Fuel cell hydrogen circulation structure and temperature and humidity parameter control method

By designing a combination of hydrogen circulation structure and electronic control unit, active temperature and humidity parameter control of the hydrogen circulation branch of fuel cell is achieved, solving the problem of adaptability and controllability of circulation structure during load variation, and improving the stability and reliability of the system.

CN117577886BActive Publication Date: 2026-01-27CHINA AUTOMOTIVE ENG RES INST +1
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202311583014.6
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2023-11-24
Publication Date
2026-01-27
Estimated Expiration
2043-11-24

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The hydrogen circulation structure of fuel cells experiences large changes in heat and water volume during variable load processes, resulting in poor adaptability and controllability of the circulation process. The high humidity of the tail gas exiting the anode makes it prone to condensation, and the accumulation of condensate affects the fluidity and shortens the life of the pump components. The temperature and humidity parameters are slow to adjust and cannot be actively intervened, leading to an imbalance in the hydrothermal management of the fuel cell stack.

Method used

A hydrogen circulation structure was designed, including a humidification and dehumidification device and an electronic control unit. The temperature and humidity parameters are monitored in real time by sensors, and the hydrogen humidity is adjusted by heaters and coolers. The power of water pumps and heaters is optimized by combining PI or PID control algorithms to achieve active humidification and dehumidification control of the hydrogen circulation branch.

Benefits of technology

It improves the adaptability of the hydrogen circulation system to different operating conditions, avoids pipeline resistance and pump component damage caused by condensate accumulation, enhances the system's anti-interference ability, and improves the stability and reliability of the fuel cell under variable load conditions.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present application relates to hydrogen fuel cell technology field, specifically to a kind of fuel cell hydrogen circulation structure and temperature and humidity parameter control method.The battery stack unit, hydrogen circulation management unit and electric control unit are included;Battery stack unit includes anode out stack mouth, anode into stack mouth and voltage acquisition line, hydrogen circulation management unit includes anode out stack main pipeline, anode into stack main pipeline, gas source branch, hydrogen circulation branch;Anode out stack main pipeline is connected with anode out stack mouth and hydrogen circulation branch respectively;Anode into stack main pipeline is connected with anode into stack mouth, hydrogen circulation branch and gas source branch, and is equipped with first relative humidity sensor;Hydrogen circulation branch is provided with circulating hydrogen humidification and dehumidification device, gas-liquid separation liquid discharger, circulating pump;Circulating hydrogen humidification and dehumidification device includes heater, cooler, heat exchanger and third temperature sensor.The technical scheme can carry out the moisture humidification and dehumidification process management of hydrogen circulation branch, to ensure the reliability of fuel cell.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of hydrogen fuel cell technology, specifically to a fuel cell hydrogen circulation structure and a method for controlling temperature and humidity parameters. Background Technology

[0002] A fuel cell is a device that directly converts chemical energy into electrical energy through an electrochemical reaction. The proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is currently the most widely developed type of fuel cell, offering numerous advantages such as high energy conversion efficiency, low operating temperature, low noise, and zero pollution. This type of fuel cell can be applied in various scenarios, including vehicles, aerospace, and stationary power plants.

[0003] The working process of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is as follows: Hydrogen is introduced into the anode of the fuel cell stack, and air or oxygen is introduced into the cathode. Under the action of the catalyst at the anode, hydrogen generates protons and electrons. The protons, in a hydrated state, pass through the proton exchange membrane to reach the cathode, while the electrons reach the cathode through the external circuit. Oxygen, under the action of the catalyst at the cathode, combines with the protons and electrons to form water and release heat. When electrons flow from the anode to the cathode through the external circuit, an electric current is generated, which can power the load to perform work.

[0004] During operation, a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) system uses excess pure hydrogen gas at the anode. After the electrode reaction, unreacted hydrogen remains. Direct release of this unreacted hydrogen into the atmosphere would cause environmental pollution, waste energy, and pose significant safety hazards. The hydrogen supply and management system for a PEMFC is primarily used to supply hydrogen to the anode of the fuel cell stack and recycle unreacted hydrogen back to the anode, improving hydrogen utilization and stack efficiency. Furthermore, since the electrochemical reactions within the stack generate moisture and heat, the hydrogen circulation process redistributes these elements to some extent. Therefore, the hydrogen circulation process plays a crucial role in the overall system's fuel utilization, durability, and internal water balance, making it a key technology for fuel cells that directly impacts performance and reliability.

[0005] Currently, the main problems with the hydrogen cycle structure of fuel cells are as follows:

[0006] 1. Fuel cells operate with a relatively high frequency of load changes. During the load change process, the heat and water production of the fuel cell stack changes, which in turn affects the heat and water volume of the hydrogen circulation process. Therefore, the hydrogen circulation structure is required to have strong adaptability and controllability to the load change process of the fuel cell.

[0007] 2. The exhaust gas from the anode of the fuel cell stack carries a lot of moisture, resulting in a high relative humidity. During the circulation process, the moisture is prone to condensation. The accumulation of condensate causes a significant drop in pipeline resistance, affecting the flow of the circulating fluid. Furthermore, the condensate entering the circulation pump accelerates the lifespan degradation of the pump's internal components. In addition, improper management can cause the condensate to circulate into the stack, leading to anode flooding.

[0008] 3. The various operating and control parameters of the anode cycle process are coupled together. The temperature and humidity parameters of the cycle loop are not actively controlled and are often in a passive state of change. When abnormal phenomena occur in the fuel cell, it is impossible to actively intervene.

[0009] 4. The relative humidity and dew point temperature entering the hydrogen circulation branch of the battery stack have a large lag. Other disturbances in the dynamic process can easily cause large fluctuations in relative humidity and dew point temperature, which in turn leads to an imbalance in the hydrothermal management of the battery stack. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The purpose of this invention is to propose a method for controlling the hydrogen circulation structure and temperature and humidity parameters of a fuel cell. This technical solution can manage the humidification and dehumidification process of the hydrogen circulation branch according to the requirements, thereby ensuring the reliability of the fuel cell.

[0011] To achieve the above objectives, in a first aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a fuel cell hydrogen circulation structure, including a fuel cell stack unit, a hydrogen circulation management unit, and an electronic control unit;

[0012] The battery stack unit includes the battery stack, anode outlet, anode inlet, and voltage acquisition line;

[0013] The hydrogen circulation management unit includes an anode discharge main pipeline, an anode inlet main pipeline, a gas source branch pipeline, and a hydrogen circulation branch pipeline. One end of the anode discharge main pipeline is connected to the anode discharge port, and the other end is connected to the hydrogen circulation branch pipeline. A second temperature sensor is installed on the anode discharge main pipeline. One end of the anode inlet main pipeline is connected to the anode inlet port, and the other end is connected to the junction of the hydrogen circulation branch pipeline and the gas source branch pipeline. A first relative humidity sensor and a first temperature sensor are installed on the anode inlet main pipeline. A circulating hydrogen humidification device, a gas-liquid separator drainer, and a circulation pump are installed on the hydrogen circulation branch pipeline. The circulating hydrogen humidification device includes a heater, a cooler, a heat exchanger, and a third temperature sensor, with the third temperature sensor located on the pipeline connecting the cooler and the heat exchanger.

[0014] The electronic control unit includes a controller and a data acquisition unit, which is connected to the battery stack via a voltage acquisition line.

[0015] As a feasible preferred option, the hydrogen humidification device also includes a storage tank, a water pump, a regulating valve, and connecting pipelines, including a cooling medium inlet pipeline and a cooling medium return pipeline.

[0016] As a feasible preferred option, the hydrogen circulation management unit also includes an exhaust branch, which is connected to the junction of the anode outlet main pipeline and the hydrogen circulation branch. An exhaust device is installed on the exhaust branch, which is intermittently activated to perform exhaust actions according to the battery stack's exhaust and drainage needs.

[0017] As a feasible preferred option, a first pressure sensor is installed on the anode feed main pipe; a second pressure sensor is installed on the anode discharge main pipe; and a gas source hydrogen pressure stabilizing device is installed on the gas source branch.

[0018] As a feasible preferred embodiment, the battery stack unit also includes a cathode inlet pipe, a cathode outlet, a cathode outlet, a cathode outlet pipe, a coolant inlet pipe, a coolant outlet, a coolant outlet, a coolant outlet, and a load line.

[0019] As a feasible preferred option, the electronic control unit also includes a load and a control component, wherein the load executes controller commands to consume the electrical energy generated by the battery stack; and the control component serves as an auxiliary functional component of the electronic control unit.

[0020] As a feasible and preferred solution, it includes humidification process control methods and dehumidification process control methods;

[0021] The humidification process control method includes: cascading control of the first relative humidity value and the third temperature detection value; cooling the heat transfer medium through a cooler; and then allowing the cooled heat transfer medium to enter the cold side of the heat exchanger to cool the circulating wet hydrogen on the hot side, thereby reducing the first dew point temperature value.

[0022] The dehumidification process control method includes: cascading control of the first dew point temperature value and the third temperature detection value; heating the heat transfer medium through a heater; and the heated medium entering the hot side of the heat exchanger to heat the circulating wet hydrogen on the cold side, thereby increasing the temperature of the wet hydrogen and reducing the first relative humidity value.

[0023] As a feasible preferred solution, the humidification process control method further includes: real-time feedback of the relative humidity of hydrogen entering the battery stack to the relative humidity controller, real-time feedback of the inlet temperature of the heat transfer medium of the heat exchanger to the temperature controller, and real-time feedback of the heater heating power and the water pump speed to the judgment controller; the output of the relative humidity controller and the output of the temperature controller are used as the input of the first integrated controller, and the output of the first integrated controller and the output of the judgment controller are used as the input of the heater power controller and the water pump speed controller, and control commands are issued to the heater and the water pump.

[0024] The dehumidification process control method also includes: real-time feedback of the relative humidity and temperature of hydrogen entering the battery stack to the dew point temperature controller; real-time feedback of the inlet temperature of the heat transfer medium of the heat exchanger to the temperature controller; and real-time feedback of the heater heating power and the water pump speed to the judgment controller. The output of the dew point temperature controller and the output of the temperature controller serve as the input of the second integrated controller, and the output of the second integrated controller and the output of the judgment controller serve as the input of the heater power controller and the water pump speed controller, issuing control commands to the heater and the water pump.

[0025] As a feasible preferred solution, the humidification process control method further includes: determining the hydrogen circulation pump speed and the first relative humidity setpoint based on the battery stack operating current and voltage; deriving the temperature calculation value based on the battery stack current, the first temperature detection value, the first relative humidity setpoint, and the water pump speed feedback value; setting a minimum threshold for the difference between the first relative humidity setpoint and the first relative humidity detection value, and a minimum threshold for the difference between the third temperature calculation value and the third detection value in the controller; comparing the difference between the first relative humidity setpoint and the first relative humidity detection value, and the difference between the target temperature value and the third temperature calculation value, with the corresponding minimum thresholds to obtain the water pump speed adjustment value and the heater heating power adjustment value, respectively.

[0026] The dehumidification process control method further includes: determining the hydrogen circulation pump speed and the first dew point temperature setpoint based on the battery stack operating current and voltage values; calculating the first dew point temperature based on the first relative humidity detection value and the first temperature detection value; calculating the third temperature based on the battery stack operating current, the first dew point temperature setpoint, and the water pump speed feedback value; setting a minimum threshold for the difference between the first dew point temperature setpoint and the first dew point temperature calculated value, and a minimum threshold for the difference between the third temperature calculated value and the third temperature detection value in the controller; comparing the difference between the first dew point temperature setpoint and the first dew point temperature calculated value, and the difference between the target temperature value and the third temperature calculated value, with the corresponding minimum thresholds to obtain the water pump speed adjustment value and the regulating valve duty cycle adjustment value, respectively.

[0027] As a feasible preferred solution, the humidification process control method further includes: a step to determine whether the water pump speed is within the effective adjustment range; if it is within the effective adjustment range, the adjustment is initiated; if it is not within the effective range, a water pump fault determination step is performed; if the water pump is not faulty, a step to determine whether the heater heating power is within the effective adjustment range is performed; if it is within the effective range, the heater adjustment is initiated.

[0028] The dehumidification process control method also includes: a step to determine whether the water pump speed is within the effective adjustment range; if it is within the effective range, the adjustment is initiated; if it is not within the effective range, a water pump fault determination step is performed; if the water pump is not faulty, a step to determine whether the regulating valve duty cycle is within the effective adjustment range is performed; if it is within the effective adjustment range, the adjustment command is initiated.

[0029] The beneficial effects of this plan are:

[0030] During the operation of the fuel cell system, an electrochemical reaction takes place inside the fuel cell stack. The gas remaining from the anode reaction enters the anode outlet pipeline from the anode outlet and then enters the hydrogen circulation branch.

[0031] This design incorporates a humidification / dehumidification device in the hydrogen circulation branch. During humidification, the circulating wet hydrogen is indirectly heated, fully utilizing the moisture content of the outgoing gas and increasing the moisture content of the incoming hydrogen to some extent. During dehumidification, the circulating wet hydrogen is indirectly cooled, reducing the moisture content of the incoming hydrogen. This invention broadens the humidity adjustment range of the hydrogen circulation branch, improves operational adaptability, and avoids the problems of high pipeline resistance and poor gas flow caused by liquid water accumulation during hydrogen circulation, as well as preventing liquid water from entering the hydrogen circulation pump and damaging the pump components.

[0032] The fuel cell system involved in this solution employs a cascade control method for the relative humidity and heat transfer medium temperature entering the stack, along with the power regulation mechanisms of the water pump and heater, during the humidification process. Similarly, during the dehumidification process, a cascade control method is used for the dew point temperature entering the stack and the heat transfer medium temperature, along with the regulation mechanisms of the water pump and regulating valve. This solves the problem of lag in existing relative humidity detection processes, improves the response rate of temperature and humidity parameter regulation in the hydrogen circulation system, enhances the system's anti-interference capability, and improves the stability of the fuel cell system under variable load conditions and complex operating environments. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the hydrogen circulation structure of a fuel cell system;

[0034] Figure 2 A flowchart with control points for relative humidity control during the hydrogen circulation humidification process;

[0035] Figure 3 A logic flowchart for the relative humidity control method in the hydrogen circulation humidification process;

[0036] Figure 4 A flowchart with control points for dew point temperature control during hydrogen circulation dehumidification process;

[0037] Figure 5 A logic flowchart for the dew point temperature control method in the hydrogen circulation dehumidification process;

[0038] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0039] To make the technical solution and advantages of this application clearer, the technical solution of the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only some embodiments of the present invention, and are only used to explain this application, not to limit it. It should be noted that the technical features or combinations of technical features described in the following embodiments should not be considered isolated; they can be combined with each other to achieve better technical effects. The same reference numerals appearing in the accompanying drawings of the following embodiments represent the same features or components, and can be applied to different embodiments.

[0040] Furthermore, unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in this invention description shall have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains.

[0041] Furthermore, it should be noted that in the description of this invention, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are used only for distinguishing descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0042] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0043] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: Battery stack unit 100, Battery stack 101, Cathode inlet pipe 110, Cathode outlet 111, Cathode outlet 112, Cathode outlet pipe 113, Coolant inlet pipe 120, Coolant outlet 121, Coolant outlet 122, Coolant outlet pipe 123, Anode inlet 130, Anode outlet 131, Load line 140, Voltage acquisition line 150, Hydrogen circulation management unit 200, Anode outlet main pipe 210, Hydrogen circulation branch pipe 220, Circulating hydrogen humidification / dehumidification device 221, Heat exchanger 2211, Storage tank 2212, Water pump 2213, Heater 2214, Cooler 2215, Third temperature sensor 2216, Cooling medium inlet pipe 2217, Regulating valve 2218, Cooling medium return pipe 2219, Gas-liquid separator drainer 222, Circulating pump 223, Exhaust branch 230, Exhaust device 231, Gas source branch 240, Gas source hydrogen pressure stabilizing device 241, Anode feed main pipeline 250, First relative humidity sensor 251, First temperature sensor 252, First pressure sensor 253, Electrical control unit 300, Data acquisition unit 310, Controller 320, Load 330, Control component 340, Electronic equipment 500, Processor 501, Communication interface 502, Memory 503, Bus 504; Relative humidity controller C11, Temperature controller C12, Heater power controller C14, Water pump speed controller C15, Judgment controller C16, First integrated controller C20, Dew point temperature controller C30, Second integrated controller C40.

[0044] Reference Figure 1 A fuel cell hydrogen circulation structure includes: a fuel cell stack unit 100, a hydrogen circulation management unit 200, and an electronic control unit 300.

[0045] The battery stack unit 100 includes a battery stack 101, a cathode inlet pipe 110, a cathode outlet 111, a cathode outlet 112, a cathode outlet pipe 113, a coolant inlet pipe 120, a coolant outlet 121, a coolant outlet 122, a coolant outlet pipe 123, an anode inlet 130, an anode outlet 131, a load line 140, and a voltage acquisition line 150.

[0046] The hydrogen circulation management unit 200 includes an anode discharge main pipeline 210, an anode inlet main pipeline 250, a gas source branch 240, a hydrogen circulation branch 220, and an exhaust branch 230. One end of the anode discharge main pipeline 210 is connected to the anode discharge port 131, and the other end is connected to the junction of the hydrogen circulation branch 220 and the exhaust branch 230. One end of the anode inlet main pipeline 250 is connected to the anode inlet port 130, and the other end is connected to the junction of the hydrogen circulation branch 220 and the gas source branch 240. A first relative humidity sensor 251, a first temperature sensor 252, and a first pressure sensor 253 are installed on the anode inlet main pipeline 250. A second pressure sensor 211 and a second temperature sensor 212 are installed on the anode discharge main pipeline 210. The hydrogen circulation branch... The 220 is sequentially equipped with a circulating hydrogen humidification device 221, a gas-liquid separator drainer 222, and a circulating pump 223; wherein the circulating hydrogen humidification device 221 includes a heat exchanger 2211, a liquid storage tank 2212, a water pump 2213, a heater 2214, a cooler 2215, a third temperature sensor 2216, a cooling medium inlet pipe 2217, a regulating valve 2218, and a cooling medium return pipe 2219, and the third temperature sensor 2216 is located on the pipe connecting the cooler 2215 and the heat exchanger 2211; an exhaust device 231 is provided on the exhaust branch 230, and the exhaust device 231 is intermittently activated to perform exhaust action according to the exhaust and drainage requirements of the battery stack 101; a gas source branch 240 is equipped with a gas source hydrogen pressure stabilizing device 241.

[0047] The first relative humidity sensor 251 is used to detect the relative humidity of the anode feed gas as the first relative humidity detection value; the first temperature sensor 252 is used to detect the temperature of the anode feed gas as the first temperature detection value; and the first pressure sensor 253 is used to detect the pressure of the anode feed gas as the first pressure detection value. The second pressure sensor 211 is used to detect the pressure of the anode discharge gas as the second pressure detection value; and the second temperature sensor 212 is used to detect the temperature of the anode discharge gas as the second temperature detection value. The third temperature sensor 2216 is used to detect the temperature of the heat transfer medium from the cooler 2215 to the heat exchanger 2211 as the third temperature detection value Ts3.

[0048] The first dew point temperature value is obtained from the first temperature detection value and the first relative humidity detection value. The relationship between the dew point temperature value and the temperature value and the relative humidity value is as follows: .

[0049] The electronic control unit 300 includes a data acquisition unit 310, a controller 320, a load 330, and a control component 340.

[0050] Load line 140 connects battery stack 101 to load 330, and is used to transmit the electrical energy generated by battery stack 101 to load 330; voltage acquisition line 150 connects data acquisition unit 310 to battery stack 101, and is used to transmit battery stack voltage signal; during system operation, data acquisition unit 310 is used to acquire, convert and transmit battery stack 101 voltage signal in real time; controller 320 performs calculations and sends instructions to the system according to a certain control method; load 330 executes controller instructions to consume electrical energy generated by battery stack; control component 340 serves as an auxiliary functional component of electronic control unit 300.

[0051] Fuel cell system operation process: Cathode reaction gas from cathode inlet pipe 110 enters fuel cell stack 101 through cathode inlet port 111, anode reaction gas from anode inlet pipe 210 enters fuel cell stack 101 through anode inlet port 130, and fuel cell coolant from coolant inlet pipe 120 enters fuel cell stack 101 through coolant inlet port 121. Inside fuel cell stack 101, anode and cathode reaction gases undergo electrochemical reactions, generating electrical energy, heat energy, and water. Electrical energy is consumed by load 330, and heat energy is carried out by fuel cell coolant from coolant outlet port 130. Residual gas from cathode reaction is discharged from cathode outlet port 112 and enters cathode outlet pipe 113, and residual gas from anode reaction is discharged from anode outlet port 131 and enters anode outlet pipe 210.

[0052] The residual gas from the anode reaction of the battery stack from the anode outlet pipe 210 is divided into two paths: one path enters the hydrogen circulation branch 220, and the other path enters the exhaust branch 230. The gas entering the exhaust branch is intermittently discharged through the exhaust device 231 when the system issues an exhaust command. The gas entering the hydrogen circulation branch first passes through the heat exchanger 2211 for heating or cooling, and then enters the gas-liquid separator drainer 222 to separate the gas from the condensate. After the liquid water is discharged, it enters the hydrogen circulation pump 223 to be transported and merged with the hydrogen from the gas source branch 240 into the anode inlet pipe 250. The hydrogen pressure stabilizing device controls the hydrogen supply by interlocking with the first pressure detection value.

[0053] The heat transfer medium from the storage tank 2212 enters the water pump 2213 and gains a certain kinetic and potential energy. It is then pumped by the water pump 2213 and flows through the heater 2214 and cooler 2215 to be heated or cooled before entering the heat exchanger 2211 to exchange heat with the wet hydrogen flowing on the other side. After that, it returns to the storage tank 2212. During this process, the heater 2214 and cooler 2215 are selectively activated according to the humidification or dehumidification requirements. When the system is in the humidification process, the heater 2214 is in the power-activated state, and the cooler 2215 serves as a gas flow channel. When the system is in the dehumidification process, there is a cooling medium flowing on the cold side of the cooler 2215, and heat exchange exists inside the cooler 2215. The heater 2214 is in the power-off state and serves as a medium flow channel.

[0054] The heat source for the heated wet hydrogen gas flowing through heat exchanger 2211 is provided by the heat transfer medium heated by heater 2214; the heat sink for the cooled wet hydrogen gas flowing through heat exchanger 2211 is provided by the heat transfer medium cooled by cooler 2215.

[0055] To meet the needs of different types of battery stacks and different operating conditions, the hydrogen circulation hydrothermal management process is divided into humidification and dehumidification processes for control.

[0056] The humidification process refers to limiting the amount of liquid water condensed during the hydrogen circulation process when the fuel cell stack of the system has a high requirement for the humidity of the hydrogen entering the stack. Since the wet hydrogen exiting the stack is generally in a saturated state before being heated, if appropriate hydrothermal management is not carried out during the flow process, the moisture in the gas can easily condense into liquid water and be discharged or enter the battery stack due to the flow resistance and external heat exchange, resulting in a decrease in the gaseous water content.

[0057] The dehumidification process refers to limiting the gaseous water content in the hydrogen during the hydrogen circulation process when the fuel cell stack has a low requirement for hydrogen humidity. Since the wet hydrogen exiting the stack is generally saturated before heating, cooling it will cause the water in the wet hydrogen to condense into liquid water, reducing the gaseous water content and thus reducing the moisture content of the hydrogen entering the stack.

[0058] This embodiment provides a method for controlling temperature and humidity parameters during the humidification process of a hydrogen circulation branch, specifically including:

[0059] Reference Figure 2The relative humidity Hs1 of hydrogen entering the battery stack 101 is fed back to the relative humidity controller C11 in real time, the inlet temperature Ts3 of the heat transfer medium of the heat exchanger is fed back to the temperature controller C12 in real time, and the heating power of the heater 2214 and the speed of the water pump 2213 are fed back to the judgment controller C16 in real time. The output of the relative humidity controller C11 and the output of the temperature controller C12 serve as the input of the first integrated controller C20. The output of the first integrated controller C20 and the output of the judgment controller serve as the input of the heater power controller C14 and the water pump speed controller C15, and control commands are issued to the heater 2214 and the water pump 2213.

[0060] Reference Figure 3 After the system starts, it collects the operating current and voltage values ​​of the battery stack, and collects the operating data of the hydrogen circulation branch and feeds it back to the controller. The operating data includes the first temperature detection value, the first pressure detection value, the second temperature detection value, the second pressure detection value, the third temperature detection value, and the first relative humidity detection value. Based on the operating current and voltage of the battery stack 101, the system determines the hydrogen circulation pump speed and the first relative humidity setpoint RH1*. The system also determines the relationship between the operating current Is of the battery stack 101, the first temperature detection value T1, the first relative humidity setpoint RH1*, the water pump speed feedback value Msl, and the temperature. The calculated temperature value T3 is obtained. The controller is set with a minimum threshold for the difference between the first relative humidity setpoint RH1* and the first relative humidity detected value RH1, and a minimum threshold for the difference between the third calculated temperature value T3 and the third detected value Ts3;

[0061] When the difference between the first relative humidity setpoint RH1* and the first relative humidity detected value RH1 is greater than the minimum threshold, the difference between the first relative humidity setpoint RH1* and the first relative humidity detected value RH1 is compared with the minimum threshold, and the first water pump speed adjustment value and the first heater heating power adjustment value are obtained respectively through PI or PID control algorithm; based on the difference between the target temperature value and the third temperature calculated value and the minimum threshold, the second water pump speed adjustment value and the second heater heating power adjustment value are obtained respectively through PI or PID control algorithm, and the water pump 2213 speed adjustment value and the heater 2214 power adjustment value are summed respectively.

[0062] Determine if the speed of water pump 2213 is within the effective adjustment range. If the speed determination result of water pump 2213 is yes, initiate an adjustment command for the speed of water pump 2213 based on the summation calculation result of the adjustment value. Determine if the difference between the first relative humidity setpoint RH1* and the first relative humidity detected value RH1 is less than or equal to the minimum threshold, and if the difference between the third temperature calculated value T3 and the third temperature detected value Ts3 is less than or equal to the minimum threshold. If the result is no, the program returns to the start step; if the result is yes, the program ends. If the speed judgment result of water pump 2213 is negative, then determine whether water pump 2213 has malfunctioned; if the result is positive, the program ends; if the result is negative, continue to determine whether the heating power of heater 2214 is within the effective adjustment range; if the heating power judgment result of heater 2214 is negative, the program ends; if the heating power judgment result of heater 2214 is positive, start the adjustment command for the heating power of heater 2214 according to the summation calculation result of the adjustment value, and determine whether the difference between the relative humidity setpoint RH1* and the detected value RH1 is less than or equal to the minimum threshold, and whether the difference between the third temperature calculated value T3 and the third temperature detected value Ts3 is less than or equal to the minimum threshold; if the difference judgment result is negative, the program returns to the start step; if the difference judgment result is positive, the program ends.

[0063] This embodiment provides a method for controlling temperature and humidity parameters during the dehumidification process of a hydrogen circulation branch, specifically including:

[0064] Reference Figure 4 The relative humidity Hs1 and temperature Ts1 of hydrogen entering the battery stack 101 are fed back in real time to the dew point temperature controller C30. The inlet temperature Ts3 of the heat transfer medium of the heat exchanger is fed back in real time to the temperature controller C12. The heating power of the heater 2214 and the speed of the water pump 2213 are fed back in real time to the judgment controller C16. The output of the dew point temperature controller C30 and the output of the temperature controller C12 are used as the input of the second integrated controller C40. The output of the second integrated controller C40 and the output of the judgment controller C16 are used as the input of the heater power controller C14 and the water pump speed controller C15, and control commands are issued to the heater 2214 and the water pump 2213.

[0065] Reference Figure 5 The system collects the operating current and voltage values ​​of the battery stack, and also collects the operating data of the hydrogen circulation branch and feeds it back to the controller. The operating data includes the first temperature detection value, the first pressure detection value, the second temperature detection value, the second pressure detection value, the third temperature detection value, and the first relative humidity detection value. Based on the operating current and voltage values ​​of the battery stack 101, the system determines the hydrogen circulation pump speed RH1 and the first dew point temperature setpoint Td1*. The first relative humidity value RH1 and the first temperature value T1 are detected to obtain the first dew point temperature calculation value Td1; the relationship between the battery stack 101 operating current, the first dew point temperature setpoint Td1*, the water pump 2213 speed feedback value and temperature is also considered. The third temperature calculation value T3 is obtained. The controller is set with a minimum threshold for the difference between the first dew point temperature setpoint Td1* and the first dew point temperature calculated value Td1, and a minimum threshold for the difference between the third temperature calculated value T3 and the third temperature detected value Ts3;

[0066] When the difference between the first dew point temperature setpoint Td1* and the first dew point temperature calculated value Td1 is greater than the minimum threshold, the third water pump speed adjustment value and the third regulating valve duty cycle adjustment value are obtained respectively through PI or PID control algorithm based on the comparison between the difference between the first dew point temperature setpoint Td1* and the first temperature calculated value Td1 and the minimum threshold; the fourth water pump speed adjustment value and the fourth regulating valve duty cycle adjustment value are obtained respectively through PI or PID control algorithm based on the comparison between the difference between the target temperature value and the third temperature calculated value Td3 and the minimum threshold; the water pump speed adjustment value and the regulating valve duty cycle adjustment value are summed respectively.

[0067] Determine if the speed of water pump 2213 is within the effective adjustment range; if yes, issue an adjustment command to the speed of water pump 2213 based on the summation result of the adjustment value, and determine if the difference between the first dew point temperature setpoint Td1* and the first temperature calculated value Td1 is less than or equal to the minimum threshold, and if the difference between the third temperature calculated value T3 and the third temperature detected value Ts3 is less than or equal to the minimum threshold; if no, the program returns to the beginning step; if yes, the program ends; if the speed determination result of water pump 2213 is no, then determine if water pump 2213 has started... If a fault occurs, the program terminates; if the result is yes, the program terminates; if the result is no, the program continues to determine whether the duty cycle of the regulating valve 2218 is within the effective regulation range; if the result is no, the program terminates; if the result is yes, the program initiates a regulation command on the regulating valve 2218 based on the summation result of the regulation value, and determines whether the difference between the first dew point temperature setpoint Td1* and the calculated temperature value Td1 is less than or equal to the minimum threshold, and whether the difference between the calculated temperature value T3 and the detected temperature value Ts3 is less than or equal to the minimum threshold; if the result is no, the program returns to the start step; if the result is yes, the program terminates.

[0068] This disclosure also provides a storage medium storing a computer program. When the computer program is executed by a processor, it can implement all the steps of the fuel cell temperature and humidity parameter control method described in the above embodiments.

[0069] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the process in a fuel cell temperature and humidity parameter control method can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. The program can be stored in a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium. When executed, the program can include the processes of various embodiments of the fuel cell temperature and humidity parameter control method. Any references to memory, storage, databases, or other media used in the embodiments provided in this application can include non-volatile and / or volatile memory. Non-volatile memory may include read-only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory may include random access memory (RAM) or external cache memory. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM is available in a variety of forms, such as static RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), dual data rate SDRAM (DDRSDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM), synchronous link DRAM (SLDRAM), RAMbus direct RAM (RDRAM), direct memory bus dynamic RAM (DRDRAM), and memory bus dynamic RAM (RDRAM), etc.

[0070] This application also provides an electronic device, including a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor. When the processor executes the program, it implements the steps of the fuel cell temperature and humidity parameter control method described in the above embodiments. In this application embodiment, the processor is the control center of the computer system; it can be a physical machine processor or a virtual machine processor.

[0071] Reference Figure 6 The electronic device 500 includes at least one processor 501, at least one communication interface 502, at least one memory 503, and at least one bus 504. The bus 504 is used for communication between these components, the communication interface 502 is used for signaling or data communication with other node devices, and the memory 503 stores machine-readable instructions executable by the processor 501. When the electronic device 500 is running, the processor 501 communicates with the memory 503 via the bus 504. When the machine-readable instructions are invoked by the processor 501, they execute the steps of a fuel cell temperature and humidity parameter control method as described in the above embodiment.

[0072] The above content is merely an embodiment of the present invention. Commonly known structures and characteristics of the solutions are not described in detail here. Those skilled in the art are aware of all common technical knowledge in the field prior to the application date or priority date, are aware of all existing technologies in that field, and have the ability to apply conventional experimental methods prior to that date. Those skilled in the art can improve and implement this solution based on the guidance provided in this application and their own capabilities. Some typical known structures or methods should not be obstacles for those skilled in the art to implement this application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make several modifications and improvements without departing from the structure of the present invention. These should also be considered within the scope of protection of the present invention, and will not affect the effectiveness of the implementation of the present invention or the practicality of the patent. The scope of protection claimed in this application should be determined by the content of its claims, and the specific embodiments described in the specification can be used to interpret the content of the claims.

Claims

1. A hydrogen recirculation structure for a fuel cell, characterized in that: Includes battery stack unit, hydrogen circulation management unit and electrical control unit; The battery stack unit includes the battery stack, anode outlet, anode inlet, and voltage acquisition line; The hydrogen circulation management unit includes an anode discharge main pipeline, an anode inlet main pipeline, a gas source branch pipeline, and a hydrogen circulation branch pipeline. One end of the anode discharge main pipeline is connected to the anode discharge port, and the other end is connected to the hydrogen circulation branch pipeline. A second temperature sensor is installed on the anode discharge main pipeline. One end of the anode inlet main pipeline is connected to the anode inlet port, and the other end is connected to the junction of the hydrogen circulation branch pipeline and the gas source branch pipeline. A first relative humidity sensor and a first temperature sensor are installed on the anode inlet main pipeline. A circulating hydrogen humidification device, a gas-liquid separator drainer, and a circulation pump are installed on the hydrogen circulation branch pipeline. The circulating hydrogen humidification device includes a heater, a cooler, a heat exchanger, and a third temperature sensor, with the third temperature sensor located on the pipeline connecting the cooler and the heat exchanger. The electronic control unit includes a controller and a data acquisition unit, with the data acquisition unit connected to the battery stack via a voltage acquisition line; The hydrogen humidification and dehumidification device also includes a liquid storage tank, a water pump, a regulating valve, and connecting pipelines, including a cooling medium inlet pipeline and a cooling medium return pipeline.

2. The fuel cell hydrogen recirculation structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The hydrogen circulation management unit also includes an exhaust branch, which is connected to the junction of the anode outlet main pipeline and the hydrogen circulation branch. An exhaust device is installed on the exhaust branch, which is intermittently activated to perform exhaust actions according to the battery stack's exhaust and drainage needs.

3. The fuel cell hydrogen recirculation structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: A first pressure sensor is installed on the anode feed main pipe; a second pressure sensor is installed on the anode discharge main pipe; and a gas source hydrogen pressure stabilizing device is installed on the gas source branch.

4. The fuel cell hydrogen recirculation structure according to claim 3, characterized in that: The battery stack unit also includes cathode inlet pipe, cathode outlet, cathode outlet, cathode outlet pipe, coolant inlet pipe, coolant outlet, coolant outlet, coolant outlet pipe and load line.

5. A fuel cell hydrogen recirculation structure according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that: The electronic control unit also includes a load and a control component. The load executes controller commands to consume the electrical energy generated by the battery stack; the control component serves as an auxiliary functional component of the electronic control unit.

6. A method for controlling temperature and humidity parameters in a fuel cell, applied to a fuel cell hydrogen circulation structure as described in any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that: This includes methods for controlling the humidification process and methods for controlling the dehumidification process; The humidification process control method includes: cascading control of the first dew point temperature value and the third temperature detection value; heating the heat transfer medium through a heater; and heating the heated medium entering the hot side of the heat exchanger to heat the circulating wet hydrogen on the cold side, thereby increasing the temperature of the wet hydrogen and decreasing the first relative humidity value. The dehumidification process control method includes: cascading control of the first relative humidity value and the third temperature detection value; cooling the heat transfer medium through a cooler; and then the cooled heat transfer medium enters the cold side of the heat exchanger to cool the circulating wet hydrogen on the hot side, thereby reducing the first dew point temperature value. The humidification process control method further includes: determining the hydrogen circulation pump speed and the first relative humidity setpoint based on the battery stack operating current and voltage; deriving the third temperature calculation value based on the battery stack current, the first temperature detection value, the first relative humidity setpoint, and the water pump speed feedback value; setting a minimum threshold for the difference between the first relative humidity setpoint and the first relative humidity detection value, and a minimum threshold for the difference between the third temperature calculation value and the third detection value in the controller; comparing the difference between the first relative humidity setpoint and the first relative humidity detection value, and the difference between the target temperature value and the third temperature calculation value, with the corresponding minimum thresholds to obtain the water pump speed adjustment value and the heater heating power adjustment value, respectively. The dehumidification process control method further includes: determining the hydrogen circulation pump speed and the first dew point temperature setpoint based on the battery stack operating current and voltage values; calculating the first dew point temperature based on the first relative humidity detection value and the first temperature detection value; calculating the third temperature based on the battery stack operating current, the first dew point temperature setpoint, and the water pump speed feedback value; setting a minimum threshold for the difference between the first dew point temperature setpoint and the first dew point temperature calculated value, and a minimum threshold for the difference between the third temperature calculated value and the third temperature detection value in the controller; comparing the difference between the first dew point temperature setpoint and the first dew point temperature calculated value, and the difference between the target temperature value and the third temperature calculated value, with the corresponding minimum thresholds to obtain the water pump speed adjustment value and the regulating valve duty cycle adjustment value, respectively.

7. The method for controlling temperature and humidity parameters of a fuel cell according to claim 6, characterized in that: The humidification process control method also includes: real-time feedback of the relative humidity of hydrogen entering the battery stack to the relative humidity controller, real-time feedback of the inlet temperature of the heat transfer medium of the heat exchanger to the temperature controller, and real-time feedback of the heater heating power and the water pump speed to the judgment controller; the output of the relative humidity controller and the output of the temperature controller are used as the input of the first integrated controller, and the output of the first integrated controller and the output of the judgment controller are used as the input of the heater power controller and the water pump speed controller, and control commands are issued to the heater and the water pump. The dehumidification process control method also includes: real-time feedback of the relative humidity and temperature of hydrogen entering the battery stack to the dew point temperature controller; real-time feedback of the inlet temperature of the heat transfer medium of the heat exchanger to the temperature controller; and real-time feedback of the heater heating power and the water pump speed to the judgment controller. The output of the dew point temperature controller and the output of the temperature controller serve as the input of the second integrated controller, and the output of the second integrated controller and the output of the judgment controller serve as the input of the heater power controller and the water pump speed controller, issuing control commands to the heater and the water pump.

8. The method for controlling temperature and humidity parameters of a fuel cell according to claim 7, characterized in that: The humidification process control method also includes: a step to determine whether the water pump speed is within the effective adjustment range; if it is within the effective adjustment range, the adjustment is started; if it is not within the effective range, a water pump fault determination step is performed; if the water pump is not faulty, a step to determine whether the heater heating power is within the effective adjustment range is performed; if it is within the effective range, the heater adjustment is started. The dehumidification process control method also includes: a step to determine whether the water pump speed is within the effective adjustment range; if it is within the effective range, the adjustment is initiated; if it is not within the effective range, a water pump fault determination step is performed; if the water pump is not faulty, a step to determine whether the regulating valve duty cycle is within the effective adjustment range is performed; if it is within the effective adjustment range, the adjustment command is initiated.

Citation Information

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