Integrated air valve device for fuel cell system and control method

Abstract

The invention relates to an integrated air valve device for a fuel cell system and a control method. The device comprises a mounting body and an air compressor side air inlet formed in the mounting body, wherein the air compressor side air inlet is used for being connected with an air compressor side air outlet part of the fuel cell system; the electric pile side air outlet is connected with the air compressor side air inlet to form a pile inlet air path; the stack side air inlet is used for being connected with an air outlet of a fuel cell stack; the tail exhaust side air outlet is connected with the electric pile side air inlet to form a pile outlet air path, and the tail exhaust side air outlet is used for being connected with a tail exhaust side exhaust part of the fuel cell system; the reactor inlet shut-off valve structure is arranged on the reactor inlet air path and comprises a reactor inlet shut-off valve cavity; the pile-out shut-off valve structure is arranged on the pile-out air path and comprises a pile-out shut-off valve cavity; the bypass comprises a bypass channel, and the two ends of the bypass channel are connected with the reactor inlet shut-off valve cavity and the reactor outlet shut-off valve cavity respectively. According to the invention, the compactness of the system is obviously improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of fuel cells, and in particular to an integrated air valve device and a control method for a fuel cell system. Background Art

[0002] A fuel cell system uses hydrogen as fuel, generating electricity through an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. The power density of a fuel cell has a significant impact on its application and widespread adoption.

[0003] However, the complex functional components and piping systems of fuel cell systems make it difficult to reduce the size and weight of fuel cells, hindering further improvements in power density. A fuel cell system consists of an air system, a hydrogen system, and a cooling system. The fuel cell's air system is typically equipped with an inlet shutoff valve, an outlet shutoff valve, and a bypass valve. The inlet shutoff valve is installed at the fuel cell stack's air inlet, and the outlet shutoff valve is installed at the stack's air outlet. When the fuel cell is not operating, both the inlet and outlet shutoff valves are closed to prevent air from entering the stack, potentially causing degradation and corrosion of the membrane electrode, and thus impacting stack durability. Furthermore, during startup or shutdown of the fuel cell, the stack is purged. During this process, the air bypass valve is opened to direct air from the air system's inlet channel directly into the exhaust channel, diluting the purge gas discharged from the stack and reducing the hydrogen concentration. In addition to the volume, weight, and cost of these valves themselves, the piping connecting the valves also contributes to this volume, weight, and cost. Therefore, the integration of air path valves is of great significance for reducing volume and weight and improving power density.

[0004] For air shutoff and bypass control in fuel cell air circuit subsystems, existing technologies typically employ independently configured inlet and outlet shutoff valves, as well as bypass valves, typically poppet valves and butterfly valves. These valves are interconnected by pipelines, and each valve is equipped with an independent drive module, which generally includes a controller, valve position sensor, drive motor, and transmission gear set. This configuration results in a complex overall air circuit system piping layout, a large number of components, a large system size and weight, and high manufacturing and maintenance costs, making it difficult to meet the fuel cell system's requirements for high power density, miniaturization, and lightweight. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To this end, the present invention provides an integrated air valve device and control method for a fuel cell system, which integrates the stack shut-off valve structure, the stack shut-off valve structure and the bypass valve into an air valve device in a single valve body, and adopts a set of drive modules to realize the synchronous linkage of the above three valves, effectively simplifying the drive structure and the connection pipeline layout, thereby significantly improving the compactness of the system, reducing the overall volume and weight, and reducing manufacturing and installation costs.

[0006] To solve the above technical problems, the present invention provides an integrated air valve device for a fuel cell system, comprising a mounting body and: An air inlet on the air compressor side, used to connect to the air outlet part on the air compressor side of the fuel cell system; The stack side air outlet is connected to the air inlet of the air compressor to form an air path into the stack, and the stack side air outlet is used to be connected to the air inlet of the fuel cell stack; The air inlet on the fuel cell stack side is used to connect to the air outlet of the fuel cell stack; The tail exhaust side air outlet is connected to the stack side air inlet to form an out-of-stack air path, and the tail exhaust side air outlet is used to be connected to the tail exhaust side exhaust part of the fuel cell system; a stack entry shutoff valve structure, arranged on the stack entry air path, comprising a stack entry shutoff valve cavity; A stack-out shut-off valve structure is provided on the stack-out air path and includes a stack-out shut-off valve cavity; A bypass passage, comprising a bypass channel, both ends of which are connected to the inlet shut-off valve cavity and the outlet shut-off valve cavity respectively; The stack inlet air path, the stack outlet air path and the bypass path are controlled to be on and off by means of the stack inlet shut-off valve structure and the stack outlet shut-off valve structure.

[0007] In one embodiment of the present invention, a valve assembly is further included, wherein the valve assembly includes: A valve core assembly, comprising a valve core of the stack entry shutoff valve movably connected to the stack entry shutoff valve cavity and a valve core of the stack exit shutoff valve movably connected to the stack exit shutoff valve cavity; a valve stem assembly, comprising a valve stem of the stack entry shut-off valve connected to the valve core of the stack entry shut-off valve and a valve stem of the stack exit shut-off valve connected to the valve core of the stack exit shut-off valve; A drive module connected to the valve stem assembly; Among them, the valve core of the stack entry shut-off valve can be sealed and matched with the lower surface of the stack entry shut-off valve cavity when it moves to the lower limit position, so as to block one end of the bypass channel, and the valve core of the stack exit shut-off valve can be sealed and matched with the lower surface of the stack exit shut-off valve cavity when it moves to the lower limit position, so as to block the other end of the bypass channel.

[0008] In one embodiment of the present invention, the integrated air valve device has three position states: When in the first position, the valve cores of the stack entry shut-off valve and the stack exit shut-off valve are synchronously moved to the upper limit position, forming a seal with the upper surface of the stack entry shut-off valve cavity and the stack exit shut-off valve cavity, respectively, thereby closing the stack entry shut-off valve structure and the stack exit shut-off valve structure, that is, the stack entry air path and the stack exit air path are disconnected, the bypass channel is connected, and the bypass path is connected; When in the second position, the valve cores of the stack entry shut-off valve and the stack exit shut-off valve are synchronously moved to the middle position, thereby opening the stack entry shut-off valve and the stack exit shut-off valve, connecting the stack entry air path and the stack exit air path, and connecting the bypass path; When in the third position, the valve core of the stack entry shut-off valve and the valve core of the stack exit shut-off valve are synchronously moved to the lower limit position, forming a seal with the lower surface of the stack entry shut-off valve cavity and the stack exit shut-off valve cavity respectively, thereby opening the stack entry shut-off valve structure and the stack exit shut-off valve structure, that is, the stack entry air path and the stack exit air path are connected, the bypass channel is closed, and the bypass channel is disconnected.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present invention, the driving module includes: a synchronous crossbar, connected to the valve stem of the stack entry shut-off valve and the valve stem of the stack exit shut-off valve, respectively; the valve stem of the stack entry shut-off valve and the valve stem of the stack exit shut-off valve are arranged in parallel; a transmission rod, one end of which is connected to the synchronization crossbar; A drive motor and a transmission system are connected to the other end of the transmission rod, and the transmission system converts the rotary motion of the drive motor into linear motion; A compression spring is sleeved on the transmission rod to provide force for the valve core assembly to reset upward.

[0010] In one embodiment of the present invention, the transmission system includes a crank-connecting rod mechanism or a rack and pinion transmission mechanism; when a crank-connecting rod mechanism is adopted, the crank-connecting rod mechanism includes a crank; when a rack and pinion transmission mechanism is adopted, a transmission rod with a rack is adopted, and the rack and pinion transmission mechanism includes a gear that cooperates with the rack.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present invention, the valve core of the stack entry shut-off valve and / or the valve core of the stack exit shut-off valve includes a valve core skeleton, and an upper sealing ring and a lower sealing ring are correspondingly installed on the upper end face and the lower end face of the valve core skeleton. The upper sealing ring forms a sealing structure with the upper surface of the stack entry shut-off valve cavity or the stack exit shut-off valve cavity, and the lower sealing ring forms a sealing structure with the lower surface of the stack entry shut-off valve cavity or the stack exit shut-off valve cavity.

[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, the mounting body includes a valve body, a joint cover plate, an upper cover plate, an upper shell, and a lower cover plate; the upper shell and the lower cover plate are respectively mounted on the upper and lower ends of the valve body; The stack inlet air path, the stack outlet air path, the stack inlet shut-off valve structure, and the stack outlet shut-off valve structure are all arranged inside the valve body; The upper cover is mounted on the outer end surface of the upper shell; The joint cover is installed on the side end surface of the valve body; The interior of the upper shell is used to accommodate the synchronization cross rod and the valve stem assembly, and the drive module is installed on the outer end surface of the upper shell and accommodated in the upper cover plate; The bypass channel is formed between the lower cover plate and the valve body.

[0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, two ends of the compression spring respectively abut against a boss on the transmission rod and a spring groove in the upper shell.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the following features is also included: A guide sleeve is provided between the valve body and the valve stem of the stack inlet shut-off valve and the valve stem of the stack outlet shut-off valve, and between the transmission rod and the upper housing; A valve stem sealing ring is provided between the valve body and the valve stem of the stack entry shut-off valve and the valve stem of the stack exit shut-off valve; A lower cover plate sealing ring is provided between the lower cover plate and the valve body; A joint cover plate sealing ring is provided between the joint cover plate and the valve body.

[0015] The present invention also provides a control method based on the integrated air valve device for a fuel cell system. Based on the integrated air valve device for a fuel cell system, the fuel cell system includes a fuel cell stack, an air outlet portion on the air compressor side, and an exhaust portion on the tail exhaust side. The air inlet on the air compressor side is connected to the air outlet of the air outlet portion on the air compressor side or the gas outlet of the intercooler. The tail exhaust side air outlet is connected to the air inlet of the tail exhaust side exhaust part, the stack side air outlet is connected to the air inlet of the fuel cell stack, and the stack side air inlet is connected to the air outlet of the fuel cell stack; The control method includes: When the fuel cell system is in a shutdown state, the integrated air valve device is in a first position state; When the fuel cell system is started and enters the stack purge step, the air compressor runs at the set purge speed, the integrated air valve device is maintained in the first position, and compressed air enters the integrated air valve device through the air inlet on the air compressor side, and reaches the tail exhaust side air outlet through the bypass channel, where it mixes with the purge gas exhausted from the fuel cell stack to dilute the hydrogen concentration in the exhaust gas; In response to the completion of the purge, the fuel cell system enters a normal operating state, and the integrated air valve device switches to a third position, at which time the bypass path is disconnected, and the stack air path and the stack air path are connected; During the operation of the fuel cell system, the operating conditions are monitored in real time by air pressure and flow sensors in the fuel cell system. If surge of the air compressor is detected, the air compressor speed and air flow are increased, and the integrated air valve device is controlled to switch to the second position, opening the bypass channel and directing excess air flow from the bypass channel to the exhaust part on the tail exhaust side to suppress surge. When the fuel cell system is ready to shut down and re-enter the stack purge step, the air compressor operates at the set purge speed, and the integrated air valve device switches to the third position state; After the purge process is completed, the air compressor continues to operate at the purge speed, and the integrated air valve device switches back to the first position until the oxygen in the fuel cell stack is exhausted and the fuel cell system shuts down.

[0016] The above technical solution of the present invention has the following advantages over the prior art: The integrated air valve device and control method for a fuel cell system described in the present invention integrates the stack shut-off valve structure, the stack exit shut-off valve structure and the bypass valve into an air valve device within a single valve body, and adopts a set of drive modules to realize the synchronous linkage of the above three valves, effectively simplifying the drive structure and the connection pipeline layout, thereby significantly improving the compactness of the system, reducing the overall volume and weight, and reducing manufacturing and installation costs.

[0017] The present invention achieves flexible switching and joint control of the inlet and outlet air paths, as well as the bypass path, through three position states: The first position closes the inlet and outlet air paths and opens the bypass path to meet system purge and hydrogen dilution requirements. The second position simultaneously connects all three paths, and the airflow distribution can be adjusted by adjusting the valve core position to adapt to different operating conditions, especially for suppressing air compressor surge. The third position closes the bypass path and opens the inlet and outlet air paths, ensuring sufficient air flow for the normal operation of the fuel cell stack. This meets the diverse needs of the fuel cell system at different operating stages.

[0018] This invention incorporates a compression spring within the drive module. If the drive motor fails or loses power, the spring automatically resets the valve core assembly to its first position (bypass open, stack inlet and outlet closed). This ensures safe purging or isolation of the system even under abnormal conditions, preventing hydrogen leakage and system failure, and enhancing the safety and stability of the fuel cell system. The drive module's transmission system can be configured with either a crankshaft or rack-and-pinion mechanism to accommodate diverse spatial layouts and transmission efficiency requirements, facilitating engineering applications and customized design, thus expanding the device's applicability.

[0019] The valve core of the present invention adopts a metal skeleton and a vulcanized rubber sealing ring. The sealing ring is made of various materials (such as EPDM, fluororubber, and silicone), ensuring excellent sealing performance under different temperature and pressure conditions, reliably isolating each air flow channel, avoiding leakage, and improving system stability.

[0020] This invention incorporates a guide sleeve and dynamic seal between the valve stem and body, employing a Y-shaped seal ring and other structures. This prevents gas leakage while effectively preventing moisture in the airflow from entering the guide area and forming ice in low-temperature environments, thereby improving the valve's low-temperature adaptability and operational reliability. The inlet and outlet air paths share the same structural design and can be interchanged based on actual installation requirements, enhancing the flexibility of the air valve assembly. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] In order to make the contents of the present invention more clearly understood, the present invention is further described in detail below based on specific embodiments of the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0022] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of the fuel cell air path system of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram of the integrated air valve device and air passage of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 3 It is a top view of the integrated air valve device of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Cross-sectional view along direction BB.

[0026] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Cross-sectional view along the AA direction.

[0027] Figure 6 It is a schematic diagram of the upper and lower surfaces of the stack entry shut-off valve cavity and the stack exit shut-off valve cavity of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 7 It is a connection diagram of the valve assembly of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 8 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the valve core assembly of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 9 It is a schematic diagram of another form of the transmission system and transmission rod of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 10 It is a schematic diagram of the integrated air valve device of the present invention when it is in the first position.

[0032] Figure 11 It is a schematic diagram of the integrated air valve device of the present invention when it is in the second position.

[0033] Figure 12 It is a schematic diagram of the integrated air valve device of the present invention when it is in the third position.

[0034] Description of the accompanying drawings: 100, stack air inlet; 200, stack air outlet; 300, bypass; 400, air outlet on the air compressor side; 500, exhaust on the tail exhaust side; 600, fuel cell stack; 1. Valve body; 1-1. Stack side air outlet; 1-2. Stack side air inlet; 1-3. Bypass channel; 1-4. Stack inlet shut-off valve cavity; 1-5. Stack outlet shut-off valve cavity; 2. Connector cover; 2-1. Air inlet on the compressor side; 2-2. Air outlet on the exhaust side; 3. Upper cover; 4. Upper shell; 5. Lower cover; 6. Drive module; 6-1. Crank; 6-2. Gear; 7. Valve core assembly; 7a. Inlet shut-off valve core; 7b. Outlet shut-off valve core; 7-1. Valve core frame; 7-2. Upper sealing ring; 7-3. Lower sealing ring; 8. Valve stem assembly; 8a. Inlet shut-off valve stem; 8b. Outlet shut-off valve stem; 9. Synchronous crossbar; 10. Guide sleeve; 11. Valve stem sealing ring; 12. Transmission rod; 13. Compression spring; 14. Lower cover plate sealing ring; 15. Joint cover plate sealing ring; 16. Transmission rod with rack. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments so that those skilled in the art can better understand the present invention and implement it. However, the embodiments are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0036] In the present invention, if directions (up, down, left, right, front and back) are described, it is only for the convenience of describing the technical solution of the present invention, and does not indicate or imply that the technical features referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operate in a specific orientation. Therefore, it cannot be understood as a limitation of the present invention.

[0037] In the present invention, "several" means one or more, "multiple" means more than two, "greater than," "less than," "exceeds," etc. are understood to exclude the number itself; "above," "below," "within," etc. are understood to include the number itself. In the description of the present invention, the use of "first" or "second" is solely for the purpose of distinguishing technical features and is not to be construed as indicating or implying relative importance, implicitly specifying the number of the indicated technical features, or implicitly specifying the order of the indicated technical features.

[0038] In the present invention, unless otherwise expressly defined, terms such as "disposed," "installed," and "connected" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they may refer to direct connection or indirect connection through an intermediate medium; fixed connection or detachable connection or integral molding; mechanical connection or electrical connection or mutual communication; and internal connection between two components or interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can reasonably determine the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention based on the specific content of the technical solution.

[0039] Reference Figure 1 、 Figure 2 As shown, an integrated air valve device for a fuel cell system of the present invention includes a mounting body and: The air compressor side air inlet 2-1 is used to connect to the air compressor side air outlet portion 400 of the fuel cell system. The air compressor side air inlet 2-1 is connected to the air outlet of the air compressor in the air compressor side air outlet portion 400 or the gas outlet of the intercooler. After the air compressed by the air compressor is cooled by the intercooler, it enters the installation body (valve body 1) through the air compressor side air inlet 2-1. The stack-side air outlet 1-1 is connected to the air compressor-side air inlet 2-1 to form an air inlet path 100. The stack-side air outlet 1-1 is used to connect to the air inlet of the fuel cell stack 600. Compressed air leaves the mounting body (valve body 1) through the stack-side air outlet 1-1 and enters the fuel cell stack 600 through the pipeline. The stack-side air inlet 1-2 is used to connect to the air outlet of the fuel cell stack 600; the residual air in the reaction in the stack is discharged from the fuel cell stack 600 through the air outlet of the fuel cell stack 600 and enters the mounting body (valve body 1) through the stack-side air inlet 1-2; The tail-side air outlet 2-2 is connected to the stack-side air inlet 1-2 to form an out-of-stack air path 200. The tail-side air outlet 2-2 is used to connect to the tail-side exhaust portion 500 of the fuel cell system. The remaining air leaves the mounting body (valve body 1) through the tail-side air outlet 2-2 and enters the tail-side exhaust portion 500 of the fuel cell system. The stack entry shut-off valve structure is provided on the stack entry air path 100 and includes stack entry shut-off valve cavities 1-4; The stack-out shut-off valve structure is provided on the stack-out air path 200 and includes a stack-out shut-off valve cavity 1-5; The bypass passage 300 includes a bypass passage 1-3, the two ends of which are connected to the stack inlet shut-off valve cavity 1-4 and the stack outlet shut-off valve cavity 1-5, respectively; that is, the two ends of the bypass passage 1-3 are connected to the air compressor side air inlet 2-1 and the tail exhaust side air outlet 2-2, respectively; The stack inlet shutoff valve structure and the stack outlet shutoff valve structure are used to control the on-off of the stack inlet air path 100 , the stack outlet air path 200 , and the bypass path 300 .

[0040] Through the above arrangement, the air valve assembly integrates the inlet and outlet shutoff valve structures, the outlet shutoff valve structure, and the bypass valve within a single valve body 1. A single drive module 6 is used to synchronize the three valves, effectively simplifying the drive structure and connecting piping layout. This significantly improves the system's compactness, reduces overall volume and weight, and lowers manufacturing and installation costs. It should be noted that the inlet air path 100 and the outlet air path 200 have identical structures and can therefore be interchanged depending on actual installation and usage.

[0041] In one embodiment, referring to Figure 4 As shown, it also includes a valve assembly, the valve assembly including: The valve core assembly 7 includes a valve core 7a of the stack entry shut-off valve movably connected to the stack entry shut-off valve cavity 1-4 and a valve core 7b of the stack exit shut-off valve movably connected to the stack exit shut-off valve cavity 1-5; The valve stem assembly 8 includes a valve stem 8a of the stack entry shut-off valve connected to the valve core 7a of the stack entry shut-off valve and a valve stem 8b of the stack exit shut-off valve connected to the valve core 7b of the stack exit shut-off valve; A drive module 6 connected to the valve stem assembly 8; Among them, reference Figure 6As shown, the inlet shutoff valve spool 7a can, when moved to the lower limit position, sealably cooperate with the lower surface of the inlet shutoff valve cavity 1-4, thereby blocking one end of the bypass channel 1-3. The outlet shutoff valve spool 7b can, when moved to the lower limit position, sealably cooperate with the lower surface of the outlet shutoff valve cavity 1-5, thereby blocking the other end of the bypass channel 1-3. Therefore, the valve spool assembly 7 and valve stem assembly 8 function to control the opening and closing of the bypass channel 1-3.

[0042] It can be understood that the aforementioned stack entry shut-off valve structure and stack exit shut-off valve structure are both of the poppet valve type.

[0043] It should be noted that, referring to Figures 10 to 12 As shown, the integrated air valve device has three position states: When in the first position, the stack entry shut-off valve spool 7a and the stack exit shut-off valve spool 7b move synchronously to the upper limit position, forming a seal with the upper surfaces of the stack entry shut-off valve cavity 1-4 and the stack exit shut-off valve cavity 1-5, respectively, thereby closing the stack entry shut-off valve structure and the stack exit shut-off valve structure. That is, the stack entry air path 100 and the stack exit air path 200 are disconnected, the bypass channel 1-3 is connected, and the bypass channel 300 is connected. When in the second position, the stack entry shutoff valve spool 7a and the stack exit shutoff valve spool 7b move synchronously to the middle position, thereby opening the stack entry shutoff valve and the stack exit shutoff valve, connecting the stack entry air path 100 and the stack exit air path 200, and connecting the bypass path 300. In the second position, the two valve cores (the stack entry shutoff valve spool 7a and the stack exit shutoff valve spool 7b) can move synchronously up and down according to operating conditions to adjust the distribution of air flow in the stack entry air path 100, the stack exit air path 200, and the bypass path 300. When in the third position, the stack entry shut-off valve core 7a and the stack exit shut-off valve core 7b move synchronously to the lower limit position, forming a seal with the lower surface of the stack entry shut-off valve cavity 1-4 and the stack exit shut-off valve cavity 1-5, respectively, thereby opening the stack entry shut-off valve structure and the stack exit shut-off valve structure, that is, the stack entry air path 100 and the stack exit air path 200 are connected, the bypass channel 1-3 is closed, and the bypass channel 300 is disconnected.

[0044] Specifically, refer to Figure 4 As shown, the driving module 6 includes: A synchronization crossbar 9 is connected to the stack entry shut-off valve stem 8a and the stack exit shut-off valve stem 8b respectively; the stack entry shut-off valve stem 8a and the stack exit shut-off valve stem 8b are arranged in parallel; A transmission rod 12, one end of which is connected to the synchronization cross bar 9; A drive motor and a transmission system are connected to the other end of the transmission rod 12, and the transmission system converts the rotary motion of the drive motor into linear motion; The compression spring 13 is sleeved on the transmission rod 12 to provide the valve core assembly 7 with a force to reset upward.

[0045] In addition, the drive module 6 also includes a controller, a motor position sensor, and a drive motor. The controller controls the motor's rotation based on commands from the fuel cell system, while the transmission system converts the drive motor's rotary motion into linear motion. By using a single drive module 6 to synchronously drive two poppet valves (the inlet and outlet shutoff valves), coordinated control of the inlet and outlet channels and bypass channels 1-3 is achieved. This eliminates the need for multiple independent drive devices, reduces the number of motors, sensors, and transmission mechanisms, and significantly reduces overall size, weight, and cost.

[0046] For example, the connection between the inlet shut-off valve stem 8a and the inlet shut-off valve spool 7a, and between the outlet shut-off valve stem 8b and the outlet shut-off valve spool 7b, can be achieved by threaded connection, welding, or the like. The connection between the inlet shut-off valve stem 8a, the outlet shut-off valve stem 8b, and the synchronization crossbar 9 can be achieved by means of a clamping connection, a through-hole + retaining ring, a threaded connection, welding, a through-hole + set screw, or the like. This ensures that the synchronization crossbar 9 is relatively fixed to the inlet shut-off valve stem 8a, the outlet shut-off valve stem 8b, and the synchronization crossbar 9 drives the inlet shut-off valve stem 8a, the outlet shut-off valve stem 8b to move synchronously up and down.

[0047] In one embodiment, one end of the transmission rod 12 is connected and fixed to the synchronization cross bar 9 by means of threaded connection, welding, through hole + set screw, etc.

[0048] The transmission system includes a crank-connecting rod mechanism or a rack and pinion transmission mechanism. Figure 4 As shown, when a crank-connecting rod mechanism is employed, it includes a crank 6-1. It will be appreciated that a drive rod 12 is slidably connected to the mounting body (via a slider), driving the motor to provide rotational motion, and outputting torque via the motor shaft. The motor shaft is connected to crank 6-1 via a coupling. Driven by the motor, the crank rotates about a fixed axis, driving the connecting rod to oscillate back and forth. One end of the connecting rod is hinged to crank 6-1, and the other end is hinged to the drive rod 12. With one rotation of the crank, the connecting rod pushes the drive rod 12 to complete reciprocating linear motion. This, in turn, drives the two valve stems and the valve core to move synchronously up and down via the synchronizing crossbar 9, achieving displacement adjustment of the valve core assembly.

[0049] Reference Figure 9As shown, when a rack-and-pinion transmission mechanism is employed, a transmission rod 16 with a rack is slidably connected to the mounting body (via a slider). The rack-and-pinion transmission mechanism includes a gear 6-2 that cooperates with the rack. Rotational motion is similarly provided by a drive motor, with torque output via the motor shaft. The motor shaft is connected to gear 6-2 via a coupling or a reducer, and the gear meshes with the rack. The drive motor rotates gear 6-2, which cooperates with the rack, causing the transmission rod 16 with the rack to move linearly axially. The transmission rod 16 with the rack drives the synchronization crossbar 9, which in turn drives the valve stem assembly 8 and valve core assembly 7 to move up and down synchronously, controlling the opening and closing states of the inlet and outlet shutoff valves and the bypass channel.

[0050] Both of the above methods can realize that the transmission system drives the transmission rod 12 to realize axial reciprocating motion, thereby driving the synchronization cross bar 9 to perform linear motion. Of course, other forms of drive modules 6 (such as linear modules, etc.) can also be used in this field as long as they can achieve the above functions.

[0051] In one embodiment, referring to Figure 8 As shown, the stack entry shut-off valve spool 7a and / or the stack exit shut-off valve spool 7b include a spool skeleton 7-1, and an upper sealing ring 7-2 and a lower sealing ring 7-3 are correspondingly installed on the upper end face and the lower end face of the spool skeleton 7-1. The upper sealing ring 7-2 forms a sealing structure with the upper surface of the stack entry shut-off valve cavity 1-4 or the stack exit shut-off valve cavity 1-5, and the lower sealing ring 7-3 forms a sealing structure with the lower surface of the stack entry shut-off valve cavity 1-4 or the stack exit shut-off valve cavity 1-5.

[0052] Specifically, the valve core frame 7-1 is a metal frame and can be made of metal materials such as stainless steel and aluminum alloy. The valve core frame 7-1 is cylindrical, conical, or a combination of cylinders of different diameters, with upper and lower end surfaces for mounting vulcanized sealing rings used in the vulcanization process. The upper and lower sealing rings 7-2 and 7-3 can be made of commonly used sealing rubber materials such as EPDM, fluororubber, and silicone.

[0053] Through the above arrangement, it is possible to better achieve the sealing cooperation between the valve core 7a of the stack entry shut-off valve and the lower surface of the stack entry shut-off valve cavity 1-4 when it moves to the lower limit position, and the valve core 7b of the stack exit shut-off valve can be sealed and cooperated with the lower surface of the stack exit shut-off valve cavity 1-5 when it moves to the lower limit position.

[0054] In one embodiment, referring to Figure 2 、 Figure 4 As shown, the mounting body includes a valve body 1, a joint cover plate 2, an upper cover plate 3, an upper shell 4, and a lower cover plate 5; the upper shell 4 and the lower cover plate 5 are respectively mounted on the upper and lower ends of the valve body 1; The stack inlet air path 100, the stack outlet air path 200, the stack inlet shut-off valve structure, and the stack outlet shut-off valve structure are all arranged inside the valve body 1; The upper cover plate 3 is mounted on the outer end surface of the upper shell 4; The joint cover plate 2 is installed on the side end surface of the valve body 1; The interior of the upper shell 4 is used to accommodate the synchronization cross rod 9 and the valve stem assembly 8. The driving module 6 is installed on the outer end surface of the upper shell 4 and accommodated in the upper cover plate 3; The bypass channel 1 - 3 is formed between the lower cover plate 5 and the valve body 1 .

[0055] In one embodiment, the two ends of the compression spring 13 respectively abut against the boss on the transmission rod 12 and the spring groove in the upper shell 4. The compression spring 13 always applies an upward force to the transmission rod 12. When the valve is de-energized, the compression spring 13 pushes the transmission rod 12, thereby driving the two valve stems and two valve cores to move synchronously to the upper limit position, achieving automatic reset. The compression spring 13 is provided in the drive module 6. When the drive motor fails or the power is cut off, the spring can automatically reset the valve core assembly 7 to the first position (bypass open, inlet and outlet closed), ensuring that the system can still be safely purged or isolated under abnormal circumstances, preventing hydrogen leakage and system failure, and improving the safety and stability of the fuel cell system.

[0056] Specifically, refer to Figure 4 As shown, guide sleeves 10 are provided between the valve body 1 and the valve stem 8 a of the stack inlet shut-off valve and the valve stem 8 b of the stack outlet shut-off valve, and between the transmission rod 12 and the upper shell 4 .

[0057] Specifically, a stem seal 11 is provided between the valve body 1 and the stems 8a and 8b of the stack shutoff valve. This seal can be a Y-ring or other suitable seal for axial dynamic sealing. The stem seal 11 is installed between the guide sleeve 10 and the flow passage of the valve body 1 to prevent gas leakage from the flow passage of the valve body 1. It also prevents water in the gas from entering the space between the guide sleeve 10 and the valve stem, where it could freeze and cause sticking in low temperatures.

[0058] Reference Figure 5 As shown, a lower cover plate sealing ring 14 is provided between the lower cover plate 5 and the valve body 1 ; a joint cover plate sealing ring 15 is provided between the joint cover plate 2 and the valve body 1 .

[0059] This embodiment also provides a control method for the integrated air valve device for a fuel cell system. The fuel cell system includes a fuel cell stack 600, an air compressor side air outlet portion 400, and a tail exhaust side exhaust portion 500. The air compressor side air inlet 2-1 is connected to the air outlet of the air compressor side air outlet portion 400 or the gas outlet of the intercooler. The tail exhaust side air outlet 2-2 is connected to the air inlet of the tail exhaust side exhaust part 500, the stack side air outlet 1-1 is connected to the air inlet of the fuel cell stack 600, and the stack side air inlet 1-2 is connected to the air outlet of the fuel cell stack 600; In addition, the air compressor side outlet portion 400 also includes an air filter, and a flow sensor is provided between the air filter and the air compressor; a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, and a flow sensor are provided on the pipe at the air inlet of the fuel cell stack 600, and a temperature sensor and a pressure sensor are provided on the pipe at the air outlet of the fuel cell stack 600; The control method includes: When the fuel cell system is in shutdown state, due to the action of the compression spring 13, the integrated air valve device is in a default position, that is, in a first position state; When the fuel cell system is started and enters the stack purge step, the air compressor runs at the set purge speed, the integrated air valve device is maintained in the first position, and compressed air enters the integrated air valve device through the air inlet 2-1 on the air compressor side, and reaches the tail exhaust side air outlet 2-2 through the bypass channel 1-3, where it mixes with the purge gas exhausted from the fuel cell stack 600 to dilute the hydrogen concentration in the exhaust gas; In response to the completion of the purge, the fuel cell system enters a normal operating state, and the integrated air valve device switches to the third position, at which time the bypass path 300 is disconnected, and the stack air path 100 and the stack air path 200 are connected; During the operation of the fuel cell system, the operating conditions are monitored in real time by the air pressure and flow sensors in the fuel cell system. If surge is detected in the air compressor, the air compressor speed and air flow are increased, and the integrated air valve device is simultaneously controlled to switch to the second position, opening the bypass channel 1-3 and directing excess air flow from the bypass channel 300 to the exhaust portion 500 on the tail exhaust side. The integrated air valve device and the air compressor work together to suppress surge. When the fuel cell system is ready to shut down and re-enter the stack purge step, the air compressor operates at the set purge speed, and the integrated air valve device switches to the third position state; After the purge process is completed, the air compressor continues to operate at the purge speed, and the integrated air valve device switches back to the first position until the oxygen in the fuel cell stack 600 is exhausted and the fuel cell system shuts down.

[0060] During the startup, purging, normal operation, operating condition change, and shutdown of the fuel cell system, the integrated air valve device is controlled to switch between three position states and adjust its position in the second position state according to the control strategy and fuel cell operating parameters, thereby realizing shut-off control and bypass control of the air in and out of the fuel cell stack.

[0061] Finally, it should be noted that the above specific implementation methods are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention and are not limiting. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to examples, those skilled in the art should understand that the technical solutions of the present invention can be modified or replaced by equivalents without departing from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the present invention, which should all be included in the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. An integrated air valve device for a fuel cell system, characterized in that: It includes a mounting body and: An air compressor side air inlet (2-1) for connecting to an air compressor side air outlet portion (400) of a fuel cell system; The stack-side air outlet (1-1) is connected to the air compressor-side air inlet (2-1) to form an air inlet path (100), and the stack-side air outlet (1-1) is used to be connected to the air inlet of the fuel cell stack (600); The stack side air inlet (1-2) is used to be connected to the air outlet of the fuel cell stack (600); A tail-side air outlet (2-2) is connected to the stack-side air inlet (1-2) to form an out-of-stack air path (200); the tail-side air outlet (2-2) is used to be connected to a tail-side exhaust portion (500) of the fuel cell system; A stack entry shutoff valve structure is provided on the stack entry air path (100), comprising a stack entry shutoff valve cavity (1-4); A stack-out shut-off valve structure is provided on the stack-out air path (200), comprising a stack-out shut-off valve cavity (1-5); A bypass passage (300) comprises a bypass channel (1-3), wherein both ends of the bypass channel (1-3) are respectively connected to the stack entry shutoff valve cavity (1-4) and the stack exit shutoff valve cavity (1-5); The stack inlet shutoff valve structure and the stack outlet shutoff valve structure are used to control the on-off of the stack inlet air path (100), the stack outlet air path (200), and the bypass path (300).

2. An integrated air valve device for a fuel cell system according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also included is a valve assembly, the valve assembly comprising: A valve core assembly (7) comprising a valve core (7a) of the stack entry shutoff valve movably connected to the stack entry shutoff valve cavity (1-4) and a valve core (7b) of the stack exit shutoff valve movably connected to the stack exit shutoff valve cavity (1-5); A valve stem assembly (8) comprising an inlet shutoff valve stem (8a) connected to the inlet shutoff valve core (7a) and an outlet shutoff valve stem (8b) connected to the outlet shutoff valve core (7b); A drive module (6) connected to the valve stem assembly (8); The valve core (7a) of the stack entry shut-off valve can be sealed and matched with the lower surface of the stack entry shut-off valve cavity (1-4) when it moves to the lower limit position, so as to play a blocking role on one end of the bypass channel (1-3), and the valve core (7b) of the stack exit shut-off valve can be sealed and matched with the lower surface of the stack exit shut-off valve cavity (1-5) when it moves to the lower limit position, so as to play a blocking role on the other end of the bypass channel (1-3).

3. The integrated air valve device for a fuel cell system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The integrated air valve device has three positions: When in the first position state, the stack entry shut-off valve core (7a) and the stack exit shut-off valve core (7b) are synchronously moved to the upper limit position, correspondingly forming a seal with the upper surfaces of the stack entry shut-off valve cavity (1-4) and the stack exit shut-off valve cavity (1-5), thereby closing the stack entry shut-off valve structure and the stack exit shut-off valve structure, that is, the stack entry air path (100) and the stack exit air path (200) are disconnected, the bypass channel (1-3) is connected, and the bypass path (300) is connected; When in the second position, the stack entry shutoff valve core (7a) and the stack exit shutoff valve core (7b) are synchronously moved to the middle position, thereby opening the stack entry shutoff valve and the stack exit shutoff valve, the stack entry air path (100) and the stack exit air path (200) are connected, and the bypass path (300) is connected; When in the third position, the stack entry shut-off valve core (7a) and the stack exit shut-off valve core (7b) are synchronously moved to the lower limit position, correspondingly forming a seal with the lower surface of the stack entry shut-off valve cavity (1-4) and the stack exit shut-off valve cavity (1-5), respectively, thereby opening the stack entry shut-off valve structure and the stack exit shut-off valve structure, that is, the stack entry air path (100) and the stack exit air path (200) are connected, the bypass channel (1-3) is closed, and the bypass channel (300) is disconnected.

4. The integrated air valve device for a fuel cell system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The driving module (6) comprises: a synchronous crossbar (9), which is respectively connected to the stack entry shutoff valve stem (8a) and the stack exit shutoff valve stem (8b); the stack entry shutoff valve stem (8a) and the stack exit shutoff valve stem (8b) are arranged in parallel; A transmission rod (12), one end of which is connected to the synchronization cross bar (9); A drive motor and a transmission system are connected to the other end of the transmission rod (12), and the transmission system converts the rotary motion of the drive motor into linear motion; A compression spring (13) is sleeved on the transmission rod (12) to provide a force for the valve core assembly (7) to return to its original position.

5. The integrated air valve device for a fuel cell system according to claim 4, characterized in that: The transmission system includes a crank-connecting rod mechanism or a rack-and-pinion transmission mechanism; when the crank-connecting rod mechanism is adopted, the crank-connecting rod mechanism includes a crank (6-1); when the rack-and-pinion transmission mechanism is adopted, a transmission rod (16) with a rack is adopted, and the rack-and-pinion transmission mechanism includes a gear (6-2) matched with the rack.

6. The integrated air valve device for a fuel cell system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The stack entry shut-off valve core (7a) and / or the stack exit shut-off valve core (7b) comprises a valve core skeleton (7-1); an upper sealing ring (7-2) and a lower sealing ring (7-3) are correspondingly mounted on the upper end surface and the lower end surface of the valve core skeleton (7-1); the upper sealing ring (7-2) forms a sealing structure with the upper surface of the stack entry shut-off valve cavity (1-4) or the stack exit shut-off valve cavity (1-5); and the lower sealing ring (7-3) forms a sealing structure with the lower surface of the stack entry shut-off valve cavity (1-4) or the stack exit shut-off valve cavity (1-5).

7. The integrated air valve device for a fuel cell system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The mounting body comprises a valve body (1), a joint cover plate (2), an upper cover plate (3), an upper shell (4), and a lower cover plate (5); the upper shell (4) and the lower cover plate (5) are respectively mounted on the upper and lower ends of the valve body (1); The stack inlet air path (100), the stack outlet air path (200), the stack inlet shut-off valve structure, and the stack outlet shut-off valve structure are all arranged inside the valve body (1); The upper cover plate (3) is mounted on the outer end surface of the upper shell (4); The joint cover plate (2) is mounted on the side end surface of the valve body (1); The interior of the upper shell (4) is used to accommodate the synchronization cross rod (9) and the valve stem assembly (8), and the drive module (6) is installed on the outer end surface of the upper shell (4) and accommodated in the upper cover plate (3); The bypass channel (1-3) is formed between the lower cover plate (5) and the valve body (1).

8. The integrated air valve device for a fuel cell system according to claim 7, characterized in that: Both ends of the compression spring (13) respectively abut against the boss on the transmission rod (12) and the spring groove in the upper shell (4).

9. The integrated air valve device for a fuel cell system according to claim 7, characterized in that: Also includes at least one of the following features: A guide sleeve (10) is provided between the valve body (1) and the valve stem (8a) of the stack shut-off valve and the valve stem (8b) of the stack shut-off valve, as well as between the transmission rod (12) and the upper shell (4); A valve stem sealing ring (11) is provided between the valve body (1) and the valve stem (8a) of the stack entry shut-off valve and the valve stem (8b) of the stack exit shut-off valve; A lower cover plate sealing ring (14) is provided between the lower cover plate (5) and the valve body (1); A joint cover plate sealing ring (15) is provided between the joint cover plate (2) and the valve body (1).

10. A control method for an integrated air valve device for a fuel cell system based on any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: The fuel cell system comprises a fuel cell stack (600), an air compressor side outlet portion (400) and a tail exhaust side exhaust portion (500), wherein the air compressor side air inlet (2-1) is connected to the air outlet of the air compressor side outlet portion (400) or the gas outlet of the intercooler; The tail exhaust side air outlet (2-2) is connected to the air inlet of the tail exhaust side exhaust portion (500), the stack side air outlet (1-1) is connected to the air inlet of the fuel cell stack (600), and the stack side air inlet (1-2) is connected to the air outlet of the fuel cell stack (600); The control method includes: When the fuel cell system is in a shutdown state, the integrated air valve device is in a first position state; When the fuel cell system is started and enters the stack purge step, the air compressor operates at a set purge speed, the integrated air valve device is maintained in the first position, and compressed air enters the integrated air valve device through the air inlet (2-1) on the air compressor side and reaches the tail exhaust side air outlet (2-2) through the bypass channel (1-3), where it mixes with the purge gas discharged from the fuel cell stack (600) to dilute the hydrogen concentration in the exhaust gas; In response to the completion of the purge, the fuel cell system enters a normal operating state, and the integrated air valve device switches to a third position state, at which time the bypass path (300) is disconnected, and the stack air path (100) and the stack air path (200) are connected; During the operation of the fuel cell system, the operating conditions are monitored in real time by air pressure and flow sensors in the fuel cell system. If surge is detected in the air compressor, the air compressor speed is increased and the air flow is increased. At the same time, the integrated air valve device is controlled to switch to the second position state, the bypass channel (1-3) is opened, and the excess air flow is directed from the bypass channel (300) into the tail exhaust part (500) to suppress the surge phenomenon. When the fuel cell system is ready to shut down and re-enter the stack purge step, the air compressor operates at the set purge speed, and the integrated air valve device switches to the third position state; After the purge process is completed, the air compressor continues to operate at the purge speed, and the integrated air valve device switches back to the first position state until the oxygen in the fuel cell stack (600) is exhausted and the fuel cell system shuts down.

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