Hydrogen charging apparatus and control method thereof

Abstract

The present invention relates to a hydrogen refueling device and a method for controlling the same. The hydrogen refueling device according to the present invention is characterized by comprising: a dispenser; a supply member having a supply line connected to the dispenser and through which hydrogen flows; a circulation line spaced apart from the supply line and through which a heat transfer medium flows; a first heat exchanger connected to the supply line and the circulation line and for cooling hydrogen; a second heat exchanger connected to the circulation line and for cooling the heat transfer medium; a branch line branched from the circulation line; a first reservoir tank connected to the circulation line and for storing the heat transfer medium; a second reservoir tank connected to the branch line and for storing the heat transfer medium; and a flow control member for controlling the flow of the heat transfer medium through the circulation line and the branch line.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a hydrogen refueling device and a control method thereof, and more specifically, to a hydrogen refueling device capable of improving the cooling efficiency of hydrogen. Background Technology

[0003] Generally, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles utilizing gaseous fuels such as hydrogen gas are attracting attention as low-emission vehicles to address recent environmental issues, and hydrogen refueling stations are required to stably and efficiently refuel the fuel tanks mounted on the vehicles in order to promote the widespread adoption of such hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.

[0004] The background technology of the present invention is disclosed in Korean Published Patent Application No. 10-2022-0012051 (published on February 3, 2022, Title of Invention: Hydrogen Charging System for Vehicles). The problem to be solved

[0006] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a hydrogen charging device capable of improving the cooling efficiency of hydrogen and a method for controlling the same. means of solving the problem

[0008] To solve the above-mentioned problem, a hydrogen charging device according to the present invention comprises: a dispenser; a supply member having a supply line connected to the dispenser and through which hydrogen flows; a circulation line spaced apart from the supply line and through which a heat transfer medium flows; a first heat exchanger connected to the supply line and the circulation line and which cools the hydrogen; a second heat exchanger connected to the circulation line and which cools the heat transfer medium; a branch line branched from the circulation line; a first reservoir tank connected to the circulation line and which stores the heat transfer medium; a second reservoir tank connected to the branch line and which stores the heat transfer medium; and a flow control member that controls the flow of the heat transfer medium through the circulation line and the branch line.

[0009] Both ends of the above branch line can be connected to the above circulation line.

[0010] The above circulation line includes a first transfer line that transfers the heat transfer medium that has passed through the second heat exchanger to the first heat exchanger; and a second transfer line that transfers the heat transfer medium that has passed through the first heat exchanger to the second heat exchanger; wherein the first reservoir tank is connected to the first transfer line and the branch line can be connected to the second transfer line.

[0011] The second transmission line comprises a first section, a second section, and a third section sequentially connected from the first heat exchanger toward the second heat exchanger; and the branch line may comprise a first end portion disposed between the first section and the second section; and a second end portion disposed between the second section and the third section.

[0012] The above flow control member may include a pump connected to the circulation line; and a valve disposed between the circulation line and the branch line, which controls the flow direction and flow rate of the heat transfer medium through the circulation line and the branch line.

[0013] The above pump may include a first pump disposed between the first reservoir tank and the second heat exchanger; and a second pump disposed between the branch line and the second heat exchanger.

[0014] The branch line comprises: a first end portion receiving the heat transfer medium from the circulation line; and a second end portion spaced apart from the first end portion and transferring the heat transfer medium to the circulation line; and the valve may include a first valve disposed between the circulation line and the second end portion.

[0015] The first valve above may include a 3-way valve.

[0016] The above valve may further include a second valve disposed between the circulation line and the first end portion.

[0017] The above flow control member may further include a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the heat transfer medium; and a processor that controls the operation of the pump and the valve based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor.

[0018] The above temperature sensor may include a first temperature sensor disposed between the second heat exchanger and the first reservoir tank.

[0019] A control method for a hydrogen charging device according to the present invention comprises: a step of pre-cooling the heat transfer medium; a step of cooling the hydrogen by heat exchange between the heat transfer medium and the hydrogen; and a step of controlling the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger based on a temperature change of the heat transfer medium.

[0020] The step of pre-cooling the heat transfer medium may include: a step of reducing the heat transfer medium stored in the first reservoir tank and increasing the heat transfer medium stored in the second reservoir tank; and a step of flowing the heat transfer medium along the circulation line.

[0021] The step of pre-cooling the heat transfer medium may further include the step of reducing the heat transfer medium stored in the second reservoir tank and increasing the heat transfer medium stored in the first reservoir tank after the step of flowing the heat transfer medium along the circulation line.

[0022] The step of pre-cooling the heat transfer medium may further include the step of flowing the heat transfer medium along the circulation line and the branch line after the step of circulating the heat transfer medium along the circulation line.

[0023] In the step of cooling the hydrogen by heat exchange between the heat transfer medium and the hydrogen, the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger may be the same as the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the first heat exchanger.

[0024] The step of controlling the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger can be performed repeatedly for a set period of time.

[0025] The step of controlling the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger may include: a step of detecting the temperature of the heat transfer medium; a step of determining whether the temperature of the heat transfer medium passing through the second heat exchanger is above a set temperature; a step of reducing the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger to less than the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the first heat exchanger when the temperature of the heat transfer medium passing through the second heat exchanger is above the set temperature; and a step of maintaining the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger to be equal to the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the first heat exchanger when the temperature of the heat transfer medium passing through the second heat exchanger is below the set temperature.

[0026] In the step of reducing the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger to less than the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the first heat exchanger, the heat transfer medium may flow along the circulation line and the branch line.

[0027] In the step of reducing the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger to less than the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the first heat exchanger, the heat transfer medium stored in the first reservoir tank may be reduced, and the heat transfer medium stored in the second reservoir tank may be increased. Effects of the invention

[0029] According to the present invention, the charging capacity of hydrogen can be increased by cooling the hydrogen supplied to the dispenser before the hydrogen is charged into the hydrogen vehicle.

[0030] According to the present invention, by positioning the first reservoir tank downstream of the second heat exchanger, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the cooling efficiency of the heat transfer medium in the second heat exchanger during the process in which the heat transfer medium circulates through the circulation line.

[0031] According to the present invention, as the branch line and the second reservoir tank are connected to the downstream side of the first heat exchanger, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the first heat exchanger during the process of the heat transfer medium branching to the branch line, and to prevent a decrease in the cooling efficiency of hydrogen in the first heat exchanger.

[0032] According to the present invention, as the branch line and the second reservoir tank are connected to the downstream side of the first heat exchanger, when the heat transfer medium passing through the first heat exchanger is overheated due to a rapid increase in the cooling load of hydrogen, the heat transfer medium stored in the second reservoir tank primarily lowers the temperature of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger, thereby preventing the cooling performance of the heat transfer medium in the second heat exchanger from deteriorating.

[0033] According to the present invention, when a relatively short charging waiting time is secured due to continuous charging operations or emergency charging, the amount of heat transfer medium pre-cooled in the charging waiting state can be reduced so that the heat transfer medium flowing through the circulation line can quickly reach a set temperature.

[0034] According to the present invention, when sufficient charging waiting time is secured, cooling performance for high-load and high-flow hydrogen charging can be secured by increasing the amount of heat transfer medium that is pre-cooled in the charging waiting state.

[0035] According to the present invention, when the cooling load of hydrogen increases excessively, the heat transfer medium can be prevented from overheating by controlling the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger.

[0036] According to the present invention, in the process of controlling the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger, the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the first heat exchanger is maintained constant through the buffering action of the first reservoir tank and the second reservoir tank, thereby preventing a decrease in the cooling efficiency of hydrogen. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0038] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of a hydrogen refueling device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of a flow control member according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a flowchart schematically showing the sequence of a control method for a hydrogen charging device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 is a flowchart schematically showing the sequence of pre-cooling the heat transfer medium in the charging standby state. FIGS. 5 to 8 are schematic diagrams illustrating the process of pre-cooling a heat transfer medium in a charging standby state. Figure 9 is a diagram schematically showing the process of heat exchange between the heat transfer medium and hydrogen during hydrogen charging. FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically showing a modified example of the process in which heat is exchanged between a heat transfer medium and hydrogen during hydrogen charging. FIG. 11 is a flowchart schematically showing the sequence of controlling the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger during hydrogen charging. FIGS. 12 and 13 are schematic diagrams illustrating the process of controlling the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger during hydrogen charging. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0039] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0040] In this process, the thickness of lines or the size of components depicted in the drawings may be exaggerated for the sake of clarity and convenience of explanation. Furthermore, the terms described below are defined in consideration of their functions within the present invention, and these definitions may vary depending on the intent or convention of the user or operator. Therefore, the definitions of these terms should be based on the content throughout this specification.

[0041] Furthermore, in this specification, when a part is described as being "connected (or joined)" to another part, this includes not only cases where they are "directly connected (or joined)" but also cases where they are "indirectly connected (or joined)" with other members interposed between them. In this specification, when a part is described as "including (or having) a certain component," this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may additionally "include (or have)" other components.

[0042] Furthermore, throughout this specification, the same reference numerals may refer to the same components. Even if the same or similar reference numerals are not mentioned or described in a specific drawing, they may be described based on other drawings. Additionally, even if a part is not indicated by a reference numeral in a specific drawing, that part may be described based on other drawings. Furthermore, the number, shape, size, and relative differences in size of the detailed components included in the drawings of this application are set for ease of understanding and do not limit the embodiments, and may be implemented in various forms.

[0043] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of a hydrogen refueling device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Referring to FIG. 1, the hydrogen refueling device according to the present embodiment includes a dispenser (100), a supply member (200), a circulation line (300), a first heat exchanger (400), a second heat exchanger (500), a first reservoir tank (600), a branch line (700), a second reservoir tank (800), and a flow control member (900).

[0045] The dispenser (100) can charge hydrogen (H) supplied from the supply member (200) into the fuel cell vehicle.

[0046] The dispenser (100) according to the present embodiment may include a dispenser body (110), a filling nozzle (120), and a breakaway (130).

[0047] The dispenser body (110) forms the general appearance of the dispenser (100) and can support the charging nozzle (120) and the breakaway (130) in its entirety. Various equipment required for the hydrogen charging process, such as a display, a gauge, a communication device, and a control device, can be installed in the dispenser body (110).

[0048] The charging nozzle (120) can inject hydrogen (H) supplied from the supply member (200) into the fuel tank of the fuel cell vehicle. The charging nozzle (120) according to the present embodiment can be exemplified by various types of nozzle devices that inject hydrogen (H) into the fuel tank, with one side connected to the dispenser body (110) and the other side detachably connected to the receptacle of the fuel cell vehicle.

[0049] A breakaway (130) can be installed between the dispenser body (110) and the charging nozzle (120). The breakaway (130) can be configured to separate the dispenser body (110) and the charging nozzle (120) from each other when an external force of a certain magnitude or greater is applied between the dispenser body (110) and the charging nozzle (120). Accordingly, the breakaway (130) can prevent damage to the dispenser body (110) or the charging nozzle (120) when the fuel cell vehicle moves during hydrogen charging.

[0050] The supply member (200) is connected to the dispenser (100) and can supply hydrogen (H) to the dispenser (100).

[0051] The supply member (200) according to the present embodiment may include a supply line (210) and a supply valve (230).

[0052] The supply line (210) can provide a path through which hydrogen (H) can flow.

[0053] The supply line (210) according to the present embodiment may be formed to have the shape of a pipe with a hollow interior. One end of the supply line (210) may be connected to a hydrogen storage tank (201) that stores hydrogen (H) in a compressed state. The other end of the supply line (210) may be placed inside the dispenser body (110) and connected to a charging nozzle (120). Accordingly, the supply line (210) may provide a path through which hydrogen (H) can be continuously supplied between the hydrogen storage tank (201) and the charging nozzle (120).

[0054] The supply valve (230) is connected to the supply line (210) and can open or close the supply line (210). The supply valve (230) can block or allow the flow of hydrogen (H) through the supply line (210), or control the flow rate of hydrogen (H) through the supply line (210).

[0055] The supply valve (230) according to the present embodiment may include various types of valve devices capable of selectively blocking the flow of hydrogen (H) through the supply line (210) by opening and closing operations, or controlling the flow rate of hydrogen (H) through the supply line (210). The supply valve (230) may be an electronic valve that performs opening and closing operations by an electric signal applied from the outside.

[0056] Both sides of the supply valve (230) can be connected to different sides of the supply line (210). The supply valve (230) can be positioned between the hydrogen storage tank (201) and the dispenser (100).

[0057] When the supply valve (230) opens the supply line (210), the high-pressure hydrogen (H) stored in the hydrogen storage tank (201) can flow to the dispenser (100) side by its own pressure or by a separate transfer means.

[0058] The supply member (200) according to the present embodiment may further include a supply processor (240).

[0059] The supply processor (240) can control the overall operation of the supply valve (230). More specifically, the supply processor (240) is electrically connected to the supply valve (230) and can control the opening and closing operation of the supply valve (230).

[0060] The supply processor (240) may be configured to include an Electronic Control Unit (ECU), a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a processor, or a System on Chip (SoC), and may control multiple hardware or software components by running an operating system or application, and may perform various data processing and calculations. The supply processor (240) may be configured to execute at least one instruction stored in memory and store the execution result data in memory.

[0061] The circulation line (300) is separated from the supply line (210) and can provide a path through which a heat transfer medium (A) circulates. The heat transfer medium (A) is a heat transfer substance that performs a heat exchange operation with hydrogen (H) flowing through the supply line (210) by the first heat exchanger (400) described later, and can be exemplified by various types of secondary refrigerants that exchange heat through sensible heat transfer in a single-phase state, such as brine.

[0062] The circulation line (300) according to the present embodiment may include a first transmission line (310) and a second transmission line (320).

[0063] According to the present embodiment, the first transfer line (310) and the second transfer line (320) may be formed in the shape of a pipe with a hollow interior and open ends. The first transfer line (310) and the second transfer line (320) may form a closed-loop flow path together with the first heat exchanger (400) and the second heat exchanger (500) so that the heat transfer medium (A) can circulate continuously. One end of the first transfer line (310) and the second transfer line (320) may be connected to the first heat exchanger (400) described later. The other end of the first transfer line (310) and the second transfer line (320) may be connected to the second heat exchanger (500) described later.

[0064] The first heat exchanger (400) can be connected to the supply line (210) and the circulation line (300). The first heat exchanger (400) can cool the hydrogen (H) through heat exchange between the hydrogen (H) flowing through the supply line (210) and the heat transfer medium (A) flowing through the circulation line (300). The first heat exchanger (400) can function as a pre-cooler to lower the temperature of the hydrogen (H) supplied to the dispenser (100) during the hydrogen charging process. The first heat exchanger (400) can cool the temperature of the hydrogen (H) to approximately -33°C to -40°C through the heat exchange action between the hydrogen (H) and the heat transfer medium (A).

[0065] The first heat exchanger (400) according to the present embodiment can be exemplified by various types of heat exchangers capable of transferring heat from hydrogen (H) flowing through the supply line (210) to a heat transfer medium (A) flowing through the circulation line (300) through at least one of conduction, convection, and radiation.

[0066] The first heat exchanger (400) may be placed inside the dispenser body (110) or in a location adjacent to the dispenser body (110). Accordingly, heat loss occurring during the process in which hydrogen (H) cooled while passing through the first heat exchanger (400) is transferred to the charging nozzle (120) may be reduced.

[0067] Inside the first heat exchanger (400), a heat dissipation channel and a heat absorption channel can be formed so that hydrogen (H) received from the supply line (210) and a heat transfer medium (A) received from the circulation line (300) can flow independently.

[0068] The inlet and outlet of the heat dissipation path of the first heat exchanger (400) can be connected to different sides of the supply line (210). Hydrogen (H) delivered from the supply line (210) to the inlet of the heat dissipation path of the first heat exchanger (400) can be recovered to the supply line (210) through the outlet of the heat dissipation path of the first heat exchanger (400) after flowing along the heat dissipation path of the first heat exchanger (400).

[0069] One end of the first transfer line (310) can be connected to the inlet of the heat absorption path of the first heat exchanger (400), and one end of the second transfer line (320) can be connected to the outlet of the heat absorption path of the first heat exchanger (400). Accordingly, the heat transfer medium (A) transferred from the first transfer line (310) to the inlet of the heat absorption path of the first heat exchanger (400) can be transferred to the second transfer line (320) through the outlet of the heat absorption path of the first heat exchanger (400) after flowing along the heat absorption path of the first heat exchanger (400).

[0070] Hydrogen (H) and the heat transfer medium (A) can flow along the heat dissipation path and heat absorption path of the first heat exchanger (400), respectively, and exchange heat with each other. Inside the first heat exchanger (400), hydrogen (H) and the heat transfer medium (A) can flow in opposite directions. In this process, the hydrogen (H) flowing along the heat dissipation path of the first heat exchanger (400) is cooled, and the heat transfer medium (A) flowing along the heat absorption path of the first heat exchanger (400) can be heated.

[0071] The second heat exchanger (500) is connected to the circulation line (300) and can be spaced apart from the first heat exchanger (400). The second heat exchanger (500) can cool the heat transfer medium (A) flowing through the circulation line (300). The second heat exchanger (500) can function as a configuration that re-cools the heat transfer medium (A) heated while passing through the first heat exchanger (400). Accordingly, the second heat exchanger (500) can maintain the temperature of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing into the first heat exchanger (400) at a constant level.

[0072] The second heat exchanger (500) can cool the temperature of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing through the circulation line (300) to below a set temperature. In this embodiment, the set temperature of the heat transfer medium (A) cooled by the second heat exchanger (500) can be varied within a range of -40℃ or lower.

[0073] The second heat exchanger (500) according to the present embodiment can be exemplified by various types of heat exchange devices capable of exchanging heat between a refrigerant circulating in a refrigerant line connected to a compressor, a condenser, an expander, and an evaporator, and a heat transfer medium (A) flowing in a circulation line (300). In the present embodiment, the second heat exchanger (500) may be an evaporator connected to a refrigerant line through which the refrigerant circulates.

[0074] The refrigerant is a heat transfer material that performs heat exchange with a heat transfer medium (A) flowing through a circulation line (300), and can be exemplified by various types of primary refrigerants that exchange heat through a phase change process, such as halon carbon refrigerant, hydrocarbon refrigerant, ammonia, etc.

[0075] Inside the second heat exchanger (500), a heat dissipation channel and a heat absorption channel can be formed so that the heat transfer medium (A) received from the circulation line (300) and the refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant line can flow independently.

[0076] The other end of the first transfer line (310) is connected to the outlet of the heat dissipation path of the second heat exchanger (500), and the other end of the second transfer line (320) can be connected to the inlet of the heat dissipation path of the first heat exchanger (400). The heat transfer medium (A) transferred from the second transfer line (320) to the inlet of the heat dissipation path flows along the heat dissipation path of the second heat exchanger (500) and then can be transferred to the first transfer line (310) through the outlet of the heat dissipation path of the second heat exchanger (500).

[0077] Accordingly, the first transfer line (310) can transfer the heat transfer medium (A) that has passed through the second heat exchanger (500) to the first heat exchanger (400), and the second transfer line (320) can transfer the heat transfer medium (A) that has passed through the first heat exchanger (400) to the second heat exchanger (500).

[0078] The inlet and outlet of the heat absorption path of the second heat exchanger (500) can be connected to different sides of the refrigerant line through which the refrigerant circulates. After the refrigerant delivered from the refrigerant line to the inlet of the heat absorption path of the second heat exchanger (500) flows along the heat absorption path, it can be recovered to the refrigerant line through the outlet of the heat absorption path of the second heat exchanger (500).

[0079] Inside the second heat exchanger (500), the heat transfer medium (A) and the refrigerant can flow along the heat dissipation path and the heat absorption path, respectively, and exchange heat with each other. In this process, the heat transfer medium (A) flowing along the heat dissipation path of the second heat exchanger (500) can be cooled, and the refrigerant flowing along the heat absorption path of the second heat exchanger (500) can be heated. Inside the second heat exchanger (500), the heat transfer medium (A) and the refrigerant can flow in opposite directions to each other.

[0080] The first reservoir tank (600) is connected to the circulation line (300) and can store a heat transfer medium (A) flowing through the circulation line (300). The first reservoir tank (600) can function as a configuration that supplies the heat transfer medium (A) to the circulation line (300) or recovers the heat transfer medium (A) from the circulation line (300) in response to changes in the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing through the circulation line (300).

[0081] The first reservoir tank (600) according to the present embodiment may be formed to have the shape of various types of storage tanks, in which a space is provided for storing a heat transfer medium (A) inside. The first reservoir tank (600) may be connected to the first transmission line (310). The first reservoir tank (600) may store the heat transfer medium (A) flowing toward the first heat exchanger (400) along the first transmission line (310) after passing through the second heat exchanger (500). Accordingly, the first reservoir tank (600) may allow the heat transfer medium (A) that has passed through the first heat exchanger (400) to flow directly into the second heat exchanger (500) while maintaining a relatively high temperature difference with the refrigerant, and may further improve the cooling efficiency of the heat transfer medium (A) in the second heat exchanger (500).

[0082] The branch line (700) can be branched from the circulation line (300). The branch line (700) can provide a path through which a portion of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing through the circulation line (300) can bypass the circulation line (300) and flow outside of it.

[0083] The branch line (700) according to the present embodiment may have the shape of a pipe with an empty interior and open ends.

[0084] In this embodiment, both ends of the branch line (700) may be connected to the circulation line (300). For example, the branch line (700) may include a first end (701) that receives a heat transfer medium (A) from the circulation line (300) and a second end (702) that delivers the heat transfer medium (A) to the circulation line (300). The first end (701) and the second end (702) may each be exemplified as the two ends of the branch line (700) connected to different sides of the circulation line (300). Accordingly, the heat transfer medium (A) introduced from the circulation line (300) into the branch line (700) through the first end (701) may be re-supplied to the circulation line (300) through the second end (702) after flowing along the branch line (700).

[0085] In this embodiment, the branch line (700) can be connected to the second line (320).

[0086] For example, the second transmission line (320) may include a first section (321), a second section (322), and a third section (323) that are sequentially connected from the first heat exchanger (400) toward the second heat exchanger (500). The first section (321), the second section (322), and the third section (323) may be different regions of the second transmission line (320) that are continuously connected between the first heat exchanger (400) and the second heat exchanger (500). The front end of the first section (321), second section (322) and third section (323) described below may be one end of the first section (321), second section (322) and third section (323) arranged to face the flow direction of the heat transfer medium (A), and the rear end of the first section (321), second section (322) and third section (323) may be the other end of the first section (321), second section (322) and third section (323) arranged to face the opposite direction of the flow direction of the heat transfer medium (A).

[0087] The first end (701) of the branch line (700) may be positioned between the first section (321) and the second section (322). The first end (701) of the branch line (700) may be connected to the front end of the first section (321) and the rear end of the second section (322). Accordingly, the heat transfer medium (A) that passes through the first heat exchanger (400) and flows into the first section (321) may flow into the second section (322) or the first end (701) of the branch line (700).

[0088] The second end (702) of the branch line (700) may be positioned between the second section (322) and the third section (323). The second end (702) of the branch line (700) may be connected to the front end of the second section (322) and the rear end of the third section (323). Accordingly, the heat transfer medium (A) introduced into the branch line (700) through the first end (701) of the branch line (700) may be discharged to the third section (323) through the second end (702) of the branch line (700).

[0089] The second reservoir tank (800) is connected to the branch line (700) and can store a heat transfer medium (A) flowing through the branch line (700). The second reservoir tank (800) can function as a configuration that supplies the heat transfer medium (A) to the branch line (700) or recovers the heat transfer medium (A) from the branch line (700) in response to changes in the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing through the branch line (700).

[0090] The second reservoir tank (800) according to the present embodiment may be formed to have the shape of various types of storage tanks, with a space provided inside for storing a heat transfer medium (A). Both sides of the second reservoir tank (800) may be connected to a branch line (700). The second reservoir tank (800) may store a heat transfer medium (A) that flows toward the second heat exchanger (500) along the branch line (700) after passing through the first heat exchanger (400).

[0091] The hydrogen charging device according to the present embodiment can relatively increase the capacity of the heat transfer medium (A) branched from the circulation line (300) to the branch line (700) by additionally providing a second reservoir tank (800) in the branch line (700). In addition, the hydrogen charging device according to the present embodiment can prevent a decrease in the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) entering the first heat exchanger (400) during the process of the heat transfer medium (A) branching from the circulation line (300) to the branch line (700) by connecting the branch line (700) and the second reservoir tank (800) to the second transfer line (320), and can prevent a decrease in the cooling efficiency of the hydrogen (H) in the first heat exchanger (400). In addition, the hydrogen charging device according to the present embodiment can prevent the cooling performance of the heat transfer medium (A) in the second heat exchanger (500) from deteriorating when the heat transfer medium (A) that has passed through the first heat exchanger (400) overheats due to a rapid increase in the cooling load of hydrogen (H), by primarily lowering the temperature of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing into the second heat exchanger (500) through the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the second reservoir tank (800) connected to the second transfer line (320).

[0092] The flow control member (900) can control the flow of the heat transfer medium through the circulation line (300) and the branch line (700).

[0093] FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of a flow control member according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0094] Referring to FIG. 2, the flow control member (900) according to the present embodiment may include a pump (910) and a valve (920).

[0095] The pump (910) is connected to the circulation line (300) and can flow a heat transfer medium (A) along the circulation line (300) and the branch line (700). That is, the pump (910) can function as a configuration that provides a flow force for hydrogen (H) to flow along the circulation line (300) and the branch line (700).

[0096] The pump (910) according to the present embodiment may include a first pump (911) and a second pump (912).

[0097] The first pump (911) and the second pump (912) can be exemplified by various types of fluid transfer means capable of receiving power from an external source and flowing a heat transfer medium (A) in one direction.

[0098] The first pump (911) may be positioned between the first reservoir tank (600) and the first heat exchanger (400). The first pump (911) may be connected to a first transfer line (310) located between the first reservoir tank (600) and the first heat exchanger (400). The inlet and outlet of the first pump (911) may be connected to different sides of the first transfer line (310), respectively. The inlet and outlet of the first pump (911) may be positioned to face the first reservoir tank (600) and the first heat exchanger (400), respectively. Accordingly, when the first pump (911) is operated, the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the first reservoir tank (600) may flow along the first transfer line (310) toward the first heat exchanger (400).

[0099] The second pump (912) may be positioned between the branch line (700) and the second heat exchanger (500). The second pump (912) may be connected to the third section (323) of the second transmission line (320) located between the second end (702) of the branch line (700) and the second heat exchanger (500). The inlet and discharge port of the second pump (912) may each be connected to different sides of the third section (323). The inlet and discharge port of the second pump (912) may be positioned to face the second end (702) of the branch line (700) and the second heat exchanger (500), respectively. Accordingly, when the second pump (912) is operated, the heat transfer medium (A) that has passed through the branch line (700) or the second section (322) can flow toward the second heat exchanger (500) along the third section (323).

[0100] The valve (920) may be positioned between the circulation line (300) and the branch line (700). By opening and closing the circulation line (300) and the branch line (700), the valve (920) can control the flow direction of the heat transfer medium (A) through the circulation line (300) and the branch line (700), or control the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing through the circulation line (300) and the branch line (700).

[0101] The valve (920) according to the present embodiment may include a first valve (921).

[0102] The first valve (921) may be positioned between the circulation line (300) and the second end (702) of the branch line (700). The first valve (921) may restrict or allow the flow of the heat transfer medium (A) through the circulation line (300) and the second end (702), or regulate the flow rate of the heat transfer medium through the circulation line (300) and the second end (702).

[0103] The first valve (921) according to the present embodiment may include a 3-way valve connected to the second end (702), the front end of the second section (322), and the rear end of the third section (323). However, the first valve (921) is not limited thereto and may be configured to include a plurality of valves connected to the second end (702), the front end of the second section (322), and the rear end of the third section (323), respectively.

[0104] The first valve (921) can individually open and close the second end (702), the front end of the second section (322), and the rear end of the third section (323). The first valve (921) can individually allow or restrict the transfer of the heat transfer medium (A) within the second end (702) or the second section (322) to the third section (323) by means of the opening and closing operation. The first valve (921) can individually control the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) transferred from the second end (702) or the second section (322) to the third section (323) by means of the opening and closing operation.

[0105] The first valve (921) may be an electronic valve that performs opening and closing operations by an electric signal applied from the outside.

[0106] The valve (920) according to the present embodiment may further include a second valve (922). In the following description, the valve (920) according to the present embodiment will be described as an example in which it includes both the first valve (921) and the second valve (922), but the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is also possible for the valve (920) to be configured to include only the first valve (921).

[0107] The second valve (922) may be positioned between the first end (701) of the circulation line (300) and the branch line (700). The second valve (922) may restrict or allow the flow of the heat transfer medium (A) through the circulation line (300) and the first end (701), or regulate the flow rate of the heat transfer medium through the circulation line (300) and the first end (701).

[0108] The second valve (922) according to the present embodiment may include a 3-way valve connected to the first end (701), the front end of the first section (321), and the rear end of the second section (322). However, the second valve (922) is not limited thereto and may be configured to include a plurality of valves connected to the first end (701), the front end of the first section (321), and the rear end of the second section (322), respectively.

[0109] The second valve (922) can individually open and close the first section (701), the front section of the first section (321), and the rear section of the second section (322). The second valve (922) can individually allow or restrict the transfer of the heat transfer medium (A) within the first section (321) to the first section (701) or the second section (322) by means of the opening and closing operation. The first valve (921) can individually control the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) transferred to the first section (701) or the second section (322) by means of the opening and closing operation.

[0110] The second valve (922) may be an electronic valve that performs opening and closing operations by an electric signal applied from the outside.

[0111] The flow control member (900) according to the present embodiment may further include a temperature sensor (930) and a processor (940).

[0112] The temperature sensor (930) can detect the temperature of the heat transfer medium (A).

[0113] The temperature sensor (930) according to the present embodiment may include a first temperature sensor (931).

[0114] The first temperature sensor (931) may be positioned between the second heat exchanger (500) and the first reservoir tank (600). The first temperature sensor (931) may be connected to a first transmission line (310) located between the second heat exchanger (500) and the first reservoir tank (600). The first temperature sensor (931) can detect the temperature of the heat transfer medium (A) that is transferred to the first reservoir tank (600) along the first transmission line (310) after passing through the second heat exchanger (500). The first temperature sensor (931) according to the present embodiment may be exemplified by various types of temperature sensing means capable of measuring the temperature of the heat transfer medium (A), such as a thermistor, an infrared temperature sensor, or a thermocouple.

[0115] The temperature sensor (930) according to the present embodiment may further include a second temperature sensor (932), a third temperature sensor (933), and a fourth temperature sensor (934). In the following description, the temperature sensor (930) is described as an example of including all of the first temperature sensor (931), the second temperature sensor (932), the third temperature sensor (933), and the fourth temperature sensor (934), but the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is also possible for the temperature sensor (930) to include only the first temperature sensor (931), or for the temperature sensor (930) to be configured to include only one or two of the first temperature sensor (931), the second temperature sensor (932), the third temperature sensor (933), and the fourth temperature sensor (934).

[0116] The second temperature sensor (932) may be positioned between the first heat exchanger (400) and the first reservoir tank (600). The second temperature sensor (932) may be connected to the first transmission line (310) located between the first heat exchanger (400) and the first reservoir tank (600). The second temperature sensor (932) can detect the temperature of the heat transfer medium (A) that is transferred to the first heat exchanger (400) along the first transmission line (310) after passing through the first reservoir tank (600). The second temperature sensor (932) according to the present embodiment may be exemplified by various types of temperature sensing means capable of measuring the temperature of the heat transfer medium (A), such as a thermistor, an infrared temperature sensor, or a thermocouple.

[0117] The third temperature sensor (933) can be connected to the first reservoir tank (600). The third temperature sensor (933) can detect the temperature of the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the first reservoir tank (600). The third temperature sensor (933) according to the present embodiment can be exemplified by various types of temperature sensing means capable of measuring the temperature of the heat transfer medium (A), such as a thermistor, an infrared temperature sensor, or a thermocouple.

[0118] The fourth temperature sensor (934) can be connected to the second reservoir tank (800). The fourth temperature sensor (934) can detect the temperature of the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the second reservoir tank (800). The fourth temperature sensor (934) according to the present embodiment can be exemplified by various types of temperature sensing means capable of measuring the temperature of the heat transfer medium (A), such as a thermistor, an infrared temperature sensor, or a thermocouple.

[0119] The processor (940) can control the overall operation of the pump (910) and valve (920).

[0120] More specifically, the processor (940) is electrically connected to the first pump (911) and the second pump (912) and can individually control the on / off operation of the first pump (911) and the second pump (912) and the discharge amount of the first pump (911) and the second pump (912).

[0121] The processor (940) is electrically connected to the first valve (921) and the second valve (922) and can individually control the opening and closing operation of the first valve (921) and the second valve (922) and the amount of opening and closing of the first valve (921) and the second valve (922).

[0122] The processor (940) can control the operation of the pump (910) and the valve (920) based on the temperature value of the heat transfer medium (A) detected by the temperature sensor (930). For example, the processor (940) is electrically connected to the first temperature sensor (931), the second temperature sensor (932), the third temperature sensor (933), and the fourth temperature sensor (934), and can control the operation of the first pump (911), the second pump (912), the first valve (921), and the second valve (922) based on the temperature value of the heat transfer medium (A) detected by at least one of the first temperature sensor (931), the second temperature sensor (932), the third temperature sensor (933), and the fourth temperature sensor (934).

[0123] The processor (940) may be configured to include an Electronic Control Unit (ECU), a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a processor, or a System on Chip (SoC), and may control multiple hardware or software components by running an operating system or application, and may perform various data processing and calculations. The processor (940) may be configured to execute at least one instruction stored in memory and store the execution result data in memory.

[0124] Hereinafter, a control method for a hydrogen charging device according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0125] FIG. 3 is a flowchart schematically showing the sequence of a control method for a hydrogen charging device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 3, the heat transfer medium (A) can be pre-cooled (S100) in a charging standby state where hydrogen charging by the dispenser (100) has not yet started.

[0127] FIG. 4 is a flowchart schematically showing the sequence of pre-cooling the heat transfer medium in a charging standby state, and FIG. 5 to 8 are diagrams schematically showing the process of pre-cooling the heat transfer medium in a charging standby state.

[0128] With reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, step S100 can be explained in detail. First, the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the first reservoir tank (600) can be reduced, and the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the second reservoir tank (800) can be increased (S110).

[0129] In step S110, the processor (940) can operate the first valve (921) so that the second end (702) of the branch line (700) and the rear end of the third section (323) are closed.

[0130] In step S110, the processor (940) may operate the second valve (922) so that the first end (701) of the branch line (700) is opened. In this process, the processor (940) may operate the second valve (922) so that the rear end of the second section (322) is closed, or alternatively, it is also possible to operate the second valve (922) so that the rear end of the second section (322) remains open. Meanwhile, if the valve (920) according to the present embodiment does not include the second valve (922), the control operation of the second valve (922) may be omitted.

[0131] Afterward, the processor (940) can operate the first pump (911) so that the heat transfer medium (A) flows along the first transfer line (310).

[0132] The heat transfer medium (A) stored in the first reservoir tank (600) by the operation of the first pump (911) can flow into the first section (321) of the second transfer line (320) after sequentially passing through the first transfer line (310) and the first heat exchanger (400).

[0133] As the rear end of the third section (323) is closed by the first valve (921) and the rear end of the second section (322) is closed by the second valve (922), all of the heat transfer medium (A) in the first section (321) can flow into the first end (701) of the branch line (700).

[0134] The heat transfer medium (A) introduced into the first section (701) flows along the branch line (700) and can be transferred to the second reservoir tank (800).

[0135] As the second end (702) is closed by the first valve (921), the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the second reservoir tank (800) is not transferred to the third section (323) and can be gradually accumulated in the second reservoir tank (800).

[0136] Accordingly, the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the second reservoir tank (800) can be increased, and the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the first reservoir tank (600) can be decreased.

[0137] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 6, after step S110, a heat transfer medium (A) can be flowed along the circulation line (300) (S120).

[0138] In step S120, the processor (940) can operate the first valve (921) so that the second end (702) of the branch line (700) remains closed, and the rear end of the third section (323) and the front end of the second section (322) are opened.

[0139] In step S120, the processor (940) may operate the second valve (922) so that the first end (701) of the branch line (700) is closed and the rear end of the second section (322) and the front end of the first section (321) are opened. Alternatively, in step S120, the processor (940) may also operate the second valve (922) so that the first end (701) of the branch line (700) remains open.

[0140] In step S120, the processor (940) can operate the first pump (911) and the second pump (912) so that the heat transfer medium (A) flows along the first transmission line (310) and the second transmission line (320).

[0141] The heat transfer medium (A) flowing from the first heat exchanger (400) to the first section (321) of the second transfer line (320) by the operation of the first pump (911) and the second pump (912) is not transferred to the first section (701) but can be transferred to the second section (322).

[0142] The heat transfer medium (A) delivered to the second section (322) can be introduced into the second heat exchanger (500) through the third section (323).

[0143] As the heat transfer medium (A) passes through the second heat exchanger (500), the heat transfer medium (A) can be cooled by heat exchange with the refrigerant.

[0144] Afterwards, the heat transfer medium (A) is transferred to the first transfer line (310) and can circulate through the first transfer line (310) and the second transfer line (320).

[0145] This operation can be continued until the temperature of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing through the circulation line (300) is maintained below the set temperature.

[0146] Accordingly, when the charging waiting time is relatively short due to continuous charging operations or emergency charging, the hydrogen charging device according to the present embodiment can reduce the amount of heat transfer medium (A) that is pre-cooled in the charging waiting state, thereby allowing the heat transfer medium (A) flowing through the circulation line (300) to quickly reach a set temperature.

[0147] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 7, when sufficient charging waiting time is secured, the hydrogen charging device can increase the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the first reservoir tank (600) and decrease the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the second reservoir tank (800) after step S120 (S130).

[0148] In step S130, the processor (940) can operate the first valve (921) so that the second end (702) of the branch line (700) and the rear end of the third section (323) are opened.

[0149] In step S130, the processor (940) can operate the second pump (912) so that the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the second reservoir tank (800) flows into the third section (323).

[0150] In step S130, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the processor (940) may operate the first valve (921) so that the front end of the second section (322) is closed, and the second valve (922) so that both the first end (701) and the rear end of the second section (322) are closed, and then operate only the second pump (912).

[0151] The heat transfer medium (A) stored in the second reservoir tank (800) flows into the second heat exchanger (500) through the third section (323) and can be cooled as it passes through the second heat exchanger (500).

[0152] The heat transfer medium (A), cooled while passing through the second heat exchanger (500), can be transferred to the first reservoir tank (600).

[0153] As the rear ends of the first section (701) and the second section (322) are both closed, the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the first reservoir tank (600) can increase, and the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the second reservoir tank (800) can decrease.

[0154] Accordingly, the hydrogen charging device according to the present embodiment can secure cooling performance for high load and high flow rate hydrogen charging by increasing the absolute amount of heat transfer medium (A) that is pre-cooled in the charging standby state when sufficient charging standby time is secured.

[0155] Meanwhile, step S130 is not limited to the method described above, and can be performed through various methods that increase the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the first reservoir tank (600) and decrease the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the second reservoir tank (800).

[0156] For example, in step S130, the processor (940) may operate the first valve (921) so that the first end (701) is opened while the heat transfer medium (A) is continuously circulating through the circulation line (300) as in FIG. 6.

[0157] In this case, the heat transfer medium (A) in the circulation line (300) flows continuously in circulation along the circulation line (300), and the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the second reservoir tank (800) can be additionally supplied to the circulation line (300) through the third section (323).

[0158] Accordingly, the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the first reservoir tank (600) can be gradually increased, and the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the second reservoir tank (800) can be gradually decreased.

[0159] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 8, when sufficient charging waiting time is secured, the hydrogen charging device can flow a heat transfer medium (A) along the circulation line (300) and branch line (700) after step S120 (S140).

[0160] In step S100, if sufficient charging waiting time is secured, the hydrogen charging device may sequentially perform steps S130 and S140 after step S120, perform steps S130 and S140 simultaneously, or perform only step S140 without step S130.

[0161] In step S140, the processor (940) can operate the first valve (921) so that the second end (702) of the branch line (700) and the rear end of the third section (323) are opened, and the front end of the second section (322) is closed.

[0162] In step S140, the processor (940) can operate the second valve (922) so that the first end (701) of the branch line (700) and the front end of the first section (321) are opened, and the rear end of the second section (322) is closed.

[0163] Afterward, the processor (940) can operate both the first pump (911) and the second pump (912) so that the heat transfer medium (A) flows along the first transmission line (310) and the second transmission line (320).

[0164] Accordingly, the heat transfer medium (A) that has passed through the first heat exchanger (400) is transferred from the first section (321) to the second end (702) of the branch line (700), and can be transferred to the third section (323) by sequentially passing through the second reservoir tank (800) and the first end (701).

[0165] Afterwards, the heat transfer medium (A) can sequentially pass through the second heat exchanger (500), the first reservoir tank (600), and the first heat exchanger (400), and then flow back into the branch line (700).

[0166] That is, the heat transfer medium (A) can repeatedly flow in a circulating manner along the first transmission line (310), the first section (321), the branch line (700), and the third section (323).

[0167] In this process, the heat transfer medium (A) in the circulation line (300) and branch line (700) can all pass through the second heat exchanger (500) and be cooled to a temperature below the set temperature.

[0168] Accordingly, when sufficient charging waiting time is secured, the hydrogen charging device according to the present embodiment can secure cooling performance for high load and high flow rate hydrogen charging by pre-cooling both the heat transfer medium (A) in the circulation line (300) and the branch line (700) in the charging waiting state.

[0169] After step S100, the hydrogen charging device can start hydrogen charging and cool the hydrogen (H) by heat exchange between the heat transfer medium (A) and the hydrogen (H) (S200).

[0170] Figure 9 is a diagram schematically showing the process of heat exchange between the heat transfer medium and hydrogen during hydrogen charging.

[0171] Referring to FIG. 9, in step S200, the processor (940) can operate the pump (910) and valve (920) so that the heat transfer medium (A) flows along the circulation line (300).

[0172] For example, in step S200, the processor (940) can operate the first valve (921) so that the second end (702) of the branch line (700) is closed and the rear end of the third section (323) and the front end of the second section (322) are opened.

[0173] In step S200, the processor (940) can operate the second valve (922) so that the first end (701) of the branch line (700) is closed and the rear end of the second section (322) and the front end of the first section (321) are opened.

[0174] Afterward, the processor (940) can operate the first pump (911) and the second pump (912) so that the heat transfer medium (A) flows along the first transmission line (310) and the second transmission line (320).

[0175] Accordingly, the heat transfer medium (A) can continuously circulate through the first transfer line (310) and the second transfer line (320).

[0176] In step S200, the supply processor (240) can operate the supply valve (230) so that the supply line (210) is opened.

[0177] Hydrogen (H) stored in the hydrogen storage tank (201) flows into the supply line (210) and can be charged into a hydrogen vehicle (V) by passing through the first heat exchanger (400) and the charging nozzle (120) in sequence.

[0178] In this process, hydrogen (H) passing through the first heat exchanger (400) can be cooled by heat exchange with the heat transfer medium (A).

[0179] Accordingly, the hydrogen charging device according to the present embodiment can increase the charging capacity of hydrogen (H) by cooling the hydrogen (H) before the hydrogen (H) is charged into the hydrogen vehicle (V).

[0180] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically showing a modified example of the process in which heat is exchanged between a heat transfer medium and hydrogen during hydrogen charging.

[0181] Referring to FIG. 10, in step S200, the processor (940) can operate the pump (910) and valve (920) so that the heat transfer medium (A) flows along the circulation line (300) and branch line (700).

[0182] In step S200, the processor (940) can operate the first valve (921) so that the second end (702) of the branch line (700) and the rear end of the third section (323) are opened, and the front end of the second section (322) is closed.

[0183] In step S200, the processor (940) can operate the second valve (922) so that the first end (701) of the branch line (700) and the front end of the first section (321) are opened, and the rear end of the second section (322) is closed.

[0184] Afterward, the processor (940) can operate both the first pump (911) and the second pump (912) so that the heat transfer medium (A) flows along the first transmission line (310) and the second transmission line (320).

[0185] By the operation of the first pump (911) and the second pump (912), the heat transfer medium (A) can repeatedly circulate along the first transfer line (310), the first section (321), the branch line (700), and the third section (323), and perform heat exchange with hydrogen (H) through the first heat exchanger (400).

[0186] After step S100, the hydrogen charging device can control the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing into the second heat exchanger (500) based on the temperature change of the heat transfer medium (A) (S300).

[0187] Step S300 can be performed repeatedly during the set time for hydrogen charging.

[0188] FIG. 11 is a flowchart schematically showing the sequence of controlling the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger during hydrogen charging, and FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 are diagrams schematically showing the process of controlling the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger during hydrogen charging.

[0189] Referring to FIG. 11, the temperature of the heat transfer medium (A) is detected during the heat exchange process between the heat transfer medium (A) and hydrogen (H) (S310).

[0190] Step S310 can be performed by a temperature sensor (930).

[0191] In step S310, the first temperature sensor (931) and the second temperature sensor (932) monitor the temperature change of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing along the first transmission line (310), and the third temperature sensor (933) and the fourth temperature sensor (934) can detect the temperature change of the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the first reservoir tank (600) and the second reservoir tank (800), respectively.

[0192] After step S310, the processor (940) determines whether the temperature of the heat transfer medium (A) that has passed through the second heat exchanger (500) is above a set temperature (S320).

[0193] In step S320, the processor (940) can determine whether the temperature of the heat transfer medium (A) detected by at least one of the first temperature sensor (931), the second temperature sensor (932), and the third temperature sensor (933) located downstream of the second heat exchanger (500) is above a set temperature.

[0194] For example, if the cooling load of hydrogen (H) in the first heat exchanger (400) increases excessively, the heat transfer medium (A) may be overheated during the process of passing through the first heat exchanger (400).

[0195] If the amount of heat contained in the heat transfer medium (A) flowing into the second heat exchanger (500) exceeds the cooling capacity of the second heat exchanger (500) due to overheating of the heat transfer medium (A), the heat transfer medium (A) may not be cooled to a temperature below the set temperature during the process of passing through the second heat exchanger (500).

[0196] In such a case, the temperature of the heat transfer medium (A) detected by at least one of the first temperature sensor (931), the second temperature sensor (932), and the third temperature sensor (933) located downstream of the second heat exchanger (500) may be higher than the set temperature.

[0197] In step S320, if the temperature of the heat transfer medium (A) passing through the second heat exchanger (500) is determined to be above the set temperature, the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing into the second heat exchanger (500) can be reduced to less than the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing into the first heat exchanger (400) (S330).

[0198] Referring to FIG. 12, in step S330, the processor (940) can operate the first valve (921) so that the opening rate of the rear end of the third section (323) is reduced.

[0199] Accordingly, the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing into the second heat exchanger (500) through the third section (323) is reduced, and the cooling load of the second heat exchanger (500) is also reduced, so that the heat transfer medium (A) passing through the second heat exchanger (500) can be cooled to a temperature below the set temperature.

[0200] In step S330, the processor (940) can operate the pump (910) and valve (920) so that the heat transfer medium (A) flows along the circulation line (300) and branch line (700).

[0201] For example, in step S330, the processor (940) can operate the first valve (921) so that the second end (702) of the branch line (700) and the rear end of the third section (323) are opened and the front end of the second section (322) is closed while maintaining the operation of the first pump (911) and the second pump (912).

[0202] In step S330, the processor (940) can operate the second valve (922) so that the first end (701) of the branch line (700) and the front end of the first section (321) are opened, and the rear end of the second section (322) is closed.

[0203] The heat transfer medium (A) that has passed through the first heat exchanger (400) is transferred from the first section (321) to the second end (702) of the branch line (700), and can be transferred to the third section (323) by sequentially passing through the second reservoir tank (800) and the first end (701).

[0204] Accordingly, even if the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing into the second heat exchanger (500) decreases due to the operation of the first valve (921), the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing into the first heat exchanger (400) does not decrease through the buffering action of the second reservoir tank (800) and can maintain the initial state.

[0205] As such, as the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing into the second heat exchanger (500) is maintained at a lower rate than the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing into the first heat exchanger (400), the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the first reservoir tank (600) can be gradually reduced, and the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the second reservoir tank (800) can be gradually increased.

[0206] Accordingly, the cooling performance of the first heat exchanger (400) can be maintained at the same level during the process of controlling the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing into the second heat exchanger (500).

[0207] In step S320, if the temperature of the heat transfer medium (A) passing through the second heat exchanger (500) is determined to be below the set temperature, the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing into the second heat exchanger (500) can be maintained at the same rate as the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing into the first heat exchanger (400) (S340).

[0208] Referring to FIG. 13, in step S340, the processor (940) can operate the pump (910) and valve (920) so that the heat transfer medium (A) flows along the circulation line (300).

[0209] For example, in step S340, the processor (940) can operate the first valve (921) so that the second end (702) of the branch line (700) is closed and the rear end of the third section (323) and the front end of the second section (322) are opened while maintaining the operation of the first pump (911) and the second pump (912).

[0210] In step S340, the processor (940) can operate the second valve (922) so that the first end (701) of the branch line (700) is closed and the rear end of the second section (322) and the front end of the first section (321) are opened.

[0211] Accordingly, the heat transfer medium (A) can flow continuously in circulation along the first transmission line (310) and the second transmission line (320) without flowing through the branch line (700).

[0212] Step S340 is not limited to the above method, and can be performed through various methods within a range where the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing into the second heat exchanger (500) is maintained to be the same as the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing into the first heat exchanger (400).

[0213] For example, step S340 can be performed by operating the first valve (921) so that the opening rate of the rear end of the third section (323) returns to the initial state in the state of FIG. 12. In this case, the heat transfer medium (A) can be maintained in a state of continuous circulation along the circulation line (300) and branch line (700).

[0214] That is, the hydrogen charging device according to the present embodiment can restore the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing into the second heat exchanger (500) to be the same as the flow rate of the heat transfer medium (A) flowing into the first heat exchanger (400) through step S340 after the overheating of the heat transfer medium (A) is relieved through step S330.

[0215] Accordingly, even after the overheating of the heat transfer medium (A) is relieved, the S330 stage is maintained, and the heat transfer medium (A) stored in the first reservoir tank (600) can be prevented from continuously decreasing.

[0216] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, this is merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent alternative embodiments are possible therefrom.

[0217] Therefore, the technical scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the following patent claims. Explanation of the symbols

[0219] 100 : Dispenser 110 : Dispenser body 120 : Charging Nozzle 130 : Breakaway 200 : Supply component 210 : Supply line 220 : Supply pump 230 : Supply valve 240 : Supply processor 300 : Circulation line 310 : 1st Trans-line 320 : 2nd Trans-line 321 : Section 1 322 : Section 2 323 : Section 3 400 : 1st heat exchanger 500: 2nd heat exchanger 600: 1st reservoir tank 700 : Branch line 701 : 1st section 702: 2nd section 800: 2nd reservoir tank 900 : Flow control member 910 : Pump 911: Pump 1 912: Pump 2 920 : Valve 921 : First valve 922 : Second valve 930 : Temperature sensor 931: 1st temperature sensor 932: 2nd temperature sensor 933: 3rd temperature sensor 934: 4th temperature sensor 940: Processor

Claims

Claim 1 A dispenser; a supply member connected to the dispenser and having a supply line through which hydrogen flows; a circulation line spaced apart from the supply line and through which a heat transfer medium flows; a first heat exchanger connected to the supply line and the circulation line and cooling the hydrogen; a second heat exchanger connected to the circulation line and cooling the heat transfer medium; a branch line branching from the circulation line; a first reservoir tank connected to the circulation line and storing the heat transfer medium; a second reservoir tank connected to the branch line and storing the heat transfer medium; and a flow control member controlling the flow of the heat transfer medium through the circulation line and the branch line; wherein the circulation line comprises a first transmission line that transmits the heat transfer medium that has passed through the second heat exchanger to the first heat exchanger; A hydrogen charging device comprising: a first section and a second section for transferring the heat transfer medium that has passed through the first heat exchanger to the second heat exchanger; wherein the first reservoir tank is connected to the first section and the branch line is connected to the second section, and the second section comprises a first section, a second section and a third section sequentially connected from the first heat exchanger toward the second heat exchanger; and wherein the branch line comprises a first section disposed between the first section and the second section; and a second section disposed between the second section and the third section. Claim 2 A hydrogen charging device according to claim 1, characterized in that both ends of the branch line are connected to the circulation line. Claim 3 delete Claim 4 delete Claim 5 A hydrogen charging device according to claim 1, wherein the flow control member comprises: a pump connected to the circulation line; and a valve disposed between the circulation line and the branch line and controlling the flow direction and flow rate of the heat transfer medium through the circulation line and the branch line. Claim 6 A dispenser; a supply member connected to the dispenser and having a supply line through which hydrogen flows; a circulation line spaced apart from the supply line and through which a heat transfer medium flows; a first heat exchanger connected to the supply line and the circulation line and cooling the hydrogen; a second heat exchanger connected to the circulation line and cooling the heat transfer medium; a branch line branching from the circulation line; a first reservoir tank connected to the circulation line and storing the heat transfer medium; a second reservoir tank connected to the branch line and storing the heat transfer medium; and a flow control member for controlling the flow of the heat transfer medium through the circulation line and the branch line; wherein the flow control member comprises a pump connected to the circulation line; A hydrogen charging device comprising: a valve disposed between the circulation line and the branch line and controlling the flow direction and flow rate of the heat transfer medium through the circulation line and the branch line; wherein the pump comprises: a first pump disposed between the first reservoir tank and the second heat exchanger; and a second pump disposed between the branch line and the second heat exchanger. Claim 7 A dispenser; a supply member connected to the dispenser and having a supply line through which hydrogen flows; a circulation line spaced apart from the supply line and through which a heat transfer medium flows; a first heat exchanger connected to the supply line and the circulation line and cooling the hydrogen; a second heat exchanger connected to the circulation line and cooling the heat transfer medium; a branch line branching from the circulation line; a first reservoir tank connected to the circulation line and storing the heat transfer medium; a second reservoir tank connected to the branch line and storing the heat transfer medium; and a flow control member for controlling the flow of the heat transfer medium through the circulation line and the branch line; wherein the flow control member includes a pump connected to the circulation line; and a valve disposed between the circulation line and the branch line and controlling the flow direction and flow rate of the heat transfer medium through the circulation line and the branch line; and wherein the branch line includes a first end portion receiving the heat transfer medium from the circulation line; A hydrogen charging device characterized by comprising: a first end portion spaced apart from the first end portion and a second end portion that transmits the heat transfer medium to the circulation line; wherein the valve comprises a first valve disposed between the circulation line and the second end portion. Claim 8 A hydrogen charging device according to claim 7, characterized in that the first valve includes a 3-way valve. Claim 9 A hydrogen charging device according to claim 7, characterized in that the valve further comprises a second valve disposed between the circulation line and the first end portion. Claim 10 A hydrogen refueling device according to any one of claims 5 to 9, wherein the flow control member further comprises: a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the heat transfer medium; and a processor for controlling the operation of the pump and the valve based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor. Claim 11 A hydrogen charging device according to claim 10, characterized in that the temperature sensor comprises a first temperature sensor disposed between the second heat exchanger and the first reservoir tank. Claim 12 A control method for a hydrogen refueling device comprising: a dispenser; a supply member having a supply line connected to the dispenser and through which hydrogen flows; a circulation line spaced apart from the supply line and through which a heat transfer medium flows; a first heat exchanger connected to the supply line and the circulation line and for cooling the hydrogen; a second heat exchanger connected to the circulation line and for cooling the heat transfer medium; a branch line branching from the circulation line; a first reservoir tank connected to the circulation line and for storing the heat transfer medium; a second reservoir tank connected to the branch line and for storing the heat transfer medium; and a flow control member for controlling the flow of the heat transfer medium through the circulation line and the branch line, the method comprising: a step of pre-cooling the heat transfer medium; and a step of cooling the hydrogen by heat exchange between the heat transfer medium and the hydrogen. A method for controlling a hydrogen charging device, comprising: a step of controlling the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger based on a temperature change of the heat transfer medium; and a step of pre-cooling the heat transfer medium, comprising: a step of decreasing the heat transfer medium stored in the first reservoir tank and increasing the heat transfer medium stored in the second reservoir tank; and a step of flowing the heat transfer medium along the circulation line. Claim 13 delete Claim 14 A method for controlling a hydrogen refueling device according to claim 12, wherein the step of pre-cooling the heat transfer medium further comprises the step of reducing the heat transfer medium stored in the second reservoir tank and increasing the heat transfer medium stored in the first reservoir tank after the step of flowing the heat transfer medium along the circulation line. Claim 15 A control method for a hydrogen charging device according to claim 12, wherein the step of pre-cooling the heat transfer medium further comprises the step of flowing the heat transfer medium along the circulation line and the branch line after the step of circulating the heat transfer medium along the circulation line. Claim 16 A control method for a hydrogen charging device according to claim 12, wherein, in the step of cooling the hydrogen by heat exchange between the heat transfer medium and the hydrogen, the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger is the same as the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the first heat exchanger. Claim 17 A control method for a hydrogen charging device according to claim 12, characterized in that the step of controlling the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger is performed repeatedly for a set period of time. Claim 18 A control method for a hydrogen refueling device comprising: a dispenser; a supply member having a supply line connected to the dispenser and through which hydrogen flows; a circulation line spaced apart from the supply line and through which a heat transfer medium flows; a first heat exchanger connected to the supply line and the circulation line and for cooling the hydrogen; a second heat exchanger connected to the circulation line and for cooling the heat transfer medium; a branch line branching from the circulation line; a first reservoir tank connected to the circulation line and for storing the heat transfer medium; a second reservoir tank connected to the branch line and for storing the heat transfer medium; and a flow control member for controlling the flow of the heat transfer medium through the circulation line and the branch line, the method comprising: a step of pre-cooling the heat transfer medium; and a step of cooling the hydrogen by heat exchange between the heat transfer medium and the hydrogen. A method for controlling a hydrogen charging device, comprising: a step of controlling the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger based on a temperature change of the heat transfer medium; wherein the step of controlling the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger comprises: a step of detecting the temperature of the heat transfer medium; a step of determining whether the temperature of the heat transfer medium passing through the second heat exchanger is above a set temperature; a step of reducing the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger to less than the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the first heat exchanger when the temperature of the heat transfer medium passing through the second heat exchanger is above the set temperature; and a step of maintaining the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger to be equal to the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the first heat exchanger when the temperature of the heat transfer medium passing through the second heat exchanger is below the set temperature. Claim 19 A control method for a hydrogen charging device according to claim 18, wherein, in the step of reducing the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger to less than the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the first heat exchanger, the heat transfer medium flows along the circulation line and the branch line. Claim 20 A method for controlling a hydrogen refueling device according to claim 18, wherein, in the step of reducing the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the second heat exchanger to less than the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the first heat exchanger, the heat transfer medium stored in the first reservoir tank is reduced and the heat transfer medium stored in the second reservoir tank is increased.

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