Patent ID: 12203401

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

So that the manner in which the features and advantages of the embodiments of the systems and methods disclosed herein, as well as others that will become apparent, may be understood in more detail, a more particular description of embodiments of systems and methods briefly summarized above may be had by reference to the following detailed description of embodiments thereof, in which one or more are further illustrated in the appended drawings, which form a part of this specification. It is to be noted, however, that the drawings illustrate only various embodiments of the systems and methods disclosed herein and are therefore not to be considered limiting of the scope of the systems and methods disclosed herein as it may include other effective embodiments as well.

When facing a decision on how to move goods, products, and/or people a consumer, and/or organization may evaluate such a decision based on a vehicle's total cost of ownership, reliability, total greenhouse gas emissions, and/or other factors. When attempting to offset or prioritize greenhouse gas emissions, the user and/or organization may purchase or utilize an alternative fuel vehicle (e.g., fuel cell or battery electric vehicles). Further, while such an alternative fuel vehicle may be considered a low or no greenhouse gas emission vehicle, manufacturing of alternative fuel vehicles, particularly electric vehicles, and components, as well as the production of the electricity to charge electric vehicles, may produce some level of greenhouse gases, as illustrated inFIG.1Bchart26. For example, full deployment (e.g., exiting manufacturing) of an electric vehicle may produce approximately or about 50 percent or more carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions than a comparable internal combustion engine vehicle, and unless the infrastructure to provide electricity to charge such an electric vehicle is materially revamped such that operation is based on 100 percent renewable power sources, the electricity to power/charge an electrical vehicle may likely include some amount of CO2e emissions. The systems and methods described herein provides a scalable and meaningful greenhouse gas capture and reduction platform. The effectiveness of such a greenhouse gas capture and reduction platform may be determined utilizing a ‘cradle to grave analysis’, which takes into account the full life-cycle of a vehicle and therefore the total CO2e of different types of vehicles. Chart26utilizes publicly available information and considers a vehicle life-cycle of about 150,000 miles. The y-axis measurement of chart26represents kilograms of CO2e and the x-axis compares an internal combustion engine vehicle fueled with diesel, gasoline, or renewable diesel to an electric vehicle with varying battery-mile ranges, e.g., about 60, about 70, about 85, about 100, and about 200 kilowatt-hours. By utilizing the systems and methods described herein, the internal combustion engine vehicle may include a large and/or meaningful impact on total emissions associated with transportation as shown in chart26. As a function of capture efficiency, an internal combustion vehicle may outperform an electric vehicle in relation to life-cycle CO2e emissions.

The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods to allow a motorist or other users to off-load combustion products, e.g., exhaust or different components or chemicals in exhaust, and/or other captured greenhouse gases directly from the air, both of which may be captured and stored on-board the motorist vehicle or other vehicle. In another embodiment, the combustion products and/or the captured greenhouse gases may primarily include carbon dioxide. Further, the combustion products and/or the captured greenhouse gases may include portions of nitrogen and/or water, among other chemicals. The stored, captured, and/or or off-loaded exhaust may be in various forms when off-loaded, including a gas, compressed fluid/gas, solid, or liquid. The systems may be located in or the methods performed at various and multiple locations, allowing for wide adoption and scale, ease of installation, and/or wide accessibility. For example, the systems and methods may be located or performed at a convenience store, a truck stop, terminal during a typical refueling, at a service station while services are performed or issues relating to the vehicle are resolved, at a common node for mass transit vehicles (e.g., a destination hub), and/or at varying other locations related to or not related to vehicle use that allows for wide-spread access. The systems and methods may include a combined fuel and exhaust pump or dispenser/receiver, separate fuel and exhaust pumps or dispensers/receivers, or a fuel pump/dispenser/receiver island, i.e., a row of fuel pumps or dispensers including a corresponding one or more exhaust pumps or receivers. The exhaust pumps/receivers may also be separate from fuel pumps/dispenser or not co-located with fuel pumps/dispensers. An exhaust pump/receiver, whether co-located with a fuel pump/dispenser or not, may include an exhaust nozzle. The exhaust nozzle may correspond to a vehicle exhaust port. The vehicle exhaust port may allow for transport or off-loading of captured exhaust from an on-board vehicle exhaust capture device. Such an on-board vehicle exhaust capture device may capture or collect exhaust. The on-board vehicle exhaust capture device may further be configured to capture carbon dioxide directly from the air. The exhaust nozzle, as noted, may correspond to and/or align with and be sealingly engageable with the vehicle exhaust port, thus creating an air-tight seal between the exhaust nozzle and the vehicle exhaust port. Such an air-tight seal may prevent leakage of exhaust or carbon dioxide and provide a safe transfer of exhaust or carbon dioxide from the vehicle to the exhaust pump; considered as a closed system. The exhaust nozzle may connect to a pipe, such as a flexible hose able to withstand high pressure and/or low temperatures.

In an embodiment, the exhaust may be off-loaded as a gas. In such embodiments, the pipe may connect to a compressor. The compressor may compress the fluid from the vehicle. The compressor may be a multi-stage compressor. The multi-stage compressor may include one or more compressors connected via intercoolers. Each of the compressors may compress gas or fluid to different pressures. For example, a first compressor may be a low pressure compressor and a second compressor may be a high pressure compressor. The compressor, if present, or the pipe may connect to an exhaust holding tank. The exhaust holding tank may store the exhaust until retrieved or transported, e.g., such as by a delivery vehicle, pipe or pipeline, rail, or marine vessel. A meter may be disposed at some point between the exhaust nozzle and the compressor or pump or exhaust holding tank. The meter may clamp on or may be integrated in or on the pipe and measure an amount of exhaust flowing from the vehicle to the exhaust holding tank.

In another embodiment, the exhaust may be off-loaded as a liquid. The liquid may include carbon dioxide and/or portions of nitrogen and/or water, among other chemicals. In such embodiments where water may be included in the exhaust, the pipe may connect to dryer. The dryer may remove water from the liquid. The dryer may use a desiccant to remove any water in the liquid. The liquid may then travel to a knock-out drum to separate any gas or vapor that may form in or may be included along with the liquid. The remaining liquid may then be pumped to a storage tank. Any gas or vapor may be transported from the knock-out drum to an intermediate storage tank. The gas or vapor may flow to a refrigeration unit. The refrigeration unit may condense the gas or vapor to form a liquid, which may be pumped to the storage tank. The storage tank may store the liquid at a specified or selected temperature and/or pressure until subsequent transportation to market.

FIG.1Ais a diagram illustrating one or more embodiments to capture exhaust or greenhouse gas at an exhaust pump or receiver and transport the exhaust or greenhouse gas for further re-use or sequestration, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. A delivery vehicle, truck, pipeline, rail, marine vessel, or other means of transportation10may deliver fuel to a market, end user, or point of sale12, e.g., a convenience store, truck stop or terminal, a railway station, a bus or semi-truck depot, an airport, a dock or marine vessel refueling site, or other location where a vehicle may be re-fueled. A vehicle or motorist vehicle may re-fuel at such sites. Further, such sites may include exhaust or greenhouse gas off-loading and storage capabilities (see14). The exhaust or greenhouse gas off-loading and storage capabilities may also be disposed, deployed, positioned, or installed in locations other than where vehicles or motorist vehicles may be fueled. The exhaust or greenhouse gas may be withdrawn from the holding tanks at the convenience store or other locations noted above (see16). Another delivery vehicle, truck, pipeline, rail, marine vessel, or other means of transportation18may transport the exhaust or greenhouse gas from the holding tank. The exhaust or greenhouse gas may be aggregated within downstream tanks20. Once an amount of the exhaust or greenhouse gas and a use for the exhaust or greenhouse gas is determined, the exhaust or greenhouse gas may be injected into a long-haul pipeline or transported via rail, marine vessel, or other mass hauling method (see22). In another embodiment, the exhaust or greenhouse gas may be injected into a long-haul pipeline or transported via rail, marine vessel, or other mass hauling method (see22) directly from the holding tanks, rather than being aggregated in tanks20. The exhaust or greenhouse gas may be used as a feedstock, in exploration and production of hydrocarbons, e.g., enhanced oil recovery, for permanent sequestration (see24), and/or for utilization in other processes or markets. The illustration ofFIG.1Amay represent a closed loop of a fuels lifecycle, e.g., such as the path or life of a fuel from wellhead to combustion and/or carbon capture.

FIG.2A,FIG.2B,FIG.2C, andFIG.2Dare schematic diagrams that illustrate scalable greenhouse gas capture systems for off-loading captured exhaust from a motorist vehicle or other vehicle to an exhaust holding tank and transporting the exhaust from the exhaust holding tank via a delivery vehicle or transportation mechanism or device for re-use, recycle, or permanent storage, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. A scalable greenhouse gas capture system100may include sets, rows, or islands of motor fuel and exhaust dispensers/receivers or fuel and exhaust pumps106. The term motor fuel and exhaust dispenser/receiver may be used interchangeably with the term fuel and exhaust pumps106. The fuel and exhaust pumps106may include various components to allow a motorist vehicle101or to off-load combustion products, e.g., exhaust, and/or other greenhouse gases from the air that are captured and stored in an on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104, as well as to allow the motorist vehicle101or other vehicle to re-fuel.

In addition to motorist vehicle101utilizing the scalable greenhouse gas capture system100, a variety of different types of vehicles, motor driven devices, or other mechanisms may utilize the scalable greenhouse gas capture system100. A vehicle may include a car, a truck, a heavy vehicle (e.g., delivery vehicle132, semi-truck, or eighteen wheeler), a bus, heavy equipment, an internal combustion engine/electric hybrid, battery powered electric vehicle, and/or other vehicle types. Further, the fuel and exhaust pump106or a separate exhaust pump may be located in a variety of locations, such as at a convenience store, bus or truck terminal, truck stop, seaport, river port, service station or store, motorist vehicle dealership, parking lot or garage, airport, and/or any other location where a motorist vehicle101or other vehicle may travel. While description herein includes off-loading exhaust from a motorist vehicle101, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that exhaust may be off-loaded from the other types of vehicles, described herein, or other equipment, e.g., such as airplanes, boats/ships/marine vessels, or any other vehicle that may produce exhaust or greenhouse gases, equipment, heavy equipment, or any other mobile, moveable, non-static or dynamic exhaust or greenhouse gas capture device.

The motorist vehicle101may include, as noted, an on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104, an on-board carbon capture device, or an on-board greenhouse gas capture device. As will be understood, on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may be used interchangeably with on-board carbon capture device and/or on-board greenhouse gas capture device. The on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may be one of a variety of devices to capture exhaust or other components of exhaust from an internal combustion engine of a motorist vehicle or other vehicle. One such device may capture the total or varying portions of exhaust produced by the internal combustion engine. In such embodiments, the cost of the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may be off-set by the lack of expense for a catalytic converter, which may potentially no longer be required. In another embodiment, the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may be designed or configured to capture carbon dioxide or filter carbon dioxide from exhaust and then capture the filtered carbon dioxide. Such configurations may additionally capture some portion of nitrogen and/or water, among other chemicals (e.g., SOx, NOx, etc.). The on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may be disposed downstream of the catalytic converter of the motorist vehicle101. The on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may capture the exhaust or a portion of the exhaust produced after exhaust produced by an internal combustion engine passes through the catalytic converter. The on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may be configured to capture carbon dioxide, greenhouse gases, all or portions of exhaust of an internal combustion engine vehicle, methane, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, benzene, formaldehyde, polycyclic hydrocarbons, other particulate matter, other trace chemicals, and/or some combination thereof. The on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may inadvertently capture trace amounts of other chemicals and/or water. The on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may include a compressor to compress the exhaust or carbon dioxide, to ensure that a large quantity of carbon dioxide may be stored on the motorist vehicle101. The on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may include components to convert captured carbon dioxide, which may or may not include other chemicals (e.g., nitrogen), to a liquid. In such embodiments, a cooling or refrigeration unit may be included on-board the motorist vehicle101and/or on-site at the scalable greenhouse gas capture system100to ensure that the liquefied carbon dioxide may be stored at the proper temperature, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

The on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may include a filter media or catalyst to capture carbon dioxide within a solid, e.g., through adsorption or absorption. The filter or catalyst may be arranged in a fixed bed. Thus, the catalyst may be included as a fixed catalyst. As exhaust flows through the fixed catalyst or filter media, carbon dioxide may be adsorbed within pores of the catalyst or filter media or otherwise attach to or bond to the catalyst/filter media. To remove the carbon dioxide, the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may include a heating element to heat the catalyst or medium storing the carbon dioxide to release the carbon dioxide, e.g., the carbon dioxide to be released as a gas. Thus, heat may be efficiently used through an existing on-board process and recycled to the unit instead of “wasted”. In another embodiment, the fixed catalyst may be included in a removable module. To remove carbon dioxide stored in the fixed catalyst, a user may remove the removable module and place or insert the module in a corresponding receptacle at the fuel and exhaust pump106. Upon reception of the removable module, the fuel and exhaust pump106may offer a new removable module for insertion into the motorist vehicle or other vehicle. In one or more embodiments, the filter or catalyst may be included in a fluid. The fluid may capture or absorb the carbon dioxide as carbon dioxide passes through the fluid. To remove the carbon dioxide, the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may include a heating element to heat the fluid storing the carbon dioxide to release the carbon dioxide, e.g., the carbon dioxide to be released as a gas. In another example, the carbon dioxide may be removed from the fluid via components or devices at the scalable greenhouse gas capture system100. For example, if the carbon dioxide/greenhouse gases are captured in a fluid or fluid carried catalyst, a motorist or user may off-load the fluid/catalyst at the fuel and exhaust pump106. The fluid/catalyst may be transported to a tank or intermediate holding tank. The fluid/catalyst may be heated in the tank to extract the carbon dioxide from the fluid/catalyst. The carbon dioxide may then be transferred to an exhaust holding tank122. Further, the fuel and exhaust pump106may be configured to provide either new fluid/catalyst or recycled fluid/catalyst, e.g., fluid/catalyst that has had carbon dioxide removed. In yet another example, the scalable greenhouse gas capture system100may capture carbon dioxide from a similar motorist vehicle or other vehicle that includes a liquid arranged and designed to capture greenhouse gases/carbon dioxide. In such examples, the motorist vehicle or vehicle may include a regenerative loop. As an absorbent liquid flows through a cool part or portion of a loop, the liquid may absorb carbon dioxide/greenhouse gases. The liquid may then flow to a hot part or portion of the loop. As the liquid heats up, the liquid may release the absorbed carbon dioxide/greenhouse gases. The released carbon dioxide/greenhouse gases may flow to a compressor and/or be stored on-board the vehicle.

The on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may capture anywhere up to 100% of the exhaust of a motorist vehicle101. In one or more embodiments, the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may capture at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 90% or more of the carbon dioxide in the exhaust that results from on-board vehicle combustion. The on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may include a bypass device to allow for exhaust to be released to the atmosphere when the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104is at capacity. The on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may include a range limiter to prevent the motorist vehicle101from traveling past a specified distance when the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104is at capacity. The on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may store an amount of exhaust or carbon dioxide, e.g., such as about 100 pounds or less, about 500 pounds, about 1,000 pounds, about 5,000 pounds, or more. In any of the embodiments described herein, the scalable greenhouse gas capture system100may be configured to off-load any form of captured exhaust, e.g., compressed gas or liquid, adsorbed into solids adsorbents, etc. In other embodiments, the scalable greenhouse gas capture system100may include a plurality of pumps, compressors, nozzles, and/or other options to accommodate varying and/or different types of on-board vehicle exhaust capture devices.

As noted, the off-loaded exhaust may be in various forms, such as a gas, liquid, or solid. The off-loaded exhaust may include or may comprise carbon dioxide. In addition to the carbon dioxide, the off-loaded exhaust may include amounts of oxygen, nitrogen, and/or water. The liquid may comprise different combinations of carbon dioxide and other chemicals, including, but not limited to, mixtures comprising about 96 mol % carbon dioxide and about 4 mol % nitrogen; about 93 mol % carbon dioxide, about 4 mol % nitrogen, and about 3 mol % water; or about 95 mol % carbon dioxide, about 4 mol % nitrogen, and about 1 mol % water. Further, as environmental conditions (e.g., ambient temperatures) vary, the mixture composition may vary (e.g., as temperatures increase the liquid may include more water in relation to carbon dioxide, while the amount of water may be reduced in cooler temperatures). In an embodiment, the exhaust may include a portion or amount of water. In such examples, prior to further storage or processing at the scalable greenhouse capture system100, the water may be removed. If water is left in exhaust (e.g., liquid carbon dioxide), the water may freeze and cause a blockage or may cause other issues, such as corrosion to the pipe and equipment. To remove the water, the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104or the fuel and exhaust pumps106may include a dryer. The dryer may include a desiccant or be otherwise configured to remove the water, thus ensuring proper and continued operation of the scalable greenhouse capture system100.

While a vehicle101, such as a car, truck, boat or other motorist driven vehicle may include an on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104to capture exhaust produced by an internal combustion engine, the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may also be configured to capture specific chemicals or greenhouse gases directly from the air, i.e., the atmospheric air exterior to the motorist vehicle101or vehicle. In such embodiments, the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may be included in or on a variety of vehicles, e.g., such as an electric vehicle, a fuel-cell based vehicle, a natural gas based vehicle, a hydrogen powered vehicle any other alternative fuel based vehicle, heavy vehicles, trucks, eighteen wheelers, marine vessels, airplanes or aircraft, and/or some combination thereof. During operation of the vehicle101, air may flow into or through the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104. The on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may capture greenhouse gases, e.g., carbon dioxide, from the air flow. For convenience, such greenhouse gases captured in this way may be referred to as exhaust gases. In another embodiment, the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device104may solely capture other chemicals or greenhouse gases from the air. As used herein, “fuel” may include a variety of different materials or energy utilized to power a vehicle, or equipment, e.g., gasoline, diesel, ethanol, combinations of different renewable and non-renewable fuels, electricity, hydrogen, Liquefied petroleum gas, natural gas, and/or some combination thereof.

When a vehicle101parks or stops adjacent to the fuel and exhaust pump106, a motorist or user of the vehicle101may exit the vehicle101and interact with the user interface102of the fuel and exhaust pump106or fuel and exhaust dispenser/receiver. The user interface102may include various options, actions, and/or information. The user interface102may prompt the motorist or user to pay for fuel, prompt the motorist or user to pay or receive payment or reward to off-load exhaust, prompt the motorist or user to insert a fuel nozzle110into the motorist vehicle's101corresponding fuel port128, prompt the motorist or user to insert an exhaust nozzle108into the motorist vehicle's101corresponding exhaust port130, provide analysis and statistics regarding off-loaded exhaust, provide an off-loaded exhaust history of the motorist, other motorists, and/or users, provide incentives based on off-loaded exhaust of the vehicle101, and/or offer receipt after fuel or energy has been provided and/or exhaust off-loaded. The user interface102may include options to transact payment, via either credit card, debit card, mobile payment applications, cryptocurrency, and/or other forms of suitable payment. In another embodiment, a keypad and magnetic strip scanner and/or chip reader, or other form of payment recognition, such as contactless payment, may be included on the fuel and exhaust pump106to transact payment.

After the motorist or user initiates payment and selects fuel and/or exhaust off-load options, as noted, the motorist or user may be prompted to insert the fuel nozzle110into the vehicle's101corresponding fuel port128and/or insert an exhaust nozzle108into the vehicle's101corresponding exhaust port130, based on whether the motorist or user selects to fuel the vehicle101and/or off-load exhaust from the motorist vehicle101. The fuel nozzle110and/or the exhaust nozzle108may include sensors or pins to determine or provide data to a computing device to determine whether each respective nozzle has been inserted into the corresponding port on the vehicle101. In another embodiment, the user interface102may issue a prompt to the motorist or user to indicate when the fuel nozzle110and/or exhaust nozzle108is inserted into the corresponding port on the vehicle101. In another embodiment, the exhaust nozzle108may include additional safety features to ensure that the exhaust or carbon dioxide, whether compressed, not compressed, or in a liquid form, does not leak during an off-load operation. Such features may allow the exhaust nozzle108to sealingly engage with the exhaust port130of the vehicle101. For example, the exhaust nozzle108may include a male portion surrounded by a gasket, o-ring, or another surround to create a seal between the exhaust nozzle108and exhaust port130of the vehicle101, the exhaust port130including a female portion corresponding to the male portion of the exhaust nozzle108. The seal, as noted, may prevent leakage of exhaust or carbon dioxide, thus preventing potential injury or harm to a motorist or user and/or loss of exhaust or carbon dioxide to atmosphere.

In another embodiment, the exhaust nozzle108may include threads, teeth, ramps, linkages, or magnets. The threads may correspond to threads disposed or located on the inside of the exhaust port. As a motorist or user inserts the exhaust nozzle108into the exhaust port130, a portion of the exhaust nozzle108may be retained within the exhaust port130and may align the threads of the exhaust nozzle108with the inner threads of the exhaust port130. The user may then twist another portion or movable portion of the exhaust nozzle108to tighten the exhaust nozzle108in the exhaust port130to create a seal and/or lock. Other features may be included on the exhaust nozzle108, such as locking or latching components. The locks or latches may correspond to features included in the exhaust port130of the vehicle101. As the exhaust nozzle108is inserted into the exhaust port130, the locking or latching features of the exhaust nozzle108may lock or latch into or onto the corresponding features of the exhaust port130, thus preventing a motorist or user from removing the exhaust nozzle108during exhaust off-load. In such embodiments the exhaust nozzle108may include a feature to unlock or unlatch the exhaust nozzle108from the exhaust port130. Such a feature may be actuated via control signals from the fuel and exhaust pump106, via the user interface102, and/or via a button, switch, or handle on the exhaust nozzle108. In another embodiment, the exhaust nozzle108may be a quick release nozzle. In yet another embodiment, the exhaust nozzle108may include notches or teeth corresponding to protrusions in the exhaust port130. As a motorist or user inserts the exhaust nozzle108into the exhaust port130, the notches may align with the protrusions. Further, channels along the exhaust nozzle may allow for the motorist or user to perform a semi or quarter turn to lock and/or seal the exhaust nozzle108in place.

After a motorist or user has inserted the fuel nozzle110into the vehicle's101corresponding fuel port128and/or the exhaust nozzle108into the vehicle's101corresponding exhaust port130, the fuel and exhaust pump106may begin pumping/dispensing fuel to the vehicle101and/or pumping/receiving exhaust from the vehicle101. The fueling and exhaust off-load operation may take place in a sequential order. For example, the fuel may be pumped to the vehicle101first, followed by pumping the exhaust from the motorist vehicle101. In another embodiment, the exhaust may be removed first, while the fuel is pumped afterwards. In yet another embodiment, such operations, e.g., exhaust removal and/or fuel dispensing, may occur simultaneously, substantially simultaneously, may overlap for a period of time, or one operation may occur while the other does not (e.g., re-fueling with no exhaust offload or exhaust offloading with no re-fueling).

During exhaust off-loading and/or re-fueling or re-charging, the user interface102may include or display various characteristics or statistics related to exhaust off-load and/or fuel dispensing. For example, the user interface102may display the amount of exhaust or carbon dioxide that a user has off-loaded. The user interface102may display the amount of exhaust or carbon dioxide that has been off-loaded in a city, in a state, in a country, and/or worldwide. The user interface102may display the impact of such off-load operations, e.g., that a certain amount of off-loaded exhaust or carbon dioxide is equivalent to planting a certain number of trees, removing a number of conventional internal combustion engine vehicles from the road, and/or reducing the carbon intensity of particular fuels utilized, or, through separate use of machine learning and/or artificial intelligence, offer lifetime carbon emissions/savings compared to certain accepted baselines. The user interface102may display a rolling total of exhaust off-loaded in the current operation and, if a cost is associated with exhaust off-loading, the cost. The user interface102may also display advertisements and/or other messages. The user interface102may also display a motorist's or user's reward points in relation to exhaust or carbon dioxide off-load. In such examples, as a motorist or user off-loads exhaust, the motorist or user may receive incentives, payment, or rewards (for the amount of off-loaded exhaust) from the convenience store, the entity owning or operating the fuel and exhaust pump106, or the entity owning or operating an exhaust pump. Such incentives or rewards may include discounts on fuel or discounts on goods or services sold at the store associated with the fuel and exhaust pump106. Further, such incentives may be offered by third parties for particular amounts of off-loaded exhaust. Stated another way, a motorist or user may be given an option to off-load a particular amount of exhaust for an incentive from a third party. For example, a motorist or user may be offered a number of points or miles, by an airline, for corresponding amounts of off-loaded exhaust. Such amounts may be accounted for within a single off-loading session or cumulatively over multiple off-loading sessions through a deployed program.

The fuel and exhaust pump106may include pipes, e.g., fuel pipe114and exhaust pipe112, connected to and in fluid communication with the fuel nozzle110and exhaust nozzle108, respectively. The fuel pipe114may connect to and be in fluid communication with a fuel tank120or one or more fuel tanks. The fuel pipe114may be a flexible hose or other flexible pipe. Fuel of the scalable greenhouse gas system100may be stored in a fuel tank120, below-or above-grade fuel tanks, or fuel holding tanks. Fuel tank120may include, hold, or store varying types and combinations of gasoline, diesel, ethanol, and/or other bio or renewable fuels, or hydrogen or ammonia. The scalable greenhouse gas capture system100may include one or more different fuel tanks, each storing the same or different fuel types. Fuel may flow from the fuel tank120through, for example, pipe118to the fuel and exhaust pump106and, thus, through fuel pipe114to the fuel nozzle110to the motorist vehicle101. The exhaust pipe112may connect to and be in fluid communication with an underground exhaust holding tank122, an above-ground horizontally oriented exhaust tank134, and/or an above-ground vertically oriented exhaust tank136. The exhaust pipe112may be a flexible hose, a flexible pipe, or any type of pipe able to withstand, potentially, high pressure and/or low temperatures. The exhaust holding tank122may include or have a capacity to store an amount of captured exhaust. The exhaust holding tank122may be configured to or have a capacity to hold exhaust from a number of vehicles e.g., such as, 50 vehicles, 100 vehicles, 200 vehicles, 500 vehicles, or more. The exhaust holding tank122may be configured to hold an amount of exhaust equivalent to a number of motorist vehicles off-loading exhaust each day for about several days, 1 week, 2 weeks, 1 month, or more. In such examples, the exhaust holding tank's122size may be determined based on how frequently a delivery vehicle may pick up the exhaust from the exhaust holding tank. The exhaust holding tank122may be configured to hold the exhaust at high pressure and/or low temperatures or, if the exhaust is off-loaded as a liquid, hold the exhaust at about 300 psig to about 350 psig at low temperatures. As exhaust or carbon dioxide is pumped/transported from the motorist vehicle101, the exhaust may flow through the exhaust nozzle108to the exhaust pipe112to pipe116and finally to the exhaust holding tank122. In an embodiment, the scalable greenhouse gas capture system100may include one or more fuel tanks and one or more exhaust holding tanks. In such embodiments, the one or more exhaust tanks may be located, disposed, or situated above-grade and/or below-grade.

In an embodiment, the fuel tank120may include a delivery vehicle port124or ports. The delivery vehicle port124or ports may allow for delivery vehicle connection. Such a connection may allow for the delivery vehicle132to transfer fuel to the fuel tank120from the delivery vehicle132, e.g., to re-fill the fuel tank120. In another embodiment, the exhaust holding tank122may include a delivery vehicle port124or ports. The delivery vehicle port126or ports may allow for delivery vehicle connection. Such a connection may allow for the delivery vehicle132to transfer exhaust or carbon dioxide from the exhaust holding tank122to the delivery vehicle132, e.g., to empty the exhaust holding tank122.

FIG.3AandFIG.3Bare simplified diagrams that illustrate a novel implementation of a fuel and exhaust pump200for transporting fuel to a vehicle and off-loading exhaust from the vehicle in which the fuel and exhaust pump200has two separate nozzles for fuel and for exhaust, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The fuel and exhaust pump200may be dual sided or include nozzles, user interfaces, and other components on both sides. The fuel and exhaust pump200may include a series of fuel selection buttons202and a series of fuel price displays204. The series of fuel selection buttons202may allow for a user to select a particular fuel when prompted via the user interface224. The series of fuel price displays204may update periodically to display an up-to-date fuel price. Another button, e.g., an exhaust or carbon dioxide button206, and corresponding exhaust or carbon dioxide price display208may be included on the fuel and exhaust pump200. The exhaust or carbon dioxide price display208may indicate that the user must pay an amount to off-load exhaust, will receive an amount back for off-loading exhaust, or may off-load exhaust free of charge. The amount received back may be a fixed amount, may be an amount per ton of exhaust off-loaded, or may be points used in a rewards program.

A user may push the exhaust or carbon dioxide206button to indicate to the fuel and exhaust pump200that the user will off-load exhaust or carbon dioxide. The fuel and exhaust pump200may also include a keypad210, a card chip reader212, and a card magnetic strip reader214, or a touchscreen, or other device or digital and/or wireless interface (e.g., an application on a user's computing device and/or at an interface of the fuel and exhaust pump200) designed or configured to accept user interaction and payment. Such components may allow a user to transact payment for user fuel and/or to off-load exhaust or carbon dioxide. In such examples, a user may drive a user vehicle in front of the fuel and exhaust pump200. The display224may show or display a prompt noting that the user may insert a credit or debit card. Instructions may be included or provided on the fuel and exhaust pump200with respect to how such actions are to be performed. After insertion and removal of the credit or debit card, the display224may include a prompt218asking whether the card is a debit card. If the card is a debit card, which the user may indicate by depressing or pushing buttons216corresponding to “Yes”220or “No”222, the display224may prompt the user to enter a pin number corresponding to the debit card into the keypad210. Other prompts associated with other forms of payment may be displayed. Upon payment, the display224may prompt the user to select a type of fuel, via the series of fuel buttons202. Upon selection of a fuel type, the display224may prompt240the user to select whether to off-load exhaust or carbon dioxide, either via the exhaust or carbon dioxide button206or via selection on the display224through buttons216corresponding to “Yes”220or “No”222. In another embodiment, a user may want to only off-load exhaust or carbon dioxide. In such an embodiment, after selection of payment type and payment, the user may depress or push the exhaust or carbon dioxide button206and not select any of the series of fuel buttons202.

The fuel and exhaust pump200may include two separate nozzles. A fuel nozzle (see232) may connect to the fuel pipe226and an exhaust nozzle (see240) may connect to the exhaust pipe228. The fuel nozzle (see232) may correspond to a vehicles fuel port. The other end of the fuel pipe226may connect to a fuel tank (see230.) Such connections may allow for fluid communication between the fuel nozzle (see232), the fuel pipe226, and the fuel tank (see230) or fuel holding tank. A selected fuel may have a fuel flow228through the fuel pipe226from the fuel tank (see230) to the fuel nozzle (see232). In such examples, the pipe may be comprised of varying and/or different segments. For example, a segment of the fuel pipe226visible to the customer or user may be a flexible pipe or flexible hose. Other segments or portions may be underground and may be rigid or flexible, depending on the type of material used for the fuel pipe226or site specific layouts. Such flexibility may allow a user to place the fuel nozzle232into the corresponding vehicle fuel port while the motorist vehicle or other vehicle is in a range near the fuel and exhaust pump200.

The exhaust nozzle (see240) may correspond to the exhaust port of a vehicle. An exhaust nozzle (see240) may connect to and be in fluid communication with the exhaust pipe234. The other end of the exhaust pipe234may connect to an exhaust holding tank (see238). Such connections may allow for fluid communication between the exhaust nozzle (see240), the exhaust pipe234, and the exhaust holding tank (see238) or exhaust tank. An exhaust flow236may flow through the exhaust pipe234from the exhaust nozzle240to the exhaust holding tank238. In such examples, the exhaust pipe234may include varying and/or different segments. For example, a segment of the exhaust pipe234visible to the customer may be a flexible pipe or flexible hose. Other segments or portions may be underground and may be rigid or flexible, depending on the type of material used for the exhaust pipe234or site specific layouts. Such flexibility may allow a user to place the exhaust nozzle (see240) into the corresponding vehicle exhaust port while the vehicle is in a range near the fuel and exhaust pump200. Each segment utilized may be configured to withstand the pressure and/or temperature of the exhaust or carbon dioxide off-loaded.

In an embodiment, the fuel and exhaust pump200may initially include components related to fueling a vehicle or may be considered a fuel pump or fuel dispenser. The portions or components related to pumping exhaust may be retrofitted or be added to the fuel pump or fuel dispenser, thus creating the fuel and exhaust pump200. In another embodiment, the portions or components related to pumping exhaust may be a part of a kit. The kit may be added to or installed on existing fuel dispensers. In other embodiments, the fuel and exhaust pump200may be constructed as illustrated inFIG.3AthroughFIG.3B. In yet other embodiments, an exhaust pump may not include portions or components related to fuel pumping or fuel dispensing. The exhaust pump may be a standalone system for removing exhaust.

FIG.4A,FIG.4B,FIG.4C, andFIG.4Dare simplified diagrams that illustrate a novel implementation of a fuel and exhaust pump for transporting fuel to a vehicle and off-loading exhaust from the vehicle in which the fuel and exhaust pump includes two separate nozzles for fuel and for exhaust and a touchscreen user interface for user interaction, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. In such embodiments, the fuel and exhaust pump300may include a user interface306. The user interface306may be disposed on one or both sides of the fuel and exhaust pump300. The user interface306may be a touchscreen or include another input device, such as a mobile or electronic application on a user's device and in signal communication with the fuel and exhaust pump300.

As a user begins the operation of fueling and/or off-loading exhaust, a computing device within or connected to the fuel and exhaust pump300may transmit prompts to the user interface306with the prompts being displayed on the user interface306. As used herein, a “computing device” may refer to an electronic device including or connected to one or more processors and non-transitory machine-readable storage medium, e.g., including, but not limited to, a controller, a desktop computer, a microcontroller connected to memory, a server, an edge server, a cloud server, or other devices, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. As used herein, a “non-transitory machine-readable storage medium” may be any electronic, magnetic, optical, or other physical storage apparatus to contain or store information such as executable instructions, data, and the like. For example, any machine-readable storage medium described herein may be any of random access memory (RAM), volatile memory, non-volatile memory, flash memory, a storage drive (e.g., hard drive), a solid state drive, any type of storage disc, and the like, or a combination thereof. As noted, the memory may store or include instructions executable by the processor. As used herein, a “processor” may include, for example one processor or multiple processors included in a single device or distributed across multiple computing devices. The processor may be at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), a semiconductor-based microprocessor, a graphics processing unit (GPU), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) to retrieve and execute instructions, a real time processor (RTP), application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), other electronic circuitry suitable for the retrieval and execution instructions stored on a machine-readable storage medium, or a combination thereof.

As used herein, “signal communication” refers to electric communication such as hard wiring two components together or wireless communication, as understood by those skilled in the art. For example, wireless communication may be Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, ZigBee, or forms of near field communications. In addition, signal communication may include one or more intermediate controllers or relays disposed between elements that are in signal communication with one another.

The computing device may prompt (see302) the user to select a fuel type. A series of selectable buttons304may then be displayed on the user interface306. Each of the series of selectable buttons304may include a price associated with a type of fuel. The user may then select a type of fuel. In other examples, an option to skip fuel selection may be displayed on the user interface306. In yet other examples, options to select fuel and exhaust off-load may be displayed together to allow a user to select fuel and/or exhaust off-loading simultaneously. The user interface306may also include or display other information related to each different type of fuel. For example, the user interface306may display the type of fuel, a carbon intensity of the fuel, an origin of the fuel, certifications regarding fuel sustainability, cost of the fuel, and/or any other quantifiable aspects of the fuel. The carbon intensity of a fuel may be represented by the amount of carbon dioxide by weight per the energy consumed and/or expended to obtain/refine/create/transport the fuel from wellhead to the fuel and exhaust pump300and/or the inherent or theoretical carbon dioxide by weight per the energy consumed during future combustion of the fuel. Stated another way, the carbon intensity may represent the amount of carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases produced at each step of the fuel's lifecycle; scope 1, scope 2, and scope 3 emissions, e.g., exploration and production at a wellhead, transporting to a refinery, processing at a refinery, production at a bio-fuel or ethanol plant or facility, transporting to a convenience store or the like, storage, combustion of the fuel, other processes related to the production and/or use of the fuel (e.g., the Greenhouse gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy use in Transportation (GREET) model, etc.). In addition to displaying the carbon intensity of a fuel, the user interface306may also determine a carbon intensity reduction based on an amount of exhaust or carbon dioxide pumped from a vehicle. For example, if a user selects a particular fuel at a particular carbon intensity and then pumps an amount of exhaust or carbon dioxide via the fuel and exhaust pump300, the user interface306may display the net carbon intensity, e.g., the carbon intensity of the fuel reduced by the amount of carbon dioxide captured by the user during transportation. The carbon intensity measured for particular vehicles may be used as a metric to compare to other options of transportation, e.g. internal combustion engine vehicle as compared with a battery electric vehicle or as compared to a hydrogen fuel cell or hydrogen fueled vehicle.

After selection of a fuel or if the user skips fuel selection, the computing device may generate a prompt330, to display on the user interface306, for the user to select whether to remove captured exhaust or carbon dioxide from the vehicle or the on-board exhaust capture device of the vehicle. The user interface306may display a series of selectable pop-up buttons332, including the option of whether to off-load exhaust or not and a potential cost associated with off-loading the exhaust. In at least embodiment, off-loading exhaust may not include a cost, but a savings. In another embodiment, off-loading exhaust may include a fee or nominal cost, but also include an incentive, such as free goods and/or services, discounts on goods and/or services, and/or a discount on fuel. In yet another embodiment, a user may be compensated for off-loading exhaust and the user interface306may indicate the amount a user may be compensated for a certain amount or quantity of exhaust.

After selecting a fuel and/or selecting whether to off-load exhaust, the user may be prompted to transact payment for the selected fuel and/or exhaust off-loading operation. In an embodiment, the user interface306may include options to pay, for example, via entering a username and credentials for a payment account. In another embodiment the fuel and exhaust pump300may include a keypad308, chip reader310, and/or magnetic strip reader312. The user interface306may then include a prompt to effectuate payment.

Once a payment has been made, the user interface306may prompt the user, if the selection to fuel the vehicle has been made by the user, to insert a fuel nozzle (see320) into a corresponding fuel port of a vehicle and to insert an exhaust nozzle (see328) into a corresponding exhaust port of a vehicle, if the selection to off-load exhaust from the vehicle has been made by the user. The fuel nozzle (see320) may be in fluid communication with a fuel pipe314and the fuel pipe314may be in fluid communication with a fuel tank (see318). Fuel may flow, e.g., fuel flow316, from the fuel tank (see318) through the fuel pipe314and to the fuel nozzle (see320), and thus to the vehicle. The exhaust nozzle (see328) may be in fluid communication with an exhaust pipe322and the exhaust pipe322may be in fluid communication with an exhaust holding tank (see328). Exhaust may flow, e.g., exhaust flow360, from the on-board exhaust capture device of the vehicle to the exhaust nozzle (see328) through the exhaust pipe322and to the exhaust holding tank (see326). In an embodiment, the fuel and exhaust pump300may prevent pumping of exhaust until it is determined that the exhaust nozzle (see328) is sealingly engaged with the corresponding exhaust port of the vehicle.

In an embodiment, the fuel and exhaust pump300may include meters, sensors, and/or analyzers. The meters, sensors, and/or analyzers may be positioned upstream of the fuel nozzle320and/or downstream of the exhaust nozzle328. The meters may be positioned to measure an amount of fuel and/or exhaust, in relation to fuel flowing through the fuel pipe314and in relation to exhaust flowing through the exhaust pipe322, respectively. As the fuel is pumped to the vehicle, the fuel meter may transmit an amount, e.g., volume, of fuel to the user interface306or a computing device in signal communication with the user interface306. A rolling or continuously updating total336, e.g., a total increasing as fuel is pumped, may be displayed, along with an associated cost, on the user interface306. The type of selected fuel334may be identified on the user interface306. As the exhaust is pumped from the vehicle, the exhaust meter may transmit an amount of exhaust to the user interface306or a computing device in signal communication with the user interface306. A rolling or continuously updating total340, e.g., a total increasing as exhaust is pumped from the vehicle, may be displayed, along with an associated cost or payment, on the user interface. The flow of exhaust338may be identified on the user interface306. In another embodiment, the rolling or continuously updating total340may count down from a total amount of exhaust in the vehicle as such total amount may be measured, calculated, or estimated. In a further embodiment, the rolling or continuously updating total340may include a time until the amount of exhaust is completely off-loaded. In such embodiments, the amount of exhaust stored on a vehicle may be determined by the computing device via connections to the vehicle through pins or input/outputs on the exhaust nozzle328. The pins or input/outputs may correspond to pins or inputs/outputs on a vehicle's exhaust port. Data, including the amount of exhaust stored in a vehicle, may be transferred from the vehicle to the fuel and exhaust pump300via the pins or inputs/outputs. In such examples, the data may be utilized to determine an amount of exhaust to off-load and, based on that amount, estimate or determine the time to off-load the exhaust. In another embodiment, the corresponding pins or inputs/outputs of the vehicle may connect to an on-board diagnostic module of the vehicle. The on-board diagnostic module may include an amount of exhaust currently captured by the vehicle based on factors, such as, the amount of fuel consumed by an internal combustion engine and the exhaust flow.

Measurements of the flow rate or amount of exhaust flowing from the vehicle may be stored in the non-transitory machine readable storage medium or memory of: a computing device associated with a convenience store that is in signal communication with the fuel and exhaust pump300at that location, or of a computing device external to the convenience store (e.g., off-site or remote therefrom) that is in signal communication with the fuel and exhaust pump300. Data relating to exhaust off-loading may be accumulated over a period of time or until the exhaust is picked up by a delivery vehicle. The data may be included in a report. The report may be generated by a computing device internal or external to the convenience store or wherever the fuel and exhaust pump300may be located. The report may be in a format suitable for environmental reports to be sent to local, state, and or federal government agencies. The data may also be listed or displayed on the user interface306. The data may be displayed as an exhaust off-load history for a particular user, a local exhaust off-load history (e.g., city, town, county, etc.,), a state off-load exhaust history, a country-wide exhaust off-load history, and/or global exhaust off-load history as illustrated by portion342of the user interface306.

In another embodiment, an analyzer may be disposed at a point between the exhaust nozzle328and exhaust holding tank (see326). The analyzer may obtain or receive a sample of the exhaust. The analyzer may determine, via predictive analytics, machine learning, and/or artificial intelligence, the composition of the sample. The analyzer may send the composition of the exhaust to the computing device for storage, for reporting, or for display on the user interface306. The user interface306may display the composition of the exhaust. The computing device may determine, based on the composition of the exhaust, whether a vehicle may be ready for or in need of service or preventative maintenance. The computing device may determine that the vehicle may require servicing or maintenance. The user interface306may display the suggestion or determination. Based on differing amounts of different chemicals, or purity, in the exhaust, the computing device may determine potential issues with the vehicle, the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device, or the thermal efficiency of the vehicle. For example, if the exhaust includes high amounts of unburned fuel, then the computing device may determine that the vehicles engine may be experiencing issues. In another example, the computing device may determine, based on higher than typical amounts of nitric oxides in exhaust, that an issue exists with a catalytic converter.

FIGS.5A-6are simplified diagrams that illustrate a further novel implementation of a fuel and exhaust pump400(FIG.5A). In embodiments, the fuel and exhaust pump400may be similar to the fuel and exhaust pump200or fuel and exhaust pump300ofFIGS.2A-2DandFIGS.3A-3B. In the present embodiment shown inFIGS.5B-6, the fuel and exhaust pump incorporates a multi-function nozzle assembly401(FIG.5B-5E) as part of a combined fueling and exhaust capture system405schematically illustrated inFIG.6for supplying fuel (e.g. gasoline, diesel fuel, etc . . . ) to a vehicle402, while also enabling off-loading captured exhaust from the vehicle402. In such an implementation the vehicle402will include both a liquid fuel tank403and an on-board vehicle exhaust capture device404configured to capture CO2and other vehicle exhaust gasses.

The vehicle402generally will include a fuel intake line403A and an exhaust outflow line404A that can be integrated, e.g. with the fuel intake line contained within the exhaust outflow line, so as to enable both removal of exhaust (e.g. CO2) from the exhaust capture device of the vehicle and fueling of the vehicle via the multi-function nozzle assembly401through a combined inlet/outlet, such, as indicated at406inFIGS.2D,5F and6. The inlet/outlet406can include both an exhaust port or outlet407connected to the exhaust capture device404(FIG.6), such as one or more CO2tanks408for collection of CO2and other vehicle exhaust gasses on-board he vehicle, by exhaust outflow line404A; and a fuel port or inlet409connected to the fuel tank403of the vehicle by the fuel intake line403A. As indicated inFIG.6, the fuel intake line403A and exhaust outflow line404A can be joined or integrated together at a T-Joint411such that the fuel intake line will be received within and extend along the exhaust outflow line404A to the inlet/outlet.

In addition, as shown inFIGS.5D and6, the fuel tank403can include a pressure relief valve412adapted to vent excess fuel gases to a vapor recovery system or to the atmosphere. The pressure relief valve will be configured to be biased or otherwise maintained in a closed position until a gas pressure within the fuel tank403, due to formation of excess fuel gas therein, exceeds a selected threshold pressure for the fuel tank403, causing the pressure relief valve to open for venting the excess gas to the vapor recovery system or to atmosphere, as indicated inFIG.6, to reduce pressure within the fuel tank and help minimize cavitation of the liquid fuel in the fuel pump or in the fuel tank.

Each fuel and exhaust pump400(FIG.5A) of the combined fueling and exhaust capture system405(FIG.6) can include a multi-function nozzle assembly401for use in both fueling the vehicle and extracting CO2therefrom through a single nozzle, which fueling and exhaust off-load operations can be conducted in a substantially simultaneous operation or in separate operations as needed. As illustrated, inFIGS.5B-5D and5G-5Ithe multi-function nozzle assembly401can include a housing420or body that defines an exhaust nozzle421, and a fuel nozzle422housed within and movable along the exhaust nozzle421, and which is coupled to a fuel intake line425. The fuel nozzle422and fuel intake line425define a first or inner annular fuel inlet passage or cavity423configured for supplying fuel to the fuel tank of the vehicle, while the exhaust nozzle421defines a second or outer annular exhaust outlet passage, indicated at424, circumscribed about the fuel nozzle422and configured for enabling removal or off-loading of captured exhaust. The fuel nozzle422is generally centrally located within the exhaust nozzle421, as shown inFIGS.5B-5D and5G-5I, and extends through the exhaust nozzle421of the multi-function nozzle assembly401for receiving and supplying fuel along the inner fuel passage to the vehicle fuel tank, indicated by arrow427, while exhaust is removed via the outer annular exhaust passage, as indicated by arrow429, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The exhaust can be captured and/or removed in a liquid phase or gaseous phase, or combination thereof.

As indicated inFIGS.5B-5D, the exhaust nozzle421can be configured with or include a first or main body portion431having an outer wall432, a closed rear or distal end433A and an inlet or proximal end433B defining an opening434with an annular rim436. A second or rear body portion437extends downwardly and away from the first or main body portion431and includes a connector438at a distal end thereof. The connector438can include a common threaded connector or female joint type connector adapted to engage and mate with a corresponding coupling connection of a combined fuel and exhaust conduit or conduit440(FIGS.5D-5E).

As indicated inFIGS.5D and6, the fuel inlet passage423and exhaust outlet passage424extend through the multi-function nozzle assembly401with the exhaust outlet passage circumscribed about the fuel inlet passage423. Thus, the flow of fuel can be provided along the fuel inlet passage423in the direction of arrows441, while exhaust, such as CO2or other combustion byproducts, can be off-loaded or exhausted in an opposite direction through the exhaust outlet passage424as shown by arrows442. As additionally indicated inFIG.5D, the combined fuel and exhaust conduit440includes a fuel hose or line443contained within an outer exhaust hose444and extending along an outer annular passage446defined between the exhaust hose444and fuel hose443.

The fuel nozzle422and fuel intake line425of the multi-function nozzle assembly401are coupled to the combined fuel and exhaust conduit440at a common connection point through the connector438. The fuel hose443connects the fuel nozzle to a fuel system445, which generally will include one or more fuel supplies (e.g. one or more tanks and/or or pumps supplying a fuel such as gasoline, diesel fuel, marine fuel, or other liquid or gaseous fuels, as illustrated inFIG.6) for providing an inflow of fuel during a fueling operation; while the exhaust hose connects the exhaust nozzle to an exhaust removal and logistics system447for off-load of captured exhaust from the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device. In embodiments, the exhaust removal and logistics system447can include at least one exhaust holding tank, such as CO2tanks448A (which can include one or more knock-out tanks and one or more holding tanks), a refrigeration system/package448B, and one or more pumps448C, as well as other components as shown inFIG.6. The fuel hose or line443will be contained within the outer exhaust hose so as to be movable with the exhaust hose444, and will separate therefrom at an upstream junction449(e.g. a T-junction as illustrated inFIG.6) and connect to the fuel supply445.

In an embodiment, multi-function nozzle assembly401can be used as part of a joint refueling and exhaust capture system at a refueling site such as a gas station, truck stop or other refueling station or operation, which refueling station, as illustrated inFIG.6, will include at least one bay, e.g., bay A494A; and further may include one or more bays, e.g., bay A494A, bay B494B, bay C494C, and/or up to bay N shown at494N. Each bay494A-494N may include equipment for both off-load of exhaust from a vehicle, and/or for re-fueling other the vehicle, either as separate operations or as a joint/concerted refueling and exhaust off-load operation that can include the use of a multi-function nozzle assembly401, such as illustrated, in one embodiment, inFIG.5B-6.

As illustrated inFIG.6, at any particular point in time, any number of the plurality of bays494A-494N may be active (e.g., exhaust is being off-loaded from a vehicle and/or a vehicle is being re-fueled). During such operations, an exhaust capture nozzle and/or a fuel nozzle (e.g. in embodiments, the multi-function nozzle assembly401) will be engaged with the exhaust outlet and/or fuel intake ports of the vehicle, and once a seal is determined to be in effect, an exhaust off-load and/or fueling operation is initiated upon the user engaging and squeezing or otherwise moving the trigger of the nozzle, whereupon the controller for the fuel pump can signal a station controller to begin draw-out of the exhaust and/or pumping of fuel. To regulate or control pressure during such operations, for example, to control the suction for off-load of exhaust and/or for fueling, the site may include pressure control devices. Such pressure control devices may include a control valve, spillback loops, pumps, and/or other devices configured to adjust pressure.

As shown inFIG.6, in an embodiment, the site may include control valves and spillback loops to regulate and/or control pressure (e.g., control valve495A, control valve495B, control valve495C, and/or up to control valve495N). During an exhaust off-load operation, the pressure of fluid from a vehicle101may be high (e.g., as high as about 1400 psig). The exhaust holding tanks of the site may be configured to hold fluid at a particular pressure, for example about 300 psig to about 350 psig. Preferably, the pressure of the captured exhaust being supplied to the exhaust removal and logistics system447(as indicated at line496which connects the exhaust conduits of each bay to the exhaust removal and logistics system447) and the suction or back-pressure for the off-load of exhaust from each bay will be substantially stable. As more than one bays operate, the pressure drop from the vehicles may vary or fluctuate decrease. To adjust pressure of exhaust flowing from any particular vehicle, the control valve between the exhaust line496and the exhaust conduit of each bay will be adjusted or controlled by the station controller to regulate its operation, e.g. opening and closing of the control valves, to maintain a substantially consistent pressure. Such control valves may be controlled by a computing device or station controller on site. Further, the pressure at any given point throughout the piping or pipeline of the site may be determined via one or more pressure sensors or transducers. For example, a pressure transducer or sensor may be positioned proximate to the control valves and upstream and/or downstream of the control valves.

In embodiments, the fuel hose or line443also can include an insulating material, such as a heat tracing, or a sleeve, cover or a coating of a thermal insulation material, or a combination thereof, to help protect the fuel therein from the substantially lower temperature CO2passing by the fuel line through the exhaust hose. In embodiments the combined fuel and exhaust conduit can have a diameter of about 2.75″ to about 4″, including a fuel line with a dimeter of about 0.75″ to about 1″. Other diameters/sizes also can be provided. In addition, to aid in use and movement of the combined fuel and exhaust conduit at the fuel pump, the combined fuel and exhaust conduit can be supported at the fuel pump by an overhead arm, cable, or other moveable support.

A flexible connector or coupling450(FIGS.5D and5G-5I) couples the fuel nozzle422to the fuel intake line425within the multi-function nozzle assembly. The connector450will comprise a flexible conduit or tube configured to expand and contract, and is located between the fuel nozzle and fuel intake line. The connector expands and contracts to maintain the connection between the fuel nozzle and the fuel intake line as the fuel nozzle translates along the exhaust passage, moving forward and rearward along the exhaust passage of the exhaust nozzle as indicated by arrows451/451′, into and away from engagement with the area409A of the fuel port409for the fuel tank403of the vehicle.

As indicated inFIGS.5B-5D, the multi-function nozzle assembly401further includes a handle455that is pivotally attached to the housing420. In embodiments, the handle455includes a hand grip456with side portions457A/457B projecting downwardly to a hinge458that pivotally couples to a trigger459thereto. The trigger459of the handle generally can be biased toward a forward position, and is coupled to the fuel nozzle422by linkage461that extends through the outer wall of the housing and into the exhaust passage. The linkage461will be coupled to the fuel nozzle such that as the trigger is engaged and squeezed or moved rearwardly, toward the second body portion, in the direction of arrow462, the fuel nozzle will be urged forwardly in the direction of arrow451toward and into engagement with the port of the vehicle fuel tank.

As the fuel nozzle422is moved forwardly upon a user squeezing the trigger459of the handle344, the flexible connector450will expand as illustrated inFIG.5Ito maintain the connection between the fuel nozzle and fuel intake line, and once the fuel nozzle is detected to be in sealed engagement with the fuel port of the vehicle, a fueling operation can be initiated. For example, one or more sensors, such as shown at463inFIGS.5G-5I, can be provided within the fuel passage or along the fuel nozzle. The one or more sensors can be configured to detect when the fuel nozzle is in a substantially air-tight sealing engagement with the fuel port of the vehicle, and/or to detect and measure a back-pressure within the fuel nozzle indicative of the fuel tank nearing or reaching a full capacity, and can send a feedback signal to the fuel pump to stop fueling.

After the trigger459of the handle455has been released, such as after completion of a fueling operation, the trigger459can be biased or otherwise moved toward or reset to its forward position so that the fuel nozzle is retracted in the direction of arrow451′, to retract the fuel nozzle out of the fuel port. During a fueling operation, the trigger will be locked/secured in place. In embodiments, the trigger can be locked in place by the hinge, e.g. by a locking pin464(FIGS.5B-5D) or clutch mechanism that will need to be disengaged before the trigger can be repositioned to its forward, disengaged or deactivated position. As the fuel nozzle is retracted into the exhaust outlet passage of the exhaust nozzle, with the flexible conduit likewise will be retracted back to its compressed, initial position shown inFIG.5G.

As further indicated inFIGS.5G-5I, the fuel nozzle422generally will be urged into the fuel port409of the vehicle fuel tank403in a tight fitting engagement to insure sealing. For example, the area409A behind the fuel port409can have a taper or narrowed configuration so as to create a friction or interference fit between the forward end/portion422A of the fuel nozzle422and the fuel port.

In addition, sealing materials465can be provided along the interface between the fuel nozzle and the fuel port to ensure that a substantially air-tight seal will be created between the fuel nozzle and the fuel tank of the vehicle. Such sealing materials465can include one or more gaskets, o-rings or other sealing elements located at speed intervals along the area409A behind the fuel port409. In addition, the forward end422A of the fuel nozzle422can be formed with corresponding grooves, recesses or other features466configured to receive such sealing materials465therein. For example, as indicated inFIGS.5G-5I, the o-rings, gaskets, etc.465can be engaged and seated within the grooves466of the fuel nozzle create one or more sealing surfaces between the outer circumference or wall423B of the fuel nozzle and the fuel port409the vehicle fuel tank. When the fuel nozzle is inserted into the fuel port of the vehicle, the sealing features can be urged into overlapped or otherwise engaging contact to create the seal between the fuel nozzle and fuel tank of the vehicle to resist leakage of fuel from the fuel nozzle, as well as leakage of exhaust into the fuel tank as the exhaust materials such as CO2, and/or other byproducts of combustion, are extracted and off-loaded through the exhaust passage424of the exhaust nozzle421, which off-loaded exhaust materials could be at high pressure and variable temperatures, as shown inFIGS.5B-5D.

FIGS.7A and7Billustrate additional, alternative embodiments of locking mechanisms470A and470B for providing a locked, substantially sealed engagement between the fuel port409of the vehicle fuel tank and the fuel nozzle422. InFIG.7A, the locking mechanism470A includes 2 or more cam arms471arranged at spaced intervals (e.g. at 12 and 6 o'clock positions, and/or at 12, 3, 6, and 9 o'clock positions, etc.). The cam arms471can be pivoted outwardly as indicated by arrows472, such that forward edges or catch portions473of the cam arms can engage a rim474or other surface of the fuel port for locking of the forward end422A of the fuel nozzle422with the fuel port409. The cam arms can be pivoted between an engaged, locked position, and a retracted or disengaged position manually or automatically. For example, in embodiments, the cam arms could be coupled to rods, cables, or other connectors connected to the linkage that drives the forward and rearward movement of the fuel nozzle such that as the linkage moves forwardly to urge the fuel nozzle into engagement with the fuel port, the connectors can cause the arms or prongs to be pivoted to their engaged, locking position. As the linkage is retracted, and causing the retraction of the fuel nozzle out of engagement with the fuel port and back into the exhaust nozzle, these connectors likewise will be retracted by the rearward movement of the linkage, causing the cam arms to pivot in the direction of arrows472back to their disengaged position against the outer wall of the fuel nozzle.

InFIG.7B, the locking mechanism470B rises a threaded connection or lock. In this embodiment, the port can be provided with a series of threads475arranged about the rim474or other surface of the fuel port409, and with the fuel nozzle can include a connector476having a series of corresponding threads477formed therein. The connector476can comprise a female type connector in which the threads of the fuel port will be received, and as the fuel nozzle is rotated, for example, with the rotation of the multi-function nozzle assembly for locking the multi-function nozzle assembly in place for a combined fueling and exhaust offload operation, the threads477of the connector476and the corresponding threads475of the fuel port409will engage and create a sealed engagement between the fuel nozzle and the fuel port. Rotation of the connector476can be by rotation of the fuel nozzle; or alternatively, can be accomplished without rotation of the fuel nozzle. For example, the connector476can rotate independently from the fuel nozzle and can be biased or spring-loaded by a bearing such that in response to the fuel nozzle being urged into and against the threads of the fuel port as the fuel nozzle is urged forwardly against the fuel port, the threads of the fuel port and the connector are caused to slide or rotate along each other. Other types of locking or coupling mechanisms configured to the fuel nozzle and fuel port of the vehicle fuel tank in a sealed, substantially airtight engagement also can be provided.

In addition, as shown inFIGS.5B-5D, the multi-function nozzle assembly401generally will include locking or latching features480for locking the exhaust nozzle into sealed engagement with the exhaust port of the vehicle for off-loading of captured exhaust therefrom. The locking features may be spring loaded or friction or dynamic based, and in some embodiments, can utilize a twisting motion or action for locking the multi-function nozzle assembly in place in a sealed engagement with the fuel port and exhaust port of a vehicle.

By way of example and not limitation, in embodiments, as indicated in the Figures, the locking features480can include one or more locking channels481defined along the outer surface or wall432of the main body portion431of the exhaust nozzle421, and corresponding to locking features, e.g. projections482(FIG.5F) arranged at intervals about an annular rim483surrounding the exhaust port407of the vehicle, and projecting inwardly therefrom as shown inFIG.5F. Each of the locking channels481(FIGS.5D-5C) generally can include an open receiving end484formed in the annular rim436of the main body portion431of the exhaust nozzle421and configured to receive a corresponding projection therein, a rearwardly extending passage or channel486, and locking section487that extends in a substantially perpendicular direction to the rearwardly extending channel486.

As a user inserts the multi-function nozzle assembly401into the inlet/outlet of the vehicle, the open ends484of each of the locking channels481of the exhaust nozzle421will be brought into alignment with the locking projections482formed along the rim or annular surface483of the exhaust port407. The locking projections482will slide along the locking channels481as the forward end of the exhaust nozzle421is moved forwardly and into engagement with the surface of the exhaust port407. The entire multi-function nozzle assembly then will be rotated, e.g. approximately one-quarter of a turn either clockwise or counterclockwise, to position the locking projections into the locking sections487of the locking channels481and lock the multi-function nozzle assembly in engagement with the inlet/outlet406of the vehicle. During insertion, the multi-function nozzle assembly may need to be rotated, so as to position the locking projections482of the exhaust port into alignment with the receiving ends484of the locking channels481the multi-function nozzle assembly in place.

The annular rim436defined about the open front end434of the exhaust nozzle also can include a sealing material such as a gasket, o-ring, etc. Such sealing materials will be adapted to seal against the corresponding annular outer surface of the exhaust port. Further, in embodiments, the exhaust port can include a sealing material, such as a plastic or rubberized material coating or compressible sealing material, located thereabout and which can be engaged against the annular rim of the exhaust nozzle to help create a tight, locked seal so as to prevent leakage of exhaust from the exhaust nozzle into the surrounding atmosphere during an exhaust off-load operation. Other locking, latching and/or sealing features also may be utilized. For example, and not by limitation, a threaded connector or other type of locking or press fit connector also can be used.

In addition, in embodiments, the multi-function nozzle assembly also can include guiding of self-locating features490(FIGS.5B,5C,5E, and5G-5I) configured to facilitate alignment of the locking channels481of the exhaust nozzle with the corresponding locking projections482or features of the exhaust port of a vehicle. By way of example, and not limitation, in some embodiments, a self-locking feature490can include a series of magnets491that can be arranged in one or more sections about the annular rim436of the exhaust nozzle. The magnets491of the exhaust nozzle will be attracted to corresponding magnetic elements492(FIGS.5G-5I) that can be arranged about the annular outer surface of the exhaust port. For example, sections of metal or other magnetically attractive materials can be positioned about the annular outer surface of the exhaust port at spaced locations selected to direct or help locate the locking channels of the exhaust nozzle with the corresponding locking features of the exhaust port.

The magnetic self-locating features490further can help create a tight, sealed engagement between the exhaust nozzle and the exhaust port by the additional magnetic attraction force created between the exhaust nozzle and the annular outer surface of the exhaust port. The magnetic locating features further can be coated with a plastic, rubber or composite coating material that acts as a sealing materials and prevents direct metal to metal contact between the exhaust nozzle and the annular outer surface of the exhaust port, without diminishing the magnetic attraction force there between, and still allowing rotational movement of the exhaust nozzle. Other types of self-locating or guiding mechanisms also can be used.

FIGS.5G-5Ischematically illustrate operation of the multi-function nozzle assembly401according to principles of the present disclosure as part of a combined fueling and exhaust capture system405(FIG.6) for use in vehicle fueling and exhaust off-load operations at a fueling station, e.g. a gas station, railyard, marina, truck-stop, etc. . . . The fueling and exhaust off-load operations can be conducted substantially simultaneously, i.e. fuel can be supplied to the fuel tank of the vehicle from the fuel supply445via the fuel nozzle, while at substantially the same time, captured exhaust gasses, such as CO2and/or other byproducts of combustion stored on the vehicle, can be off-loaded through the exhaust nozzle and collected at the exhaust removal and logistics system447for downstream processing. Such fueling and exhaust off-loading operations also could be conducted separately using the multi-function nozzle assembly as needed. It further will be understood by those skilled in the art that while the present embodiment illustrates use of the multi-function nozzle assembly for use with a combined fueling and exhaust capture system405(FIG.6), the multi-function nozzle assembly also can be used in other applications, such as, by way of example and not limitation, with a fuel delivery vehicle that is configured to provide a supply of fuel, as well as for removal of exhaust from an exhaust capture device.

As shown inFIGS.5G-5I, a user or operator will place the multi-function nozzle assembly into the combined inlet/outlet port406of the vehicle, and will engage the locking features480between the exhaust nozzle421and the exhaust port407, e.g. by moving the locking projections482arranged from the exhaust port407into and along the locking channels481of the exhaust nozzle. In addition, the self-locating features of the multi-function nozzle assembly can cooperate with corresponding self-locating features of the exhaust port so as to position or locate the locking channels of the multi-function nozzle assembly with the corresponding locking features of the exhaust port.

The user or operator will extend the exhaust nozzle of the multi-function nozzle assembly into the exhaust port until the locking projections reach the end of the locking channels, and thereafter will rotate the exhaust nozzle (e.g. by rotating the entire multi-function nozzle assembly) approximately one-quarter of a turn to lock the multi-function nozzle assembly in place, with the exhaust nozzle being sealed against the annular or outer surface of the exhaust port407. Once the multi-function nozzle assembly has been locked into position, and a proper air-tight seal is indicated between the exhaust nozzle and the exhaust port (e.g. via the use of sensors that can be located along the housing of the multi-function nozzle assembly, along the exhaust outlet passage, and/or between the annular rim thereof and the annular outer surface of the exhaust port), the user or operator can engage the trigger459, e.g. pull or squeeze the trigger rearwardly in the direction of arrow461, causing the corresponding linkage461coupling the handle to the fuel nozzle422to extend. In addition, once a lock position is reached, the magnetic attraction between the surface of the exhaust port and the exhaust nozzle, e.g. through the engagement of the magnetic self-locating features, can intensify to help create a substantially tighter seal due to the sealing over-coating applied over the magnets and magnetically attractive surfaces492of the exhaust nozzle and exhaust port, creating seal compression.

As indicated inFIG.5I, the forward end422A of the fuel nozzle422will be urged or driven fuel nozzle into a friction fit within the fuel port of the vehicle fuel tank, whereupon the sealing features, e.g. the gaskets, o-rings etc. located along or adjacent the area409A behind the fuel port409and cooperative features positioned along the fuel nozzle engage to create a substantially air-tight fully sealed condition.

Once the fueling and exhaust capture system405(FIG.6) recognizes that the exhaust and fuel nozzles have been properly connected, with adequate seals between the fuel and exhaust nozzles and their respective exhaust outlet and fuel ports, the fueling and exhaust capture system can initiate a fueling operation during which fuel will be supplied through the fuel intake line and the fuel nozzle of the multi-function nozzle assembly401and into the vehicle's fuel tank. At substantially the same time, the fueling and exhaust capture system also can start an off-load of the exhaust gasses, such as CO2and other combustion byproducts, through the exhaust nozzle of the multi-function nozzle assembly and along the combined fuel and exhaust conduit. As noted, the fueling and exhaust off-load operations can be conducted together, with the fuel flowing in from the fuel supply as shown inFIG.6, and the exhaust flowing out, in an opposite direction along the combined fuel and exhaust conduit.

As further indicated inFIGS.5I-5I, the fuel nozzle generally will include one or more sensors, including at least one fuel sensor463that can be located along the fuel passage426, as well as at least one sensor496configured to monitor pressure of the outflow of exhaust along the exhaust passage of the exhaust nozzle. Other sensors, such as for measurement of temperature of the exhaust, also can be provided. The sensor463can monitor the flow of fuel and signal the fueling and exhaust capture system to substantially slow and then stop the flow of to the fuel nozzle upon detection of a predetermined back-flow pressure as an indication that the fuel tank is reaching a full condition.

In addition, the exhaust outlet passage can have one or more built-in pressure sensors496(FIG.5D) that can monitor the outflow of exhaust and can shut down the outflow of exhaust along the exhaust passage upon a predetermined or selected pressure reading. For example, as the captured exhaust is off-loaded, the pressure of the flow of exhaust may decrease. The fueling and exhaust system can be programmed to stop an exhaust off-load operation when a pre-determined or selected back-flow pressure at the outflow of exhaust is detected. This pressure can be selected to leave some exhaust gas within the vehicle to provide a remaining working volume and/or pressure of exhaust within the vehicle. In addition, temperature of the outflow of exhaust also can be measured to provide a further control point for stopping the exhaust off-load.

The multi-function nozzle assembly401may also include pin or input/output connectors493as indicated inFIG.5Cthat connect the sensors therein, to the fuel pump for providing sensor feedback, e.g. fuel and exhaust flow back pressure readings, temperature, etc. to the fueling and exhaust capture system, and for communication between the fuel pump and a vehicle. Such input/output connectors may correspond to associated pins or input/output connectors located on, disposed in or on, or connected to the exhaust port of the vehicle. In such an embodiment, the vehicle may include corresponding pins or input/output connectors. The pin or input/output connectors of the vehicle may attach to, be in signal communication with, or connect to the on-board vehicle exhaust capture system. In some example, the fuel and exhaust pump400also may connect via wireless connection, e.g., such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, near field communication (NFC), and/or another method of wireless communication, to the on-board vehicle exhaust capture system.

In embodiments, the on-board vehicle exhaust capture system may store data regarding an amount or quantity of exhaust currently in the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device. The data may be stored in a memory accessible via the pins or inputs/outputs of the vehicle. The data may be accessible in an off-line or powered down state. The data may, as noted, include the amount of exhaust stored in the on-board vehicle exhaust capture system. The data may also include a tag that can identify a specific vehicle engaged by the multi-function fuel nozzle for associating with such an amount of exhaust off-loaded with the vehicle. The tag may be arbitrary numbers and/or text. The tag may be specific to a vehicle, e.g., a vehicle identification number (VIN). As the data is transferred to the fuel and exhaust pump400via the pins or input/output, connections between the vehicle and the multi-function nozzle, the tag information may be transferred as well. As such, the data gathered regarding an amount of exhaust off-loaded may be associated to a specific or particular vehicle and any further data gathered may indicate how much exhaust has been off-loaded from that specific or particular vehicle.

FIG.8AandFIG.8Bare simplified diagrams that illustrate novel implementations of a fuel and exhaust station offering off-load of captured exhaust from a vehicle and pick-up or transport to a delivery vehicle, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The on-board vehicle exhaust capture device508may be included on or in a vehicle. The on-board vehicle exhaust capture device508may include various components to capture exhaust from an internal combustion engine or any other type of engine which may produce exhaust. In another embodiment, the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device508may additionally or solely capture gases, chemicals in and/or from the atmosphere. In such examples, the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device508may capture carbon dioxide. Other gases and/or chemicals may be captured inadvertently. Further, in the example where the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device508captures or sequesters greenhouse gases from the atmosphere, the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device508may be added to or integrated into or onto any type of vehicle, such as an electric vehicle, a fuel-cell based vehicle, a natural gas based vehicle, and/or any other alternative fuel based vehicle, such vehicles including motorist vehicles, locomotives, airplanes, marine vessels, equipment, and other types of vehicles. In such examples, the carbon dioxide offset by the use of the alternative fuel based vehicle may be further offset by the use of the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device508. Further, during the operational lifetime of an alternative fuel vehicle equipped with an on-board vehicle exhaust capture device508, the carbon intensity or amount of carbon generated by the production of such alternative fuel based vehicle and/or by the production of the type of fuel used by the alternative fuel based vehicle may be completely offset and/or even be a negative value.

Captured exhaust from the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device508may be transferred to a pipe506. The exhaust may be transferred from the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device508to the pipe506via an exhaust nozzle, such as an exhaust nozzle of a multi-function nozzle assembly as described herein with respect toFIGS.5B-5I, or by a separate exhaust nozzle as described with reference to FIGS. In another embodiment, the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device508may include a module to store the exhaust. The module may be swappable and/or removable from the corresponding vehicle. To remove exhaust, a motorist, technician, mechanic, or other user may remove the module. The module may have a portion thereof that corresponds to a slot, notch, or portion of the exhaust pump. As the module is inserted into the slot, notch, or portion of the exhaust pump, a corresponding pipe or component may insert into the module. The exhaust may then be transferred, via the pipe or component, from the module to the pipe506. In another embodiment, a full module may be exchanged with an empty module. The full module may be emptied at the scalable greenhouse gas capture system500.

As exhaust travels through the pipe506, the exhaust may come into contact with or travel through a meter504. The meter504may measure or determine the amount of exhaust flowing through the pipe506. The meter504may send such a determination to a register502. The register502may determine the cost or value of such an amount of exhaust, such as carbon dioxide therein. The register502may display the amount of exhaust flowing through the pipe506. The register502may display a continuously updated real-time amount of exhaust being off-loaded. The amount may be an increasing amount, indicating the cumulative amount of exhaust. The amount may be a decreasing amount, indicating the decreasing amount from the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device508. The meter504may be a flow meter, mass flow meter, Coriolis meter, or other meter suitable for determining an amount of exhaust flowing through pipe506. Such a meter504may be configured to withstand high and low pressures and/or high and low temperature, based on the phase or form of the exhaust (e.g., liquid or gas).

After exhaust flows through the meter504, the exhaust may travel to or through an analyzer509. In one or more embodiments, a portion or sample of the exhaust may travel to or through the analyzer509, rather than the entirety of the exhaust traveling to or through the analyzer509. The analyzer509may perform a composition analysis of the exhaust. The analyzer509may determine the composition of the exhaust, e.g., percentages of exhaust components. The analyzer509may be a chromatographic analyzer or spectroscopic analyzer, e.g., an infrared analyzer, residual analyzer, orsat analyzer, thermal analyzer, Raman analyzer, and/or any type of analyzer to determine composition of a fluid. The analyzer509may transfer a representation of the exhaust composition to the register502for display. The analyzer509may store or transfer the composition data to a computing device as well, e.g., for reporting purposes. Such a report may include one or more of: an amount or quantity of exhaust captured from a vehicle or from a set of vehicles, an analysis of exhaust from a vehicle or from a set of vehicles, and/or an analysis of the total stored exhaust. Such a report may be utilized in determining carbon credits. The report may also be transferred or sent to the local, state, and/or federal government, e.g., to provide information in relation to compliance with standards and/or participation in carbon reduction programs or as a jurisdictional tax requirement. The analyzer509may also prompt the system to safely shut-down in the event of specification discrepancies, for example, for downstream logistics and/or carbon dioxide markets where carbon dioxide is used as a feedstock.

Such stored data, analysis, and/or reports from the analyzer509may be associated with a vehicle that the exhaust is off-loaded from. The vehicle may be identified based on data received via the register502or other device from the vehicle or on-board vehicle exhaust capture device508. In such examples, a baseline may be generated for exhaust composition of a particular vehicle. As additional exhaust is analyzed, new compositional data may be compared with the baseline. Based on differences between the baseline and new compositional data.

With respect to the vehicle, the exhaust may be compressed, e.g., via the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device508or prior to transfer to the pipe506. However, as the exhaust travels through the pipe506, pressure may decrease, due to, for example, the length of the pipe506and/or friction of the interior of the pipe506. The pressure of the exhaust may also decrease after flow through analyzer509and/or meter504as described above. After analysis via the analyzer509and/or measurement via the meter504as disclosed above, the exhaust may flow to a compressor510. Compressor510may be used to compress the exhaust such that a larger amount of exhaust may be stored. In another example, the exhaust or carbon dioxide may be converted into a liquid, either through compression and/or temperature changes or through a catalyst. In such examples, the compressor510may or may not be utilized. In another embodiment, the exhaust holding tank may be configured to withstand a particular pressure and the pressure of the exhaust may be significantly higher than the particular pressure. In such embodiments, the pressure drop above may be utilized to ensure that the exhaust is at the proper pressure prior to reaching the exhaust holding tank. However, as multiple vehicles output exhaust, the pressure drop may decrease or increase past a specified point or threshold. In such examples, the pressure of the exhaust may be controlled via pressure control devices positioned throughout the system. Pressure control devices may include the compressor510, pumps, control valves, control valves, and/or some combination thereof.

After compression, via compressor510, or conversion of the exhaust to a liquid (or solid), the exhaust may be transferred to an exhaust holding tank. The exhaust may be transferred to a below-grade exhaust holding tank514and/or an above-grade exhaust holding tank512. Such a scalable greenhouse gas capture system500may include one or more below-grade exhaust holding tanks and/or one or more above-grade exhaust holding tanks. The exhaust holding tanks may be configured to store a highly compressed gas. The exhaust holding tanks may also be configured to store a low temperature fluid or, in particular, a liquid.

In another embodiment, the scalable greenhouse gas capture system500may include a pump in addition to or rather than the compressor510. In another embodiment, neither the pump or the compressor510may be included in the scalable greenhouse gas capture system500. In an example, where the exhaust or greenhouse gas is obtained from the vehicle in a liquid form, the scalable greenhouse gas capture system500may include a pump or other means to create suction or pressure to allow for the liquid to flow through the scalable greenhouse gas capture system500to an exhaust holding tank. In another example, where the exhaust or greenhouse gas is obtained from the vehicle in a gaseous form, the scalable greenhouse gas capture system500may include a compressor510, a pump, and/or other means to create suction or pressure to allow for the gas to flow through the scalable greenhouse gas capture system500to an exhaust holding tank. In such examples, the scalable greenhouse gas capture system500may include one or more pumps, compressors, other means to create suction or pressure, and/or some combination thereof, at varying points throughout the scalable greenhouse gas capture system500.

As exhaust is transported to the exhaust holding tanks, e.g., below-grade exhaust holding tank514and/or above-grade exhaust holding tank512, the exhaust holding tanks may fill up to or near a safely defined working capacity. Each exhaust holding tank may include a capacity to store a certain amount of fluid. As the exhaust holding tank reaches working capacity, the exhaust holding tank may not be able to accept more exhaust or fluid. A sensor, e.g., sensor516and/or sensor520, may be connected to, integrated in or on, or disposed inside the exhaust holding tank to determine or measure an amount of exhaust within the exhaust holding tank. The sensor, e.g., sensor516and/or sensor520, may determine the level of the exhaust within the exhaust holding tank or the amount of capacity available in the exhaust holding tank. In another embodiment, the amount of capacity may be determined via a computing device or the register, based on signals from the sensor, e.g., sensor516and/or sensor520or based on meter readings. Any of the components described herein may include a redundant or back-up component to ensure continued operation during component failure. For example, if meter518fails, an identical or similar meter disposed nearby meter518may be utilized. When the exhaust holding tank reaches working capacity, the register502, an exhaust pump, or computing device may prevent the further off-loading or transport of exhaust to the exhaust holding tank. In such an example, a user attempting to off-load exhaust may be prevented from off-loading exhaust. Further, the register502may notify or display a notification to the user of another location offering similar exhaust off-loading capabilities. Such a notification may include multiple nearby locations offering similar capabilities. Such nearby locations may additionally be indicated via roadside signs or other advertisements.

Each exhaust holding tank, e.g., below-grade exhaust holding tank514and/or above-grade exhaust holding tank512, may be connected to an exhaust delivery/pickup vehicle port522. The exhaust delivery/pickup vehicle port522may allow for a delivery vehicle to accept or obtain the exhaust from the exhaust holding tanks512. In one or more embodiments, the delivery vehicle, e.g., originating from a fuel source528, may provide fuel to a fuel tank, e.g., a below-grade fuel tank526, prior to obtaining or on-boarding of exhaust through exhaust delivery/pickup vehicle port522. A meter518may be disposed between the exhaust holding tank and exhaust delivery/pickup vehicle port522. The meter518may measure the amount of exhaust flowing from the exhaust holding tank and/or may determine a total amount of exhaust that was stored in the exhaust holding tank. The meter518may provide such data to a computing device, which may be included in the scalable greenhouse gas capture system500. The computing device may be external to the scalable greenhouse gas capture system500, e.g., at a remote and/or separate location. The computing device may take such data and store the data with tags that associate the data with a user and location. The tags may include data such as location, users associated with quantities of exhaust, time of each exhaust off-load, and/or time of each exhaust pickup. The computing device may further determine pick-up schedules based on the tags and data, e.g., if the exhaust holding tanks reach capacity at close to the same amount of days at different time intervals, then the computing device may update or alter pick-up schedules to maximize the amount of time to reach capacity, or in other words, to maximize the capacity utilization and reach optimization within the downstream logistic network. The computing device may calculate or determine and offer for sale an amount of carbon credits based on the amount of returned or off-loaded exhaust.

As noted, off-loaded exhaust may comprise a liquid. For example, the off-loaded exhaust may be liquid carbon dioxide, which may or may not include portions of nitrogen and/or varying amounts of water. The amount of water in the liquid carbon dioxide may be based on the ambient environment temperature or, in other words, the temperature of the environment around the vehicle off-loading carbon dioxide. As such, and as illustrated inFIG.8B, the system501may include, rather than or in addition to including compressors (e.g., compressor510), a pump532. The pump532may be configured to generate flow of the liquid carbon dioxide from the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device508to an exhaust holding tank (e.g., the below grade exhaust holding tank514and/or the above grade exhaust holding tank512). Further, a pump534may be included to transport the liquid carbon dioxide from the exhaust holding tank (e.g., the below grade exhaust holding tank514and/or the above grade exhaust holding tank512) to a delivery/pickup vehicle.

In embodiments, due to the low temperatures and/or potentially high pressure of such a system, the exhaust holding tank (e.g., the below grade exhaust holding tank514and/or the above grade exhaust holding tank512) may be configured to withstand high pressures. A non-limiting example may include a tank configured to withstand about350psig. The exhaust holding tank (e.g., the below grade exhaust holding tank514and/or the above grade exhaust holding tank512) may be further configured to withstand and maintain low temperatures, such as via insulation, refrigeration units, heat tracing, and/or other methods as will be understood in the art.

In a non-limiting, illustrative example, a vehicle may store liquid carbon dioxide at about 1450 psia, which may be considered a super-critical liquid or fluid. The temperature of the liquid carbon dioxide may vary based on the ambient temperature of the vehicle. As the liquid carbon dioxide is off-loaded, the pressure drop from the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device508to the exhaust tank may cause the temperature of the liquid carbon dioxide to fall further (e.g., about 10 degrees Fahrenheit to about 12 degrees Fahrenheit per 100 psi reduction). As such, temperatures of the liquid carbon dioxide may reach as low about 0 degrees Fahrenheit.

To prevent damage to devices within the system501, the devices or equipment may be configured to withstand such low temperatures. Further, this temperature change may cause issues for the vehicle, since the pressure within the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device is lowered as exhaust is off-loaded. To prevent such an issue, the system501may be configured to cause the pressure drop after a point where the exhaust enters the system501. Pressure control devices (e.g., pressure control device554A, pressure control device554B, pressure control device554C, and/or up to pressure control device554N) may be included or positioned throughout the system, such as pumps, control valves, spillback loops, and/or other devices and/or equipment configured to maintain or adjust pressure.

Due to potential temperature drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, as described above, any water included in the liquid carbon dioxide may freeze at any point within the system501. Freezing of water may cause blocks or clogs within the system501. As such the system501may include a dryer530. The dryer530may be positioned along the pipe506. The dryer530may be positioned immediately or substantially immediately, or in some examples further downstream, after a point where liquid carbon dioxide enters the system501from the on-board vehicle exhaust capture device508. The dryer530may include a desiccant configured to allow liquid to flow therethrough and absorb water therein. All piping, equipment, devices, storage vessels or tanks, and the like may be configured to include a material property and operating life to safely handle and transport carbon dioxide as well as residual water and other constituents at varying pressures and/or temperatures. For example, the piping, equipment, devices, storage vessels or tanks may be comprised of stainless steel or some other material, may be coated, may be insulated, and/or may include heat tracing.

FIG.8Cis a simplified diagram that illustrate a novel implementation of a fuel and exhaust station offering off-load and processing of captured exhaust, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Similar toFIG.6B, the system503ofFIG.6Cmay include a dryer538. The dryer538may remove any water from a liquid exhaust transported from a vehicle536. The liquid may be transported to a knock-out drum540. The knock-out drum540may separate any vapor that has formed from the liquid to an intermediate tank542, while the liquid is pumped, via pump546, to the storage tank548. The intermediate tank542may store the vapor and transport the vapor to a refrigeration unit544. The intermediate tank542may include a metal organic framework. The metal organic framework may store the vapor thereby controlling the amount of vapor flowing through the refrigeration unit544. The vapor may be circulated through the refrigeration unit544, until the vapor is condensed to a liquid. The liquid may also be transported, via pump546, to the storage tank548. The liquid carbon dioxide may be stored in the storage tank548until ready for pickup. Upon pickup, the liquid carbon dioxide may be pumped, via pump550, to a delivery vehicle for sequestration or market (see552).

FIG.9A,FIG.9B, andFIG.9Care simplified diagrams that illustrate a novel implementation of a fuel and exhaust station offering off-load of captured exhaust from a vehicle and pick-up or transport to a delivery vehicle, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Similar toFIGS.2A and2C, a system may include one or more pumps, e.g., pump A602, pump B603, pump C604, and up to pump N605. The pumps may include nozzles to provide fuel to vehicle fuel tanks632and nozzles to pump exhaust from the vehicle exhaust tanks634. The pumps may include a meter or meters to determine an amount of fuel being transported to the vehicle and a meter or meters to determine an amount of exhaust being transported from the vehicle e.g., meter A606, meter B607, meter C608, and up to meter N609. Such a meter may transmit or send data to a computing device and/or the pumps. The pumps may include a user interface that displays the amount of fuel flowing to the vehicle and exhaust exiting the vehicle. The amount of exhaust being transported may be determined in real-time to provide the user a compounded amount of exhaust transported through the systems. The pumps may include a counter that provides a decrementing exhaust total, e.g., beginning with a total exhaust in a vehicle exhaust tank that counts down to zero. The total may, as exhaust is pumped from the vehicle exhaust tank, decrement. In another example, the counter may start at zero and incrementally increase as exhaust is pumped from the vehicle exhaust tank. The meter or meters may be co-located with, adjacent with, or included with or in the pumps, seeFIG.9A. The meter or meters may be located separate from the pumps, e.g., such as meter A646, meter B645, and/or meter N644.

Another meter610may be situated or disposed prior to the compressor612. Such a meter610may measure the total amount of exhaust flowing to an exhaust holding tank, e.g., below-grade exhaust holding tank616, above-grade exhaust holding tank620, and/or exhaust holding tank638. The meter610may be redundant in case of failure of any of the other meters disposed throughout the scalable greenhouse gas capture system600. In another example, the meter610may provide data to ensure that the exhaust holding tank(s) are not overfilled. The scalable greenhouse gas capture system601may include multiple smaller compressors, e.g., compressor A642, compressor B641, or compressor N640, per each pump (e.g., a fuel and/or exhaust dispenser/pump), rather than one compressor, e.g., compressor612, for all pumps (e.g., a fuel and/or exhaust dispenser/pump).

After flowing through the meter610, the exhaust may flow to a compressor612to be compressed or further compressed. Thereafter, the compressed exhaust may flow to one or more exhaust holding tanks, e.g., below-grade exhaust holding tank616, above-grade exhaust holding tank620, and/or one or more of each. The exhaust may, when a pickup operation occurs, flow through a meter618. Further, as described herein, each exhaust holding tank may include or be connected to a sensor to provide data to determine whether each of the exhaust holding tanks are near, approaching, or at working capacity. The sensor may provide data to be utilized to determine a total capacity or actual capacity of each of the exhaust holding tanks. In another embodiment, the scalable greenhouse gas capture system600may include an analyzer, e.g., analyzer A660, analyzer B661, and/or analyzer N662, per pump or one analyzer609for multiple pumps.

The exhaust holding tank may connect to one or more compressed exhaust delivery/pick-up vehicle connections or ports624, while the below grade fuel tank626may connect to one or more fuel delivery vehicle connections or ports. A delivery vehicle may deliver fuel (see624), from a fuel source628, to the below grade fuel tank626via the fuel delivery vehicle connections or ports. Further, via exhaust pick-up vehicle connections or ports, a delivery or pick-up vehicle may obtain exhaust.

As noted, the exhaust off-loaded from a vehicle may be a liquid. In such examples, rather than a compressor, the system may include a pump650to transport or pump the exhaust from a vehicle to the below grade exhaust holding tank616and/or the above grade exhaust holding tank620. Further, a pump652may be positioned to pump the liquid exhaust from the below grade exhaust holding tank616and/or the above grade exhaust holding tank620for delivery/pickup.

FIG.10is a simplified diagram that illustrates a novel implementation of a fuel and exhaust station offering separate areas for off-load of captured exhaust from a vehicle and fueling of a vehicle, as well as pick-up or transport to a delivery vehicle, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The scalable greenhouse gas capture system700may include a set of fuel pumps716and a set of exhaust pumps706(e.g., similar to fuel and exhaust pump200,300,400). In one or more embodiments, the fuel pumps716may be separate from the exhaust pumps706. In an example, the scalable greenhouse gas capture system700may include sets of, rows of, or islands of fuel pumps716. At each set, row, or island of fuel pumps716, one or more separate and distinct exhaust pumps708may be included. In another embodiment, the exhaust pumps708may be located separate from any fuel pumps716. In at least one embodiment, the scalable greenhouse gas capture system700may not include fuel pumps716. In such examples, the exhaust pumps708may be included at a variety of locations, such as, including, but not limited to, a service station, an automotive repair center, a convenience store, a parking garage or lot, a seaport, a truck stop, a truck terminal, a truck depot, a bus depot, a truck weighing station, or any location with space to include the components related to the exhaust pumps708and exhaust holding tank712.

Each of the fuel pumps716may be connected to a below-grade fuel tank718that has a meter724associated therewith. The meter724may be disposed within delivery vehicle connections702of the below-grade fuel tank718such that the amount or quantity of fuel is provided to the below-grade fuel tank718via the delivery vehicle connections702(e.g., from a delivery vehicle) may be measured. Other components may be included in relation to the fuel pumps716, as described throughout. Thus, users may re-fuel a vehicle fuel tank714via one of the fuel pumps716.

In another embodiment, the scalable greenhouse gas capture system700may be designed or configured to mitigate issues caused by overcooling, as well as the use of a compressor. Further, a vehicle capture and storage system may be configured to maintain a minimum allowable working capacity. In such embodiments, the scalable greenhouse gas capture system700may be configured to utilize the naturally occurring temperature and pressure swings, or other phase changes, to facilitate removal of the exhaust or carbon dioxide from the vehicle. For example, exhaust from a vehicle with a starting temperature of 100 or 60 degrees Fahrenheit may exhibit a temperature drop as pressure decreases (see1702and1704ofFIGS.20A and20Brespectively), where the exhaust is comprised of carbon dioxide, carbon dioxide and nitrogen, or carbon dioxide and nitrogen with water). Even as temperature decreases, the exhaust may begin to change phases or exhibit two phases (e.g., liquid and gas) (see1706and1708ofFIGS.20C and20Drespectively). As such, the scalable greenhouse gas capture system700may include equipment or devices to capture any gas that may be formed and condense the gas back to a liquid.

Each of the exhaust pumps708may include a user interface to allow for interaction between one of the exhaust pumps708and the user. Each of the exhaust pumps708may be connected to a meter720or meters. The meter720or meters may measure the amount of exhaust that flows, is pumped, or is obtained in another way from a vehicle exhaust tank704. The exhaust pumps708may further be connected to a sensor710that is associated with the exhaust holding tank712to measure its capacity. The sensor710may provide data to be utilized by the exhaust pumps708to determine whether to allow or prevent further pumping of exhaust based on a full, near full or less than full capacity of the exhaust holding tank712. Further, the exhaust pumps708may obtain data from a vehicle sensor706to determine if an amount of exhaust stored in the exhaust tank704is less than or greater than an amount of the available capacity of the exhaust holding tank712.

The scalable greenhouse gas capture system700may include an analyzer722that is connected to and in fluid communication with the exhaust in the exhaust holding tank712. The analyzer722may receive a sample of the exhaust via connections to the pipe or pipelines leading to the exhaust holding tank712. The analyzer722may measure the composition of samples of the exhaust that are provided to it. Composition data from analyzer722may be transmitted to the exhaust pumps708and/or to a computing device for inclusion in an environmental report, governmental report, or other report as described herein.

The exhaust holding tank712is designed with a capacity to store an amount of exhaust that would equal or exceed the amount of exhaust that would be off-loaded by vehicles within a specified time, e.g., one day, two days, three days, or more. When the exhaust holding tank712becomes full or near full, or at regular or periodic intervals, a transportation vehicle, e.g., such as a delivery vehicle, or other logistics means configured to off-load the exhaust, such as pipe or pipeline, rail, or marine vessel, may be used to retrieve the exhaust from the exhaust holding tank712and transport the exhaust away from the scalable greenhouse gas capture system702to its final disposition. The exhaust may be transported to a number of locations for its final disposition, which may include re-use, recycling, and/or permanent storage. Such locations may include a refinery, an underground cavern or other location configured to store exhaust or carbon dioxide long-term, exhaust or carbon dioxide recycle centers, and/or other locations which may utilize exhaust or carbon dioxide.

FIG.11is a simplified diagram that illustrates a novel implementation of an exhaust off-loading station800or location including collection and determinations relating to captured exhaust, off-loaded exhaust, and transported exhaust, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The exhaust off-loading station800or location may include various components. For example, an exhaust pump may include a user interface, a nozzle, and piping connecting the exhaust pump, e.g., exhaust pump1810, exhaust pump2811, and/or up to exhaust pump N812, to an exhaust tank, e.g., exhaust tank1818, exhaust tank2819, and/or up to exhaust pump M820. The exhaust pump may also include or be connected to a computing device or controller, e.g., computing device1814, computing device2815, and/or up to computing device N816. The computing device or devices may include memory to store instructions. The instructions may be executed by a processor of the computing device or devices. The computing device may include instructions to determine whether the exhaust pumps may continue to pump exhaust from different vehicles, e.g., vehicle1806, vehicle2807, and/or up to vehicle N804. Such a determination may be based on data provided by the sensors associated with each exhaust tank, e.g., sensor1822, sensor2823, and/or up to sensor M824and input/outputs associated with each vehicle, e.g., input/output1802, input/output2803, and/or up to input/output N804. The sensors may provide data for utilization by the computing device to determine the current capacity of the exhaust tank. In another embodiment, meters disposed throughout the exhaust off-loading station800may be utilized to determine current capacity of each exhaust tank, e.g., such a determination being based on the summation of values provided by each meter minus the available working capacity. Further, the computing device may determine the composition of the exhaust, via an analyzer, e.g., analyzer1840, analyzer2841, and/or up to analyzer N842. The analyzer may take one or more samples of the exhaust and analyze the samples, determining the gases or chemicals included in the exhaust. In one or more embodiments, the analyzer may determine and provide data regarding the relative percentages of the various gases and/or chemicals within the exhaust samples. The computing device may display such data as described above, to the user via a user interface associated with the exhaust pump. The computing device may further create a report including such data. Such data or reports, along with other data and analysis gathered by the exhaust off-loading station800or location, may be transmitted to an internal or external computing device826and/or database for further analysis.

FIG.12is a flow diagram, implemented in a computing device, for off-loading exhaust and fueling a vehicle sequentially, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. While method900is detailed with reference to the fuel and exhaust pump200ofFIG.3AandFIG.3B, other components ofFIGS.4A through11may be utilized in such a method. Unless otherwise specified, the actions of method900may be completed within the fuel and exhaust pump200. Specifically, method900may be included in one or more programs, protocols, or instructions loaded into memory of a computing device of the fuel and exhaust pump200or memory of the fuel and exhaust pump200. The order in which the operations are described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described blocks may be combined in any order and/or in parallel to implement the disclosed methods.

At block902, the fuel and exhaust pump200may, in response to a payment input by a customer or user, prompt the customer or user to select a fuel type. The customer or user may depress one of the series of buttons202or use a voice command to select a type of fuel. As described herein, a user interface224may include pop-ups or selectable options, as well as voice recognition. Such a prompt may include a verbal or non-verbal message displayed on the user interface for the customer or user to select a fuel type, such as “Select a fuel type to proceed”.

At block904, the fuel and exhaust pump200may, in response to a selection of a fuel type and completion of payment, prompt the customer or user to insert the fuel nozzle232into the vehicle. Such a prompt may include a message displayed on the user interface224for the customer or user to insert the fuel nozzle232into the vehicle, such as “Insert fuel nozzle to proceed”.

At block906, the fuel and exhaust pump200may determine whether the fuel nozzle232has been inserted into a fuel port of the vehicle, motorist vehicle, or fuel containing component. In such examples, such a determination may be made based on customer or user input, feedback or signals from a sensor or sensor disposed in or connected to the fuel nozzle232, and/or some combination thereof. In other examples, the fuel and exhaust pump200may display that fuel is ready to be pumped after payment is received. The fuel and exhaust pump200may wait until the fuel nozzle232is inserted or until the customer or user cancels the transaction.

At block908, the fuel and exhaust pump200may pump the selected fuel to the customer vehicle. The fuel and exhaust pump200may pump the fuel from a below-grade fuel tank230. The fuel and exhaust pump200may display a running total of fuel pumped from the below-grade fuel tank230on user interface224, which may further display a running monetary value or cost of the fuel pumped from the below-grade fuel tank230.

At block910, the fuel and exhaust pump200may prompt a customer or user to select whether to off-load vehicle exhaust. Such a prompt may be transmitted before, during, or after fueling of the vehicle. The message may be displayed on the user interface224and may include a message such as, “Off-load vehicle exhaust?”. The customer or user may depress or push a button206, or use a voice command, specifically for selecting such an option or select a prompt or button displayed on the user interface224.

At block912, if the customer or user selects the option to off-load exhaust, then the fuel and exhaust pump200may prompt the user to engage the exhaust nozzle240with the vehicle. Such a message may include, “Engage exhaust nozzle with vehicle to proceed”. At block914, the fuel and exhaust pump200may determine whether the exhaust nozzle240is engaged with the vehicle. Sensors may be included in or connected to the exhaust nozzle. The fuel and exhaust pump200may determine, based on signals from the sensor, whether the exhaust nozzle240is inserted into an exhaust port, whether the exhaust nozzle240is sealingly engaged with the exhaust port, and/or whether the exhaust nozzle240is locked or latched onto the exhaust port.

At block916, once the exhaust nozzle240is verified to be engaged or locked with the vehicle, the fuel and exhaust pump200may begin pumping exhaust from the vehicle. At block918, a compressor may compress the exhaust further. At block920, the exhaust may flow into the exhaust holding tank238. At block922, after fuel has been pumped and/or after exhaust has been off-loaded, the fuel and exhaust pump200may offer a digital or print receipt and data to the customer or user.

FIG.13is a flow diagram, implemented in a computing device, for off-loading exhaust and fueling a vehicle sequentially, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. While method1000is detailed with reference to the fuel and exhaust pump400ofFIG.5AthroughFIG.5C, other components ofFIGS.6through11may be utilized in such a method. Unless otherwise specified, the actions of method1000may be completed within the fuel and exhaust pump400. Specifically, method1000may be included in one or more programs, protocols, or instructions loaded into memory of a computing device of the fuel and exhaust pump400or memory of the fuel and exhaust pump400. The order in which the operations are described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described blocks may be combined in any order and/or in parallel to implement the disclosed methods.

At block1002, in response to a payment input by a customer or user, the fuel and exhaust pump400may prompt the customer or user to select a fuel type. One option may include not selecting any fuel. Once the customer or user selects a fuel type (or the no fuel option) the fuel and exhaust pump400may prompt a customer or user to select whether to off-load exhaust. Once a customer or user has selected whether to off-load exhaust, the fuel and exhaust pump400may, at block1006, prompt the customer or user to engage the combined fuel and exhaust nozzle414with the vehicle. The fuel and exhaust pump400, at block1008may determine whether the combined fuel and exhaust nozzle414has been engaged with the vehicle, e.g., sealingly engaged such that no off-loaded exhaust escapes to atmosphere and the fuel and exhaust flows do not mix. The fuel and exhaust pump400, at block1010, may determine whether exhaust off-load has been selected.

If exhaust off-load has been selected, then either simultaneously, substantially simultaneously, or in sequence, the fuel and exhaust pump400may, at block1012, pump the selected fuel to the vehicle and at block1014, allow exhaust from the vehicle to flow to a compressor. The compressor, at block1016, may compress the exhaust and, at block1018, the compressed exhaust may flow into the exhaust holding tank410. At block1020, after the exhaust and fuel have been delivered from and to, respectively, the vehicle, the customer or user may be offered a receipt. If the customer or user only chooses a fuel, then, at block1012, the fuel may be pumped to the vehicle. If the customer or user only chooses to off-load exhaust, then only exhaust may be off-loaded.

FIG.14is another flow diagram for off-loading exhaust and fueling a vehicle sequentially, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The order in which the operations of method1100are described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described blocks may be combined in any order and/or in parallel to implement the disclosed methods.

At block1102, a customer or user may arrive at a pump. At block1104, the customer or user may pay for fuel or input payment prior to selection of a fuel. After submitting payment, at block1106, the customer or user may select a fuel type. After a fuel type is selected, the customer or user, at block1108, may insert a fuel nozzle into a vehicle. After the fuel nozzle is inserted into the vehicle, a fuel pump, at block1110, may begin pumping fuel through the fuel nozzle into the vehicle.

While the fuel is being pumped, prior to pumping fuel, or after fuel has been pumped, at block1112, it may be determined whether the vehicle includes an onboard vehicle exhaust capture device (e.g., by prompting the user for such confirmation). If the vehicle includes an onboard vehicle exhaust capture device, the customer or user may choose whether to off-load exhaust at block1114. If the customer or user chooses to off-load exhaust, the customer or user may input payment for such an operation at block1116. Such payment may occur when the customer pays for fuel or afterwards. After the customer or user has transacted payment, the customer or user may, at block1118engage the exhaust nozzle with the exhaust port associated with the vehicle.

Once the exhaust nozzle is engaged with the exhaust port, at block1120, the exhaust may be transferred from the vehicle's on-board vehicle exhaust capture device to a compressor. The compressor, at block1122, may further compress exhaust from the vehicle. At block1124, the compressed exhaust may be transferred to an exhaust holding tank. After transfer of exhaust and/or fuel, at block1126, the customer or user may be offered a receipt.

FIG.15is a flow diagram for off-loading and processing liquid exhaust, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The order in which the operations of method1200are described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described blocks may be combined in any order and/or in parallel to implement the disclosed methods.

At block1202, a controller or computing device may determine whether a user has elected to off-load exhaust from a vehicle. The exhaust may be a liquid exhaust. The liquid exhaust may be comprised of liquid carbon dioxide. The liquid exhaust may include other chemicals as well, such as nitrogen and/or water, among other chemicals.

At block1204, the controller or computing device may prompt a user to engage an exhaust nozzle with the vehicle. At block1206, prior to commencing off-load of exhaust, the controller or computing device may wait until confirmation (e.g., via a signal from the exhaust nozzle, signal from the user, and/or other signals) that the exhaust nozzle is engaged with the vehicle.

At block1208, if the exhaust nozzle is engaged with the vehicle, then the exhaust may be pumped, via a pump, from the vehicle to a dryer. At block1210, the dryer may dry the exhaust. The liquid exhaust, as noted, may include an amount of water. As pressure drops occur at points between the exhaust nozzle and the exhaust storage tank, temperature of the exhaust may drop. Depending on the temperature drop, water may potentially freeze, causing blocks or clogs. As such, the dryer may remove any water included in the exhaust, thus preventing such blocks or clogs.

At block1212, the dried exhaust may be pumped to a knock-out drum. As the exhaust passes through the system, vapors may form based on temperature and/or pressure changes. At block1214, the vapor may be separated from the liquid exhaust in the knock-out drum and transported to an intermediate storage tank. The intermediate storage tank may include or may be connected to a refrigeration unit. At block1218, the vapor may be condensed in the refrigeration unit. The condensation (e.g., a second liquid), at block1220, may be pumped to exhaust storage. Further, at block1216, the liquid from the knock-out drum may be pumped to the exhaust storage.

As noted, a scalable greenhouse capture system may be utilized for a variety of vehicles, for example, a marine vessel1302.FIG.16AandFIG.16Bare schematic diagrams that illustrate scalable greenhouse gas capture systems1300for off-loading captured exhaust, greenhouse gases, or carbon dioxide from a marine vessel1302, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The marine vessel1302may include an exhaust or carbon capture device. The exhaust or carbon capture device may capture carbon dioxide and/or other chemicals/greenhouse gases produced by the engine of the marine vessel1302and/or from the air. The captured exhaust or carbon dioxide may be stored, as a liquid or a gas, in a storage section1306or tank of the marine vessel1302. The marine vessel1302may re-fuel at a seaport, at an on-shore dock, or an off-shore platform/dock as illustrated inFIG.16A, or off-shore bunkering via a smaller marine vessel1314or tug boat with a fueling and/or exhaust/greenhouse gas vessel1312. The seaport or dock may include several armatures1304,1305. Each of the armatures1304,1305may include a distal end and proximal end. A swivel joint may connect the proximal end to of the armatures1304,1305to a pipeline. The pipeline may connect to a pump. Another pipeline may connect the pump to a meter and/or sampler/analyzer. The meter and/or analyzer may connect directly to an exhaust or greenhouse gas holding tank1310, to an additional compressor or pump, or to a manifold1311. The manifold1311may include several connections or pipelines to different tanks, spheres, or other components. The distal end of the armatures1304,1305may connect to a corresponding port on the marine vessel1302. Upon connection of the distal end to the port of the marine vessel1302, the exhaust or greenhouse gas may be pumped from a tank of the marine vessel1302. A pump connected to the armature1304may pump the exhaust or greenhouse through the armature1304. The exhaust may flow through the swivel joint to the meter and/or sampler/analyzer. The exhaust may further flow through to the additional compressor or pump, for further compression the exhaust or greenhouse gas. The exhaust or greenhouse gas may further flow to the holding tank. The armatures may include additional pumps to allow for pumping of the exhaust to the marine vessel1302for shipment. The marine vessel1302may be a blue water vessel, e.g., a deep sea vessel, or a brown water vessel, e.g., an inland or coastal waterway vessel, such as a tow or barge. In another embodiment, the seaport or dock may include fuel armatures1305connected to a fuel storage tank1308for providing fuel to the marine vessel1302.

As illustrated inFIG.16B, the marine vessel1302may re-fuel or off-load stored exhaust or greenhouse gases off-shore. A smaller marine vessel or tug boat may haul or transport a floating fuel and exhaust or greenhouse gas storage vessel1312. Such a vessel1312may be constructed similar to the fuel tank and/or exhaust or greenhouse gas storage tank of the marine vessel. The vessel may dock at the seaport or dock to off-load exhaust, for example, at the seaport as illustrated inFIG.16A.

FIG.17is a schematic diagram that illustrates scalable greenhouse gas capture systems1400for off-loading captured greenhouse gas from a locomotive and/or rail cars1402to a greenhouse gas holding tank and transporting the greenhouse gas from the greenhouse gas holding tank to a delivery vehicle, pipeline, or other form of transportation for re-use, recycle, or permanent storage, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The locomotive and/or rail cars1402may include an exhaust or carbon capture device to capture exhaust, carbon dioxide, carbon dioxide from the air, and/or some other gases/chemicals. The exhaust or carbon dioxide may be produced via an internal combustion engine of the locomotive and/or rail cars1402. The locomotive and/or rail cars1402may re-fuel at a rail fueling station, as illustrated inFIG.17. The rail fueling station may include several armatures1404,1406. The armatures1404,1406may include a distal end and proximal end. A swivel joint may connect the proximal end to a pipeline. The pipeline may connect to a pump. Another pipeline may connect the pump to a meter and/or sampler/analyzer. The meter and/or analyzer may connect directly to an exhaust or greenhouse gas holding tank or to an additional compressor or pump. The distal end may connect to a corresponding port on the locomotive and/or rail cars1402. Upon connection of the distal end to the port of the locomotive1402, the exhaust or greenhouse gas may flow from a tank of the locomotive and/or rail cars1402. A pump connected to the armature1404,1406may pump the exhaust or greenhouse through the armature1404,1406. The exhaust may flow through the swivel joint to the meter and/or sampler/analyzer. The exhaust may further flow through the additional compressor or pump, to further compress the exhaust or greenhouse gas. The exhaust or greenhouse gas may further flow to the holding tank.

In another embodiment, the locomotive1402may include a storage section or storage cart, connected to the locomotive1402. The storage section or storage cart may store exhaust, greenhouse gases, or carbon dioxide captured by the exhaust or carbon capture device of the locomotive1402. In another embodiment, the storage section or storage cart may store exhaust, greenhouse gases, or carbon dioxide for transport for further use. In such embodiments, the armatures1404,1406may additionally be configured to pump exhaust, greenhouse gases, or carbon dioxide to the storage section or storage cart.

FIG.18is a schematic diagram that illustrates scalable greenhouse gas capture systems1500for off-loading captured greenhouse gas from an airplane1502to a greenhouse gas holding tank and transporting the greenhouse gas from the greenhouse gas holding tank, e.g., such as by a delivery vehicle, or other logistics means, such as pipe or pipeline, rail, or marine vessel, for re-use, recycle, or permanent storage, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. In such embodiments, an airplane1502may include a greenhouse gas capture device. The greenhouse gas capture device may capture greenhouse gases from the air as the airplane1502travels between destinations. The airport may include above-grade or below-grade fuel tanks. The airport may include above-grade or below-grade greenhouse gas tanks. The airport may include ports allowing for a pump or dispenser to connect to the below-grade fuel tanks and below-grade and/or above-grade greenhouse gas tanks. Dispensing trucks1504may travel to an airplane1502to re-fuel the airplane1502. The dispensing trucks1504may additionally be configured to pump or otherwise facilitate flow of greenhouse gases captured by the airplane1502. A truck separate from the dispensing truck1504may be utilized to offload the captured greenhouse gases. As the dispensing truck1504or separate truck is connected to the airplane1502, the dispensing truck1504or separate truck may pump or otherwise facilitate the flow of the greenhouse gases from the airplane1502to the below-grade or above-grade greenhouse gas tanks. Stated another way, the greenhouse gases captured by the airplane may be off-loaded from the holding vessel within airplane1502.

FIG.19is a flow diagram for off-loading exhaust and/or fueling a vehicle, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The scalable greenhouse gas capture systems ofFIG.2AthroughFIG.11andFIG.16A through18may be utilized in method1600. Unless otherwise specified, the actions of method1600may be completed within a computing device or controller for any of the systems described herein. Specifically, method1600may be included in one or more programs, protocols, or instructions loaded into memory of the computing device or controller. The order in which the operations are described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described blocks may be combined in any order and/or in parallel to implement the disclosed methods.

At block1602, a greenhouse gas arm or armature may be connected to a corresponding port on a vehicle. The greenhouse gas arm or armature may be configured to pump or otherwise facilitate the flow of greenhouse gas, in various forms, to and/or from a vehicle. Vehicles may include large trucks, marine vessels, locomotives, rail cars, airplanes, buses, and/or other vehicles. The greenhouse gas arm or armature may be configured to create a seal and/or lock into place when inserted into the corresponding port on the vehicle in order to preclude the escape of captured greenhouse gases to atmosphere.

The scalable greenhouse gas capture system may include a fuel arm or armature. In other embodiments, the scalable greenhouse gas capture system may not include an option to fuel a vehicle, but rather an option to remove or discharge captured exhaust or greenhouse gases. If present, at block1604, the fuel arm or armature may connect to a corresponding port on the vehicle.

At block1606, the scalable greenhouse gas capture system may pump fuel to and/or facilitate the flow of greenhouse gases from the vehicle through the corresponding arms or armatures. Fuel may be pumped prior to, during, or after the removal or discharging of the greenhouse gases.

At block1608the greenhouse gases may be transported through the armature to a meter and/or sampler or analyzer. The meter may determine the amount of greenhouse gases being off-loaded. The sampler or analyzer may analyze or determine the content of the greenhouse gases, e.g., the identification of the greenhouse gas, a relative percentage of the greenhouse gases contained therein, the identification/relative percentages of various chemicals therein, etc. The gases and/or chemicals contained therein may include carbon dioxide or primarily carbon dioxide. Other gases/chemicals may be included, but the other gases/chemicals may be based on the type of vehicle and the type of greenhouse gas capture device of the vehicle, e.g., a vehicle utilizing bunker fuel may produce trace amounts of different chemicals, e.g., sulfur-containing compounds, nitrogen-containing compounds, etc., as opposed to a vehicle burning jet fuel.

The greenhouse gas may be compressed via a compressor or multi-stage compressor. At block1610, the greenhouse gas, whether compressed or not compressed and in a solid, liquid, or gaseous form, may be transported or pumped to a greenhouse gas holding tank.

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 18/207,722, filed Jun. 9, 2023, titled “SCALABLE GREENHOUSE GAS CAPTURE SYSTEMS AND METHODS,” which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 18/093,756, filed Jan. 5, 2023, titled “SCALABLE GREENHOUSE GAS CAPTURE SYSTEMS AND METHODS,” now U.S. Pat. No. 11,761,366, issued Sep. 19, 2023, which is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 17/652,530, filed Feb. 25, 2022, titled “SCALABLE GREENHOUSE GAS CAPTURE SYSTEMS AND METHODS,” now U.S. Pat. No. 11,578,638, issued Feb. 14, 2023, which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/200,581, filed Mar. 16, 2021, titled “SCALABLE GREENHOUSE GAS CAPTURE SYSTEMS AND METHODS,” and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/267,567, filed Feb. 4, 2022, titled “SCALABLE GREENHOUSE GAS CAPTURE SYSTEMS AND METHODS,” the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. U.S. application Ser. No. 18/207,722 is also a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 18/093,747, filed Jan. 5, 2023, titled “SCALABLE GREENHOUSE GAS CAPTURE SYSTEMS AND METHODS,” now U.S. Pat. No. 11,739,679, issued Aug. 29, 2023, which is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 17/652,530, filed Feb. 25, 2022, titled “SCALABLE GREENHOUSE GAS CAPTURE SYSTEMS AND METHODS,” now U.S. Pat. No. 11,578,638, issued Feb. 14, 2023, which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/200,581, filed Mar. 16, 2021, titled “SCALABLE GREENHOUSE GAS CAPTURE SYSTEMS AND METHODS,” and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/267,567, filed Feb. 4, 2022, titled “SCALABLE GREENHOUSE GAS CAPTURE SYSTEMS AND METHODS,” the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

In the drawings and specification, several embodiments of systems and methods to provide scalable greenhouse gas capture have been disclosed, and although specific terms are employed, the terms are used in a descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Embodiments of systems and methods have been described in considerable detail with specific reference to the illustrated embodiments. However, it will be apparent that various modifications and changes may be made within the spirit and scope of the embodiments of systems and methods as described in the foregoing specification, and such modifications and changes are to be considered equivalents and part of this disclosure.