Fuel cell vehicle

Abstract

The invention provides a fuel cell vehicle. This fuel cell vehicle (100) is provided with: a fuel cell (11) that supplies power to a motor; a battery (51); a fuel cell cooling water circuit (30) that circulates cooling water in the fuel cell (11); and a battery temperature control circuit (50) that cools or heats the battery by circulating battery cooling water through the battery (51), the fuel cell vehicle (100) being characterized by being provided with a heat transfer device (60) that transfers heat between the fuel cell (11) and the battery (51).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a structure of a fuel cell vehicle. Background Art

[0002] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2018-174092 discloses a power supply device that supplies exhaust heat from a fuel cell to a battery in a power device having a fuel cell and a battery, thereby heating the battery. The power supply device described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2018-174092 is provided with a heat pipe that thermally connects the interior of a fuel cell system and a battery. When the temperature of the battery is low, the power supply device transfers heat from the interior of the fuel cell system to the battery through the heat pipe. In addition, if the temperature of the battery becomes high, the transfer of heat from the interior of the fuel cell system to the battery by the heat pipe is suppressed.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-54404 discloses that, in a fuel cell vehicle including a fuel cell and a battery, water vapor contained in exhaust gas of the fuel cell is used to generate heat in an adsorbent to warm the battery. Summary of the invention

[0004] However, the fuel cell, which is required to improve the fuel consumption rate of the fuel cell vehicle, discharges the heat generated by the operation to the outside through a radiator or the like. On the other hand, when the temperature is low, the fuel cell will perform a rapid catalyst warm-up operation to increase the temperature through self-heating. Since the power generation efficiency of the rapid catalyst warm-up operation is low, there is a situation where the fuel consumption rate of the fuel cell vehicle is reduced. In addition, since the efficiency of charging and discharging of the battery mounted on the fuel cell vehicle decreases when the temperature becomes low, it is necessary to heat or keep the battery warm with a heater or the like. In this case, since power is supplied to the heater, there is a situation where the fuel consumption rate of the fuel cell vehicle is reduced.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to reduce the amount of heat discharged to the outside and to improve the fuel consumption rate of a fuel cell vehicle.

[0006] The fuel cell vehicle disclosed in the present invention comprises: a fuel cell, which supplies power to a motor for driving the vehicle; a battery, which supplies power to the motor together with the fuel cell; a fuel cell cooling water circuit, which circulates cooling water in the fuel cell; and a battery temperature control circuit, which circulates a liquid heat medium in the battery to cool or heat the battery. The fuel cell vehicle is characterized in that it comprises a heat transfer device for transferring heat between the fuel cell and the battery.

[0007] In this way, since the fuel cell vehicle of the present disclosure transfers heat between the fuel cell and the battery, the exhaust heat of the fuel cell can be used to warm the battery, and the heat of the battery can be used to warm the fuel cell. This can improve the fuel consumption rate of the fuel cell vehicle.

[0008] In the fuel cell vehicle disclosed in the present invention, the following method can also be adopted, that is, the heat transfer device comprises: a heat exchange circuit, which is connected to the fuel cell cooling water circuit; a water-to-water heat exchanger, which is configured in a manner spanning the heat exchange circuit and the battery temperature regulation circuit and exchanges heat between the cooling water and the heat medium; a switching valve, which switches between closing and connecting the fuel cell cooling water circuit and the heat exchange circuit; and a control unit, which regulates the operation of the switching valve. The normal operating temperature range of the fuel cell is higher than the normal operating temperature range of the battery. For the control unit, when the fuel cell When the temperature of the pool is within the normal operating temperature range and the temperature of the battery is within the required heating temperature range which is lower than the normal operating temperature range, or when the temperature of the fuel cell is within the rapid catalyst warm-up operating temperature range which is lower than the normal operating temperature range of the battery and the temperature of the battery is within the normal operating temperature range, the switching valve is adjusted in such a way that the fuel cell cooling water circuit is connected to the heat exchange circuit, and the cooling water is circulated in the water-to-water heat exchanger, thereby transferring heat between the fuel cell and the battery.

[0009] Thus, when the temperature of the battery is in the temperature range required for heating and the temperature of the fuel cell is in the normal operating temperature range, or when the temperature of the fuel cell is in the rapid catalyst warm-up operating temperature range and the temperature of the battery is in the normal operating temperature range, heat can be transferred between the fuel cell and the battery through the water-to-water heat exchanger. Thus, the battery can be heated by utilizing the exhaust heat of the fuel cell. In addition, the fuel cell can be heated by utilizing the heat of the battery, thereby not performing the rapid catalyst warm-up operation with low power generation efficiency of the fuel cell. Thus, the fuel consumption rate of the fuel cell vehicle can be improved.

[0010] In the fuel cell vehicle disclosed in the present invention, the following method can also be adopted, namely, the fuel cell cooling water circuit is provided with a water heating heater for heating the cooling water, and a heater core for performing heat exchange with the cooling water and heating the air supplied to the vehicle compartment, the heat exchange circuit is connected to the fuel cell cooling water circuit in a manner of bypassing the heater core, and for the control unit, when the temperature of the fuel cell is within the normal operating temperature range, the temperature of the battery is within the required heating temperature range, and the water heating heater is turned on, the fuel cell cooling water circuit is connected to the heat exchange circuit, and the cooling water is circulated in the water heating heater and the water-to-water heat exchanger, thereby utilizing the exhaust heat of the fuel cell and the heat of the water heating heater to heat the battery.

[0011] In this way, the battery is heated by utilizing the exhaust heat of the fuel cell and the heat of the water heater, so the battery can be heated in a short time, thereby improving the charging and discharging efficiency of the battery in a short time and improving the fuel consumption rate of the fuel cell vehicle.

[0012] In the fuel cell vehicle disclosed in the present invention, the following method can also be adopted, namely, the fuel cell cooling water circuit is provided with a water heating heater for heating the cooling water, and a heater core for performing heat exchange with the cooling water and heating the air supplied to the vehicle cabin, the heat exchange circuit is connected to the fuel cell cooling water circuit in a manner of bypassing the heater core, and for the control unit, when the temperature of the fuel cell is within the rapid catalyst warm-up operation temperature range, the temperature of the battery is within the normal operation temperature range, and the water heating heater is turned on, the fuel cell cooling water circuit is connected to the heat exchange circuit, and the cooling water is circulated in the water heating heater and the water-to-water heat exchanger, thereby utilizing the heat of the battery and the heat of the water heating heater to heat the fuel cell.

[0013] In this way, the fuel cell is heated by using the heat of the battery and the heat of the water heater, so the fuel cell can be heated in a short time. As a result, the fuel cell does not need to be warmed up quickly, and the fuel cell can be operated at a high power generation efficiency. As a result, the fuel consumption rate of the fuel cell vehicle can be improved.

[0014] In the fuel cell vehicle disclosed in the present invention, the following method can also be adopted, that is, the fuel cell cooling water circuit is provided with a water heating heater for heating the cooling water, and a heater core for performing heat exchange with the cooling water and heating the air supplied to the vehicle cabin, the heat exchange circuit is connected to the fuel cell cooling water circuit in a manner of bypassing the heater core, and for the control unit, when the temperature of the fuel cell is within the rapid catalyst warm-up operation temperature range, the temperature of the battery is lower than the normal operation temperature range, and the water heating heater is turned on, the switching valve is adjusted in a manner of closing the fuel cell cooling water circuit and the heat exchange circuit, and the cooling water is refluxed in the water heating heater, the heater core, and the fuel cell, thereby utilizing the heat of the water heating heater to heat the fuel cell.

[0015] Thus, even when the battery is cold during cold start of the fuel cell vehicle, the fuel cell can be heated by the water heater, thereby eliminating the need for rapid catalyst warm-up of the fuel cell during cold start and improving the fuel cell vehicle's fuel efficiency.

[0016] The present disclosure can reduce the heat discharged to the outside and improve the fuel consumption rate of a fuel cell vehicle. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Features, advantages, and technical and industrial significance of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like symbols represent like elements, and in which:

[0018] Figure 1 It is a system diagram showing the structure of a fuel cell vehicle according to an embodiment.

[0019] Figure 2 This is an explanatory diagram showing the operating temperature of the fuel cell, the operating temperature of the battery, and the transfer of heat.

[0020] Figure 3 To express in Figure 1 The flowchart of the operation of the control unit when the fuel cell vehicle is shown, when the battery is heated while the vehicle is running or when the battery is charged after stopping.

[0021] Figure 4 To express in Figure 1 The flowchart of the operation of the control unit when warming the fuel cell is performed at the time of cold start in the fuel cell vehicle shown.

[0022] Figure 5 To express Figure 4 A flowchart subsequent to the flowchart shown.

[0023] Figure 6 is a system diagram showing the following state, wherein Figure 1 In the fuel cell vehicle shown, when driving or charging the battery after stopping, the fourth port of the four-way flow regulating valve is closed and the first port, the second port and the third port are opened, so that the cooling water circulates in the fuel cell cooling water circuit and the heat exchange circuit, and the water heating heater is set to be turned on to heat the battery with the exhaust heat of the fuel cell and the heat of the water heating heater.

[0024] Figure 7 is a system diagram showing the following state, wherein Figure 1 In the fuel cell vehicle shown, when driving or charging the battery after stopping, the second port of the four-way flow regulating valve is closed and the first port, the third port and the fourth port are opened, so that the cooling water circulates in the fuel cell cooling water circuit and the heat exchange circuit, and the battery is heated by the exhaust heat of the fuel cell.

[0025] Figure 8 is a system diagram showing the following state, wherein Figure 1 In the fuel cell vehicle shown, during cold start, the fourth port of the four-way flow regulating valve is closed and the first port, the second port and the third port are opened, so that the cooling water circulates in the fuel cell cooling water circuit and the heat exchange circuit, and the fuel cell is heated by the heat of the battery and the heat of the water heating heater.

[0026] Fig. 9 is a system diagram showing the following state, wherein Figure 1 In the fuel cell vehicle shown, during cold start, the second and fourth ports of the four-way flow regulating valve are closed and the first and third ports are opened, so that cooling water circulates in the fuel cell cooling water circuit and the heat exchange circuit, and the heat of the battery is used to warm the fuel cell.

[0027] Fig.10 is a system diagram showing the following state, wherein Figure 1 In the fuel cell vehicle shown, during cold start, the fourth port and the third port of the four-way flow control valve are closed and the first port and the second port are opened, so that cooling water circulates in the fuel cell cooling water circuit and the fuel cell is warmed by the heat of the water heating heater. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Hereinafter, a fuel cell vehicle 100 according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1As shown, the fuel cell vehicle 100 includes: a motor 19, a fuel cell 11, a battery 51, a fuel cell cooling water circuit 30, a battery temperature control circuit 50, a heat exchange circuit 40, a heater core bypass circuit 45, a four-way flow control valve 20, a radiator 16, a heater core 13, a water heating heater 15, a water-to-water heat exchanger 18, a cooler 53, a control unit 70, and a vehicle control unit 80.

[0029] The motor 19 is a driving source for driving the fuel cell vehicle 100, that is, a motor for driving the vehicle. The fuel cell 11 is, for example, a power generation device that uses hydrogen as fuel and generates electricity by the reaction of hydrogen and air. The power generated by the fuel cell 11 is supplied to the motor 19 through high-voltage cables 58a and 59a. The battery 51 supplies power to the motor 19 together with the fuel cell 11. In addition, when the motor 19 functions as a generator, the battery 51 is charged by the motor 19. The battery 51 supplies power to the motor 19 through high-voltage cables 58b and 59b. A fuel cell temperature sensor 68 for detecting the temperature of the fuel cell 11 is installed on the fuel cell 11. In addition, a battery temperature sensor 64 for detecting the temperature of the battery 51 is installed on the battery 51. In addition, a voltage sensor 66 for detecting the voltage of the battery 51 is installed between the high-voltage cables 58b and 59b. Furthermore, a current sensor 65 for detecting the charge and discharge current of the battery 51 is attached to the high-voltage cable 58 b .

[0030] The vehicle control unit 80 is connected to the fuel cell 11, the motor 19, the cooling water pump 12, and the water heater 15, and adjusts the operation of the fuel cell 11, the motor 19, the cooling water pump 12, and the water heater 15. The vehicle control unit 80 is a computer that has a CPU 81 for information processing and a memory 82 for storing control programs or control data. The current and voltage data detected by the current sensor 65 and the voltage sensor 66 are input to the vehicle control unit 80. In addition, the vehicle control unit 80 is connected to the air conditioning panel 25. The air conditioning panel 25 inputs the air conditioning state information such as the operation and stop of the heating and cooling of the vehicle compartment into the vehicle control unit 80. The vehicle control unit 80 outputs the vehicle state information of the fuel cell vehicle 100 and the air conditioning state information. The vehicle state information includes information such as driving, charging, cold start, etc. of the fuel cell vehicle 100. In addition, the air conditioning state information includes information on the operation and stop of the heating and cooling of the vehicle compartment, and the state information of the water heater 15 being turned on and off.

[0031] The fuel cell cooling water circuit 30 circulates cooling water in the fuel cell 11. In the fuel cell cooling water circuit 30, a cooling water pump 12, a fuel cell 11, a four-way flow control valve 20, a heater core 13, a water heater 15, a thermostat 17, and a radiator 16 are provided in series in order from the upstream side. The fuel cell cooling water circuit 30 is a flow path that allows cooling water to flow through these various devices.

[0032] The fuel cell 11 includes a cooling water flow channel 11a for cooling water to flow therein. The ejection port of the cooling water pump 12 is connected to the inlet of the cooling water flow channel 11a of the fuel cell 11. The cooling water pump 12 circulates the cooling water in the fuel cell cooling water circuit 30 and the heat exchange circuit 40. The four-way flow control valve 20 is provided between the fuel cell 11 and the heater core 13 in the fuel cell cooling water circuit 30. The four-way flow control valve 20 includes four ports, namely, a first port 21, a second port 22, a third port 23, and a fourth port 24.

[0033] The four-way flow control valve 20 can switch the flow path of the cooling water by opening and closing the four ports respectively. The four-way flow control valve 20 is a switching valve that switches the closing and connection between the fuel cell cooling water circuit 30 and the heat exchange circuit 40. In addition, the four-way flow control valve 20 can adjust the flow rate of the cooling water flowing out from the second port 22, the third port 23, and the fourth port 24. The operation of the four-way flow control valve 20 will be described later. Figures 3 to 6 Let's explain in detail.

[0034] The heater core 13 is a heat exchanger that has a cooling water flow channel 13a inside for circulating the cooling water having a relatively high temperature that has passed through the cooling water flow channel 11a of the fuel cell 11, and heats the air that is blown into the vehicle cabin. The water heating heater 15 is a heater for heating the cooling water that passes through the heater core 13. The water heating heater 15 has a cooling water flow channel 15a inside for circulating the cooling water. The thermostat 17 is a switching valve that switches the flow channel in the following manner, that is, when the temperature of the cooling water is low, the flow of the cooling water is switched to the radiator bypass pipe 38, and when the temperature of the cooling water is high, the cooling water is made to flow to the radiator 16. The radiator 16 is a heat exchanger that cools the cooling water by the outside air. The radiator 16 has a cooling water flow channel 16a inside for circulating the cooling water.

[0035] Next, the structure of the fuel cell cooling water circuit 30 is described. The fuel cell cooling water circuit 30 is composed of a cooling water pump 12, a cooling water flow path 11a of the fuel cell 11, a fuel cell outlet pipe 31, a four-way flow control valve 20, a heater core inlet pipe 32, a cooling water flow path 13a of the heater core 13, a heater core outlet pipe 33, a water heating heater inlet pipe 34, a cooling water flow path 15a of the water heating heater 15, a water heating heater outlet pipe 35, a thermostat 17, a radiator inlet pipe 36, a cooling water flow path 16a of the radiator 16, a radiator outlet pipe 37, a cooling water pump inlet pipe 39, and a radiator bypass pipe 38.

[0036] The fuel cell outlet pipe 31 connects the outlet of the cooling water flow channel 11a of the fuel cell 11 and the first port 21 of the four-way flow control valve 20. The heater core inlet pipe 32 connects the second port 22 of the four-way flow control valve 20 and the inlet of the cooling water flow channel 13a of the heater core 13. The heater core outlet pipe 33 connects the outlet of the cooling water flow channel 13a of the heater core 13 and the water heating heater inlet pipe 34. The water heating heater inlet pipe 34 is connected to the inlet of the cooling water flow channel 15a of the water heating heater 15. The water heating heater outlet pipe 35 connects the outlet of the cooling water flow channel 15a of the water heating heater 15 and the thermostat 17. The radiator inlet pipe 36 connects the thermostat 17 and the inlet of the cooling water flow channel 16a of the radiator 16. The radiator outlet pipe 37 connects the outlet of the cooling water flow channel 16a of the radiator 16 and the cooling water pump inlet pipe 39. The cooling water pump inlet pipe 39 is connected to the water inlet of the cooling water pump 12. In addition, the radiator bypass pipe 38 bypasses the radiator 16 and connects the thermostat 17 and the cooling water pump inlet pipe 39.

[0037] A fuel cell cooling water temperature sensor 61 is provided on the fuel cell outlet pipe 31 to detect the temperature of the cooling water at the outlet of the fuel cell 11. In addition, a water heater cooling water temperature sensor 62 is provided on the water heater outlet pipe 35 to detect the temperature of the cooling water at the outlet of the water heater 15. In addition, a heater core cooling water temperature sensor 67 is provided on the heater core outlet pipe 33 to detect the temperature of the cooling water at the outlet of the heater core 13.

[0038] The heater core bypass circuit 45 is a flow passage that connects the fourth port 24 of the four-way flow control valve 20 and the water heater outlet pipe 35 of the fuel cell cooling water circuit 30 so as to bypass the heater core 13 and the water heater 15 .

[0039] Next, the heat exchange circuit 40 will be described. The heat exchange circuit 40 is connected to the fuel cell cooling water circuit 30 in a manner that bypasses the heater core 13. The heat exchange circuit 40 is a flow channel that connects the third port 23 of the four-way flow control valve 20 and the heater core outlet pipe 33. In the heat exchange circuit 40, a water-to-water heat exchanger 18 is provided that is arranged in a manner that spans the heat exchange circuit 40 and the battery temperature control circuit 50 and performs heat exchange between cooling water and battery cooling water. The water-to-water heat exchanger 18 includes a cooling water flow channel 18a for cooling water to flow and a battery cooling water flow channel 18b for battery cooling water to flow. The third port 23 of the four-way flow control valve 20 and the inlet of the cooling water flow channel 18a of the water-to-water heat exchanger 18 are connected through a heat exchanger inlet pipe 41. In addition, the outlet of the cooling water flow channel 18a of the water-to-water heat exchanger 18 and the heater core outlet pipe 33 are connected through a heat exchanger outlet pipe 42.

[0040] Next, the battery temperature control circuit 50 will be described. The battery temperature control circuit 50 circulates the liquid heat medium in the battery 51 to cool or heat the battery 51. Although the liquid heat medium is described as battery cooling water in the fuel cell vehicle 100 of the present embodiment, it may be another fluid. In the battery temperature control circuit 50, a battery cooling water pump 52, a cooler 53, a battery 51, and a water-to-water heat exchanger 18 are arranged in series in order from the upstream side. The battery temperature control circuit 50 is a flow path that allows cooling water to flow through these various devices.

[0041] The battery cooling water pump 52 circulates the battery cooling water in the battery temperature control circuit 50. The cooler 53 internally includes a battery cooling water flow channel 53a through which the battery cooling water flows, and a refrigerant flow channel 53b connected to an air conditioner (not shown) through which the refrigerant flows. The cooler 53 is a heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between the battery cooling water and the refrigerant and cools or heats the battery cooling water with the refrigerant. The battery 51 internally includes a battery cooling water flow channel 51a through which the battery cooling water flows.

[0042] The battery temperature regulation circuit 50 is composed of a battery cooling water pump 52, a battery cooling water flow channel 53a of a cooler 53, a cooler inlet pipe 54, a cooler outlet pipe 55, a battery cooling water flow channel 51a of a battery 51, a battery outlet pipe 56, a battery cooling water flow channel 18b of a water-to-water heat exchanger 18, and a heat exchanger outlet pipe 57.

[0043] The cooler inlet pipe 54 connects the ejection port of the battery cooling water pump 52 and the inlet of the battery cooling water flow channel 53a of the cooler 53. The cooler outlet pipe 55 connects the outlet of the battery cooling water flow channel 53a of the cooler 53 and the inlet of the battery cooling water flow channel 51a of the battery 51. The battery outlet pipe 56 connects the outlet of the battery cooling water flow channel 51a of the battery 51 and the inlet of the battery cooling water flow channel 18b of the water-to-water heat exchanger 18. The heat exchanger outlet pipe 57 connects the outlet of the battery cooling water flow channel 18b of the water-to-water heat exchanger 18 and the water inlet of the battery cooling water pump 52.

[0044] A battery cooling water temperature sensor 63 for detecting the temperature of the battery cooling water at the outlet of the battery 51 is provided on the battery outlet pipe 56. In addition, a battery temperature sensor 64 for detecting the temperature of the battery 51 is provided on the battery 51.

[0045] The control unit 70 is a computer having a CPU 71 for performing information processing and a memory 72 for storing a control program or control data. The four-way flow control valve 20 and the battery cooling water pump 52 are connected to the control unit 70. In addition, the fuel cell cooling water temperature sensor 61, the water heater cooling water temperature sensor 62, the heater core cooling water temperature sensor 67, the battery cooling water temperature sensor 63, the battery temperature sensor 64, and the fuel cell temperature sensor 68 are connected to the control unit 70, and the temperature data detected by each sensor is input to the control unit 70. The control unit 70 adjusts the operation of the four-way flow control valve 20 and the battery cooling water pump 52 based on the data input from each sensor.

[0046] In addition, the control unit 70 is connected to the vehicle control unit 80 to exchange data. The control unit 70 receives vehicle status information and air conditioning status information from the vehicle control unit 80. As described above, the vehicle status information includes information such as when the fuel cell vehicle 100 is running, charging, or cold starting. In addition, the air conditioning status information includes information on the operation and stop of the heating and cooling of the vehicle compartment, and the state information of the water heater 15 being turned on and off.

[0047] The heat exchange circuit 40 , the water-to-water heat exchanger 18 , the four-way flow control valve 20 , and the control unit 70 described above constitute a heat transfer device 60 for transferring heat between the fuel cell 11 and the battery 51 .

[0048] Next, in reference Figure 2 At the same time, the operating temperature of the fuel cell 11 and the operating temperature of the battery 51 are described. Figure 2In the figure, situation 1 represents the case where the water heater 15 is turned on while the fuel cell vehicle 100 is driving or has just stopped. Situation 2 represents the case where the water heater 15 is turned off while the fuel cell vehicle 100 is driving or has just stopped. Situation 3 represents the case where the water heater 15 is turned on in the cold start state of the fuel cell vehicle 100. Situation 4 represents the case where the water heater 15 is turned off in the cold start state of the fuel cell vehicle 100. Situation 5 represents the case where the temperature of the fuel cell 11 and the battery 51 are both low when the fuel cell vehicle 100 is cold started.

[0049] The normal operating temperature range in which the power generation efficiency of the fuel cell 11 increases is, Figure 2 The range from T1 to T2 is shown by the dotted lines. The normal operating temperature range in which the efficiency of charging and discharging of the storage battery 51 increases is lower than the normal temperature range of the fuel cell 11 and is between Figure 2 The range from T3 to T4 is indicated by the leftward descending hatching in FIG. Although T1 to T4 also differ depending on the type of the fuel cell 11 and the storage battery 51, for example, in the case of a solid polymer fuel cell, the normal operating temperature range is in the range of T1 (70°C) to T2 (90°C). In addition, the normal operating temperature range of the storage battery 51 is, for example, in the range of T3 (20°C) to T4 (40°C).

[0050] When the temperature of the fuel cell 11 is low, such as during a cold start, there is a case where a rapid catalyst warm-up operation is performed on the fuel cell 11 to increase the temperature of the fuel cell 11 by self-heating. The rapid catalyst warm-up operation temperature range in which the temperature of the fuel cell 11 needs to be increased by the rapid catalyst warm-up operation is a range below T5 which is lower than T3, which is the lower limit temperature of the normal operating temperature range of the battery 51. T5 may be, for example, 10°C to 15°C. In addition, when the temperature of the battery 51 is low, such as during a cold start, there is a case where the charging and discharging of the battery 51 is restricted. Therefore, when the temperature of the battery 51 is low, there is a case where the battery 51 needs to be heated. The heating required temperature range in which the battery 51 needs to be heated is a range below T6 which is lower than T3, which is the lower limit temperature of the normal operating temperature range of the battery 51. T6 may be, for example, 10°C to 15°C. In addition, during Figure 2 The horizontal hatching in the middle shows an example of the cooling water temperature at the outlet of the water heating heater 15 when the water heating heater 15 is turned on.

[0051] Next, in reference Figures 3 to 10 At the same time, the operation of the control unit 70 will be described. First, referring to Figure 3 , Figure 6 , Figure 7At the same time, a case where the battery 51 is charged when the fuel cell vehicle 100 is running or immediately after stopping and the temperature of the fuel cell 11 is high and the temperature of the battery 51 is low will be described.

[0052] The control unit 70 detects the temperature of the fuel cell 11 through the fuel cell temperature sensor 68. Figure 3 In step 101, whether the temperature of the fuel cell 11 is within the reference Figure 2 The judgment is made within the normal operating temperature range described. Figure 3 If the judgment is negative in step 101, the control unit 70 repeats the execution Figure 3 Step 101 until Figure 3 Then, if the control unit 70 determines that the Figure 3 If the judgment is yes in step 101, then enter Figure 3 In step 102, the temperature of the battery 51 is detected by the battery temperature sensor 64. Then, the control unit 70 Figure 3 In step 102, the temperature of the battery 51 is determined to be within the reference range. Figure 2 The control unit 70 is to determine whether the heating is within the required temperature range. Figure 3 If the judgment is negative in step 102, it is judged that the battery 51 does not need to be heated and the process returns to step 103. Figure 3 Step 101 is thus repeated Figure 3 Then, the control unit 70 is Figure 3 If the judgment is yes in step 102, enter Figure 3 In step 103, it is determined whether the vehicle state information input from the vehicle control unit 80 includes information that the vehicle compartment heating is turned on and the water heater 15 is turned on. Then, the control unit 70 is Figure 3 If it is determined in step 103 that the water heater 15 is turned on, the process proceeds to step Figure 3 Step 104.

[0053] The control unit 70 Figure 3 In step 104, the cooling water temperature sensor 62 detects the cooling water temperature at the outlet of the water heater 15. Then, it is determined whether the cooling water temperature at the outlet of the water heater 15 is higher than the temperature of the battery 51. The control unit 70 is Figure 3 If the judgment is yes in step 104, enter Figure 3In step 105, the first port 21, the second port 22, and the third port 23 of the four-way flow control valve 20 are opened, and the fourth port 24 is closed. As a result, the fuel cell cooling water circuit 30 is connected to the heat exchange circuit 40. At this time, the control unit 70 can adjust the ratio of the flow rate of the cooling water flowing out of the second port 22 and the flow rate of the cooling water flowing out of the third port 23 according to the temperature of the battery 51 and the temperature of the vehicle compartment.

[0054] When the ports of the four-way flow control valve 20 are switched in this manner, as in Figure 6 As indicated by the thicker solid line in FIG. 1 , the cooling water flows from the cooling water pump 12 through the cooling water flow path 11a of the fuel cell 11 to the first port 21 of the four-way flow control valve 20. Then, a part of the cooling water flows from the second port 22 to the heater core inlet pipe 32, and flows back to the cooling water pump 12 through the heater core 13, the water heater 15, the thermostat 17, and the radiator 16. That is, a part of the cooling water flows back in the fuel cell cooling water circuit 30. In addition, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As indicated by the thicker single-dot chain line in FIG. 1 , another part of the cooling water flows from the third port 23 of the four-way flow control valve 20 through the heat exchanger inlet pipe 41 into the cooling water flow path 18a of the water-to-water heat exchanger 18, and flows from the heat exchanger outlet pipe 42 into the water heating heater inlet pipe 34. Then, it merges with the part of the cooling water described above, passes through the water heating heater 15, the thermostat 17, and the radiator 16, and flows back to the cooling water pump 12. In this way, another part of the cooling water circulates in the heat exchange circuit 40.

[0055] In addition, as in Figure 6 As indicated by the thicker dotted line in FIG. 1 , the battery cooling water flows from the battery cooling water pump 52 through the battery cooling water flow path 53a of the cooler 53, the battery cooling water flow path 51a of the battery 51, and the battery cooling water flow path 18b of the water-to-water heat exchanger 18, and then flows back to the battery cooling water pump 52. In this way, the battery cooling water flows back in the battery temperature control circuit 50.

[0056] As described above, the temperature of the fuel cell 11 is in the normal operating temperature range, and the water heater 15 is turned on. Therefore, the cooling water is heated by the exhaust heat of the fuel cell 11 and the heat of the water heater 15, and the temperature becomes higher. On the other hand, the temperature of the battery 51 is in the temperature range required for heating, and is lower than the temperature of the fuel cell 11. Therefore, heat exchange is performed between the cooling water with a higher temperature and the battery cooling water with a lower temperature in the water-to-water heat exchanger 18, and as shown in FIG. Figure 3As shown in step 106 of the present invention, the battery cooling water is heated by the exhaust heat of the fuel cell 11 and the heat of the water heater 15. Then, the battery 51 is heated by the heated battery cooling water. In this case, Figure 6 As indicated by the hollow arrows in FIG. 1 , the exhaust heat of the fuel cell 11 and the heat of the water heater 15 are transferred to the battery 51 through the heat transfer device 60 .

[0057] In this way, for the control unit 70, when the temperature of the fuel cell 11 is within the normal operating temperature range, the temperature of the battery 51 is within the temperature range requiring heating, and the water heater 15 is turned on, and the temperature of the battery 51 is lower than the temperature of the cooling water at the outlet of the water heater 15, Figure 6 As shown, the four-way flow control valve 20 is opened and closed, so that Figure 2 As shown in the case 1 of FIG. 1 , the battery 51 is heated by the exhaust heat of the fuel cell 11, and the battery 51 is heated by the heat of the water heater 15. As a result, the charging and discharging efficiency of the battery 51 can be improved in a short time, and the fuel consumption rate of the fuel cell vehicle 100 can be improved. In addition, since the charging efficiency of the battery 51 is improved, the battery 51 can be charged in a short time.

[0058] On the other hand, for the control unit 70, when Figure 3 If the judgment is no in step 103 or step 104, the process will proceed to Figure 3 Step 107. In step 107, the control unit 70 Figure 7 As shown, the first port 21, the third port 23, and the fourth port 24 of the four-way flow control valve 20 are opened and the second port 22 is closed. Thus, the fuel cell cooling water circuit 30, the heater core bypass circuit 45, and the heat exchange circuit 40 are connected.

[0059] When the ports of the four-way flow control valve 20 are switched in this manner, as in Figure 7 As indicated by the thick solid line in FIG. 1 , part of the cooling water flows from the fourth port 24 from the heater core bypass circuit 45 through the thermostat 17 and the radiator 16 to the cooling water pump 12. In other words, part of the cooling water flows back to the fuel cell cooling water circuit 30 through the heater core bypass circuit 45. In this case, the cooling water does not flow through the heater core 13. In addition, as Figure 7 As indicated by the thicker single-dot chain line in FIG. 4 , another part of the cooling water flows in the heat exchange circuit 40. Figure 7 As indicated by the thicker dotted line in FIG. 5 , the battery cooling water refluxes in the battery temperature control circuit 50 .

[0060] With previous reference Figure 6 The contents of the description are similar. In the water-to-water heat exchanger 18, heat is exchanged between the cooling water with a higher temperature and the battery cooling water with a lower temperature, so that Figure 3 As shown in step 108 of the present invention, the battery cooling water is heated by the exhaust heat of the fuel cell 11. Then, the battery 51 is heated by the heated battery cooling water. In this case, Figure 7 As indicated by the hollow arrow in , the exhaust heat of the fuel cell 11 is transferred to the battery 51 through the heat transfer device 60 .

[0061] In this way, for the control unit 70, when the temperature of the fuel cell 11 is in the normal operating temperature range, the temperature of the battery 51 is in the heating required temperature range, and the water heater 15 is turned off, Figure 7 As shown, the four-way flow control valve 20 is opened and closed, so that Figure 2 As shown in case 2, the heat of the fuel cell 11 is used to warm the battery 51. This can improve the charging and discharging efficiency of the battery 51 and improve the fuel consumption rate of the fuel cell vehicle 100. In addition, since the charging efficiency of the battery 51 is increased, the internal battery 51 can be charged in a short time.

[0062] Next, in reference Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 8 , Fig. 9 At the same time, the fuel cell vehicle 100 is described in the case where the temperature of the fuel cell 11 is low during cold start and the temperature of the battery 51 is within the normal operating temperature range. Figure 3 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 The same actions as those described above will be briefly described.

[0063] The control unit 70 detects the temperature of the fuel cell 11 through the fuel cell temperature sensor 68. Figure 4 In step 201, whether the temperature of the fuel cell 11 is within the reference Figure 2 The judgment is made within the range of the rapid catalyst warm-up operation described above. Figure 4 If the judgment in step 201 is negative, the control unit 70 repeats the execution Figure 4 Step 201 until Figure 4 Then, for the control unit 70, if the judgment is yes in step 201, Figure 4 If the judgment is yes in step 201, then enter Figure 4The control unit 70 then performs step 202 to detect the temperature of the battery 51 through the battery temperature sensor 64. Figure 4 In step 202, the temperature of the battery 51 is determined to be within the reference range. Figure 2 The control unit 70 determines the normal operating temperature range described above. Figure 4 If the judgment in step 202 is yes, the process will proceed to Figure 4 Step 203. The control unit 70 Figure 4 In step 203, with reference to Figure 3 The same as described above, it is determined whether the water heater 15 is turned on. Then, for the control unit 70, when Figure 4 If the judgment in step 203 is yes, then enter Figure 4 Step 204.

[0064] The control unit 70 Figure 4 In step 204, it is determined whether the cooling water temperature at the outlet of the water heater 15 is higher than the temperature of the fuel cell 11. For the control unit 70, when Figure 4 If the judgment is yes in step 204, the process will proceed to Figure 4 Step 205 is performed to open the first port 21, the second port 22, and the third port 23 of the four-way flow control valve 20 and close the fourth port 24. As a result, the fuel cell cooling water circuit 30 is connected to the heat exchange circuit 40. At this time, the ratio of the flow rate of the cooling water flowing out of the second port 22 and the flow rate of the cooling water flowing out of the third port 23 can also be adjusted according to the temperature of the battery 51 and the temperature of the vehicle compartment.

[0065] If the ports of the four-way flow control valve 20 are switched in this way, Figure 8 As indicated by the thicker solid line and the thicker single-dot chain line in FIG. 1 , the cooling water flows through the fuel cell cooling water circuit 30 and the heat exchange circuit 40. However, since the temperature of the fuel cell 11 is in the rapid catalyst warm-up operation range and is relatively low, the thermostat 17 is switched to the radiator bypass pipe 38 side. As a result, the cooling water does not flow through the radiator 16, but flows back to the cooling water pump 12 through the radiator bypass pipe 38. In addition, the battery cooling water is as shown in FIG. Figure 8 As indicated by the thicker dotted line in FIG.

[0066] As described above, the temperature of the battery 51 is within the normal operating temperature range. Therefore, the battery cooling water is heated by the heat of the battery 51. On the other hand, the temperature of the fuel cell 11 is within the rapid catalyst warm-up operation temperature range and is lower than the temperature of the battery 51. Therefore, heat exchange is performed between the battery cooling water with a higher temperature and the cooling water with a lower temperature in the water-to-water heat exchanger 18, so that the cooling water is heated by the heat of the battery 51. Then, as Figure 4 As shown in step 206 of , the fuel cell 11 is heated by the heated cooling water. Figure 8 As indicated by the hollow arrow in , the heat of the battery 51 is transferred to the fuel cell 11 through the heat transfer device 60. In addition, since the water heating heater 15 is turned on, the cooling water is heated by the water heating heater 15, and the fuel cell 11 is heated by the heated cooling water.

[0067] In this way, for the control unit 70, when the temperature of the battery 51 is within the normal operating temperature range, the temperature of the fuel cell 11 is within the rapid catalyst warm-up temperature range, and the water heater 15 is turned on, and the temperature of the fuel cell 11 is lower than the temperature of the cooling water at the outlet of the water heater 15, Figure 8 As shown, the four-way flow control valve 20 is opened and closed, so that Figure 2 As shown in the case 3, the fuel cell 11 is heated by the heat of the battery 51, and the fuel cell 11 is heated by the heat of the water heater 15. Thus, the temperature of the fuel cell 11 can be increased without performing a rapid catalyst warm-up operation. Therefore, the fuel cell 11 can be operated in a state with a high power generation efficiency, and the fuel consumption rate of the fuel cell vehicle 100 can be improved.

[0068] On the other hand, for the control unit 70, when Figure 4 If the judgment is no in step 203 or 204, enter Figure 4 Step 207, and as Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first port 21 and the third port 23 of the four-way flow control valve 20 are opened and the second port 22 and the fourth port 24 are closed. Thus, the fuel cell cooling water circuit 30 is connected in series with the heat exchange circuit 40, so that Fig. 9 As indicated by the thicker solid line and the thicker single-dot chain line in FIG. 1 , the entire amount of cooling water flows through the cooling water flow path 18a of the water-to-water heat exchanger 18. In this case, the cooling water does not flow through the heater core 13. On the other hand, the battery cooling water is the same as that previously referred to. Figure 6 The contents described above are similar to those refluxed in the battery temperature control circuit 50 .

[0069] Therefore, with reference Figure 8 As described above, heat exchange is performed between the battery cooling water with a higher temperature and the cooling water with a lower temperature in the water-to-water heat exchanger 18, and as shown in FIG. Figure 4 As shown in step 208, the cooling water is heated by the heat of the battery 51. Then, the fuel cell 11 is heated by the heated cooling water. Fig. 9 As indicated by the hollow arrow mark in , the heat of the battery 51 is transferred to the fuel cell 11 through the heat transfer device 60 .

[0070] In this way, the control unit 70 can control the battery 51 to operate at a normal operating temperature range and the fuel cell 11 to operate at a rapid catalyst warm-up temperature range. Fig. 9 As shown, the four-way flow control valve 20 is opened and closed, so that Figure 2 As shown in case 4, the fuel cell 11 is heated by using the heat of the battery 51. As a result, there is no need to perform a rapid catalyst warm-up operation of the fuel cell 11, and the fuel cell 11 can be operated in a state with high power generation efficiency. As a result, the fuel consumption rate of the fuel cell vehicle 100 can be improved.

[0071] In addition, for the control unit 70, Figure 4 In step 207, it is also possible to Figure 3 Similarly, in step 107 , the first port 21 , the third port 23 , and the fourth port 24 are opened and the second port 22 is closed, so that the cooling water flows through the heater core bypass circuit 45 .

[0072] In addition, for the control unit 70, when Figure 4 If the judgment in step 202 is negative, it is judged that the fuel cell 11 cannot be heated by the battery 51, and the process enters Figure 5 Step 209. The control unit 70 Figure 5 In step 209, Figure 4 Step 203 of the same process determines whether the water heater 15 is turned on. Figure 5 If the judgment is yes in step 209, Figure 5 In step 210, Figure 4 Similarly, step 204 determines whether the cooling water temperature at the outlet of the water heater 15 is higher than the temperature of the fuel cell 11. Figure 5 If the judgment is yes in step 210, enter Figure 5 Step 211.

[0073] On the other hand, for the control unit 70, when Figure 5 If the judgment is no in any of step 209 or step 210, return to Figure 4 Step 201.

[0074] The control unit 70 Figure 5 In step 211, if Fig.10 As shown, the first port 21 and the second port 22 of the four-way flow control valve 20 are opened and the third port 23 and the fourth port 24 are closed. As a result, the connection between the fuel cell cooling water circuit 30 and the heat exchange circuit 40 is closed, so that Fig.10 As indicated by the thick solid line in FIG. 1 , all the cooling water circulates in the fuel cell cooling water circuit 30 . In this case, the cooling water does not flow through the heat exchange circuit 40 and the heater core bypass circuit 45 .

[0075] In this case, since the water heating heater 15 is turned on, the cooling water is heated by the heat of the water heating heater 15. Then, the fuel cell 11 is heated by the heated cooling water. Figure 2 Situation 5, Figure 5 As shown in step 212, even when the temperature of the battery 51 is not within the normal operating temperature range, the fuel cell 11 can be heated by the heat of the water heater 15. As a result, it is not necessary to perform a rapid catalyst warm-up operation of the fuel cell 11 at low temperature startup, so that the fuel cell 11 can be operated in a state with high power generation efficiency. As a result, the fuel consumption rate of the fuel cell vehicle 100 can be improved.

[0076] As described above, the fuel cell vehicle 100 can reduce the amount of heat discharged to the outside and improve fuel efficiency by transferring heat between the fuel cell 11 and the battery 51 .

Claims

1. A fuel cell vehicle comprising: A fuel cell that supplies electricity to a motor for driving the vehicle; a battery, which together with the fuel cell supplies power to the motor; a fuel cell cooling water circuit that circulates cooling water in the fuel cell; A battery temperature regulating circuit that circulates a liquid heat medium in the battery to cool or warm the battery. The fuel cell vehicle is characterized in that: A heat transfer device is provided for transferring heat between the fuel cell and the storage battery.

2. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that: The heat transfer device comprises: A heat exchange circuit connected to the fuel cell cooling water circuit; a water-to-water heat exchanger, which is arranged in a manner spanning the heat exchange circuit and the battery temperature adjustment circuit and performs heat exchange between the cooling water and the heat medium; A switching valve for switching between closing and connecting the fuel cell cooling water circuit and the heat exchange circuit; a control unit that adjusts the operation of the switching valve, The normal operating temperature range of the fuel cell is higher than the normal operating temperature range of the battery. For the control unit, when the temperature of the fuel cell is within the normal operating temperature range and the temperature of the battery is within the required heating temperature range which is lower than the normal operating temperature range, or when the temperature of the fuel cell is within the rapid catalyst warm-up operating temperature range which is lower than the normal operating temperature range of the battery and the temperature of the battery is within the normal operating temperature range, the switching valve is adjusted in such a way that the fuel cell cooling water circuit is connected to the heat exchange circuit, and the cooling water is circulated in the water-to-water heat exchanger, thereby transferring heat between the fuel cell and the battery.

3. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 2, characterized in that: The fuel cell cooling water circuit is provided with a water heater for heating the cooling water and a heater core for performing heat exchange with the cooling water and heating air to be blown into the vehicle cabin. The heat exchange circuit is connected to the fuel cell cooling water circuit in a manner that bypasses the heater core. For the control unit, when the temperature of the fuel cell is within the normal operating temperature range, the temperature of the battery is within the temperature range required for heating, and the water heating heater is turned on, the fuel cell cooling water circuit is connected to the heat exchange circuit, and the cooling water is circulated in the water heating heater and the water-to-water heat exchanger, thereby utilizing the exhaust heat of the fuel cell and the heat of the water heating heater to heat the battery.

4. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 2, characterized in that: The fuel cell cooling water circuit is provided with a water heater for heating the cooling water and a heater core for performing heat exchange with the cooling water and heating air to be blown into the vehicle cabin. The heat exchange circuit is connected to the fuel cell cooling water circuit in a manner that bypasses the heater core. For the control unit, when the temperature of the fuel cell is within the rapid catalyst warm-up operation temperature range, the temperature of the battery is within the normal operation temperature range, and the water heating heater is turned on, the fuel cell cooling water circuit is connected to the heat exchange circuit, and the cooling water is circulated in the water heating heater and the water-to-water heat exchanger, thereby utilizing the heat of the battery and the heat of the water heating heater to heat the fuel cell.

5. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 2, characterized in that: The fuel cell cooling water circuit is provided with a water heater for heating the cooling water and a heater core for performing heat exchange with the cooling water and heating air to be blown into the vehicle cabin. The heat exchange circuit is connected to the fuel cell cooling water circuit in a manner that bypasses the heater core. For the control unit, when the temperature of the fuel cell is within the rapid catalyst warm-up operation temperature range, the temperature of the battery is lower than the normal operation temperature range, and the water heating heater is turned on, the switching valve is adjusted to close the fuel cell cooling water circuit and the heat exchange circuit, and the cooling water is refluxed through the water heating heater, the heater core, and the fuel cell, thereby utilizing the heat of the water heating heater to heat the fuel cell.

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