Methods, systems, and vehicles for detecting pipeline blockages in hydrogen fuel cells

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a method, system, and vehicle for detecting pipeline blockage in hydrogen fuel cells. The method includes: acquiring the pressure value of a target substance entering the fuel cell stack system from the gas supply system and the pressure value of a target substance exiting the fuel cell stack system into the exhaust pipe; and determining the blockage status of the exhaust pipe of the hydrogen fuel cell based on the pressure values ​​of the target substance and the exhaust substance. This allows for a simple and quick determination of the blockage status of the exhaust pipe of the hydrogen fuel cell, facilitating rapid troubleshooting, ensuring normal power generation of the hydrogen fuel cell, and improving the lifespan and safety of the hydrogen fuel cell.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of fuel cell technology, and more specifically, to a method, system, and vehicle for detecting pipeline blockage in hydrogen fuel cells. Background Technology

[0002] A hydrogen fuel cell engine system consists of subsystems or components such as a fuel cell stack, a hydrogen supply system, an oxygen supply system, a thermal management system, an electronic control system, and an exhaust system. After hydrogen and air react within the fuel cell stack, the remaining reactants and impurities are discharged through the exhaust system. Blockages in the mixing pipeline and exhaust system can lead to poor exhaust, increased back pressure, and affect the normal operation of the hydrogen fuel cell, potentially even causing safety hazards. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a method, system, and vehicle for detecting pipeline blockage in hydrogen fuel cells, so as to determine the pipeline blockage status of hydrogen fuel cells in a timely manner and improve the safety of hydrogen fuel cells.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, in a first aspect, this disclosure provides a method for detecting pipeline blockage in a hydrogen fuel cell, comprising:

[0005] The pressure values ​​of the target material entering the fuel cell stack system from the gas supply system and the pressure values ​​of the target material being discharged from the fuel cell stack system into the tailpipe pipeline are obtained.

[0006] The blockage status of the exhaust pipe of the hydrogen fuel cell is determined based on the pressure values ​​of the target substance and the target exhaust substance.

[0007] Optionally, the gas supply system includes a hydrogen supply system, the hydrogen supply system comprising:

[0008] Hydrogen storage device and nozzle for injecting hydrogen into the fuel cell stack system;

[0009] The system includes a hydrogen circulation pump and a purge valve. The material discharged from the fuel cell stack system is processed by the hydrogen circulation pump to form a first material that can be recycled back to the fuel cell stack system and a second material that is discharged to the tailpipe. When the purge valve is in the first working position, the first material enters the fuel cell stack system through the purge valve. When the purge valve is in the second working position, the first material is output through the purge valve and mixed with the second material before being discharged to the tailpipe.

[0010] The target substance includes hydrogen gas ejected from the nozzle, and the target discharge substance includes a first discharge substance discharged from the hydrogen supply system into the tailpipe.

[0011] Optionally, determining the blockage status of the exhaust pipe of the hydrogen fuel cell based on the pressure value of the target substance and the pressure value of the target discharged substance includes at least one of the following:

[0012] If the pressure value of the hydrogen is within the first target range, and the pressure value of the first discharged substance is greater than the maximum value of the second target range but the duration of the greater than the maximum value is less than the first preset duration, then it is determined that the hydrogen mixing pipeline used to discharge the first discharged substance into the tailpipe is at risk of blockage.

[0013] If the pressure value of the hydrogen is within the first target range, and the pressure value of the first discharged substance is greater than the maximum value of the second target range and the duration of ...

[0014] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0015] If it is determined that there is a risk of blockage in the hydrogen mixing pipeline, the activation frequency of the exhaust and drain valve, which is located on the hydrogen mixing pipeline, is increased.

[0016] Optionally, the gas supply system includes an air supply system;

[0017] The target substance includes gas entering the fuel cell stack system from the air supply system, and the target discharge substance includes a second discharge substance that is directly discharged from the fuel cell stack system into the tailpipe.

[0018] Optionally, determining the blockage status of the exhaust pipe of the hydrogen fuel cell based on the pressure value of the target substance and the pressure value of the target discharged substance includes at least one of the following:

[0019] If the pressure value of the gas is within the third target range, and the pressure value of the second discharged substance is greater than the maximum value of the fourth target range but the duration of the greater than the maximum value is less than the third preset duration, then it is determined that there is a risk of blockage in the air mixing pipeline used to discharge the second discharged substance into the tailpipe.

[0020] If the pressure value of the gas is within the third target range, and the pressure value of the second discharged substance is greater than the maximum value of the fourth target range and the duration of the greater than the maximum value is greater than the fourth preset duration, then it is determined that both the air mixing pipeline and the tailpipe are at risk of blockage, wherein the fourth preset duration is not less than the third preset duration.

[0021] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0022] If it is determined that there is a risk of blockage in the air mixing pipeline, the power of the air compressor is increased. The air compressor is installed in the air supply system and is used to pressurize the air to be entered into the fuel cell system.

[0023] Secondly, this disclosure provides a pipeline blockage detection system for hydrogen fuel cells, comprising:

[0024] The gas supply system, the fuel cell stack system, and the tailpipe are provided. The gas supply system is used to supply the target material to be reacted to the fuel cell stack system. The fuel cell stack system is used to induce the target material to react and discharge the target material generated after the reaction into the tailpipe.

[0025] A pressure detection device is used to detect the pressure value of the target substance entering the fuel cell system from the gas supply system and the pressure value of the target discharge substance discharged from the fuel cell system into the tailpipe;

[0026] A controller for performing the method described in any one of the first aspects.

[0027] Optionally, the gas supply system includes a hydrogen supply system, the hydrogen supply system comprising:

[0028] Hydrogen storage device and nozzle for injecting hydrogen into the fuel cell stack system;

[0029] The system includes a hydrogen circulation pump and a purge valve. The material discharged from the fuel cell stack system is processed by the hydrogen circulation pump to form a first material that can be recycled back to the fuel cell stack system and a second material that is discharged to the tailpipe. When the purge valve is in the first working position, the first material enters the fuel cell stack system through the purge valve. When the purge valve is in the second working position, the first material is output through the purge valve and mixed with the second material before being discharged to the tailpipe.

[0030] The target substance includes hydrogen gas ejected from the nozzle, and the target discharge substance includes a first discharge substance discharged from the hydrogen supply system into the tailpipe.

[0031] Optionally, the gas supply system includes an air supply system;

[0032] The target substance includes gas entering the fuel cell stack system from the air supply system, and the target discharge substance includes a second discharge substance that is directly discharged from the fuel cell stack system into the tailpipe.

[0033] Thirdly, this disclosure provides a vehicle including the pipeline blockage detection system for hydrogen fuel cells provided in the second aspect above.

[0034] In the above technical solution, the blockage status of the exhaust pipe of the hydrogen fuel cell is determined based on the pressure value of the target substance and the pressure value of the target discharged substance. This allows for a simple and quick determination of the blockage status of the exhaust pipe related to the hydrogen fuel cell, facilitating rapid troubleshooting and ensuring normal power generation of the hydrogen fuel cell as much as possible, thereby improving the lifespan and safety of the hydrogen fuel cell.

[0035] Other features and advantages of this disclosure will be described in detail in the following detailed description section. Attached Figure Description

[0036] The accompanying drawings are provided to further illustrate the present disclosure and form part of the specification. They are used together with the following detailed description to explain the present disclosure, but do not constitute a limitation thereof. In the drawings:

[0037] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a pipeline blockage detection system for hydrogen fuel cells provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure;

[0038] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a pipeline blockage detection system for hydrogen fuel cells provided in another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure;

[0039] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of a pipeline blockage detection method for hydrogen fuel cells provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure.

[0040] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0041] 100 — Air supply system; 101 — Air filter; 102 — Air compressor

[0042] 103 – Intercooler; 104 – Back pressure valve; 105 – Air mixing pipeline

[0043] 200 – Hydrogen supply system; 201 – Hydrogen storage device; 202 – Decompression valve

[0044] 203 – Ejector; 204 – Nozzle; 205 – Purge Valve

[0045] 206 – Hydrogen circulation pump; 207 – Exhaust and drain valve; 208 – Hydrogen mixing pipeline

[0046] 300 – Gas supply system; 400 – Fuel cell stack system; 500 – Tail exhaust piping

[0047] 600—Pressure detection device; 700—Controller; S1—First substance

[0048] S2—Second substance; P1—First excreted substance; P2—Second excreted substance Detailed Implementation

[0049] The specific embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustration and explanation only and are not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0050] This disclosure provides a method and system for detecting pipeline blockage in hydrogen fuel cells. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a pipeline blockage detection system for hydrogen fuel cells provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, as shown below. Figure 1 As shown, the system includes:

[0051] The gas supply system 300, the fuel cell stack system 400, and the tailpipe 500 are used to supply the target material to be reacted to the fuel cell stack system 400. The fuel cell stack system 400 is used to promote the reaction of the target material entering it and discharge the target material produced after the reaction into the tailpipe 500.

[0052] The pressure detection device 600 is used to detect the pressure value of the target substance entering the fuel cell system 400 from the gas supply system 300 and the pressure value of the target discharge substance discharged from the fuel cell system 400 into the tailpipe 500.

[0053] The controller 700 is used to acquire the pressure value of the target substance entering the stack system 400 from the gas supply system 300 and the pressure value of the target substance discharged from the stack system 400 into the tailpipe 500; and to determine the blockage status of the exhaust pipe of the hydrogen fuel cell based on the pressure values ​​of the target substance and the target exhaust substance.

[0054] In the above technical solution, the blockage status of the exhaust pipe of the hydrogen fuel cell is determined based on the pressure value of the target substance and the pressure value of the target discharged substance. This allows for a simple and quick determination of the blockage status of the exhaust pipe related to the hydrogen fuel cell, facilitating rapid troubleshooting and ensuring normal power generation of the hydrogen fuel cell as much as possible, thereby improving the lifespan and safety of the hydrogen fuel cell.

[0055] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a pipeline blockage detection system for a hydrogen fuel cell provided in another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the gas supply system 300 may include a hydrogen supply system 200. The exhaust pipe of the hydrogen fuel cell may include a hydrogen mixing pipe 208 and a tailpipe 500.

[0056] In one possible embodiment, the hydrogen supply system 200 includes:

[0057] Hydrogen storage device 201 and nozzle 204 for injecting hydrogen into the fuel cell system 400;

[0058] The hydrogen circulation pump 206 and the purge valve 205 are used to process the material discharged from the fuel cell stack system 400, forming a first material S1 that can be recycled back to the fuel cell stack system 400 and a second material S2 that is discharged to the tailpipe line 500. When the purge valve 205 is in the first working position, the first material S1 enters the fuel cell stack system 400 through the purge valve 205. When the purge valve 205 is in the second working position, the first material S1 is output through the purge valve 205 and mixed with the second material S2 before being discharged to the tailpipe line 500.

[0059] In this embodiment, the target substance may include hydrogen gas ejected from the nozzle 204, and the target discharge substance may include the first discharge substance P1 discharged from the hydrogen supply system 200 into the tailpipe 500.

[0060] Specifically, when the purge valve 205 is in the first operating position, the first discharged substance P1 includes the second substance S2. When the purge valve 205 is in the second operating position, the first discharged substance P1 includes both the first substance S1 and the second substance S2.

[0061] like Figure 2 As shown, the hydrogen supply system 200 may also include a depressurization valve 202 and an ejector 203. The hydrogen storage device 201 can be a hydrogen cylinder or other devices with hydrogen storage functions. Because the pressure inside the hydrogen storage device 201 is relatively high, the hydrogen gas discharged from the hydrogen storage device 201 has a high pressure and needs to be depressurized by the depressurization valve 202 before being drawn in by the ejector 203 and ejected through the nozzle 204. The amount of hydrogen injected can be adjusted by the nozzle 204, injecting hydrogen into the fuel cell stack system 400 at a predetermined injection rate to react with oxygen in the air and generate electricity.

[0062] The first substance S1 may include one or more of the following: unreacted hydrogen, nitrogen from the air, and oxygen. The second substance S2 may include one or more of the following: water vapor, water, and other impurities.

[0063] like Figure 2As shown, the hydrogen supply system 200 may also include an exhaust / drain valve 207. Due to the high temperature within the fuel cell stack system 400, the temperature of the hydrogen circulation pump 206 is relatively low. After the reacted substances in the fuel cell stack system 400 enter the hydrogen circulation pump 206, some of the water vapor will liquefy into water. The unliquefied water vapor and water, as the second substance S2, are output from the hydrogen circulation pump 206 via the drain line. After the reacted substances in the fuel cell stack system 400 enter the hydrogen circulation pump 206, the unreacted hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen, as the first substance S1, are output from the hydrogen circulation pump 206 via other lines. The second substance S2 output from the hydrogen circulation pump 206 is discharged into the hydrogen mixing line 208 via the exhaust / drain valve 207. The first substance S1 output from the hydrogen circulation pump 206 will enter the purge valve 205.

[0064] When purge valve 205 is in the first operating position, the first substance S1 is transferred to the fuel cell stack system 400 via purge valve 205 for hydrogen recycling. When purge valve 205 is in the second operating position, the first substance S1 is output via purge valve 205 and mixed with the second substance S2 before being discharged into the hydrogen mixing pipeline 208 and finally discharged into the tailpipe pipeline 500. For example, whether purge valve 205 is in the first or second operating position can be determined based on the operating state of the fuel cell stack system 400.

[0065] The above scheme enables the supply of hydrogen to the hydrogen fuel cell, realizes the intelligent emission of excess hydrogen from the hydrogen fuel cell, improves the hydrogen utilization rate, and can determine the pressure value of hydrogen in the hydrogen supply system 200 and the pressure value of the first discharged substance P1, so as to further determine the blockage of the exhaust pipeline related to the hydrogen fuel cell and provide data support for determining pipeline blockage.

[0066] In one possible embodiment, the controller 700 may perform the following operations:

[0067] If the hydrogen pressure value is within the first target range, and the pressure value of the first discharged substance P1 is greater than the maximum value of the second target range but the duration of the greater-than-maximum value is less than the first preset duration, then it is determined that the hydrogen mixing pipeline 208 used to discharge the first discharged substance P1 to the tailpipe 500 is at risk of blockage.

[0068] The first target range is the range of hydrogen pressure values ​​ejected from nozzle 204 when the exhaust pipe related to the hydrogen fuel cell is not blocked. The second target range is the range of pressure values ​​of the first discharged substance P1 discharged from the hydrogen supply system 200 into the tailpipe 500 when the exhaust pipe related to the hydrogen fuel cell is not blocked.

[0069] In the hydrogen supply system 200, if the pressure value of hydrogen is within the first target range and the pressure value of the first discharged substance P1 is within the second target range, then it is determined that there is no risk of blockage in the hydrogen mixing pipeline 208 and the tail discharge pipeline 500.

[0070] If the hydrogen pressure value is within the first target range, and the pressure value of the first discharged substance P1 is greater than the maximum value of the second target range and the duration of the greater-than-maximum value is less than the first preset duration, it indicates that although the pressure value of the first discharged substance P1 is greater than the second target range, the duration is short and it can be restored to the normal range of the first discharged substance P1. Thus, it can be determined that there is a risk of blockage in the hydrogen mixing pipeline 208.

[0071] Using the above method, based on the pressure value of hydrogen and the pressure value of the first discharged substance P1, the blockage of the hydrogen mixing pipeline 208 can be determined. This allows for a simple and quick determination of the blockage of the exhaust pipeline related to the hydrogen fuel cell, facilitating rapid troubleshooting and ensuring the normal power generation of the hydrogen fuel cell as much as possible.

[0072] In another possible embodiment, the controller 700 may also perform the following operations:

[0073] If the hydrogen pressure value is within the first target range, and the pressure value of the first discharged substance P1 is greater than the maximum value of the second target range and the duration of the greater-than-maximum value is greater than the second preset duration, then it is determined that both the hydrogen mixing pipeline 208 and the tail discharge pipeline 500 are at risk of blockage. The second preset duration is not less than the first preset duration.

[0074] If the hydrogen pressure value is within the first target range, and the pressure value of the first discharged substance P1 is greater than the maximum value of the second target range and the duration of the greater-than-maximum value is greater than the second preset duration, it indicates that the pressure value of the first discharged substance P1 is large, the duration is long, and the pressure value of the first discharged substance P1 may not be able to recover on its own. In this case, it can be determined that both the hydrogen mixing pipeline 208 and the tail discharge pipeline 500 are at risk of blockage.

[0075] Using the above method, based on the pressure values ​​of hydrogen and the first discharged substance P1, the blockage status of the hydrogen mixing pipeline 208 and the tailpipe 500 can be determined. This allows for a simple and quick determination of the blockage status of the exhaust pipelines related to the hydrogen fuel cell, facilitating rapid troubleshooting and ensuring the normal power generation of the hydrogen fuel cell as much as possible.

[0076] In one possible embodiment, the controller 700 may also perform the following operations:

[0077] If it is determined that there is a risk of blockage in the hydrogen mixing pipeline 208, the activation frequency of the exhaust and drain valve 207, which is installed on the hydrogen mixing pipeline 208, should be increased.

[0078] Activating the exhaust / drain valve 207 requires reaching the frequency permissible for its normal operation. Typically, this starts from 0 Hz and gradually increases. In this embodiment, the activation frequency can be increased, starting from a specific Hz greater than 0 Hz. This shortens the time required to reach the frequency permissible for the normal operation of the exhaust / drain valve 207, allowing for faster activation.

[0079] In addition, if a blockage risk is identified in the hydrogen mixing pipeline 208, the exhaust / drain valve 207 can be manually checked for malfunctions. If a malfunction is found in the exhaust / drain valve 207, it should be repaired promptly to drain the substances from the hydrogen mixing pipeline 208 in a timely manner to avoid safety hazards. If it is determined that the exhaust / drain valve 207 is not malfunctioning, the activation frequency of the exhaust / drain valve 207 can be increased to quickly activate it and drain the substances from the hydrogen mixing pipeline 208 in a timely manner.

[0080] By implementing the above solution, if it is determined that there is a risk of blockage in the hydrogen mixing pipeline 208, the activation frequency of the exhaust and drain valve 207 will be increased to deal with the pipeline blockage in a timely manner, thereby ensuring the normal power generation of the hydrogen fuel cell as much as possible and improving the lifespan and safety of the hydrogen fuel cell.

[0081] like Figure 2 As shown, the gas supply system 300 may also include an air supply system 100. The exhaust pipe of the hydrogen fuel cell may include an air mixing pipe 105 and an exhaust pipe 500.

[0082] In one possible embodiment, the target substance may include gas entering the fuel cell system 400 from the air supply system 100, and the target discharge substance may include a second discharge substance P2 that is discharged directly from the fuel cell system 400 into the tailpipe 500.

[0083] like Figure 2 As shown, the air supply system 100 may include an air filter 101, an air compressor 102, an intercooler 103, and a back pressure valve 104. The gas entering the fuel cell stack system 400 from the air supply system 100 may include air. The air is filtered by the air filter 101 to remove impurities, and then the air pressure is increased by the air compressor 102 to deliver air at a predetermined pressure. The air temperature after being pressurized by the air compressor 102 is relatively high, and it needs to be cooled by the intercooler 103. Then it enters the fuel cell stack system 400, reacts with hydrogen, and generates electricity.

[0084] After the reaction in the fuel cell stack system 400, a second discharge substance P2 will be emitted. After the pressure is regulated by the back pressure valve 104, it will be discharged into the air mixing pipeline 105 and finally into the tail discharge pipeline 500. The second discharge substance P2 may include one or more of the following: unreacted oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen in the air, water vapor, water, and other impurities.

[0085] The above scheme enables the supply of air to the hydrogen fuel cell and allows for the determination of the air pressure value in the air supply system 100 and the pressure value of the second discharged substance P2, thereby further determining the blockage status of the exhaust pipe of the hydrogen fuel cell and providing data support for determining the blockage.

[0086] In one possible embodiment, the controller 700 may also perform the following operations:

[0087] If the gas pressure is within the third target range, and the pressure of the second discharged substance P2 is greater than the maximum value of the fourth target range but the duration of the greater than maximum value is less than the third preset duration, then it is determined that the air mixing pipeline 105 used to discharge the second discharged substance P2 to the tailpipe 500 is at risk of blockage.

[0088] The third target range is the pressure range of the gas entering the stack system 400 from the air supply system 100 when the exhaust pipes related to the hydrogen fuel cell are not blocked. The fourth target range is the pressure range of the second discharge substance P2 discharged into the tailpipe 500 when the exhaust pipes related to the hydrogen fuel cell are not blocked.

[0089] In the air supply system 100, if the air pressure value is within the third target range and the pressure value of the second discharged substance P2 is within the fourth target range, it can be determined that there is no risk of blockage in the air mixing pipeline 105 and the tailpipe 500.

[0090] If the air pressure value is within the third target range, and the pressure value of the second discharged substance P2 is greater than the maximum value of the fourth target range and the duration of the greater than maximum value is less than the third preset duration, it indicates that the pressure value of the second discharged substance P2 is greater than the fourth target range, but the duration is short and it can be restored to the normal range of the second discharged substance P2. Thus, it can be determined that there is a risk of blockage in the air mixing pipeline 105.

[0091] The above method allows for the determination of the blockage status of the air mixing pipeline 105 based on the air pressure value and the pressure value of the second discharged substance P2. This enables a simple and quick determination of the blockage status of the exhaust pipeline related to the hydrogen fuel cell, facilitating rapid troubleshooting and ensuring the normal power generation of the hydrogen fuel cell as much as possible, thereby improving the lifespan and safety of the hydrogen fuel cell.

[0092] In another possible embodiment, the controller 700 may also perform the following operations:

[0093] If the gas pressure is within the third target range, and the pressure of the second discharged substance P2 is greater than the maximum value of the fourth target range and the duration of the greater-than-maximum value is greater than the fourth preset duration, then it is determined that both the air mixing pipeline 105 and the tailpipe 500 are at risk of blockage. The fourth preset duration is not less than the third preset duration.

[0094] If the air pressure is within the third target range, and the pressure of the second discharged substance P2 is greater than the maximum value of the fourth target range and the duration of the greater-than-maximum value is greater than the fourth preset duration, it indicates that the pressure of the second discharged substance P2 is large and the duration is long, and the pressure of the second discharged substance P2 may not be able to recover on its own. Therefore, it can be determined that both the air mixing pipe 105 and the tailpipe 500 are at risk of blockage.

[0095] By using the above method, based on the air pressure value and the pressure value of the second discharged substance P2, the blockage status of the air mixing pipe 105 and the tailpipe 500 can be determined. This allows for a simple and quick determination of the blockage status of the exhaust pipes related to the hydrogen fuel cell, facilitating rapid troubleshooting and ensuring the normal power generation of the hydrogen fuel cell as much as possible, thereby improving the lifespan and safety of the hydrogen fuel cell.

[0096] In one possible embodiment, the controller 700 may also perform the following operations:

[0097] If a blockage risk is identified in the air mixing line 105, the power of the air compressor 102 is increased. The air compressor 102, located in the air supply system 100, is used to pressurize the air entering the fuel cell stack system 400. By increasing the power of the air compressor 102, the air entering the fuel cell stack system 400 can be purged, thereby promoting the discharge of gas from the fuel cell stack system 400.

[0098] Furthermore, if a blockage risk is identified in the air mixing pipeline 105, the back pressure valve 104 can be manually checked for malfunction to address the blockage. If a malfunction is found in the back pressure valve 104, it should be repaired promptly to increase the pressure within the air mixing pipeline 105, thereby expelling the gas from the pipeline and preventing backflow that could pose a safety hazard.

[0099] By using the above method, when it is determined that there is a risk of blockage in the air mixing pipe 105, the power of the air compressor 102 can be increased to purge the air to be introduced into the fuel cell stack system 400, so as to deal with the blockage in the air mixing pipe 105 in a timely manner, and ensure the normal power generation of the hydrogen fuel cell as much as possible, thereby improving the life and safety of the hydrogen fuel cell.

[0100] In this disclosure, the first preset duration, the second preset duration, the third preset duration, and the fourth preset duration can be determined according to the actual scenario, and this disclosure does not limit them.

[0101] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of a pipeline blockage detection method for hydrogen fuel cells provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, as shown below. Figure 3 As shown, the method includes:

[0102] In S101, the pressure value of the target substance entering the fuel cell system 400 from the gas supply system 300 and the pressure value of the target discharge substance entering the tailpipe 500 from the fuel cell system 400 are obtained.

[0103] In S102, the blockage status of the exhaust pipe of the hydrogen fuel cell is determined based on the pressure value of the target substance and the pressure value of the target exhaust substance.

[0104] Optionally, the gas supply system 300 includes a hydrogen supply system 200, which includes:

[0105] Hydrogen storage device 201 and nozzle 204 for injecting hydrogen into the fuel cell system 400;

[0106] The hydrogen circulation pump 206 and the purge valve 205 are used to process the material discharged from the fuel cell stack system 400 to form a first material S1 that can be recycled back to the fuel cell stack system 400 and a second material S2 that is discharged to the tail drain line 500. When the purge valve 205 is in the first working position, the first material S1 enters the fuel cell stack system 400 through the purge valve 205. When the purge valve 205 is in the second working position, the first material S1 is output through the purge valve 205 and mixed with the second material S2 before being discharged to the tail drain line 500.

[0107] The target substance includes hydrogen gas ejected from nozzle 204, and the target discharge substance includes the first discharge substance P1 discharged from hydrogen supply system 200 into tailpipe 500.

[0108] Optionally, the blockage status of the hydrogen fuel cell's exhaust pipe is determined based on the pressure values ​​of the target substance and the target exhaust substance, including at least one of the following:

[0109] If the hydrogen pressure value is within the first target range, and the pressure value of the first discharged substance P1 is greater than the maximum value of the second target range but the duration of the greater than maximum value is less than the first preset duration, then it is determined that the hydrogen mixing pipeline 208 used to discharge the first discharged substance P1 to the tailpipe 500 is at risk of blockage.

[0110] If the hydrogen pressure value is within the first target range, and the pressure value of the first discharged substance P1 is greater than the maximum value of the second target range and the duration of the greater-than-maximum value is greater than the second preset duration, then it is determined that both the hydrogen mixing pipeline 208 and the tail discharge pipeline 500 are at risk of blockage. The second preset duration is not less than the first preset duration.

[0111] Optionally, the above method further includes:

[0112] If it is determined that there is a risk of blockage in the hydrogen mixing pipeline 208, the activation frequency of the exhaust and drain valve 207, which is installed on the hydrogen mixing pipeline 208, should be increased.

[0113] Optionally, the gas supply system 300 includes an air supply system 100;

[0114] The target substance includes the gas entering the fuel cell stack system 400 from the air supply system 100, and the target discharge substance includes the second discharge substance P2 that is directly discharged from the fuel cell stack system 400 into the tailpipe 500.

[0115] Optionally, the blockage status of the hydrogen fuel cell's exhaust pipe is determined based on the pressure values ​​of the target substance and the target exhaust substance, including at least one of the following:

[0116] If the gas pressure is within the third target range, and the pressure of the second discharged substance P2 is greater than the maximum value of the fourth target range but the duration of the greater than maximum value is less than the third preset duration, then it is determined that the air mixing pipeline 105 used to discharge the second discharged substance P2 to the tailpipe 500 is at risk of blockage.

[0117] If the gas pressure is within the third target range, and the pressure of the second discharged substance P2 is greater than the maximum value of the fourth target range and the duration of the greater-than-maximum value is greater than the fourth preset duration, then it is determined that both the air mixing pipeline 105 and the tailpipe 500 are at risk of blockage. The fourth preset duration is not less than the third preset duration.

[0118] Optionally, the above method further includes:

[0119] If it is determined that there is a risk of blockage in the air mixing pipeline 105, the power of the air compressor 102 is increased. The air compressor 102 is installed in the air supply system 100 and is used to pressurize the air to be entered into the fuel cell system 400.

[0120] Regarding the methods in the above embodiments, the specific manner in which each step is performed has been described in detail in the embodiments of the system, and will not be elaborated here.

[0121] This disclosure also provides a vehicle including the aforementioned pipeline blockage detection system for hydrogen fuel cells.

[0122] The preferred embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to the specific details of the above embodiments. Within the scope of the technical concept of this disclosure, various simple modifications can be made to the technical solutions of this disclosure, and these simple modifications all fall within the protection scope of this disclosure. It should also be noted that the various specific technical features described in the above embodiments can be combined in any suitable manner without contradiction. To avoid unnecessary repetition, this disclosure will not further describe the various possible combinations.

[0123] Furthermore, various different embodiments of this disclosure can be combined in any way, as long as they do not violate the spirit of this disclosure, they should also be regarded as the content disclosed in this disclosure.

Claims

1. A method for detecting pipeline blockage in hydrogen fuel cells, characterized in that, include: The pressure values ​​of the target material entering the fuel cell stack system from the gas supply system and the pressure values ​​of the target material being discharged from the fuel cell stack system into the tailpipe pipeline are obtained. The blockage status of the exhaust pipe of the hydrogen fuel cell is determined based on the pressure value of the target substance and the pressure value of the target discharged substance. The gas supply system includes an air supply system; the target substance includes gas entering the fuel cell stack system from the air supply system; the target discharge substance includes a second discharge substance directly discharged from the fuel cell stack system into the tailpipe. The determination of the blockage status of the exhaust pipe of the hydrogen fuel cell based on the pressure value of the target substance and the pressure value of the target discharged substance includes at least one of the following: If the pressure value of the gas is within the third target range, and the pressure value of the second discharged substance is greater than the maximum value of the fourth target range but the duration of the greater than the maximum value is less than the third preset duration, then it is determined that there is a risk of blockage in the air mixing pipeline used to discharge the second discharged substance into the tailpipe. If the pressure value of the gas is within the third target range, and the pressure value of the second discharged substance is greater than the maximum value of the fourth target range and the duration of the greater than the maximum value is greater than the fourth preset duration, then it is determined that both the air mixing pipeline and the tailpipe are at risk of blockage, wherein the fourth preset duration is not less than the third preset duration.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The gas supply system includes a hydrogen supply system, which comprises: Hydrogen storage device and nozzle for injecting hydrogen into the fuel cell stack system; The system includes a hydrogen circulation pump and a purge valve. The material discharged from the fuel cell stack system is processed by the hydrogen circulation pump to form a first material that can be recycled back to the fuel cell stack system and a second material that is discharged to the tailpipe. When the purge valve is in the first working position, the first material enters the fuel cell stack system through the purge valve. When the purge valve is in the second working position, the first material is output through the purge valve and mixed with the second material before being discharged to the tailpipe. The target substance includes hydrogen gas ejected from the nozzle, and the target discharge substance includes a first discharge substance discharged from the hydrogen supply system into the tailpipe.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The determination of the blockage status of the exhaust pipe of the hydrogen fuel cell based on the pressure value of the target substance and the pressure value of the target discharged substance includes at least one of the following: If the pressure value of the hydrogen is within the first target range, and the pressure value of the first discharged substance is greater than the maximum value of the second target range but the duration of the greater than the maximum value is less than the first preset duration, then it is determined that the hydrogen mixing pipeline used to discharge the first discharged substance into the tailpipe is at risk of blockage. If the pressure value of the hydrogen is within the first target range, and the pressure value of the first discharged substance is greater than the maximum value of the second target range and the duration of ...

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The method further includes: If it is determined that there is a risk of blockage in the hydrogen mixing pipeline, the activation frequency of the exhaust and drain valve, which is located on the hydrogen mixing pipeline, is increased.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: If it is determined that there is a risk of blockage in the air mixing pipeline, the power of the air compressor is increased. The air compressor is installed in the air supply system and is used to pressurize the air to be entered into the fuel cell system.

6. A pipeline blockage detection system for hydrogen fuel cells, characterized in that, include: The gas supply system, the fuel cell stack system, and the tailpipe are provided. The gas supply system is used to supply the target material to be reacted to the fuel cell stack system. The fuel cell stack system is used to induce the target material to react and discharge the target material generated after the reaction into the tailpipe. A pressure detection device is used to detect the pressure value of the target substance entering the fuel cell stack system from the gas supply system and the pressure value of the target discharge substance discharged from the fuel cell stack system into the tailpipe. The gas supply system includes an air supply system; the target substance includes gas entering the fuel cell stack system from the air supply system; and the target discharge substance includes a second discharge substance directly discharged from the fuel cell stack system into the tailpipe. A controller for performing the method according to any one of claims 1-5.

7. The system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The gas supply system includes a hydrogen supply system, which comprises: Hydrogen storage device and nozzle for injecting hydrogen into the fuel cell stack system; The system includes a hydrogen circulation pump and a purge valve. The material discharged from the fuel cell stack system is processed by the hydrogen circulation pump to form a first material that can be recycled back to the fuel cell stack system and a second material that is discharged to the tailpipe. When the purge valve is in the first working position, the first material enters the fuel cell stack system through the purge valve. When the purge valve is in the second working position, the first material is output through the purge valve and mixed with the second material before being discharged to the tailpipe. The target substance includes hydrogen gas ejected from the nozzle, and the target discharge substance includes a first discharge substance discharged from the hydrogen supply system into the tailpipe. And / or, The gas supply system includes an air supply system; The target substance includes gas entering the fuel cell stack system from the air supply system, and the target discharge substance includes a second discharge substance that is directly discharged from the fuel cell stack system into the tailpipe.

8. A vehicle, characterized in that, Includes the pipeline blockage detection system for hydrogen fuel cells as described in claim 6 or 7.

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