Humidifier for fuel cells

Abstract

This invention relates to a humidifier for fuel cells. The humidifier for fuel cells includes a humidification unit for generating humidified air, comprising: a first separator forming a dry gas flow path; a second separator forming a water-containing gas flow path; a humidification membrane for generating humidified air by imparting moisture contained in the gas flowing in the water-containing gas flow path to the dry air flowing in the dry gas flow path; a protective film for reinforcing the humidification membrane; and a sealing member disposed along a first outer edge of the humidification membrane and sealing between the dry gas flow path and the water-containing gas flow path, wherein a close-fitting area is formed between the first outer edge of the humidification membrane and the second outer edge of the protective film.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a humidifier for a fuel cell that includes a humidification unit that imparts moisture contained in water-containing air to dry air to generate humidified air. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, fuel cells have incorporated humidifiers to humidify the cathode gas supplied to the cathode side. Such humidifiers typically include humidification units that alternately arrange a gas separator and a membrane for water permeation. For example, there is a humidifier described in Patent Document 1, cited below.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a humidifier for a fuel cell. This fuel cell humidifier includes a humidifying membrane that functions as a humidifying component, a humidifying forward path communicating with an air supply passage through which air flows toward the air electrode of the fuel cell, and a humidifying return path communicating with an air exhaust passage through which exhaust gas from the air electrode of the fuel cell after power generation flows. The humidifying forward path and the humidifying return path are located in a plate member equivalent to the aforementioned separator and are arranged opposite each other with the humidifying membrane in between.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-187839

[0005] In the technology described in Patent Document 1, where the humidification forward and return paths are configured to face each other across a humidification membrane, a very thin humidification membrane is used. Such a thin humidification membrane is easily damaged during manufacturing processes, for example. Therefore, there is room for improvement in terms of increasing the strength of the humidification membrane. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, we are seeking a humidifier for fuel cells whose humidification membrane is not easily damaged.

[0007] The fuel cell humidifier of the present invention is characterized by the following structure: the fuel cell humidifier comprises: a humidification unit for generating humidified air by imparting moisture contained in water-containing air to dry air; the humidification unit comprises: a plate-shaped first separator forming a dry gas flow path in a central region of one surface; a plate-shaped second separator forming a water-containing gas flow path in a central region of a surface opposite to the dry gas flow path; and a humidification membrane disposed between the dry gas flow path and the water-containing gas flow path, which imparts moisture contained in the water-containing gas to the dry air flowing in the dry gas flow path. The humidified air is generated by the moisture contained in the gas flowing in the flow path; two protective films are provided in a state of being stacked on the inside and outside of the humidified film to reinforce the humidified film; and a sealing member is provided along the first outer edge of the humidified film in the state of the stacked humidified film and the protective film to seal between the dry gas flow path and the water-containing gas flow path, and a close-fitting area is formed between the first outer edge and the second outer edge of the humidified film by making the second outer edge of at least one of the protective films shorter than the first outer edge of the humidified film.

[0008] Based on this structural feature, the humidifying membrane can be protected by a protective film, and its mechanical strength can be enhanced, reducing the risk of damage during the manufacturing process. Furthermore, it improves the adhesion between the humidifying membrane and the seal in the contact area, preventing leakage between the dry gas flow path and the water-containing gas flow path via the protective film.

[0009] In addition, preferably, a reinforcing member is provided on the side opposite to the humidifying film, opposite to at least one of the above-mentioned protective films. The reinforcing member is located between the first separator and the second separator, and is held together with the humidifying film and the protective film by the sealing member.

[0010] Based on this structure, even when the pressure of the dry air flowing in the dry gas path acts on the humidifying membrane and the protective membrane, the humidifying membrane and the protective membrane are difficult to warp due to the reinforcing components, and deformation can be suppressed.

[0011] In addition, it is preferable that the above-mentioned reinforcing member and the above-mentioned second separator are in contact with the above-mentioned protective film between the humidifying film and the above-mentioned humidifying film.

[0012] Based on this structure, the humidifying film and protective film are less prone to warping and can more effectively suppress deformation.

[0013] In addition, it is preferable that the humidifying film has the aforementioned close-fitting area on at least one side.

[0014] With this structure, leakage between the dry gas flow path and the water-containing gas flow path through the protective film can be prevented on the surface where the humidifying film has a close-fitting area.

[0015] In addition, it is preferable that the humidifying membrane has the aforementioned close-fitting area on the surface opposite to the first separator.

[0016] With this structure, leakage between the dry gas flow path and the water-containing gas flow path via the protective membrane can be prevented on the surface of the humidifying membrane where the contact area is provided. Furthermore, if the contact area is provided on the surface of the humidifying membrane opposite to the first separator, the humidifying membrane is less prone to bending or deformation even if there is a pressure difference between the dry air (high pressure) flowing in the dry gas flow path and the water-containing air (low pressure) flowing in the water-containing gas flow path.

[0017] In addition, it is preferable that the humidifying film and the protective film have multiple parallel portions, and the width of the close-fitting area in the multiple parallel portions is equal.

[0018] With this structure, the outer edges of the protective film and the humidifying film are made equally wide in multiple parallel sections. Therefore, even if the humidifying film expands or contracts due to changes in the external environment, the protective film can follow suit, preventing peeling. Furthermore, the seals are evenly and tightly attached to both the humidifying and protective films, making it less prone to wrinkles.

[0019] In addition, preferably, at least the corner of the first outer edge of the humidifying film is formed in an arc shape, so that the width of the contact area of ​​the corner is equal to the width of the contact area in the plurality of parallel portions, thereby the width of the contact area is equal throughout the entire circumference of the humidifying film.

[0020] With this structure, the widths of the outer edges of the protective film and the humidifying film can be kept constant throughout the entire circumference. Therefore, even if the humidifying film expands or contracts due to changes in the external environment, the protective film can follow suit, preventing peeling. In addition, the seal is evenly and comprehensively attached to the humidifying film and the protective film, so the humidifying film and the protective film are less prone to wrinkles.

[0021] In addition, it is preferable that the corner of the second outer edge of the protective film is formed into an arc shape.

[0022] With this structure, the widths of the outer edges of the protective film and the humidifying film can be kept constant throughout the entire circumference. Therefore, even if the humidifying film expands or contracts due to changes in the external environment, the protective film can follow suit, preventing peeling. Furthermore, the seal is evenly and comprehensively attached to both the humidifying and protective films, making it less prone to wrinkles. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a 3D diagram of a humidifier for fuel cells.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the flow path connected to the humidifier for the fuel cell.

[0025] Figure 3 This is a partial side cross-sectional view of the humidification unit of the first embodiment.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a top view of the protective film installed on the humidifying membrane.

[0027] Figure 5 Other examples are protective films that are set on the humidifying film.

[0028] Figure 6 This is a partial side cross-sectional view of the humidification unit of the second embodiment.

[0029] Figure 7 This is a partial side sectional view of the humidification unit in the modified example.

[0030] Figure 8 This is a partial side sectional view of the humidification unit in the modified example.

[0031] Figure 9 This is a partial side sectional view of the humidification unit in the modified example.

[0032] Figure 10 This is a partial side sectional view of the humidification unit in the modified example. Detailed Implementation

[0033] The humidifier for fuel cells of the present invention (hereinafter "humidifier") is configured to protect and strengthen the humidification membrane. Hereinafter, the humidifier 1 of this embodiment will be described.

[0034] [First Implementation]

[0035] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the humidifier 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the flow path connected to humidifier 1. Figure 3 This is a side sectional view of a portion of the humidification unit 10. The humidifier 1 is configured with a first plate 2, a second plate 3, and the humidification unit 10. The humidification unit 10 is positioned between the first plate 2 and the second plate 3. While details will be described later, the humidification unit 10 generates humidified air by imparting moisture from water-containing air to dry air. Figure 3As shown, the humidifying unit 10 is configured with a first separator 11, a second separator 12, a humidifying membrane 13, and a protective membrane 14 stacked together. The second separator 12, the protective membrane 14, the humidifying membrane 13, and the first separator 11 are stacked in this order between the first plate 2 and the second plate 3, and are arranged under pressure along the stacking direction. Furthermore, multiple humidifying units 10 are stacked together. Figure 3 It is composed of components in the state shown.

[0036] like Figure 2 As shown, the humidifier 1 is provided with a dry gas supply port 21, a humidifying gas outlet 22, a water-containing gas supply port 31, and a water-containing gas outlet 32. In this embodiment, the top view of the humidification unit 10 is composed of a quadrilateral shape, with the dry gas supply port 21 and the humidifying gas outlet 22 positioned opposite each other along the diagonal of the quadrilateral shape, and the water-containing gas supply port 31 and the water-containing gas outlet 32 ​​positioned opposite each other along the diagonal of the quadrilateral shape.

[0037] In this embodiment, the humidifier 1 supplies air (an example of "dry air") pressurized by the compressor 41 to the dry gas supply port 21 via valve 42. The dry air supplied to the dry gas supply port 21 is humidified while flowing through the dry gas flow path 11C (described later) and is discharged as humidified air from the humidified gas outlet 22. The humidified air discharged from the humidified gas outlet 22 is introduced into the cathode gas supply path 43B and supplied to the fuel cell 43. The fuel cell 43 is supplied with fuel gas containing hydrogen and air containing oxygen (equivalent to the aforementioned "dry air") to generate electricity. Through this power generation, the fuel cell 43 discharges water-containing gas (an example of "water-containing air") in the form of water vapor. This water-containing gas is supplied to the water-containing gas supply port 31 via the cathode exhaust gas outlet path 43A. When the water-containing gas supplied to the water-containing gas supply port 31 flows through the water-containing gas flow path 12C (described later), it will humidify the dry air flowing through the dry gas flow path 11C and be discharged from the water-containing gas discharge port 32.

[0038] like Figure 3As shown, the first separator 11 forms a dry gas flow path 11C in the central region of one surface. The first separator 11 is formed in a plate shape, and one surface corresponds to the surface 11A in the surface of the plate-shaped first separator 11 and the surface 11A in the inner part 11B. Therefore, in the top view, the central region of one surface corresponds to the region of the central part when the first separator 11 is divided into an outer peripheral part and a central part. Therefore, in the top view, the first separator 11 forms a dry gas flow path 11C in the central region of surface 11A. Furthermore, in the top view, the first separator 11 has a seal 15, which will be described later, provided on the outer peripheral part of surface 11A. Therefore, for ease of understanding, in this embodiment, in the top view, the region of surface 11A where the seal 15 is provided is described as the outer peripheral part, and the region forming the dry gas flow path 11C is described as the central part. Figure 3 Although only one first separator 11 is described, the humidification unit 10 has multiple first separators 11, and each dry gas flow path 11C is as follows: Figure 2 As shown, the configuration connects to the dry gas supply port 21 via the dry gas supply path 51 and the supply port 71. Thus, as described above, dry air from the compressor 41 can be introduced into the dry gas flow path 11C. Furthermore, in the first separator 11, in addition to the surface 11A, the dry gas flow path 11C or the water-containing gas flow path 12C can also be formed in the central region of the inner 11B.

[0039] The second separator 12 forms a water-containing gas flow path 12C in the central region of one surface. The second separator 12 is plate-shaped, with one surface corresponding to the surface 12A of the plate-shaped second separator 12 and the surface 12A within the inner surface 12B. Therefore, in the top view, the central region of one surface corresponds to the central region when the second separator 12 is divided into an outer peripheral region and a central region. Therefore, in the top view, the second separator 12 forms a water-containing gas flow path 12C in the central region of surface 12A. Furthermore, in the second separator 12, in the top view, a seal 15 (described later) is also provided on the outer peripheral region of surface 12A. Therefore, for ease of understanding, in this embodiment, in the top view, the region of surface 12A where the seal 15 is provided is described as the outer peripheral region, and the region forming the water-containing gas flow path 12C is described as the central region. Figure 3 Although only one second separator 12 is described, the humidification unit 10 also has multiple second separators 12, and each water-containing gas flow path 12C is as follows: Figure 2As shown, the configuration connects to the water-containing gas supply port 31 via the water-containing gas supply path 61 and the supply port 81. This allows water-containing gas from the fuel cell 43 to be introduced. Furthermore, in the second separator 12, in addition to the surface 12A, a water-containing gas flow path 12C or a dry gas flow path 11C can also be formed in the central region of the inner part 12B.

[0040] like Figure 3 As shown, the humidifying membrane 13 is disposed in the stacking direction between the dry gas flow path 11C and the water-containing gas flow path 12C. The dry gas flow path 11C and the water-containing gas flow path 12C refer to the area between the central region of the first separator 11 and the central region of the second separator 12. Therefore, the humidifying membrane 13 is disposed between the central region of the first separator 11 and the central region of the second separator 12. That is, the dry gas flow path 11C and the water-containing gas flow path 12C are positioned opposite each other, with the humidifying membrane 13 sandwiched between them. Multiple humidifying membranes 13 are also provided in the humidification unit 10.

[0041] Such a humidifying membrane 13 imparts moisture contained in the gas flowing in the water-containing gas flow path 12C to the dry air flowing in the dry gas flow path 11C to generate humidified air. The dry air flowing in the dry gas flow path 11C is dry gas supplied from the compressor 41 to the dry gas flow path 11C via valve 42, dry gas supply port 21, and dry gas supply path 51. The gas flowing in the water-containing gas flow path 12C is water-containing gas supplied from the cathode exhaust gas discharge path 43A to the water-containing gas flow path 12C. Therefore, the humidifying membrane 13 imparts moisture contained in the dry gas supplied from the compressor 41 via valve 42, dry gas supply port 21, and dry gas supply path 51, and the water-containing gas flowing from the fuel cell 43 via the cathode exhaust gas discharge path 43A and water-containing gas supply port 31 to generate humidified air. Furthermore, the method of imparting moisture to dry air to generate humidified gas ("humidified air") is well known, so its description is omitted here. The generated humidified gas is introduced into the cathode gas supply path 43B via the humidified air exhaust path 52 and the humidified gas exhaust port 22, and then supplied to the fuel cell 43.

[0042] like Figure 3As shown, the protective film 14 is provided in a state of being stacked with the humidifying film 13, and strengthens the humidifying film 13. "Provided in a state of being stacked with the humidifying film 13" means that it is provided in a state of being attached to at least one of the first surface 13A corresponding to the surface of the humidifying film 13 and the second surface 13B corresponding to the inner surface. In this embodiment, the protective film 14 is provided on both the first surface 13A and the second surface 13B of the humidifying film 13 (both sides). For example, nonwoven fabric can be used as the protective film 14, but it is not limited to this; paper, mesh, porous membranes, etc., can also be used. Therefore, the protective film 14 can protect the humidifying film 13, which is a thin film (e.g., with a thickness of several μm), and can enhance its mechanical strength, for example, improving the processability of the manufacturing process and preventing damage.

[0043] Furthermore, the protective film 14 is provided such that at least one outer edge portion (an example of a second outer edge portion) 14E of the protective film 14 is recessed towards the center of the humidifying film 13 compared to the outer edge portion (an example of a first outer edge portion) 13E of the humidifying film 13. The outer edge portion 14E of the protective film 14 is the edge portion (outer end portion) of the outer periphery of the aforementioned protective film 14. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the state of receding towards the center of the humidifying film 13 refers to the state in a top view of the protective film 14, which is stacked on top of the humidifying film 13, where the humidifying film 13 is exposed around the outer edge 14E of the protective film 14. At this time, the outer perimeter of the outer edge 14E of the protective film 14 is shorter than the outer perimeter of the outer edge 13E of the humidifying film 13. In this embodiment, the portion of the humidifying film 13 exposed between the outer edge 13E of the humidifying film 13 and the outer edge 14E of the protective film 14 is referred to as the close-fitting area 19. Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the protective film 14 is provided on both the first surface 13A and the second surface 13B of the humidifying film 13. However, among the protective films 14 provided on both the first surface 13A and the second surface 13B of the humidifying film 13, the protective film 14 provided on the second surface 13B is provided in a state of receding towards the center of the humidifying film 13. On the other hand, the protective film 14 provided on the first surface 13A of the humidifying film 13 is provided such that its outer edge 14E does not recede towards the center of the humidifying film 13 compared to the outer edge 13E of the humidifying film 13. In this embodiment, the protective film 14 provided on the first surface 13A of the humidifying film 13 is provided such that its outer edge 14E coincides with the outer edge 13E of the humidifying film 13. Furthermore, the protective film 14 may, as needed, be larger than the outer edge 13E of the humidifying film 13.

[0044] The sealing member 15 is provided along the outer edge 13E of the humidifying film 13 while clamping the humidifying film 13 and the protective film 14. Specifically, it is provided throughout the outer periphery of one surface (surface 11A) of the first separator 11, excluding the dry gas supply path 51 and the humidifying air discharge path 52 of the dry gas flow path 11C, and the outer periphery of one surface (surface 12A) of the second separator 12, excluding the water-containing gas supply path 61 and the water-containing air discharge path 62 of the water-containing gas flow path 12C. In this embodiment, the state of clamping the humidifying film 13 and the protective film 14 refers to the state in which the humidifying film 13 and the protective film 14 are separated from the outer periphery of the first separator 11 and the second separator 12 by inserting the sealing member 15 between the protective film 14 and the first separator 11 and the second separator 12, respectively. Additionally, in the outer periphery of one side of the first separator 11, the supply port 71 of the dry gas flow path 11C is connected to the dry gas supply path 51, which is equivalent to a port for supplying dry gas to the dry gas flow path 11C. The discharge port 72 is connected to the humidified air discharge path 52, which is equivalent to a port for discharging humidified air from the dry gas flow path 11C. In the outer periphery of one side of the second separator 12, the supply port 81 of the water-containing gas flow path 12C is connected to the water-containing gas supply path 61, which is equivalent to a port for supplying water-containing gas to the water-containing gas flow path 12C. The discharge port 82 is connected to the water-containing air discharge path 62, which is equivalent to a port for discharging water-containing air from the water-containing gas flow path 12C.

[0045] In this embodiment, the sealing member 15 is provided throughout the entire circumference of the portion excluding the dry gas supply path 51, the humidified air discharge path 52, the water-containing gas supply path 61, and the water-containing air discharge path 62, with the humidifying film 13 and the protective film 14 separated from the first separator 11 and the second separator 12. The sealing member 15 is in a state where the humidifying film 13 and the protective film 14 are separated from the first separator 11 and the second separator 12. Figure 2 The middle is represented by gray coloring. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the outer edge of the seal 15 is configured to be coplanar with the outer edges of the first separator 11 and the second separator 12. Figure 2 Although the outer edge of the seal 15 is depicted as extending slightly inward from the outer edges of the first separator 11 and the second separator 12, it is actually coplanar. Such a seal 15 can, for example, utilize an adhesive.

[0046] Furthermore, the sealing element 15 is positioned in the close contact area 19 of the humidifying film 13 between the outer edge 13E of the humidifying film 13 and the outer edge 14E of the protective film 14, and is in direct contact with the humidifying film 13. Therefore, even if there are gaps in the protective film 14 along its thickness direction, the airtightness between the sealing element 15 and the humidifying film 13 can be improved, sealing the dry gas flow path 11C and the water-containing gas flow path 12C, and reducing the risk of air (dry air and humidifying air) leaking from the dry gas flow path 11C to the water-containing gas flow path 12C (cross-leakage).

[0047] The humidifying membrane 13 has a close-fitting area 19 disposed on at least one of the first surface 13A (corresponding to the surface of the humidifying membrane 13) and the second surface 13B (corresponding to the inner surface). In this embodiment, although the protective film 14 is disposed on both the first surface 13A and the second surface 13B of the humidifying membrane 13, the close-fitting area 19 is disposed only on the second surface 13B. Normally, the dry air flowing in the dry gas flow path 11C is pressurized by the compressor 41, so its pressure is higher than that of the water-containing air flowing in the water-containing gas flow path 12C. Therefore, if the close-fitting area 19 is disposed on the second surface 13B, which is under the pressure of the dry air, the humidifying membrane 13 is less likely to bend or deform even if there is a pressure difference between the dry air (high pressure) flowing in the dry gas flow path 11C and the water-containing air (low pressure) flowing in the water-containing gas flow path 12C. This is therefore preferable. Of course, the close-fitting area 19 may be disposed on both the first surface 13A and the second surface 13B, or it may be disposed only on the first surface 13A. Furthermore, if the protective film 14 is provided only on one of the first surface 13A and the second surface 13B of the humidifying film 13, and the outer edge portion 14E of the protective film 14 provided only on one side of the humidifying film 13 is the same as or larger than the outer edge portion 13E of the humidifying film 13, the close contact area 19 may also be provided on the side opposite to the side on which the protective film 14 is provided.

[0048] Figure 4 This is a top view of the humidifying film 13 and the protective film 14 disposed on the second surface 13B of the humidifying film 13, wherein the outer edge portion 14E is recessed towards the center of the humidifying film 13 compared to the outer edge portion 13E. In this embodiment, the humidifying film 13 and the protective film 14 disposed in the recessed state are configured to have multiple parallel portions (four in this embodiment). Figure 4In the figure, parallel portions are indicated by the reference numeral P. This allows the spacing (width of the adjacent region 19) of the outer edge 13E of the humidifying film 13 and the outer edge 14E of the protective film 14 in the top view of the plurality of parallel portions P to be kept constant. At the corners of the non-parallel portions (not indicated by reference numeral P), a supply port 71, a discharge port 72, a supply port 81, and a discharge port 82 (also refer to…) are formed. Figure 2 Because the spacing (width of the contact area 19) between the outer edge 13E of the humidifying membrane 13 and the outer edge 14E of the protective film 14 in the top view is constant throughout the entire circumference, the protective film 14 can follow the expansion and contraction of the humidifying membrane 13 due to changes in the external environment, thus preventing damage (e.g., breakage) to the protective film 14 and the humidifying membrane 13. Furthermore, since the seal 15 is evenly and closely attached to the humidifying membrane 13 and the protective film 14 throughout the entire circumference, wrinkles are less likely to form on the humidifying membrane 13 and the protective film 14.

[0049] Moreover, in this embodiment, such as Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown in the top view, at least the corner 13R of the outer edge 13E of the humidifying film 13 is formed in an arc shape. When a portion of the corner 13R of the outer edge 13E of the humidifying film 13 does not overlap with the supply port 71, outlet 72, supply port 81, and outlet 82, or when the supply port 71, outlet 72, supply port 81, and outlet 82 are formed at a location other than the corner 13R (the location marked with reference numeral P), it is easier to provide a seal 15 at the corner 13R. Therefore, even in the corner 13R, it is preferable that the distance between the outer edge 13E of the humidifying film 13 and the outer edge 14E of the protective film 14 (the width of the contact area 19) is constant. That is, it is preferable that the protective film 14 is formed as a rectangle, such that the center O of the arc of the corner 13R of the humidifying film 13 overlaps with the vertex of the protective film 14 (see reference 14). Figure 5 Alternatively, the corner 14R of the outer edge 14E of the protective film 14 can be formed into an arc shape such that the center O of the corner 13R of the humidifying film 13 coincides with the center O of the corner 14R of the protective film 14 (see reference). Figure 4 Therefore, in the top view, when observing the protective film 14 arranged in a state of being stacked on the humidifying film 13, the width of the closely attached area 19 exposed by the humidifying film 13 (the distance between the outer edge 13E of the humidifying film 13 and the outer edge 14E of the protective film 14), including the supply port 71, the discharge port 72, the supply port 81, and the discharge port 82 (in Figure 4 (Not shown in the figure) and remains constant throughout the humidification film 13 and the protective film 14.

[0050] [Second Implementation]

[0051] Next, the humidifier 1 according to the second embodiment will be described. In the description of this embodiment, the same reference numerals are used to mark parts with the same structure as in the first embodiment, and descriptions related to the same structures are omitted. The structure of the humidification unit 10 of the humidifier 1 in this embodiment is different from that in the first embodiment.

[0052] like Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment, a reinforcing member 16 is provided between the second separator 12 and the protective film 14 provided on the first surface 13A side of the humidifying film 13. That is, the reinforcing member 16 is stacked on the side opposite to the humidifying film 13, facing the protective film 14 provided on the first surface 13A side of the humidifying film 13. The reinforcing member 16 and the protective film 14 are in contact. In this embodiment, the reinforcing member 16 has the same size as the humidifying film 13 and the opposing (adjacent) protective film 14. On the other hand, the protective film 14 provided on the second surface 13B side of the humidifying film 13 is provided in a state that recedes towards the central part of the humidifying film 13, and the close contact area 19 is only provided on the second surface 13B of the humidifying film 13. For example, a resin mesh can be used as the reinforcing member 16, but it is not limited to this, and paper, non-woven fabric, porous membrane, etc. can also be used. Furthermore, although the protective film 14 and the reinforcing member 16 are in complete contact in this embodiment, they can also be configured so that only a portion, such as only the central area, is in contact.

[0053] The sealing member 15 is disposed along the outer edge 13E of the humidifying membrane 13 while clamping the humidifying membrane 13, the protective films 14 on both sides, and the reinforcing member 16. In this embodiment, the state of clamping the humidifying membrane 13, the protective films 14 on both sides, and the reinforcing member 16 refers to the state in which the humidifying membrane 13, the protective films 14 on the second surface 13B side of the humidifying membrane 13, and the first separator 11 are separated from each of the outer peripheries of the first separator 11 and the second separator 12 by inserting the sealing member 15 between the protective film 14 on the second surface 13B side of the humidifying membrane 13 and the first separator 11, and between the reinforcing member 16 and the second separator 12, respectively.

[0054] As described above, the dry air flowing in the dry gas flow path 11C is pressurized by the compressor 41, so its pressure is higher than that of the water-containing air flowing in the water-containing gas flow path 12C. Therefore, due to the pressure difference between the dry air flowing in the dry gas flow path 11C and the water-containing air flowing in the water-containing gas flow path 12C, the humidifying membrane 13 sometimes flexes and deforms even with the protective membrane 14 provided. Therefore, by providing the reinforcing member 16 to increase the tensile strength of the humidifying membrane 13 and the protective membrane 14, the humidifying membrane 13 and the protective membrane 14 are less likely to flex even under the pressure of the dry air, and deformation can be suppressed.

[0055] In this embodiment, although the reinforcing member 16 is disposed between the second separator 12 and the protective film 14 on the first surface 13A side of the humidifying film 13, it may also be disposed between the first separator 11 and the protective film 14 on the second surface 13B side of the humidifying film 13, or two reinforcing members 16 may be disposed opposite to both protective films 14. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the reinforcing member 16 is the same size as the humidifying film 13 and the opposite protective film 14.

[0056] In addition, with Figure 6 Conversely, the protective film 14 provided on the second surface 13B side of the humidifying film 13 is the same size as the humidifying film 13, and the protective film 14 provided on the first surface 13A side of the humidifying film 13 is set in a state that recedes towards the center of the humidifying film 13. Thus, if the close-fitting area 19 is only provided on the first surface 13A of the humidifying film 13, it is also possible to configure a reinforcing member 16 of the same size as the protective film 14, that is, the same size as the humidifying film 13, between the first separator 11 and the protective film 14 on the second surface 13B side of the humidifying film 13.

[0057] [Modifications of the first and second embodiments]

[0058] Although the following variations are illustrated using the diagrams of the second embodiment, they are equally applicable to the first embodiment.

[0059] (1) As Figure 7 As shown, in the structure of the second embodiment, the corner 11F of the first separator 11 forming the dry gas flow path 11C and the corner 12F of the second separator 12 forming the water-containing gas flow path 12C are covered by the sealing member 15. This prevents the corners 11F and 12F from getting stuck and thus preventing damage to the protective film 14 and the reinforcing member 16.

[0060] (2) Figure 8 As shown, a wall 11D is formed on the outer edge of the first separator 11, and a wall 12D is formed on the outer edge of the second separator 12, with the walls 11D and 12D abutting each other. Based on this, a seal 15 is provided to cover the corners 11F and 12F as described in (1) above. This prevents leakage of the seal 15 to the outside of the first separator 11 and the second separator 12, and also prevents damage to the protective film 14 and the reinforcing member 16 caused by the corners 11F and 12F.

[0061] (3) Figure 9As shown, steps 11E and 12E are respectively provided on the outer periphery of the first separator 11 and the outer periphery of the second separator 12. The protective film 14 is housed on step 11E, and the reinforcing member 16 is housed on step 12E. As a result, the humidifying film 13, the protective film 14, and the reinforcing member 16 can be easily positioned relative to the first separator 11 and the second separator 12.

[0062] (4) Figure 10 As shown, the steps 11E and 12E of (3) are enlarged to allow the seal 15 to flow in, and the flowing seal 15 covers the corner 11F of the first separator 11 forming the dry gas flow path 11C and the corner 12F of the second separator 12 forming the water-containing gas flow path 12C. Furthermore, a wall 11D is formed on the outer edge of the first separator 11, and a wall 12D is formed on the outer edge of the second separator 12, with the walls 11D and 12D abutting each other. This prevents damage to the protective film 14 and the reinforcing member 16 caused by the corners 11F and 12F, and prevents leakage of the seal 15 to the outside of the first separator 11 and the second separator 12. Moreover, the steps 11E and 12E allow for easy positioning of the humidifying film 13, the protective film 14, and the reinforcing member 16 relative to the first separator 11 and the second separator 12.

[0063] [Other Implementation Methods]

[0064] In the above embodiments, although it is described that the humidifying film 13 and the protective film 14 have mutually parallel portions P, the humidifying film 13 and the protective film 14 may also be configured not to have mutually parallel portions P.

[0065] In the above embodiments, it is described that at least the corner 13R of the outer edge portion 13E of the humidifying film 13 is formed into an arc shape, but the corner 13R of the outer edge portion 13E of the humidifying film 13 may also be configured not to be formed into an arc shape. In this case, only the corner 14R of the outer edge portion 14E of the protective film 14 may be formed into an arc shape.

[0066] In the above embodiments, examples of humidifying film 13 and protective film 14 being configured as quadrilaterals have been given, but humidifying film 13 and protective film 14 can also be triangular or polygonal with five or more sides. They can also be circular.

[0067] In the above embodiments, in the central region inside the area where the seal 15 is provided, the surface 11A of the dividing wall that divides the dry gas flow paths 11C and 11C adjacent to the first separator 11, and the surface 12A of the dividing wall that divides the water-containing gas flow paths 12C and 12C adjacent to the second separator 12, abut against the protective film 14 and the reinforcing member 16 (see reference). Figure 3, Figures 6-10 However, at least one of the surfaces 11A and 12A of the dividing wall can be separated from the protective film 14 and the reinforcing member 16, thus having a gap. Therefore, even at the location opposite to the surfaces 11A and 12A of the dividing wall, it is possible to impart moisture from the gas flowing in the water-containing gas flow path 12C to the dry air flowing in the dry gas flow path 11C.

[0068] The structures of the above-described embodiments and variations can be combined as much as possible.

[0069] The present invention can be used in a humidifier for a fuel cell that has a humidification unit that imparts moisture contained in water-containing air to dry air to generate humidified air.

[0070] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0071] 1: Humidifier (humidifier for fuel cells)

[0072] 10: Humidification Unit

[0073] 11: First Separator

[0074] 11A: Surface (one face)

[0075] 11C: Dry gas flow path

[0076] 12: Second separator

[0077] 12A: Surface (one face)

[0078] 12C: Water-containing gas flow path

[0079] 13: Humidification film

[0080] 13E: Outer edge (first outer edge)

[0081] 13R: Corner

[0082] 14: Protective film

[0083] 14E: Outer edge (second outer edge)

[0084] 15: Seals

[0085] 16: Reinforced components

[0086] 19: Close to the area

[0087] 71: Supply Port

[0088] 72: Discharge outlet

[0089] 81: Supply Port

[0090] 82: Discharge outlet

[0091] P: Parallel part.

Claims

1. A humidifier for a fuel cell, comprising a humidification unit for generating humidified air by imparting moisture contained in water-containing air to dry air, wherein, The above-mentioned humidification unit has: The first separator is plate-shaped, which forms a dry gas flow path in the central region of one face; The plate-shaped second separator forms a water-containing gas flow path in the central region of the surface opposite to the aforementioned dry gas flow path; A humidifying membrane is disposed between the aforementioned dry gas flow path and the aforementioned water-containing gas flow path, and imparts moisture contained in the gas flowing in the aforementioned water-containing gas flow path to the aforementioned dry air flowing in the aforementioned dry gas flow path to generate the aforementioned humidified air. Two protective films are provided, which are stacked on the inside and outside of the humidifying film, and strengthen the humidifying film. as well as A sealing element, which, in the state of having the aforementioned humidifying film and the aforementioned protective film stacked together, is provided along the first outer edge of the humidifying film, and seals the dry gas flow path and the water-containing gas flow path. By making the second outer edge of the aforementioned protective film shorter than the first outer edge of the aforementioned humidifying film, a close-fitting area is formed between the first outer edge and the second outer edge of the aforementioned humidifying film. The contact area is in direct contact with the seal. The aforementioned humidifying film and the aforementioned protective film have multiple parallel portions, and the width of the tightly adhering areas in the multiple parallel portions is equal. At least the corner of the first outer edge of the humidifying film is formed in an arc shape, such that the width of the contact area of ​​the corner is equal to the width of the contact area of ​​the plurality of parallel portions, thereby the width of the contact area is equal throughout the entire circumference of the humidifying film.

2. The humidifier for fuel cells according to claim 1, wherein, A reinforcing member is provided on the side opposite to the humidifying film, in a manner opposite to at least one of the aforementioned protective films. The aforementioned reinforcing component is located between the first separator and the second separator, and is held together with the humidifying membrane and the protective membrane by the aforementioned sealing element.

3. The humidifier for fuel cells according to claim 2, wherein, The aforementioned reinforcing component and the aforementioned second separator are disposed in contact with the aforementioned protective film between the aforementioned humidifying film and the aforementioned humidifying film.

4. The humidifier for a fuel cell according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The aforementioned humidifying film has the aforementioned close-fitting area on at least one side.

5. The humidifier for fuel cells according to claim 4, wherein, The aforementioned humidifying membrane has the aforementioned close-fitting area on the surface opposite to the aforementioned first separator.

6. The humidifier for a fuel cell according to claim 1, wherein, The corner of the second outer edge of the aforementioned protective film is formed in an arc shape.

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