Block Valve Control for Hydrogen Refueling Pressure Spikes
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Solution Overview
Problem
During hydrogen refueling, residual high-pressure hydrogen in the transfer line causes undesirable pressure spikes in the vehicle's fuel system when transferred to the fuel tank, potentially leading to component damage.
Innovation Solution
A method involving controlled opening and closing of the block valve to manage the pressure of residual hydrogen, ensuring that the pressure difference between the residual hydrogen and the receiving tank remains within specific limits to mitigate pressure spikes, using a sequence of steps that include opening the block valve to allow portions of residual hydrogen to flow in, and closing it before pressure decreases below set intermediate pressures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the block valve is opened to transfer residual high-pressure hydrogen into the fuel tank, then the transfer line is cleared of residual hydrogen, but a pressure spike occurs in the vehicle fuel system that can damage components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the residual hydrogen transfer process into multiple controlled stages by opening and closing the block valve in sequence. Instead of transferring all residual hydrogen in one continuous flow, the system divides the transfer into discrete portions separated by valve closure events, allowing pressure management between each transfer segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by closing the block valve before the pressure difference between the transfer line and fuel tank becomes too large. This preventive measure stops the flow before dangerous pressure spikes can occur, counteracting the potential harmful effect before it fully develops.
2Reliability
If the block valve is closed early to prevent pressure spikes, then component damage is prevented, but residual hydrogen remains trapped in the transfer line
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic action by repeatedly opening and closing the block valve in a cyclic manner. The valve opens to transfer a portion of residual hydrogen, then closes to prevent pressure spikes, then opens again to transfer more residual hydrogen. This periodic cycle continues until the transfer line is adequately cleared while maintaining safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by monitoring the pressure difference and closing the block valve before the pressure spike becomes dangerous. This proactive approach prevents component damage while still allowing most residual hydrogen to be transferred, achieving a balance between safety and completeness.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple opening and closing cycles of the block valve are used to reduce pressure spikes, then pressure control is improved, but the refueling process time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by transferring only a portion of the residual hydrogen in each valve opening cycle rather than attempting to clear the entire transfer line in one continuous flow. This approach balances pressure control with efficiency, achieving adequate residual hydrogen removal without excessive cycling that would unnecessarily extend refueling time.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method significantly reduces the initial pressure spike in the receiving tank, preventing damage to components and ensuring safe and efficient hydrogen refueling by managing the pressure transfer effectively.
Implementation Method 1
The driving force for transferring hydrogen is the pressure difference between the high pressure storage tank and the vehicle fuel tank
Implementation Method 2
the control valve (104) is kept closed throughout the sequence from (a) to (c)
Implementation Method 3
This method significantly reduces the initial pressure spike in the receiving tank, preventing damage to components
Data Source
AI summary
A method for lessening an initial pressure spike in a receiving tank caused by high pressure residual H2-containing gas contained between a control valve and a block valve when dispensing the residual H2-containing gas into the receiving tank. The block valve is briefly closed before the pressure in the transfer line decreases below a set pressure, thereby lessening the pressure spike in the receiving tank.