Nozzle heating device and fluid filling system

Abstract

To provide a nozzle heating device that can effectively suppress freezing of a nozzle to be filled with hydrogen, and to provide a fluid filling system.SOLUTION: A nozzle heating device 700 includes: a heating cover installed so as to cover a peripheral edge of a nozzle 600 for supplying a filling fluid; and an induction heating part installed to the heating cover and induction-heating the nozzle 600, thereby suppressing freezing the nozzle 600.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a nozzle heating device and a fluid filling system, and more specifically, to a nozzle heating device that can effectively suppress the icing of a nozzle for filling hydrogen.

Background Art

[0002] A fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) produces electrical energy through an electrochemical reaction between oxygen and hydrogen in a fuel cell stack and uses it as a power source.

[0003] Fuel cell vehicles are continuously researched and developed because they can supply fuel and air from the outside and continue to generate electricity regardless of the battery capacity, and thus have the advantages of high efficiency and almost no emission of pollutants.

[0004] Fuel cell vehicles are equipped with a hydrogen tank, and hydrogen is stored in the hydrogen tank along the hydrogen filling line of the hydrogen storage system. The hydrogen stored in the hydrogen tank is depressurized through a regulator along the hydrogen supply line and then supplied to the fuel cell stack for generating electrical energy. In addition, fuel cell vehicles are equipped with a hydrogen filling receptacle as a kind of connector connected to a nozzle for supplying hydrogen gas.

[0005] However, conventionally, during rapid filling of hydrogen, due to the very low filling temperature of hydrogen (for example, -40°C to -33°C), there is a problem that icing occurs at the connection part (around the receptacle) between the nozzle and the receptacle, and due to the icing phenomenon, there is a problem that the nozzle cannot be separated from the receptacle in a timely manner after the completion of hydrogen filling.

[0006] Therefore, in recent years, various studies have been conducted to suppress the icing of the receptacle during hydrogen filling, but these are still insufficient, and development in this regard is required.

Prior Art Documents

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-162155 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention aim to provide a nozzle heating device and a fluid filling system that can effectively suppress ice formation in a hydrogen-filling nozzle. In particular, embodiments of the present invention aim to suppress the freezing of the nozzle and receptacle during hydrogen filling and to enable easy separation of the nozzle from the receptacle after hydrogen filling is complete.

[0009] Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention aim to provide convenience in use by quickly and effectively removing ice from nozzles and receptacles. Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention aim to minimize the reduction in durability due to freezing of the nozzle and receptacle.

[0010] Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention aim to prevent overheating of the nozzle and improve safety and reliability. The problems that this embodiment aims to solve are not limited to those described below, and can also include the means and objectives and effects that can be understood from the embodiment used to solve the problems described below. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above-described object of the present invention, the nozzle heating device includes a heating cover provided to cover the periphery of a nozzle that supplies a filling fluid, and an induction heating unit provided on the heating cover for induction heating of the nozzle. This is intended to effectively suppress the freezing of the nozzle used to fill the hydrogen.

[0012] In other words, conventionally, during rapid hydrogen filling, the extremely low hydrogen filling temperature (for example, -40°C to -33°C) causes ice formation at the connection point between the nozzle and the receptacle (around the receptacle), and this ice formation makes it impossible to separate the nozzle from the receptacle in a timely manner after hydrogen filling is complete.

[0013] However, in embodiments of the present invention, the induction heating section is provided so as to cover the periphery of the nozzle, and the nozzle is induction heated by the induction heating section, thereby providing the advantageous effect of effectively suppressing ice formation at the connection portion between the nozzle and the receptacle.

[0014] Above all, the embodiments of the present invention provide the advantageous effect of removing ice formed at the connection point between the nozzle and the receptacle more quickly and effectively by directly heating the nozzle itself (the ice-forming portion) (induction heating) rather than indirectly heating the nozzle (for example, by heat conduction).

[0015] The nozzle can be provided in a variety of structures depending on the required conditions and design specifications. As an example, the nozzle may include a nozzle body that is connectable to the receptacle, a grip portion that is connected to the nozzle body and selectively restrained to the peripheral surface of the receptacle, and a nozzle cover that surrounds the nozzle body, the grip portion, and the peripheral edge of the receptacle.

[0016] As the induction heating unit, a variety of induction heating elements capable of inductively heating the nozzle can be used. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the induction heating unit may include an induction heating coil for applying an induction current to the nozzle.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the nozzle heating device may include a protective layer provided between the induction heating coil and the nozzle. Thus, by providing the protective layer between the induction heating coil and the nozzle, it is possible to obtain an advantageous effect of suppressing surface damage to the nozzle and the vehicle due to contact with the induction heating coil (or the heating cover).

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the nozzle heating device may include a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the nozzle, and a control unit that selectively controls the power applied to the induction heating coil based on the temperature of the nozzle measured by the temperature sensor.

[0019] Preferably, when the temperature of the nozzle is higher than a preset reference temperature, the control unit can cut off the power applied to the induction heating coil. Thus, when the temperature of the nozzle is higher than the reference temperature, by cutting off the power applied to the induction heating coil, overheating of the nozzle can be suppressed, so that damage to the nozzle can be suppressed, and an advantageous effect of improving safety and reliability can be obtained.

[0020] More preferably, when the power supply time of the power applied to the induction heating coil exceeds a preset reference time, the control unit can cut off the power supply to the induction heating coil.

[0021] Thus, by the double safety structure, by controlling the power supply to the induction heating coil based on the temperature of the nozzle and controlling the power supply to the induction heating coil based on the power supply time to the induction heating coil, it is possible to more effectively suppress overheating of the nozzle and obtain an advantageous effect of further improving safety and reliability.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the heating cover includes a first cover member provided to cover a part of the periphery of the nozzle, and a second cover member provided to cover another part of the periphery of the nozzle, and provided to form a ring shape that cooperates with the first cover member to entirely surround the periphery of the nozzle. The induction heating unit can be individually provided on the first cover member and the second cover member respectively.

[0023] Preferably, the first cover member and the second cover member can be provided to be selectively separable. Thus, by making the first cover member and the second cover member be selectively separated, the heating cover can be easily detached from the nozzle, and an advantageous effect of improving the convenience in use can be obtained.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the nozzle heating device can include a restraint portion that restrains the heating cover to the nozzle. Thus, by making the heating cover be restrained to the nozzle through the restraint portion, an advantageous effect of suppressing the detachment of the heating cover from the nozzle and stably maintaining the induction heating effect by the induction heating unit can be obtained.

[0025] According to another preferred aspect of the present invention, a fluid filling system includes a nozzle that is connectable to a receptacle provided on an object to be treated and supplies a filling fluid, a heating cover provided to cover the peripheries of the nozzle and the receptacle, and an induction heating unit provided on the heating cover that induction-heats the nozzle and the receptacle. According to another preferred aspect of the present invention, the induction heating unit can include an induction heating coil that applies an induction current to the nozzle and the receptacle.

[0026] According to another preferred area of ​​the present invention, the fluid filling system may include a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the nozzle and a control unit for selectively controlling the power supplied to the induction heating coil based on the temperature of the nozzle measured by the temperature sensor.

[0027] According to another preferred area of ​​the present invention, the control unit may cut off the power supplied to the induction heating coil if the temperature of the nozzle is higher than a previously set reference temperature.

[0028] According to another preferred area of ​​the present invention, the control unit may shut off the power supply if the power supply time applied to the induction heating coil exceeds a previously set reference time.

[0029] According to another preferred area of ​​the present invention, the fluid filling system may include a protective layer provided between the induction heating coil and the nozzle. In another preferred area of ​​the present invention, the heating cover may include a first cover member provided to cover a portion of the periphery of the nozzle, and a second cover member provided to cover the other portion of the periphery of the nozzle and to cooperate with the first cover member to form a ring shape that encloses the periphery of the nozzle as a whole, and the induction heating portion may be provided individually in the first cover member and the second cover member, respectively.

[0030] In another preferred area of ​​the present invention, the fluid filling system may include a coupling portion to which one end of the first cover member and one end of the second cover member are rotatably connected, and the first cover member and the second cover member can rotate toward and away from each other about the coupling portion. According to another preferred area of ​​the present invention, the fluid filling system may include a restraining component that restrains the heating cover to the nozzle or the receptacle. [Effects of the Invention]

[0031] According to embodiments of the present invention, freezing of the hydrogen-filling nozzle can be effectively suppressed. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0032] [Figure 1] This is a diagram illustrating a fluid filling system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a diagram illustrating a nozzle heating device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This figure illustrates a nozzle heating device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and shows a control unit. [Figure 4] This figure illustrates a modified example of a heating cover in a nozzle heating device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This figure illustrates a modified example of a heating cover in a nozzle heating device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This figure illustrates a modified example of an induction heating section in a nozzle heating device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a diagram illustrating a restraint portion in a nozzle heating device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0033] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. However, the technical concept of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described, and may be realized in a variety of different forms. Within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention, one or more of its components may be selectively combined or substituted in the embodiments.

[0034] Furthermore, unless otherwise clearly defined, terms used in embodiments of the present invention (including technical and scientific terms) may be interpreted as having meanings generally understood by those with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains. Terms that are commonly used, such as those defined in dictionaries, may also be interpreted considering their meaning in the context of the relevant art. Furthermore, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention.

[0035] In this specification, unless otherwise specified, the singular form may include the plural form, and when it says "A and / or at least one of B and C," it may include one or more of all possible combinations of A, B and C.

[0036] In describing the components of the embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc., may be used. Such terminology is merely used to distinguish one component from another, and does not limit the nature, order, or sequence of that component.

[0037] Furthermore, when it is stated that one component is “connected,” “joined,” or “connected” to another component, this may include not only cases where the component is directly connected, joined, or connected to the other component, but also cases where the component is “connected,” “joined,” or “connected” to the other component by another component.

[0038] Furthermore, when it is stated that a component is formed or positioned "above" or "below" each component, "above" or "below" includes not only cases where two components are in direct contact with each other, but also cases where one or more other components are formed or positioned between two components. Also, when expressed as "above" or "below," it may include not only the upward direction but also the downward direction, based on one component.

[0039] Referring to Figures 1 to 7, the fluid filling system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a nozzle 600 that is connectable to a receptacle 100 provided on an object to be filled and supplies a filling fluid, a heating cover 710 that covers the periphery of the nozzle 600 and the receptacle 100, and an induction heating unit 720 provided on the heating cover 710 that induces heating of the nozzle 600 and the receptacle 100.

[0040] For reference, the fluid filling system 10 according to the present invention can be used to fill various objects with various filling fluids according to the required conditions and design specifications, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the type of object or filling fluid.

[0041] In this invention, the term "object to be targeted" is defined to include all objects that are movable, such as vehicles, and objects that are immovable, such as storage facilities fixed to the ground.

[0042] Furthermore, in the present invention, the packing fluid is defined as either a gaseous fluid or a liquid-phase fluid, or any mixed fluid obtained by mixing a gaseous fluid and a liquid-phase fluid.

[0043] In the following, we will explain an example in which the fluid filling system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is used to fill a fuel cell vehicle 20 (passenger car or commercial vehicle) (object to be filled) with hydrogen (filling fluid).

[0044] Referring to Figure 1, the fuel cell vehicle 20 may be equipped with a receptacle 100 to which a nozzle 600 for supplying hydrogen is connected. As the receptacle 100, a variety of receptacles 100 that can be connected (bonded) to the nozzle 600 with a normal bonding structure (for example, a male-female bonding structure) can be used, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the type and structure of the receptacle 100. For example, the receptacle 100 can be made of a metal material that can be induction heated.

[0045] The fuel cell vehicle 20 is equipped with a hydrogen tank 200 for storing hydrogen, and a manifold 300 is connected to the hydrogen tank 200. As an example, a fuel cell vehicle 20 may be equipped with three hydrogen tanks 200, and a manifold 300 may be connected in common to the three hydrogen tanks 200. According to other embodiments of the present invention, a fuel cell vehicle may be equipped with four or more or two or fewer hydrogen tanks, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the number and arrangement of the hydrogen tanks.

[0046] The manifold 300 can be formed into a variety of structures capable of branching the hydrogen flow path, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the type and structure of the manifold 300. For example, the manifold 300 may have a first port (not shown) connected to a hydrogen supply line 24, second ports (not shown) to fourth ports (not shown) connected to three hydrogen tanks 200, and a fifth port (not shown) connected to a hydrogen refueling line 22.

[0047] The fuel cell vehicle 20 may include a hydrogen refueling line 22 connecting the receptacle 100 and the manifold 300. Hydrogen supplied to the receptacle 100 via the nozzle 600 is then refueled into the hydrogen tank 200 via the hydrogen refueling line 22 and the manifold 300.

[0048] The fuel cell vehicle 20 also includes a hydrogen supply line 24 that supplies hydrogen stored in a hydrogen tank 200 to a fuel cell stack 550. More specifically, the hydrogen supply line 24 is configured to connect the fuel cell stack 550 and the manifold 300, which are provided in the fuel cell vehicle 20, and hydrogen stored in the hydrogen tank 200 is supplied to the fuel cell stack 550 via the manifold 300 and the hydrogen supply line 24.

[0049] For reference, the fuel cell stack 550 can be formed into a variety of structures capable of producing electricity through the oxidation-reduction reaction of a fuel (e.g., hydrogen) and an oxidizer (e.g., air).

[0050] As an example, the fuel cell stack 550 includes a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) (not shown) in which a catalytic electrode layer where electrochemical reactions occur is attached to both sides of an electrolyte membrane on which hydrogen ions move, a gas diffusion layer (GDL) (not shown) which plays a role in uniformly distributing the reaction gas and transmitting the generated electrical energy, gaskets and fasteners (not shown) for maintaining airtightness and proper fastening pressure of the reaction gas and cooling water, and a bipolar plate (not shown) for moving the reaction gas and cooling water.

[0051] More specifically, in the fuel cell stack 550, hydrogen, which is the fuel, and air (oxygen), which is the oxidizer, are supplied to the anode and cathode of the membrane electrode assembly via the flow path of the separation plate, respectively. However, hydrogen is supplied to the anode and air is supplied to the cathode.

[0052] Hydrogen supplied to the anode is decomposed into hydrogen ions (protons) and electrons by catalysts in electrode layers formed on both sides of the electrolyte membrane. Of these, only the hydrogen ions are selectively transferred to the cathode through the electrolyte membrane, which is a cation exchange membrane, while simultaneously, the electrons are transferred to the cathode via the conductive gas diffusion layer and separation plate.

[0053] In the cathode, hydrogen ions supplied via the electrolyte membrane and electrons transferred via the separation plate meet oxygen in the air supplied to the cathode by the air supply device, causing a reaction that produces water. The movement of hydrogen ions that occurs at this time generates a flow of electrons through the external conductor, and this flow of electrons generates an electric current.

[0054] Furthermore, the hydrogen supply line 24 may be equipped with a regulator 400 for reducing the pressure of the hydrogen supplied to the fuel cell stack 550, and a fuel processing system (FPS) 500 for adjusting the amount of hydrogen supplied to the fuel cell stack 550.

[0055] More specifically, the regulator 400 is connected to the hydrogen supply line 24 so as to be positioned between the manifold 300 and the fuel cell stack 550, and high-pressure (e.g., 700 bar) hydrogen supplied along the hydrogen supply line 24 can be supplied to the fuel cell stack 550 after being reduced in pressure (e.g., 16 bar) by passing through the regulator 400.

[0056] The hydrogen supply device 500 is connected to the hydrogen supply line 24 so as to be positioned between the regulator 400 and the fuel cell stack 550, and regulates the amount of hydrogen supplied to the fuel cell stack 550. Furthermore, the supply of hydrogen to the fuel cell stack 550 can be selectively allowed or blocked by the hydrogen supply device 500.

[0057] Referring to Figures 2 and 4, the nozzle 600 is coupled to the receptacle 100, which supplies hydrogen (filling fluid) to the fuel cell vehicle 20.

[0058] For example, the nozzle 600 can supply hydrogen stored in the refueling equipment (not shown) of a hydrogen refueling station to the fuel cell vehicle 20. The nozzle 600 can be provided in a variety of structures that can be selectively and detachably coupled to the receptacle 100, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the structure and form of the nozzle 600.

[0059] As an example, the nozzle 600 may include a nozzle body 610 that is connectable to the receptacle 100, a grip portion 620 that is connected to the nozzle body 610 and selectively restrained to the peripheral surface of the receptacle 100, and a nozzle cover 630 that surrounds the nozzle body 610, the grip portion 620, and the periphery of the receptacle 100.

[0060] The nozzle body 610 can be connected to the receptacle 100 with a male-female coupling structure. When the nozzle body 610 is connected to the receptacle 100, the nozzle body 610 and the receptacle 100 can communicate with each other, and hydrogen supplied along the inside of the nozzle body 610 can flow into the receptacle 100. Similar to the receptacle 100, the nozzle 600 can be made of an induction-heatable metal material.

[0061] The grip portion 620 can be formed into a variety of structures that can selectively restrain the connection state between the nozzle body 610 and the receptacle 100, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the structure of the grip portion 620.

[0062] As an example, the grip portion 620 may include a gripper 622 rotatably connected to the nozzle body 610 and supported on the peripheral surface of the receptacle 100, and an elastic member 624 that elastically supports the rotation of the gripper 622 relative to the nozzle body 610.

[0063] For example, the nozzle body 610 may be rotatably equipped with a plurality of grippers 622 spaced apart along the circumferential direction (the circumferential direction of the receptacle 100), and the connection between the nozzle 600 and the receptacle 100 can be restrained or released by rotating one end of each gripper 622 toward or toward the outer surface of the receptacle 100.

[0064] Preferably, a recessed receiving groove 102 can be formed on the peripheral surface of the receptacle 100, and when each gripper 622 rotates in a direction approaching the outer surface of the receptacle 100, one end of each gripper 622 can be accommodated in the receiving groove 102. By forming a receiving groove 102 on the outer peripheral surface of the receptacle 100 in this way, and by accommodating one end of the gripper 622 in the receiving groove 102, the restraint state by the gripper 622 can be stably maintained, thereby providing the advantageous effect of further strengthening the connection between the nozzle 600 and the receptacle 100.

[0065] As the elastic member 624, a conventional spring capable of elastically supporting the rotation of the gripper 622 relative to the nozzle body 610 can be used, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the type and structure of the elastic member 624.

[0066] As an example, the elastic member 624 can provide an elastic force so that one end of the gripper 622 rotates in a direction that approaches (restrains) the outer surface of the receptacle 100.

[0067] The operating structure of the gripper 622 can be modified in various ways depending on the required conditions and design specifications. For example, multiple grippers 622 can be released from the receptacle 100 by releasing the operating lever (see 602 in Figure 4) provided on the nozzle 600. Conversely, if the release operation of the operating lever 602 is interrupted, the elastic force of the elastic member 624 allows the gripper 622 to return to its initial position (a position rotated toward the outer surface of the receptacle 100).

[0068] The nozzle cover 630 is provided so as to surround the periphery of the nozzle 600 and the receptacle 100. The nozzle cover 630 can be provided in a variety of structures capable of surrounding the periphery of the nozzle 600 and the receptacle 100, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the structure and form of the nozzle cover 630.

[0069] For reference, in the present invention, the statement that the nozzle cover 630 surrounds the periphery of the nozzle 600 and the receptacle 100 is defined as including all cases where the nozzle cover 630 is formed to completely surround the periphery of the nozzle 600 and the receptacle 100, or where it is formed to partially surround a portion of the periphery of the nozzle 600 and the receptacle 100.

[0070] Preferably, the nozzle cover 630 is formed in a hollow structure (for example, a hollow cylindrical shape) that completely surrounds the periphery of the connection portion between the nozzle 600 and the receptacle 100.

[0071] The heating cover 710 and the induction heating section 720 are provided to constitute a nozzle heating device 700 for heating the nozzle 600. More specifically, the heating cover 710 is provided to cover the periphery of the nozzle 600 that supplies the filling fluid.

[0072] Here, the provision of the heating cover 710 to cover the periphery of the nozzle 600 is defined as including all cases where the heating cover 710 is in close contact with the peripheral surface (outer surface) of the nozzle 600 or is positioned at a predetermined distance (for example, a distance that allows induction heating) from the peripheral surface.

[0073] The heating cover 710 can consist of a variety of structures and materials capable of surrounding the periphery of the nozzle 600, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the structure and material of the heating cover 710.

[0074] As an example, the heating cover 710 can be formed in a generally hollow cylindrical shape and provided to completely surround the periphery of the nozzle 600 and the receptacle 100. According to another embodiment of the present invention, the heating cover 710 can also be configured to partially surround the periphery of at least one of the nozzle 600 and the receptacle 100.

[0075] In the following, we will describe an example in which the heating cover 710 is made of a rigid material such as plastic. According to other embodiments of the present invention, the heating cover may also be made of a flexible material (for example, rubber or silicone).

[0076] The induction heating unit 720 is provided in the heating cover 710 to induce heating of the nozzle 600. Various induction heating elements capable of induction heating the nozzle 600 can be used as the induction heating unit 720, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the type and structure of the induction heating unit 720.

[0077] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the induction heating unit 720 may include an induction heating coil 722 that applies an induction current to the nozzle 600. More specifically, when power is applied to the induction heating coil 722, the magnetic field generated by the induction heating coil 722 generates eddy currents in the nozzle 600, which is made of a conductive material (e.g., metal). The resistance (electrical resistance) corresponding to the eddy currents generated in the nozzle 600 causes the nozzle 600 to heat itself. In this case, the temperature of the nozzle 600 can be selectively adjusted by adjusting the frequency (high or low frequency) of the power supply applied to the induction heating coil 722.

[0078] The induction heating coil 722 can be formed into a variety of structures depending on the required conditions and design specifications, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the structure and form of the induction heating coil 722.

[0079] As an example, referring to Figure 2, the induction heating coil 722 can be formed in a helical shape along the main wall of the heating cover 710. In contrast, as shown in Figure 6, the induction heating coil 722' can also be arranged linearly along the length of the nozzle 600. For reference, power to the induction heating coil 722 can be supplied via a standard power supply line or using a portable battery.

[0080] Thus, the embodiment of the present invention provides an induction heating section 720 that covers the periphery of the nozzle 600, and by inductively heating the nozzle 600 with the induction heating section 720, it is possible to obtain the advantageous effect of effectively suppressing ice formation on the nozzle 600 and the receptacle 100.

[0081] Above all, the embodiments of the present invention have the advantageous effect of removing ice formed on the nozzle 600 and receptacle 100 more quickly and effectively by directly heating the nozzle 600 itself (the ice-forming area) (induction heating) rather than indirectly heating the nozzle 600 (for example, by heat conduction).

[0082] In particular, the embodiments of the present invention have the advantage of significantly reducing the time required to remove ice from the nozzle 600 (receptacle) compared to methods of removing ice from the nozzle 600 by wrapping the area around the nozzle 600 with a hot pack or the like (heat conduction) or by blowing hot air around the nozzle 600. Furthermore, since the embodiments of the present invention do not require an air compressor, heater, and various valves, the structure can be simplified, resulting in the advantage of improved space utilization and design flexibility.

[0083] Furthermore, in the embodiment of the present invention, the induction heating section 720 is not heated, and the nozzle 600 located inside the induction heating section 720 (heating cover) is induction heated. This prevents accidents (burns) caused by overheating of the induction heating section 720, even if the user's body comes into contact with the induction heating section 720 (heating cover).

[0084] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the nozzle heating device 700 may include a protective layer 730 provided between the induction heating coil 722 and the nozzle 600.

[0085] As an example, the protective layer 730 can be provided on the inner surface of the heating cover 710 (the surface facing the outer surface of the nozzle 600) so as to cover the induction heating coil 722.

[0086] The protective layer 730 can be a sponge or a woven fabric, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the type and characteristics of the protective layer 730.

[0087] In this way, by providing a protective layer 730 between the induction heating coil 722 and the nozzle 600, it is possible to obtain the advantageous effect of suppressing surface damage to the nozzle 600 and the vehicle in response to contact with the induction heating coil (or heating cover).

[0088] Referring to Figure 3, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the nozzle heating device 700 may include a temperature sensor 810 for measuring the temperature of the nozzle 600, and a control unit 800 for selectively controlling the power supply applied to the induction heating coil 722 based on the temperature of the nozzle 600 measured by the temperature sensor 810.

[0089] As the temperature sensor 810, any ordinary sensor capable of sensing the temperature of the nozzle 600 (for example, a contact sensor or a non-contact sensor) can be used, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the type of temperature sensor 810 or the sensing method. Preferably, multiple temperature sensors 810 can be provided at intervals from each other to improve the accuracy of measuring the temperature of the nozzle 600.

[0090] The control unit 800 controls the power supplied to the induction heating coil 722 based on the temperature of the nozzle 600 sensed by the temperature sensor 810. Here, controlling the power supplied to the induction heating coil 722 can be understood as turning the power supplied to the induction heating coil 722 on / off via the power supply unit 820.

[0091] The control unit 800 may be a semiconductor device that performs processing on instruction words stored in a central processing unit (CPU) or memory and / or storage. The memory and storage can include various volatile or non-volatile storage media. For example, the memory can include ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0092] Preferably, the control unit 800 can shut off the power supplied to the induction heating coil 722 if the temperature of the nozzle 600 is higher than a previously set reference temperature.

[0093] For example, the reference temperature can be defined as 40°C, and if the temperature of the nozzle 600 (e.g., the nozzle surface) measured by the temperature sensor 810 exceeds 40°C, the control unit 800 can shut off the power supplied to the induction heating coil 722. When the power supplied to the induction heating coil 722 is shut off, induction heating of the nozzle 600 can be interrupted.

[0094] In this way, if the temperature of the nozzle 600 is higher than the reference temperature, the power supply applied to the induction heating coil 722 can be shut off, thereby suppressing overheating of the nozzle 600. This reduces damage to the nozzle 600 and provides the advantageous effect of improving safety and reliability.

[0095] More preferably, the control unit 800 can shut off the power supply to the induction heating coil 722 if the power supply time applied to the induction heating coil 722 exceeds a previously set reference time.

[0096] For example, the reference time can be defined as 10 seconds, and when 10 seconds have elapsed since the power supply time to the induction heating coil 722, the control unit 800 can cut off the power supplied to the induction heating coil 722. If additional heating of the nozzle 600 is required, the power supply switch (not shown) can be operated again to supply power to the induction heating coil 722 in 10-second increments.

[0097] Thus, the dual safety structure controls whether or not power can be supplied to the induction heating coil 722 based on the temperature of the nozzle 600, and also controls whether or not power can be supplied to the induction heating coil 722 based on the power supply time to the induction heating coil 722. This further effectively suppresses overheating of the nozzle 600, resulting in the advantageous effect of further improving safety and reliability.

[0098] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in consideration of explosion-proof safety, it is preferable that power is supplied to the induction heating coil 722 (induction heating of the nozzle) when hydrogen filling is complete (when hydrogen movement in the nozzle is shut off).

[0099] In the embodiments of the present invention described above and illustrated, an example is given in which the heating cover 710 is composed of only one cover member. However, according to other embodiments of the present invention, the heating cover can also be composed of multiple cover members.

[0100] Referring to Figure 4, the heating cover 710 may include a first cover member 712 provided to cover a portion of the periphery of the nozzle 600, and a second cover member 714 provided to cover the other portion of the periphery of the nozzle 600 and to cooperate with the first cover member 712 to form a ring shape that encloses the entire periphery of the nozzle 600, and the induction heating section 720 may be provided individually on the first cover member 712 and the second cover member 714, respectively.

[0101] In the following, we will describe an example in which the heating cover 710 includes two cover members (a first cover member and a second cover member). According to other embodiments of the present invention, the heating cover may also include three or more cover members.

[0102] For example, the first cover member 712 and the second cover member 714 can each be formed to have a generally semi-circular shape, and the first cover member 712 and the second cover member 714 can be joined together to form a ring shape that comprehensively surrounds the periphery of the nozzle 600.

[0103] Preferably, the first cover member 712 and the second cover member 714 can be provided in a selectively separable manner. Here, the statement that the first cover member 712 and the second cover member 714 are selectively separable can be understood as meaning that the first cover member 712 and the second cover member 714 can be selectively joined and separated with respect to the nozzle 600.

[0104] In this way, by selectively separating the first cover member 712 and the second cover member 714, the heating cover 710 can be easily detached from the nozzle 600, thereby providing the advantageous effect of improving ease of use.

[0105] For reference, the joined state of the first cover member 712 and the second cover member 714 (joined to form a ring shape) can be restrained using ordinary fastening members, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the type and structure of the fastening members that restrain the joined state of the first cover member 712 and the second cover member 714.

[0106] Referring to Figure 5, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the heating cover 710 can be provided as a clothespin-like structure comprising a first cover member 712, a second cover member 714, and a connecting portion 716 to which one end of the first cover member 712 and one end of the second cover member 714 are rotatably connected, and the first cover member 712 and the second cover member 714 can rotate toward and away from each other around the connecting portion 716.

[0107] When the first cover member 712 and the second cover member 714 rotate in a direction that separates them from each other around the connecting portion 716, the first cover member 712 and the second cover member 714 move apart from each other, allowing the nozzle 600 to move in and out between the first cover member 712 and the second cover member 714.

[0108] Preferably, the rotation of the first cover member 712 and the second cover member 714 relative to the connecting portion 716 can be elastically supported by an elastic member (not shown), such as a spring.

[0109] In the embodiments of the present invention described above and illustrated, an example is given in which the heating cover 710 is formed in a rigid ring shape. However, according to other embodiments of the present invention, the heating cover can also be formed in the form of a pack or band that can be wrapped around the periphery of the nozzle.

[0110] Referring to Figure 7, the heating cover 710' can be formed in a flat pack shape that can surround the periphery of the nozzle 600, and the induction heating coil 722 can be arranged inside the heating cover 710' in a generally zigzag shape. Preferably, the nozzle heating device 700 may include a restraining portion 740 that restrains the heating cover 710' to the nozzle 600.

[0111] As the restraining portion 740, a variety of restraining members can be used that can restrain the heating cover 710', which is arranged to surround the periphery of the nozzle 600, to the nozzle 600, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the type and structure of the restraining portion 740.

[0112] As an example, the restraint portion 740 may include a first Velcro® portion 742 (e.g., a female Velcro® portion) provided at one end of the heating cover 710', and a second Velcro® portion 744 (e.g., a male Velcro® portion) provided at the other end of the heating cover 710' to which the first Velcro® portion 742 is attached.

[0113] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the restraint can also be constructed using an elastic band (for example, a ring-shaped elastic band) or other member. In this way, by restraining the heating cover 710' to the nozzle 600 via the restraining portion 740, it is possible to suppress the detachment of the heating cover 710 from the nozzle 600 and obtain the advantageous effect of stably maintaining the induction heating effect by the induction heating portion 720.

[0114] As described above, according to the embodiments of the present invention, the advantageous effect of effectively suppressing ice formation in the hydrogen filling nozzle can be obtained. In particular, according to embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to obtain advantageous effects such as suppressing the freezing of the nozzle and receptacle during hydrogen filling, and easily separating the nozzle from the receptacle after the completion of hydrogen filling.

[0115] Furthermore, according to embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to obtain the advantageous effect of quickly and effectively removing ice from the nozzle and receptacle, thereby providing convenience in use.

[0116] Furthermore, according to embodiments of the present invention, the advantageous effect of minimizing the reduction in durability due to freezing of the nozzle and receptacle can be obtained. Furthermore, according to embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to obtain advantageous effects such as preventing overheating of the nozzle and improving safety and reliability.

[0117] Although the embodiments have been described above, these are merely illustrative and do not limit the present invention. It is clear to any person with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs that various modifications and applications not exemplified above are possible without departing from the essential characteristics of these embodiments. For example, each component specifically shown in the embodiments can be modified and implemented. Any differences related to such modifications and applications should be interpreted as being within the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0118] 10 Fluid filling systems 20 Fuel cell vehicles 22 Hydrogen refueling lines 24 Hydrogen supply lines 100 receptacles 102 Storage groove 200 hydrogen tanks 300 Manifold 400 Regulator 500 Hydrogen supply device 550 Fuel Cell Stack 600 nozzles 602 Operating lever 610 Nozzle Body 620 Grip section 622 Grippa 624 Elastic members 630 Nozzle Cover 700 Nozzle Heating Device 710, 710' heating cover 712 First cover member 714 Second cover member 716 Connection section 720 Induction heating section 722, 722' Induction heating coil 730 protective layer 740 Restraint part 742 First Velcro section 744 Second Velcro section 800 Control Unit 810 Temperature Sensor 820 Power supply section

Claims

1. A heating cover is provided to cover the periphery of the nozzle that supplies the filling fluid, The heating cover is provided with an induction heating unit that induction heats the nozzle, Includes, The aforementioned heating cover is A first cover member is provided so as to cover a part of the periphery of the nozzle, The present invention includes a second cover member provided to cover another portion of the periphery of the nozzle, selectively separable from the first cover member, and provided to cooperate with the first cover member to form a ring shape that encloses the periphery of the nozzle as a whole, The nozzle heating device is characterized in that the induction heating section is provided individually in the first cover member and the second cover member, respectively.

2. The nozzle heating device according to claim 1, characterized in that the induction heating unit includes an induction heating coil for applying an induction current to the nozzle.

3. A temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the nozzle, A control unit that selectively controls the power supply applied to the induction heating coil based on the temperature of the nozzle measured by the temperature sensor, The nozzle heating device according to claim 2, characterized by including the following:

4. The nozzle heating device according to claim 3, characterized in that the control unit cuts off the power supplied to the induction heating coil when the temperature of the nozzle is higher than a previously set reference temperature.

5. The nozzle heating apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that the control unit cuts off the power supply to the induction heating coil when the power supply time applied to the induction heating coil exceeds a previously set reference time.

6. The nozzle heating device according to claim 2, characterized in that it includes a protective layer provided between the induction heating coil and the nozzle.

7. The first cover member and the second cover member each include a connecting portion to which one end is rotatably connected, The nozzle heating device according to claim 1, characterized in that the first cover member and the second cover member rotate in directions toward and toward each other around the connecting portion.

8. The nozzle heating device according to claim 1, characterized in that it includes a restraining part for restraining the heating cover to the nozzle.

9. The aforementioned nozzle is A nozzle body that is connectable to a receptacle provided on the object to be addressed, A grip portion connected to the nozzle body and selectively restrained on the peripheral surface of the receptacle, The nozzle body, the grip portion, and the nozzle cover provided so as to surround the periphery of the receptacle The nozzle heating device according to claim 1, characterized by including the following:

10. A nozzle that supplies a filling fluid is provided, which is connectable to a receptacle provided on the object to be measured. A heating cover is provided to cover the periphery of the nozzle and the receptacle, The heating cover is provided with an induction heating unit that induction heats the nozzle and the receptacle, Includes, The aforementioned heating cover is A first cover member is provided so as to cover a part of the periphery of the nozzle, The present invention includes a second cover member provided to cover another portion of the periphery of the nozzle, selectively separable from the first cover member, and provided to cooperate with the first cover member to form a ring shape that encloses the periphery of the nozzle as a whole, The fluid filling system is characterized in that the induction heating section is provided separately in the first cover member and the second cover member, respectively.

11. The fluid filling system according to claim 10, characterized in that the induction heating unit includes an induction heating coil for applying an induction current to the nozzle and the receptacle.

12. A temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the nozzle, A control unit that selectively controls the power supply applied to the induction heating coil based on the temperature of the nozzle measured by the temperature sensor, The fluid filling system according to claim 11, characterized by including the following:

13. The fluid filling system according to claim 12, characterized in that the control unit cuts off the power supplied to the induction heating coil when the temperature of the nozzle is higher than a previously set reference temperature.

14. The fluid filling system according to claim 12, characterized in that the control unit cuts off the power supply to the induction heating coil when the power supply time applied to the induction heating coil exceeds a previously set reference time.

15. The fluid filling system according to claim 11, further comprising a protective layer provided between the induction heating coil and the nozzle.

16. The first cover member and the second cover member each include a connecting portion to which one end is rotatably connected, The fluid filling system according to claim 10, characterized in that the first cover member and the second cover member rotate in directions toward and toward each other around the connecting portion.

17. The fluid filling system according to claim 10, characterized in that it includes a restraining part for restraining the heating cover to the nozzle or the receptacle.

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