Fuel cell chemical filter monitoring system and method

Abstract

Embodiments herein relate to a monitoring system for a chemical filter for use with a fuel cell system. In one embodiment, a fuel cell chemical filter monitoring system (108) having a processing unit (214) and a sensor module (212) is included. The sensor module (212) may include one or more sensors. The sensor module (212) may be configured to interface with an air flow passage (210) of the fuel cell system (104) upstream of the chemical filter (212) and to detect an amount of a chemical compound in the air flow passage (210). The sensor module (212) may be operably connected to the processing unit (214). The processing unit (214) may be configured to track the total exposure of the chemical filter to the chemical compound. The processing unit (214) may be configured to estimate a remaining life of the chemical filter (212) based on the tracked total exposure of the chemical filter and data regarding the total capacity of the chemical filter. Other embodiments are also included herein.

Description

[0001] This application was filed as a PCT international patent application on September 27, 2023, designating the applicant for all countries as the U.S. national company, Donaldson Company Inc., and designating the inventors for all countries as U.S. citizen Qinghui Yuan, Indian citizen Poonam Sehrawat, and U.S. citizen Gerald E. Weinecch, and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 411,364 filed on September 29, 2022 and U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 373,061 filed on September 26, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] Embodiments herein relate to monitoring systems for chemical filters used with fuel cell unit systems. Background Art

[0003] A fuel cell is a power generation device that consumes hydrogen and reacts with oxygen to produce water as a waste byproduct. A fuel cell has two electrodes, an anode and a cathode. Fuel cells can have a variety of designs, including alkaline fuel cells, polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells, phosphoric acid fuel cells, molten carbonate fuel cells, and solid oxide fuel cells. Typically, fuel cells use catalysts including those formed from platinum, nickel, cobalt, iron, manganese, and other materials.

[0004] Many fuel cell cells are susceptible to damage by certain chemicals. For example, the catalysts used in various fuel cell cells are susceptible to catalyst poisoning by certain chemicals. Therefore, it is desirable to filter out certain chemicals, such as SO 2 、H2S、NO 2 NH 3 and various volatile organic compounds (VOCs). However, most chemical filters have a limited capacity, and when that capacity is exceeded, potentially harmful chemicals can enter the fuel cell unit. Summary of the invention

[0005] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a monitoring system for a chemical filter used with a fuel cell unit system. In a first aspect, a fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system having a processing unit and a sensor module may be included. The sensor module may include one or more sensors. The sensor module may be configured to dock with an air flow channel of the fuel cell unit system upstream of the chemical filter and detect the amount of chemical compounds in the air flow channel. The sensor module may be operably connected to the processing unit. The processing unit may be configured to track the total exposure of the chemical filter to the chemical compound. The processing unit may be configured to estimate the remaining life of the chemical filter based on the total exposure of the chemical filter tracked and data on the total capacity of the chemical filter.

[0006] In a second aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or as an alternative to certain certain aspects, the chemical compound may include at least one selected from the group consisting of: an acidic substance, a basic substance, and a volatile organic compound.

[0007] In a third aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or as an alternative to certain aspects, the chemical compound may include at least one selected from the group consisting of: SO 2 , H 2 S, NO 2 NH 3 and volatile organic compounds.

[0008] In a fourth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, the sensor may include at least one selected from the group consisting of: an acid sensor, a base sensor, and a volatile organic compound (VOC) sensor.

[0009] In a fifth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, the sensor may include at least one selected from the group consisting of: 2 Sensor, H 2 S sensor, NO 2 Sensor, NH 3 Sensors and Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) sensors.

[0010] In a sixth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system receives data regarding total capacity from a remote system.

[0011] In a seventh aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system receives data regarding total capacity from the chemical filter itself.

[0012] In an eighth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative to certain aspects, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system can be configured to send data regarding at least one of the total exposure tracked and the estimated remaining filter life.

[0013] In a ninth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, the data may be sent to a vehicle control system.

[0014] In a tenth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, the data may be sent to a vehicle CANbus system.

[0015] In an eleventh aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, the data may be sent to a remote monitoring system.

[0016] In a twelfth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in alternative to certain aspects, the sensor module may further include at least one selected from the group consisting of: a temperature sensor, a relative humidity sensor, and a pressure sensor.

[0017] In a thirteenth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, the sensor module may further include a flow sensor.

[0018] In a fourteenth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, a geo-location circuit may be further included.

[0019] In a fifteenth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system can be configured to receive data about the environmental level of the chemical compound from a remote system using geolocation data from the geolocation circuit. In a sixteenth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system can be configured to receive data about the environmental level of the chemical compound from a remote system.

[0020] In a seventeenth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system can be configured to use the received data to calibrate one or more sensors. In an eighteenth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system can be configured to use the received data to adjust an estimated calculation of the remaining life of the chemical filter.

[0021] In a nineteenth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, the processing unit may be configured to receive input regarding a filter replacement event.

[0022] In a twentieth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in alternative to certain aspects, the input may be a user input.

[0023] In a twenty-first aspect, in addition to or in lieu of one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, the input may be received from other sensors or systems.

[0024] In a twenty-second aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in lieu of certain aspects, the processing unit may be configured to receive data from a vehicle data system.

[0025] In a twenty-third aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, the processing unit may be configured to receive data regarding the power output of the fuel cell unit.

[0026] In a twenty-fourth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative to certain aspects, the processing unit may be configured to use data regarding power output to adjust an estimated calculation regarding the remaining life of the chemical filter.

[0027] In a twenty-fifth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in lieu of certain aspects, the vehicle data system may include a CANbus system.

[0028] In a twenty-sixth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative to certain aspects, the sensor module may further include parallel flow paths, wherein respective sensors may be disposed within respective parallel flow paths.

[0029] In a twenty-seventh aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative to certain aspects, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system can be configured to issue an alarm when the remaining life of the chemical filter exceeds a threshold.

[0030] In a twenty-eighth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in lieu of certain aspects, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system may be configured to issue an alarm according to a graded severity scheme when the remaining life of the chemical filter exceeds one or more thresholds.

[0031] In a twenty-ninth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in lieu of certain aspects, the processing unit can be configured to estimate the remaining life of the chemical filter based on the total exposure of the chemical filter tracked and data regarding the total capacity of the chemical filter using a linear equation, a nonlinear equation, a machine learning derived algorithm, a neural network, a simulation, or a digital twin.

[0032] In a thirtieth aspect, a method of monitoring a fuel cell unit chemical filter may be included. The method may include interfacing with an air flow passage of a fuel cell unit system upstream of a chemical filter, detecting an amount of a chemical compound in the air flow passage, tracking total exposure of the chemical filter to the chemical compound, and estimating a remaining life of the chemical filter based on the tracked total exposure of the chemical filter and data regarding the total capacity of the chemical filter.

[0033] In a thirty-first aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, the method may further include sending data regarding at least one of the total exposure tracked and the estimated remaining filter life. In a thirty-second aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, the method may further include receiving data regarding the ambient level of the chemical compound from a remote system. In a thirty-third aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, the method may further include sending geolocation data to a remote system.

[0034] In a thirty-fourth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative to certain aspects, receiving data regarding ambient levels of chemical compounds from a remote system may include using the received data to adjust an estimated calculation regarding the remaining life of a chemical filter.

[0035] In a thirty-fifth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative to certain aspects, receiving data about ambient levels of chemical compounds from a remote system may include using the received data to calibrate one or more sensors.

[0036] In a thirty-sixth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, the method may further include receiving input regarding a filter replacement event.

[0037] In aspect thirty-seven, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in lieu of certain aspects, the method may further include receiving data from a vehicle data system.

[0038] In a thirty-eighth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, the method may further include receiving data regarding the power output of the fuel cell unit.

[0039] In a thirty-ninth aspect, in addition to or in lieu of one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in some alternative thereto, receiving data regarding the power output of the fuel cell unit includes using the data regarding the power output to adjust an estimated calculation regarding the remaining life of a chemical filter.

[0040] In a fortieth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in the alternative of certain aspects, the method may further include issuing an alarm when the remaining life of the chemical filter exceeds a threshold value.

[0041] In a forty-first aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or subsequent aspects, or in lieu of certain aspects, the method may further include issuing an alarm according to a tiered severity scheme when the remaining life of the chemical filter exceeds one or more thresholds.

[0042] This disclosure summarizes some of the teachings of this application and is not intended to be an exclusive or exhaustive treatment of this subject matter. Additional details can be found in the detailed description and the appended claims. Other aspects will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the following detailed description and viewing the accompanying drawings, each of which should not be construed as limiting. The scope of this article is defined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] Various aspects may be more fully understood in conjunction with the following drawings (figures), in which:

[0044] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system according to various embodiments herein.

[0045] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of components of a fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system according to various embodiments herein.

[0046] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of components of a fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system according to various embodiments herein.

[0047] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of components of a fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system according to various embodiments herein.

[0048] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a portion of a sensor module according to various embodiments herein.

[0049] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a portion of a sensor module according to various embodiments herein.

[0050] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a portion of a sensor module according to various embodiments herein.

[0051] Figure 8 is a flow chart of operations according to various embodiments herein.

[0052] Fig. 9 is a flow chart of operations according to various embodiments herein.

[0053] Fig.10 is a flow chart of operations according to various embodiments herein.

[0054] Fig.11 is a block diagram illustration of components of a processing unit according to various embodiments herein.

[0055] Although the embodiments are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, the details thereof have been shown by way of example and drawings and will be described in detail. However, it should be understood that the scope of this document is not limited to the specific aspects described. On the contrary, it is intended to cover modifications, equivalents and substitutes that fall within the spirit and scope of this document. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] Many fuel cell cells are susceptible to damage by certain chemicals. For example, the catalysts used in various fuel cell cells are susceptible to catalyst poisoning by certain chemicals. Therefore, it is desirable to filter out certain chemicals, such as SO 2 、H2S、NO 2 NH 3 and various volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

[0057] Various chemical filters have been developed for use with fuel cell cells to remove chemicals such as SO 2 、H2S、NO 2 NH 3 and various volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Typically, the mode of action is such that they have a fixed total capacity to remove such chemical compounds. Therefore, once their capacity is exceeded, they are no longer able to remove such chemical compounds, potentially allowing them to continue to enter the fuel cell unit and potentially cause serious damage.

[0058] However, embodiments herein may include a fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system that can accurately track the remaining useful life of the fuel cell unit chemical filters, allowing them to be replaced in a timely manner or otherwise repaired to prevent damage to the fuel cell unit. In various embodiments, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system may include a processing unit and a sensor module. The sensor module may include one or more sensors. The sensor module may be configured to dock with the air flow channel of the fuel cell unit system upstream of the chemical filter and detect the amount of chemical compounds in the air flow channel. The sensor module may be operably connected to the processing unit. The processing unit may be configured to track the total exposure of the chemical filter to the chemical compound. The processing unit may be configured to estimate the remaining life of the chemical filter based on the total exposure of the tracked chemical filter and data on the total capacity of the chemical filter.

[0059] Reference now Figure 1 , a schematic diagram showing some components of a fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 is shown according to various embodiments herein. Figure 1 A fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 is shown within a vehicle 102. The vehicle 102 may include a fuel cell unit system 104 and a monitored chemical filter 106. However, it should be understood that the monitoring system herein is not limited to fuel cell units used with a vehicle. Rather, the monitoring system herein may be used with a fuel cell unit used in any application.

[0060] The monitoring system 108 can communicate electronically (wired and / or wirelessly) with various other systems and components to send and / or receive data. In some embodiments, wireless communications with a data network can be performed through a cellular base station 120. However, in some embodiments, other wireless data communication network infrastructures (including, for example, satellite-based architectures or other data networks) can be used to pass communications. In some embodiments, at least some data communications can be conducted via a wired infrastructure.

[0061] For example, system 108 may communicate data with remote computing resources (servers—real or virtual, databases, etc.), such as resources in or provided through cloud 122. Figure 1 In an example, the system 108 can communicate data with a remote system 124 (such as a system including a remote database 126) to achieve the purpose of sending and / or receiving data.

[0062] As shown below, the sensor module of the system 108 can be configured to interface with the air flow path of the fuel cell unit system 104. In particular, the sensor module of the system 108 can be configured to interface with the air flow path of the fuel cell unit system 104 upstream of the chemical filter 106. The sensor module of the system 108 can detect and record the amount of various chemical compounds in the air flow path. In this way, the system 108 can track the total amount of chemicals exposed to the filter 106. By subtracting such amounts from the known total capacity of the chemical filter 106 to absorb or otherwise sequester such chemical compounds or the known remaining capacity of the filter, the remaining useful life of the chemical filter 106 can be estimated.

[0063] In one approach, the total starting capacity of the chemical filter 106 can be used as a starting point for performing calculations to estimate the remaining useful life of the chemical filter 106. Then, as the amount of chemical is detected using the sensor module, the remaining capacity can be calculated as the starting capacity minus the total amount of all detected chemicals observed cumulatively since the chemical filter 106 was new or serviced. In some embodiments, the rate (units / time period) at which the chemical filter 106 is exposed to chemical compounds can be calculated, and this rate can then be used along with the total remaining capacity to calculate the expected time for the chemical filter to reach its full capacity (e.g., no remaining useful life).

[0064] However, it should be understood that various techniques can be used to calculate and / or estimate the remaining service life of the chemical filter. In various embodiments, the processing unit can be configured to estimate the remaining life of the chemical filter based on the total exposure of the chemical filter tracked and the data of the total capacity of the chemical filter using a linear equation, a nonlinear equation, a machine learning derivative algorithm, a neural network, a deep learning model, a simulation or a digital twin. For example, in some embodiments, a training data set related to the amount of the detected target chemical compound and the capacity consumption of the chemical filter can be obtained. The training data set can be used to train the machine learning model, and then the system can use the output of the machine learning model to calculate the capacity consumption of the chemical filter, and then calculate the remaining service life of the chemical filter. For example, a supervised machine learning method can be used to develop a machine learning model or algorithm that can be used by the system of this article together with the training data set. Other machine learning methods used can include unsupervised machine learning, semi-supervised machine learning, reinforcement learning, etc. The algorithms applied can include nearest neighbors, naive Bayes, decision trees, linear regression, support vector machines, neural networks, etc. Other algorithms applied can include k-means clustering, association rules, Q learning, time difference, deep adversarial networks, etc.

[0065] In some embodiments, the data regarding total capacity may be specific to a single chemical substance of interest (e.g., compound "A" has a capacity of 5 "units," compound "B" has a capacity of 7 "units," etc.). In some embodiments, the data regarding total capacity may be associated with classes of certain chemical substances. In some embodiments, the data regarding total capacity may represent the aggregate of all chemical substances that a filter element may absorb or otherwise sequester.

[0066] In various embodiments, the total capacity of the chemical filter may be manually input into the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 by a system user (either at the vehicle site or remotely). In various embodiments, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 receives data about the total capacity of the chemical filter from the remote system 124. In some embodiments, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 receives data about the total capacity of the chemical filter from the chemical filter 106 itself. For example, the chemical filter may include a data tag (such as an RFID tag or an NFC tag) having data marked thereon, including, for example, the model of the chemical filter and / or the capacity of the chemical filter. In some embodiments, the total capacity of the chemical filter, along with data reflecting the amount of chemical it has been exposed to, may be stored in a memory of the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108. In some embodiments, the total capacity of the chemical filter may be estimated based on filter parameters (such as filter geometry, absorbent material used and its properties, size, etc.).

[0067] In various embodiments, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 may be configured to issue an alarm when the remaining useful life of the chemical filter 106 exceeds a threshold. For example, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 may be configured to issue an alarm when the remaining useful life of the chemical filter 106 drops below a threshold. The threshold may be expressed in various ways. In some embodiments, the threshold is a percentage of the chemical filter capacity, such as 30%, 20%, 10%, 5%, 1%, etc., or an amount falling within any range between the foregoing. In some embodiments, the threshold is an estimated amount of time for the chemical filter to reach its capacity (based on the current usage rate of the chemical filter), such as 30 minutes, 1 hour, 6 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours, etc., or an amount of time falling within any range between the foregoing. In some embodiments, the threshold is an estimated amount of mileage that the vehicle can travel before the chemical filter reaches its capacity (based on the calculated usage rate per time period and the average speed per time period), such as 10 miles, 50 miles, 100 miles, 200 miles, etc., or a distance falling within any range between the foregoing. In various embodiments, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 can be configured to issue an alarm according to a graded severity scheme when the remaining life of the chemical filter 106 exceeds one or more thresholds. For example, when the remaining capacity of the chemical filter drops below 10% of its total capacity, a first alarm can be issued, and when the remaining capacity of the chemical filter is less than 2% of its total capacity, a second alarm with a higher severity level than the first alarm can be issued. Many different graded alarm schemes are contemplated herein.

[0068] In various embodiments, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 may be configured to send data to other systems (co-located with the vehicle and / or remotely located), such as data regarding at least one of the total exposure tracked, estimated remaining filter life, alarms, etc. For example, in various embodiments, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 may send data to a vehicle control or data system. As another example, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 may send data to a vehicle CANbus system. In various embodiments, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system may send data to a remote monitoring system. Similarly, in some embodiments, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 may receive data from such sources.

[0069] Figure 1102 is shown at the vehicle geolocation 110. Using various techniques and / or hardware, the system 108 can determine the vehicle geolocation 110, which can be used in various ways. The geolocation data may include latitude / longitude coordinates and / or other location identification information, such as the nearest address, the nearest landmark, etc. As used herein, unless the context otherwise dictates, the term "geolocation data" shall include references to all location identification data. In some cases, the geolocation data may be derived from a satellite-based geolocation system. Such systems may include, but are not limited to, GPS L1 / L2, GLONASS G1 / G2, BeiDou B1 / B2, Galileo E1 / E5b, SBAS, etc. In various embodiments, the system may include a geolocation circuit, which may include an appropriate signal receiver or transceiver to dock with a satellite, and / or the geolocation circuit may dock with a separate device or system and / or receive data from a separate device or system, which provides geolocation data or obtains geolocation data from a satellite or other device. However, it should be understood that the geolocation data herein is not limited to data that can be received or derived from satellite docking. More specifically, the geolocation data can also be derived from addresses, beacons, landmarks, various reference technologies, IP address evaluations, etc.

[0070] The system can use the geolocation data in various ways. For example, the vehicle geolocation 110 can be used to retrieve environmental level data about chemical compounds at the geolocation 110 of the vehicle 102 from the remote system 124. For example, in some embodiments, the system 108 can communicate data (such as through the cloud 122 or other data network) with an API (such as the environmental condition API 130) as a data source. The environmental condition API 130 can provide environmental level data of various chemical compounds at a specific geolocation, such as SO 2 , H 2 S, NO 2 NH 3 and concentrations of one or more of the various volatile organic compounds. Thus, in various embodiments, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system may be configured to receive data regarding ambient levels of chemical compounds from a remote system using geolocation data from the geolocation circuit.

[0071] Such data about environmental conditions at the vehicle's geographic location (or fuel cell unit location) can be used in a variety of ways. In various embodiments, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 can be configured to use the received data to calibrate one or more sensors. Fig.10In various embodiments, the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 can be configured to use the received data to adjust the estimated calculation of the remaining life of the chemical filter 106. Fig.10 Describe this aspect.

[0072] Reference now Figure 2 , a schematic diagram of components of a fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 is shown according to various embodiments herein. The fuel cell unit system 104 includes a hydrogen supply tank 202, which is in fluid communication with a hydrogen supply line 204 that delivers hydrogen to the fuel cell unit. The fuel cell unit system 104 may include an anode 206 and a cathode 208. The fuel cell unit system 104 also includes an air supply line 210. Typically, ambient gas 218 is drawn into the air supply line 210. The air provided by the air supply line 210 can serve as a source of oxygen required for the operation of the fuel cell unit.

[0073] The fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 can be docked with (and in fluid communication with) an air supply line 210 upstream of the chemical filter 106. The fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 includes a sensor module 212. The sensor module 212 includes various chemical sensors described herein. The fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 may also include a processing unit 214. In some embodiments, the sensor module 212 and the processing unit 214 may be physically integrated. In other embodiments, they may be physically separated but in wired or wireless communication with each other. Figure 2 Also shown is a chemical filter 106. An exemplary chemical filter 106 is described in US Patent No. 7,138,008, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The fuel cell unit system 104 also includes a waste stream output 216, such as conveying water and other byproducts out of the fuel cell unit.

[0074] As mentioned above, in various embodiments, the sensor module 212 may be configured to interface with the air flow path or air supply line 210 of the fuel cell unit system 104 upstream of the chemical filter 106. In various embodiments, the sensor module 212 may be configured to detect the amount of chemical compounds in the air supply line 210. In various embodiments, the chemical compound may include at least one of the following: at least one of an acidic substance, an alkaline substance, and a volatile organic compound. In various embodiments, the chemical compound may include at least one of the following: SO 2 , H 2 S, NO 2 NH 3 and at least one of volatile organic compounds.

[0075] Accordingly, in various embodiments, the sensor module 212 may include at least one sensor selected from the group consisting of: an acidic substance sensor, an alkaline substance sensor, and a volatile organic compound sensor. In various embodiments, the sensor module 212 may include at least one sensor selected from the group consisting of: 2 Sensor, H 2 S sensor, NO 2 Sensor, NH 3 Sensors and volatile organic compound sensors. In various embodiments, the sensor module 212 can be operably connected to the processing unit 214. Other sensors may also be included herein. In various embodiments, the sensor module 212 may also include at least one selected from the group consisting of: a temperature sensor, a relative humidity sensor, and a pressure sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor module 212 may also include a flow sensor.

[0076] In various embodiments, the processing unit 214 may be configured to receive input regarding a filter replacement event. In various embodiments, the input may be a user input. In various embodiments, the input may be received from other sensors or systems, such as a sensor attached to a chemical filter configured to detect whether the chemical filter has been removed. When a filter replacement event notification is received or a filter replacement event is otherwise detected, the system may determine the capacity of the new filter (via user input, reference to a database, preprogramming, or received from the new filter itself), and then reset the stored remaining capacity data to reflect the total capacity of the new filter element.

[0077] It should be appreciated that the fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 can receive data from and / or send data to many different other devices and systems. Figure 3 , a schematic diagram of components of a fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 is shown according to various embodiments herein. Figure 3 Roughly similar to Figure 2 .but, Figure 3 Also shown are environmental condition sensors 306 (such as may be mounted on or in the vehicle), a vehicle CANBus system 304 or other vehicle control system or data network, an environmental condition API 130, and a remote database 126. In various embodiments, the environmental condition sensors 306 may be mounted on or in the vehicle and may detect environmental conditions, including but not limited to SO 2 , H 2 S, NO 2 NH 3 and the concentration of at least one of various volatile organic compounds, and / or temperature, pressure, relative humidity, etc.

[0078] In some embodiments, the vehicle CANBus system 304 (or a similar data network) can provide information about the fuel cell unit, such as the power output of the fuel cell unit. Therefore, in various embodiments, the system 108 and / or its processing unit 214 can be configured to receive data about the power output (such as voltage) from the fuel cell unit. In various embodiments, the processing unit 214 can be configured to use the data about the power output to adjust the estimated calculation of the remaining life of the chemical filter 106. For example, if a drop in power output is observed, this may indicate that there is a problem with the fuel cell unit (or its sub-unit battery). For example, this may mean that some chemical compound has entered the fuel cell unit, causing damage to it. In this case, the system can make further calculations of the remaining usable capacity more conservatively. This will be described below Fig. 9 Further described in .

[0079] Although in many embodiments herein, sensing of various chemicals is performed upstream of a chemical filter, in some embodiments, some sensing may also be performed downstream of a chemical filter. Figure 4 , a schematic diagram of components of a fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system 108 is shown according to various embodiments herein. Figure 4 Roughly similar to Figure 2 .but, Figure 4 Also shown is a downstream sensor 402. The downstream sensor 402 may be used to sense the various chemical compounds mentioned herein. However, in some embodiments, the downstream sensor 402 may be specifically used to detect one or more VOCs.

[0080] The sensor modules used herein may be implemented in many different configurations and form factors. In some embodiments, the airflow may be separated into multiple parallel channels. Figure 5 , a schematic diagram of a portion of a sensor module 212 is shown according to various embodiments herein. The sensor module 212 includes an inflow channel 502 and an outflow channel 504. The air flow can be divided into a plurality of parallel flow paths. Figure 5 , the air flow can be divided into a first path 506, a second path 510, a third path 514, a fourth path 518, and a fifth path 522. Sensors can be arranged in the flow paths. For example, a first sensor 508 can be arranged in the first path 506. A second sensor 512 can be arranged in the second path 510. A third sensor 516 can be arranged in the third path 514. A fourth sensor 520 can be arranged in the fourth path 518. A fifth sensor 524 can be arranged in the fifth path 522.

[0081] Reference now Figure 6, a schematic diagram of a portion of a sensor module 212 is shown according to various embodiments herein. Figure 6 Roughly similar to Figure 5 .but, Figure 6 504. A flow sensor 602 is also included in the housing 502. In this example, the flow sensor 602 is located in the outflow channel 504. However, the flow sensor 602 can also be located in the housing 502, or in one or more parallel flow paths.

[0082] In various embodiments, the sensor may include at least one of the following: including SO 2 Sensor, H 2 S sensor, NO 2 Sensor, NH 3 At least one of a sensor and a volatile organic compound (VOC) sensor. However, in some embodiments, the sensor may include an acid sensor, a base sensor, and a VOC sensor.

[0083] Reference now Figure 7 , a schematic diagram of a portion of a sensor module 212 is shown according to various embodiments herein. Figure 7 Roughly similar to Figure 5 However, in Figure 7 , the parallel flow paths include a first path 506, a second path 510, and a third path 514. In the present case, the sensor can detect multiple categories of compounds rather than a single chemical compound. For example, in some embodiments of the present invention, the sensor can detect acids, bases, etc. Therefore, in this example, the sensor can include an acid sensor 708 disposed in the first path 506, an alkali sensor 712 disposed in the second path 510, and a VOC sensor 716 disposed in the third path 514.

[0084] Reference now Figure 8 , a flowchart of operations is shown according to various embodiments herein. In particular, Figure 8 A method 800 for monitoring a fuel cell unit chemical filter is shown. The method 800 for monitoring a fuel cell unit chemical filter may include an operation 802 of detecting an amount of a chemical compound in an air flow path. The method 800 for monitoring a fuel cell unit chemical filter may also include an operation 804 of tracking a total exposure of the chemical filter to the chemical compound. The method 800 for monitoring a fuel cell unit chemical filter may also include an operation 806 of estimating a remaining life of the chemical filter based on the tracked total exposure of the chemical filter and data regarding a total capacity of the chemical filter.

[0085] Reference now Fig. 9, a flowchart of operations is shown according to various embodiments herein. Method 900 may include an operation 902 of calculating a baseline value of a remaining useful filter life (RUL). In some embodiments, the method may further include an operation 904 of obtaining a fuel cell unit voltage output value. In some embodiments, the method may further include an operation 906 of calculating an adjusted value of a remaining useful filter life based on the fuel cell unit voltage output value. For example, if a decrease in the power output of a fuel cell unit is observed, this may indicate that there is a problem with the fuel cell unit (or its sub-unit battery). This may mean that some chemical compounds have entered the fuel cell unit, causing damage to it and / or causing a decrease in the power output from it. In this case, the system may be more conservative in making further calculations of the remaining useful capacity. For example, the calculated remaining useful life that exists when the fuel cell unit power output decreases can be used as a new point at which the remaining useful life is estimated to be zero. So, for example, if the baseline calculation of the remaining useful life indicates that the remaining useful life is 20% of the total starting capacity, but the fuel cell unit power output decreases at this point, the further calculation of the remaining useful life can be scaled accordingly, such as by multiplying the value of the remaining useful life by a correction factor.

[0086] Reference now Fig.10 , a flowchart of operations is shown according to various embodiments herein. Method 1000 may include an operation 1002 of acquiring onboard sensor data (such as from a sensor module). Method 1000 may further include an operation 1004 of acquiring a vehicle geolocation. Method 1000 may further include an operation 1006 of acquiring environmental condition data for a given geolocation. Method 1000 may further include an operation 1008 of calibrating sensors and / or adjusting remaining useful life calculations. For example, in some embodiments, the environmental condition data may be deemed accurate, and correction factors may be used to adjust the data from the sensors in the sensor module so that they accurately reflect the concentration of the chemical indicated by the environmental condition data. In some embodiments, the remaining useful life calculation may be adjusted using environmental condition data. For example, if the environmental condition data indicates high levels of various target chemicals, the system may adjust the remaining useful life calculation to make it more conservative (e.g., to reflect that the remaining useful life will be used up more quickly).

[0087] Various components can be used with the system herein. Reference is now made to Fig.11 , a block diagram view of components of the processing unit 214 is shown according to various embodiments herein. However, it should be understood that various embodiments may include a greater or lesser number of components, and that the schematic diagram is merely illustrative. The processing unit 214 may include a housing 1102 and a control circuit 1104.

[0088] The control circuit 1104 may include various electronic components, including but not limited to a microprocessor, a microcontroller, an FPGA (field programmable gate array) chip, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and the like.

[0089] In various embodiments, the processing unit 214 may include a first sensor channel 1120, a second sensor channel 1122, a third sensor channel 1124, a fourth sensor channel 1126, and a fifth sensor channel 1128. The sensor channels may provide an interface with the sensors used, and in various embodiments, perform various operations on the data / signals from the sensors, including amplification, noise reduction, adjustment of sampling frequency, etc. However, it should be understood that a greater or lesser number of sensor channels may be used herein.

[0090] The processing power of the control circuit 1104 and its components is sufficient to perform various operations, including various operations on data from sensors, including but not limited to averaging, time averaging, statistical analysis, normalization, aggregation, sorting, deleting, traversing, transforming, streamlining (such as removing selected data and / or converting data to a less granular form), compressing (such as using a compression algorithm), merging, inserting, timestamping, filtering, removing outliers, calculating trends and trend lines (linear, logarithmic, polynomial, power, exponential, moving average, etc.), predicting filter RUL (remaining useful life), identifying RUL conditions, predicting performance, predicting the cost associated with replacing filter elements versus not replacing filter elements, etc.

[0091] Normalization operations performed by control circuit 1104 may include, but are not limited to, adjusting one or more values ​​based on another value or set of values.For example only, onboard sensor data (eg, data from sensors of a sensor module) may be normalized based on environmental condition data.

[0092] In various embodiments, the control circuit can calculate the time to replace the filter / filter element and generate a signal regarding the replacement time. In various embodiments, the control circuit can calculate the time to replace the filter element and issue a notification regarding the replacement time through a user output device. In various embodiments, the control circuit can calculate the time to replace the filter element based on the signal from the sensor herein and data regarding the capacity of the filter / filter element.

[0093] In various embodiments, the control circuit will activate an alarm or warning if a predetermined alarm condition is met. The alarm condition may include one or more maximum values ​​of the signal received from the chemical sensor herein, a threshold value exceeding the remaining useful life of the chemical filter herein, etc.

[0094] In various embodiments, the processing unit 214 may include a power circuit 1132. In some embodiments, the power circuit 1132 may include various components, including, but not limited to, a battery 1134, a capacitor, a power receiver (such as a wireless power receiver), a transformer, a rectifier, etc. In various embodiments, instead of and / or in addition to receiving power from a battery, the power circuit 1132 may receive power from a power source on the vehicle itself, such as a DC (direct current) power source associated with the vehicle (or in some cases even an AC (alternating current) power source).

[0095] In various embodiments, the processing unit 214 may include an output device 1136. The output device 1136 may include various components for visual and / or audio output, including, but not limited to, lights (such as LED lights), display screens, speakers, etc. In some embodiments, the output device may be used to provide notifications or alerts to system users, such as current system status, problem indications, required user intervention, appropriate time to perform maintenance actions, etc.

[0096] In various embodiments, the processing unit 214 may include a memory 1138 and / or a memory controller. The memory may include various types of memory components, including dynamic RAM (D-RAM), read-only memory (ROM), static RAM (S-RAM), disk storage, flash memory, EEPROM, battery-powered RAM (such as S-RAM or D-RAM), and any other type of digital data storage component. In some embodiments, the electronic circuit or electronic component includes volatile memory. In some embodiments, the electronic circuit or electronic component includes non-volatile memory. In some embodiments, the electronic circuit or electronic component may include interconnected transistors to provide positive feedback that works as a latch or trigger, thereby providing a circuit with two or more metastable states, and maintaining one of these states until it is changed by an external input. Data storage may be based on a circuit containing such a trigger. Data storage may also be based on charge storage in a capacitor or other principles. In some embodiments, the non-volatile memory 1138 may be integrated with the control circuit 1104.

[0097] In various implementations, processing unit 214 may include clock circuit 1140. In some implementations, clock circuit 1140 may be integrated with control circuit 1104. Fig.11 It is not shown, but it should be understood that various embodiments herein may include a data / communication bus to provide data transmission between components. In some embodiments, an analog signal interface may be included. In some embodiments, a digital signal interface may be included.

[0098] In various embodiments, the processing unit 214 may include a communication circuit 1142. In various embodiments, the communication circuit may include components such as an antenna 1144, amplifiers, filters, digital-to-analog converters and / or analog-to-digital converters, etc. The communication circuit 1142 may facilitate wired and / or wireless communications with the system.

[0099] method

[0100] Many different methods are contemplated herein, including, but not limited to, methods of making, methods of using, etc. Aspects of the operation of the systems / devices described elsewhere herein may be performed as operations of one or more methods according to various embodiments herein.

[0101] In various embodiments, the operations and method steps described herein may be performed as part of a computer-implemented method executed by one or more processors of one or more computing devices. In various embodiments, the operations and method steps described herein may be implemented as instructions stored on a non-transitory, computer-readable medium, which, when executed by one or more processors, causes the system to perform the operations and / or steps.

[0102] In one embodiment, a method for monitoring a fuel cell unit chemical filter is included. The method may include interfacing with an air flow channel of a fuel cell unit system upstream of the chemical filter. The method may also include detecting an amount of a chemical compound in the air flow channel. The method may also include tracking the total exposure of the chemical filter to the chemical compound. The method may also include estimating the remaining life of the chemical filter based on the tracked total exposure of the chemical filter and data regarding the total capacity of the chemical filter.

[0103] In one embodiment, the method may further include transmitting data regarding at least one of the tracked total exposure and the estimated remaining filter life.

[0104] In one embodiment, the method may further include receiving data about the ambient level of the chemical compound from a remote system. In one embodiment, the method may further include sending geolocation data to the remote system to obtain data about the ambient level of the chemical compound specific to the geolocation of the vehicle or other system. In one embodiment of the method, receiving data about the ambient level of the chemical compound from the remote system may include using the received data to adjust an estimated calculation about the remaining life of the chemical filter. In one embodiment of the method, receiving data about the ambient level of the chemical compound from the remote system may include using the received data to calibrate one or more sensors.

[0105] In one embodiment, the method may further include receiving input regarding a filter change event.

[0106] In one embodiment, the method may further include receiving data from a data system of the vehicle. In one embodiment, the method may further include receiving data regarding the power output of the fuel cell unit. In one embodiment of the method, receiving data regarding the power output of the fuel cell unit may include using the data regarding the power output to adjust an estimate calculation regarding the remaining life of the chemical filter.

[0107] In one embodiment, the method may further include issuing an alarm when the remaining life of the chemical filter exceeds a threshold value. In one embodiment, the method may further include issuing an alarm according to a graded severity scheme when the remaining life of the chemical filter exceeds one or more threshold values.

[0108] Sensor Module

[0109] Various embodiments herein include one or more sensors. Additional details about the sensors are provided below. However, it should be understood that this is provided only as an example, and additional variations are contemplated herein.

[0110] The sensors herein may include but are not limited to SO 2 Sensor, H 2 S sensor, NO 2 Sensors, NH3 sensors, and volatile organic compound (VOC) sensors. In some embodiments, the sensors herein may be specific to a particular compound. In other embodiments, the sensors herein may be specific to a class or group of compounds. In the latter case, a concentration estimate for a particular compound may be generated by multiplying by a correction factor that takes into account the amount of signal associated with the particular compound in question. For example, if the sensor signal reflects the contribution of all bases, the contribution factor may be used to estimate the NH3 concentration reflected in the overall signal. 3 For example, NH 3 The concentration of NH 3 = base sensor signal * k_base, where k_base is the contribution or correction factor and reflects the NH 3 ratio to all bases in the air sample. Correction factors can be obtained through the calibration procedure. Concentration values ​​can be converted to total exposure by adjusting flow rate and sampling time. Total exposure can be tracked and subtracted from the total filter capacity value to obtain the remaining capacity.

[0111] Sensors herein can be operated according to many different operating principles. Sensors herein can include but are not limited to electrochemical sensors. In some embodiments, electrochemical sensors can be operated by contacting and / or reacting with a gas sample and generating an electrical signal proportional to the gas concentration of a specific chemical substance or the concentration of a specific gas class in a gas sample. In some embodiments, chemical sensors herein can be optical chemical sensors. Other sensor types herein can include but are not limited to liquid film ion sensors, ion selective FETs (field effect transistors), solid film ion sensors, semiconductor gas sensors, contact combustion gas sensors, polymer gas sensors, sensors based on capacitance, sensors based on resistance, etc. Exemplary sensors herein can include but are not limited to ALPHASENSE H2S-B4, ALPHASENSE SO2-B4, ALPHASENSE NO2-B43F, SGX SENSORTECH MiCS-5914, BOSCH BME688, etc.

[0112] The sensitivity of the sensor herein can vary. In some embodiments, the sensitivity can be 1000ppm, 500ppm, 100ppm, 10ppm, 5ppm, 1ppm, 100ppb, 50ppb, 25ppb, 10ppb or even 5ppb, or the sensitivity falls within the aforementioned range between any. Although it is not intended to be bound by theory, it is advantageous for the sensor module herein to be configured to dock with the air flow channel upstream of the chemical filter, because a sensor with a lower sensitivity value can be used. In particular, upstream of the chemical filter, the concentration of the target chemical substance herein is relatively high compared with the concentration downstream of the chemical filter. Thus, a sensor with relatively low sensitivity can be used herein.

[0113] It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a / an" and "the" include plural references unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a composition containing "a compound" includes a mixture of two or more compounds. It should also be noted that the term "or" is generally used in its sense, including "and / or," unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0114] It should also be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the phrase "configured to" describes a system, device, or other structure that is constructed or configured to perform a specific task or adopt a specific configuration. The phrase "configured to" may be used interchangeably with other similar phrases, such as arranged and configured, constructed and arranged, constructed, manufactured, and arranged, etc.

[0115] All publications and patent applications in this specification are indicative of the common technical level in the field to which the invention pertains. All publications and patent applications are incorporated herein by reference, as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference.

[0116] As used herein, the recitations of numerical ranges by endpoints shall include all numbers within that range (eg, 2 to 8 includes 2.1, 2.8, 5.3, 7, etc.).

[0117] The headings used herein are intended to be consistent with the recommendations under 37 CFR 1.77 or to provide organizational cues. These headings should not be considered to limit or characterize the invention or inventions described in any claims that may issue from this disclosure. For example, although a heading refers to the "Technical Field," such claims should not be limited by the language selected under this heading to describe the so-called technical field. In addition, the description of a technology in the "Background" is not an admission that the technology is prior art to any one or more inventions in the content of this disclosure. "Summary of the Invention" should also not be considered to characterize the invention or inventions described in the issued claims.

[0118] The embodiments described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed in the following detailed description. More precisely, the embodiments are selected and described so that those skilled in the art can appreciate and understand the principles and practices. Therefore, various aspects have been described with reference to various specific and preferred embodiments and techniques. However, it should be understood that many changes and modifications may be made while maintaining the spirit and scope of this article.

Claims

1. Fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system, including: Processing unit; and A sensor module, wherein the sensor module includes one or more sensors; wherein the sensor module is configured to interface with an air flow passage of a fuel cell unit system upstream of a chemical filter; and detecting an amount of a chemical compound in the air flow passage; wherein the sensor module is operably connected to the processing unit; wherein the processing unit is configured to track total exposure of the chemical filter to the chemical compound; and Wherein the processing unit is configured to estimate a remaining life of the chemical filter based on the tracked total exposure of the chemical filter and data regarding a total capacity of the chemical filter.

2. The fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system according to any one of claims 1 and 3-17, wherein the chemical compound comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of: an acidic substance, an alkaline substance, and a volatile organic compound.

3. The fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system according to any one of claims 1-2 and 4-17, wherein the chemical compound comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of: SO2, H2S, NO2, NH3, and volatile organic compounds.

4. The fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system according to any one of claims 1-3 and 5-17, wherein the one or more sensors include at least one selected from the group consisting of: an acid sensor, a base sensor, and a volatile organic compound (VOC) sensor.

5. A fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system according to any one of claims 1-4 and 6-17, wherein the one or more sensors include at least one selected from the group consisting of: a SO2 sensor, a H2S sensor, a NO2 sensor, a NH3 sensor, and a volatile organic compound (VOC) sensor.

6. A fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system according to any one of claims 1-5 and 7-17, wherein: The fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system receives data regarding the total capacity from a remote system and / or a chemical filter.

7. A fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system according to any one of claims 1-6 and 8-17, wherein: The fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system is configured to send data regarding at least one of the tracked total exposure and the estimated remaining filter life, wherein the data is sent to at least one of a vehicle control system, a vehicle CANbus system, and a remote monitoring system.

8. The fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system according to any one of claims 1-7 and 9-17, the sensor module further comprising at least one selected from the group consisting of: a temperature sensor, a relative humidity sensor, and a pressure sensor.

9. The fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system according to any one of claims 1-8 and 10-17, wherein the sensor module further comprises a flow sensor.

10. The fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system of any one of claims 1-9 and 11-17, further comprising a geo-location circuit.

11. A fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system according to any one of claims 1-10 and 12-17, wherein: The fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system is configured to receive data regarding ambient levels of the chemical compound from a remote system using geolocation data from the geolocation circuit.

12. A fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system according to any one of claims 1-11 and 13-17, wherein: The fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system is configured to receive data regarding ambient levels of the chemical compound from a remote system.

13. A fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system according to any one of claims 1-12 and 14-17, wherein: The fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system is configured to use the received data to calibrate the one or more sensors.

14. A fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system according to any one of claims 1-13 and 15-17, wherein: The fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system is configured to use the received data to adjust an estimated calculation regarding a remaining life of the chemical filter.

15. A fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system according to any one of claims 1-14 and 16-17, wherein: The processing unit is configured to receive input regarding a filter replacement event, wherein the input is a user input and / or an input received from other sensors or systems.

16. A fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system according to any one of claims 1 to 15 and 17, wherein: The processing unit is configured to receive data regarding power output from the fuel cell unit and use the data regarding the power output to adjust an estimated calculation regarding a remaining life of the chemical filter.

17. The fuel cell unit chemical filter monitoring system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the sensor module further comprises a parallel flow path, wherein: Each sensor is disposed within each parallel flow path.

18. A method for monitoring a fuel cell unit chemical filter, comprising: interfacing with an air flow passage of a fuel cell unit system upstream of a chemical filter; detecting an amount of a chemical compound in the air flow passage; tracking total exposure of the chemical filter to the chemical compound; as well as The remaining life of the chemical filter is estimated based on the tracked total exposure to the chemical filter and data regarding the total capacity of the chemical filter.

19. The method of any one of claims 18 and 20, further comprising receiving data about ambient levels of the chemical compound from a remote system and using the received data to adjust the estimated calculation about the remaining life of the chemical filter.

20. The method of any of claims 18-19, further comprising receiving data regarding power output from the fuel cell unit and using the data regarding power output to adjust an estimate calculation regarding remaining life of the chemical filter.

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