GB2505205A - Control systems and methods for controlling hydrogen generators of vehicles - Google Patents

Control systems and methods for controlling hydrogen generators of vehicles Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2505205A
GB2505205A GB201214926A GB201214926A GB2505205A GB 2505205 A GB2505205 A GB 2505205A GB 201214926 A GB201214926 A GB 201214926A GB 201214926 A GB201214926 A GB 201214926A GB 2505205 A GB2505205 A GB 2505205A
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Prior art keywords
hydrogen
hydrogen generator
indication
voltage
controller
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GB201214926A
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GB201214926D0 (en
GB2505205B (en
Inventor
Sin Lee Loo
Ai Ling Cheng
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Individual
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Individual
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Priority to GB1214926.6A priority Critical patent/GB2505205B/en
Publication of GB201214926D0 publication Critical patent/GB201214926D0/en
Priority to PCT/SG2013/000349 priority patent/WO2014031076A1/en
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    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25B—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF COMPOUNDS OR NON-METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25B15/00—Operating or servicing cells
    • C25B15/02—Process control or regulation
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25B—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF COMPOUNDS OR NON-METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25B1/00—Electrolytic production of inorganic compounds or non-metals
    • C25B1/01—Products
    • C25B1/02—Hydrogen or oxygen
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F02—COMBUSTION ENGINES; HOT-GAS OR COMBUSTION-PRODUCT ENGINE PLANTS
    • F02M—SUPPLYING COMBUSTION ENGINES IN GENERAL WITH COMBUSTIBLE MIXTURES OR CONSTITUENTS THEREOF
    • F02M25/00—Engine-pertinent apparatus for adding non-fuel substances or small quantities of secondary fuel to combustion-air, main fuel or fuel-air mixture
    • F02M25/10—Engine-pertinent apparatus for adding non-fuel substances or small quantities of secondary fuel to combustion-air, main fuel or fuel-air mixture adding acetylene, non-waterborne hydrogen, non-airborne oxygen, or ozone
    • F02M25/12—Engine-pertinent apparatus for adding non-fuel substances or small quantities of secondary fuel to combustion-air, main fuel or fuel-air mixture adding acetylene, non-waterborne hydrogen, non-airborne oxygen, or ozone the apparatus having means for generating such gases

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  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Metallurgy (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Electrochemistry (AREA)
  • Materials Engineering (AREA)
  • Organic Chemistry (AREA)
  • Automation & Control Theory (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Inorganic Chemistry (AREA)
  • Output Control And Ontrol Of Special Type Engine (AREA)
  • Control Of Eletrric Generators (AREA)

Abstract

A control system 100 for a hydrogen generator 200 of a vehicle comprises a controller 10 configured to receive a hydrogen indication that is a measure of hydrogen generated by the hydrogen generator and a voltage supplier 20 configured to supply a voltage to the hydrogen generator, wherein the controller is operable to cause the voltage supplier to vary the supplied voltage in dependence on the hydrogen indication. The controller is preferably configured to cause the voltage supplier to vary the supplied voltage according to a predetermined cycle. The controller may be configured to vary a length of the predetermined cycle or a duty cycle. The system may further comprise a shut off sensor and an overdrive sensor and may be suitable for use with a hydrogen generator configured to mix hydrogen with fuel before it is used by an engine. Also disclosed is a method for controlling a hydrogen generator of a vehicle.

Description

A CONTROL SYSTEM FOR
A HYDROGEN GENERATOR OF A VEHICLE
AND
A METHOD FOR CONTROLLING
A HYDROGEN GENERATOR OF A VEHICLE
TECHNICAL FIELD
Various embodiments relate to a control system for a hydrogen generator of a vehicle and a method for controlling a hydrogen generator of a vehicle.
BACKGROUND
Hydrogen generators, also know as hydrogen enhancement products, may be used to generate hydrogen by electrolytic separation of a fluid, for example, pure waler or a solution. A hydrogen generator may perform electrolytic separation using one or more types of agents in the fluid, The agent may he an electrolyte and/or a catalysL The hydrogen generated by the hydrogen generator may be used to improve the combustibility of a fuel, such as,for example, gasoline, diesel or the like. For example, the hydrogen generator may be configured to mix generated hydrogen with the fuel before the fuel is used by an engine. Various hydrogen generators are available for installation into a vehicle and for operation with an engine of the vehicle. The vehicle may be a car, a boat or some other powered means of transportation. The engine may he an internal combustion engine.
A hydrogen generator may be powered by a battery of the vehicle. For example, the hydrogen generator may be turned on by activating an electric relay through-which a fixed voltage may be provided from the battery. Accordingly, hydrogen generation may only be a function of the mechanical construction of the electrodes and the agents in the fluid.
SUMMARY
A first aspect provides a control system for a hydrogen generator of a vehicle, the control system comprising: a controller configured to receive a hydrogen indication, the hydrogen indication being a measure of hydrogen generated by the hydrogen generator, a voltage supplier configured to supply a voltage to the hydrogen generator, wherein the controller is operable to cause the voltage supplier to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
In an embodiment, the controller is configured in use to cause the voltage supplier to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator so that the hydrogen indication is maintained above a first predetermined value.
In an embodiment, the first predetermined value is greater than zero.
In an embodiment, the controller is configured in use to cause the voltage supplier to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator so that the hydrogen indication is maintained below a second predetermined value.
In an embodiment, the voltage supplier is configured in use to convert a supply voltage from a battery into a converted voltage, wherein the converted voltage is the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator.
In an embodiment, the controller is configured in use to cause the voltage supplier to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator by controlling the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator according to a predetermined cycle.
In an embodiment, the controller is configured in use to vary a length of the predetermined cycle in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
In an embodiment, the controller is configured in use to vary a duty cycle of the predetermined cycle in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
In an embodiment, the controller is configured in use to cause the voltage supplier to increase the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
In an embodiment, tile controller is configured in use to cause the voltage supplier to decrease the voltage supplied to tile hydrogen generator in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
In an embodiment, the control system further comprises: a shut-off sensor configured in use to detect a value of a shut-off parameter and generate from the detection a shut-off parameter value indication for provision to the controller; wherein the controller is configured in use to receive the shut-off parameter value indication and cause the voltage supplier to terminate the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in dependence on a comparison between the shut-off parameter value indication and a corresponding predetermined shut-off threshold.
In an embodiment, the shut-off parameter is at least one of ihe following: a temperature of the hydrogen generator, a hydrogen pressure in the hydrogen generator, a working level of an engine of the vehicle, a speed of the vehicle.
In an embodiment, the shut-off parameter is a charge level in the battery.
In an embodiment, the working level of the engine of the vehicle is a number of revolutions per minute (RPM) of the vehicle's engine.
In an embodiment, the control system further comprises: an overdrive sensor configured in use to detect a value of an overdrive parameter and generate from the detection an overdrive parameter value indication for provision to the controller; wherein the controller is configured in use to receive the overdrive parameter value indication and cause the voltage supplier to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in dependence on a comparison between the overdrive parameter value indication and a corresponding predetermined overdrive threshold.
In an embodiment, the overdrive parameter is at least one of the following: a gradient at which the vehicle is moving, a mass of a load being moved by the vehicle.
In an embodiment, the hydrogen indication is an indication of a current drawn by the hydrogen generator.
In an embodiment, the control system further comprises a sensor for monitoring at) attribute of the hydrogen generator, the sensor being configured in use to generate the hydrogen indication based on the monitored attribute and send the hydrogen indication to the controller.
In an embodiment, the sensor is a current sensor configured in use to monitor the current drawn by the hydrogen generator and generate from the monitored current thc hydrogen indication for provision to the controller.
In an embodiment, the current drawn by the hydrogen generator is an average cun-ent of multiple cycles.
A second aspect provides a method for controlling a hydrogen generator of a vehicle, the method comprising: receiving a hydrogen indication, the hydrogen indication being a measure of hydrogen generated by the hydrogen generator; varying a voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
In an embodiment, varying the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator comprises varying the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator to maintain the hydrogen indication above a first predetermined value.
In an embodiment, the first predetermined value is greater than zero.
In an embodiment, varying the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator comprises varying the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator to maintain the hydrogen indication below a second predetennined value.
In an embodiment, the method further comprises converting a supply voltage from a battery into a converted voltage, the converted voltage being the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator.
In an embodiment, varying the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator comprises controlling the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator according a predetermined cycle.
In an embodiment, the method further comprises varying a length of the predetermined cycle in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
In an embodiment, the method further comprises varying a duty cycle of the predetermined cycle in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
In an embodiment, varying the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator comprises increasing the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
In an embodiment, varying the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator comprises decreasing the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
In an embodiment, the method further comprises: detecting a value of a shut-off paramete and terminating the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in dependence on a comparison between the detected value of the shut-off parameter and a corresponding predetermined shut-off threshold.
In an embodiment, the shut-off parameter is at least one of the following: a temperature of the hydrogen generator, a hydrogen pressure in the hydrogen generator, a working level of an engine of the vehicle, a speed of the vehicle.
In an embodiment, thc shut-off parameter is a charge level in the battery.
In an embodiment, the working level of the engine of the vehicle is a number of revolutions per minute (RPM) of the vehicle's engine.
In an embodiment, the method further comprises: detecting a value of an overdrive parameter; and varying the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in dependence on a comparison between the detected value of the overdrive parameter and a corresponding predetermined overdrive threshold.
In an embodiment, the overdrive parameter is at least one of the following: a gradient at which the vehicle is moving, a mass of a load being moved by the vehicle.
In an embodiment, the hydrogen indication is an indication of a current drawn by the hydrogen generator.
In an embodiment, the method further comprises: monitoring an attribute of the hydrogen generator, generating the hydrogen indication based on the monitored attribute.
In an embodiment, the monitored attribute is the current drawn by the hydrogen generator.
In an embodiment, the current drawn by the hydrogen generator is an average current of multiple cycles.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Embodiments will he better understood and readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from the following written description, by way of example only, and in conjunction with the drawings, wherein like reference signs relate to like components, in which: Figure 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a control system for a hydrogen generator of a vehicle in accordance with an embodiment; Figure 2 illustrates a flow diagram of a method for controlling a hydrogen generator of a vehicle in accordance with an embodiment; Figure 3 illustrates a scheniatic diagram of a control system for a hydrogen generator of a vehicle in accordance with an embodiment; Figure 4A and Figure 4B illustrate flow diagrams of a method for controlling a hydrogen generator of a vehicle in accordance with the embodiment of Figure 3; and Figure 4C, Figure 4D, and Figure 4E show a method for current regulation which may he applied in the embodiment of Figure 3.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Various embodiments relate to a control system for a hydrogen generator of a vehicle and a method for controlling a hydrogen generator of a vehicle.
Referring to Figure I, there is shown a schematic diagram of a control system 100 for a hydrogen generator 200 of a vehicle 300 in accordance with an embodiment. It is to be understood that in the present embodiment, the vehicle is a car; however, in some other embodiments, the vehicle could he a different means for powered transportation, such as., for example, a different type of land-craft, or a type of water- craft or air-craft. In an embodiment, the vehicle is a boat, a truck, a motorcycle, an all-terrain vehicle, ajet ski or the like.
In an embodiment, the control system 100 may comprise a controller 10 and a voltage supplier 20. The controller 10 may be in communication with the voltage supplier 20 such that the voltage supplier 20 can receive control signals from the controller 10 and perform operations in dependence thereon. The controller 10 may be configured to receive a hydrogen indication. The hydrogen indication may provide an indication of a quantity of hydrogen being generated by the hydrogen generator 200. For example, the hydrogen indication may be a direct measure of hydrogen generated. Alternatively, the hydrogen indication may be an indirect measure, i.e. a measure of some other variable which varies in dependence on the hydrogen generated.
Considering direct measurements, the hydrogen indication may be a measure of an amount of hydrogen generated by the hydrogen generator 200. In an embodiment, the hydrogen indication may he a measure of a flow rate of hydrogen produced by the hydrogen generator 200. For example, a hydrogen flow rate sensor may be in communication with an outlet of the hydrogen generator 200 and the hydrogen flow rate sensor may be configured in use to determine a flow rate of hydrogen eaving the hydrogen generator and provide a corresponding flow rate indicator (i.e. hydrogen indication) to the controller 10. In an embodiment, the hydrogen indication may be a measure of a pressure of hydrogen generated by the hydrogen gcnerator 200. For example, a hydrogen pressure sensor may be in communication with the hydrogen generator 200 and the hydrogen pressure sensor may be configured in use to determine a pressure of hydrogen in the hydrogen generator and provide a corresponding hydrogcn pressure indicator (i.e. hydrogen indication) to the controller Considering indirect measurements, the hydrogen indication may he an indication of a current drawn by the hydrogen generator. In an embodiment, the current may be an average current of multiple cycles. For example, a current sensor may be in communication with an electrical path to the hydrogen generator 200 and the current sensor may be configured in use to determine a current drawn by the hydrogen generator 200 and provide a corresponding current indicator (i.e. hydrogen indication) to the controller 10.
Accordingly, embodiments may comprisc a sensor in communication with the controller and configured in use to monitor an attribute of the hydrogen generator.
The sensor may he further configured in use to send a corresponding attribute indicator to the controller 10 so that the controller 10 can control the operation of the voltage supplier 20 in dependence thereon.
In an embodiment, the voltage supplier 20 may be configured to supply a voltage to the hydrogen generator 200. For example, the voltage supplier 20 may be a voltage source, for example, a battery capable of providing a variable supply voltage to the hydrogen generator 200. Alternatively, the voltage supplier 20 may be a voltage converter that is in communication with a battery and capable of converting a supply voltage from the battery into a converted voltage. The converted voltage may he the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200. The supply voltage from the battery may be a fixed voltage. The converted voltage from the voltage convener may be a variable voltage. However, it is to he understood that in some other embodiments, the voltage supplier may be another device, or other devices, which is/are capable of providing a variable voltage supply to the hydrogen generator 200.
In an embodiment, the controller ID may be operable to cause the voltage supplier 20 to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200 in dependence on the hydrogen indication received by the controller 10. For example, if the controller 10 determines from the hydrogen indication that the amount of hydrogen being generated by the hydrogen generator is reducing or is below a preset threshold, the controller 10 may cause the voltage supplier 20 to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200 to increase hydrogen generation. Additionally or alternatively, if the controller ID determines from the hydrogen indication that the amount of hydrogen being generated by the hydrogen generator is increasing or is above a preset threshold, the controller 10 may cause the voltage supplier 20 to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200 to decrease hydrogen generation.
In an embodiment, the controller 10 may be operable to cause the voltage supplier 20 to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in various different ways as set out below, hut not limited to the ways set out below.
In an embodiment, the controller 10 may be configured in use to cause the voltage supplier 20 to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200 so that the hydrogen indication is maintained above a first predetermined value. The first predetermined value may be greater than zero. For example, the hydrogen indication may be an indication of the current drawn by the hydrogen generator 200 and the controller 10 may be configured in use to cause the voltage supplier 20 to maintain the current above a first predetermined value, such as, one Amp (1A). Further, the controller 10 may be configured in use to cause the voltage supplier 20 to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200 so that the hydrogen indication is maintained below a second predetermined value, for example, three Amps (3A).
Accordingly, the controller 10 may be configured in use to cause the voltage supplier 1 0 to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator to keep the hydrogen indication within a predetermined range. In an embodiment, the predetermined range may be between two values both of which are greater than zero.
In an embodiment, the controller 10 may be configured in use to cause the voltage supplier 20 to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator by controlling the voltage supplied 20 to the hydrogen generator 200 according to a predetermined cycle.
The controller 10 may be configured in use to vary a length of the predetermined cycle and!or a duty cycle of the predetermined cycle in dependence on the hydrogen indication. In an embodiment, the length may define a duration of a repeating interval of time, the interval being the predetermined cycle. In an embodiment, the duly cycle may define a portion of the predetermined cycle during wluch voltage is supplied to the hydrogen generator. For example, a duty cycle of 60% may indicate that voltage is supplied to the hydrogen generator for the first 60% of the predetermined cycle following which voltage is not supplied to the hydrogen generator for the remaining 40% of the predetermined cycle.
In an embodiment, the controller 10 may be configured in use to cause the voltage supplier 20 to increase the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200 in dependence on the hydrogen indication. The controller 10 may be configured in use to cause the voltage supplier 20 to decrease the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200 in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
Referring to Figure 2, there is shown a flow diagram of a method for controlling a hydrogen generator of a vehicle in accordance with an embodiment. The method may include receiving a hydrogen indication, wherein the hydrogen indication is a measure of a quantity of hydrogcn being generated by the hydrogen generator.
The method may also include varying a voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
Referring to Figure 3, there is shown a control system 100' in accordance with an embodiment. The control system 100' may include a controller 10', a voltage supplier 20', and a current sensor 30. The voltage supplier 20' and the current sensor 30 may be in communication with the controller 10' such that each can exchange data with
II
the controller 10'. The current sensor 30 may he configured in use to detect a current drawn by a hydrogen generator 200'. The current sensor 30 may he configured in use to generate a hydrogen indication from the detected current. The current sensor 30 may also be configured in use to provide the hydrogen indication to the controller 10'.
The controller 10' may he configured to receive the hydrogen indication from the current sensor 30 and control the operation of the voltage supplier 20' in dependence on the received hydrogen indication. The voltage supplier 20' may be configured to receive a supply voltage from a battery 50 and convert the supply voltage into a converted voltage. The voltage supplier 20' may be configured in use to supply the converted voltage to the hydrogen generator 200'. The controller 10' may be configured in use to cause the voltage supplier 20' to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200' in dependence on the hydrogen indication received from the culTent sensor 30.
In an embodiment, the current drawn by the hydrogen generator 200' may be a current drawn by electrodes in a fluid (e.g. water) of the hydrogen generator 200'. For example, the fluid may be pure water. In an embodiment, potassium hydroxide (KOH) may be added to the pure water as an agent (e.g. an electrolyte andlor a catalyst).
Additionally or alternatively, a metallic agent, such as Nickel, may also be added to the pure water to enhance conductivity. The control system 100' may be applicable to various different densities of agents in the fluid. The electrodes may be used to perform electrolytic separation of the fluid. The control system 100' may be applicable to various different types of electrode construction. For example. an electrode construction may be a set of plates separated by insulating gaskets. The set of plates may be made of stainless steel.
In an embodiment, the control system 100' may further comprise one or more shut-off sensors which may be in communication with the controller 10'. A shut-off sensor may be configured in use to monitor or measure a particular parameter. wherein the parameter may be such that when it reaches a certain value or condit.ion the hydrogen generator 200' could be turned off, for example, to improve safety or efficiency. For example, the parameter may be a parameter of the hydrogen generator 200' (e.g. temperature, pressure, etc.); the vehicle (e.g. temperature, pressure, speed, etc.) and/or the environment (e.g. weather conditions, altitude, geographical location, etc.) The shut-off sensor may also he configured in use to provide the controller 10' with an indication of a value of the parameter being measured or monitored (i.e. a shut-off indication). The shut-off sensor may send the shut-off indication to the controller 10'.
For example, the shut-off indication may be sent to the controller 10' at regular intervals, irregular intervals, or in dependence on the parameter value or a rate of change of the parameter value.
In an embodiment, exemplary shut-off sensors may include: a temperature sensor 60, a pressure sensor 70, a battery voltage sensor 90, and a current transducer 40.
In an embodiment, the temperature sensor 60 may he configured in use to detect a temperature of the hydrogen generator 200', generate from the detected temperature a temperature indication (i.e. a shut-off indication), and send the temperature indication to the controller 10'. The controller 10' may be configured in use to receive the temperature indication and analyze it to identify the temperature of the hydrogen generator 200'. Further, the controller 10' may be configured in use to cause the voltage supplier 20' to terminate the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200' if the temperature indication indicates that the temperature of the hydrogen generator 200' is higher than a predetermined temperature threshold. In an embodiment, the threshold may he configurable by a user of the control system 100' and/or may he set to a default value. Therefore, the temperature sensor 60 may prevent the hydrogen generator 200' from overheating under a possible faulty condition. Advantageously, the hydrogen generator may be turned off before the risk of it exploding becomes too high.
In an embodiment, the pressure sensor 70 may be configured in use to detect a pressure of hydrogen iii the hydrogen generator 200', generate from the detected pressure a pressure indication (i.e. a shut-off indication), arid send the pressure indication to the controller 10'. The controller 10' may be configured in use to receive the pressure indication and analyze it to identify the pressure of hydrogen in the hydrogen generator 200'. Further, the controller 10' may be configured in use to cause the voltage supplier 20' to terminate the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200' if the pressure indication indicates that the pressure of hydrogen in the hydrogen generator 200' is higher than a predetermined pressure threshold. In an embodiment, the threshold may he configurable by a user of the control system 100' and/or may be set to a defauh value. Therefore, the pressure sensor 70 may prevent pressure of the hydrogen in the hydrogen generator 200' from increasing too high under a possible faulty condition. Advantageously, the hydrogen generator 200' may be turned off before the risk of it exploding becomes too high. In an embodiment, the pressure sensor 70 may he configured t.o detect a pressure of the hydrogen and oxygen mixture in the hydrogen generator 200'. The pressure of the hydrogen and oxygen mixture may be used to monitor the current drawn by the hydrogen generator 200' under a normal working condition. For example, when the current drawn by the hydrogen generator 200' is 2 Amp (2A), the pressure of the hydrogen and oxygen mixture may be 0.2psi.
In an embodiment, the battery voltage sensor 90 may be configured in use to detect a charge level in a battery 50 in communication with the hydrogen generator 200', generate from the detected charge level a charge indication (i.e. a shut-off indication), and send the charge indication to the controller 10'. The controller 10' may be configured in use to receive the charge indication and analyze it t.o identify the charge in the battery 50. Further, the controller 10' may be configured in use to cause the voltage supplier 20' to terminate the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200' if the charge indication indicates that. the charge in the battery 50 is lower than a predetermined charge threshold. In an embodiment, the threshold may be configurable by a user of the control system and/or may be set to a default value. Therefore, the battery voltage sensor 90 may prevent the hydrogen generator 200' from running down the battery 50 under a possible faulty condition. Advantageously, the hydrogen generator may be turned off before the battery runs out of charge. Therefore, the battery voltage sensor 90 may prevent the hydrogen generator 200' from overstraining a weak battery.
In an embodiment, a motion sensor may be configured in use to detect motion of a vehicle, or an engine (not shown) of the vehicle, in which the control system 100' arid the hydrogen generator 200' are installed. The motion sensor may be in communication with the hydrogen generator 200', generate from the detected motion a motion indication (i.e. a shut-off indication), and send the motion indication to the controller 10'. The controller 10' may be configured in use to receive the motion indication and analyze it to identify the level of motion, for example, the speed.
Further, the controller 10' may he configured in use to cause the voltage supplier 20' to terminate the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200' if the motion indication indicates that the motion is lower than a predetermined motion threshold, for example, slower than a certain speed. In an embodiment, the threshold may be configurable by a user of the control system andlor may be set t.o a default value.
Therefore, the motion sensor may prevent the hydrogen generator 200' from needlessly generating hydrogen when the vehicle and/or engine are not moving.
In an embodiment, the motion sensor may be the current transducer 40. The current transducer 40 may be configured in use to convert motion of an engine (riot shown) of the vehicle into a current signal. Accordingly, the culTent transducer 40 may be used to detect the level of motion of the engine, for example, in terms of the number of revolutions per minute, by determining the culTent of the current signal. The current transducer 40 may generate from the detected current a motion indication, and send the motion indication to the controller 10'. The controller 10' may be configured in use to receive the motion indication and analyze it to identify the level of motion.
Further, the controller 10' may be configured in use to cause the voltage supplier 20' to terminate the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200' if the motion indication indicates that the motion is lower than a predetermined motion threshold, i.e., slower than a certain speed. In an embodiment, the threshold may be configurable by a user of the control system and/or may be set to a default value. Therefore, the motion sensor may prevent the hydrogen generator 200' from needlessly generating hydrogen when the vehicle and/or engine are not moving.
In an embodiment, the current transducer 40 may be a transducer that provides a reading of the revolutions per minute (RPM) of a vehicle's engine (not shown). The RPM may represent a rotational speed of the vehicle's engine and thus a working level of the vehicle and/or the vehicle's engine. The current transducer 40 may be electrically isolated from a spark plug (not shown) of the vehicle and thus may not be intrusive to electrical circuits of the vehicle. For example, a cable of the spark plug may pass through an aperture of the current transducer 40 and a secondary electronic circuit of the current transducer 40 may be isolated from a high voltage terminal of the spark plug. The current transducer 40 may then be configured in use to detect the RPM of the engine by detecting the current measured. Accordingly, production of hydrogen may be a ffinction of the vehicle's engine RPM.
In an embodiment, the motion sensor may comprise a motion detector which is coupled to the engine, for example, to detect engine motion such as revolution of the engine. Additionally or alternatively, the motion detector may be coupled to a moving part of the vehicle, such as, a wheel, a track, a roller or a propeller, and configured in use to detect motion of that moving part. In any case, the motion sensor may he configured in use to generate a motion indication colTesponding to the detccted motion for provision to the controller.
In an embodiment, the control system 100' may comprise a detector for determining if an engine of the vehicle in which the control system IOU' and hydrogen generator 200' are installed is operational. Stated differently, the detector may be configured in use to detect whether or not the engine has startcd. For example, the detector may be linked to an ignition circuit of the vehicle and configured in use to determine when the engine has started based on the ignition circuit. The detector may be in communication with the controller 10' such that it can send an indication to the controller 10' that the engine has started or has stopped. Accordingly, the controller tO' may be configured in use to control the voltage supplier 20' not to provide voltage to the hydrogen generator 200' unless the engine is turned on, i.e. unless the engine is running.
In an embodiment., the control system 100' may further comprise one or more overdrive sensors which may be in communication with the controller 10'. An overdrive sensor may be configured in use to monitor or measure a particular parameter, wherein the parameter may be such that when it reaches a certain value or condition thc voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200' could be varied, for example, to increase the rate of hydrogen generation, to increase the proportion of hydrogen in the fuel, and/or to improve vehicle perfènnance. For example, the parameter niay be a parameter of the vehicle (e.g. a load moved by the vehicle, a speed demand put on the vehicle's engine, a speed of the engine (e.g. in RPM), etc.) and/or the environment (e.g. a adient of a slope on which the vehide is travelling, etc.) The overdrive sensor may also be configured in use to provide the controller 10' with an indication of a value of the parameter being measured or monitored. The overdrive sensor may send the overdrive indication to the controller 10'. For example, the overdrive indication may be sent to the controller 10' at regular/irregular intervals, or in dependence on the parameter value or a rate of change of the parameter value. It is to be understood thai in an embodiment, the controller may cause the voltage supplier to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator by increasing the length of time during which a voltage (e.g. a constant voltage) is supplied to the hydrogen generator. For example, the predetermined cycle length and/or the duty cycle could he increased. Additionally or alternatively, the controller may cause the voltage supplier to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator by increasing the value of the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator.
In an embodiment, exemplary overdrive sensors include a slope detector 80 and a load detector (not shown).
In an embodiment, the slope detector 80 may be configured to detect the gradient of a slope on which the vehicle is moving, generate from the detection a slope indication (i.e. an overdrive indication), and send the slope indication to the controller 10'. The controller 10' may be configured in use to receive the slope indication and cause the voltage supplier 20' to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200', for example, to increase the rate of hydrogen generation, to increase the proportion of hydrogen in the fuel, if the slope indication indicates that the gradient of the slope is higher than a predetermined gradient threshold. In an embodiment, the threshold may he configurable by a user of the control system 100' and/or may he set to a dcfauh value. The slope detector 80 may he a MEM (micro electrical and mechanical) accelerator device for inclination detection of the vehicle. Advantageously, production of hydrogen by the hydrogen generator may he a function of thc vehicle's angle of inclination. The slope detection may allow generation of hydrogen to meet the vehicle's increased consumption of cnergy or increased demand for energy when moving up a hill or ramp.
In an embodiment, the load detector may be configured to detect a mass of a load being moved by the vehicle. For example, the load detector may detect the mass of a trailer being towed by the vehicle, the mass of a roof box mounted on the roof of the vehicle, andlor the mass of the vehicle with its transportation load (e.g. people, luggage, fuel, etc.). The load detector may be configured in use to generate from the detected mass a load indication (i.e. an overdrive indication), mid send the load indication to the controller 10'. The controller 10' may be contigured to receive the load indication and cause the voltage supplier 20' to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200', for example, to increase the rate of hydrogen generation, to increase the proportion of hydrogen in the fuel, if the load indication indicates that the mass of the load is higher than a predetermined mass threshold. In an embodiment, the threshold may be configurable by a user of the control system and/or may be set. to a default value.
Now referring to Figure 4A, the operation of a control system in accordance with an embodiment will be described in more detail.
In an embodiment, process flow begins at step 75, wherein the control system 100' checks a working level of the vehicle's engine, i.e. the control system 100' checks to see if the engine has started arid is running, for example, using a detector as described above. In an embodiment, process flow may loop around step 75 until the control system 00' detects that the engine is running. Once the control system 100' detects that the engine is running, processing may flow to step 85.
In an embodiment, at step 85, the working level of the vehicle's engine may be detected by reading the vehicle's engine's RPM, for example, using the current transducer 40. At step 85, the control system 100' detects whether or not the RPM reading is greater than or equal to an upper threshold RPM' (e.g.lSOOrprn). This check may enable the control system 100' to determine whether or not the vehicle is travelling at a sufficient speed for there to be a need to add hydrogen into the fuel, If the detected reading is greater than or equal to the upper threshold, processing flows to step 95 (described below), otherwise processing flows to step 140, In an embodiment, at step 140, the control system 100' may detect whether or not the RPM reading is less than a lower threshold RPMLTH' (e.g.l000rpm). This check enables the control system 100' to determine whether or not the vehicle is travelling at a sufficient speed for there to he a need to add hydrogen into the fuel. If the detected reading is less than the lower threshold, processing flows to step 130, otherwise processing flows to step 95 (described below). In an embodiment, the upper threshold may be the same as the lower threshold.
In an embodiment, at step 130, when the detected reading is smaller than the lower threshold, the controller 10' may cause the voltage supplier to terminate the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200', i.e. the controller 10' turns OFF the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator V0. Once the voltage has been terminated, processing may flow to step 85, which has described above.
In an embodiment, at step 95, the controller 10' may chcck the charge level in the battery Batt', for example, using the battery voltagc sensor 90. If the battery charge is greater than or equal to a charge threshold Bnom' (e.g. liv), processing may flow to step 115, otherwise processing may flow to step 130 which was described above.
In an embodiment, at step 115, the controller 10' may check the temperature of the hydrogen generator Temp', for example, using the temperature sensor 60. If the temperature of the hydrogen generator 200' is lower than a predetermined temperature threshold T1' (e.g. 65°C), processing may flow to step 125, otherwise processing may flow to step 130 which was described above.
In an embodiment, at step 125, the controller 10' may cause the voltage supplier 20' to supply voltage to the hydrogen generator 200'. Stated differently, the controller 10' may turn ON the voltage supplied VOUL to the hydrogen generator 200'. This voltage supplied V011 to the hydrogcn generator may be the supply voltage in the battery Vn (e.g. l2V). Following this operation, processing may flow to step 92.
In an embodiment, at step 92, the controller 10' may be configured to receive a slope indication, for example, from the slope detector 80. The slope indication may provide an indication of the gradient of the slope on which the vehicle is travelling. At. step 92.
if the gradient is less than a gradient threshold (e.g. 20 degrees from the horizontal), processing may flow to step 93, otherwise processing may flow to step 94. At step 93, the controller 10' may set a lower threshold LTH limit and an upper threshold LN, limit of the current drawn by the hydrogen generator to define a first value range, for example. LTHN maybe ISA and l a may be 2A. Alternatively, at step 94, when the vehicle is moving up a slope with a gradient more than the predetermined gradient threshold, the controller 10' may set the lower threshold LTH limit arid the upper threshold limit of the current drawn by the hydrogen generator to a second value range, for example, 1EJHS may he 2A arid may be 3A. In an embodiment, the first value range may be lower than the second value range; however, the two value ranges may overlap. Once the above-described processing is complete, processing may flow to step 105 (Figure 4B).
Now referring Figures 4B, 4C, 4D, and 4E, there is shown a niethod for current regulation in accordance with an embodiment. Figure 4B illustrates the process flow of the method in accordance with an embodiment. Figures 4C, 4D and 4E show an exemplary circuit diagram (Figure 4C) of the control system IOU' together with exemplary controller control waveforms (Figure 4D) and exemplary current response waveforms (Figure 4E).
In an embodiment, the controller 10' may be operable to cause the voltage supplier 20' to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200' in dependence on a hydrogen indication received by the controller 10'. The hydrogen indication may be an indication of a current (e.g. average culTent) drawn by the hydrogen generator. In an embodiment, the current drawn by the hydrogen generator 200' may be proportional to the hydrogen generated by the hydrogen generator 200'; therefore, the higher or lower the current drawn, the higher or lower, respectively, the quantity of hydrogen generated. Accordingly, the controller 10' may be operable to cause the voltage supplier 20' to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200' to maintain the current drawl) by the hydrogen generator 200' within thc value range set in either step 93 (first value range) or step 94 (second value range).
In an embodiment, the current drawn by the hydrogen generator may be an average current of multiple cycles. At step 105 (Figure 4B), the controller 10' may monitor the output current flow out drawn by the hydrogen generator 200'. At step 110, the controller 10' may determine if the output current flow out is greater than or equal to the preset lower threshold urn limit and, if so, processing flows to step 120 (described below), otherwise processing flows to step 112.
Referring to Figures 4C and 4D, a waveform 220 may be generated by the controller 10' to control the voltage supplier 20' to perform a current regulation routine using a pulse width modulation technique. Figure 4C shows a circuit diagram of the control system 100' according to an embodiment. A pulse width modulation waveform 220 may be generated by the controller 10'. A control circuit of the control system may comprise a transistor, two resistors and a capacitor. The gate of the transistor may be connected to the controller in order to receive therefrom the pulse width modulation waveform 220. The drain of the transistor may be connected to the hydrogen generator. The hydrogen generator may also be connected to a supply voltage Vout 240 and draw a current lout 230. The source of the transistor may be connected to ground via one of the two resistors. Also, the source of the transistor may be connected to ground via a series combination of the other resistor and the capacitor. A current sensing signal may be taken from the series connection between the other resistor and the capacitor. The control circuit may be in communication with the hydrogen generator such that the waveform generated by the controller may be fed to the hydrogen generator 200'. The control circuit may be in communication with the current sensor 30 such that the controller can receive the detected current by the current sensor 30 and generate a wavefonn in dependence thereon.
In an embodiment the waveform may be a I 0kHz frequency waveform, i.e the predetermined cycle length may he 0. lms. The frequency of the waveform may be varied by the controller. Accordingly, the predetermined cycle of the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200' may be varied by the controller 10'. When the pulse width of the pulse width modulation waveform 220 is at a maximum 250 (Figure 4D), an average current L 230 (Figure 4C) drawn by the hydrogen generator 200' may be higher (e.g. 3A) than the preset I limit when the voltage V 240 (Figure 4C) is supplied t.o the hydrogen generator. In order to ensure L1 is within the preset value range between the preset limit and the preset 1urH limit, the controller 10' may reduce the pulse width of the waveform 220 from the maximum 250 to a lesser pulse width 210. In this way, the controller 10' may operate to produce an average current out (e.g. 2A) which is within the preset limits. According to the above described operation, a duty cycle of the waveform 220 may be adjusted by the controller ID' to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator 200' and maintain the current draw-n by the hydrogen generator 200' within the predetermined thresholds and value ranges. Stated differently, referring to Figure 4E, in an embodiment, the voltage V to the hydrogen generator 200' may be turned ON at a time t1 305. The output current L 340 may then increase to become higher (e.g. 4A) than the limit (e.g. 2A) at a time t, 310. Therefore, the current regulation routine may turn OFF the voltage V001 at the time t2 310 when the olu is too high (e.g. 4A). This operation may reduce out to zero, Furthermore, this cycle may be repeated from time t2 310. Accordingly. the average current (e.g. 2A) drawn by the hydrogen generator 200' may be maintained with the preset range and within the preset limits.
In an embodiment, after the voltage V01 is turned ON at time t3 320. the output current may reach 3A (350) at time t4 330. Accordingly, the current regulation cycle may be repeated to ensure that the average is maintained within the 1tq limit (360) and LTH limit (370).
Returning to Figure 4B, at step 110. the controller 10' may determine if the output current flow l is greater than or equal to the preset lower threshold 1uru limit and, if so, processing flows to step 120, otherwise processing flows to step 112.
At step 120, the controller 10' may determine if the output current flow l is less than or equal to the preset upper threshold limit and, if so, processing flows to step 75 which was described above, otherwise processing flows to step 122 (described below).
At step 112. when the output current flow l is lower than the lower threshold UCH limit (e.g. 1.5A), the controller 10' may generate a waveform with a higher duty cycle (i.e. increased pulse width or on' time) and consequently cause the voltage supplier 20' to increase the length of time per cycle during which the voltage is supplied to the hydrogen generator 200'. In an embodiment, only the length of time per cycle during which the voltage is supplied is changed, i.e. the value of the voltage supplied remains substantially constant. As a result, may be increased. Further, at step 114, if the controller 10' determines that the duty cycle has reached to a maximum, i.e. the pulse width has reached the maximum 250, processing flows to step 116, otherwise processing flow-s to step 110 which was described above.
At step 116. the controller 10' may cause the voltage supplier to select a next higher voltage V1 as the V01 for the hydrogen generator 200'. In an embodiment, the controller 10' may cause the voltage converter supplier 20' to convert a supply voltage from the battery 50 to increase the voltage of the converted voltage.
Processing then flows to step 110 which was described above.
At step 120, when the output flow current is higher than the upper threshold limit (e.g. 2A), processing flows to step 122. At step 122, the controller 10' may generate a waveform with a lower duty cycle (i.e. reduce the pulse width or on' time) and consequently cause the voltage supplier 20' to decrease the length of the time per cycle during which the voltage is supplied to the hydrogen generator 200'. In an embodiment, only the length of time per cycle during which the voltage is supplied is changed, i.e. the value of the voltage supplied remains substantially constant.
Accordingly, the current drawn by the hydrogen generator 200' may be decreased to be lower than the preset upper threshold and within the preset value range. Processing may then flow to step 120 which was described above.
It is to he understood that in an embodiment, the controller may cause the voltage supplier to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator by varying (e.g. increasing or decreasing) the length of time during which a voltage (e.g. a constant voltage) is supplied to the hydrogen generator. This may be achieved by varying the length of the predetermined cycle and/or the duty cycle of the predetermined cycle.
For example, voltage may be supplied using a duty cycle of 60% and a predetermined cycle of 100 micro-seconds. Additionally or alternatively, the controller may cause the voltage supplier to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator by varying (e.g. increasing or decreasing) the value of the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator, for example, supplying a voltage of 8V, 1OV or 12V.
The hydrogen generator may age over the course of its lifetime. For example, this may be caused as a conductivity of the fluid of the hydrogen generator decreases. As part of this aging process, the current I, may gradually reduce for a constant voltage supply. For example, at the beginning of the hydrogen generator's life a supply voltage of 12V may cause a 2A current to be drawn by the hydrogen generator, whereas towards the end of the hydrogen generator's life a supply voltage of I 2V may cause a 1A current to be drawn. Since the current drawn may be proportional to the flow rate of hydrogen generated, for a constant supply, the hydrogen generator may produce less hydrogen as it gets older.
In an embodiment, when L is lower than the Lt limit, the pulse width of the waveform generated by the controller 10' may be increased so as to enable L to fall within the preset limits again. As thc hydrogen generator ages further, the maximum pulse width may still mean that L is lower than the LTh limit In this case, the voltage V may be increased by the controller 10' causing the voltage converter supplier 20' to up-convert the voltage by a greater amount. Accordingly, the control system 100' may enablc the efficient use of battery power.
An advantage of some embodiments is to enable the efficient use of the vehicle's battery by monitoring the current drawn by the hydrogen generator and varying the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator. Also, an advantage of some embodiments is to enable the longer use of the vehicle's battery by terminating the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator when the vehicle is not moving. Further, an advantage of some embodiments is to enable the longer working life of the vehicle's battery by preventing over-drain of vehicle's battery.
An advantage of some embodiments is to enable safe use of the hydrogen generator by monitoring the temperature thereof and the hydrogen pressure therein and by terminating the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator when the temperature and/or hydrogen pressure are higher than predetermined thresholds. An advantage of some embodiments is to enable efficient use of the hydrogen generator by monitoring the current drawn by the hydrogen generator and varying the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator, i.e. providing a suitable current flow through the hydrogen generator for generating a suitable amount of hydrogen in dependence on the vehicle's ninning state, such as, the rotational speed of the vehicle's internal combustion engine.
Although the control algorithm in Figures 4A-4E illustrates specific control parameters uscd in an embodiment, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not intended to be limiting. For instance, in some other embodiments, the parameters can be varied to provide different applications and versions of the control system for the hydrogen generator. As mentioned above, motion detection could be included to ensure that the vehicle is moving rather than only determining movement based on the vehicle's RPM. Additionally or alternatively, the vehicle's RPM could also be obtained by another method, such as, using the vehicle's alternator with an isolation transducer. In an embodiment, one or more sensors could be omitted, whilst one or more different sensors could be added.
Additionally, in an embodiment, calibration and delay in the algorithm may be performed. For example, one or more of the thresholds or ranges mentioned above could be set in dependence on a particular vehicle type or model, or a particular driver or driver profile. For example, the control algorithm could he calibrated to meet performance requirements or fuel efficiency requirements. Further, whilst certain aspects of the above-described operation are described in a sequential manner, it is to he understood that one or more of these aspects could be performed in parallel. For example. hydrogen generator temperature and hydrogen generator pressure could be determined at the same time.
The above-described embodiments have been described in combination with an internal combustion engine. However, it is to he understood that in some other embodiments, the engine could he of a different type. For example, in some embodiments, the engine could he a gas-turbine engine or a steam engine.
It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that numerous variations andlor modifications may be made to one or more of the above-described embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as broadly described in the appended claims. The above-described embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive.

Claims (40)

  1. CLAIMS1. A control system for a hydrogen generator of a vehicle, the control system comprising: a controller configured to receive a hydrogen indication, the hydrogen indication being a measure of hydrogen generated by the hydrogen generator, a voltage supplier configured to supply a voltage to the hydrogen generator, wherein the controller is operable to cause the voltage supplier to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
  2. 2. The control system of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured in use to cause the voltage supplier to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator so that the hydrogen indication is maintained above a first predetermined value.
  3. 3. The control system of claim 2, wherein the first predetermined value is greater than zero.
  4. 4. The control system of claim 2 or 3, wherein the controller is configured in use to cause the voltage supplier to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator so that the hydrogen indication is maintained below a second predetermined value.
  5. 5. The control system of any preceding claim, wherein the voltage supplier is configured in use to convert a supply voltage from a battery into a converted voltage, wherein the converted voltage is the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator.
  6. 6. The control system of any preceding claim, wherein the controller is configured in use to cause the voltage supplier to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator according to a predetermined cycle.
  7. 7. The control system of claim 6, wherein the controller is configured in use to vary a length of the predetermined cycle in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
  8. 8. The control system of claim 6 or 7, wherein the controller is configured in use to vary a duty cycle of the predetermined cycle in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
  9. 9. The control system of any preceding claim, wherein the controller is configured in use to cause the voltage supplier to increase the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
  10. 10. The control system of any preceding claim, wherein the controller is configured in use to cause the voltage supplier to decrease the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
  11. 11. The control system of any preceding claim, further comprising: a shut-off sensor configured in use to detect a value of a shut-off parameter and generate from the detection a shut-off parameter value indication for provision to the controller; wherein the controller is configured in use to receive the shut-off parameter value indication and cause the voltage supplier to terminate the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in dependence on a comparison between the shut-off parameter value indication and a corresponding predetermined shut-off threshold.
  12. 12. The control system of claim 11. wherein the shut-off parameter is at least one of the following: a temperature of the hydrogen generator, a hydrogen pressure in the hydrogen generator, a working level of an engine of the vehicle, a speed of the vehicle.
  13. 13. The control system of claim II or 12 when dependent on claim 5, wherein the shut-off parameter is a charge level in the battery.
  14. 14. The control system of claim 12, wherein the working level of the engine of the vehicle is a number of revolutions per minute (RPM) of the vehicle's engine.
  15. 15. The control system of any preceding claim, further comprising: an overdrive sensor configured in use to detect a value of an overdrive parameter and generate from the detection an overdrive parameter value indication for provision to the controller; wherein the controller is configured in use to receive the overdrive parameter value indication and cause the voltage supplier to vary the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in dependence on a comparison between the overdrive parameter value indication and a corresponding predetermined overdrive threshold.
  16. 16. The control system of claim 15, wherein the overdrive parameter is at least one of the following: a gradient at which the vehicle is moving, a mass of a load being moved by the vehicle.
  17. 17. The control system of any preceding claim, wherein the hydrogen indication is an indication of a current drawn by the hydrogen generator.
  18. 18. The control system of any preceding claim, further comprising a sensor for monitoring an attribute of the hydrogen generator, the sensor being configured in use to generate the hydrogen indication based on the monitored attribute and send the hydrogen indication to the controller.
  19. 19. The control system of claim 18, wherein the sensor is a current sensor configured in use to monitor the current drawn by the hydrogen generator and generate from the monitored current the hydrogen indication for provision to the controller.
  20. 20. The control system of claim 17 to P),wlierein the current drawn by the hydrogen generator is an average current of multiple cycles.
  21. 21. A method for controlling a hydrogen generator of a vehicle, the method comprising: receiving a hydrogen indication, the hydrogen indication being a measure of hydrogen generated by the hydrogen generator; varying a voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
  22. 22. The method of claim 21. wherein varying the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator comprises varying the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator to maintain the hydrogen indication above a first predetermined value.
  23. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the first predetermined value is greater than zero.
  24. 24, The method of claim 22 23, wherein varying the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator comprises varying the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator to maintain the hydrogen indication below a second predetermined value.
  25. 25. The method of any one of claims 21 to 24, further comprising converting a supply voltage from a battery into a converted voltage, the converted voltage being the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator.
  26. 26. The method of any one of claims 21 to 25, wherein varying the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator comprises controlling the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator according a predetermined cycle.
  27. 27. The method of claim 26, further comprising varying a length of the predetermined cycle in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
  28. 28. The method of claim 26 or 27, further comprising varying a duty cycle of the predetermined cycle in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
  29. 29. The method of any one of claims 21 to 28, wherein varying the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator comprises increasing the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in dependence oii the hydrogen indication.
  30. 30. The method of any one of claims 21 to 29, wherein varying the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator comprises decreasing the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in dependence on the hydrogen indication.
  31. 31. The method of any one of claims 21 to 30 further comprising: detecting a value of a shut-off parameter; and terminating the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in dependence on a comparison between the detected value of the shut-off parameter and a corresponding predetermined shut-off threshold.
  32. 32. The method of any one of claim 31, wherein the shut-off parameter is at least one of the following: a temperature of the hydrogen generator, a hydrogen pressure in the hydrogen generator, a working level of an engine of the vehicle, a speed of the vehicle.
  33. 33. The method of claim 31 or 32 when dependent on claim 25. wherein the shut-off parameter is a charge level in the battery.
  34. 34. The method of claim 32. wherein the working level of the engine of the vehicle is a tiumber of revolutions per minute (RPM) of the vehicle's engine.
  35. 35. The method of any one olelaims 21 to 34, further comprising: detecting a value of an overdrive parameter; and varying the voltage supplied to the hydrogen generator in dependence on a comparison between the detected value of the overdrive parameter and a colTesponding predetermined overdrive threshold.
  36. 36. The method of claim 35, wherein the overdrive parameter is at least one of the following: a gradient at which the vehicle is moving, a mass of a load being moved by the vehicle.
  37. 37. The method of any one of claims 21 to 36, wherein the hydrogen indication is an indication of a current drawn by the hydrogen generator.
  38. 38. The method of any one of claims 21 to 37, further comprising: monitoring an attribute of the hydrogen generator, generating the hydrogen indication based on the monitored attribute.
  39. 39. The method of claim 38 wherein the monitored attribute is the current drawn by the hydrogen generator.
  40. 40. The method of claim 37 to 39, wherein the current drawn by the hydrogen gcnerator is an average cLirrent of multiple cycles.
GB1214926.6A 2012-08-22 2012-08-22 A control system for a hydrogen generator of a vehicle and a method for controlling a hydrogen generator of a vehicle Expired - Fee Related GB2505205B (en)

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