Air control valve for fuel cell vehicles

Abstract

The present application provides an air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle, comprising: a valve housing formed with an air flow path; a valve member configured to selectively open or close the air flow path; and a drive unit configured to linearly operate the valve member such that the valve member linearly moves from a first position closing the air flow path to a second position opening the air flow path, whereby beneficial effects of improved sealing performance and improved stability and reliability can be obtained.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0137426, filed on October 22, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to an air control valve for fuel cell vehicles, which improves sealing performance and prevents degradation of the fuel cell stack. Background Technology

[0004] The statements in this section are provided only as background information relating to the invention and do not constitute prior art.

[0005] A fuel cell system is a system that continuously generates electricity through the chemical reaction of a continuously supplied fuel. Research and development of fuel cell systems have been ongoing as a potential solution to global environmental problems.

[0006] Based on the type of electrolyte used in a fuel cell system, fuel cell systems can be classified into phosphoric acid fuel cells (PAFC), molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFC), solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC), polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFC), alkaline fuel cells (AFC), and direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC), among others. Depending on operating temperature, output range, and the type of fuel used, fuel cell systems can be applied to various fields related to mobile power, transportation, and distributed power generation. Among fuel cells, polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells are used in hydrogen-powered vehicles (hydrogen fuel cell vehicles) developed to replace internal combustion engines.

[0007] Hydrogen-powered vehicles include fuel cell stacks that generate electricity through a redox reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. The vehicles are configured to travel using an electric motor powered by the electricity generated by the fuel cell stack.

[0008] Meanwhile, hydrogen-powered vehicles are equipped with an air control valve configured to control the air introduced into the fuel cell stack and the air discharged from the fuel cell stack.

[0009] The valve component (valve disc) of the air control valve operates to open the airflow path when the vehicle is in operation, and operates to close the airflow path when the vehicle is not in operation.

[0010] We have found that if air is introduced into the fuel cell stack when the vehicle is not in use for an extended period of time (e.g., when the vehicle is parked for a long time), the fuel cell stack deteriorates, which leads to a decrease in the performance of the fuel cell stack. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The present invention provides an air control valve for fuel cell vehicles, which can improve sealing performance and suppress the deterioration of fuel cell stacks.

[0012] This invention also aims to improve sealing performance when the valve component closes the airflow path.

[0013] This invention also aims to improve stability and reliability.

[0014] This invention also aims to simplify the structure and miniaturize the device.

[0015] The purpose of this form is not limited to the purposes described above, but also includes purposes or effects that can be recognized from the solutions or forms described below.

[0016] In one aspect of the invention, an air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle includes: a valve housing having an airflow path formed therein; a valve member configured to selectively open or close the airflow path; and a drive unit configured to linearly operate the valve member such that the valve member moves linearly from a first position to a second position to open the airflow path. This is to improve the sealing performance of the air control valve for fuel cell vehicles and prevent degradation of the fuel cell stack.

[0017] In other words, when a fuel cell vehicle is not used for a long time, air may be introduced into the fuel cell stack due to the deterioration of the sealing performance of the air control valve, which will lead to the deterioration of the fuel cell stack's performance.

[0018] In the prior art, a valve member configured to open or close an airflow path in an air control valve opens or closes the airflow path while rotating about a rotation axis. This results in the problem that when the valve member closes the airflow path, it is difficult to uniformly generate the overall pressing force (the surface pressure that brings the valve member into contact with the wall surface of the airflow path to close it) applied to the valve member. Specifically, in the case of a structure where the valve member rotates about a rotation axis, the pressing force applied to the second portion of the valve member furthest from the rotation axis (the portion further from the rotation axis than the first portion) is less than the pressing force applied to the first portion of the valve member adjacent to the rotation axis. This leads to a deterioration in the sealing performance of the valve member.

[0019] Conversely, according to some embodiments of the invention, the valve member opens or closes the airflow path while moving linearly. This provides the following advantages: when the valve member closes the airflow path, a uniform and sufficient pressing force is formed across the entire valve member, improving the sealing performance of the valve member and preventing air from being introduced into the fuel cell stack when the fuel cell vehicle is not in use.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the invention, the airflow path may include: a first flow path; and a second flow path separate from the first flow path; and the valve member may include: a first valve disc configured to be linearly moved by the drive unit to selectively open or close the first flow path; and a second valve disc configured to be linearly moved by the drive unit to selectively open or close the second flow path.

[0021] According to another embodiment of the invention, a bypass flow path may be provided in the valve housing, the bypass flow path being configured to connect the first flow path and the second flow path, and allowing air introduced into the first flow path to selectively flow to the second flow path.

[0022] The drive unit may have various structures that enable the valve member to move linearly from the first position to the second position.

[0023] For example, the drive unit may include: a drive source configured to provide drive power; and a power conversion component connected to the valve member and configured to convert the drive power of the drive source into linear motion of the valve member.

[0024] The power conversion component may have various structures capable of converting the driving power of the drive source into linear motion of the valve component.

[0025] For example, the power conversion component may include: a first transmission member configured to rotate via the drive source; and a second transmission member connected to the valve member to engage with the first transmission member and configured to move the valve member by being linearly moved by the rotation of the first transmission member.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the invention, an air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle may include: a drive gear configured to rotate via the drive source; and a power conversion component that can cooperate with the drive gear.

[0027] According to another embodiment of the invention, the power conversion component may be disposed in the bypass flow path.

[0028] As described above, in the exemplary form of the present invention, since the power conversion component is disposed in a bypass flow path that is already configured to allow selective airflow, no additional space is required for the power conversion component, thereby achieving the beneficial effects of simplified structure and miniaturization of the device.

[0029] According to another embodiment of the invention, an air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle may include a support member disposed in the valve housing and configured to support linear movement of the second transmission member relative to the valve housing.

[0030] As described above, in an exemplary form of the invention, since the linear motion of the second transmission member is supported by the support member, the beneficial effects of minimizing the vibration and retraction of the second transmission member and providing more stable linear motion of the second transmission member during its linear motion can be obtained.

[0031] According to another embodiment of the invention, an air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle may include: a first mounting portion disposed in the valve housing to allow the valve member to be mounted on the first mounting portion in a first position; and a second mounting portion disposed in the valve housing to allow the valve member to be mounted on the second mounting portion in a second position.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the invention, an air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle may include: a first sealing portion disposed on one surface of the valve member and configured to seal a gap between the valve member and the first mounting portion; a second sealing portion disposed on another surface of the valve member and configured to seal a gap between the valve member and the second mounting portion; and a common sealing portion disposed on a side portion of the valve member and configured to seal a gap between the valve member and either the first mounting portion or the second mounting portion according to movement of the valve member.

[0033] In particular, the common sealing portion may be formed along the entire outer periphery of the valve member.

[0034] As described above, according to the present invention, with the valve member mounted on the first mounting portion, the gap between the valve member and the first mounting portion can be sealed by a double sealing structure formed by the first sealing portion and the common sealing portion, thereby achieving the beneficial effects of improving the sealing performance of the valve member and minimizing air leakage through the gap between the valve member and the first mounting portion.

[0035] Similarly, according to the present invention, with the valve member mounted on the second mounting portion, the gap between the valve member and the second mounting portion is sealed by a double sealing structure formed by the second sealing portion and the common sealing portion, thereby achieving the beneficial effects of improving the sealing performance of the valve member and minimizing air leakage through the gap between the valve member and the second mounting portion.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the invention, an air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle may include: a first guide seal disposed on a first mounting portion and configured to cooperate with a common seal to seal the gap between the valve member and the first mounting portion; and a second guide seal disposed on a second mounting portion and configured to cooperate with the common seal to seal the gap between the valve member and the second mounting portion.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the invention, the common sealing portion may include a plurality of common sealing protrusions protruding from a side portion of the valve member, the first guide sealing portion may include a plurality of first guide sealing protrusions formed on the inner surface of the side portion of the first mounting portion facing the valve member, and the second guide sealing portion may include a plurality of second guide sealing protrusions formed on the inner surface of the side portion of the second mounting portion facing the valve member.

[0038] As described above, according to one embodiment of the present invention, when the valve member is mounted on the first mounting portion, the gap between the valve member and the first mounting portion can be sealed by a triple sealing structure formed by the first sealing portion, the common sealing portion and the first guiding sealing portion, thereby achieving the beneficial effect of further improving the sealing performance of the valve member and more effectively preventing air leakage through the gap between the valve member and the first mounting portion.

[0039] As described above, according to one embodiment of the present invention, when the valve member is mounted on the second mounting portion, the gap between the valve member and the second mounting portion can be sealed by a triple sealing structure formed by the second sealing portion, the common sealing portion, and the second guiding sealing portion, thereby achieving the beneficial effect of further improving the sealing performance of the valve member and more effectively preventing air leakage through the gap between the valve member and the second mounting portion.

[0040] The arrangement between the common sealing protrusion and the first guide sealing protrusion (or the second guide sealing protrusion) can be modified in various ways according to the required conditions and design specifications.

[0041] According to one embodiment of the invention, the common sealing protrusion and the first guide sealing protrusion can be in close contact with each other to be alternately arranged in the direction of movement of the valve member when the valve member is moved to the first position, and the common sealing protrusion and the second guide sealing protrusion can be alternately arranged in the direction of movement of the valve member when the valve member is moved to the second position.

[0042] Specifically, a first receiving portion corresponding to the common sealing protrusion is defined between adjacent first guide sealing protrusions, and a second receiving portion corresponding to the common sealing protrusion is defined between adjacent second guide sealing protrusions. In the first position, the common sealing protrusion can be received in the first receiving portion, and in the second position, the common sealing protrusion can be received in the second receiving portion.

[0043] As described above, according to another embodiment of the invention, the common sealing protrusion and the first guide sealing protrusion (or the second guide sealing protrusion) are alternately in close contact with each other, thereby achieving the beneficial effect of further improving the sealing performance of the common sealing portion and the first guide sealing portion (or the second guide sealing portion).

[0044] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the power conversion component may include: a rotating shaft configured to rotate via the drive source; and a reciprocating motion member connected to the valve member and configured to move the valve member by linear reciprocating motion via the rotation of the rotating shaft.

[0045] According to another embodiment of the invention, an air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle may include a guide member disposed in the valve housing and configured to guide linear movement of the valve member relative to the valve housing.

[0046] For example, the valve member can be housed in the guide member to be able to move linearly, a first tight contact portion can be disposed at one end of the guide member and configured to be in tight contact with one surface of the valve member at the first position, and a second tight contact portion can be disposed at the other end of the guide member and configured to be in tight contact with another surface of the valve member at the second position.

[0047] As described above, in an exemplary form of the invention, since the valve member moves linearly along the interior of the guide member, the beneficial effects of minimizing valve member vibration and retraction and providing more stable linear motion of the valve member while it moves linearly can be achieved.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the invention, an air control valve for a vehicle may include a stop configured to selectively limit the rotational range of the drive gear.

[0049] The stop block can have various structures capable of selectively limiting the rotational region of the drive gear. For example, the stop block may include: a first stop block protrusion, a first stop block portion, a second stop block protrusion, and a second stop block portion, wherein the first stop block protrusion is disposed in the valve housing; the first stop block portion is disposed on the drive gear and configured to contact the first stop block protrusion when the drive gear rotates along a first direction to a predetermined first rotational region; the second stop block protrusion is disposed in the valve housing to be spaced apart from the first stop block protrusion in the circumferential direction of the drive gear; and the second stop block portion is disposed on the drive gear and configured to contact the second stop block protrusion when the drive gear rotates along a second direction to a predetermined second rotational region.

[0050] As described above, according to one embodiment of the present invention, when the drive gear rotates along a first direction through a predetermined first rotation area, the first stop portion contacts the first stop protrusion and restricts the rotation of the drive gear, thereby preventing excessive rotation of the drive gear along the first direction. This provides the beneficial effect of preventing excessive movement of the valve component.

[0051] Similarly, when the drive gear rotates in the second direction through a preset second rotation area, the second stop portion contacts the second stop protrusion and restricts the rotation of the drive gear, thereby preventing excessive rotation of the drive gear in the second direction. This provides the beneficial effect of preventing excessive movement of the valve component.

[0052] Other applications will become apparent from the description provided herein. It should be understood that this specification and specific embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0053] To provide a good understanding of the invention, its various forms will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0054] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle according to an exemplary form of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating one form of the drive unit for an air control valve in a fuel cell vehicle according to the present invention.

[0056] Figure 3 and Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operating structure of a valve component for an air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle according to some forms of the present invention;

[0057] Figures 5 to 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a common seal of an air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle according to some forms of the present invention;

[0058] Figure 8 and Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of a drive unit for an air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle according to some forms of the present invention; and

[0059] Figure 10 and Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a stop for an air control valve in a fuel cell vehicle according to some forms of the present invention.

[0060] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

[0061] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0062] 10: Fuel Cell Stack

[0063] 20: Air control valve

[0064] 100: Valve housing

[0065] 110: Airflow path

[0066] 112: First flow path

[0067] 114: Second Flow Path

[0068] 120: Bypass Flow Path

[0069] 130: First Resettlement Department

[0070] 140: Second Resettlement Department

[0071] 200: Valve component

[0072] 210: First valve disc

[0073] 220: Second valve disc

[0074] 300: Drive Unit

[0075] 310: Driver Source

[0076] 320, 320': Power conversion components

[0077] 322: First transmission component

[0078] 324: Second transmission component

[0079] 326: Supporting components

[0080] 322': Rotation axis

[0081] 324': Reciprocating motion component

[0082] 330: Drive gear

[0083] 340: Stop

[0084] 342: First stop protrusion

[0085] 344: First stop section

[0086] 346: The second stop protrudes.

[0087] 348: Second stop section

[0088] 410: First sealing part

[0089] 420: Second sealing part

[0090] 430: Common sealing part

[0091] 432: Shared sealing protrusion

[0092] 440: First guide seal

[0093] 441: First Reception Section

[0094] 442: First guide sealing protrusion

[0095] 450: Second guide seal

[0096] 451: Second containment section

[0097] 452: Second guide sealing protrusion

[0098] 500: Guiding component

[0099] 510: First Close Contact Part

[0100] 520: Second close contact part. Detailed Implementation

[0101] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the invention, application, or use. It should be understood that throughout the specification and drawings, corresponding reference numerals denote the same or corresponding parts and features.

[0102] The exemplary aspects of the invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0103] However, the spirit of the invention is not limited to the exemplary forms described herein, but can be implemented in a variety of different forms. Within the scope of the spirit of the invention, one or more of the constituent elements of each form may be selectively combined and substituted.

[0104] Furthermore, unless otherwise specifically and explicitly defined and indicated, the terminology used in the form of this invention (including technical and scientific terms) may be interpreted as having a meaning that would be commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The meaning of commonly used terms, such as those defined in dictionaries, may be interpreted in light of the contextual meaning of prior art.

[0105] Furthermore, the terminology used in the present invention is for illustrative purposes and not for limiting the invention.

[0106] Unless otherwise specifically indicated in the context of this specification, the singular form may also include the plural form. The description herein of "at least one (or one or more) of A, B, and C" may include one or more of all combinations that can be formed by combining A, B, and C.

[0107] Furthermore, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a) and (b) can be used to describe the constituent elements of the present invention.

[0108] These terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another, and the nature, order, or sequence of the components are not limited by these terms.

[0109] Furthermore, when a component is described as being “connected,” “joined,” or “attached” to another component, a component may be directly connected, joined, or attached to another component, or may be connected, joined, or attached to another component by means of another component inserted therein.

[0110] Furthermore, the description of "forming or setting a component above or below another component" includes not only cases where two component elements are in direct contact with each other, but also cases where one or more additional component elements are formed or set between two component elements. Additionally, the expression "above or below" can include meanings based on the downward and upward directions of a component element.

[0111] refer to Figures 1 to 11 According to one embodiment of the invention, an air control valve 20 for a fuel cell vehicle includes: a valve housing 100, a valve member 200, and a drive unit 300. The valve housing 100 forms an airflow path 110. The valve member 200 is configured to selectively open or close the airflow path 110. The drive unit 300 is configured to linearly operate the valve member 200 such that the valve member 200 moves linearly from a first position where the airflow path 110 is closed to a second position where the airflow path 110 is open.

[0112] For reference, the air control valve 20 according to the present invention can be used to control the air to be introduced into the fuel cell stack 10 of the fuel cell vehicle and to control the air discharged from the fuel cell stack 10.

[0113] The valve housing 100 is formed to have an airflow path 110 through which air flows. The valve housing 100 is installed in a vehicle (fuel cell vehicle).

[0114] The valve housing 100 may be modified in shape and structure in various ways according to the required conditions and design specifications, but the present invention is not constrained or limited by the shape and structure of the valve housing 100.

[0115] More specifically, the airflow path 110 includes a first flow path 112 and a second flow path 114, through which air is supplied to the fuel cell stack 10 and through which air is discharged from the fuel cell stack 10. For example, in the valve housing 100, the first flow path 112 and the second flow path 114 may be separately separated by a partition wall (not shown).

[0116] In addition, the valve housing 100 is provided with a first port 112a connected to the air inlet of the fuel cell stack 10 and a second port 114a connected to the exhaust port of the fuel cell stack 10.

[0117] For example, the first port 112a can be connected to the first flow path 112, and the air to be supplied to the fuel cell stack 10 can flow through the first port 112a. In addition, the second port 114a can be connected to the second flow path 114, and the air discharged from the fuel cell stack 10 can flow through the second port 114a.

[0118] In addition, the valve housing 100 is provided with a bypass flow path 120, which is configured to connect the first flow path 112 and the second flow path 114, and allows air introduced into the first flow path 112 to selectively flow to the second flow path 114.

[0119] The valve component 200 is configured to be linearly moved by the drive unit 300 to selectively open or close the airflow path 110.

[0120] refer to Figures 2 to 4 According to one embodiment of the invention, the valve component 200 includes: a first valve disc 210 configured to selectively open or close a first flow path 112; and a second valve disc 220 configured to be spaced apart from the first valve disc 210 and to selectively open or close a second flow path 114.

[0121] The first valve disc 210 and the second valve disc 220 may have various structures capable of opening and closing the first flow path 112 and the second flow path 114, and the present invention is not constrained or limited by the structure of the first valve disc 210 and the second valve disc 220.

[0122] The first valve disc 210 is configured to be linearly moved by the drive unit 300 to open or close the first flow path 112.

[0123] For example, the first valve disc 210 may be formed to have a shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the first flow path 112 (e.g., a quadrilateral cross-sectional shape). According to another embodiment of the invention, the first valve disc may be formed to have a shape different from the cross-sectional shape of the first flow path, and the invention is not constrained or limited by the shape and structure of the first valve disc.

[0124] The second valve disc 220 is configured to be linearly moved by the drive unit 300 to open or close the second flow path 114.

[0125] For example, the second valve disc 220 is formed to have a shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the second flow path 114 (e.g., a quadrilateral cross-sectional shape). According to another embodiment of the invention, the second valve disc may be formed to have a shape different from the cross-sectional shape of the second flow path, and the invention is not constrained or limited by the shape and structure of the second valve disc.

[0126] The drive unit 300 is configured to operate the valve member 200 linearly, such that the valve member 200 can move linearly from a first position where the valve member 200 closes the air flow path 110 to a second position where the valve member 200 opens the air flow path 110.

[0127] That is, the first valve disc 210 can be moved linearly from a first position where the first flow path 112 is closed to a second position where the first flow path 112 is open via the drive unit 300. The second valve disc 220 can be moved from a first position where the second flow path 114 is closed to a second position where the second flow path 114 is open via the drive unit 300 (rotation).

[0128] The drive unit 300 may have various structures that enable the valve member 200 to move linearly from the first position to the second position, and the present invention is not constrained or limited by the structure of the drive unit 300.

[0129] For example, the drive unit 300 may include: a drive source 310 configured to provide drive power; and a power conversion component 320 connected to the valve member 200 and configured to convert the drive power of the drive source 310 into linear motion of the valve member 200.

[0130] Various drive devices capable of providing driving power can be used as drive source 310, and the present invention is not constrained or limited by the type and structure of drive source 310. For example, a motor can be used as drive source 310. According to another embodiment of the invention, hydraulic (or pneumatic) cylinders, solenoids, etc., can be used as drive sources.

[0131] The power conversion component 320 is configured to convert the driving power of the drive source 310 into linear motion of the valve component 200.

[0132] The power conversion component 320 may have various structures that can convert the driving power of the drive source 310 into linear motion of the valve component 200, and the present invention is not constrained or limited by the structure of the power conversion component 320.

[0133] For example, the power conversion component 320 may include: a first transmission member 322 configured to rotate via a drive source 310; and a second transmission member 324 connected to the valve member 200 to engage with the first transmission member 322 and configured to be linearly moved by the rotation of the first transmission member 322, thereby moving the valve member 200.

[0134] For example, a typical pinion can be used as the first transmission element 322, and a typical rack can be used as the second transmission element 324.

[0135] Specifically, the second transmission member 324 can be connected to the central portion of the rear surface (the surface facing the bypass flow path) of the valve member 200. As described above, since the second transmission member 324 is connected to the central portion of the valve member 200, the beneficial effect of uniformly forming the pressing force to be applied to the valve member 200 can be obtained.

[0136] When the first transmission member 322 rotates via the drive source 310, the second transmission member 324, which meshes with the first transmission member 322, can move linearly (based on...). Figure 2 The valve member 200, which moves linearly in the upward / downward direction, and is connected to the second transmission member 324, moves linearly together with the second transmission member 324, thereby opening or closing the airflow path 110.

[0137] The connection structure between the drive source 310 and the power conversion component 320 can be modified in various ways according to the required conditions and design specifications.

[0138] For example, the air control valve 20 for a fuel cell vehicle may include a drive gear 330 configured to rotate via a drive source 310, and a power conversion component 320 may cooperate with the drive gear 330.

[0139] More specifically, the first transmission member 322 can mesh with the drive gear 330, and the first transmission member 322 can rotate by the rotation of the drive gear 330, so that the second transmission member 324 can cooperate with the first transmission member 322 to work (move linearly).

[0140] According to another embodiment of the invention, the first transmission element may be configured to rotate directly via a drive source.

[0141] According to the present invention, the power conversion component 320 may be disposed in the bypass flow path 120.

[0142] As described above, in the form of the present invention, since the power conversion component 320 is disposed in the bypass flow path 120 which is already configured to allow selective air flow, no additional space is required for the power conversion component 320, thereby achieving the beneficial effects of simplified structure and miniaturization of the device.

[0143] For reference, even if the power conversion component 320 is located in the bypass flow path 120, airflow can be stably provided through the bypass flow path 120.

[0144] refer to Figure 3According to one embodiment of the invention, the air control valve 20 for a fuel cell vehicle may include a support member 326 disposed in a valve housing 100 and configured to support linear movement of a second transmission member 324 relative to the valve housing 100.

[0145] The support member 326 may have various structures capable of supporting the linear movement of the second transmission member 324 relative to the valve housing 100, and the present invention is not constrained or limited by the structure of the support member 326.

[0146] For example, one surface of the second transmission member 324 can be slidably supported by (contacting) the support member 326.

[0147] As described above, in the form of the present invention, since the linear motion of the second transmission member 324 is supported by the support member 326, the beneficial effects of minimizing or reducing the vibration and retraction of the second transmission member 324 and providing more stable linear motion of the second transmission member 324 during its linear motion can be obtained.

[0148] According to one embodiment of the invention, an air control valve 20 for a fuel cell vehicle may include: a first mounting portion 130 disposed in a valve housing 100 to allow a valve member 200 to be mounted on the first mounting portion 130 in a first position (closed position); and a second mounting portion 140 disposed in the valve housing 100 to allow the valve member 200 to be mounted on the second mounting portion 140 in a second position (open position).

[0149] The first mounting portion 130 and the second mounting portion 140 may have various structures on which the valve component 200 can be mounted, and the present invention is not constrained or limited by the structure and shape of the first mounting portion 130 and the second mounting portion 140.

[0150] For example, the first mounting portion 130 may include: a first bottom having an annulus corresponding to an edge of a surface of the valve member 200; and a first wall portion formed along the edge of the first bottom to surround a side surface of the valve member 200. The valve member 200 may be in close contact with the first bottom in a first position, thereby closing the airflow path 110.

[0151] Furthermore, the second mounting portion 140 may include: a second bottom having an annular shape corresponding to the edge of another surface of the valve member 200; and a second wall portion formed along the edge of the second bottom to surround the side surface of the valve member 200. The valve member 200 can be in close contact with the second bottom in a second position, thereby opening the airflow path 110 and closing the bypass flow path 120.

[0152] refer to Figures 5 to 7According to another embodiment of the invention, the air control valve 20 for a fuel cell vehicle may include a first sealing portion 410, a second sealing portion 420, and a common sealing portion 430. The first sealing portion 410 is disposed on one surface of the valve member 200 and configured to seal the gap between the valve member 200 and the first mounting portion 130. The second sealing portion 420 is disposed on another surface of the valve member 200 and configured to seal the gap between the valve member 200 and either the first mounting portion 130 or the second mounting portion 140 according to the movement of the valve member 200.

[0153] The first sealing portion 410 may have various structures capable of sealing the gap between a surface of the valve member 200 and the first mounting portion 130 (first bottom), and the present invention is not constrained or limited by the structure and material of the first sealing portion 410.

[0154] For example, the first sealing portion 410 may be formed in the form of a quadrilateral ring made of an elastic material such as rubber, silicone or polyurethane, and may be disposed on a surface of the valve member 200 facing the first bottom.

[0155] In the following description, an example in which the first sealing portion 410 is formed having a quadrilateral cross-sectional shape will be described. According to another embodiment of the invention, the first sealing portion may be configured to have a circular cross-sectional shape, a triangular cross-sectional shape, or other cross-sectional shapes.

[0156] The gap between the valve member 200 and the first bottom can be sealed by the first sealing part 410 when one surface of the valve member 200 is placed on the first mounting part 130 (when the valve member 200 is moved to the first position).

[0157] The second sealing portion 420 may have various structures capable of sealing the gap between another surface of the valve member 200 and the second mounting portion 140 (second bottom), and the present invention is not constrained or limited by the structure and material of the second sealing portion 420.

[0158] For example, the second sealing portion 420 may be formed in the form of a quadrilateral ring made of an elastic material such as rubber, silicone or polyurethane, and may be disposed on another surface of the valve member 200 facing the second bottom.

[0159] In the following description, an example in which the second sealing portion 420 is formed having a quadrilateral cross-sectional shape will be described. According to another embodiment of the invention, the second sealing portion may be configured to have a circular cross-sectional shape, a triangular cross-sectional shape, or other cross-sectional shapes.

[0160] The gap between the valve member 200 and the second bottom can be sealed by the second sealing part 420 when the valve member 200 is placed on the second mounting part 140 on the other surface of the valve member 200 (when the valve member 200 is moved to the second position).

[0161] A common sealing portion 430 is provided on the side portion of the valve member 200 and is configured to seal the gap between the valve member 200 and either the first mounting portion 130 or the second mounting portion 140 according to the movement of the valve member 200.

[0162] In this case, the configuration of the common sealing part 430 to seal the gap between the valve member 200 and either the first mounting part 130 or the second mounting part 140 according to the movement of the valve member 200 means that: when the valve member 200 is moved to the first position, the common sealing part 430 seals the gap between the valve member 200 and the first mounting part 130; when the valve member 200 is moved to the second position, the common sealing part 430 seals the gap between the valve member 200 and the second mounting part 140.

[0163] Specifically, the common sealing portion 430 may be formed continuously along the entire outer periphery of the valve member 200. According to another embodiment of the invention, the common sealing portion may be formed partially on a portion of the outer periphery of the valve member.

[0164] The common sealing part 430 may have various structures capable of sealing the gap between the side portion of the valve member 200 and the first mounting part 130 (or the second mounting part), and the present invention is not constrained or limited by the structure of the common sealing part 430.

[0165] For example, the common sealing portion 430 may include a plurality of common sealing protrusions 432, which may elastically contact a first or second wall portion of the side portion facing the valve member 200.

[0166] The common sealing protrusion 432 can be configured as an elastomer made of a material such as rubber, silicone or polyurethane and capable of being elastically compressed, and the material and physical properties of the common sealing protrusion 432 can be varied according to required conditions and design specifications.

[0167] According to one embodiment of the invention, each of the plurality of common sealing protrusions 432 may protrude from the side portion of the valve member 200 to have a triangular cross-sectional shape.

[0168] According to another embodiment of the invention, the common sealing protrusion may be formed with a semi-circular cross-sectional shape or other cross-sectional shapes. Alternatively, the common sealing portion may have a single common sealing protrusion.

[0169] When the valve member 200 is moved to the first position, the common sealing protrusion 432 can elastically contact the first wall portion, thereby sealing the gap between the valve member 200 and the first wall portion. Conversely, when the valve member 200 is moved to the second position, the common sealing protrusion 432 can elastically contact the second wall portion, thereby sealing the gap between the valve member 200 and the second wall portion.

[0170] As described above, with the valve member 200 mounted on the first mounting portion 130, the gap between the valve member 200 and the first mounting portion 130 can be sealed by a double sealing structure formed by the first sealing portion 410 and the common sealing portion 430, thereby achieving the beneficial effect of improving the sealing performance of the valve member 200 and minimizing or reducing air leakage through the gap between the valve member 200 and the first mounting portion 130.

[0171] In another embodiment of the invention, with the valve member 200 mounted on the second mounting portion 140, the gap between the valve member 200 and the second mounting portion 140 is sealed by a double sealing structure formed by the second sealing portion 420 and the common sealing portion 430, thereby achieving the beneficial effects of improving the sealing performance of the valve member 200 and minimizing air leakage through the gap between the valve member 200 and the second mounting portion 140.

[0172] According to one embodiment of the invention, an air control valve 20 for a fuel cell vehicle may include: a first guide seal 440 disposed on a first mounting portion 130 and configured to cooperate with a common seal 430 to seal the gap between the valve member 200 and the first mounting portion 130; and a second guide seal 450 disposed on a second mounting portion 140 and configured to cooperate with the common seal 430 to seal the gap between the valve member 200 and the second mounting portion 140.

[0173] The first guide seal 440 may have various structures capable of sealing the gap between the side portion of the valve member 200 and the first mounting portion 130, and the present invention is not constrained or limited by the structure of the first guide seal 440.

[0174] For example, the first guide seal 440 may include a plurality of first guide seal protrusions 442, which may elastically contact the side portion of the valve member 200.

[0175] The first guide seal protrusion 442 can be configured as an elastomer made of a material such as rubber, silicone or polyurethane and capable of being elastically compressed, and the material and physical properties of the first guide seal protrusion 442 can be varied according to required conditions and design specifications.

[0176] According to one embodiment of the invention, each of the plurality of first guide sealing protrusions 442 may protrude from the inner surface of the first wall portion to have a triangular cross-sectional shape.

[0177] According to another embodiment of the invention, the first guide seal protrusion may be formed having a semi-circular cross-sectional shape or other cross-sectional shapes. Alternatively, the first guide seal portion may comprise a single first guide seal protrusion.

[0178] When the valve member 200 is moved to the first position, the first guide sealing protrusion 442 can elastically contact the side portion of the valve member 200, thereby cooperating with the common sealing protrusion 432 to seal the gap between the valve member 200 and the first wall portion.

[0179] As described above, with the valve member 200 mounted on the first mounting portion 130, the gap between the valve member 200 and the first mounting portion 130 can be sealed by a triple sealing structure formed by the first sealing portion 410, the common sealing portion 430, and the first guiding sealing portion 440. This can further improve the sealing performance of the valve member 200 and more effectively prevent air leakage through the gap between the valve member 200 and the first mounting portion 130.

[0180] The second guide seal 450 may have various structures capable of sealing the gap between the side portion of the valve member 200 and the second mounting portion 140, and the present invention is not constrained or limited by the structure of the second guide seal 450.

[0181] For example, the second guide seal 450 may include a plurality of second guide seal protrusions 452, which may elastically contact the side portion of the valve member 200.

[0182] The second guide seal protrusion 452 can be configured as an elastomer made of a material such as rubber, silicone or polyurethane and capable of being elastically compressed, and the material and physical properties of the second guide seal protrusion 452 can be varied according to required conditions and design specifications.

[0183] According to one embodiment of the invention, each of the plurality of second guide sealing protrusions 452 may protrude from the inner surface of the second wall portion to have a triangular cross-sectional shape.

[0184] According to another embodiment of the invention, the second guide seal protrusion may be formed having a semi-circular cross-sectional shape or other cross-sectional shapes. Alternatively, the second guide seal portion may comprise a single second guide seal protrusion.

[0185] When the valve member 200 is moved to the second position, the second guide sealing protrusion 452 can elastically contact the side portion of the valve member 200, thereby cooperating with the common sealing protrusion 432 to seal the gap between the valve member 200 and the second wall portion.

[0186] As described above, according to one embodiment of the present invention, with the valve member 200 mounted on the second mounting portion 140, the gap between the valve member 200 and the second mounting portion 140 can be sealed by a triple sealing structure formed by the second sealing portion 420, the common sealing portion 430, and the second guiding sealing portion 450, thereby achieving the beneficial effect of further improving the sealing performance of the valve member 200 and more effectively preventing air leakage through the gap between the valve member 200 and the second mounting portion 140.

[0187] The arrangement between the common sealing protrusion 432 and the first guide sealing protrusion 442 (or the second guide sealing protrusion) can be modified in various ways according to the required conditions and design specifications.

[0188] According to one embodiment of the invention, the common sealing protrusion 432 and the first guide sealing protrusion 442 can be in close contact with each other, and are alternately arranged in the direction of movement of the valve member 200 when the valve member 200 is moved to the first position. When the valve member 200 is moved to the second position, the common sealing protrusion 432 and the second guide sealing protrusion 452 can be alternately arranged in the direction of movement of the valve member 200.

[0189] Specifically, a first receiving portion 441 corresponding to a common sealing protrusion 432 is defined between adjacent first guide sealing protrusions 442, and a second receiving portion 451 corresponding to a common sealing protrusion 432 is defined between adjacent second guide sealing protrusions 452. In a first position, the common sealing protrusion 432 is received in the first receiving portion 441. In a second position, the common sealing protrusion 432 is received in the second receiving portion 451.

[0190] With the common sealing protrusion 432 housed in the first receiving portion 441 (or the second receiving portion), the common sealing protrusion 432 and the first guide sealing protrusion 442 (or the second guide sealing protrusion) can achieve a typical gear meshing structure.

[0191] As described above, the common sealing protrusion 432 and the first guide sealing protrusion 442 (or the second guide sealing protrusion) are in close contact with each other alternately, thereby achieving the beneficial effect of further improving the sealing performance of the common sealing portion 430 and the first guide sealing portion 440 (or the second guide sealing portion).

[0192] In the forms of the invention described and illustrated above, an example has been described where the power conversion component 320 includes a first transmission member 322 and a second transmission member 324. However, according to another form of the invention, the power conversion component can be implemented as having a crank mechanism.

[0193] That is, reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 According to another embodiment of the invention, the power conversion component 320' may include: a rotating shaft 322' configured to rotate via a drive source 310; and a reciprocating motion component 324' connected to the valve component 200 and configured to move the valve component 200 by linear reciprocating motion via the rotation of the rotating shaft 322'.

[0194] For example, a typical crankshaft can be used as a rotating shaft 322', and a typical connecting rod can be used as a reciprocating motion component 324'.

[0195] When the rotating shaft 322' rotates by the drive source 310, the reciprocating motion member 324' can move linearly in a direction orthogonal to the axis of the rotating shaft 322', and the valve member 200 connected to the reciprocating motion member 324' can move linearly together with the reciprocating motion member 324', thereby opening or closing the air flow path 110.

[0196] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 According to another embodiment of the invention, the air control valve 20 for a fuel cell vehicle may include a guide member 500 disposed in a valve housing 100 and configured to guide linear movement of the valve member 200 relative to the valve housing 100.

[0197] The guide member 500 may have various structures capable of guiding the linear movement of the valve member 200 relative to the valve housing 100, and the present invention is not constrained or limited by the structure of the guide member 500.

[0198] For example, valve member 200 is housed in guide member 500 to enable linear movement. A first tight contact portion 510 may be provided at one end of guide member 500 and configured to make tight contact with one surface of valve member 200 in a first position. A second tight contact portion 520 may be provided at the other end of guide member 500 and configured to make tight contact with another surface of valve member 200 in a second position.

[0199] As described above, in the exemplary form of the present invention, since the valve member 200 moves linearly along the interior of the guide member 500, the beneficial effects of minimizing or reducing the vibration and retraction of the valve member 200 and providing more stable linear motion of the valve member 200 while it moves linearly can be obtained.

[0200] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 According to a form of the invention, the air control valve 20 for a vehicle may include a stop 340 configured to selectively limit the rotational range of the drive gear 330.

[0201] The stop 340 may have various structures that can selectively limit the rotation area of ​​the drive gear 330, and the present invention is not constrained or limited by the structure of the stop 340.

[0202] For example, the stop 340 may include: a first stop protrusion 342, a first stop portion 344, a second stop protrusion 346, and a second stop portion 348. The first stop protrusion 342 is disposed in the valve housing 100. The first stop portion 344 is disposed on the drive gear 330 and configured to contact the first stop protrusion 342 when the drive gear 330 rotates in a first direction (e.g., counterclockwise) through a predetermined first rotation area RS1. The second stop protrusion 346 is disposed in the valve housing 100 and spaced apart from the first stop protrusion 342 in the circumferential direction of the drive gear 330. The second stop portion 348 is disposed on the drive gear 330 and configured to contact the second stop protrusion 346 when the drive gear 330 rotates in a second direction (e.g., clockwise) through a predetermined second rotation area RS2.

[0203] The first stop portion 344 and the second stop portion 348 can have various structures that allow them to be limited by the first stop protrusion 342 and the second stop protrusion 346. For example, the first stop portion 344 and the second stop portion 348 can be formed by removing a portion of the drive gear 330. In particular, the first stop portion 344 and the second stop portion 348 can be formed along the radial direction of the drive gear 330.

[0204] According to another embodiment of the invention, each of the first stop portion and the second stop portion may be configured as a protrusion extending from the outer peripheral surface of the drive gear.

[0205] For reference, the angles of the first rotating region RS1 and the second rotating region RS2 can be varied according to the required conditions and design specifications, and the present invention is not constrained or limited by the angles of the first rotating region RS1 and the second rotating region RS2.

[0206] As described above, according to one embodiment of the present invention, when the drive gear 330 rotates along the first direction by a predetermined first rotation area RS1, the first stop portion 344 contacts the first stop protrusion 342 and restricts the rotation of the drive gear 330, thereby preventing excessive rotation of the drive gear 330 along the first direction. This provides the beneficial effect of preventing excessive movement of the valve member 200.

[0207] Similarly, when the drive gear 330 rotates along the second direction to a preset second rotation area RS2, the second stop portion 348 contacts the second stop protrusion 346 and restricts the rotation of the drive gear 330, thereby preventing excessive rotation of the drive gear 330 along the second direction. This provides the beneficial effect of preventing excessive movement of the valve member 200.

[0208] As described above, according to the exemplary form of the present invention, beneficial effects such as improved sealing performance and prevention or suppression of fuel cell stack deterioration can be achieved.

[0209] In particular, according to an exemplary form of the invention, the following beneficial effects can be obtained: when the valve member closes the air flow path, a pressing force to be applied to the valve member is uniformly formed and sufficiently provided throughout the valve member, and the sealing performance of the valve member is improved.

[0210] Furthermore, according to the form of the present invention, beneficial effects of improved stability and reliability can be obtained.

[0211] Furthermore, according to the form of the present invention, the beneficial effects of simplifying the structure and miniaturizing the device can be achieved.

[0212] Although exemplary forms have been described above, these forms are merely exemplary and not intended to limit the invention. Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and alterations not described above can be made to the forms of the invention without departing from the essential characteristics of the invention. For example, the individual components specifically described in the forms can be modified and then implemented. Furthermore, it should be understood that differences relating to modifications and alterations are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle, the air control valve comprising: The valve body has an airflow path. A valve component configured to selectively open or close the airflow path; A drive unit configured to linearly operate the valve member, causing the valve member to move linearly from a first position that closes the airflow path to a second position that opens the airflow path; A first mounting portion is disposed in the valve housing and configured to allow the valve member to be mounted on the first mounting portion at the first position; A second mounting portion is disposed in the valve housing and configured to allow the valve member to be mounted on the second mounting portion in the second position; A first sealing portion is disposed on a first surface of the valve member and configured to seal the gap between the valve member and the first mounting portion; A second sealing portion is disposed on the second surface of the valve member and configured to seal the gap between the valve member and the second mounting portion; A common sealing portion is disposed on the side portion of the valve member and configured to seal the gap between the valve member and either the first or the second mounting portion based on the movement of the valve member. A first guide seal is disposed on the first mounting portion and configured to cooperate with the common seal to seal the gap between the valve member and the first mounting portion; as well as A second guide seal is disposed on the second mounting portion and configured to cooperate with the common seal to seal the gap between the valve member and the second mounting portion. The common sealing portion includes multiple common sealing protrusions that protrude from the side portion of the valve component. The first guide seal includes a plurality of first guide seal protrusions formed on the inner surface of the side portion of the first mounting portion facing the valve member. The second guide seal includes a plurality of second guide seal protrusions formed on the inner surface of the side portion of the second mounting portion facing the valve member. In the first position, the plurality of common sealing protrusions and the plurality of first guide sealing protrusions are alternately arranged in the direction of movement of the valve component. In the second position, the plurality of common sealing protrusions and the plurality of second guide sealing protrusions are alternately arranged in the direction of movement of the valve member.

2. The air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The airflow path includes: First flow path; and A second flow path, which is separate from the first flow path; The valve component includes: A first valve disc, configured to be linearly moved by the drive unit to selectively open or close the first flow path; and The second valve disc is configured to be linearly moved by the drive unit to selectively open or close the second flow path.

3. The air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle according to claim 2, comprising: A bypass flow path, configured to connect the first flow path and the second flow path, and allowing air introduced into the first flow path to selectively flow into the second flow path. When the valve component moves to the second position, the bypass flow path is closed by the valve component.

4. The air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle according to claim 3, wherein, The driving unit includes: The drive source, configured to provide driving power; and A power conversion component is connected to the valve member and configured to convert the driving power of the drive source into linear motion of the valve member.

5. The air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle according to claim 4, wherein, The power conversion component is disposed in the bypass flow path.

6. The air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle according to claim 4, wherein, The power conversion component includes: A first transmission element, configured to rotate via the drive source; and A second transmission member is connected to the valve member and configured to engage with the first transmission member, and is linearly moved by the rotation of the first transmission member, thereby moving the valve member.

7. The air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle according to claim 6, comprising: A support member is disposed in the valve housing and configured to support the linear movement of the second transmission member relative to the valve housing.

8. The air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle according to claim 4, wherein, The power conversion component includes: A rotating shaft configured to rotate via the drive source; and A reciprocating motion component is connected to the valve component and configured to move the valve component by linear reciprocating motion using the rotation of the rotating shaft.

9. The air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle according to claim 4, comprising: A drive gear configured to rotate via the drive source. The power conversion component is configured to operate via the drive gear.

10. The air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle according to claim 9, comprising: A stop block configured to selectively limit the rotational range of the drive gear.

11. The air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle according to claim 10, wherein, The stop block includes: A first stop protrusion is disposed within the valve housing; A first stop portion is disposed on the drive gear and configured to contact the first stop protrusion when the drive gear rotates along a first direction to a preset first rotation area; A second stop protrusion is disposed in the valve housing and configured to be spaced apart from the first stop protrusion in the circumferential direction of the drive gear; and The second stop portion is disposed on the drive gear and configured to contact the second stop protrusion when the drive gear rotates in the second direction to a predetermined second rotation area.

12. The air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, A first receiving portion corresponding to a first common sealing protrusion among the plurality of first guide sealing protrusions is defined between adjacent first guide sealing protrusions. A second receiving portion corresponding to a second common sealing protrusion among the plurality of second guide sealing protrusions is defined between adjacent second guide sealing protrusions. In the first position, the first common sealing protrusion is received in the first receiving portion, and in the second position, the second common sealing protrusion is received in the second receiving portion.

13. The air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The common sealing portion is formed along the entire outer periphery of the valve component.

14. The air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising: A guide member is disposed in the valve housing and configured to guide the linear movement of the valve member relative to the valve housing.

15. The air control valve for a fuel cell vehicle according to claim 14, wherein, The valve component is housed within the guide component to enable linear movement. A first tight contact portion is disposed at a first end of the guide member and configured to make tight contact with a first surface of the valve member at the first position. The second tight contact portion is disposed at the second end of the guide member and configured to be in tight contact with the second surface of the valve member at the second position.

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