Hydrogen tank connecting method, and hydrogen consumption system

Abstract

In this hydrogen tank connecting method for connecting a detachable hydrogen tank to a hydrogen consumption device, connection failure between a connector of the hydrogen tank and a connector of the hydrogen consumption device is suppressed. This hydrogen tank connecting method for connecting a first connection part of a detachable hydrogen tank to a second connection part of a hydrogen consumption device that consumes hydrogen in the hydrogen tank comprises: an approach step in which the first connection part and the second connection part are disposed facing each other in a separated state; and a connection step, after the approach step, in which the first connection part and the second connection part are connected by reducing the distance of separation. In the approach step and the connection step, the hydrogen tank is moved in the axial direction of the first connection part and the second connection part by a movable part that moves the hydrogen tank.

Description

Hydrogen tank connection method and hydrogen consumption system

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method for connecting a hydrogen tank and a system for consuming hydrogen as a supplied fuel.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses that a hydrogen tank is detachably mounted on a vehicle and includes a cylindrical hydrogen tank body and a handle formed on one longitudinal end of the hydrogen tank body. It further explains that the hydrogen tank includes a first connector formed on the other longitudinal end of the hydrogen tank body, which is connected to a second connector provided on the vehicle when the hydrogen tank body is attached to the vehicle, thereby enabling hydrogen to be supplied to the vehicle.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-056952

[0004] However, if the connector of the hydrogen tank and the connector of the hydrogen consuming device are not arranged coaxially (if the axes are misaligned), the connectors may not connect properly, which may result in connection problems such as poor sealing. Poor connection between the connector of the hydrogen tank and the connector of the hydrogen consuming device may cause problems such as poor hydrogen supply or hydrogen shutoff due to poor opening and closing of the hydrogen tank.

[0005] In view of the above problems, the present disclosure aims to provide a hydrogen tank connection method and a hydrogen consumption system that can prevent poor connection between the connector of the hydrogen tank and the connector of the hydrogen consumption device.

[0006] That is, the present disclosure includes the following aspects: <1> A method for connecting a hydrogen tank, which connects a first connection part of a detachable hydrogen tank to a second connection part of a hydrogen consumption device that consumes hydrogen from the hydrogen tank, comprising: an approaching step in which the first connection part and the second connection part are arranged facing each other while being spaced apart; and a connecting step in which, after the approaching step, the first connection part and the second connection part are connected by reducing the spaced apart distance, wherein, during the approaching step and the connecting step, the hydrogen tank is moved in the axial direction between the first connection part and the second connection part by a movable part that moves the hydrogen tank.

[0007] <2> The hydrogen tank connection method according to <1>, wherein movement of the hydrogen tank in the approaching step and the connecting step is restricted by a movement preventing member that locks the movable part in a predetermined position.

[0008] <3> The hydrogen tank connection method described in <2>, wherein the movable part has an engagement recess that can engage with the movement-preventing member, the movement-preventing member is a lock pin, and the engagement recess provided on the movable part and the lock pin engage to restrict movement of the movable part.

[0009] <4> A method for connecting a hydrogen tank as described in <1>, wherein, when the hydrogen tank is inserted into the hydrogen consumption device and positioned at a hydrogen supply stop position, the hydrogen tank is moved and positioned at a hydrogen supply standby position in which the first connection portion and the second connection portion in the approaching process are positioned facing each other and spaced apart.

[0010] <5> The method for connecting hydrogen tanks according to <1>, wherein, when there is a gravitational component in the direction of approach of the first connection portion to the second connection portion, the output of the actuator of the movable portion is adjusted according to the magnitude of the gravitational component.

[0011] <6> A hydrogen consumption system having a detachable hydrogen tank, a hydrogen consumption device that consumes hydrogen from the hydrogen tank, and a control device, wherein the hydrogen tank has a first connection part, and the hydrogen consumption device has a second connection part and a movable part that moves the hydrogen tank, and the control device controls the connection of the hydrogen tank to the hydrogen consumption device, and the connection control includes an approaching step in which the first connection part and the second connection part are arranged facing each other while being spaced apart, and a connecting step in which, after the approaching step, the distance between them is reduced and the first connection part is connected to the second connection part, and the control device moves the hydrogen tank in the axial direction of the first connection part and the second connection part using the movable part.

[0012] <7> The hydrogen consumption system described in <6>, wherein the hydrogen consumption device has a movement-preventing member that locks the movable part at a predetermined position when restricting movement of the hydrogen tank, and in the approach process, the control device performs locking control to lock the hydrogen tank using the movement-preventing member, and the first connection part and the second connection part are positioned facing each other while being spaced apart by the engagement using the movement-preventing member.

[0013] <8> The hydrogen consumption system described in <7>, wherein the movable part has an engagement recess that can engage with the movement-preventing member, the movement-preventing member is a lock pin, and the control device restricts movement of the movable part by engaging the engagement recess provided in the movable part with the lock pin.

[0014] <9> A hydrogen consumption system as described in <6>, wherein when the hydrogen tank is inserted into the hydrogen consumption device and positioned at a hydrogen supply stop position, the control device moves the hydrogen tank from the hydrogen supply stop position to a hydrogen supply standby position as the approach process of the connection control, and positions the first connection portion and the second connection portion facing each other while being spaced apart.

[0015] <10> The hydrogen consumption system described in <6>, wherein when there is a gravity component in the direction of approach of the first connection part to the second connection part, the control device adjusts the output of the actuator of the movable part according to the magnitude of the gravity component.

[0016] <11> The hydrogen consumption system described in <8>, wherein the movable part has a first engagement recess and a second engagement recess as the engagement recesses at a predetermined interval, in the order of closest to the second connection part, the widths of the first engagement recess and the second engagement recess are greater than the width of the lock pin, the control device performs an origin learning process by engaging the lock pin with the first engagement recess when the hydrogen tank is inserted into the hydrogen consumption device and the movable part is positioned at the hydrogen supply stop position, and the control device performs a position correction process by engaging the lock pin with the second engagement recess when the movable part is moved to the hydrogen supply standby position.

[0017] <12> The hydrogen consumption system according to <11>, wherein the first connection part is an on-off valve, and the second connection part is a push rod.

[0018] According to the present disclosure, poor connection between the connector of the hydrogen tank and the connector of the hydrogen consuming device can be prevented, and poor hydrogen supply and hydrogen cut-off caused by poor connection can be prevented.

[0019] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a hydrogen consumption system. FIG. 2 is an external view showing an example of the configuration of a hydrogen tank. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a hydrogen tank taken along the direction of the axis O. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the on-off valve and the second connection portion. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the mounting portion. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the mounting portion. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the control device. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the connection state of the hydrogen tank. FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the process of hydrogen tank connection control S10 from the horizontal direction. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining hydrogen tank connection control S10. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining hydrogen tank connection control S10. FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining hydrogen tank connection control S20 from vertically above. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining hydrogen tank connection control S20. FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining hydrogen tank connection control S20. FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining hydrogen tank connection control S30 from diagonally above. FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining hydrogen tank connection control S30. FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining hydrogen tank connection control S30.

[0020] 1. Hydrogen Tank Connection Method The present disclosure provides a hydrogen tank connection method for connecting a first connection part of a detachable hydrogen tank to a second connection part of a hydrogen consumption device that consumes hydrogen from the hydrogen tank, the method comprising: an approaching step in which the first connection part and the second connection part are arranged facing each other while being spaced apart; and a connecting step in which, after the approaching step, the distance between the first connection part and the second connection part is reduced and the first connection part is connected; and in the approaching step and the connecting step, the hydrogen tank is moved in the axial direction between the first connection part and the second connection part by a movable part that moves the hydrogen tank.

[0021] The hydrogen tank connection method of the present disclosure includes an approaching step and a connecting step, through which a first connection portion of the hydrogen tank is connected to a second connection portion of a hydrogen consuming device.

[0022] (Approaching Step) The approaching step is a step in which the first connection portion and the second connection portion are arranged facing each other while being spaced apart. The distance by which the first connection portion and the second connection portion are separated is not particularly limited as long as the first connection portion and the second connection portion do not come into contact with each other. In the approaching step, the first connection portion and the second connection portion are arranged facing each other, and may be arranged coaxially from the viewpoint of reducing the occurrence of connection failures. In the present disclosure, "coaxially" means that the first connection portion and the second connection portion are arranged in a straight line in a direction in which they can be connected, and as long as the first connection portion and the second connection portion are facing each other, they are positioned so that they can be connected when the distance between them is reduced.

[0023] When the hydrogen tank is inserted into the hydrogen consuming device and placed at the hydrogen supply stop position, the hydrogen tank may be moved to a hydrogen supply standby position in which the first connection portion and the second connection portion are positioned facing each other while being spaced apart in an approaching step. In the approaching step, the hydrogen tank may be moved from the hydrogen supply stop position to the hydrogen supply standby position. The approaching step allows the hydrogen tank to be placed at a position where it is ready to supply hydrogen to the hydrogen consuming device.

[0024] In the hydrogen consuming device, the hydrogen tank is inserted, attached, detached, etc. Inserting the hydrogen tank refers to the operation of placing the hydrogen tank at the position where attachment of the hydrogen tank begins (hydrogen supply stop position). Specifically, it may be the operation of inserting the hydrogen tank manually or by an actuator into the storage hole of the attachment part of the hydrogen consuming device from outside the hydrogen consuming system. Attaching the hydrogen tank refers to the operation of connecting the hydrogen tank and the hydrogen consuming device so that the hydrogen tank can supply hydrogen to the hydrogen consuming device. Specifically, it refers to the operation of manually or by an actuator moving the hydrogen tank from the hydrogen supply stop position to a position (hydrogen supply standby position) where accurate alignment for connecting the first connection part of the hydrogen tank and the second connection part of the hydrogen consuming device begins, and then manually or by an actuator moving the hydrogen tank from the hydrogen supply standby position to a position (hydrogen supply start position) where the first connection part of the hydrogen tank and the second connection part of the hydrogen consuming device are connected, and connecting the pair of connections together. Detaching a hydrogen tank means an operation of manually or by an actuator disconnecting the first connection part of the hydrogen tank from the second connection part of the hydrogen consumption device, and manually or by an actuator moving the hydrogen tank from the hydrogen supply start position to the hydrogen supply standby position, and an operation of manually or by an actuator moving the hydrogen tank from the hydrogen supply standby position to the hydrogen supply stop position so that the hydrogen tank can be removed outside the hydrogen consumption system.

[0025] The hydrogen supply stop position is a position where attachment of the hydrogen tank to the hydrogen consuming device begins and where the hydrogen tank can be removed from the hydrogen consuming system. Specifically, it is a position where the hydrogen tank is manually inserted into the storage hole of the attachment part of the hydrogen consuming device from outside the hydrogen consuming system. The hydrogen supply stop position may be a position farther from the second connection part of the hydrogen consuming device in the direction of movement of the movable part than the hydrogen supply standby position. The hydrogen supply standby position may be a position where the hydrogen tank and the hydrogen consuming device are not connected in a state where the hydrogen tank can supply hydrogen to the hydrogen consuming device and is waiting for hydrogen supply. It may be a position closer to the second connection part of the hydrogen consuming device in the direction of movement of the movable part than the hydrogen supply stop position and where the first connection part of the hydrogen tank and the second connection part of the hydrogen consuming device are not connected. For example, it may be a position where accurate alignment for connecting the first connection part of the hydrogen tank and the second connection part of the hydrogen consuming device begins. The position where accurate alignment begins may be a position where the first connection part and the second connection part are arranged facing each other with a space between them, or a position where the first connection part and the second connection part are arranged facing each other on the same axis with a space between them.The hydrogen supply start position may be any position where the hydrogen tank and the hydrogen consumption device are connected so that the hydrogen tank can supply hydrogen to the hydrogen consumption device, specifically, any position where the first connection part of the hydrogen tank and the second connection part of the hydrogen consumption device are connected.

[0026] (Connection process) The connection process is a process of shortening the separation distance and connecting the first connection part and the second connection part after the approach process. In the connection process, the hydrogen tank may be moved from the hydrogen supply standby position to the hydrogen supply start position. The connection process allows the hydrogen tank and the hydrogen consumption device to be connected in a state where the hydrogen tank can supply hydrogen to the hydrogen consumption device.

[0027] In the approaching step and the connecting step, the hydrogen tank is moved in the axial direction of the first connecting part and the second connecting part by a movable part that moves the hydrogen tank. In this disclosure, the axial direction of the first connecting part and the second connecting part means the direction in which the first connecting part and the second connecting part can be connected.

[0028] The means for moving the movable part is not particularly limited, and the movable part may be manually pushed into or pulled out of the hydrogen consumption device using a member such as a lever, or the movement of the movable part may be controlled by an actuator. When an actuator is used, if there is a gravity component in the direction in which the first connection part approaches the second connection part, the output of the actuator may be adjusted according to the magnitude of the gravity component. If the first connection part is located diagonally above or vertically above the second connection part, the output of the actuator may be decreased according to the magnitude of the gravity component in the connecting step. On the other hand, if the first connection part is located diagonally below or vertically below the second connection part, the output of the actuator may be increased according to the magnitude of the gravity component in the connecting step. Note that if the first connection part is located horizontally with the second connection part, the output of the actuator does not need to be adjusted. The presence and magnitude of the gravity component may be detected using, for example, an acceleration sensor, an angle sensor, or the like. The angle sensor detects the angle θ between the installation surface of the second connection part and a line in the direction in which the first connection part approaches the second connection part. The angle θ corresponds to the insertion angle of the hydrogen tank into the hydrogen consumption device. When an angle sensor is used, the presence or absence and magnitude of the gravitational component may be detected, for example, by preparing a first map in advance that shows the correlation between the insertion angle of the hydrogen tank into the hydrogen consumption device and the gravitational component, and comparing the angle θ detected by the angle sensor with the first map. The output of the actuator to be adjusted may be calculated, for example, by the following method. The output of the actuator to be adjusted may be calculated based on a correlation equation between the actuator output and the gravitational component, which is prepared in advance. The output of the actuator to be adjusted may be calculated by preparing a second map in advance that shows the correlation between the actuator output and the gravitational component, and comparing the magnitude of the detected gravitational component with the second map. The output of the actuator may be adjusted taking into account the mass of the hydrogen tank. The output of the actuator to be adjusted may be calculated, for example, by preparing a third map in advance that shows the correlation between the actuator output, the mass of the hydrogen tank, and the gravitational component, and comparing the mass of the hydrogen tank and the magnitude of the detected gravitational component with the third map.When an angle sensor is used, the actuator output may be preset to correspond to each predetermined angle range, for example, when the insertion angle of the hydrogen tank into the hydrogen consumption device is 0°, 0°<θ≦15°, 15°<θ≦30°, 30°<θ≦45°, 45°<θ≦60°, 60°<θ≦75°, 75°<θ<90°, or 90°, and the output may be switched depending on the predetermined angle range to which the angle θ detected by the angle sensor falls. Furthermore, for example, in the case of a hydrogen consumption device whose structure allows the hydrogen tank to be inserted into the hydrogen consumption device at an angle of 30°, the actuator output may be preset to an output that takes into account the gravitational component when the angle θ is 30°.

[0029] In the approaching step and the connecting step, movement of the hydrogen tank may be restricted by a movement preventing member that locks the movable part at a predetermined position. In the approaching step and the connecting step, movement of the movable part may be restricted by engaging an engaging recess provided in the movable part with a lock pin.

[0030] 2. Hydrogen Consumption System The present disclosure provides a hydrogen consumption system having a detachable hydrogen tank, a hydrogen consumption device that consumes hydrogen from the hydrogen tank, and a control device, wherein the hydrogen tank has a first connection part, and the hydrogen consumption device has a second connection part and a movable part that moves the hydrogen tank, the control device controls the connection of the hydrogen tank to the hydrogen consumption device, the connection control including: an approaching step in which the first connection part and the second connection part are arranged facing each other while being spaced apart, and a connecting step in which, after the approaching step, the first connection part and the second connection part are connected by reducing the spaced apart distance, and the control device provides a hydrogen consumption system in which the movable part moves the hydrogen tank in the axial direction between the first connection part and the second connection part.

[0031] The hydrogen consumption system of the present disclosure includes a detachable hydrogen tank, a hydrogen consumption device that consumes hydrogen from the hydrogen tank, and a control device. The hydrogen consumption system of the present disclosure may be used in mobile vehicles such as vehicles, trains, ships, and aircraft, and stationary power generation systems such as fuel cell generators. Examples of vehicles include fuel cell vehicles and hydrogen engine vehicles.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a hydrogen consumption system. The hydrogen consumption system 10 shown in FIG. 1 includes a hydrogen tank 11, which is a hydrogen supply source, a hydrogen consumption device 20, which is a destination of the hydrogen supply, and a control device 50. The hydrogen consumption system 10 shown in FIG. 1 generates electricity by supplying hydrogen stored in the hydrogen tank 11 to a fuel cell 40 included in the hydrogen consumption device 20. Furthermore, in FIG. 1, the hydrogen tank 11 is configured to be detachable from the hydrogen consumption device 20. In FIG. 1, multiple (three) hydrogen tanks 11 are provided, and each hydrogen tank 11 is filled with hydrogen. In FIG. 1, the three hydrogen tanks 11 are denoted by reference numerals 11a, 11b, and 11c to distinguish them from one another. These hydrogen tanks 11 may all have the same capacity, or tanks of different capacities may be included. This is explained in detail below.

[0033] [Hydrogen Tank] A hydrogen tank (sometimes referred to as a tank) is a container that stores the fuel (hydrogen in this embodiment) to be supplied in a liquid or gaseous state. Hydrogen is supplied from the hydrogen tank to the hydrogen consuming device. The hydrogen consuming system may include at least one hydrogen tank, and may include multiple (n) hydrogen tanks. n may be an integer of 2 or greater, with no particular upper limit. The hydrogen tank may be detachable, and any known hydrogen tank may be used. The allowable pressure of the hydrogen tank is not particularly limited, but examples include tanks that can store hydrogen at an allowable pressure of more than 20 MPa and not more than 70 MPa, from the perspective of being able to supply more hydrogen while being compact to maintain portability. The hydrogen tank may be provided with an exterior body that forms the outer shell of the hydrogen tank, and a handle that can be gripped when attaching or detaching the hydrogen tank to the hydrogen consuming device.

[0034] 2 and 3 are explanatory diagrams of a hydrogen tank. FIG. 2 is an external view showing an example of the configuration of a hydrogen tank. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a hydrogen tank taken along the direction of axis O. The hydrogen tank 11 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 has a liner 12, a reinforcing layer 13, a mouthpiece 14, and an on-off valve 15 as a first connection part. Each component will be described below.

[0035] [Liner] The liner is a hollow member that defines the interior space of the hydrogen tank. The liner 12 shown in FIG. 3 is cylindrical. In FIG. 3, the liner 12 has a body portion 12a with a generally uniform diameter, with openings at both ends narrowed by dome-shaped side ends 12b, and a nozzle 14 is disposed at the narrowed opening 12c. The liner may be made of any material capable of retaining the contents (e.g., hydrogen) contained in the interior space without leakage, and any known material may be used. Specific examples include nylon resin, polyethylene-based synthetic resin, stainless steel, and metals such as aluminum. Among these, the liner may be made of synthetic resin to reduce the weight of the hydrogen tank. The thickness of the liner is not particularly limited, but may be 0.5 mm to 3.0 mm.

[0036] [Reinforcing Layer] The reinforcing layer 13 shown in FIG. 3 is formed by laminating multiple layers of fibers, with the fibers impregnated with a cured resin. The fiber layers are formed by wrapping multiple layers of fiber bundles around the outer periphery of the liner 12 to a predetermined thickness. The thickness of the reinforcing layer 13 and the number of turns of the fiber bundles are determined based on the required strength and are not particularly limited, but are approximately 10 mm to 30 mm. The fiber bundles of the reinforcing layer 13 are, for example, carbon fibers, and the fiber bundles are bundled into a strip shape with a predetermined cross-sectional shape (e.g., a rectangular cross-section). Although not particularly limited, the cross-sectional shape may be rectangular with a width of approximately 6 mm to 20 mm and a thickness of approximately 0.1 mm to 0.3 mm. The amount of carbon fiber contained in the fiber bundles is also not particularly limited, but may be, for example, approximately 36,000 carbon fibers. The resin impregnated and cured into the fibers (fiber bundles) in the reinforcing layer 13 is not particularly limited as long as it can increase the strength of the fibers. Examples of such resins include thermosetting resins that harden when heated, such as epoxy resins containing amine- or anhydride-based curing accelerators and rubber-based toughening agents, and unsaturated polyester resins. Other examples include resin compositions that use epoxy resin as the base agent and harden by mixing a curing agent into the base agent. In this case, the resin composition, which is a mixture of the base agent and the curing agent, reaches and penetrates the fiber layer between the time of mixing and hardening, and automatically hardens. If necessary, a protective layer may be disposed around the outer periphery of the reinforcing layer 13. When provided, the protective layer may be formed, for example, by wrapping glass fiber around the fiber and impregnating it with resin. The impregnated resin can be considered the same as the reinforcing layer 13. This provides impact resistance to the hydrogen tank 11. The thickness of the protective layer is not particularly limited, but may be approximately 1.0 mm to 1.5 mm.

[0037] [Jug] The jug 14 shown in Figures 2 and 3 is a component attached to each of the two openings 12c of the liner 12. It is located at each end of the liner 12 in the direction of the axis O. It functions as an opening that connects the inside and outside of the hydrogen tank 11, and an on-off valve 15 is attached to one of the openings. Therefore, the jug 14 has a circular cross-sectional hole in which the on-off valve 15 is disposed. The inner surface of the hole is provided with a female thread that corresponds to the male thread of the on-off valve 15. The on-off valve 15 is fixed to the jug 14 by mating the female thread with the male thread of the on-off valve 15. The inner surface of the hole also has a smooth sealing surface on the inside (high-pressure side) of the hydrogen tank 11, closer to the female thread. A sealing member attached to the outer periphery of the on-off valve 15 comes into contact with this sealing surface, thereby sealing the inside of the hydrogen tank 11. The material constituting the jug 14 is not particularly limited as long as it has the required strength, but examples include stainless steel and aluminum.

[0038] [First Connection Portion] The hydrogen tank has a first connection portion (a connection portion on the hydrogen tank side) that is connected to the hydrogen consumption device. The first connection portion may be an on-off valve or the like. Examples of the on-off valve include a solenoid valve.

[0039] The on-off valve 15 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 is held in a hole in the nozzle 14 so as to bridge the inside and outside of the hydrogen tank 11. The on-off valve 15 is disposed in one of two nozzles 14 provided at both longitudinal ends of the hydrogen tank 11. A stopper 14a is disposed on the other nozzle 14 to seal it. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the on-off valve and the second connection portion. FIG. 4 is a diagram including the on-off valve 15 and its vicinity in FIG. 3, showing the on-off valve 15 separated from the second connection portion 42 of the hydrogen consumption device 20 (described later). The on-off valve 15 has a shaft portion disposed inside the hole in the nozzle 14, and the outer peripheral surface of the shaft portion is provided with a male thread that mates with the female thread of the nozzle 14, thereby fixing the on-off valve 15 to the hole in the nozzle 14. A sealing member (not shown) is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the on-off valve 15, and this sealing member is disposed so as to contact the sealing surface on the inner surface of the hole in the nozzle 14 to achieve airtightness (sealing).

[0040] The on-off valve 15 shown in FIG. 4 has a valve element 16 and an insertion portion 17. The valve element 16 shown in FIG. 4 is a switching valve that allows and restricts communication between the inside and outside of the hydrogen tank 11. When the valve is closed, the valve element 16 is biased to restrict the communication, and by pressing the valve element 16 against the biasing force, the valve element 16 moves and allows the communication. In this embodiment, since communication is switched by pressing and releasing the pressure on the valve element 16, a means for pressing the valve element 16 is required. Therefore, the hydrogen consumption device 20 is provided with a means (push rod 43) for pressing the valve element 16, as described below. The on-off valve 15 shown in FIG. 4 has an insertion portion 17 that houses the valve element 16 and into which the push rod 43 is inserted. Therefore, the insertion portion 17 has an insertion hole 17a into which the push rod 43 is inserted and which leads to the valve element 16.

[0041] [Hydrogen Consumption Device] The hydrogen consumption device is a device that receives and consumes hydrogen from the hydrogen tank. The hydrogen consumption device 20 shown in Figure 1 includes an attachment portion 21, a fuel cell 40, a supply flow path 41, a second connection portion 42, an injector 45, and a pressure sensor 46. Each portion will be described below.

[0042] [Mounting section] The mounting section is the section in which the hydrogen tank is stored when the hydrogen tank is connected to the hydrogen consumption device. The mounting section has at least a movable section, and may also have a storage hole, a movement prevention member, an actuator, a sensor, etc. as necessary.

[0043] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the mounting portion. Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the mounting portion. Fig. 5 shows a cross-section of the mounting portion 21 when the hydrogen tank 11 is mounted thereon and the on-off valve 15 of the hydrogen tank 11 is connected to the push rod 43 of the second connection portion 42. Fig. 6 also shows a schematic diagram of the components provided in and around the mounting portion 21. The mounting portion 21 shown in Figs. 5 and 6 includes a storage hole 22, a base 23, a lock pin 24, a stepping motor 25, and a position sensor 26.

[0044] [Storage Hole] The storage hole 22 shown in Figure 5 is a space in which the hydrogen tank 11 is stored, has an opening 22a through which the hydrogen tank 11 can be inserted and removed, and is a space surrounded by an inner wall 22b. A second connection part 42 (push rod 43) is disposed at a bottom 22c of the storage hole 22, which is on the opposite side from the opening 22a. The storage holes 22 shown in Figure 5 are provided in three vertical stages, but the number of storage holes 22 is not particularly limited.

[0045] [Movable Part] The movable part moves the hydrogen tank. The movable part moves the first connection part of the hydrogen tank in a direction approaching and moving away from the second connection part of the hydrogen consumption device. The movable part moves the hydrogen tank between a hydrogen supply stop position, a hydrogen supply standby position, and a hydrogen supply start position. The movable part may have an engagement recess (positioning hole) that can engage with the movement preventing member. The movable part may have at least one engagement recess, or may have two, or may have three or more engagement recesses. The movable part may have a first engagement recess and a second engagement recess as the engagement recesses, in order of proximity to the second connection part, at a predetermined interval in the direction in which the movable part moves. The engagement recess may be provided at any position on the movable part. When the hydrogen tank is disposed on the upper surface side of the movable part, the engagement recess may be provided on the lower surface side of the movable part. The specific shape of the engagement recess is not particularly limited as long as it is configured to allow the lock pin to engage and disengage, and may be a recess or a groove. The engagement recess may be a depression, groove, or the like provided in the movable part, or may be a concave accessory attached to the movable part. The width of the engagement recess (the size in the direction in which the movable part moves) may be greater than the width of the lock pin. This allows the movable part to move within the range of the width of the engagement recess even when the lock pin protrudes so as to enter the inside of the engagement recess.

[0046] The movable part may be the base 23 shown in Figures 1, 5, and 6. The base 23 is a member on which the hydrogen tank 11 is placed and fixed. The base 23 is arranged inside and below the storage hole 22. The base 23 is arranged to be movable in the depth direction of the storage hole 22 (the direction connecting the opening 22a and the bottom 22c, the direction in which the on-off valve 15 of the hydrogen tank 11 approaches and moves away from the second connection part 42 (push rod 43), the direction of arrow T in Figure 6). The on-off valve 15 of the hydrogen tank 11 and the second connection part 42 are arranged opposite and coaxially. The means for movement is not particularly limited, but examples include a combination of rails and wheels.

[0047] 5 and 6 further has a first engagement recess 23a and a second engagement recess 23b on its underside (the surface facing the inner wall 22b). The first engagement recess 23a and the second engagement recess 23b are not particularly limited in their specific shapes as long as they are configured to allow the lock pin 24 to be engaged and disengaged, and may be a depression or a groove (a groove extending in the direction toward / away from the plane of the paper in FIG. 6).

[0048] 5 and 6, the width of the first engagement recess 23a and the second engagement recess 23b (the size in the direction in which the base 23 moves) is greater than the width of the lock pin 24. In other words, even when the lock pin 24 is protruding so as to enter the inside of the first engagement recess 23a and the second engagement recess 23b, the base 23 can move within the range of the width of the first engagement recess 23a and the second engagement recess 23b. The first engagement recess 23a is on the side closer to the push rod 42, and the second engagement recess 23b is on the opening 22a side, and they are arranged with a predetermined distance in the direction in which the base 23 moves. This distance is set to a size that allows for attachment / detachment control, which will be described later.

[0049] [Movement-Preventing Member] The hydrogen consumption device may have a movement-preventing member that locks the movable part at a predetermined position when restricting movement of the hydrogen tank. The movement-preventing member forcibly stops the movement of the movable part by locking. The movement-preventing member is disposed at a predetermined position on the movement path of the movable part. The predetermined position may be a hydrogen supply start position, a hydrogen supply standby position, or both. In lock control, the movement-preventing member locks the movable part at a predetermined position, setting it in a locked state that restricts movement of the hydrogen tank, and in unlock control, releases the lock of the movable part, setting it in an unlocked state that allows movement of the hydrogen tank. The movement-preventing member is electrically connected to a control device. Based on an input signal, the control device drives the movement-preventing member to switch between a locked state that restricts movement of the hydrogen tank and an unlocked state that allows movement of the hydrogen tank. The movement-preventing member may be movable in accordance with the movement of the movable part. The movement of the movement-preventing member may be controlled by an actuator. The movement-preventing member may be a lock pin or the like. The locking pin may be a solenoid locking pin.

[0050] 5 and 6 is a pin arranged so as to be able to protrude and retract from the inner wall 22b, and when protruding, it enters the inside of the first engaging recess 23a and the second engaging recess 23b and can engage with the first engaging recess 23a and the second engaging recess 23b. On the other hand, the lock pin 24 is arranged so as not to engage with the first engaging recess 23a and the second engaging recess 23b when retracted. The lock pin 24 is electrically connected to the control device 50, and its protrusion and retraction are controlled based on signals from the control device 50.

[0051] [Actuator] The hydrogen consuming device may have at least one actuator. The hydrogen consuming device may have a plurality (n) of actuators corresponding to a plurality (n) of movable parts that move a plurality (n) of hydrogen tanks. The actuator is not particularly limited as long as it can control the movement of the movable parts. The actuator may be a motor or the like. In this case, the movable part moves the hydrogen tank by controlling the motor. The motor may be a stepping motor or the like.

[0052] The stepping motor 25 shown in Figure 6 is a power source that moves the base 23 via gears. The specific form of the stepping motor is not particularly limited, and any known stepping motor can be used. The stepping motor 25 is electrically connected to a control device 50, and the rotation angle and rotation speed are controlled based on signals from the control device 50, thereby precisely controlling the movement of the base 23.

[0053] [Sensors] The hydrogen consuming device may have sensors such as a position sensor, a torque sensor, a motor temperature sensor, an acceleration sensor, an angle sensor, and a pressure sensor. The specific form of the sensor is not particularly limited, and known sensors can be used.

[0054] 6 detects the position of the hydrogen tank 11, in particular the position of the on-off valve 15 (the position in the direction of movement of the base 23). Alternatively, the position may be detected based on the rotation angle of the stepping motor 25 detected by a torque sensor (not shown), or the position of the on-off valve 15 may be detected based on the temperature of the stepping motor 25 detected by a motor temperature sensor (not shown). The position sensor 26 is electrically connected to the control device 50 and is configured to be able to transmit the measured position of the hydrogen tank 11 to the control device 50 as a signal.

[0055] [Hydrogen Consuming Device] The hydrogen consuming apparatus may include a hydrogen consuming device, such as a fuel cell, a hydrogen engine, or a combustion unit of a hydrogen burner.

[0056] 1 is a device that consumes supplied hydrogen, and generates electricity by receiving a supply of hydrogen from the hydrogen tank 11 and a supply of air from an air hole (not shown). The specific configuration of the fuel cell 40 is not particularly limited, and a known configuration can be used.

[0057] [Supply Flow Path] The hydrogen consuming device may have a supply flow path (hydrogen piping). The supply flow path is a path that guides hydrogen from the hydrogen tank to the hydrogen consuming device and is composed of piping. The supply flow paths extending from each hydrogen tank may merge to form a single supply flow path, and the supply flow path may be connected to the hydrogen consuming device.

[0058] 1 is a path that conducts hydrogen from the hydrogen tank 11 to the fuel cell 40 and is made up of pipes. In Fig. 1, each of the hydrogen tanks 11a, 11b, and 11c is connected to the fuel cell 40. Here, pipes 41a, 41b, and 41c extending from the hydrogen tanks 11a, 11b, and 11c, respectively, join together to form a single pipe 41d, which is connected to the fuel cell 40.

[0059] [Second Connection Portion] The hydrogen consuming device has a second connection portion (connection portion on the hydrogen consuming device side). If the hydrogen consuming system is equipped with multiple hydrogen tanks, the hydrogen consuming device may have multiple second connection portions corresponding to the first connection portions of the multiple hydrogen tanks. The second connection portion is connected to the first connection portion of the hydrogen tank and forms a flow passage (communication) with the hydrogen tank. The second connection portion may be a push rod, etc.

[0060] 4-5 and 8 is disposed at the portion of supply flow path 41 that connects to hydrogen tank 11, and connects to insertion portion 17 provided on opening / closing valve 15 of hydrogen tank 11, while also operating to open and close valve body 16 of hydrogen tank 11. As can be seen in Figure 4, second connecting portion 42 has a push rod 43.

[0061] 4 to 6 and 8 is a member that can press against the valve element 16 provided on the on-off valve 15 of the hydrogen tank 11, and in this embodiment is rod-shaped and capable of pressing against the valve element 16 with its tip. Therefore, the push rod 43 is configured so that it can be inserted into an insertion hole 17a formed in the insertion portion 17 of the on-off valve 15. Furthermore, the push rod 43 is configured to form a flow path that allows hydrogen to flow from the inside of the hydrogen tank 11 to the supply flow path 41 when the on-off valve 15 is opened by pressing against the valve element 16.

[0062] [Injection] The hydrogen consuming device may have an injector. The injector is arranged in the supply flow path between the second connection part and the hydrogen consuming device and controls the supply of hydrogen to the hydrogen consuming device. The specific form of the injector is not particularly limited, but examples include a check valve and a flow rate control valve.

[0063] The injector 45 shown in FIG. 1 is disposed in the supply flow path 41 (supply flow path 41 d in this embodiment) between the second connection portion 42 and the fuel cell 40 , and controls the supply of hydrogen to the fuel cell 40 .

[0064] [Pressure Sensor] The hydrogen consuming device may have a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor measures the pressure inside the hydrogen consuming device. The pressure sensor may be provided in each supply flow path so as to correspond to the internal pressure of each hydrogen tank, or may measure the pressure inside each supply flow path (pressure inside the piping).

[0065] 1 is a pressure gauge provided in each of the supply flow paths 41 a, 41 b, and 41 c, and measures the pressure inside each of the supply flow paths 41 a, 41 b, and 41 c (pressure inside the piping) so as to correspond to the internal pressure of each of the hydrogen tanks 11 a, 11 b, and 11 c. In this embodiment, the specific form of the pressure sensor 46 is not particularly limited, but it is configured to be able to transmit the obtained pressure value data to the control device 50.

[0066] [Control Device] The control device is a device that controls the connection of a first connection part (such as an on-off valve) of the hydrogen tank to a second connection part (such as a push rod) of the hydrogen consumption device. The control device may be an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) or the like.

[0067] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the control device. The control device 50 is configured to be able to communicate with the lock pin 24, the stepping motor 25, the position sensor 26, the injection 45, and the pressure sensor 46. As conceptually shown in FIG. 7, the control device 50 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 51, which is a processor that performs calculations, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 52 that functions as a work area, a ROM (Read-Only Memory) 53 that functions as a recording medium, a receiver 54 that is an interface that receives information into the control device 50, whether wired or wireless, and a transmitter 55 that is an interface that transmits information from the control device 50 to the outside, whether wired or wireless. Thus, the control device 50 is configured such that the position sensor 26 and the pressure sensor 46 are connected to the receiver 54 to receive information, and the lock pin 24, the stepping motor 25, and the injection 45 are connected to the transmitter 55 to transmit signals to operate them. The control device 50 stores a program that performs calculations for controlling hydrogen tank connection, as described below, and transmits operation signals to each device. In the control device 50, the CPU 51, RAM 52, and ROM 53, which serve as hardware resources, work together with the program. Specifically, the CPU 51 executes the computer program stored in the ROM 53 in the RAM 52, which functions as a work area, to perform the desired control. Information acquired or generated by the CPU 51 is stored in the RAM 52. Alternatively, a separate recording medium may be provided inside or outside the control device 50, and the program and various data may be recorded thereon. Specific control content will be described later. Such a control device 50 can typically be configured by a computer.

[0068] 3. Hydrogen Tank Attachment / Detachment Control The control device performs at least connection control (mounting control) of the hydrogen tank attachment / detachment control for the hydrogen consumption device. Attachment / detachment control includes connection control and detachment control.

[0069] 3.1. Hydrogen Tank Connection Control The connection control includes an approaching process in which the first and second connection parts are positioned facing each other while being spaced apart, and a connecting process in which, after the approaching process, the distance between the first and second connection parts is reduced and the first and second connection parts are connected. The approaching process and connecting process are the same as those described in "1. Hydrogen Tank Connection Method" above. The control device moves the hydrogen tank in the axial direction of the first and second connection parts using the movable part. In the approaching process, the control device performs locking control to lock the hydrogen tank using a movement-preventing member. The first and second connection parts may be positioned facing each other while being spaced apart, or may be positioned coaxially, due to the engagement by the movement-preventing member. The control device may restrict movement of the movable part by engaging the engagement recess provided on the movable part with a lock pin provided on the hydrogen consumption device. When the hydrogen tank is inserted into the hydrogen consumption device and positioned at the hydrogen supply stop position, the control device moves the hydrogen tank from the hydrogen supply stop position to the hydrogen supply standby position as the approach step of the connection control. The first and second connection parts may be positioned facing each other but spaced apart, or may be positioned coaxially. If there is a gravity component in the direction of approach of the first connection part to the second connection part, the control device may adjust the output of the actuator of the movable part that moves the hydrogen tank according to the magnitude of the gravity component. The control device may detect the presence and magnitude of the gravity component using, for example, an acceleration sensor and an angle sensor. For example, the control device may detect the presence and magnitude of the gravity component by preparing in advance a first map that shows the correlation between the insertion angle of the hydrogen tank into the hydrogen consumption device and the gravity component, and comparing the angle θ detected by the angle sensor with the first map. For example, the control device may prepare a correlation equation between the actuator output and the gravity component and adjust the actuator output based on the correlation equation. The control device may, for example, prepare in advance a second map showing the correlation between the actuator output and the gravity component, and adjust the actuator output by comparing the magnitude of the detected gravity component with the second map.The control device may, for example, prepare a third map in advance showing the correlation between the actuator output, the mass of the hydrogen tank, and the gravity component, and adjust the actuator output by comparing the mass of the hydrogen tank and the magnitude of the detected gravity component with the third map. The control device may, for example, preset actuator outputs corresponding to each predetermined angle range when the insertion angle of the hydrogen tank into the hydrogen consumption device is 0°, 0°<θ≦15°, 15°<θ≦30°, 30°<θ≦45°, 45°<θ≦60°, 60°<θ≦75°, 75°<θ<90°, or 90°, and switch the actuator output depending on the predetermined angle range into which the angle θ detected by the angle sensor falls. For example, in the case of a hydrogen consumption device whose structure allows the hydrogen tank to be inserted into the hydrogen consumption device at an angle of 30°, the control device may preset the actuator output to an output that takes into account the gravity component when the angle θ is 30°. The control device may perform an origin learning process by engaging the lock pin with the first engagement recess when the hydrogen tank is inserted into the hydrogen consumption device and the movable part is positioned at the hydrogen supply stop position. The control device may perform a position correction process by engaging the lock pin with the second engagement recess when the movable part is moved from the hydrogen supply stop position to the hydrogen supply standby position.

[0070] 3.2. Hydrogen Tank Desorption Control The control device may perform desorption control as part of the control of attaching and detaching the hydrogen tank to the hydrogen consuming device. Desorption control includes a disconnection process and a separation process. The disconnection process is a process of moving the hydrogen tank relative to the hydrogen consuming device from the hydrogen supply start position to the hydrogen supply standby position. The disconnection process releases the connection between the hydrogen consuming device and the hydrogen tank. The separation process is a process of moving the hydrogen tank relative to the hydrogen consuming device from the hydrogen supply standby position to the hydrogen supply stop position. The separation process makes it possible to remove the hydrogen tank from the hydrogen consuming device. The detached state of the hydrogen tank and the connected state of the hydrogen tank are explained below.

[0071] 4, when the hydrogen tank 11 is placed in the mounting portion 21 of the hydrogen consumption device 20 and before it is connected to the second connection portion 42 of the hydrogen consumption device 20, the push rod 43 and the on-off valve 15 are separated, and the on-off valve 15 is closed by the valve body 16 of the hydrogen tank 11. Note that the position of the hydrogen tank 11 in the detached state may be either the hydrogen supply standby position or the hydrogen supply stop position.

[0072] 3.4. Connection State of Hydrogen Tank Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the connection state of the hydrogen tank. As shown in Figure 8, when the hydrogen tank 11 is placed in the mounting portion 21 of the hydrogen consumption device 20 and connected to the second connection portion 42 of the hydrogen consumption device 20, the push rod 43 is inserted into the insertion hole 17a of the insertion portion 17, and the valve body 16 is pressed. This allows hydrogen to flow from the inside of the hydrogen tank 11 through the push rod 43 to the supply flow path 41, allowing hydrogen to be supplied to the fuel cell 40. Note that the position of the hydrogen tank 11 in the connected state is the hydrogen supply start position. Note that hydrogen is supplied to the fuel cell 40 when the injector 45, which is electrically connected to the control device 50, is operated in response to a command from the control device 50.

[0073] 3.5. Hydrogen Tank Connection Control from the Horizontal Direction Figure 9 is a flowchart explaining the flow of hydrogen tank connection control S10 from the horizontal direction. Figures 10 and 11 are diagrams for explaining hydrogen tank connection control S10. The arrows in Figures 10 and 11 indicate the direction of movement of the base 23. As can be seen from Figure 9, hydrogen tank connection control S10 includes steps S11 to S17. Each step is explained below.

[0074] As a premise, as shown in Figure 10(a), the base 23 is placed in an initial position when the hydrogen tank 11 is inserted so that it is spaced apart from the push rod 43, and a lock pin 24 is inserted into the first engagement recess 23a to restrict movement. The hydrogen tank 11 is then placed and fixed in a predetermined position on the base 23. The on-off valve 15 of the hydrogen tank 11 and the push rod 43 are arranged coaxially facing each other at a distance. There are no particular limitations on the fixing method, but examples include tightening with a band, or providing irregularities on the outer surface of the hydrogen tank 11 and providing corresponding irregularities on the surface of the base 23, and combining these irregularities.

[0075] [Step S11] Connection Start Command In step S11, a command to start connecting the hydrogen tank 11 is input to the control device 50. The command to start the connection may be, for example, a signal sent to the control device 50 when a user operates a switch or when the hydrogen tank 11 is placed on the base 23.

[0076] [Step S12] Origin Learning In step S12, origin learning is performed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10B, the control device 50 operates the stepping motor 25 to move the base 23 to a position where the lock pin 24 contacts the wall of the first engagement recess 23a that is on the second engagement recess 23b side. The control device 50 then designates this position as the origin (hydrogen supply stop position) of the base 23. The detection of contact is not particularly limited and can be performed by known means. For example, contact can be determined by detecting a value from the position sensor 26 that indicates a contact position, or by detecting an increase in the torque value of the stepping motor 25 due to contact (in this case, a separate torque sensor (not shown) is arranged on the stepping motor 25 and the control device 50 is configured to receive the signal).

[0077] [Step S13] Releasing the lock by the lock pin (lock-off control) In step S13, the lock by the lock pin 24 is released. Specifically, in response to a command from the control device 50, the lock pin 24 is released from the first engagement recess 23a as shown in FIG.

[0078] [Step S14] Movement to Hydrogen Supply Standby Position In step S14, the base 23 moves from the hydrogen supply stop position to the hydrogen supply standby position. The hydrogen supply standby position is a position where the on-off valve 15 of the hydrogen tank 11 is not yet connected to the push rod 43, but is positioned near the push rod 43. In step S14, the control device 50 activates the stepping motor 25 to move the base 23 closer to the push rod 43. This movement positions the base 23 so that the lock pin 24 can be inserted into the second engagement recess 23b, as shown in Figure 11(a).

[0079] [Step S15] Locking with Lock Pin (Lock-on Control) In step S15, the lock pin 24 is inserted into the second engagement recess 23b to lock the base 23. Specifically, in response to a command from the control device 50, the lock pin 24 protrudes toward the second engagement recess 23b and is positioned inside the second engagement recess 23b as shown in FIG.

[0080] [Step S16] Position Correction In step S16, position correction is performed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11(c), the control device 50 operates the stepping motor 25 to move the base 23 to a position where the lock pin 24 contacts the wall of the second engagement recess 23b that is on the first engagement recess 23a side. This corrects the hydrogen supply standby position. The detection of contact is not particularly limited and can be performed by known means. For example, contact can be determined by detecting a value from the position sensor 26 that indicates a contact position, or by detecting an increase in the torque value of the stepping motor 25 due to contact (in this case, a separate torque sensor (not shown) is arranged on the stepping motor 25 and the control device 50 is configured to receive the signal).

[0081] [Step S17] Movement to Hydrogen Supply Start Position In step S17, the base 23 moves from the hydrogen supply standby position to the hydrogen supply start position, the on-off valve 15 connects to the push rod 43, and the hydrogen tank 11 and the supply flow path 41 are connected. Specifically, as shown in Figure 11 (d), the control device 50 operates the stepping motor 25 to move the base 23 closer to the push rod 43, so that the push rod 43 is inserted into the insertion hole 17a of the on-off valve 15 and presses the valve body 16. In step S17, the lock pin 24 is inserted inside the second engagement recess 23b, so the amount of movement of the base 23 is limited, preventing it from moving too far. Note that when detaching the hydrogen tank 11 from the hydrogen consumption device 20, steps S11 to S17 can be performed in reverse order.

[0082] [Effects, etc.] According to the hydrogen consumption system 10 described above, when attaching or detaching the hydrogen tank 11, it is possible to prevent poor hydrogen supply or hydrogen shutoff due to poor contact between the on-off valve 15 of the hydrogen tank 11 and the second connection part 42 (push rod 43) of the hydrogen consumption device 20. More specifically, rather than placing the hydrogen tank 11 on the base 23 and then directly connecting the hydrogen tank 11 to the push rod 43 as shown in Figure 10(a), by performing control to establish a hydrogen supply standby position as shown in steps S14 to S16, positioning is performed in two stages, improving positioning accuracy and achieving the above-mentioned effects. Furthermore, by limiting the movement of the base 23 with the lock pin 24, it is possible to improve the accuracy of the origin and correction during positioning, and to suppress deterioration in positioning control performance due to manufacturing variations and deterioration over time.

[0083] 3.6. Hydrogen Tank Connection Control from Vertically Above Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating the process of hydrogen tank connection control S20 from vertically above. Figures 13 and 14 are diagrams for explaining hydrogen tank connection control S20. The arrows in Figures 13 and 14 indicate the direction of movement of the base 23. As can be seen from Figure 12, hydrogen tank connection control S20 includes steps S21 to S27. As a premise, as shown in Figure 13(a), the base 23 is positioned in its initial position when the hydrogen tank 11 is inserted, spaced apart from the push rod 43, and the lock pin 24 is inserted into the first engagement recess 23a to restrict movement. The hydrogen tank 11 is then positioned and fixed in a predetermined position on the base 23. The on-off valve 15 of the hydrogen tank 11 and the push rod 43 are positioned coaxially, facing each other at a distance. Each step is explained below.

[0084] [Step S21] Connection Start Command In step S21, a command to start connecting the hydrogen tank 11 is input to the control device 50. The control device 50 estimates in advance the gravity component Fg1 acting in the connection direction of the hydrogen tank 11 from the torque value of the stepping motor 25.

[0085] [Step S22] Origin Learning In step S22, origin learning is performed. Specifically, as shown in Figure 13(b), with the lock pin 24 inserted into the first engagement recess 23a, the control device 50 adjusts the torque value of the stepping motor 25 to zero, and moves (lowers) the base 23 to a position where the weight of the hydrogen tank 11 causes the lock pin 24 to contact the wall of the first engagement recess 23a that is on the second engagement recess 23b side. The control device 50 then sets this position as the origin of the base 23 (hydrogen supply stop position).

[0086] [Step S23] Releasing the lock by the lock pin (lock-off control) In step S23, the lock by the lock pin 24 is released. Specifically, in response to a command from the control device 50, the lock pin 24 is released from the first engagement recess 23a as shown in FIG.

[0087] [Step S24] Movement to Hydrogen Supply Standby Position In step S24, the base 23 moves from the hydrogen supply stop position to the hydrogen supply standby position. In step S24, the control device 50 activates the stepping motor 25 to move (lower) the base 23 closer to the push rod 43. At this time, the control device 50 adjusts the torque command value for the stepping motor 25 to decrease by the amount of the gravity component Fg1 estimated in advance. This movement positions the lock pin 24 so that it can be inserted into the second engagement recess 23b, as shown in Figure 14(a).

[0088] [Step S25] Locking with Lock Pin (Lock-on Control) In step S25, the lock pin 24 is inserted into the second engagement recess 23b to lock the base 23. Specifically, in response to a command from the control device 50, the lock pin 24 protrudes toward the second engagement recess 23b and is positioned inside the second engagement recess 23b as shown in FIG.

[0089] [Step S26] Position Correction In step S26, position correction is performed. Specifically, as shown in Figure 14(c), the control device 50 operates the stepping motor 25 to move (raise) the base 23 to a position where the lock pin 24 contacts the wall of the second engagement recess 23b that is on the first engagement recess 23a side. At this time, the control device 50 adjusts the torque command value sent to the stepping motor 25 to increase it by the amount of the gravity component Fg1 estimated in advance. This corrects the hydrogen supply standby position.

[0090] [Step S27] Movement to Hydrogen Supply Start Position In step S27, the base 23 moves from the hydrogen supply standby position to the hydrogen supply start position, the on-off valve 15 connects to the push rod 43, and the hydrogen tank 11 and the supply flow path 41 are connected. Specifically, as shown in Figure 14(d), the control device 50 operates the stepping motor 25 to move (lower) the base 23 closer to the push rod 43, and the push rod 43 is inserted into the insertion hole 17a of the on-off valve 15 and presses the valve body 16. At this time, the control device 50 adjusts the torque command value for the stepping motor 25 to decrease by the amount of the previously estimated gravity component Fg1. When detaching the hydrogen tank 11 from the hydrogen consumption device 20, steps S21 to S27 can be performed in reverse order.

[0091] 3.7. Hydrogen Tank Connection Control from Diagonally Above Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of the hydrogen tank connection control S30 from diagonally above. Figures 16 and 17 are diagrams for explaining the hydrogen tank connection control S30. The arrows in Figures 16 and 17 indicate the movement direction of the base 23. As can be seen from Figure 15, the hydrogen tank connection control S30 includes steps S31 to S37. Each step is explained below. As a premise, as shown in Figure 16(a), the base 23 is positioned in the initial position when the hydrogen tank 11 is inserted so that it is spaced apart from the push rod 43, and the lock pin 24 is inserted into the first engagement recess 23a to restrict movement. The hydrogen tank 11 is then positioned and fixed in a predetermined position on the base 23. The on-off valve 15 of the hydrogen tank 11 and the push rod 43 are positioned coaxially facing each other at a distance. Each step is explained below.

[0092] [Step S31] Connection Start Command In step S31, a command to start connecting the hydrogen tank 11 is input to the control device 50. The control device 50 estimates in advance the gravity component Fg2 that will be applied in the connection direction of the hydrogen tank 11 from the torque value of the stepping motor 25. Here, the value of the gravity component Fg2 that will be applied when controlling the connection of the hydrogen tank from diagonally above is smaller than the value of the gravity component Fg1 that will be applied when controlling the connection of the hydrogen tank from the vertical direction.

[0093] [Step S32] Origin Learning In step S32, origin learning is performed. Specifically, as shown in Figure 16(b), with the lock pin 24 inserted into the first engagement recess 23a, the control device 50 adjusts the torque value of the stepping motor 25 to zero, and moves (lowers) the base 23 to a position where the weight of the hydrogen tank 11 causes the lock pin 24 to contact the wall of the first engagement recess 23a that is on the second engagement recess 23b side. The control device 50 then sets this position as the origin of the base 23 (hydrogen supply stop position).

[0094] [Step S33] Releasing the lock by the lock pin (lock-off control) In step S33, the lock by the lock pin 24 is released. Specifically, in response to a command from the control device 50, the lock pin 24 is released from the first engaging recess 23a as shown in FIG.

[0095] [Step S34] Movement to Hydrogen Supply Standby Position In step S34, the base 23 moves from the hydrogen supply stop position to the hydrogen supply standby position. In step S24, the control device 50 activates the stepping motor 25 to move (lower) the base 23 closer to the push rod 43. At this time, the control device 50 adjusts the torque command value for the stepping motor 25 to decrease by the amount of the gravity component Fg2 estimated in advance. This movement positions the lock pin 24 so that it can be inserted into the second engagement recess 23b, as shown in Figure 17(a).

[0096] [Step S35] Locking with Lock Pin (Lock-on Control) In step S35, the lock pin 24 is inserted into the second engagement recess 23b to lock the base 23. Specifically, in response to a command from the control device 50, the lock pin 24 protrudes toward the second engagement recess 23b and is positioned inside the second engagement recess 23b as shown in FIG.

[0097] [Step S36] Position Correction In step S36, position correction is performed. Specifically, as shown in Figure 17(c), the control device 50 operates the stepping motor 25 to move (raise) the base 23 to a position where the lock pin 24 contacts the wall of the second engagement recess 23b that is on the first engagement recess 23a side. At this time, the control device 50 adjusts the torque command value sent to the stepping motor 25 to increase it by the amount of the gravity component Fg2 estimated in advance. This corrects the hydrogen supply standby position.

[0098] [Step S37] Movement to Hydrogen Supply Start Position In step S37, the base 23 moves from the hydrogen supply standby position to the hydrogen supply start position, the on-off valve 15 connects to the push rod 43, and the hydrogen tank 11 and the supply flow path 41 are connected. Specifically, as shown in Figure 17(d), the control device 50 operates the stepping motor 25 to move (lower) the base 23 closer to the push rod 43, and the push rod 43 is inserted into the insertion hole 17a of the on-off valve 15 and presses the valve body 16. At this time, the control device 50 adjusts the torque command value sent to the stepping motor 25 to decrease by the amount of the previously estimated gravity component Fg2. Note that when detaching the hydrogen tank 11 from the hydrogen consumption device 20, the above steps S31 to S37 can be performed in reverse order.

[0099] As described above, according to the present disclosure, when attaching or detaching the hydrogen tank 11, it is possible to prevent poor hydrogen supply or hydrogen cutoff due to poor contact between the on-off valve 15 of the hydrogen tank 11 and the second connection part 42 (push rod 43) of the hydrogen consumption device 20, not only when the hydrogen tank is connected horizontally but also when it is connected diagonally or vertically. The connection control of the present disclosure can also be used to control the connection of the hydrogen tank from diagonally downward and vertically downward.

[0100] 10...hydrogen consumption system, 11...hydrogen tank, 12...liner, 13...reinforcing layer, 14...mouthpiece, 15...on-off valve, 16...valve body, 17...insertion portion, 20...hydrogen consumption device, 21...mounting portion, 22...storage hole, 23...base, 24...lock pin, 25...stepping motor, 26...position sensor, 40...fuel cell, 41...supply flow path, 42...second connection portion, 43...push rod, 45...injection, 46...pressure sensor, 50...control device, 51...CPU, 52...RAM, 53...ROM, 54...receiving portion, 55...transmitting portion

Claims

1. A method for connecting a hydrogen tank, which connects a first connection part of a detachable hydrogen tank to a second connection part of a hydrogen consumption device that consumes hydrogen from the hydrogen tank, comprising: an approaching process in which the first connection part and the second connection part are arranged facing each other while being spaced apart; and a connecting process in which, after the approaching process, the first connection part and the second connection part are connected by reducing the separation distance; wherein, during the approaching process and the connecting process, the hydrogen tank is moved in the axial direction between the first connection part and the second connection part by a movable part that moves the hydrogen tank.

2. A method for connecting hydrogen tanks as described in claim 1, wherein movement of the hydrogen tank in the approaching step and the connecting step is restricted by a movement preventing member that locks the movable part in a predetermined position.

3. A method for connecting a hydrogen tank as described in claim 2, wherein the movable part has an engagement recess capable of engaging with the movement preventing member, the movement preventing member being a lock pin, and the engagement recess provided in the movable part engages with the lock pin to restrict movement of the movable part.

4. A method for connecting a hydrogen tank as described in claim 1, wherein, when the hydrogen tank is inserted into the hydrogen consumption device and positioned at a hydrogen supply stop position, the hydrogen tank is moved and positioned at a hydrogen supply standby position in which the first connection portion and the second connection portion in the approach process are positioned facing each other in a spaced-apart state.

5. A method for connecting hydrogen tanks as described in claim 1, wherein, when there is a gravitational component in the direction of approach of the first connection part to the second connection part, the output of the actuator of the movable part is adjusted according to the magnitude of the gravitational component.

6. A hydrogen consumption system having a detachable hydrogen tank, a hydrogen consumption device that consumes hydrogen from the hydrogen tank, and a control device, wherein the hydrogen tank has a first connection part, and the hydrogen consumption device has a second connection part and a movable part that moves the hydrogen tank, and the control device controls the connection of the hydrogen tank to the hydrogen consumption device, the connection control including an approaching process in which the first connection part and the second connection part are positioned facing each other while being spaced apart, and a connection process in which, after the approaching process, the first connection part and the second connection part are connected by reducing the separation distance, and the control device moves the hydrogen tank in the axial direction between the first connection part and the second connection part using the movable part.

7. The hydrogen consumption system described in claim 6, wherein the hydrogen consumption device has a movement preventing member that engages the movable part in a predetermined position when restricting movement of the hydrogen tank, and in the approach process, the control device performs locking control to lock the hydrogen tank using the movement preventing member, and the first connection part and the second connection part are positioned opposite each other and spaced apart by the engagement by the movement preventing member.

8. A hydrogen consumption system as described in claim 7, wherein the movable part has an engagement recess capable of engaging with the movement preventing member, the movement preventing member being a lock pin, and the control device restricts movement of the movable part by engaging the engagement recess provided in the movable part with the lock pin.

9. A hydrogen consumption system as described in claim 6, wherein when the hydrogen tank is inserted into the hydrogen consumption device and positioned at a hydrogen supply stop position, the control device moves the hydrogen tank from the hydrogen supply stop position to a hydrogen supply standby position as the approach step of the connection control, and positions the first connection portion and the second connection portion opposite each other but spaced apart.

10. A hydrogen consumption system as described in claim 6, wherein, when there is a gravity component in the direction of approach of the first connection part to the second connection part, the control device adjusts the output of the actuator of the movable part according to the magnitude of the gravity component.

11. The hydrogen consumption system of claim 8, wherein the movable part has a first engagement recess and a second engagement recess as the engagement recesses, spaced apart from one another by a predetermined distance and in that order from closest to the second connection part, the widths of the first engagement recess and the second engagement recess being greater than the width of the lock pin, the control device performs an origin learning process by engaging the lock pin with the first engagement recess when the hydrogen tank is inserted into the hydrogen consumption device and the movable part is positioned at the hydrogen supply stop position, and the control device performs a position correction process by engaging the lock pin with the second engagement recess when the movable part is moved to the hydrogen supply standby position.

12. The hydrogen consuming system according to claim 11, wherein the first connecting portion is an on-off valve, and the second connecting portion is a push rod.

Images