Hydrogen fuel cell with leakage alarm function
By employing a dual-sealing structure and real-time pressure monitoring in the hydrogen fuel cell system, the problem of insufficient sealing at the connection between the hydrogen cylinder and the fuel cell stack was solved, achieving highly reliable and fast-response hydrogen leak detection and enhancing system safety.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202511477557.9
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-10-16
- Publication Date
- 2025-11-11
- Estimated Expiration
- 2045-10-16
AI Technical Summary
In existing hydrogen fuel cell systems, the connection between the hydrogen cylinder and the fuel cell stack is not well sealed, making it susceptible to vibration and environmental interference, which can lead to inaccurate hydrogen leak detection. Furthermore, external humid air and salt spray can easily penetrate, affecting safety.
The system employs a first and a second sealing element to achieve a double seal under the preload of a compression spring. The pressure of the pressure ring is monitored in real time through a pressure sensing structure, and the pressure is compensated by a linear actuator to prevent external gas from entering the leak detection chamber and ensure a stable detection environment for the gas sensor.
Dynamic sealing at the hydrogen fuel cell connection point was achieved, improving the reliability and accuracy of hydrogen leak detection, preventing external gas interference, and enhancing the response speed and sealing reliability of the alarm function.
Smart Images

Figure CN120933404A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of hydrogen fuel cells, and more specifically to a hydrogen fuel cell with a leak alarm function. Background Technology
[0002] A hydrogen fuel cell system mainly consists of a fuel cell stack, hydrogen cylinders, and hydrogen supply pipelines. The hydrogen cylinders are connected to the fuel cell stack via hoses to ensure a stable supply of hydrogen. Due to the flammable, explosive, and highly diffusive nature of hydrogen, system safety is paramount. In actual operation, the outlet valve of the hydrogen cylinder, as a high-pressure connection point, is a high-risk area for leakage, especially in vibrating environments such as those on ships, where hose connections are prone to loosening or aging seals, leading to hydrogen leakage. To address this, existing technologies typically place hydrogen sensors near the outlet valve to monitor local hydrogen concentration and issue alarms when levels exceed limits. However, such detection methods often rely on a single sensor, making them susceptible to environmental interference that can lead to false alarms or missed alarms, thus limiting their safety protection capabilities.
[0003] A currently disclosed Chinese patent authorization announcement number, CN114551938B, describes a marine hydrogen fuel cell leak alarm device. The device includes a housing with an external mounting base. The device is installed in the fuel cell compartment of a ship via the mounting base. The housing has an air inlet and an air outlet on both sides. The air inlet is connected to an air inlet pipe, and the air outlet is connected to an air outlet pipe. A first hydrogen leak alarm is installed on the air inlet pipe. The device also includes a sealing mechanism, an adjustment mechanism for controlling the opening and closing of the sealing mechanism, and an exhaust fan. The first hydrogen leak alarm issues an alarm upon detecting a hydrogen leak signal. The exhaust fan directs airflow towards the exhaust pipe to force ventilation when a hydrogen leak occurs.
[0004] According to the aforementioned patent, the opening and closing of the sealing device is achieved through the extension and retraction of an electric cylinder. When no hydrogen leak occurs, it prevents the backflow of marine air currents from corroding critical internal components, and in the event of a hydrogen leak, it can trigger an alarm and vent the gas. However, the connection between the casing and the hydrogen cylinder lacks an effective sealing structure, resulting in insufficient sealing and allowing external humid air and marine gases to easily enter the casing. Therefore, there is a current need for a hydrogen fuel cell that enhances the overall environmental sealing of the device, prevents the intrusion of humid marine air and salt spray, and possesses a leak alarm function. Summary of the Invention
[0005] To address the problems existing in the prior art, a hydrogen fuel cell with a leakage alarm function is provided. The gas outlet valve port and the hose are double-sealed by a first sealing element and a second sealing element. The fit is ensured by the pre-tension of the compression spring. At the same time, the pressure ring pressure is monitored in real time by a pressure sensing structure. When an abnormality occurs, a linear actuator is triggered to compensate for the pressurization, preventing external gas from entering the leakage detection chamber, ensuring that the gas sensor detection environment is stable and undisturbed, and improving the reliability of the alarm function.
[0006] To address the problems of existing technologies, this invention provides a hydrogen fuel cell with a leak alarm function, comprising a hydrogen cylinder, a battery stack, and an alarm mechanism. A hose connects the hydrogen cylinder and the battery stack. The alarm mechanism is located at the outlet valve of the connection between the hydrogen cylinder and the hose. The alarm mechanism includes an outer fixed chamber and an inner movable chamber slidably disposed therein. A support is provided between the hydrogen cylinder and the battery stack. The outer fixed chamber is fixedly mounted on the support. One end of the inner movable chamber facing the hydrogen cylinder has a first sealing element that tightly abuts against its surface, and the other end has a second sealing element that surrounds the hose. A compression spring is provided between the inner movable chamber and the outer fixed chamber to apply an elastic preload towards the hydrogen cylinder to the inner movable chamber. The inner movable chamber, together with the first and second sealing elements, forms a leak detection chamber to maintain the airtightness of the inner movable chamber. A gas sensor is provided on the inner side of the inner movable chamber. The alarm mechanism also includes an alarm electrically connected to the gas sensor.
[0007] Preferably, the inner movable chamber has a second sealing element at one end, which extends outward through the outer fixed chamber and is coaxial with the outlet valve. The corresponding end of the outer fixed chamber is provided with a sleeve that slides with the conduit. The outer fixed chamber is provided with a linear actuator for pushing the inner movable chamber to move toward the hydrogen cylinder.
[0008] Preferably, both the first and second sealing elements are rubber ring structures coaxially arranged with the air outlet valve port, and annular grooves for the first and second sealing elements to be embedded are respectively opened on the inner side of the bracket and the inner side of the guide tube.
[0009] Preferably, a coaxial pressure ring is provided between the inner movable chamber and the first sealing element. The inner movable chamber has a pressure part that fits against the end face of the pressure ring at one end. The bracket is provided with a limiting sleeve for providing initial limiting support for the pressure ring. When the pressure part applies pressure to the pressure ring, the pressure ring gradually moves away from the limiting sleeve towards the hydrogen cylinder.
[0010] Preferably, a pressure sensing structure is provided between the pressure ring and the inner movable chamber. The pressure sensing structure is electrically connected to the linear actuator. When the pressure sensing structure detects an abnormal pressure on the pressure ring, the linear actuator is in the start state, so that the pressure ring compensates for the pressure of the first seal.
[0011] Preferably, a plurality of gas sensors are evenly distributed along the circumference of the inner side of the pressure ring, and the sensing end of each gas sensor extends toward the outlet valve.
[0012] Preferably, a pressure relief chamber is formed between the inner movable chamber and the outer fixed chamber, surrounding the leakage detection chamber. The outer fixed chamber is provided with an exhaust port that communicates with the pressure relief chamber and leads to the outside. The pressure-applying part and the pressure-applying ring cooperate to form a drainage channel. When the pressure-applying part is in contact with the pressure-applying ring, the drainage channel is in a closed state; otherwise, the drainage channel is in an open state.
[0013] Preferably, the pressure ring is provided with a ring sleeve coaxially embedded inside the pressure part, the ring sleeve and the pressure part are slidably fitted, and multiple slots are evenly distributed on the ring sleeve along its circumference. When the pressure part moves away from the pressure ring, each slot gradually forms a passage between the pressure part and the ring sleeve, forming multiple drainage channels distributed along the circumference.
[0014] Preferably, the linear actuator includes a fixed electromagnet and a movable electromagnet arranged opposite each other along the axial direction, the fixed electromagnet being fixedly connected to the outer fixed chamber, and the movable electromagnet being fixedly connected to the inner movable chamber.
[0015] Preferably, the pressure sensing structure includes a pressure sensor and a detection spring. The pressure sensor is fixedly installed on the inner side of the inner movable chamber, and one end of the detection spring is connected to the pressure sensor, while the other end is connected to the pressure ring.
[0016] The advantages of this application compared to the prior art are:
[0017] 1. This invention achieves a seal inside the inner movable chamber by using a first and a second sealing element at both ends of the inner movable chamber, combined with a hydrogen cylinder and a hose. A compression spring presses against the inner movable chamber, causing the first sealing element to deform under pressure, thus sealing the inner movable chamber against the hydrogen cylinder. Simultaneously, the second sealing element surrounds the hose, sealing the inner movable chamber against the hose as well. This achieves a double dynamic seal at the connection between the outlet valve and the hose.
[0018] The first seal forms an axial seal with the surface of the outlet valve, while the second seal forms a circumferential seal by tightly clamping the outer wall of the hose. Both seals remain stable under the constraint of the annular groove, generating an elastic restoring force under pressure to ensure continuous contact between the sealing surfaces. This effectively blocks hydrogen leakage paths and prevents external corrosive gases from entering the leak detection chamber, ensuring a stable and undisturbed detection environment for the gas sensor and improving sealing reliability and detection accuracy.
[0019] 2. This invention uses a linear actuator to push the inner movable chamber to slide along the sleeve, ensuring the coaxial stability of its axial movement. It further applies thrust based on the pre-tension of the compression spring to enhance the sealing pressure. The pressure-applying part pushes the pressure-applying ring away from the limiting sleeve, achieving smooth pressure application and force transmission to the first sealing element. Prior to this, the pressure-sensing structure transmits the pressure of the pressure-applying ring to the pressure sensor via a detection spring, monitoring changes in sealing pressure in real time.
[0020] When the pressure is abnormal, the pressure sensor triggers the linear actuator to move the inner movable chamber, applying compensating pressure to the pressure ring, thus achieving dynamic monitoring and automatic adjustment of the sealing force. This ensures that the first seal maintains a stable and effective compression state under high pressure, vibration, and other conditions, guaranteeing sealing reliability and preventing external interference from affecting the alarm function.
[0021] 3. By evenly distributing gas sensors inside the pressure ring with the sensing end facing the gas outlet valve, the gas sensors are brought close to the leakage source, enabling multi-point synchronous and all-round rapid detection, thus improving the response speed of the alarm function.
[0022] During the monitoring process, the opening and closing of the drainage channel is controlled by the pressure application part and the pressure application ring. When they are in contact, the channel is closed to block the backflow of the pressure relief chamber and ensure the stability of the detection chamber environment. When they are separated, multiple drainage channels are formed through the circumferential grooves on the ring sleeve to connect the pressure relief chamber and the exhaust port, so as to achieve efficient and uniform emission of hydrogen. Attached Figure Description
[0023] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a hydrogen fuel cell with a leakage alarm function according to the present invention.
[0024] Figure 2 This is a partial three-dimensional structural cross-sectional view of a hydrogen fuel cell with a leakage alarm function according to the present invention.
[0025] Figure 3 This is a partial planar cross-sectional view of a hydrogen fuel cell with a leak alarm function according to the present invention.
[0026] Figure 4 This is a partial three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the battery stack and alarm mechanism of a hydrogen fuel cell with leakage alarm function according to the present invention.
[0027] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the hydrogen cylinder of the hydrogen fuel cell of the present invention.
[0028] Figure 6 This is a partial plan sectional view of a hydrogen cylinder, hose, and alarm mechanism for a hydrogen fuel cell with a leakage alarm function according to the present invention.
[0029] Figure 7This is a partial three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the alarm mechanism of a hydrogen fuel cell with leakage alarm function according to the present invention.
[0030] Figure 8 This is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the alarm mechanism of a hydrogen fuel cell with leakage alarm function according to the present invention.
[0031] Figure 9 This is the invention Figure 6 Enlarged diagram of point A.
[0032] Figure 10 This is the invention Figure 6 Enlarged diagram of point B.
[0033] The following are the labels in the diagram: 1. Hydrogen cylinder; 11. Gas outlet valve; 2. Battery stack; 3. Hoses; 4. Alarm mechanism; 41. External fixed chamber; 411. Compression spring; 412. Linear actuator; 4121. Fixed electromagnet; 4122. Movable electromagnet; 413. Exhaust port; 42. Internal movable chamber; 421. First seal; 4211. Pressure ring; 4212. Pressure application part; 422. Second seal; 4221. Conduit; 4222. Tube sleeve; 43. Gas sensor; 5. Bracket; 51. Limiting sleeve; 52. Pressure sensing structure; 521. Pressure sensor; 522. Detection spring; 53. Ring sleeve; 531. Groove. Detailed Implementation
[0034] To further understand the features, technical means, and specific objectives and functions achieved by the present invention, the present invention will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.
[0035] See Figures 1-5 , Figure 9 and Figure 10As shown, a hydrogen fuel cell with a leakage alarm function includes a hydrogen cylinder 1, a battery stack 2, and an alarm mechanism 4. A hose 3 connects the hydrogen cylinder 1 and the battery stack 2. The alarm mechanism 4 is located at the outlet valve 11 where the hydrogen cylinder 1 connects to the hose 3. The alarm mechanism 4 includes an outer fixed chamber 41 and an inner movable chamber 42 slidably disposed therein. A bracket 5 is provided between the hydrogen cylinder 1 and the battery stack 2. The outer fixed chamber 41 is fixedly mounted on the bracket 5, and the inner movable chamber 42 has a portion facing the hydrogen cylinder 1 that tightly abuts against its surface. The first sealing element 421 has a second sealing element 422 arranged around the hose 3 at the other end. A compression spring 411 is provided between the inner movable chamber 42 and the outer fixed chamber 41 to apply an elastic pre-pressure toward the hydrogen cylinder 1 to the inner movable chamber 42. The inner movable chamber 42, together with the first sealing element 421 and the second sealing element 422, forms a leak detection chamber to maintain the airtightness of the inner movable chamber 42. A gas sensor 43 is provided on the inner side of the inner movable chamber 42. The alarm mechanism 4 also includes an alarm that is electrically connected to the gas sensor 43.
[0036] The alarm is not shown in the figure.
[0037] When the hydrogen fuel cell system is in operation, hydrogen is stably supplied between hydrogen cylinder 1 and battery stack 2 via hose 3. However, the outlet valve 11 of hydrogen cylinder 1, which connects the two, is under high pressure and thus becomes a potential high-risk leakage area. To achieve accurate monitoring and rapid response in this area, an alarm mechanism 4 is installed at the outlet valve 11, integrating dynamic sealing and real-time detection functions to form an independent and reliable leakage early warning device.
[0038] When the hydrogen fuel cell system starts operating, hydrogen gas enters the hose 3 from the hydrogen cylinder 1 through the outlet valve 11 and is delivered to the fuel cell stack 2 to participate in the electrochemical reaction. At this time, the alarm mechanism 4 activates. Under the action of the compression spring 411, the inner movable chamber 42 is subjected to continuous elastic pre-pressure, pushing it axially towards the hydrogen cylinder 1. Under this force, the first sealing element 421 at the front end of the inner movable chamber 42 gradually comes into close contact with the surface of the hydrogen cylinder 1 with the outlet valve 11, forming the first dynamic sealing interface. Simultaneously, the second sealing element 422 at the rear end of the inner movable chamber 42 tightly surrounds the outer wall of the hose 3 passing through it, sealing the annular gap between the inner movable chamber 42 and the hose 3, achieving the second dynamic sealing interface.
[0039] With the establishment of two seals, the interior of the inner movable chamber 42 is completely isolated, forming a sealed leak detection chamber enclosed by the first seal 421, the second seal 422, and the inner movable chamber 42. This chamber completely encloses the connection area of the outlet valve 11, isolating it from the external chamber environment. During normal system operation, if there are no leaks at the connection points, the gas composition within the chamber remains stable. If hydrogen gas escapes from the tiny gap in the outlet valve 11 due to vibration, loosening, or aging of the seal, the leaked hydrogen gas will not directly diffuse into the chamber but will be immediately confined within the leak detection chamber and rapidly accumulate.
[0040] Because the gas sensor 43 is located on the inner wall of the inner movable chamber 42 and is directly exposed to the leak detection chamber, it can detect the rise in hydrogen concentration inside the chamber immediately. The gas sensor 43 transmits the collected gas data to the alarm electrically connected to it in real time. When the hydrogen concentration reaches the preset safety threshold, the alarm immediately activates an audible and visual alarm signal, issuing a clear warning to the control system and operators, indicating that a leak has occurred.
[0041] Throughout the process, the compression spring 411 consistently applies an elastic preload towards the hydrogen cylinder 1, ensuring a tight seal between the first seal 421 and the valve port surface. Even under conditions of continuous vibration from ship navigation or minor material deformation due to temperature changes, the sealing interface automatically compensates for displacement, preventing seal failure due to loosening. Simultaneously, the second seal 422's surrounding seal on the hose 3 effectively prevents external humid air, salt spray, and other corrosive gases from re-entering the leak detection chamber, ensuring a clean working environment for the gas sensor 43 and accurate detection results.
[0042] By highly integrating the sealing and detection functions, dual protection is achieved for high-risk connection points, enhancing the detection accuracy of the gas sensor 43 in harsh marine environments and improving detection sensitivity and response speed.
[0043] See Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figures 6-8 As shown, the inner movable chamber 42 has a second sealing element 422 at one end that passes through the outer fixed chamber 41 and extends outward with a conduit 4221 coaxial with the gas outlet 11. The corresponding end of the outer fixed chamber 41 is provided with a sleeve 4222 that slides with the conduit 4221. The outer fixed chamber 41 is provided with a linear actuator 412 for pushing the inner movable chamber 42 to move towards the hydrogen cylinder 1.
[0044] When the system enters the working state, the conduit 4221 extending from the inner movable chamber 42 and the sleeve 4222 at the end of the outer fixed chamber 41 form a sliding fit, thus ensuring that the inner movable chamber 42 remains coaxial and stable during axial movement. As the linear actuator 412 installed on the outer fixed chamber 41 is activated, it generates thrust and acts directly on the inner movable chamber 42, pushing it to move axially towards the hydrogen cylinder 1.
[0045] As the linear actuator 412 continuously applies thrust, the inner movable chamber 42 is guided forward along the sleeve 4222, causing the first seal 421 at its front end to gradually press against the surface of the hydrogen cylinder 1 outlet valve 11, strengthening the sealing interface. This process further increases the sealing pressure on top of the preload provided by the compression spring 411, ensuring reliable sealing performance under high pressure or vibration conditions, and preventing hydrogen leakage or intrusion of external gases.
[0046] See Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figures 6-8 As shown, the first seal 421 and the second seal 422 are both rubber ring structures coaxially arranged with the air outlet 11. The inner side of the bracket 5 and the inner side of the conduit 4221 are respectively provided with ring grooves for the first seal 421 and the second seal 422 to be embedded.
[0047] When the inner movable chamber 42 moves toward the hydrogen cylinder 1 under the action of the compression spring 411 or the linear actuator 412, the first seal 421 and the second seal 422 move synchronously with the inner movable chamber 42.
[0048] Since the first sealing element 421 is a rubber ring structure coaxially arranged with the outlet valve 11 and embedded in the annular groove opened on the inner side of the bracket 5, it undergoes elastic deformation under pressure, tightly fitting the surface of the outlet valve 11 of the hydrogen cylinder 1 to achieve axial sealing. Similarly, since the second sealing element 422 is also a coaxial rubber ring structure and embedded in the annular groove opened on the inner side of the conduit 4221, it tightly clamps the outer wall of the hose 3 during the advancement of the inner movable chamber 42, forming a circumferential seal.
[0049] The two rubber ring structures maintain a stable installation position under the limiting action of their respective ring grooves, and generate radial and axial elastic restoring forces under compression, ensuring that the sealing contact surface remains in contact and effectively blocks the entry or leakage path of gas.
[0050] See Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figures 6-8As shown, a coaxial pressure ring 4211 is provided between the inner movable chamber 42 and the first sealing member 421. One end of the inner movable chamber 42 facing the pressure ring 4211 is provided with a pressure part 4212 that fits against its end face. The bracket 5 is provided with a limiting sleeve 51 for providing initial limiting support for the pressure ring 4211. When the pressure part 4212 pressurizes the pressure ring 4211, the pressure ring 4211 gradually moves away from the limiting sleeve 51 towards the hydrogen cylinder 1.
[0051] When the inner movable chamber 42 moves toward the hydrogen cylinder 1 under the push of the compression spring 411 or the linear actuator 412, the pressure-applying part 4212 at its front end moves forward and contacts the end face of the pressure-applying ring 4211 and applies pressure. The pressure-applying ring 4211 is an annular structure coaxially arranged with the outlet valve port 11. In the initial state, it is axially supported by the limiting sleeve 51 on the bracket 5, maintaining a stable position and generating initial pressure on the hydrogen cylinder 1.
[0052] As the pressure-applying part 4212 continues to apply pressure, the pressure-applying ring 4211 overcomes the constraint of the limiting sleeve 51 under pressure, gradually detaches from the limiting sleeve 51, and moves as a whole towards the hydrogen cylinder 1. During this process, the pressure-applying ring 4211 pushes the first sealing element 421 forward synchronously, making it tightly fit against the surface of the gas outlet valve 11 of the hydrogen cylinder 1, realizing the smooth transmission and gradual loading of the sealing force, ensuring that the sealing element is subjected to uniform force and effectively compressed.
[0053] See Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figures 6-8 As shown, a pressure sensing structure 52 is provided between the pressure ring 4211 and the inner movable chamber 42. The pressure sensing structure 52 is electrically connected to the linear actuator 412. When the pressure sensing structure 52 detects an abnormal pressure on the pressure ring 4211, the linear actuator 412 is in the start state, so that the pressure ring 4211 compensates for the pressure of the first seal 421.
[0054] When the pressure ring 4211 moves towards the hydrogen cylinder 1 under the push of the pressure applying part 4212 and applies pressure to the first seal 421, its stress state is monitored in real time by the pressure sensing structure 52 located between the pressure ring 4211 and the inner movable chamber 42. The pressure sensing structure 52 continuously detects the pressure value borne by the pressure ring 4211. Once the pressure is detected to be lower than or higher than the preset normal range, it is determined to be a pressure abnormality, and then a start signal is sent to the linear actuator 412 electrically connected to it.
[0055] Upon receiving the signal, the linear actuator 412 immediately starts, generating thrust and pushing the inner movable chamber 42 further towards the hydrogen cylinder 1. This causes the pressure applying part 4212 to apply additional pressure to the pressure applying ring 4211, thereby driving the pressure applying ring 4211 to perform pressure compensation on the first seal 421. This ensures that the first seal 421 is always in a stable and effective compressed state, maintaining reliable sealing performance and ensuring that the alarm state is not disturbed.
[0056] See Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figures 6-9 As shown, multiple gas sensors 43 are evenly distributed along the circumference of the inner side of the pressure ring 4211, and the sensing end of each gas sensor 43 extends toward the outlet valve 11.
[0057] When the pressure ring 4211 moves toward the hydrogen cylinder 1 under the push of the pressure part 4212, each gas sensor 43 moves synchronously with the pressure ring 4211 and remains circumferentially distributed.
[0058] Since the sensing end of each gas sensor 43 extends toward the outlet valve 11, as the pressure ring 4211 advances, the sensing end gradually approaches the outlet valve 11 area, ensuring that it can directly face the leakage source after the seal is formed, and capture hydrogen molecules that may escape from the connection part in real time, so as to realize multi-point synchronous and all-round leakage detection and improve the leakage alarm response rate.
[0059] See Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figures 6-8 As shown, a pressure relief chamber is formed between the inner movable chamber 42 and the outer fixed chamber 41, surrounding the leakage detection chamber. The outer fixed chamber 41 is provided with an exhaust port 413 that communicates with the pressure relief chamber and leads to the outside. The pressure applying part 4212 and the pressure applying ring 4211 cooperate to form a drainage channel. When the pressure applying part 4212 and the pressure applying ring 4211 are in contact, the drainage channel is in a closed state; otherwise, the drainage channel is in an open state.
[0060] When the pressure-applying part 4212 and the pressure-applying ring 4211 are tightly fitted together, the mating surface between the two closes the drainage channel, keeping it in a closed state. At this time, the sealing structure at the front end of the inner movable chamber 42 is intact, and the leakage detection chamber remains sealed.
[0061] As the inner movable chamber 42 moves away from the hydrogen cylinder 1 under the drive of the linear actuator 412, an axial gap is generated between the pressure applying part 4212 and the pressure applying ring 4211, and the drainage channel opens accordingly, connecting the leak detection chamber and the pressure relief chamber. It communicates with the outside world through the exhaust port 413 provided on the outer fixed chamber 41. When the drainage channel is open, if hydrogen accumulates in the leak detection chamber, the gas will enter the pressure relief chamber through the drainage channel and be directionally discharged to the external safe area through the exhaust port 413, thus achieving the safe discharge of leaked gas.
[0062] See Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figures 6-8 As shown, the pressure ring 4211 is provided with a ring sleeve 53 coaxially embedded inside the pressure part 4212. The ring sleeve 53 is slidably engaged with the pressure part 4212. Multiple slots 531 are evenly distributed on the ring sleeve 53 along its circumference. When the pressure part 4212 moves away from the pressure ring 4211, each slot 531 gradually forms a passage between the pressure part 4212 and the ring sleeve 53, forming multiple drainage channels distributed along the circumference.
[0063] When the pressure-applying part 4212 moves towards the hydrogen cylinder 1 under pressure, it moves axially along the ring 53 until it comes into contact with the pressure ring 4211. At this point, the slot 531 on the ring 53 is closed, and the drainage channel is in a closed state. During normal hydrogen detection, this closed state effectively blocks the passage between the pressure relief chamber and the leakage detection chamber, preventing external or residual gas in the pressure relief chamber from flowing back into the leakage detection chamber. This avoids interference with the gas environment inside the chamber, thereby ensuring the purity and stability of the detection environment where the gas sensor 43 is located, and ensuring the accuracy and reliability of hydrogen concentration monitoring.
[0064] As the pressure ring 4211 and the pressure application part 4212 separate relative to each other, multiple slots 531 evenly distributed along the circumferential direction on the ring sleeve 53 gradually emerge from the inside of the pressure application part 4212. Each slot 531 forms an independent passage between the pressure application part 4212 and the ring sleeve 53, constituting multiple drainage channels evenly distributed along the circumference. Connecting the leak detection chamber to the external pressure relief chamber allows the accumulated hydrogen gas to be simultaneously discharged in multiple directions, achieving efficient and uniform pressure relief drainage.
[0065] See Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figures 6-8 As shown, the linear actuator 412 includes a fixed electromagnet 4121 and a movable electromagnet 4122 arranged opposite each other along the axial direction. The fixed electromagnet 4121 is fixedly connected to the outer fixed chamber 41, and the movable electromagnet 4122 is fixedly connected to the inner movable chamber 42.
[0066] When the system requires increased sealing pressure, the fixed electromagnet 4121 is energized to generate a magnetic field, forming an axial electromagnetic force with the movable electromagnet 4122. The repulsive force pushes the movable electromagnet 4122 axially toward the hydrogen cylinder 1. This thrust is directly transmitted to the inner movable chamber 42, causing it to move forward as a whole, ensuring that the electromagnetic thrust is effectively converted into linear motion of the inner movable chamber 42, thereby achieving active pressurization of the first sealing element 421.
[0067] When it is necessary to open the drainage channel, the fixed electromagnet 4121 and the movable electromagnet 4122 switch to a mutually attractive state, causing the inner movable chamber 42 to move relative to the stationary pressure ring 4211, thereby opening the drainage channel.
[0068] See Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figures 6-8 As shown, the pressure sensing structure 52 includes a pressure sensor 521 and a detection spring 522. The pressure sensor 521 is fixedly installed on the inner side of the inner movable chamber 42. One end of the detection spring 522 is connected to the pressure sensor 521, and the other end is connected to the pressure ring 4211.
[0069] When the pressure ring 4211 moves under pressure, its pressure is transmitted to the pressure sensor 521 through the detection spring 522. The pressure ring 4211 undergoes compression or rebound deformation as the pressure changes. The pressure sensor 521 monitors the deformation of the detection spring 522 in real time and converts this signal into pressure data.
[0070] When the deformation exceeds the preset range, it indicates that the clamping force of the pressure ring 4211 on the first seal 421 is abnormal. The pressure sensor 521 immediately outputs a signal to trigger the linear actuator 412 to start, driving the inner movable chamber 42 to move further, thereby adjusting the pressure on the pressure ring 4211 and realizing dynamic monitoring and automatic compensation of the sealing pressure.
[0071] The present invention uses a first sealing element 421 and a second sealing element 422 set at both ends of the inner movable chamber 42 to form a double dynamic seal in the axial and circumferential directions with the gas outlet valve 11 of the hydrogen cylinder 1 and the hose 3, respectively. Under the pre-tightening force of the compression spring 411, the first sealing element 421 is deformed by pressure, generating an elastic restoring force to ensure that the sealing surface is continuously in contact, effectively blocking the hydrogen leakage path and preventing external corrosive gases from entering the leakage detection chamber.
[0072] During gas monitoring, the pressure sensing structure 52 transmits the pressure of the pressure ring 4211 to the pressure sensor 521 via the detection spring 522, monitoring the sealing status in real time. Once the pressure is abnormal, the linear actuator 412 is triggered to perform compensation adjustment. The linear actuator 412 pushes the inner movable chamber 42 to slide along the sleeve 4222, ensuring the coaxiality of the axial movement, and further pressurizes the compression spring 411 to improve the sealing reliability and achieve stable pressurization of the first sealing element 421.
[0073] Gas sensors 43 are evenly distributed inside the pressure ring 4211 with their sensing ends facing the outlet valve 11, close to the leakage source, enabling multi-point synchronous and all-round rapid detection. The pressure unit 4212, in conjunction with the pressure ring 4211, controls the opening and closing of the drainage channel. When in contact, the channel is closed to prevent backflow from the pressure relief chamber from interfering with the detection environment. When relatively separated, the circumferential grooves 531 on the ring 53 form multiple drainage channels, connecting the pressure relief chamber and the exhaust port 413, achieving efficient and uniform hydrogen emission and ensuring the safe and stable operation of the system.
[0074] The above embodiments only illustrate one or more implementations of the present invention, and their descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, but they should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the present invention. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of the present invention, and these all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the appended claims.
Claims
1. A hydrogen fuel cell with a leakage alarm function, comprising a hydrogen cylinder, a battery stack and an alarm mechanism, wherein a hose is connected between the hydrogen cylinder and the battery stack, and the alarm mechanism is located at the outlet valve port where the hydrogen cylinder and the hose are connected. Its features are, The alarm mechanism includes an outer fixed compartment and an inner movable compartment that slides within it; A support frame is provided between the hydrogen cylinder and the battery stack, and the external fixing compartment is fixedly mounted on the support frame. The inner active compartment has a first seal that fits tightly against the surface of the hydrogen cylinder at one end, and a second seal that surrounds the hose at the other end. A compression spring is provided between the inner movable chamber and the outer fixed chamber to apply an elastic preload toward the hydrogen cylinder to the inner movable chamber; The inner movable chamber, together with the first and second seals, forms a leak detection chamber to maintain the airtightness of the inner movable chamber; The inner side of the inner active compartment is equipped with a gas sensor, and the alarm mechanism also includes an alarm that is electrically connected to the gas sensor.
2. A hydrogen fuel cell with a leakage alarm function according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner movable chamber has a second sealing element at one end, which extends outward through the outer fixed chamber and is coaxial with the outlet valve. The corresponding end of the outer fixed chamber is provided with a sleeve that slides with the conduit. The outer fixed chamber is provided with a linear actuator for pushing the inner movable chamber to move toward the hydrogen cylinder.
3. A hydrogen fuel cell with a leakage alarm function according to claim 2, characterized in that, Both the first and second sealing elements are rubber ring structures coaxially arranged with the air outlet valve port. The inner side of the bracket and the inner side of the guide tube are respectively provided with ring grooves for the first and second sealing elements to be embedded.
4. A hydrogen fuel cell with a leakage alarm function according to claim 3, characterized in that, A coaxial pressure ring is provided between the inner movable chamber and the first sealing element. The end of the inner movable chamber facing the pressure ring is provided with a pressure part that fits against its end face. A limiting sleeve is provided on the bracket to provide initial limiting support for the pressure ring. When the pressure part applies pressure to the pressure ring, the pressure ring gradually moves away from the limiting sleeve towards the hydrogen cylinder.
5. A hydrogen fuel cell with a leakage alarm function according to claim 4, characterized in that, A pressure sensing structure is provided between the pressure ring and the inner movable chamber. The pressure sensing structure is electrically connected to the linear actuator. When the pressure sensing structure detects an abnormal pressure on the pressure ring, the linear actuator is activated, causing the pressure ring to compensate the pressure of the first seal.
6. A hydrogen fuel cell with a leakage alarm function according to claim 4, characterized in that, Multiple gas sensors are evenly distributed along the circumference of the inner side of the pressure ring, and the sensing end of each gas sensor extends toward the outlet valve.
7. A hydrogen fuel cell with a leakage alarm function according to claim 4, characterized in that, The inner movable chamber and the outer fixed chamber form a pressure relief chamber surrounding the leakage detection chamber. The outer fixed chamber is provided with an exhaust port that communicates with the pressure relief chamber and leads to the outside. The pressure applying part and the pressure applying ring cooperate to form a drainage channel. When the pressure applying part is in contact with the pressure applying ring, the drainage channel is in a closed state; otherwise, the drainage channel is in an open state.
8. A hydrogen fuel cell with a leakage alarm function according to claim 7, characterized in that, The pressure ring is provided with a ring sleeve coaxially embedded inside the pressure part. The ring sleeve slides with the pressure part. Multiple slots are evenly distributed on the ring sleeve along its circumference. When the pressure part moves away from the pressure ring, each slot gradually forms a passage between the pressure part and the ring sleeve, forming multiple drainage channels distributed along the circumference.
9. A hydrogen fuel cell with a leakage alarm function according to claim 2, characterized in that, The linear actuator includes a fixed electromagnet and a movable electromagnet arranged opposite each other along the axial direction. The fixed electromagnet is fixedly connected to the outer fixed chamber, and the movable electromagnet is fixedly connected to the inner movable chamber.
10. A hydrogen fuel cell with a leakage alarm function according to claim 5, characterized in that, The pressure sensing structure includes a pressure sensor and a detection spring. The pressure sensor is fixedly installed inside the inner movable chamber, and one end of the detection spring is connected to the pressure sensor, while the other end is connected to the pressure ring.
Citation Information
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