Fuel cell vehicle

Abstract

A fuel cell vehicle is provided. The fuel cell vehicle includes a fuel cell, a junction box provided on an upper side of the fuel cell and including a first bus bar, a power controller provided on a rear side of the fuel cell and including a second bus bar, and a fastening member that fastens the first bus bar and the second bus bar in a fastening space to electrically connect the junction box and the power controller to each other. One of the junction box and the power controller includes a tool entrance to allow access to the fastening space from the outside.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0178569, filed on December 18, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to fuel cell vehicles, and more specifically, to fuel cell vehicles with power controllers and junction boxes, which offer advantages in space utilization and energy transfer. Background Technology

[0004] Typically, vehicles including fuel cells (hereinafter referred to as "fuel cell vehicles") may require various levels of power from the fuel cell. If the driving voltage of the fuel cell vehicle is greater than the output voltage of the fuel cell, a high-voltage boost DC / DC converter (or fuel cell DC / DC converter (FDC)) is needed to boost the output voltage of the fuel cell. The FDC is one of the bulkiest components in a fuel cell vehicle. Therefore, the issue of increased vehicle size due to the installation of the FDC needs to be addressed. Furthermore, since the FDC needs to be tightly connected to the junction box during energy transmission, the arrangement of the FDC and the junction box has a significant impact on the fuel cell vehicle. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, exemplary embodiments relate to fuel cell vehicles that substantially eliminate one or more problems caused by the limitations and disadvantages of the prior art. This disclosure provides fuel cell vehicles with a power controller and junction box, which offer advantages in space utilization and energy transfer.

[0006] However, the objectives to be achieved by the exemplary embodiments are not limited to those described above, and other objectives not mentioned herein will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art through the following description.

[0007] A fuel cell vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment may include: a fuel cell; a junction box disposed on top of the fuel cell and including a first busbar; a power controller disposed on the rear side of the fuel cell to increase the output voltage of the fuel cell, the power controller having a second busbar; and a fastening member configured to fasten the first and second busbars in a fastening space to electrically connect the junction box and the power controller to each other. One of the junction box and the power controller may include a tool inlet to allow external access to the fastening space.

[0008] For example, the fastening component may include a fastening member configured to directly fasten the first busbar and the second busbar. For example, the fastening member may include a threaded component that passes through the first busbar and the second busbar in the fastening direction to be threadedly connected to the first busbar and the second busbar, respectively.

[0009] The fastening components may include: a terminal block having a terminal busbar including a first end connected to a first busbar and a second end connected to a second busbar; a first fastening member configured to directly fasten the first busbar and the first end of the terminal busbar; and a second fastening member configured to directly fasten the second busbar and the second end of the terminal busbar.

[0010] The first fastening member may include a first threaded component that passes through the first end of the first busbar and the terminal busbar in the fastening direction to be threadedly connected to the first end of the first busbar and the terminal busbar, and the second fastening member may include a second threaded component that passes through the second end of the second busbar and the terminal busbar in the fastening direction to be threadedly connected to the second end of the second busbar and the terminal busbar.

[0011] The tool inlet may overlap with the fastening space in the fastening direction. The junction box may include the fastening space and the tool inlet, a second busbar may protrude from the power controller into the interior of the junction box, and a terminal block may be connected to the power controller and may also protrude into the interior of the junction box.

[0012] The fastening space may overlap with the power controller in the vertical direction. The junction box may be configured to be openable and closable to form a tool inlet, and the junction box may include a first main cover that overlaps with the fastening space in the fastening direction. The first main cover may include a first cover portion that overlaps with the fuel cell in the vertical direction and a second cover portion that overlaps with the fastening space in the vertical direction.

[0013] Additionally, the first and second covers can be integrally formed to open and close together. Alternatively, the first and second covers can be formed to open and close separately from each other. The fuel cell vehicle may also include a first sealing member disposed at the contact portion between the junction box and the power controller.

[0014] The fuel cell vehicle may also include a first annular cover having a first hollow portion that overlaps with a tool inlet in the junction box in the fastening direction. The first annular cover may be disposed on a side of the junction box. The first hollow portion and the tool inlet may communicate with each other to expose the fastening space. Furthermore, the fuel cell vehicle may include a second sealing member disposed at a contact portion between the first annular cover and the side of the junction box to surround the first hollow portion.

[0015] Furthermore, the power controller may include a fastening space and a tool inlet, a first busbar protruding from the junction box into the interior of the power controller, and a terminal block that can be connected to the junction box and protrude into the interior of the power controller. The fastening space may overlap with the junction box in the horizontal direction. For example, the power controller may be opened and closed to form a tool inlet, and the power controller may include a second main cover that overlaps with the fastening space in the fastening direction.

[0016] The second main cover may include a third cover portion that overlaps with the fuel cell in the horizontal direction and a fourth cover portion that overlaps with the fastening space in the horizontal direction. For example, the third and fourth cover portions may be integrally formed to open and close together. Alternatively, the third and fourth cover portions may be formed to open and close separately from each other.

[0017] The fuel cell vehicle may also include a third sealing member disposed at the contact portion between the junction box and the power controller. Furthermore, the fuel cell vehicle may include a second annular cover having a second hollow portion that overlaps with a tool inlet in the power controller in the fastening direction. The second annular cover may be disposed on the side of the power controller. The second hollow portion and the tool inlet may communicate with each other to expose the fastening space. The fuel cell vehicle may also include a fourth sealing member disposed at the contact portion between the second annular cover and the side of the power controller to surround the second hollow portion. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The arrangement and exemplary embodiments can be described in detail with reference to the following figures, wherein the same reference numerals refer to the same elements, and in the figures:

[0019] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the appearance of a typical fuel cell vehicle;

[0020] Figures 2A to 2E This is a diagram illustrating a fuel cell vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0021] Figures 3A to 3D It is shown Figure 2A An illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the fuel cell vehicle shown;

[0022] Figure 3E It is shown Figure 2B An illustration of an embodiment of the fuel cell vehicle shown;

[0023] Figure 4A and Figure 4B It is shown Figure 2C An illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the fuel cell vehicle shown;

[0024] Figures 5A to 5C It is shown Figure 2A and Figure 2BA diagram illustrating another exemplary embodiment of the fuel cell vehicle shown;

[0025] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 2A and Figure 2B A cross-sectional view of yet another exemplary embodiment of the fuel cell vehicle shown;

[0026] Figures 7A to 7C Show Figure 2A and Figure 2B Another exemplary embodiment of the fuel cell vehicle shown;

[0027] Figure 8A and Figure 8B It shows Figure 2D or Figure 2E An exemplary embodiment of the fuel cell vehicle shown;

[0028] Figure 9A and Figure 9B It is shown Figure 2E An illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the fuel cell vehicle shown;

[0029] Figure 10 It is shown Figure 2D or Figure 2E A cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the fuel cell vehicle shown;

[0030] Figure 11 It is shown Figure 2D A cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of the fuel cell vehicle shown;

[0031] Figure 12 It is shown Figure 2D A cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of the fuel cell vehicle shown;

[0032] Figure 13 It is a partial side view of the fuel cell vehicle based on the first comparative example; and

[0033] Figure 14 This is a partial side view of the fuel cell vehicle based on the second comparative example. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The present disclosure will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which various exemplary embodiments are illustrated. However, these examples may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limiting to the exemplary embodiments set forth herein. These embodiments are provided in contrast to make the present disclosure more thorough and complete, and to more fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0035] It is understood that the term “vehicle” or “of a vehicle” or other similar terms as used herein include motor vehicles in general, such as passenger cars including sport utility vehicles (SUVs), buses, trucks, various commercial vehicles, watercraft including various boats and vessels, aircraft, etc., and include hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles, fuel-powered plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, hydrogen-powered vehicles and other alternative fuel vehicles (e.g., fuels derived from non-petroleum resources).

[0036] Although the exemplary embodiments are described as using multiple units to perform the exemplary processes, it should be understood that the exemplary processes may also be performed by one or more modules. Furthermore, it should be understood that the term controller / control unit refers to a hardware device that includes a memory and a processor and is specifically programmed to perform the processes described herein. The memory is configured to store modules, and the processor is specifically configured to execute said modules to perform one or more processes further described below.

[0037] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that, when used in this specification, the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising” specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0038] Unless otherwise specified or obvious from the context, as used herein, the term “about” should be understood as being within the normal tolerance range in the field, such as within 2 standard deviations of the mean. “About” can be understood as being within 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, 0.1%, 0.05%, or 0.01% of the stated value. Unless otherwise specified from the context, all numerical values ​​provided herein are modified by the term “about”.

[0039] It should be understood that when an element is referred to as "above" or "below" another element, it can be directly above / below that element, or there may be one or more intermediate elements. When an element is referred to as "above" or "below," "below" and "above" can be included based on that element. Furthermore, relational terms such as "first," "second," "above / upper / upper part," and "below / lower / lower part" are used only to distinguish one subject or element from another subject or element, and do not necessarily require or involve any physical or logical relationship or order between the subjects or elements.

[0040] In the following description, fuel cell vehicles 200A, 200B, 200C, 200D, and 200E according to exemplary embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. For ease of description, fuel cell vehicles 200A, 200B, 200C, 200D, and 200E will be described using a Cartesian coordinate system (x-axis, y-axis, z-axis), but other coordinate systems may also be used. In a Cartesian coordinate system, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis are perpendicular to each other, but the exemplary embodiments are not limited to this. In other words, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis may intersect each other at an angle. For ease of description, at least one of the x-axis and y-axis will be referred to as the "horizontal direction," and the z-axis will be referred to as the "vertical direction."

[0041] Figure 1 This is an illustration showing the appearance of a typical fuel cell vehicle. (Reference) Figure 1 A vehicle including a fuel cell (hereinafter referred to as a "fuel cell vehicle") may include a passenger compartment 110 (where passengers are accommodated), a first space 120 (located in front of the passenger compartment 110), and a second space 130 (located behind the passenger compartment 110). For example, when the vehicle is traveling along the x-axis, the first space 120 may correspond to an engine compartment that accommodates the engine of the fuel cell vehicle, while the second space 130 may correspond to a trunk.

[0042] Figures 2A to 2E These are diagrams illustrating fuel cell vehicles 200A to 200E according to exemplary embodiments. Figures 2A to 2E Each of the fuel cell vehicles 200A to 200E shown in the exemplary embodiments may include a fuel cell 210, a junction box (or high-voltage junction box) 220, a power controller 230, and fastening components located in a fastening space 240. The fuel cell 210 may include multiple unit fuel cells stacked in at least one of the vertical and horizontal directions. For example, the fuel cell 210 may include multiple unit fuel cells stacked in at least one of the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis directions.

[0043] In the following text, according to Figures 2A to 2EEach of the fuel cell vehicles 200A to 200E shown in the exemplary embodiments will be described as including one unit fuel cell, but the following description is also applicable to cases where each of the fuel cell vehicles 200A to 200E according to the exemplary embodiments includes multiple unit fuel cells. The unit fuel cell may be a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (or proton exchange membrane fuel cell) (PEMFC), which has been most extensively studied as a power source for driving a vehicle. However, the exemplary embodiments are not limited to any particular configuration or appearance of the unit fuel cell.

[0044] The unit fuel cell included in fuel cell 210 may include end plates (or pressure plates or compression plates) (not shown), current collectors (not shown), and a battery stack (not shown). The battery stack may include multiple unit cells stacked in a horizontal direction (e.g., the x-axis direction or the y-axis direction). Dozens to hundreds of unit cells, such as 100 to 400 unit cells, may be stacked to form a battery stack.

[0045] Each cell can generate approximately 0.6 volts to 1.0 volts, averaging 0.7 volts. Therefore, the number of cell units included in fuel cell 210 and the number of cell units included in the cell stack can be determined based on the power intensity to be supplied from fuel cell 210 to the load. Here, "load" can refer to the power-requiring portion of each of the fuel cell vehicles 200A to 200E. End plates can be disposed at corresponding ends of the cell stack and can support and secure multiple cell units. In other words, a first end plate can be disposed at a first end of the cell stack, and a second end plate can be disposed at a second end of the cell stack.

[0046] Furthermore, the fuel cell 210 may also include a clamping member (not shown) having a rod-like, bolt-like, strip-like, or rigid rope-like shape to clamp multiple cell units. For example, in each cell fuel cell, the clamping member may clamp multiple cell units together with an end plate in the horizontal direction.

[0047] Junction box 220 may be disposed on the upper side of fuel cell 210. Junction box 220 may be configured to distribute the power generated in the fuel cell stack of fuel cell 210. For example, junction box 220 may include a fuse (not shown) and a relay (not shown) to operate peripheral auxiliary components (BOP) that assist the operation of fuel cell 210. Junction box 220 may include a first body B1 and a first main cover C1. The first body B1 may accommodate the fuse and the relay. Thus, the first body B1 and the first main cover C1 together form a space for accommodating the fuse and the relay. The first main cover C1 may be detachably disposed on at least one of the upper and side portions of the first body B1.

[0048] The power controller 230 may be located between the fuel cell 210 and the passenger compartment 110, i.e., at the rear of the fuel cell 210, to increase the output voltage of the fuel cell 210. For example, the power controller 230 may include a high-voltage boost DC / DC converter (or a fuel cell DC / DC converter (FDC)).

[0049] According to an exemplary embodiment, the space accommodating the fuel cell 210, junction box 220, power controller 230, and fastening components can be... Figure 1 At least one of the first space 120 and the second space 130 shown. Hereinafter, the accommodating space will be described as the first space 120, which is located in front of the passenger compartment 110 (i.e., the engine compartment). However, in some exemplary embodiments, the accommodating space may be the second space 130, or may be divided into the first space 120 and the second space 130.

[0050] In each of the fuel cell vehicles 200A to 200E according to exemplary embodiments, a fastening member is used to electrically connect a junction box 220 and a power controller 230 to each other within a fastening space 240. Therefore, the junction box 220 may include a first busbar, and the power controller 230 may include a second busbar. For example, the voltage generated by the fuel cell 210 can be transmitted to the power controller 230 via the junction box 220 and boosted, and the boosted voltage can be transmitted back to the junction box 220. The junction box 220 can be configured to transmit the boosted voltage to the load of the fuel cell vehicle. Therefore, the junction box 220 and the power controller 230 can be electrically connected to each other.

[0051] Furthermore, each of the fuel cell vehicles 200A to 200E according to exemplary embodiments may also include a tool inlet, which allows a tool (or user) to access the fastening space 240 from the outside to manipulate fastening components to fasten the first and second busbars. The tool inlet may be included in one of the junction box 220 and the power controller 230. Figures 2A to 2C In each of the fuel cell vehicles 200A, 200B, and 200C shown, the tool inlet may be located in the junction box 220. Figure 2D and Figure 2E In each of the fuel cell vehicles 200D and 200E shown, the tool inlet may be located in the power controller 230.

[0052] exist Figures 2A to 2EIn each of the fuel cell vehicles 200A to 200E shown, the tool inlet may overlap with the fastening space 240 in the fastening direction. Fastening components may fasten the first and second busbars in the fastening space 240 to electrically connect the junction box 220 and the power controller 230 to each other. According to the exemplary embodiment of the fuel cell vehicle, the fastening space 240 may be located in any of a variety of positions, and the fastening components may fasten the first and second busbars in the fastening space 240 in any of a variety of ways.

[0053] In the following description, various exemplary embodiments of a fuel cell vehicle according to exemplary embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Fastening components may directly connect the first busbar and the second busbar, or they may indirectly connect the first busbar and the second busbar via terminal blocks. Figures 2A to 2C In each of the fuel cell vehicles 200A, 200B, and 200C shown, the terminal block connected to the power controller 230 protrudes into the interior of the junction box 220. In contrast, in... Figure 2D and Figure 2E In each of the fuel cell vehicles 200D and 200E shown, the terminal block connected to the junction box 220 can protrude into the interior of the power controller 230.

[0054] According to an exemplary embodiment, in Figures 2A to 2C In each of the fuel cell vehicles 200A to 200C shown, the fastening space 240 may be located inside the junction box 220, a second busbar may protrude from the power controller 230 to connect to the interior of the junction box 220, and the fastening space 240 may overlap with the power controller 230 in the vertical direction. Figure 2A In the fuel cell vehicle 200A shown, a portion of the junction box 220, including the fastening space 240, overlaps vertically with the power controller 230. Figure 2B In the fuel cell vehicle 200B shown, only the fastening space 240 overlaps with the power controller 230 in the vertical direction.

[0055] According to another exemplary embodiment, in Figure 2D and Figure 2E In each of the fuel cell vehicles 200D and 200E shown, the fastening space 240 may be located inside the power controller 230, the first busbar may protrude from the junction box 220 to connect to the interior of the power controller 230, and the fastening space 240 may overlap with the junction box 220 in the horizontal direction.

[0056] First, the following will describe Figures 2A to 2C Exemplary embodiments of fuel cell vehicles 200A to 200C are shown. Figures 3A to 3D It is shown Figure 2A An illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the fuel cell vehicle 200A is shown. Figure 3E It is shown Figure 2B An exemplary embodiment of the fuel cell vehicle 200B is shown in the diagram.

[0057] Figure 3A This is a cross-sectional view of a fuel cell vehicle. Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A top view of a portion of the fuel cell vehicle shown. Figure 3C yes Figure 3A A partial perspective view of another part of the fuel cell vehicle shown. Figure 3D yes Figure 3A and Figure 3C A partial perspective view of a portion of the fuel cell vehicle shown, and Figure 3E yes Figure 2B The diagram shows a perspective view of the fuel cell vehicle 200B, in which the fuel cell 210 is excluded.

[0058] like Figure 3B , Figure 3D and Figure 3E As shown, Figure 3A The first busbar 222 shown may include a first-1 busbar 222A corresponding to the positive terminal and a first-2 busbar 222B corresponding to the negative terminal. For example... Figure 3C , Figure 3D and Figure 3E As shown, Figure 3A The second busbar 232 shown may include a second-1 busbar 232A corresponding to the positive terminal and a second-2 busbar 232B corresponding to the negative terminal.

[0059] The fastening components may include fastening members for directly fastening the first busbar 222 (222A and 222B) and the second busbar 232 (232A and 232B). Therefore, as... Figure 3A , Figure 3D and Figure 3E As shown, the fastening components may include a first threaded component 242 and a second threaded component 244. The first threaded component 242 can fasten the first-1 busbar 222A and the second-1 busbar 232A, and the second threaded component 244 can fasten the first-2 busbar 222B and the second-2 busbar 232B. Therefore, the first-1 busbar 222A may include a first through hole HA1, the first-2 busbar 222B may include a second through hole HB1, the second-1 busbar 232A may include a third through hole HA2, and the second-2 busbar 232B may include a fourth through hole HB2.

[0060] Specifically, the first threaded component 242 passes through the first through hole HA1 and the third through hole HA2 in the fastening direction (e.g., the z-axis direction, i.e., the vertical direction) to be threadedly connected to the first-1 busbar 222A and the second-1 busbar 232A, thereby fastening the first-1 busbar 222A and the second-1 busbar 232A. Similarly, the second threaded component 244 passes through the second through hole HB1 and the fourth through hole HB2 in the fastening direction (e.g., the z-axis direction, i.e., the vertical direction) to be threadedly connected to the first-2 busbar 222B and the second-2 busbar 232B, thereby fastening the first-2 busbar 222B and the second-2 busbar 232B.

[0061] The first threaded component 242 and the second threaded component 244 may include external threads formed on their outer peripheral surfaces, which contact the first through holes to the fourth through holes HA1, HB1, HA2 and HB2, and the first through holes to the fourth through holes HA1, HB1, HA2 and HB2 may include internal threads formed on their inner peripheral surfaces, which contact the first threaded component 242 and the second threaded component 244 to engage with the external threads of the first threaded component 242 and the second threaded component 244.

[0062] In addition, to increase the ease of assembly, such as Figure 3A As shown, each of the first threaded component 242 and the second threaded component 244 can engage with a press-fit nut 245. The first main cover C1 of the junction box 220 can be opened and closed, forming a tool inlet when open. The first main cover C1 can overlap with the fastening space 240 in the fastening direction. Reference Figure 3A and Figure 3E The first main cover C1 may include a first cover portion C11 and a second cover portion C12. The first cover portion C11 may overlap with the fuel cell 210 in the vertical direction, and the second cover portion C12 may overlap with the fastening space 240 in the vertical direction.

[0063] When the openable / closable second cover C12 of the first main cover C1 is opened in the direction of arrow A1, the tool inlet can be opened to allow a tool (or user) to enter the fastening space 240 in the fuel cell vehicle from the outside to manipulate the first threaded component 242 and the second threaded component 244, which serve as fastening members, to secure the first busbars 222A and 222B and the second busbars 232A and 232B. According to an exemplary embodiment, as... Figure 3A and Figure 3E As shown, the first cover C11 and the second cover C12 can be integrally formed to open and close together.

[0064] Figure 4A and Figure 4B It shows Figure 2C An exemplary embodiment of the fuel cell vehicle 200C shown is illustrated. Figure 4A This is a cross-sectional view of a fuel cell vehicle. Figure 4B yes Figure 2C The diagram shows a perspective view of a fuel cell vehicle 200C, excluding the fuel cell 210.

[0065] exist Figure 3A and Figure 3E In the fuel cell vehicle shown, the top surface of the first cover portion C11 of the first main cover C1 and the top surface of the second cover portion C12 of the first main cover C1 are located on the same horizontal plane. However, in Figure 4A and Figure 4B In the fuel cell vehicle shown, the top surface of the first cover portion C11 of the first main cover C1 and the top surface of the second cover portion C12 of the first main cover C1 are not on the same horizontal plane. Furthermore, due to... Figure 4A and Figure 4B The fuel cell vehicle shown is Figure 3E The fuel cell vehicles shown are identical; therefore, identical parts are indicated by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0066] and Figure 3A and Figure 3E The differences shown Figure 4A and Figure 4B The first cover C11 and the second cover C12 shown can be opened and closed separately from each other. In other words, when the second cover C12 is opened in the direction of arrow A1, the first cover C11 may remain closed. Figure 4A and Figure 4B In the fuel cell vehicle shown, when the openable / closable second cover C12 of the first main cover C1 is opened in the direction of arrow A1, the tool inlet can be opened to allow tools (or users) to enter the fastening space 240 from the outside. For example, the tool inlet can be opened to enable the fastening of the first busbars 222A and 222B and the second busbars 232A and 232B, or to enable the verification of the fastening status of the first busbars 222A and 222B and the second busbars 232A and 232B.

[0067] Figures 5A to 5C It is shown Figure 2A and Figure 2B A diagram illustrating another exemplary embodiment of the fuel cell vehicles 200A and 200B shown. Specifically, Figure 5A This is a cross-sectional view of a fuel cell vehicle. Figure 5B It is an exploded perspective view of a fuel cell vehicle, and Figure 5C This is a rear view of the first annular cover 260.

[0068] Figure 5A and Figure 5BThe fuel cell vehicle shown may include a fuel cell 210, a junction box 220 and a power controller 230, and may also include a first annular cover 260. Figures 3A to 3E as well as Figure 4A and Figure 4B Each of the fuel cell vehicles shown does not include the first annular cover 260, while Figures 5A to 5C The fuel cell vehicle shown includes a first annular cover 260. Furthermore, Figures 3A to 3E as well as Figure 4A and Figure 4B The fastening direction of each of the fuel cell vehicles shown is the same as Figures 5A to 5C The fastening directions in the fuel cell vehicles shown are different. In addition, due to... Figure 5A The fuel cell vehicle shown is Figure 3A The fuel cell vehicles shown are identical, so the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted; only the differences between them will be described.

[0069] The first annular cover 260 may have a first hollow portion 260H that overlaps with the tool inlet 220P in the junction box 220 in the fastening direction, and may be disposed on the side of the junction box 220. Specifically, the first hollow portion 260H in the first annular cover 260 and the tool inlet 220P in the junction box 220 may communicate with each other to expose the fastening space 240 to the outside.

[0070] exist Figures 3A to 3E as well as Figure 4A and Figure 4B In each of the fuel cell vehicles shown, the second cover C12 can be opened in the direction of arrow A1 to open the tool inlet, thereby allowing the user (or tool) to enter from the outside into the securing space 240. In contrast, in Figure 5A In the fuel cell vehicle shown, the fastening space 240 is exposed to the outside through the communication between the tool inlet 220P and the first hollow portion 260H, thereby allowing a user (or tool) to enter the fastening space 240 from the outside. In other words, the fastening space 240 can be entered from the outside without opening the second cover C12.

[0071] exist Figures 3A to 3E as well as Figure 4A and Figure 4B In the fuel cell vehicle shown, tools can enter the securing space 240 through the tool inlet. In contrast, in... Figure 5A In the fuel cell vehicle shown, the user can access the fastening space 240 through the tool inlet. In other words, the user can operate the fastening components instead of tools to fasten the first busbars 222A and 222B and the second busbars 232A and 232B.

[0072] exist Figures 3A to 3E as well as Figure 4A and Figure 4B In each of the fuel cell vehicles shown, the fastening direction is the z-axis direction because fastening members 242 and 244 fasten the first busbars 222A and 222B and the second busbars 232A and 232B in the z-axis direction. Conversely, in... Figure 5A and Figure 5B In the fuel cell vehicle shown, since fastening members 242 and 244 fasten the first busbars 222A and 222B and the second busbars 232A and 232B in the y-axis direction, the fastening direction is the y-axis direction.

[0073] Figures 3A to 3E as well as Figure 4A and Figure 4B Each of the fuel cell vehicles shown may include a first sealing member 252. The first sealing member 252 may be disposed at the contact portion between the junction box 220 and the power controller 230. For example, as... Figure 3C As shown, the first sealing member 252 may have an annular shape and may be disposed at the contact portion between the junction box 220 and the power controller 230, thereby sealing the junction box 220 and the power controller 230 coupled to each other from the outside.

[0074] and Figures 3A to 3E as well as Figure 4A and Figure 4B The fuel cell vehicles shown are different. Figures 5A to 5C The fuel cell vehicle shown may include a first sealing member 252 and a second sealing member 254. (Reference) Figure 5C The second sealing member 254 may be disposed at the contact portion between the first annular cover 260 and the side of the junction box 220 to surround the first hollow portion 260H. For example, as Figure 5C As shown, the second sealing member 254 may have an annular shape and may be disposed at the contact portion between the junction box 220 and the first annular cover 260, thereby sealing the junction box 220 and the first annular cover 260 coupled to each other from the outside.

[0075] exist Figures 3A to 3E as well as Figure 4A and Figure 4B In each of the fuel cell vehicles shown, fastening members 242 and 244 directly fasten the first busbars 222A and 222B and the second busbars 232A and 232B. However, according to another exemplary embodiment, the fastening members may indirectly fasten the first busbars 222A and 222B and the second busbars 232A and 232B via terminal blocks. The fuel cell vehicle according to this exemplary embodiment will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0076] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 2A and Figure 2B A cross-sectional view of yet another exemplary embodiment of the fuel cell vehicles 200A and 200B shown. Figure 6 The fastening components of the fuel cell vehicle shown may include a terminal block 270, a first fastening member, and a second fastening member.

[0077] and Figure 3A The fuel cell vehicles shown are different. Figure 6 The fastening components of the fuel cell vehicle shown may also include a terminal block 270. In addition, due to... Figure 6 The fuel cell vehicle shown is Figure 3A The fuel cell vehicles shown are identical, so the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted; only the differences between them will be described.

[0078] Terminal block 270 can be connected to power controller 230 and can protrude vertically from power controller 230 into junction box 220. Terminal block 270 may include a second body B2 and terminal busbar 272. The second body B2 may be made of insulating material. At least a portion of terminal busbar 272 may be embedded in the second body B2. Terminal busbar 272 may include a first end E1 and a second end E2. The first end E1 of terminal busbar 272 can be connected to a first busbar 222, and the second end E2 of terminal busbar 272 can be connected to a second busbar 232. Although in Figure 6 It was not seen in the cross-sectional view, but as Figures 3A to 3D As shown, Figure 6 The first busbar 222 shown may include a first-1 busbar 222A and a first-2 busbar 222B, and Figure 6 The second busbar 232 shown may include busbar 232A (2-1) and busbar 232B (2-2).

[0079] The first fastening member can directly fasten the first end E1 of the first busbar 222 and the terminal busbar 272, and the second fastening member can directly fasten the second end E2 of the second busbar 232 and the terminal busbar 272. For example, the first fastening member may include a first threaded component 244A, and the second fastening member may include a second threaded component 244B. The first threaded component 244A can pass through the first end E1 of the first busbar 222 and the terminal busbar 272 in the fastening direction (e.g., the z-axis direction, i.e., the vertical direction) to be threadedly connected to the first end E1 of the first busbar 222 and the terminal busbar 272.

[0080] The second threaded component 244B can pass through the second end E2 of the second busbar 232 and the terminal busbar 272 in the fastening direction (e.g., the z-axis direction, i.e., the vertical direction) to be threadedly connected to the second end E2 of the second busbar 232 and the terminal busbar 272. Figure 3D In the same method shown, the first threaded component 242 and the second threaded component 244 fasten the first busbars 222A and 222B and the second busbars 232A and 232B by threaded coupling. The first threaded component 244A can fasten the first end E1 of the first busbar 222 and the terminal busbar 272, and the second threaded component 244B can fasten the second end E2 of the second busbar 232 and the terminal busbar 272. Therefore, repeated descriptions of identical parts will be omitted.

[0081] like Figure 6 As shown, the first busbar 222 and the second busbar 232 can be indirectly connected to each other via the terminal busbar 272, rather than being directly connected to each other.

[0082] Figures 7A to 7C It shows Figure 2A and Figure 2B Another exemplary embodiment of the fuel cell vehicles 200A and 200B shown. Figure 7A This is a cross-sectional view of a fuel cell vehicle. Figure 7B It is shown that the first busbars 222A and 222B and the second busbars 232A and 232B are connected via Figure 7A A perspective view of an exemplary embodiment in which terminal blocks 270 in the fastening space 240 are connected to each other, and Figure 7C This is a perspective view showing another exemplary embodiment in which the first busbars 222A and 222B and the second busbars 232A and 232B are connected to each other via terminal blocks 270 in the fastening space 240.

[0083] and Figure 5A The fuel cell vehicles shown are different. Figure 7A The fuel cell vehicle shown may also include a terminal block 270. In addition, due to... Figure 7A The fuel cell vehicle shown is Figure 5A The fuel cell vehicles shown are identical, so the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted; only the differences between them will be described.

[0084] The first end of the terminal bus 272 may include a first-1 terminal bus 272A1 corresponding to the positive terminal and a first-2 terminal bus 272A2 corresponding to the negative terminal. Furthermore, the second end of the terminal bus 272 may include a second-1 terminal bus 272B1 corresponding to the positive terminal and a second-2 terminal bus 272B2 corresponding to the negative terminal. Although not shown, the first-1 terminal bus 272A1 and the second-1 terminal bus 272B1 can be electrically connected to each other via a first connecting bus embedded in the second body B2, and the first-2 terminal bus 272A2 and the second-2 terminal bus 272B2 can be electrically connected to each other via a second connecting bus embedded in the second body B2. The first fastening member may include a first-1 threaded component 242A and a first-2 threaded component 244A, and the second fastening member may include a second-1 threaded component 242B and a second-2 threaded component 244B.

[0085] refer to Figure 7A and Figure 7B The first-1 threaded component 242A passes through the first-1 busbar 222A and the first-1 terminal busbar 272A1 in the fastening direction (e.g., the y-axis direction) to be threadedly connected to the first-1 busbar 222A and the first-1 terminal busbar 272A1. The first-2 threaded component 244A passes through the first-2 busbar 222B and the first-2 terminal busbar 272A2 in the fastening direction (e.g., the y-axis direction) to be threadedly connected to the first-2 busbar 222B and the first-2 terminal busbar 272A2. The second-1 threaded component 242B passes through the second-1 busbar 232A and the second-1 terminal busbar 272B1 in the fastening direction (e.g., the y-axis direction) to be threadedly connected to the second-1 busbar 232A and the second-1 terminal busbar 272B1. The second-2 threaded component 244B passes through the second-2 busbar 232B and the second-2 terminal busbar 272B2 in the fastening direction (e.g., the y-axis direction) to be threadedly connected to the second-2 busbar 232B and the second-2 terminal busbar 272B2.

[0086] exist Figure 7C In the above, the first-1 busbar 222A and the first-2 busbar 222B are respectively connected to the first-1 terminal busbar 272A1 and the first-2 terminal busbar 272A2, and the second-1 busbar 232A and the second-2 busbar 232A are respectively connected to the second-1 terminal busbar 272B1 and the second-2 terminal busbar 272B2. Figure 7B The differences are shown. However, in Figure 7CIn this configuration, a first fastening member (not shown) connects the first-1 busbar 222A and the first-2 busbar 222B to the first-1 terminal busbar 272A1 and the first-2 terminal busbar 272A2, and a second fastening member (not shown) connects the second-1 busbar 232A and the second-2 busbar 232B to the second-1 terminal busbar 272B1 and the second-2 terminal busbar 272B2. Figure 7B The configuration shown is the same.

[0087] Specifically, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7B As shown, at least one of the first threaded component 244A and the second threaded component 244B can engage with the weld nut 280. Optionally, an insertion nut 282 can be disposed within the second body B2. Figure 2D and Figure 2E As shown, the fastening space 240 can be located inside B3 of the power controller 230.

[0088] In the following text, it will be described Figure 2D and Figure 2E Exemplary embodiments of the fuel cell vehicles 200D and 200E are shown. Figure 8A and Figure 8B It shows Figure 2D or Figure 2E Exemplary embodiments of fuel cell vehicles 200D or 200E are shown. Figure 8A It is a cross-sectional view of a fuel cell vehicle, and Figure 8B yes Figure 2D or Figure 2E The illustration shows a fuel cell vehicle 200D or 200E, in which the fuel cell 210 has been removed.

[0089] exist Figures 3A to 7B In each of the fuel cell vehicles shown, the fastening space 240 is located within the junction box 220. However, in Figure 8A and Figure 8B In the fuel cell vehicle shown, the fastening space 240 is located within the interior B3 of the power controller 230. Furthermore, Figures 3A to 7B The fastening direction of each of the fuel cell vehicles shown is the same as Figure 8A and Figure 8B The fastening directions in the fuel cell vehicles shown are different. In addition, due to... Figure 8A and Figure 8B The fuel cell vehicle shown is Figure 3A The fuel cell vehicles shown are identical, so the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted; only the differences between them will be described.

[0090] and Figure 3A and Figure 3E The fuel cell vehicle shown is different, in Figure 8A and Figure 8B In the fuel cell vehicle shown, the fastening direction of each of the first threaded component 242 and the second threaded component 244 can be the x-axis direction, which is horizontal. The second main cover C2 of the power controller 230 can be opened and closed to form a tool inlet. The second main cover C2 can overlap with the fastening space 240 in the fastening direction (e.g., the x-axis direction, i.e., the horizontal direction). Reference Figure 8A and Figure 8B The second main cover C2 may include a third cover C21 and a fourth cover C22. The third cover C21 may overlap with the fuel cell 210 in the horizontal direction (e.g., the x-axis direction), and the fourth cover C22 may overlap with the fastening space 240 in the horizontal direction (e.g., the x-axis direction).

[0091] When the fourth cover C22 of the second main cover C2, which can be opened / closed, is opened in the direction of arrow A2, the tool inlet can be opened to allow tools (or users) to enter the fastening space 240 in the fuel cell vehicle from the outside to use tools to fasten the first busbars 222A and 222B and the second busbars 232A and 232B to manipulate the first threaded component 242 and the second threaded component 244, which are fastening members.

[0092] According to an exemplary embodiment, such as Figure 8A and Figure 8B As shown, the third cover C21 and the fourth cover C22 can be integrally formed to open and close together. Figure 9A and Figure 9B It is shown Figure 2E An illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the fuel cell vehicle is shown. Specifically, Figure 9A It is a cross-sectional view of a fuel cell vehicle, and Figure 9B This is a perspective view of a fuel cell vehicle, in which the fuel cell 210 has been removed.

[0093] exist Figure 8A and Figure 8B In the fuel cell vehicle shown, the top surface of the third cover portion C21 of the second main cover C2 and the top surface of the fourth cover portion C22 of the second main cover C2 are located in the same vertical plane. However, in Figure 9A and Figure 9B In the fuel cell vehicle shown, the top surface of the third cover portion C21 of the second main cover C2 and the top surface of the fourth cover portion C22 of the second main cover C2 are not located in the same vertical plane. Furthermore, due to... Figure 9A and Figure 9B The fuel cell vehicle shown is Figure 8A and Figure 8BThe fuel cell vehicles shown are identical, therefore identical parts are indicated by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0094] and Figure 8A and Figure 8B The differences shown are in Figure 9A and Figure 9B In the fuel cell vehicle shown, when the fourth cover C22 of the second main cover C2, which can be opened / closed, is opened in the direction of arrow A2, the tool inlet can be opened to allow tools (or users) to enter the fastening space 240 from the outside to fasten the first busbars 222A and 222B and the second busbars 232A and 232B.

[0095] According to another exemplary embodiment, such as Figure 9A and Figure 9B As shown, the third cover C21 and the fourth cover C22 can be opened and closed separately from each other. In other words, when the fourth cover C22 is opened in the direction of arrow A2, the third cover C21 may remain closed.

[0096] Figure 10 It is shown Figure 2D or Figure 2E Cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the fuel cell vehicle 200D or 200E shown. Figure 10 The fuel cell vehicle shown may include a fuel cell 210, a junction box 220 and a power controller 230, and may also include a second annular cover 262.

[0097] exist Figure 5A In the fuel cell vehicle shown, the mounting space 240 can be located in the junction box 220. However, in Figure 10 In the fuel cell vehicle shown, the fastening space 240 can be located within the interior B3 of the power controller 230. Furthermore, due to... Figure 10 The fuel cell vehicle shown is Figure 5A The fuel cell vehicles shown are identical, so the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted; only the differences between them will be described.

[0098] Figure 8A and Figure 8B The fuel cell vehicle shown does not include the second annular cover 262, while Figure 10 The fuel cell vehicle shown includes a second annular cover 262. In addition, due to... Figure 10 The fuel cell vehicle shown is Figure 8A and Figure 8B The fuel cell vehicles shown are identical, so the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted; only the differences between them will be described.

[0099] The second annular cover 262 may have a second hollow portion 262H that overlaps with the tool inlet 230P in the power controller 230 in the fastening direction (e.g., the y-axis direction) and may be disposed on the side of the power controller 230. Specifically, the second hollow portion 262H in the second annular cover 262 and the tool inlet 230P in the power controller 230 may communicate with each other to expose the fastening space 240 to the outside.

[0100] exist Figure 8A and Figure 8B as well as Figure 9A and Figure 9B In each of the fuel cell vehicles shown, the fourth cover C22 can be opened in the direction of arrow A2 to open the tool inlet, thereby allowing tools (or users) to enter the fastening space 240 from the outside.

[0101] In contrast, Figure 10 In the fuel cell vehicle shown, the fastening space 240 is exposed to the outside through the communication between the tool inlet 230P and the second hollow portion 262H, thereby allowing a user (or tool) to access the fastening space 240 from the outside. In other words, the fastening space 240 can be accessed from the outside without opening the fourth cover C22.

[0102] exist Figure 8A and Figure 8B as well as Figure 9A and Figure 9B In each of the fuel cell vehicles shown, the fastening direction is the x-axis direction because fastening members 242 and 244 fasten the first busbars 222A and 222B and the second busbars 232A and 232B in the x-axis direction. Conversely, in Figure 10 In the fuel cell vehicle shown, the fastening direction is the y-axis direction because fastening members 242 and 244 fasten the first busbars 222A and 222B and the second busbars 232A and 232B in the y-axis direction.

[0103] Figure 8A and Figure 8B as well as Figure 9A and Figure 9B Each of the fuel cell vehicles shown may include a first sealing member 252. The first sealing member 252 may be disposed at the contact portion between the junction box 220 and the power controller 230. Although arranged in different locations, Figure 8A and Figure 8B as well as Figure 9A and Figure 9B The first sealing member 252 of each fuel cell vehicle shown is... Figure 3CThe first sealing members 252 shown have the same shape and perform the same function, and therefore the description of the first sealing members 252 will be omitted.

[0104] and Figure 8A and Figure 8B as well as Figure 9A and Figure 9B The fuel cell vehicles shown are different. Figure 10 The fuel cell vehicle shown may include a first sealing member 252 and a third sealing member (not shown). Figure 5C The second sealing member 254 shown can be disposed between the junction box 220 and the first annular cover 260, while the third sealing member can be disposed between the power controller 230 and the second annular cover 262. Otherwise, the third sealing member has the same shape as the second sealing member 254.

[0105] The second annular cover 262 can have the same Figure 5C The second annular cover 262 has the same shape as the first annular cover 262 shown. Therefore, a third sealing member can be disposed at the contact portion between the second annular cover 262 and the side of the power controller 230 to surround the second hollow portion 262H. The third sealing member can be disposed at the contact portion between the power controller 230 and the second annular cover 262 to seal the second annular cover 262 and the power controller 230 from the outside.

[0106] exist Figure 8A , Figure 8B , Figure 9A , Figure 9B and Figure 10 In each of the fuel cell vehicles shown, fastening members 242 and 244 directly fasten the first busbars 222A and 222B and the second busbars 232A and 232B. According to another exemplary embodiment, the fastening members may indirectly fasten the first busbars 222A and 222B and the second busbars 232A and 232B via terminal blocks. The fuel cell vehicle according to this exemplary embodiment will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0107] Figure 11 It is shown Figure 2D A cross-sectional view of yet another exemplary embodiment of the fuel cell vehicle 200D shown. Figure 11 The fastening components shown may include terminal block 270, a first fastening member, and a second fastening member.

[0108] and Figure 8A and Figure 8B The fuel cell vehicles shown are different. Figure 11 The fastening components of the fuel cell vehicle shown may also include a terminal block 270. In addition, due to... Figure 11 The fuel cell vehicle shown is Figure 8A and Figure 8B The fuel cell vehicles shown are identical, so the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted; only the differences between them will be described.

[0109] exist Figure 6 In the fuel cell vehicle shown, the mounting space 240 can be located in the junction box 220. However, in Figure 11 In the fuel cell vehicle shown, the fastening space 240 can be located within the interior B3 of the power controller 230. Therefore, Figure 6 The fuel cell vehicle shown is configured such that terminal block 270 can be located in junction box 220, while Figure 11 The fuel cell vehicle shown is configured such that the terminal block 270 can be located inside B3 of the power controller 230. Furthermore, Figure 6 The fastening direction of the fuel cell vehicle shown is the same as... Figure 11 The fuel cell vehicles shown are fastened in different directions. In addition, due to... Figure 11 The fuel cell vehicle shown is Figure 6 The fuel cell vehicles shown are identical, so the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted; only the differences between them will be described.

[0110] Terminal block 270 can be connected to junction box 220 and can protrude horizontally from junction box 220 toward power controller 230. Terminal block 270 may include a second body B2 and terminal busbar 272. A first fastening member can directly fasten the first busbar 222 and the first end E1 of terminal busbar 272, and a second fastening member can directly fasten the second busbar 232 and the second end E2 of terminal busbar 272.

[0111] The first threaded component 244A, serving as a first fastening member, can pass through the first end E1 of the first busbar 222 and the terminal busbar 272 in the fastening direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) to be threadedly connected to the first end E1 of the first busbar 222 and the terminal busbar 272. The second threaded component 244B, serving as a second fastening member, can pass through the second end E2 of the second busbar 232 and the terminal busbar 272 in the fastening direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) to be threadedly connected to the second end E2 of the second busbar 232 and the terminal busbar 272.

[0112] In Figure 3DIn the same method shown, where the first threaded component 242 and the second threaded component 244 threadedly fasten the first busbars 222A and 222B and the second busbars 232A and 232B by threaded coupling, the first threaded component 244A can threadedly fasten the first end E1 of the first busbar 222 and the terminal busbar 272, and the second threaded component 244B can threadedly fasten the second end E2 of the second busbar 232 and the terminal busbar 272. Therefore, repeated descriptions of identical parts will be omitted. As mentioned above, the first busbar 222 and the second busbar 232 can be indirectly connected to each other via the terminal busbar 272, rather than directly connected to each other.

[0113] Figure 12 It is shown Figure 2D A cross-sectional view of yet another exemplary embodiment of the fuel cell vehicle 200D shown. Figure 11 The fuel cell vehicles shown are different. Figure 12 The fuel cell vehicle shown may also include a second annular cover 262. Additionally, Figure 11 The fastening direction of the fuel cell vehicle shown is the same as... Figure 12 The fuel cell vehicles shown are fastened in different directions. In addition, due to... Figure 12 The fuel cell vehicle shown is Figure 11 The fuel cell vehicles shown are identical, so the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted; only the differences between them will be described.

[0114] exist Figure 7A and Figure 7B In the fuel cell vehicle shown, the mounting space 240 can be located in the junction box 220. However, in Figure 12 In the fuel cell vehicle shown, the fastening space 240 can be located within the interior B3 of the power controller 230. Furthermore, due to... Figure 12 The fuel cell vehicle shown is Figure 7A and Figure 7B The fuel cell vehicles shown are identical, so the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted; only the differences between them will be described.

[0115] Figure 12 The second terminal busbar 272B shown may include a second-1 terminal busbar 272B1 and a second-2 terminal busbar 272B2. Specifically, the second-1 terminal busbar 272B1 and the second-2 terminal busbar 272B2 respectively correspond to Figure 7A and Figure 7B Busbar 272B1 for terminal 2-1 and busbar 272B2 for terminal 2-2 are shown.

[0116] Although not shown, but Figure 12 The terminal busbar 272 shown may further include a first terminal busbar 272A. The first terminal busbar may include a first-1 terminal busbar and a first-2 terminal busbar, which respectively correspond to... Figure 7A and Figure 7B Busbar 272A1 for terminal 1-1 and busbar 272A2 for terminal 1-2 are shown.

[0117] Figure 12 The fastening components shown may include a first fastening member and a second fastening member, and the second fastening member may include a second-1 threaded member 242B and a second-2 threaded member 244B. Figure 12 The 2-1 threaded component 242B and the 2-2 threaded component 244B shown correspond to respectively Figure 7A and Figure 7B The 2-1 threaded component 242B and the 2-2 threaded component 244B are shown. Although not shown, Figure 12 The first fastening member shown may include a first threaded component 242A and a first threaded component 244A, such as Figure 7A and Figure 7B As shown.

[0118] Figure 12 For parts not shown or not described in detail, please refer to Figure 7A and Figure 7B The description of the shown section. For example, Figure 7A and Figure 7B The descriptions of threaded components 242A (first-first thread), 244A (first-second thread), 242B (second-first thread), and 244B (second-second thread) of the fuel cell vehicle shown can also be applied to... Figure 12 The fuel cell vehicle shown.

[0119] In the following description, a fuel cell vehicle according to a comparative example and a fuel cell vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 13 This is a partial side view of a fuel cell vehicle according to the first comparative example, which includes a fuel cell 21, a junction box 22, a power controller 23, connectors, and wires 24. The fuel cell 21, junction box 22, and power controller 23 perform the same functions as the fuel cell 210, junction box 220, and power controller 230 according to the exemplary embodiments, and therefore their repeated description will be omitted.

[0120] In the first comparative example, the junction box 22 located above the fuel cell 21 and the power controller 23 located below the fuel cell 21 can be connected to each other via connectors and wires 24. However, in the first comparative example, when the drive components (such as the motor reducer and drive shaft) are located below the fuel cell 21, the space below the fuel cell 21 may not be sufficient to accommodate the power controller 23.

[0121] Furthermore, the design for arranging the fuel cell 21, junction box 22, and power controller 23 becomes complex due to the need to ensure space for the connectors and wires 24. Additionally, the need to ensure space for the installation and removal of the connectors and wires 24 restricts design freedom, reduces space utilization, and complicates the manufacturing process of fuel cell vehicles, leading to increased manufacturing costs.

[0122] Figure 14 This is a partial side view of a fuel cell vehicle according to the second comparative example, which includes a fuel cell 21, a junction box 22, a power controller 23, and a hood VH. The fuel cell 21, junction box 22, and power controller 23 perform the same functions as the fuel cell 210, junction box 220, and power controller 230 according to the exemplary embodiment, and therefore their repeated description will be omitted.

[0123] In the second comparative example, the junction box 22 and the power controller 23 are located on the upper side of the fuel cell 21. Therefore, when the junction box 22 and the power controller 23 are directly interconnected via a busbar, the connector and wire 24 provided in the first comparative example are not required.

[0124] However, as the minimum distance MD between the hood VH and the junction box 22 in the z-axis direction (vertical direction) decreases, the impact on pedestrians colliding with the vehicle may increase. Furthermore, when the minimum distance MD is insufficient, it may be impossible to mount the junction box 22 and the power controller 23 on top of the fuel cell 21. Therefore, Figure 14 The second comparative example shown can be applied to commercial vehicles with a profile different from that of the hood VH. However, the second comparative example may be difficult to apply to vehicles where the profile of the hood VH gradually decreases in the direction approaching the front of the vehicle, i.e., the minimum distance MD gradually decreases in the direction approaching the front of the vehicle. Furthermore, in the fuel cell vehicle according to the second comparative example, unused space 27 may be created, thus potentially reducing space utilization.

[0125] In contrast, in the fuel cell vehicle according to the exemplary embodiment, the junction box 220 can be disposed on the upper side of the fuel cell 210, the power controller 230 can be disposed on the rear side of the fuel cell 210, and the first busbar and the second busbar can be fastened to each other by fastening components in the fastening space 240 (located in the junction box 220 or the power controller 230). Therefore, it is not necessary to Figure 13 The connector and wire 24 are shown. Therefore, compared with the first comparative example, the advantages of the fuel cell vehicle according to the exemplary embodiment are that it simplifies the connection between the first busbar and the second busbar, minimizes the size of the fuel cell vehicle, improves the power transmission efficiency between the junction box 220 and the power controller 230, simplifies the design of the fuel cell vehicle, reduces the manufacturing cost of the fuel cell vehicle, and simplifies the manufacturing process of the fuel cell vehicle.

[0126] Furthermore, unlike the first comparative example where the power controller 23 is located below the fuel cell 21, the fuel cell vehicle according to the exemplary embodiment is configured such that the power controller 230 is located on the rear side of the fuel cell 210, rather than below it, thereby improving the utilization of the space below the fuel cell 210. Furthermore, compared with... Figure 14 As shown, the fuel cell vehicle according to the exemplary embodiment is not limited in terms of minimum distance MD, and is therefore advantageously applicable to structures with a lower profile of the hood VH. Thus, the exemplary embodiment can be applied to a vehicle without creating unused space 27, thereby improving space utilization.

[0127] Furthermore, when the fuel cell vehicle according to the exemplary embodiment has Figure 2C In the illustrated configuration, the horizontal distance from the rear surface of the power controller 230 to the front bulkhead CA is reduced, thereby preventing deformation of the front bulkhead CA in the event of a vehicle collision. As described above, the exemplary embodiment demonstrates the advantages of the first and second comparative examples and solves the problems of the first and second comparative examples.

[0128] also, Figure 5A , Figure 7A , Figure 10 and Figure 12 Each fuel cell vehicle shown requires not only the first sealing member 252 but also the second sealing member 254, and Figure 3A , Figure 4A , Figure 6 , Figure 8A , Figure 9A and Figure 11 Each fuel cell vehicle shown requires only the first sealing member 252 and not the second sealing member 254, thus exhibiting improved assembly efficiency and airtightness, reduced manufacturing costs, and a simplified manufacturing process. Furthermore, Figure 3A, Figure 4A , Figure 6 , Figure 8A , Figure 9A and Figure 11 Each fuel cell vehicle shown requires tools to manipulate the fastening components, and Figure 5A , Figure 7A , Figure 10 and Figure 12 Each of the fuel cell vehicles shown allows users to manually operate fastening components without tools, which is advantageous in terms of maintenance and repair.

[0129] As is evident from the above description, the advantages of the fuel cell vehicle according to the exemplary embodiment include simplified connection between the first and second busbars, improved power transmission efficiency, reduced vehicle size, simplified design, lower manufacturing costs, simplified manufacturing process, and improved utilization of space beneath the fuel cell. Furthermore, this exemplary embodiment can be applied to vehicles without creating unused or unnecessary space under the hood, thus improving space utilization. Additionally, it prevents deformation of the front bulkhead during a vehicle collision. Moreover, this exemplary embodiment exhibits improved assembly efficiency and airtightness, and facilitates maintenance and repair.

[0130] However, the effects achievable through this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the above description other effects not mentioned herein. The various embodiments described above can be combined with each other without departing from the scope of this disclosure, unless they are incompatible with each other. Furthermore, for elements or processes not described in detail in any of the various embodiments, unless otherwise stated, reference can be made to the description of elements or processes having the same reference numerals in other exemplary embodiments.

[0131] Although this disclosure has been specifically shown and described with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, these exemplary embodiments are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the essential characteristics of the exemplary embodiments set forth herein. For example, the corresponding configurations set forth in the exemplary embodiments may be modified and applied. Furthermore, such modifications and differences in application should be interpreted as falling within the scope of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A fuel cell vehicle, comprising: Fuel cells; A junction box is disposed on the upper side of the fuel cell, and the junction box includes a first busbar; A power controller is disposed at the rear of the fuel cell, the power controller including a second busbar; as well as Fastening components are configured to fasten the first busbar and the second busbar in a fastening space to electrically connect the junction box and the power controller to each other. The junction box includes a tool inlet to allow external access to the fastening space. The fastening components include: A terminal block having a terminal busbar, the terminal busbar including a first end connected to a first busbar and a second end connected to a second busbar, and The terminal block is connected to the power controller and protrudes into the interior of the junction box.

2. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The fastening components include fastening members configured to directly fasten the first busbar and the second busbar.

3. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 2, wherein, The fastening member includes a threaded component that passes through the first busbar and the second busbar in the fastening direction to be threadedly connected to the first busbar and the second busbar, respectively.

4. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The fastening component also includes: A first fastening member is configured to directly fasten a first end of the terminal busbar and the first busbar; and The second fastening member is configured to directly fasten the second end of the terminal busbar and the second busbar.

5. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 4, wherein: The first fastening member includes a first threaded component that passes through a first end of the terminal busbar and the first busbar in the fastening direction to be threadedly connected to the first end of the terminal busbar and the first busbar, and The second fastening member includes a second threaded component that passes through the second end of the terminal busbar and the second busbar along the fastening direction to be threadedly connected to the second end of the terminal busbar and the second busbar.

6. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The tool inlet overlaps with the fastening space in the fastening direction.

7. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 6, wherein, The second busbar protrudes from the power controller into the interior of the junction box.

8. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 7, wherein, The fastening space overlaps with the power controller in the vertical direction.

9. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 7, wherein, The junction box is configured to open and close to form the tool inlet, and the junction box includes a first main cover that overlaps with the fastening space in the fastening direction.

10. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 9, wherein, The first main cover includes: The first cover overlaps with the fuel cell in the vertical direction; and The second cover overlaps with the fastening space in the vertical direction.

11. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 10, wherein, The first cover and the second cover are integrally formed to open and close together.

12. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 10, wherein, The first cover and the second cover are configured to open and close separately from each other.

13. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 7, further comprising: A first annular cover includes a first hollow portion that overlaps with the tool inlet in the junction box in the fastening direction, and the first annular cover is disposed on the side of the junction box. The first hollow portion is connected to the tool inlet to expose the fastening space.

14. A fuel cell vehicle, comprising: Fuel cells; A junction box is disposed on the upper side of the fuel cell, and the junction box includes a first busbar; A power controller is disposed at the rear of the fuel cell, the power controller including a second busbar; as well as Fastening components are configured to fasten the first busbar and the second busbar in a fastening space to electrically connect the junction box and the power controller to each other. One of the junction box and the power controller includes a tool inlet to allow external access to the fastening space. The fastening components include: A terminal block having a terminal busbar, the terminal busbar including a first end connected to a first busbar and a second end connected to a second busbar, and The power controller includes the fastening space and the tool inlet, wherein the first busbar protrudes from the junction box into the interior of the power controller, and wherein the terminal block is connected to the junction box and protrudes into the interior of the power controller.

15. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 14, wherein, The fastening space overlaps with the junction box in the horizontal direction.

16. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 14, wherein, The power controller is configured to open and close to form the tool inlet, and the power controller includes a second main cover that overlaps with the fastening space in the fastening direction.

17. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 16, wherein, The second main cover includes: The third cover overlaps with the fuel cell in the horizontal direction; and The fourth cover overlaps with the fastening space in the horizontal direction.

18. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 17, wherein, The third cover and the fourth cover are integrally formed so that they can be opened and closed together.

19. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 17, wherein, The third cover and the fourth cover are configured to open and close separately from each other.

20. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 14, further comprising: A second annular cover includes a second hollow portion that overlaps with the tool inlet in the power controller in the fastening direction, and the second annular cover is disposed on the side of the power controller. The second hollow portion is connected to the tool inlet to expose the fastening space.

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