Pressure vessel assembly

Abstract

A Type IV compatible pressure vessel assembly is provided that includes a plurality of elongated, collapsible tanks and an on-tank valve (OTV) manifold assembly configured to pass fluid into and out of the interior of the plurality of elongated, collapsible tanks through a plurality of first and second fill couplers directly connected to first and second ends of each of the plurality of elongated, collapsible tanks. Each of the plurality of elongated, collapsible tanks has at least two chambers for storing a fluid. The manifold valve assembly receives fluid from an external source and selectively provides the external fluid to one or more of the plurality of first and second fill couplers.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001]

[0001] The present invention relates to filling hydrogen gas into a type IV pressure vessel. More specifically, the present invention relates to a compressed gas pressure vessel assembly having a plurality of pressure vessels fluidly connected through an on-tank manifold valve assembly (on-tank valve manifold assembly). [Background Art]

[0002]

[0002] Pressure vessels generally store fluids and / or gases under pressure, such as natural gas, oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen, and propane. Type IV pressure vessels or pressure tanks have a metal-free structure that generally comprises carbon fibers or composite materials wrapped onto and / or woven over a thermoplastic polymer liner. Certain type IV pressure vessels comprise an elongated vessel having a plurality of chambers for storing gas, which is also described as a conformable pressure vessel. The elongated pressure vessel may be configured for use as a pressurized gas fuel tank used in a vehicle.

[0003]

[0003] Generally, a first valve is connected to a first end of the pressure vessel for filling compressed gas into the pressure vessel. Further, the elongated pressure vessel may have a second valve connected to a second end of the pressure vessel. The first and second valves are configured to transfer gas into the interior space of the pressure vessel defined by the outer wall of the liner.

[0004]

[0004] Elongated pressure vessels can be heated during filling due to the heat of compression and, in some gases, the Joule-Thomson effect. When additional gas is added to the pressure vessel, the gas inside is compressed, thereby generating heat. For safety reasons, some compressed fuel filling stations control the filling rate to prevent temperatures from becoming dangerously high. In addition, high temperatures can be undesirable because they result in low density at a given pressure, requiring excessive pressure to reach the target density (close to 100% filling), or because high temperatures can lead to insufficient filling of the pressure vessel.

[0005]

[0005] Consequently, such heat generation can unnecessarily prolong the filling time, taking longer than when filling a gasoline or diesel fuel tank, and / or result in insufficient filling of the pressure vessel. To mitigate these problems associated with pressure vessels, many stations have the option of pre-cooling the gas. When the gas is pre-cooled, it is cooled to a low temperature (for example, a low temperature of around -40°C) before entering the pressure vessel. This has the effect of lowering the maximum temperature the gas can reach due to the heat of compression, as the initial temperature is low.

[0006]

[0006] Gas precooling can significantly increase the complexity of the refueling station configuration, thereby unnecessarily increasing the capital and operating costs of the refueling station. These increased costs may be passed on to customers in the form of higher gas prices. In addition, precooling components may be unreliable in some cases, thereby resulting in significant downtime and additional costs for the station for maintenance and parts replacement.

[0007]

[0007] Elongated conformable pressure vessels, such as those discussed herein, may be advantageous over conventional monolithic compressed gas tanks because their conformable shape allows for an increased surface area per unit volume of storage. This increased surface area can enable faster heat dissipation, thereby improving fast-fill performance. In addition, such conformable tanks can have a smaller cross-sectional area, which allows for an increased flow velocity during filling, thereby improving convective heat transfer from the gas to the pressure vessel wall (i.e., increasing the Nusselt number).

[0008]

[0008] During filling or fast-filling, such compatible pressure vessels can achieve a lower average temperature compared to conventional monolithic pressure vessels. This may be because such compatible pressure vessels have a higher surface area-to-volume ratio and a smaller tank diameter, which allows the gas to have a higher average velocity, thereby improving convective heat transfer. This reduces the need for gas precooling. Thus, compatible pressure vessels can be filled with fluids that are precooled or not precooled at all to achieve a higher temperature while achieving the filling rate that is normally associated with precooled gases.

[0009]

[0009] However, due to their elongated shape, mixing during filling of various compatible pressure vessels may be insufficient, which means that the difference between the highest and lowest temperatures at the end of the filling process can be significantly more extreme compared to pressure vessels of other configurations. Specifically, when gas is added to the pressure vessel through a first valve attached to the first end of the pressure vessel, the gas temperature near the first end of the pressure vessel can remain close to the temperature of the incoming gas because the flow velocity at the first end improves heat transfer to the polymer liner and outer composite shell. On the other hand, the chambers of the pressure vessel near the second end of the pressure vessel can rise in temperature significantly because there is little flow in the more distant regions of the pressure vessel. Furthermore, convective heat transfer in these chambers near the second end of the pressure vessel is insufficient.

[0010]

[0010] A first known method for mitigating such a temperature rise near the second end of a pressure vessel, as disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 120432, is to fill the pressure vessel from alternating ends. For example, at the start of filling, the pressure vessel may be filled through a first valve attached to the first end of the pressure vessel, thereby allowing the temperature of the fluid near the second end of the pressure vessel to rise. When the temperature of the fluid near the second end reaches a predetermined high value, the first valve at the first end of the pressure vessel is closed, and the pressure vessel is filled through a second valve at the second end. This pattern may be repeated until the pressure vessel is filled.

[0011]

[0011] However, this first known method may raise the fluid temperature in the intermediate chamber between the ends of the pressure vessel. It may be necessary to add gas precooling and / or precool to a lower temperature to ensure that the fluid in the chamber furthest from the first and second valves is within a given temperature range. Furthermore, additional hardware and control devices may be required to assist in switching the valves at each end of the pressure vessel during filling. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0012] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 120432 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0013]

[0012] Therefore, it is desirable to reduce the temperature rise of the fluid in the intermediate chambers at both ends of the pressure vessel during the filling process. In addition, it is desirable to provide a pressure vessel assembly that includes on-tank valve manifold valves that are fluidly connected to both ends of a plurality of elongated pressure vessels in order to fill the inside of each elongated pressure vessel with fluid and to remove fluid therefrom. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014]

[0013] A Type IV compatible pressure vessel assembly is provided, which comprises a plurality of elongated collapsible tanks and an on-tank-valve (OTV) manifold assembly configured to pass fluid into and out of the plurality of elongated collapsible tanks through a plurality of first and second filling couplers directly connected to the first and second ends of each of the plurality of elongated collapsible tanks. Each of the plurality of elongated collapsible tanks has at least two chambers for storing fluid. The manifold valve assembly receives fluid from an external source and selectively supplies the external fluid to one or more of the plurality of first and second filling couplers.

[0015]

[0014] When considering this in relation to the attached drawings, the advantages of the present invention will be more readily recognized by referring to the following detailed explanation. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0016] [Figure 1]

[0015] This is a perspective view showing a pressure vessel assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention, which includes an on-tank valve manifold assembly fluidly connected to a plurality of elongated compatible pressure tanks. [Figure 2]

[0016] This is a schematic diagram showing the pressure vessel assembly of Figure 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention, which shows an on-tank valve manifold valve assembled with first and second elongated compatible pressure tanks. [Figure 3]

[0017] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a polymer liner removed from one of the elongated compatible pressure tanks. [Figure 4]

[0018] This is a perspective view showing a known single elongated compatible pressure tank connected to a typical on-tank valve manifold assembly. [Figure 5]

[0019] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing a pressure vessel assembly, illustrating one embodiment of an on-tank valve manifold assembly. [Figure 6]

[0020] This schematic diagram shows another embodiment of the pressure vessel assembly of Figure 5, which is an on-tank valve manifold assembly directly connected to elongated compatible pressure tanks stacked horizontally and further directly connected to elongated compatible pressure tanks stacked vertically. [Figure 7]

[0021] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing a pressure vessel assembly, illustrating a second embodiment of an on-tank valve manifold assembly having an auxiliary vortex device in a row with each of the directly connected elongated compatible pressure tanks. [Figure 8]

[0022] This schematic diagram shows another embodiment of the pressure vessel assembly in Figure 5, illustrating integrated recirculation within the on-tank valve manifold assembly. [Figure 9]

[0023] It is a schematic diagram showing the pressure vessel assembly of FIG. 8, illustrating an alternative embodiment of an on-tank valve manifold assembly having integrated recirculation. [Figure 10]

[0024] It is a schematic diagram showing the pressure vessel assembly of FIG. 8, illustrating another alternative embodiment of an on-tank valve manifold assembly having integrated recirculation. MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0017]

[0025] Referring to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like or corresponding parts throughout the several views, a Type IV pressure vessel assembly 10 for containing liquid and / or gas under pressure according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 1. The pressure vessel assembly 10 is suitable for storing compressed liquids and / or compressed gases such as hydrogen, nitrogen, natural gas, helium, dimethyl ether, liquefied petroleum gas, and xenon. Pressure vessel assemblies 10 for storing hydrogen for automotive applications are typically designed for internal pressures during normal use ranging from about 34.5 MPa (5,000 PSI) to about 68.9 MPa (10,000 PSI). In comparison, pressure vessel assemblies 10 for compressed natural gas storage are typically designed for an internal pressure of about 20.7 MPa (3,000 PSI) during normal use.

[0018]

[0026] Referring to Figure 1, the pressure vessel assembly 10 of the present invention comprises a plurality of elongated compatible pressure tanks 14a, 14b (alternatively, also described herein as elongated compatible tanks 14a, 14b and elongated collapsible tanks 14a, 14b) fixedly connected to an on-tank valve manifold assembly 18 (described herein as an OTV manifold assembly 18). Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of the pressure vessel assembly 10 of Figure 1, illustrating the OTV manifold assembly 18 directly connected to the first elongated compatible tank 14a and the second elongated compatible tank 14b. Referring to Figure 2, each of the elongated compatible tanks 14a, 14b has a polymer liner 26 having an interior 30 for storing fluid and / or gas 34. As will be further described later, the polymer liner 26 is surrounded by an outer composite shell 28, thereby forming each of the elongated compatible tanks 14a, 14b. The terms “fluid” and “gas” are used interchangeably herein because gases, such as hydrogen gas, can exist in either a gaseous or fluid (e.g., “liquid”) state depending on the pressure and temperature of the location where the hydrogen gas is stored. The figure shows two elongated compatible tanks 14a, 14b, but the pressure vessel assembly 10 may comprise multiple elongated compatible tanks 14a, 14b.

[0019]

[0027] Figure 3 shows one embodiment of the exposed polymer liner 26 of an exemplary elongated compatible tank 14a, 14b, which comprises a hollow body 30 having a connector portion 38, a tapered portion 42, and a tubular portion 46. The hollow body 30 is defined by an elongated cylindrical wall 50 extending between a first end portion 54 and a second end portion 58 of the polymer liner 26. Referring to Figure 2, the polymer liner 26 includes opposing inner surfaces 62 and outer surfaces 66, an inlet opening 70 at the first end portion 54 of the polymer liner 26, and an outlet opening 74 at the second end portion 58 of the polymer liner 26. Each of the inlet opening 70 and the outlet opening 74 of the polymer liner 26 can be used to pass fluid and / or gas 34 into and / or out of the interior 30 of the polymer liner 26, if desired. Each of the inlet openings 70 and outlet openings 74 of the polymer liner 26 is defined by the neck outlet 78 of the polymer liner 26. Relative terms such as “inlet opening” 70 and “outlet opening” 74 will be understood to refer to specific openings within the elongated suitability tanks 14a, 14b, regardless of whether the fluid 34 is added to or removed from the elongated suitability tanks 14a, 14b. Thus, the inlet opening 70, also described as the inlet / outlet opening 70 and the first opening 70, will be understood to refer to the opening associated with the first end 54 of the elongated suitability tanks 14a, 14b. Similarly, the outlet opening 74, also described as the inlet / outlet opening 74 and the second opening 74, will be understood to refer to the opening associated with the second end 58 of the elongated suitability tanks 14a, 14b.

[0020]

[0028] Referring to Figure 3, the polymer liner 26 includes a plurality of elongated rigid tube sections 46 having a first diameter 86, a plurality of connector sections 38 having a second diameter 90 smaller than the first diameter 86, and tapered sections 42 disposed between and connecting the continuous elongated rigid tube sections 46 and the connector sections 38. The first diameter 86 and the second diameter 90 are defined by the outer diameter 86 of the tube sections 46 and the outer diameter 90 of the connector sections 38, respectively. Each of the plurality of elongated rigid tube sections 46 defines its own chamber 94 for storing fluid 34, with the first chamber 98 defined adjacent to the first end 54 of the polymer liner 26 and the last chamber 102 defined adjacent to the second end 58 of the polymer liner 26. Other embodiments of the polymer liner 26 may include any number of chambers 94 between the first chamber 98 and the last chamber 102, if desired for a particular application. Alternatively, the polymer liner 26 may include a single elongated chamber 94 extending between the terminals 54 and 58 of the polymer liner 26.

[0021]

[0029] An exemplary repeating liner portion 106 is shown in Figure 3. A repeating liner portion 106 is defined as comprising a single rigid tube portion 46 combined with a tapered portion 42 and a connector portion 38 attached to the rigid tube portion 46. Individual liner portions 106 can vary in dimensions, shape, etc. A particular liner portion 106 may include, in non-limiting embodiments, tube portions 46, connector portions 38, and tapered portions 42 having diverse outer diameters, lengths, and shapes. In some embodiments, a particular liner portion 106 may have a length smaller or larger than the length of other liner portions 106. In other embodiments, the length of an individual connector portion 38 may be selected to allow the polymer liner 26 to fold to form a desired stacked architecture 126 (shown in Figure 1). Thus, repeating liner portions 106 may be equal or may include one or more configurations. For example, the sections of the polymer liner 26 at the terminals 54, 58 may include a connector portion 38 having a cuff portion 108 configured to engage antagonistically and / or frictionally with a boss-style connector.

[0022]

[0030] The connector portion 38 shown in Figure 3 may be corrugated 118, which makes the connector portion 38 flexible, allowing the polymer liner 26 to be folded to fill a given space to form a stacked architecture 126 (shown in Figure 1) and / or the polymer liner 26 to be folded and placed into the housing 123. Non-corrugated connector portions 38' can be rigid in various embodiments. In various embodiments, the connector portion 38 may have a diameter 90 smaller than the diameter 86 of the tube portion 46, where a tapered portion 42 provides a transition portion between the diameter 90 of the connector portion 38 and the diameter 86 of the tube portion 46. However, another embodiment may also include a polymer liner 26 having portions 38, 42, 46 having one or more suitable diameters 86, 90, and in another embodiment, the polymer liner 26 may have non-cylindrical portions 38, 42, 46 that can include various shapes. Similarly, in some embodiments, the tube portion 46 may include a corrugated portion 118.

[0023]

[0031] Preferably, the polymer liner 26 is manufactured as a seamless liner using a single material without welds, as shown in Figure 3. However, in some embodiments, individual liner portions 106 having a single chamber 94 may be joined together to form an elongated polymer liner 26 having multiple chambers 94. In some embodiments, the polymer liner 26 may be made by forming various parts 38, 42, 46 of the polymer liner 26 and joining these parts 38, 42, 46 together. For example, the connector portion 38 may be manufactured separately from the tapered portion 42, the tubular portion 46, and / or the cuff portion 108. Such separate portions 38, 42, 46, 108 can then be joined together to form the polymer liner 26.

[0024]

[0032] The polymer liner 26 shown in Figure 3 is generally formed from one or more polymer materials such as nylon (PA), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyurethane (PU), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and / or similar materials. The polymer liner 26 may be formed from a single layer of polymer material. Alternatively, the polymer liner 26 may be formed from a multilayer structure of two or more polymer layers. Furthermore, if desired for a particular application, one or more metal layers may be included in the polymer liner 26. The polymer liner 26 may be wrapped and / or overbraided with resin-impregnated fiber strands or other suitable materials, thereby increasing the strength of the polymer liner 26 and thereby increasing the essential pressure required to safely operate the polymer liner 26. In addition, in various embodiments, braiding may be arranged in multiple layers. One or more layers of resin-impregnated fiber strands form a rigid outer composite shell 28 after the resin has cured.

[0025]

[0033] The outer composite shell 28 shown in Figure 1 comprises one or more layers of resin-impregnated fiber strands. Suitable fibers for the outer composite shell 28 include one or more of the following: carbon fibers, glass fibers, basalt fibers, boron fibers, aramid fibers, high-density polyethylene fibers (HDPE), poly fibers (p-phenylene-2,6-benzobisoxazole fibers (PBO)) which are Zylon®, aramid fibers, poly-p-phenylene terephthalamide fibers which are Kevlar®, polyethylene terephthalate fibers (PET), nylon fibers (PA), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyester fibers (PL), polypropylene fibers (PP), polyethylene fibers (PE), metals, ethylene vinyl alcohol fibers (EVOH), and polyurethane fibers (PU). Suitable resins include one or more of the following: epoxy resins, vinyl ester resins, thermoplastic resins, polyester resins, urethane, and thermoplastic resins. The selection of materials and dimensions for the polymer liner 26, as well as the types and amounts of resins and fibers forming the outer composite shell 28, is carried out in part on the desired operating conditions of each elongated compatible tank 14a, 14b.

[0026]

[0034] The elongated adaptable tanks 14a and 14b in Figure 1 are formed when the polymer liner 26 is covered by the outer composite shell 28, and are folded into a desired folded shape 126, allowing the resin to harden and stiffen the outer composite shell 28. In various embodiments, the elongated adaptable tanks 14a and 14b can be folded into a three-dimensional structure 126. Figure 1 shows one embodiment in which the overbraided polymer liner 26 is folded and maintained in a stacked architecture 126. Preferably, the inlet openings 70 of each elongated adaptable tank 14a and 14b are positioned adjacent to the outlet openings 74 of each elongated adaptable tank 14a and 14b, as schematically shown in Figure 1, so that the OTV manifold assembly 18 can be directly connected to both the respective inlet openings 70 and outlet openings 74 of each elongated adaptable tank 14a and 14b.

[0027]

[0035] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, a first elongated compatible tank 14a is stacked on top of a second elongated compatible tank 14b, where the inlet openings 70 and outlet openings 74 of the first elongated compatible tank 14a and the second elongated compatible tank 14b are adjacent to each other, so that the OTV manifold assembly 18 can be directly connected to both the first elongated compatible tank 14a and the second elongated compatible tank 14b. The stacking architecture 126 shown in Figure 1 shows a vertical stacking pattern 126a having individual elongated compatible tanks 14a, 14b stacked vertically. As shown in Figure 6, a particular embodiment may include elongated compatible tanks 14a, 14b having a vertical stacking architecture 126a, and furthermore, one or more elongated compatible tanks 14c having a horizontal stacking architecture 126b. It will be understood that when multiple elongated compatible tanks 14a, 14b, and 14c are included in the pressure vessel assembly 10, alternating folding patterns and stacking configurations 126a and 126b may be employed to position all of the inlet openings 70 and all of the outlet openings 74 close together as a single unit. A single OTV manifold assembly 18 may be directly connected to all of the inlet openings 70 and outlet openings 74 when the inlet openings 70 and outlet openings 74 are positioned close together as a single unit.

[0028]

[0036] As shown in Figure 1, the OTV manifold assembly 18 includes a plurality of first filling couplers 115 configured to connect the OTV manifold to each of the inlet openings 70 of the plurality of elongated compatibility tanks 14a, 14b. In addition, the OTV manifold assembly 18 includes a plurality of second filling couplers 117 configured to connect the OTV manifold assembly 18 to each of the outlet openings 74 of the plurality of elongated compatibility tanks 14a, 14b. Regardless of the relative descriptions of “inlet,” “outlet,” and “filling coupler,” it will be understood that the fluid 34 can be added to or removed from the elongated compatibility tanks 14a, 14b through either or both of the inlet openings 70 and outlet openings 74 of each elongated compatibility tank 14a, 14b. For example, in a particular embodiment, the OTV manifold assembly 18 is configured to selectively supply fluid 34 simultaneously to all of the inlet openings 70 and outlet openings 74 of a plurality of elongated compatibility tanks 14a, 14b. In other embodiments, the OTV manifold assembly 18 can selectively supply fluid 34 to one or more of the inlet openings 70 and / or one or more of the outlet openings 74, as required for a particular application. Similarly, the OTV manifold assembly 18 may be configured to transfer fluid 34 from one or more of the elongated compatibility tanks 14a, 14b to a third filling coupler 119 located on the OTV manifold assembly 18. The third filling coupler 119 is configured to connect the OTV manifold assembly 18 directly and / or indirectly to an external fluid source, a hydrogen refueling station, and / or an automobile engine. In addition, the OTV manifold assembly 18 is configured to selectively supply fluid 34 from the interior 30 of the elongated compatibility tanks 14a, 14b to the third filling coupler 119 when the OTV manifold assembly 18 is fluidically connected to the external fuel cell supply line. In addition, the OTV manifold assembly 18 may include additional filling couplers, such as the fourth filling coupler 121 shown in Figure 1, if desired for a particular application.The first filling coupler 115, the second filling coupler 117, the third filling coupler 119, and the fourth filling coupler 121 are supported and connected through a housing 123 that defines the body of the OTV manifold assembly 18.

[0029]

[0037] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of a selected internal structure 125 of the OTV manifold assembly 18, as indicated by block 125. Referring to Figure 2, the OTV manifold assembly 18 optionally includes, as a non-limiting example, a solenoid valve with an automatic shut-off device (SOV), one or more check valves CV, a temperature and pressure relief device (TPRD), a manual control valve MV, a bleed valve BV, an excess flow device (EFD), and other components such as a pressure sensor PS, a temperature sensor TS, a filter F, and an electronic control unit. Specific embodiments optionally include a recirculation function R configured to recirculate fluid 34 between an outlet opening 74 and an inlet opening 70 through the OTV manifold assembly 18 for one or more elongated suitability tanks 14a, 14b. Optionally, the recirculation function R may be configured to selectively recirculate the fluid 34 from one of the elongated compatibility tanks 14a, 14b to another of the elongated compatibility tanks 14a, 14b. In an additional embodiment, the recirculation function R mixes the recirculated fluid 34 with the fluid 34 added to the elongated compatibility tanks 14a, 14b through one or more filling couplers, including a third filling coupler 119 and a fourth filling coupler 121.

[0030]

[0038] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the OTV manifold assembly 18 can selectively supply fluid 34 to the elongated compatible tanks 14a, 14b through a dedicated first filling coupler 115 and also through the inlet opening 70 of one of the elongated compatible tanks 14a, as indicated by arrow 131. In addition, the fluid 34 can be removed from the elongated compatible tanks 14a, 14b through the associated outlet opening 74 and the second filling coupler 117, as indicated by arrow 133. Alternatively, the OTV manifold assembly 18 can selectively supply fluid 34 to either or both of the inlet opening 70 and the outlet opening 74, as indicated by arrows 135 and 137, and furthermore, can selectively remove the fluid 34 through either or both of the inlet opening 70 and the outlet opening 74 of the elongated compatible containers 14a, 14b. Similarly, the fluid 34 may be selectively supplied to and / or selectively removed from the OTV manifold assembly 18 through one or more filling couplers, including the third filling coupler 119 and the fourth filling coupler 121, as indicated by arrows 141 and 143. In other embodiments, the OTV manifold assembly 18 may also include the fourth filling coupler 121 and filling couplers having a dedicated flow direction, as indicated by arrow 145.

[0031]

[0039] Figure 4 shows an exemplary known pressure vessel assembly 10' comprising a single elongated compatible pressure tank 14 connected to a typical on-tank valve (OTV) manifold assembly 18'. Elements in Figure 4 that are the same as or similar to those used in Figures 1-3 above have the same reference numerals for brevity. Referring to Figure 4, the known single elongated compatible pressure tank 14 includes a number of tubular sections 46 connected by a connector section 38 extending between a first end 54 and a second end 58. The known single elongated compatible pressure tank 14 shown in Figure 4 includes an exemplary stack of 32 tubular sections 46. The first end 54 includes an inlet opening 70, and the second end 54 includes an outlet opening 74. The inlet opening 70 is directly connected to a first filling coupler 115 extending from the OTV manifold assembly 18'. Similarly, the outlet opening 74 is directly connected to a second filling coupler 117 extending from the OTV manifold assembly 18'. The OTV manifold assembly 18' further includes a third filling coupler 119 and a fourth filling coupler 121 for adding fluid 34 to a known elongated compatible pressure tank 14 and / or removing fluid 34 from a known elongated compatible pressure tank 14.

[0032]

[0040] Referring to Figure 4, during the filling process, fluid is added to a known single elongated compatible pressure tank 14 by being introduced through the inlet opening 70 via the OTV manifold assembly 18'. Often, the fluid 34 is pre-cooled before being added to the single elongated compatible pressure tank 14. The fluid 34 in the tube section 46 is compressed by the fluid 34 added through the inlet opening 70. The compression of the fluid 34 in the tube section 46 generates heat. Typically, the tube section 46a, which receives the pre-cooled fluid 34, has a lower internal fluid temperature than the fluid 34 stored in the tube section 46b, which is located further away from the inlet opening 70 along the length of the single elongated compatible pressure tank 14. If the fluid 34 in the first tube section 46a is not mixed between the tube sections 46c near the outlet opening 74 during the filling process, a temperature gradient is likely to develop across the tube sections 46a, 46b, and 46c, where the first tube section 46a exhibits a lower fluid temperature than the fluid 34 stored in the last tube section 46c. Even if the fluid 34 is mixed by drawing it out from the outlet opening 74, mixing the drawn-out fluid 34 with the pre-cooled fluid 34 received from outside the OTV manifold assembly 18 and added to the inlet opening 70 can still result in an unacceptable temperature gradient in the elongated conformable pressure tank 14 having multiple tube sections 46a, 46b, and 46c.

[0033]

[0041] The embodiments shown in Figures 1 and 2 reduce the potential temperature gradients that may occur during the filling process in a single elongated compatible pressure tank 14 having multiple tubular sections 46a, 46b, 46c by separating a single elongated compatible pressure tank 14 into multiple shorter elongated compatible tanks 14a, 14b. The OTV manifold assembly 18 is configured to connect simultaneously and directly to the inlet openings 70 and outlet openings 74 of the multiple shorter elongated compatible pressure tanks 14a, 14b. For example, each of the first elongated compatible pressure tank 14a and the second elongated compatible tank 14b shown in Figure 1 includes 10 tubular sections 46 to combine to form 20 tubular sections 46. Potential temperature gradients that may occur during the filling process are reduced by dividing the desired tank volume into multiple elongated compatible pressure tanks 14a, 14b and simultaneously connecting all of the inlet openings 70 and outlet openings 74 of the multiple elongated compatible pressure tanks 14a, 14b through a single OTV manifold assembly 18. The OTV manifold assembly 18 is selectively configured to optimize the filling process for the multiple elongated compatible pressure tanks 14a, 14b. Furthermore, by fluidically connecting all of the elongated compatible pressure tanks 14a, 14b through a single OTV manifold assembly 18, the pressure of the fluid 34 can be equalized between the elongated compatible tanks 14a and the elongated compatible pressure ends 14b.

[0034]

[0042] Figure 5 shows one embodiment of a functional block diagram of the internal structure 125 of the OTV manifold assembly 18. Elements in Figure 5 that are the same as or similar to the elements used in Figures 1-3 above have the same reference numerals for brevity. In addition to the first filling couplers 115 and the second filling coupler 117 for each of the connected elongated compatible pressure tanks 14a, 14b, the OTV manifold assembly 18 includes a filling coupler 119 (referred to herein as the third filling coupler 119) configured to allow fluid 34 to pass into and out of the OTV manifold assembly 18, as indicated by arrows 141 and 143. Both the first filling coupler 115 and the second filling coupler 117 are fluidically connected to the first joint 161, so that fluid 34 is passed in parallel between the first joint 161 and each of the first filling coupler 115 and the second filling coupler 117, that is, fluid 34 is supplied to both the first filling coupler 115 and the second filling coupler 117 simultaneously.

[0035]

[0043] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5, the fluid 34 is passed into the OTV manifold assembly 18 through a third filling coupler 119. The third filling coupler 119 is fluidically connected to the inlet F1 of the filter F. The outlet F2 of the filter F is fluidically connected to the second joint 163. A bleed valve BV is fluidly connected between the second joint 163 and the third joint 165. In some embodiments, the third joint 165 is combined with the first joint 161 as a single joint 161, 165, and in other embodiments, the third joint 165 is fluidly connected to the first joint 161. The bleed valve BV is configured to drain the fluid 34 from the pressure vessel assembly 10 when repair or maintenance is required for the pressure vessel assembly 10. The bleed valve BV is located downstream of the filter F and upstream of the first filling coupler 115 and the second filling coupler 117 during the filling process.

[0036]

[0044] In addition, the inlet MV1 of a manually controlled valve MV is fluidically connected to a second joint 163, so that the manually controlled valve MV is positioned below the second joint 163 during the filling process, as shown in Figure 5. The manually controlled valve MV has an outlet MV2 that is fluidly connected to the inlet EFD1 of a vortex device EFD, so that the vortex device EFD is positioned downstream of the manually controlled valve MV during the filling process. The manually controlled valve MV is configured to bypass the automatic stop function, thereby allowing the pressure vessel assembly 10 to be repaired. The vortex device EFD includes a controllable valve that controls the flow of fluid 34 through the OTV manifold assembly 18.

[0037]

[0045] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5, the outlet EFD2 of the vortex device EFD is fluidically connected to the inlet SOV1 of a solenoid valve SOV having an automatic stop device. Thus, the solenoid valve SOV is located downstream of the vortex device EFD during the filling process. Furthermore, the outlet SOV2 of the solenoid valve SOV is fluidically connected to a fourth joint 167, which is fluidically connected to a third joint 165 and a first joint 161. A temperature and pressure relief device TPRD is fluidically connected to the fourth joint 167, and the temperature and pressure relief device TPRD is further fluidically connected to a temperature and pressure relief device vent TPRD-Vent. The temperature and pressure relief device TPRD, which is in communication with the temperature and pressure relief device vent TPRD-Vent, is configured to relieve excess pressure within the pressure vessel assembly 10. The temperature and pressure relief device (TPRD) is fluidly positioned downstream of the solenoid valve (SOV) and upstream of the first filling coupler 115 and the second filling coupler 117 during the filling process. It will be understood that alternative embodiments may include more and / or other components if desired in a particular application.

[0038]

[0046] Figure 6 shows a second embodiment of a pressure vessel assembly 10 having an OTV manifold assembly 18 directly connected to a plurality of elongated compatible tanks 14a, 14b, and 14c. Elements in Figure 6 that are the same as or similar to the elements used in Figures 1-3 above have the same reference numerals for brevity. Similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the OTV manifold assembly 18 includes a filter F, a bleed valve BV, a manual control valve MV, a vortex device EFD, a solenoid valve SOC with an automatic stop device, and a temperature-pressure relief device TPRD. However, the third joint 165 and fourth joint 167 in Figure 5 are combined in Figure 6 to form a single joint 165. In addition, the elongated compatible tanks 14c having a vertical stacking architecture 126b are connected to the OTV manifold assembly 18 together with the first elongated compatible tank 14a and the second elongated compatible tank 14b having a horizontal stacking architecture 126a. The individual lengths, the number of chambers 46, and the stacking architectures 126a, 126b vary among the various embodiments of the pressure vessel assembly 10. The flexibility of adjusting the stacking architectures 126, 126a, 126b in combination with the number and length of each individual elongated adaptable tank 14a, 14b, 14c makes it possible to maximize the use of internal tank volume within the available space for vehicle applications. Thus, the individual elongated adaptable tanks 14a, 14b, 14c can be adjusted in length and with respect to the stacking architectures 126, 126a, 126b to accommodate obstacles within the vehicle.

[0039]

[0047] Figure 7 shows another embodiment of an OTV manifold assembly 18 directly connected to a plurality of elongated compatible pressure tanks 14a, 14b. Elements in Figure 7 that are the same as or similar to the elements used in Figures 1-3 above have the same reference numerals for brevity. Similar to the embodiments shown in Figures 5 and 6, the OTV manifold assembly 18 includes a filter F, a bleed valve BV, a manual control valve MV, a vortex device EFD, a solenoid valve SOC with an automatic stop device, and a temperature-pressure relief device TPRD. However, an auxiliary vortex device SE is located downstream of the first joint 161 (during the filling process) and upstream of each of the first filling couplers 115 and second filling couplers 117 (during the filling process). In certain embodiments, it is desirable to have a vortex device SE in line with each of the first filling couplers 115 and second filling couplers 117 for the plurality of elongated compatible pressure vessel tanks 14a, 14b. In other embodiments, a vortex device SE is included in a line with a subset of the first filling coupler 115 and the second filling coupler 117.

[0040]

[0048] Figures 8 to 10 show alternative embodiments of the OTV manifold assembly 18 having a recirculation function R. Elements in Figures 8 to 10 that are the same as or similar to the elements used in Figures 1 to 3 above have the same reference numerals for brevity. Similar to the embodiments shown in Figures 5 and 6, the OTV manifold assembly 18 includes a filter F, a bleed valve BV, a manual control valve MV, a vortex device EFD, a solenoid valve SOC with an automatic stop device, and a temperature and pressure relief device TPRD. Referring to Figure 8, the recirculation function R includes recirculation between the outlet opening 74 and the inlet opening 70 through the OTV manifold assembly 18 for each of the elongated compatible tanks 14a, 14b.

[0041]

[0049] Referring to Figure 8, the venturi mixing chamber 222 is fluidically connected to each of the first filling couplers 115 through a first high-pressure line 182. A suction line 226 is fluidically connected between each of the second filling couplers 117 and each of the venturi mixing chambers 222. Both the first high-pressure line 182 and the suction line 226 are completely enclosed by the outer housing 123 of the OTV manifold assembly 18. A venturi nozzle 238 (also known as a discharge device or ejector) has a nozzle inlet 238a fluidically connected to a first joint 161 and provides fluid 34 to the venturi mixing chamber 222 through a nozzle outlet 238b. The flow of fluid 34 through the venturi nozzle 238 during the filling process is indicated by arrow 239. The venturi nozzle 238 is used to circulate the fluid flow during the filling process, thereby reducing the maximum temperature of the fluid 34 and / or the elongated compatibility tanks 14a, 14b during the filling process. Optionally, one or more temperature sensors are thermally coupled to the venturi nozzle 238 and / or the venturi mixing chamber 222 and configured to detect the temperature of the fluid 34 as it passes from the venturi nozzle 238 into the venturi mixing chamber 222. In addition, an additional temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the fluid 34 as it passes through the suction line 226 is optionally included.

[0042]

[0050] Figure 8 shows the recirculation of the fluid 34 through the OTV manifold assembly 18 between the final chamber 102 and the first chamber 98 during the filling process. When the external fluid 34 is supplied to the venturi nozzle 238 through the third filling coupler 119, the fluid 34 is discharged through the nozzle outlet 238b at high pressure, as indicated by arrow 239. The movement of the fluid 34 into the venturi mixing chamber 222 draws the fluid 34 from the suction line 226, as indicated by arrow 252. The fluid 252 from the suction line 226 is mixed with the fluid 239 from the venturi nozzle 238 in the venturi mixing chamber 222. The mixed fluids 239, 252 flow through the high-pressure line 182 and are supplied to the first chamber 98 of the elongated compatibility tanks 14a, 14b, as indicated by arrow 253. The movement of fluid 252 through the suction line 226 draws fluid 34 from the last chamber 102 of the elongated compatibility tanks 14a and 14b, as indicated by arrow 255. The flow of fluid 255 from the last chamber 102 through the suction line 226 and further through the venturi mixing chamber 222 into the first chamber 98 further causes the fluid to flow along the entire length of the elongated compatibility tanks 14a and 14b, as indicated by arrow 257. The movement of fluid 34 along the entire length of the elongated compatibility tanks 14a and 14b reduces the temperature rise in the individual chambers 98 and 102 during the filling process.

[0043]

[0051] Figure 9 shows an alternative embodiment of the recirculation function R, where the OTV manifold assembly 18 includes a venturi nozzle 238, a venturi mixing chamber 222, and a suction line 226 for one of the elongated compatibility tanks 14b, configured to recirculate the fluid 34 from the last chamber 102 of the elongated compatibility tank 14b through the OTV manifold assembly 18 to the first chamber 98 of the elongated compatibility tank 14b. However, the OTV manifold assembly 18 does not have the recirculation function R for the other elongated compatibility tank 14a. Therefore, during the filling process, the fluid 34 is supplied simultaneously to both the inlet opening 70 and the outlet opening 74 of this elongated compatibility tank 14a. In certain embodiments, depending on heat dissipation during the filling process, it is desirable to add recirculation functions R for the individual elongated tanks 14a, 14b. In some cases, the recirculation function R may be omitted if the expected heat rise during the filling process is less than the desired amount.

[0044]

[0052] Figure 10 shows an alternative embodiment of the recirculation function R having a single venturi nozzle 238 fluidically connected between the first joint 161 and the venturi mixing chamber 222. A suction line 226 is fluidically connected between the venturi mixing chamber 222 and the outlet joint 171. Each of the outlet openings 74 of the elongated compatibility tanks 14a and 14b is fluidically connected to the outlet joint 171. Each of the inlet openings 70 of the elongated compatibility tanks 14a and 14b is fluidically connected to the inlet joint 173. The venturi mixing chamber 222 provides a mixed fluid to the inlet joint 173 during the filling process. The mixed fluid is also simultaneously supplied to all of the inlet openings 70 of the elongated compatibility tanks 14a and 14b connected to the inlet joint 173. The supply fluid passing through the venturi nozzle 238 draws fluid from the suction line 226. The movement of fluid through the suction line 226 simultaneously draws fluid from all outlet openings 74 of the elongated compatibility tanks 14a and 14b. In addition to the movement of fluid entering the inlet opening 70, the movement of fluid exiting through the outlet openings 74 causes the fluid to move along the elongated compatibility tanks 14a and 14b, as indicated by arrow 257.

[0045]

[0053] One advantage of a pressure vessel assembly having an on-tank valve (OTV) manifold assembly directly connected to multiple elongated compatible pressure tanks is that the temperature gradient within each elongated compatible pressure tank during the filling process can be maintained within a desired limit range because the fluid is supplied to multiple inlet and outlet openings associated with multiple compatible pressure tanks, rather than to only a single inlet and outlet opening of a longer compatible pressure tank.

[0046]

[0054] While the present invention has been described illustratively, it should be understood that the terminology used is intended to be descriptive and not restrictive. In light of the above teachings, many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible. Therefore, it should be understood that the present invention may be carried out in methods other than those specifically described within the scope of the appended claims. (Item 1) A pressure vessel assembly, A plurality of elongated collapsible tanks, each of which has an interior for storing fluid within a polymer liner defined by an elongated cylindrical wall extending between a first tank end and a second tank end, the polymer liner having a plurality of chambers for storing fluid, the plurality of chambers including at least a first chamber adjacent to the first tank end and a last chamber adjacent to the second tank end, and the polymer liner being surrounded by an outer composite shell of resin and fiber, An on-tank valve manifold assembly directly connected to the plurality of elongated folding tanks, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly is A plurality of first filling couplers operably connected to each of the first tank ends, A plurality of second filling couplers are operably connected to one of each of the second tank ends, An on-tank valve manifold assembly comprising: a third filling coupler for selectively connecting the on-tank valve manifold assembly to an external fluid source in order to receive a fluid flow from the external fluid source; Equipped with, The on-tank valve manifold assembly receives fluid from the external fluid source through the third filling coupler and selectively provides the fluid to one or more filling couplers among the plurality of first filling couplers and the plurality of second filling couplers. Pressure vessel assembly. (Item 2) The pressure vessel assembly according to item 1, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly includes a fourth filling coupler for selectively connecting the on-tank valve manifold assembly to a temperature and pressure relief device vent. (Item 3) The pressure vessel assembly according to item 1, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly includes a solenoid valve having an automatic stop device fluidly connected between the third filling coupler and the plurality of first filling couplers and the plurality of second filling couplers. (Item 4) The pressure vessel assembly according to item 1, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly includes a temperature and pressure relief device. (Item 5) The pressure vessel assembly according to item 3, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly includes a manual control valve fluidly connected between the third filling coupler and the solenoid valve having the automatic stop device, and the manual control valve is configured to bypass the solenoid valve having the automatic stop device. (Item 6) The pressure vessel assembly according to item 1, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly includes a bleed valve fluidly connected between the third filling coupler and the plurality of first filling couplers and the plurality of second filling couplers. (Item 7) The pressure vessel assembly according to item 5, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly includes a first vortex device fluidly connected between the manual control valve and the solenoid valve having the automatic stop device. (Item 8) The pressure vessel assembly according to item 7, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly includes a plurality of first vortex devices, each of the plurality of first vortex devices being fluidly coupled between the solenoid valve having the automatic stop device and each of the plurality of first filling couplers. (Item 9) The pressure vessel assembly according to item 8, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly includes a plurality of second vortex devices, each of which is fluidically connected between the solenoid valve having the automatic stop device and each of the plurality of second filling couplers. (Item 10) The pressure vessel assembly according to item 1, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly is configured to selectively fill one or more of the plurality of elongated collapsible tanks. (Item 11) The pressure vessel assembly according to item 1, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly is configured to selectively transfer fluid from one or more of the plurality of elongated collapsible tanks through the third filling coupler. (Item 12) The pressure vessel assembly according to item 1, wherein the fluid is one or more of hydrogen gas and natural gas. (Item 13) The pressure vessel assembly according to item 1, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly includes a recirculation function configured to mix the fluid removed from one of the plurality of elongated collapsible tanks during the filling process with the fluid received through the third filling coupler, and to provide the mixed fluid to one of the plurality of elongated collapsible tanks.

Claims

1. A pressure vessel assembly, A plurality of elongated collapsible tanks, each of the plurality of elongated collapsible tanks having an interior for storing fluid within a polymer liner defined by an elongated cylindrical wall extending between a first tank end and a second tank end, the polymer liner having a plurality of chambers for storing fluid, the plurality of chambers including at least a first chamber adjacent to the first tank end and a last chamber adjacent to the second tank end, and the polymer liner being surrounded by an outer composite shell of resin and fiber, An on-tank valve manifold assembly directly connected to the first tank end and the second tank end of the plurality of elongated folding tanks, Housing and It comprises a plurality of first filling couplers, a plurality of second filling couplers, and a third filling coupler, which are supported and connected through the housing, The plurality of first filling couplers are directly connected to one of the first tank ends, The plurality of second filling couplers are directly connected to one of the second tank ends, The third filling coupler selectively connects the on-tank valve manifold assembly to the external fluid source in order to receive the flow of fluid from the external fluid source. On-tank valve manifold assembly and, Equipped with, The on-tank valve manifold assembly receives fluid from the external fluid source through the third filling coupler and selectively supplies the fluid to one or more of the first and second tank ends of the plurality of elongated folding tanks through one or more filling couplers from the plurality of first and plurality of second filling couplers. The on-tank valve manifold assembly equalizes the fluid pressure among the multiple elongated folding tanks by directly fluidically connecting the first and second tank ends of all the multiple elongated folding tanks to the on-tank valve manifold assembly. Pressure vessel assembly.

2. The pressure vessel assembly according to claim 1, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly includes a fourth filling coupler for selectively connecting the on-tank valve manifold assembly to a temperature and pressure relief device vent.

3. The pressure vessel assembly according to claim 1, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly includes a solenoid valve having an automatic stop device fluidly connected between the third filling coupler and the plurality of first filling couplers and the plurality of second filling couplers.

4. The pressure vessel assembly according to claim 1, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly includes a temperature and pressure relief device.

5. The pressure vessel assembly according to claim 3, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly includes a manual control valve fluidly connected between the third filling coupler and the solenoid valve having the automatic stop device, and the manual control valve is configured to bypass the solenoid valve having the automatic stop device.

6. The pressure vessel assembly according to claim 1, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly includes a bleed valve fluidly connected between the third filling coupler and the plurality of first filling couplers and the plurality of second filling couplers.

7. The pressure vessel assembly according to claim 5, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly includes a first vortex device fluidly connected between the manual control valve and the solenoid valve having the automatic stop device.

8. The pressure vessel assembly according to claim 7, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly includes a plurality of first vortex devices, each of the plurality of first vortex devices being fluidly connected between the solenoid valve having the automatic stop device and each of the plurality of first filling couplers.

9. The pressure vessel assembly according to claim 8, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly includes a plurality of second vortex devices, each of the plurality of second vortex devices being fluidly connected between the solenoid valve having the automatic stop device and each of the plurality of second filling couplers.

10. The pressure vessel assembly according to claim 1, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly is configured to selectively fill one or more of the plurality of elongated collapsible tanks.

11. The pressure vessel assembly according to claim 1, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly is configured to selectively transfer fluid from one or more of the plurality of elongated collapsible tanks through the third filling coupler.

12. The pressure vessel assembly according to claim 1, wherein the fluid is one or more of hydrogen gas and natural gas.

13. The pressure vessel assembly according to claim 1, wherein the on-tank valve manifold assembly includes a recirculation function configured to mix the fluid removed from one of the plurality of elongated collapsible tanks during the filling process with the fluid received through the third filling coupler, and to provide the mixed fluid to another of the plurality of elongated collapsible tanks.

14. The on-tank valve manifold assembly is A venturi mixing chamber is fluidly connected to the plurality of first filling couplers, A suction line is fluidly connected between the venturi mixing chamber and the plurality of second filling couplers, The system further comprises a venturi nozzle fluidically connected between the third filling coupler and the venturi mixing chamber, The on-tank valve manifold assembly receives fluid from the external fluid source through the third filling coupler and provides the fluid into the venturi mixing chamber through the venturi nozzle. The venturi mixing chamber draws fluid into the venturi mixing chamber from all of the second tank ends through the plurality of second filling couplers and the suction line. The venturi mixing chamber mixes the fluid received from the venturi nozzle and the fluid received from the suction line and provides the mixed fluid to the first tank end through the plurality of first filling couplers. The pressure vessel assembly according to claim 1.

Images