Fuel cell system and single power generation device

Abstract

The invention provides a fuel cell system capable of reducing the possibility that waste water and exhaust gas are discharged from an exhaust path and splashed to the periphery. A fuel cell system is provided with a fuel cell module and a water discharge unit. The water discharge portion is disposed branched from an exhaust path of the fuel cell module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to fuel cell systems and single power generation devices. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, a cogeneration device using a gas engine system was known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6321484

[0004] In recent years, from a carbon neutrality perspective, combined heat and power (CHP) units using fuel cell systems have been preferred. In fuel cell systems, oxygen-depleted air (hereinafter referred to as exhaust gas) and wastewater are discharged from the fuel cell module as exhaust fluid. If wastewater is discharged to the outside of the system along with exhaust gas from the exhaust path of the exhaust fluid, the wastewater may splash around as the exhaust gas is discharged. A similar problem may occur in single-generation power generation units that only generate electricity without utilizing waste heat. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a fuel cell system and a single power generation device that can reduce the possibility of wastewater and exhaust gas being discharged together from the exhaust path and splashing into the surroundings.

[0006] One aspect of the present invention relates to a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell module. It also includes a drainage section branching from the exhaust path of the aforementioned fuel cell module.

[0007] Other aspects of the present invention relate to a single power generation device that includes the aforementioned fuel cell system.

[0008] According to the present invention, the possibility of wastewater and exhaust gas being discharged together from the exhaust path and splashing into the surrounding area can be reduced. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1A This is a simplified three-dimensional view showing the appearance of a fuel cell system.

[0010] Figure 1B This is a simplified three-dimensional view showing the appearance of a fuel cell system.

[0011] Figure 2 It is a block diagram used to illustrate the outline of the power generation-related structure of a fuel cell system.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing the simplified structure of the cooling system in a fuel cell system.

[0013] Figure 4AThis is a front view showing a simplified view of the internal structure of the casing.

[0014] Figure 4B This is a rear view showing a simplified view of the internal structure of the casing.

[0015] Figure 5 It means to Figure 4A and Figure 4B The diagram shows a simplified structural representation of the cross-section of the shell when cut at position VV.

[0016] Figure 6A This is a front view of the exhaust path.

[0017] Figure 6B It is a 3D diagram of the exhaust path.

[0018] Figure 7 This is a side view showing the internal structure of the muffler.

[0019] Figure 8 It is a three-dimensional diagram showing the internal structure of the muffler.

[0020] Figure 9 It is a schematic front view showing the internal structure of the main body shell, which is located on the rear side of the partition.

[0021] Figure 10 This is a schematic front view representing other structures of the exhaust path of a fuel cell system.

[0022] Figure 11 This is a three-dimensional view of the right side of the casing.

[0023] Figure 12 This is a three-dimensional view of the upper support pillar on the right front side of the shell.

[0024] Figure 13A This is a three-dimensional view of the upper right side of the front of the shell, viewed from the right front.

[0025] Figure 13B This is a 3D view of the front side upper right cover when viewed from the left front.

[0026] Figure 14A This is a perspective view showing one step in the process of installing the upper right front support and the upper right front cover onto the frame that constitutes the housing.

[0027] Figure 14B This is a three-dimensional diagram representing the next step in the above process.

[0028] Figure 14C This is a three-dimensional diagram representing the next step in the above process.

[0029] Figure 14DThis is a three-dimensional diagram representing the next step in the above process.

[0030] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0031] 1...Fuel cell system; 2...Fuel cell module; 31...Exhaust inlet piping; 31a...Exhaust inlet; 32...Muffler; 33...Exhaust piping; 33a...Exhaust outlet; 131...Exhaust outlet; 320...Main casing; 320a...Bottom; 320a1...First end; 320a2...Second end; 324...Drainage section; 324a...Water seal section; 325...Blocking section; 325a1...Opening section; 326...Internal piping; 331...Inclined piping; 332...Connecting piping; ER...Exhaust path; HP...Position; MG...Single generator; S...Drainage path. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the drawings, the same or equivalent parts are labeled with the same reference numerals, and will not be repeated unless specifically required.

[0033] <1. Overview of Fuel Cell Systems>

[0034] Figure 1A and Figure 1B This is a simplified structural perspective view showing the appearance of the fuel cell system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The fuel cell system 1 can be used, for example, in a single power generation unit MG. The single power generation unit MG is a system that generates electricity without utilizing waste heat as in a combined heat and power (CHP) unit. The single power generation unit MG can be composed of a single fuel cell system 1, or it can be a structure that combines multiple fuel cell systems 1. Thus, the single power generation unit MG includes the fuel cell system 1.

[0035] Furthermore, the fuel cell system 1 can also be used in a combined heat and power (CHP) unit. A CHP unit is a CHP system that generates electricity and recovers the waste heat generated during power generation for applications such as hot water supply or heating. Similar to a single power generation unit MG, a CHP unit can be composed of a single fuel cell system 1, or it can be a structure that combines multiple fuel cell systems 1.

[0036] Fuel cell system 1 can, for example, be used as a generator in homes, factories, etc. Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the image, the direction of observation for fuel cell system 1 differs. For example... Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, the fuel cell system 1 includes a housing 10. The housing 10 is cubic in shape. However, the shape of the housing 10 can also be appropriately changed.

[0037] In the following description of the fuel cell system 1, directions are defined as follows. The direction orthogonal to the horizontal ground (not shown) where the housing 10 of the fuel cell system 1 is mounted is defined as the up-down direction, and the side where the housing 10 is mounted relative to the ground is defined as up. Furthermore, the direction of the long side of the rectangular housing 10 (viewed from above) is defined as the left-right direction, and the direction of the short side is defined as the front-back direction. For the two sides arranged in the front-back direction, as follows... Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, one side is designated as the front, and the other side as the back to define the front and back. Figure 1A and Figure 1B The left and right sides are defined based on the front and back as the reference, with the side that will turn from front to back and become left as left, and the side that will become right as right.

[0038] Furthermore, these directions are merely descriptive names and are not intended to define actual positional relationships or directions. Additionally, if we follow the above definition of direction, then... Figure 1A This is a perspective view of the front side of the casing 10 from a slightly upper right angle. Figure 1B This is a perspective view of the rear side of the casing 10 from the upper left.

[0039] The housing 10 houses the fuel cell module 2 (see below). Figure 4A (etc.). The fuel cell system 1 uses the fuel cell module 2 and externally supplied fuel gas and oxidant gas to generate electricity. In this embodiment, hydrogen is used as the fuel gas and air is used as the oxidant gas. However, the fuel gas is not limited to hydrogen; for example, it can be a gas with methane as its main component. In addition, the oxidant gas is not limited to air; any oxygen-containing gas is acceptable.

[0040] [1-1. Structures related to power generation]

[0041] Here, refer to Figure 2 The power generation-related structure of the fuel cell system 1, which includes the fuel cell module 2, will be briefly described. Figure 2 This is a block diagram used to illustrate the general structure related to power generation of the fuel cell system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] like Figure 2 As shown, the fuel cell system 1 includes: a fuel cell module 2, a battery 3, an inverter 4, and a control device 5.

[0043] In detail, the fuel cell module 2 includes: a fuel cell stack 2a, a boost converter 2b, a compressor 2c, and a fuel cell control unit 2d.

[0044] The fuel cell stack 2a consists of multiple stacked individual cells. Each individual cell includes: a solid polymer electrolyte membrane, an anode, a cathode, and a pair of separators. The anode and cathode sandwich the solid polymer electrolyte membrane. The anode is the negative electrode (fuel electrode) and includes an anode catalyst layer and a gas diffusion layer. The cathode is the positive electrode (air electrode) and includes a cathode catalyst layer and a diffusion layer. The anode, solid polymer electrolyte membrane, and cathode constitute a membrane electrode assembly (MEA). A pair of separators sandwich the MEA. Each separator has multiple slots. The slots of one separator form a hydrogen (hydrogen gas) flow path. The slots of the other separator form an air flow path.

[0045] On the anode side, hydrogen is decomposed into hydrogen ions and electrons by a catalyst. Hydrogen ions move towards the cathode through the solid polymer electrolyte membrane. Conversely, electrons move towards the cathode through an external circuit. This generates an electric current. That is, the fuel cell stack 2a generates electricity. On the cathode side, oxygen in the air combines with electrons flowing from the external circuit and hydrogen ions that have passed through the solid polymer electrolyte membrane to generate water. The generated water is contained in the exhaust gas and discharged to the outside of the fuel cell system 1. The electricity generated by the fuel cell stack 2a is boosted by a boost converter 2b and supplied to at least one of the battery 3 and the inverter 4.

[0046] The compressor 2c is provided to draw air from outside the fuel cell system 1 into the fuel cell stack 2a. The air drawn into the fuel cell system 1 by the compressor 2c flows into the fuel cell stack 2a through multiple filters (not shown) installed inside the fuel cell system 1.

[0047] The fuel cell control unit 2d controls various components of the fuel cell module 2. For example, the fuel cell control unit 2d controls the output (power generation) of the fuel cell stack 2a, the drive of the compressor 2c, etc. The fuel cell control unit 2d is communicatively connected to the control device 5. For example, the fuel cell control unit 2d transmits information about the fuel cell module 2 to the control device 5 via communication.

[0048] Battery 3, for example, is composed of a lithium-ion battery and stores the power supplied to inverter 4. Battery 3 can be constructed by modularizing multiple battery cells or by using a single battery cell. Furthermore, battery 3 is configured to receive power generated by fuel cell stack 2a. Battery 3 is charged by supplying power from fuel cell stack 2a to battery 3.

[0049] Battery 3 is controlled by BMU (Battery Management Unit) 3a. BMU 3a controls, for example, the input and output (charging and discharging) of battery 3. Furthermore, BMU 3a calculates the charge rate of battery 3 based on information obtained from various sensors (not shown) installed on battery 3 (e.g., voltage, current, temperature, etc.). The charge rate of battery 3 is also called SOC (State of Charge), which refers to the ratio of the remaining (at this moment) charge capacity to the charge capacity when fully charged.

[0050] BMU3a can be communicatively connected to control device 5. For example, BMU3a can transmit information related to battery 3 (such as the charge rate calculated by BMU3a) obtained by BMU3a to control device 5 via communication.

[0051] The inverter 4 is configured as a substrate (not shown) containing various electrical components (such as diodes, capacitors, power transistors, etc.). The inverter 4 converts the DC voltage power supplied from at least one of the fuel cell stack 2a and the battery 3 into AC voltage power and outputs it to the outside of the fuel cell system 1.

[0052] Inverter 4 is communicatively connected to control device 5. Inverter 4 adjusts its output (output power) based, for example, on output commands from control device 5. Furthermore, inverter 4 transmits information related to its output to control device 5 via communication.

[0053] The control device 5 performs overall control of the fuel cell system 1. The control device 5 appropriately executes control of the various components communicatively connected to itself. The control device 5 is, for example, a computer device comprising a computing unit, an input / output unit, and a storage unit. The computing unit is, for example, a processor or a microprocessor. The storage unit is a main storage device such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory). The storage unit may also include auxiliary storage devices such as HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive).

[0054] In addition, such as Figure 2As shown, to ensure safety related to hydrogen utilization when using fuel cell module 2 for power generation, fuel cell system 1 includes gas detector 6. Gas detector 6 detects leaks of fuel gas, i.e., hydrogen, supplied to fuel cell module 2. Gas detector 6 is communicatively connected to control device 5 and outputs hydrogen detection information within housing 10 to control device 5. Based on the obtained hydrogen detection information, control device 5 executes alarm reporting and system shutdown measures.

[0055] [1-2. Cooling System]

[0056] The fuel cell system 1 includes a cooling system configured for use with the fuel cell module 2 described above. This cooling system will also be briefly described.

[0057] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating a simplified structure of the cooling system 7 included in the fuel cell system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The cooling system 7 includes a first cooling system 71 and a second cooling system 72. The first cooling system 71 is a cooling system for cooling the fuel cell stack 2a included in the fuel cell module 2. The second cooling system 72 is a cooling system for an oil cooler (hereinafter referred to as oil cooler 723) used to cool auxiliary equipment included in the fuel cell module 2.

[0058] (1-2-1. First Cooling System)

[0059] The first cooling system 71 includes: a first refrigerant circulation path 711, a first refrigerant pump 712, a first heat exchanger 713, an ion exchanger 714, a control valve 715, an intake air cooler 716, and a plurality of first temperature sensors TS1. Furthermore, the first refrigerant pump 712, the control valve 715, the intake air cooler 716, and a portion of the first temperature sensors TS1 are included in the fuel cell module 2.

[0060] The first refrigerant circulation path 711 is a flow path for circulating the first refrigerant. In this embodiment, cooling water is used as the first refrigerant, but it is not limited to this. For example, cooling oil or cooling gas can be used as the first refrigerant.

[0061] The first refrigerant circulation path 711 is connected to the fuel cell stack 2a, the first refrigerant pump 712, the first heat exchanger 713, the ion exchanger 714, the control valve 715, and the intake cooler 716. More specifically, the fuel cell stack 2a, the first refrigerant pump 712, and the first heat exchanger 713 are connected in series. The ion exchanger 714 is connected in parallel with the first heat exchanger 713. Specifically, the first refrigerant circulation path 711 is provided with a first bypass flow path 711a, which connects the flow path between the first heat exchanger 713 and the first refrigerant pump 712, and the flow path between the fuel cell stack 2a and the first heat exchanger 713. The ion exchanger 714 is connected in parallel with the first bypass flow path 711a. A control valve 715 is provided at the connection between the flow path between the fuel cell stack 2a and the first heat exchanger 713 and the first bypass flow path 711a.

[0062] The intake air cooler 716 is connected in parallel with the fuel cell stack 2a. Specifically, a second bypass flow path 711b is provided in the first refrigerant circulation path 711. This second bypass flow path 711b connects the flow path between the first refrigerant pump 712 and the fuel cell stack 2a, and the flow path between the fuel cell stack 2a and the first heat exchanger 713 (specifically, control valve 715). The intake air cooler 716 is connected in series with this second bypass flow path 711b.

[0063] The first temperature sensor TS1 is disposed in the flow path between the first refrigerant pump 712 and the fuel cell stack 2a, and in the flow path between the fuel cell stack 2a and the control valve 715. In addition, the first temperature sensor TS1 is disposed in the flow path between the control valve 715 and the first heat exchanger 713, and in the flow path between the first heat exchanger 713 and the first refrigerant pump 712. The first temperature sensor TS1 detects the temperature of the first refrigerant circulating in the first refrigerant circulation path 711. Furthermore, the number and configuration of the first temperature sensors TS1 can be appropriately changed.

[0064] The first refrigerant pump 712 is an electric pump, and is controlled by the control device 5 (see reference). Figure 2 The first refrigerant is powered by electricity. When the first refrigerant pump 712 is activated, the first refrigerant circulates within the first refrigerant circulation path 711. More specifically, the first refrigerant discharged from the first refrigerant pump 712 flows into the fuel cell stack 2a and the intake air cooler 716, respectively. The first refrigerant flowing into the fuel cell stack 2a flows inside the fuel cell stack 2a. Specifically, the first refrigerant flowing into the fuel cell stack 2a passes through the multiple individual cells constituting the fuel cell stack 2a. As a result, the fuel cell stack 2a is cooled.

[0065] The intake air cooler 716 cools the air (intake air) supplied to the fuel cell stack 2a by the compressor 2c. Specifically, air drawn from outside the fuel cell system 1 by the compressor 2c reaches the intake air cooler 716. The air reaching the intake air cooler 716 exchanges heat with the first refrigerant flowing inside the intake air cooler 716, thereby being cooled.

[0066] The first refrigerant discharged from the fuel cell stack 2a and the intake cooler 716 flows into the control valve 715. The control valve 715 is, for example, a three-way valve. The control valve 715 controls the flow direction and flow rate of the first refrigerant flowing into it based on its opening degree. For example, when the control valve 715 is 100% open, all the first refrigerant flowing into it is supplied to the first heat exchanger 713. When the control valve 715 is 50% open, half of the first refrigerant flowing into it is supplied to the first heat exchanger 713 and half to the first bypass path 711a (ion exchanger 714). When the control valve 715 is 0% open, all the first refrigerant flowing into it is supplied to the first bypass path 711a (ion exchanger 714).

[0067] The first heat exchanger 713 cools the first refrigerant by exchanging heat between the air (wind) arriving at the first heat exchanger 713 and the first refrigerant flowing inside the first heat exchanger 713. In this embodiment, the first heat exchanger 713 is a so-called radiator. The airflow to the first heat exchanger 713 is provided by a first radiator fan 713a. The first radiator fan 713a is an electric fan and is driven by electricity supplied from the control device 5.

[0068] Furthermore, a first storage tank 713b is connected to the first heat exchanger 713. The first storage tank 713b is connected not only to the first heat exchanger 713 but also to the first refrigerant circulation path 711. More specifically, the first storage tank 713b and the first heat exchanger 713 are connected via a flow path to the first refrigerant pump 712. Additionally, the first storage tank 713b and the fuel cell stack 2a are connected via a flow path to the control valve 715. The first storage tank 713b is, for example, a sealed (pressurized) storage tank, through which the first refrigerant in the first refrigerant circulation path 711 circulates.

[0069] The ion exchanger 714 is configured to include an ion exchange filter and the like. When the first refrigerant flows inside the ion exchanger 714, impurity ions are removed from the first refrigerant. These impurity ions dissolve into the first refrigerant, for example, from the piping that constitutes the first refrigerant circulation path 711. If the number of impurity ions dissolved into the first refrigerant increases, the conductivity of the first refrigerant increases; if the number of impurity ions decreases, the conductivity of the first refrigerant decreases. By removing impurity ions from the first refrigerant, the ion exchanger 714 can reduce the conductivity of the first refrigerant.

[0070] (1-2-2. Second Cooling System)

[0071] The second cooling system 72 includes: a second refrigerant circulation path 721, a second refrigerant pump 722, an oil cooler (oil chiller) 723, a second heat exchanger 724, and a plurality of second temperature sensors TS2. Furthermore, the oil cooler 723 and a portion of the second temperature sensors TS2 are included in the fuel cell module 2.

[0072] The second refrigerant circulation path 721 is a flow path for circulating the second refrigerant. In this embodiment, cooling water is used as the second refrigerant, but it is not limited to this. For example, cooling oil or cooling gas can be used as the second refrigerant.

[0073] The second refrigerant circulation path 721 is connected to the second refrigerant pump 722, the oil cooler 723, and the second heat exchanger 724. More specifically, the second refrigerant pump 722, the oil cooler 723, and the second heat exchanger 724 are connected in series.

[0074] The second temperature sensor TS2 is disposed in the flow path between the second heat exchanger 724 and the oil cooler 723, and in the flow path between the oil cooler 723 and the second refrigerant pump 722. The second temperature sensor TS2 detects the temperature of the second refrigerant circulating in the second refrigerant circulation path 721.

[0075] The second refrigerant pump 722 is an electric pump and is driven by electricity supplied from the control device 5. When the second refrigerant pump 722 is driven, the second refrigerant circulates within the second refrigerant circulation path 721. More specifically, the second refrigerant discharged from the second refrigerant pump 722 flows into the oil cooler 723 via the second heat exchanger 724.

[0076] The oil cooler 723 cools the cooling oil used to cool the compressor 2c (particularly the motor section of the compressor 2c) and other components included in the fuel cell module 2. Specifically, the cooling oil flowing in the compressor 2c and other components flows into the oil cooler 723. The cooling oil flowing into the oil cooler 723 exchanges heat with a second refrigerant flowing inside the oil cooler 723 (separate from the cooling oil) and is thus cooled.

[0077] The second heat exchanger 724 cools the second refrigerant by exchanging heat between the air (wind) arriving at the second heat exchanger 724 and the second refrigerant flowing inside the second heat exchanger 724. The second heat exchanger 724 is a so-called radiator. The air supply to the second heat exchanger 724 is provided by a second radiator fan 724a. The second radiator fan 724a is an electric fan and is driven by electricity supplied from the control device 5.

[0078] Furthermore, a second storage tank 724b is connected to the second heat exchanger 724. The second storage tank 724b is, for example, an open-type storage tank, and stores a second refrigerant. If the second refrigerant circulating in the second refrigerant circulation path 721 is insufficient, the second refrigerant is replenished from the second storage tank 724b.

[0079] [1-3. Overview of the shell structure]

[0080] Next, a summary of the structure of the housing 10 of the fuel cell system 1 will be described.

[0081] like Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, the housing 10 has a lower frame 11. The lower frame 11 is a rectangular frame with the left-right direction as its long side, forming the base portion of the housing 10. Furthermore, although not shown in the figure, multiple reinforcing frames extending in the front-rear direction and bridging the front and rear of the lower frame 11 are mounted on the lower frame 11. The multiple reinforcing frames are spaced apart in the left-right direction.

[0082] The housing 10 has four pillars 12. The four pillars 12 include: a left front pillar 12a, a right front pillar 12b, a left rear pillar 12c, and a right rear pillar 12d. Each pillar 12 extends vertically, specifically, from any one of the four corners of the lower frame 11 upwards. The upper surface cover 13, which constitutes the upper surface portion of the housing 10, is supported by the four pillars 12.

[0083] The housing 10 has a pair of front doors 14 that are rectangular in shape when viewed from the front. The pair of front doors 14 are positioned centrally in the left-right direction on the front side of the housing 10 and are symmetrically arranged with respect to the vertically extending front side partition frame 15. Of the pair of front doors 14, the left end of the left front door 14a, located on the left side, is rotatably mounted to the left front support pillar 12a. The left front door 14a is in a closed state covering the interior of the housing 10 (equivalent to...). Figure 1A(As shown in the diagram), its right end is pulled forward, thereby rotating around the rotation center on the left end side, thus opening the interior of the open housing 10. Of the pair of front doors 14, the right end of the right front door 14b, located on the right side, is rotatably mounted to the right front support 12b. For the right front door 14b, from the closed state (equivalent to...) Figure 1A (As shown in the diagram) Pull its left end forward, thereby rotating it around the rotation center on the right end side, thus opening it.

[0084] In addition to the pair of front doors 14, the front side of the housing 10 is also provided with a pair of front side upper covers 16 disposed above the pair of front doors 14 and a front side lower cover 17 disposed below the pair of front doors 14.

[0085] Each of the pair of front side covers 16 is rectangular in frontal view. The pair of front side covers 16 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the front side partition frame 15. Of the pair of front side covers 16, the left-side upper front side cover 16a has a rectangular front opening 161 at its lower right. Of the pair of front side covers 16, the right-side upper front side cover 16b has a rectangular front opening 161 at its lower left. To prevent the intrusion of foreign objects, a ventilated hood 162, consisting of a grid-like frame, is installed at each front opening 161.

[0086] The lower front side cover 17 is located on the lower side of the front door 14 and is supported by the lower frame 11. When viewed from the front, the lower front side cover 17 is a rectangular plate extending slenderly in the left-right direction. Multiple slits 171 (see below) are provided on the lower front side cover 17, extending through the front-rear direction and extending vertically. Figure 4A Multiple slits 171 are arranged at intervals in the left-right direction.

[0087] The housing 10 has a pair of rear doors 18 that are rectangular in shape when viewed from the rear. The pair of rear doors 18 are positioned centrally in the left-right direction on the rear side of the housing 10 and are symmetrically arranged with respect to the vertically extending rear side partition frame 19. Of the pair of rear doors 18, the left end of the left rear door 18a, located on the left side, is rotatably mounted to the left rear support column 12c. The left rear door 18a is in a closed state covering the interior of the housing 10 (equivalent to...). Figure 1B (As shown in the diagram), its right end is pulled rearward, thereby rotating around the rotation center on the left end side, thus opening the interior of the open housing 10. Of the pair of rear doors 18, the right rear door 18b, located on the right side, has its right end rotatably mounted to the right rear support 12d. For the right rear door 18b, from the closed state (equivalent to...) Figure 1B(As shown in the diagram) Pull its left end forward, thereby rotating it around the rotation center on the right end side, thus turning it into the open state.

[0088] In addition to the pair of rear doors 18, the housing 10 has a pair of upper rear side covers 20 disposed above the pair of rear doors 18 and a lower rear side cover 21 disposed below the pair of rear doors 18.

[0089] Each of the pair of rear side covers 20 is rectangular in rear view. The pair of rear side covers 20 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the rear side partition frame 19. Of the pair of rear side covers 20, the left rear side upper cover 20a, located on the left, has a rectangular rear opening 201 at its lower right. Of the pair of rear side covers 20, the right rear side upper cover 20b, located on the right, has a rectangular rear opening 201 at its lower left. To prevent the intrusion of foreign objects, a ventilated hood 202, consisting of a grid-like frame, is installed at each rear opening 201.

[0090] The lower rear side cover 21 is located on the lower side of the rear door 18 and is supported by the lower frame 11. When viewed from the rear, the lower rear side cover 21 is a long, narrow rectangle extending in the left-right direction. Multiple slits 211 (described later) are provided on the lower rear side cover 21, extending through the front-rear direction and vertically. Figure 4B Multiple slits 211 are arranged at intervals in the left-right direction.

[0091] In addition, the housing 10 also has a left face shield 22 disposed on the left side and a right face shield 23 disposed on the right side. The left face shield 22 is supported by a left front support 12a and a left rear support 12c. The right face shield 23 is supported by a right front support 12b and a right rear support 12d. Furthermore, as Figure 1B As shown, the left side mask 22 has multiple left side openings 221 that extend through the left and right directions and forward and backward. The multiple left side openings 221 are arranged at intervals in the vertical direction.

[0092] Figure 4A This is a front view showing a simplified view of the internal structure of the housing 10. Figure 4B This is a rear view showing a simplified view of the internal structure of the housing 10. Figure 4A and Figure 4B From Figure 1A and Figure 1B The diagram shows the housing 10 with the following components removed: a pair of front doors 14, a front side partition frame 15, a pair of front side covers 16, a pair of rear doors 18, a rear side partition frame 19, and a pair of rear side covers 20. Figure 5 It means to Figure 4A A simplified structural diagram of the cross-section of the housing 10 when cut at position VV.

[0093] like Figure 4A , Figure 4B ,as well as Figure 5 As shown, the housing 10 includes a fuel cell chamber R1, an electrical installation chamber R2, and a radiator chamber R3. The fuel cell chamber R1 and the electrical installation chamber R2 are arranged in a left-right direction. Specifically, the fuel cell chamber R1 is located on the left side of the housing 10, and the electrical installation chamber R2 is located on the right side of the housing 10. The electrical installation chamber R2 is separated from the fuel cell chamber R1. Specifically, the fuel cell chamber R1 and the electrical installation chamber R2 are separated by a first partition wall PW1 located between them in the left-right direction. The radiator chamber R3 is arranged above the fuel cell chamber R1 and the electrical installation chamber R2 arranged in the left-right direction. That is, the housing 10 has a radiator chamber R3 above the fuel cell chamber R1 and the electrical installation chamber R2. The radiator chamber R3 is separated from the fuel cell chamber R1 and the electrical installation chamber R2.

[0094] The fuel cell chamber R1 is a rectangular parallelepiped space. The fuel cell chamber R1 consists of a first bottom wall FW1, a first top wall CW1, a first partition wall PW1, and a left side shield 22 (see reference). Figure 1B ), left front door 14a in closed state (refer to) Figure 1A ) and left rear door 18a (refer to) Figure 1B The space enclosed by the first bottom wall FW1 forms the bottom surface of the fuel cell chamber R1. The first top wall CW1 forms the top surface of the fuel cell chamber R1.

[0095] A fuel cell module 2 is disposed in the fuel cell chamber R1. The fuel cell module 2 is supported by the first bottom wall FW1. In addition, a hydrogen supply system, an air supply system, and an exhaust system (more specifically, a part of the exhaust system) are disposed in the fuel cell chamber R1.

[0096] The hydrogen supply system includes a hydrogen supply piping 25 and a shut-off valve 26. The hydrogen supply piping 25 forms a connection from the hydrogen adapter 27 (see reference 26). Figure 4B (etc.) to fuel cell stack 2a (refer to) Figure 2 The hydrogen supply path is as follows. Furthermore, the hydrogen adapter 27 protrudes forward relative to the rear side cover 21 and connects to an external hydrogen supply pipe (not shown) disposed outside the housing 10. A shut-off valve 26 is located midway along the hydrogen supply path, capable of cutting off the external hydrogen supply. Additionally, the hydrogen adapter 27 can also be installed from the left side cover 22U (see reference). Figure 1B It protrudes to the left. The left lower face shield 22U is a side shield disposed below the left face shield 22.

[0097] The air supply system includes: air supply piping 28, an air purifier 29, and an air filter 30. Air supply piping 28 extends from the left-side opening 221 of the left-side mask 22 to the compressor 2c (see reference). Figure 2 The air supply path is as follows: The air purifier 29 and the air filter 30 are located in the middle of the air supply path to purify the air drawn in from the outside of the housing 10.

[0098] The exhaust system is configured from fuel cell stack 2a (refer to...) Figure 2 ) to the exhaust outlet 131 located on the upper surface cover 13 (refer to Figure 1A The exhaust gas path (etc.) is the exhaust gas path. Hereinafter, the exhaust system (exhaust gas path) described above will also be referred to as the exhaust path ER. The exhaust path ER is equipped with an exhaust inlet pipe 31 and a muffler 32, etc. In addition, details about the exhaust path ER will be described later. The exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell stack 2a is discharged from the exhaust gas outlet 131 through the exhaust path ER.

[0099] In addition, structural elements of the aforementioned first cooling system 71 and second cooling system 72 are configured in the fuel cell compartment R1. Furthermore, as... Figure 4B As shown, the aforementioned gas detector 6 is disposed in the upper part of the fuel cell chamber R1, near the first top wall CW1. More specifically, the gas detector 6 is disposed above the location where the hydrogen supply pipe 25 is installed. By placing the gas detector 6 in such a location, leaks of hydrogen gas, which is lightweight and easily rises, can be detected quickly. Therefore, when a hydrogen leak occurs, an emergency shutdown of the system can be performed rapidly.

[0100] Electrical installation room R2 is a rectangular space. Electrical installation room R2 consists of a second bottom wall FW2, a second top wall CW2, a first partition wall PW1, and a right-side panel 23 (see reference). Figure 1A ), the right front door 14b in the closed state (refer to) Figure 1A ) and right rear door 18b (refer to) Figure 1B The space enclosed by the electrical installation room R2. Furthermore, the second bottom wall FW2 forms the bottom surface of the electrical installation room R2. The second top wall CW2 forms the top surface of the electrical installation room R2.

[0101] Multiple electrical devices are arranged in the electrical installation compartment R2. These devices include, for example, a battery 3 and an inverter 4 electrically connected to the fuel cell module 2. Furthermore, the battery 3 is arranged within the electrical installation compartment R2 in a battery casing 3C. Specifically, there are multiple batteries 3 housed in the battery casing 3C. Additionally, the inverter 4 is arranged within the electrical installation compartment R2 in an inverter casing 4C. Moreover, multiple electrical devices are centrally arranged in the electrical installation compartment R2, and multiple other electrical components of the battery 3 and inverter 4 are also arranged there. For example, in the electrical installation compartment R2, a control device 5 (see reference...) Figure 2 It is configured to be housed in the controller housing 5C. Additionally, relays, circuit breakers, converters, etc., are housed in the electrical installation compartment R2.

[0102] The radiator chamber R3 is a cuboid space extending in the left-right direction. The radiator chamber R3 is disposed between the first top wall CW1 and the second top wall CW2 and the upper surface cover 13. In other words, the housing 10 has the radiator chamber R3 on the upper side of the first top wall CW1 constituting the fuel cell chamber R1. Additionally, the housing 10 has the radiator chamber R3 on the upper side of the second top wall CW2 constituting the electrical installation chamber R2.

[0103] The radiator chamber R3 houses the radiators used for cooling the fuel cell module 2. In this embodiment, the radiators are the first heat exchanger 713 and the second heat exchanger 724 described above. Specifically, two first heat exchangers 713 are arranged in the radiator chamber R3. The two first heat exchangers 713 are arranged in a left-right direction. In this embodiment, the two first heat exchangers 713 are arranged in parallel in the first cooling system 71, but they can also be arranged in series. On the other hand, there is only one second heat exchanger 724 arranged in the radiator chamber R3. The second heat exchanger 724 is located below one of the two left-right arranged first heat exchangers 713. Specifically, the second heat exchanger 724 is located below the left-hand first heat exchanger 713. Furthermore, the number and arrangement of the first heat exchangers 713 and the second heat exchanger 724 can be appropriately changed.

[0104] At least a portion of the structural elements of the first cooling system 71 and the second cooling system 72 described above, which are not located in the fuel cell compartment R1, are arranged in the radiator compartment R3. In addition to the first heat exchanger 713 and the second heat exchanger 724, the radiator compartment R3 also includes, for example, the first radiator fan 713a and the second radiator fan 724a described above. The first radiator fan 713a is located above the first heat exchanger 713 located on the right side. The second radiator fan 724a is located above the first heat exchanger 713 located on the left side. Due to this structure, the second radiator fan 724a is configured to supply air to the second heat exchanger 724, but more specifically, it is also used to supply air to the first heat exchanger 713 located on the left side.

[0105] Furthermore, on the upper surface cover 13 disposed above the first radiator fan 713a and the second radiator fan 724a, a fan opening 132 is provided at a position opposite to each radiator fan 713a and 724a in the vertical direction (see reference). Figure 1A (etc.). In addition, for the purpose of preventing the intrusion of foreign objects, each fan opening 132 is equipped with a ventilation hood 133, which is constructed using a radial frame and has ventilation capabilities.

[0106] A top wall opening (not shown) is formed on the first top wall CW1 of the fuel cell chamber R1, and a fuel cell chamber ventilation fan (not shown) is disposed in the top wall opening. By driving the fuel cell chamber ventilation fan, air from outside the housing 10 enters the fuel cell chamber R1 through a plurality of slits 171 at the lower part of the housing 10, and flows from the lower side to the upper side inside the fuel cell chamber R1. Then, the air enters the left duct chamber R4L, which is located adjacent to the left side of the radiator chamber R3, through the fuel cell chamber ventilation fan. The air entering the left duct chamber R4L rises in the left duct chamber R4L and passes through the left opening 134 on the upper surface of the upper surface cover 13 (see reference). Figure 1A (etc.) are discharged to the outside of the casing 10. The airflow described above is used to exchange the air in the fuel cell chamber R1.

[0107] An inverter ventilation fan 43a (see reference) is installed in the electrical installation room R2. Figure 5An inverter ventilation fan 43a is disposed at an opening on the lower surface of the inverter housing 4C. By driving the inverter ventilation fan 43a, air from outside the housing 10 enters the inverter housing 4C through a plurality of slits 171 at the lower part of the housing 10, and flows from the lower side to the upper side inside the inverter housing 4C. Then, after merging with the air discharged from the battery housing 3C (described later), the air enters the right duct chamber R4R, which is located adjacent to the right side of the radiator chamber R3. The air entering the right duct chamber R4R rises within the right duct chamber R4R and passes through the right opening 135 on the upper surface of the upper surface cover 13 (see reference). Figure 1A (etc.) is discharged to the outside of the housing 10. Through the above-mentioned air flow, the inverter housing 4C is ventilated and the inverter 4 is cooled (air-cooled).

[0108] A battery-operated ventilation fan 43b is also installed in the electrical installation room R2 (see reference). Figure 4A The battery ventilation fan 43b is disposed in the opening on the downstream side of the battery 3 in the battery casing 3C. In this embodiment, eight battery ventilation fans 43b are provided, but the number is not particularly limited. In addition, other ventilation fans may be disposed in the electrical installation chamber R2 as needed.

[0109] By driving the battery ventilation fan 43b, air from outside the housing 10 enters the battery casing 3C through multiple slits 171 and 211 at the bottom of the housing 10, and flows from rear to front inside the battery casing 3C. Then, this air merges with air discharged from the inverter housing 4C, enters the right duct chamber R4R, and is discharged to the outside of the housing 10 through the right opening 135 on the upper surface. This airflow ventilates the battery casing 3C and cools the battery 3 (air cooling).

[0110] <2. Details regarding the exhaust path>

[0111] Next, the details of the exhaust path ER described above will be explained. Figure 6A This is the front view of the exhaust path ER. Figure 6B This is a three-dimensional view of the exhaust path ER. The exhaust path ER, which is connected to the fuel cell module 2, is equipped with an exhaust inlet pipe 31, a muffler 32, and an exhaust pipe 33.

[0112] The exhaust inlet pipe 31 is a pipe that guides the exhaust fluid discharged from the fuel cell module 2 into the interior of the muffler 32. Here, the exhaust fluid includes low-oxygen-concentration air (exhaust gas) after oxygen consumption in the fuel cell stack 2a of the fuel cell module 2. In addition, the exhaust fluid also includes water produced by the reaction of oxygen and hydrogen in the fuel cell stack 2a. The exhaust inlet pipe 31 can be a single pipe or multiple pipes connected by flanges.

[0113] The muffler 32 is a silencer used to suppress exhaust noise. The muffler 32 has a main body housing 320. The main body housing 320 is configured to have a cylindrical portion 321, a front wall portion 322, and a rear wall portion 323, which are cylindrical pipes. The cylindrical portion 321 is arranged with its central axis along the front-rear direction. The front wall portion 322 is located on one side (front side) of the cylindrical portion 321 in the front-rear direction and is connected to the cylindrical portion 321. The rear wall portion 323 is located on the other side (rear side) of the cylindrical portion 321 in the rear-rear direction and is connected to the cylindrical portion 321. Thus, the interior of the muffler 32 is formed as a closed space. Furthermore, the configuration of the muffler 32 with the central axis of the cylindrical portion 321 along the front-rear direction is an example and is not limited to this configuration. Details of the internal structure of the muffler 32 will be described later.

[0114] The exhaust inlet pipe 31 described above is provided through the cylindrical portion 321 of the main body housing 320. Alternatively, the exhaust inlet pipe 31 may also be provided through the front wall portion 322. In addition, instead of passing through the cylindrical portion 321, the exhaust inlet pipe 31 may also be connected to the opening provided in the cylindrical portion 321 by welding or the like.

[0115] The discharge pipe 33 is provided through the rear wall portion 323 of the main body housing 320. Alternatively, the discharge pipe 33 may be provided through the cylindrical portion 321 of the main body housing 320. In addition, instead of passing through the rear wall portion 323, the discharge pipe 33 may also be connected to the opening provided in the rear wall portion 323 by welding or the like.

[0116] The exhaust pipe 33 has the aforementioned exhaust gas outlet 131. The exhaust gas outlet 131 is located at the end of the exhaust pipe 33 opposite to the connection side relative to the main housing 320. Thus, the fuel cell system 1 of this embodiment includes an exhaust pipe 33 connected to the main housing 320.

[0117] The discharge piping 33 includes an inclined piping 331 and a connecting piping 332. The inclined piping 331 extends obliquely upward from the main housing 320. More specifically, as... Figure 7As shown, the inclined conduit 331 is formed in a curved shape, extending obliquely upward from the rear wall portion 323 of the main housing 320 and then changing direction to extend upward. The connecting conduit 332 is connected to the upper end of the inclined conduit 331 and extends upward. The inclined conduit 331 and the connecting conduit 332 are connected via a flange. Alternatively, the discharge conduit 33 may be composed of a single conduit that integrates the aforementioned inclined conduit 331 and the connecting conduit 332.

[0118] In the above structure, the exhaust fluid from the fuel cell module 2, guided to the interior of the muffler 32 via the exhaust inlet pipe 31, contains exhaust gas that passes sequentially through the inclined pipe 331 and the connecting pipe 332 of the discharge pipe 33, and flows from the exhaust outlet 131 to the housing 10 (refer to...). Figure 1A The exhaust gas is discharged above the fuel cell module 2 (etc.). Based on the above, it can be said that the muffler 32 is positioned midway along the exhaust path ER from the fuel cell module 2 toward the exhaust outlet 131.

[0119] The muffler 32 described above is provided with a drain pipe 324. Specifically, the drain pipe 324 is connected to the bottom 320a of the main body housing 320 of the muffler 32. Thus, the interior of the main body housing 320 is in communication with the drain pipe 324. Furthermore, the bottom 320a refers to the part located at the lowest point of the main body housing 320, but it does not need to be the lowest point in the strict sense; it can also be a position offset to the left or right from the lowest point.

[0120] The moisture contained in the exhaust fluid guided into the interior of the muffler 32 accumulates at the bottom 320a of the main housing 320 due to gravity, and flows along the bottom 320a toward the drain pipe 324. Then, the aforementioned moisture is discharged from the drain pipe 324 to the outside of the housing 10. Hereinafter, the moisture contained in the exhaust fluid will also be referred to as wastewater. For example, such as... Figure 4B As shown, the outlet side portion of the drain pipe 324 extends rearward from the left end of the rear side cover 21. Therefore, wastewater is discharged from the drain pipe 324 to the rear of the housing 10.

[0121] As in this embodiment, the drain pipe 324 is connected to the main housing 320 of the muffler 32, thereby enabling the muffler 32 with the drain pipe 324 to function as a drain section DP for discharging wastewater contained in the exhaust fluid. Therefore, it can be said that the muffler 32 constitutes a drain section DP. In other words, it can be said that the muffler 32 has a drain section DP. Furthermore, as described above, the muffler 32 is positioned midway through the exhaust path ER, therefore it can be said that the muffler 32 with the drain pipe 324 (drain section DP) is configured to branch off from the exhaust path ER.

[0122] Thus, the fuel cell system 1 of this embodiment includes a drainage section DP configured to branch off from the exhaust path ER of the fuel cell module 2. This allows water (wastewater) contained in the exhaust fluid discharged from the fuel cell module 2 to be discharged from the drainage section DP (particularly the drain pipe 324), while allowing low-oxygen-concentration exhaust gas to be directly discharged to the outside of the housing 10 via the exhaust path ER. This separation of wastewater and exhaust gas reduces the possibility of wastewater and exhaust gas splashing together as they are discharged from the exhaust path ER.

[0123] In this embodiment, a muffler 32 is disposed midway along the exhaust path ER. As a result, the exhaust sound (the sound generated when the exhaust fluid flows) of the exhaust fluid discharged from the fuel cell module 2 is absorbed by the muffler 32, and the exhaust sound is reduced.

[0124] In particular, in this embodiment, the muffler 32 has a drainage section DP, and the muffler 32 serves both as a wastewater drainage unit and a noise reduction unit for the exhaust fluid. Therefore, for example, compared to a structure where a demister or other gas-liquid separation structure is separately installed in the exhaust path ER, independent of the muffler 32, it is not necessary to ensure a long exhaust path ER, thus avoiding the complexity of the exhaust path ER. Therefore, with the structure of the muffler 32 having a drainage section DP, it is easy to compactly install a drainage section DP (muffler 32) with both noise reduction and drainage functions within the limited space of the fuel cell system 1 (within the housing 10).

[0125] In this embodiment, the main body housing 320 (particularly the cylindrical portion 321) of the muffler 32 (drainage section DP) is constructed from a pipe (expanded diameter portion) with an outer diameter larger than that of the exhaust inlet pipe 31 that guides the exhaust fluid to the main body housing 320. More specifically, as Figure 6A As shown, the diameter W1 (mm) of the main body shell 320 is larger than the diameter W2 (mm) of the exhaust inlet pipe 31.

[0126] In this structure, it is easy to make the flow path diameter of the exhaust fluid inside the muffler 32 (corresponding to the inner diameter of the main body housing 320) larger than the flow path diameter of the exhaust fluid inside the exhaust inlet pipe 31 (corresponding to the inner diameter of the exhaust inlet pipe 31). The increased flow path diameter through the muffler 32 facilitates a reduction in the flow velocity of the exhaust fluid flowing through the exhaust inlet pipe 31 into the muffler 32 (main body housing 320) within the main body housing 320. Thus, exhaust noise is reliably reduced by the muffler 32.

[0127] The drain pipe 324 is connected to the bottom 320a of the main body casing 320. This allows water accumulated in the bottom 320a of the main body casing 320 to be easily discharged downwards and outwards through the drain pipe 324.

[0128] The discharge pipe 33 includes an inclined pipe 331, so that even if wastewater and exhaust gas enter the interior of the discharge pipe 33 from the main housing 320 side, the wastewater will fall obliquely downwards, that is, to the main housing 320 side, due to gravity. Furthermore, even if the wastewater enters the interior of the discharge pipe 33 in a gaseous state (that is, in the state of water vapor), the water vapor will eventually condense inside the discharge pipe 33 and fall obliquely downwards as water droplets. Therefore, the possibility of wastewater and its water vapor rising within the discharge pipe 33 and being discharged to the outside of the housing 10 together with the exhaust gas is more effectively reduced.

[0129] Furthermore, the discharge pipe 33 includes a connecting pipe 332, which allows low-oxygen-concentration exhaust gas to be discharged upwards from the housing 10 via the connecting pipe 332. This reduces the likelihood of negative health effects from low-oxygen-concentration exhaust gas even when people are around (to the side) the housing 10, thus improving safety.

[0130] Gravity (a downward force) acts on the water contained in the exhaust fluid discharged from the fuel cell module 2. From the viewpoint of easily guiding the exhaust fluid from the fuel cell module 2 to the muffler 32 without resisting gravity and discharging the wastewater contained in the exhaust fluid from the drain pipe 324, as... Figure 6A As shown, the muffler 32, that is, the drainage section DP, is preferably positioned below the fuel cell module 2.

[0131] <3. About the internal structure of the muffler>

[0132] [3-1. Regarding exhaust inlet and exhaust outlet]

[0133] Figure 7 This is a side view showing the internal structure of the muffler 32. Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the muffler 32. Furthermore, in Figure 7 and Figure 8 For convenience, the cylindrical portion 321 of the main body housing 320 of the muffler 32 is shown with an imaginary line (double-dotted line).

[0134] The main body housing 320 of the muffler 32 is provided with an exhaust inlet 31a and an exhaust outlet 33a. The exhaust inlet 31a serves as the inlet for exhaust fluid discharged from the fuel cell module 2 into the main body housing 320. In this embodiment, the exhaust inlet pipe 31 is configured to pass through the cylindrical portion 321 of the main body housing 320. Therefore, one end of the exhaust inlet pipe 31 located inside the main body housing 320 constitutes the exhaust inlet 31a. Furthermore, the aforementioned end (exhaust inlet 31a) is also the end of the exhaust inlet pipe 31 opposite to the connection side relative to the fuel cell module 2.

[0135] Exhaust outlet 33a is the portion of the exhaust gas contained in the exhaust fluid that exits from the main body housing 320. In this embodiment, the exhaust pipe 33 is disposed through the rear wall portion 323 of the main body housing 320. Therefore, one end of the exhaust pipe 33 located inside the main body housing 320 constitutes exhaust outlet 33a. Furthermore, the aforementioned end (exhaust outlet 33a) is also the end on the side opposite to the exhaust gas outlet 131 in the exhaust pipe 33. Figure 7 As shown, in the front-to-back direction, the exhaust outlet 33a is located further back than the exhaust inlet 31a.

[0136] Wastewater flows into the exhaust fluid inside the main body housing 320 through the exhaust inlet 31a, and exhaust gas is discharged from the drain pipe 324 and the exhaust gas is discharged from the exhaust outlet 33a. In this way, by providing the drain pipe 324, the exhaust inlet 31a and the exhaust outlet 33a respectively in the main body housing 320, the silencer 32 can reliably achieve the separation and discharge of wastewater and exhaust gas.

[0137] [3-2. Regarding the inclined configuration of the partition wall and internal piping, and the main body shell]

[0138] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the muffler 32 also includes a partition wall 325 and an internal piping 326. The partition wall 325 is a partition wall that divides the interior of the main body housing 320 (particularly the cylindrical portion 321) into an exhaust inlet 31a side and an exhaust outlet 33a side. The partition wall 325 is positioned slightly rearward from the center of the cylindrical portion 321 in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, the longitudinal position of the partition wall 325 can be appropriately set. Through the partition wall 325, the interior of the main body housing 320 is divided into multiple sections, namely a first section P1 on the exhaust inlet 31a side and a second section P2 on the exhaust outlet 33a side. In addition, the aforementioned drain pipe 324 is connected to the bottom 320a of the main body housing 320 at the second end 320a2 side, which is located rearward from the partition wall 325.

[0139] The partition wall portion 325 has a disc portion 325a and a rim portion 325b. The disc portion 325a extends radially in a direction perpendicular to the central axis (front-to-back direction) of the cylindrical portion 321. The rim portion 325b is connected to the outer periphery of the disc portion 325a and extends forward. The rim portion 325b is fixed to the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 321 by welding or the like. Thus, the partition wall portion 325 is fixed to the main body housing 320.

[0140] An opening 325a1 is provided in the disc portion 325a (see reference). Figure 8The opening 325a1 is formed by a cut that cuts through a portion of the outer periphery of the disc portion 325a, and the cut portion is closed by the bottom 320a of the main body shell 320. That is, the partition wall portion 325 has an opening 325a1 at its lower part. Alternatively, the opening 325a1 may also be a hole that is completely closed around the circumference.

[0141] The internal piping 326 is provided to pass through the partition wall portion 325 (particularly the disc portion 325a) in the front-to-back direction. The internal piping 326 connects the interior of the main body housing 320 on the exhaust inlet 31a side and the exhaust outlet 33a side. The internal piping 326 is configured to be perpendicular to the partition wall portion 325, but it can also be configured to be inclined relative to the partition wall portion 325. That is, the internal piping 326 can also be configured to pass through the partition wall portion 325 at an angle.

[0142] like Figure 7 As shown, the bottom 320a of the main body housing 320 has a first end 320a1 and a second end 320a2. The first end 320a1 is located on the exhaust inlet 31a side of the bottom 320a relative to the partition wall portion 325. The second end 320a2 is located on the exhaust outlet 33a side of the bottom 320a relative to the partition wall portion 325. The main body housing 320 is configured such that the bottom 320a is inclined θ (°) relative to the horizontal plane. As a result, the second end 320a2 is located below the first end 320a1. Furthermore, the aforementioned inclination angle θ is, for example, 1°, but it can also be an angle other than 1°. In addition, the inclination angle θ can also be zero. That is, the main body housing 320 can also be horizontally configured.

[0143] By providing a partition wall 325 and an internal pipe 326 inside the main body shell 320, the exhaust gas in the exhaust fluid flowing into the main body shell 320 (in the first partition P1) from the exhaust inlet 31a directly enters the second partition P2 through the internal pipe 326, or after colliding with the partition wall 325, it enters the second partition P2 through the internal pipe 326 and is discharged to the outside through the exhaust outlet 33a.

[0144] On the other hand, the wastewater contained in the exhaust fluid falls directly to the bottom 320a of the main body casing 320 due to gravity and accumulates there, or falls to the bottom 320a after colliding with the partition 325 along with the exhaust gas. The water accumulated at the bottom 320a flows along the bottom 320a to the second end 320a2 side through the opening 325a1 and is discharged through the drain pipe 324.

[0145] Thus, from the viewpoint of being able to capture (collect) the wastewater contained in the exhaust fluid (especially wastewater that does not fall directly to the bottom 320a) and concentrate it at the bottom 320a while simultaneously discharging the exhaust gas contained in the exhaust fluid to the outside of the main housing 320, it is preferable to provide a structure in the muffler 32 with a partition wall 325 and an internal piping 326. Furthermore, the interior of the main housing 320 is divided into multiple sections (e.g., a first section P1 and a second section P2) by the partition wall 325. In this structure, the exhaust fluid (especially exhaust gas) enters the second section P2 from the first section P1 via the internal piping 326, thereby causing the exhaust fluid to expand and depressurize. As a result, exhaust noise is reliably reduced by the muffler 32.

[0146] In a structure in which a partition wall 325 is provided in the main body shell 320, from the viewpoint that wastewater concentrated at the bottom 320a of the main body shell 320 can flow along the bottom 320a and be guided to the drain pipe 324, it is preferable to provide an opening 325a1 as a channel for the aforementioned wastewater at the lower part of the partition wall 325.

[0147] In the structure where the main body casing 320 is arranged at an angle as described above, the wastewater retained at the bottom 320a inside the main body casing 320 is concentrated on the side of the second end 320a2 (the exhaust outlet 33a side). This allows for efficient discharge of wastewater from the drain pipe 324. Furthermore, wastewater retention is reduced over a large area at the bottom 320a of the main body casing 320. Therefore, the possibility of wastewater remaining inside the main body casing 320 for an extended period without being discharged is also reduced.

[0148] From the viewpoint that the wastewater concentrated on the second end 320a2 side of the bottom 320a can be quickly discharged from the drain pipe 324 through the inclined configuration of the main body shell 320, the drain pipe 324 is preferably configured as in this embodiment. That is, the drain pipe 324 is preferably connected to the bottom 320a of the main body shell 320 on the side closer to the second end 320a2 than the partition wall portion 325.

[0149] In this embodiment, a structure is adopted in which only one partition 325 is provided inside the main body shell 320, but it is not limited to this structure. For example, multiple partitions 325 may be provided inside the main body shell 320, dividing the interior of the main body shell 20 into three or more partitions. In this case, multiple internal pipes 326 passing through the partitions 325 may also be provided inside the main body shell 320 corresponding to each partition 325.

[0150] [3-3. Regarding the height and position of the exhaust outlet]

[0151] In this embodiment, the exhaust outlet 33a is positioned at the following height within the main body casing 320. That is, as shown... Figure 7As shown, the exhaust outlet 33a is located in the main body housing 320 at a position HP higher than the retention height h1 of the wastewater separated from the exhaust path ER.

[0152] Here, the wastewater retention height h1 in the main casing 320 is the wastewater retention height based on the second end 320a2 of the bottom 320a of the main casing 320. The retention height h1 is determined by the tilt angle θ of the main casing 320 and the position of the drain pipe 324 connected to the bottom 320a in the front-rear direction. Furthermore, the position HP of the exhaust outlet 33a refers to the position of the lower end of the exhaust outlet 33a. The position HP of the exhaust outlet 33a can be arbitrarily set considering the wastewater retention height h1.

[0153] Within the main casing 320, by positioning the exhaust outlet 33a at a height HP higher than the wastewater retention height h1, the wastewater retained at the bottom 320a of the main casing 320 is less likely to be transported to the exhaust outlet 33a due to the flow of exhaust gas flowing towards the exhaust outlet 33a within the main casing 320 (it is less likely to be swirled up at the exhaust outlet 33a). This further reduces the possibility of wastewater retained at the bottom 320a splashing outwards from the casing 10 along with the exhaust gas through the discharge pipe 33.

[0154] [3-4. Regarding the water seal structure of the drainage section]

[0155] like Figure 7 As shown, the drainage section DP has a water seal section 324a in a portion of the drainage path S (drainage pipe 324). The drainage path S is configured, for example, to connect a first drainage pipe S1, a second drainage pipe S2, a third drainage pipe S3, and a fourth drainage pipe S4. The first drainage pipe S1 is a pipe extending downward from the bottom 320a of the main body housing 320. The second drainage pipe S2 is a pipe extending rearward from the downstream end (lower end) of the first drainage pipe S1. The third drainage pipe S3 is a pipe extending upward from the downstream end (rear end) of the second drainage pipe S2. The fourth drainage pipe S4 is a pipe extending rearward from the downstream end (upper end) of the third drainage pipe S3. The outlet side portion of the fourth drainage pipe S4 corresponds to... Figure 4B The outlet side portion of the drain pipe 324 shown.

[0156] The third drain pipe S3 is shorter than the first drain pipe S1. Therefore, with the position of the second drain pipe S2 as a reference, the height of the fourth drain pipe S4, which is connected to the third drain pipe S3, is lower than the upper end of the first drain pipe S1 (the connection with the bottom 320a).

[0157] Wastewater flowing in drain pipe 324 flows sequentially through first drain pipe S1, second drain pipe S2, third drain pipe S3, and fourth drain pipe S4, and flows towards housing 10 (refer to...). Figure 4BWastewater is discharged externally (e.g., from the outside). At this time, since the height of the fourth drain pipe S4 is lower than the upper end of the first drain pipe S1, wastewater is discharged through the fourth drain pipe S4 in an amount exceeding the height of the third drain pipe S3. Then, wastewater not exceeding the height of the third drain pipe S3 is stored as seal water in the first drain pipe S1, the second drain pipe S2, and the third drain pipe S3. Therefore, the first drain pipe S1, the second drain pipe S2, and the third drain pipe S3 constitute a water seal section 324a for storing wastewater separated from the exhaust path ER. Figure 7 In the middle, in drain pipe 324, the part where wastewater accumulates is indicated by shading.

[0158] The exhaust fluid discharged from fuel cell module 2 contains waste gas that has consumed oxygen, resulting in a low oxygen concentration. Therefore, if the waste gas mixes with wastewater and is discharged to the side (e.g., rear) of housing 10, it could potentially affect people if they are near housing 10. Thus, from a safety perspective, it is preferable to prevent waste gas from mixing with the wastewater discharged to the side of housing 10. The drain section DP (particularly drain pipe 324) has a water seal 324a, whereby the wastewater (sealing water) accumulated in the water seal 324a prevents waste gas from entering the drain pipe 324 from the main housing 320. This reduces the likelihood of waste gas mixing with wastewater and being discharged from drain pipe 324.

[0159] [3-5. Regarding the positional relationship between the exhaust outlet and internal piping (maze structure)]

[0160] Figure 9 It is a schematic representation of... Figure 7 and Figure 8 This is a front view of the internal structure of the main body housing 320 on the rear side of the partition 325. As shown in the figure, in the main body housing 320 of the muffler 32, when viewed from the central axis direction (e.g., the front-rear direction) of the internal piping 326, the exhaust outlet 33a is located outside the internal piping 326. That is, when viewed from the central axis direction of the internal piping 326, the exhaust outlet 33a is located at a position offset radially from the internal piping 326. This positional relationship between the exhaust outlet 33a and the internal piping 326 is also called a labyrinth structure (offset structure).

[0161] Thus, within the main housing 320, when the exhaust outlet 33a and the internal piping 326 are offset radially in the internal piping 326, even if the exhaust fluid introduced into the main housing 320 contains waste gas and wastewater (or water vapor) through the internal piping 326, since there is no exhaust outlet 33a at the destination (the extension line of the internal piping 326), the exhaust fluid will collide with the wall surface of the main housing 320 (here, the rear wall portion 323). As a result, the wastewater or water vapor contained in the exhaust fluid is captured (collected) by the rear wall portion 323. Furthermore, the wastewater or water vapor is separated from the waste gas. Therefore, the possibility of wastewater or water vapor being discharged from the exhaust outlet 33a to the outside of the housing 10 along with the waste gas and splashing into the surroundings is further reduced.

[0162] [3-6. Other structures of fuel cell systems]

[0163] The above explains the configuration of muffler 32 in the exhaust path ER (refer to...). Figure 6A The structure (etc.) can also be used to construct a fuel cell system 1 without a muffler 32.

[0164] Figure 10 This is a schematic front view illustrating other structures of the exhaust path ER of the fuel cell system 1. As shown in the figure, the exhaust pipe 33 can also be directly connected to the exhaust inlet pipe 31 to form the exhaust path ER, and a drain pipe 324 can be configured from a branch of this exhaust path ER. The drain pipe 324 can be, for example, a pipe (e.g., a tee pipe configured at a branch) that protrudes downward from the middle of the exhaust path ER. In such a structure, the drain pipe 324 constitutes a separate drain section DP configured from the branch of the exhaust path ER of the fuel cell module 2.

[0165] Even if Figure 10 The structure, the exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell module 2 and the exhaust fluid flowing in the exhaust path ER also flows upward through the exhaust pipe 33 and towards the housing 10 (see reference). Figure 4A The wastewater contained in the exhaust fluid is discharged externally. On the other hand, the wastewater in the exhaust fluid is subjected to a downward force due to gravity, and therefore flows downward in the drain pipe 324 that constitutes the drainage section DP and is discharged. Therefore, it is possible to separate the wastewater and exhaust gas and discharge them separately. As a result, the possibility of wastewater and exhaust gas being discharged together from the exhaust path ER and splashing into the surroundings is reduced.

[0166] <4. Regarding the installation structure of the cover>

[0167] Figure 1A and Figure 1BThe support column 12, front side cover 16, and rear side cover 20 shown are installed using both bolt fastening and embedding. This achieves both bolt concealment and easy installation. A detailed explanation follows.

[0168] Furthermore, as described above, the left front support 12a and right front support 12b are symmetrical in the left-right direction, as are the front upper left cover 16a and front upper right cover 16b. Similarly, the left rear support 12c and right rear support 12d are symmetrical in the left-right direction, as are the rear upper left cover 20a and rear upper right cover 20b. Moreover, the left front support 12a and right front support 12b, the left rear support 12c and right rear support 12d are symmetrical in the front-rear direction. Additionally, the front upper left cover 16a and front upper right cover 16b, the rear upper left cover 20a and rear upper right cover 20b are symmetrical in the front-rear direction. Therefore, the installation method of the right front support 12b and the front upper right cover 16b will be described below as an example. Regarding the other components, the installation method is the opposite of that for the right front support 12b and the upper right cover 16b on the front side, considering both the front-rear and left-right directions, so that the same installation can be achieved.

[0169] [4-1. Structure of each cover]

[0170] First, the right-side mask 23, which has the support column 12 embedded in it (see reference). Figure 1A (This will be explained.) Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the right side cover 23U of the housing 10. Furthermore, the right side cover 23U is the upper cover when the right side cover 23 is divided vertically. The right side cover 23U includes: a right side cover body 23U1, a front folded portion 23U2, an upper folded portion 23U3, a lower folded portion 23U4, and a rear folded portion (not shown).

[0171] The right-side cover body 23U1 is a flat plate that extends in both the front-rear and vertical directions. The front folded portion 23U2 is formed by bending the front end of the right-side cover body 23U1 to the left. In the front folded portion 23U2, two first through holes 23U2a are formed at intervals in the vertical direction, extending through in the front-rear direction. Furthermore, the number of first through holes 23U2a is not limited to two; it can be one or more. The rear folded portion is formed symmetrically to the front folded portion 23U2 in the front-rear direction.

[0172] The upper folded portion 23U3 is formed by bending the upper end of the right side cover body 23U1 to the left. In the upper folded portion 23U3, bolt insertion holes 23U3a are formed at multiple locations in the front-back direction and extend through the vertical direction.

[0173] The lower folded portion 23U4 is formed by bending the lower end of the right side cover body 23U1 to the left and further bending the left end downward. In the lower folded portion 23U4, bolt insertion holes 23U4a are formed at multiple locations in the front-back direction, extending through the left-right direction.

[0174] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of the upper right front support 12bU of the housing 10. Furthermore, the upper right front support 12bU is a view of the upper right front support 12b (see reference). Figure 1A The upper support (cover) when divided in the vertical direction. The right front upper support 12bU has a right front upper support body 12b1 and a buckling portion 12b2.

[0175] The right front upper support body 12b1 is composed of a curved surface cover with a central angle of 90° when viewed from above. That is, the right front upper support body 12b1 extends from the left front end to the right, and changes direction rearward along the arc with a central angle of 90°. At the right rear end of the right front upper support body 12b1, two rearwardly protruding protrusions 12b3 are formed at intervals in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the number of protrusions 12b3a is not limited to two; it can be one or more. However, the position of the protrusions 12b3 corresponds to the position of the first through hole 23U2a of the right side surface cover 23U.

[0176] The buckling portion 12b2 is formed by extending rearward from the left front end of the right front upper support body 12b1 and further bending the rear end to the left. In the buckling portion 12b2, two second through holes 12b2a are formed at intervals in the vertical direction, extending through in the horizontal direction. Furthermore, the number of second through holes 12b2a is not limited to two; it can be one or more. Also, in the buckling portion 12b2, bolt insertion holes 12b2b are formed at multiple locations in the vertical direction, extending through in the front-rear direction.

[0177] Figure 13A This is a perspective view of the upper right cover 16b on the front side of the shell 10, viewed from the right front. Figure 13B This is a perspective view of the upper right cover 16b on the front side as seen from the left front. As shown in the figure above, the upper right cover 16b on the front side has: a main body 16b1, an upper curved portion 16b2, and a lower protrusion 16b3.

[0178] The upper right cover body 16b1 on the front side is a flat plate that extends in both the left-right and up-down directions. The aforementioned front opening 161 is formed on the lower left side of the upper right cover body 16b1. At the right end of the upper right cover body 16b1, two first protrusions 16b1a are formed at intervals in the up-down direction, protruding to the right. Furthermore, the number of first protrusions 16b1a is not limited to two; it can be one or more. However, the position of the first protrusions 16b1a corresponds to the position of the second through hole 12b2a of the upper right front support 12bU.

[0179] Additionally, on the left end of the upper right side of the front cover body 16b1, two rearwardly protruding second protrusions 16b1b are formed at intervals in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the number of second protrusions 16b1b is not limited to two; it can be one or more. However, the position of the second protrusions 16b1b is consistent with that of the upper frame 15U on the front side (see reference). Figure 14B The position of the fixing hole 15Ua corresponds to that of the front side partition upper frame 15. Furthermore, the front side partition upper frame 15U is the front side partition frame 15 (refer to...) Figure 1A The upper frame when divided in the vertical direction.

[0180] The upper bend 16b2 is formed in a shape that extends rearward from the upper end of the upper right cover body 16b1 on the front side, bends downward, and then extends further rearward. In the upper bend 16b2, there are multiple holes (not shown) for bolt insertion that extend through the vertical direction in multiple locations in the left-right direction.

[0181] The lower protrusion 16b3 extends rearward and further downward from the lower end of the upper right side cover body 16b1 on the front side. In the lower protrusion 16b3, multiple bolt-fixing cutouts 16b3a are formed at various locations in the left-right direction (see reference). Figure 13A ).

[0182] [4-2. Installation method of each cover]

[0183] Figure 14A~Figure 14B This is a perspective view schematically illustrating the steps of installing the upper right front support 12bU and the upper right front cover 16b onto the frame F constituting the housing 10. Furthermore, the frame F, in addition to... Figure 4A In addition to the frame supporting (fixing) the upper surface cover 13 shown, it also includes a frame supporting the first top wall CW1 and the second top wall CW2.

[0184] First, such as Figure 14AAs shown, the right side cover 23U is fixed to the frame F using bolts. For example, align the hole 23U3a of the upper bend 23U3 of the right side cover 23U with a hole (not shown) at a predetermined position on the frame F. Then, insert the bolt into the hole 23U3a from above, place a nut on the side opposite to the upper bend 23U3, and screw it into the frame F. Similarly, align the hole at the predetermined position on the frame F with the hole 23U4a of the lower bend 23U4, insert the bolt into the hole 23U4a from the right, place a nut on the side opposite to the lower bend 23U4, and screw it into the frame F. Thus, the right side cover body 23U1 is bolted to the frame F.

[0185] Furthermore, the bolts in the insertion hole 23U4a are obstructed by the right side lower cover (not shown) when it is installed on the frame F. Additionally, the right side lower cover is attached to the right side cover 23 (see reference). Figure 1A The cover on the lower side when divided in the vertical direction. On the other hand, although the bolt that is inserted into the hole 23U3a of the upper bent part 23U3 from above is not blocked by other parts, it is difficult to see the bolt even when viewed from below because it is located above the housing 10.

[0186] Additionally, the front side partition upper frame 15U is bolted to the center position in the left-right direction of frame F. The front side partition upper frame 15U has a through hole 15Ub formed at a designated location in the front-rear direction. Therefore, the hole at the designated position in frame F is aligned with the hole 15Ub in the front side partition upper frame 15U, and the bolt is inserted into the hole 15Ub from the front. A nut is then tightened into the bolt on the opposite side. Thus, the front side partition upper frame 15U is bolted to frame F.

[0187] Next, as Figure 14B As shown, the protrusion 12b3 of the upper right front support 12bU (refer to...) Figure 12 The first through hole 23U2a of the right side cover 23U is inserted from the front. Thus, the upper right front support 12bU is temporarily fixed to the right side cover 23U.

[0188] Subsequently, align the hole 12b2b of the upper right front support column 12bU with the hole (not shown) provided on the fixing plate F1, which is fixed at a predetermined position on the frame F. Then, insert the bolt into the hole 12b2b, and screw in the nut on the opposite side. Thus, the upper right front support column 12bU is bolted to the frame F (fixing plate F1).

[0189] Next, as Figure 14C As shown, the first protrusion 16b1a of the upper right cover 16b on the front side is inserted into the second through hole 12b2a of the upper right support column 12bU on the front side (refer to...). Figure 12At this time, with the left end of the upper right cover 16b on the front side positioned forward of the right end of the upper right cover 16b, the upper right cover 16b on the front side is moved diagonally backward to the right. By inserting the first protrusion 16b1a into the second through hole 12b2a, the upper right cover 16b on the front side is temporarily fixed to the upper right front support 12bU.

[0190] Next, press the left end of the upper right cover 16b on the front side backward. As a result, the upper right cover 16b on the front side rotates around its right end, and the second protrusion 16b1b of the upper right cover 16b on the front side enters the fixing hole 15Ua of the upper front side partition frame 15U from the front (see reference). Figure 14D In this state, the bolt is inserted from above into the upper buckling portion 16b2 located on the upper right side cover 16b of the front side (see reference). Figure 13A The hole is made of [a certain type of material], and a nut is placed on the opposite side and screwed into the frame F. Additionally, a bolt is inserted from the front into the notch 16b3a of the lower protrusion 16b3, and a nut is placed on the opposite side and screwed into the frame F. Thus, the upper right cover 16b of the front side is fixed to the frame F.

[0191] Furthermore, the bolt inserted into the cutout 16b3a of the lower protrusion 16b3 is obscured by the closed right front door 14b. On the other hand, although the bolt inserted into the hole of the upper bend 16b2 of the upper right cover 16b of the front side is not obscured by other components, it is difficult to see even when viewed from below because it is located above the housing 10.

[0192] As described above, in the upper right cover 16b of the front side, the protruding direction (left-right direction) of the first protrusion 16b1a and the protruding direction of the second protrusion 16b1b are different from each other, more specifically, they are orthogonal to each other. Therefore, as described above, the upper right cover 16b of the front side can be finally installed on the frame F by inserting it into the upper right front support 12bU and rotating its left end. Thus, even though the upper right cover 16b of the front side is relatively heavy, it can be installed on the frame F by a single operator. Furthermore, the bolts used for fastening are concealed by other components, resulting in a good aesthetic appearance.

[0193] <5. Precautions, etc.>

[0194] The various technical features disclosed in this specification can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit of the technical invention. Furthermore, the various embodiments and variations shown in this specification can be combined and implemented to the extent possible.

[0195] <6. Postscript>

[0196] The fuel cell system and single power generation device described in this embodiment can be described as follows.

[0197] The fuel cell system in Note (1) is a fuel cell system equipped with a fuel cell module.

[0198] It also has a drainage section that branches off from the exhaust path of the aforementioned fuel cell module.

[0199] The fuel cell system in Appendix (2) is based on the fuel cell system described in Appendix (1).

[0200] The aforementioned drainage section has a main outer shell.

[0201] The main body casing is provided with an exhaust inlet, which serves as an inlet for exhaust fluid discharged from the fuel cell module, and an exhaust outlet, which serves as an outlet for the waste gas contained in the exhaust fluid.

[0202] The fuel cell system in Appendix (3) is based on the fuel cell system described in Appendix (2).

[0203] The above-mentioned drainage section has:

[0204] The partition wall divides the interior of the main body shell into the exhaust inlet side and the exhaust outlet side; and

[0205] An internal piping system is provided that passes through the aforementioned partition wall, connecting the interior of the main body casing to the exhaust inlet side and the exhaust outlet side.

[0206] The fuel cell system in Appendix (4) is based on the fuel cell system described in Appendix (3).

[0207] When viewed from the central axis of the aforementioned internal piping, the aforementioned exhaust outlet is located outside the aforementioned internal piping.

[0208] The fuel cell system in Appendix (5) is based on the fuel cell system described in any of Appendix (2) to (4).

[0209] The aforementioned drainage section has a drainage pipe connected to the bottom of the aforementioned main body casing.

[0210] The fuel cell system in Appendix (6) is based on the fuel cell system described in Appendix (5).

[0211] The aforementioned partition wall has an opening at its lower part.

[0212] The fuel cell system in Appendix (7) is based on the fuel cell system described in Appendix (5) or (6).

[0213] The bottom of the main body housing has a first end located on the exhaust inlet side relative to the partition wall portion, and a second end located on the exhaust outlet side relative to the partition wall portion.

[0214] The second end is located below the first end.

[0215] The fuel cell system in Appendix (8) is based on the fuel cell system described in Appendix (7).

[0216] The drain pipe is connected to the bottom of the main body shell on the side closer to the second end of the partition wall.

[0217] The fuel cell system in Appendix (9) is based on the fuel cell system described in any of Appendix (2) to (8).

[0218] The aforementioned exhaust outlet is located within the aforementioned main body casing at a position higher than the retention height of the wastewater separated from the aforementioned exhaust path.

[0219] The fuel cell system in Appendix (10) is based on the fuel cell system described in any of Appendix (2) to (9),

[0220] It also includes an exhaust pipe connected to the aforementioned main casing and having the aforementioned exhaust outlet.

[0221] The aforementioned discharge piping includes inclined piping extending obliquely upward from the aforementioned main body casing.

[0222] The fuel cell system in Appendix (11) is based on the fuel cell system described in Appendix (10).

[0223] The aforementioned discharge piping includes a connecting pipe that is connected to the aforementioned inclined piping and extends upward.

[0224] The fuel cell system in Appendix (12) is based on the fuel cell system described in any of Appendix (2) to (11).

[0225] The diameter of the main body casing is larger than the diameter of the exhaust pipe that guides the exhaust fluid to the main body casing.

[0226] The fuel cell system in Appendix (13) is based on the fuel cell system described in any of Appendix (1) to (12).

[0227] The aforementioned drainage section is positioned below the aforementioned fuel cell module.

[0228] The fuel cell system in Appendix (14) is based on the fuel cell system described in any of Appendix (1) to (13).

[0229] The aforementioned drainage section has a water seal section in a part of the drainage path to collect wastewater separated from the aforementioned exhaust path.

[0230] The fuel cell system in Appendix (15) is based on the fuel cell system described in any of Appendix (1) to (14).

[0231] It also features a muffler positioned midway through the aforementioned exhaust path.

[0232] The aforementioned muffler has the aforementioned drainage section.

[0233] The single power generation device of Note (16) has a fuel cell system described in any of Notes (1) to (15).

Claims

1. A fuel cell system that is a fuel cell system provided with a fuel cell module, wherein a drain portion is further provided that is arranged branching from an exhaust path of the fuel cell module.

2. The fuel cell system according to claim 1, wherein the drain portion has a main body case, an exhaust inlet that is an inlet of an exhaust fluid discharged from the fuel cell module is provided at the main body case, and an exhaust outlet that is an outlet of exhaust gas contained in the exhaust fluid is provided at the main body case.

3. The fuel cell system according to claim 2, wherein the drain portion has: a partition wall portion that partitions an inside of the main body case into the exhaust inlet side and the exhaust outlet side; and an internal pipe that is provided penetrating the partition wall portion and that communicates the inside of the main body case on the exhaust inlet side and the exhaust outlet side.

4. The fuel cell system according to claim 3, wherein the exhaust outlet is located outside the internal pipe when viewed from a central axis direction of the internal pipe.

5. The fuel cell system according to claim 2, wherein the drain portion has a drain pipe that is connected to a bottom portion of the main body case.

6. The fuel cell system according to claim 5, wherein the partition wall portion has an opening portion at a lower portion.

7. The fuel cell system according to claim 5, wherein the bottom portion of the main body case has: a first end portion that is located on the exhaust inlet side with respect to the partition wall portion, and a second end portion that is located on the exhaust outlet side with respect to the partition wall portion, the second end portion is located lower than the first end portion.

8. The fuel cell system according to claim 7, wherein the drain pipe is connected to the bottom portion of the main body case on the second end portion side with respect to the partition wall portion.

9. The fuel cell system according to claim 2, wherein the exhaust outlet is arranged at a position higher than a stagnation height of waste water separated from the exhaust path in the main body case.

10. The fuel cell system according to claim 2, further comprising: a discharge pipe that is connected to the main body case and that has the exhaust outlet, the discharge pipe contains an inclined pipe that extends obliquely upward from the main body case.

11. The fuel cell system according to claim 10, wherein the discharge pipe contains a connection pipe that is connected to the inclined pipe and that extends upward.

12. The fuel cell system according to claim 2, wherein a diameter of the main body case is larger than a diameter of an exhaust introduction pipe that guides the exhaust fluid to the main body case.

13. The fuel cell system according to claim 1, wherein the drain portion is arranged lower than the fuel cell module.

14. The fuel cell system according to claim 1, wherein the drain portion has a water seal portion that stores waste water separated from the exhaust path at a portion of a drain path.

15. The fuel cell system according to claim 1, further comprising: a muffler that is arranged at a middle of the exhaust path, the muffler has the drain portion.

16. A single-shot power generation device, wherein ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The fuel cell system according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

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