Hydrogen Test Device Automatic Venting System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing test devices for determining particle load in pressurized hydrogen require manual venting, which can create a dangerous hydrogen atmosphere and is not safe for operational use.
Innovation Solution
A test device with an internal venting system that automatically discharges remaining hydrogen back into the inlet after the filling process, utilizing two spring-loaded check valves to manage the flow and pressure, eliminating the need for manual venting and ensuring safe operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual venting is used to depressurize the sampling chamber, then the test filter can be removed for evaluation, but a dangerous hydrogen atmosphere is created in the vicinity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary venting system that acts as a mediator between the pressurized sampling chamber and the external environment. This system includes a venting line with a closed valve that provides a controlled pathway for hydrogen discharge, preventing uncontrolled manual venting and the associated safety hazards while still allowing filter removal after depressurization
Solution Approach 2:
The venting system is designed to automatically depressurize the sampling chamber through its own integrated venting line and valve mechanism, eliminating the need for manual external venting operations. The system serves itself by providing automatic pressure reduction capability built into the device structure
2Stress or pressure
If the sampling chamber is depressurized manually using a drain valve, then hydrogen can be vented, but the venting operation creates a dangerous hydrogen atmosphere
Solution Approach 1:
The venting line serves as an intermediary pathway that mediates the pressure reduction process. Instead of direct manual venting to the environment, the system uses a controlled venting line with valve closure capability to manage hydrogen discharge, reducing uncontrolled leakage hazards while achieving necessary pressure reduction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potentially harmful uncontrolled hydrogen venting into a beneficial controlled process. By providing a dedicated venting line with valve control, the system transforms the hazard of hydrogen leakage into a controlled depressurization process that maintains safety while achieving the necessary pressure reduction for filter removal
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
The automatic venting system ensures safe operational behavior by reducing the risk of hydrogen leaks and allowing for safe transportation and analysis of the test filter without manual intervention, enhancing the safety and efficiency of the testing process.
Implementation Method 1
The two valves may be formed of spring-loaded check valves. The first valve, starting from its closed position, opens in the direction of the outlet, and the second valve opens in the opposite direction towards the inlet.
Implementation Method 2
The second valve opens under the pressure of the hydrogen remaining in the testing device at a predetermined threshold after the flow at the outlet has stopped.
Data Source
AI summary
A test device for determining the particle load of pressurized hydrogen includes a housing (2), with an inlet (4) and an outlet (8) for the inflow or outflow of hydrogen, respectively. A sampling chamber (52) has a filter holder (44) for a test filter (58). A sample amount of hydrogen can flow through the test filter during a test procedure. After the test procedure has been completed, the test filter can be removed from the sampling chamber (52) for evaluating the deposition of particles. A venting device (64, 70) for reducing the pressure in the sampling chamber (52) is arranged inside the housing (2) and discharges any remaining hydrogen, at least partially, in the direction of the inlet (4) of the test device after the hydrogen has stopped flowing from the testing device.