Hydrogen Refueling Communication Using Redundant IR and NFC Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydrogen vehicle refueling systems face issues with line-of-sight infrared communication that is prone to interference and lacks reliability, especially for achieving Automotive Safety Integrity Level (ASIL), and are complex to integrate with existing infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a bidirectional communication system using transceivers for vehicles and refueling stations via near-field communication (NFC), Bluetooth, WiFi, or other electromagnetic signals, in addition to infrared communication, to ensure robust and redundant data exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If unidirectional infrared communication is used between vehicle and refueling station, then device complexity is reduced, but communication reliability deteriorates due to line-of-sight requirements and ambient light interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple communication technologies (infrared, NFC, Bluetooth, WiFi) into a unified bidirectional communication system. The vehicle controller and refueling station controller can exchange data through multiple channels, ensuring reliable communication even if one channel fails or is unavailable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediate bidirectional communication channel that mediates between the vehicle and refueling station. This intermediate system allows data to be exchanged through multiple paths, including near-field communication and electromagnetic signals, reducing dependence on direct line-of-sight infrared communication.
2Reliability
If bidirectional communication with multiple protocols is implemented, then communication reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle controller and refueling station controller are designed with multi-functional communication capabilities, supporting multiple protocols (infrared, NFC, Bluetooth, WiFi) within a single integrated system. This allows the same hardware to perform multiple communication functions, reducing the need for separate dedicated systems for each protocol.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the communication parameters by switching between different protocols based on operational conditions. The system can dynamically select which communication channel to use, changing parameters such as frequency, transmission mode, and protocol type to optimize reliability while managing complexity.
3Device complexity
If line-of-sight infrared communication is used, then device complexity is minimized, but communication effectiveness deteriorates due to ambient light interference and visibility requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediate communication channels (NFC, Bluetooth, WiFi) that act as mediators between the vehicle and refueling station. These intermediate systems do not require line-of-sight communication and are less susceptible to ambient light interference, ensuring continuous data exchange during refueling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical line-of-sight requirement of infrared communication with electromagnetic field-based communication methods (NFC, Bluetooth, WiFi). These electronic communication methods do not require direct visual contact between transmitter and receiver, eliminating the line-of-sight constraint and improving operational efficiency.
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
Enhances communication reliability and safety, allowing high-flow refueling and compliance with standards like SAE J2601 and J2799, while maintaining compatibility with existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
Implementing a bidirectional communication system using transceivers for vehicles and refueling stations via near-field communication (NFC), Bluetooth, WiFi, or other electromagnetic signals
Implementation Method 2
the receptacle of the vehicle has an infrared (IR) transmitter and the nozzle of the refueling station has an infrared (IR) receiver. During refueling, the vehicle sends the data to the refueling station
Data Source
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AI summary
A system is provided for refueling a hydrogen vehicle (3) by a hydrogen refueling station (5). The hydrogen vehicle comprises: a hydrogen powering unit (7) configured to provide first data (V1_DATA) indicative of a health status of the hydrogen powering unit; first communication means (13) configured to send the first data (V1_DATA) to the hydrogen refueling station (5); and second communication means (15; 105) configured to establish a unidirectional or bidirectional communication with the hydrogen refueling station.