CA2386443C - Replaceable fuel module and method - Google Patents
Replaceable fuel module and method Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2386443C CA2386443C CA002386443A CA2386443A CA2386443C CA 2386443 C CA2386443 C CA 2386443C CA 002386443 A CA002386443 A CA 002386443A CA 2386443 A CA2386443 A CA 2386443A CA 2386443 C CA2386443 C CA 2386443C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- module
- frame
- envelope
- fuel system
- vehicle
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K15/00—Arrangement in connection with fuel supply of combustion engines or other fuel consuming energy converters, e.g. fuel cells; Mounting or construction of fuel tanks
- B60K15/03—Fuel tanks
- B60K15/063—Arrangement of tanks
- B60K15/067—Mounting of tanks
- B60K15/07—Mounting of tanks of gas tanks
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C1/00—Pressure vessels, e.g. gas cylinder, gas tank, replaceable cartridge
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2201/00—Vessel construction, in particular geometry, arrangement or size
- F17C2201/01—Shape
- F17C2201/0104—Shape cylindrical
- F17C2201/0109—Shape cylindrical with exteriorly curved end-piece
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2201/00—Vessel construction, in particular geometry, arrangement or size
- F17C2201/03—Orientation
- F17C2201/035—Orientation with substantially horizontal main axis
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2201/00—Vessel construction, in particular geometry, arrangement or size
- F17C2201/05—Size
- F17C2201/056—Small (<1 m3)
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2201/00—Vessel construction, in particular geometry, arrangement or size
- F17C2201/05—Size
- F17C2201/058—Size portable (<30 l)
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2203/00—Vessel construction, in particular walls or details thereof
- F17C2203/06—Materials for walls or layers thereof; Properties or structures of walls or their materials
- F17C2203/0602—Wall structures; Special features thereof
- F17C2203/0604—Liners
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2203/00—Vessel construction, in particular walls or details thereof
- F17C2203/06—Materials for walls or layers thereof; Properties or structures of walls or their materials
- F17C2203/0634—Materials for walls or layers thereof
- F17C2203/0636—Metals
- F17C2203/0646—Aluminium
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2203/00—Vessel construction, in particular walls or details thereof
- F17C2203/06—Materials for walls or layers thereof; Properties or structures of walls or their materials
- F17C2203/0634—Materials for walls or layers thereof
- F17C2203/0658—Synthetics
- F17C2203/0663—Synthetics in form of fibers or filaments
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
- F17C2205/01—Mounting arrangements
- F17C2205/0103—Exterior arrangements
- F17C2205/0107—Frames
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
- F17C2205/01—Mounting arrangements
- F17C2205/0123—Mounting arrangements characterised by number of vessels
- F17C2205/013—Two or more vessels
- F17C2205/0134—Two or more vessels characterised by the presence of fluid connection between vessels
- F17C2205/0146—Two or more vessels characterised by the presence of fluid connection between vessels with details of the manifold
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
- F17C2205/01—Mounting arrangements
- F17C2205/0153—Details of mounting arrangements
- F17C2205/0188—Hanging up devices
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
- F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
- F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
- F17C2205/0323—Valves
- F17C2205/0326—Valves electrically actuated
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
- F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
- F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
- F17C2205/0323—Valves
- F17C2205/0335—Check-valves or non-return valves
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
- F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
- F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
- F17C2205/0338—Pressure regulators
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
- F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
- F17C2205/0388—Arrangement of valves, regulators, filters
- F17C2205/0394—Arrangement of valves, regulators, filters in direct contact with the pressure vessel
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2221/00—Handled fluid, in particular type of fluid
- F17C2221/01—Pure fluids
- F17C2221/012—Hydrogen
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2221/00—Handled fluid, in particular type of fluid
- F17C2221/03—Mixtures
- F17C2221/032—Hydrocarbons
- F17C2221/033—Methane, e.g. natural gas, CNG, LNG, GNL, GNC, PLNG
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2223/00—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel
- F17C2223/01—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel characterised by the phase
- F17C2223/0146—Two-phase
- F17C2223/0153—Liquefied gas, e.g. LPG, GPL
- F17C2223/0161—Liquefied gas, e.g. LPG, GPL cryogenic, e.g. LNG, GNL, PLNG
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2223/00—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel
- F17C2223/03—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel characterised by the pressure level
- F17C2223/036—Very high pressure (>80 bar)
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2250/00—Accessories; Control means; Indicating, measuring or monitoring of parameters
- F17C2250/04—Indicating or measuring of parameters as input values
- F17C2250/0404—Parameters indicated or measured
- F17C2250/043—Pressure
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2250/00—Accessories; Control means; Indicating, measuring or monitoring of parameters
- F17C2250/04—Indicating or measuring of parameters as input values
- F17C2250/0404—Parameters indicated or measured
- F17C2250/0439—Temperature
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2270/00—Applications
- F17C2270/01—Applications for fluid transport or storage
- F17C2270/0165—Applications for fluid transport or storage on the road
- F17C2270/0168—Applications for fluid transport or storage on the road by vehicles
- F17C2270/0171—Trucks
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2270/00—Applications
- F17C2270/01—Applications for fluid transport or storage
- F17C2270/0165—Applications for fluid transport or storage on the road
- F17C2270/0168—Applications for fluid transport or storage on the road by vehicles
- F17C2270/0178—Cars
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E60/00—Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
- Y02E60/30—Hydrogen technology
- Y02E60/32—Hydrogen storage
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Sustainable Development (AREA)
- Sustainable Energy (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Cooling, Air Intake And Gas Exhaust, And Fuel Tank Arrangements In Propulsion Units (AREA)
Abstract
A unitary fuel system module comprising one or more fuel cylinders mounted to a frame as a module, preferably through neck-mounts, and having fueling lines for connecting the fuel cylinders to the vehicle. The frame is fitted with a latching mechanism that is readily actuated for alternately securing the frame to the fuel supply envelope in the vehicle or releasing the frame for removal of the fuel module as a unitary structure. Preferably, the frame is fitted with wheels or slides to enable sliding the module in and out of the envelope.
In operation, as required return a vehicle to operation, a faulty module can be replaced with a replacement module, which is slid into the envelope where it is secured and the fueling lines are re-connected to the vehicle.
In operation, as required return a vehicle to operation, a faulty module can be replaced with a replacement module, which is slid into the envelope where it is secured and the fueling lines are re-connected to the vehicle.
Description
1 "REPLACEABLE FUEL MODULE AND METHOD"
2
3 FIELD OF THE INVENTION
4 The present invention relates to the field of vehicular fuel storage and supply systems and more particularly to replaceable fuel systems for 6 alternative fuels such as compressed natural gas (CNG), hydrogen, and liquefied 7 natural gas (LNG).
Typically, on-board vehicular fuel supply systems comprise one or 11 more fuel tanks integrated into the chassis of a vehicle. Installation of the fuel 12 system is a part of the vehicle's basic construction and is typically performed in 13 assembly-line fashion at the factory.
14 Fuel systems such as described in US patent 5,794,979 to Kasuga et al. are designed for alternative fuels such as CNG or LNG where a plurality of 16 compressed pressurized fuel cylinders are mounted in a vehicle. A tank 17 supporting frame, installed complete with the fuel tanks and associated pipes 18 and seals, is preferably installed through a rear window opening, during initial 19 manufacture of the vehicle. The frame, following insertion into the fuel storage envelope in the vehicle, is subsequently bolted to the car body and the ends of 21 the pipes connected to the ends of the fuel lines on the car body. Once installed 22 in this fashion, the fuel system becomes an integral part of the vehicle body and 23 cannot be readily removed for inspection, repair or replacement.
24 Malfunction in any part of the system results in costly repair and significant down-time as the vehicle must be removed from the road. Costs 1 escalate with increasing time to disassemble portions of the vehicle to gain 2 access to the system, perforrn repairs and reassemble the vehicle.
3 US Patent 5,997,040 to Fukagawa et al. teaches a modularized 4 and compact fuel system comprising a support frame bolted to the car-body side supporting frame, a single fuel cylinder secured to the support frame using belly 6 straps and a joint box for connection of the fuel and fill lines from the tank to the 7 lines of the vehicle. The frame taught in Fukagawa is not readily adapted to 8 secure more than one fuel cylinder nor is there any indication that fuel lines from 9 a plurality of fuel cylinders could be integrated into the joint box provided.
Fukagawa teaches additional side frame components being bolted first at each 11 side of the car body prior to installation of the module. The fuel tank attached to 12 the remaining portion of the frame is then inserted into the car body through a 13 rear door and moved rearward between the wheel housings to align with the side 14 frame component. Once aligned, the module is bolted into place. If maintenance is required, the reverse steps are performed including un-bolting all the fasteners 16 for lifting the module free of the vehicle. Fukagawa avoids multiple vessels so as 17 to ensure a compact module for ease of installation. A larger vessel or a plurality 18 of vessels are not contemplated.
19 Where a plurality of vessels is required to increase the capacity of the system, the single vessel system of Fukagawa is no longer applicable.
21 Clearly there is a need for a lightweight fuel system comprising a 22 plurality of pressurized fuel cylinders held together in a unitary structure 23 complete with piping and valves that can be safely secured to the body of a 24 vehicle when in use, but be readily removable for service. Securing means that can be readily released, combined with removable piping connections would 1 allow the entire fuel system to be removed from its permitted dimensional fuel 2 storage envelope in the vehicle for inspection or servicing. Further, a modular 3 system could be replaced even on site, as a single module, should it 4 malfunction. Swapping of a replacement module for the faulty module permits rapid repairs and also avoids unnecessary delays.
2 The present invention overcomes the prior art requirement for labor 3 intensive and costly servicing, inspection or replacement of a fuel system.
A
4 lightweight, unitary fuel system module is provided that can be quickly and removably secured to a vehicle body. The module is easily unlatched from the 6 body and, with minimal detachment of piping connections, can be partially or 7 completely removed, as a complete module, from the vehicle for inspection, 8 repair or reinsertion. Should the module require unknown or extensive repair or 9 component replacement, the entire used module can be replaced by a second replacement module to minimize on-road time losses.
11 In a broad aspect of the invention, a modular fuel system is 12 provided for a vehicle having fuel lines and a fuel storage envelope, the fuel 13 system comprising:
14 = one or more pressurized fuel cylinders;
= a frame iri which the one or more fuel cylinders are mounted 16 to form a replaceable module; and 17 = a latching mechanism attached to the frame and adapted for 18 cooperating with anchors in the envelope for releasably securing the 19 frame within the vehicular envelope and operable between a first secured position and a second released position.
21 Such replaceable modules are self supporting during removal and 22 replacement steps. Preferably, each fuel cylinder has a longitudinal axis and 23 opposing neck ends, the opposing neck ends of each of the one or more fuel 24 cylinders being neck-mounted to the frame. The fuel cylinders, associated 1 instrumentation and tubing are secured to the frame for insertion into the vehicle 2 as a unitary module.
3 In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the fuel cylinders and 4 associated tubing are housed in a mounting frame comprising at least two end brackets. The brackets are lightweight and designed to permit neck-mounting of 6 each fuel cylinder at opposing neck ends. The frame is secured to the structure 7 of a fuel storage envelope within the vehicle using a releasable latching 8 mechanism capable of safely securing the frame under crash loading. Further, 9 the frame is fitted with means to allow easy removal of the system as a module, such as roller wheels or cooperating Teflon slides.
11 Preferably, the fuel cylinders are lightweight fiber reinforced, 12 aluminum-lined fuel cylinders having opposing neck-ends, capable of storing 13 pressurized fuel gas such as hydrogen. Instrumentation associated with delivery 14 and monitoring of fuel is provided. Three lines of pressure tubing are typically used for connecting the fuel cylinders to the vehicle; a filling line, a fuel line and a 16 venting line. Each line is housed within a mounting frame for connection to the 17 fuel cylinders, in parallel. The fueling lines converge at a periphery of the frame 18 for ease of connection to the vehicle. Removable fittings join the three lines to 19 corresponding lines on the vehicle body. More preferably, the frame further comprises crossbeams for additional structural rigidity and for attachment of the 21 latching mechanism to the underside of the frame. With pressurized fuel 22 cylinders, the neck-mounting attachments are preferably adapted to permit some 23 longitudinal expansion at least atone neck-mount.
Typically, on-board vehicular fuel supply systems comprise one or 11 more fuel tanks integrated into the chassis of a vehicle. Installation of the fuel 12 system is a part of the vehicle's basic construction and is typically performed in 13 assembly-line fashion at the factory.
14 Fuel systems such as described in US patent 5,794,979 to Kasuga et al. are designed for alternative fuels such as CNG or LNG where a plurality of 16 compressed pressurized fuel cylinders are mounted in a vehicle. A tank 17 supporting frame, installed complete with the fuel tanks and associated pipes 18 and seals, is preferably installed through a rear window opening, during initial 19 manufacture of the vehicle. The frame, following insertion into the fuel storage envelope in the vehicle, is subsequently bolted to the car body and the ends of 21 the pipes connected to the ends of the fuel lines on the car body. Once installed 22 in this fashion, the fuel system becomes an integral part of the vehicle body and 23 cannot be readily removed for inspection, repair or replacement.
24 Malfunction in any part of the system results in costly repair and significant down-time as the vehicle must be removed from the road. Costs 1 escalate with increasing time to disassemble portions of the vehicle to gain 2 access to the system, perforrn repairs and reassemble the vehicle.
3 US Patent 5,997,040 to Fukagawa et al. teaches a modularized 4 and compact fuel system comprising a support frame bolted to the car-body side supporting frame, a single fuel cylinder secured to the support frame using belly 6 straps and a joint box for connection of the fuel and fill lines from the tank to the 7 lines of the vehicle. The frame taught in Fukagawa is not readily adapted to 8 secure more than one fuel cylinder nor is there any indication that fuel lines from 9 a plurality of fuel cylinders could be integrated into the joint box provided.
Fukagawa teaches additional side frame components being bolted first at each 11 side of the car body prior to installation of the module. The fuel tank attached to 12 the remaining portion of the frame is then inserted into the car body through a 13 rear door and moved rearward between the wheel housings to align with the side 14 frame component. Once aligned, the module is bolted into place. If maintenance is required, the reverse steps are performed including un-bolting all the fasteners 16 for lifting the module free of the vehicle. Fukagawa avoids multiple vessels so as 17 to ensure a compact module for ease of installation. A larger vessel or a plurality 18 of vessels are not contemplated.
19 Where a plurality of vessels is required to increase the capacity of the system, the single vessel system of Fukagawa is no longer applicable.
21 Clearly there is a need for a lightweight fuel system comprising a 22 plurality of pressurized fuel cylinders held together in a unitary structure 23 complete with piping and valves that can be safely secured to the body of a 24 vehicle when in use, but be readily removable for service. Securing means that can be readily released, combined with removable piping connections would 1 allow the entire fuel system to be removed from its permitted dimensional fuel 2 storage envelope in the vehicle for inspection or servicing. Further, a modular 3 system could be replaced even on site, as a single module, should it 4 malfunction. Swapping of a replacement module for the faulty module permits rapid repairs and also avoids unnecessary delays.
2 The present invention overcomes the prior art requirement for labor 3 intensive and costly servicing, inspection or replacement of a fuel system.
A
4 lightweight, unitary fuel system module is provided that can be quickly and removably secured to a vehicle body. The module is easily unlatched from the 6 body and, with minimal detachment of piping connections, can be partially or 7 completely removed, as a complete module, from the vehicle for inspection, 8 repair or reinsertion. Should the module require unknown or extensive repair or 9 component replacement, the entire used module can be replaced by a second replacement module to minimize on-road time losses.
11 In a broad aspect of the invention, a modular fuel system is 12 provided for a vehicle having fuel lines and a fuel storage envelope, the fuel 13 system comprising:
14 = one or more pressurized fuel cylinders;
= a frame iri which the one or more fuel cylinders are mounted 16 to form a replaceable module; and 17 = a latching mechanism attached to the frame and adapted for 18 cooperating with anchors in the envelope for releasably securing the 19 frame within the vehicular envelope and operable between a first secured position and a second released position.
21 Such replaceable modules are self supporting during removal and 22 replacement steps. Preferably, each fuel cylinder has a longitudinal axis and 23 opposing neck ends, the opposing neck ends of each of the one or more fuel 24 cylinders being neck-mounted to the frame. The fuel cylinders, associated 1 instrumentation and tubing are secured to the frame for insertion into the vehicle 2 as a unitary module.
3 In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the fuel cylinders and 4 associated tubing are housed in a mounting frame comprising at least two end brackets. The brackets are lightweight and designed to permit neck-mounting of 6 each fuel cylinder at opposing neck ends. The frame is secured to the structure 7 of a fuel storage envelope within the vehicle using a releasable latching 8 mechanism capable of safely securing the frame under crash loading. Further, 9 the frame is fitted with means to allow easy removal of the system as a module, such as roller wheels or cooperating Teflon slides.
11 Preferably, the fuel cylinders are lightweight fiber reinforced, 12 aluminum-lined fuel cylinders having opposing neck-ends, capable of storing 13 pressurized fuel gas such as hydrogen. Instrumentation associated with delivery 14 and monitoring of fuel is provided. Three lines of pressure tubing are typically used for connecting the fuel cylinders to the vehicle; a filling line, a fuel line and a 16 venting line. Each line is housed within a mounting frame for connection to the 17 fuel cylinders, in parallel. The fueling lines converge at a periphery of the frame 18 for ease of connection to the vehicle. Removable fittings join the three lines to 19 corresponding lines on the vehicle body. More preferably, the frame further comprises crossbeams for additional structural rigidity and for attachment of the 21 latching mechanism to the underside of the frame. With pressurized fuel 22 cylinders, the neck-mounting attachments are preferably adapted to permit some 23 longitudinal expansion at least atone neck-mount.
5 1 In another aspect of the invention, a method for removal and 2 replacement of a used module of the present invention from a vehicle fuel 3 storage envelope is provided, the method comprising the steps of:
4 = providing at least two modules, a used module and a replacement module, each module having one or more fuel cylinders
4 = providing at least two modules, a used module and a replacement module, each module having one or more fuel cylinders
6 mounted to a frame, the frame having a latching mechanism for securing
7 the mounting frame to the vehicular envelope;
8 = disconnecting means for fluidly connecting the pressurized
9 fuel cylinders with fuel lines in the vehicle;
= actuating the latching mechanism of the used module from a 11 first secured position to a second released position; then sequentially 12 = removing the used module from the vehicle's envelope;
13 = inserting a replacement module into the vehicle's envelope;
14 and then = actuating the latching mechanism of the replacement 16 module for securing the mounting frame to the vehicle from a second 17 released position to a first secured position; and 18 = reconnecting the means for fluidly connecting the 19 pressurized fuel cylinders with the fuel lines in the vehicle.
The method is particularly convenient when two or more fuel 21 cylinders are involved in the module.
2 Figure 1 is a perspective view of the fuel system module of the 3 present invention;
4 Figure 2 is a perspective view of the fuel system module of Fig. 1 installed in a rear fuel storage envelope in a vehicle and having a cut away in 6 one fuel cylinder to show an anchoring mechanism of the present invention 7 securing the module into the envelope;
8 Figure 3 is a perspective view of the fuel system module of Fig. 1 9 partially installed in an underbody fuel storage envelope in the side of a vehicle;
Figure 4 is a perspective view of the frame of the fuel system 11 module of Figure 1 showing the brackets, cross-beams; anchoring mechanism 12 and neck-mounting attachments;
13 Figure 5 is a perspective view of the frame of the fuel system 14 module according to Figure 4 without the neck-mounting attachments;
Figure 6 is a perspective view of the underside of the fuel system 16 module according to Figure 1 showing the anchoring mechanism in a secured 17 position and the wheels retracted;
18 Figure 7 is a front view of the underside of the fuel system module 19 according to Figure 1 showing the anchoring mechanism; and Figure 8 is a schematic illustrating the valving and tubing 21 connections of the pressurized fuel cylinders using an external pressure 22 regulator.
2 Having reference to Figs. 1 - 3, a modular fuel system 10 of the 3 present invention is shown. A plurality of pressurized fuel cylinders 20 are 4 attached to a frame 30 for insertion, as a module 10, into a fuel storage envelope 40 in a vehicle 100. Further, fueling tubing or lines 50 associated with filling and 6 venting the fuel cylinders 20, as well as fueling the vehicle 100, are provided. As 7 shown in Figs. 2 and 3, the frame 30 is secured to the structure of the fuel 8 storage envelope 40, using a releasable latching mechanism 60.
9 The frame, as shown in Figs. 4-5, comprises first and second end brackets 31, 32 spaced and secured to the fuel cylinders 20. Preferably, one or 11 more cross beams 33 extend between the brackets 31,32 in part to provide 12 additional structural rigidity and to provide additional points of attachment as 13 necessary. One or more sets of neck-mounting attachments 34a, 34b are bolted 14 to the frame brackets 31,32 for neck-mounting opposing neck ends 21, 22 of each pressurized fuel cylinder 20.
16 Alternatively, fuel cylinders 20 can be mounted to the crossbeams 17 33 of the frame 30, using conventional belly straps (not shown).
18 Preferably, the pressurized fuel cylinders 20 are fixed at threaded 19 neck-mounting attachments 34a at one or either end bracket 31,32 of the frame 30 by a fixed or threaded neck end 21, 22 into which a valve assembly 55 and 21 fueling lines 50 are fit (Fig. 7). The neck-mounting attachments 34b at the 22 opposing ends of the fuel cylinders 22, 21 are slidably fit, such as with plastic 23 bushings (not shown), which support the fuel cylinder's neck end 22 yet still 24 allows for lineal expansion of the pressurized fuel cylinders 20 such as under fill/empty pressures cycles.
1 In one embodiment of the invention, as shown in Figs. 4-7, the 2 latching mechanism 60 comprises one or more anchoring mechanisms 60a fixed 3 to the frame 30, such as to the cross-beams 33. Each anchoring mechanism 60a 4 comprises a support bracket 61, having a first hook 62 at a first end 63 and a second hook 64 at a second end 65 of the support bracket 61. Each hook 62,64 6 is pivotally attached to the support bracket 61 and can be actuated from an 7 open, released position to a closed, secured position. The hooks 62,64 happen 8 to be oriented with open sides 66 facing in opposing directions (shown facing 9 away from each other) for co-operating with corresponding and complementary anchors 74 (as seen in Fig. 2) in the envelope 40.
11 Each hook 62,64 is pivotally connected to the support bracket 61 12 and to an actuation arm 67 at the arm's first 68 or second end 69 respectively.
13 For contra-rotation of the opposing hooks, the actuation arm 67 extends from a 14 top 70 of the first hook 62 to a bottom 71 of the second hook 64. The actuation arm 67 is further connected to a handle 72 at the first end 63. As the handle 16 is depressed, the adjacent first hook 62 is caused to pivot about its attachment 17 73 to the support bracket 61, the open side 66 pivoting downward, to a released 18 position. At the same time, the second hook 64 is caused to pivot downward, 19 also to a released position. When the handle 72 is lifted, the hooks 62,64 are caused to pivot away from one another to a secured position in engagement with 21 anchors 74 formed in the envelope 40 (Fig. 2.).
22 Optionally, the handle 72 is positioned at a periphery of the frame 23 30 or at a location remote from the module 10 to provide easy access for 24 actuating the latching mechanisms 60. This may be of particular importance in 1 vehicular envelopes 40 that are severely space-restricted where access to the 2 underside of the frame 30 is limited.
3 As shown in Fig. 2, loop-like anchors 74 are provided in the 4 structure of the fuel storage envelope 40, typically at a base 41 of the envelope 40, through which the hooks 62,64 of the anchoring system 60a extend when in 6 the secured position. In this secured position, the frame 30 is safely secured to 7 the vehicle 100. Finite element analysis of the module 10 confirms structural 8 performance under regulatory requirements such loading with 25g in planes 9 parallel and perpendicular to the pressurized fuel cylinder's axis and 5g in the vertical plane. One form of the latching mechanisms of the type herein disclosed 11 are typically found in the automobile industry for use in securing rear bench 12 seats to the vehicular frame.
13 As shown in Figs. 7-8, typical fueling lines 50 comprise a fill line 51, 14 a fuel line 52 and a venting line 53 which are connected to corresponding lines (not shown) in the vehicle 100. The fueling lines 50 are carried on or secured to 16 the frame 30 connecting two or more fuel cylinders 20 in parallel.
17 Instrumentation or electrical control lines (not shown), as required, are also 18 carried within the frame 30. Further, the fueling lines 50 converge at a periphery 19 of the frame 30, and the envelope 40, for ease of connection to the 2,0 corresponding lines in the vehicle 100. Connection is accomplished using 21 releasable fittings between the corresponding lines.
22 Turning to Fig. 8, the fill line 51 allows the fuel cylinder 20 to be 23 filled with compressed gas from an outside source. Check valves 54 are 24 installed in each fuel cylinder's valve assembly 55. A fuel filter 56 is installed between the filling receptacle (not shown) and the valve assembly 55 to prevent 1 contamination entering the system. Fuel from the fuel cylinders 20 is directed 2 through one ore more pressure regulators 81. A pressure switch 57 (P1), used 3 to shut off the system in case of over-pressure and a manual valve 58 used for 4 defueling, are also connected to the fuel line 52. The venting line 53 is required for gas release from temperature and pressure-activated relief devices (PRD's) 6 80.
7 Further as part of a typical instrumentation package, the module 10 8 is provided with at least one temperature sensor T and one pressure sensor 9 which indicates the pressure inside the fuel cylinder 20 when an electro-magnetic or solenoid shut-off valve 59 is opened. As shown in Figs. 7 and 8, a 11 pressure regulator 81 can be connected externally to the fuel line 52.
12 Typical parameters for a module 10 as described include 250 or 13 350 bar (gauge) pressurized fuel cylinders 20 and pressure regulators having 14 transducers in the range of nominal 0-450 bar (gauge).
Preferably, the frame 30 is spaced from the structure of the fuel 16 storage envelope 40 by anti-vibration pads 90 which are compressed when the 17 latching mechanism 60 is actuated.
18 More preferably, the frame 30 is further provided with means 91 19 such as wheels or co-operating Teflon slides which are supported by the envelope 40, to assist in removing and inserting the module 10 into and out of 21 the fuel storage envelope 40.
22 In one embodiment of the invention, as shown in Figs. 4-7, at least 23 one wheel 92 is attached to the anchoring mechanism 60a and pivotally actuated 24 with the hooks 61, 63. Actuation of the anchoring mechanism 60a to the released position causes the hooks 61,63 to be released and the wheels 92 to 1 pivot to a downward position where they contact the structure of the fuel storage 2 envelope 40 and raise the frame 30 slightly so as to assist in removing or 3 inserting the module 10 into the fuel storage envelope 40. Further, eyelets 4 are provided on each bracket 31, 32 to assist in lifting the module once it has been removed from the vehicle.
6 In use, a used module 10 is removed for inspection or, if required, 7 is rapidly replaced by a substantially identical replacement module 10. The 8 fittings, which connect the fueling lines 50 on the fuel cylinders 20 to the fuel 9 lines in the vehicle 100, are typically disconnected first. Removal of the used module 10 is accomplished by actuating the anchoring mechanism 60a on the 11 frame 30 to a released position to release the frame 30 from its attachment to 12 the anchors 74 in the structure of the fuel storage envelope 40. While it is not 13 essential to release the frame or disconnect the fueling lines in any particular 14 order, one does avoid disruption of the fuel lines 50 if they are disconnected before releasing the used module. The used module 10 can then be removed 16 from the fuel storage envelope 40 as a unitary structure and either repaired or 17 replaced with a replacement module 10 in the reverse order.
18 Optionally, in embodiments wherein the handle 72 of the anchoring 19 mechanism 60a is appropriately situated, actuation of the anchoring mechanism 60a, is performed at a location at the periphery of the frame 30 or otherwise 21 remote from the module 10, particularly in envelopes 40 that are severely space-22 restricted and where access to the anchoring mechanism is difficult.
= actuating the latching mechanism of the used module from a 11 first secured position to a second released position; then sequentially 12 = removing the used module from the vehicle's envelope;
13 = inserting a replacement module into the vehicle's envelope;
14 and then = actuating the latching mechanism of the replacement 16 module for securing the mounting frame to the vehicle from a second 17 released position to a first secured position; and 18 = reconnecting the means for fluidly connecting the 19 pressurized fuel cylinders with the fuel lines in the vehicle.
The method is particularly convenient when two or more fuel 21 cylinders are involved in the module.
2 Figure 1 is a perspective view of the fuel system module of the 3 present invention;
4 Figure 2 is a perspective view of the fuel system module of Fig. 1 installed in a rear fuel storage envelope in a vehicle and having a cut away in 6 one fuel cylinder to show an anchoring mechanism of the present invention 7 securing the module into the envelope;
8 Figure 3 is a perspective view of the fuel system module of Fig. 1 9 partially installed in an underbody fuel storage envelope in the side of a vehicle;
Figure 4 is a perspective view of the frame of the fuel system 11 module of Figure 1 showing the brackets, cross-beams; anchoring mechanism 12 and neck-mounting attachments;
13 Figure 5 is a perspective view of the frame of the fuel system 14 module according to Figure 4 without the neck-mounting attachments;
Figure 6 is a perspective view of the underside of the fuel system 16 module according to Figure 1 showing the anchoring mechanism in a secured 17 position and the wheels retracted;
18 Figure 7 is a front view of the underside of the fuel system module 19 according to Figure 1 showing the anchoring mechanism; and Figure 8 is a schematic illustrating the valving and tubing 21 connections of the pressurized fuel cylinders using an external pressure 22 regulator.
2 Having reference to Figs. 1 - 3, a modular fuel system 10 of the 3 present invention is shown. A plurality of pressurized fuel cylinders 20 are 4 attached to a frame 30 for insertion, as a module 10, into a fuel storage envelope 40 in a vehicle 100. Further, fueling tubing or lines 50 associated with filling and 6 venting the fuel cylinders 20, as well as fueling the vehicle 100, are provided. As 7 shown in Figs. 2 and 3, the frame 30 is secured to the structure of the fuel 8 storage envelope 40, using a releasable latching mechanism 60.
9 The frame, as shown in Figs. 4-5, comprises first and second end brackets 31, 32 spaced and secured to the fuel cylinders 20. Preferably, one or 11 more cross beams 33 extend between the brackets 31,32 in part to provide 12 additional structural rigidity and to provide additional points of attachment as 13 necessary. One or more sets of neck-mounting attachments 34a, 34b are bolted 14 to the frame brackets 31,32 for neck-mounting opposing neck ends 21, 22 of each pressurized fuel cylinder 20.
16 Alternatively, fuel cylinders 20 can be mounted to the crossbeams 17 33 of the frame 30, using conventional belly straps (not shown).
18 Preferably, the pressurized fuel cylinders 20 are fixed at threaded 19 neck-mounting attachments 34a at one or either end bracket 31,32 of the frame 30 by a fixed or threaded neck end 21, 22 into which a valve assembly 55 and 21 fueling lines 50 are fit (Fig. 7). The neck-mounting attachments 34b at the 22 opposing ends of the fuel cylinders 22, 21 are slidably fit, such as with plastic 23 bushings (not shown), which support the fuel cylinder's neck end 22 yet still 24 allows for lineal expansion of the pressurized fuel cylinders 20 such as under fill/empty pressures cycles.
1 In one embodiment of the invention, as shown in Figs. 4-7, the 2 latching mechanism 60 comprises one or more anchoring mechanisms 60a fixed 3 to the frame 30, such as to the cross-beams 33. Each anchoring mechanism 60a 4 comprises a support bracket 61, having a first hook 62 at a first end 63 and a second hook 64 at a second end 65 of the support bracket 61. Each hook 62,64 6 is pivotally attached to the support bracket 61 and can be actuated from an 7 open, released position to a closed, secured position. The hooks 62,64 happen 8 to be oriented with open sides 66 facing in opposing directions (shown facing 9 away from each other) for co-operating with corresponding and complementary anchors 74 (as seen in Fig. 2) in the envelope 40.
11 Each hook 62,64 is pivotally connected to the support bracket 61 12 and to an actuation arm 67 at the arm's first 68 or second end 69 respectively.
13 For contra-rotation of the opposing hooks, the actuation arm 67 extends from a 14 top 70 of the first hook 62 to a bottom 71 of the second hook 64. The actuation arm 67 is further connected to a handle 72 at the first end 63. As the handle 16 is depressed, the adjacent first hook 62 is caused to pivot about its attachment 17 73 to the support bracket 61, the open side 66 pivoting downward, to a released 18 position. At the same time, the second hook 64 is caused to pivot downward, 19 also to a released position. When the handle 72 is lifted, the hooks 62,64 are caused to pivot away from one another to a secured position in engagement with 21 anchors 74 formed in the envelope 40 (Fig. 2.).
22 Optionally, the handle 72 is positioned at a periphery of the frame 23 30 or at a location remote from the module 10 to provide easy access for 24 actuating the latching mechanisms 60. This may be of particular importance in 1 vehicular envelopes 40 that are severely space-restricted where access to the 2 underside of the frame 30 is limited.
3 As shown in Fig. 2, loop-like anchors 74 are provided in the 4 structure of the fuel storage envelope 40, typically at a base 41 of the envelope 40, through which the hooks 62,64 of the anchoring system 60a extend when in 6 the secured position. In this secured position, the frame 30 is safely secured to 7 the vehicle 100. Finite element analysis of the module 10 confirms structural 8 performance under regulatory requirements such loading with 25g in planes 9 parallel and perpendicular to the pressurized fuel cylinder's axis and 5g in the vertical plane. One form of the latching mechanisms of the type herein disclosed 11 are typically found in the automobile industry for use in securing rear bench 12 seats to the vehicular frame.
13 As shown in Figs. 7-8, typical fueling lines 50 comprise a fill line 51, 14 a fuel line 52 and a venting line 53 which are connected to corresponding lines (not shown) in the vehicle 100. The fueling lines 50 are carried on or secured to 16 the frame 30 connecting two or more fuel cylinders 20 in parallel.
17 Instrumentation or electrical control lines (not shown), as required, are also 18 carried within the frame 30. Further, the fueling lines 50 converge at a periphery 19 of the frame 30, and the envelope 40, for ease of connection to the 2,0 corresponding lines in the vehicle 100. Connection is accomplished using 21 releasable fittings between the corresponding lines.
22 Turning to Fig. 8, the fill line 51 allows the fuel cylinder 20 to be 23 filled with compressed gas from an outside source. Check valves 54 are 24 installed in each fuel cylinder's valve assembly 55. A fuel filter 56 is installed between the filling receptacle (not shown) and the valve assembly 55 to prevent 1 contamination entering the system. Fuel from the fuel cylinders 20 is directed 2 through one ore more pressure regulators 81. A pressure switch 57 (P1), used 3 to shut off the system in case of over-pressure and a manual valve 58 used for 4 defueling, are also connected to the fuel line 52. The venting line 53 is required for gas release from temperature and pressure-activated relief devices (PRD's) 6 80.
7 Further as part of a typical instrumentation package, the module 10 8 is provided with at least one temperature sensor T and one pressure sensor 9 which indicates the pressure inside the fuel cylinder 20 when an electro-magnetic or solenoid shut-off valve 59 is opened. As shown in Figs. 7 and 8, a 11 pressure regulator 81 can be connected externally to the fuel line 52.
12 Typical parameters for a module 10 as described include 250 or 13 350 bar (gauge) pressurized fuel cylinders 20 and pressure regulators having 14 transducers in the range of nominal 0-450 bar (gauge).
Preferably, the frame 30 is spaced from the structure of the fuel 16 storage envelope 40 by anti-vibration pads 90 which are compressed when the 17 latching mechanism 60 is actuated.
18 More preferably, the frame 30 is further provided with means 91 19 such as wheels or co-operating Teflon slides which are supported by the envelope 40, to assist in removing and inserting the module 10 into and out of 21 the fuel storage envelope 40.
22 In one embodiment of the invention, as shown in Figs. 4-7, at least 23 one wheel 92 is attached to the anchoring mechanism 60a and pivotally actuated 24 with the hooks 61, 63. Actuation of the anchoring mechanism 60a to the released position causes the hooks 61,63 to be released and the wheels 92 to 1 pivot to a downward position where they contact the structure of the fuel storage 2 envelope 40 and raise the frame 30 slightly so as to assist in removing or 3 inserting the module 10 into the fuel storage envelope 40. Further, eyelets 4 are provided on each bracket 31, 32 to assist in lifting the module once it has been removed from the vehicle.
6 In use, a used module 10 is removed for inspection or, if required, 7 is rapidly replaced by a substantially identical replacement module 10. The 8 fittings, which connect the fueling lines 50 on the fuel cylinders 20 to the fuel 9 lines in the vehicle 100, are typically disconnected first. Removal of the used module 10 is accomplished by actuating the anchoring mechanism 60a on the 11 frame 30 to a released position to release the frame 30 from its attachment to 12 the anchors 74 in the structure of the fuel storage envelope 40. While it is not 13 essential to release the frame or disconnect the fueling lines in any particular 14 order, one does avoid disruption of the fuel lines 50 if they are disconnected before releasing the used module. The used module 10 can then be removed 16 from the fuel storage envelope 40 as a unitary structure and either repaired or 17 replaced with a replacement module 10 in the reverse order.
18 Optionally, in embodiments wherein the handle 72 of the anchoring 19 mechanism 60a is appropriately situated, actuation of the anchoring mechanism 60a, is performed at a location at the periphery of the frame 30 or otherwise 21 remote from the module 10, particularly in envelopes 40 that are severely space-22 restricted and where access to the anchoring mechanism is difficult.
Claims (29)
EXCLUSIVE PROPERTY OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS
FOLLOWS:
1. A unitary fuel system module, for use with alternative fuels, adapted to be secured within an envelope in a vehicle, the module comprising:
one or more pressurized fuel cylinders, each fuel cylinder having a longitudinal axis and opposing neck ends;
a frame to which the opposing neck ends of each of the one or more pressurized fuel cylinders are neck-mounted for forming a module; and means for releasably securing the frame within the vehicular envelope and operable between a first secured position and a second released position for exchange of the module with a like module.
one or more pressurized fuel cylinders, each fuel cylinder having a longitudinal axis and opposing neck ends;
a frame to which the opposing neck ends of each of the one or more pressurized fuel cylinders are neck-mounted for forming a module; and means for releasably securing the frame within the vehicular envelope and operable between a first secured position and a second released position for exchange of the module with a like module.
2. The modular fuel system as described in claim 1 wherein the means for releasably securing the frame to the vehicular envelope is an anchoring system comprising at least one latching means attached to the frame and adapted for securing to complementary anchors within the vehicle's envelope.
3. The modular fuel system as described in claim 2 wherein the latching means are remotely actuated between the secured and released positions.
4. The modular fuel system as described in claim 3 wherein the latching means are remotely actuated between the secured and released positions from a periphery of the vehicle's envelope.
5. The modular fuel system as described in claim 1 wherein the frame further comprises:
first and second end brackets ; and a plurality of neck-mounting attachments mounted to the first and second brackets so as to mount opposing neck ends of the pressurized fuel cylinders and space the first and second end brackets from one another.
first and second end brackets ; and a plurality of neck-mounting attachments mounted to the first and second brackets so as to mount opposing neck ends of the pressurized fuel cylinders and space the first and second end brackets from one another.
6. The modular fuel system as described in claim 1 wherein the frame further comprises one or more crossbeams, each connected at first and second ends to each of the first and second end brackets.
7. The modular fuel system as described in claim 6 wherein a crossbeam is positioned between every second fuel cylinder.
8. The modular fuel system as described in claim 7 wherein each of the one or more pressurized fuel cylinders are neck-mounted using at least one neck-mounting attachment which is threaded for securing the pressurized fuel cylinders against displacement along the fuel cylinder's longitudinal axis.
9. The modular fuel system as described in claim 7 wherein at least one of the neck ends is axially moveable within one neck-mounting attachment so as to permit expansion of the tank in an axial direction.
10. The modular fuel system as described in claim 1 wherein the pressurized fuel cylinders are connected to the vehicle by fueling lines, the fueling lines comprising:
a fuel line;
a fill line; and a vent line wherein the fueling lines are carried by the frame and are connected to corresponding fueling lines in the vehicle using releasable fittings.
a fuel line;
a fill line; and a vent line wherein the fueling lines are carried by the frame and are connected to corresponding fueling lines in the vehicle using releasable fittings.
11. The modular fuel system as described in claim 10 wherein the fuel line is connected to the pressurized fuel cylinders using releasable fittings located at a periphery of the frame.
12. The modular fuel system as described in claim 1 wherein the frame further comprises means for slideably removing and replacing the module from and to the vehicular envelope when the means for releasably securing the frame is in the second released position.
13. The modular fuel system as described in claim 12 wherein the means for slideably removing and replacing the module from the envelope are wheels attached to the underside of the frame and engage the envelope.
14. The modular fuel system as described in claim 12 wherein the means for slideably removing and replacing the module from the envelope are Teflon.TM. pads attached to the underside of the frame.
15. The modular fuel system as described in claim 1 further comprising anti-vibration pads positioned between the frame and a base of the envelope.
16. The modular fuel system as described in claim 1 wherein the frame further comprises eyelets on a top side of the frame to permit lifting of the module once removed from the envelope.
17. The modular fuel system as described in claim 2 wherein the at least one latching means is an anchoring mechanism further comprising:
first and second hooks attached to crossbeams of the frame and adapted to correspond to complementary anchors located in the vehicle's envelope, the hooks having open sides oriented in opposing relationship; and an actuation arm connected between first and second hooks; so as to actuate first and second hooks between the first secured position and the second released position to respectively engage the hooks in the anchors so as to retain the module in the vehicle envelope and release the hooks from the anchors to release the module.
first and second hooks attached to crossbeams of the frame and adapted to correspond to complementary anchors located in the vehicle's envelope, the hooks having open sides oriented in opposing relationship; and an actuation arm connected between first and second hooks; so as to actuate first and second hooks between the first secured position and the second released position to respectively engage the hooks in the anchors so as to retain the module in the vehicle envelope and release the hooks from the anchors to release the module.
18. The modular fuel system as described in claim 16 wherein a handle is connected to the actuation arm so as to actuate the anchoring mechanism.
19. The modular fuel system as described in claim 17 wherein the handle is located at a periphery of the frame.
20. The modular fuel system as described in claim 18 wherein the handle is located remote from the module.
21. A unitary modular fuel system, for use with alternative fuels, adapted to be secured within an envelope in a vehicle, the module comprising:
one or more pressurized fuel cylinders;
a frame to which each of the one or more fuel cylinders are mounted for forming a module; and means for releasably securing the module within the vehicular envelope and operable between a first secured position and a second released position for exchange of the module with a like module.
one or more pressurized fuel cylinders;
a frame to which each of the one or more fuel cylinders are mounted for forming a module; and means for releasably securing the module within the vehicular envelope and operable between a first secured position and a second released position for exchange of the module with a like module.
22. The modular fuel system as described in claim 21 further comprising slides for aiding removal and replacement of the module from and to the vehicular envelope when the means for releasably securing the module is in the second released position.
23. The modular fuel system as described in claim 21 wherein the means for releasably securing the frame to the vehicular envelope is an anchoring system comprising at least one latching means attached to the frame and adapted for securing to complementary anchors within the vehicle's envelope.
24. The modular fuel system as described in claim 23 wherein the latching means are remotely actuated between the secured and released positions.
25. The modular fuel system as described in claim 24 wherein the latching means are remotely actuated between the secured and released positions from a periphery of the vehicle's envelope.
26. A method of removal and replacement of a used vehicular fuel system module comprising the steps of:
providing at least two modules, a used module and a replacement module, each module having one or more fuel cylinders mounted to a frame, the frame having a latching mechanism;
disconnecting the pressurized fuel cylinders from the vehicle; and actuating the latching mechanism for securing the mounting frame to a vehicular envelope from a first secured position to a second released position; then sequentially;
removing the used module from the vehicle's envelope;
inserting a replacement module into the vehicle's envelope; and then actuating the latching mechanism for securing the mounting frame to the vehicle from a second released position to a first secured position, and reconnecting the pressurized fuel cylinders to the vehicle.
providing at least two modules, a used module and a replacement module, each module having one or more fuel cylinders mounted to a frame, the frame having a latching mechanism;
disconnecting the pressurized fuel cylinders from the vehicle; and actuating the latching mechanism for securing the mounting frame to a vehicular envelope from a first secured position to a second released position; then sequentially;
removing the used module from the vehicle's envelope;
inserting a replacement module into the vehicle's envelope; and then actuating the latching mechanism for securing the mounting frame to the vehicle from a second released position to a first secured position, and reconnecting the pressurized fuel cylinders to the vehicle.
27. The method as described in claim 26 further comprising the steps of:
actuating a handle to actuate the latching mechanism between the first released and second secured position ; and sliding the used module from the envelope using sliding means attached to the frame and sliding the replacement module into the envelope.
actuating a handle to actuate the latching mechanism between the first released and second secured position ; and sliding the used module from the envelope using sliding means attached to the frame and sliding the replacement module into the envelope.
28. The method as described in claim 27 wherein the handle is actuated from a location at a periphery of the frame.
29. The method as described in claim 28 wherein the handle is actuated from a location remote from the module.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US29132201P | 2001-05-17 | 2001-05-17 | |
US60/291,322 | 2001-05-17 |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
CA2386443A1 CA2386443A1 (en) | 2002-11-17 |
CA2386443C true CA2386443C (en) | 2007-10-23 |
Family
ID=23119839
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
CA002386443A Expired - Fee Related CA2386443C (en) | 2001-05-17 | 2002-05-15 | Replaceable fuel module and method |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US6676163B2 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2386443C (en) |
Families Citing this family (95)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7303211B2 (en) * | 2001-08-23 | 2007-12-04 | Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc. | Fuel cell vehicle architecture |
JP3823806B2 (en) * | 2001-10-30 | 2006-09-20 | 日産自動車株式会社 | Support structure for high pressure vessel |
US6974156B2 (en) * | 2002-03-19 | 2005-12-13 | Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Fuel tank structure |
EP1431096A3 (en) * | 2002-12-18 | 2006-04-26 | Conception et Développement Michelin S.A. | High pressure storage tank for storing fuel on a vehicle |
FR2849808B1 (en) * | 2003-01-10 | 2005-04-08 | MOTOR VEHICLE WITH A PRESSURIZED GAS TANK AND AUTOMATIC CONNECTING MEANS OF THIS TANK. | |
FR2857630B1 (en) * | 2003-07-18 | 2006-10-27 | Gie Psa Peugeot Citroen | MOTOR VEHICLE HAVING A REINFORCED SAFETY GAS TANK |
JP4179128B2 (en) * | 2003-10-07 | 2008-11-12 | トヨタ自動車株式会社 | Fuel tank support structure |
US7264277B2 (en) * | 2004-01-22 | 2007-09-04 | Honda Motor Co., Ltd. | Gaseous fuel vehicle rear structure |
US7810669B2 (en) * | 2004-03-05 | 2010-10-12 | Airbus Deutschland Gmbh | Replaceable cartridge for liquid hydrogen |
FR2869573B1 (en) * | 2004-04-30 | 2006-06-16 | Conception Et Dev Michelin Sa | GASEOUS FUEL VEHICLE AND AUTOMATIC PURGE SYSTEM |
US7270209B2 (en) * | 2004-08-10 | 2007-09-18 | General Motors Corporation | Modular fuel storage system for a vehicle |
FR2874247B1 (en) * | 2004-08-12 | 2007-03-16 | Air Liquide | GAS STORAGE SYSTEM, METHOD OF IMPLEMENTATION AND VEHICLE INCORPORATING SUCH A SYSTEM |
JP2008518827A (en) * | 2004-10-29 | 2008-06-05 | フォード グローバル テクノロジーズ、リミテッド ライアビリティ カンパニー | Automobile and fuel storage system for automobile |
US7678479B2 (en) * | 2004-11-29 | 2010-03-16 | Angstrom Power Incorporated | Hydrogen fuel delivery systems |
US7641017B2 (en) * | 2005-06-02 | 2010-01-05 | Honda Motor Co., Ltd. | Fuel cell vehicle |
CN1326667C (en) * | 2005-07-26 | 2007-07-18 | 安阳市贞元(集团)有限责任公司 | Quick replacing device for liquefied gas steel cylinder of automobile |
DE102005042939A1 (en) * | 2005-09-09 | 2007-03-22 | Still Gmbh | Mobile work machine with a pressurized tank |
US7602143B2 (en) * | 2005-11-04 | 2009-10-13 | Peter David Capizzo | System for replenishing energy sources onboard different types of automotive vehicles |
US20080308081A1 (en) * | 2007-06-18 | 2008-12-18 | Ernest George Geros | Disposable gas system for internal combustion engine |
KR100925937B1 (en) * | 2007-06-29 | 2009-11-09 | 현대자동차주식회사 | Mounting structure for gas tank of vehicle |
KR20090006911A (en) * | 2007-07-13 | 2009-01-16 | 현대자동차주식회사 | Lay out structure for lpg bomb and integration of hev |
US8020722B2 (en) * | 2007-08-20 | 2011-09-20 | Richards Kevin W | Seamless multi-section pressure vessel |
KR100951978B1 (en) * | 2008-04-30 | 2010-04-08 | 현대자동차주식회사 | Hydrogen storage apparatus for vehicle |
US8534403B2 (en) * | 2008-09-26 | 2013-09-17 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | CNG-fueled vehicle with fuel tanks packaged between cab and bed |
JP2013503077A (en) * | 2009-08-25 | 2013-01-31 | スラユット・ポシリスク | CNG container jigs and fixtures for automobiles |
US7984653B2 (en) * | 2009-12-15 | 2011-07-26 | GM Global Technology Operations LLC | Angular mounted high-pressure vessel |
US8991423B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2015-03-31 | Go Natural Cng, Llc | Fuel interface modules and related systems and methods |
US9528447B2 (en) | 2010-09-14 | 2016-12-27 | Jason Eric Green | Fuel mixture control system |
US9114930B2 (en) * | 2011-03-07 | 2015-08-25 | Casella Waste Systems, Inc. | Compressed natural gas vehicle apparatus and method |
JP5357917B2 (en) * | 2011-03-31 | 2013-12-04 | 株式会社クボタ | Riding mower |
FR2978382B1 (en) * | 2011-07-29 | 2014-11-07 | Renault Sa | DEVICE FOR FIXING A MOTOR POWERTRAIN ON A CHASSIS OF A MOTOR VEHICLE |
US8882071B2 (en) | 2011-09-16 | 2014-11-11 | Jason Green | Modification of an industrial vehicle to include a containment area and mounting assembly for an alternate fuel |
US9248736B2 (en) | 2011-09-16 | 2016-02-02 | Gaseous Fuel Systems, Corp. | Modification of an industrial vehicle to include a containment area and mounting assembly for an alternate fuel |
US10086694B2 (en) | 2011-09-16 | 2018-10-02 | Gaseous Fuel Systems, Corp. | Modification of an industrial vehicle to include a containment area and mounting assembly for an alternate fuel |
US9421861B2 (en) | 2011-09-16 | 2016-08-23 | Gaseous Fuel Systems, Corp. | Modification of an industrial vehicle to include a containment area and mounting assembly for an alternate fuel |
US8820289B2 (en) | 2011-09-27 | 2014-09-02 | Jason Green | Module containment of fuel control system for a vehicle |
US9738154B2 (en) | 2011-10-17 | 2017-08-22 | Gaseous Fuel Systems, Corp. | Vehicle mounting assembly for a fuel supply |
US8881933B2 (en) | 2011-10-17 | 2014-11-11 | Jason E. Green | Vehicle mounting assembly for a fuel supply |
US9278614B2 (en) | 2011-10-17 | 2016-03-08 | Gaseous Fuel Systems, Corp. | Vehicle mounting assembly for a fuel supply |
RU2515687C2 (en) * | 2012-06-26 | 2014-05-20 | Открытое акционерное общество "Марийский машиностроительный завод" | Slider box |
EP2682668A3 (en) * | 2012-07-04 | 2017-07-12 | L'air Liquide, Societe Anonyme Pour L'etude Et L'exploitation Des Procedes Georges Claude | Device for supplying gas under pressure and installation for producing and supplying electricity comprising such a device |
US9162565B2 (en) * | 2012-08-31 | 2015-10-20 | Caterpillar Inc. | Liquid natural gas storage tank mounting system |
DE202012103321U1 (en) * | 2012-08-31 | 2012-09-20 | EES-Autogas Technologiezentrum UG (haftungsbeschränkt) | Device for arranging gas containers in a trailer |
US20140069972A1 (en) * | 2012-09-10 | 2014-03-13 | Alternative Fuel Containers, LLC (KSR Technologies Co.) | Method and apparatus for mounting cng/ang tanks to heavy trucks |
US8807256B2 (en) * | 2012-11-21 | 2014-08-19 | Trilogy Engineered Solutions, LLC | Methods and systems for compressed natural gas (CNG) |
US9696066B1 (en) | 2013-01-21 | 2017-07-04 | Jason E. Green | Bi-fuel refrigeration system and method of retrofitting |
US20150025774A1 (en) | 2013-07-22 | 2015-01-22 | Jason Green | Fuel mixture system and assembly |
US9394841B1 (en) | 2013-07-22 | 2016-07-19 | Gaseous Fuel Systems, Corp. | Fuel mixture system and assembly |
US9845744B2 (en) | 2013-07-22 | 2017-12-19 | Gaseous Fuel Systems, Corp. | Fuel mixture system and assembly |
DE102013110203B4 (en) * | 2013-09-17 | 2020-07-23 | Kögel Trailer GmbH | Tank module for a vehicle trailer, vehicle trailer and method for retrofitting a vehicle trailer with such a tank module |
DE102013111399A1 (en) * | 2013-10-16 | 2015-04-16 | Kögel Trailer GmbH & Co. KG | Commercial vehicle trailer, in particular semi-trailer, with a gas tank and utility vehicle combination with such a commercial vehicle trailer |
USD759229S1 (en) | 2013-11-20 | 2016-06-14 | Worthington Industries | Fuel tank frame assembly |
DE102013223767A1 (en) * | 2013-11-21 | 2015-05-21 | Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft | Arrangement of a compressed gas tank in a two-lane motor vehicle |
CA2898160C (en) * | 2014-07-25 | 2023-09-05 | Oshkosh Corporation | Refuse vehicle having tailgate-mounted cng tanks |
US9254849B1 (en) | 2014-10-07 | 2016-02-09 | Gaseous Fuel Systems, Corp. | Device and method for interfacing with a locomotive engine |
BR112017007193B1 (en) | 2014-10-07 | 2022-04-19 | United Technologies Corporation | Composite pressure vessel assembly, and method for manufacturing a composite pressure vessel assembly |
US9428047B2 (en) * | 2014-10-22 | 2016-08-30 | Jason Green | Modification of an industrial vehicle to include a hybrid fuel assembly and system |
US9931929B2 (en) | 2014-10-22 | 2018-04-03 | Jason Green | Modification of an industrial vehicle to include a hybrid fuel assembly and system |
NO340321B1 (en) | 2014-11-13 | 2017-04-03 | Z Holding As | Modular tank system |
US9751399B1 (en) * | 2014-11-17 | 2017-09-05 | Jesse James Butts, Jr. | Apparatuses, methods, and systems for the disposition of fuel tanks on long-haul trucks |
US9885318B2 (en) | 2015-01-07 | 2018-02-06 | Jason E Green | Mixing assembly |
DE102015011916B4 (en) * | 2015-06-09 | 2021-06-17 | Christian Otto | Lifting device for a tank |
JP6688474B2 (en) * | 2015-11-30 | 2020-04-28 | いすゞ自動車株式会社 | Vehicle fuel tank mounting structure |
ITUA20161289A1 (en) * | 2016-02-19 | 2017-08-19 | Vicario Guido Francesco Edoardo | MOBILE INTERCHANGEABLE CYLINDER IN CARBON FIBER WITH SAFETY INTAKE VALVE IN THE USAGE CIRCUIT ON NEW ELECTRIC DOUBLE ENERGY VEHICLES FOR FAST REFUELING OF LARGE CARS NUMBERS, IN ORDER TO OBTAIN WIDE KLOMETRIC AUTONOMY, TO OBTAIN THE TOTAL AUTOROMY OF REFUELING WITH SPARE TANKS, WITH A NETWORK OF SERVICE STATIONS SIMPLIFIED WITH HIGH FIREPROOF AND ACOUSTIC THERMAL INSULATION, NO PUBLIC SOIL REQUIRED FOR STOPS, FOR PRODUCTION AND STORAGE IN REDUCED SPACES OF LARGE QUANTITIES OF ELECTROLYTIC HYDROGEN PRODUCED WITH RENEWABLE ENERGY. FOR THEIR USE FOR AUTOMOTIVE AND ENVIRONMENTAL REHABILITATION THROUGH THE USE OF ELECTROLYTIC WATER IN REPLACEMENT OF OIL: A GLOBAL INTEGRATED SYSTEM OF ELECTRICAL MOBILITY WITH DOUBLE ENERGY IS FORMED WITH EXTENDER HYDROGEN RANGE. |
ITUB20160982A1 (en) * | 2016-02-23 | 2017-08-23 | Faber Spa | PRESSURE CONTAINER AND SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR A PRESSURE CONTAINER |
US9884552B2 (en) * | 2016-04-01 | 2018-02-06 | Agility Fuel Systems Llc | Vehicle fluid handling systems |
US11047529B2 (en) * | 2016-04-22 | 2021-06-29 | Raytheon Technologies Corporation | Composite pressure vessel assembly with an integrated nozzle assembly |
SE540106C2 (en) * | 2016-04-27 | 2018-03-27 | Scania Cv Ab | A connection arrangement for a liquefied gas fuel system for a vehicle |
MX2018014064A (en) * | 2016-05-21 | 2019-04-04 | Worthington Ind Inc | Methods and systems for alternative fuel container support. |
JP6561974B2 (en) * | 2016-11-28 | 2019-08-21 | トヨタ自動車株式会社 | vehicle |
FR3061262B1 (en) * | 2016-12-22 | 2019-08-30 | Engie | REMOVABLE LIQUEFIED GAS FEEDING DEVICE FOR A VEHICLE, VEHICLE AND METHOD FOR SETTING UP AND REPLACING SAID DEVICE |
FR3061261B1 (en) * | 2016-12-22 | 2019-08-30 | Engie | REMOVABLE COMPRESSED GAS SUPPLY DEVICE FOR A VEHICLE, VEHICLE AND METHOD FOR PLACING AND REPLACING THE SAME |
RU2657841C1 (en) * | 2017-01-31 | 2018-06-15 | Общество с ограниченной ответственностью "Научно-исследовательский институт природных газов и газовых технологий - Газпром ВНИИГАЗ" | Container for cylinders with compressed natural gas |
EP3376013B1 (en) | 2017-03-17 | 2021-05-05 | Chart Inc. | Space conserving integrated cryogenic fluid delivery system |
US10670191B2 (en) | 2017-09-28 | 2020-06-02 | Hexagon Technology As | Low profile cylinder mount |
CN107806567A (en) * | 2017-11-29 | 2018-03-16 | 湖北银利来容器有限公司 | A kind of cold bridge partition apparatus of low temperature bearing system |
US11042745B2 (en) | 2018-04-23 | 2021-06-22 | Oshkosh Corporation | Refuse vehicle control system |
US20220041299A1 (en) * | 2018-09-18 | 2022-02-10 | H3 Dynamics Holdings Pte. Ltd. | Unmanned vehicle |
KR102575429B1 (en) * | 2018-10-12 | 2023-09-05 | 현대자동차주식회사 | Neck mounting apparatus for fastening pressure vessel of vehicle |
US10889181B2 (en) * | 2018-11-05 | 2021-01-12 | Worthington Industries Inc. | Integrated fill system and method |
EP3903017B1 (en) * | 2019-03-12 | 2023-03-22 | Nikola Corporation | Pressurized vessel heat shield and thermal pressure relief system |
US11440399B2 (en) | 2019-03-22 | 2022-09-13 | Agility Fuel Systems Llc | Fuel system mountable to a vehicle frame |
US20200347992A1 (en) | 2019-05-02 | 2020-11-05 | Agility Fuel Systems Llc | Polymeric liner based gas cylinder with reduced permeability |
CN110065386B (en) * | 2019-05-24 | 2024-02-06 | 武汉格罗夫氢能汽车有限公司 | Highly integrated hydrogen cylinder group structure of passenger car |
DE102020201172A1 (en) * | 2020-01-31 | 2021-08-05 | Robert Bosch Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung | Device for storing compressed gas, vehicle |
CA3076403A1 (en) | 2020-03-19 | 2021-09-19 | AdvanTec Global Innovations Inc. | Repowering system for vehicles and vessels |
CA3183359A1 (en) | 2020-05-12 | 2021-11-18 | Universal Hydrogen Co. | Systems and methods for storing, transporting, and using hydrogen |
JP2022006349A (en) * | 2020-06-24 | 2022-01-13 | トヨタ自動車株式会社 | Transport vehicle |
AU2021329801A1 (en) | 2020-08-21 | 2023-04-20 | Universal Hydrogen Co. | Systems and methods for multi-module control of a hydrogen powered hybrid electric powertrain |
EP4237739A1 (en) | 2020-10-30 | 2023-09-06 | Universal Hydrogen Co. | Systems and methods for storing liquid hydrogen |
CN112550976B (en) * | 2020-12-01 | 2024-05-31 | 陕西省膜分离技术研究院有限公司 | Movable low-temperature liquid storage tank equipment with shock-absorbing function |
DE102021106002A1 (en) | 2021-03-11 | 2022-09-15 | Karl Engelhardt | reusable charging system |
US11629822B1 (en) | 2021-11-16 | 2023-04-18 | Bayotech, Inc. | Systems and methods for dispensing of gas from gas cylinders |
WO2023091126A1 (en) * | 2021-11-16 | 2023-05-25 | Bayotech, Inc. | Systems and methods for dispensing of gas from gas cylinders |
CN118220694A (en) * | 2024-05-23 | 2024-06-21 | 中国石化销售股份有限公司贵州石油分公司 | Fuel oil transportation device convenient for loading and unloading materials |
Family Cites Families (22)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4106581A (en) | 1976-03-05 | 1978-08-15 | West Curtis W | Vehicle utilizing cryogenic fuel |
JPS57199175U (en) | 1981-06-12 | 1982-12-17 | ||
JPS6373295U (en) | 1986-10-30 | 1988-05-16 | ||
US5443578A (en) | 1993-05-17 | 1995-08-22 | Davis, Jr.; William F. | Compressed natural gas fuel tank for vehicles |
US5370418A (en) | 1993-11-19 | 1994-12-06 | Pugh; Nicholas | Integrated chassis and compressed gas fuel system of an automotive vehicle |
JPH07186741A (en) | 1993-12-28 | 1995-07-25 | Honda Motor Co Ltd | Mounting structure for fuel cylinder of vehicle |
JP3057474B2 (en) | 1994-08-17 | 2000-06-26 | 本田技研工業株式会社 | Arrangement structure of canisters in vehicles |
US5794979A (en) | 1994-09-30 | 1998-08-18 | Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Method and structure for mounting a fuel tank |
US5673939A (en) | 1995-09-20 | 1997-10-07 | The Babcock & Wilcox Company | Fuel tank for storing and dispensing hydrogen and oxygen gas to a fuel cell |
US5658013A (en) | 1995-09-20 | 1997-08-19 | The Babcock & Wilcox Company | Fuel tank for vehicles for holding and dispensing both a liquid and gaseous fuel therein |
US5997040A (en) | 1996-04-26 | 1999-12-07 | Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Fuel cylinder mounting structure in motorcar |
JP3205255B2 (en) | 1996-05-09 | 2001-09-04 | 本田技研工業株式会社 | Vehicle fuel cylinder mounting structure |
JP3334782B2 (en) | 1996-05-09 | 2002-10-15 | 本田技研工業株式会社 | Installation structure of pressurized fuel tank for automobile |
US5806892A (en) * | 1996-12-10 | 1998-09-15 | Daewoo Heavy Industries, Ltd. | Fuel tank mount for forklift trucks with a swing arm swingable about a tilted pivot axis |
US5845940A (en) * | 1996-12-11 | 1998-12-08 | Daewoo Heavy Industries Ltd. | Fuel tank mount for forklift trucks with a damped swing arm swingable along a tilted arc |
US5810309A (en) | 1996-12-26 | 1998-09-22 | New York State Electric & Gas Corporation | Natural gas cylinder mounting assembly for a natural gas vehicle, and the method of installation |
JP3391432B2 (en) | 1997-04-07 | 2003-03-31 | 本田技研工業株式会社 | Automotive fuel tank mounting structure |
SE509275C2 (en) | 1997-04-17 | 1999-01-11 | Raufoss Sweden Ab | Fuel tank |
US6053533A (en) * | 1997-11-20 | 2000-04-25 | Navistar International Transportation Corp | Modular fuel tank assembly, vehicle mounting arrangement and method for installation |
MY125147A (en) * | 1998-10-27 | 2006-07-31 | Univ Johns Hopkins | Compressed gas manifold |
SE521992C2 (en) | 1999-10-12 | 2003-12-23 | Volvo Personvagnar Ab | Fuel storage device |
AU782189B2 (en) * | 2001-06-05 | 2005-07-07 | Doosan Industrial Vehicle Co., Ltd. | Fuel tank cradle device for forklift trucks |
-
2002
- 2002-05-15 CA CA002386443A patent/CA2386443C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2002-05-16 US US10/146,685 patent/US6676163B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20020171236A1 (en) | 2002-11-21 |
CA2386443A1 (en) | 2002-11-17 |
US6676163B2 (en) | 2004-01-13 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
CA2386443C (en) | Replaceable fuel module and method | |
AU748605B2 (en) | Compressed gas fuel storage system | |
US6112760A (en) | Pressure relief system | |
US9206946B2 (en) | Pressure accumulator | |
US10696155B2 (en) | Vehicle fluid handling systems | |
CN100491807C (en) | Gas storage system, method using same and vehicle incorporating same | |
US6412588B1 (en) | CNG fuel supply system | |
US9592731B2 (en) | CNG fuel system for a vehicle | |
WO2006129878A1 (en) | High-pressure tank | |
US10006409B2 (en) | Locomotive on-board storage and delivery of gaseous fuel | |
CA2759349C (en) | Apparatus and method for a portable fuel supply for a vehicle | |
KR102135864B1 (en) | LNG truck and LNG truck assembly method | |
JP2009270707A (en) | Hydrogen storage system for vehicle | |
US20120152215A1 (en) | Dual fuel source trailer tractor | |
US6502660B1 (en) | Tubing manifold with expansion loops | |
US11649932B2 (en) | Compressed gas discharge device | |
CA2287407A1 (en) | Fill block | |
CN216610861U (en) | Holding frame, high-pressure storage system and vehicle | |
CN103119412A (en) | Device for carrying out tests on at least one fluid circuit of an aircraft | |
US20080044299A1 (en) | Apparatus, system and method for loading and offlloading a bulk fluid tanker | |
CN212062589U (en) | Integrated hydrogen supply control panel system for fuel cell | |
RU48903U1 (en) | MOBILE GAS FILLER | |
JP2601234Y2 (en) | Bus fuel cylinder mounting device | |
RU2798382C2 (en) | Set of gas-burning equipment for belaz-75131 dump truck and method for installation thereof on belaz-75131 dump truck | |
JP3812241B2 (en) | Vehicle fuel supply device |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
EEER | Examination request | ||
MKLA | Lapsed |