Thermodynamic Pump for Continuous Gaseous Hydrogen Supply
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical LH2 pumping systems are complex and unreliable for providing continuous gaseous hydrogen supply to high altitude long endurance vehicles, which require efficient and extended operation.
Innovation Solution
A thermodynamic pump system with multiple LH2 tanks sequentially pressurized and interconnected through a heat exchanger to provide continuous gaseous hydrogen supply to an engine, utilizing a boost pump and proportional flow control to manage the flow and pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If prior mechanical LH2 pumping systems are used, then liquid hydrogen can be pumped, but the systems are complex and insufficiently reliable for extended usage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical pumping systems with a thermodynamic pumping system that uses phase change of hydrogen (liquid to gas) and heat exchange to achieve pressurization and flow control. This substitution eliminates mechanical wear components and improves reliability for extended operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes the phase transition of hydrogen from liquid to gas state within the thermodynamic pump chambers. By controlling the phase change through heat addition, the system generates pressure and flow without mechanical pumps, thereby improving reliability and reducing mechanical complexity.
2Duration of action of moving object
If prior mechanical pumping systems are used, then hydrogen can be supplied, but they are insufficient for continuous flow over extended periods
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the hydrogen storage into multiple separate tanks (first LH2 tank, second LH2 tank, third LH2 tank) that can operate in sequence. This segmentation allows continuous operation by switching between tanks, extending the duration of action while maintaining system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermodynamic pump system is designed to provide continuous hydrogen supply through sequential operation of multiple tanks and automated valve control. The system maintains continuous flow to the engine without interruption, ensuring both extended duration and high reliability for HALE vehicle applications.
3Productivity
If multiple LH2 tanks are used sequentially, then continuous GH2 supply can be achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple LH2 tanks, thermodynamic pump chambers, heat exchangers, and valve systems into an integrated thermodynamic pump assembly. This merging allows continuous hydrogen supply through sequential tank operation while managing overall system complexity through unified design and automated control.
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 system ensures reliable and continuous gaseous hydrogen supply to engines, simplifying mechanical requirements and extending operational duration without the need for extensive refurbishment.
Implementation Method 1
A heat exchanger receiving LH2 from each of the plurality of tanks as sequentially pressurized returns pressurized GH2 to the accumulator
Implementation Method 2
The pump employs a plurality of liquid hydrogen (LH2) tanks sequentially pressurized with gaseous hydrogen (GH2) from an accumulator
Data Source
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AI summary
A thermodynamic pump for provides gaseous hydrogen employing a plurality of liquid hydrogen (LH2) tanks sequentially pressurized with gaseous hydrogen (GH2) from an accumulator. A heat exchanger receiving LH2 from each of the plurality of tanks as sequentially pressurized returns pressurized GH2 to the accumulator for supply to an engine..