Floating body

Abstract

To provide a floating structure for supplying fluid to a ship. [Solution] A floating body 1 for supplying fluid to a ship, which is equipped with a compressor 11 for compressing the fluid, an accumulator 12 for storing the fluid, and / or a dispenser 13 for dispensing a fixed amount of fluid, and is capable of carrying a vehicle 2 equipped with a cargo bed on which a fluid storage container 21 is mounted, and from the fluid storage container mounted on the cargo bed of the vehicle, it is possible to supply fluid to a ship 3 equipped with a propulsion engine capable of being propelled by the fluid as fuel, via the compressor, accumulator, and / or dispenser.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a floating body.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, in order to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, the use of ships equipped with fuel cells or hydrogen engines that use hydrogen gas or the like as fuel has been expected.

[0003] Since hydrogen gas needs to be supplied to a ship in a high-pressure state, when filling a fixed fuel tank in the ship from the quay, a facility for handling high-pressure gas (corresponding to a so-called hydrogen station) is installed on the quay, and a method such as supplying hydrogen gas from the quay to a ship floating on the sea is adopted.

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a fuel gas filling system that supplies hydrogen gas from a gas accumulator installed at a port of a harbor to a fuel tank mounted on a ship using a filling hose.

[0005] Also, when supplying power to a ship, a method such as supplying power from power generation equipment installed on the quay to a ship floating on the sea is adopted.

[0006] When supplying fuel or power from facilities installed on the quay or the like to a ship floating on the sea, there is a possibility that danger may occur in the operation due to changes in weather and sea conditions. Also, when it is determined that the operation of supplying fuel or power to a ship is dangerous, the operation has to be interrupted, leading to a decrease in work efficiency.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0007]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0008] At least one object of this invention is to provide a floating structure for supplying fluid to a ship. Another object of this invention is to provide a floating structure for supplying power to a power receiving facility. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The problem to be solved by this invention is, [1] A floating body for supplying fluid to a ship, comprising a compressor for compressing the fluid, an accumulator for storing the fluid, and / or a dispenser for dispensing a fixed amount of fluid, capable of mounting a fluid storage container, and capable of supplying fluid from the fluid storage container to a container or device on the ship via the compressor, accumulator, and / or dispenser; [2] The floating vessel described in [1] above, which is a barge or another vessel different from the vessel to which the fluid is supplied; [3] The floating body according to [1] or [2], wherein the floating body has a plurality of decks on its upper part that are at different heights from the water surface when the floating body is floating on the water surface, and a compressor, accumulator, and / or dispenser is installed on one of the decks, and on the side that docks with a ship when supplying fluid, there is a deck at a height suitable for docking, which is different from the deck on which the compressor, accumulator, and / or dispenser is installed; [4] A floating body according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein at least a portion of the outer plating on the side that comes into contact with the vessel when supplying fluid has a predetermined impact resistance, and / or the side that comes into contact with the vessel when supplying fluid is provided with a barrier having a predetermined impact resistance; [5] The floating body according to [4], further comprising a height-changing means for changing the height position of the barrier in a direction substantially perpendicular to the upper surface of the floating body's deck; [6] A floating vessel according to any one of [1] to [5] above, comprising a rampway that allows a vehicle with a fluid storage container mounted on its bed to be loaded onto, and fasteners capable of securing the vehicle, and capable of supplying fluid from the fluid storage container to the vessel while the vehicle is secured by the fasteners; [7] A floating body according to any one of [1] to [6] above, wherein the fluid storage container is provided on the vehicle and comprises a first detection means for detecting an abnormality in the floating body and a first detection information transmission means for transmitting first detection information to the vehicle indicating that an abnormality has been detected when the first detection means detects an abnormality; [8] A fluid supply system for supplying fluid to a ship, comprising a floating body equipped with a compressor for compressing fluid, an accumulator for storing fluid, and / or a dispenser for dispensing a fixed amount of fluid, wherein a fluid storage container can be mounted on the floating body, and fluid can be supplied from the fluid storage container to a container or device on the ship via the compressor, accumulator, and / or dispenser; [9] The fluid supply system according to [8], wherein the floating body is a barge or another vessel different from the vessel to which the fluid is supplied;

[10] A fluid supply system according to [8] or [9], wherein the floating body has a plurality of decks on its upper part that are at different heights from the water surface when the floating body is floating on the water surface, and a compressor, accumulator, and / or dispenser is provided on one of the decks of the floating body, and the floating body has a deck at a height suitable for docking, different from the deck on which the compressor, accumulator, and / or dispenser is provided, on the side of the floating body that docks with a ship when supplying fluid;

[11] A fluid supply system according to any one of [8] to

[10] , wherein at least a portion of the outer plating of the floating body on the side that comes into contact with the ship when supplying fluid has a predetermined impact resistance, and / or the floating body is provided with a barrier on the side that comes into contact with the ship when supplying fluid that has a predetermined impact resistance;

[12] The fluid supply system according to

[11] , wherein the floating body is equipped with height-changing means for changing the height position of the barrier in a direction substantially perpendicular to the upper surface of the deck;

[13] A fluid supply system according to any one of [8] to

[12] , wherein a fluid storage container is provided on the bed of a vehicle, the vehicle is a towed vehicle and is equipped with fastening means that can be used to secure it to a floating body, the floating body is equipped with a rampway that allows a vehicle with the fluid storage container on its bed to board the floating body, and fasteners that can secure the vehicle, and with the fastening means and fasteners connected, it is possible to supply fluid from the fluid storage container to a vessel;

[14] A fluid supply system according to any one of [8] to

[13] , wherein a fluid storage container is provided on a vehicle, the vehicle is equipped with a control device for controlling the supply of fluid and a shut-off means for shutting off the supply of fluid from the vehicle to a vessel, the floating body is equipped with a first detection means for detecting an abnormality in the floating body and a first detection information transmission means for transmitting first detection information indicating that an abnormality has been detected to the control device when the first detection means detects an abnormality, the control device transmits a control signal to the shut-off means to shut off the supply of fluid when it receives the first detection information transmitted by the first detection information transmission means, and the shut-off means shuts off the supply of fluid based on the control signal received from the control device;

[15] A fluid supply system according to any one of [8] to

[14] , wherein a fluid storage container is provided on the vehicle, and the vehicle comprises a control device for controlling the supply of fluid, a shut-off means for shutting off the supply of fluid from the vehicle to the vessel, a second detection means for detecting an abnormality in the vehicle, and a second detection information transmission means for transmitting second detection information indicating that an abnormality has been detected to the control device when the second detection means detects an abnormality in the vehicle, and when the control device receives the second detection information transmitted by the second detection information transmission means, it transmits a control signal to the shut-off means to shut off the supply of fluid, and the shut-off means shuts off the supply of fluid based on the control signal received from the control device;

[16] A fluid supply system according to any one of [8] to

[15] , wherein a fluid storage container is provided on a vehicle, the vehicle is equipped with a control device for controlling the supply of fluid and a shut-off means for shutting off the supply of fluid from the vehicle to a ship, the ship is equipped with a third detection means for detecting an abnormality of the ship and a third detection information transmission means for transmitting a third detection information indicating that an abnormality has been detected to the control device when the third detection means detects an abnormality, the control device transmits a control signal to the shut-off means to shut off the supply of fluid when it receives the third detection information transmitted by the third detection information transmission means, and the shut-off means shuts off the supply of fluid based on the control signal received from the control device;

[17] A fluid supply method performed in a fluid supply system for supplying fluid to a ship, comprising a floating body equipped with a compressor for compressing fluid, an accumulator for storing fluid, and / or a dispenser for dispensing a fixed amount of fluid, the fluid supply method comprising: a mounting step of mounting a fluid storage container on the floating body; and a fluid supply step of supplying fluid from the fluid storage container to a container or device provided on the ship via the compressor, accumulator, and / or dispenser;

[18] A floating body for supplying power to a power receiving facility, equipped with a generator capable of generating electricity by operating an engine using a fluid as fuel, capable of mounting a fluid storage container, the generator capable of generating electricity by receiving fluid from the fluid storage container and supplying power to the power receiving facility;

[19] A barge or a ship, as described in

[18] above;

[20] The floating body according to

[18] or

[19] , comprising a rampway that allows a vehicle with a fluid storage container mounted on its bed to be loaded onto, and fasteners that can secure the vehicle, and capable of supplying fluid from the fluid storage container to a generator while the vehicle is secured by the fasteners;

[21] A floating body according to any one of

[18] to

[20] , wherein the fluid storage container is provided on the vehicle and comprises a first detection means for detecting an abnormality in the floating body and a first detection information transmission means for transmitting first detection information to the vehicle indicating that an abnormality has been detected when the first detection means detects an abnormality;

[22] A power supply system for supplying power to a power receiving facility, comprising a floating body equipped with a generator capable of generating electricity by operating an engine using a fluid as fuel, the floating body being capable of mounting a fluid storage container, the generator being capable of generating electricity by receiving fluid from the fluid storage container and supplying power to the power receiving facility;

[23] The power supply system according to

[22] , wherein the floating body is a barge or a ship, and the power receiving equipment is located on a ship different from the floating body and / or near a quay;

[24] A power supply method to be performed in a power supply system for supplying power to a power receiving facility, comprising a floating body equipped with a generator capable of generating electricity by operating an engine using a fluid as fuel, the method comprising: a mounting step of mounting a fluid storage container on the floating body; a power generation step of the generator receiving fluid from the fluid storage container to generate electricity; and a power supply step of supplying the power generated in the power generation step to the power receiving facility;

[25] A floating body for supplying fluid to a ship, capable of carrying a vehicle having a platform on which a fluid storage container is mounted, the vehicle having a compressor for compressing the fluid, an accumulator for storing the fluid, and / or a dispenser for dispensing a fixed amount of fluid; the fluid storage container, while mounted on the platform of the vehicle, can be supplied from the compressor, accumulator, and / or dispenser to a ship having a propulsion engine capable of being propelled by the fluid;

[26] A floating body for supplying power to a power receiving facility, which is equipped with a generator capable of generating electricity by operating an engine using a fluid as fuel, and is capable of carrying a vehicle equipped with a cargo bed on which a fluid storage container is mounted, wherein the generator can generate electricity by receiving fluid from the fluid storage container mounted on the cargo bed of the vehicle, and supply power to the power receiving facility; This can be achieved. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, a floating body for supplying fluid to a ship can be provided. Further, according to the present invention, a floating body for supplying power to power receiving equipment can be provided.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0011] [Figure 1] It is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a fluid supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a fluid supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] It is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a fluid supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] It is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a fluid supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] It is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a fluid supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] It is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] It is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a fluid supply facility of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart of a first fluid supply cutoff process according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] It is a flowchart of a second fluid supply cutoff process according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] It is a flowchart of a third fluid supply cutoff process according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] It is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a power supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] ]>The embodiments of the present invention will be described below, but the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below unless it contradicts the spirit of the present invention. Furthermore, the description of the effects is one aspect of the effects of the embodiments of the present invention and is not limited to those described herein. The order of each process constituting the flowchart described below is not limited to the extent that no contradictions or inconsistencies occur in the processing content, and it is also possible to omit some of the processes constituting the flowchart or to add new processes to each process constituting the flowchart, as long as no contradictions or inconsistencies occur in the processing content. Furthermore, the device that is the main entity that executes each process constituting the flowchart can be changed to another device unless it contradicts the spirit of the present invention. In that case, it is possible to change the processing content so as not to cause contradictions or inconsistencies in the processing content.

[0013] [Fluid supply system] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a fluid supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The fluid supply system shown in Figure 1 comprises a floating body 1 equipped with a compressor 11 for compressing fluid, an accumulator 12 for storing fluid, and a dispenser 13 for dispensing a fixed amount of fluid. A fluid storage container 21 is mounted on the floating body 1, and it may be possible to supply fluid from the fluid storage container 21 to a container 31 on a ship 3 via the compressor 11, accumulator 12, and dispenser 13.

[0014] In Figure 1, the fluid storage container 21 is mounted on the cargo bed of vehicle 2, and fluid can be supplied from the fluid storage container 21 mounted on the cargo bed of vehicle 2 to the container 31 on the ship 3 via the compressor 11, accumulator 12, and dispenser 13. The floating body 1 may be capable of carrying vehicle 2 equipped with a cargo bed on which the fluid storage container 21 is mounted.

[0015] The solid arrows 4(4a~4d) in Figure 1 indicate the fluid flow. Piping for fluid passage may be provided between the fluid storage container 21 and the compressor 11, between the compressor 11 and the accumulator 12, between the accumulator 12 and the dispenser 13, and between the dispenser 13 and the container 31, where arrows 4 are located. The piping may be flexible, such as a hose or flexible pipe, or it may be inflexible, such as a general pipe.

[0016] The floating body 1 may be capable of floating on the water for use. Preferably, the floating body 1 is capable of moving on the water. The floating body 1 may be moored as needed, but preferably is not completely (permanently) fixed. The floating body 1 may be, for example, a barge, or another vessel different from the vessel 3 that supplies the fluid.

[0017] A "barge" may be what is commonly known as a "light boat." A barge does not need to be equipped with a propulsion engine. A barge may be able to navigate by being towed or pushed by a tugboat.

[0018] Other vessels, distinct from vessel 3, may be equipped with propulsion engines and capable of self-propulsion. The type of fuel used by the propulsion engines of these other vessels is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate.

[0019] Regarding vehicle 2, details will be described later, but vehicle 2 may be a towed vehicle. Vehicle 2 may also be equipped with fastening means such as hooks that can be used to secure it to the floating body 1.

[0020] Furthermore, the floating body 1 may be equipped with a rampway that allows a vehicle 2, with a fluid storage container 21 mounted on its platform, to board the floating body 1, and fasteners such as chain blocks that can secure the vehicle 2. In this case, it may be possible to supply fluid from the fluid storage container 21 to the ship 3 while the securing means provided by the vehicle 2 and the fasteners provided by the floating body 1 are connected.

[0021] The vessel 3 may be equipped with a propulsion engine and capable of navigating under its own power. The vessel 3 may also be equipped with a propulsion engine capable of propelling itself using a fluid supplied from the fluid storage container 21 as fuel. If the fuel fluid is hydrogen gas, the propulsion engine may, for example, use electricity generated by a fuel cell to drive a motor or the like to obtain thrust, or it may obtain thrust by supplying hydrogen gas to an engine (internal combustion engine) and burning it.

[0022] The size and type of vessel 3 are not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. Vessel 3 may be, for example, a large ship, a medium ship, or a small ship. Vessel 3 may also be, for example, a merchant ship (cargo ship), a passenger ship, a fishing boat, a workboat or special vessel, or a warship. Vessel 3 may also be, for example, one that sails on the open sea, one that sails on rivers, one that sails on ponds or lakes.

[0023] The fluid is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. The fluid may be one that can be used as fuel. The fluid may also be used on the ship 3, or transported by the ship 3 and used elsewhere. The fluid may be a gas, such as hydrogen gas or natural gas, or a liquid, such as LPG (liquefied petroleum gas). Below, we will explain the case where the fluid used as fuel is hydrogen gas as the main example.

[0024] The fluid storage container 21 may be for storing fluid. Inside the fluid storage container 21, the fluid may be stored under high pressure or under normal conditions. "High pressure" may refer to a pressure of 1 MPa or higher at room temperature if the fluid is a compressed gas. Alternatively, "high pressure" may refer to a pressure of 0.2 MPa or higher at room temperature if the fluid is a liquefied gas.

[0025] As will be described in more detail later, vehicle 2 may be capable of supplying the fluid stored in the fluid storage container 21 to the compressor 11 via a fluid supply device provided on vehicle 2.

[0026] The compressor 11 may compress the fluid by applying pressure to it. The compressor 11 may be capable of bringing the fluid supplied from the fluid storage container 21 to a higher pressure state. The method by which the compressor 11 compresses the fluid is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. For example, the method by which the compressor 11 compresses the fluid may be positive displacement, turbo type, or diaphragm type. The fluid compressed by the compressor 11 may be supplied to the accumulator 12.

[0027] The accumulator 12 may be capable of storing fluid under high pressure. The material (type) of the accumulator 12 is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. The material of the accumulator 12 may be metal or resin. The accumulator 12 may also have resin-reinforced carbon fiber wrapped around its outer circumference. The fluid stored in the accumulator 12 may be supplied to the dispenser 13.

[0028] The dispenser 13 may be capable of dispensing a predetermined amount of fluid. The dispenser 13 may be equipped with a flow meter for measuring the mass (volume) of the fluid, and a control system for adjusting the pressure and temperature of the supplied fluid and controlling the discharge rate. The dispenser 13 may also be equipped with an operation panel for the operator performing the fluid supply work to input the fluid discharge rate, instructions to start dispensing, instructions to stop dispensing, etc. The fluid may be supplied by the dispenser 13 to a container 31 provided on the ship 3.

[0029] The container 31 may be capable of storing fluid in the vessel 3. Inside the container 31, the fluid may be stored under high pressure or under normal pressure. The container 31 may function as a fuel tank. The fluid stored in the container 31 may be used as fuel to drive the propulsion engines of the vessel 3.

[0030] The location where the container 31 is provided on the vessel 3 is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. For example, the container 31 may be provided on the deck of the vessel 3.

[0031] The container 31 may be fixed in any position within the ship 3, or it may be movable within the ship 3.

[0032] In the above description, an example was given in which the floating body 1 includes a compressor 11, an accumulator 12, and a dispenser 13. However, the floating body 1 does not necessarily have to include one or more of the compressor 11, accumulator 12, and dispenser 13. In other words, the floating body 1 may include a compressor 11, an accumulator 12, and / or a dispenser 13.

[0033] For example, the floating body 1 may be equipped with a compressor 11 and a dispenser 13. In this case, the fluid supplied from the fluid storage container 21 to the compressor 11 may be compressed by the compressor 11 and supplied to a container 31 on the ship 3 via the dispenser 13.

[0034] Furthermore, for example, the floating body 1 may be equipped with an accumulator 12 and a dispenser 13. In this case, the fluid supplied from the fluid storage container 21 to the accumulator 12 is supplied from the accumulator 12 to the dispenser 13, and then supplied via the dispenser 13 to the container 31 provided on the ship 3.

[0035] Furthermore, for example, the floating body 1 may be equipped with a dispenser 13. In this case, the fluid may be supplied from the fluid storage container 21 to the dispenser 13, and then supplied via the dispenser 13 to a container 31 provided on the ship 3. In this case, it is preferable that the fluid storage container 21 stores the fluid under high pressure.

[0036] Furthermore, although the above describes an example in which fluid is supplied from the fluid storage container 21 to a container 31 on the ship 3 via the compressor 11, accumulator 12, and / or dispenser 13, it is also possible to supply fluid from the fluid storage container 21 to a device on the ship 3 via the compressor 11, accumulator 12, and / or dispenser 13. The device to which the fluid is supplied may be capable of containing fluid internally. Also, the device to which the fluid is supplied may be capable of performing a predetermined function using the fluid.

[0037] The floating body 1 may have a deck on top. The compressor 11, accumulator 12, and / or dispenser 13 may be mounted on the deck of the floating body 1. The vehicle 2 may also be fixed to the deck of the floating body 1.

[0038] Furthermore, "the upper part of the floating body" refers to the upper portion of the floating body when it is floating horizontally on the water surface.

[0039] Hereafter, "upward" refers to the vertically upward direction when the floating object is suspended horizontally on the water surface, and "downward" refers to the vertically downward direction when the floating object is suspended horizontally on the water surface. The same applies to the vertical direction of a ship.

[0040] Furthermore, the "compressor 11, accumulator 12, and / or dispenser 13" provided by the floating body 1 will also be referred to as the "high-pressure gas equipment." Although referred to as "high-pressure gas equipment" for convenience, the fluids that can be handled by the compressor 11, accumulator 12, and / or dispenser 13 are not limited to gases (gases), but may also be liquids.

[0041] The floating body 1 may have multiple decks on its upper surface, each at a different height from the water surface when the floating body 1 is floating on the water. In this case, it is preferable that the compressor 11, accumulator 12, and / or dispenser 13 are mounted on one of the decks of the floating body 1. In other words, it is preferable that the high-pressure gas equipment of the floating body 1 be mounted on the same deck. Furthermore, it is preferable that the fluid storage container 21 be mounted on the deck where the compressor 11, accumulator 12, and / or dispenser 13 are mounted. By mounting the fluid storage container 21 and the high-pressure gas equipment on the same deck, the operation of supplying fluid from the fluid storage container 21 to the container 31 becomes easier.

[0042] Note that "height from the water surface" refers to the height of the floating body 1 from the water surface when it is floating horizontally on the water. In general nautical terminology, "height from the water surface" is called "freeboard." "Height from the water surface" may be equal to "height from the waterline of the floating body 1." In other words, "different heights from the water surface" is equivalent to the height being different from any reference line parallel to the horizontal when the floating body 1 is floating horizontally on the water.

[0043] Hereafter, "height from the water surface" will also be simply referred to as "height." Similarly, when referring to vessel 3, "height from the water surface" refers to the height of vessel 3 from the water surface when it is floating horizontally on the water.

[0044] Preferably, the deck of the floating body 1 is approximately parallel to the water surface when the floating body 1 is floating on the water surface. If the floating body 1 has multiple decks, when the floating body 1 is floating on the water surface, at least one deck may be approximately parallel to the water surface, or all decks may be approximately parallel to the water surface.

[0045] Furthermore, it is preferable that the floating body 1 has a deck on the side that docks with the ship 3 when supplying fluid, which is at a different height from the deck on which the compressor 11, accumulator 12, and / or dispenser 13 are installed. The deck at a different height from the deck on which the compressor 11, accumulator 12, and / or dispenser 13 are installed is preferably at a height suitable for docking with the ship 3. "A height suitable for docking with the ship 3" may be a height that, when the floating body 1 docks with the ship 3, is within a predetermined range from the height of the deck of the ship 3 (for example, the deck on which the container 31 is installed in the ship 3). "A height suitable for docking with the ship 3" may also be a height that, when the floating body 1 docks with the ship 3, is approximately equal to the height of the deck of the ship 3.

[0046] In addition, in the case of the floating body 1, "the side that comes into contact with the ship 3 when supplying fluid" may refer to, for example, the side that is closest to the ship 3 when the floating body 1 and the ship 3 are in contact with each other's outer hulls in order to supply fluid from the floating body 1 to the ship 3.

[0047] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a fluid supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2(A) is a top view of the fluid supply system, and Figure 2(B) is a side view of the fluid supply system. The top view refers to a view of the water surface when the floating body and vessel are floating horizontally on the water surface, viewed from a direction vertically above. The side view refers to a view of the water surface when the floating body and vessel are floating horizontally on the water surface, viewed from a direction parallel to the water surface. The same applies to "top view" and "side view" below.

[0048] The floating structure 1 shown in Figure 2 comprises a deck 14a with a compressor 11, an accumulator 12, and a dispenser 13 on its upper surface, and a deck 14b located at a lower height from the water surface 16 than deck 14a. The vehicle 2 is fixed to the upper surface of deck 14a. The container 31 is located on the upper deck of the ship 3.

[0049] In Figure 2, the height of deck 14b is approximately equal to the height of the deck of ship 3. In this case, for example, as shown by arrow 4d, piping can be installed on deck 14b, and workers can stand on deck 14b and perform the task of supplying fluid to container 31.

[0050] When supplying fluid to the ship 3 using a deck at a different height from the deck on which the compressor 11, accumulator 12, and / or dispenser 13 are installed, it is preferable that the piping located between the dispenser 13 and the ship 3 be flexible.

[0051] Furthermore, if an accident such as an explosion occurs in container 31, and the height of the deck on which container 31 is located is approximately equal to the height of the deck on which the high-pressure gas equipment is located, there is a possibility that all of the high-pressure gas equipment will be damaged. Therefore, by making the height of the deck on which the high-pressure gas equipment is located higher than the height of the deck on which container 31 is located, it is possible to reduce the damage to the high-pressure gas equipment. The dashed arrow 5 shown in Figure 2 indicates the direction in which the shock wave is thought to propagate in the direction of the floating body 1 when container 31 explodes. Note that in Figure 2, the symbols are omitted except for some of the dashed arrows.

[0052] If the height of deck 14b is not approximately equal to the height of the deck of vessel 3, the height of deck 14b may be adjusted by any means, such as adjusting the draft of the floating body 1 and / or vessel 3, so that the height of deck 14b is approximately equal to the height of the deck of vessel 3.

[0053] Furthermore, in the floating body 1, it is preferable that at least a portion of the outer plating 15 on the side that docks with the ship 3 when supplying fluid has a predetermined impact resistance. For example, Figure 2 shows the outer plating 15a and 15b on the side that docks with the ship 3 and the outer plating 15c on the side opposite to the side that docks with the ship 3, but at least a portion of the outer plating 15a may have a predetermined impact resistance. Note that the outer plating 15a is the outer plating located between deck 14a and deck 14b, and the outer plating 15b is the outer plating located between deck 14b and the bottom of the ship (the lowest part of the main body of the floating body 1).

[0054] "Having a specified impact resistance" means having impact resistance that meets a specified standard. For example, "having a specified impact resistance" may mean having impact resistance that meets the standards stipulated by the High Pressure Gas Safety Act, etc. Specifically, for example, "having a specified impact resistance" may mean being formed from a specified material, having a thickness of a specified thickness or more, or having a size of a specified size or more. For example, "the outer panel having a specified impact resistance" may mean that the outer panel is made of steel and has a thickness of 6 mm or more.

[0055] Furthermore, "at least a part of the outer panel 15a" may refer to the entire outer panel 15a or a part of the outer panel 15a. The size of the portion of the outer panel 15a having the specified impact resistance is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. Preferably, the size of the portion of the outer panel 15a having the specified impact resistance is such that it meets the standards stipulated by the High Pressure Gas Safety Act and is large enough to reduce damage to the main body of the floating body 1 in the event of an explosion of the container 31.

[0056] An outer panel 15 having a predetermined impact resistance may have higher impact resistance than other outer panels 15. For example, in Figure 2, at least a portion of outer panel 15a having a predetermined impact resistance may have higher impact resistance than the other outer panels 15b and 15c.

[0057] Among the outer plates 15 of the floating body 1, the outer plates 15 having a predetermined impact resistance may be located on a straight line (line of sight) connecting the container 31 and various parts of the floating body 1. For example, outer plate 15b is located on the side that docks with the ship 3 when supplying fluid, but since it is not located on a straight line (line of sight) connecting the container 31 and various parts of the floating body 1, it does not need to have the predetermined impact resistance.

[0058] In Figure 2, the outer plate 15a is located in a position where shock waves are likely to propagate if the container 31 explodes. By providing it with a predetermined level of impact resistance, it is possible to mitigate damage to the floating body 1 and the high-pressure gas equipment installed on its upper surface.

[0059] Furthermore, under the High Pressure Gas Safety Act and other relevant laws, it is considered particularly important to prevent damage to the compressor among high-pressure gas equipment. Therefore, when installing a compressor 11, accumulator 12, and / or dispenser 13 on the deck 14 of the floating body 1, it is preferable to install the compressor 11 in a position that is farther away from the ship 3 when supplying fluid. For example, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, when supplying fluid from the floating body 1 to the ship 3, the devices and containers may be installed in a position that is closer to the ship 3 in the order of fluid storage container 21, compressor 11, accumulator 12, and dispenser 13.

[0060] Furthermore, the floating body 1 may be equipped with a barrier having a predetermined impact resistance on the side that docks with the ship 3 when supplying fluid.

[0061] Regarding the phrase "having a specified impact resistance," the above description can be adopted to the extent necessary. For example, a "barrier having a specified impact resistance" may be a barrier made of steel plates with a thickness of 6 mm or more. Alternatively, a "barrier having a specified impact resistance" may be a reinforced concrete barrier with a thickness of 12 cm or more and a height of 2 m or more, with reinforcing bars of 9 mm or more in diameter arranged vertically and horizontally at intervals of 40 cm or less, and the reinforcing bars at the corners tied together.

[0062] In the floating body 1, the position (horizontal position and / or vertical position) where a barrier with predetermined impact resistance is installed, and the size (vertical length and / or horizontal length) of the barrier with predetermined impact resistance are not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. For example, the barrier with predetermined impact resistance may be as shown in Figures 3 to 5.

[0063] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a fluid supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3(A) is a top view of the fluid supply system, and Figure 3(B) is a side view of the fluid supply system.

[0064] The floating structure 1 shown in Figure 3, like the floating structure 1 shown in Figure 2, has a deck 14a located at a higher position and a deck 14b located at a lower position. As shown in the figure, the floating structure 1 has a barrier 17 with a predetermined impact resistance on the upper surface of deck 14a.

[0065] In Figure 3, the barrier 17 is located between the dispenser 13 and the container 31. The barrier 17 is preferably installed in a position and orientation that prevents shock waves from reaching the high-pressure gas equipment in the event of an explosion of the container 31. For example, the barrier 17 is preferably installed in a position that obstructs the straight line (line of sight) connecting the container 31 and the high-pressure gas equipment. Furthermore, the barrier 17 is preferably installed in an orientation such that the widest surface of the barrier 17 intersects perpendicularly with the straight line (line of sight) connecting the container 31 and the high-pressure gas equipment.

[0066] The floating body 1 is equipped with a barrier 17 having a predetermined impact resistance, and at least a portion of the outer plating 15a on the side that docks with the ship 3 may also have a predetermined impact resistance. Because the floating body 1 is equipped with a barrier 17 and at least a portion of the outer plating 15a has a predetermined impact resistance, even if the container 31 explodes, the shock wave reaching a lower position can be prevented by the outer plating 15a, and the shock wave reaching a higher position can be prevented by the barrier 17.

[0067] Furthermore, the barrier 17 may be installed on the deck 14b. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a fluid supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4(A) is a top view of the fluid supply system, and Figures 4(B) to (D) are side views of the fluid supply system.

[0068] The floating body 1 shown in Figure 4, like the floating body 1 shown in Figure 2, has a deck 14a located at a higher position and a deck 14b located at a lower position. As shown in Figure 4(A), the barrier 17 is installed on the deck 14b of the floating body 1 in the horizontal direction.

[0069] The vertical position of the barrier 17 can be designed as appropriate. For example, the barrier 17 may be installed so as to be in contact with the upper surface of the deck 14b, as shown in Figure 4(B). Alternatively, the barrier 17 may be installed at a height (vertical position) such that the upper surface of the deck 14a is located in the center of the barrier 17, as shown in Figure 4(C). Alternatively, the barrier 17 may be installed at the same height (vertical position) as when the barrier 17 is installed on the upper surface of the deck 14a, as shown in Figure 4(D).

[0070] The height position (vertical position) of the barrier 17 may be determined according to the height of the container 31. For example, as shown in Figure 4(B), if the vessel 3 is a small vessel and the container 31 is installed at a low position, the barrier 17 may be installed at a low position. In this case, the size (vertical length) of the barrier 17 may be larger than that shown in Figure 3. Also, for example, as shown in Figure 4(C), if the vessel 3 is a medium-sized vessel and the container 31 is installed at a higher position than on a small vessel, the barrier 17 may be installed at a higher position. Also, for example, as shown in Figure 4(D), if the vessel 3 is a large vessel and the container 31 is installed at a higher position than on a medium-sized vessel, the barrier 17 may be installed at an even higher position.

[0071] Furthermore, "the height position of the barrier 17" may refer to the vertical position (approximately perpendicular to the upper surface of the deck of the floating body 1) where the barrier 17 is installed within the floating body 1. "The height position of the barrier 17" can also be considered as the height position of the barrier 17 relative to the main body (hull) of the floating body 1.

[0072] The dashed arrows 5 shown in Figures 4(B) to (D) indicate the direction in which the shock wave is expected to propagate to the floating body 1 in the event of an explosion of the container 31. By installing the barrier 17 at the height shown in Figures 4(B) to (D), it is possible to prevent the shock wave generated in the event of an explosion of the container 31. Note that in Figures 4(B) to (D), the symbols have been omitted except for some arrows.

[0073] The barrier 17 may be fixed in a predetermined position, or it may be capable of changing its position in the vertical direction. If the barrier 17 is capable of changing its position in the vertical direction, the floating body 1 may be provided with a height-changing means for changing the height position (vertical position) of the barrier 17 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the upper surface of the deck of the floating body 1. If the floating body 1 has multiple decks, "a direction substantially perpendicular to the upper surface of the deck of the floating body 1" may mean a direction substantially perpendicular to the upper surface of all the decks of the floating body 1, or a direction substantially perpendicular to the upper surface of any of the decks of the floating body 1. For example, "a direction substantially perpendicular to the upper surface of the deck of the floating body 1" may mean a direction substantially perpendicular to the upper surface of the deck on which the high-pressure gas equipment is installed.

[0074] The method by which the floating body 1 changes the height of the barrier 17 is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. For example, the floating body 1 may change the height of the barrier 17 using a hydraulic cylinder, or it may change the height of the barrier 17 using an electric actuator.

[0075] The ability to change the height of the barrier 17 according to the height of the container 31 ensures safety in the event of an explosion of the container 31 for ships 3 of various sizes, even if the floating body 1 is the same size.

[0076] Furthermore, the floating body 1 may be equipped with one barrier 17, and the height of the barrier 17 may be changed by a height changing means, or it may be equipped with multiple barriers 17, and the height of at least one of the multiple barriers 17 may be changed by a height changing means. For example, the floating body 1 may be equipped with multiple barriers 17 so as to be in contact with the upper surface of the deck 14b, and if a lower height of the barriers 17 is preferred, the multiple barriers 17 may be used in an overlapping state, and if a higher height of the barriers 17 is preferred, at least a portion of the overlapping barriers 17 may be changed to be higher in the vertical direction before use.

[0077] If the floating body 1 is equipped with a barrier 17 on the deck 14b and the height of the barrier 17 is changed, the piping for supplying fluid may be arranged to pass through the gap between the outer plate 15a and the barrier 17 and under the barrier 17, for example, as shown by arrow 4d in Figures 4(B) to (D).

[0078] Furthermore, while Figures 3 and 4 show an example of a floating body 1 having a deck 14a located at a higher position and a deck 14b located at a lower position, the floating body 1 may have three or more decks 14 at different heights.

[0079] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a fluid supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5(A) is a top view of the fluid supply system, and Figures 5(B) to (D) are side views of the fluid supply system.

[0080] The floating structure 1 shown in Figure 5 comprises a deck 14a with a compressor 11, an accumulator 12, and a dispenser 13 on its upper surface, a deck 14b located at a lower height from the water surface 16 than deck 14a, and a deck 14c located at a higher height from the water surface 16 than deck 14a. A barrier 17a is provided on the upper surface of deck 14a, and a barrier 17b is provided on the upper surface of deck 14c. The vehicle 2 is fixed to the upper surface of deck 14a. The container 31 is located on the upper deck of the ship 3.

[0081] In Figure 5, the height of the deck 14a may be approximately equal to the height of the deck if the vessel 3 is a medium-sized vessel. In this case, for example, as shown by arrow 4d in Figure 5(B), piping can be installed on the deck 14a, and workers can stand on the deck 14a to supply fluid to the container 31.

[0082] If the vessel 3 is a medium-sized vessel, when the container 31 explodes, it is thought that the shock wave will propagate in the direction shown by the dashed arrow 5 in Figure 5(B). Therefore, by providing a barrier 17a on the upper surface of the deck 14a, it is possible to prevent the shock wave from reaching the high-pressure gas equipment. In addition, at least a portion of the outer plating 15 on the side that docks with the vessel 3 when supplying fluid, for example, the outer plating 15d, may have a predetermined impact resistance. The outer plating 15d may be a combination of the outer plating located between deck 14a and deck 14b, and the outer plating located between deck 14c and deck 14b.

[0083] In Figure 5, the height of the deck 14b may be approximately equal to the height of the deck when the vessel 3 is a small vessel. In this case, for example, as shown by arrow 4d in Figure 5(C), piping can be installed on the deck 14b, and workers can stand on the deck 14b to supply fluid to the container 31.

[0084] If vessel 3 is a small vessel, when container 31 explodes, it is thought that the shock wave will propagate in the direction shown by the dashed arrow 5 in Figure 5(C). Therefore, by making at least a portion of the outer plating 15a on the side that docks with vessel 3 when supplying fluid, it is possible to reduce damage to the floating body 1 and the high-pressure gas equipment.

[0085] In Figure 5, the height of the deck 14c may be approximately equal to the height of the deck if the vessel 3 is a large vessel. In this case, for example, as shown by arrow 4d in Figure 5(D), piping can be installed on the deck 14c, and workers can stand on the deck 14c and perform the task of supplying fluid to the container 31.

[0086] If the vessel 3 is a large vessel, when the container 31 explodes, it is thought that the shock wave will propagate in the direction shown by the dashed arrow 5 in Figure 5(D). Therefore, by providing a barrier 17b on the upper surface of the deck 14c, it is possible to prevent the shock wave from reaching the high-pressure gas equipment. In addition, at least a portion of the outer plating 15 on the side that docks with the vessel 3 when supplying fluid, for example, the outer plating 15d, may have a predetermined impact resistance.

[0087] Furthermore, even if the floating body 1 has only one deck of a single height, at least a portion of the outer plating 15 on the side that docks with the ship 3 when supplying fluid may have a predetermined impact resistance. In addition, or instead, a barrier 17 having a predetermined impact resistance may be provided on the side that docks with the ship 3 when supplying fluid.

[0088] As shown in Figures 3-5, the types and number of deck heights, the positions and number of barriers 17, and the positions and number of outer plates 15 with predetermined impact resistance of the floating body 1 are not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate.

[0089] Furthermore, the arrangement of piping in the floating body 1 can be appropriately designed depending on the position of the barrier 17 and the position of the container 31. In the top views of Figures 3 to 5, an example is shown in which fluid is supplied to the container 31, which is located at a position where piping extends straight from the dispenser 13. However, if the position of the container 31 is located further forward in the direction of travel of the ship 3, the piping extending from the dispenser 13 may be bent to the left, and if the position of the container 31 is located further aft in the direction of travel of the ship 3, the piping extending from the dispenser 13 may be bent to the right. It is preferable that the piping located between the dispenser 13 and the ship 3 be flexible. It is preferable that the piping be arranged so as not to interfere with the barrier 17. For example, the piping may be arranged to bypass the barrier 17.

[0090] Next, we will describe the vehicle 2 that will be mounted on the floating body 1.

[0091] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6(A) is a transparent view from the top of the vehicle, Figure 6(B) is a transparent view from the right side of the vehicle with the forward direction of the vehicle as the front, and Figure 6(C) is a transparent view from the rear of the vehicle.

[0092] As shown in Figures 6(A) to (C), the vehicle 2 (hereinafter also referred to as this unit) is equipped with a cargo bed 26, on which a container 22 is installed. Inside the container 22 are six fluid storage containers 21 (21a to 21f). Note that in Figure 6, the fluid storage container 21 stored in the center of the lower section is omitted from the description because it is in a position that overlaps with other components and is not visible. The fluid storage containers 21 are fixed inside the container 22 by racks or the like. The outlet for discharging fluid from the fluid storage containers 21 is connected to a fluid supply device 23 for supplying fluid from the vehicle 2 to other devices or other containers. The fluid supply device 23 has a fluid supply passage inside. The vehicle 2 is also equipped with four wheels 25 (25a to 25d) on the underside of the cargo bed 26.

[0093] The number of fluid storage containers 21 stored in the container 22 is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. The number of fluid storage containers 21 stored in the container 22 can be determined, for example, according to the size of the container 22 and the cargo bed 26.

[0094] Furthermore, the orientation in which the fluid storage container 21 is stored within the container 22 is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. The fluid storage container 21 may be stored in an orientation such that the longitudinal direction of the fluid storage container 21 is substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the container 22, or it may be stored in an orientation such that the longitudinal direction of the fluid storage container 21 is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the container 22.

[0095] The material and shape of the rack for fixing the fluid storage container 21 are not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. Preferably, the rack is made of a material with excellent fire resistance and explosion-proof properties. Furthermore, preferably, the rack has a hierarchical structure so that multiple fluid storage containers 21 can be stacked in the height direction.

[0096] The material and shape of the fluid storage container 21 are not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. For example, the fluid storage container 21 can be a commercially available high-pressure gas container in which the container body is cylindrical and made of aluminum (including aluminum alloy), and the cylindrical part of the container is covered with a reinforced fiber material such as CFRP. By using a fluid storage container made of aluminum or reinforced fiber material, the overall weight of the vehicle when the fluid storage container is placed on the cargo bed can be reduced, and the resistance of the inner wall of the fluid storage container to the expansion pressure of fluids placed under high pressure, such as high-pressure hydrogen gas, can also be ensured. Furthermore, by using commercially available products, it becomes possible to easily meet the standards for handling hazardous materials during land transport in Japan (High Pressure Gas Safety Act, etc.).

[0097] The size of the fluid storage container 21 is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. The size of the fluid storage container 21 can be determined according to the size of the container 22 and the cargo bed 26, etc. The size of the fluid storage container 21 may be, for example, 3250 mm or less in total length. Alternatively, the size of the fluid storage container 21 may be, for example, 2500 mm or more in total length.

[0098] The container 22 may have a portion of its exterior that can be opened. In this case, the fluid storage container 21 can be inserted into or removed from the opened section, and the connector of the device to which the fluid will be supplied can be connected to the fluid supply equipment 23 of this unit.

[0099] The openable areas on the exterior of container 22 are not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. When the direction of travel when towing vehicle 2 is the front of container 22, the openable areas are preferably the front, both left and right sides, or the rear of container 22, with the rear being more preferable.

[0100] Furthermore, the exterior may be designed not only to be partially openable, but also to be partially or entirely removable. For example, by equipping the top of the container with a jig for lifting with a crane or the like, and designing it so that the entire exterior of the container can be lifted and removed with a crane or the like, it becomes possible to load and unload fluid storage containers into and out of the unit in one go using cargo handling machinery, thereby improving work efficiency and reducing working time.

[0101] The size of container 22 is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. For example, the length of the container 22 in the longitudinal direction may be 4000 mm or more. Alternatively, the length of the container 22 in the longitudinal direction may be 4500 mm or less, or 4250 mm or less.

[0102] Furthermore, the size of the cargo bed 26 is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. For example, the width of the cargo bed 26 may be 2500 mm or less. Alternatively, the width of the cargo bed 26 may be 1700 mm or more. Also, the length in the longitudinal direction of the cargo bed 26 may be 4500 mm or less, or 4300 mm or less.

[0103] The thickness and material of the cargo bed 26 are not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. The thickness and material of the cargo bed 26 can be determined according to the weight of the container 22 and fluid storage container 21 installed on top of the cargo bed 26.

[0104] The number and size of the wheels 25 provided on the cargo bed 26 are not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate.

[0105] By equipping the cargo bed 26 with wheels 25 on its underside, it becomes possible to move the vehicle 2 with the fluid storage container 21 placed on the cargo bed 26. Therefore, it becomes possible to transport the fluid storage container 21 by land to a location where the floating body 1 is located, to load the fluid storage container 21 onto the floating body 1, and to transport the fluid storage container 21, which has become empty after the fluid has been supplied, to a facility where the fluid can be filled and replenished.

[0106] A towed body 24 for towing the cargo bed 26 is attached to the cargo bed 26 in the forward direction of the cargo bed 26, and the towed body 24 is equipped with a coupling device (kingpin, etc.) for connecting to a tractor head (not shown) having a prime mover. By connecting the tractor head and the towed body 24, the vehicle 2 can travel on land and transport fluids. The towed body 24 is also designed to be folded upward in the direction of the cargo bed at the coupling portion 24a, and when not being towed by the tractor head, the length of the vehicle 2 in the longitudinal direction can be shortened by folding the towed body 24 at the coupling portion 24a. With this configuration, the space occupied by the vehicle 2 when it is mounted on the floating body 1 can be reduced.

[0107] The structure of the folding portion of the towed body 24 (number of folding points, folding direction, etc.) is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. For example, the towed body 24 may be designed to have multiple folding points and to be folded in multiple stages to reduce its length, or it may be designed to be stored in part of the container 22 or the cargo bed 26.

[0108] The size of vehicle 2 is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. For example, the longitudinal length of vehicle 2 when the towed body 24 is folded may be 4250 mm or more. Alternatively, the longitudinal length of vehicle 2 when the towed body 24 is folded may be 6000 mm or less, or 5000 mm or less. It is preferable that vehicle 2 be of a size that can be loaded onto the floating body 1.

[0109] Vehicle 2 may be equipped with a parking brake and tire stoppers for parking in a parking area or on a deck. Vehicle 2 may also be equipped with fastening means such as hooks that can be used to secure it to a deck or the like. If vehicle 2 is equipped with fastening means, when vehicle 2 is mounted on the floating body 1, it can be connected to a fastening device installed on the floating body 1, such as a chain block, to directly fix the unit to the deck. When the fastening means of vehicle 2 is connected to the fastening device of the floating body 1, the unit can be fixed to the floating body 1 more securely than when the unit is fixed only with brakes and tire stoppers. With this configuration, even if the floating body 1 is shaken violently due to the effects of waves or other factors, and the unit is shaken in conjunction with it, it is possible to safely supply fluid from the unit while minimizing the shaking.

[0110] Furthermore, vehicle 2 may be equipped with a fire extinguisher as a means of extinguishing fires. The location of the fire extinguisher on vehicle 2 is not particularly limited, but it is preferable to place it in a location close to the driver of vehicle 2, such as the front of vehicle 2, or in a location that is easily visible, such as the exterior of container 22. This configuration allows for rapid initial fire suppression by human intervention in the event of a fire, and prevents the fluid fuel in the fluid storage container 21 from igniting and causing further damage.

[0111] The fluid supply equipment 23 is not particularly limited, as long as it is capable of supplying the fluid inside the fluid storage container 21 to other devices or other containers. "Other devices or other containers" may include a compressor 11, an accumulator 12, and / or a dispenser 13. The fluid supply equipment 23 may have a configuration as shown in Figure 7, for example. Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a fluid supply equipment for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0112] As shown in Figure 7, the piping of the fluid supply equipment 23 is equipped with valves 202a and 202b connected to the fluid storage container 201a, which introduce the fluid from the fluid storage container 201a into the supply path when the valve is opened; pressure gauges 204 (204a and 204b) for measuring pressure in the supply path; pressure sensors 205 (205a and 205b) for measuring pressure in the supply path and transmitting a detection signal to the control unit (described later) if an abnormal pressure is detected; temperature sensor 206 for measuring the temperature of the fluid in the supply path and transmitting a detection signal to the control unit if an abnormal temperature is detected; pressure reducing valves 203 (203a and 203b) for reducing the pressure of the fluid in the supply path to a predetermined range; and connection connectors 212 connected to the connectors of other devices or other containers, which supply fluid from the fluid storage container 201 to other devices or other containers through the supply path.

[0113] Note that the fluid storage containers 201a to 201f shown in Figure 7 may correspond to the fluid storage containers 21a to 21f in Figure 6. The fluid storage containers 201a to 201f may be stored in the container 22 rather than inside the fluid supply equipment 23.

[0114] On the piping of the fluid supply equipment 23, shut-off valves 208 (208a and 208b) are installed, which constitute an automatic shut-off valve that automatically shuts off the fluid supply upon receiving a control signal from the control unit (described later) when an abnormality is detected in the unit, the floating body 1, and / or the ship 3. In addition, multiple safety valves 207 (207a and 207b) and valves 202c are provided on the piping of the fluid supply equipment 23. Each of the safety valves 207 (207a and 207b) and valves 202c connects a fluid supply path to a pipe (hereinafter also referred to as a vent line) for releasing the fluid from the supply path into the atmosphere outside the unit, separated by a valve.

[0115] Valves 202a and 202b allow fluid to flow into the supply channel by opening the valves. When the worker performing the fluid supply operation places the fluid storage container 201a on the platform of this unit, they simultaneously connect the fluid outlet of the fluid storage container 201a to valve 202a. Similarly, for the other fluid storage containers 201b to 201f, they connect the fluid outlet of each fluid supply container to the valve of the fluid supply equipment 23. Next, the worker transports this unit to the fluid supply point (on the floating body 1) and opens the valve of valve 202a manually or automatically to introduce the fluid in the fluid storage container 201a into the supply channel. Various sensors such as a pressure gauge 204a, a pressure sensor 205a, and a temperature sensor 206 are installed between valves 202a and 202b to measure the fluid pressure and temperature within the supply channel. Furthermore, the pressure sensor 205a and temperature sensor 206 are connected to the control device provided in this unit, as described later, via wired or wireless communication, and are configured to transmit a detection signal to the control unit to indicate that an abnormality has been detected when the fluid pressure or fluid temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0116] Furthermore, safety valves 207a and 202c are installed between valves 202a and 202b. Safety valve 207a plays a role in maintaining a constant fluid pressure in the supply passage by automatically opening the valve through the action of a spring or the like when the fluid pressure in the supply passage exceeds a predetermined threshold, and releasing a mass or volume of fluid corresponding to the pressure exceeding the predetermined threshold into the vent line. For example, suppose the fluid in the fluid storage container 201a is high-pressure hydrogen gas at 45.0 MPa, and 43.8 MPa is set as the predetermined threshold for the pressure of the hydrogen gas in the supply passage between valves 202a and 202b, at which point safety valve 207a will automatically open the valve, and the valve of valve 202a is opened to allow hydrogen gas to flow into the supply passage. The pressure of the hydrogen gas will initially decrease as it flows into the supply passage through valve 202a. If the pressure of the hydrogen gas, which has decreased in pressure, is lower than 43.8 MPa between valves 202a and 202b, for example, 40.0 MPa, then the safety valve 207a remains closed because the pressure value is below a predetermined threshold. Next, if the supply of hydrogen gas from the fluid storage container 201a continues and the pressure of the hydrogen gas between valves 202a and 202b rises to 40.0 MPa or higher, the pressure on the inner wall of the supply pipe also rises in accordance with the rise in the hydrogen gas pressure between valves 202a and 202b. Therefore, if the pressure of the hydrogen gas in the supply pipe between valves 202a and 202b continues to rise, there is a risk that the supply pipe at that point may be damaged from the inside. However, since a threshold of 43.8 MPa has been set for safety valve 207a in advance, safety valve 207a opens automatically, and the mass or volume of hydrogen gas corresponding to the pressure exceeding 43.8 MPa is released from the supply pipe into the vent line. Therefore, the hydrogen gas pressure in the supply line drops to below the threshold of 43.8 MPa and is then maintained at a constant value.Furthermore, if an abnormality in the pressure in the supply line is detected from the pressure sensor 205a or the like, the valve 202c can be opened manually by an operator or automatically by a control device described later, and the hydrogen gas between valves 202a and 202b can be released through valve 202c to the vent line, thereby further reducing the pressure of the hydrogen gas in the supply line. When valve 202c is configured to open automatically, it is preferable that valve 202c is equipped with a control mechanism for opening and closing the valve, and means for communication with a wired or wireless control device.

[0117] The vent line of the fluid supply equipment 23 functions to discharge the fluid released from the supply channel through the safety valve 207 (207a and 207b) and valve 202c to the outside of this unit. In addition, check valves 211 (211a and 211b) are installed in part of the vent line to prevent the fluid released into the vent line from flowing back into the supply channel, and to prevent atmospheric air from flowing back into the fluid storage container 201a or the fluid supply channel from the discharge hole that discharges the fluid from the vent line into the atmosphere. This configuration prevents the fluid pressure in the supply channel from becoming too high, which would reduce the durability of the inner wall of the piping or cause the piping to break from the inside.

[0118] Furthermore, it is preferable that the vent line of the fluid supply equipment 23 be configured to be connectable to the fusible plug safety valves 213a and 213b of the fluid storage container 201a. The fusible plug safety valves 213a and 213b melt when the area around the fluid storage container 201a becomes abnormally hot or high-pressure, and release the fluid inside the fluid storage container 201a to the outside through the opened holes. With this configuration, even if the inside of the fluid storage container 201a becomes hot and high-pressure, the fluid inside the fluid storage container 201a released through the melted holes of the fusible plug safety valves 213a and 213b is further released to the outside of the unit via the vent line, thereby preventing the fluid from exploding under high temperature and high pressure, and preventing the unit from becoming filled with fluid.

[0119] The pressure reducing valves 203a and 203b serve as pressure reducing means to reduce the pressure of the fluid in the supply line to a predetermined range. That is, the fluid supply equipment 23 uses the two pressure reducing valves 203a and 203b to reduce the pressure of the fluid in the supply line to a range of pressure values ​​that can be used as fuel. Here again, let's assume that the fluid in the fluid storage container 201a is high-pressure hydrogen gas and that the hydrogen gas in the fluid storage container 201a is introduced into the supply line. For example, suppose the pressure of the hydrogen gas that can be used as fuel is 1 MPa or less. After the hydrogen gas is introduced into the supply line from the fluid storage container 201a, it passes through valve 202b at a pressure of 40.0 MPa, moves forward in the direction of the connecting connector 212 within the supply line, and its pressure decreases to 35.0 MPa as it moves along the supply line. However, since hydrogen gas cannot be used as fuel at a pressure of 35.0 MPa, the pressure of the hydrogen gas is reduced from 35.0 MPa to 1.5 MPa by passing it through pressure reducing valve 203a, and then further reduced from 1.5 MPa to 0.9 MPa by passing it through pressure reducing valve 203b. Here, we assumed that the pressure value is 1 MPa or less as the "pressure at which it can be used as fuel," but of course, this can be applied even if the purpose of use of the fluid or the values ​​of the hydrogen gas pressure before and after reduction differ from those in this embodiment. With this configuration, even if the fluid is in a high-pressure state that is extremely dangerous to handle, the fluid supply equipment of this unit can be used to safely and easily supply the fluid from the supply line to other devices or other containers while the fluid storage container remains on the vehicle's cargo bed.

[0120] In the supply path between pressure reducing valves 203a and 203b, a safety valve 207b can be installed, similar to the case of safety valve 207a described above. For example, assuming a scenario where hydrogen gas from the fluid storage container 201a is introduced into the supply path, passed through pressure reducing valve 203a to reduce the pressure to 1.5 MPa, and then supplied to pressure reducing valve 203b, a predetermined threshold of 1.65 MPa is set. In this case, even if the hydrogen gas reduced to 1.5 MPa in pressure reducing valve 203a becomes stagnant along the way, or if the pressure of the hydrogen gas exceeds the predetermined threshold before reaching pressure reducing valve 203b due to insufficient pressure reduction in pressure reducing valve 203a, the safety valve 207b functions as a means of releasing the fluid, reducing the pressure of the hydrogen gas in the supply path to below the predetermined threshold of 1.65 MPa and maintaining it at a constant value. The hydrogen gas released from the safety valve 207b is released into the atmosphere outside the unit through the vent line.

[0121] The fluid supply equipment 23 is equipped with shut-off valves 208 (208a and 208b) on the supply path that shut off the fluid supply if an abnormality is detected inside the unit, the floating body 1, and / or the ship 3.

[0122] The shut-off valve 208 is configured as an automatic shut-off valve and is connected to a piping for injecting nitrogen gas 210 into the shut-off valve 208, which is a different piping from the fluid supply path supplied from the fluid storage container 201. Solenoid valves 209 (209a and 209b) are installed on the piping for injecting nitrogen gas 210, and the injection of nitrogen gas is controlled by the solenoid valves 209. The nitrogen gas 210 injected from the piping is compressed to high pressure, and the injection pressure when the solenoid valves 209 are opened and the gas is injected is used to automatically close the shut-off valve 208, thereby blocking the flow of fluid supplied from the fluid storage container 201 in the supply path and shutting off the supply of fluid from the supply path to other devices or other containers.

[0123] The fluid supply lines in this unit handle flammable and high-pressure fluids. Therefore, if the valves in the supply lines are closed directly using electric-powered valves, sparks may be generated, potentially igniting the fluid and causing an explosion, which is extremely dangerous. In this embodiment, by using an automatic shut-off valve that utilizes the injection pressure of nitrogen gas as a means of shutting off the fluid supply in the supply lines, it is possible to safely shut off the fluid supply without generating sparks during the shut-off operation. Furthermore, by employing an automatic shut-off valve, it is possible to reduce the occurrence of human error that would occur if the shut-off operation were performed by a human, and to reduce the danger to the worker performing the shut-off operation.

[0124] In this embodiment, nitrogen injection pressure is used as a method to activate the automatic shut-off valve, but the method of activating the automatic shut-off valve is not particularly limited. For example, instead of nitrogen injection pressure, injection pressure from an inert gas other than nitrogen, such as argon gas, or air, may be used. Furthermore, as a method of activating the automatic shut-off valve, for example, from a safety standpoint, it is preferable to use nitrogen, which does not generate sparks. However, if explosion-proof measures are taken to prevent the generation of sparks, it is also possible to control the automatic shut-off valve by electricity using an electric motor. More specifically, for example, an explosion-proof solenoid valve or a solenoid valve with an explosion-proof structure can be used. With this configuration, it becomes possible to operate the automatic shut-off valve mechanically and safely without having to mount a nitrogen gas cylinder on this unit to inject nitrogen and close the automatic shut-off valve.

[0125] Preferably, the electromagnetic valve 209, or automatic shut-off valve, is connected to a control device (described later) via wired or wireless communication, and is configured to receive a control signal from the control unit of the control device to shut off the fluid supply, and to shut off the fluid supply based on the received control signal.

[0126] In this embodiment, it is preferable that the shut-off means, such as the shut-off valve 208 and the solenoid valve 209, remain closed at all times when the unit is being transported or when no fluid is being supplied. The same applies to the safety valve 207 and valves 202a to 202c.

[0127] In this embodiment, the valve 202, pressure reducing valve 203, safety valve 207, solenoid valve 209, check valve 211, or fusible plug safety valve 213 are not particularly limited, but conventionally known technologies can be used. Similarly, in this embodiment, the pressure gauge 204, pressure sensor 205, and temperature sensor 206 are not particularly limited, but conventionally known technologies can be used.

[0128] Vehicle 2 may be equipped with a control device for controlling the supply of fluid. The control device may be installed, for example, in the fluid supply equipment 23. The control device consists of a control unit, RAM (Random Access Memory), a storage unit, and a communication interface, each connected by an internal bus. The control unit consists of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and ROM (Read Only Memory). The control unit executes programs stored in the storage unit and controls the control device. RAM is the work area of ​​the control unit. The storage unit is a memory area for saving programs and data. The control unit reads programs and data from the RAM and storage unit and processes them.

[0129] The control device receives signals or information regarding the fluid pressure and temperature detected by the pressure sensor 205 and temperature sensor 206 via a communication interface. Furthermore, the control device may be configured to receive detection signals from the pressure sensor 205 and temperature sensor 206 to indicate that an abnormality has been detected when the fluid pressure or temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0130] Furthermore, the control device transmits a control signal to the solenoid valve 209 or automatic shut-off valve via a communication interface to shut off the fluid supply. The solenoid valve 209 or automatic shut-off valve receives the control signal transmitted from the control device and, based on the control signal, closes the shut-off valve 208 in the supply path, thereby shutting off the fluid supply to other devices or other containers.

[0131] Preferably, the control device is configured to receive, via a communication interface, a detection signal indicating an abnormality in the vehicle 2 transmitted from a detection means, such as a gas detection device, when the unit is equipped with such means. When the detection means detects an abnormality, the control device generates a control signal in its control unit to shut off the fluid supply and transmits the control signal generated in the control unit to a shut-off means, such as an electromagnetic valve 209 or an automatic shut-off valve. The shut-off means then closes the shut-off valve in the supply path based on the control signal received from the control device, shutting off the supply of fluid from the supply path to other devices or other containers. In this way, by equipping the unit itself with a detection device for detecting abnormalities in the vehicle, even if fluid leaks from any of the valves in the supply path or if the leaked fluid fills the container, the fluid supply from the fluid storage container can be safely and mechanically shut off, preventing the spread of damage in the event of a fire and preventing secondary disasters such as chain explosions.

[0132] Furthermore, it is preferable that the control device can be connected to the detection means provided by the floating body 1 and / or the vessel 3 via a communication interface. When the detection means provided by the floating body 1 and / or the vessel 3 detect an abnormality in the floating body 1 and / or the vessel 3, the control unit receives a detection signal from the detection means provided by the floating body 1 and / or the vessel 3, and generates a control signal to shut off the fluid supply based on the received detection signal. It is also preferable that the control device is configured to transmit this control signal to the shut-off means, which is an electromagnetic valve 209 or an automatic shut-off valve, via the communication interface. Based on the control signal received from the control device, the shut-off means closes the shut-off valve in the supply path, shutting off the supply of fluid from the supply path to other devices or other containers. With this configuration, even if the piping is damaged and a leak occurs or a fire occurs in the floating body 1 and / or the vessel 3, the fluid supply from the fluid storage container can be mechanically and safely shut off on the unit side, making it possible to suppress the spread of damage in the event of a fire and prevent secondary disasters such as chain explosions.

[0133] The control device may be installed in conjunction with the vehicle 2, or in place of the vehicle 2, on the floating body 1 and / or the ship 3. Furthermore, the control device may be capable of transmitting a control signal to shut off the fluid supply to a shut-off means installed in a location other than within the fluid supply equipment 23.

[0134] Furthermore, regarding the shut-off means, when the unit is not supplying fluid, such as during transport, the shut-off valve 208 and the solenoid valve 209, which are the shut-off means, may be designed to remain closed at all times. The control device may be configured to generate an open signal to open the valves of the shut-off means and transmit the open signal to the shut-off means before the unit can be permitted to supply fluid. In this case, the shut-off means includes a second control means (such as a microcontroller) that controls the valve to open or close based on the open signal or control signal received from the control device. When an open signal is received from the control device, the valve is opened to enable the supply of fluid, and when a control signal is received, the valve is closed to shut off the supply of fluid. It is also preferable that the control device be designed to transmit open signals to the shut-off means intermittently, and that the second control means also function as a determination means for determining whether open signals are being received intermittently. With this configuration, even if an abnormal situation occurs and the control device fails or communication is interrupted, if the detection means determines that the reception of intermittent open signals has ceased, the shut-off means can be set to automatically shut off the fluid supply. This further enhances the safety of fluid supply by this unit.

[0135] Next, the process of shutting off the fluid supply in vehicle 2 when an abnormality is detected in the fluid supply system will be explained with reference to the flowchart. Preferably, vehicle 2 is equipped with a control device for controlling the fluid supply as described above, and a shut-off means for shutting off the fluid supply from vehicle 2 to ship 3. Hereinafter, the process of detecting an abnormality in the floating body 1 will be described as the first fluid supply shut-off process, the process of detecting an abnormality in vehicle 2 will be described as the second fluid supply shut-off process, and the process of detecting an abnormality in ship 3 will be described as the third fluid supply shut-off process.

[0136] Figure 8 is a flowchart of the first fluid supply shutoff process according to an embodiment of the present invention. First, the detection device on the floating body 1 detects an abnormality in the floating body 1 (step S101) and transmits first detection information indicating that an abnormality has been detected to the control device on the vehicle 2 (step S102). The control device on the vehicle 2 receives the transmitted first detection information (step S103) and the vehicle 2 shuts off the fluid supply to the ship 3 (step S104). Steps S101 to S104 complete the first fluid supply shutoff process.

[0137] The type of abnormality detected in step S101 is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. For example, the type of abnormality detected may be a fluid leak such as hydrogen gas, a fire, a pressure abnormality, temperature abnormality, or malfunction in the compressor 11, accumulator 12, and / or dispenser 13, or a malfunction of other equipment provided by the floating body 1.

[0138] The floating body 1 may be equipped with a detection device capable of detecting information corresponding to the type of anomaly to be detected. The detection device may include a detection means (first detection means) for detecting information related to the anomaly, and a transmission means for transmitting the information detected by the detection means to a control device equipped in the vehicle 2.

[0139] The first detection information transmitted in step S102 is not particularly limited, as long as it indicates that an anomaly has been detected. For example, the first detection information may simply be a notification that an anomaly has been detected, or it may include information such as the nature of the anomaly and the date and time when the anomaly occurred.

[0140] In step S104, the control unit of the control device may transmit a control signal to the shut-off means to shut off the fluid supply, and the shut-off means may shut off the fluid supply based on the control signal received from the control unit. The above description can be adopted to the extent necessary regarding the manner in which the shut-off means shuts off the fluid supply.

[0141] Figure 9 is a flowchart of the second fluid supply shutoff process according to an embodiment of the present invention. First, the detection means (second detection means) provided in the vehicle 2 detects an abnormality in the vehicle 2 (step S201) and transmits second detection information indicating that an abnormality has been detected to the control device provided in the vehicle 2 (step S202). The control device receives the transmitted second detection information (step S203) and the vehicle 2 shuts off the fluid supply to the ship 3 (step S204). Steps S201 to S204 complete the second fluid supply shutoff process.

[0142] The type of anomaly detected in step S201 is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. The type of anomaly detected may be, for example, a pressure anomaly in the supply line, or a temperature anomaly, as described above. Alternatively, the type of anomaly detected may be, for example, a failure in the control system of vehicle 2.

[0143] Vehicle 2 may be equipped with a detection device capable of detecting information corresponding to the type of abnormality to be detected. The detection device may include a detection means (second detection means) for detecting information related to the abnormality, and a transmission means for transmitting the information detected by the detection means to a control device equipped in Vehicle 2.

[0144] The second detection information transmitted in step S202 is not particularly limited, as long as it indicates that an anomaly has been detected. For example, the second detection information may simply be a notification that an anomaly has been detected, or it may include information such as the nature of the anomaly and the date and time when the anomaly occurred.

[0145] In step S204, the control unit of the control device may transmit a control signal to the shut-off means to shut off the fluid supply, and the shut-off means may shut off the fluid supply based on the control signal received from the control unit. The above description can be adopted to the extent necessary regarding the manner in which the shut-off means shuts off the fluid supply.

[0146] Figure 10 is a flowchart of the third fluid supply shutoff process according to an embodiment of the present invention. The detection device installed in the ship 3 detects an abnormality in the ship 3 (step S301) and transmits third detection information indicating that an abnormality has been detected to the control device installed in the vehicle 2 (step S302). The control device installed in the vehicle 2 receives the transmitted third detection information (step S303) and the vehicle 2 shuts off the fluid supply to the ship 3 (step S304). Steps S301 to S304 complete the third fluid supply shutoff process.

[0147] The type of anomaly detected in step S301 is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. For example, the type of anomaly detected may be a fluid leak such as hydrogen gas, a fire, or a malfunction of equipment on the ship 3.

[0148] Ship 3 may be equipped with a detection device capable of detecting information corresponding to the type of anomaly to be detected. The detection device may include a detection means (third detection means) for detecting information related to anomalies, and a transmission means for transmitting the information detected by the detection means to a control device equipped in vehicle 2.

[0149] The third detection information transmitted in step S302 is not particularly limited, as long as it indicates that an anomaly has been detected. For example, the third detection information may simply be a notification that an anomaly has been detected, or it may include information such as the nature of the anomaly and the date and time when the anomaly occurred.

[0150] In step S304, the control unit of the control device may transmit a control signal to the shut-off means to shut off the fluid supply, and the shut-off means may shut off the fluid supply based on the control signal received from the control unit. The above description can be adopted to the extent necessary regarding the manner in which the shut-off means shuts off the fluid supply.

[0151] In the above description, an example was given in which the fluid supply is shut off in vehicle 2 when an abnormality is detected. However, when an abnormality is detected, the fluid supply may also be shut off in other devices such as the compressor 11 and dispenser 13, other containers such as the accumulator 12, and / or in the piping connecting each device and / or container. In this case, shut-off means may be provided in other devices, other containers, piping, etc., together with or instead of vehicle 2.

[0152] Furthermore, although the above description explains an example in which the control device is provided on the vehicle 2, the control device may also be provided on the float 1, compressor 11, accumulator 12, dispenser 13, etc. In this case as well, detection information indicating that the detection device has detected an abnormality may be transmitted to the control device, the control device may transmit a control signal to the shut-off means to shut off the fluid supply, and the shut-off means may shut off the fluid supply based on the control signal received from the control unit.

[0153] Alternatively, the control device may be a worker terminal operated by the worker. The worker terminal may be, for example, a tablet terminal, a laptop computer, or another computer device. The worker terminal may be equipped with a control unit and capable of transmitting a control signal to one of the shut-off means to shut off the fluid supply when it receives detection information indicating that the detection device has detected an abnormality. The worker terminal may also be capable of transmitting control signals to the fluid supply equipment 23, compressor 11, accumulator 12, dispenser 13, etc., regarding the start of operation, the stop of operation, pressure setting, etc.

[0154] Furthermore, the operator terminal may be capable of receiving information regarding the operating status of the fluid supply equipment 23, compressor 11, accumulator 12, dispenser 13, etc. from the fluid supply equipment 23, compressor 11, accumulator 12, dispenser 13, etc. The operator may monitor the operating status of the fluid supply equipment 23, compressor 11, accumulator 12, dispenser 13, etc., using the operator terminal, and if detection information is received, it may be possible to input an instruction to shut off the fluid supply using one of the shut-off means. The operator terminal may transmit a control signal to one of the shut-off means according to the input from the operator, and the shut-off means may shut off the fluid supply based on the received control signal.

[0155] [Power supply system] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a power supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The power supply system shown in Figure 11 includes a floating body 6 equipped with a generator 61 capable of generating electricity by operating an engine using a fluid as fuel. The floating body 6 is equipped with a fluid storage container 21, and it may be possible to supply fluid from the fluid storage container 21 to the generator 61.

[0156] In Figure 11, the fluid storage container 21 is mounted on the cargo bed of vehicle 2, and fluid can be supplied from the fluid storage container 21 mounted on the cargo bed of vehicle 2 to the generator 61. The floating body 6 may be capable of carrying vehicle 2 equipped with a cargo bed on which the fluid storage container 21 is mounted.

[0157] The generator 61 may be capable of generating electricity by receiving fluid from the fluid storage container 21 and supplying power to the power receiving equipment. In Figure 11, the power generated by the generator 61 is supplied to power receiving equipment 71 installed on a ship 7 different from the floating body 6, and to power receiving equipment 81 installed near the quay 8.

[0158] In Figure 11, the solid arrow 9a indicates the flow of fluid, and the solid arrows 9b and 9c indicate the flow of electricity. Between the fluid storage container 21 and the generator 61, where arrow 9a is located, there may be piping for the fluid to pass through. The above description can be adopted for the piping to the extent necessary. Between the generator 61 and the power receiving equipment 71, and between the generator 61 and the power receiving equipment 81, where arrows 9b and 9c are located, there may be conductors for the electricity to pass through.

[0159] Regarding floating body 6, the description of floating body 1 above may be adopted to the extent necessary. Floating body 6 may be a barge or a ship.

[0160] With respect to vehicle 2, the above description may be adopted to the extent necessary. In the above description, the description of the relationship between vehicle 2 and floating body 1 may be read as "floating body 1" being replaced with "floating body 6". Vehicle 2 may be a towed vehicle. Vehicle 2 may also be equipped with fastening means that can be used to secure it to floating body 6. Floating body 6 may be equipped with a rampway that allows vehicle 2, with the fluid storage container 21 placed on its bed, to board the floating body 6, and fasteners that can secure vehicle 2. In this case, it may be possible to supply fluid from the fluid storage container 21 to the generator 61 with the fastening means of vehicle 2 and the fasteners of floating body 6 connected.

[0161] Vehicle 2 may shut off the fluid supply from the fluid storage container 21 to the generator 61 if it receives detection information indicating that an abnormality has been detected from detection means provided in Vehicle 2 itself, the floating body 6, the generator 61, the ship 7, the power receiving equipment 71, the power receiving equipment 81, etc. The above description can be adopted to the extent necessary for the manner in which the fluid supply is shut off.

[0162] The above description can be adopted to the extent necessary for the fluid storage container 21 and the fluid stored inside it. The vehicle 2 may be capable of supplying the fluid stored in the fluid storage container 21 to the generator 61 via the fluid supply equipment 23 provided on the vehicle 2.

[0163] The generator 61 may be what is known as a motor-driven generator, which generates electricity by operating an engine. When the fuel fluid is hydrogen gas, the engine may, for example, use electricity generated by a fuel cell to drive a motor or the like to obtain power, or it may supply hydrogen gas to an engine (internal combustion engine) and burn it to obtain power.

[0164] The location where the generator 61 is installed on the floating body 6 is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. For example, the generator 61 may be installed on the deck of the floating body 6.

[0165] The generator 61 may be fixed at any position within the floating body 6, or it may be movable within the floating body 6.

[0166] The generator 61 can supply the generated electricity to the power receiving equipment 71 and / or power receiving equipment 81.

[0167] Although not shown in the diagram, the power supply system may also include an energy storage device, and it may be possible to store the electricity generated by the generator 61 in the energy storage device.

[0168] Furthermore, although not shown in the figures, the power supply system may include a switching mechanism to switch between supplying the power generated by the generator 61 to the power receiving equipment 71 or to the power receiving equipment 81. For example, a worker terminal operated by an operator may receive input instructions on which power receiving equipment to supply power to, and the switching mechanism may switch to supply power to either power receiving equipment according to the control signal transmitted from the worker terminal.

[0169] Furthermore, the power supply system may be equipped with a worker terminal, which may receive information such as the amount of power generated by the generator 61 and the amount of power supplied to the power receiving equipment 71 and / or power receiving equipment 81. The worker may be able to monitor the operating status of the generator 61, power receiving equipment 71, power receiving equipment 81, etc., using the worker terminal.

[0170] The power receiving equipment 71 may receive power and supply it to electrical equipment installed on the ship 7. The power receiving equipment 71 may include, for example, a transformer that converts the voltage of the received power to a voltage that can be used appropriately on the ship 7, a circuit breaker that cuts off the electricity in the event of an abnormality, a protective relay that detects an abnormality and activates the circuit breaker, and measuring instruments that monitor current, voltage, etc. The power receiving equipment 71 may be housed in a metal box called a cubicle, or it may be installed indoors, such as in an electrical room.

[0171] The location where the power receiving equipment 71 is installed on the vessel 7 is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. The power receiving equipment 71 may be installed, for example, on the deck of the vessel 7.

[0172] The vessel 7 may be equipped with a propulsion engine and capable of self-propulsion. The type of fuel used by the vessel 7 is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. The size and type of the vessel 7 are not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate.

[0173] Regarding the power receiving equipment 81, the description for power receiving equipment 71 may be adopted to the extent necessary.

[0174] The quay 8 may be constructed on the pier of a harbor or canal for docking ships alongside. The location where the power receiving equipment 81 is installed near the quay 8 is not particularly limited and can be designed as appropriate. The power receiving equipment 81 may be installed, for example, on a pier near the quay 8.

[0175] In this way, by generating electricity on the floating body 6 using the fluid supplied from the fluid storage container 21 as fuel, and supplying power from the floating body 6 to the ship 7, power can be supplied to the ship 7 regardless of location.

[0176] In the above description of the fluid supply system and power supply system, an example was given in which the fluid storage container 21, which is mounted on the cargo bed of vehicle 2, is mounted on a floating body, and fluid is supplied from the fluid storage container 21, which is mounted on the cargo bed of vehicle 2, to container 31 or generator 61. However, the fluid storage container 21 does not have to be mounted on the cargo bed of vehicle 2.

[0177] For example, a cradle, which consists of multiple fluid storage containers 21 joined together, may be loaded onto a floating body on a trolley, and then unloaded from the trolley for use. In this case, for example, with the cradle fixed on the deck of the floating body, fluid can be supplied from the fluid storage containers 21 to the container 31 or the generator 61. When supplying fluid from the fluid storage containers 21 to the container 31, the fluid can be supplied from the fluid storage containers 21 to the container 31 via the compressor 11, the accumulator 12, and / or the dispenser 13.

[0178] In other words, the floating body only needs to be capable of mounting a fluid storage container 21 and supplying fluid from the fluid storage container 21 to other devices or other containers. For example, the floating body may have a space for mounting a fluid storage container 21, and this space should be located in such a position that the fluid storage container 21 can be mounted there and fluid can be supplied from the fluid storage container 21 to other devices or other containers.

[0179] Because the floating structure can be moved to any location, it can supply fluids and electricity to ships and other vessels regardless of location.

[0180] If the fluid stored inside the fluid storage container 21 runs out, it may be possible to lower the fluid storage container 21 from the floating body and transport it to a facility where the fluid can be refilled.

[0181] It is also possible to mount a vehicle 2 equipped with a fluid storage container 21 as described above onto a vessel 3 that uses fluid, and use the fluid storage container 21 as a fuel tank for the vessel 3. However, it is difficult to install high-pressure gas equipment such as a compressor 11, accumulator 12, and dispenser 13 inside the vessel 3. On the other hand, by equipping the floating body 1 with high-pressure gas equipment such as a compressor 11, accumulator 12, and dispenser 13, it becomes possible to place equipment with the same capacity as a fixed facility that handles high-pressure fluids near the vessel 3 and supply fluid to the vessel 3 safely and efficiently.

[0182] Furthermore, while it is possible to mount a vehicle 2 equipped with a fluid storage container 21 as described above onto a ship 7 that uses electricity, it is difficult to install a generator 61 inside the ship 7. On the other hand, by equipping the floating body 6 with a generator 61, it becomes possible to place equipment with power generation capabilities near the ship 7 and supply electricity to the ship 7 safely and efficiently.

[0183] Thus, a floating body can be equipped with a compressor for compressing fluid, an accumulator for storing fluid, and / or a dispenser for dispensing a fixed amount of fluid, and can be mounted on a fluid storage container. Fluid can be supplied from the fluid storage container to a container or device on the ship via the compressor, accumulator, and / or dispenser, thereby providing a floating body for supplying fluid to a ship.

[0184] Furthermore, by having a floating structure that is different from the barge or the vessel to which the fluid is supplied, fluid can be supplied to the vessel from the barge or the vessel to which the fluid is supplied.

[0185] Furthermore, the floating structure has multiple decks on its upper surface, each at a different height from the water surface when the floating structure is floating on the water. A compressor, accumulator, and / or dispenser are installed on one of these decks. On the side that docks with the ship when supplying fluid, there is a deck at a height suitable for docking, different from the deck where the compressor, accumulator, and / or dispenser are installed. This makes it easier to supply fluid to containers, etc., that are installed at a different height from the deck where the compressor, accumulator, and / or dispenser are installed.

[0186] Furthermore, by ensuring that at least a portion of the outer plating on the side that docks with the vessel when supplying fluid has a predetermined impact resistance, and / or by providing a barrier with a predetermined impact resistance on the side that docks with the vessel when supplying fluid, damage caused by an explosion of the container or other object to which the fluid is supplied can be mitigated.

[0187] Furthermore, by providing a height-changing means that changes the height position of the barrier in a direction substantially perpendicular to the upper surface of the floating body's deck, it becomes possible to change the height of the barrier.

[0188] Furthermore, the floating structure is equipped with a rampway that allows a vehicle with a fluid storage container mounted on its platform to board, and fasteners that can secure the vehicle. With the vehicle secured by the fasteners, it is possible to supply fluid from the fluid storage container to the vessel. Thus, the fluid storage container can be mounted on the vehicle, and the operation of boarding the floating structure and supplying fluid can be carried out.

[0189] Furthermore, if the fluid storage container is provided on the vehicle, and the floating body is equipped with a first detection means for detecting abnormalities in the floating body, and a first detection information transmission means for transmitting first detection information indicating that an abnormality has been detected to the vehicle when the first detection means detects an abnormality, then the first detection information indicating that an abnormality has been detected can be transmitted to the vehicle.

[0190] Furthermore, the fluid supply system can be supplied from the floating body to the ship by having a floating body equipped with a compressor for compressing fluid, an accumulator for storing fluid, and / or a dispenser for dispensing a fixed amount of fluid, and by mounting a fluid storage container on the floating body, and by supplying fluid from the fluid storage container to a container or device on the ship via the compressor, accumulator, and / or dispenser.

[0191] Furthermore, in this manner, the fluid storage container is mounted on the cargo bed of a vehicle, the vehicle is a towed vehicle, and is equipped with securing means that can be used to fix it to the floating body, and the floating body is equipped with a rampway that allows the vehicle with the fluid storage container mounted on its cargo bed to board the floating body, and a fixing device that can fix the vehicle, and with the securing means and the fixing device connected, it is possible to supply fluid from the fluid storage container to the ship, so that the vehicle that has boarded the floating body using the rampway can be fixed to the floating body and have fluid supplied from the fluid storage container to the ship.

[0192] Furthermore, the fluid storage container is provided on the vehicle, the vehicle is equipped with a control device for controlling the supply of fluid and a shut-off means for shutting off the supply of fluid from the vehicle to the ship, the floating body is equipped with a first detection means for detecting abnormalities in the floating body and a first detection information transmission means for transmitting first detection information indicating that an abnormality has been detected to the control device when the first detection means detects an abnormality, the control device transmits a control signal to the shut-off means to shut off the supply of fluid when it receives the first detection information transmitted by the first detection information transmission means, and the shut-off means shuts off the supply of fluid based on the control signal received from the control device, thereby shutting off the supply of fluid from the vehicle to the ship when an abnormality in the floating body is detected.

[0193] Furthermore, the fluid storage container is provided on the vehicle, and the vehicle is equipped with a control device for controlling the supply of fluid, a shut-off means for shutting off the supply of fluid from the vehicle to the ship, a second detection means for detecting abnormalities in the vehicle, and a second detection information transmission means for transmitting second detection information indicating that an abnormality has been detected to the control device when the second detection means detects an abnormality in the vehicle. When the control device receives the second detection information transmitted by the second detection information transmission means, it transmits a control signal to the shut-off means to shut off the supply of fluid, and the shut-off means shuts off the supply of fluid based on the control signal received from the control device, thereby enabling the supply of fluid from the vehicle to the ship to be shut off when an abnormality in the vehicle is detected.

[0194] Furthermore, the fluid storage container is provided on the vehicle, the vehicle is equipped with a control device for controlling the supply of fluid and a shut-off means for shutting off the supply of fluid from the vehicle to the ship, the ship is equipped with a third detection means for detecting abnormalities in the ship and a third detection information transmission means for transmitting third detection information indicating that an abnormality has been detected to the control device when the third detection means detects an abnormality, the control device transmits a control signal to the shut-off means to shut off the supply of fluid when it receives the third detection information transmitted by the third detection information transmission means, and the shut-off means shuts off the supply of fluid based on the control signal received from the control device, thereby enabling the supply of fluid from the vehicle to the ship to be shut off when an abnormality in the ship is detected.

[0195] Furthermore, the floating body can be equipped with a generator capable of generating electricity by using a fluid as fuel to power an engine, and can be mounted on a fluid storage container. The generator can receive fluid from the fluid storage container to generate electricity and supply power to the power receiving equipment. Thus, a floating body can be provided that generates electricity by receiving fluid and supplies power to the power receiving equipment.

[0196] Furthermore, in this manner, if the floating body is a barge or a ship, and the power receiving equipment is located on a different ship and / or near a quay, it is possible to supply power from the barge or ship to the power receiving equipment located on a different ship and / or near a quay.

[0197] Furthermore, the floating body can be equipped with a compressor for compressing fluid, an accumulator for storing fluid, and / or a dispenser for dispensing a fixed amount of fluid, and can carry a vehicle equipped with a cargo bed on which the fluid storage container is mounted. Fluid can be supplied from the fluid storage container mounted on the cargo bed of the vehicle to a vessel equipped with a propulsion engine capable of being propelled by the fluid, via the compressor, accumulator, and / or dispenser. Thus, a floating body can be provided for supplying fluid from a fluid storage container mounted on the cargo bed of a vehicle to a vessel.

[0198] Furthermore, the floating body can be equipped with a generator capable of generating electricity by using a fluid as fuel to power an engine, and can carry a vehicle equipped with a cargo bed on which a fluid storage container is mounted. The generator can receive fluid from the fluid storage container mounted on the cargo bed of the vehicle to generate electricity and supply power to the power receiving equipment. Thus, a floating body can be provided that generates electricity by receiving fluid from a fluid storage container mounted on the cargo bed of a vehicle and supplies power to the power receiving equipment. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0199] 1. Floating body 2 vehicles 3 ships 4 Arrows 5 Arrows 6. Floating bodies 7 Ships 8. Wharf 9 Arrows 11 Compressor 12 Accumulator 13 Dispensers 14 Deck 15 Outer panel 16 Water surface 17 Barriers 21 Fluid storage containers 22 containers 23 Fluid supply equipment 24 Towed object 25 wheels 26 cargo bed 31 Container 61 Generators 71 Power receiving equipment 81 Power receiving equipment 201 Fluid storage container 202 Valve 203 Pressure Reducing Valve 204 Pressure Gauge 205 Pressure Sensor 206 Temperature Sensor 207 Safety valve 208 Shut-off valve 209 Solenoid valve 210 Nitrogen gas 211 Check valve 212 Connection Connectors 213 Fusible plug safety valve

Claims

1. A floating structure for supplying fluid to a ship, Compressors for compressing fluids, accumulators for storing fluids, and / or dispensers for dispensing a fixed amount of fluid. Equipped with, It is possible to mount a vehicle equipped with a cargo bed on which a fluid storage container is mounted. It is possible to supply fluid from a fluid storage container mounted on the cargo bed of a vehicle to a vessel equipped with a propulsion engine capable of being propelled by the fluid, via a compressor, accumulator, and / or dispenser. A floating object.

2. A barge, or any other vessel different from the vessel that supplies the fluid. The floating body according to claim 1.

3. The floating body has multiple decks on its upper part, each at a different height above the water surface when the body is floating on the water. A compressor, accumulator, and / or dispenser are installed on one of the multiple decks. When supplying fluids, the vessel is provided with a separate deck at a height suitable for docking, distinct from the deck on which the compressor, accumulator, and / or dispenser are located. The floating body according to claim 1 or 2.

4. At least a portion of the outer plating on the side that comes into contact with the vessel when supplying fluid has a predetermined impact resistance, and / or the side that comes into contact with the vessel when supplying fluid is provided with a barrier having a predetermined impact resistance. The floating body according to claim 3.

5. Height changing means for changing the height position of the barrier in a direction substantially perpendicular to the upper surface of the floating body's deck. Equipped with, The floating body according to claim 4.

6. A rampway that allows vehicles with fluid storage containers mounted on the cargo bed to enter, Vehicle securing device Equipped with, With the vehicle secured by fasteners, it is possible to supply fluid from a fluid storage container to a vessel. The floating body according to claim 1 or 2.

7. A first detection means for detecting abnormalities in the floating body, When the first detection means detects an abnormality, the first detection information transmission means transmits first detection information indicating that an abnormality has been detected to the vehicle. Equipped with, The floating body according to claim 1 or 2.

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