Flexible methanol fuel cell and humanoid robot power supply system

Abstract

The invention discloses a flexible methanol fuel cell and a humanoid robot power supply system, and relates to the technical field of methanol power generation, the flexible methanol fuel cell comprises a flexible bag body, the two ends of the flexible bag body are provided with a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet, and the side surface is provided with a mounting opening; the membrane electrode is sealed in the mounting opening; the anode diffusion layer and the cathode diffusion layer are respectively fixed on the anode side and the cathode side of the membrane electrode, and fine wire meshes are fixed on the anode diffusion layer and the cathode diffusion layer. A humanoid robot power supply system comprises a flexible methanol fuel cell, a DMFC energy management system and an energy storage cell, and the flexible methanol fuel cell serves as a power generation unit and is integrally distributed on the outer surface of a robot. According to the flexible methanol fuel cell disclosed by the invention, the whole cell body has good bending, twisting and tensile elasticity, can adapt to various irregular surfaces and dynamic deformation scenes, and is light in weight and thin in thickness. The flexible methanol fuel cell is used as a power generation skin to be integrated on the robot, the mass energy density is improved, and the endurance working time is prolonged.

Description

A flexible methanol fuel cell and humanoid robot power supply system Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of methanol fuel cells, and specifically to a flexible, deformable methanol fuel cell that can be used as a power-generating skin layer for humanoid robots. Background Technology

[0002] A direct methanol fuel cell is an electrochemical device that directly converts the chemical energy of methanol and oxygen into electrical energy. It has advantages such as high fuel energy density, convenient refueling, and relatively simple system structure, and has application potential in portable power supplies, mobile devices and other fields.

[0003] Direct methanol fuel cells use a liquid methanol-water solution as fuel, typically at a concentration of 3%-5%, without the need for external reforming to produce hydrogen. Anode reaction: Methanol is oxidized in the presence of a catalyst, producing carbon dioxide, protons, and electrons. Protons pass through a proton exchange membrane to the cathode, where oxygen (usually from air) combines with protons and electrons to form water. Electrons then form an electric current through an external circuit, driving the load.

[0004] Traditional direct methanol fuel cells typically employ a rigid structure, including a membrane electrode assembly (MEA), a gas diffusion layer, bipolar plates, and end plates. The MEA surface is coated with a catalyst. In the anolyte, methanol decomposes into protons, electrons, and CO2 under the action of the catalyst. Protons pass through the cation exchange membrane to the cathode, where, under the action of the cathode catalyst, they combine with O2 from the air and electrons conducted from the external circuit to generate water vapor. The gas diffusion layer uniformly diffuses the reactants (methanol solution at the anode and air / oxygen at the cathode) onto the catalyst surface and removes the products (CO2 at the anode and water at the cathode). The bipolar plates collect the current generated by the MEA and conduct it to the external circuit, distributing the methanol solution and air / oxygen evenly across the entire electrode surface through a surface flow field. The end plates use bolts to press the components of the entire stack together, ensuring minimal contact resistance between components and preventing fuel and oxidant leakage. This rigid stacked structure ensures uniform distribution of reactants, timely removal of products, and good electrical contact, but it also introduces inherent disadvantages such as large size and weight, complex structure, and inability to bend or deform. This significantly limits its application in emerging scenarios requiring flexibility, wearability, and conformal bonding, such as robotic skin, smart fabrics, flexible electronic devices, and medical patches.

[0005] For example, regarding the flexibility of direct methanol fuel cells, Chinese invention patent application number 202022649972.7 discloses a flexible direct methanol fuel cell, comprising a flexible anode end plate, a flexible anode current collector, a flexible membrane electrode, a flexible cathode current collector, and a flexible cathode end plate arranged sequentially. The flexible membrane electrode uses a metal mesh electrode as the current collector, which can achieve overall flexibility of the direct methanol fuel cell. This application improves upon the traditional stacked structure using flexible materials, but its "planar stack" nature remains unchanged, and its overall flexibility, deformation resistance, and lightweight level are still insufficient.

[0006] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a direct methanol fuel cell that is innovative in its structural principles and truly possesses good flexibility and adaptability. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention aims to solve the above-mentioned technical problems in the prior art. This application provides a flexible methanol fuel cell with good flexibility and deformation resistance. Moreover, by contacting the air through the cathode opening and conducting electricity with fine wire mesh, it not only plays a fixing role, but also eliminates the cathode bipolar plate and corresponding flow field of traditional methanol fuel cells, optimizes the reaction speed and drainage problem, significantly reduces the thickness, increases flexibility and reduces weight.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a flexible methanol fuel cell, comprising: a flexible bag body, wherein an inlet and an outlet are respectively provided at opposite ends of the flexible bag body, and a chamber for flowing methanol aqueous solution is formed inside the bag body, and an installation opening is provided on one side of the bag body; a membrane electrode assembly, which is sealed and fixed at the installation opening to isolate the chamber from the external environment; an anode diffusion layer, which is fixedly attached to the anode side of the membrane electrode assembly; and a cathode diffusion layer, which is fixedly attached to the cathode side of the membrane electrode assembly, wherein fine wire mesh is fixedly attached to the side of the anode diffusion layer and the cathode diffusion layer away from the membrane electrode assembly.

[0009] By employing the above technical solution, the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) comprises an anode catalytic layer, a proton exchange membrane, and a cathode catalytic layer. A 3%-5% concentration methanol aqueous solution is pumped into the chamber of the flexible bag through the inlet, wetting the anode diffusion layer and diffusing onto the anode catalytic layer of the MEA. Methanol undergoes an oxidation reaction on the anode catalytic layer, generating protons that pass through the proton exchange membrane to the surface of the cathode catalytic layer. Electrons flow through the anode diffusion layer to the external circuit, perform work, and then reach the cathode catalytic layer via the cathode diffusion layer. Simultaneously, oxygen from the air diffuses through the pores of the cathode diffusion layer to the surface of the cathode catalytic layer, where it combines with the incoming protons and electrons to undergo a reduction reaction, thus completing the entire power generation process.

[0010] The flexible bag, membrane electrode, anode diffusion layer and cathode diffusion layer all have excellent flexibility. The entire battery can withstand bending, winding and even a certain degree of stretching without damaging the internal structure or seriously affecting the performance, thus realizing a truly flexible methanol fuel cell.

[0011] Preferably, it further includes an anode tab and a cathode tab, wherein the anode tab is connected to the anode diffusion layer, and the cathode tab is connected to the fine mesh on the cathode diffusion layer, and the fine mesh on the anode tab and the cathode tab is used to connect to an external circuit.

[0012] By employing the above technical solution, the anode and cathode tabs are used to collect and conduct current, efficiently collecting electrons generated and received by the electrochemical reaction on the membrane electrode and conducting them to an external circuit. The anode and cathode diffusion layers have a loose, porous structure, allowing for direct and reliable connection to wires. By incorporating tabs, multiple flexible methanol fuel cells can be easily connected in series or parallel via an external circuit.

[0013] Preferably, both the anode tab and the cathode tab are connected to flat wires, and the flat wires on the anode tab and the cathode tab are respectively provided with male and female connectors that can be plugged into each other.

[0014] By adopting the above technical solution, the flat conductor is thinner and has a better bending fatigue life and a smaller bending radius compared to traditional round conductors. It also generates less stress during dynamic bending, avoiding conductor breakage or detachment from the tab due to repeated bending. Standardized, quick-connect modular interfaces are provided through male and female connectors.

[0015] Preferably, both the anode diffusion layer and the cathode diffusion layer are made of carbon cloth, and the fine wire mesh is a titanium mesh or a nickel-plated polymer mesh.

[0016] By employing the above technical solutions, carbon cloth is a woven fabric material made of carbon fiber yarns, which, after high-temperature graphitization treatment, possesses high conductivity, high chemical stability, and a porous structure. Carbon cloth exhibits excellent flexibility, tear resistance, and bendability. Titanium mesh combines high strength with flexibility and also possesses high conductivity. Nickel-plated polymer mesh offers excellent flexibility and lightweight properties, low material cost, and ease of processing and integration.

[0017] Preferably, the membrane electrode includes an anode catalytic layer, a proton exchange membrane, and a cathode catalytic layer, wherein the anode catalytic layer is coated on the anode side of the proton exchange membrane, and the cathode catalytic layer is coated on the cathode side of the proton exchange membrane.

[0018] By adopting the above technical solution, the proton exchange membrane selectively transfers protons and isolates electrons from reactants; the anode catalyst layer is used to catalyze the methanol oxidation reaction, and the cathode catalyst layer is used to catalyze the oxygen reduction reaction.

[0019] Preferably, the flexible bag body comprises two films, the edges of which are joined by heat sealing.

[0020] By adopting the above technical solution, it is easy to achieve ultra-thinness and lightweight by directly constructing two films; through continuous hot pressing and sealing, a complete and uniform sealing strip can be formed; it is suitable for mass production and is very suitable for roll-to-roll or continuous feeding automated production, which is conducive to reducing costs in the future.

[0021] Preferably, the flexible bag body adopts a composite structure with an ultra-thin fluoroplastic as the sealing inner liner and a thermoplastic polyurethane as the flexible protective outer layer.

[0022] By adopting the above technical solutions, the flexible bag body uses an ultra-thin fluoroplastic sealed inner liner which has chemical corrosion resistance, high-strength glue-free sealing, and extremely low permeability; the outer layer uses plastic polyurethane material which has excellent impact resistance, tear resistance and wear resistance, as well as excellent flexibility and bending fatigue resistance, and good surface properties and feel.

[0023] Preferably, the membrane electrode is sealed and fixed to the edge of the mounting opening of the flexible bag body by hot pressing or bonding. The anode diffusion layer is also sealed to the mounting opening of the flexible bag body and the membrane electrode by hot pressing or bonding.

[0024] By employing the above technical solutions, thermoforming seals, through precise temperature control, allow the flexible bag and proton exchange membrane to melt and permeate, forming a homogeneous, interface-free sealing zone with high strength. This results in excellent long-term stability and reliability, without the risk of introducing foreign materials. Adhesive sealing, on the other hand, is a gentler process. The flexible adhesive layer provides good stress buffering, reducing mechanical damage to sensitive components, and offers higher process tolerance and repairability. Each method has its own focus, suitable for different application scenarios where extreme sealing durability is required or where dynamic compliance and ease of processing are more important.

[0025] Preferably, the flexible methanol fuel cell has an exhaust pipe connected to its water outlet pipe, which is arranged perpendicularly to the water outlet pipe. A waterproof and breathable membrane is installed on the exhaust pipe to selectively allow carbon dioxide to pass through while blocking liquid methanol-water mixtures. The waterproof and breathable membrane is made of polydimethylsiloxane and its derivatives.

[0026] By adopting the above technical solution, the waterproof and breathable membrane is used to discharge CO2 generated during the reaction inside the flexible bag. The CO2 is discharged through the waterproof and breathable membrane of the exhaust pipe, and the separation of liquid methanol water and CO2 is achieved by blocking liquid methanol water.

[0027] In addition, the present invention also provides a power supply system for a humanoid robot, including the flexible methanol fuel cell as described above, and further including a DMFC (Direct Methanol Fuel Cell) energy management system and an energy storage battery. The DMFC energy management system and the energy storage battery are electrically connected. A plurality of the flexible methanol fuel cells are electrically connected to the DMFC energy management system in series or parallel. The plurality of flexible methanol fuel cells are attached to or integrated on the outer surface of the robot in a distributed array. The DMFC energy management system and the energy storage battery are both housed in the internal space of the robot.

[0028] The power management unit is configured to manage the operation of several of the flexible methanol fuel cells and coordinate the energy distribution between the several flexible methanol fuel cells and the energy storage battery to provide stable power to the load.

[0029] By adopting the above technical solution, multiple flexible methanol fuel cells, acting as a distributed power generation array, directly convert the chemical energy of stored methanol fuel into electrical energy. Series connection increases the output voltage and facilitates wiring connections, reducing the length of connecting wires and pipes to meet the needs of certain high-voltage loads. Parallel connection increases the output current or provides independent power to different areas, enabling flexible configuration of the electrical topology. The specific functions of the energy storage battery are: meeting peak power demands, recovering and storing excess energy, providing start-up and backup power, and stabilizing system voltage. The DMFC energy management system is responsible for intelligent coordination, optimization, and safety protection, managing the operation of several flexible methanol fuel cells, precisely managing the energy storage battery, monitoring its state of charge, voltage, and temperature, preventing overcharging, over-discharging, and overheating, ensuring safety and extending its lifespan.

[0030] Integrating flexible methanol fuel cells as a power-generating skin onto the robot allows them to perfectly conform to the robot's complex, irregular surfaces due to their flexibility. Utilizing this previously non-functional "skin" area for power generation significantly improves the robot's space utilization efficiency and energy density. Theoretically, directly using high-energy-density methanol fuel can achieve a range far exceeding that of batteries.

[0031] Preferably, the system further includes a methanol supply unit, which comprises a methanol-water storage tank and a micro methanol pump. Several of the flexible methanol fuel cells are connected to the methanol-water storage tank in series or parallel via pipelines. The micro methanol pump is electrically connected to the DMFC energy management system.

[0032] By adopting the above technical solution, the methanol supply unit is used to supply methanol aqueous solution to the flexible methanol fuel cell. The methanol water storage tank stores methanol aqueous solution of a predetermined concentration (usually 3-5%) in liquid form. The micro methanol pump provides the driving force for fuel circulation, realizes precise control of the flow rate of methanol aqueous solution, and promotes the discharge of reaction products. The pipeline transports fuel from the storage tank and distributes it evenly to each flexible methanol fuel cell unit.

[0033] Preferably, the circuits between several flexible methanol fuel cells are electrically connected in series via flat wires, male connectors, and female connectors, and the entire system is then electrically connected in series with the DMFC energy management system. Additionally, the water pipes for circulating methanol-water solutions between the several flexible methanol fuel cells are connected in series via quick-connect self-sealing connectors, and are also connected in series with a methanol-water storage tank via pipelines.

[0034] Preferably, the circuits between the flexible methanol fuel cells are electrically connected in parallel, and the male and female connectors of the flat wires of the flexible methanol fuel cells are respectively connected to the DMFC energy management system; in addition, the water pipes for circulating methanol aqueous solution between the flexible methanol fuel cells are connected in parallel through T-junctions, and are connected in series with the methanol water storage tank through the water inlet pipe and the circulation loop.

[0035] By adopting the above technical solution, the quick-connect self-sealing connector is used to quickly connect the water circuits of two flexible methanol fuel cells. After the methanol water solution is pumped out from the methanol water storage tank, it flows sequentially through the first, second...Nth flexible methanol fuel cell unit, and then flows back to the methanol water storage tank.

[0036] Preferably, the quick-connect self-sealing connector includes a male plug and a female plug that can be plugged into each other. When the male plug and the female plug are plugged in, a channel is formed inside the male plug and the female plug. When the male plug is pulled out of the female plug, the male plug and the female plug self-seal to block the water flow.

[0037] By adopting the above technical solutions, rapid modular connection and replacement are achieved: quick plugging and unplugging without tools or leakage. This is crucial for the on-site assembly of flexible methanol fuel cells, rapid replacement of faulty units, and system reconfiguration, greatly improving maintainability. It ensures connection sealing under dynamic environments: after the male and female connectors are inserted, a reliable seal is formed through internal O-rings, valve cores, and other structures, capable of withstanding vibrations, minor pulling, and bending caused by robot movement, preventing methanol solution leakage at the connection point. It provides a "seamless disconnection" safety guarantee: the self-sealing function is the core of the safety design. When the connector is disconnected, the valve cores inside the male and female plugs automatically reset, instantly sealing the flow channels on both sides, preventing methanol solution leakage and preventing air from entering the pipeline and forming airlocks.

[0038] Preferably, the robot's head or back has a fuel filling port, which is connected to the methanol-water storage tank via a pipeline.

[0039] By adopting the above technical solution, methanol-water solution is replenished to the methanol-water storage tank through the fuel filling port.

[0040] Compared with related technologies, the flexible methanol fuel cell, battery pack and robot provided by the present invention have the following beneficial effects: 1. Structural flexibility and lightweight: The flexible bag body replaces the traditional rigid bipolar plate and flow field structure, so that the entire battery body has good bending, twisting and stretching elasticity, which can adapt to various irregular surfaces and dynamic deformation scenarios. While reducing weight, it can make full use of the surface space of the object and save volume.

[0041] 2. Simplified structure and high integration: The flexible bag body integrates the anode chamber and flexible packaging into one unit, and the cathode side adopts a porous cathode current collector, which eliminates the need for a complex cathode flow field plate and air supply system, greatly simplifying the battery structure and reducing manufacturing costs.

[0042] 3. This invention combines several flexible methanol fuel cells into a battery pack in series or parallel to increase the output voltage, output current and power, and achieve flexible configuration of power and voltage.

[0043] 4. This invention integrates a flexible methanol fuel cell as a "power-generating skin" into a robot. By directly converting the high-energy-density chemical energy of methanol into electrical energy, and utilizing the robot's otherwise non-functional external surface area for distributed power generation, the robot's overall mass energy density is increased by orders of magnitude compared to using lithium batteries. The placement is flexible, and space inside the robot can be freed up to store methanol instead of lithium batteries. The volumetric energy density of methanol is 5 to 8 times that of lithium batteries. By using a flexible methanol fuel cell, the robot can achieve an ultra-long operating time without adding extra weight or frequent recharging. This is particularly suitable for applications without a stable power grid, such as field exploration, remote operations, and disaster relief. Attached Figure Description

[0044] Figure 1 is an exploded structural diagram of the flexible methanol fuel cell of Example 1; Figure 2 is a structural diagram of the flexible bag body of Example 1; Figure 3 is a structural diagram of the flexible methanol fuel cell of Example 1; Figure 4 is a structural diagram of the flexible bag body of Example 1 with an exhaust pipe on the water outlet pipe; Figure 5 is a structural diagram of the connection between the flexible methanol fuel cell, methanol supply unit, and DMFC energy management system of Example 2; Figure 6 is a structural diagram of the quick-connect self-sealing connector of Example 2; Figure 7 is a structural diagram of the parallel circuit and series water circuit connection of multiple flexible methanol fuel cells of Example 2; Figure 8 is a structural diagram of the series circuit and series water circuit connection of multiple flexible methanol fuel cells of Example 2; Figure 9 is a structural diagram of the parallel circuit and parallel water circuit connection of multiple flexible methanol fuel cells of Example 2; Figure 10 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the flexible methanol fuel cell integrated into the robot of Example 2; Figure 11 is a side structural diagram of the flexible methanol fuel cell integrated into the robot of Example 2; Figure 12 is a top structural diagram of the flexible methanol fuel cell integrated into the robot dog of Example 2.

[0045] Reference numerals: 1. Flexible bag; 11. Inlet; 12. Outlet; 121. Exhaust pipe; 13. Mounting opening; 14. Chamber; 2. Membrane electrode; 3. Anode diffusion layer; 31. Anode tab; 4. Cathode diffusion layer; 41. Cathode tab; 5. Flat wire; 51. Male connector; 52. Female connector; 6. DMFC energy management system; 7. Energy storage battery; 8. Methanol supply unit; 81. Methanol-water storage tank; 82. Micro methanol pump; 9. Quick-connect self-sealing connector; 91. Male plug; 92. Female plug; 10. Robot; 101. Outer shell; 102. Fuel filling port; 20. Robot dog. Detailed Implementation

[0046] This invention provides a flexible methanol fuel cell, a battery pack, and a robot. To make the objectives, technical solutions, and effects of this invention clearer and more explicit, the invention is further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only for explaining the invention and are not intended to limit the invention.

[0047] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this invention are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be used interchangeably where appropriate. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a system, product, or device that includes a series of units is not necessarily limited to those units explicitly listed, but may include other units not explicitly listed or inherent to such products or devices. Examples

[0048] Please refer to Figures 1 to 4. This embodiment provides a flexible methanol fuel cell, including a flexible bag body 1, a membrane electrode 2, an anode diffusion layer 3, and a cathode diffusion layer 4. The flexible bag body 1 is a flat bag-shaped structure formed by sealing two flexible composite membranes together. Its opposite ends are respectively molded or connected to an inlet 11 and an outlet 12. Inside, a chamber 14 for the flow of methanol-water solution is formed. The chamber 14 is the reaction site of the methanol-water solution. The inlet 11 is used to input methanol-water raw material into the chamber 14, and the outlet 12 is used to discharge the methanol-water raw material and reaction products from the chamber 14.

[0049] Specifically, one of the films of the flexible bag 1 has an installation opening 13, which is connected to the internal chamber 14 of the flexible bag 1. The size of the membrane electrode 2 is slightly larger than the installation opening 13. The membrane electrode 2 is fixedly covered by the installation opening 13 in a sealed manner through its edge area, completely isolating the internal chamber 14 of the flexible bag 1 from the external environment of the flexible bag 1. At the same time, the methanol aqueous solution in the chamber 14 is in contact with the anode side of the membrane electrode 2. The membrane electrode 2 has the functions of conducting protons, blocking the mixing of fuel and oxidant, and insulating electrons.

[0050] The membrane electrode 2 has a typical three-layer structure, including an anode catalyst layer, a proton exchange membrane, and a cathode catalyst layer. The anode catalyst layer is coated on the anode side of the proton exchange membrane, and the cathode catalyst layer is coated on the cathode side of the proton exchange membrane. Optionally, platinum-based catalysts are used for the anode and cathode catalysts, with a Pt-Ru alloy used for the anode and Pt used for the cathode. These catalysts can be supported on carbon powder to increase the surface area.

[0051] The anode diffusion layer 3 is fixedly attached to the anode side of the membrane electrode 2. The anode diffusion layer 3 is located inside the chamber 14 of the flexible bag body 1, and the membrane electrode 2 is located outside the chamber 14 of the flexible bag body 1. Optionally, the anode diffusion layer 3 is connected to the flexible bag body 1 and the membrane electrode 2 by hot pressing or bonding. A fine wire mesh is fixedly attached to the side of the anode diffusion layer 3 away from the membrane electrode 2. The anode diffusion layer 3 has a porous structure. The functions of the anode diffusion layer 3 include: uniformly diffusing the methanol aqueous solution flowing in from the inlet 11 to the entire surface of the anode catalyst layer; smoothly venting the CO2 gas generated by the anode reaction to the chamber 14 and carrying it out from the outlet 12 with the liquid flow; and collecting electrons generated by the anode reaction through the fine wire mesh. The area of ​​the anode diffusion layer 3 is usually equivalent to or slightly larger than the active area of ​​the membrane electrode 2.

[0052] The cathode diffusion layer 4 is bonded and fixedly attached to the cathode side of the membrane electrode 2. The cathode side of the membrane electrode 2 contacts the air through the pores of the cathode diffusion layer 4 to obtain oxygen. A fine wire mesh is fixedly attached to the side of the cathode diffusion layer 4 away from the membrane electrode 2. The functions of the cathode diffusion layer 4 and the fine wire mesh include: collecting electrons generated by the cathode reaction, providing mechanical support and protection for the membrane electrode 2; and ensuring that the internal pores ensure that the cathode catalyst layer of the membrane electrode 2 can have sufficient contact with the air to passively obtain oxygen.

[0053] An anode tab 31 is disposed on the anode diffusion layer 3, and a cathode tab 41 is disposed on the cathode diffusion layer 4. The anode tab 31 and cathode tab 41 are used to collect and conduct current, efficiently collecting electrons generated and received by the electrochemical reaction on the membrane electrode 2 and conducting them to the external circuit. It should be noted that the anode tab 31 and cathode tab 41 are titanium foil. The anode tab 31 is placed inside the sealing edge before heat sealing the flexible bag 1, and the heat-melting property of the inner layer of the flexible bag 1 is used to achieve sealing and electrical insulation.

[0054] Both the anode tab 31 and the cathode tab 41 are connected to one end of a flat wire 5. The flat wires 5 on the anode tab 31 and cathode tab 41 are respectively equipped with male connectors 51 and female connectors 52 that can be plugged into each other. When two flexible methanol fuel cells are connected in series, the male connectors 51 and female connectors 52 can be plugged into each other. The flat wire 5 has a better bending fatigue life and a smaller bending radius, resulting in less stress during dynamic bending and preventing wire breakage or detachment from the tabs due to repeated bending. The flat wire 5 is preferably made of IDC gray flat cable. The IDC gray flat cable, male connector 51, and female connector 52 are all commercially available components.

[0055] Furthermore, both the anode diffusion layer 3 and the cathode diffusion layer 4 are made of carbon cloth, preferably hydrophobically treated carbon cloth with a thickness of 300-500 μm. Carbon cloth is a woven material made of carbon fiber yarns, which undergoes high-temperature graphitization treatment and has high conductivity, high chemical stability, and a porous structure. Carbon cloth has excellent flexibility, tear resistance, and bendability. The fine wire mesh is a titanium mesh or a nickel-plated polymer mesh, preferably a titanium mesh, and the thickness of the fine wire mesh is preferably 0.1~0.5 mm.

[0056] In this embodiment of the invention, the shape of the mounting opening 13 matches the shape of the membrane electrode 2. The shape of the mounting opening 13 can be rectangular or circular. The membrane electrode 2 is sealed and fixed to the edge of the mounting opening 13 of the flexible bag body 1 by hot pressing or bonding. Bonding is preferred.

[0057] In this embodiment of the invention, the flexible bag 1 adopts a composite structure with an ultra-thin fluoroplastic as the sealing inner liner and a thermoplastic polyurethane as the flexible protective outer layer. The ultra-thin fluoroplastic sealing inner liner has chemical corrosion resistance, high-strength glue-free sealing, and extremely low permeability; the thermoplastic polyurethane material used as the outer layer has excellent impact resistance, tear resistance, and abrasion resistance, as well as excellent flexibility and resistance to bending fatigue, and good surface properties and tactile feel.

[0058] In this embodiment of the invention, a single flexible methanol fuel cell uses a 5% concentration methanol solution and operates at a temperature of 35-40°C, with a maximum power of 0.4 A / cm². 2 After 1000 cycles of bending with a radius of 5cm, the power output remains at more than 90% of the initial value.

[0059] In other embodiments, an exhaust pipe is connected to the water outlet pipe of the flexible methanol fuel cell. The exhaust pipe is arranged perpendicularly to the water outlet pipe. A waterproof and breathable membrane (not shown in the figure) is installed on the exhaust pipe 122 for selectively allowing CO2 to pass through while blocking liquid methanol-water. The waterproof and breathable membrane is made of polydimethylsiloxane and its derivatives. The waterproof and breathable membrane is used to discharge CO2 generated during the reaction inside the flexible bag 1. CO2 is discharged through the waterproof and breathable membrane of the exhaust pipe 122, and the separation of liquid methanol-water and CO2 is achieved by blocking liquid methanol-water.

[0060] The working principle of this invention is as follows: During operation, a methanol aqueous solution of a certain concentration is pumped into the chamber 14 of the flexible bag 1 through the inlet 11, wetting the anode diffusion layer 3 and diffusing onto the anode catalyst layer of the membrane electrode 2. Methanol undergoes an oxidation reaction on the anode catalyst layer: CH3OH + H2O → CO2 + 6H2O + +6e -The generated protons (H+) pass through the proton exchange membrane to the surface of the cathode catalyst layer, while electrons (e-) flow through the anode diffusion layer 3 and anode tab 31 to the external circuit. After doing work, they pass through the cathode tab 41 and cathode diffusion layer 4 to reach the cathode catalyst layer. Simultaneously, oxygen from the air diffuses through the mesh of the cathode diffusion layer 4 to the surface of the cathode catalyst layer, where it combines with the incoming protons and electrons to undergo a reduction reaction: O2 + 4H+. + +4e - →2H2O, thus completing the entire power generation process.

[0061] Because the flexible bag 1, membrane electrode 2, anode diffusion layer 3 and cathode diffusion layer 4 all have a certain degree of flexibility, the entire battery can withstand bending, winding and even a certain degree of stretching without damaging the internal structure or seriously affecting the performance, thus realizing a truly flexible methanol fuel cell that can be applied to scenarios requiring flexibility, wearability and conformal bonding.

[0062] In other embodiments, by adjusting the type and loading of the catalyst, such as using a platinum-ruthenium or palladium-tin alloy catalyst, a flexible methanol fuel cell compatible with both methanol and ethanol fuels can be achieved. Examples

[0063] As shown in Figures 5 to 11, this embodiment provides a power supply system for a humanoid robot 10, comprising several flexible methanol fuel cells, a DMFC energy management system 6, an energy storage battery 7, and a methanol supply unit 8. The DMFC energy management system 6 and the energy storage battery 7 are connected by a circuit. The several flexible methanol fuel cells are electrically connected to the DMFC energy management system 6 in series or parallel. The methanol supply unit 8 supplies methanol aqueous solution to the several flexible methanol fuel cells. The several flexible methanol fuel cells generate electricity using the methanol aqueous solution, and the electrical energy is transmitted to the energy storage battery 7 through the DMFC energy management system 6, and then supplies power to the electrical load. The DMFC energy management system 6 manages the operation of the several flexible methanol fuel cells and coordinates the energy distribution between the several flexible methanol fuel cells and the energy storage battery 7 to provide stable power to the load.

[0064] The robot 10 has an irregularly curved shell 101. Several flexible methanol fuel cells are attached to or integrated onto the surface of the shell 101 in a distributed array, forming a power generation skin layer conforming to the curved surface of the shell 101. The DMFC energy management system 6, the energy storage battery 7, and the methanol supply unit 8 are all housed within the internal space of the robot 10. Because of the flexibility of the flexible methanol fuel cells, they can perfectly conform to the complex irregular surface of the shell 101, utilizing the originally non-functional "skin" area to generate electricity, greatly improving the robot's space utilization efficiency and energy density. By directly utilizing high-energy-density methanol fuel, theoretically, a driving range far exceeding that of lithium batteries can be achieved.

[0065] Furthermore, the methanol supply unit 8 includes a methanol-water storage tank 81 and a micro methanol pump 82. The methanol-water storage tank 81 stores a methanol-water solution of a predetermined concentration in liquid form; the micro methanol pump 82 provides the driving force for fuel circulation, realizes precise control of the flow rate of the methanol-water solution, and promotes the discharge of reaction products. Several flexible methanol fuel cells are connected to the methanol-water storage tank 81 in series or parallel via pipelines.

[0066] In this embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG7, several flexible methanol fuel cells are electrically connected in parallel. Then, the male connectors 51 and female connectors 52 of the flat wires 5 of the several flexible methanol fuel cells are respectively connected to the DMFC energy management system, forming an expandable series array. The DMFC energy management system is electrically connected to the energy storage battery 7. Furthermore, the water pipes for circulating methanol-water solution among the several flexible methanol fuel cells are connected in series and connected in series with a methanol-water storage tank 81. A micro-methanol pump 82 is installed on the pipeline to provide the driving force for the circulation of the methanol-water solution, achieving precise flow control of the methanol-water solution.

[0067] Specifically, the DMFC energy management system 6 is configured to: prioritize the use of electrical energy output from the flexible methanol fuel cell to drive the load, and store the surplus electrical energy in the energy storage battery 7; when the output of the flexible methanol fuel cell is insufficient, it switches to being supplemented by the energy storage battery 7 or powered independently.

[0068] To further optimize the above embodiment, the inlet 11 and outlet 12 of two adjacent flexible methanol fuel cells are respectively connected to one end of two water pipes, and the other end of the two water pipes are connected through a quick-connect self-sealing connector 9. The quick-connect self-sealing connector 9 is used to quickly connect the water circuits of the two flexible methanol fuel cells. After the methanol-water solution is pumped out from the methanol-water storage tank 81, it flows sequentially through the first, second...Nth flexible methanol fuel cell unit, and then flows back.

[0069] Furthermore, the quick-connect self-sealing connector 9 includes a male plug 91 and a female plug 92 that can be plugged into each other. When the male plug 91 and female plug 92 are plugged in, a channel is formed inside the male plug 91 and female plug 92. When the male plug 91 is pulled out of the female plug 92, the internal parts of the male plug 91 and female plug 92 self-seal to block the water flow. When the male plug 91 and female plug 92 are disconnected, the valve core inside the male plug 91 and female plug 92 automatically resets, instantly sealing the flow channels on both sides to prevent the methanol-water solution from leaking out and to prevent air from entering the pipeline and forming an airlock.

[0070] Specifically, the male connector 91 includes a male connector housing, a push rod, a conical valve core, a first compression spring, and a male connector interface. The male connector housing has a cylindrical structure and is made of methanol-resistant engineering plastic or passivated metal. The front end of the male connector housing has a snap-fit ​​or threaded structure for guidance and initial locking. The push rod is fixed inside the male connector, with a conical or hemispherical front end. The conical valve core is fitted onto the rear of the push rod and can move slightly axially. Its front conical surface mates with the valve seat conical surface of the inner hole of the male connector 91, and the rear end is equipped with the first compression spring. The outer edge of the conical valve core is embedded with a first O-ring, made of fluororubber or perfluoroether rubber, for sealing the inside of the male connector 91. The rear end of the male connector interface is a standard fluid interface, such as a pagoda connector, a barbed connector, or a threaded interface, for connecting to the upstream water pipe.

[0071] The female connector 92 includes a female connector housing, a valve seat, a valve sleeve, a valve core or valve needle, a first compression spring, and a female connector interface. The female connector housing structure matches the male connector housing, and its interior has a cavity to accommodate the front end of the male connector 91, as well as a locking mechanism, such as a resilient pawl or internal thread. The valve seat and valve sleeve are fixed inside the female connector. The valve seat has a through hole in its center, and its inlet end is a sealing surface that mates with the push rod of the male connector 91, usually a conical or flat surface. A second O-ring is embedded in this sealing surface, and the rear end of the valve seat through hole forms the valve sleeve. The valve core or valve needle is placed inside the valve sleeve and can slide axially within it. Its front end is a sealing surface that mates with the valve seat sealing ring, and its rear end is equipped with a second compression spring. The rear end of the female connector interface is also a standard fluid interface for connecting to a downstream water pipe.

[0072] Next, the working principle of the quick-connect self-sealing connector 9 will be explained: 1) In the disconnected state, when the male plug 91 and the female plug 92 are not connected, the valve core mechanism inside both is in the closed position under the pre-tightening force of their respective compression springs: Male plug 91 side: The first compression spring pushes the conical valve core forward, so that the first O-ring on the front cone surface of the valve core is tightly pressed against the valve seat cone surface of the male plug inner hole, blocking the internal channel of the male plug 91.

[0073] On the female plug 92 side: the second compression spring pushes the valve core forward, causing its sealing surface to press against the second O-ring at the valve seat inlet end, blocking the internal passage of the female plug 92.

[0074] At this point, both ends of the pipeline are automatically and independently sealed, preventing fluid from flowing out and outside air from entering.

[0075] 2) Connection process and connection state When the male plug 91 is inserted into the cavity of the female plug 92 and locked: the valve core of the female plug 92 is opened: the push rod of the male plug 91 first contacts and overcomes the force of the second compression spring, pushing the valve core of the female plug 92 to move backward, disengaging from the contact with the second O-ring on the valve seat, thereby opening the flow channel on the female plug side.

[0076] The conical valve core of the male plug 91 is pushed open, forming a channel: As the insertion depth increases, the front end face of the valve seat inside the female plug contacts the conical valve core of the male plug 91 and overcomes the force of the first compression spring, pushing it backward away from the valve seat inside the male plug 91, thereby opening the flow channel on the male plug 91 side. At the same time, an annular gap is formed between the male plug 91 push rod and the valve seat through hole of the female plug 92, and an external annular gap is formed between the male plug 91 outer shell and the female plug 92 cavity. Together, they constitute a complete fluid channel.

[0077] Dynamic seal formation: In the connected state, the main body seal is achieved between the male plug 91 and the female plug 92 housings through an additional axial sealing ring. Although the original valve core sealing surfaces at both ends of the internal flow channel are open, the entire connection body ensures sealing reliability under vibration and bending conditions through the housing locking and the sealing ring. The methanol-water solution can flow from the male plug 91 pipeline through the internally formed channel to the female plug pipeline.

[0078] 3) Disconnection process: When it is necessary to disconnect the connection, operate the unlocking mechanism, such as pressing the buckle or loosening the threads, to pull the male plug 91 out of the female plug 92.

[0079] At the moment of separation: Under the spring force of the first compression spring and the second compression spring, the conical valve core of the male plug 91 and the valve core of the female plug 92 return to their respective valve seat sealing surfaces almost simultaneously and quickly.

[0080] Instant double seal establishment: The O-rings on both valve cores re-press against the valve seats, blocking the flow paths within each core before the male and female connectors are fully separated. This design ensures no fluid leakage or air intake occurs the instant the connectors are disconnected.

[0081] In this embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG8, the circuits between several flexible methanol fuel cells are electrically connected in series via flat wires 5, male connectors 51, and female connectors 52, and the entire system is then electrically connected in series with the DMFC energy management system. Additionally, the water pipes for circulating methanol-water solutions between the several flexible methanol fuel cells are connected in series via quick-connect self-sealing connectors 9, and are connected in series with the methanol-water storage tank 81 via pipelines.

[0082] In this embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG9, the circuits between several flexible methanol fuel cells are electrically connected in parallel. The male connector 51 and female connector 52 of the flat wires 5 of several flexible methanol fuel cells are respectively connected to the DMFC energy management system. In addition, the water pipes for circulating methanol aqueous solution between several flexible methanol fuel cells are connected in parallel through T-junctions and connected in series with the methanol water storage tank 81 through the water inlet pipe and the circulation loop.

[0083] In this embodiment of the invention, the back of the flexible methanol fuel cell is coated with biocompatible silicone pressure-sensitive adhesive and directly attached to the outer shell 101 of the robot 10.

[0084] In this embodiment of the invention, the flat wire 5 and water pipe of the flexible methanol fuel cell pass through the outer shell 101 of the robot 10 and connect to the internal methanol supply unit 8. Therefore, it is necessary to open a wiring hole on the outer shell 101 of the robot 10. The specific circuit and water circuit layout and installation method are not within the scope of protection of this application and will not be described in detail here.

[0085] In other embodiments, a flexible photovoltaic module (not shown) is mounted on the surface of the outer shell 101 of the robot 10, which works in conjunction with the flexible methanol fuel cell to supply power to the electrical load of the robot 10.

[0086] Flexible methanol fuel cell units, attached or integrated in a distributed array on the outer surface of robot 10, form a highly efficient passive heat dissipation system for robot 10. The continuously circulating methanol-water solution inside the flexible bag 1 can rapidly conduct the heat generated by the internal electronic components, drive unit, and battery itself of robot 10 to the body surface and dissipate it into the environment using the large surface area.

[0087] In other embodiments, to enable long-term autonomous operation in environments without fixed refueling stations, such as in the field or disaster relief, a drone (not shown) can be used to transport fuel to the robot 10. Specifically, the robot's head or shoulder is equipped with a standardized fuel filling port 102, which has an automatic valve and is connected to the methanol-water storage tank 81 of the methanol supply unit. When the DMFC energy management system 6 detects that the fuel level in the methanol-water storage tank 81 is lower than a set threshold, it can send a refueling request to the associated drone, or the drone can proactively come to refuel according to a preset task plan.

[0088] The drone performing the refueling is equipped with a dedicated methanol fuel tank and delivery pump. Using its onboard vision system, the drone identifies a positioning marker on the robot, autonomously flies to and hovers above the robot's refueling port. The drone then lowers a refueling probe with adaptive alignment; the probe's end has a quick-connect sealing interface that matches the robot's fuel refueling port 102. Once successfully docked, the valves on the robot's fuel refueling port 102 and the drone's probe open synchronously. The drone then starts the delivery pump, safely and accurately injecting the methanol solution into the robot's tank. The refueling process is monitored by pressure and flow sensors on both sides. Upon completion, the valves automatically close, the probe retracts, and the drone flies away. This automated refueling process, combined with the robot's "power-generating skin," infinitely extends its operational endurance, completely eliminating reliance on fixed charging facilities or manual refueling, and greatly expanding its application potential in remote autonomous operation scenarios.

[0089] In other embodiments, as shown in Figure 12, flexible methanol fuel cells can be integrated on the robot dog 20. Several flexible methanol fuel cells are attached to or integrated on the surface of the robot dog 20 in a distributed array. The DMFC energy management system 6, energy storage battery 7 and methanol supply unit 8 are all housed in the internal space of the robot dog 20, which can improve the space utilization efficiency and energy density of the robot dog 20. By directly utilizing high-energy-density methanol fuel, it can theoretically achieve a driving time far exceeding that of lithium batteries.

[0090] In this document, the terms “comprising,” “including,” or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.

[0091] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A flexible methanol fuel cell, characterized in that, include: A flexible bag (1) is provided with an inlet (11) and an outlet (12) at opposite ends, and a chamber (14) for flowing methanol aqueous solution is formed inside it, and an installation opening (13) is provided on one side of it; a membrane electrode (2) is sealed and fixed at the installation opening (13) to isolate the chamber (14) from the external environment; an anode diffusion layer (3) is fixedly attached to the anode side of the membrane electrode (2); a cathode diffusion layer (4) is fixedly attached to the cathode side of the membrane electrode (2), and a fine wire mesh is fixedly attached to the side of the anode diffusion layer (3) and the cathode diffusion layer (4) away from the membrane electrode (2).

2. The flexible methanol fuel cell according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes an anode tab (31) and a cathode tab (41) for connecting to an external circuit, wherein the anode tab (31) is connected to a fine wire mesh on the anode diffusion layer (3) and the cathode tab (41) is connected to a fine wire mesh on the cathode diffusion layer (4).

3. The flexible methanol fuel cell according to claim 2, characterized in that: Both the anode tab (31) and the cathode tab (41) are connected to flat wires (5), and the flat wires (5) on the anode tab (31) and the cathode tab (41) are respectively provided with male connectors (51) and female connectors (52) that can be plugged into each other.

4. The flexible methanol fuel cell according to claim 1, characterized in that: Both the anode diffusion layer (3) and the cathode diffusion layer (4) are made of carbon cloth, and the fine wire mesh is a titanium mesh or a nickel-plated polymer mesh.

5. The flexible methanol fuel cell according to claim 1, characterized in that: The membrane electrode (2) is sealed and fixed to the edge of the mounting opening (13) of the flexible bag body (1) by hot pressing or bonding.

6. A power supply system for a humanoid robot, characterized in that, The system includes several flexible methanol fuel cells, a DMFC energy management system (6), and an energy storage battery (7) as described in any one of claims 1 to 5. The DMFC energy management system (6) and the energy storage battery (7) are electrically connected. The flexible methanol fuel cells are electrically connected to the DMFC energy management system (6) in series or in parallel. The flexible methanol fuel cells are attached to or integrated on the surface of the outer shell (101) of the robot (10) in a distributed array. The DMFC energy management system (6) and the energy storage battery (7) are both housed in the internal space of the robot (10).

7. The power supply system for a humanoid robot according to claim 6, characterized in that: It also includes a methanol supply unit (8), which is housed in the internal space of the robot (10). The methanol supply unit (8) includes a methanol-water storage tank (81) and a micro methanol pump (82). Several of the flexible methanol fuel cells are connected to the methanol-water storage tank (81) in series or in parallel through pipelines.

8. The power supply system for humanoid robots according to claim 7, characterized in that: The water channels between several flexible methanol fuel cells are connected in series. The inlet (11) and outlet (12) of two adjacent flexible methanol fuel cells are respectively connected to one end of two water pipes, and the other end of the two water pipes are connected by a quick-connect self-sealing connector (9).

9. The power supply system for a humanoid robot according to claim 8, characterized in that: The quick-connect self-sealing connector (9) includes a male plug (91) and a female plug (92) that can be plugged into each other. When the male plug (91) and the female plug (92) are plugged in, a channel for water flow is formed inside the male plug (91) and the female plug (92). When the male plug (91) is pulled out from the female plug (92), the male plug (91) and the female plug (92) self-seal to block the water flow.

10. The power supply system for a humanoid robot according to claim 7, characterized in that: The robot (10) has a fuel filling port (102) on its head or back, which is connected to the methanol-water storage tank (81) via a pipeline.

Images