Cylinder for fuel cell humidifier and fuel cell humidifier

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cartridge for a fuel cell humidifier, and to a fuel cell humidifier, the cartridge comprising: an inner housing having openings at both ends; and a hollow fiber membrane bundle inside the inner housing, in which the inner housing includes: a first variable housing having an inner inlet through which a first gas flows; a second variable housing spaced apart from the first variable housing in a first axial direction and having an inner outlet through which the first gas is discharged; and a center housing to which at least one of the first variable housing and the second variable housing is movably coupled.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a fuel cell humidifier for supplying humidifying gas to a fuel cell. Background Technology

[0002] Fuel cells have the following advantages: as long as hydrogen and oxygen are supplied, fuel cells can generate electricity continuously, and because there is no heat loss, their efficiency is about twice that of internal combustion engines, unlike general chemical batteries such as dry cell batteries or storage batteries.

[0003] Furthermore, since the chemical energy generated through the coupling between hydrogen and oxygen is directly converted into electrical energy, pollutant emissions are reduced. Therefore, fuel cells have the advantages of being environmentally friendly and reducing concerns about resource depletion due to increased energy consumption.

[0004] Based on the type of electrolyte used, these fuel cells can be broadly classified into polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFC), phosphoric acid fuel cells (PAFC), molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFC), solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC), and alkaline fuel cells (AFC).

[0005] These fuel cells operate on essentially the same principle, but differ from one another in the type of fuel used, operating temperature, catalyst, and electrolyte. Among fuel cells, PEMFCs are known to be the most promising not only for small-scale stationary power generation equipment but also for transportation systems because they operate at lower temperatures than other fuel cells and can be miniaturized due to their high output density.

[0006] One of the most important factors in improving the performance of PEMFCs is maintaining a certain level of moisture content by supplying a certain amount of water to the polymer electrolyte membrane (or proton exchange membrane: PEM) of the membrane electrode assembly (MEA). This is because power generation efficiency decreases rapidly when the polymer electrolyte membrane dries out.

[0007] Examples of methods for humidifying polymer electrolyte membranes include: 1) a bubbler humidification scheme for filling a pressure vessel with water and then passing a target gas through a diffuser to supply moisture; 2) a direct injection scheme for calculating the amount of moisture required for fuel cell reaction and supplying moisture directly to the gas flow line via a solenoid valve; and 3) a humidification membrane scheme for supplying moisture to a fluidized gas layer using a polymer separation membrane.

[0008] Among them, a membrane humidification scheme that humidifies the polymer electrolyte membrane by supplying water vapor to the air supplied to the polymer electrolyte membrane through a membrane that selectively allows only water vapor contained in the exhaust gas to pass through is advantageous because it can reduce the weight and size of the humidifier.

[0009] The selective permeation membrane used in membrane humidification schemes is preferably a hollow fiber membrane with a large permeation area per unit volume when formed into a module. That is, when using hollow fiber membranes to manufacture humidifiers, there are the following advantages: high integration of hollow fiber membranes with large contact surface areas is possible, enabling sufficient humidification of fuel cells even with small capacity; low-cost materials can be used; and moisture and heat contained in the exhaust gas emitted from the fuel cell at high temperatures can be recovered and reused by the humidifier.

[0010] Figure 1 This is a schematic exploded perspective view of a typical fuel cell humidifier.

[0011] like Figure 1 As shown, a conventional membrane humidification humidifier 100 includes: a humidification module 110 in which moisture exchange occurs between air supplied from the outside and exhaust gas discharged from a fuel cell stack (not shown); and a cover 120 connected to both ends of the humidification module 110.

[0012] One of the covers 120 transmits externally supplied air to the humidification module 110, while the other cover transmits air humidified by the humidification module 110 to the fuel cell stack.

[0013] The humidification module 110 includes: an intermediate housing 111 having an exhaust gas inlet 111a and an exhaust gas outlet 111b; and a plurality of hollow fiber membranes 112 within the intermediate housing 111. The two ends of the hollow fiber membranes 112 are encapsulated to a fixing layer 113. The fixing layer 113 is typically formed by curing a liquid polymer, such as liquid polyurethane resin, using a casting process. The fixing layer 113 encapsulating the ends of the hollow fiber membranes 112, and a resin layer 114 between the fixing layer 113 and the intermediate housing 111, separate the internal space of the cover 120 from the internal space of the intermediate housing 111. Similar to the fixing layer 113, the resin layer 114 is typically formed by curing a liquid polymer, such as liquid polyurethane resin, using a casting process.

[0014] Externally supplied air flows along the hollow core of the hollow fiber membrane 112. Exhaust gas flowing into the intermediate shell 111 through exhaust gas inlet 111a contacts the outer surface of the hollow fiber membrane 112 and exits from the intermediate shell 111 through exhaust gas outlet 111b. When the exhaust gas contacts the outer surface of the hollow fiber membrane 112, moisture contained in the exhaust gas permeates through the hollow fiber membrane 112, thereby humidifying the air flowing along the hollow core of the hollow fiber membrane 112.

[0015] In recent years, with the increasing use of fuel cells in various locations, there is a growing need for fuel cell humidifiers to possess diverse humidification capabilities. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a fuel cell humidifier that can provide the various humidification capabilities required by fuel cells. Summary of the Invention

[0016] Technical issues The present invention aims to address the above-mentioned needs and to provide a cylinder for a fuel cell humidifier, and a fuel cell humidifier capable of having various humidification capabilities required by a fuel cell.

[0017] Technical solution To achieve the above objectives, the present invention may include the following configuration.

[0018] According to the present invention, a cylinder for a fuel cell humidifier is disposed in a fuel cell humidifier that uses moisture to humidify dry gas to be supplied to a fuel cell stack. The cylinder includes: an inner shell having openings at both ends; and a hollow fiber membrane bundle disposed within the inner shell. The inner shell may include: a first variable shell having an inner inlet for the inflow of a first gas; a second variable shell being disposed separately from the first variable shell in a first axial direction and having an inner outlet for the outflow of the first gas; and a central shell, at least one of the first variable shell and the second variable shell being movably coupled to the central shell.

[0019] The fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention may include: a humidification module for humidifying dry gas to be supplied to a fuel cell stack using moisture; a first cover connected to one end of the humidification module; and a second cover connected to the other end of the humidification module. The humidification module may include an intermediate shell open at both ends and at least one cylindrical body housed within the intermediate shell. The cylindrical body may include an inner shell open at both ends; and a hollow fiber membrane bundle disposed within the inner shell. The inner shell may include: a first variable shell having an inner inlet for the inflow of a first gas; a second variable shell separated from the first variable shell in a first axial direction and having an inner outlet for the outflow of the first gas; and a central shell, at least one of the first variable shell and the second variable shell being movably connected to the central shell.

[0020] Beneficial effects The fuel cell humidifier of the present invention can achieve various humidification capabilities based on the residence time of the gas within the inner casing. Therefore, the present invention improves the versatility of fuel cells, allowing for application in a variety of locations.

[0021] Even when the required humidification performance changes at the application site, the fuel cell humidifier of the present invention can achieve humidification performance corresponding to the required humidification performance at the application site by changing the relative connection position of at least one of the first and second variable shells with the central shell, without the need to develop or manufacture new molds for manufacturing the central shell, the first variable shell, and the second variable shell. That is, the fuel cell humidifier of the present invention can be implemented such that the central shell, the first variable shell, and the second variable shell can be used together in various application sites. Therefore, the fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention can be implemented to reduce manufacturing costs while providing the required humidification performance at the application site. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic exploded perspective view of a typical fuel cell humidifier.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic exploded perspective view of a fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention.

[0024] Figure 3 The fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention is along Figure 2 Schematic anatomical view of line II.

[0025] Figure 4 The fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention is along Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of line II.

[0026] Figure 5 and Figure 6 This is a schematic plan view of the cylinder of the fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention.

[0027] Figures 7 to 9 This is a schematic plan view illustrating the process of adjusting the humidification performance of the cylinder of the fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention.

[0028] Figures 10 to 12 The first limiting portion of the cylinder of the fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention is along the passage Figure 7 The magnified portion A is shown Figure 7 A schematic side sectional view of line II-II.

[0029] Figures 13 to 15 The second limiting portion of the cylinder of the fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention is along the passage Figure 7 The magnified portion B is shown Figure 7 A schematic side sectional view of line II-II. Detailed Implementation

[0030] In the following, embodiments of the fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The cylinder of the fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention may be included in the fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention, and therefore will be described together with it in the description of the fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention. Meanwhile, in Figures 7 to 9 In a diagram, two parallel single-point chains form a broken line. Figures 10 to 15 In the diagram, hollow fiber membrane bundles are briefly shown using dashed shading.

[0031] Reference Figures 2 to 4 The fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention uses moisture to humidify dry gas to be supplied to a fuel cell stack (not shown). The moisture can be gas discharged from the fuel cell stack. The dry gas can be fuel gas or air. The dry gas can be supplied to the fuel cell stack after being humidified by the moisture. The fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention includes a humidification module 2 for humidifying dry gas, a first cover 3 connected to one end of the humidification module 2, and a second cover 4 connected to the other end of the humidification module 2.

[0032] Reference Figures 2 to 4 The humidification module 2 humidifies the dry gas. A first cover 3 can be connected to one end of the humidification module 2. A second cover 4 can be connected to the other end of the humidification module 2. The humidification module 2 can use a first gas and a second gas to supply humidified dry gas to the fuel cell stack. When the first gas is dry gas, the second gas can be wet gas. In this case, the first gas can be supplied to the fuel cell stack after being humidified by the second gas. When the first gas is wet gas, the second gas can be dry gas. In this case, the second gas can be supplied to the fuel cell stack after being humidified by the first gas.

[0033] The humidification module 2 includes an intermediate shell 21 and at least one cylinder 22.

[0034] The cylindrical body 22 is connected to the intermediate housing 21. The cylindrical body 22 can be accommodated in the intermediate housing 21. Both ends of the intermediate housing 21 are open. In this case, a receiving hole 211 can be formed in the intermediate housing 21. The receiving hole 211 can be formed to pass through the intermediate housing 21 in a first axial direction (X-axis direction). At least one cylindrical body 22 can be provided in the receiving hole 211.

[0035] The intermediate housing 21 may include an intermediate body 210. The intermediate body 210 houses a cylindrical body 22. The cylindrical body 22 may be housed within the intermediate body 210 by being disposed inside the intermediate body 210. At least one cylindrical body 22 may be housed within the intermediate body 210. A receiving hole 211 may be formed to pass through the intermediate body 210 in a first axial direction (X-axis direction).

[0036] The intermediate housing 21 may include an intermediate inlet 212 and an intermediate outlet 213. The intermediate inlet 212 allows a first gas to flow into the intermediate body 210. The intermediate outlet 213 allows the first gas to flow out from inside the intermediate body 210. The intermediate outlet 213 and the intermediate inlet 212 may each protrude from the intermediate body 210. The intermediate outlet 213 and the intermediate inlet 212 may be separately disposed from each other in a first axial direction (X-axis direction). Alternatively, the intermediate outlet 213, the intermediate inlet 212, and the intermediate body 210 may be integrally formed.

[0037] A cylindrical body 22 is disposed within an intermediate housing 21. The cylindrical body 22 can be housed within an intermediate main body 210. The cylindrical body 22 includes a hollow fiber membrane bundle 221. The hollow fiber membrane bundle 221 can be connected to the cylindrical body 22 and modularized. Therefore, by connecting the cylindrical body 22 to the intermediate housing 21, the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221 can be installed within the intermediate housing 21. Thus, the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention improves the convenience of installation, separation, and replacement of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221. The hollow fiber membrane bundle 221 may include multiple hollow fiber membranes. Each hollow fiber membrane may include a hollow space for the passage of a second gas.

[0038] The cylindrical body 22 may include an inner shell 222.

[0039] The inner housing 222 has openings at both ends, and a hollow fiber membrane bundle 221 is placed therein. The hollow fiber membrane bundle 221 can be disposed within the inner housing 222 and modularly configured. The hollow fiber membrane bundle 221 may comprise a polymer membrane formed of polysulfone resin, polyethersulfone resin, sulfonated polysulfone resin, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) resin, polyacrylonitrile (PAN) resin, polyimide resin, polyamide resin, polyesterimide resin, or a mixture of two or more thereof.

[0040] The cylindrical body 22 may include a first fixing layer 223. The first fixing layer 223 fixes one end of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221. The first fixing layer 223 may close an opening formed at one end of the inner shell 222. In this case, the first fixing layer 223 may be formed to not obstruct the hollowness of the hollow fiber membrane. The first fixing layer 223 may be formed by curing a liquid resin, such as liquid polyurethane resin, through a casting process. The first fixing layer 223 may have a portion located inside the inner shell 222 and another portion protruding outside the inner shell 222. The first fixing layer 223 can fix one end of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221 to the inner shell 222.

[0041] The cylinder 22 may include a second fixing layer 224. The second fixing layer 224 fixes the other end of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221. The second fixing layer 224 can close the opening formed at the other end of the inner shell 222. In this case, the second fixing layer 224 can be formed to not obstruct the hollowness of the hollow fiber membrane. The second fixing layer 224 can be formed by curing a liquid resin, such as liquid polyurethane resin, through a casting process. The second fixing layer 224 may have a portion located inside the inner shell 222 and another portion protruding outside the inner shell 222. The second fixing layer 224 can fix the other end of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221 and the inner shell 222. Since the second fixing layer 224 and the first fixing layer 223 are formed to not obstruct the hollowness of the hollow fiber membrane, the second gas can be supplied to the hollowness of the hollow fiber membrane without being disturbed by the second fixing layer 224 and the first fixing layer 223, and can flow out from the hollowness of the hollow fiber membrane without being disturbed by the second fixing layer 224 and the first fixing layer 223.

[0042] Reference Figures 2 to 6 The cylinder 22 may include an inner inlet 225 and an inner outlet 226.

[0043] An inner inlet 225 is formed in the inner housing 222. The inner inlet 225 may be formed in a surface of the inner housing 222. This surface of the inner housing 222 may be disposed facing any one of the sidewalls of the intermediate housing 21. The inner inlet 225 allows a first gas to flow into the inner housing 222. The inner inlet 225 may be formed to pass through the inner housing 222. Figure 5 As shown, the inner inlet 225 can be implemented as a through hole passing through the inner housing 222. Figure 6 As shown, the inner inlet 225 can be implemented as multiple through holes passing through the inner housing 222. In this case, the inner inlet 225 may include multiple inflow windows 225a formed to pass through different portions of the inner housing 222. The inflow windows 225a can be configured in a matrix form by being spaced apart from each other in each of the first axial direction (X-axis direction) and the second axial direction (Y-axis direction). The second axial direction (Y-axis direction) and the first axial direction (X-axis direction) are axial directions that are perpendicular to each other.

[0044] An internal outlet 226 is formed in the inner housing 222. The internal outlet 226 may be formed in a surface of the inner housing 222. The internal outlet 226 allows the first gas to flow out from the interior of the inner housing 222. The internal outlet 226 may be formed to pass through the inner housing 222. Figure 5 As shown, the inner outlet 226 can be implemented as a through hole passing through the inner housing 222. Figure 6As shown, the inner outlet 226 can be implemented as multiple through holes passing through the inner housing 222. In this case, the inner outlet 226 may include multiple outflow windows 226a formed through different portions of the inner housing 222. The outflow windows 226a can be configured in a matrix form by being spaced apart from each other in each of the first axial direction (X-axis direction) and the second axial direction (Y-axis direction). The inner outlet 226 and the inner inlet 225 can be located at positions spaced apart from each other in the first axial direction (X-axis direction).

[0045] When the first gas is humid, it can be supplied through intermediate inlet 212 between the inner surface of the intermediate shell 21 and the outer surface of the cylinder 22, and through inner inlet 225 to the interior of the cylinder 22, where it can contact the outer surface of the hollow fiber membrane of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221. During this process, the moisture contained in the first gas can permeate through the hollow fiber membrane of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221, thereby humidifying the second gas flowing along the hollow structure of the hollow fiber membrane of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221. The humidified second gas can flow out from the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221 and then be supplied to the fuel cell stack through the first cover 3 or the second cover 4. After the second gas is humidified, the first gas can flow out through inner outlet 226 between the outer surface of the cylinder 22 and the inner surface of the intermediate shell 21, and can flow to the outside of the intermediate shell 21 through intermediate outlet 213. In this case, the first gas can be exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell stack.

[0046] When the first gas is a dry gas, it can be supplied between the inner surface of the intermediate shell 21 and the outer surface of the cylinder 22 through the intermediate inlet 212, and into the interior of the cylinder 22 through the inner inlet 225, where it can contact the outer surface of the hollow fiber membrane of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221. During this process, moisture from the second gas flowing along the hollow structure of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221 can permeate through the hollow fiber membrane, thereby humidifying the first gas flowing into the cylinder 22. The humidified first gas can flow out between the outer surface of the cylinder 22 and the inner surface of the intermediate shell 21 through the inner outlet 226, and can flow to the outside of the intermediate shell 21 through the intermediate outlet 213, and can then be supplied to the fuel cell stack. After the first gas is humidified, the second gas can flow out from the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221 and can then flow to the outside through the first cover 3 or the second cover 4. In this case, the second gas can be exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell stack.

[0047] The humidification module 2 may include a first seal 23.

[0048] The first seal 23 is hermetically connected to one end of the intermediate housing 21 via mechanical assembly. Therefore, the first seal 23 allows the first cover 3 to be in fluid communication only with the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221. Thus, the first seal 23 prevents direct mixing of the first and second gases. By being disposed between the intermediate housing 21 and the cylinder 22, the first seal 23 can seal between the intermediate housing 21 and the cylinder 22. In this case, the cylinder 22 can be inserted into the first insertion hole 231 formed in the first seal 23. The first seal 23 can contact each of the inner surface of the intermediate housing 21, the outer surface of the cylinder 22, and the first fixing layer 223. Through this contact, the first seal 23 is hermetically connected to one end of the intermediate housing 21. In this case, the first seal 23 can also contact a portion of the inner surface of the intermediate housing 21, a portion of the outer surface of the cylinder 22, and a portion of the first fixing layer 223.

[0049] The humidification module 2 may include a second seal 24.

[0050] The second seal 24 is hermetically connected to the other end of the intermediate housing 21 via mechanical assembly. Therefore, the second seal 24 allows the second cover 4 to be in fluid communication only with the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221. Thus, the second seal 24 prevents direct mixing of the first and second gases. By being disposed between the intermediate housing 21 and the cylinder 22, the second seal 24 can seal between the intermediate housing 21 and the cylinder 22. In this case, the cylinder 22 can be inserted into the second insertion hole 241 formed in the second seal 24. The second seal 24 can contact each of the inner surface of the intermediate housing 21, the outer surface of the cylinder 22, and the second fixing layer 224. Through this contact, the second seal 24 is hermetically connected to the other end of the intermediate housing 21. In this case, the second seal 24 can also contact a portion of the inner surface of the intermediate housing 21, a portion of the outer surface of the cylinder 22, and a portion of the second fixing layer 224.

[0051] Reference Figures 2 to 4 The first cover 3 is connected to one end of the humidification module 2. The space between the first cover 3 and the cylinder 22 can be sealed by the first seal 23 relative to the space between the cylinder 22 and the intermediate shell 21. The first cover 3 may include a first port 31. The first port 31 is used to allow the flow of a second gas. The first port 31 can communicate with the hollow fiber membrane of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221. Therefore, during the flow of the second gas between the first cover 3 and the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221, the second gas can flow in or out through the first port 31.

[0052] Reference Figures 2 to 4The second cover 4 is connected to the other end of the humidification module 2. The second cover 4 can be positioned at a location spaced apart from the first cover 3 in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). The space between the second cover 4 and the cylinder 22 can be sealed relative to the space between the cylinder 22 and the intermediate shell 21 by the second seal 24. The second cover 4 may include a second port 41. The second port 41 is used to allow the flow of a second gas. The second port 41 can communicate with the hollow fiber membrane of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221. Therefore, during the flow of the second gas between the second cover 4 and the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221, the second gas can flow in or out through the second port 41. When the second gas flows in through the second port 41, the second gas can flow out through the first port 31. In this case, the second gas can exchange moisture with the first gas while sequentially passing through the second cover 4, the hollow fiber membrane of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221, and the first cover 3. When the second gas flows out through the second port 41, the second gas can flow in through the first port 31. In this configuration, the second gas can exchange moisture with the first gas while sequentially passing through the hollow of the hollow fiber membrane of the first cover 3, the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221, and the second cover 4. Although not shown, a resin layer can be formed at both ends of the intermediate housing 21 in place of seals 23 and 24. The resin layer can be formed by curing a liquid polymer, such as liquid polyurethane resin, using a casting process.

[0053] Here, the inner shell 222 of the cylinder 22 can be manufactured using a mold. In this case, when the humidification performance required by the application site changes, the dimensions of the inner shell 222 should also change. Therefore, since the mold used to manufacture the inner shell 222 should also be newly developed and manufactured, the manufacturing cost may become too high. In order to enable the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention to have the humidification performance required by the application site while reducing the manufacturing cost, the cylinder 22 of the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention can be implemented as follows.

[0054] Reference Figures 2 to 9 The inner shell 222 may include a central shell 5, a first variable shell 6, and a second variable shell 7.

[0055] The central housing 5 can accommodate the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221. The central housing 5 can be disposed between the first variable housing 6 and the second variable housing 7 in a first axial direction (X-axis direction). In this case, one side of the central housing 5 and the first variable housing 6 can be configured to partially overlap in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). The other side of the central housing 5 and the second variable housing 7 can be configured to partially overlap in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). The hollow fiber membrane bundle 221 can be configured to protrude to both sides of the central housing 5. One side of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221 protruding from one side of the central housing 5 can be accommodated in the first variable housing 6. The other side of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221 protruding from the other side of the central housing 5 can be accommodated in the second variable housing 7.

[0056] An inner inlet 225 may be formed in the first variable housing 6. When the inner inlet 225 includes an inflow window 225a, the inflow window 225a may be formed to pass through different portions of the first variable housing 6. A first gas may flow into the first variable housing 6 through the inner inlet 225.

[0057] An inner outlet 226 may be formed in the second variable housing 7. When the inner outlet 226 includes an outflow window 226a, the outflow window 226a may be formed to pass through different portions of the second variable housing 7. The first gas can flow out from the interior of the second variable housing 7 through the inner outlet 226.

[0058] At least one of the second variable housing 7 and the first variable housing 6 can be movably connected to the central housing 5. Therefore, the spacing between the inner inlet 225 and the inner outlet 226 can be implemented to be variable in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). Thus, the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the invention can be implemented to have various humidification capabilities.

[0059] For example, with Figure 7 Compared to the first embodiment shown where the inner inlet 225 and inner outlet 226 are spaced apart from each other by a first interval distance SD1, in such a way... Figure 8 In the second embodiment, where the inner inlet 225 and inner outlet 226 are spaced apart by a second spacing distance SD2 longer than the first spacing distance SD1, the distance the first gas should travel after flowing into the inner housing 222 through the inner inlet 225 until flowing to the outside of the inner housing 222 through the inner outlet 226 can be increased. Therefore, since the residence time of the first gas inside the inner housing 222 is increased, the humidification performance of the cylinder 22 can be enhanced. Thus, the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the invention can be implemented as suitable for use in fuel cells where high humidification performance is required.

[0060] For example, with Figure 7Compared to the first embodiment shown where the inner inlet 225 and inner outlet 226 are spaced apart from each other by a first interval distance SD1, in such a way... Figure 9 In the third embodiment shown, where the inner inlet 225 and inner outlet 226 are separated by a third interval SD3 shorter than the first interval SD1, the distance the first gas should travel after flowing into the inner housing 222 through the inner inlet 225 until flowing to the outside of the inner housing 222 through the inner outlet 226 can be reduced. Therefore, since the residence time of the first gas within the inner housing 222 is reduced, the humidification performance of the cylinder 22 can be adapted to the humidification performance required for the application site. Therefore, the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the invention can be adapted to have humidification performance suitable for fuel cells used in the application site.

[0061] In this way, within the cylinder 22, the distance between the inner inlet 225 and the inner outlet 226 can be changed by altering the connection position of at least one of the second variable shell 7 and the first variable shell 6 with the central shell 5. Thus, the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the invention can be implemented to have various humidification capabilities depending on the residence time of the first gas. Therefore, the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the invention can have improved versatility, allowing its application in fuel cells used in various applications. Furthermore, even when the required humidification performance changes at the application site, the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the invention can still achieve humidification performance corresponding to the required humidification performance at the application site by changing the relative connection position of at least one of the first variable shell 6 and the second variable shell 7 with the central shell 5, without requiring the development or manufacture of new molds for manufacturing the central shell 5, the first variable shell 6, and the second variable shell 7. That is, the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the invention can be implemented such that the central shell, the first variable shell, and the second variable shell can be used together in various applications. Therefore, the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the invention can be implemented to reduce manufacturing costs while providing the required humidification performance at the application site.

[0062] Simultaneously, when the connection position of at least one of the second variable housing 7 and the first variable housing 6 with the central housing 5 changes, the total length of the inner housing 222 changes in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). In response, the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221 and the intermediate housing 21 can be manufactured to have lengths corresponding to the changing length of the inner housing 222. In this case, after the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221 is manufactured to have a length corresponding to the changing length of the inner housing 222, both ends of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221 can be configured to protrude from the central housing 5. After the first variable housing 6 and the second variable housing 7 are connected to the central housing 5 and the connection position is fixed, one end of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221 can be fixed to the first variable housing 6 by the first fixing layer 223, and the other end of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 221 can be fixed to the second variable housing 7 by the second fixing layer 224.

[0063] The cylinder 22 can be configured such that the humidification performance is determined by the spacing between the inner inlet 225 and the inner outlet 226 in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). In this case, the cylinder 22 can be configured such that the inflow area of ​​the first gas flowing in through the inner inlet 225 and the outflow area of ​​the first gas flowing out through the inner outlet 226 are equal to each other. Therefore, the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention can further improve convenience and accuracy in the task of adjusting the humidification performance according to the spacing between the inner inlet 225 and the inner outlet 226 in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). In this case, when the inner inlet 225 includes a plurality of inner inlets 225a and the inner outlet 226 includes a plurality of inner outlets 226a, the inner inlets 225a and the inner outlets 226a can be configured to have equal areas and can be configured to be equal in number. At the same time, the cylinder 22 can be configured such that the inflow area and the outflow area are different from each other.

[0064] Reference Figures 2 to 12 When the first variable housing 6 is movably connected to one side of the central housing 5, the cylinder 22 may include a first limiting portion 8.

[0065] The first limiting portion 8 restricts the movement of the first variable housing 6. Since the movement of the first variable housing 6 is limited by the first limiting portion 8, the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention can prevent the first variable housing 6 from moving arbitrarily due to external forces such as vibration or shaking. Therefore, since the distance between the inner inlet 225 and the inner outlet 226 can be securely maintained in the adjusted state, the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention can maintain humidification performance suitable for use in the application environment of the fuel cell.

[0066] Reference Figure 10The first limiting portion 8 may include a first limiting protrusion 81 and a plurality of first limiting grooves 82.

[0067] The first limiting protrusion 81 can protrude from the first variable housing 6. At the point where the first variable housing 6 and the central housing 5 overlap, the first limiting protrusion 81 can protrude from the inner surface of the first variable housing 6 facing the central housing 5.

[0068] The first limiting protrusion 81 can restrict the movement of the first variable housing 6 by being inserted into any one of the first limiting slots 82. Therefore, the first limiting portion 8 can prevent the first variable housing 6 from moving arbitrarily due to external forces such as vibration or shaking. The first limiting protrusion 81 can be formed such that the portion protruding more from the first variable housing 6 has a smaller size. For example, the first limiting protrusion 81 can be formed with a circular cross-section where the portion protruding more from the first variable housing 6 has a smaller size. The first limiting protrusion 81 can also be formed with a polygonal cross-section, such as a triangular or trapezoidal cross-section, wherein the portion protruding more from the first variable housing 6 has a smaller size.

[0069] The first limiting groove 82 can be formed in the central housing 5. The first limiting grooves 82 can be spaced apart from each other in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). Therefore, when the first variable housing 6 moves, the first limiting groove 82 into which the first limiting protrusion 81 inserts can change. Each of the first limiting grooves 82 can be formed in a form complementary to the first limiting protrusion 81. The first limiting groove 82 can be formed in the outer surface of the central housing 5. When the central housing 5 is integrally formed as a cuboid shape with openings at both ends in the first axial direction (X-axis direction), the first limiting groove 82 can be formed in at least one of the four side surfaces of the central housing 5. In this case, the first limiting protrusion 81 can be formed on the inner surface of the first variable housing 6, facing the side surface of the central housing 5 in which the first limiting groove 82 is formed.

[0070] Although the above has described an embodiment in which the first limiting protrusion 81 is formed on the first variable housing 6 and the first limiting groove 82 is formed in the central housing 5, however... Figure 11 As shown, the first limiting protrusion 81 can be formed as a plurality of first limiting protrusions 81 on the central housing 5, and at least one first limiting groove 82 can be formed in the first variable housing 6. In this case, the first limiting protrusions 81 can be formed to protrude from the outer surface of the central housing 5. The first limiting protrusions 81 can be arranged separately from each other in a first axial direction (X-axis direction). The first limiting groove 82 can be formed in the inner surface of the first variable housing 6, which faces the central housing 5 at the overlapping portion of the first variable housing 6 and the central housing 5.

[0071] Reference Figure 12The first limiting portion 8 may include a first limiting groove 82, a first limiting hole 83, and a first limiting member 84.

[0072] The first limiting groove 82 can be formed in the central housing 5. The first limiting grooves 82 can be arranged separately from each other in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). The first limiting groove 82 can be formed in the outer surface of the central housing 5.

[0073] A first limiting hole 83 may be formed in the first variable housing 6. The first limiting hole 83 may be formed to pass through the first variable housing 6. The first limiting hole 83 may be formed to pass through the first variable housing 6 at the overlapping portion of the first variable housing 6 and the central housing 5. When the first variable housing 6 moves, the first limiting hole 83 may connect to any one of the first limiting slots 82. In this case, the first limiting slot 82 connected to the first limiting hole 83 may change depending on the position of the first variable housing 6 relative to the central housing 5.

[0074] The first limiting member 84 can be detachably connected to the first variable housing 6 and the central housing 5. When the first limiting hole 83 is connected to either of the first limiting slots 82, the first limiting member 84 can limit the movement of the first variable housing 6 by being inserted into the first variable housing 6 and the central housing 5 through the first limiting hole 83 and the first limiting slot 82 connected to each other. The first limiting member 84 can be inserted into the first variable housing 6 and the central housing 5 by the first limiting hole 83 and the first limiting slot 82 connected to each other in an interference fit manner.

[0075] The first limiting member 84 can be threadedly fastened to the first variable housing 6 and the central housing 5 to restrict the movement of the first variable housing 6. In this case, threads can be formed on the outer surface of the first limiting member 84, which is inserted into the first limiting hole 83 and the first limiting groove 82. Threads corresponding to the threads formed on the outer surface of the first limiting member 84 can be formed on the first limiting groove 82. Threads corresponding to the threads formed on the outer surface of the first limiting member 84 can also be formed on the first limiting hole 83. When either the first limiting hole 83 or the first limiting groove 82 is connected to each other due to the movement of the first variable housing 6, the first limiting member 84 can restrict the movement of the first variable housing 6 by fastening it to the first variable housing 6 and the central housing 5.

[0076] Reference Figures 2 to 15 When the second variable housing 7 is movably connected to one side of the central housing 5, the cylinder 22 may include a second limiting portion 9.

[0077] The second limiting portion 9 restricts the movement of the second variable housing 7. Since the movement of the second variable housing 7 is restricted by the second limiting portion 9, the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention can prevent the second variable housing 7 from moving arbitrarily due to external forces such as vibration or shaking. Therefore, since the distance between the inner inlet 225 and the inner outlet 226 can be securely maintained in the adjusted state, the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention can maintain humidification performance suitable for use in the application environment of the fuel cell.

[0078] Reference Figure 13 The second limiting portion 9 may include a second limiting protrusion 91 and a plurality of second limiting grooves 92.

[0079] The second limiting protrusion 91 can protrude from the second variable housing 7. At the point where the second variable housing 7 and the central housing 5 overlap, the second limiting protrusion 91 can protrude from the inner surface of the second variable housing 7 facing the central housing 5.

[0080] The second limiting protrusion 91 can restrict the movement of the second variable housing 7 by being inserted into either of the second limiting slots 92. Therefore, the second limiting portion 9 can prevent the second variable housing 7 from moving arbitrarily due to external forces such as vibration or shaking. The second limiting protrusion 91 can be formed such that the portion protruding more from the second variable housing 7 has a smaller size. For example, the second limiting protrusion 91 can be formed with a circular cross-section where the portion protruding more from the second variable housing 7 has a smaller size. The second limiting protrusion 91 can also be formed with a polygonal cross-section, such as a triangular or trapezoidal cross-section, wherein the portion protruding more from the second variable housing 7 has a smaller size.

[0081] The second limiting groove 92 can be formed in the central housing 5. The second limiting grooves 92 can be spaced apart from each other in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). Therefore, when the second variable housing 7 moves, the second limiting groove 92 into which the second limiting protrusion 91 inserts can change. Each of the second limiting grooves 92 can be formed in a form complementary to the second limiting protrusion 91. The second limiting groove 92 can be formed in the outer surface of the central housing 5. When the central housing 5 is integrally formed as a cuboid shape with openings at both ends in the first axial direction (X-axis direction), the second limiting groove 92 can be formed in at least one of the four side surfaces of the central housing 5. In this case, the second limiting protrusion 91 can be formed on the inner surface of the second variable housing 7, facing the side surface of the central housing 5 in which the second limiting groove 92 is formed.

[0082] Although the embodiments in which the second limiting protrusion 91 is formed on the second variable housing 7 and the second limiting groove 92 is formed in the central housing 5 have been described above, as Figure 14As shown, the second limiting protrusion 91 can be formed as a plurality of second limiting protrusions 91 on the central housing 5, and at least one second limiting groove 92 can be formed in the second variable housing 7. In this case, the second limiting protrusions 91 can be formed to protrude from the outer surface of the central housing 5. The second limiting protrusions 91 can be arranged separately from each other in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). The second limiting groove 92 can be formed in the inner surface of the second variable housing 7, which faces the central housing 5 at the overlapping portion of the second variable housing 7 and the central housing 5.

[0083] Reference Figure 15 The second limiting portion 9 may include a second limiting groove 92, a second limiting hole 93, and a second limiting member 94.

[0084] The second limiting groove 92 can be formed in the central housing 5. The second limiting grooves 92 can be arranged separately from each other in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). The second limiting groove 92 can be formed in the outer surface of the central housing 5.

[0085] The second limiting hole 93 can be formed in the second variable housing 7. The second limiting hole 93 can be formed to pass through the second variable housing 7. The second limiting hole 93 can be formed to pass through the second variable housing 7 at the overlapping portion of the second variable housing 7 and the central housing 5. When the second variable housing 7 moves, the second limiting hole 93 can connect to any one of the second limiting grooves 92. In this case, the second limiting groove 92 connected to the second limiting hole 93 can change according to the position of the second variable housing 7 relative to the central housing 5.

[0086] The second limiting member 94 can be detachably connected to the second variable housing 7 and the central housing 5. When the second limiting hole 93 is connected to either of the second limiting slots 92, the second limiting member 94 can limit the movement of the second variable housing 7 by being inserted into the second variable housing 7 and the central housing 5 through the second limiting hole 93 and the second limiting slot 92 connected to each other. The second limiting member 94 can be inserted into the second variable housing 7 and the central housing 5 through the second limiting hole 93 and the second limiting slot 92 connected to each other in an interference fit manner.

[0087] The second limiting member 94 can be threadedly fastened to the second variable housing 7 and the central housing 5 to restrict the movement of the second variable housing 7. In this case, the thread can be formed on the outer surface of the second limiting member 94, which is inserted into the second limiting hole 93 and the second limiting groove 92. The thread corresponding to the thread formed on the outer surface of the second limiting member 94 can be formed on the second limiting groove 92. The thread corresponding to the thread formed on the outer surface of the second limiting member 94 can also be formed on the second limiting hole 93. When either the second limiting hole 93 or the second limiting groove 92 is connected to each other due to the movement of the second variable housing 7, the second limiting member 94 can restrict the movement of the second variable housing 7 by fastening it to the second variable housing 7 and the central housing 5.

[0088] The invention described above is not limited to the above embodiments and drawings, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various substitutions, modifications and alterations are possible without departing from the technical concept of the invention.

Claims

1. A cylinder for a fuel cell humidifier, disposed in a fuel cell humidifier that uses moisture to humidify dry gas to be supplied to a fuel cell stack, the cylinder comprising: An inner shell with openings at both ends; and Hollow fiber membrane bundles placed in the inner shell, The inner housing includes: a first variable housing having an inner inlet for the inflow of a first gas; a second variable housing being disposed separately from the first variable housing in a first axial direction and having an inner outlet for the outflow of the first gas; and a central housing having at least one of the first variable housing and the second variable housing movably connected to the central housing.

2. The cylindrical body according to claim 1, wherein, The humidification performance is determined based on the distance between the inner inlet and the inner outlet in the first axial direction.

3. The cylindrical body according to claim 1, further comprising: One end of the hollow fiber membrane bundle is fixed to the first fixing layer of the first variable shell; and The other end of the hollow fiber membrane bundle and the second fixing layer of the second variable shell are fixed. The hollow fiber membrane bundle has two ends configured to protrude from the central shell.

4. The cylindrical body according to claim 1, further comprising a first limiting portion that restricts the movement of the first variable shell. in, The first variable housing is movably connected to one side of the central housing.

5. The cylindrical body according to claim 1, further comprising a second limiting portion that restricts movement of the second variable housing. in, The second variable housing is movably connected to the other side of the central housing.

6. A fuel cell humidifier, comprising: The humidification module uses moisture to humidify the dry gas to be supplied to the fuel cell stack; The first cover is connected to one end of the humidification module; and The second cover is connected to the other end of the humidification module. The humidification module includes a middle shell with openings at both ends and at least one cylindrical body housed within the middle shell. The cylindrical body includes an inner shell with openings at both ends and a hollow fiber membrane bundle placed within the inner shell. The inner housing includes: a first variable housing having an inner inlet for the inflow of a first gas; a second variable housing being disposed separately from the first variable housing in a first axial direction and having an inner outlet for the outflow of the first gas; and a central housing having at least one of the first variable housing and the second variable housing movably connected to the central housing.

7. The fuel cell humidifier according to claim 6, wherein, The humidification performance of the cylinder is determined based on the distance between the inner inlet and the inner outlet in the first axial direction.

8. The fuel cell humidifier according to claim 6, wherein: The cylindrical body further includes a first fixing layer that fixes one end of the hollow fiber membrane bundle and the first variable shell, and a second fixing layer that fixes the other end of the hollow fiber membrane bundle and the second variable shell; and The hollow fiber membrane bundle has two ends configured to protrude from the central shell.

9. The fuel cell humidifier according to claim 6, wherein: The cylindrical body further includes a first limiting portion that restricts the movement of the first variable housing; and The first variable housing is movably connected to one side of the central housing.

10. The fuel cell humidifier according to claim 6, wherein: The cylindrical body further includes a second limiting portion that restricts the movement of the second variable housing; and The second variable housing is movably connected to the other side of the central housing.

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