Device for a process for filling a tank with fuel, vehicle, and filling station

Abstract

According to the invention, the technology disclosed here relates to a device (10) for a process for filling a tank with fuel, comprising a vibration unit (12) and a fuel nozzle (13) for a tank system (50) and / or a fuel coupling (14) for a filling station (200), wherein the vibration unit (12) can be activated in order to transmit a vibration to the fuel nozzle (13) and / or to the fuel coupling (14) in order to break up an ice coating (18) between the fuel nozzle (13) and the fuel coupling (14). The technology also relates to a vehicle (100) and to a filling station (200) comprising the device (10).

Description

[0001] 24-0308

[0002] - 1 -

[0003] Description

[0004] Device for a fuel refueling process, vehicle and filling station

[0005] The technology disclosed herein relates to a device for a fuel refueling process in which fuel such as hydrogen is fed into a fuel storage tank of a tank system. The technology further relates to a vehicle equipped with the device and a refueling station equipped with the device.

[0006] During the refueling process with pre-cooled hydrogen flowing through a refueling nozzle at very low temperatures, the problem of moisture condensation arises, particularly in warm regions with high humidity. This condensation can lead to the formation of frost and consequently to icing between the refueling nozzle and the refueling coupling, which can impair the functionality of the coupling. For example, icing can prevent the coupling from being removed from the nozzle after refueling. Various approaches exist in the prior art to solve this problem. One approach involves using a purge line through which nitrogen or dry air is passed in the area of ​​the nozzle during or after the refueling process.Nitrogen or dry air is directed into drain holes to prevent condensation on cold components and to remove any existing moisture. Another approach utilizes systems that employ the heat of compression generated during refueling to warm the tank nozzle and thus prevent icing. Furthermore, electric heating devices are known for warming the tank nozzle and / or the tank coupling.

[0007] The purpose of the present technology is to create an improved system for preventing and / or resolving icing between a tank nozzle and a tank coupling during a refueling process.

[0008] The foregoing problem is solved by the patent claims. In particular, the foregoing problem is solved by the device according to claim 1 and by the vehicle and the filling station according to the dependent claims. Further advantages of the disclosed technology will become apparent from the dependent claims, the description, and the figures. Features described in connection with the device also apply to 24-0308.

[0009] - 2 - in connection with the vehicle, the filling station and vice versa, so that with regard to the disclosure of the individual aspects, mutual reference is always made and / or can be made.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present technology, a device for a fuel refueling process is proposed, comprising:

[0011] - a vibration unit,

[0012] - a fuel filler neck for a fuel system and / or a fuel coupling for a filling station,

[0013] - wherein the vibration unit can be activated to transmit a vibration to the tank nozzle and / or to the tank coupling in order to break up icing between the tank nozzle and the tank coupling.

[0014] The technology described here has demonstrated that icing between the fuel filler neck and the fuel coupling can be quickly and reliably removed using vibrations. This rapid removal of the ice also speeds up the refueling process and reduces waiting times. While vibration units for removing ice are generally known, vibrations in the area of ​​the fuel filler neck have traditionally been avoided to prevent damage to the filler neck and / or the fuel coupling. However, it has been recognized that damage in this area can be prevented through targeted vibration of the unit and / or its appropriate configuration. Furthermore, the vibration unit can be installed particularly easily and in a space-saving manner. No additional nitrogen sources or air compressors are required.Additional rinsing and / or drying in the icing area is unnecessary. This allows the device to operate with exceptional energy efficiency. Furthermore, the device can be offered as a retrofit kit for existing tank systems.

[0015] The vibration unit can have at least one vibrating element for generating vibrations. The vibration unit can therefore have several spaced-apart vibrating elements, each of which can be configured to transmit vibrations to the tank nozzle and / or the tank coupling. The at least one vibrating element can be operated mechanically, electrically, pneumatically, and / or hydraulically. The vibration unit can be connected to a control unit by means of which the vibration unit and / or the at least one vibrating element can be activated. Activation of the vibration unit can be understood to mean that the at least one 24-0308

[0016] - 3 -

[0017] A vibrating device is set into vibration from a resting state. The control unit can be configured to set, control, and / or regulate vibration parameters such as vibration duration, vibration amplitude, and / or vibration frequency. The control unit can include a control unit, an ECU, a computer, sensors, and / or actuators configured to perform the desired and / or required process steps. The at least one vibrating device can be an unbalanced motor, an electromagnetic vibration unit, a linear resonant actuator, a hydraulic vibrating device, and / or a pneumatic vibrating device. The unbalanced motor can generate vibrations by means of an imbalance mounted on a shaft. As the shaft rotates, the imbalance generates a centrifugal force that causes vibrations. The term "unbalanced motor" can be understood to mean a rotating vibrating motor.The electromagnetic vibration unit can include at least one electromagnet to generate an oscillating motion. The linear resonant actuator can include a movable mass, which may be attached to a spring. When the vibration unit is activated, an electromagnetic field can be generated that sets the mass into vibration. The hydraulic and / or pneumatic vibration medium can be configured to use fluid or compressed air to generate vibrations.

[0018] A fuel filler neck can be understood as a component of a tank system configured as an access point for filling a fuel storage tank with fuel. The term "fuel filler neck" can refer to a tank nipple. The fuel filler neck may have an opening designed to create a fluid-tight connection with an external tank coupling, such as a fuel nozzle coupling or a filling hose. A fluid-tight connection can be understood as a gas- and / or liquid-tight connection. The fuel filler neck may have a tank opening with a round and / or circular outer contour. The fuel filler neck may incorporate sealing elements, valves, and / or backflow preventers that enable the safe and controlled transfer of fuel into the fuel storage tank.The refueling nozzle can also be configured to regulate overpressure inside the fuel storage unit and to vent any escaping gases. The device can include a fuel storage unit, with the refueling nozzle preferably being positioned at a distance from the fuel storage unit.

[0019] The term "tank coupling" can be understood as a component of a filling station that can serve to create a fluid-tight connection between a fuel source of the filling station and a fuel storage unit of the tank system, in particular between the tank coupling and 24-0308

[0020] - 4 - to the fuel filler neck. The term "fuel coupling" can refer to a refueling coupling and / or a filling coupling. The fuel coupling may have a housing designed for easy, stable, and, if possible, gas-tight connection to the fuel filler neck by one person without tools. The fuel coupling may have an actuating mechanism that controls the flow of fuel through the fuel coupling into the fuel filler neck's opening by allowing flow when activated and stopping it when deactivated. The actuating mechanism may be operated by a trigger, lever, valve, or similar device. The fuel coupling may also include safety devices such as check valves to prevent uncontrolled fuel leakage. The fuel coupling may be attached to a flexible fuel line.The fuel line can be attached to a fuel pump or similar equipment at the gas station.

[0021] In this context, "fuel" can refer to a gaseous fuel, and in particular hydrogen or a hydrogen-containing gas. "Tank system" can refer to a tank system for an energy converter that is powered by fuel. "Energy converter" can refer to a fuel cell system with a fuel cell stack or an internal combustion engine system in which the fuel is burned.

[0022] The device can be configured for a fuel refueling process for refueling a mobile or stationary fuel system. Furthermore, the device can be understood to be a mobile and / or stationary fuel system. Each fuel system can have at least one fuel reservoir. A fuel path can be configured between the refueling nozzle and the at least one fuel reservoir, through which fuel can be directed via the refueling nozzle into the at least one fuel reservoir. The fuel refueling process includes preparatory and follow-up measures for carrying out the refueling of a fuel reservoir. In particular, the fuel refueling process can include removing the refueling coupling from the refueling nozzle. The device can have a refueling nozzle or be configured as such.

[0023] To break up the icing, the vibration unit and / or at least one vibrating device can be positioned directly at the filler neck, in the filler neck, at a distance from the filler neck, directly at the tank coupling, in the tank coupling, and / or at a distance from the tank coupling. Distance from the filler neck and / or from the 24-0308

[0024] - 5 -

[0025] The tank coupling can transmit vibrations via at least one intermediate part and / or connecting part to the tank filler neck and / or the tank coupling. "Icing removal" can be understood as breaking up any ice that has formed at least partially between the tank filler neck and the tank coupling, so that the tank filler neck and the tank coupling are no longer connected to each other by force, form, and / or material bonding due to the previously formed ice. Ice and / or icing can be understood to mean frozen water and / or frost.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the technology described here, the vibration unit can be configured to transmit vibration in one direction of opening of the tank nozzle. This means the vibration unit can be configured to transmit vibrations as completely as possible, or at least predominantly, in the opening direction, linearly and / or longitudinally along the tank nozzle. It has been found that icing can be removed particularly reliably and quickly with such vibration. The vibration in the opening direction can generate a shearing motion between the tank nozzle and the tank coupling, which can effectively break up and / or tear away the icing. At the same time, vibrations in the opening direction are particularly gentle on the tank nozzle and / or the tank coupling.The opening direction can also be understood as the flow direction in which fuel can flow in and out through the tank nozzle. To generate and transmit vibrations in the opening direction, the vibration unit can, for example, include a magnetic linear actuator or a linear resonant actuator and an armature, wherein the armature is movable in the opening direction by the linear actuator. That is, vibrations in the opening direction can be generated by means of the armature and transmitted to the tank nozzle to de-ic it.

[0027] Furthermore, it is possible that the vibration unit

[0028] - a tank nozzle vibration device for transmitting a vibration to the tank nozzle, wherein the tank nozzle vibration device is installed on and / or in the tank nozzle and / or

[0029] - has a tank coupling vibration means for transmitting a vibration to the tank coupling, wherein the tank coupling vibration means is installed on and / or in the tank coupling.

[0030] If the vibration device is located directly at the fuel filler neck and / or directly at the fuel tank coupling, the vibration can be particularly effective at removing the icing. The 24-0308

[0031] - 6 -

[0032] In the aforementioned case, vibration devices can also be installed particularly easily and in a space-saving manner in the device, in a tank system, in a vehicle, and / or in a fuel tank coupling at a filling station. For installation, the vibration devices can each have a suitably configured mounting section. The mounting section can have a thread, a snap-fit ​​section, an undercut, a bayonet connection, or another means for creating a defined positive and / or non-positive connection between the vibration device and the fuel tank nozzle and / or the fuel tank coupling.

[0033] The device described herein can also include a detection unit for sensing icing between the tank filler neck and the tank coupling, and a control unit. The control unit can be configured to activate the vibration unit when the detection unit detects icing between the tank filler neck and the tank coupling. This allows the vibration to start automatically, or the vibration unit to be activated automatically, as soon as icing is detected. This allows the icing to be broken up before, for example, a person attempts to pull the tank coupling out of the tank filler neck. Consequently, damage to the device can be prevented, and a component-friendly operating mode can be achieved. For detecting the icing, the detection unit can include suitable sensors and a processing unit for evaluating sensor signals.The detection unit can also be configured to prevent and / or stop vibration when it detects that no icing is present and / or that previous icing has been successfully cleared. Furthermore, the detection unit can be configured to detect the type and / or severity of the icing and activate the vibration unit differently based on the detected type and / or severity. For example, if heavy icing is detected over a larger area between the filler neck and the tank coupling, a vibration with a greater amplitude and / or higher frequency can be triggered than in a case where lighter icing is detected over a smaller area.Furthermore, the control unit can be configured to activate the vibration unit preventively based on signals from the detection unit, i.e., before actual icing is detected and / or present. This can occur, for example, if the detection unit detects a particularly low temperature below a predefined value, particularly high humidity above a predefined value, water at the tank inlet, and / or a predefined operating condition of the tank system. 24-0308.

[0034] - 7 -

[0035] Furthermore, the device's detection unit can include a temperature sensor to determine the temperature at the tank inlet and / or the tank coupling. The control unit is configured to activate the vibration unit when the temperature sensor detects that the temperature at the tank inlet and / or the tank coupling is between 0°C and -50°C. This allows the vibration to start automatically with increased reliability only when icing is actually present, thus preventing unnecessary vibrations. This enables particularly efficient operation of the device and also ensures gentle operation of the components.The control unit can be configured to activate the vibration unit when the temperature sensor detects that the temperature at the tank nozzle and / or tank coupling is within a range of -5°C to -50°C or between -10°C and -50°C. The temperature sensor system can include at least one temperature sensor configured to measure, monitor, and / or record or transmit the temperature of a specific medium or environment. The temperature sensor system can include various types of temperature sensors that differ in their operation, applications, and measurement accuracy. The temperature sensor system can include at least one thermocouple, at least one resistance thermometer, at least one infrared sensor, and / or at least one fiber optic temperature sensor.A thermocouple can consist of two different metallic conductors connected at a measuring junction. An electrical voltage can be generated between the metallic conductors, proportional to the temperature difference between the measuring junction and a reference point. Thermocouples exhibit a particularly short response time and high temperature resistance. Resistance thermometers measure temperature-dependent changes in the electrical resistance of metals to determine temperature. Resistance thermometers offer high accuracy and stability over a wide temperature range. Infrared sensors measure infrared radiation emitted by an object to determine its temperature. Infrared sensors enable non-contact temperature measurement and are particularly well-suited for retrofitting.Furthermore, the infrared sensor is advantageous for moving and / or hard-to-reach objects. The fiber optic temperature sensor is particularly robust, temperature-resistant, and insensitive to electromagnetic interference. In addition to temperature, other environmental parameters, such as a 24-0308, can also be measured.

[0036] - 8 -

[0037] Humidity must be taken into account. Accordingly, the detection unit may include a humidity sensor to determine the humidity level in the vicinity of the device. The control unit is configured to activate the vibration unit when the humidity sensor detects that the humidity level in the vicinity of the device exceeds a predefined value. The higher the humidity, the greater the likelihood of icing. The predefined value can be in a range between 30% and 100% and, for example, be 50%, 60%, or 70%.

[0038] The detection unit can further include a motion analysis unit for detecting and analyzing predefined movements at the tank nozzle and / or the tank coupling. The control unit can be configured to activate the vibration unit when a predefined movement at the tank nozzle and / or the tank coupling is detected by the motion analysis unit. This allows the vibration to start automatically only when a movement or movements are detected that can be interpreted as an indication of an intended removal of the tank coupling from the tank nozzle. This prevents unnecessary vibrations. The device can thus be operated particularly efficiently. Furthermore, this enables a component-friendly operating mode of the device.Movements can include, for example, the opening of a fuel filler flap, movement of the fuel coupling towards the filler neck, a hand movement towards the fuel coupling, a defined period of non-movement, and / or a hand movement to attempt to detach the fuel coupling from the filler neck. A defined period of non-movement can be understood as the fuel coupling remaining in a resting position at the filler neck at a time when it should actually be detached from the filler neck by a person or a robot. To detect these movements or periods of non-movement, the motion analysis unit can include an image recognition unit such as a camera and / or a lidar system. The camera can be configured as a video camera, infrared camera, and / or stereo camera. The motion analysis unit can also include features for analyzing the acquired motion data.The motion analysis unit can include a computer-readable storage medium containing motion patterns that can serve as an indicator of potential icing. These motion patterns can be read from local storage or from online storage, for example, via the internet. 24-0308.

[0039] - 9 -

[0040] In the proposed device, the detection unit can also include a force detection unit configured to detect a force on the tank coupling when an attempt is made to remove it from the tank nozzle. The control unit is configured to activate the vibration unit if the force detection unit detects a force higher than a predefined value. This allows the vibration to start automatically with increased reliability only when icing is actually present, thus preventing unnecessary vibrations. This enables particularly efficient operation of the device and ensures gentle operation of the components. The predefined force can be set between 20 N and 200 N, for example, 50 N, 100 N, 150 N, or 200 N.The predefined force should be selected as low as possible so that the vibration unit is activated as quickly as possible when icing occurs and an attempt is made to remove the fuel tank coupling from the filler neck. The predefined force is preferably higher than the typical pull-off force required to remove the fuel tank coupling from the filler neck when icing is not present.

[0041] Furthermore, the device described here can include a control unit configured to deactivate the vibration unit after a predefined vibration duration, which is within a range of 1 to 60 seconds, 1 to 30 seconds, or 1 to 10 seconds. This reliably prevents unnecessary vibrations. In particular, it prevents the vibration unit from being forgotten to deactivate and / or from remaining activated for too long, for example, due to a sensor malfunction. This ensures gentle operation of the device. The operating time can be deliberately longer than necessary to defrost the icing between the tank nozzle and the tank coupling, so that any residual icing on the nozzle and / or coupling can also be removed.

[0042] The device described herein may further comprise a connection detection unit for detecting a tank connection between the filler neck and the tank coupling, as well as a control unit, wherein the control unit is configured to deactivate the vibration unit when the connection detection unit detects that the tank connection between the filler neck and the tank coupling has been disconnected and / or is disconnected. Known vehicle tank systems have an infrared connection detection unit to detect whether a tank coupling is attached to the filler neck. If such a connection detection unit detects that the tank coupling is or has been removed from the filler neck, the vibration unit 24-0308 can be deactivated.

[0043] - 10 - are automatically deactivated. This also prevents unnecessary vibrations. The device can thus be operated particularly efficiently. Furthermore, this allows for a component-friendly operating mode of the device. The connection detection unit can be a light-based connection detection unit, such as an infrared connection detection unit, a current-based and / or a digital signal-based connection detection unit, or be configured as such. A current-based connection detection unit can detect an established or disconnected connection based on a current flow, a voltage between the tank nozzle and the tank coupling and / or between other components of the device, and / or a change in capacitance using a capacitive sensor.A digital signal-based connection detection unit can detect an established or disconnected connection using a digital signal between the tank nozzle and the tank coupling and / or between a transmitter and a receiver of the device.

[0044] Furthermore, the device can include a fuel filler flap detection unit for recognizing the position of the vehicle's fuel filler flap and a control unit. The control unit is configured to deactivate the vibration unit when the fuel filler flap detection unit detects that the fuel filler flap is closed. When the fuel filler flap is closed, it can be assumed that the fuel coupling is no longer connected to the filler neck and, consequently, that no icing exists between the coupling and the filler neck. Therefore, the proposed configuration allows for the simple and reliable prevention of unnecessary vibrations. This enables particularly efficient operation of the device. Moreover, it ensures gentle operation of the device components.The term "fuel filler flap" can refer to a flap on a vehicle used to close an opening in the bodywork near the fuel filler neck.

[0045] According to the technology proposed here, the device can include an activation unit for manually activating the vibration unit. This allows the vibration unit to be activated quickly and easily by a person, for example, if they suspect or detect icing between the fuel filler neck and the fuel coupling. If the device is installed in a vehicle, the activation unit can be positioned near the fuel filler neck, for example, behind a fuel filler cap, in a fuel filler neck, and / or within the driver's compartment, for example, in the vehicle's instrument panel. If the device is at a gas station, 24-0308

[0046] - 11 - For example, if installed as part of a fuel nozzle, the activation unit may be positioned near the nozzle's handle. The activation unit may include a mechanical, haptic, and / or digital switch and / or button for manually activating the vibration unit.

[0047] Furthermore, the vibration unit in the device described here can be configured to vibrate with an amplitude between 0.1 mm and 2 mm and / or with a frequency between 0.5 Hz and 100 Hz. It has been found that vibrations with these values ​​reliably de-icing without causing damage to the device and / or the system in which it is installed. The vibration unit can also be configured to vibrate with an amplitude between 0.3 mm and 0.8 mm and / or with a frequency between 1 Hz and 10 Hz.

[0048] Another aspect of the technology described here concerns a vehicle with a fuel system, wherein the fuel system comprises a device as described above, a fuel storage unit, a fuel filler neck, and a control unit for activating the vibration unit. The vehicle thus offers the same advantages as described in detail with regard to the device. The vehicle may also include an energy conversion system. The energy conversion system can be understood as a fuel cell system with a fuel cell stack. Alternatively, the energy conversion system can be understood as an internal combustion engine system with an internal combustion engine. The internal combustion engine can be configured to burn hydrogen to convert chemical energy into mechanical energy. The fuel can therefore be understood to be hydrogen.The fuel storage system is configured for storing hydrogen. The fuel storage system can be configured as a pressure vessel, and in particular as a high-pressure gas holder. The fuel storage system can also be configured to store fuel such as hydrogen at ambient temperatures continuously at a nominal operating pressure of at least 350 bar or at least 700 bar. The fuel storage system can also be configured as a cryogenic tank in which fuel can be stored at temperatures below, for example, -200°C, or -253°C. The energy conversion system can have at least one fuel storage system. For example, the energy conversion system can have several fuel storage systems connected to each other via a busbar in fluid communication. The vehicle can have at least one electric motor for propelling the vehicle, wherein the 24-0308.

[0049] - 12 -

[0050] The fuel cell system can be configured to power at least one electric motor. The term "vehicle" can refer to a motor vehicle such as a motorized two-wheeler, a passenger car, or a truck. It can also refer to a road vehicle, an aircraft, a watercraft, a rail vehicle, a spacecraft, or a robot. Furthermore, it can refer to a purely electric vehicle or a hybrid electric vehicle that, in addition to at least one electric motor, has an internal combustion engine for propulsion. The term "vehicle" can also refer to a so-called FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle).

[0051] Another aspect of the technology described here concerns a filling station with the device described above, a refueling coupling, and a control unit for activating the vibration unit. This filling station also offers the advantages described above. The filling station can be understood as a system that includes the refueling coupling and by means of which fuel can be fed via the refueling nozzle into a fuel storage system, in particular into the fuel storage system of a vehicle as described above.

[0052] Further features and combinations of features of the proposed technology will become apparent from the following description of various embodiments, which are schematically illustrated in the figures. All features and / or advantages arising from the claims, the description, and the figures, including design details and spatial arrangements, can be significant both individually and in combination with one another.

[0053] They each show schematically:

[0054] Fig. 1 shows a device according to a first embodiment of the present technology,

[0055] Fig. 2 shows a device according to a second embodiment of the present technology,

[0056] Fig. 3 shows a device according to a third embodiment of the present technology and 24-0308

[0057] - 13 -

[0058] Fig. 4 shows a vehicle at a filling station according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0059] Elements with the same function and mode of operation are each provided with the same reference symbols in the figures.

[0060] Fig. 1 shows a device 10 for a fuel refueling process according to a first embodiment. The device 10 shown has a vibration unit 12. Fig. 1 also shows a refueling nozzle 13 on a vehicle fuel line 26 of a tank system 50 and a refueling coupling 14 on a filling station fuel line 27 of a filling station 200. The refueling coupling 14 is designed as part of a refueling nozzle. The tank system 50 and the filling station 200 are shown in Fig. 4. The vibration unit 12 is configured such that it can be activated to de-ice 18 between the refueling nozzle 13 and the refueling coupling 14. When the vibration unit 12 is activated, a vibration is transmitted to the refueling nozzle 13 in the embodiment shown. The vibration unit 12 shown in Fig. 1 is configured to transmit the vibration as exclusively as possible or at least predominantly in one opening direction 15 of the tank nozzle 13.For this purpose, the vibration unit 12 has a tank-neck vibration element 31 configured as an armature. The vibration unit also has a magnetic or magnetizable linear actuator 33 by means of which the armature can be moved back and forth in the opening direction 15. The tank-neck vibration element 31 is therefore configured to transmit a vibration to the tank-neck 13 and is installed close to the tank-neck 13 for this purpose.

[0061] The device 10 comprises a detection unit 17 for detecting icing 18 between the tank nozzle 13 and the tank coupling 14, and a control unit 20. The control unit 20 is configured to activate the vibration unit 12 when the detection unit 17 detects icing 18 between the tank nozzle 13 and the tank coupling 14. In the example shown, the detection unit 17 includes a temperature sensor 19 for determining the temperature at the tank nozzle 13 and / or at the tank coupling 14. The detection unit 17 also includes a humidity sensor 16 for determining the humidity in the vicinity of the device 10.The control unit 20 is configured to activate the vibration unit 12 when the temperature sensor 19 detects that the temperature at the tank nozzle 13 and / or the tank coupling 14 is in a range between 0°C and -50°C, and when the humidity sensor 16 detects that the humidity in the vicinity of the device 10 is higher than 50%. 24-0308.

[0062] - 14 -

[0063] Detection unit 17 also includes a motion analysis unit 21 with a video camera for detecting predefined movements at the tank nozzle 13 and / or the tank coupling 14. An analysis device of the motion analysis unit 21 for analyzing the detected movements can be installed remotely from the camera, for example, on and / or in the control unit 20. The control unit 20 is further configured to activate the vibration unit 12 when a predefined movement at the tank nozzle 13 and / or the tank coupling 14 is detected by the motion analysis unit 21. The control unit 20 is also configured to deactivate the vibration unit 12 after a predefined vibration duration, which is in a range between 1 second and 60 seconds.The video camera is also part of a fuel filler flap detection unit 23 for detecting the position of a fuel filler flap of the vehicle 100, wherein the control unit 20 is configured to deactivate the vibration unit when the fuel filler flap detection unit 23 detects that the fuel filler flap is in a closed position.

[0064] The device 10 shown in Fig. 1 has a connection detection unit 22 for detecting a tank connection between the tank nozzle 13 and the tank coupling 14. More precisely, the device 10 has a part of the connection detection unit 22. The connection detection unit 22 is configured as an infrared connection detection unit, whereby an infrared connection is established between the tank nozzle 13 and the tank coupling 14 when the tank coupling 14 is positioned on the tank nozzle 13, and whereby the infrared connection is broken when the tank coupling 14 is sufficiently far away from the tank nozzle 13. The control unit 20 is configured to deactivate the vibration unit when the connection detection unit 22 detects that the tank connection between the tank nozzle 13 and the tank coupling 14 has been broken. The vibration unit is configured to vibrate with an amplitude of approximately...vibrate at a frequency of approximately 5 Hz and a diameter of 0.5 mm.

[0065] Figure 2 shows a device 10 according to a second embodiment. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the tank nozzle 13 is configured as part of the device 10. The tank nozzle vibration element 31 is configured as an integral part of the tank nozzle 13.

[0066] Fig. 3 shows a device 10 according to a third embodiment. In this

[0067] In this embodiment, the vibration unit 12 has a tank coupling vibration means 32 for 24-0308

[0068] - 15 -

[0069] A vibration is transmitted to the tank coupling 14, wherein the tank coupling vibration medium 32 is configured as an integral part of the tank coupling 13. The detection unit 17 has a force detection unit 25 for determining a force on the tank coupling 14. This allows the force applied when attempting to remove the tank coupling 14 from the tank nozzle 13 to be determined. The control unit 20 is configured to activate the vibration unit 12 when the force detection unit 25 detects a force higher than a predefined force. The device 10 has an activation unit 24 for manually activating the vibration unit 12, wherein the activation unit 24 is positioned on a grip area of ​​the fuel nozzle.

[0070] Fig. 4 shows a vehicle 100 with a fuel system 50, wherein the fuel system 50 comprises a device 10 as shown in Fig. 1, a fuel storage tank 11 for storing fuel, a fuel filler neck 13, and part of a control unit 20 for activating the vibration unit 12. Fig. 4 also shows a fuel station 200 with a fuel coupling 14 and another part of the control unit 20 for activating the vibration unit 12. That is, parts of the control unit 20 are integrated into the vehicle 100 as well as into the fuel station 200. If a temperature sensor and / or humidity sensor at the filling station 200 determines that there is a risk of icing between the tank nozzle 13 and the tank coupling 14, an activation signal can be sent from the filling station 200 or a part of the control unit 20 of the filling station 200 to the vehicle 100 or another part of the control unit 20 of the vehicle 100.The control unit 20 of vehicle 100 can then activate the vibration unit 12. The vehicle shown is configured as a passenger car with a fuel cell system 70. The fuel cell system 70 has a fuel cell stack 71. Vehicle 100 has two electric motors 60 for propelling it. The fuel cell system 70 is configured to generate electrical current in vehicle 100, which can be used to power the electric motors 60.

[0071] The technology disclosed here allows for further design principles in addition to the embodiments shown. That is to say, the technology should not be considered limited to the embodiments explained with reference to the figures. For example, temperature and / or humidity data in the vicinity of the device 10 can be obtained decentrally, online, and / or from the internet. The force detection unit 25 is shown in the grip area of ​​the fuel nozzle, but in alternative embodiments it can also be located in the vehicle 100, in and / or on the fuel filler neck 13, and / or on the fuel coupling 24-0308.

[0072] - 16 -

[0073] 14. If the tank coupling 14 is configured as part of an autonomous filling station 200, the force detection unit 25 can, for example, be installed in a robotic tank arm on which the tank coupling can be configured.

[0074] -0308

[0075] - 17 -

[0076] Reference symbol list

[0077] device

[0078] Fuel storage

[0079] Vibration unit

[0080] Fuel filler neck

[0081] Fuel tank coupling

[0082] Opening direction

[0083] Humidity sensor

[0084] Recognition unit

[0085] icing

[0086] Temperature sensors

[0087] Control unit

[0088] Motion analysis unit

[0089] Connection detection unit

[0090] Fuel filler flap detection unit

[0091] Activation unit

[0092] Force measurement unit

[0093] Vehicle fuel line

[0094] T petrol station fuel line

[0095] Tank nozzle vibration medium

[0096] Tank coupling- vibration means

[0097] Linear actuator

[0098] Tank system

[0099] electric motor

[0100] B renn stoffze 11 en syste m

[0101] Fuel cell stack 0 vehicle 0 filling station

Claims

24-0308 - 18 - Patent claims 1. Device (10) for a fuel refueling process, comprising: - a vibration unit (12), - a tank nozzle (13) for a tank system (50) and / or a tank coupling (14) for a filling station (200), - wherein the vibration unit (12) can be activated to transmit a vibration to the tank nozzle (13) and / or to the tank coupling (14) in order to break up an icing (18) between the tank nozzle (13) and the tank coupling (14).

2. Device (10) according to claim 1, wherein vibration unit (12) is configured to transmit the vibration in an opening direction (15) of the tank nozzle (13).

3. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vibration unit (12) - a tank nozzle vibrator (31) for transmitting a vibration to the tank nozzle (13), wherein the tank nozzle vibrator (31) is installed on and / or in the tank nozzle (13) and / or - comprising a tank coupling vibration means (32) for transmitting a vibration to the tank coupling (14), wherein the tank coupling vibration means (32) is installed on and / or in the tank coupling (13).

4. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a detection unit (17) for detecting icing (18) between the tank nozzle (13) and the tank coupling (14) and a control unit (20), wherein the control unit (20) is configured to activate the vibration unit (12) when icing (18) between the tank nozzle (13) and the tank coupling (14) is detected by means of the detection unit (17).

5. Device (10) according to claim 4, wherein the detection unit (17) has a temperature sensor (19) for determining a temperature at the tank nozzle (13) and / or at the tank coupling (14) and wherein the control unit (20) is configured to activate the vibration unit (12) when the temperature sensor (19) detects that the temperature at the tank nozzle (13) and / or at the tank coupling (14) has a value in a range between 0 °C and -50 °C. 24-0308 - 19 - 6. Device (10) according to one of claims 4 to 5, wherein the detection unit (17) has a motion analysis unit (21) for detecting and analyzing predefined movements at the tank nozzle (13) and / or at the tank coupling (14) and wherein the control unit (20) is configured to activate the vibration unit (12) when a predefined movement at the tank nozzle (13) and / or at the tank coupling (14) is detected by means of the motion analysis unit (21).

7. Device (10) according to one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the detection unit (17) includes a force detection unit (25) for determining a force on the tank coupling (14) when attempting to remove the tank coupling (14) from the tank nozzle (13) and wherein the control unit (20) is configured to activate the vibration unit (12) when a force is detected by means of the force detection unit (25) which is higher than a predefined force.

8. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a control unit (20) configured to deactivate the vibration unit (12) after a predefined vibration duration, which is in a range between 1 s and 60 s.

9. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a connection detection unit (22) for detecting a tank connection between the tank nozzle (13) and the tank coupling (14) and a control unit (20), wherein the control unit (20) is configured to deactivate the vibration unit (12) when the connection detection unit (22) detects that the tank connection between the tank nozzle (13) and the tank coupling (14) has been disconnected.

10. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a fuel filler flap detection unit (23) for detecting the position of a fuel filler flap of the vehicle (100) and a control unit (20), wherein the control unit (20) is configured to deactivate the vibration unit (12) when the fuel filler flap detection unit (23) detects that the fuel filler flap is in a closed position.

11. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising an activation unit (24) for manually activating the vibration unit (12). 24-0308 - 20 - 12. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vibration unit (12) is configured to vibrate with an amplitude in a range between 0.1 mm and 1 mm.

13. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vibration unit (12) is configured to vibrate at a frequency in a range between 0.5 Hz and 100 Hz.

14. Vehicle (100) with a tank system (50), wherein the tank system (50) comprises a device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, a fuel storage unit (11) for storing fuel, a tank nozzle (13) and a control unit (20) for activating the vibration unit (12).

15. Filling station (200), comprising a device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 13, a tank coupling (14) and a control unit (20) for activating the vibration unit (12).

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