Hydrogen Tank Placement in Ladder Frame for Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current commercial vehicles, particularly long-distance semi-trailer trucks using gaseous hydrogen, face challenges in achieving a seamless and emission-free drive due to the large space requirements for hydrogen storage, which limits their range without refueling.
Innovation Solution
The arrangement of hydrogen pressure accumulators between the parallel main longitudinal members of a ladder frame in commercial vehicles allows for efficient use of unused volume, increasing the range by storing compressed hydrogen in a manner that is volume- and range-neutral compared to combustion engine trucks, utilizing the space between and below the frame members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If hydrogen pressure accumulators are arranged between the main longitudinal members of the ladder frame, then the hydrogen storage volume is increased and range is extended, but the structural complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the three-dimensional space between the longitudinal members of the ladder frame, arranging hydrogen pressure accumulators in the vertical and lateral dimensions rather than only along the longitudinal axis. This dimensional utilization maximizes the available storage volume within the vehicle's structural envelope without requiring additional external space.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydrogen pressure accumulators are nested within the existing ladder frame structure, fitting between the longitudinal members rather than adding external components. This nesting approach integrates the storage system into the vehicle's existing structural framework, reducing overall complexity despite the increased storage capacity.
2Weight of moving object
If the hydrogen storage system uses moderate compression pressure with reduced wall thickness, then the weight and material usage are reduced, but the storage volume capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the compression pressure parameter from high to moderate levels, which allows for reduced wall thickness in the pressure accumulators. This parameter optimization balances the trade-off between storage capacity and system weight, achieving adequate hydrogen storage without excessive material usage or weight.
3Duration of action of moving object
If the hydrogen pressure accumulators are arranged between the main longitudinal members, then the range is extended to exceed 3000 km, but the ease of manufacture and installation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The hydrogen storage system is segmented into multiple pressure accumulators that are distributed between the longitudinal members rather than using a single large tank. This segmentation allows for modular manufacturing and assembly, where individual accumulators can be produced separately and installed in the available spaces within the ladder frame structure.
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 configuration enables long-distance travel exceeding 3000 km with a total hydrogen storage volume of approximately 11.05 m3 at 350 bar, achieving a light and efficient hydrogen storage system with moderate wall thicknesses and reduced compression pressure, thus overcoming the space constraints of traditional hydrogen storage.
Implementation Method 1
storing compressed hydrogen requires a large amount of space. The energy density for gaseous hydrogen (H2) at 350 bar is around 800 kWh/m3
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a commercial vehicle combination (10) or a commercial vehicle (12) comprising a ladder frame (20) with two parallel main longitudinal members (22). Furthermore, one or more hydrogen pressure storage tanks (24) are arranged at least partially at the level of the two parallel main longitudinal members (22) and between the two parallel main longitudinal members (22). The arrangement of the hydrogen pressure storage tanks (24) between the main longitudinal members (22) enables the utilization of additional, previously unused volume to increase the driving range. This can facilitate the construction of a lightweight fuel cell long-haul semi-trailer truck that is volume- and range-neutral compared to a conventional combustion engine long-haul semi-trailer truck.