Hydrogen internal combustion engine system

Abstract

A hydrogen internal combustion engine system comprises a hydrogen internal combustion engine, a first valve, and a controller. The hydrogen internal combustion engine comprises a component. The first valve is configured to receive air and to provide an amount of the air to the component. The amount of the air is based on a position of the first valve. The controller is configured to adjust the position based on at least one of a concentration of hydrogen in the component or a fluid pressure regarding the component.

Description

HYDROGEN INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE SYSTEMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to Indian Provisional Application No. 202341055868, filed on August 21, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to hydrogen internal combustion engines.BACKGROUND

[0003] Hydrogen internal combustion engines combust air and hydrogen to produce power. Unlike internal combustion engines that burn carbonaceous fuel, such as diesel fuel or gasoline, the exhaust produced by a hydrogen internal combustion engine may not include hydrocarbons or carbon oxides (e.g., carbon monoxide or carbon dioxide). Rather, the exhaust may include sulfur oxides (SOx) originating from burning lubricants, nitrogen oxides (NOx) originating from burning the hydrogen fuel in the presence of air (including nitrogen, N2, and oxygen, O2), and / or water (H2O) originating from burning the hydrogen fuel in the presence of air (including oxygen, O2) or from the presence of water (e.g., humidity) in the intake air. The exhaust may also include unconsumed hydrogen (H2). These internal combustion engines may include a crankcase that requires ventilation.SUMMARY

[0004] One embodiment relates to a hydrogen internal combustion engine system. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system includes a hydrogen internal combustion engine. The hydrogen internal combustion engine includes a component. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system includes a first valve configured to receive air and to provide an amount of the air to the component. The amount of the air is based on a position of the first valve. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system includes a controller configured to adjust the position based on at least one of a concentration of hydrogen in the component or a fluid pressure regarding the component.[00051 Another embodiment relates to a method. The method includes receiving, by a controller, a hydrogen concentration value regarding a component of a hydrogen internal combustion engine. The method includes receiving, by the controller, a position of a valve. The method includes comparing, by the controller, the position of the valve to a predetermined position threshold. The method includes responsive to the position of the first valve being below the predetermined position threshold, comparing, by the controller, the hydrogen concentration value to a first concentration threshold. The method includes responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or below the first concentration threshold, causing, by the controller, the first valve to be in a first predetermined valve position.

[0006] Yet another embodiment relates to a hydrogen internal combustion engine system. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system includes a hydrogen internal combustion engine. The hydrogen internal combustion engine includes a crankcase. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system includes a first valve configured to receive air and provide a first amount of the air to a second valve. The first amount of the air is based on a position of the first valve. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system includes the second valve. The second valve includes a second valve first portion configured to receive the air from the first valve and a second valve second portion configured to receive a second amount of a blowby gas from the crankcase. The second amount of the blowby gas is based on the first amount of the air. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system includes a controller configured to adjust the position based on at least one of a concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase or a compressor pressure of a compressor.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The disclosure will become more fully understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements, in which:

[0008] FIG. l is a block schematic diagram of a hydrogen internal combustion engine system according to one embodiment;

[0009] FIG. 2 is a block schematic diagram of a hydrogen internal combustion engine system according to another embodiment;

[0010] FIG. 3 is a block schematic diagram of a hydrogen internal combustion engine system according to yet another embodiment;

[0011] FIGS. 4 and 5 are a block diagram illustrating a dilution and ventilation method for a hydrogen internal combustion engine system, according to an example embodiment;

[0012] FIG. 6 is a block schematic diagram of a hydrogen internal combustion engine system according to another embodiment;10013] FIGS. 7 and 8 are a block diagram illustrating a dilution and ventilation method for a hydrogen internal combustion engine system, according to another example embodiment;

[0014] FIG. 9 is a block schematic diagram of a hydrogen internal combustion engine system according to yet another embodiment;

[0015] FIGS. 10 and 11 are a block diagram illustrating a dilution and ventilation method for a hydrogen internal combustion engine system, according to yet another example embodiment;

[0016] FIG. 12 is a block schematic diagram of a hydrogen internal combustion engine system according to still another example embodiment;

[0017] FIGS. 13 and 14 are a block diagram illustrating a dilution and ventilation method for a hydrogen internal combustion engine system, according to still another example embodiment; and

[0018] FIG. 15 is a block schematic diagram of a valve usable in the hydrogen internal combustion engine systems of FIGS. 9 and 12, according to an example embodiment.

[0019] The foregoing and other features of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only several embodiments in accordance with the disclosure and are therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope, the disclosurewill be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented here. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and made part of this disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 1 depicts a hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes a hydrogen internal combustion engine 102. The hydrogen internal combustion engine includes a component 103. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes a valve 105 (e.g., a first valve) configured to receive air and to provide an amount of the air to the component 103. The amount of the air is based on a position of the valve 105. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes a controller 134. The controller 134 is configured to adjust the position (of the valve 105) based on at least one of a concentration of hydrogen in the component 103 or a fluid pressure regarding the component.

[0022] In some embodiments, the valve 105 is a check valve. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the component 103 is a crankcase. In some embodiments, when the component 103 is a crankcase, the fluid pressure regarding the component 103 is a crankcase pressure of the crankcase.

[0023] In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 6, the component 103 is a cover. In some embodiments, when the component 103 is a cover, the cover includes a cover inlet configured to receive the air from the valve 105 and a cover outlet configured to provide a cover gas to atmosphere. The cover gas includes at least a portion of the air.

[0024] FIG. 2 depicts a hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes a hydrogen internal combustion engine 102. The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 includes a crankcase 124. A check valve 120 (e.g., a first valve) is configured to receive air and to provide the air to the crankcase 124, where the amount of the air is based on a position of the valve. A controller 134 is configured to adjust the position based on at least one of a concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase or a crankcase pressure of the crankcase 124.

[0025] As is explained in more detail below, the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 provides air to the crankcase 124 using the valve 120. As a result, additional components for providing ventilation to the crankcase 124, such as an additional pump or compressor, are not required in the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100. As a result, the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 provides for decreased cost and complexity associated with producing and servicing a hydrogen internal combustion engine.

[0026] The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 combusts hydrogen and air to produce power. This power may be utilized by various systems such as a vehicle, generator, and similar systems.100271 As noted above, the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes an air intake 104 (e.g., cold air intake, air filter, etc.). The air intake 104 receives air from an air source (e.g., ambient, etc.). In various embodiments, the air intake 104 performs filtration (e.g., using a filter media, etc.).

[0028] The hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 also includes a turbocharger 106. As is explained in more detail herein, the turbocharger 106 is configured to harness energy from exhaust produced by the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 and provide this energy to air provided to the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102.

[0029] The turbocharger 106 includes a compressor 108. The compressor 108 is configured to receive the air (e.g., from the air intake 104) and compress the air. This compression provides additional energy to the air which is converted by the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 to power. The compressor 108 is in air providing communication with the compressor 108.[0030| The hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes a three-way valve 110 (e.g., air purge valve, a second valve, etc.). The three-way valve 110 is operable among three positions. The three-way valve 110 includes an inlet (e.g., that receives the air from the compressor 108, etc.) and two outlets (e.g., a first outlet and a second outlet). A first position of the three-way valve 110 provides the air to a first outlet. A second position of the three- way valve 110 provides the air to a second outlet. A third position of the three-way valve 110 provides the air to the first outlet and the second outlet.

[0031] In an example embodiment, when the three-way valve 110 provides the air to both the first outlet and the second outlet, the three-way valve 110 is configured to provide a first portion of the air to the first outlet, and the three-way valve 110 is configured to provide a second portion of the air to the second outlet. In some embodiments, the first portion of the air is at least 98% of the air. In some embodiments, the second portion of the air is up to 2% of the air.

[0032] The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 includes an intake port 112 (e.g., intake valve, etc.). The intake port 112 is in air receiving communication with the three-way valve 110. For example, the intake port 112 receives the first portion of the air from the first outlet of the three-way valve 110. The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 also includes an injector 114 (e.g., hydrogen injector, fuel injector, etc.). The injector 114 is configured to provide hydrogen (e.g., fuel, etc.) into a cylinder of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102. As is explained in more detail herein, an amount of hydrogen provided to the cylinder of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 is varied by the controller 134 based on, for example, an amount (e.g., a mass, a volume, a concentration, etc.) of hydrogen in the crankcase 124. The hydrogen provided by the injector 114 is mixed with the air provided by the intake port 112 in this cylinder. This mixture is combusted (e.g., by an igniter, etc.) to provide power and exhaust. The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 also includes an exhaust port 116 (e.g., exhaust valve, etc.). The exhaust port 116 receives the exhaust from the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102.

[0033] The turbocharger 106 also includes a turbine 118. The turbine 118 receives the exhaust from the exhaust port 116. The turbine 118 harnesses the energy from the exhaustand provides the energy to the air being compressed by the compressor 108 (e.g., via rotation of a shaft of the turbocharger 106, etc.).

[0034] The hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 also includes the check valve 120 (e.g., one-way valve, etc.). The check valve 120 is in air receiving communication with the three-way valve 110 (e.g., after being compressed by the compressor 108, depending upon a position of the three-way valve 110). For example, the check valve 120 receives the second portion of the air from the second outlet of the three-way valve 110. As is explained in more detail herein, a position of the check valve 120 is varied by the controller 134 to control flow of the air to the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102.

[0035] The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 also includes a ventilation input 122 (e.g., ventilation port, etc.). The ventilation input 122 receives the air from the check valve 120. The position of the check valve 120 controls how much of the air is provided to the ventilation input 122. For example, where the check valve 120 is closed, none of the air is provided to the ventilation input 122. Where the check valve 120 is fully open, all of the air is provided to the ventilation input 122. The check valve 120 is capable of providing a target amount of the air to the ventilation input 122 by being positioned at a target position between closed and fully open. The controller 134 causes the check valve 120 to be in the target position. In some embodiments, the controller 134 can receive an indication of a position of the check valve 120 (e.g., from an electronic actuator associated with the check valve 120, from a memory storing a current location of the check valve 120, etc.).

[0036] The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 also includes a crankcase 124. The crankcase 124 circulates a lubricant (e.g., oil) across multiple moving components of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102, such as the crankshaft, piston connecting rods, and pistons. The crankcase 124 to utilizes the air received from the ventilation input 122 to drive flow of the lubricant throughout the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102.

[0037] The amount (e.g., the mass, the volume, etc.) or concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124 may be regulated in some situations. For example, the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 may be utilized in a jurisdiction where the amount of hydrogen in the crankcase 124 must be maintained below 4% or 5%, for example. In order toachieve this amount, the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 provides air from the air intake 104 to the ventilation input 122.(0038] The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 also includes a ventilation output 126 (e.g., blowby outlet, etc.). The ventilation output 126 receives blowby gas, which may include at least a portion of the air, from the crankcase 124. An amount of the blowby gas received by the ventilation output 126 is based on the amount of air provided to the crankcase 124. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 also includes a coalescer breather 128. The coalescer breather 128 receives the air from the ventilation output 126. The coalescer breather 128 provides at least a portion of the air from the ventilation output 126 to atmosphere. The coalescer breather 128 helps in draining the lubricant back to an oil pan (as described in more detail herein) while ensuring that blowby gases are provided to atmosphere. The coalescer breather 128 may separate the lubricant from the air (e.g., using a passive separator, using a labyrinth separator, etc.).(0039] The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 also includes an oil pan 130. The oil pan 130 is configured to retain (e.g., store, etc.) lubricant utilized within the crankcase 124. The oil pan 130 includes an oil pan inlet 132. The oil pan inlet 132 receives lubricant drained from the coalescer breather 128 and provides the lubricant to the crankcase 124.

[0040] As noted above, the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 also includes a controller 134. The controller 134 includes a processing circuit 136. The processing circuit 136 includes a processor 138. The processing circuit 136 also includes a memory 140. The processing circuit 136 may be structured or configured to execute or implement the instructions, commands, and / or control processes described herein.

[0041] In some embodiments, the processing circuit 136 may include one or more analog circuits, electronic circuits (e.g., integrated circuits (IC), discrete circuits, system on a chip (SOCs) circuits, microcontrollers, etc.), telecommunication circuits, hybrid circuits, and any other type of “circuit.” In this regard, the processing circuit 202 may include any type of component for accomplishing or facilitating achievement of the operations described herein. For example, a circuit as described herein may include one or more transistors, logic gates (e.g., NAND, AND, NOR, OR, XOR, NOT, XNOR, etc.), resistors, multiplexers, registers,capacitors, inductors, diodes, wiring, and so on. The processing circuit 136 may also include or be programmable hardware devices such as field programmable gate arrays, programmable array logic, programmable logic devices or the like.

[0042] The processor 138 may be implemented as one or more single- or multi-chip processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and / or suitable processors (e.g., other programmable logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. to perform the functions described herein). A processor may be a microprocessor, a group of processors, etc. A processor also may be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. In some embodiments, the one or more processors may be shared by multiple circuits. Alternatively or additionally, the one or more processors may be structured to perform or otherwise execute certain operations independent of one or more co-processors. In other example embodiments, two or more processors may be coupled via a bus to enable independent, parallel, pipelined, or multi-threaded instruction execution. All such variations are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0043] The memory device 140 (e.g., memory, memory unit, storage device) may include one or more devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, Flash memory, hard disk storage) for storing data and / or computer code for completing or facilitating the various processes, layers and modules described in the present disclosure. For example, the memory device 140 may include dynamic random-access memory (DRAM). The memory device 140 may be communicably connected to the processor 138 to provide computer code or instructions to the processor 138 for executing at least some of the processes described herein. Moreover, the memory device 140 may be or include tangible, non-transient volatile memory or non-volatile memory. Accordingly, the memory device 140 may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described herein.

[0044] The controller 134 is communicatively coupled to the injector 114, the three-way valve 110, and the check valve 120. The controller 134 is configured to facilitate operation ofthe hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 through operation of the injector 114, the three- way valve 110, and the check valve 120. Specifically, the controller 134 is configured to adjust (e.g., modulate, select, etc.) the position of the valve 120 to facilitate desirable operation of the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100.

[0045] The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 also includes a pressure sensor 142. The pressure sensor 142 is configured to provide the controller 134 with a signal associated with a crankcase pressure of the crankcase 124. The controller 134 is configured to receive the signal associated with the crankcase pressure of the crankcase 124 from the pressure sensor 142. The controller 134 is configured to determine the crankcase pressure of the crankcase 124 based on this signal. In some embodiments, the pressure sensor 142 is capable of providing a signal associated with a crankcase pressure of the crankcase 124 of between 0 kilopascals (kPa) and 15 kPa (inclusive).

[0046] The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 also includes a concentration sensor 144. The concentration sensor 144 is configured to provide the controller 134 with a signal associated with a concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124. The controller 134 is configured to receive the signal associated with the concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124 from the concentration sensor 144. The controller 134 is configured to determine the concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124 based on this signal. In some embodiments, the concentration sensor 144 is capable of providing a signal associated with a concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124 in the range of 0% and 4% (inclusive of 4%).

[0047] In various embodiments, the controller 134 imposes an acceptable range for the concentration, a flag range for the concentration, and an abort range for the concentration. For example, the acceptable range may be 0-2%, the flag range may be 2-2.5%, and the abort range may be >2.5%. When the concentration is within the flag range, the controller 134 may cause a notification to be provided to the user (e.g., via a heads-up display). When the concentration is within the abort range, the controller 134 may cause operation of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 to cease.

[0048] In various embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3, the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes a compressor 200 (e.g., air compressor, etc.). In someembodiments, the compressor 200 is included in place of the air intake 104 and the turbocharger 106. That is, the air intake 104 and / or the turbocharger 106 may be omitted.(0049] In some embodiments, when the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes the compressor 200, the three-way valve 110 may receive the air from the compressor 200 (e.g., rather than the compressor 108). More specifically, the three-way valve 110 is configured to receive air from the compressor 200 at the inlet of the three-way valve 110.

[0050] In some embodiments, when the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes the compressor 200, the compressor 200 is in air providing communication the check valve 120. That is, the check valve 120 is in air receiving communication with the compressor 200 (e.g., via the three-way valve 110).

[0051] FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate a method 300 implemented by the controller 134 using the check valve 120 during operation of the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100. For example, the method 300 may include reducing the amount (e.g., mass, volume, concentration, etc.) of hydrogen in the crankcase 124 below a predetermined threshold, such as below 4%. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the method 300 may be performed with the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. In other embodiments, and as described below, the method 300 may be performed with the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 shown in FIG. 1.

[0052] The method 300 includes, at 302, receiving, by a controller, a hydrogen concentration value regarding a component of a hydrogen internal combustion engine. The method includes, at 304, receiving, by the controller, a position of a valve. The method includes, at 306, comparing, by the controller, the position of the valve to a predetermined position threshold. The method includes responsive to the position of the first valve being below the predetermined position threshold, comparing, by the controller, the hydrogen concentration value to a first concentration threshold. The method includes responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or below the first concentration threshold, causing, by the controller, the first valve to be in a first predetermined valve position.

[0053] At process 302, the controller 134 receives a hydrogen concentration value regarding the crankcase 124. For example, the controller 134 may receive a signal from the concentration sensor 144. The signal is associated with the concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124. The controller 134 is configured to determine the concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124 based on this signal. In some embodiments, the hydrogen concentration value is based on the concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124. In another example, the controller 134 may receive a signal from the pressure sensor 142. The signal is associated with a crankcase pressure of the crankcase 124. The controller 134 is configured to determine the crankcase pressure of the crankcase 124 based on this signal. In some embodiments, the hydrogen concentration value may be based on the crankcase pressure of the crankcase 124, the concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124, or both. In some embodiments, the hydrogen concentration value is expressed as a percentage value representing an amount of hydrogen (e.g., mass, volume, molecules) present in the crankcase 124 per unit of mass, volume, or molecules.

[0054] In some embodiments, the method 300 includes receiving, by the controller 134, a hydrogen concentration value regarding the component 103 of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102.[0055 j At process 304, the controller 134 receives an indication of a position of the check valve 120. For example, the controller 134 can receive a signal from an electronic actuator associated with the check valve 120, where the signal includes or is indicative of the position of the check valve 120. In another example, the controller 134 can retrieve the position of the check valve 120 from the memory device 140. The memory device 140 is configured to retrievably store the current position of the check valve 120. In some embodiments, the position of the check valve 120 is expressed as a percentage value between 0% and 100%, where 0% corresponds to the closed position and 100% corresponds to the open position.

[0056] In some embodiments, the method 300 includes receiving, by the controller 134, an indication of the position of the valve 105.

[0057] At process 306, the controller 134 compares the position of the check valve 120 to a predetermined position threshold. The predetermined position threshold may be, for example,80%. Responsive to the position of the check valve 120 being below the predetermined position threshold, the controller 134 proceeds to process 320. Responsive to the position of the check valve 120 being at or above the predetermined position threshold, the controller 134 proceeds to process 310.

[0058] In some embodiments, the method 300 includes comparing, by the controller 134, the position of the valve 105 to a predetermined position threshold.

[0059] At process 310, the controller 134 compares the hydrogen concentration value to a first concentration threshold, responsive to the position of the check valve 120 being at or above the predetermined position threshold. The first concentration threshold may be, for example, between 0.1% and 0.5%, such as 0.2%. Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or below the first concentration threshold, the method 300 proceeds to process 312. Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the first concentration threshold, the method 300 may return to process 302.

[0060] In some embodiments, the method 300 includes, responsive to the position of the valve 105 being below the predetermined position threshold, comparing, by the controller 134, the hydrogen concentration value to a first concentration threshold.

[0061] At process 312, the controller 134 causes the check valve 120 to be in a first predetermined valve position, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or below the first concentration threshold. The first predetermined valve position may be between 0% and 10%, such as 5%. That is, the controller 134 causes the check valve 120 to operate, such that the position of the check valve 120 is 5%. After process 312, the method 300 returns to process 302.

[0062] In some embodiments, the method 300 includes, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or below the first concentration threshold, causing, by the controller 134, the valve 105 to be in a first predetermined valve position.

[0063] At process 320, the controller 134 compares the hydrogen concentration value to at least one of a plurality of concentration thresholds responsive to the position of the check valve 120 being below the predetermined position threshold. In some embodiments, themethod 300 includes, responsive to the position of the valve 105 being below the predetermined position threshold, comparing, by the controller 134, the hydrogen concentration value to at least one of a plurality of concentration thresholds.

[0064] In some embodiments, the plurality of concentration thresholds includes at least one of the first concentration threshold, a second concentration threshold, a third concentration threshold, a fourth concentration threshold, and / or a fifth concentration threshold. The second concentration threshold is greater than the first concentration threshold. The second concentration threshold may be, for example, between 0.2% and 1%, such as 0.5%. The third concentration threshold is greater than the third concentration threshold. The third concentration threshold may be, for example, between 0.5% and 1.5%, such as 1%. The fourth concentration threshold is greater than the third concentration threshold. The fourth concentration threshold may be, for example, between 1% and 2.5%, such as 2%. The fifth concentration threshold is greater than the fourth concentration threshold. The fifth concentration threshold may be, for example, between 2% and 3%, such as 2.5%.

[0065] In some embodiments, the plurality of concentration thresholds includes at least one of the first concentration threshold and a second concentration threshold. In these embodiments, the method 300 also includes, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the first concentration threshold and at or below the second concentration threshold, causing, by the controller 134, the valve 105 to be in a second predetermined valve position.

[0066] In some embodiments, the plurality of concentration thresholds includes a third concentration threshold. In these embodiments, the method 300 includes, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the second concentration threshold, causing, by the controller 134, the valve 105 to be in a second predetermined valve position. The method 300 also includes, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the third concentration threshold, causing, by the controller 134, an injector of the hydrogen internal combustion engine to decrease an amount of hydrogen provided to a cylinder of the hydrogen internal combustion engine. The method 300 also includes, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the third concentration threshold, causing, by the controller 134, a notification to be provided to a user via a display.

[0067] Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the first concentration threshold and at or below the second concentration threshold, the method 300 proceeds to process 322. At process 322, the controller 134 causes the check valve 120 to be in a second predetermined valve position, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the first concentration threshold and at or below the second concentration threshold. The second predetermined valve position is greater than the first predetermined valve position. For example, the second predetermined valve position may be between 5% and 40%, such as 20%. That is, the controller 134 causes the check valve 120 to operate, such that the position of the check valve 120 is 20%. After process 322, the method 300 returns to process 302.

[0068] Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the second concentration threshold and at or below the third concentration threshold, the method 300 proceeds to process 326. At process 326, the controller 134 causes the check valve 120 to be in a third predetermined valve position, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the second concentration threshold and at or below the third concentration threshold. The third predetermined valve position may be 40%. That is, the controller 134 causes the check valve 120 to operate, such that the position of the check valve 120 is 40%. After process 326, the method 300 returns to process 302.

[0069] Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the third concentration threshold and at or below the fourth concentration threshold, the method 300 proceeds to process 330. At process 330, the controller 134 causes the check valve 120 to be in a fourth predetermined valve position, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the third concentration threshold and at or below the fourth concentration threshold. The fourth predetermined valve position may be 50%. That is, the controller 134 causes the check valve 120 to operate, such that the position of the check valve 120 is 50%. After process 330, the method 300 returns to process 302.

[0070] Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the fourth concentration threshold and at or below the fifth concentration threshold, the method 300 proceeds to process 334. At process 334, the controller 134 causes the check valve 120 to be in a fifth predetermined valve position, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the fourth concentration threshold and at or below the fifth concentration threshold. The fifthpredetermined valve position may be 75%. That is, the controller 134 causes the check valve 120 to operate, such that the position of the check valve 120 is 75%. After process 334, the method 300 returns to process 302.

[0071] Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the fifth concentration threshold, the method 300 proceeds to process 338. At process 338, the controller 134 causes the check valve 120 to be in a sixth predetermined valve position, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the fifth concentration threshold. The sixth predetermined valve position may be 100%. That is, the controller 134 causes the check valve 120 to operate, such that the position of the check valve 120 is 100%. After process 338, the method 300 proceeds to process 340.[00721 At process 340, the controller 134 causes the injectors 114 to limit (e.g., decrease) the amount of hydrogen provided to the cylinders of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the fifth concentration threshold. For example, the controller 134 may cause the injectors 114 to provide a predetermined amount of hydrogen to the cylinders.

[0073] At process 342, the controller 134 causes a notification to be provided to a user (e.g., via a heads-up display or other display). The notification may indicate that the hydrogen concentration value is above a predefined threshold (e.g., the fifth concentration threshold).

[0074] FIG. 6 depicts another embodiment of the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes a hydrogen internal combustion engine 102. The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 includes a check valve 400 (e.g., one-way valve, a first valve, etc.) and cover 402 (e.g., a vanity cover, etc.).

[0075] In some embodiments, the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 is the same as or is substantially similar to the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3. For example, the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 may include the intake port 112, the injector 114, and / or the oil pan 130.

[0076] As is explained in more detail below, the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 provides air to the cover 402 using the check valve 120. Advantageous, providing the air to the cover 402 may mitigate hydrogen gas buildup in the cover 402.

[0077] It should be understood that the embodiment shown in FIG. 6 may be combined with any of the other embodiments described herein. For example, the cover 402 and the corresponding components described herein may be used with the embodiments of the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 9, and FIG. 12.

[0078] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 6, when the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes the cover 402, the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 also includes the air compressor 200. In other embodiments, the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes the air intake 104 (e.g., cold air intake, air filter, etc.), the turbocharger 106, the compressor 108, and the turbine 118.

[0079] The hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes a three-way valve 410 (e.g., air purge valve, a second valve, etc.). The three-way valve 410 is operable among three positions. The three-way valve 410 includes an inlet (e.g., that receives the air from the compressor 200, etc.) and two outlets (e.g., a first outlet and a second outlet). A first position of the three-way valve 410 provides the air to a first outlet. A second position of the three- way valve 410 provides the air to a second outlet. A third position of the three-way valve 410 provides the air to the first outlet and the second outlet.

[0080] In an example embodiment, when the three-way valve 410 provides the air to both the first outlet and the second outlet, the three-way valve 410 is configured to provide a first portion of the air to the first outlet, and the three-way valve 410 is configured to provide a second portion of the air to the second outlet. In some embodiments, the first portion of the air is at least 98% of the air. In some embodiments, the second portion of the air is up to 2% of the air.

[0081] The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 includes a component 420. The component 420 in air receiving communication with the three-way valve 110. For example, the component 420 receives the first portion of the air from the first outlet of the three-wayvalve 110. In some embodiments, the component 420 is the intake port 112. In other embodiments, the component 420 is the crankcase 124. In still other embodiments, the component 420 is valve (e.g., a third valve), such as the check valve 120 or another valve.

[0082] The hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 also includes the check valve 400 (e.g., one-way valve, check valve, etc.). The check valve 400 is in air receiving communication with the three-way valve 410 (e.g., after being compressed by the compressor 200, depending upon a position of the three-way valve 410). For example, the check valve 400 receives the second portion of the air from the second outlet of the three-way valve 410. As is explained in more detail herein, a position of the check valve 400 is varied by the controller 134 to control flow of the air to the cover 402.

[0083] The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 also includes a cover inlet 404 (e.g., ventilation port, etc.). The cover inlet 404 receives the air from the check valve 400. The position of the check valve 400 controls how much of the air is provided to the cover inlet 404. For example, where the check valve 400 is closed, none of the air is provided to the cover inlet 404. Where the check valve 400 is fully open, all of the air is provided to the cover inlet 404. The check valve 400 is capable of providing a target amount of the air to the cover inlet 404 by being positioned at a target position between closed and fully open. The controller 134 causes the check valve 400 to be in the target position. In some embodiments, the controller 134 can receive an indication of a position of the check valve 400 (e.g., from an electronic actuator associated with the check valve 400, from a memory storing a current location of the check valve 400, etc.).

[0084] The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 also includes the cover 402. The cover 402 is positioned at a top end of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102. The cover 402 is an aesthetic barrier between the internal components of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 and the atmosphere. During operation, some of the gases provided to the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102, such as air introduced via the intake port 112 or hydrogen gas introduced via the injector 114, may leak out of a cylinder and into a volume defined by the cover 402 (e.g., a cover volume). In some embodiments, the cover inlet 404 is an inlet of the cover 402.

[0085] The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 also includes a cover outlet 406 (e.g., outlet port, etc.). The cover outlet 406 receives a cover gas (e.g., a mixture of air and gases received from the cylinder(s) of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102) from the cover 402. An amount of the cover gas received by the cover outlet 406 is based on the amount of air provided to the cover 402. In some embodiments, the cover outlet 406 is an outlet of the cover 402.

[0086] As noted above, the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 also includes the controller 134. In some embodiments, the controller 134 is the same as or is substantially similar to the controller 134 shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3.

[0087] The controller 134 is communicatively coupled to the injector 114, the check valve 400, and the three-way valve 410. The controller 134 is configured to facilitate operation of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 through operation of the injector 114, the three- way check valve 400, and the three-way valve 410. Specifically, the controller 134 is configured to adjust (e.g., modulate, select, etc.) the position of the check valve 400 to facilitate desirable operation of the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100.

[0088] The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 also includes a concentration sensor 408. The concentration sensor 408 is configured to provide the controller 134 with a signal associated with a concentration of hydrogen in the cover 402. The controller 134 is configured to receive the signal associated with the concentration of hydrogen in the cover 402 from the concentration sensor 408. The controller 134 is configured to determine the concentration of hydrogen in the cover 402 based on this signal. In some embodiments, the concentration sensor 408 is capable of providing a signal associated with a concentration of hydrogen in the cover 402 in the range of 0% and 4% (inclusive of 4%).

[0089] In various embodiments, the controller 134 imposes an acceptable range for the concentration, a flag range for the concentration, and an abort range for the concentration. For example, the acceptable range may be 0-3%, the flag range may be 3-3.9%, and the abort range may be greater than 3.9%. When the concentration is within the flag range, the controller 134 may cause a notification to be provided to the user (e.g., via a heads-updisplay). When the concentration is within the abort range, the controller 134 may cause operation of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 to be modified or to cease.

[0090] FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate a method 450 implemented by the controller 134 using the check valve 400 during operation of the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100. For example, the method 450 may include reducing the amount (e.g., mass, volume, concentration, etc.) of hydrogen in the cover 402 below a predetermined threshold, such as below 4%. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the method 450 may be performed with the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 shown in FIG. 6. In other embodiments, and as described below, the method 450 may be performed with the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 shown in FIG. 1.

[0091] At process 452, the controller 134 receives a hydrogen concentration value regarding the cover 402. For example, the controller 134 may receive a signal from the concentration sensor 408. The signal is associated with the concentration of hydrogen in the cover 402. The controller 134 is configured to determine the concentration of hydrogen in the cover 402 based on this signal. In some embodiments, the hydrogen concentration value is based on the concentration of hydrogen in the cover 402. In some embodiments, the hydrogen concentration value is expressed as a percentage value representing an amount of hydrogen (e.g., mass, volume, molecules) present in the cover 402 per unit of mass, volume, or molecules.

[0092] At process 454, the controller 134 receives an indication of a position of the check valve 400. For example, the controller 134 can receive a signal from an electronic actuator associated with the check valve 400, where the signal includes or is indicative of the position of the check valve 400. In another example, the controller 134 can retrieve the position of the check valve 400 from the memory device 140. The memory device 140 is configured to retrievably store the current position of the check valve 400. In some embodiments, the position of the check valve 400 is expressed as a percentage value between 0% and 100%, where 0% corresponds to the closed position and 100% corresponds to the open position.

[0093] At process 456, the controller 134 compares the position of the check valve 400 to a predetermined position threshold. The predetermined position threshold may be, for example,80%. Responsive to the position of the check valve 400 being below the predetermined position threshold, the controller 134 proceeds to process 470. Responsive to the position of the check valve 400 being at or above the predetermined position threshold, the controller 134 proceeds to process 460.

[0094] At process 460, the controller 134 compares the hydrogen concentration value to a first concentration threshold, responsive to the position of the check valve 400 being at or above the predetermined position threshold. The first concentration threshold may be, for example, between 0.1% and 0.5%, such as 0.2%. Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or below the first concentration threshold, the method 450 proceeds to process 462. Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the first concentration threshold, the method 450 returns to process 452.

[0095] At process 462, the controller 134 causes the check valve 400 to be in a first predetermined valve position, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or below the first concentration threshold. The first predetermined valve position may be between 0% and 5%, such as 5%. That is, the controller 134 causes the check valve 400 to operate, such that the position of the check valve 400 is 5%. After process 462, the method 450 returns to process 452.

[0096] At process 470, the controller 134 compares the hydrogen concentration value to at least one of a plurality of concentration thresholds responsive to the position of the check valve 400 being below the predetermined position threshold. In some embodiments, the plurality of concentration thresholds includes at least one of the first concentration threshold, a second concentration threshold, a third concentration threshold, and / or a fourth concentration threshold. The second concentration threshold is greater than the first concentration threshold. The second concentration threshold may be, for example, between 0.2% and 3%, such as 2%. The third concentration threshold is greater than the third concentration threshold. The third concentration threshold may be, for example, between 2% and 4%, such as 3%. The fourth concentration threshold is greater than the third concentration threshold. The fourth concentration threshold may be, for example, between 3% and 5%, such as 3.9%.

[0097] Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or above the first concentration threshold and below the second concentration threshold, the method 450 proceeds to process 472. At process 472, the controller 134 causes the check valve 400 to be in a second predetermined valve position, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or above the first concentration threshold and below the second concentration threshold. The second predetermined valve position is greater than the first predetermined valve position. For example, the second predetermined valve position may be between 5% and 100%, such as 50%. That is, the controller 134 causes the check valve 400 to operate, such that the position of the check valve 400 is 50%. After process 472, the method 450 returns to process 452.

[0098] Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or above the second concentration threshold and below the third concentration threshold, the method 450 proceeds to process 474. At process 474, the controller 134 causes the check valve 400 to be in a third predetermined valve position, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or above the second concentration threshold and below the third concentration threshold. The second predetermined valve position is greater than the second predetermined valve position. The third predetermined valve position may be between 50% and 100%, inclusive, such as 100%. That is, the controller 134 causes the check valve 400 to operate, such that the position of the check valve 400 is 100%. After process 347, the method 450 returns to process 452.10099] Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the third concentration threshold, the method 450 proceeds to process 476. At process 476, the controller 134 causes the check valve 400 to be in the third predetermined valve position, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the third concentration threshold.

[0100] Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the fourth concentration threshold, the method 450 proceeds to process 482. At process 478, the controller 134 restricts a hydrogen fuel supply to each cylinder of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 to derate the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102. For example, the controller 134 may cause the injectors 114 to limit (e.g., decrease) the amount of hydrogen provided to the cylinders of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102. More specifically, the controller134 may cause the injectors 114 to provide a predetermined amount of hydrogen to the cylinders.

[0101] At process 480, the controller 134 causes a notification to be provided to a user (e.g., via a heads-up display or other display). The notification may indicate that the hydrogen concentration value is above a predefined threshold (e.g., the third concentration threshold). After process 480, the method 450 returns to process 452.[01021 At process 482, the controller 134 causes the check valve 400 to be in the third predetermined valve position, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the fourth concentration threshold. At process 484, the controller 134 causes operation of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 to cease. At process 486, the controller 134 causes a notification to be provided to a user (e.g., via a heads-up display or other display). The notification may indicate that the hydrogen concentration value is above a predefined threshold (e.g., the fourth concentration threshold). After process 486, the method 450 returns to process 452.

[0103] FIG. 9 depicts another embodiment of the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes a hydrogen internal combustion engine 102. The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 includes a crankcase 124, a first valve 500 (e.g., air purge valve, three-way valve, etc.), and a second valve 510. The first valve 500 is configured to receive air and provide a first amount of the air to the second valve 510, wherein the first amount of the air is based on a position of the first valve. The second valve 510 (shown in FIG. 15) includes a second valve first portion 512 configured to receive the air from the first valve 500 and a second valve second portion 522 configured to receive a second amount of a blowby gas from the crankcase 124, wherein the second amount of the blowby gas is based on the first amount of the air. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes a controller configured to adjust the position (of the first valve 500) based on at least one of a concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase or a compressor pressure of a compressor.

[0104] In some embodiments, the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 shown in FIG. 9 is the same as or is substantially similar to the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3. For example, the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 may include the turbocharger 106 (and the components thereof, such as the compressor 108 and the turbine 118), the intake port 112, the injector 114, the crankcase 124, and / or the oil pan 130. In other embodiments, one or more of the turbocharger 106 (and the components thereof), the intake port 112, the injector 114 and / or the oil pan 130 are optional and may be omitted.

[0105] As is explained in more detail below, the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 draws blowby gas out of the crankcase 124 using the valve 510. For example, the valve 510 is configured to reduce the pressure of the gases within the valve 510, such that the blowby gases are drawn in to the valve 510 by suction. Advantageously, drawing blowby gas out of the crankcase 124 may mitigate hydrogen gas buildup in the crankcase 124.

[0106] The hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes the valve 500 (e.g., air purge valve, three-way valve, etc.). The valve 500 is operable among three positions. The valve 500 includes an inlet (e.g., that receives the air from the compressor 108, etc.) and two outlets (e.g., a first outlet and a second outlet). A first position of the valve 500 provides the air to a first outlet. A second position of the valve 500 provides the air to a second outlet. A third position of the valve 500 provides the air to the first outlet and the second outlet. As is explained in more detail herein, the position of the valve 500 is varied by the controller 134 to control flow of the air to the valve 510.

[0107] In an example embodiment, when the valve 500 provides the air to both the first outlet and the second outlet, the valve 500 is configured to provide a first portion of the air to the first outlet, and the valve 500 is configured to provide a second portion of the air to the second outlet. In some embodiments, the first portion of the air is at least 98% of the air. In some embodiments, the second portion of the air is up to 2% of the air.

[0108] The hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 also includes the valve 510 (e.g., rotary valve, rotating valve, etc.). The valve 510 is in air receiving communication with the valve 500 (e.g., after being compressed by the compressor 108, depending upon a position of the valve 500). For example, the valve 510 receives the second portion of the air from the second outlet of the valve 500.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 15, a schematic block diagram of the valve 510 is shown, according to an example embodiment. As described in more detail herein, the valve 510 is an electronically assisted pneumatic rotating valve. As described above, the valve 510 includes the second valve first portion 512 configured to receive the air from the first valve 500.

[0110] In some embodiments, the valve 510 includes a first inlet 514 configured to receive the air from the first valve 500. The first inlet 514 is in air receiving communication with the first valve 500. For example, the first inlet 514 may receive the second portion of the air from the first valve 500. The first inlet 514 is in air providing communication with the second valve first portion 512.

[0111] In some embodiments, the valve 510 includes a driving valve portion 516. The driving valve portion is positioned within the second valve first portion 512. The driving valve portion is rotated by the air received in the second valve first portion 512.

[0112] In some embodiments, the valve 510 includes a first outlet 518 configured to provide the air from the second valve first portion 512 to a downstream component or device, such as the intake port 112. In other embodiments, the first outlet 518 is configured to provide the air from the second valve first portion 512 to the atmosphere.

[0113] The valve 510 includes the second valve second portion 522 configured to receive a second amount of a blowby gas from the crankcase 124. The second amount of the blowby gas is based on the first amount of the air. In some embodiments, the second valve second portion 522 is fluidly separated from the second valve first portion 512, such that a fluid, such as the air or the blowby gas cannot readily flow between the second valve first portion 512 and the second valve second portion 522.

[0114] In some embodiments, the valve 510 includes a rotating valve portion 524. The rotating valve portion is coupled to the driving valve portion 516 (e.g., via a shaft, a fastener, and / or other suitable component). The rotating valve portion 524 is configured to be rotated by the driving valve portion 516. When the rotating valve portion 524 is rotated, the rotating valve portion 524 is configured to draw blowby gases from the crankcase 124 into the second valve second portion 522. For example, the rotating valve portion 524 is configured to reducethe pressure of the gases in the second valve second portion 522, such that the blowby gases are drawn in to the second valve second portion 522 by suction.

[0115] In some embodiments, the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes an electric machine 534. The electric machine 534 is coupled to the second valve 510. The electric machine 534 is operable between a first state whereby the electric machine engages the second valve 510 and causes the second valve 510 (or a portion thereof) to rotate and a second state whereby the electric machine 534 disengages from the second valve 510.

[0116] As shown in FIG. 15, the electric machine 534 is coupled to the rotating valve portion 524, such that the electric machine 534 rotates the rotating valve portion 524, when the electric machine 534 is operating in the first state. In other embodiments, the electric machine 534 is coupled to the rotating valve portion 524 indirectly (e.g., via the driving valve portion 516 and / or another intermediate component, such as a shaft.

[0117] In some embodiments, the valve 510 includes a second inlet 526 configured to receive the blowby gas from the crankcase 124. The second inlet 526 is in blowby gas receiving communication with the crankcase 124. The second inlet 526 is in air providing communication with the second valve second portion 522.

[0118] In some embodiments, the valve 510 includes a filter media 530. The filter media 530 is configured to receive the blowby gas and separate a first fluid, such as oil, from the blowby gas.

[0119] In some embodiments, the valve 510 includes a second outlet 532 that is configured to provide the first fluid to a downstream component, such as the oil pan 130. For example, the second outlet 532 is in fluid receiving communication with the filter media 530 and fluid providing communication with the oil pan 130 (e.g., via the oil pan inlet 132).

[0120] In some embodiments, the second outlet 532 is configured to provide the separated blowby gas to a downstream component, such as the intake port 112, or the atmosphere. For example, the second outlet 532 is in fluid receiving communication with the filter media 530 and fluid providing communication with the intake port 112 or the atmosphere.[01211 Referring back to FIG. 9, in some embodiments, the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes an energy storage device, shown as a battery 536. The battery 536 is configured to selectively store electrical energy. In some embodiments, the battery 536 is optional and may be omitted.101221 In some embodiments, the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes a relay 538. The relay 538 is configured to facilitate electrically coupling the battery 536 to the electric machine 534. When the relay 538 couples the battery 536 to the electric machine 534, the electric machine 534 operates in the first state. When the relay 538 disconnects the battery 536 from the electric machine 534, the electric machine 534 operates in the second state. In some embodiments, the relay 538 is optional and may be omitted.|0123| As noted above, the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 also includes the controller 134. In some embodiments, the controller 134 is the same as or is substantially similar to the controller 134 shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, and 6.

[0124] As shown in FIGS. 9 and 12, the controller 134 is communicatively coupled to the injector 114, the valve 500, and the relay 538. The controller 134 is configured to facilitate operation of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 through operation of the injector 114, the valve 500, and / or the relay 538.10.125] Specifically, the controller 134 is configured to selectively provide electrical energy to the electric machine 534 by selectively coupling the battery 536 to the electric machine 534 by controlling operation of the relay 538. In particular, the controller 134 may cause the electric machine 534 to operate in the first state when the concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124 is above a predetermined threshold and / or when the pressure of the air provided by the compressor 108 is below a predetermined threshold. In this way, the valve 510 is advantageously rotated by the electric machine 534 in situations where the pressure of the air provided by the compressor 108 may be insufficient to draw the blowby gases out of the crankcase 124 at a desired rate by pneumatic operation of the valve 510 alone.

[0126] Additionally, the controller 134 may cause the electric machine 534 to operate in the second state when the pressure of the air provided by the compressor 108 is at or above a predetermined threshold, even when the concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124 isabove a predetermined threshold. In this way, the valve 510 is advantageously rotated by the air provided by the compressor 108 thereby conserving the electrical energy stored by the battery 536 for other uses and / or for future use. Example methods of controlling the function of the electric machine are shown in FIGS. 10-11 and 13-14.|0.l 27] The controller 134 is also configured to control the operation of the valve 500. Specifically, the controller 134 is configured to adjust the position of the valve 500 based on a concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124. For example, the controller 134 can use one or more of a lookup table or a model (e.g., a statistical model, a machine learning model, etc.) that correlates the concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124 to a position of the valve 500.|0128| The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 also includes a concentration sensor 540. The concentration sensor 540 is configured to provide the controller 134 with a signal associated with a concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124. The controller 134 is configured to receive the signal associated with the concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124 from the concentration sensor 540. The controller 134 is configured to determine the concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124 based on this signal. In some embodiments, the concentration sensor 540 is capable of providing a signal associated with a concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124 in the range of 0% and 4% (inclusive of 4%). In some embodiments, the sensor 540 is positioned at or downstream of the valve 510, such that the sensor 540 acquires data regarding the concentration of hydrogen in the blowby gas received by the valve 510. In some embodiments, the concentration sensor 540 is optional and may be omitted.

[0129] The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 also includes a pressure sensor 542. The pressure sensor 542 is configured to provide the controller 134 with a signal associated with a compressor pressure of the compressor 108. The controller 134 is configured to receive the signal associated with the compressor pressure of the compressor 108 from the pressure sensor 542. The controller 134 is configured to determine the compressor pressure of the compressor 108 based on this signal. In some embodiments, the pressure sensor 542 is capable of providing a signal associated with a compressor pressure of the compressor 108 ofbetween 0 kPa and at least 100 kPa. In some embodiments, the pressure sensor 542 is optional and may be omitted.

[0130] In various embodiments, the controller 134 imposes an acceptable range for the concentration, a flag range for the concentration, and an abort range for the concentration. For example, the acceptable range may be 0-3.5%, the flag range may be 3.5-3.9%, and the abort range may be greater than 3.9%. When the concentration is within the flag range, the controller 134 may cause a notification to be provided to the user (e.g., via a heads-up display). When the concentration is within the abort range, the controller 134 may cause operation of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 to be modified or to cease.

[0131] FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate a method 600 implemented by the controller 134 using the electric machine 534 during operation of the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100. For example, the method 600 may include reducing the amount (e.g., mass, volume, concentration, etc.) of hydrogen in the crankcase 124 below a predetermined threshold, such as below 4%.

[0132] At process 602, the controller 134 receives a hydrogen concentration value regarding the crankcase 124. For example, the controller 134 may receive a signal from the concentration sensor 540. The signal is associated with the concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124. The controller 134 is configured to determine the concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124 based on this signal. In some embodiments, the hydrogen concentration value is based on the concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124. In some embodiments, the hydrogen concentration value is expressed as a percentage value representing an amount of hydrogen (e.g., mass, volume, molecules) present in the crankcase 124 per unit of mass, volume, or molecules.

[0133] At process 604, the controller 134 receives a pressure value regarding a compressor pressure of the compressor 108. For example, the controller 134 can receive a signal from the pressure sensor 542. The signal is associated with the compressor pressure of the compressor 108. The controller 134 is configured to determine pressure value regarding the compressor pressure of the compressor 108 based on this signal.

[0134] At process 606, the controller 134 compares the hydrogen concentration value to a first concentration threshold. The first concentration threshold may be, for example, between 1 and 3%, such as 2%. Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the first concentration threshold, the controller 134 proceeds to process 610. Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or below the first concentration threshold, the controller 134 proceeds to process 610.

[0135] At process 610, the controller 134 compares the pressure value to a pressure threshold, responsive to the hydrogen content value being at or below the first concentration threshold. The pressure threshold may be, for example, at least 75 kPa, such as 100 kPa. Responsive to the pressure value being below the pressure threshold, the method 600 returns to process 602. Responsive to the pressure value being at or above the pressure threshold, the method 600 proceeds to process 612.

[0136] At process 612, the controller 134 causes the electric machine 534 to operate in the second state, responsive to the pressure value being at or above the pressure threshold. For example, the controller 134 causes the relay 538 to electrically disconnect the battery 536 from the electric machine 534, such that the battery 536 does not provide electrical energy to the electric machine 534. After process 612, the method 600 proceeds to process 620.

[0137] At process 620, the controller 134 compares the hydrogen concentration value to at least one of a plurality of concentration thresholds responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the first concentration threshold. In some embodiments, the plurality of concentration thresholds includes at least one of the first concentration threshold, a second concentration threshold, a third concentration threshold, and / or a fourth concentration threshold. The second concentration threshold is greater than the first concentration threshold. The second concentration threshold may be, for example, between 0.2% and 3.5%, such as 2.1%. The third concentration threshold is greater than the third concentration threshold. The third concentration threshold may be, for example, between 2.1% and 3.9%, such as 3.5%. The fourth concentration threshold is greater than the third concentration threshold. The fourth concentration threshold may be, for example, between 3.5% and 4%, such as 3.9%.

[0138] In some embodiments, the plurality of concentration thresholds includes at least one of the second concentration threshold and the third concentration threshold. In these embodiments, the method 600 also includes, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the second concentration threshold and below the third concentration threshold, comparing the pressure value to the pressure threshold. The method 600 may also include causing the electric machine to operate in the first state, responsive to the pressure value being at or below the pressure threshold. The method 600 may also include causing the electric machine 534 to operate in the second state, responsive to the pressure value being above the pressure threshold.1013 1 In some embodiments, the plurality of concentration thresholds includes the third concentration threshold. In some embodiments, the method 600 includes causing the electric machine 534 to operate in the first state, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or above the third concentration threshold. In some embodiments, the method 600 includes causing the injector 114 of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 to decrease an amount of hydrogen provided to a cylinder of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or above the third concentration threshold.

[0140] Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or above the second concentration threshold and below the third concentration threshold, the method 600 proceeds to process 622. At process 622, the controller 134 compares the pressure value to the pressure threshold, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the second concentration threshold and below the third concentration threshold. Responsive to the pressure value being below the pressure threshold, the method 600 proceeds to process 624. Responsive to the pressure value being at or above the pressure threshold, the method 600 proceeds to process 626.10.1.411 Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or above the third concentration threshold and below the fourth concentration threshold, the method 600 proceeds to process 628. At process 624, the controller 134 causes the electric machine to operate in the first state, responsive to the pressure value being below the pressure threshold.At process 626, the controller 134 causes the electric machine to operate in the second state, responsive to the pressure value being at or above the pressure threshold.

[0142] At process 628, the controller 134 causes the electric machine to operate in the first state, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or above the third concentration threshold and below the fourth concentration threshold. At process 630, the controller 134 restricts a hydrogen fuel supply to each cylinder of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 to derate the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102. For example, the controller 134 may cause the injectors 114 to limit (e.g., decrease) the amount of hydrogen provided to the cylinders of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102. More specifically, the controller 134 may cause the injectors 114 to provide a predetermined amount of hydrogen to the cylinders. At process 632, the controller 134 causes a notification to be provided to a user (e.g., via a heads-up display or other display). The notification may indicate that the hydrogen concentration value is above a predefined threshold (e.g., the third concentration threshold). After process 632, the method 600 returns to process 602.

[0143] Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the fourth concentration threshold, the method 600 proceeds to process 634. At process 634, the controller 134 causes the electric machine to operate in the first state, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or above the fourth concentration threshold. At process 636, the controller 134 causes operation of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 to cease. At process 638, the controller 134 causes a notification to be provided to a user (e.g., via a heads-up display or other display). The notification may indicate that the hydrogen concentration value is above a predefined threshold (e.g., the fourth concentration threshold). After process 638, the method 600 returns to process 602.

[0144] In various embodiments, as shown in FIG. 12, the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes a compressor 200 (e.g., air compressor, etc.). In some embodiments, the compressor 200 is included in place of the air intake 104 and the turbocharger 106. That is, the air intake 104 and / or the turbocharger 106 may be omitted. In other embodiments, the compressor 200 is provided along with the air intake 104 and / or the turbocharger 106.

[0145] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100 includes valve 500 is configured as a one-way valve, a check valve, a ball valve, or other type of valve having one inlet and one outlet. In these embodiments, the valve 500 is configured to receive air and provide the air to the second valve 510, where the amount of the air is based on a position of the valve. The controller 134 is configured to adjust the position of the valve 500 based on at least one of a concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase or a compressor pressure of the compressor 200. For example, the controller 134 is also configured to control the operation of the valve 500. Specifically, the controller 134 is configured to adjust the position of the valve 500 based on a concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124. For example, the controller 134 can use one or more of a lookup table or a model (e.g., a statistical model, a machine learning model, etc.) that correlates the concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124 to a position of the valve 500.

[0146] The compressor 200 is in air providing communication the valve 510. That is, the valve 510 is in air receiving communication with the compressor 200 (e.g., via the valve 500).

[0147] The hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 also includes a pressure sensor 544. The pressure sensor 544 is configured to provide the controller 134 with a signal associated with a compressor pressure of the compressor 200. The controller 134 is configured to receive the signal associated with the compressor pressure of the compressor 200 from the pressure sensor 544. The controller 134 is configured to determine the compressor pressure of the compressor 200 based on this signal. In some embodiments, the pressure sensor 544 is capable of providing a signal associated with a compressor pressure of the compressor 200 of between 0 kPa and at least 100 kPa.

[0148] FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate a method 700 implemented by the controller 134 using the electric machine 534 during operation of the hydrogen internal combustion engine system 100. For example, the method 700 may include reducing the amount (e.g., mass, volume, concentration, etc.) of hydrogen in the crankcase 124 below a predetermined threshold, such as below 4%.

[0149] At process 702, the controller 134 receives a hydrogen concentration value regarding the crankcase 124. For example, the controller 134 may receive a signal from the concentration sensor 540. The signal is associated with the concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124. The controller 134 is configured to determine the concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124 based on this signal. In some embodiments, the hydrogen concentration value is based on the concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase 124. In some embodiments, the hydrogen concentration value is expressed as a percentage value representing an amount of hydrogen (e.g., mass, volume, molecules) present in the crankcase 124 per unit of mass, volume, or molecules.

[0150] At process 704, the controller 134 receives a pressure value regarding a compressor pressure of the compressor 200. For example, the controller 134 can receive a signal from the pressure sensor 542. The signal is associated with the compressor pressure of the compressor 200. The controller 134 is configured to determine the pressure value regarding the compressor pressure of the compressor 200 based on this signal.

[0151] At process 706, the controller 134 compares the hydrogen concentration value to a first concentration threshold. The first concentration threshold may be, for example, between 1 and 3%, such as 2%. Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the first concentration threshold, the controller 134 proceeds to process 720. Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or below the first concentration threshold, the controller 134 proceeds to process 710.

[0152] At process 710, the controller 134 compares the pressure value to a first pressure threshold, responsive to the hydrogen content value being at or below the first concentration threshold. The pressure threshold may be, for example, between 10 kPa and 50 kPa, such as 35 kPa. Responsive to the pressure value being below the first pressure threshold, the method 700 returns to process 702. Responsive to the pressure value being at or above the first pressure threshold, the method 700 proceeds to process 712.

[0153] At process 712, the controller 134 causes the electric machine 534 to operate in the second state, responsive to the pressure value being at or above the pressure threshold. For example, the controller 134 causes the relay 538 to electrically separate the battery 536 fromthe electric machine 534, such that the battery 536 does not provide electrical energy to the electric machine 534. After process 712, the method 700 proceeds to process 720.

[0154] At process 720, the controller 134 compares the hydrogen concentration value to at least one of a plurality of concentration thresholds responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the first concentration threshold. In some embodiments, the plurality of concentration thresholds includes at least one of the first concentration threshold, a second concentration threshold, a third concentration threshold, and / or a fourth concentration threshold. The second concentration threshold is greater than the first concentration threshold. The second concentration threshold may be, for example, between 0.2% and 3.5%, such as 2.1%. The third concentration threshold is greater than the third concentration threshold. The third concentration threshold may be, for example, between 2.1% and 3.9%, such as 3.5%. The fourth concentration threshold is greater than the third concentration threshold. The fourth concentration threshold may be, for example, between 3.5% and 4%, such as 3.9%.

[0155] Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or above the second concentration threshold and below the third concentration threshold, the method 700 proceeds to process 722. At process 722, the controller 134 compares the pressure value to a second pressure threshold, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the second concentration threshold and below the third concentration threshold. The second pressure threshold is greater than the first pressure threshold. For example, the second pressure threshold is between 35 and 100 kPa, such as 50 kPa. Responsive to the pressure value being below the pressure threshold, the method 700 proceeds to process 724. Responsive to the pressure value being at or above the pressure threshold, the method 700 proceeds to process 726.

[0156] At process 724, the controller 134 causes the electric machine to operate in the first state, responsive to the pressure value being below the second pressure threshold. At process 726, the controller 134 causes the electric machine to operate in the second state, responsive to the pressure value being at or above the second pressure threshold.

[0157] Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or above the third concentration threshold and below the fourth concentration threshold, the method 700 proceeds to process 728. At process 728, the controller 134 causes the electric machine to operate in the first state, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or above the third concentration threshold and below the fourth concentration threshold. At process 730, the controller 134 restricts a hydrogen fuel supply to each cylinder of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 to derate the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102. For example, the controller 134 may cause the injectors 114 to limit (e.g., decrease) the amount of hydrogen provided to the cylinders of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102. More specifically, the controller 134 may cause the injectors 114 to provide a predetermined amount of hydrogen to the cylinders. At process 732, the controller 134 causes a notification to be provided to a user (e.g., via a heads-up display or other display). The notification may indicate that the hydrogen concentration value is above a predefined threshold (e.g., the third concentration threshold). After process 732, the method 700 returns to process 702.101581 Responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the fourth concentration threshold, the method 700 proceeds to process 734. At process 734, the controller 134 causes the electric machine to operate in the first state, responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or above the fourth concentration threshold. At process 736, the controller 134 causes operation of the hydrogen internal combustion engine 102 to cease. At process 738, the controller 134 causes a notification to be provided to a user (e.g., via a heads-up display or other display). The notification may indicate that the hydrogen concentration value is above a predefined threshold (e.g., the fourth concentration threshold). After process 738, the method 700 returns to process 702.

[0159] While this specification contains many specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of what may be claimed but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular implementations. Certain features described in this specification in the context of separate implementations can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described as acting incertain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can, in some cases, be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

[0160] As utilized herein, the terms “substantially,” “generally,” “approximately,” and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It should be understood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure that these terms are intended to allow a description of certain features described and claimed without restricting the scope of these features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the appended claims.

[0161] The term “coupled” and the like, as used herein, mean the joining of two components directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the two components or the two components and any additional intermediate components being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another, with the two components, or with the two components and any additional intermediate components being attached to one another.

[0162] It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the various systems shown in the various example implementations is illustrative only and not restrictive in character. All changes and modifications that come within the spirit and / or scope of the described implementations are desired to be protected. It should be understood that some features may not be necessary, and implementations lacking the various features may be contemplated as within the scope of the disclosure, the scope being defined by the claims that follow. When the language “a portion” is used, the item can include a portion and / or the entire item unless specifically stated to the contrary.

[0163] References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below,” “left,” “right”) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements in theFIGURES. It should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0164] Also, the term “or” is used, in the context of a list of elements, in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, Z, X and Y, X and Z, Y and Z, or X, Y, and Z (i.e., any combination of X, Y, and Z). Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z to each be present, unless otherwise indicated.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A hydrogen internal combustion engine system comprising: a hydrogen internal combustion engine, the hydrogen internal combustion engine comprising a component; a first valve configured to receive air and to provide an amount of the air to the component, wherein the amount of the air is based on a position of the first valve; and a controller configured to adjust the position based on at least one of a concentration of hydrogen in the component or a fluid pressure regarding the component.

2. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system of claim 1, further comprising a turbocharger, the turbocharger comprising a compressor in air providing communication with the first valve.

3. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system of claim 1, further comprising a compressor in air providing communication with the first valve.

4. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system of claim 1, further comprising a second valve having an inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet, the second valve configured to provide a first portion of the air to the first outlet and provide a second portion of the air to the second outlet; wherein the hydrogen internal combustion engine comprises an intake port in air receiving communication with the second valve, such that the intake port receives the first portion of the air from the second valve.

5. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system of claim 4, wherein the first valve is in air receiving communication with the second valve, such that the first valve receives the second portion of the air from the second valve.

6. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system of claim 1, wherein the first valve is a check valve.

7. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system of claim 1, wherein the component is a crankcase; and wherein the fluid pressure regarding the component is a crankcase pressure of the crankcase.

8. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system of claim 7, wherein the hydrogen internal combustion engine further comprises a ventilation output configured to receive a blowby gas from the crankcase, wherein an amount of the blowby gas is based on the amount of the air.

9. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system of claim 1, wherein the component is a cover.

10. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system of claim 9, wherein the cover comprises a cover inlet configured to receive the air from the first valve and a cover outlet configured to provide a cover gas to atmosphere, wherein the cover gas comprises at least a portion of the air.

11. A method comprising: receiving, by a controller, a hydrogen concentration value regarding a component of a hydrogen internal combustion engine; receiving, by the controller, an indication of a position of a valve; comparing, by the controller, the position of the valve to a predetermined position threshold; responsive to the position of the valve being below the predetermined position threshold, comparing, by the controller, the hydrogen concentration value to a first concentration threshold; and responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or below the first concentration threshold, causing, by the controller, the valve to be in a first predetermined valve position.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising: responsive to the position of the valve being below the predetermined position threshold, comparing, by the controller, the hydrogen concentration value to at least one of a plurality of concentration thresholds, the plurality of concentration thresholds including at least one of the first concentration threshold and a second concentration threshold; and responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the first concentration threshold and at or below the second concentration threshold, causing, by the controller, the valve to be in a second predetermined valve position.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising: responsive to the position of the valve being below the predetermined position threshold, comparing, by the controller, the hydrogen concentration value to at least one of the plurality of concentration thresholds, wherein he plurality of concentration thresholds including a third concentration threshold; responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the third concentration threshold, causing, by the controller, the valve to be in a third predetermined valve position; and responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the third concentration threshold, causing, by the controller, an injector of the hydrogen internal combustion engine to decrease an amount of hydrogen provided to a cylinder of the hydrogen internal combustion engine.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the third concentration threshold, causing, by the controller, a notification to be provided to a user via a display.

15. A hydrogen internal combustion engine system comprising: a hydrogen internal combustion engine, the hydrogen internal combustion engine comprising a crankcase; a first valve configured to receive air and provide a first amount of the air to a second valve, wherein the first amount of the air is based on a position of the first valve;the second valve comprising: a second valve first portion configured to receive the air from the first valve, and a second valve second portion configured to receive a second amount of a blowby gas from the crankcase, wherein the second amount of the blowby gas is based on the first amount of the air; and a controller configured to adjust the position based on at least one of a concentration of hydrogen in the crankcase or a compressor pressure of a compressor.

16. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system of claim 15, wherein the second valve comprises: a first inlet configured to receive the air from the first valve; a second inlet configured to receive the blowby gas from the crankcase; a filter media configured to receive the blowby gas and separate a first fluid from the blowby gas; and a first outlet configured to provide the first fluid to a downstream component.

17. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system of claim 15, further comprising: the compressor configured to compress the air; and an electric machine coupled to the second valve, the electric machine operable between a first state whereby the electric machine engages the second valve and causes the second valve to rotate and a second state whereby the electric machine disengages from the second valve.

18. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system of claim 17, wherein the controller is further configured to: receive a hydrogen concentration value regarding the crankcase; receive a pressure value regarding the compressor pressure of the compressor; compare the hydrogen concentration value to a first concentration threshold; responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or below the first concentration threshold, compare the pressure value to a pressure threshold; andresponsive to the pressure value being above the pressure threshold, cause the electric machine to operate in the second state.

19. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system of claim 18, wherein the controller is further configured to: responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the first concentration threshold, compare the hydrogen concentration value to at least one of a plurality of concentration thresholds, wherein the plurality of concentration thresholds includes at least one of a second concentration threshold and a third concentration threshold; responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the second concentration threshold and below the third concentration threshold, compare the pressure value to the pressure threshold; responsive to the pressure value being at or below the pressure threshold, cause the electric machine to operate in the first state; and responsive to the pressure value being above the pressure threshold, cause the electric machine to operate in the second state.

20. The hydrogen internal combustion engine system of claim 19, wherein the controller is further configured to: responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being above the first concentration threshold, compare the hydrogen concentration value to at least one of the plurality of concentration thresholds, wherein the plurality of concentration thresholds includes at least the third concentration threshold; responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or above the second concentration threshold, cause the electric machine to operate in the first state; and responsive to the hydrogen concentration value being at or above the second concentration threshold, cause an injector of the hydrogen internal combustion engine to decrease an amount of hydrogen provided to a cylinder of the hydrogen internal combustion engine.

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