Kubota Corporation filed a patent for a work vehicle designed to enhance the efficiency and convenience of hydrogen gas refueling. The invention demonstrates notable improvements in the realm of hydrogen-powered work vehicles by addressing one of the industry’s primary concerns: ease of refueling.
Overview of the Patent
The patented work vehicle, identified as a model (1), includes several key components:
– A vehicle body (2)
– A travel device (4) that supports the vehicle body and facilitates movement
– A hydrogen tank (5) for hydrogen gas storage
– A drive device (6) for powering the travel device
– A gas filling port (13) designed for connecting an external hydrogen gas supply nozzle
– A movement mechanism (14) that adjusts the position of the gas filling port relative to the vehicle body
Technological Innovations
One of the standout features of this innovation is the movement mechanism (14). This mechanism allows the gas-filling port (13) to change its position relative to the vehicle body (2), increasing the ease and efficiency of refueling. This adjustment capability reduces the potential for human error during the refueling process and enhances compatibility with various hydrogen fueling station designs.
Potential Applications
The primary application of this patented technology lies in hydrogen-powered work vehicles, such as forklifts, agricultural machinery, and construction vehicles. These vehicles often operate in demanding environments where efficiency and reliability are critical. The improved refueling system can significantly reduce downtime and operational costs.
Technical Specifications
The patent documentation details several necessary technical specifications:
– The gas filling port connects seamlessly with the gas filling nozzle (G1) from external supply machines.
– The movement mechanism (14) provides flexibility in positioning, allowing for better alignment and connection during refueling.
– The hydrogen tank is securely integrated to ensure safe hydrogen gas storage.
Key Takeaways
Kubota Corporation’s new patent introduces an innovative hydrogen refueling system for work vehicles, enhancing ease of use and operational efficiency. The adaptable gas filling port and movement mechanism represents significant improvements over existing technologies, likely promoting broader adoption of hydrogen-powered vehicles across various industries. As the hydrogen market grows, innovations like this will facilitate a smoother transition to cleaner energy solutions.
