at least one enclosure; the processing unit is connected to the shutoff valve and to the at least one detector; the at least one detector monitors the at least one enclosed vessel; the processing unit is configured to generate a specific blocking signal (182) upon receiving a predetermined detection signal (184) from the at least one detector; 13. The system of claim 11 or 12, wherein the particular shutoff signal triggers the closing of the shutoff valve to stop the supply (186) to the at least one enclosure.

14. The at least one sealed container comprises: a fluid consuming load configured to provide electrical and / or mechanical energy from the hydrogen; a supply system configured to supply hydrogen; a storage unit configured to supply hydrogen to fluid consuming loads and / or functional units via said supply system; A functional unit configured to be accessible to hydrogen; The system according to any one of claims 11 to 13, configured as at least one of the group consisting of:

15. A method for leak detection (200), comprising: Providing (202) at least two release occurrence markers at different locations on the exterior of an enclosure that environmentally encloses the fuel; Providing (204) at least one detector at a detection distance to the enclosed container; monitoring (206) the enclosure with the at least one detector; causing a chemical compound to physically and / or chemically react upon exposure to activation energy from the leaking fuel from within the enclosure (208); The physical and / or chemical reactions actively produce a detectable emission (208); detecting (210) an emission indicative of at least one measurable parameter of the leak site based on the at least two emission onset markers; A method comprising:

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