Anti-deformation hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure balance adjusting function

Abstract

The invention discloses an anti-deformation hydrogen fuel cell stack with a pressure balance adjusting function, and belongs to the technical field of hydrogen fuel cells, the anti-deformation hydrogen fuel cell stack comprises two inner end plates and a cell frame, the cell frame is internally provided with cell units, a reaction cavity is formed between the two inner end plates, and the anti-deformation hydrogen fuel cell stack also comprises an elastic buffer layer, an elastic buffer layer and an air cushion structure are arranged between every two adjacent battery frames, each elastic buffer layer is provided with one air cushion structure and a pressure regulating pipeline, the pressure regulating pipeline is connected with the reaction cavity and each air cushion structure and comprises a pressure relief pipe and a breather pipe, and an electric control valve and an air pressure sensor are mounted on the pressure relief pipe. According to the invention, the pre-tightening spring acts on the inner end plate to apply initial stacking pressure to the battery frame, the initial stacking pressure is uniformly conducted through the elastic buffer layer, the air cushion structure is inflated and expanded to reversely press the battery frame from the inner circumference to inhibit warping when the pressure in the stack is abnormally increased, and self-adaptive anti-deformation regulation and control with static compression and dynamic balance cooperation is realized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of hydrogen fuel cell technology, specifically to a deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function. Background Technology

[0002] In existing hydrogen fuel cell stacks, a constant mechanical preload is typically applied to the end plates to maintain good contact and sealing between the bipolar plates. However, during actual operation, factors such as fluctuations in reactant gas pressure, differences in material expansion caused by thermal cycling, manufacturing tolerances, and vibrations can easily lead to localized stress concentrations or uneven pressure distribution within the stack, resulting in problems such as bipolar plate warping and compression failure.

[0003] A high-power hydrogen fuel cell with a stack protection system, currently disclosed in Chinese Patent Publication No. CN119890384B, includes two inner end plates, a battery frame stacked between the two inner end plates, and a spacing adjuster for adjusting the distance between the two inner end plates. Battery cells are disposed within the battery frame. A scissor-type structure is provided between the two inner end plates. The scissor-type structure has connecting pins capable of equidistant telescopic movement. The connecting pins are connected to the battery frame. When the two inner end plates approach or move away, the contact force between adjacent battery frames increases as the two inner end plates approach and decreases as they move away. The spacing adjuster has two adjusting plates respectively connected to the two inner end plates, and the two adjusting plates can drive the inner end plates connected to them to move synchronously.

[0004] According to the aforementioned patent, the patent effectively solves the problem of battery performance degradation caused by local stress concentration in existing hydrogen fuel cells by stacking battery frames equipped with battery cells between two inner end plates and using a scissor-type structure installed on the two inner end plates to dynamically adjust the pressure between adjacent battery frames.

[0005] However, the aforementioned patents lack an active buffering mechanism and cannot generate a dynamic clamping force around the bipolar plates under abnormal operating conditions. This makes it difficult to effectively suppress local warping and maintain interface contact uniformity, resulting in significant deficiencies in response speed and pressure regulation. Therefore, there is a need for a deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation capabilities. This stack should be able to automatically trigger a flexible buffering mechanism to generate a uniform clamping force when internal gas pressure is abnormal or stress changes occur, dynamically compensating for deformation and balancing the contact pressure at the interface. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the problems existing in the prior art, a deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function is provided. The initial stacking pressure is applied to the battery frame by a pre-tightening spring acting on the inner end plate and is uniformly transmitted through an elastic buffer layer. When the internal pressure of the stack rises abnormally, the air cushion structure inflates and expands to counter-pressure the battery frame from the inner periphery to suppress warping, thereby achieving adaptive deformation-resistant regulation that coordinates static compression and dynamic equalization.

[0007] To address the problems of existing technologies, this invention provides a deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function, comprising two inner end plates and a battery frame stacked between the two inner end plates. The battery frame contains battery cells, and a reaction chamber is formed between the two inner end plates. One inner end plate has a hydrogen inlet and a hydrogen outlet communicating with the reaction chamber. It also includes an elastic buffer layer, with one elastic buffer layer positioned between every two adjacent battery frames. The two sides of the elastic buffer layer are tightly fitted to the surface of the corresponding battery frame, forming a pressure conduction interface for efficiently transmitting stacking pressure and absorbing deformation. The stack also features an air cushion structure. Each elastic buffer layer is equipped with one of the aforementioned air cushion structures. The air cushion structure is initially in an uninflated and contracted state, and can be controlled to expand when the internal pressure of the battery stack rises abnormally. In the expanded state of the air cushion structure, the battery frame is in a deformation-suppressed and pressure-stabilized state under the pressure of the air cushion structures on both sides. The pressure regulating pipeline connects the reaction chamber to each of the aforementioned air cushion structures and includes a pressure relief pipe and a vent pipe that are interconnected. The pressure relief pipe is located on another inner end plate and is connected to the reaction chamber. Each air cushion structure has a corresponding air nozzle on the vent pipe. An electrically controlled valve and a pressure sensor electrically connected to it are installed on the pressure relief pipe.

[0008] Preferably, it also includes two outer end plates, with the inner end plate and the battery frame located between the two outer end plates. At least two transversely penetrating positioning rods are provided between the two outer end plates. The positioning rods penetrate the corresponding through holes on the inner end plate and the battery frame, and slide with at least a gap with the through holes of the battery frame, so that the battery frame can move slightly along the axial direction of the positioning rods. A preload spring is provided between each outer end plate and the corresponding inner end plate.

[0009] Preferably, there are two pairs of pressure regulating pipes, which are symmetrically arranged on two opposite sides along the longitudinal direction of the battery stack. The vent pipe extends along the stacking direction of the battery stack and is arranged between the two inner end plates and on the side along the axial direction of the positioning rod. Each vent pipe is provided with a flexible rubber block that abuts against the side of the battery frame to provide lateral restraint.

[0010] Preferably, the vent pipe is movable radially to adjust the pressure of the rubber blocks. The vent pipe is provided with a pressure-applying element connected to each rubber block. The rubber blocks have grooves along their pressure direction for the pressure-applying element to be embedded therein. The outer end plate is provided with a linear actuator for driving the vent pipe to move.

[0011] Preferably, the vent pipe has an open end near the pressure relief pipe and a closed end. The open end of the vent pipe is provided with a connecting pipe along its radial direction, and a connecting pipe is provided corresponding to the pressure relief pipe for the connecting pipe to be inserted into. The connecting pipe is slidably inserted into the connecting pipe, and a sealing ring is provided at the connection between the two.

[0012] Preferably, each of the two outer end plates is provided with a guide sleeve at the position of each vent pipe, and each vent pipe is provided with a guide rod inserted into the corresponding guide sleeve at both ends. A pressure sensor is provided on the guide sleeve, and a compression spring is connected between the pressure sensor and the guide rod. The guide rod can slide through the hole on the pressure sensor, and the compression spring is sleeved on the guide rod, with its two ends abutting against the pressure sensor and the guide sleeve, respectively.

[0013] Preferably, the elastic buffer layer is composed of a rubber pad and two side clamping structures. The rubber pad is embedded between the two clamping structures, and the side of the clamping structure facing away from the rubber pad is tightly attached to the surface of the battery frame. The clamping structure has a sliding sleeve that is slidably mounted on the positioning rod.

[0014] Preferably, the clamping structure consists of two elastic pressure plates symmetrically arranged along the axial direction of the sliding sleeve, and the battery frame has interacting surfaces with the elastic pressure plates and the rubber pad.

[0015] Preferably, the rubber pad is an annular structure surrounding the outer periphery of the battery cell reaction area, and the air cushion structure is an annular airbag surrounding the inner periphery of the rubber pad.

[0016] Preferably, the air nozzle is a flat structure with its end extending through the rubber pad into the interior of the annular airbag. A flat air port for the air nozzle to pass through is provided on the side of the rubber pad. The air nozzle and the rubber pad are slidably fitted together. A guide block for the air nozzle to pass through is provided on the outside of the clamping plate structure. A sealing gasket that is in close contact with the air nozzle is provided on the guide block.

[0017] The advantages of this application compared to the prior art are:

[0018] 1. The present invention provides a preload nut with a threaded engagement at the end of the positioning rod. When the preload nut is tightened during initial assembly, the outer end plate presses the preload spring inward. The compressed preload spring generates a continuous elastic force, which pushes the inner end plate to apply a stable initial stacking pressure in the direction of the fuel cell stack.

[0019] The pressure is uniformly transmitted through the elastic buffer layer between every two adjacent battery frames. The internal annular rubber pad is compressed, forming a stable pressure transmission interface that effectively absorbs assembly errors and deformation. When the internal pressure of the battery stack abnormally increases, the pressure relief pipe introduces air pressure into the air cushion structure, causing it to expand in a controlled manner. This applies flexible pressure to the battery frames on both sides, dynamically compensating for local stress and suppressing battery frame deformation. This achieves adaptive adjustment from static compression to dynamic equilibrium, improving the battery stack's resistance to deformation and operational stability.

[0020] 2. This invention applies flexible lateral constraints to the sides of the battery frame by symmetrically arranging rubber blocks on both sides of the battery stack, forming a stable lateral limit. When the battery frame shifts or its edges warp, the rubber blocks elastically absorb the displacement and provide a reverse supporting force, suppressing warping.

[0021] Under the pressure sensing of the compression spring by the pressure sensor, the vent pipe is driven radially by a linear actuator. Through the pressure application component and the adjustment of the rubber block, the limit stiffness is actively adjustable. At the same time, the sliding plug-in structure of the adapter and connector ensures the air circuit is sealed and connected while accommodating the radial movement of the vent pipe, ensuring reliable gas delivery and coordinated structural operation.

[0022] 3. The present invention achieves uniform transmission of stacked load and interface bonding under pre-tightening pressure by using an elastic buffer layer composed of elastic pressure plates on both sides and an annular rubber pad in the middle. The axial compression of the rubber pad provides buffer sealing, and the elastic pressure plates adapt to deformation, thus synergistically improving the stacking stability of the battery frame.

[0023] The annular airbag surrounding the inner circumference of the rubber pad inflates through a flat air nozzle during abnormal pressure increases, applying uniform back pressure to the battery frame from the inner circumference to dynamically suppress warping. The air nozzle is embedded in the flat air port on the side of the rubber pad, and together with the sealing gasket on the guide block, ensures unobstructed air passage and reliable sealing, enabling the air cushion structure to respond stably under various operating conditions and achieving deformation resistance and pressure equalization regulation functions. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function from a first perspective, according to the present invention.

[0025] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function from a second perspective, according to the present invention.

[0026] Figure 3 This is a partial three-dimensional cross-sectional view of a deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function according to the present invention.

[0027] Figure 4This is a partial three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the elastic buffer layer and air cushion structure of a deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization and regulation function according to the present invention.

[0028] Figure 5 This is a planar cross-sectional view of a deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function according to the present invention.

[0029] Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional exploded view of a deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function according to the present invention.

[0030] Figure 7 This is the invention Figure 4 Enlarged diagram of point A.

[0031] Figure 8 This is the invention Figure 5 Enlarged diagram of point B.

[0032] Figure 9 This is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the battery frame and air cushion structure of a deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function according to the present invention.

[0033] Figure 10 This is a three-dimensional exploded view of the elastic buffer layer and air cushion structure of an anti-deformation hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function according to the present invention.

[0034] The diagram is labeled as follows: 1. Inner end plate; 11. Hydrogen inlet; 12. Hydrogen outlet; 2. Battery frame; 21. Battery cell; 3. Elastic buffer layer; 31. Rubber pad; 311. Flat vent; 32. Clamping structure; 321. Sliding sleeve; 322. Elastic pressure plate; 33. Guide block; 331. Sealing gasket; 4. Air cushion structure; 5. Pressure regulating pipeline; 51. Pressure relief pipe; 511. Electrically controlled valve; 512. Pressure sensor; 52. Vent pipe; 521. Air nozzle; 522. Rubber block; 5221. Pressure application component; 523. Adapter pipe; 524. Connecting pipe; 6. Outer end plate; 61. Positioning rod; 611. Preload spring; 612. Preload nut; 62. Guide sleeve; 621. Guide rod; 622. Pressure sensor; 623. Compression spring. Detailed Implementation

[0035] To further understand the features, technical means, and specific objectives and functions achieved by the present invention, the present invention will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0036] See Figures 1-6As shown, a deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function includes two inner end plates 1 and a battery frame 2 stacked between the two inner end plates 1. The battery frame 2 contains battery cells 21. A reaction chamber is formed between the two inner end plates 1. One inner end plate 1 has a hydrogen inlet 11 and a hydrogen outlet 12 communicating with the reaction chamber. It also includes an elastic buffer layer 3, with one elastic buffer layer 3 between every two adjacent battery frames 2. The two sides of the elastic buffer layer 3 are tightly attached to the surface of the corresponding battery frame 2, forming a pressure conduction interface for efficiently transmitting stacking pressure and absorbing deformation. An air cushion structure 4 is also included. Each elastic buffer layer 3 is equipped with... An air cushion structure 4 is initially in an uninflated, contracted state. It can expand in a controlled manner when the internal pressure of the battery stack rises abnormally. When the air cushion structure 4 is in an expanded state, the battery frame 2 is in a stable pressure state with deformation suppression under the pressure of the air cushion structures 4 on both sides. A pressure regulating pipe 5 connects the reaction chamber to each air cushion structure 4 and includes a pressure relief pipe 51 and a vent pipe 52 that are interconnected. The pressure relief pipe 51 is set on another inner end plate 1 and communicates with the reaction chamber. Each air cushion structure 4 is provided with a nozzle 521 connected to the vent pipe 52. An electrically controlled valve 511 and a pressure sensor 512 electrically connected to the pressure relief pipe 51 are installed on the pressure relief pipe 51.

[0037] In a hydrogen fuel cell stack, the working process can be divided into normal operation, abnormal pressure boosting triggering, and gas cushion response stabilization.

[0038] Normal operating condition: Hydrogen enters the reaction chamber through hydrogen inlet 11 to participate in the electrochemical reaction, and the reaction exhaust gas is discharged through hydrogen outlet 12 on the same inner end plate 1. At this time, the elastic buffer layer 3 between every two adjacent battery frames 2 is used to efficiently transfer the initial stacking pressure applied by the inner end plate 1 and absorb minor deformations caused by thermal expansion or assembly errors. Each air cushion structure 4 is in an uninflated and contracted state, generating no additional force and not interfering with the normal pressure distribution. Although the pressure relief pipe 51 and the vent pipe 52 in the pressure regulating pipeline 5 are interconnected, the gas path between the reaction chamber and the air cushion structure 4 is isolated because the electronically controlled valve 511 is in the closed state, and the system maintains normal operation.

[0039] Abnormal pressure surge trigger state: When the internal pressure of the reactor chamber rapidly increases and exceeds the preset safety threshold due to flooding, abnormal gas supply, or other reasons, the pressure sensor 512 installed on the pressure relief pipe 51 detects the pressure change in real time and transmits the signal to the control system. The control system then issues a command to drive the electrically controlled valve 511 to open. At this time, the pressure relief pipe 51 is connected to the reactor chamber, and the high-pressure exhaust gas flows from the reactor chamber into the pressure relief pipe 51 and is delivered to each air cushion structure 4 through the vent pipe 52 connected to it. The gas enters the interior of the air cushion structure 4 through the vent 521.

[0040] Air cushion response and voltage stabilization: As high-pressure gas is continuously introduced, each air cushion structure 4 rapidly expands from its initial contracted state, expanding within the elastic buffer layer 3. The expanded air cushion structure 4 applies uniform and flexible pressure to the surfaces of the battery frames 2 on both sides, stably pressing each battery frame 2 between the two air cushion structures 4. In this state, deformations such as center bulging or edge warping that might occur in the battery frames 2 due to internal high pressure are effectively suppressed, and the entire stack enters a deformation-controlled voltage stabilization state. At this time, the stacking pressure not only comes from the initial mechanical pre-tightening but also from the dynamic additional pressure provided by the air cushion structure 4, achieving adaptive equilibrium of local stress.

[0041] See Figures 1-6 As shown, it also includes two outer end plates 6, with the inner end plate 1 and the battery frame 2 located between the two outer end plates 6. At least two transversely penetrating positioning rods 61 are provided between the two outer end plates 6. The positioning rods 61 penetrate the corresponding through holes on the inner end plate 1 and the battery frame 2, and slide with at least a gap with the through hole of the battery frame 2, so that the battery frame 2 can move slightly along the axial direction of the positioning rods 61. Each outer end plate 6 and the corresponding inner end plate 1 are provided with a preload spring 611.

[0042] The positioning rod 61 is provided with a preload nut 612 for positioning the outer end plate 6, and the positioning rod 61 and the preload nut 612 are threaded together.

[0043] During initial assembly, by tightening the preload nut 612 located at the end of the positioning rod 61, the outer end plate 6 is pressed inward against the preload spring 611. After the preload spring 611 is compressed, it generates a continuous elastic force, which pushes the inner end plate 1 toward the stack direction, thereby establishing a stable initial stacking pressure.

[0044] The preload nut 612 is locked in place by the thread to ensure that the reference position of the outer end plate 6 in the axial direction remains unchanged, thus ensuring the stability of the initial stacking pressure of the fuel cell stack.

[0045] See Figures 1-6 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, there are two pairs of pressure regulating pipes 5, which are symmetrically arranged on two opposite sides along the longitudinal direction of the battery stack. The vent pipe 52 extends along the stacking direction of the battery stack. The vent pipe 52 is arranged between the two inner end plates 1 and on the side along the axial direction of the positioning rod 61. Each vent pipe 52 is provided with a flexible rubber block 522 that abuts against the side of the battery frame 2 to provide lateral restraint.

[0046] After the battery stack is assembled, the rubber block 522 continuously applies a lateral constraint force to the battery frame 2 by relying on its own elasticity, forming a stable lateral limit.

[0047] When the battery frame 2 experiences slight lateral displacement or warping due to thermal expansion, vibration, or internal pressure fluctuations during operation, the rubber block 522 absorbs the displacement through elastic deformation and provides reverse support force, effectively suppressing the lateral offset and torsional deformation of the battery frame 2, and maintaining the alignment and structural stability of the battery frame 2 in the stacking direction.

[0048] Because the two pairs of pressure regulating pipes 5 are symmetrically arranged, the limiting force applied by the rubber blocks 522 on both sides to the battery frame 2 is balanced, avoiding the off-center load caused by unilateral force, thereby ensuring the uniformity of the overall interface contact of the stack.

[0049] See Figures 3-6 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the vent pipe 52 can move radially to adjust the pressure of the rubber block 522. The vent pipe 52 is provided with a pressure-applying member 5221 connected to each rubber block 522. The rubber block 522 has a groove along its pressure direction for the pressure-applying member 5221 to be embedded therein. The outer end plate 6 is provided with a linear actuator for driving the vent pipe 52 to move.

[0050] The linear actuator can be a lead screw slide or an electric push rod.

[0051] When the linear actuator is started, its output end pushes the vent pipe 52 to move radially toward the battery frame 2, which drives the pressure application component 5221 to advance synchronously, thereby applying pressure to the rubber block 522 through the groove, making it press more tightly against the side of the battery frame 2 and enhancing the lateral limiting stiffness.

[0052] Conversely, when the linear actuator retracts, the vent pipe 52 moves radially away from the battery frame 2, and the pressure application component 5221 retracts accordingly, reducing the pressure on the rubber block 522 and enhancing the limiting flexibility. The tightness of the rubber block 522 can be adjusted in real time according to the stack's operating status, ensuring structural alignment while avoiding excessive constraint, thus achieving active and adjustable control of the lateral limiting force.

[0053] See Figures 3-6 As shown, the vent pipe 52 has an open end near the pressure relief pipe 51 and a closed end. The open end of the vent pipe 52 is provided with a connecting pipe 523 along its radial direction. Corresponding to the pressure relief pipe 51, there is a connecting pipe 524 for the connecting pipe 523 to be inserted into. The connecting pipe 523 is slidably inserted into the connecting pipe 524, and a sealing ring is provided at the connection between the two.

[0054] During assembly, the adapter 523 is inserted into the connector 524 to form a fluid-connected plug structure, allowing the gas in the pressure relief pipe 51 to be smoothly introduced into the vent pipe 52 through the connector 524 and the adapter 523, and further distributed to each air nozzle 521 and the air cushion structure 4.

[0055] The insertion method allows the vent pipe 523 to maintain a sliding fit within the connecting pipe 524 when the vent pipe 52 moves slightly radially under the drive of the linear actuator. This maintains the air passage sealing and avoids the risk of stress transmission or leakage caused by rigid connection, thereby achieving reliable gas delivery while being compatible with the radial adjustment function of the vent pipe 52.

[0056] See Figures 3-6 As shown, each of the two outer end plates 6 is provided with a guide sleeve 62 at the position of each vent pipe 52. Each vent pipe 52 has a guide rod 621 inserted into the corresponding guide sleeve 62 at both ends. The guide sleeve 62 is provided with a pressure sensor 622. A compression spring 623 is connected between the pressure sensor 622 and the guide rod 621. The guide rod 621 can slide through the hole on the pressure sensor 622. The compression spring 623 is sleeved on the guide rod 621, and its two ends abut against the pressure sensor 622 and the guide sleeve 62, respectively.

[0057] When the linear actuator pushes the vent pipe 52 to move radially, the guide rod 621 slides synchronously in the guide sleeve 62, compressing or stretching the compression spring 623 and transmitting the force to the pressure sensor 622. The pressure sensor 622 detects the pressure on the compression spring 623 in real time and outputs a signal to reflect the magnitude of the lateral limiting force of the rubber block 522 on the battery frame 2. This achieves dynamic sensing and feedback of the lateral limiting state, ensuring that the limiting force is always within an effective control range.

[0058] See Figure 4 and Figures 7-10 As shown, the elastic buffer layer 3 is composed of a rubber pad 31 and two side clamping plate structures 32. The rubber pad 31 is embedded between the two clamping plate structures 32. The side of the clamping plate structure 32 facing away from the rubber pad 31 is tightly attached to the surface of the battery frame 2. The clamping plate structure 32 has a sliding sleeve 321 that is slidably disposed on the positioning rod 61.

[0059] When the outer end plate 6 is tightened by the preload nut 612, and the preload spring 611 pushes the inner end plate 1 to apply an initial axial force in the direction of the battery stack, the inner end plate 1 transmits the stacking pressure to the outermost battery frame 2, and then to each elastic buffer layer 3. Under this preload pressure, the rubber pad 31 is moderately compressed, and the clamping structure 32 slides synchronously along the positioning rod 61 and fits against the surface of the battery frame 2, thereby forming a stable and uniform pressure transmission interface between adjacent battery frames 2.

[0060] The pressure transmission interface not only effectively transmits the stacked load, but also absorbs assembly errors and minor deformations during operation through the elastic deformation of the rubber pad 31. This ensures that the stack has good contact performance and mechanical stability in the initial assembly state, and also appropriately suppresses the deformation of the battery frame 2 during operation.

[0061] See Figure 4 and Figures 7-10 As shown, the clamping structure 32 is composed of two elastic pressure plates 322 arranged symmetrically along the axial direction of the sliding sleeve 321. The battery frame 2 has an interactive surface with the elastic pressure plates 322 and the rubber pad 31.

[0062] When the inner end plate 1 is subjected to axial stacking pressure under the action of the preload spring 611, the elastic pressure plates 322 on both sides first come into contact with the contact surface of the adjacent battery frame 2 and are compressed, and then the load is evenly transferred to the middle rubber pad 31. The rubber pad 31 undergoes elastic deformation under axial compression, while the elastic pressure plate 322 undergoes slight bending due to its own flexibility.

[0063] During this process, the battery frame 2, the elastic pressure plate 322 and the rubber pad 31 work together through their interacting contact surfaces to ensure efficient transmission of stacking pressure and effectively enhance the overall mechanical stability and deformation resistance of the battery stack through the interface fit of the double-sided elastic pressure plate 322.

[0064] See Figure 4 and Figure 10 As shown, the rubber pad 31 is an annular structure surrounding the outer periphery of the reaction area of ​​the battery unit 21, and the air cushion structure 4 is an annular airbag surrounding the inner periphery of the rubber pad 31.

[0065] In the initial assembly state, the rubber pad 31 withstands axial compression from the clamping structure 32 and the stacking pressure, forming a stable seal and cushioning. The air cushion structure 4 is in an uninflated state, embedded inside the rubber pad 31, and does not interfere with the normal operation of the fuel cell stack.

[0066] When the internal pressure of the fuel cell stack increases due to abnormal operating conditions and the gas passage is opened, gas is injected into the annular gasbag through the gas nozzle 521, causing it to expand synchronously in the radial and axial directions. The expanding annular gasbag applies a uniform reaction force to the battery frame 2 from the inner circumference, thereby forming a dynamically enhanced sealing and support band around the reaction area, effectively suppressing the warping deformation of the battery frame 2 and improving structural stability and interface contact reliability.

[0067] See Figure 4 and Figures 8-10 As shown, the air nozzle 521 is a flat structure with its end extending through the rubber pad 31 into the interior of the annular airbag. The side of the rubber pad 31 is provided with a flat air port 311 through which the air nozzle 521 passes. The air nozzle 521 and the rubber pad 31 are slidably engaged. The outer side of the clamping plate structure 32 is provided with a guide block 33 through which the air nozzle 521 passes. The guide block 33 is provided with a sealing gasket 331 that is in close contact with the air nozzle 521.

[0068] When high-pressure gas is delivered to the nozzle 521 via the pressure regulating pipeline 5, the gas enters the annular airbag through its internal flat channel, thus inflating the air cushion structure 4. When the vent pipe 52 is displaced by the linear actuator, the nozzle 521 can move synchronously with the vent pipe 52 and slide within the flat air port 311 on the side of the rubber pad 31.

[0069] Because the nozzle 521 and the flat air port 311 adopt a matching flat cross-section design and maintain a sliding fit, the nozzle 521 is allowed to move freely under dynamic operating conditions, while always ensuring unobstructed air passage. At the same time, the sealing gasket 331 on the outer guide block 33 of the clamping plate structure 32 continuously adheres to the outer wall of the nozzle 521, maintaining an effective seal during the movement of the nozzle 521 and preventing gas leakage. This ensures that the air cushion structure 4 can reliably and stably complete the pressure response and deformation suppression functions under various operating conditions.

[0070] This invention uses the threaded engagement of the preload nut 612 and the positioning rod 61 to compress the preload spring 611, thereby pushing the inner end plate 1 to apply initial stacking pressure. This pressure is uniformly transmitted through the elastic buffer layer 3 between adjacent battery frames 2. The elastic buffer layer 3 consists of elastic pressure plates 322 on both sides and an annular rubber pad 31 in the middle, forming a stable contact interface under axial compression, effectively absorbing assembly errors and operational deformation.

[0071] When the internal pressure of the fuel cell stack abnormally increases, the pressure relief pipe 51 conducts gas to the air cushion structure 4, and the annular air bladder surrounding the inner circumference of the rubber pad 31 inflates, applying flexible counter-pressure to the battery frame 2 from the inner circumference to dynamically suppress warping. At the same time, the rubber blocks 522 symmetrically arranged on both sides of the fuel cell stack provide lateral restraint, and their clamping force is driven by a linear actuator and adjusted by the pressure application component 5221 to achieve adaptive anti-deformation control that coordinates static clamping and dynamic balance.

[0072] The above embodiments only illustrate one or more implementations of the present invention, and their descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, but they should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the present invention. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of the present invention, and these all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function, comprising two inner end plates and a battery frame stacked between the two inner end plates, wherein a battery cell is provided in the battery frame, a reaction chamber is formed between the two inner end plates, and a hydrogen inlet and a hydrogen outlet communicating with the reaction chamber are provided on one inner end plate. Its features are, Also includes: An elastic buffer layer is provided between every two adjacent battery frames. The two sides of the elastic buffer layer are tightly attached to the surface of the corresponding battery frame to form a pressure transmission interface, which is used to efficiently transmit stacking pressure and absorb deformation. The air cushion structure is configured with one air cushion structure in each elastic buffer layer. The air cushion structure is initially in an uninflated and contracted state. It can expand in a controlled manner when the internal pressure of the battery stack increases abnormally. In the expanded state of the air cushion structure, the battery frame is in a stable state of deformation suppression under the pressure of the air cushion structures on both sides. A pressure regulating pipeline connects the reaction chamber to each of the air cushion structures, including a pressure relief pipe and a vent pipe that are interconnected. The pressure relief pipe is disposed on another inner end plate and communicates with the reaction chamber. Each air cushion structure is provided with an air nozzle connected to it. The pressure relief pipe is equipped with an electrically controlled valve and a pressure sensor electrically connected to it.

2. The deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes two outer end plates, an inner end plate and a battery frame located between the two outer end plates, and at least two transversely penetrating positioning rods are provided between the two outer end plates. The positioning rods pass through corresponding through holes on the inner end plate and the battery frame, and slide with at least a clearance fit with the through hole of the battery frame so that the battery frame can move slightly along the axial direction of the positioning rods. Each outer end plate and its corresponding inner end plate are provided with a preload spring.

3. A deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function according to claim 2, characterized in that, Two pairs of pressure regulating lines are provided, which are symmetrically arranged on two opposite sides along the longitudinal direction of the battery stack. The vent pipe extends along the stacking direction of the battery stack and is arranged between the two inner end plates and on the side along the axial direction of the positioning rod. Each vent pipe is provided with a flexible rubber block that abuts against the side of the battery frame to provide lateral restraint.

4. A deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function according to claim 3, characterized in that, The vent pipe can move radially to adjust the pressure of the rubber blocks. The vent pipe is provided with a pressure-applying element connected to each rubber block. The rubber block has a groove along its pressure direction for the pressure-applying element to be embedded therein. The outer end plate is provided with a linear actuator for driving the vent pipe to move.

5. A deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function according to claim 4, characterized in that, The vent pipe has an open end near the pressure relief pipe and a closed end. The open end of the vent pipe is provided with a connecting pipe along its radial direction. The pressure relief pipe is provided with a connecting pipe for the connecting pipe to be inserted into. The connecting pipe is slidably inserted into the connecting pipe, and a sealing ring is provided at the connection between the two.

6. A deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function according to claim 5, characterized in that, Each of the two outer end plates is provided with a guide sleeve at the position of each vent pipe. Each vent pipe has a guide rod inserted into the corresponding guide sleeve at both ends. A pressure sensor is provided on the guide sleeve. A compression spring is connected between the pressure sensor and the guide rod. The guide rod can slide through the hole on the pressure sensor. The compression spring is sleeved on the guide rod, and its two ends abut against the pressure sensor and the guide sleeve, respectively.

7. A deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function according to claim 2, characterized in that, The elastic buffer layer consists of a rubber pad and two side clamping structures. The rubber pad is embedded between the two clamping structures, and the side of the clamping structure facing away from the rubber pad is tightly attached to the surface of the battery frame. The clamping structure has a sliding sleeve that is slidably mounted on the positioning rod.

8. A deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function according to claim 7, characterized in that, The clamping structure consists of two elastic pressure plates symmetrically arranged along the axis of the sliding sleeve, and the battery frame has interacting surfaces with the elastic pressure plates and the rubber pad.

9. A deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function according to claim 7, characterized in that, The rubber pad is a ring-shaped structure surrounding the outer periphery of the battery cell reaction area, and the air cushion structure is a ring-shaped air bladder surrounding the inner periphery of the rubber pad.

10. A deformation-resistant hydrogen fuel cell stack with pressure equalization regulation function according to claim 9, characterized in that, The air nozzle is a flat structure with its end extending through the rubber pad into the interior of the annular airbag. A flat air port for the air nozzle to pass through is opened on the side of the rubber pad. The air nozzle and the rubber pad are slidably fitted together. A guide block for the air nozzle to pass through is provided on the outside of the clamping plate structure. A sealing gasket that is in close contact with the air nozzle is provided on the guide block.

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