WO2022073960A1

WO2022073960A1 - Portable hydrogen supply equipment and methods therein

Info

Publication number: WO2022073960A1
Application number: PCT/EP2021/077356
Authority: WO
Inventors: Paul Christian KARZEL; Upendra Rao; Carlos Emilio Perez Damas; Matthew Blieske; Jeremy MAUNUS
Original assignee: Shell Internationale Research Maatschappij B.V.; Shell Oil Company
Priority date: 2020-10-06
Filing date: 2021-10-05
Publication date: 2022-04-14
Also published as: WO2022073960A8

Abstract

PORTABLE HYDROGEN SUPPLY EQUIPMENT AND METHODS THEREINThe present invention provides a portable hydrogen dispensing system comprising:(a) a hydrogen dispensing module for dispensing hydrogen received from an external hydrogen source to a hydrogen receptacle in fluid communication with said hydrogen dispensing module, said hydrogen dispensing module is capable of dispensing hydrogen to the receptacle,(b) a power module for providing electricity to operate the portable hydrogen dispensing system, said power module is capable of receiving hydrogen from the external hydrogen source wherein said power module is configured to use a portion of the hydrogen received from the external hydrogen source to generate said electricity and wherein the power module is capable of generating at least all the electricity to operate the portable hydrogen dispensing system to enable operation of the portable hydrogen dispensing system to be independent of an external source of power;(c) a distribution module operable to (i) enable fluid communication between the external hydrogen source and thehydrogen dispensing module or isolate the hydrogen dispensing module from the hydrogen source, and (ii) enable fluid communication between the hydrogen source and the power module or isolate the power module from the hydrogen source, (d) a control module for operating the distribution module to (i) enable fluid communication between the hydrogen source and the hydrogen dispensing module, (ii) isolate the hydrogen dispensing module from the hydrogen source, (iii) enable fluid communication between the hydrogen source and the power module, or (iv) isolate the power module from the hydrogen source based at least on whether the portable hydrogen dispensing system is being connected to or disconnected from the hydrogen source,wherein said control module is configured to operate the hydrogen dispensing module to provide hydrogen to the hydrogen receptacle at a variable flow rate in a range from greater than zero grams/second to a maximum rate of 300 grams/second, wherein said hydrogen dispensing module is capable of operating at a variable flow rate as determined by the control module based at least on inputs comprising the pressure of hydrogen in the hydrogen receptacle and the pressure rating of the hydrogen receptacle; wherein said control module is configured to operate the power module to generate an amount of energy determined by the control module based at least on inputs comprising the power requirement of at least one of the hydrogen dispensing module, the distribution module, and the control module;wherein the distribution module, the hydrogen dispensing module, the power module, and the control module are secured in a manner to enable the portable hydrogen dispensing system to betransported from one location to another location.

Description

PORTABLE HYDROGEN SUPPLY EQUIPMENT AND METHODS THEREIN

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This invention relates to the supply of hydrogen, particularly, equipment and methods therein to supply hydrogen to any suitable receiving container when the equipment is connected to a hydrogen source, and the equipment is portable and can be moved from one location to another.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This section is intended to introduce various aspects of the art, which may be associated with exemplary embodiments of the present invention. This discussion is believed to assist in providing a framework to facilitate a better understanding of particular aspects of the present invention. Accordingly, it should be understood that this section should be read in this light, and not necessarily as admissions of any prior art.

[0003] For many reasons, hydrogen is rapidly becoming a popular alternative energy source. Hydrogen is a low emission or even zero emissions fuel and offers customers the same fueling experience as traditional fossil fuels, in terms of vehicle fueling time and vehicle range.

[0004] Despite these advantages, however, potential end users face barriers to entry for using hydrogen as a convenient and affordable energy source. Although the number of fixed hydrogen gas stations are increasing, there is a need in the market to serve new customers in a low cost and low risk way. For example, for private trucks and fleets, these stations are often located at inconvenient locations from the end user, requiring significant time and dollar expenditure for access. Without affordable and efficient access to hydrogen, end users may be unwilling to make necessary infrastructure investment to convert devices, vehicles, fleets, and businesses to hydrogen. As a result, potential economic and environmental advantages remain unrealized.

[0005] The invention disclosed herein is not the first one to address these challenges; however, most prior art systems and methods provide a mobile refueling station that has an integrated hydrogen source (i.e., not external), which introduces complexities, such as having to move the mobile refueling station to another location for refilling or bringing another source to refill, as well as limit the amount of hydrogen available at any given moment. For instance, a drawback of an integrated hydrogen source is that it limits the amount of hydrogen available for dispensing by that system and requires time-consuming preparation every time the integrated hydrogen source is refilled, (such as vent stacks, purging of hydrogen systems for transport, connection to the power grid have to be made, etc.).

[0006] Examples of such systems include U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,755,225; 6,786,245; US20030148153; W02011012939A1, each discloses a mobile fueling station that has an integrated hydrogen source (i.e., not external).

[0007] Other patents and publications also disclose mobile delivery stations for storing and dispensing hydrogen, but these stations require an external power source. Examples include International Publication WO 98/52677.

[0008] Thus, none of the prior art systems, methods, or devices adequately address all these challenges to provide affordable and efficient access to hydrogen as a source of energy. Therefore, a need still exists for portable hydrogen supply equipment and methods therein that overcome the shortcomings of the prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Described herein is hydrogen supply equipment that is portable and related methods. In particularly, the hydrogen supply equipment is adapted or configured to be connected to an external hydrogen source to supply hydrogen to a receiving container at any desired location without the need for an external power source or permanent infrastructures typically required for a fixed hydrogen station.

[0010] Provided herein is a portable hydrogen dispensing system comprising: (a) a hydrogen dispensing module for dispensing hydrogen received from an external hydrogen source to a hydrogen receptacle in fluid communication with said hydrogen dispensing module, said hydrogen dispensing module is capable of dispensing hydrogen to the receptacle; (b) a power module for providing electricity to operate the portable hydrogen dispensing system, said power module is capable of receiving hydrogen from the external hydrogen source wherein said power module is configured to use a portion of the hydrogen received from the external hydrogen source to generate said electricity and wherein the power module is capable of generating at least all the electricity to operate the portable hydrogen dispensing system to enable operation of the portable hydrogen dispensing system to be independent of an external source of power; (c) a distribution module operable to enable fluid communication between the external hydrogen source and the hydrogen dispensing module or isolate the hydrogen dispensing module from the hydrogen source, and enable fluid communication between the hydrogen source and the power module or isolate the power module from the hydrogen source; (d) a control module for operating the distribution module to (i) enable fluid communication between the hydrogen source and the hydrogen dispensing module, (ii) isolate the hydrogen dispensing module from the hydrogen source, (iii) enable fluid communication between the hydrogen source and the power module, or (iv) isolate the power module from the hydrogen source based at least on whether the portable hydrogen dispensing system is being connected to or disconnected from the hydrogen source, wherein said control module is configured to operate the hydrogen dispensing module to provide hydrogen to the hydrogen receptacle at a variable flow rate in a range from greater than zero grams/second to a maximum rate of 300 grams/second, wherein said hydrogen dispensing module is capable of operating at a variable flow rate as determined by the control module based at least on inputs comprising the pressure of hydrogen in the hydrogen receptacle and the pressure rating of the hydrogen receptacle, wherein said control module is configured to operate the power module to generate an amount of energy determined by the control module based at least on inputs comprising the power requirement of at least one of the hydrogen dispensing module, the distribution module, and the control module, wherein the distribution module, the hydrogen dispensing module, the power module, and the control module are secured in a manner to enable the portable hydrogen dispensing system to be transported from one location to another location.

[0011] Optionally, the system can further comprise a cooling module disposed between the distribution module and the hydrogen dispensing module for cooling the hydrogen received from the hydrogen source by at least 2.5 degrees Celsius and up to 100 degrees Celsius for dispensing by the hydrogen dispensing module; wherein the cooling module, the distribution module, the hydrogen dispensing module, the power module, and the control module are secured in a manner to enable the portable hydrogen dispensing system to be transported from one location to another location.

[0012] Optionally, the system can further comprise a compressing module disposed between the distribution module and (i) the hydrogen dispensing module or (ii) the cooling module for compressing the hydrogen received from the hydrogen source to a higher pressure of up to 150 MPa prior to cooling by the cooling module or dispensing by the hydrogen dispensing module; wherein the compressing module, cooling module, the distribution module, the hydrogen dispensing module, the power module, and the control module are secured in a manner to enable the portable hydrogen dispensing system to be transported from one location to another location. [0013] Optionally the system can further comprise a hydrogen storage reservoir disposed between the compressing module and (i) the hydrogen dispensing module or (ii) the cooling module for storing compressed hydrogen from the compressing module prior to cooling by the cooling module or dispensing by the hydrogen dispensing module; wherein the control module provides instructions to the mobile refueling system to dispense hydrogen from the hydrogen storage reservoir or from hydrogen source by way of the hydrogen receiving module depending on the pressure of the hydrogen source, the pressure of the hydrogen storage reservoir, and the pressure of the hydrogen receptacle; wherein the hydrogen storage reservoir, compressing module, cooling module, the distribution module, the hydrogen dispensing module, the power module, and the control module are secured in a manner to enable the portable hydrogen dispensing system to be transported from one location to another location.

[0014] Optionally the system of can further comprise a plurality of hydrogen storage reservoirs to facilitate cascade filling to the receiving container. Optionally, the power module can comprise one or a plurality of fuel cells.

[0015] Optionally, the dispensing module can be configured to dispense hydrogen at a rate in a range from greater than zero grams/second to a maximum rate of 300 grams/second and at a pressure in a range from greater than atmospheric pressure and less than 150 MPa.

[0016] Optionally, the distribution module can comprise a plurality of valves to facilitate flow of hydrogen from the external hydrogen source to the dispensing module at a first pressure and to the power module at a second pressure.

[0017] Optionally, the system can be capable of dispensing hydrogen from an external hydrogen source comprising at least one of a hydrogen tube trailer, a hydrogen pipeline, a steam reformer, and a stationary hydrogen storage tank. Optionally, the system can be configured to dispense from one or a plurality hydrogen tube trailers as an external hydrogen source.

[0018] Optionally, the system can be capable of dispensing hydrogen to a vehicle for use as fuel. Optionally, the system can be configured to dispense hydrogen to a heavy duty vehicle for use as fuel. Optionally, the system can be configured to dispense hydrogen at a nominal pressure of from 0 to 700 bar, preferably from 350 bar to 700 bar.

[0019] Optionally, the system can further comprise one or a plurality of intermodal containers to which the distribution module, the hydrogen dispensing module, the power module, and the control module, and optionally the cooling module, the compressing module, and the hydrogen storage reservoir(s), as applicable, are secured to enable the portable hydrogen dispensing system to be transported from one location to another. Optionally, the one or plurality of intermodal containers can comprise a lifting system to enable the portable hydrogen dispensing system to be lifted at least during loading or unloading for transport.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The following figures are included to illustrate certain aspects of the present disclosure and should not be viewed as exclusive embodiments. The subject matter disclosed is capable of considerable modifications, alterations, combinations, and equivalents in form and function, as will occur to one having ordinary skill in the art and the benefit of this disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of the portable hydrogen dispensing system described herein.

[0022] FIG. 2 illustrates certain aspects of the distribution module of the portable hydrogen dispensing system described herein.

[0023] FIG. 3 illustrates another embodiment of the portable hydrogen dispensing system described herein.

[0024] FIG. 4 illustrates yet another embodiment of the portable hydrogen dispensing system described herein.

Detailed Description

[0025] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. References to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment” “an example embodiment”, etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described. Other suitable modifications and adaptations of the variety of conditions and parameters normally encountered in the field, and which would be apparent to those skilled in the art, are within the spirit and scope of the invention. [0026] Although the following description provides numerous specific details are set forth for a thorough understanding of illustrative embodiments, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art, that embodiments may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well known process steps and/or structures have not been described in detail in order to not unnecessarily obscure the present invention. The features and advantages of embodiments may be better understood with reference to the drawings and discussions that follow.

[0027] In addition, when like elements are used in one or more figures, identical reference characters will be used in each figure, and a detailed description of the element will be provided only at its first occurrence. Some features of the systems described herein may be omitted in certain depicted configurations in the interest of clarity. Moreover, certain features such as, but not limited to pumps, valves, gas bleeds, gas inlets, fluid inlets, fluid outlets and the like have not necessarily been depicted in the figures, but their presence and function will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art. Similarly, the depiction of some of such features in the figures does not indicate that all of them are depicted.

[0028] Described herein is hydrogen supply equipment that is portable and related methods. In particularly, the hydrogen supply equipment is adapted or configured to be connected to an external hydrogen source to supply hydrogen to a receiving container at any desired location without the need for permanent infrastructures typically required for fixed hydrogen stations. The hydrogen supply equipment (which may be referred to as “system” throughout this disclosure) has a power module that is adapted to generate electricity to power the system using a portion of the hydrogen being dispensed to a receiving tank. As such, the portable hydrogen supply system has the option of being independently powered without needing an external power source to be operated. This allows for the portable hydrogen supply system to be placed at a location, such as a remote location, that may not have the power infrastructure needed to operate the portable hydrogen supply system, such as a power grid or generators.

[0029] That is, the portable hydrogen supply equipment or system is “independently- powered”, meaning that the power needed to operate the system to dispense hydrogen, including the power needed to actuate valves, deliver compressed gas at maximum pressure and at maximum rates, provide communications between the fueling station and a vehicle to be filled, and provide communications between the fueling station and a remote monitor, is supplied by the system itself and does not require external electric power or other external utilities. [0030] As defined herein, hydrogen is a fluid comprising molecular hydrogen and up to 5 volume % impurities, which can include other compounds that are not hydrogen. The hydrogen that is dispensed may be a pressurized gas or a liquid. Hydrogen may be stored in a hydrogen source vessel as a liquid or a pressurized gas.

[0031] The portable hydrogen supply system dispenses hydrogen but persons skilled in the art will understand the applicability of this architecture leveraging different types of fuel, for example natural gas, renewable biogas or methanol, or a blended fuel comprising different types of fuels including the aforementioned.

[0032] FIG. 1 depicts certain components of portable hydrogen supply system 100 includes a distribution module 102 operable to (i) enable fluid communication between an external hydrogen source 10 and a hydrogen dispensing module 106 or isolate hydrogen dispensing module 106 from the hydrogen source 10, and (ii) enable fluid communication between the hydrogen source 10 and a power module 108 or isolate the power module 108 from the hydrogen source 10. When the hydrogen dispensing module 106 and the power module 108 are isolated from the hydrogen source 10, the portable hydrogen supply system 100 and the hydrogen source 10 can be separated from one another. In the figures, lines are used to depict the fluid communication between various components.

[0033] During operation of system 100, hydrogen dispensing module 106 is in fluid communication with source 10 to dispense hydrogen to receiving container 30. Dispensing module 106 can dispense at any suitable rate and pressure. For instance, dispensing module can optionally dispense at a rate in a range from greater than zero grams/second to a maximum rate of 300 grams/second and at a pressure in a range from greater than atmospheric pressure and less than 150 MPa. During operation of system 100, power module 108 is in fluid communication with source 10 to receive hydrogen and use a portion of the received hydrogen to generate electricity to power operation of the portable hydrogen supply system 100. The power module 108 is capable of generating electricity to operate the portable hydrogen supply system 100 without relying on another source of power, whether external to system 100 or as part of system 100. That is, power module 108 can function as the sole source of electricity to operate system 100. In other words, power module 108 is capable of generating at least all the electricity to operate the portable hydrogen dispensing system to enable operation of the portable hydrogen dispensing system to be independent of an external source of power. Optionally, system 100 can be adapted to operate using electricity from another source in addition to power module 108 while still retains the option to operate solely on the electricity from power module 108. One of ordinary skill would understand that system 100 can be adapted to operate on a power source other than power module 108 if desired. These additional sources of electricity include the electricity grid, a portable power generator using a hydrocarbon fuel or other fuel, or a battery, among other sources.

[0034] Preferably, power module 108 comprises one or a plurality of fuel cells (such as a fuel cell stack comprising a plurality of fuel cells) that use at least hydrogen as fuel. It is understood that well known related process steps and/or structures that enable the one or more fuel cells of power module 108 to provide electricity to operate system 100 have not been described in detail in order to not unnecessarily obscure the present invention. These other related process steps and/or structures can optionally include battery for standby power and inverter to provide AC power to compressor, etc. As used herein, plurality means two or more. Fuel cells are electrochemical devices that can convert energy stored in fuels to electrical energy, heat, and water. The various types of fuel cells are known to those of ordinary skill. For example, fuel cells are typically classified according to the type of electrolyte employed. For example, proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) typically use synthetic polymers as an electrolyte, phosphoric acid fuel cells (PAFC) use a phosphoric acid (similar to a car battery), molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFC) typically use a molten alkali carbonate of potassium hydroxide solution, and solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) typically use a solid ceramic made mostly of zirconia.

[0035] For embodiments of system 100 in which power module 108 comprises one or more fuel cells, such embodiments can also be capable of providing utilities (electricity, water, heat, fuel in the form of hydrogen) in an emergency. For instance, such embodiments of system 100 can be deployed to an area needing emergency assistance (such as an area impacted by a disaster like earthquake, hurricane, flooding) to provide various utilities as part of the disaster relief effort with minimal or no construction involved. Optionally, such embodiments of system 100 can be deployed with tube trailers if a hydrogen source is not readily available. Alternatively or additionally, such embodiments that are already deployed for use as mobile hydrogen refueling stations can have the added benefit of providing certain utilities should a need arises, such as an emergency scenario.

[0036] System 100 further comprises a control module 112 configured to operate the distribution module 102 to (i) enable fluid communication between hydrogen source 10 and the hydrogen dispensing module 106, (ii) isolate the hydrogen dispensing module 106 from hydrogen source 10, (iii) enable fluid communication between hydrogen source 10 and the power module 108, or (iv) isolate the power module 108 from hydrogen source 10, each of (i) - (iv) based at least on whether the portable hydrogen supply system 100 is to be connected to or disconnected from hydrogen source 10. For instance, if system 100 is deployed to a location to dispense hydrogen from source 10, control module 112 can operate distribution module 102 to enable fluid communication between hydrogen source 10 and dispensing module 106 as well as power module 108 to operate system 100. If system 100 is to be moved to another location or needs to be disconnected from hydrogen source 10 for any reason, control module 112 can operate distribution module 102 to isolate hydrogen dispensing module 106 and power module 108 from hydrogen source 10 (i.e., stop fluid communication) to allow system 100 to be disconnected from source 10.

[0037] Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a portable hydrogen dispensing system comprising: (a) a hydrogen dispensing module for dispensing hydrogen received from an external hydrogen source to a hydrogen receptacle in fluid communication with said hydrogen dispensing module, said hydrogen dispensing module is capable of dispensing hydrogen to the receptacle; (b) a power module for providing electricity to operate the portable hydrogen dispensing system, said power module is capable of receiving hydrogen from the external hydrogen source wherein said power module is configured to use a portion of the hydrogen received from the external hydrogen source to generate said electricity and wherein the power module is capable of generating at least all the electricity to operate the portable hydrogen dispensing system to enable operation of the portable hydrogen dispensing system to be independent of an external source of power; (c) a distribution module operable to (i) enable fluid communication between the external hydrogen source and the hydrogen dispensing module or isolate the hydrogen dispensing module from the hydrogen source, and (ii) enable fluid communication between the hydrogen source and the power module or isolate the power module from the hydrogen source; and (d) a control module for operating the distribution module to (i) enable fluid communication between the hydrogen source and the hydrogen dispensing module, (ii) isolate the hydrogen dispensing module from the hydrogen source, (iii) enable fluid communication between the hydrogen source and the power module, or (iv) isolate the power module from the hydrogen source based at least on whether the portable hydrogen dispensing system is being connected to or disconnected from the hydrogen source. The control module is configured to operate the hydrogen dispensing module to provide hydrogen to the hydrogen receptacle at a variable flow rate in a range from greater than zero grams/second to a maximum rate of 300 grams/second. The hydrogen dispensing module is capable of operating at a variable flow rate as determined by the control module based at least on inputs comprising the pressure of hydrogen in the hydrogen receptacle and the pressure rating of the hydrogen receptacle. The control module is configured to operate the power module to generate an amount of energy determined by the control module based at least on inputs comprising the power requirement of at least one of the hydrogen dispensing module, the distribution module, and the control module. The distribution module, the hydrogen dispensing module, the power module, and the control module are secured in a manner to enable the portable hydrogen dispensing system to be transported from one location to another location.

[0038] Furthermore, control module 112 can operate the hydrogen dispensing module 106 to provide hydrogen to the receiving container 30 at a variable flow rate in a range from greater than zero grams/second to a maximum rate of 300 grams/second. Hydrogen dispensing module 106 can dispense at a variable flow rate as determined by the control module 112 based at least on inputs comprising the pressure of hydrogen in the receiving container 30 and the pressure rating of the receiving container 30. A preferred location for control module 112 is with other electrical equipment such as an electrical panel, but it is understood that it may be located anywhere suitable.

[0039] Also, the control module 112 is configured to operate the power module 108 to generate an amount of energy determined by the control module 112 based at least on inputs comprising the power requirement of at least one of the hydrogen dispensing module 106, the distribution module 102, and the control module 112. The distribution module 102, the hydrogen dispensing module 106, the power module 108, and the control module 112 are secured in a manner to enable the portable hydrogen supply system 100 to be transported from one location to another location.

[0040] As described, hydrogen source 10 is external of portable hydrogen supply system 100, meaning it is not part of system 100. Hydrogen source 10 stores hydrogen which when connected to system 100, the hydrogen can be dispensed or provided to a receiving container, such as receiving container 30. It is understood the term “receiving container” and “receptacle” in this context may be used interchangeably. The hydrogen stored in hydrogen source 10 is under pressure, in a range of greater than atmospheric pressure to less than 100 MPa, and preferably greater than atmospheric pressure (approximately 0. IMPa) to less than 60 MPa. Hydrogen source 10 can be any suitable hydrogen source where an amount of hydrogen is stored for dispensing. Examples of hydrogen source 10 known to one of ordinary skill include a hydrogen tube trailer, a hydrogen pipeline network, or a stationary hydrogen storage tank. It should be noted that optionally, system 100 can be adapted or configured to be connected to a second source of hydrogen (not shown), or two or more of sources 104.

[0041] Receiving container 30 can be any suitable receptacle that can store an amount of hydrogen under pressure for later use. One preferred example of receiving container 30 is a fuel storage tank of a vehicle that uses hydrogen as a fuel, whether light duty such as passenger cars or heavy duty such as trucks. While the portable hydrogen supply system described herein is particularly applicable to dispense hydrogen as fuel to vehicles, it is understood that such system can be used to dispense or provide fuel to any suitable receiving container, storage, or receptacle, such as a stationary hydrogen storage tank, a mobile hydrogen tube trailer, and any combination thereof. As such, alternatively or additionally, system 100 can be provided to distribution centers of tube trailers for use to fdl empty tube trailers.

[0042] Use of hydrogen tube trailers may be preferred at a location which does not have pre-existing hydrogen pipelines to deliver hydrogen from equipment that generates hydrogen (such as a hydrogen electrolyzer or steam methane reformer (SMR)) or which does not have adequate space for a permanent structure such as a stationary hydrogen storage tank. Gaseous hydrogen can be compressed to certain pressures of greater than atmospheric pressure (approximately 0. IMPa) and up to 100 MPa into long cylinders which are stacked on a trailer that can be hauled or moved from one location to another by various means, such as a truck. Delivery of hydrogen tube trailers fdled with hydrogen and pick up of empty trailers can be done to supply a location with hydrogen and/or supplement any existing hydrogen supply or source as needed. That is, in one exemplary embodiment where the portable hydrogen supply system described herein is capable of and/or configured to be used with a portable hydrogen source, such as a hydrogen tube trailer, such embodiment can be operated to dispense hydrogen independent of (or without the need for) any permanent infrastructure such as power grid or stationary hydrogen storage tanks or pipelines. The flexibilities and/or adaptabilities afforded by the various embodiments of the portable hydrogen, particularly the where a hydrogen source is also portable allows for the option of having a mobile hydrogen dispensing station which can be easier to deploy at least as compared to a permanent hydrogen dispensing station (such as less permitting and infrastructure requirements and lower associated costs) and other “mobile” solutions as discussed above (such as option to move less-than-full hydrogen source for refill without needing to move the dispensing equipment, and having the option for different amount of hydrogen available at the source at any given moment, including not being limited by storage size of an integrated source of other “mobile” solutions).

[0043] For locations that may have existing infrastructure to allow connection to a hydrogen source, such as a hydrogen pipeline and/or stationary hydrogen storage tank(s) but may lack a hydrogen dispenser or need additional dispensing capabilities, the portable hydrogen supply system described herein can be transported to such locations and connected to those existing hydrogen source(s). The versatility in being able to connect to a number of hydrogen sources of the portable hydrogen supply system described herein enables deployment of a network of hydrogen dispensing stations at desired locations to allow fuel access for consumers without the need of costly construction of permanent infrastructures or the time associated with such construction. That is, portable hydrogen supply system 100 can be manufactured at commercial scale at one location and transported (via known methods such as rails, trucks, freighter, etc.) to one or more locations for operation as needed, in contrast to conventional stationary hydrogen dispensing stations. Moreover, as the demands for hydrogen fuel increases, locations with adequate demand can replace the portable hydrogen dispensing stations described herein with a stationary hydrogen dispensing station. Such portable systems being displaced can now be moved for use at another location, an option that is not available with stationary stations. That is, embodiments of the portable hydrogen supply system described herein enables cost effective deployment of hydrogen fueling infrastructure, thereby further supporting commercial success of use of and/or access to hydrogen as a fuel, e.g., short time period needed to establish a network of hydrogen dispensing stations.

[0044] Referring to FIG. 1, distribution module 102 is an interface that enables system 100 to connect and disconnect to hydrogen source 10. Because hydrogen source 10 is external, and because the hydrogen stored in hydrogen source 10 is under pressure, and one or more components or modules of system 100 may be at atmospheric pressure (approximately 0.1 MPa) or a pressure different than the pressure of hydrogen source 10, distribution module 102 allows for system 100 to connect to hydrogen source 10 safely by providing, for example, hydrogen filtering if the hydrogen from source 10 does not have the requisite or desired purity, overpressure protection, flow control of the hydrogen coming from source 10 and/or through distribution module 102, monitoring of the hydrogen flow from source 10 and/or through distribution module 102, or any combination thereof.

[0045] Referring to FIG. 2, distribution module 102 comprises isolation valve 202a to allow distribution module 102 to (i) enable fluid communication between hydrogen source 10 and the hydrogen dispensing module 106 or (ii) isolate the hydrogen dispensing module 106 from hydrogen source 10. Optionally, if it is desired to connect system 100 to another hydrogen source, such as source 20, distribution module 102 can comprise another isolation valve 202b to (i) enable fluid communication between the hydrogen source (20) and the hydrogen dispensing module 106 or (ii) isolate the hydrogen dispensing module 106 from the hydrogen source (20). Distribution module 102 further comprises isolation valve 202c to allow distribution module 102 to (iii) enable fluid communication between hydrogen source 10 and the power module 108, or (iv) isolate the power module 108 from hydrogen source 10. Isolation valves are known to one of ordinary skill

[0046] Referring to FIG. 2, distribution module 102 can further comprise a pressure relief valve 204 to provide the desired overpressure protection, and one or a plurality of sensors, such as sensor 206 capable of measuring conditions (such as pressure and temperature) of the hydrogen flow in system 100, for example pressure transducers and temperature sensors. At least one of the sensors is in communication (wired or wireless as known to one of ordinary skill) with control module 112 to provide the captured information to allow for monitoring of pressure and temperature of hydrogen flowing through system 100 at a certain location in system 100 and/or point in time and/or a period of time, or any combination thereof. The isolation valves can be operated by manual actuation and/or actuation by a control signal, for instance, between open or close positions, from a control module such as module 112. Optionally, the isolation valves can also send its status (such as open or close) to control module 112.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 2, one way to operate distribution module 102 to enable fluid communication between hydrogen source 10 and dispensing module 106 or isolate module (106) from hydrogen source 10, is at least to actuate (manually and/or by control module 112) isolation valve 202a to an open position or close position as applicable. Similarly, one way to operate distribution module 102 to enable fluid communication between hydrogen source (10) and power module 108 or isolate module (108) from source 10 is at least to actuate (manually and/or by control module 112) isolation valve 202c as applicable. Optionally, there can also be one or a plurality of pressure control valves arranged between isolation valve 202a and/or 202c and power module 108 to allow the pressure of the hydrogen from source 10 to be lowered to within operational range of power module 108.

[0048] When system 100 is connected to hydrogen source 10 and fluid communication between source 10 and dispensing module 106 is enabled, control module 112 is configured to operate the hydrogen dispensing module 106 to provide hydrogen to the receiving container 30 at a variable flow rate in a range from greater than zero grams/second to a maximum rate of 300 grams/second. Control module 112 determines the flow rate at which hydrogen is dispensed by module 106 based at least on inputs comprising the pressure of hydrogen in the receiving container 30 and the pressure rating of the receiving container 30.

[0049] Optionally, dispensing module 106 can comprise a suitable physical interface (not depicted) known to one of ordinary skill in the art that enables dispensing to different reservoirs at different pressures and flows, such as a nozzle that is designed to be inserted into a hydrogen fuel tank of a vehicle, including light and heavy duty vehicles, so that an appropriate connection is achieved for refueling of hydrogen. Examples of such physical interface includes one or a plurality of nozzles and/or adapters to enable the appropriate connection between dispensing module 106 and receiving container 30. Optionally, adapting dispensing module 106 to comprise multiple nozzles allows for dispensing of hydrogen to a plurality of receiving containers 300. Moreover, the multiple nozzles can optionally be configured to dispense at different pressures and/or flow rates. As noted above, dispensing module 106 can dispense at any suitable rate and pressure. For instance, dispensing module can optionally dispense at a rate in a range from greater than zero grams/second to a maximum rate of 300 grams/second and at a pressure in a range from greater than atmospheric pressure and less than 150 MPa, which can be greater than 20 MPa and up to 150 MPa, greater than 35 MPa and up to 150 MPa, greater 50 MPa and up to 150 MPa, and greater than 70 MPa and up to 150 MPa. In one particular example, one nozzle can dispense at a nominal pressure of 350 bar (35 MPa) for heavy duty vehicle and the other nozzle can dispense at a nominal pressure of 700 bar (70 MPa) for light duty or heavy duty vehicles. It is understood that all the nozzles of one system can be configured to dispense at a nominal pressure of 350 bar (35 MPa) to service (or refuel) heavy duty vehicles, while all the nozzles of another system can be configured to dispense at a nominal pressure of 700 bar (70 MPa) to service (or refuel) light or heavy duty vehicles. Nominal pressure is understood by one of ordinary skill to mean the target end pressure after a refueling session for a vehicle, typically according to one or more refueling standards.

[0050] Control module 112 is configured to operate dispensing module 106 to perform hydrogen dispensing with communication, a so-called “communication fill” and/or dispensing without communication, a so-called “non-communication fill.”

[0051] Preferably, control module 112 is configured to operate dispensing module 106 to perform a “communication fill.” Dispensing with communication is defined as dispensing where sensor signals from receiving container 30 as well as sensor signals associated with system 100, such as signals from one or a plurality of sensors 206, are transmitted to control module 112 to help it determine a flow rate at which hydrogen is dispensed. Sensor signals from either may be from one or more pressure sensors, temperature sensors, and mass flow meters. As described, at least signals comprising pressure of hydrogen in receiving container 30 are transmitted to control module 112. Signals from the sensors may be transmitted to control module 112 via wired or wireless communications known to one of ordinary skill, such as via Infrared (IR) communication, Canbus, Wifi, Bluetooth, Near Field Communication (NFC), DSRC (dedicated short range communications), V2X (vehicle-to-everything) interfaces, etc.

[0052] Dispensing without communication is defined as dispensing where no sensor signals from the receiving vessel are utilized by the programmable controller of the hydrogen dispenser for dispensing hydrogen.

[0053] As described, control module 112 can at least control the operation of distribution module 102, dispensing module 106, and power module 108. Control module 112 is programmable to execute certain algorithm to execute certain actions. Control module 112 is capable of receiving a plurality of input signals from at least, using the input signals in an algorithm according to its programming, and sending an output signal resulting from the algorithm to execute one or more actions, such as to distribution module 102 to open or close certain valve(s), to dispensing module 106 to dispense hydrogen at a certain rate, and/or to power module 108 to generate certain amount of electricity. Control module comprises programmable controllers well- known in the art, such as one or more programmable logic controllers (PLCs), computers, and the like. An algorithm is any step-by-step procedure used by the programmable controller for accomplishing some result. A user interface is a device for entering information by a user. The user interface may be any input device known in the art for entering information, for example, a touch screen, keypad, keyboard, one or more multiple position switches, computer mouse, trackball, push buttons, or voice activated device.

[0054] A hydrogen dispensing rate may be a quantity-based rate or a pressure increasebased rate. A quantity-based hydrogen dispensing rate is a quantity of hydrogen dispensed per unit of time. The quantity may be expressed in terms of mass, moles, volume, or their equivalents. A pressure increased-based rate may be expressed as pressure increase per unit time and is also referred to as pressure ramp rate.

[0055] A hydrogen dispensing rate algorithm is an algorithm used by a programmable controller for effecting the instantaneous hydrogen dispensing rate during dispensing. The dispensing rate may be constant during dispensing or vary as a function of at least one or a plurality or all of the following operating parameters: time, receiving vessel pressure, receiving vessel temperature, hydrogen density in the receiving vessel, hydrogen source pressure, hydrogen source temperature, and/or other operating parameter according to the algorithm.

[0056] Control module 112 determines the hydrogen dispensing rate based at least on inputs comprising the pressure of hydrogen in the receiving container 30 and sends the appropriate signals to hydrogen dispensing module 106 to implement such flow rate. If the hydrogen dispensing rate comprises a variable pressure output and flow, the selection of which operating factors to consider and the ranges of such parameters may be selectable by an operator (such as via a user interface) and/or automatically determined through sensor data/connection with the receiving vessel, particularly a vehicle. Moreover, if the hydrogen dispensing rate comprises a variable pressure output and flow, the interface between dispensing module 106 and receiving vessel 300, such as a nozzle would be capable of accommodating such variable pressure and flow of the dispensing rate.

[0057] Referring to FIG. 1, control module 112 is additionally configured to operate the power module 108 to generate an amount of energy determined by the control module 112. The operation of power module 108 is preferably at least managed by control module 112 such that the amount of energy generated by power module 108 can be variable depending on the power requirements of system 100. Preferably, control module 112 determines the amount of energy to be generate by power module 108 based at least on inputs comprising the power requirement of at least one of the hydrogen dispensing module 106, the distribution module 102. If system 100 comprise other optional components described further below, control module 112 receives power requirement inputs from such modules.

[0058] Power module 108 is capable of generating at least the amount of energy needed to operate system 100, which amount may be variable (i.e., varies from time to time) depending on the needs of system 100. For instance, if system 100 refuels a heavy-duty vehicle at higher volumes of hydrogen as compared to a light duty vehicle, more power is likely needed to operate system 100 for such heavy duty refueling or for refueling of a plurality of vehicles rather than refueling of a single vehicle. Optionally, power module 108 may also be operated to generate power even when system 100 is not in use and/or generate surplus power beyond what is needed to operate system 100 to provide power output generated from hydrogen to serve as grid back-up, energy storage such as in a battery, or charging for an electrical vehicle, or emergency response as described elsewhere herein.

[0059] While power module 108 is capable of generating at least all the electricity needed to operate the portable hydrogen supply system 100 independent of an external power source, it should be noted that optionally, certain embodiments of system 100 can be adapted to connect to and use one or more additional external power sources, such as a power grid or a Battery Electric Vehicle so that electricity powering the operation of system 100 can come from either onboard power module 108 and/or an external power source (not shown).

[0060] Optionally, 100 can have capabilities remote operation where it can be remotely controlled and remotely monitored (such as a “smart” station connected to a network or “internet- of-things”) to enable planning of deployment of one system 100 or a fleet of systems 100, optimization of network and equipment operations and maintenance, as well as other logistical benefits. Additionally, or alternatively, optionally, system 100 can have capabilities to capture and/or transmit operational, maintenance, and/or usage data for data analysis to support further development and/or improvements. Any and all such optional capabilities can be controlled by control module 112.

[0061] Optionally, physical protection components can further be provided, such as movable blast walls and/or fire barriers, impact protection, either (a) as part of system 100, (b) external of system 100, and/or physical components that are removable. For instance, such physical component may be mounted to system 100 for transport and then removed once system 100 is at its designated location. [0062] FIG. 3 depicts system 300 which in addition to comprising distribution module 102, power module 108, dispensing module 106, and control module 112 as described for system 100, system 300 further comprise a cooling module 116 in fluid connection with an outlet of the hydrogen receiving module and with an inlet of the hydrogen dispensing module 106, said cooling module 116is configured (i) to receive hydrogen from the hydrogen receiving reservoir at a first temperature, (ii) to cool the received hydrogen to a second temperature that is lower than the first temperature by an amount in the range of at least 2.5 degrees Celsius and up to 100 degrees Celsius, such as up to 50 degrees Celsius, and (iii) to provide the cooled hydrogen to the hydrogen dispensing module 106. Examples of cooling module 116 are known to one of ordinary skill and typically include equipment that cools via heat exchange with a refrigerant. Such cooling by cooling module 116 at least allows the temperature of the hydrogen being dispensed to be lowered to and/or maintained at a temperature that is within the operating conditions of the receiving vessel 300 when delivered, such as the fuel tank of a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV).

[0063] Referring to FIG. 3, cooling module 116, the distribution module 102, the hydrogen dispensing module 106, the power module 108, and control module 112 are secured in a manner to enable the portable hydrogen supply system 300 to be transported from one location to another location.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 3 , additionally or alternatively, system 300 can further include an optional compressing module 104 in fluid connection with an outlet of the distribution module 102 and with (i) an inlet of the hydrogen dispensing module 106 or (ii) an inlet of the cooling module 116, said compressing module 104 is configured to receive hydrogen from the distribution module 102 at a first pressure between atmospheric pressure and up to 100 MPa, and to compress the received hydrogen to a second pressure that is higher than the first pressure and up to 150 MPa, and (iii) to provide the further pressurized hydrogen to the hydrogen dispensing module 106 or the cooling module 116, as applicable. Such compression by compressing module 104 at least allows the pressure of the hydrogen being dispensed to be increased to a pressure that is within the operating conditions of the receiving container 30 when delivered, such as the fuel tank of a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV). Compressing module 104 can comprise one or a plurality of suitable compressors, including a piston compressor, a diaphragm compressor, a georoter, an electrochemical compressor, or any combination thereof. An embodiment of system 300 that comprises compressing module 104 can be particularly applicable to dispensing hydrogen at a higher pressure, such as at a nominal pressure of 700 bar (70 MPa) for refueling of certain vehicles with such fuel tank specifications.

[0065] For embodiments of system 300 that includes the optional compressing module 104, compressing module 104, cooling module 116, the distribution module 102, the hydrogen dispensing module 106, the power module 108, and control module 112 are secured in a manner to enable the portable hydrogen supply system 100 to be transported from one location to another location.

[0066] Referring to FIG. 3, certain embodiments of system 300 that includes optional compressing module 104 can further comprise an optional hydrogen storage reservoir 118 in fluid connection with an outlet of the compressing module 104. Hydrogen storage reservoir 118 is also in fluid connection with (i) an inlet of the hydrogen dispensing module 106 or (ii) an inlet of the cooling module 116. Hydrogen storage reservoir 118 is configured to receive hydrogen from the compressing module 104 at a first pressure and to store the received hydrogen at a pressure substantially the same as said first pressure of up to 150 MPa and (iii) to provide the further pressurized hydrogen to the hydrogen dispensing module 106 or the cooling module 116, as applicable. Examples of hydrogen storage reservoir 118 include any suitable hydrogen storage tanks known to one of ordinary skill, including Type I, II, III, or IV tanks, and any combination thereof. The tank types indicate the material from which the storage reservoir is made as known to one of ordinary skill. Generally, Type I hydrogen storage reservoir is made of metal; Type II hydrogen storage reservoir is made of a thick metallic liner hoop wrapped with a fiber-resin composite; Type III hydrogen storage reservoir is made of a metallic liner fully-wrapped with a fiber-resin composite; and Type IV hydrogen storage reservoir is made of polymeric liner fully- wrapped with a fiber-resin composite.

[0067] Optionally, system 300 can further comprise a plurality of hydrogen storage reservoirs 118 (a second, third, fourth, etc.), with each reservoir capable of being in fluid communication with each other and as well as being isolated from one another, which can be achieved by means known to one of ordinary skill, such as one or a plurality of isolation valves.

[0068] For embodiments of system 300 that includes the optional compressing module 104 and optional hydrogen storage reservoir 118, the compressing module 104, hydrogen storage reservoir 118, cooling module 116, the distribution module 102, the hydrogen dispensing module 106, the power module 108, and the control module 112 are secured in a manner to enable the portable hydrogen supply system 100 to be transported to another location.

[0069] If system 300 comprises one or a plurality of hydrogen storage reservoirs 118 and compressing module 104, such system 100 can have more options for optimal hydrogen dispensing by leveraging the pressure difference between various hydrogen storage units (such as one or a plurality of hydrogen source 10 and/or one or a plurality of hydrogen storage reservoirs 118), also known as cascade filling. Compressing module 104 can be used to compress the hydrogen from source 10 to a certain pressure in any particular hydrogen storage reservoir 118 to create a high pressure hydrogen storage unit, such as pressure in a range of greater than atmospheric pressure, optionally greater than the nominal pressure of the receiving container (such as greater than the targeted pressure of the receiving container after a refueling session, which can be greater than 20 MPa, greater than 35 MPa, greater 50 MPa, greater than 70 MPa) and less than 150 MPa.

[0070] One practice of cascade fdling is to sequential fdl starting with the dispensing or refueling process with a hydrogen storage unit (either source 10 or a particular hydrogen storage reservoir 118) having a pressure that is the lowest amongst the storage units whose pressure is higher than the pressure of the receiving reservoir 300 until pressure equalization between that initial storage unit and receiving reservoir 300, and subsequently continue the dispensing process with each of the higher pressure sources in order of increasing pressure until receiving reservoir 300 reaches its target pressure. For example, if a heavy-duty FCEV shows up to system 100 for refueling with its fuel tank at 50 bar. The refueling process can begin with a hydrogen source 10 that is a tube trailer, meaning its pressure is at for example 300 bar (30 MPa), until the pressure of the fuel tank of the FCEV reaches approximately 300 bar. The refueling process can subsequently continue and finish filling from 300-700 bar from one HP reservoir 118 and/or a plurality of HP reservoirs 118.

[0071] For a system 300 with one or a plurality of hydrogen storage reservoirs 118 and compressing module 104, control module 112 is preferably programmed to control the various components to employ cascade filling, such as by monitoring various pressures and actuating the appropriate valve(s) to enable fluid communication or isolating a hydrogen storage unit for filing as appropriate. [0072] It is understood that the selection of any one or more of the following is design choice depending on the desired specifications and/or system objectives. For instance, referring to FIG. 4, one such selection is depicted with system 400 where the pressurized hydrogen from compressing module 104 is directed to optional cooling module 116 then for dispensing by dispensing module 106 rather than being stored at the higher pressure in hydrogen reservoir 118. The benefit of not having hydrogen reservoir 118 includes cost and space saving but with the drawback of potentially suboptimal fdling in terms of energy efficiency as the option for passive filling from pressure differential is not available and is at least compensated by operation of compressing module 104 to achieve the desired pressure(s) for dispensing, which increases power requirement for operation.

[0073] Optionally, the portable hydrogen dispensing system described herein (such as systems 100, 300, and/or 400) can further comprise one or a plurality of intermodal containers to which its various modules are connected to facilitate ease of transportation of the system. Intermodal containers (IC) are known to one of ordinary skilled. Generally speaking, an intermodal container is also known as shipping or freight containers and are conventionally used for the storage and movement of materials and products within a global containerized intermodal freight transport system. “Intermodal” indicates that the IC can be moved from one mode of transport to another (e.g. from ship, to rail, to truck) without unloading and reloading the contents of the IC. Under international standard ISO 6346, the length of an IC may be any of a range of external lengths each corresponding to an ISO 6346 reporting mark. Such lengths may vary from 8 feet (2.438 m) to 56 feet (17.07 m) with the most common lengths being 20 feet and 40 feet. Heights of containers compliant with ISO 6346 are from 8 feet (2.438 m) to 9 feet 6 inches (2.9 m). Widths are generally 8 feet.

[0074] Preferably, all components or modules of a portable hydrogen dispensing system as described herein are secured to one intermodal container. However, it is understood that the components or modules of a portable hydrogen dispensing system of the present disclosure can also be secured to a plurality of intermodal containers, such as two ICs, whereby the two containers can be transported to the destination and connected so that the hydrogen dispensing system comprises the components or modules from those ICs.

[0075] Optionally, the one or plurality of intermodal containers can further comprise a lifting system to enable the portable hydrogen dispensing system to be lifted at least during loading or unloading for transport. Such lifting system is known to one of ordinary skill and typically comprises hydraulic jacks connected to the intermodal containers near the comers whereby the jacks are extended for lifting or contracted to lower the system.

[0076] Accordingly, the present disclosure provides various embodiments of a hydrogen dispensing system that is portable, independently-powered and is not dependent on an integrated hydrogen source but rather can be used with various hydrogen sources.

[0077] The person skilled in the art will readily understand that the invention can be modified broadly. As a mere example, the system may have various safety features such as a vent stack, ‘fire eyes’ (infrared flame detection), acoustic leak detection and the like.

Claims

CLAIMS ortable hydrogen dispensing system comprising:

(a) a hydrogen dispensing module for dispensing hydrogen received from an external hydrogen source to a hydrogen receptacle in fluid communication with said hydrogen dispensing module, said hydrogen dispensing module is capable of dispensing hydrogen to the receptacle,

(b) a power module for providing electricity to operate the portable hydrogen dispensing system, said power module is capable of receiving hydrogen from the external hydrogen source wherein said power module is configured to use a portion of the hydrogen received from the external hydrogen source to generate said electricity and wherein the power module is capable of generating at least all the electricity to operate the portable hydrogen dispensing system to enable operation of the portable hydrogen dispensing system to be independent of an external source of power;

(c) a distribution module operable to

(i) enable fluid communication between the external hydrogen source and the hydrogen dispensing module or isolate the hydrogen dispensing module from the hydrogen source, and

(ii) enable fluid communication between the hydrogen source and the power module or isolate the power module from the hydrogen source,

(d) a control module for operating the distribution module to (i) enable fluid communication between the hydrogen source and the hydrogen dispensing module, (ii) isolate the hydrogen dispensing module from the hydrogen source, (iii) enable fluid communication between the hydrogen source and the power module, or (iv) isolate the power module from the hydrogen source based at least on whether the portable hydrogen dispensing system is being connected to or disconnected from the hydrogen source, wherein said control module is configured to operate the hydrogen dispensing module to provide hydrogen to the hydrogen receptacle at a variable flow rate in a range from greater than zero grams/second to a maximum rate of 300 grams/second, wherein said hydrogen dispensing module is capable of operating at a variable flow rate as determined by the control module based at least on inputs comprising the pressure of

-23- hydrogen in the hydrogen receptacle and the pressure rating of the hydrogen receptacle; wherein said control module is configured to operate the power module to generate an amount of energy determined by the control module based at least on inputs comprising the power requirement of at least one of the hydrogen dispensing module, the distribution module, and the control module; wherein the distribution module, the hydrogen dispensing module, the power module, and the control module are secured in a manner to enable the portable hydrogen dispensing system to be transported from one location to another location.

2. The system of claim 1 further comprising: a cooling module disposed between the distribution module and the hydrogen dispensing module for cooling the hydrogen received from the hydrogen source by at least 2.5 degrees Celsius and up to 100 degrees Celsius for dispensing by the hydrogen dispensing module; wherein the cooling module, the distribution module, the hydrogen dispensing module, the power module, and the control module are secured in a manner to enable the portable hydrogen dispensing system to be transported from one location to another location.

3. The system of any preceding claims further comprising: a compressing module disposed between the distribution module and (i) the hydrogen dispensing module or (ii) the cooling module for compressing the hydrogen received from the hydrogen source to a higher pressure of up to 150 MPa prior to cooling by the cooling module or dispensing by the hydrogen dispensing module; wherein the compressing module, cooling module, the distribution module, the hydrogen dispensing module, the power module, and the control module are secured in a manner to enable the portable hydrogen dispensing system to be transported from one location to another location. The system of claim 3 further comprising: a hydrogen storage reservoir disposed between the compressing module and (i) the hydrogen dispensing module or (ii) the cooling module for storing compressed hydrogen from the compressing module prior to cooling by the cooling module or dispensing by the hydrogen dispensing module; wherein the control module provides instructions to the mobile refueling system to dispense hydrogen from the hydrogen storage reservoir or from hydrogen source by way of the hydrogen receiving module depending on the pressure of the hydrogen source, the pressure of the hydrogen storage reservoir, and the pressure of the hydrogen receptacle; wherein the hydrogen storage reservoir, compressing module, cooling module, the distribution module, the hydrogen dispensing module, the power module, and the control module are secured in a manner to enable the portable hydrogen dispensing system to be transported from one location to another location. The system of claim 4 comprising a plurality of hydrogen storage reservoirs to facilitate cascade filling to the receiving container. The system of any preceding claims wherein the power module comprises one or a plurality of fuel cells. The system of any preceding claims wherein the distribution module comprises a plurality of valves to facilitate flow of hydrogen from the external hydrogen source to the dispensing module at a first pressure and to the power module at a second pressure. The system of any preceding claims wherein the system is capable of dispensing hydrogen from an external hydrogen source comprising at least one of a hydrogen tube trailer, a hydrogen pipeline, a steam reformer, and a stationary hydrogen storage tank. The system of any preceding claims wherein the system is configured to dispense from one or a plurality hydrogen tube trailers as an external hydrogen source. The system of any preceding claims wherein the system is configured to dispense hydrogen to a vehicle for use as fuel. The system of any preceding claims wherein the system is configured to dispense hydrogen to a heavy-duty vehicle for use as fuel. The system of any preceding claims wherein the system is configured to dispense hydrogen at a nominal pressure of from 35 MPa (350 bar) to 70 MPa (700 bar). The system of any preceding claims further comprising one or a plurality of intermodal containers to which the distribution module, the hydrogen dispensing module, the power module, and the control module, and optionally the cooling module, the compressing module, and the hydrogen storage reservoir(s), as applicable, are secured to enable the portable hydrogen dispensing system to be transported from one location to another. The system of claim 13 wherein the one or plurality of intermodal containers comprise a lifting system to enable the portable hydrogen dispensing system to be lifted at least during loading or unloading for transport.

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