Connection space and hydrogen supply device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a connection space (8A, 8B) for a hydrogen supply device (38A, 38B), which includes an internal region (14) surrounded by the connection space (8A, 8B) for accommodating components (16) of the hydrogen supply device (38A, 38B), an inert gas supply device (18) for flushing the internal region (14) with an inert gas (N2), and an exhaust gas system (22) for discharging the inert gas (N2) from the internal region (14). The inert gas supply device (18) is designed to continuously supply the inert gas (N2) to the connection space (8A, 8B) and / or to maintain a constant inert gas pressure within the connection space (8A, 8B).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a connection space for a hydrogen supply device and a hydrogen supply device having such a connection space.

[0002] Regarding the installation of liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities for ship operation below decks, a so-called tank connection space (TCS) is known internally. Components of the LNG facility, such as pipelines, valves, fittings, instrumentation, or other similar items, are housed within such a connection space. In the event of a leak, air is pumped through the connection space to prevent the accumulation of LNG that could lead to an explosive mixture of LNG and air. The air exchange rate is selected such that the LNG concentration remains outside the explosion limit of LNG even when a specified leak occurs in one of the components within the connection space.

[0003] However, hydrogen has a much wider explosion range compared to LNG. This means that hydrogen and air can form an explosive mixture of hydrogen and air over a very wide range of hydrogen concentrations. Therefore, when using a connection space as described above, a very high air exchange rate is required, which can significantly increase the connection space compared to its use with LNG. Furthermore, the leakage of cryogenic hydrogen in an air atmosphere can lead to local condensation of air. This can lead to a local oxygen concentration that promotes the ignition of hydrogen. As a result, there is a risk of local explosion.

[0004] Against this background, an object of the present invention is to provide an improved connection space for a hydrogen supply device.

[0005] Accordingly, a connection space for a hydrogen supply device is proposed. The connection space includes an internal region surrounded by the connection space for accommodating components of the hydrogen supply device, an inert gas supply device for flushing the internal region with an inert gas, and an exhaust gas system for discharging the inert gas from the internal region. The inert gas supply device is designed to continuously supply the inert gas to the connection space and / or to maintain a constant inert gas pressure within the connection space.

[0006] Since the internal region is flushed with an inert gas, there is no flammability in the presence of hydrogen within the connection space. The formation of a flammable hydrogen-air mixture is not expected, and thus, explosion-proof equipment and fans for ventilating the connection space are not required, ensuring the minimal use of materials and space for the connection space.

[0007] The connection space is, in particular, a so-called cold box or can be referred to as a cold box. Thus, the term "connection space" can be replaced by the term "cold box" and vice versa. The connection space can have a cubic or cuboid geometric shape, for example, comprising a floor, a plurality of side walls, and a ceiling. However, the connection space can also be cylindrical. The connection space seals the internal region in a liquid-tight manner, in particular an airtight manner, from the environment of the connection space.

[0008] The components of the hydrogen supply device can include, for example, pipelines, devices, valves, instrumentation, fittings, or other similar items. The components are arranged within the connection space and thus within the internal region. Some or some of the components can be in fluid communication with a storage container for storing hydrogen via one or more pipelines. The storage container can be arranged inside or outside the connection space. The storage container can also be referred to as a hydrogen storage container.

[0009] In addition to the connection space, the hydrogen supply device preferably comprises the aforementioned storage container. The hydrogen supply device is preferably designed to supply hydrogen gas to a consumer, in particular a fuel cell. The consumer is supplied with hydrogen gas at a defined supply pressure, an appropriate supply throughput, and / or a defined forward temperature. For this purpose, the hydrogen can be evaporated upstream of the consumer.

[0010] The inert gas supply device is designed to continuously supply an inert gas, such as nitrogen, to the connection space and / or to maintain a constant inert gas pressure, so that the entire internal region and / or components are surrounded and / or flushed with the inert gas. To maintain a constant inert gas pressure in the connection space or the internal region, a pressure sensor can be arranged in the connection space to monitor the inert gas pressure. For example, if the inert gas pressure drops, the inert gas supply device supplies inert gas to the connection space to keep the inert gas pressure at a constant or consistent value. Alternatively, the connection space can be continuously flushed with the inert gas. In this case, a constant volume flow of the inert gas can flow through the connection space. Then, monitoring of the inert gas pressure is not necessary. The term "inert gas" can be replaced by the term "nitrogen" and vice versa. However, other gases such as carbon dioxide can also be used as the inert gas. The inert gas can also be referred to as a protective gas.

[0011] In this case, "flushing" the connection space or the internal region means that a continuous volume flow of the inert gas passes through the internal region. Hydrogen that can leak out is discharged from the internal region together with the inert gas via the exhaust gas system. The exhaust gas system preferably comprises an exhaust gas line that leads out from the internal region. The inert gas and the hydrogen that can leak out are removed via the exhaust gas line.

[0012] The "inert gas" discharged from the internal area by the exhaust gas system can be a mixture of the supplied inert gas and gaseous hydrogen. This means, in particular, that the term "inert gas" does not exclude the possibility that the discharged inert gas is a mixture of the supplied inert gas and gaseous hydrogen. However, in particular, if there is a leak in the internal area, the discharged inert gas contains only gaseous hydrogen. Therefore, the expression "exhaust gas system for discharging inert gas from the internal area" can be replaced by the expression "exhaust gas system for discharging inert gas and / or gaseous hydrogen from the internal area".

[0013] The connection space can be part of a vehicle. Accordingly, a vehicle having at least one such connection space is also proposed. The vehicle is preferably a ship, in particular a boat. For example, the vehicle can be a passenger ferry. In this case, the connection space can be arranged in the hull of the vehicle, in particular below the deck. The vehicle can also be a land vehicle, such as a truck, a construction machine, a harvesting machine, etc. The vehicle can also be an aircraft. However, the connection space can also be used, for example, for stationary applications in building technology.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the exhaust gas system opens from a connection space at the highest point of the internal area.

[0015] As described above, the connection space can have a ceiling. The ceiling can be pyramid-shaped or conical. Instead, the ceiling can also be flat. The exhaust gas line of the exhaust gas system opens from a connection space at the highest point of this ceiling.

[0016] According to a further embodiment, the exhaust gas system has a siphon that is at least partially filled with liquid.

[0017] The liquid is preferably hydrogen-compatible. Thus, the liquid can be described as a hydrogen-compatible liquid. For example, silicone oil can be used as a suitable liquid. The liquid seals the siphon. As an alternative to the siphon, a check valve can be used. The check valve can comprise a housing in which a non-return flap is rotatably mounted at a pivot point. The non-return flap can be moved from a closed state to an open state and vice versa. In the closed state, the inert gas cannot flow through the check valve. In the open state, the inert gas can flow through the check valve. The non-return flap can be spring-loaded. This means that the inert gas pressure of the inert gas can open the non-return flap. When the inert gas pressure drops below a predetermined value, the non-return flap closes again. For this purpose, the check valve can have a spring. The check valve can also be an electronic check valve. In this case, an actuator, for example an electric motor, is provided. The actuator opens and closes the non-return flap. And the check valve can be opened and closed, for example, based on a determined pressure difference. The check valve can also be a combination of a spring-loaded check valve and an electronic check valve.

[0018] According to a further embodiment, the siphon is at least partially arranged under the floor of the connection space.

[0019] Thereby, it is ensured that the functionality of the siphon is always maintained, even in rough seas, for example. In particular, the lowest point of the siphon is installed under the floor when viewed along the direction of gravity. The siphon is installed as low as possible. The siphon does not necessarily have to be arranged under the floor.

[0020] According to a further embodiment, the connection space further comprises a sensor for monitoring the liquid collected in the siphon.

[0021] In this case, the term "collected" can be replaced with the term "introduced" with respect to the liquid. In particular, the sensor is designed to check whether enough liquid to seal the siphon has been collected in the siphon. For example, the sensor can be an optical sensor. In particular, the sensor can be designed to detect the liquid level of the liquid in the siphon. In particular, the sensor is operably connected to a control and adjustment unit in the connection space. The operable connection can be wireless or wired. For example, the control and adjustment unit can use a signal generator that emits a signal as soon as there is no longer enough liquid in the siphon.

[0022] According to a further embodiment, the exhaust gas system has a bypass line led around the siphon, and the bypass line is sealed by a rupture plate.

[0023] In particular, the bypass line connects the descending siphon part of the siphon to the ascending siphon part of the siphon above the liquid level of the liquid, and the bypass line functioning as a connection line between the siphon parts is sealed by a rupture plate. The bypass line is a bypass conduit and can thus be referred to as a bypass conduit. The siphon can be protected with the assistance of the rupture plate. For example, if an unexpectedly high pressure occurs in the internal region, the rupture plate ruptures and the pressure drop in the internal region occurs directly through the bypass line rather than through the siphon.

[0024] According to a further embodiment, the connection space is completely or partially surrounded by an insulating layer.

[0025] The insulating layer can completely or partially surround or enclose the connection space. In particular, the insulating layer is applied at least to the floor of the connection space. Such an insulating layer can also be provided on the ceiling and / or one or more side walls of the connection space. Preferably, the insulating layer is attached to the outside of the connection space, particularly to the floor. This means, in particular, that the insulating layer faces outwards from the internal region. The insulating layer can be a multilayer insulation (MLI). The insulating layer can prevent, for example, the cold embrittlement of the region of the vehicle where the connection space is installed in the event of a leak of liquid hydrogen.

[0026] According to a further embodiment, the connection space has a stainless steel layer facing the internal region.

[0027] In particular, the floor has a stainless steel layer facing the internal region. Such a stainless steel layer can also be provided on the ceiling and / or one or more side walls of the connection space. Stainless steel is less susceptible to cold embrittlement. The floor can be or have a stainless steel plate. The entire connection space can be made of stainless steel.

[0028] According to a further embodiment, the inert gas supply device has an inert gas storage container, particularly a gas cylinder, and an inert gas supply line for supplying inert gas from the inert gas storage container to the connection space.

[0029] A plurality of inert gas storage parts can be provided. In particular, when a pressure drop is detected in the internal region, the inert gas storage container can be replaced. The inert gas supply line can have a shut-off valve. This shut-off valve can be operably connected to the aforementioned control and regulation unit.

[0030] According to a further embodiment, the connection space further comprises an oxygen sensor, a hydrogen sensor, and / or a pressure sensor arranged in the internal region.

[0031] Preferably, the oxygen sensor, hydrogen sensor, and / or pressure sensor are arranged at the aforementioned highest point of the internal region. These sensors may be operatively connected to the aforementioned control and adjustment unit. As described above, the pressure sensor may be used to maintain a constant inert gas pressure within the connection space or within the internal region.

[0032] According to a further embodiment, the connection space has a flat, pyramidal, or conical ceiling.

[0033] As described above, the exhaust gas system may be connected to the highest point or highest region of this ceiling. Furthermore, the oxygen sensor, hydrogen sensor, and / or pressure sensor may also be provided within or at this highest region.

[0034] According to a further embodiment, there is an overpressure in the internal region compared to the environment of the connection space.

[0035] The overpressure may be, for example, 100 millibars. Whether there is an overpressure can be detected, for example, using the aforementioned pressure sensor. Immediately when the overpressure within the internal region drops compared to the environment, it may be necessary to replace the inert gas storage container.

[0036] Furthermore, a hydrogen supply device having such a connection space and components accommodated within the internal region is proposed.

[0037] The hydrogen supply device is designed, in particular, to supply hydrogen gas to a consumer, for example in the form of a fuel cell, as described above. The components are the various components of the hydrogen supply device described above.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the hydrogen supply device further comprises a storage container for storing hydrogen, and the storage container is connected to the components by a pipeline.

[0039] The storage container is, in particular, a hydrogen storage container and can thus be referred to as a hydrogen storage container. The pipeline can, for example, be led from the environment into the interior region through the side wall of the connection space. In this case, the storage container is installed outside the connection space in the environment.

[0040] According to a further embodiment, the storage container is arranged within the interior region.

[0041] This can also provide protection against leakage of the storage container itself. As described above, the storage container can also be arranged outside the interior region and thus outside the connection space. In this latter case, the pipeline connecting the storage container to the component passes through the connection space, in particular through one of the side walls of the connection space.

[0042] The embodiments and explanations provided for the connection space apply accordingly to the hydrogen supply device and vice versa.

[0043] In this case, "a" should not necessarily be understood as precisely limiting one element. Rather, several elements, such as two, three, or more, may be provided. Any other numerical words used herein should also not be understood as precisely specifying the number of the recited elements. Rather, unless otherwise indicated, the numbers may deviate upwards or downwards.

[0044] Further possible implementations of the connection space and / or the hydrogen supply device also include features or combinations not explicitly mentioned above or below with respect to the embodiments. A person skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to each of the basic forms of the connection space and / or the hydrogen supply device.

[0045] Further advantageous embodiments and aspects of the connection space and / or the hydrogen supply device are the subject of the dependent claims and are the subject of the embodiments of the connection space and / or the hydrogen supply device described below. The connection space and / or the hydrogen supply device will be explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings based on preferred embodiments.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0046]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

[0047] In the figures, unless otherwise indicated, the same or functionally equivalent elements are given the same reference numerals.

[0048] FIG. 1 is a highly simplified schematic diagram of an embodiment of a vehicle 1.

[0049] The vehicle 1 can be, for example, a marine vessel, in particular a ship. The vehicle 1 can be referred to as a marine vehicle. In particular, the vehicle 1 can be a marine passenger ferry. Alternatively, the vehicle 1 can also be a land vehicle. However, in the following, it is assumed that the vehicle 1 is a ship.

[0050] Vehicle 1 comprises a buoyant hull 2. A bridge 3 is provided on or in the hull 2. The vehicle 1 is preferably powered by hydrogen. For this purpose, the vehicle 1 may have a fuel cell 4. In this case, a "fuel cell" is understood to mean a galvanic cell that converts the chemical reaction energy of continuously supplied fuel, in this case hydrogen, and an oxidant, in this case oxygen, into electrical energy. The electrical energy obtained can be used to supply power to, for example, an electric motor (not shown), which in turn drives a propeller for propelling the vehicle 1.

[0051] To supply hydrogen to the fuel cell 4, a storage container 5 for storing liquid hydrogen H2 is provided. The storage container 5 is rotationally symmetric with respect to a central axis or symmetry axis 6. The storage container 5 can be arranged, for example, within the hull 2, particularly in the engine room. The storage container 5 is arranged below the deck 7 of the hull 2. The symmetry axis 6 is oriented perpendicular to the direction of gravity g. This means that the storage container 5 is in a lateral or horizontal position. Thus, the symmetry axis 6 is parallel to the deck 7. However, the storage container 5 can also be arranged upright or vertically. In this case, the symmetry axis 6 is oriented parallel to the direction of gravity g.

[0052] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a connection space 8A (tank connection space (TCS)) for the vehicle 1.

[0053] The connection space 8A is a so-called cold box and can thus be referred to as a cold box. The connection space 8A can be installed within the hull 2 below the deck 7. The storage container 5 is arranged outside the connection space 8A. However, the storage container 5 can also be arranged within the connection space 8A. However, in the following, it is assumed that the storage container 5 is installed outside the connection space 8A.

[0054] The connection space 8A is preferably liquid-tight, especially airtight. The connection space 8A has a floor 9. The floor 9 is preferably made of a stainless steel alloy. Instead of the stainless steel alloy, alternative materials resistant to low temperatures can also be used. In the orientation of FIG. 2, an insulating layer 10 is provided under the floor 9. The insulating layer 10 can be multilayered. For example, the insulating layer 10 can be a multilayer insulation (MLI). The insulating layer 10 can also include perlite or other similar materials. The insulating layer 10 is in contact with the surface of the hull 2.

[0055] The connection space 8A can be cubic or rectangular parallelepiped in shape and can have four side walls 11, 12 that are similarly insulated in addition to the floor 9. However, the connection space 8A can also be cylindrical or other similar shapes. In the upward orientation of FIG. 2, the connection space 8A is closed by a ceiling 13 that can be insulated. The ceiling 13 can be roof-shaped. In particular, the ceiling 13 can be pyramidal or conical.

[0056] The connection space 8A surrounds an internal region 14 that is flushed with an inert gas N2, especially nitrogen. The connection space 8A separates the internal region 14 from the environment 15 of the connection space 8A in a liquid-tight manner. There is an overpressure in the internal region 14 compared to the environment 15. The overpressure can be, for example, 100 millibars.

[0057] As described above, a storage container 5 (not shown) is arranged outside the connection space 8A. However, any component 16 attached to the storage container 5 is also housed within the internal region 14 of the connection space 8A. The component 16 can include, for example, a pipeline, a process engineering device, a valve, instrumentation, or other similar things. The storage container 5 can be in fluid communication with the component 16 via a pipeline 17. The pipeline 17 of the storage container 5 can lead from the environment 15 through the connection space 8A into the internal region 14. For example, the pipeline 17 passes through one of the side walls 11 and 12.

[0058] The inert gas supply device 18 is attached to the connection space 8A. Using the inert gas supply device 18, the internal area 14 can be filled with and flushed with the inert gas N2. The inert gas supply device 18 includes, for example, an inert gas storage container 19 such as a gas cylinder, an inert gas supply line 20 leading from the inert gas storage container 19 to the connection space 8A, and a shut-off valve 21 that can shut off and open the inert gas supply line 20. The inert gas supply line 20 can pass through, for example, one of the side walls 11, 12 and can have additional fittings such as control valves.

[0059] To discharge the inert gas N2, an exhaust gas system 22 is provided. The exhaust gas system 22 has an exhaust gas line 23 that opens from the connection space 8A at the highest point of the connection space 8A, particularly at the ceiling 13. The exhaust gas line 23 communicates with a siphon 24, and the lowest point of the siphon is preferably installed below the floor 9 when viewed along the gravitational direction g. A bypass line 25 having a rupture plate 26 extends around the siphon 24. The exhaust gas line 23, the siphon 24, and / or the bypass line 25 can be double-walled or single-walled.

[0060] Figure 3 shows Detail III in Figure 2.

[0061] The siphon 24 is designed to be deep enough to ensure that the siphon 24 is always sealed from the environment 15 even in a rough sea when viewed along the gravitational direction g. The siphon 24 is formed by bending or arranging the exhaust gas line 23 in a loop shape. The siphon 24 includes two portions 27, 28 that extend parallel to the gravitational direction g and a curved portion 29 that connects the two portions 27, 28.

[0062] The siphon 24 contains a hydrogen-compatible liquid 30 that seals the siphon 24. The liquid 30 can be silicone oil or other similar substances. In parts 27, 28, the liquid 30 is at liquid levels 31, 32. A sensor 33 can be attached to the siphon 24. The sensor 33 can be used to monitor the liquid 30 or the liquid levels 31, 32. This means that the sensor 33 can monitor, for example, whether there is enough liquid 30 to seal the siphon 24. The sensor 33 can also be suitable for monitoring the liquid levels 31, 32. Therefore, the sensor 33 plays a role in monitoring the function of the siphon 24.

[0063] Returning here to FIG. 2, when viewed along the gravitational direction g to which the exhaust gas line 23 is also connected, an oxygen sensor 34, a hydrogen sensor 35, and / or a pressure sensor 36 can be provided at the highest point of the connection space 8A. The sensors 34, 35, 36 are installed within the connection space 8A, that is, within the internal region 14.

[0064] The sensors 33, 34, 35, 36 are operably connected to a control and adjustment unit 37 of the connection space 8A. The operable connection can be wireless or wired. The control and adjustment unit 37 is also suitable for controlling the shut-off valve 21 and / or the component 16. For example, the control and adjustment unit 37 can be suitable for opening and closing the shut-off valve 21.

[0065] The connection space 8A, the storage container 5, the pipeline 17, and the component 16 can be part of a hydrogen supply device 38A for supplying hydrogen H2 to the fuel cell 4. During the operation of the hydrogen supply device 38A, the connection space 8A is flushed with an inert gas N2. The sensors 34, 35, 36 are used to monitor the oxygen content, hydrogen content, and pressure within the internal region 14. The sensor 33 monitors the siphon 24. When an unwanted pressure increase occurs within the internal region 14, the rupture disk 26 ruptures or breaks, and the inert gas N2 passes through the siphon 24 through the bypass line 25.

[0066] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of the connection space 8B.

[0067] The connection space 8B is part of the hydrogen supply device 38B as described above. The connection space 8B differs from the connection space 8A only in that the storage container 5 is arranged inside the connection space 8B instead of outside the connection space. The functions of the connection spaces 8A, 8B and the hydrogen supply devices 38A, 38B do not differ from each other.

[0068] Compared with liquefied natural gas (LNG), hydrogen H2 has a wide explosion range. During operation with LNG, in contrast to hydrogen H2, it is possible to operate at a certain air exchange rate, which ensures that in the event of a leak in the LNG connection space (not shown), the LNG concentration remains outside the explosion limit of LNG. Ventilation can be carried out, for example, using a fan with at least 30 air exchange cycles per hour.

[0069] However, the use of such a device for use with hydrogen H2 has several disadvantages. First, explosion analysis, especially dynamic simulation, must be performed to determine the diffusion of the explosive mixture formed with air. Many assumptions have to be made that do not accurately reflect the actual state of the system. Furthermore, due to the high air exchange rate required in the case of hydrogen H2, the LNG connection space becomes very large. Furthermore, local condensation of air may occur, which can result in local hydrogen concentrations exceeding the ignition limit of the hydrogen - air mixture. As a result, there is a risk of local explosion.

[0070] Using the connection spaces 8A, 8B described above can prevent or at least reduce these aforementioned disadvantages. The connection spaces 8A, 8B allow for hydrogen operation in a closed space, taking into account special features of marine applications such as the so - called sloshing effect, and ensure an inert atmosphere within the closed connection spaces 8A, 8B, particularly with an oxygen content of less than 5 volume percent.

[0071] The advantage of operating in an inert environment within the connection spaces 8A, 8B is, on the one hand, that there is no need to take explosions into account. On the other hand, the ignition zones due to equipment (Appareils destines a etre utilises en Atmospheres Explosibles: ATEX (French)) intended for use in an explosive atmosphere do not need to be considered as they are non-flammable. Since the risk of explosion is not taken into account, minimal use of materials and space is ensured. Explosion-proof equipment and fans are not required. As a result, costs are reduced. The insulation of the connection spaces 8A, 8B by the insulation layer 10 provides protection against cryogenic embrittlement in case of possible leakage of liquid hydrogen H2.

[0072] Advantageously, preventive explosion protection can be implemented in the closed connection spaces 8A, 8B. As described above, the siphon 24 is designed deep enough to ensure that the siphon 24 is sealed from the environment 15 even in rough seas. The rupture disk 26 functions as the final element to bypass the siphon 24 in case of emergency. The sensor 33 can be advantageously used to monitor the liquid 30.

[0073] The exhaust gas line 23 can optionally be designed with a double wall, particularly in the form of a pipe-in-pipe structure. Optionally, in addition to hydrogen detection and pressure detection, leakage detection by cryogenic current detection is also possible. The floor 9, side walls 11, 12, and ceiling 13 are insulated, and the insulation layer 10 on the floor 9 provides additional insulation. Thus, the heat insulation of the floor 9 is improved. At least one top material layer of the floor 9 is made of stainless steel. This can prevent cryogenic embrittlement. For example, the high-temperature gas line as part of the component 16 can be designed with a single wall.

[0074] Thus, the connection spaces 8A, 8B can function as a sealed cold box, particularly including the insulation of the connection spaces 8A, 8B for the storage container 5 and the vehicle 1 to protect against cryogenic embrittlement at low flash flow rates, the monitoring concept, and the special design of the siphon 24 utilizing the rupture disk 26 for siphon protection.

[0075] The advantages of operating under an inert gas N2 are that there is no flammability, so there is no need to consider explosion, and there is no need to consider the ignition zone according to ATEX. Furthermore, since the possibility of explosion does not need to be considered, minimum use of materials and space is guaranteed. Explosion-proof equipment is not required, nor are the ventilation fans for the connection spaces 8A and 8B.

[0076] The connection spaces 8A and 8B can also be used for explosive media of hydrogen H2 in the maritime sector. Any piping can be completely double-walled. Optionally, the high-temperature gas pipe can be designed with a single wall. The exhaust gas system 22 is either double-walled or single-walled. Optionally, low-temperature current detection can be performed. Various media for siphon sealing, such as silicone oil, Freezium, or other similar media, can be used for the liquid 30.

[0077] FIG. 5 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the check valve 39.

[0078] The check valve 39 can be used as an alternative to the siphon 24 described above. The check valve 39 is provided or mounted in or on the exhaust gas line 23. The check valve 39 can be combined with the bypass line 25 having the rupture disk 26 described above.

[0079] The check valve 39 includes a housing 40 in which a non-return flap 41 is rotatably mounted at a pivot point 42. The non-return flap 41 can move from the closed state shown by the solid line to the open state shown by the dashed line and designated by the reference numeral 41', and vice versa. In the closed state, the inert gas N2 cannot flow through the check valve 39. In the open state, the inert gas N2 can flow through the check valve 39.

[0080] The non-return flap 41 can be spring-loaded. This means that the non-return flap 41 can be opened by the inert gas pressure of the inert gas N2. When the inert gas pressure falls below a predetermined value, the non-return flap 41 closes again. For this purpose, the check valve 39 can have a spring.

[0081] The check valve 39 can also be an electronic check valve. In this case, an actuator, for example an electric motor, is provided. The actuator opens and closes the non-return flap 41. And the check valve 39 can be opened and closed, for example, based on a determined pressure difference. The check valve 39 can also be a combination of a spring-loaded type and an electronic check valve.

[0082] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments, the present invention can be variously modified within the scope of the claims.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0083] 1 Vehicle 2 Hull 3 Bridge 4 Fuel cell 5 Storage container 6 Axis of symmetry 7 Deck 8A Connection space 8B Connection space 9 Floor 10 Insulation layer 11 Side wall 12 Side wall 13 Ceiling 14 Interior region 15 Environment 16 Component 17 Pipeline 18 Inert gas supply device 19 Inert gas storage container 20 Inert gas supply line 21 Shut-off valve 22 Exhaust gas system 23 Exhaust gas line 24 Siphon 25 Bypass line 26 Rupture disc 27 parts 28 parts 29 parts 30 liquid 31 liquid level 32 liquid level 33 sensor 34 sensor / oxygen sensor 35 sensor / hydrogen sensor 36 sensor / pressure sensor 37 control and adjustment unit 38A hydrogen supply device 38B hydrogen supply device 39 check valve 40 housing 41 non-return flap 41’ non-return flap 42 turning point g direction of gravity H2 hydrogen N2 inert gas / nitrogen

Claims

1. A connection space (8A, 8B) for a hydrogen supply device (38A, 38B), comprising an internal region (14) surrounded by the connection space (8A, 8B) for accommodating components (16) of the hydrogen supply device (38A, 38B), an inert gas supply device (18) for flushing the internal region (14) with an inert gas (N2), and an exhaust gas system (22) for discharging the inert gas (N2) from the internal region (14), wherein the inert gas supply device (18) is designed to continuously supply the inert gas (N2) to the connection space (8A, 8B) and / or to keep the inert gas pressure in the connection space (8A, 8B) constant.

2. The exhaust gas system (22) opens from the connection space (8A, 8B) at the highest point of the internal region (14), the connection space according to Claim 1.

3. The exhaust gas system (22) has a siphon (24) at least partially filled with a liquid (30), the connection space according to any one of Claims 1 or 2.

4. The siphon (24) is at least partially disposed under the floor (9) of the connection space (8A, 8B), the connection space according to Claim 3.

5. The connection space according to any one of Claims 3 or 4 further comprises a sensor (33) for monitoring the liquid (30) collected in the siphon (24).

6. The exhaust gas system (22) has a bypass line (25) led around the siphon (24), and the bypass line (25) is sealed by a rupture plate (26), the connection space according to any one of Claims 3 to 5.

7. The connection space (8A, 8B) is completely or partially surrounded by an insulating layer (10), the connection space according to any one of Claims 1 to 6.

8. The connection space (8A, 8B) has a stainless steel layer facing the internal region (14), the connection space according to any one of Claims 1 to 7.

9. The inert gas supply device (18) includes an inert gas storage container (19), particularly a gas cylinder, and an inert gas supply line (20) for supplying the inert gas (N2) from the inert gas storage container (19) to the connection spaces (8A, 8B). The connection space according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The connection space according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising an oxygen sensor (34), a hydrogen sensor (35), and / or a pressure sensor (36) disposed in the internal region (14).

11. The connection space (8A, 8B) has a flat, pyramid-shaped, or conical ceiling (13). The connection space according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. There is a positive pressure in the internal region (14) as compared to the environment (15) of the connection space (8A, 8B). The connection space according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. A hydrogen supply device (38A, 38B) comprising the connection space (8A, 8B) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 and components (16) housed in the internal region (14).

14. The hydrogen supply device according to claim 13, further comprising a storage container (5) for storing hydrogen (H2), and the storage container (5) is connected to the component (16) by a pipeline (17).

15. The storage container (5) is disposed in the internal region (14). The hydrogen supply device according to claim 14.

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