DE102021104843A1 - Pressure tank for storing a gaseous fuel and motor vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

According to the invention, the technology disclosed here relates to a pressure vessel (1) for storing a gaseous fuel, with a vessel body (2) made of fiber-reinforced plastic, which has an open end (E1) formed by an end region (7) of the vessel body whose end region (7) has a greater wall thickness than a longitudinal region (L1) of the container body (2) adjoining the end (E1) away from the end region (7) and is designed conically in such a way that the wall thickness towards the end ( E1) and with a closure device (10) which is formed separately from the container body (2) and by means of which the container body (2) is at least predominantly closed at the end (E1), the closure device (10) having at least one part (T) of the end region (7) arranged outer part (11) and in the end region (7) and in the outer part (11) arranged inner part (12) which with the outer part il (11) is tense.

Description

The technology disclosed here relates to a pressure vessel for storing a gaseous fuel, in particular for a motor vehicle, and a motor vehicle.

the EP 3 346 178 A1 , the U.S. 3,886,977 , the CN 203477886 U and the DE 10 2008 052 133 A1 belong to the state of the art

It is a preferred object of the technology disclosed herein to mitigate or obviate at least one disadvantage of a previously known solution or to propose an alternative solution. It is in particular a preferred object of the technology disclosed here to create a pressure vessel for storing a gaseous fuel and a motor vehicle so that the gaseous fuel can be stored particularly advantageously by means of the pressure vessel and the pressure vessel can be produced particularly advantageously. Other preferred objects may arise from the beneficial effects of the technology disclosed herein.

The objects described are solved by the subject matter of the independent patent claims. The dependent claims represent preferred developments.

A first aspect of the technology disclosed here relates to a pressure vessel for storing a gaseous fuel, in particular for a motor vehicle, which can be designed, for example, as a motor vehicle preferably designed as a passenger car. This preferably means that the motor vehicle has the pressure vessel in its fully manufactured state, in which the gaseous fuel is or is to be stored at least temporarily.

The gaseous fuel is preferably hydrogen (H ₂ ), so that it is preferably provided that the pressure vessel is designed to at least temporarily store hydrogen. Therefore, the pressure vessel can also be referred to as an H ₂ storage or hydrogen storage. Alternatively, it would be conceivable for the gaseous fuel to be a gaseous fuel other than hydrogen, such as autogas or LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) or natural gas or CNG (compressed natural gas) or liquefied natural gas (LNG - liquefied natural gas) or to be one other gaseous fuel. In particular, gaseous fuel can be understood to mean the following: In its fully manufactured state, the motor vehicle can also have at least one energy converter, which can be embodied, for example, as a fuel cell or as an internal combustion engine, in particular as a reciprocating engine or reciprocating engine. The internal combustion engine can have at least one combustion chamber in which combustion processes take place when the internal combustion engine is in a fired operation. In the respective combustion process, a fuel-air mixture, also referred to simply as a mixture, which comprises the gaseous fuel and air, is burned in the respective combustion chamber, as a result of which an output shaft of the internal combustion engine, embodied as a crankshaft, for example, is driven, in particular via a piston. As a result, the internal combustion engine can provide at least one torque for driving the motor vehicle via its output shaft.

The gaseous fuel is stored, for example, at least partially in the gaseous state and/or at least partially in the liquid state in the pressure vessel and, in particular, is introduced, in particular blown, into the combustion chamber, in particular directly, in the gaseous state.

Using the fuel cell, electrical energy can be generated from the hydrogen. In other words, the fuel cell is designed to convert, in particular, chemical reaction energy of a fuel, in particular continuously supplied to the fuel cell, in the form of hydrogen and an oxidizing agent into electrical energy. Oxygen, in particular from air, is used, for example, as the oxidizing agent. The fuel cell can provide the electrical energy, which can be stored, for example, in an electrical energy storage device of the motor vehicle, designed in particular as a battery or accumulator. In particular, the motor vehicle can have at least one electric machine, by means of which the motor vehicle can be driven or operated at least partially electrically. In other words, it is conceivable that the motor vehicle can be driven electrically, in particular purely electrically, by means of the electric machine. Thus, for example, the motor vehicle can be driven by the electric machine without using the or an internal combustion engine. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the electric machine can drive the motor vehicle electrically and support the internal combustion engine in driving the motor vehicle. In order to drive the motor vehicle by means of the electric machine, the electric machine is supplied with the aforementioned electric energy, which is provided by the fuel cell or which is stored in the electrical energy store and is provided by the electrical energy store. If the pressure vessel is used to store hydrogen, the pressure vessel is also referred to as a hydrogen tank. Provision is made in particular for the gaseous fuel to be stored or to be stored in the pressure vessel under high pressure, so that, as will be explained in more detail below, the pressure vessel can be used particularly advantageously for high-pressure applications.

The pressure vessel has at least or precisely one vessel body which is made of a fiber-reinforced plastic, that is to say a fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP). This means in particular that the container body is formed at least partially, in particular at least predominantly and thus at least more than half or completely, from the fiber-reinforced plastic. The container body itself, i.e. considered on its own, has at least one open and in particular free end, which is formed by an end region of the container body, so that the end region and thus the container body itself end at the said end, the end region at it has a through opening arranged at the end, also simply referred to as an opening, which is open per se.

The end area has a greater wall thickness than a first longitudinal area of the container body adjoining the end area away from the end. The end area is thus, for example, a second longitudinal area of the container body, with the first longitudinal area adjoining the end area at least indirectly, in particular directly, in particular in the longitudinal direction of extension of the container body, in a first direction running in particular in the longitudinal direction of extension of the container body and pointing away from the end. This means in particular that, in particular in the direction of longitudinal extension of the container body, no other, further longitudinal area of the container body is arranged between the end area (second longitudinal area) and the first longitudinal area of the container body, or for example in the direction of longitudinal extension of the container body is between the end area and the first Arranged length range another length range of the container body. The end portion and the first length portion are integrally formed with each other. The feature that the end region has a greater wall thickness than the first length region means that the end region has a first wall thickness and the first length region has a second wall thickness, the first wall thickness being greater or thicker than the second wall thickness. The respective wall thickness is also referred to as wall thickness.

The end area is conically designed in such a way that the wall thickness increases toward the end and thus outwards, for example in a second direction opposite to the first direction, in particular at least substantially continuously. In this case, the end area is conical, at least in a partial area. The sub-area is understood to mean a part, therefore a third longitudinal area of the end area, which extends in particular in the direction of longitudinal extension of the container body.

The pressure vessel of the technology disclosed here also comprises at least one closure device, which is designed separately from the container body and, as will be explained in more detail below, is held on the container body, which is also referred to as a closure mechanism. By means of the closure device, the container body is at least predominantly and thus at least more than half, in particular completely, closed at the end. This can be understood to mean that the aforementioned opening is at least predominantly, in particular completely, closed by means of the closure device. The feature that the opening is at least predominantly closed by means of the closure device can be understood to mean that the opening itself has an area or a surface area, with the closure device covering at least more than half of the area, in particular at least 70%, preferably at least 80% and more preferably at least 90% and most preferably at least 95% of the area is closed. Thus, for example, the container body, in particular an inner peripheral lateral surface of the container body, and the closure device each partially delimit a receiving area of the pressure container, also referred to as a receiving space, in the receiving area of which the gaseous fuel can be stored at least temporarily. In particular, the container body and/or the closure device can at least indirectly delimit the receiving area. This is to be understood as meaning that the container body surrounds the receiving area, in particular in such a way that the container body extends in the circumferential direction of the container body running around the longitudinal direction of the container body, preferably completely surrounding the receiving area, so that, for example, the receiving area runs in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the container body Direction, that is in the radial direction of the container body, outwards at least indirectly, in particular directly, through the container body, in particular through its inner peripheral side Man tel surface, is limited. With regard to the closure device, it is conceivable that the closure device adjoins the receiving area in the direction of longitudinal extension of the container body and thus, for example, in the axial direction of the container body, in particular in such a way that the receiving area in the direction of longitudinal extension of the container body is at least on one side and in particular on the end side is at least indirectly, in particular directly, limited by the closure device.

The closure device has an outer part which is formed separately from the container body and which is arranged at least on part of the end region, in particular at least on part of the third longitudinal region, in particular in such a way that the outer part extends in the circumferential direction of the container body and thus of the pressure container, preferably completely all around around the part of the end region, in particular the third length region. The closure device also comprises an inner part which is formed separately from the container body and separately from the outer part and which is arranged in the end region, in particular in the third length region, and in the outer part. It is thus provided, for example, that the outer part also extends in the circumferential direction of the container body at least around a further part of the inner part, in particular completely circumferentially. The inner part is clamped to the outer part, in particular in the direction of longitudinal extent or in the axial direction of the pressure vessel, as a result of which the closure device is clamped, in particular in the direction of longitudinal extent or in the axial direction of the pressure vessel, against the conical end region, in particular against the conical, third longitudinal region. As a result, the gaseous fuel can be stored at a particularly high pressure in the receiving area and thus in the pressure vessel, without undesired leaks or damage occurring, such as the pressure vessel bursting. Because the closure device is clamped against the conical end area, the closure device is held or attached particularly firmly to the container body, so that the gaseous fuel can be stored in the pressure container under a particularly high pressure.

In addition, undesired, excessively high loads on the container body formed from the fiber-reinforced plastic can be avoided, so that it can be produced in a particularly advantageous and, in particular, time-saving and cost-effective manner.

It is preferably provided that the container body is at least partially cylindrical, in particular on the inner circumference and/or on the outer circumference, and thus has at least one cylindrical longitudinal region, which is preferably cylindrical on the inner circumference and/or on the outer circumference, and therefore has the shape of a right circular cylinder. The cylindrical length range can be, for example, the first length range, or the cylindrical length range can be a fourth length range provided in addition to the first length range and thus also in addition to the second length range and the third length range, which, for example, in in the direction of longitudinal extent or in the axial direction of the pressure vessel between the end region and the first longitudinal region, or the first longitudinal region is arranged in the direction of longitudinal extent or in the axial direction of the pressure vessel between the end region and the fourth longitudinal region (cylindrical longitudinal region). The cylindrical length range is also referred to as the cylinder range.

Since, for example, the container body extends in the circumferential direction of the pressure container, preferably completely around the receiving area, the container body itself is designed, for example, as a tube or tube-like, so that the container body is also referred to as a hose or tube. Provision is preferably made for the container body to be intrinsically rigid, ie dimensionally stable. Furthermore, the container body is preferably a solid body.

In order to be able to produce the container body and thus the pressure container as a whole in a particularly time-saving and cost-effective manner, one embodiment of the technology disclosed here provides for the container body to be braided, ie produced by braiding or by a braiding technique. Thus, the container body is preferably designed as a round or tubular braid. It can preferably be provided that the container body is a braided body structure in accordance with DIN standard 60000, which was valid at least on January 13, 2021. This makes it possible to produce the container body at least essentially directly and thus in a time- and cost-effective manner. The fiber-reinforced plastic includes reinforcing fibers, which are also simply referred to as fibers. In addition, the fiber-reinforced plastic includes a plastic matrix, also referred to simply as a matrix, in which the fibers are embedded. The braiding of the container body is to be understood in particular as meaning that the fibers are braided, that is to say intertwined are braided. In connection with the plastic matrix, the braided fibers result in the fiber composite material from which the container body or the pressure container is made.

The technology disclosed here is based in particular on the following findings and considerations: From a geometric point of view, conventional pressure vessels, in particular high-pressure vessels, for storing gaseous fuels and in particular type 4 or type 5 high-pressure vessels have a particularly purely cylindrical part (cylinder area) on, which is closed at both ends by a respective, rounded dome area. Such conventional pressure vessels are usually manufactured in a near-net-shape and discontinuous manufacturing process, for example by a winding process. Compared to such conventional solutions, in particular compared to such wound pressure vessels, a braided pressure vessel, and therefore the preferably braided vessel body, has great potential for more efficient use of material. From a manufacturing perspective, a braiding process for braiding and thus for manufacturing the container body offers the possibility of a particularly efficient, at least essentially continuous production of semi-finished products in comparison to conventional processes such as a winding process, during which the container body is manufactured by braiding, for example. Normally, braiding methods cannot be used for the production of pressure vessels, since conventionally, even when using such a braiding method, a dome area is to be provided which rounds off a cylindrical area (cylinder area). In addition to manufacturing restrictions, this can also lead to unfavorable use of installation space when integrated into a vehicle.

The aforementioned problems and disadvantages can now be at least partially avoided and/or improved by the technology disclosed here. The closure device of the technology disclosed here avoids the production of a rounded dome area formed in one piece with the pressure vessel, for example, so that the vessel body and thus the pressure vessel itself can be produced in a particularly time-saving and cost-effective manner. In addition, a particularly advantageous construction or design of the pressure vessel, in particular on the outer circumference, can be implemented, so that it can be integrated into the motor vehicle in a particularly space-saving manner. In addition, the closure device makes it possible for the gaseous fuel to be able to be accommodated in the pressure vessel, even under particularly high pressure, without damage, undesired leaks or excessive loading of the pressure vessel body occurring. The pressure vessel of the technology disclosed here is suitable, for example, for use in test benches or for test benches for investigating a bursting pressure in pipe test specimens, with the pressure vessel or the container body being used as the pipe test specimen, for example. Furthermore, the pressure vessel of the technology disclosed herein is suitable for storing the gaseous fuel in vehicle applications, wherein the gaseous fuel can be stored in the pressure vessel at a pressure of at least 2000 bar.

In a further, particularly advantageous embodiment of the technology disclosed here, the end region, in particular at least in the third length region, has a conical, outer lateral surface. This means that the end area is conical at least on the outer circumference. Expressed again in other words, the conical outer peripheral surface of the end region forms a cone against which the closure device is clamped, in particular via its outer part. As a result, the closure device can be clamped against the container body in a particularly simple and firm manner, without excessive loads and thus damage to the container body occurring.

A further embodiment is characterized in that the outer part has a conical inner peripheral lateral surface facing the conical inner peripheral lateral surface which is clamped against the conical outer peripheral lateral surface in particular in the direction of longitudinal extension or in the axial direction of the pressure vessel. Thus, for example, the outer peripheral lateral surface of the end region forms the aforementioned cone as the first cone, in particular as an outer cone, with the inner peripheral lateral surface of the outer part forming a second cone, in particular an outer cone. The inner cone is preferably supported at least indirectly, in particular directly, on the outer cone or vice versa, particularly in the direction of longitudinal extent of the pressure vessel, so that the inner cone or the inner peripheral lateral surface preferably bears directly against the outer cone or the outer peripheral lateral surface. Due to the fact that the lateral surface on the inner circumference is tensioned against the lateral surface on the outer circumference, the closure device is tensioned against the conical end region. As a result, the closure device can be installed particularly easily, so that the pressure vessel can be manufactured in a particularly time-saving and cost-effective manner. You can also here Realize by a safe and secure closure of the container body, so that the fuel can be stored in the pressure container under very high pressure.

In order to be able to close the container body particularly securely and firmly at its open end without causing excessive stress or even damage to the container body, it is provided in a further embodiment that the conical end area, in particular the first cone, has a cone angle which is in a range from 1 degree to 10 degrees inclusive, more preferably in a range from 2 degrees to 10 degrees inclusive and more preferably in a range from 2 degrees to 5 degrees inclusive. For example, the container body, in particular the cylindrical longitudinal area of the container body, has a longitudinal central axis, also referred to simply as the central axis, which coincides, for example, with the axial direction of the container body. For example, at least the cylindrical longitudinal region of the container body is configured to be rotationally symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal central axis, at least on the outer circumference and/or on the inner circumference. It is conceivable that the longitudinal center axis or a center plane in which the longitudinal center axis runs divides the cone angle into two angles, for example, with the respective angle being, in particular, exactly half the cone angle. It is preferably provided that the respective angle is in a range from 1 degree up to and including 5 degrees. It is therefore preferably provided that the angle of the conical end area, in particular of the outer cone, relative to the central axis of the container body, also referred to as the tube, is approximately 1 to 5 degrees. As a result, the closure device can be connected particularly firmly to the container body, so that the fuel can be stored under particularly high pressure. At the same time, excessive loads on the container body can be avoided.

In order to be able to mount the closure device on the container body in a particularly simple and therefore particularly time- and cost-effective manner, so that the pressure container as a whole can be manufactured particularly quickly and cost-effectively, it is provided in a further embodiment that the outer part has two separate parts that are connected to one another Has shell elements which are, for example, respective halves of the outer part. In other words, it is preferably provided that the outer part is divided or subdivided into at least or preferably exactly two shell elements. The shell members are assembled in the radial direction of the container body and thereby arranged on the end portion. The shell elements, which are formed separately from one another, are connected to one another and, when assembled, form the outer part. The feature that the shell elements are assembled in the radial direction of the container body means that the shell elements are arranged one after the other in the radial direction of the container body and thus of the pressure container. In other words, the shell elements are supported on one another at least indirectly, in particular directly, in a shell element plane, with the shell element plane running parallel to the longitudinal center axis or parallel to the axial direction of the container body, or the longitudinal center axis running in the shell element plane. As a result, the outer part can be mounted on the end region in a particularly simple manner in such a way that the shell elements, which are initially separate and spaced apart from one another, are moved in the radial direction of the container body and thus of the pressure vessel relative to the container body and are thereby moved towards one another in such a way that the shell elements are assembled and thereby be arranged on the end area. In particular, the shell elements are then preferably connected to one another. For example, the outer part can then be braced with the inner part in particular in the axial direction of the container body, ie tensioned against the inner part, whereby the closure device is tensioned against the end region in particular in the axial direction of the container body. The advantage of this embodiment is, in particular, that it can actually be assembled. When a tube such as the container body has its outer diameter increased outward at both ends thereof, the shutter mechanism can be assembled from the outside only if it is two-piece. One-piece assembly would not be guaranteed due to the positive fit.

It has been shown to be particularly advantageous if at least one tensioning element, which is designed separately from the inner part and separately from the outer part, is arranged in the end region and in the outer part and has a cone, which is also referred to as a third cone. Because the inner part is clamped to the outer part, the clamping element is clamped outwards via its third cone in the radial direction of the container body and thereby in the direction of the outer part, at least indirectly, in particular directly, against the inner peripheral lateral surface of the container body. As a result, the end region arranged in the radial direction of the container body between the outer part and the clamping element can be particularly firmly clamped in the radial direction of the container body between the clamping element and the outside part can be combed, but without causing excessive stress or damage to the container body. The fuel can thus be stored in the pressure vessel under particularly high pressure.

In a further embodiment of the technology disclosed here, the inner part has at least or precisely one through-opening, via which the fuel can be introduced into the receiving area for storing the fuel, which is delimited by the container body and the closure device in each case partially and at least indirectly, in particular directly, and out of the receiving area and in particular can be discharged as a whole from the pressure vessel. As a result, a particularly simple and cost-effective construction of the pressure vessel can be implemented, which can thus be used particularly advantageously for vehicle applications. For example, the through-opening of the inner part is designed as a bore.

In order to be able to hold the fuel under particularly high pressure in the pressure vessel in a particularly cost-effective manner, a further embodiment of the technology disclosed here provides for the inner part to be glued to the vessel body and thereby sealed against the vessel body. For example, an adhesive is provided, by means of which the inner part is glued to the container body. The adhesive is arranged, for example, in particular in the radial direction of the container body, between the inner part and the container body, in particular between the inner part and the inner peripheral lateral surface of the container body, whereby a particularly simple and at the same time effective seal can be achieved.

Alternatively or additionally, a sealing element which is in particular designed separately from the inner part and separately from the container body and is in particular designed as an elastomer element, thus preferably made of an elastomer or rubber, can be provided for sealing the receiving space, by means of which the receiving space is sealed. For example, the sealing element connects, in particular in the axial direction of the container body and/or completely, to the inner part, in particular directly, in particular to the receiving space. The sealing element, for example, is supported directly on the inner part, in particular in the axial direction, and/or the sealing element is supported, for example, in particular in the radial direction of the container body, directly on the container body, in particular on its inner peripheral lateral surface. In this case, for example, the sealing element has a further through-opening, which is fluidically connected and/or aligned, for example, with the through-opening of the inner part. As a result, the fuel can also be introduced into the receiving space or discharged from the receiving space via the further through-opening of the sealing element.

A second aspect of the technology disclosed here relates to a motor vehicle, preferably designed as a motor vehicle, in particular as a passenger car, which comprises at least one pressure vessel according to the first aspect of the technology disclosed here. Advantages and advantageous configurations of the first aspect are to be regarded as advantages and advantageous configurations of the second aspect and vice versa.

In other words, the technology disclosed here relates in particular to the closure device, also referred to as a closure mechanism, for at least predominantly closing the open end of the container body, also referred to as the pipe end, so that it can be used particularly advantageously and cost-effectively for high-pressure applications.

• 1 eine schematische und geschnittene Längsschnittansicht einer ersten Ausführungsform eines Druckbehälters zum Speichern eines gasförmigen Kraftstoffes, insbesondere für ein Kraftfahrzeug;
• 2 ausschnittsweise eine schematische Längsschnittansicht des Druckbehälters gemäß 1 in einem in 1 mit B bezeichneten Bereich;
• 3 ausschnittsweise eine schematische und perspektivische Längsschnittansicht einer zweiten Ausführungsform des Druckbehälters;
• 4 ausschnittsweise eine schematische Längsschnittansicht des Druckbehälters gemäß 3;
• 5 ausschnittsweise eine schematische Perspektivansicht einer dritten Ausführungsform des Druckbehälters;
• 6 ausschnittsweise eine schematische Perspektivansicht des Druckbehälters, insbesondere gemäß 1; und
• 7 ausschnittsweise eine schematische und teilweise geschnittene Perspektivansicht des Druckbehälters gemäß 6.

The technology disclosed here will now be explained with reference to the figures. It shows:

• 1 a schematic and sectioned longitudinal sectional view of a first embodiment of a pressure vessel for storing a gaseous fuel, in particular for a motor vehicle;
• 2 A fragmentary schematic longitudinal sectional view of the pressure vessel according to FIG 1 in a 1 area labeled B;
• 3 a detail of a schematic and perspective longitudinal sectional view of a second embodiment of the pressure vessel;
• 4 A fragmentary schematic longitudinal sectional view of the pressure vessel according to FIG 3 ;
• 5 a fragmentary schematic perspective view of a third embodiment of the pressure vessel;
• 6 a fragmentary schematic perspective view of the pressure vessel, in particular according to FIG 1 ; and
• 7 1 shows a schematic and partially sectioned perspective view of the pressure vessel according to FIG 6 .

In the following description of the alternative exemplary embodiments illustrated in the figures, features that are identical in their design and/or mode of action and/or are at least comparable, the same reference numerals are used. If these are not explained again in detail, their configuration and/or mode of action corresponds to the configuration and/or mode of action of the features already described above.

In the context of the technology disclosed here, the term “essentially” (e.g. “essentially vertical axis”) includes the precise property or value (e.g. “vertical axis”) as well as those irrelevant to the function of the property or value Deviations (e.g. "tolerable deviation from the vertical axis").

1 shows a first embodiment of a pressure vessel 1 for storing a gaseous fuel, in particular for a motor vehicle, in a schematic longitudinal sectional view. Thus, the pressure vessel 1 is used, for example, as a tank or fuel tank, in which the gaseous fuel can be stored or is stored. The gaseous fuel can be natural gas (CNG, LNG) or LNG, for example, with the gaseous fuel being introduced, in particular directly, in the gaseous state into at least one combustion chamber of the internal combustion engine, for example during fired operation of an energy converter of the motor vehicle designed in particular as an internal combustion engine , blown in particular, is. Furthermore, the gaseous fuel can be hydrogen. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the energy converter is a fuel cell, by means of which electrical energy is obtained from the gaseous fuel, in particular from the hydrogen.

The pressure vessel 1 comprises a vessel body 2 formed from a fiber-reinforced plastic, which has two open ends E1 and E2 and is therefore open at both ends, ie at its respective ends E1 and E2. The pressure vessel 1 is described below in particular using the example of the end E1, it being understood that the previous and following statements relating to the end E1 can also easily be applied to the end E2 and vice versa.

The container body 2 is braided. This means that the container body 2 is produced by braiding, ie by a braiding technique also referred to as a braiding process. Thus, in the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures, the container body 2 is designed as a round or tubular braid. Out of 1 it can be seen that the container body 2 and the pressure container 1 as a whole have an in 1 have the direction of longitudinal extent illustrated by a double arrow 3 and thus have a longitudinal extent which coincides overall with the axial direction of the container body 2 and thus of the pressure container 1 . At least a partial area, in particular at least a predominant partial area, of the container body 2 extends in the circumferential direction of the container body 2 and thus of the pressure container 1, completely surrounding a receiving area 4 of the container body 2 and thus of the pressure container 1, with the gaseous fuel, which is also known as gaseous Fuel can be called, can be accommodated in the receiving area 4 and can therefore be stored. In particular, it is conceivable that the receiving area 4 is delimited in the radial direction of the container body 2 and thus of the pressure container 1 to the outside at least indirectly, in particular directly, by the container body 2, in particular by an inner circumferential lateral surface 5 of the container body 2. It can be seen, in particular, that the inner circumferential lateral surface 5 of the container body 2 extends at least in the named partial area of the container body 2 in the circumferential direction of the container body 2, in particular completely around the receiving area 4, so that the inner circumferential lateral surface 5 or the container body 2 at least in the Part of the recording area 4 surrounds. It is conceivable that the lateral surface 5 on the inner peripheral side directly delimits the receiving area 4 in the radial direction of the container body 2 towards the outside. Alternatively, it is conceivable that an intermediate element, also referred to as a liner or container core, is provided, which is arranged, for example, in the radial direction of the container body 2 between the receiving region 4 and the lateral surface 5 on the inner peripheral side. The radial direction of the container body 2 and thus of the pressure container 1 as a whole runs perpendicularly to the axial direction of the container body 2 or of the pressure container 1 and is in 1 illustrated by a double arrow 6. It is conceivable that the intermediate element touches the inner peripheral lateral surface 5 of the container body 2 per se, in particular directly. Thus, it is conceivable that the receiving area 4 is delimited outwards in the radial direction of the pressure vessel 1 directly by the intermediate element.

As in 2 As can be seen from the example of the end of E1, the respective end E1 or E2 is formed by a respective end region 7 of the container body 2, the respective end region 7 of which has a greater wall thickness than an adjoining end region 7 that extends away from the respective end E1 or E2 , First length region L1 of the container body 2 has. It can also be seen that the respective end region 7 is a respective second longitudinal region of the container body 2, the end regions 7 being integral with each other and are formed integrally with the first length portion L1. The respective end region 7 is at least partially conical, and thus at least in a respective third length region of the respective end region 7, in such a way that the wall thickness of the end region 7 increases at least substantially continuously, at least in the third length region, towards the respective end E1 or E2. In 2 a first direction is illustrated by an arrow 8, which coincides with the axial direction of the container body 2 or the pressure container 1 or runs parallel to the axial direction and, starting from the first length region L1, points towards the end E1. The wall thickness of the end region 7 increases in the first direction illustrated by the arrow 8 . The length region L1 follows at least indirectly, in particular directly, the end region 7 in a second direction, the second direction being illustrated by an arrow 9 which is opposite to the first direction and points away from the end E1. The second direction runs parallel to the axial direction of the pressure vessel 1 or the second direction coincides with the axial direction of the pressure vessel 1 . Particularly good looking 2 It can also be seen that the first longitudinal area L1 is cylindrical on the inner and outer circumferences, and therefore has the shape of a right circular cylinder and is therefore also referred to as a cylinder area. The longitudinal area L1 is formed in one piece with the end area 7 .

The pressure vessel 1 also comprises, in particular at each end E1 or E2, a closure device 10 which is formed separately from the vessel body 2 and is also referred to as a closure mechanism or simply as a mechanism. It can be seen that the container body 2 is tubular or tube-like and is therefore also referred to as a tube. The present braided tube itself is open at its ends E1 and E2, which are also referred to as tube ends. The closure device 10 is a mechanism that allows the pipe ends to be securely closed and is suitable for high-pressure applications, so that the fuel can be stored in the receiving area 4 under particularly high pressure. In this case, for example, the closure device 10 adjoins the receiving area 4 in the axial direction of the container body 2 . In particular, the receiving area 4 is at least indirectly, in particular directly, closed by the closure device 10 towards the respective end E1 or E2. The pressure container 1 can be used in or for a test bench called a test device, for example, to subject the container body 2 to a bursting test, so that the container body 2 is used as a pipe specimen. This means that the gaseous fuel or another gas can be introduced into the receiving area 4 via the closure device 10, whereby a particularly high pressure caused by the fuel received in the receiving area 4 can be brought about in the receiving area 4.

The fiber-reinforced plastic is preferably a carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic, so that the fiber-reinforced plastic can have at least or exclusively carbon fibers as reinforcing fibers. The fiber reinforced plastic is braided so that the container body 2 is braided. The respective end area 7 is also referred to as the edge area, which has a greater wall thickness than the length area L1 (cylindrical length area). The cylindrical length range is also referred to as the cylinder range. Due to the greater wall thickness, the container body 2 is reinforced in its edge areas, so that the fuel can be stored in the receiving area 4 even under high pressure. In other words, the respective end area 7 has a first wall thickness, and the cylindrical longitudinal area L1 has a second wall thickness, the first wall thickness being greater than the second wall thickness. The respective wall thickness is also referred to as wall thickness. The first wall thickness, which is higher or larger than the second wall thickness, results either from a local thickening of the respective end region 7 through locally additionally introduced braided layers or alternatively from a diameter reduction, which leads directly to a or to the larger, first wall thickness in a braided structure of the fiber-reinforced plastic leads whose braided structure is formed by braiding. The first wall thickness in the respective end region 7, which is greater than the second wall thickness, allows clamping, in particular of the closure device 10, against the end region 7 and thus against the container body 2, in particular with a non-positive fit, without excessive loading, damage or failure of the Container body 2 in the respective end region 7 comes. The stated clamping means in particular that the closure device 10 is clamped in particular in the axial direction of the container body 2 against the end region 7 and thereby against the container body 2 .

Out of 2 it can be seen that the container body 2 is at least predominantly closed at the end E1 by means of the closure device 10 . The closure device 10 has an outer part 11 which is arranged on at least part T of the end region 7 and which completely encircles at least part T in the circumferential direction running around the axial direction of the container body 2 surrounds. Closure device 10 also includes an inner part 12, which is formed separately from outer part 11 and is formed, for example, in one piece and is arranged in end region 7, in particular in part T, and in outer part 11 in such a way that end region 7, in particular at least part T of the end portion 7, is arranged in the radial direction of the container body 2 between the inner part 12 and the outer part 11. The end area 7 or at least the part T of the end area 7 completely surrounds the inner part 12 in the circumferential direction of the container body 2 . The inner part 12 is clamped to the outer part 11 in the axial direction of the container body 2 , as a result of which the closure device 10 is clamped over the outer part 11 and in the axial direction of the container body 2 against the conical end area 7 .

In the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures, the closure device 10 comprises a connecting part 13 that acts as a cover or is also referred to as a cover, which is formed separately from the outer part 11 and separately from the inner part 12 . The connecting part 13 is partially arranged in the end area 7 and protrudes beyond the open end E1 from the container body 2, so that the connecting part 13 has a first part 1 arranged in the end area 7 and a second part T2 arranged outside the container body 2 . For example, parts T1 and T2 are integral with each other. The connecting part 13 is connected to the inner part 12 via the part T1 in such a way that the connecting part 13 and the inner part 12 are clamped together in the axial direction of the container body 2 . At least one or more connecting elements 14 are used for this purpose, with the respective connecting element 14 presently being designed as a screw element, in particular as a screw. The respective connecting element 14 penetrates a respective, corresponding passage opening of the connecting part 13 and is screwed into a respective, corresponding screw opening of the inner part 12, as a result of which the connecting part 13 is braced with the inner part 12 in the axial direction of the container body 2. Accordingly, the connecting part 13 is screwed to the inner part 12 , as a result of which the connecting part 13 and the inner part 12 are braced with one another in the axial direction of the container body 2 .

The connecting part 13 is connected to the outer part 11 via the part T2 and is clamped to the outer part 11 in the axial direction of the container body 2 . At least one or more additional connecting elements 15 are provided for this purpose. The respective connecting element 15 is in the present case designed as a screw element, in particular as a screw. In the present case, the respective connecting element 15 penetrates through respective, corresponding passage openings of the connecting part 13, and the respective connecting element 15 is screwed into a respective, corresponding screw opening of the outer part 11. As a result, the connecting part 13 and the outer part 11 are clamped together in the axial direction of the container body 2 . The outer part 11 is thus clamped to the inner part 12 in the axial direction of the container body 2 by means of the connecting part 13 . As a result, in turn, the closure device 10 is clamped in the axial direction of the container body 2 against the conical end region 7 . Accordingly, the connecting part 13 is screwed to the outer part 11 , whereby the connecting part 13 and the outer part 11 are clamped together in the axial direction of the container body 2 .

The end area 7 is, for example, an area that is thickened in particular on the inside and/or the outside, which area has, for example, at least one part with an at least essentially constant diameter, in particular an inner diameter. A gentle, for example conical transition from the end region 7, in particular from its region with the at least essentially constant diameter, to the at least essentially constant, cylindrical length region L1, which in the present case represents an at least essentially constant, cylindrical central region of the container body 2 avoid unwanted, excessive stress peaks in the fiber-reinforced plastic or in the container body 2.

3 shows a second embodiment, in which said transition is denoted by 16 and is formed, for example, by a further longitudinal region L2 of the container body 2, the longitudinal region L2 of which is arranged, for example in the axial direction of the container body 2, between the cylindrical longitudinal region L1 and the end region 7. The longitudinal area L2 is formed in one piece with the end area 7 and with the longitudinal area L1.

The closure device 10 is held on the container body 2 by means of a fastening concept and thereby fastened, the fastening concept being described below. The fastening concept provides that the end region 7, which can preferably be cylindrical on the inner circumference and in particular over its entire extent running in the axial direction, is at least or exclusively conical on the outer circumference and has a conical, outer circumferential lateral surface 17, which thus has a first Cone forms in the form of an outer cone. Furthermore, the fastening concept provides that the outer part 11 has a conical lateral surface 18 on the inner peripheral side which corresponds to the conical inner peripheral lateral surface 17 and which thus forms a second cone in the form of an inner cone. Due to the fact that the outer part 11 and the inner part 12 are clamped together in the axial direction, the outer cone (conical, inner peripheral surface 18) is clamped in the axial direction against the inner cone (conical, inner peripheral surface 17), whereby the closure device 10 in the axial direction against the conical end portion 7 is stretched. For this purpose, in the present case, the lateral surface 17 bears directly against the lateral surface 18 or vice versa.

The fastening concept also provides that - how particularly good 6 and 7 can be seen - the outer part 11 has a split shell connection. This means that the outer part 11 in the present case has exactly two shell elements 19 and 20 which are formed separately from one another and are connected to one another, which follow one another and are assembled in the radial direction of the container body 2 and are therefore arranged on the end region 7 . In the present case, at least one or more connecting elements 21 are used, by means of which the shell elements 19 and 20 are connected to one another. In the present case, the connecting elements 21 are screw elements, in particular screws, by means of which the shell elements 19 and 20 are screwed together.

In order to be able to position the shell elements 19 and 20 precisely relative to one another, a positioning element 22 designed, for example, as a dowel pin is used, which is designed separately from the shell elements 19 and 20 and engages in the respective recesses of the shell elements 19 and 20. It can be seen that the outer part 11 is thus designed as a union clamp. In particular, the fastening concept provides for a form fit on the outside of the respective end area 7 through the split shell connection. The conical, inner peripheral surface 18 is formed partially by the shell element 19 and partially by the shell element 20, so that an inside of the shell connection (outer part 11) is conical. Due to the fact that the outer part 11 is not formed in one piece, but has the shell elements 19 and 20 formed separately from one another, a division of the outer part 11, and therefore the shell connection, is provided. This division of the shell connection is particularly advantageous from an assembly point of view, since both tube ends (end regions E1 and E2) are thickened, so that the outer part 11 cannot be slid on from the outside in the axial direction of the container body 2 due to the positive fit. The above-mentioned positive connection is formed in particular by the fact that the outer part 11, in particular the inner circumferential lateral surface 18, is covered outwards in the axial direction of the container body 2 and thus towards the end E1, by the end region E7, in particular by the inner circumferential lateral surface 17. This is realized in particular by the fact that the lateral surfaces 17 and 18 are cone-shaped, ie are designed as cones that correspond in particular to one another. The split shell connection, and therefore the outer part 11, forms a form fit, for example, with the cover (connecting part 13) that is mounted in particular later. The connecting part 13 also forms a transition for fastening the closure device 10 to the container body 2, in particular on its inside or on its inner circumferential lateral surface 5. Inside, i.e. inside the container body 2, a frictional connection is preferably used to secure the closure device 10, in particular in to be fixed to the container body 2 in the axial direction of the container body 2 . This frictional connection additionally supports the attachment of the lid and the shell connection to the container body 2 and prevents the end area 7 from being pulled out by the external and preferably slightly form-fitting attachment as a result of a high pressure load.

The frictional connection in the end region 7 and in the interior of the container body 2 can be realized by a single-cone clamping set or a double-cone clamping set. At the in 1 and 2 shown first embodiment and in the 3 and 4 The second embodiment shown is a or the aforementioned double-cone clamping set provided, which is denoted by 23. The double-cone clamping set 23 comprises the inner part 12 and the first part T1 arranged in the end region 7 and at least one clamping element 24, which is designed separately from the inner part 12, separately from the outer part 11 and separately from the connecting part 13. The clamping element 24 has a first cone K1 and a second cone K2. The inner part 12 has a third cone K3 corresponding to the cone K1, and the part T1 and thus the connecting part 13 have a fourth cone K4 corresponding to the second cone K2. The cones K1 and K3 are supported on one another, in particular directly, and the cones K2 and K4 are supported on one another, in particular directly. The clamping element 24, in particular the cone K1, is arranged in the radial direction of the container body 2 between the inner peripheral surface 5 of the container body 2 and the cone K3, and the clamping element 24, in particular the cone K1, is in the radial direction of the container body 2 between the inner peripheral side Lateral surface 5 and the cone K4 of the part T1 arranged, whereby the cones K1-4 are components of the double-cone clamping set 23.

Since the connecting part 13 and the inner part 12 are clamped together in the axial direction of the container body 2, or because the outer part 11 and the inner part 12 are clamped together in the axial direction of the container body 2, and since the cones K1 -4 with respect to the axial direction of the container body 2 are cone-shaped, the cone K3 is clamped in the axial direction against the cone K1 and the cone K4 in the axial direction against the cone K2, as a result of which the clamping element 24 is clamped outwards in the radial direction of the container body 2 and thereby in the direction of the outer part 11 at least indirectly, in particular is stretched directly against the inner peripheral lateral surface 5 of the container body 2 . Thus, the end region E7 arranged in the radial direction of the container body 2 between the clamping element 24 and the outer part 11 is clamped or clamped between the clamping element 24 and the outer part 11, as a result of which the closure device 10 is connected particularly securely and firmly to the container body 2, in particular in the axial direction Direction of the container body 2. At the same time, excessive loads on the container body 2 resulting from this connection between the closure device 10 and the container body 2 can be avoided. The outer cone and the inner cone are also designed in the shape of a cone with respect to the axial direction of the container body 2 .

Out of 2 it can be seen that the inner part 12 has a through-opening 25 which, for example, completely penetrates the inner part 12 in the axial direction of the pressure vessel 1 . In addition, for example, the connecting part 13 has a second through-opening 26 which is preferably aligned with the through-opening 25 . The gaseous fuel can be introduced into the receiving area 4 via the through-openings 25 and 26 and discharged from the receiving area 4 and, in particular, conveyed to an environment 27 of the pressure vessel 1 . For this purpose, a line element 28 is provided, for example, which can be formed separately from the inner part 12 and separately from the connecting part 13 . The line element 28 is arranged partially in the through-opening 25 and partially in the through-opening 26 and has a channel 29 through which the fuel can flow, which runs through the through-openings 25 and 26 .

As a result, the fuel can be routed from the receiving area 4 to the surroundings 27 via the channel 29 and the fuel can be introduced into the receiving area 4 via the channel 29 . In particular, the line element 28 is designed as a high-pressure line.

In the container body 2, in particular in the end region 7, a connection element 30 can be arranged, which can for example be formed separately from the inner part 12 and preferably also separately from the line element 28. By way of example, the line element 28 is held on the inner part 12 by means of the connecting element 30 . Furthermore, a sealing element 31 is preferably formed, which is preferably formed from an elastomer and can therefore be designed as an elastomer seal. For example, the sealing element 31 is mounted by means of the connection element 30 or on or on the connection element 30 . A support ring 32 is arranged in the axial direction of the container body 2 between the sealing element 31 and the connecting element 30 , via which the sealing element 31 is supported on the connecting element 30 in the axial direction. Furthermore, a fastening element 33 can be provided, by means of which, for example, the line element 28 can be connected to the connection element 30 and/or to the sealing element 31 . For this purpose, for example, the fastening element 33 is screwed to the connecting element 30, and the fastening element 33 is supported, for example, in the axial direction on the line element 28, so that by means of the fastening element 33 the line element 28 is clamped in the axial direction of the container body 2 against the connecting element 30 and thereby with the connection element 30 is connected. The connection element 30 is sealed off from the container body 2 by means of the sealing element 31, as a result of which the receiving area 4 is sealed off in particular towards the end E1. For example, the through-opening 25 and/or 26 is designed as a bore. It can also be seen that, for example, the sealing element 31 is connected to the line element 28 in particular via the connection element 30 . The sealing element 31 can thus be a separate elastomer seal, which at the same time has a connection to the line element 28 (high-pressure line). Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the clamping element 24 and/or the inner part 12 and/or the part T1 is glued to the inner peripheral surface 5 and thus to the container body 2, in particular by means of an adhesive which, in the radial direction of the container body 2, is between the inner peripheral surface 5 and the inner part 12 and/or the clamping element 24 and/or the part T1. As a result, the receiving area 4 can be sealed easily and advantageously, particularly in the axial direction. In particular, the main sealing of the receiving area 4 takes place via the sealing element 31, also referred to simply as a seal, which is preferably formed from an elastomer or elastomeric material. The sealing element 31 can be supported on the support ring 32 when pressure is applied. The connection element 30 has the particular task of accommodating or holding the sealing element 31 embodied in particular as a sealing ring and the support ring 32 and of realizing a connection for filling the receiving area 4 .

At the in 1 and 2 In the first embodiment shown, it is provided that the end region 7 is set back inward in the radial direction of the container body 2 in relation to the cylindrical longitudinal region L1, so that the end region 7 preferably has a longitudinal region relative to the cylindrical longitudinal region, for example over its entire extent running in the axial direction L1 has a smaller outer diameter, also referred to as the pipe diameter. In other words, the container body 2 is tapered with regard to its tube diameter in the end region 7 compared to the cylindrical longitudinal region L1, so that preferably the largest outer diameter of the outer part 11 and/or the connecting part 13 and/or the closure device 10 is not larger overall than the largest outer diameter of the cylindrical length region L1. As a result, the pressure vessel 1 can be particularly advantageously integrated into the motor vehicle.

5 shows a third embodiment. Since the clamping element 24 has the cones K1 and K2 in the second embodiment, the clamping element in the first embodiment and the second embodiment is designed as a double cone or as a double-cone clamping element. In contrast, at the in 5 First embodiment shown, the clamping element 24 has the cone K3 (and no longer also the cone K1), so that the clamping element 24 is designed as a single cone or single-cone clamping element. Thus, in the third embodiment, the aforementioned in 5 single-cone clamping set designated 34 instead of the double-cone clamping set 23 is used. As already described for the second embodiment, the cones K3 and K4 interact in the manner described, as a result of which the clamping element 24 is clamped outwards in the radial direction of the container body 2 and in the direction of the outer part 11 . Furthermore, in the third embodiment, for example, a sealing element 31 is used, which in particular in the radial direction of the container body 2 outwardly bears directly against the inner peripheral lateral surface 5 . Alternatively or additionally, for example, the sealing element 31 rests directly on the inner part 12 in the axial direction of the container body 2 .

The foregoing description of the present invention is for illustrative purposes only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention. Various changes and modifications can be made within the scope of the invention without departing from the scope of the invention and its equivalents.

Reference List

1

pressure vessel

2

container body

3

double arrow

4

recording area

5

Inner peripheral lateral surface

6

double arrow

7

end area

8th

Arrow

9

Arrow

10

locking device

11

outer part

12

inner part

13

connection part

14

fastener

15

fastener

16

crossing

17

Outer peripheral lateral surface

18

Inner peripheral lateral surface

19

shell element

20

shell element

21

fastener

22

positioning element

23

Double cone clamping attachment

24

clamping element

25

passage opening

26

passage opening

27

vicinity

28

line element

29

channel

30

connection element

31

sealing element

32

support ring

33

fastener

34

Single cone clamping set

E1

End

E2

End

K1

cone

K2

cone

K3

cone

K4

cone

L1

length range

L2

length range

T

Part

T1

Part

T2

Part

QUOTES INCLUDED IN DESCRIPTION

This list of documents cited by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent Literature Cited

• EP 3346178 A1 [0002]
• US3886977 [0002]
• CN 203477886 U [0002]
• DE 102008052133 A1 [0002]

Claims (10)

Pressure vessel (1) for storing a gaseous fuel, with: - a container body (2) formed from a fiber-reinforced plastic, which has at least one open end (E1), which is formed by an end region (7) of the container body, the end region (7) of which has a greater wall thickness than one extending from the end (E1) has a longitudinal region (L1) of the container body (2) adjoining the end region (7) and is designed conically in such a way that the wall thickness increases towards the end (E1), and - at least one closure device (10) formed separately from the container body (2), by means of which the container body (2) is at least predominantly closed at the end (E1), the closure device (10) being at least part (T) of the end region (7) and an inner part (12) arranged in the end area (7) and in the outer part (11), which is clamped to the outer part (11), whereby the closure device (10) against the conical end area (7) is tense. Pressure vessel (1) after claim 1 wherein the container body (2) is braided. Pressure vessel (1) after claim 1 or 2 , wherein the end region (7) has a conical, outer peripheral lateral surface (17). Pressure vessel (1) after claim 3 , wherein the outer part (11) has a conical, inner-peripheral lateral surface (17) facing, conical, inner-peripheral lateral surface (18) which is clamped against the conical, outer-peripheral lateral surface (17), whereby the closure device (10) against the conical ( 7) End area is stretched. Pressure vessel (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the conical end region (7) has a cone angle which is in a range from 1 degree to 10 degrees. Pressure container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer part (12) has two shell elements (19, 20) which are formed separately from one another and are connected to one another and which are assembled in the radial direction (6) of the container body (2) and thereby rest on the end region ( 7) are arranged. Pressure vessel (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a clamping element (24) which is formed separately from the inner part (12) and has at least one cone (K1) is arranged in the end region (7) and in the outer part (11). that the inner part (12) is clamped to the outer part (11), via the cone (K1) in the radial direction (6) of the container body (2) outwards and thereby in the direction of the outer part (11) at least indirectly against an inner circumferential lateral surface (5) of the container body (2) is stretched. Pressure container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner part (12) has a through opening (25) through which the fuel enters a receiving area (4) delimited by the container body (2) and the closure device (10) for storing the fuel can be introduced and removed from the pressure vessel (1). Pressure vessel (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner part (12) is glued to the vessel body (2) and is thereby sealed against the vessel body (2). Motor vehicle with at least one pressure vessel (1) according to one of the preceding claims.

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