Hydrogen Tank Layout for Fast Refueling in Transport Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Increasing the number of hydrogen tanks in transport vehicles leads to longer refill times, reducing the operating efficiency as the vehicles cannot be used during refilling.
Innovation Solution
Employing a combination of fixed-type and detachable cartridge-type hydrogen tanks, allowing for selective replacement and refilling of the detachable tanks, thereby reducing refill time and optimizing tank distribution between tractor and trailer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If the number of hydrogen tanks is increased for long-distance transport, then the operating range is extended, but the refill time increases and operating rate decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The hydrogen storage system is segmented into multiple independent tanks (first hydrogen tank, second hydrogen tank, third hydrogen tank) that can be individually replaced. This allows only the depleted tank to be swapped while others remain in service, reducing overall refill time compared to refilling all tanks sequentially.
Solution Approach 2:
The first hydrogen tank is pre-filled and mounted on the tractor before departure. During operation, when the second hydrogen tank in the trailer is depleted, it can be quickly replaced with a pre-prepared tank, minimizing downtime. The tractor can continue operating with its pre-filled tank during the trailer's brief stationary period.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the number of hydrogen tanks is increased for long-distance transport, then the operating range is extended, but the vehicle complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hydrogen storage system is divided into modular tanks with standardized interfaces. Each tank operates independently with its own supply line to the power device, simplifying the overall system architecture compared to a single large tank or non-modular configuration. The segmentation allows for easier maintenance and replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydrogen tanks are designed with universal mounting interfaces and connection standards that allow the same tank design to be used in different positions (tractor or trailer) and configurations. This universality reduces the variety of components needed and simplifies the overall system design while supporting extended operating ranges.
3Reliability
If fixed-type hydrogen tanks are used in the tractor, then the hydrogen supply stability is improved, but the refill flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The hydrogen storage system is segmented into fixed tanks on the tractor and detachable tanks on the trailer. This segmentation allows each subsystem to optimize for its specific function: fixed tanks provide stable supply for the tractor's continuous operation, while detachable tanks enable flexible refilling of the trailer portion without affecting the tractor.
Solution Approach 2:
The first hydrogen tank on the tractor is pre-filled before departure, establishing a reliable hydrogen supply reservoir. This preliminary action ensures the tractor can operate independently and stably even when the trailer is being refilled or detached, maintaining supply stability while enabling operational flexibility.
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
Facilitates rapid hydrogen refill by replacing detachable tanks with already-refilled ones, enabling continuous operation and minimizing downtime.
Implementation Method 1
a hydrogen power device configured to output power by consuming hydrogen
Data Source
AI summary
A transport vehicle may include a tractor; a trailer towed by the tractor; a hydrogen power device configured to output power by consuming hydrogen; and a plurality of hydrogen tanks for supplying hydrogen to the hydrogen power device. The plurality of hydrogen tanks may include at least one first hydrogen tank of fixed type that is fixable to the tractor and at least one second hydrogen tank of cartridge type that is detachably attachable to the trailer.