Modular Hydrogen Fuel Storage for Fast Vehicle Refueling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for storing and transporting hydrogen face challenges in efficiently managing weight, environmental impact, and infrastructure complexity, particularly in providing a carbon-free fuel source for vehicles that requires safe handling and efficient distribution.
Innovation Solution
The development of systems and methods for storing, transporting, and using hydrogen, including lightweight fuel storage modules that do not require epoxy for sealing, and a method for producing these modules, which enable efficient loading, unloading, and refueling of hydrogen fuel in vehicles, while minimizing environmental impact and infrastructure complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If traditional fuel sources (diesel, gasoline, jet fuel) are used, then vehicles can generate sufficient energy, but vehicle weight increases and environmental impact worsens due to carbon emissions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameter of the fuel from carbon-based hydrocarbons to hydrogen, fundamentally altering the energy storage and release mechanism. This parameter change eliminates carbon emissions while maintaining high energy density, directly resolving the contradiction between energy provision and environmental harm
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs disposable fuel cartridges containing hydrogen fuel cells that can be quickly replaced rather than refueled. This approach simplifies the fueling infrastructure and enables rapid exchange of depleted fuel sources, addressing the need for efficient energy replenishment without complex refueling systems
2Use of energy by moving object
If hydrogen is used as fuel, then specific energy increases and vehicle weight decreases, but storage and handling complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the hydrogen storage system into modular fuel cartridges that can be independently handled, stored, and replaced. Each cartridge is a self-contained unit with standardized interfaces, simplifying the overall storage system complexity while maintaining high specific energy benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces fuel cartridges as an intermediary between hydrogen production and vehicle power systems. These cartridges contain pre-packaged hydrogen fuel cells and can be easily transported and exchanged, mediating the complexity of direct hydrogen storage and handling
3Productivity
If fuel storage modules are frequently loaded and unloaded, then refueling efficiency improves, but mechanical stress and potential damage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fuel system into replaceable cartridges rather than a fixed tank, allowing rapid exchange without mechanical connection/disconnection stress on storage vessels. This segmentation enables high refueling productivity while preserving module durability through simple insertion/removal operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent prepares fuel cartridges in advance at fueling stations, with hydrogen already loaded into standardized cartridges. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex on-site fueling operations and reduces mechanical stress by replacing entire pre-filled units rather than transferring fuel under pressure
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides systems and methods for storing, transporting, and using hydrogen. In some embodiments, the method may comprise (a) storing hydrogen fuel in one or more fuel storage modules; (b) transporting the one or more fuel storage modules to a vehicle fueling site, wherein one or more hydrogen fuel compatible vehicles are located at or near the vehicle fueling site; (c) loading the one or more fuel storage modules into the one or more hydrogen fuel compatible vehicles, wherein the one or more fuel storage modules are configured to be releasably coupled to the one or more hydrogen fuel compatible vehicles; and (d) decoupling the one or more fuel storage modules from the one or more hydrogen fuel compatible vehicles after the one or more fuel storage modules are depleted or partially depleted.