Coolant discharge system for ion filter

Abstract

The present invention relates to a coolant discharge system of an ion filter, which can prevent a reduction in filtration performance of an ion exchange resin and improve durability thereof. The coolant discharge system operates in such a manner that, when the conductivity of the coolant circulating through the fuel cell stack is equal to or higher than a predetermined level, the coolant circulates through the interior of the ion filter such that metal ions of the coolant are easily removed by the ion exchange resin. When the conductivity of the coolant decreases below a predetermined level, the coolant remaining inside the ion filter is discharged to the pressurized reservoir using the pressure of the air supplied from the pressurized reservoir.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a coolant discharge system for an ion filter, and more particularly, to a coolant discharge system for an ion filter configured to ensure the durability of the ion filter by discharging the coolant contained in the ion filter when the insulation resistance of the fuel cell stack recovers. Background Technology

[0002] The fuel cell stack installed in hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles generates electricity through an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, each used as a reactant gas. Since heat is released as a reaction byproduct, proper cooling of the fuel cell stack may be necessary.

[0003] Cooling methods that allow coolant to circulate through / around the fuel cell stack can be used.

[0004] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates an example coolant circulation loop for a fuel cell stack.

[0005] like Figure 1 As shown, the fuel cell stack 10, radiator 20 and pump 30 are connected to each other via a coolant circulation line 40, along which the coolant circulates, thereby allowing the coolant to circulate through the fuel cell stack 10, radiator 20 and pump 30.

[0006] The first control valve 41 is installed on the coolant circulation line 40 between the coolant outlet port of the pump 30 and the coolant inlet port of the fuel cell stack 10, and the second control valve 42 is installed on the coolant circulation line 40 between the coolant outlet port of the radiator 20 and the coolant inlet port of the pump 30.

[0007] The first control valve 41, the ion filter 50, and the second control valve 42 are connected to each other via a coolant branch line 60, and the coolant circulates along the coolant branch line, thereby allowing the coolant to circulate through the first control valve 41, the ion filter 50, and the second control valve 42.

[0008] Each of the first control valve 41 and the second control valve 42 can be configured as an electrically operated three-way valve, the opening of which can be controlled by a controller (e.g., a computing device / signal generator).

[0009] Ion filter 50 is used to remove metal ions from coolant (e.g., coolant that has been circulated through the fuel cell stack).

[0010] If the conductivity of the coolant circulating through the fuel cell stack is higher than a predetermined level, the insulation stability of the fuel cell stack may decrease, potentially leading to a short circuit. To avoid / reduce the possibility of damage to the fuel cell stack, an ion filter 50 is used to control the conductivity, which increases due to the presence of metal ions in the coolant (e.g., metal ions that accumulate over time and with repeated cycles), to adjust the conductivity below a predetermined level, thereby increasing / maintaining the insulation stability of the fuel cell stack (e.g., restoring the insulation resistance of the fuel cell stack).

[0011] Ion filter 50 may have a fine-particle ion exchange resin configured to adequately filter ions from the coolant. Coolant that has been circulated through the fuel cell stack enters ion filter 50, where metal ions are removed by the ion exchange resin inside the filter. The coolant is then circulated back to fuel cell stack 10. In this way, the ion concentration (e.g., and therefore the conductivity) in the stack coolant can be adjusted to a lower level (e.g., below a predetermined level).

[0012] In the coolant circulation loop of the fuel cell stack configured as described above, driven by pump 30, the coolant circulates along the coolant circulation line 40 while passing sequentially through the fuel cell stack 10 and the radiator 20, thereby reliably cooling the fuel cell stack 10.

[0013] At this time, the conductivity of the coolant circulating along the coolant circulation line 40 can be detected by a conductivity sensor (not shown), and the detected signal can be transmitted to a controller (not shown).

[0014] The controller can determine whether the conductivity of the coolant is equal to or higher than a predetermined level (e.g., requiring restoration of the insulation resistance of the fuel cell stack). The controller can control the first control valve 41 to open not only towards the coolant inlet port of the fuel cell stack 10 but also towards the ion filter 50. The controller can also control the second control valve 42 to open towards the coolant inlet port of the pump 30. In this way, a portion of the coolant can pass through the ion filter 50 to circulate along the coolant branch line 60 and again along the coolant circulation line 40.

[0015] Here, metal ions in the coolant are removed by filling the ion filter 50 with ion exchange resin. In this way, the conductivity of the coolant can be controlled to be below a predetermined level (e.g., so that the insulation resistance of the fuel cell stack can be restored).

[0016] The coolant may include a mixture of water and ethylene glycol (EG). When / if the coolant passes through and / or contacts an ion exchange resin, the ion exchange resin acts as an oxidation catalyst for the coolant. With the oxidation of the coolant, the release of anions from the coolant increases, resulting in an increase in the ion filtration load (ion removal load) of the ion exchange resin. Therefore, the filtration performance of the ion exchange resin may decrease, and its lifespan may be shortened.

[0017] When a fuel cell vehicle is in motion, and / or when it is parked and / or stopped, the coolant remains stagnant in the ion filter, thus the coolant and ion exchange resin are always in static contact with each other. This further promotes the oxidation of the coolant stagnating in the ion filter, and anions continue to be released from the coolant, which may further increase the ion filtration load on the ion exchange resin. Consequently, the filtration performance of the ion exchange resin may decrease, and its lifespan may be shortened.

[0018] The information disclosed in the background section is intended only to enhance the understanding of the background art of this application, and therefore may contain information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art in this country. Summary of the Invention

[0019] The following description of the invention provides a simplified summary of certain features. This description is not a broad overview and is not intended to identify key or critical elements.

[0020] A system, apparatus, and method for a coolant discharge system for an ion filter are described. The coolant discharge system may include: a coolant circulation line, a first control valve, a second control valve, a coolant branch line, a pressurized reservoir, an air supply line, and a controller, wherein the coolant circulation line is configured to allow coolant to circulate through a fuel cell stack, a radiator, and a pump; the first control valve is mounted on the coolant circulation line between a coolant outlet port of the pump and a coolant inlet port of the fuel cell stack; the second control valve is mounted on the coolant circulation line between a coolant outlet port of the radiator and a coolant inlet port of the pump; the coolant branch line is configured to allow coolant to circulate through the first control valve, the ion filter, and the second control valve; the pressurized reservoir is mounted on the coolant branch line between the coolant outlet port of the ion filter and the second control valve; the air supply line is configured to supply air from the pressurized reservoir to the interior of the ion filter; and the controller is configured to control: a first opening / closing direction of the first control valve; and a second opening / closing direction of the second control valve.

[0021] Alternatively, the coolant discharge system may include: a coolant circulation line, a first control valve, a second control valve, a coolant branch line, a pressurized reservoir, a first airflow connector, a second airflow connector, a first coolant flow connector, a second coolant flow connector, and a controller, wherein the coolant circulation line is configured to allow coolant to circulate through the fuel cell stack, the radiator, and the pump; the first control valve is installed on the coolant circulation line between the coolant outlet port of the pump and the coolant inlet port of the fuel cell stack; the second control valve is installed on the coolant circulation line between the coolant outlet port of the radiator and the coolant inlet port of the pump; the coolant branch line is configured to allow coolant to circulate through the first control valve, the ion filter, and the second control valve; and the pressurized reservoir is installed... A coolant branch line is installed between the ion filter and the second control valve; a first airflow connector is formed on the pressurized reservoir; a second airflow connector is formed on the ion filter, wherein the first airflow connector and the second airflow connector are connected to each other to allow the pressurized reservoir to supply air to the interior of the ion filter; a first coolant flow connector is formed on the ion filter; a second coolant flow connector is formed on the pressurized reservoir, wherein the first coolant flow connector and the second coolant flow connector are connected to each other to allow coolant to flow from the ion filter to the pressurized reservoir; a controller is configured to control: a first opening / closing direction of the first control valve; and a second opening / closing direction of the second control valve.

[0022] Alternatively, the coolant discharge system may include: a coolant circulation line, a first control valve, a second control valve, a coolant branch line, a pressurized reservoir, a conductivity sensor, and a controller, wherein the coolant circulation line is configured to allow coolant circulation to exchange heat with the fuel cell stack, radiator, and pump; the first control valve is installed on the coolant circulation line between the pump and the fuel cell stack; the second control valve is installed on the coolant circulation line between the radiator and the pump; the coolant branch line is configured to allow coolant circulation through the first control valve, the ion filter, and the second control valve; the pressurized reservoir is installed on the coolant branch line between the coolant outlet port of the ion filter and the second control valve and is configured to supply air to the interior of the ion filter; the conductivity sensor is configured to measure the conductivity of the coolant; and the controller is configured to control the first control valve, the second control valve, and the air supply from the pressurized reservoir based on the conductivity.

[0023] These and other features and advantages are described in more detail below. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The above and other features of the invention will now be described in detail with reference to certain examples shown in the accompanying drawings, which are for illustrative purposes only and are therefore not limiting of the invention, wherein:

[0025] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an example coolant circulation loop for a fuel cell stack is shown.

[0026] Figure 2 A configuration diagram of the coolant discharge system for the ion filter is shown;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a 3D view of an ion filter;

[0028] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of an ion filter;

[0029] Figure 5 A perspective view illustrating the connection state between an ion filter and a pressurized reservoir according to an example of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 6 To show Figure 5 An enlarged schematic diagram showing the coolant drain hose and coolant discharge pipe connected to each other via a connecting pipe;

[0031] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the state of an air supply line connecting an ion filter to a pressurized storage unit, according to an example of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 8 A front view of an ion filter according to an example of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 9 A front view of a pressurized storage device according to an example of the invention; and

[0034] Figure 10 A perspective view illustrating the connection state between an ion filter and a pressurized reservoir according to an example of the present invention.

[0035] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but rather present simplified representations of various features to illustrate the basic principles of the invention. Specific design features of the invention disclosed herein (including, for example, specific dimensions, orientations, positions, and shapes) will be determined in part by the specific target application and the environment in which it is used.

[0036] Throughout these figures, the same reference numerals denote the same or equivalent parts of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0037] In the following description, various examples of the invention will be shown in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and the descriptions thereof. The specific structural or functional descriptions given in conjunction with the examples of the invention are merely illustrative, intended to illustrate examples based on the concept of the invention, and examples based on the concept of the invention can be implemented in various forms. Furthermore, it will be understood that this specification is not intended to limit the invention to the examples. Rather, the invention is intended to cover not only the examples, but also various substitutions, modifications, equivalents, and other examples that can be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0038] In this invention, terms such as "first" and / or "second" may be used to describe various components, but these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from other components. For example, without departing from the scope of the claims according to the spirit of the invention, a first component may be referred to as a second component, and similarly, a second component may be referred to as a first component.

[0039] When a component is referred to as "connected" or "joined" to another component, a component may be directly connected or joined to another component, but it should be understood that other components may exist in between. On the other hand, when a component is referred to as "directly connected" or "directly in contact" with another component, it should be understood that no other components exist in between. Other expressions used to describe the relationship between components, namely "between" and "directly between" or "adjacent" and "directly adjacent," should be interpreted in the same way.

[0040] Throughout this specification, the same reference numerals denote the same parts. Furthermore, the terminology in this specification is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention. In this specification, singular expressions also include plural forms unless expressly stated in the context. As used herein, expressions such as “comprising” and / or “including” do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more parts, steps, operations, and / or elements other than those described.

[0041] For the purposes of this application and claims, the exemplary phrases “at least one of A, B, or C” or “at least one of A, B, or C” are used, which means “at least one A, or at least one B, or at least one C, or at least one A, at least one B, and at least one C.” Furthermore, exemplary phrases used herein, such as “A, B, and C,” “A, B, or C,” “at least one of A, B, and C,” “at least one of A, B, or C,” etc., may mean each of the listed items or all possible combinations of the listed items. For example, “at least one of A or B” may refer to (1) at least one A; (2) at least one B; or (3) at least one A and at least one B. The phrase “one or more” may be used interchangeably with “at least one.”

[0042] The term "approximately" and its grammatical equivalents used herein may include the reference value itself and a range of values ​​plus or minus 10% of that reference value. For example, the term "approximately 10" includes 10 and any number between 9 and 11. In some cases, the term "approximately" may also include a range of values ​​plus or minus 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, or 1% of that reference value. In some embodiments, "approximately" associated with a number or range measured by a particular method indicates that the given value includes the value determined by the variability of that method.

[0043] Depending on the context, the term "configured as" as used herein can have meanings such as "set as," "capable of," "modified as," "constructed as," or "able to." This term is not limited to the meaning of "specifically designed as in hardware." For example, a processor configured to perform a specific operation can refer to a general-purpose processor capable of performing that specific operation through software implementation, or a special-purpose computer programmed to perform that specific computation.

[0044] Throughout this disclosure, references to components, units, or modules generally refer to items that can be logically grouped together to perform a function or a set of related functions. The same reference numerals are generally intended to refer to the same or similar components. Components, units, and modules can be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware. The aforementioned components, units, modules, and / or functions can be implemented and / or performed by one or more processors. For example, components, units, and / or modules may include processors, microprocessors, graphics processing units, logic circuits, application-specific circuits, application-specific integrated circuits, programmable array logic, field-programmable gate arrays, controllers, microcontrollers, and / or other suitable hardware. Components, units, and / or modules may also include, for example, software control modules implemented with processors or logic circuits. Components, units, and / or modules may include or otherwise have access to memory, such as one or more non-transient computer-readable storage media, such as random access memory, read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, erasable programmable read-only memory, flash memory / other storage devices, data registers, databases, and / or other suitable hardware. One or more storage media may include any or all tangible memory of a computer, processor, etc., or related modules thereof, such as various semiconductor memories, tape drives, disk drives, etc., which can provide non-transient storage for software programming at any time.

[0045] A controller may include a communication / computing device configured to communicate with other controllers and / or one or more sensors to control one or more responsible functions and / or operations; a memory storing an operating system, logic instructions, and / or input / output information; and / or one or more processors that perform the determinations, calculations, and / or decisions / determinations required to control the responsible functions. A controller may include, for example, a processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a microchip, logic circuitry, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), memory, etc. A controller may manipulate and / or control other components in a system (e.g., a vehicle).

[0046] It should be understood that the terms "vehicle," "of a vehicle," or other similar terms as used herein generally include motor vehicles, such as passenger vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUVs), buses, trucks, various commercial vehicles, vessels including various boats and ships, aircraft, etc., and include hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, hydrogen-powered vehicles, and other alternative fuel vehicles (e.g., vehicles powered by non-petroleum energy sources). As mentioned herein, a hybrid vehicle is a vehicle with two or more power sources, such as both gasoline and electric power.

[0047] In the following, examples of the invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0048] Figure 2 A configuration diagram of the coolant discharge system for the ion filter is shown. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The diagrams for the ion filters are shown below. Figure 5 A perspective view illustrating the connection state between an ion filter and a pressurized reservoir according to an example of the present invention.

[0049] like Figure 2 As shown, the fuel cell stack 10, radiator 20, and pump 30 can be connected to each other via a coolant circulation line 40. Coolant can circulate along the coolant circulation line, thus allowing coolant to circulate through / around the fuel cell stack 10, radiator 20, and pump 30.

[0050] The first control valve 41 can be connected (e.g., installed at) the coolant circulation line 40 between the coolant outlet port of the pump 30 and the coolant inlet port of the fuel cell stack 10. The second control valve 42 can be connected (e.g., installed at) the coolant circulation line 40 between the coolant outlet port of the radiator 20 and the coolant inlet port of the pump 30.

[0051] The first control valve 41, ion filter 50, pressurized reservoir 70, and second control valve 42 can be connected to each other via a coolant branch line 60. Coolant can circulate along the coolant branch line 60, thereby allowing coolant to circulate through / around the first control valve 41, ion filter 50, pressurized reservoir 70, and second control valve 42.

[0052] Each of the first control valve 41 and the second control valve 42 may be configured as a three-way valve (e.g., an electrically operated three-way valve). The opening / closing direction and / or opening degree of each of the first control valve 41 and the second control valve 42 may be controlled by one or more control signals from the controller 100.

[0053] The ion filter 50 can be used to remove metal ions from the coolant (e.g., coolant that has been circulated through the fuel cell stack).

[0054] Figure 3 and Figure 4Detailed internal and external views of an example ion filter 50 are shown. The ion filter 50 has fine-particle ion exchange resin 55 disposed therein. The ion exchange resin 55 can be configured to adequately filter ions (e.g., ions contained in the coolant). Coolant that has been circulated through the fuel cell stack can enter the ion filter 50, where metal ions can be removed by the ion exchange resin 55 inside the ion filter 50. The coolant can then be circulated back to the fuel cell stack 10. In this way, the ion concentration in the stack coolant (e.g., corresponding to conductivity) can be adjusted to meet a threshold (e.g., below a predetermined level corresponding to an undesirable conductivity). Therefore, the insulation resistance of the fuel cell stack can be restored (e.g., to an acceptable low level).

[0055] Figure 2 A pressurized reservoir 70 is shown, which is mounted on a coolant branch line 60 between the coolant outlet port of the ion filter 50 and the second control valve 42. An air supply line 80 can connect the pressurized reservoir 70 to the ion filter 50 (e.g., so that air can be supplied from the pressurized reservoir 70 to the interior of the ion filter 50).

[0056] The pressurized reservoir 70 can be configured to be closed with a pressure control cover 74 (e.g., the pressure control cover 74 is mounted on...). Figure 5 The upper part of the pressurized reservoir 70. The pressure control cover 74 can be operated / used to allow / cause the internal pressure of the reservoir 70 to be controlled (e.g., higher than the external pressure of the reservoir 70).

[0057] Ion filter 50 may include housing 54 (e.g., see Figures 3-5 The housing 54 may have an air inlet port 51 (e.g., formed in the upper part of the housing 54). The air inlet port 51 may be connected to the other end of the air supply line 80. A coolant stagnation space 52 may be formed in the portion of the housing 54 remote from the air inlet port 51 (e.g., at the inner bottom of the housing relative to the air inlet port 51). A coolant outlet port 53 may be formed in the lower part of the housing 54. The coolant outlet port 53 may be configured to communicate with the coolant stagnation space 52.

[0058] The housing 54 may contain an ion exchange resin 55 located inside the housing 54, the ion exchange resin 55 being configured to filter metal ions in the coolant.

[0059] The cover 56 can be engaged to / can be engaged to the upper opening of the housing 54. A coolant inlet port 57 configured to allow coolant to be introduced into the housing 54 can be formed on the upper surface of the cover 56.

[0060] The airflow channel 58 can be configured to communicate with the air inlet port 51. The airflow channel 58 can be formed between the inner surface of the housing 54 and the outer surface of the ion exchange resin 55.

[0061] According to an example of the invention, such as Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, the pressurized reservoir 70 may be configured to include an exhaust port 71, a coolant discharge port 72, and a coolant circulation port 73. The exhaust port 71 is formed at one upper part of the pressurized reservoir and connected to one end of the air supply line 80. The coolant discharge port 72 is formed at the other upper part of the pressurized reservoir and is connected in communication with the coolant outlet port 53 formed at the housing 54 of the ion filter 50. The coolant circulation port 73 is formed at the lower part of the pressurized reservoir and configured to circulate coolant toward the second control valve 42.

[0062] The ion filter 50 can be positioned higher than the pressurized reservoir 70 (e.g., when installed in a vehicle including a fuel cell), so that coolant remaining inside the housing 54 of the ion filter 50 can be easily discharged into the pressurized reservoir 70.

[0063] The ion filter 50 is positioned higher than the pressurized reservoir 70 so that the ion filter 50 and the pressurized reservoir 70 can be connected to each other, thereby allowing coolant to flow between them.

[0064] Therefore, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the coolant discharge hose 59 can be connected to the coolant outlet port 53 formed in the housing 54 of the ion filter 50. The coolant discharge pipe 75, which is connected in communication with the coolant discharge hose 59, can be connected to the coolant discharge port 72 of the pressurized reservoir 70.

[0065] The coolant discharge hose 59 and the coolant discharge pipe 75 can be connected in communication with each other via a connector 76, which is configured to arrange the coolant discharge hose 59 downward toward the coolant discharge pipe 75, thereby allowing coolant to be easily discharged from the housing 54 of the ion filter 50 to the pressurized reservoir 70.

[0066] Air supply line 80 may have a solenoid valve 82 mounted thereon. Solenoid valve 82 may be configured to turn on or off in response to a control signal from controller 100 to allow or block the air supply from pressurized reservoir 70 to the interior of ion filter 50 (e.g., to the interior of housing 54).

[0067] If solenoid valve 82 is activated (e.g., in response to a control signal from controller 100), air filling / from the upper space of pressurized reservoir 70 can be supplied to housing 54 of ion filter 50 (e.g., along / via air supply line 80). The coolant contained in ion exchange resin 55 can be separated from the ion exchange resin by the pressure of the air supplied to housing 54. The coolant separated from ion exchange resin 55 can be collected in coolant retention space 52 (e.g., located at the inner bottom of housing 54).

[0068] If solenoid valve 82 is disconnected (e.g., in response to a control signal from controller 100), the air supply to housing 54 can be blocked. The coolant can remain substantially in contact with ion exchange resin 55, and metal ions in the coolant can be removed by ion exchange resin 55 while the coolant is in contact with it.

[0069] The operation of the coolant discharge system of the present invention based on the configuration described herein will be described below.

[0070] When / if pump 30 is driven, coolant can circulate along coolant circulation line 40 through fuel cell stack 10 and radiator 20, thereby cooling fuel cell stack 10.

[0071] The conductivity of the coolant circulating along the coolant circulation line 40 can be detected by a conductivity sensor (not shown). The detected signal (e.g., an indication of the detected conductivity) can be transmitted to the controller 100.

[0072] If the conductivity of the coolant meets a regulation threshold (e.g., equal to or higher than a predetermined level), controller 100 may be configured to determine that the insulation resistance of the fuel cell stack needs to be restored. Controller 100 may be configured to, based on the determination that the conductivity meets the threshold, control a first control valve 41 to open toward the ion filter 50 (e.g., at least partially toward the ion filter 50, except toward the coolant inlet port of the fuel cell stack 10). Controller 100 may be configured to, based on the determination that the conductivity meets the threshold, control a second control valve 42 to open toward the coolant inlet port of the pump 30. At least a portion of the coolant may circulate through the ion filter 50, through the pressurized reservoir 70, along the coolant branch line 60, and / or along the coolant circulation line 40.

[0073] Since the metal ions in the coolant are removed by the ion exchange resin 55 filling the ion filter 50, the conductivity of the coolant can be adjusted to no longer meet an adjustment threshold (e.g., below a predetermined level). The predetermined level can be a conductivity at which and / or below which the insulation resistance of the fuel cell stack is considered to have recovered.

[0074] When / if the coolant passes through ion exchange resin 55 (e.g., the coolant contacts ion exchange resin 55), ion exchange resin 55 can act as an oxidation catalyst for the coolant. Promoting the oxidation of the coolant can increase the release of anions from the coolant. The released anions may increase the ion filtration load (ion removal load) of ion exchange resin 55. The filtration performance of the ion exchange resin may decrease, and the lifespan of the ion exchange resin may be shortened.

[0075] When / if the fuel cell vehicle is in motion, and / or when / if the fuel cell vehicle is parked and / or stopped, coolant may stagnate in the ion exchange resin 55 of the ion filter 50. Since the coolant and ion exchange resin 55 remain in contact with each other, oxidation of the coolant may be further promoted, causing a continued increase in the release of anions from the coolant. This may result in a further increase in the ion filtration load on the ion exchange resin 55. The filtration performance of the ion exchange resin may further decrease, and the lifespan of the ion exchange resin may further shorten.

[0076] If it is determined that the insulation resistance of the fuel cell stack is sufficient (e.g., the conductivity does not meet the adjustment threshold, and the insulation resistance recovers), the controller 100 can perform a control operation (e.g., send a first control signal) to close the first control valve 41. Closing the first control valve 41 prevents coolant from flowing into the ion filter 50. The controller 100 can also perform a control operation (e.g., send a second control signal) to activate (e.g., open) the solenoid valve 82 mounted on the air supply line 80.

[0077] When / if the first control valve 41 is closed, coolant flow into the ion filter 50 is prevented, and air inside the pressurized reservoir 70 can be supplied to the interior of the housing 54 of the ion filter 50 via the air supply line 80. Air pressure (e.g., from the air supply from the pressurized reservoir 70 to the interior of the housing 54) can be applied to the coolant remaining in the ion exchange resin 55 of the ion filter 50. The coolant can be separated from the ion exchange resin 55 (e.g., by air pressure) and collected in a coolant retention space 52 located at the inner bottom of the housing 54. The collected coolant can be discharged into the pressurized reservoir 70.

[0078] When / if air from the pressurized reservoir 70 is supplied to the interior of the housing 54 of the ion filter 50 (e.g., via air supply line 80), the air can flow through the airflow passage 58 between the inner surface of the housing 54 and the outer surface of the ion exchange resin 55. The airflow can provide air pressure to the coolant remaining in the ion exchange resin 55 of the ion filter 50, thereby separating / facilitating separation of the coolant from the ion exchange resin 55. The coolant can be collected in a coolant retention space 52 located at the inner bottom of the housing 54. The coolant can be easily discharged into the pressurized reservoir 70 via the coolant discharge hose 59 and / or the coolant discharge pipe 75.

[0079] According to an example of the invention, the air pressure supplied from the pressurized reservoir 70 can be used to facilitate / promote the discharge of coolant remaining in the ion exchange resin 55 of the ion filter 50 into the pressurized reservoir 70. The discharge / promoted discharge of coolant can reduce (e.g., minimize) the direct contact between the coolant and the ion exchange resin 55, and reduce (e.g., minimize) the effect of the ion exchange resin 55 as an oxidation catalyst for the coolant. Reduced direct contact prevents a decrease in the durability of the ion exchange resin and reliably extends its lifespan.

[0080] A coolant discharge system according to an example of the present invention will now be described.

[0081] Figure 8 A front view of an ion filter according to an example of the present invention. Figure 9 A front view of a pressurized storage device according to an example of the present invention. Figure 10 A perspective view illustrating the connection state between an ion filter and a pressurized reservoir according to an example of the present invention.

[0082] Other examples of the invention are configured in the same manner as the coolant discharge system of the examples described above, characterized by a structural configuration in which the ion filter 50 and the pressurized reservoir 70 are directly connected to each other, thereby allowing air and coolant to flow therebetween.

[0083] In the examples discussed above, the ion filter 50 and the pressurized reservoir 70 can be connected to each other via an air supply line 80, thereby allowing air to flow between them. The ion filter 50 and the pressurized reservoir 70 can also be connected to each other via a coolant discharge hose 59 and / or a coolant discharge pipe 75, thereby allowing coolant to flow between them. In another example of the invention, the ion filter 50 and the pressurized reservoir 70 can be directly connected to each other to allow air and coolant to flow between them.

[0084] The first airflow connector 110 and / or the second airflow connector 120 may be formed on the housing 54 of the pressurized reservoir 70 and the ion filter 50, respectively. The first airflow connector 110 and the second airflow connector 120 may (e.g., configured to) connect to each other to supply air from the pressurized reservoir 70 to the interior of the housing 54 of the ion filter 50.

[0085] The first coolant flow connector 130 and the second coolant flow connector 140 may be formed on the housing 54 of the ion filter 50 and the pressurized reservoir 70, respectively. The first coolant flow connector 130 and the second coolant flow connector 140 may (e.g., configured to) connect to each other to allow coolant to flow from the housing 54 of the ion filter 50 to the pressurized reservoir 70.

[0086] The housing 54 of the ion filter 50 can be configured such that, for example... Figure 8 As shown, a second airflow connector 120 is formed on the upper part of the housing 54, and a coolant retention space is formed on the inner bottom of the housing 54. A first coolant flow connector 130 may be formed on the lower part of the housing and communicate with the coolant retention space.

[0087] As discussed herein, the interior of housing 54 may be filled with ion exchange resin 55, a cover 56 having a coolant inlet port 57 may be engaged with the upper opening of housing 54, and an air flow channel 58 may be formed between the inner surface of housing 54 and the outer surface of ion exchange resin 55.

[0088] For example, the second airflow connector 120 formed in the housing 54 of the ion filter 50 may have one or more bolt fastening slots 121 (e.g., bolt fastening slots 121 formed at opposite ends of the second airflow connector 120). An air inlet 122 may be formed in the second airflow connector 120, for example, between the bolt fastening slots 121.

[0089] For example, the first coolant flow connector 130 formed in the housing 54 of the ion filter 50 may have one or more bolt fastening holes 131 (e.g., bolt fastening holes 131 formed at opposite ends of the first coolant flow connector 130). Coolant outlet holes 132 may be formed in the first coolant flow connector 130, for example, between the bolt fastening holes 131.

[0090] like Figure 9 As shown, the pressurized reservoir 70 can be configured such that a first air flow connector 110 is formed on the upper part of the pressurized reservoir, and a second coolant flow connector 140 is formed on the lower part of the pressurized reservoir.

[0091] For example, the first airflow connector 110 formed in the pressurized reservoir 70 may have one or more bolt fastening holes 111 (e.g., bolt fastening holes 111 formed at opposite ends of the first airflow connector 100). Air supply holes 112 may be formed in the first airflow connector 110, for example, between the bolt fastening holes 111.

[0092] For example, the second coolant flow connector 140 formed in the pressurized reservoir 70 may have one or more bolt fastening slots 141 (e.g., bolt fastening slots 141 formed at opposite ends of the second coolant flow connector). Coolant discharge holes 142 may be formed in the second coolant flow connector 140, for example, between the bolt fastening slots 141.

[0093] Therefore, the bolt fastening holes 111 of the first airflow connector 110 and the bolt fastening grooves 121 of the second airflow connector 120 can be configured to be in close contact with each other, such that bolts can be fastened into the bolt fastening grooves 121 through the bolt fastening holes 111 respectively. In this way, as... Figure 10 As shown, the first airflow connector 110 and the second airflow connector 120 can be fastened to each other, so that the air supply port 112 and the air inlet port 122 can communicate with each other.

[0094] The bolt fastening holes 131 of the first coolant flow connector 130 and the bolt fastening grooves 141 of the second coolant flow connector 140 can be in close contact with each other, so that bolts can be tightened into the bolt fastening grooves 141 through the bolt fastening holes 131 respectively. Figure 10 As shown, for example, the first coolant flow connector 130 and the second coolant flow connector 140 can be fastened to each other so that the coolant outlet hole 132 and the coolant discharge hole 142 can communicate with each other.

[0095] The controller 100 can determine that the conductivity of the coolant meets a regulation threshold (e.g., equal to or higher than a predetermined level), causing the insulation resistance of the fuel cell stack to be restored. Based on this determination, the controller 100 can control a first control valve 41 to open toward the coolant inlet port of the fuel cell stack 10 and also toward the ion filter 50. Furthermore, based on this determination, the controller 100 can control a second control valve 42 to open toward the coolant inlet port of the pump 30. At least a portion of the coolant can pass through the first coolant flow connector 130 of the ion filter 50 and the second coolant flow connector 140 of the pressurized reservoir 70, and flow into the pressurized reservoir 70. The coolant can then circulate from the pressurized reservoir 70 through the coolant branch line 60 and then again along the coolant circulation line 40.

[0096] Metal ions in the coolant can be removed by ion exchange resin 55 inside the ion filter 50 (e.g., at least partially filling the ion filter 50). The conductivity of the coolant can be controlled so that it no longer meets a regulation threshold (e.g., below a predetermined level, at which the insulation resistance of the fuel cell stack can recover). For example, the conductivity of the coolant can be monitored (e.g., by a conductivity sensor and / or by a controller 100 that obtains readings / signals from the conductivity sensor).

[0097] Based on the determination that the conductivity of the coolant does not meet the adjustment threshold (e.g., a sufficiently low conductivity threshold, such as less than a predetermined value, so that the insulation resistance of the fuel cell stack recovers), the controller 100 can perform a control operation (e.g., send a control signal) to close the first control valve 41, thereby preventing coolant from flowing into the ion filter 50.

[0098] When / if the first control valve 41 is closed, coolant flow into the ion filter 50 is prevented, and air inside the pressurized reservoir 70 is supplied to the interior of the housing 54 of the ion filter 50 through the air supply port 112 of the first air flow connector 110 and the air inlet port 122 of the second air flow connector 120. Air pressure is applied to the coolant remaining in the ion exchange resin 55 of the ion filter 50. The air pressure can cause the coolant to separate from the ion exchange resin 55, for example, by promoting the separation of the coolant from the ion exchange resin 55. The separated coolant can be collected in a coolant retention space 52 located at the inner bottom of the housing 54. The collected coolant can be discharged into the pressurized reservoir 70.

[0099] The coolant can be collected in the coolant retention space 52 located at the inner bottom of the housing 54. The collected coolant can be easily discharged into the pressurized reservoir 70 through the coolant outlet port 132 of the first coolant flow connector 130 and the coolant discharge port 142 of the second coolant flow connector 140.

[0100] According to another example of the invention, the air pressure supplied from the pressurized reservoir 70 can be used to facilitate / promote the discharge of coolant remaining in the ion exchange resin 55 of the ion filter 50 into the pressurized reservoir 70. The discharge / promoted discharge of coolant can reduce (e.g., minimize) the direct contact between the coolant and the ion exchange resin 55, and reduce (e.g., minimize) the effect of the ion exchange resin 55 as an oxidation catalyst for the coolant. Reduced direct contact prevents a decrease in the durability of the ion exchange resin and reliably extends its lifespan.

[0101] This invention aims to solve problems related to the prior art. The object of this invention is to provide a coolant discharge system for an ion filter that prevents the filtration performance of the ion exchange resin from deteriorating and improves its durability. The coolant discharge system operates in such a way that when the conductivity of the coolant circulating through the fuel cell stack is equal to or higher than a predetermined level, i.e., when it is necessary to restore the insulation resistance of the fuel cell stack, the coolant circulates through the interior of the ion filter, making it easy for metal ions in the coolant to be removed by the ion exchange resin filling the interior of the ion filter. Conversely, when the conductivity of the coolant decreases below the predetermined level, i.e., when the insulation resistance of the fuel cell stack is restored, the coolant remaining inside the ion filter can be discharged to the pressurized storage tank using air pressure supplied from a pressurized storage tank.

[0102] This invention provides a coolant discharge system for an ion filter. The coolant discharge system includes a coolant circulation line, a first control valve, a second control valve, a coolant branch line, a pressurized reservoir, an air supply line, and a controller. The coolant circulation line is configured to connect a fuel cell stack, a radiator, and a pump to each other to allow coolant to circulate through the fuel cell stack, radiator, and pump. The first control valve is installed on the coolant circulation line between the coolant outlet port of the pump and the coolant inlet port of the fuel cell stack. The second control valve is installed on the coolant circulation line between the coolant outlet port of the radiator and the coolant inlet port of the pump. The coolant branch line is configured to connect the first control valve, the ion filter, and the second control valve to allow coolant to circulate through the first control valve, the ion filter, and the second control valve. The pressurized reservoir is installed on the coolant branch line between the coolant outlet port of the ion filter and the second control valve. The air supply line is configured to connect the pressurized reservoir to the ion filter, such that air is supplied from the pressurized reservoir to the interior of the ion filter. The controller is configured to control the opening / closing direction and opening degree of each of the first and second control valves.

[0103] For example, the ion filter can be positioned higher than the pressurized reservoir, allowing the coolant remaining inside the ion filter to be discharged into the pressurized reservoir.

[0104] For example, an ion filter may include a housing, an ion exchange resin, and a cover. The housing has an air inlet port, a coolant retention space, and a coolant outlet port. The air inlet port is formed in an upper part of the housing and is connected to the other end of an air supply line. The coolant retention space is formed inside the housing. The coolant outlet port is formed in a lower part of the housing and configured to communicate with the coolant retention space. The ion exchange resin fills the interior of the housing. The cover engages with an upper opening of the housing and has a coolant inlet port formed on its upper surface.

[0105] For example, an airflow channel can be formed between the inner surface of the shell and the outer surface of the ion exchange resin.

[0106] For example, the pressurized reservoir may have an exhaust port, a coolant discharge port, and a coolant circulation port. The exhaust port is formed on one upper part of the pressurized reservoir and is connected to one end of an air supply line. The coolant discharge port is formed on the other upper part of the pressurized reservoir and is communicatively connected to the coolant outlet port of an ion filter. The coolant circulation port is formed on the lower part of the pressurized reservoir and is configured to circulate coolant toward a second control valve.

[0107] For example, a coolant discharge hose can be connected to the coolant outlet port of an ion filter, and a coolant discharge pipe connected in communication with the coolant discharge hose can be connected to the coolant discharge port of a pressurized reservoir.

[0108] For example, the coolant drain hose and the coolant discharge pipe can be connected to each other via a connecting pipe configured to arrange the coolant drain hose at a downward angle toward the coolant discharge pipe.

[0109] For example, the air supply line may have a solenoid valve mounted thereon, which is configured to turn on or off in response to a control signal from a controller to allow or prevent air from being supplied from the pressurized reservoir to the interior of the ion filter.

[0110] For example, the controller can be configured to close the first control valve when the insulation resistance of the fuel cell stack recovers, in order to prevent coolant from flowing into the ion filter.

[0111] For example, when the first control valve is closed, air inside the pressurized reservoir can be supplied to the interior of the ion filter through the air supply line. At the same time, air pressure can be applied to the coolant remaining in the ion filter, thereby discharging the coolant from the ion filter into the pressurized reservoir.

[0112] This invention provides a coolant discharge system for an ion filter. The coolant discharge system includes a coolant circulation line, a first control valve, a second control valve, a coolant branch line, a pressurized reservoir, a first airflow connector and a second airflow connector, a first coolant flow connector and a second coolant flow connector, and a controller. The coolant circulation line is configured to connect a fuel cell stack, a radiator, and a pump to each other to allow coolant to circulate through the fuel cell stack, radiator, and pump. The first control valve is installed on the coolant circulation line between the coolant outlet port of the pump and the coolant inlet port of the fuel cell stack. The second control valve is installed on the coolant circulation line between the coolant outlet port of the radiator and the coolant inlet port of the pump. The coolant branch line is configured to connect the first control valve, the ion filter, and the second control valve. A connection is provided to allow coolant to circulate through a first control valve, an ion filter, and a second control valve. A pressurized reservoir is installed on a coolant branch line between the ion filter and the second control valve. A first airflow connector and a second airflow connector are formed on the pressurized reservoir and the ion filter, respectively, wherein the first airflow connector and the second airflow connector are connected to each other to supply air from the pressurized reservoir to the interior of the ion filter. A first coolant flow connector and a second coolant flow connector are formed on the ion filter and the pressurized reservoir, respectively, wherein the first coolant flow connector and the second coolant flow connector are connected to each other to allow coolant to flow from the ion filter to the pressurized reservoir. A controller is configured to control the opening / closing direction and opening degree of each of the first and second control valves.

[0113] For example, an ion filter may include a housing, an ion exchange resin, and a cover. The housing has a second airflow connector, a coolant retention space, and a first coolant flow connector. The second airflow connector is formed on an upper part of the housing, the coolant retention space is formed inside the housing, and the first coolant flow connector is formed on a lower part of the housing and configured to communicate with the coolant retention space. The ion exchange resin fills the interior of the housing. The cover engages with an upper opening of the housing and has a coolant inlet port formed on its upper surface.

[0114] For example, an airflow channel can be formed between the inner surface of the shell and the outer surface of the ion exchange resin.

[0115] For example, the second airflow connector may have bolt fastening grooves formed at its opposite ends, and an air inlet may be formed between the bolt fastening grooves.

[0116] For example, the first coolant flow connector may have bolt fastening holes formed at its opposite ends, and a coolant outlet hole may be formed between the bolt fastening holes.

[0117] For example, a pressurized reservoir may have a first air flow connector formed on one of its upper parts and a second coolant flow connector formed on one of its lower parts.

[0118] For example, the first airflow connector may have bolt fastening holes formed at its opposite ends, and an air supply hole may be formed between the bolt fastening holes.

[0119] For example, the second coolant flow connector may have bolt fastening grooves formed at its opposite ends, and a coolant discharge hole may be formed between the bolt fastening grooves.

[0120] For example, the controller can be configured to close the first control valve when the insulation resistance of the fuel cell stack recovers, in order to prevent coolant from flowing into the ion filter.

[0121] For example, when the first control valve is closed, air inside the pressurized reservoir can be supplied to the interior of the ion filter through the first air flow connector and the second air flow connector. At the same time, air pressure can be applied to the coolant remaining in the ion filter, thereby discharging the coolant from the ion filter to the pressurized reservoir through the first coolant flow connector and the second coolant flow connector.

[0122] As can be clearly seen from the above description, the present invention provides the following effects.

[0123] First, when the conductivity of the coolant circulating through the fuel cell stack is controlled below a predetermined level—that is, when the insulation resistance of the fuel cell stack recovers—the coolant remaining inside the ion filter can be discharged into the pressurized storage tank using the pressure of air supplied from the pressurized storage tank. This not only minimizes direct contact between the coolant and the ion exchange resin but also minimizes the effect of the ion exchange resin as an oxidation catalyst for the coolant. Therefore, it prevents a decrease in the durability of the ion exchange resin and reliably extends its lifespan.

[0124] Secondly, it can prevent frequent replacement of ion exchange resin in the ion filter, thereby reducing maintenance costs.

[0125] Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to examples, the scope of the invention is not limited to the examples described above. Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and improvements can be made to the examples without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined in the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A coolant discharge system, comprising: Coolant circulation lines are configured to allow coolant to circulate through the fuel cell stack, radiator, and pump; The first control valve is installed on the coolant circulation line between the coolant outlet port of the pump and the coolant inlet port of the fuel cell stack. The second control valve is installed on the coolant circulation line between the coolant outlet port of the radiator and the coolant inlet port of the pump. A coolant branch line configured to allow coolant to circulate through the first control valve, the ion filter, and the second control valve; A pressurized storage tank is installed on the coolant branch line between the coolant outlet port of the ion filter and the second control valve; An air supply line configured to supply air from the pressurized reservoir to the interior of the ion filter; as well as The controller, configured to control: The first opening / closing direction of the first control valve; and The second opening / closing direction of the second control valve.

2. The coolant discharge system according to claim 1, wherein, The ion filter is positioned higher than the pressurized reservoir, so that the coolant inside the ion filter is discharged into the pressurized reservoir.

3. The coolant discharge system according to claim 1, wherein, The ion filter includes: The housing includes: An air inlet port, formed in the upper part of the housing and configured to receive air from an air supply line, and A coolant outlet port is formed in the lower part of the housing and configured to communicate with a coolant retention space formed inside the housing; An ion exchange resin, located inside the housing; and A cover that engages with the upper opening of the housing, wherein the upper surface of the cover includes a coolant inlet port.

4. The coolant discharge system according to claim 3, wherein, An airflow channel is formed between the inner surface of the housing and the outer surface of the ion exchange resin.

5. The coolant discharge system according to claim 1, wherein, The first upper part of the pressurized reservoir includes an exhaust port connected to the air supply line. The second upper portion of the pressurized reservoir includes a coolant discharge port, which is communicatively connected to the coolant outlet port of the ion filter. The lower part of the pressurized reservoir includes a coolant circulation port configured to allow coolant to circulate toward a second control valve.

6. The coolant discharge system according to claim 5, wherein, A coolant discharge hose is connected to the coolant outlet port of the ion filter, and a coolant discharge pipe connected in communication with the coolant discharge hose is connected to the coolant discharge port of the pressurized reservoir.

7. The coolant discharge system according to claim 6, wherein, The coolant discharge hose and the coolant discharge pipe are connected in communication with each other via a connecting pipe configured to arrange the coolant discharge hose at a downward angle toward the coolant discharge pipe.

8. The coolant discharge system according to claim 1, further comprising a solenoid valve installed on the air supply line, wherein, The solenoid valve is configured as follows: A first control signal from the controller is activated to allow air to be supplied from the pressurized reservoir to the interior of the ion filter; or The second control signal from the controller is disconnected to prevent air from being supplied from the pressurized reservoir to the interior of the ion filter.

9. The coolant discharge system according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to close the first control valve based on the coolant's conductivity meeting a threshold, thereby preventing coolant from flowing to the ion filter.

10. The coolant discharge system according to claim 9, wherein, The controller is further configured to: based on the closure of the first control valve, supply air inside the pressurized reservoir to the interior of the ion filter via an air supply line to facilitate the discharge of coolant from the ion filter into the pressurized reservoir.

11. A coolant discharge system, comprising: Coolant circulation lines are configured to allow coolant to circulate through the fuel cell stack, radiator, and pump; The first control valve is installed on the coolant circulation line between the coolant outlet port of the pump and the coolant inlet port of the fuel cell stack. The second control valve is installed on the coolant circulation line between the coolant outlet port of the radiator and the coolant inlet port of the pump. A coolant branch line configured to allow coolant to circulate through the first control valve, the ion filter, and the second control valve; A pressurized storage tank is installed on a coolant branch line between the ion filter and the second control valve; A first airflow connector is formed on the pressurized reservoir; A second airflow connector is formed on the ion filter, wherein the first airflow connector and the second airflow connector are connected to each other to allow the pressurized reservoir to supply air into the interior of the ion filter; A first coolant flow connector is formed on the ion filter; A second coolant flow connector is formed on the pressurized reservoir, wherein the first coolant flow connector and the second coolant flow connector are connected to each other to allow coolant to flow from the ion filter to the pressurized reservoir; and The controller, configured to control: The first opening / closing direction of the first control valve; and The second opening / closing direction of the second control valve.

12. The coolant discharge system according to claim 11, wherein, The ion filter includes: The housing includes: A second airflow connector is formed in the upper part of the housing, and A first coolant flow connector is formed in the lower part of the housing and configured to communicate with a coolant stagnation space formed inside the housing; An ion exchange resin, located inside the housing; and A cover that engages with the upper opening of the housing, wherein the upper surface of the cover includes a coolant inlet port.

13. The coolant discharge system according to claim 12, wherein, An airflow channel is formed between the inner surface of the housing and the outer surface of the ion exchange resin.

14. The coolant discharge system according to claim 12, wherein, Bolt fastening grooves are formed on the second airflow connector, and air inlets are formed between the bolt fastening grooves.

15. The coolant discharge system according to claim 12, wherein, Bolt fastening holes are formed on the first coolant flow connector, and coolant outlet holes are formed between the bolt fastening holes.

16. The coolant discharge system according to claim 11, wherein, The first airflow connector is formed on the upper part of the pressurized reservoir, and the second coolant flow connector is formed on the lower part of the pressurized reservoir.

17. The coolant discharge system according to claim 16, wherein, Bolt fastening holes are formed on the first airflow connector, and air supply holes are formed between the bolt fastening holes.

18. The coolant discharge system according to claim 16, wherein, Bolt fastening grooves are formed on the second coolant flow connector, and coolant discharge holes are formed between the bolt fastening grooves.

19. The coolant discharge system according to claim 11, wherein, The controller is configured as follows: The first control valve is closed based on the coolant's conductivity meeting a threshold, thereby preventing coolant from flowing to the ion filter. When the first control valve is closed, air inside the pressurized reservoir is supplied to the interior of the ion filter via the first and second air flow connectors to facilitate the discharge of coolant from the ion filter into the pressurized reservoir. The conductivity of the coolant is detected by a conductivity sensor.

20. A coolant discharge system, comprising: Coolant circulation lines are configured to allow coolant to circulate and exchange heat with the fuel cell stack, radiator, and pump; The first control valve is installed on the coolant circulation line between the pump and the fuel cell stack; The second control valve is installed on the coolant circulation line between the radiator and the pump; A coolant branch line configured to allow coolant to circulate through the first control valve, the ion filter, and the second control valve; A pressurized reservoir is installed on a coolant branch line between the coolant outlet port of the ion filter and the second control valve and is configured to supply air to the interior of the ion filter; A conductivity sensor configured to measure the conductivity of a coolant; as well as The controller is configured for conductivity-based control. First control valve; Second control valve; and Air supply from the pressurized storage unit.

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