Hydrogen fuel system management

Abstract

Systems and methods and methods are disclosed for managing the filling of a fuel system of a prime mover that is powered at least in part with hydrogen fuel. Systems and methods and methods are also disclosed for managing the use of hydrogen fuel to power a prime mover.

Description

HYDROGEN FUEL SYSTEM MANAGEMENTCross-Reference to Related Application;

[0001] The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of the filing date of, U.S. Provisional App. Ser. No. 63 / 514,163 filed on July 18, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to fuel systems for prime movers, and more particularly is concerned with systems and methods for managing the fuel systems of prime movers fueled with hydrogen.BACKGROUND

[0003] Hydrogen fuel can be used to provide power to a prime mover for a vehicle, genset, or piece of equipment. The hydrogen fuel can be stored in multiple fuel tanks that are connected to the prime mover. These fuel tanks have pressure and temperature limits in order operate the hydrogen fuel system safely.

[0004] Hydrogen fuel is forced through a valve or other aperture in order to fill the hydrogen fuel tanks that power the prime mover, and / or as the fuel tanks provide hydrogen fuel to the prime mover. The subsequent expansion of the hydrogen fuel results in a temperature increase. What is needed are systems and methods that allow owners and operators to effectively manage hydrogen fuel systems to maintain the fuel tanks within desired operating limits. Therefore, further contributions in hydrogen fuel system management are disclosed herein.SUMMARY

[0005] Systems and methods are disclosed for managing hydrogen fuel systems that are used to fuel a prime mover associated with a vehicle, genset, or piece of equipment. In one embodiment, a temperature parameter associated with a first fuel tank of a fuel system is monitored during filling of the tank with hydrogen fuel from a fuel supply. The filling is switched to a second fuel tank of the fuel system in response to the temperature parameter reaching, or being predicted to reach, a threshold.

[0006] In one embodiment, a temperature parameter associated with a first fuel tank of a fuel system is monitored during operation of the prime mover while supplying hydrogen fuel from the first fuel tank to the prime mover. The supplying of fuel is switched to a second fuel tank of the fuel system in response to the temperature parameter reaching, or being predicted to reach, a threshold.

[0007] In one embodiment, a parameter associated with one or more fuel tanks of a fuel system is monitored during supply of hydrogen fuel for operation of the prime mover. In response to the parameter reaching, or being predicted to reach, a threshold, an output of the prime mover is altered.

[0008] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts that are further described below in the illustrative embodiments. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter. Further embodiments, forms, objects, features, advantages, aspects, and benefits shall become apparent from the following description and drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] FIG. l is a schematic illustration of a hydrogen fuel supply system, a hydrogen fuel storage system, and a prime mover.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a procedure for managing the operation of the systems of FIG. 1.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of a hydrogen fuel system and a prime mover.

[0012] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a procedure for managing the operation of the hydrogen fuel system of FIG. 3.

[0013] FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of a vehicle that includes a hydrogen fuel system and a prime mover.

[0014] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a procedure for managing the operation of the vehicle FIG. 5.

[0015] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of another embodiment of a procedure for managing the operation of the vehicle FIG. 5.DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

[0016] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, any alterations and further modifications in the illustrated embodiments, and any further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates are contemplated herein.

[0017] With reference to FIG. 1, a system 20 is shown that includes a prime mover 22 and a hydrogen fuel system 24. Hydrogen fuel system 24 is illustrated to include a first fuel tank 26, a second tank 28, a third tank 30, and a fourth tank 32 for storing hydrogen fuel 34. However, fuel system 24 contemplates any number of fuel tanks, including two or more fuel tanks. System 20 is shown in schematic form and may be an on-road vehicle, off-road vehicle, equipment, marine vessel, generator, or other device that is powered by prime mover 22. Prime mover 22 may be an internal combustion engine, motor, fuel cell, or combination thereof that is operable with hydrogen fuel to provide output power for use in operating system 20.

[0018] In the arrangement of FIG. 1, the hydrogen fuel 34 used to fill fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32 is stored in a fuel supply 36. A manifold 40 connects fuel supply line 42 to respective inlets of fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32. Each fuel tank inlet may include an inlet valve 44, 46, 48, 50, respectively. Fuel supply line 42 may also include a shut-off valve 52. In addition, each fuel tank 26, 28, 30, 32 may include an outlet with a corresponding outlet valve 54, 56, 58, 60 that is used to control fuel flow to prime mover 22 from each of the fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32.

[0019] Each fuel tank 26, 28, 30, 32 also includes a sensor 62, 64, 66, 68, respectively. Sensors 62, 64, 66, 68 are configured to measure one or more parameters indicative of a condition of the hydrogen fuel in the corresponding tank, 26, 28, 30, 32. In an embodiment, sensors 62, 64, 66, 68 are temperature sensors. In an embodiment, sensors62, 64, 66, 68 are pressure sensors. Other embodiments contemplated multiple sensors for each fuel tank, such as a temperature sensor and a pressure sensor for each fuel tank 26, 28, 30, 32.

[0020] In the embodiment such as shown in FIG. 1, each of the outlets of fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32 is connected to a common supply manifold 70, and an integrated outlet 72 is connected to the prime mover 22. One or more of the fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32 may be separately connected to prime mover 22 in other embodiments.

[0021] A controller 80 such as shown in FIG. 1 can be provided with system 20 to track various parameters associated with filling one or more of the fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32 with hydrogen fuel 32 from fuel supply 36. The parameters may include, for example, the temperature (predicted or measured) associated with each of the fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32. Another parameter may be a pressure (predicted or measured) of each of the fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32. Other parameters may be a quantity of hydrogen fuel contained in each of the fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32; a quantity of hydrogen fuel supplied to each of the fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32 during the filling event; an amount of time spent filling each fuel tank 26, 28, 30, 32 during the filling event; a pressure rating, temperature rating, material type, or other specification for each of the fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32; and / or a usage of hydrogen fuel by each fuel tank 26, 28, 30, 32 over time.

[0022] In certain embodiments of the hydrogen fuel systems 24 disclosed herein, controller 80 is structured to perform certain operations to control filling of fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32 during a filling event. Controller 80 may also or alternatively be structured to perform operations to control fueling of prime mover 22 from hydrogen fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32 and / or operations of prime mover 22 to provide the desired operational outcomes.

[0023] In certain embodiments, the controller 80 forms a portion of a processing subsystem including one or more computing devices having memory, processing, and communication hardware. The controller 80 may be a single device or a distributed device, and the functions of the controller 80 may be performed by hardware orinstructions provided on a computer readable storage medium. The controller 80 may be included within, partially included within, or completely separated from an engine controller (not shown). The controller 80 is in communication with any sensor or actuator throughout the systems disclosed herein, including through direct communication, communication over a datalink, and / or through communication with other controllers or portions of the processing subsystem that provide sensor and / or actuator information to the controller 80.

[0024] Example and non-limiting elements in communication with controller 80 include sensors providing any value determined herein, sensors providing any value that is a precursor to a value determined herein, datalink and / or network hardware including communication chips, oscillating crystals, communication links, cables, twisted pair wiring, coaxial wiring, shielded wiring, transmitters, receivers, and / or transceivers, logic circuits, hard-wired logic circuits, reconfigurable logic circuits in a particular non-transient state configured according to the module specification, any actuator including at least an electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic actuator, a solenoid, an op-amp, analog control elements (springs, filters, integrators, adders, dividers, gain elements), and / or digital control elements.

[0025] One of ordinary skill in the art, having the benefit of the disclosures herein, will recognize that the controllers, control systems and control methods disclosed herein are structured to perform operations that improve various technologies and provide improvements in various technological fields. Without limitation, example and nonlimiting technology improvements include improvements in hydrogen fuel systems, improvements in utilization of hydrogen fuel to power a prime mover 22, improvements in emissions reductions from prime movers, and / or improvements in performance or operation of components associated with prime movers. Without limitation, example and non-limiting technological fields that are improved include the technological fields of hydrogen fuel systems and related apparatuses and systems as well as prime movers that power vehicles, gensets, and / or equipment including the same.

[0026] Certain operations described herein include operations to log, receive, record, interpret, and / or to determine one or more parameters. Logging, recording, interpreting, or determining, as utilized herein, includes receiving values by any method known in the art, including at least receiving values from a datalink or network communication, receiving an electronic signal (e g. a voltage, frequency, current, or PWM signal) indicative of the value, receiving a computer generated parameter indicative of the value, reading the value from a memory location on a non-transient computer readable storage medium, receiving the value as a run-time parameter by any means known in the art, and / or by receiving a value by which the parameter can be calculated, and / or by referencing a default value that is interpreted to be the parameter value.

[0027] The schematic flow descriptions which follow provide illustrative embodiments of procedures and methods for managing and controlling filling of hydrogen fuel system 24, fueling of prime mover 22, and / or operation of prime mover 22. Operations illustrated are understood to be exemplary only, and operations may be combined or divided, and added or removed, as well as re-ordered in whole or part, unless stated explicitly to the contrary herein. Certain operations illustrated may be implemented by a computer or controller apparatus embodiment of controller 80 executing a computer program product on a nontransient computer readable storage medium, where the computer program product comprises instructions causing the computer to execute one or more of the operations, or to issue commands to other devices to execute one or more of the operations.

[0028] Controller 80 can be connected to actuators, switches, valves, meters, sensors, readers, cameras, transmitters, receivers, or other devices associated with fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32. Controller 80 is configured to provide control commands thereto that regulate the amount, timing and duration of the flows of the hydrogen fuel into and from fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32. Controller 80 is also configured to receive information about the hydrogen fuel stored in and provided from each of the fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32 from one or more data sources. Example data sources include, for example, re-fueling station computers, another computer or controller associated with prime mover 22 such as an engine control unit, tags (such as RFID tags) or codes (such as bar codes or quick response codes) provided on afuel tank, a hydrogen fuel dispenser used to re-fill the fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32, a computer or network associated with a platoon or fleet manager, a computer server or network associated with a vehicle owner, and / or an intelligent transportation system computer network.

[0029] In an embodiment of the methods disclosed herein, the controller 80 is locally mounted on the vehicle or equipment powered by prime mover 22. In an embodiment of the disclosed methods, controller 80 is a computer server remote from the prime mover 22 and / or fuel system 24. In an embodiment of the methods disclosed herein, a combination of a local controller 80 and remote computer server is contemplated. In an embodiment, controller 80 is part of an electronic control system, and may represent more than one controller.

[0030] Referring to FIG. 2, one embodiment of a process or method 200 filling fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32 of fuel system 24 is illustrated. Method 200 includes an operation 202 to initiate a fill operation of one or more of the tanks 26, 28, 30, 32 with hydrogen fuel from fuel supply 36. Operation 202 may include connecting the inlets of fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32 to fuel supply line 42. Shut-off valve 52 is opened, and one or more of the inlet valves 44, 46, 48, 50 is opened to fill the corresponding fuel tank with hydrogen fuel. For example, if fuel tank 26 is being filled, inlet valve 44 is opened, and inlet valves 46, 48, and 50 of the other fuel tanks 28, 30, and 32 are closed.

[0031] Method 200 continues at conditional 204 to determine if a temperature parameter associated with the fuel tank(s) 26, 28, 30, or 32 being filled exceeds or is predicted to exceed a threshold. The temperature parameter associated with the fuel tank 26 being filled at conditional 204 can be any one or combination of a measured or predicted temperature of the fuel tank 26, a temperature of the hydrogen fuel being discharged through shut-off valve 52 and / or inlet valve 44 to fill the fuel tank 26, and / or based on reaching a predetermined amount time elapsed in filling fuel tank 26. If conditional 204 is negative, method 200 returns to operation 202. If conditional 204 is positive, method 200 continues at operation 206.

[0032] Operation 206 terminates filling of the fuel tank 26 by closing inlet valve 44, before or after initiating a selection process for another of the fuel tanks 28, 30, or 32 to be filled from fuel supply 36. At operation 208, various parameters of the other fuel tanks 28, 30, 32 are evaluated in order to make the selection. Example parameters for the other fuel tanks 28, 30, 32 to be evaluated for selection include temperature parameters associated with the fuel tanks 28, 30, 32; a pressure range available in the fuel tanks 28, 30, 32; a fill percentage of fuel tanks 28, 30, 32; and / or vehicle mission parameters, such as route distance and available re-filling infrastructure along the route.

[0033] Method 200 continues at operation 210 to select one of the other fuel tanks 28, 30, 32 for filling based on the evaluation of parameters at operation 208. At operation 212, fuel supply 36 is transitioned for connection to the identified fuel tank. For example, if fuel tank 28 is identified for filling, inlet valve 46 is opened and inlet valves 44, 48, and 50 are closed. Method 200 then returns to operation 202. In an embodiment, switching the fuel supply 36 to fill the second tank occurs automatically in response to the temperature parameter of the first fuel tank reaching or being predicted to reach the threshold.Operation 210 may also result in no fuel tank selection, i.e. the filling of fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32 is complete. In addition, it is contemplated that multiple fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32 can be filled simultaneously. When one or more of the multiple fuel tanks being filled reaches an associated temperature threshold, fueling is transitioned to one or more other fuel tanks in which filling is desired.

[0034] In an embodiment, method 200 includes an operation to adjust a fill rate of the first fuel tank 26 with hydrogen fuel from the fuel supply in response to conditional 204 being positive. Adjusting the fill rate can include, for example, decreasing the fill rate of fuel tank 26 and / or pausing the filling of fuel tank 26 until a temperature parameter associated with the fuel tank 26 does not exceed or is predicted to not exceed a threshold. Filling of fuel tank 26 can then be resumed, or the fill rate can increased, if fuel tank 26 is not otherwise filled. In an embodiment, after adjusting (decreasing or pausing) the fill rate of fuel tank 26, the fuel supply is switched to fuel another tank as outlined above once fueltank 26 is if it is determined that that the temperature of fuel tank 26 will not reduce or lower to a desired temperature within a threshold period of time.

[0035] Referring to FIG. 3, prime mover 22 and fuel system 24 are shown in operation, and therefore fuel supply 36 is omitted. Otherwise, prime mover 22 and fuel system 24 are the same as that shown in FIG. 1. A process or method for operating prime mover 22 with fuel system 24 is shown in FIG. 4.

[0036] Referring to FIG. 4, one embodiment of a process or method 400 for operating prime mover 22 with hydrogen fuel from one or more of fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32 of fuel system 24 is illustrated. Method 400 includes an operation 402 to operate prime mover 22 with hydrogen fuel from one or more of the fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32. Operation 402 may include opening one or more of the outlet valves 54, 56, 58, 60 to provide hydrogen fuel to prime mover 22 for operation. For example, if fuel tank 26 is being used for fueling, outlet valve 54 is opened, and outlet valves 56, 58, and 60 of the other fuel tanks 28, 30, and 32 are closed.

[0037] Method 400 continues at conditional 404 to determine if a temperature parameter associated with the fuel tank 26 (or other fuel tanks) being used exceeds or is predicted to exceed a threshold temperature. The temperature parameter associated with the fuel tank 26 being used at conditional 404 can be any one or combination of a measured or predicted temperature of the fuel tank 26, a temperature of the hydrogen gas being discharged through outlet valve 54, and / or based on reaching a predetermined amount of elapsed time dispensing fuel from fuel tank 26. If conditional 404 is negative, method 400 returns to operation 402. If conditional 404 is positive, method 400 continues at operation 406.

[0038] Operation 406 initiates a selection process for selecting another of the fuel tanks 28, 30, or 32 to dispense fuel to prime mover 22. At operation 408, various parameters of the other fuel tanks 28, 30, 32 are evaluated in order to make the selection. Example parameters for the other fuel tanks 28, 30, 32 to be evaluated for selection include temperature parameters associated with the fuel tanks 28, 30, 32; a pressure range availablein the fuel tanks 28, 30, 32; a fill percentage of fuel tanks 28, 30, 32; and / or vehicle mission parameters, such as route distance and available re-fdling infrastructure along the route.

[0039] Method 400 continues at operation 410 to select one of the other fuel tanks 28, 30, 32 for dispensing based on the evaluation of parameters at operation 248. At operation 412, logging and / or notifications associated with new fuel tank selection made. For example, the operator, fleet manager, and / or vehicle / prime mover manufacturer(s) can be notified of the use of a different fuel tank. The time, mileage, location, and parameters associated with the new fuel tank selection and / or usage of the previous fuel tank may be logged in controller 80.

[0040] At operation 414, fuel supply 36 is transitioned for connection to the identified fuel tank. For example, if fuel tank 28 is identified for filling, outlet valve 56 is opened and outlet valves 54, 58, and 60 are closed. Method 400 then returns to operation 402 with to operate prime mover with fuel dispensed from the newly selected fuel tank.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 5, further details of an embodiment of prime mover 22 are shown. Prime mover 22 and fuel system 24 are provided on vehicle 100. Prime mover includes a fuel cell or internal combustion engine 102, and an optional electric motor 104. Electric motor 104 can be, for example, a traction motor, E-axle, or motor / generator. In an embodiment, electric motor 104 is connected to an energy storage device 106, such as a battery or batteries.

[0042] Vehicle 100 also includes a number of components connected to prime mover 22, such as a one or more heaters 108, an HVAC system 110, an alternator 112, one or more compressors 114, one or more accessories 116, and / or one or more aftertreatment components 118. Heaters 108 can be one or more of an intake heater, aftertreatment heater, and exhaust heater. HVAC system 110 can include one or more of a cabin heater, an air conditioning compressor, and a fan. Compressors 114 can include air compressors and other compression devices. Other vehicle accessories may include electrical devices,communication devices, cooling systems, refrigeration systems, etc. Aftertreatment components 118 may include, for example, catalysts and fdters.

[0043] Referring to FIG. 6, one embodiment of a process or method 600 for operating prime mover 22 and / or propelling vehicle 100 with hydrogen fuel from one or more of fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32 of fuel system 24 is illustrated. Method 600 includes an operation 602 to operate prime mover 22 with hydrogen fuel from one or more of the fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32. Operation 602 may include opening one or more of the outlet valves 54, 56, 58, 60 to provide hydrogen fuel to prime mover 22 for operation. For example, if fuel tank 26 is being used for fueling, outlet valve 54 is opened, and outlet valves 56, 58, and 60 of the other fuel tanks 28, 30, and 32 are closed.

[0044] Method 600 continues at conditional 604 to determine if a temperature parameter associated with the fuel tank 26 or other fuel tank(s) being used exceeds or is predicted to exceed a threshold temperature. The temperature parameter associated with the fuel tank 26 and / or other tanks being used at conditional 604 can be any one or combination of a measured or predicted temperature of the fuel tank 26, a temperature of the hydrogen gas being discharged through outlet valve 54, and / or based on reaching a predetermined amount of elapsed time dispensing fuel from fuel tank 26. If conditional 604 is negative, method 600 returns to operation 602. If conditional 604 is positive, method 600 continues at operation 606.

[0045] Operation 606 initiates a mode switch from operating vehicle 100 and / or prime mover 22 with hydrogen fuel fueling an internal combustion engine or fuel cell 102 to operating vehicle 100 with stored electrical energy from energy storage device 106 that is suppled to electric motor 104. Operation 608 includes propelling the vehicle 100 and / or operating prime mover 22 with electric motor 104. In an embodiment, operation 608 cuts off any use of hydrogen fuel.

[0046] Method 600 continues at conditional 610 to determine if a temperature parameter associated with the fuel tank 26 or other fuel tank(s) being used less than or is predicted tobe less than a threshold temperature. The threshold temperature can be less than the threshold temperature of conditional 604 to allow sufficient cooling of the fuel tank(s) 26, 28, 30, 32 to resume fueling of prime mover with hydrogen. If conditional 610 is positive, then method 600 returns to operation 602. If conditional 610 is negative, method 600 continues at operation 608.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 7, another embodiment of a process or method 700 for operating prime mover 22 and / or propelling vehicle 100 with hydrogen fuel from one or more of fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32 of fuel system 24 is illustrated. Method 700 includes an operation 702 to operate prime mover 22 with hydrogen fuel from one or more of the fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32. Operation 702 may include opening one or more of the outlet valves 54, 56, 58, 60 to provide hydrogen fuel to prime mover 22 for operation. For example, if fuel tank 26 is being used for fueling, outlet valve 54 is opened, and outlet valves 56, 58, and 60 of the other fuel tanks 28, 30, and 32 are closed.

[0048] Method 700 continues at operation 704 to monitor a pressure condition associated with the fuel tank 26 or other fuel tank(s) being used. Method 700 continues at operation 706 to determine if the pressure parameter associated with the fuel tank 26 or other fuel tank(s) being used greater than, or is predicted to be greater than, a threshold pressure condition. If conditional 706 is negative, method 700 returns to operation 704. If conditional 706 is positive, method 700 continues at operation 708 to increase an output from prime mover 22 to increase a consumption of hydrogen fuel to lower the pressure of the fuel tank or tanks in use.

[0049] In an embodiment, increasing the output of prime mover 22 includes selecting a load to add to prime mover 22. The selection of the load can be based on one or more of the following: an estimate of the amount of load needed to increase the fueling rate to reduce tank pressure; current thermal management needs of one more aftertreatment components 118; a state-of-charge of the energy storage device 106; and / or feedback control indicating to add additional load(s) in response to the added one or more loads not decreasing or not decreasing tank pressure at a fast enough rate.

[0050] In an embodiment, the added load or loads to decrease the pressure in one or more the fuel tanks 26, 28, 30, 32 includes one or more of the following: heaters 108 of the vehicle 100, such as intake, exhaust, and / or aftertreatment heaters; an alternator 112 or motor / generator 104 that charges the energy storage device 106 of the vehicle; an HVAC system 110 of the vehicle 100; one or more compressors 114 of the vehicle 100; and one or more accessories 116 on the vehicle 100. In addition or alternatively, the added load may include an alteration of a power split strategy to increase usage of an internal combustion engine or fuel cell 102 over electric traction type motor 104.

[0051] As is evident from the figures and text presented above, a variety of aspects according to the present disclosure are contemplated, as indicated in the claims appended hereto. According to one aspect of the disclosure, a method for managing filling a fuel system of a prime mover with hydrogen fuel includes monitoring a temperature parameter associated with a first fuel tank of the fuel system while filling the first fuel tank with hydrogen fuel from a fuel supply; and in response to the temperature parameter of the first fuel tank reaching or being predicted to reach a threshold, switching the fuel supply to fill a second fuel tank of the fuel system with hydrogen fuel from the fuel supply.

[0052] In an embodiment, the temperature parameter is a measured or predicted temperature of the first fuel tank. In an embodiment, the temperature parameter is a discharge gas temperature of the fuel supply. In an embodiment, the temperature parameter is an elapsed time for filling the first fuel tank.

[0053] In an embodiment, the method includes selecting the second fuel tank from a plurality of fuel tanks of the fuel system, wherein the selecting the second fuel tank is based on one or more of a temperature parameter associated with the second fuel tank, an idle time of the second fuel tank, and a fill percentage of the second fuel tank.

[0054] In an embodiment, switching the fuel supply to fill the second tank occurs automatically in response to the temperature parameter of the first fuel tank reaching or being predicted to reach the threshold.

[0055] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a method for managing fueling of a prime mover with hydrogen fuel from a fuel system includes monitoring a temperature parameter associated with a first fuel tank of the fuel system while fueling the prime mover with hydrogen fuel from the first fuel tank; and in response to the temperature parameter of the first fuel tank reaching or being predicted to reach a threshold, switching fueling the prime mover with hydrogen fuel to a second fuel tank of the fuel system.

[0056] In an embodiment, the temperature parameter is a measured or predicted temperature of the first fuel tank. In an embodiment, the temperature parameter is a discharge gas temperature from the first fuel tank. In an embodiment, the temperature parameter is an elapsed time associated with fueling of the prime mover by the first fuel tank.

[0057] In an embodiment, the method includes selecting the second fuel tank from a plurality of fuel tanks of the fuel system, wherein the selecting the second fuel tank is based on one or more of a temperature associated with the second fuel tank, an idle time of the second fuel tank, and a fill percentage of the second fuel tank.

[0058] In an embodiment, the prime mover is an internal combustion engine. In an embodiment, the fuel system includes at least three fuel tanks.

[0059] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a method for managing fueling of a prime mover with hydrogen fuel from a fuel system includes operating the prime mover to produce an output while fueling the prime mover with hydrogen fuel from a fuel tank of the fuel system; monitoring a parameter associated with the fuel tank of the fuel system while fueling the prime mover with hydrogen fuel from the fuel tank; and in response to the parameter of the first fuel tank reaching or being predicted to reach a threshold,adjusting the output from the prime mover to manage the parameter associated with the fuel tank.

[0060] In an embodiment, adjusting the output from the prime mover includes terminating fueling of the prime mover with hydrogen fuel from the fuel tank, and operating an electric motor of the prime mover to produce the output.

[0061] In a further embodiment, the characteristic is a temperature associated with the fuel tank, and the method includes operating an internal combustion engine or a fuel cell of the prime mover to produce the output while ending operation of the electric motor to produce the output in response to the temperature associated with the fuel tank decreasing to a second threshold.

[0062] In a further embodiment, the characteristic is a pressure of the fuel tank. In yet a further embodiment, adjusting the output of the prime mover includes applying a load to the prime mover to increase a rate of fueling of the prime mover from the fuel tank.

[0063] In yet a further embodiment, the prime mover is located on a vehicle, and the load is one or more of: one or more heaters of the vehicle; an alternator or motor / generator that charges an energy storage device of the vehicle; an HVAC system of the vehicle; one or more compressors of the vehicle; one or more accessories on the vehicle; and an alteration of a power split strategy to increase usage of an internal combustion engine or fuel cell over a traction motor.

[0064] In yet a further embodiment, the method includes selecting the load to be applied based on one or more of: an estimate of the amount of load needed to increase the fueling rate to reduce tank pressure; a thermal management condition of an aftertreatment component; a state-of-charge of the energy storage device; and a feedback control output indicating an added load is not producing a desired decrease in the pressure of the fuel tank.

[0065] According to another aspect, a method for managing fdling a fuel system of a prime mover with hydrogen fuel is provided. The method includes monitoring a temperature parameter associated with a first fuel tank of the fuel system while filling the first fuel tank with hydrogen fuel from a fuel supply; and in response to the temperature parameter of the first fuel tank reaching or being predicted to reach a threshold, adjusting a fill rate of the first fuel tank with hydrogen fuel from the fuel supply.

[0066] In an embodiment, adjusting the fill rate includes pausing the filling for a period of time. In an embodiment, adjusting the fill rate includes decreasing the fill rate.

[0067] While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only certain exemplary embodiments have been shown and described. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that many modifications are possible in the example embodiments without materially departing from this invention.Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure as defined in the following claims.

[0068] In reading the claims, it is intended that when words such as “a,” “an,” “at least one,” or “at least one portion” are used there is no intention to limit the claim to only one item unless specifically stated to the contrary in the claim. When the language “at least a portion” and / or “a portion” is used the item can include a portion and / or the entire item unless specifically stated to the contrary.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A method for managing filling a fuel system of a prime mover with hydrogen fuel, the method comprising: monitoring a temperature parameter associated with a first fuel tank of the fuel system while filling the first fuel tank with hydrogen fuel from a fuel supply; and in response to the temperature parameter of the first fuel tank reaching or being predicted to reach a threshold, switching the fuel supply to fill a second fuel tank of the fuel system with hydrogen fuel from the fuel supply.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the temperature parameter is a measured or predicted temperature of the first fuel tank.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the temperature parameter is a discharge gas temperature of the fuel supply.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the temperature parameter is an elapsed time for filling the first fuel tank.

5. The method of claim 1, further comprising: selecting the second fuel tank from a plurality of fuel tanks of the fuel system, wherein the selecting the second fuel tank is based on one or more of a temperature parameter associated with the second fuel tank, an idle time of the second fuel tank, and a fill percentage of the second fuel tank.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein switching the fuel supply to fill the second tank occurs automatically in response to the temperature parameter of the first fuel tank reaching or being predicted to reach the threshold.

7. A method for managing fueling of a prime mover with hydrogen fuel from a fuel system, the method comprising:monitoring a temperature parameter associated with a first fuel tank of the fuel system while fueling the prime mover with hydrogen fuel from the first fuel tank; and in response to the temperature parameter of the first fuel tank reaching or being predicted to reach a threshold, switching fueling the prime mover with hydrogen fuel to a second fuel tank of the fuel system.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the temperature parameter is a measured or predicted temperature of the first fuel tank.

9. The method of claim 7, wherein the temperature parameter is a discharge gas temperature from the first fuel tank.

10. The method of claim 7, wherein the temperature parameter is an elapsed time associated with fueling of the prime mover by the first fuel tank.

11. The method of claim 7, further comprising: selecting the second fuel tank from a plurality of fuel tanks of the fuel system, wherein the selecting the second fuel tank is based on one or more of a temperature associated with the second fuel tank, an idle time of the second fuel tank, and a fill percentage of the second fuel tank.

12. The method of claim 7, wherein the prime mover is an internal combustion engine.

13. The method of claim 7, wherein the fuel system includes at least three fuel tanks.

14. A method for managing fueling of a prime mover with hydrogen fuel from a fuel system, the method comprising: operating the prime mover to produce an output while fueling the prime mover with hydrogen fuel from a fuel tank of the fuel system;monitoring a parameter associated with the fuel tank of the fuel system while fueling the prime mover with hydrogen fuel from the fuel tank; and in response to the parameter of the first fuel tank reaching or being predicted to reach a threshold, adjusting the output from the prime mover to manage the parameter associated with the fuel tank.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein adjusting the output from the prime mover includes: terminating fueling of the prime mover with hydrogen fuel from the fuel tank; and operating an electric motor of the prime mover to produce the output.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the characteristic is a temperature associated with the fuel tank, and further comprising operating an internal combustion engine or a fuel cell of the prime mover to produce the output while ending operation of the electric motor to produce the output in response to the temperature associated with the fuel tank decreasing to a second threshold.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the characteristic is a pressure of the fuel tank.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein adjusting the output of the prime mover includes applying a load to the prime mover to increase a rate of fueling of the prime mover from the fuel tank.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the prime mover is located on a vehicle, and the load is one or more of: one or more heaters of the vehicle; an alternator or motor / generator that charges an energy storage device of the vehicle; an HVAC system of the vehicle; one or more compressors of the vehicle;one or more accessories on the vehicle; and an alteration of a power split strategy to increase usage of an internal combustion engine or fuel cell over a traction motor.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising selecting the load to be applied based on one or more of: an estimate of the amount of load needed to increase the fueling rate to reduce tank pressure; a thermal management condition of an aftertreatment component; a state-of-charge of the energy storage device; and a feedback control output indicating an added load is not producing a desired decrease in the pressure of the fuel tank.

21. A method for managing filling a fuel system of a prime mover with hydrogen fuel, the method comprising: monitoring a temperature parameter associated with a first fuel tank of the fuel system while filling the first fuel tank with hydrogen fuel from a fuel supply; and in response to the temperature parameter of the first fuel tank reaching or being predicted to reach a threshold, adjusting a fill rate of the first fuel tank with hydrogen fuel from the fuel supply.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein adjusting the fill rate includes pausing the filling for a period of time.

23. The method of claim 21, wherein adjusting the fill rate includes decreasing the fill rate.

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