Hydrogen range extender for improving charging efficiency of lithium battery and hydrogen motor car

Abstract

The utility model relates to a hydrogen range extender for improving the charging efficiency of a lithium battery, and the hydrogen range extender comprises a fuel cell stack which can receive oxygen and hydrogen to generate electric energy; the solid hydrogen storage tank is connected with the fuel cell stack and can provide hydrogen for the fuel cell stack; the cooling liquid circulation system is respectively connected with the fuel cell stack and the solid hydrogen storage tank; the FCU control module is configured to control the solid hydrogen storage tank to release hydrogen and control the fuel cell stack to start power generation in a starting state; and the voltage level signal output by the fuel cell stack is collected in real time, the voltage level signal of the lithium battery from the BMS control module is obtained in real time, and when the voltage level output by the fuel cell stack is equal to the voltage level of the lithium battery, the fuel cell stack is switched to supply power to the hydrogen range extender and charge the lithium battery, so that a normal working state is entered.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application belongs to the field of hydrogen energy technology, and in particular relates to a hydrogen range extender and a hydrogen-powered vehicle for improving the charging efficiency of lithium batteries. Background Art

[0002] A hydrogen-powered vehicle (or hydrogen-powered bicycle) is a mechatronic personal transportation tool that uses hydrogen energy as an auxiliary energy source based on an ordinary bicycle. The main components of a hydrogen-powered vehicle include hydrogen fuel cells, hydrogen storage devices, controllers, motors, lamps, and frames. The most critical hydrogen power system is an environmentally friendly, efficient, and safe new energy technology with great development prospects. However, in the actual application of existing technologies, most of them use pure battery stack drive or electric-electric hybrid, and there is a current situation of insufficient kinetic energy at startup.

[0003] The working logic of the existing hydrogen power system for two-wheeled vehicles is that when the system is started, the lithium battery in the system first supplies power to the entire vehicle, and the hydrogen system is started synchronously. During this process, the hydrogen system and the lithium battery simultaneously supply power to the vehicle motor to move forward. However, due to the limitations of existing technology, after starting the hydrogen system, it takes some time for the internal fuel cell to increase the power to the maximum, so vehicles equipped with this system have the pain point of insufficient kinetic energy when the vehicle is started. Summary of the invention

[0004] In view of some deficiencies existing in the related art, the present application provides a hydrogen range extender and a hydrogen vehicle for improving the charging efficiency of lithium batteries.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present application provides a hydrogen range extender for improving the charging efficiency of a lithium battery, which can be connected to a lithium battery and a BMS control module; wherein the lithium battery is configured to supply power to the BMS control module and the hydrogen range extender in a startup state; the BMS control module is configured to collect a voltage level signal and a power signal of the lithium battery in real time; the hydrogen range extender comprises:

[0006] A fuel cell stack; which is configured to receive oxygen and hydrogen to generate electrical energy;

[0007] A solid-state hydrogen storage tank; which stores hydrogen; the solid-state hydrogen storage tank is connected to the fuel cell stack and can provide the required hydrogen for it;

[0008] A coolant circulation system; connected to the fuel cell stack on one hand for cooling the fuel cell stack; connected to the solid hydrogen storage tank on the other hand for heating the solid hydrogen storage tank;

[0009] The FCU control module is configured to: in the startup state, control the solid-state hydrogen storage tank to release hydrogen and control the fuel cell stack to start generating electricity; and collect the voltage level signal output by the fuel cell stack in real time, and obtain the voltage level signal of the lithium battery from the BMS control module in real time. When the voltage level output by the fuel cell stack is equal to the voltage level of the lithium battery, the fuel cell stack is switched to power the hydrogen extender and charge the lithium battery, thereby entering a normal working state.

[0010] In one embodiment, the hydrogen range extender also includes a conversion unit and a conversion control module; wherein the conversion unit includes a power supply line and a DC voltage stabilizing module, a relay, and a DC / DC port electrically connected to the power supply line; the power supply line is at least connected between the fuel cell stack and the lithium battery to realize power supply between the two; the DC voltage stabilizing module is configured to stabilize the voltage of the power supply line; the relay has a normally open contact and a normally closed contact that can be switched with each other, and is configured as follows: in the startup state and the normal working state, the relay connects the normally open contact to conduct the power supply line, so that the lithium battery can power the hydrogen range extender or the hydrogen range extender can charge the lithium battery; wherein the hydrogen range extender only charges the external lithium battery and powers the hydrogen range extender itself; the DC / DC port is connected to the power supply line on the one hand, and is connected to the lithium battery 2 on the other hand to transmit power.

[0011] The conversion control module is configured to: in the startup state, at least transmit the voltage level signal of the lithium battery collected by the BMS control module to the FCU control module; control the DC voltage stabilization module to work to stabilize the power supply voltage of the lithium battery to the hydrogen range extender; and control the relay to be connected to the normally open contact to conduct the power supply line, allowing the lithium battery to supply power to the hydrogen range extender; in the normal working state, transmit the voltage level and power signal of the lithium battery collected by the BMS control module to the FCU control module; control the DC voltage stabilization module to work to stabilize the charging voltage of the hydrogen range extender to the lithium battery; and control the relay to be connected to the normally open contact to conduct the power supply line.

[0012] In one embodiment, the FCU control module is also configured to: continuously collect the voltage level signal output by the fuel cell stack, and when the voltage level output by the fuel cell stack exceeds a preset threshold, transmit the signal to the conversion control module; the conversion control module is configured to: control the relay to switch to a normally closed contact to cut off the power supply line to prevent overcharging.

[0013] In one embodiment, the fuel cell stack is connected to an air compressor to provide air containing oxygen; the fuel cell stack is provided with fins for heat dissipation;

[0014] A second pipeline is provided between the solid-state hydrogen storage tank and the fuel cell stack, on which a flow meter and an opening regulating valve are provided; wherein the flow meter is configured to collect hydrogen flow information on the second pipeline in real time and feed it back to the FCU control module; the opening regulating valve is an electrically controlled valve with adjustable opening; the FCU control module is configured to: control the opening of the opening regulating valve according to the acquired hydrogen flow information combined with the power output required by the fuel cell stack;

[0015] The coolant circulation system includes a liquid storage tank, a circulation pump, a first heat exchange part and a second heat exchange part connected in series for the coolant to pass through; wherein the liquid storage tank is configured to store the coolant, and the circulation pump is configured to provide power for the circulation of the coolant; the first heat exchange part is configured to exchange heat with the fins of the fuel cell stack to cool it down; and the second heat exchange part is configured to exchange heat with the solid hydrogen storage tank to heat it up.

[0016] In one embodiment, the BMS control module is powered only by a lithium battery.

[0017] In one embodiment, the fuel cell stack and the solid-state hydrogen storage tank are respectively provided with a first temperature sensor and a second temperature sensor connected to the FCU control module, which can obtain the temperature of the fuel cell stack and the solid-state hydrogen storage tank in real time and feed back to the FCU control module; the FCU control module is configured to control the temperature of the fuel cell stack and the solid-state hydrogen storage tank by controlling the speed of the circulation pump and / or the start or stop of the cooling fan in the liquid storage tank.

[0018] In one embodiment, the coolant is water, and a deionizer is connected in series in the coolant circulation system; a humidifier is arranged between the air compressor and the fuel cell stack to humidify the air before entering the fuel cell stack; the water used for humidification in the humidifier comes from the coolant circulation system.

[0019] In one embodiment, the first heat exchange part has a sealed cavity for coolant to flow in and out; the fins extend from the fuel cell stack to the cavity of the first heat exchange part to exchange heat with the coolant therein. In one embodiment, the second heat exchange part is a jacket on the outside of the solid hydrogen storage tank, which is isolated from the inside of the solid hydrogen storage tank; the coolant passes through the jacket to provide heat for the solid hydrogen storage tank to release hydrogen.

[0020] In one embodiment, a mechanical valve is provided between the solid hydrogen storage tank and the second pipeline, and the mechanical valve is a set of needle valves. In one embodiment, the opening regulating valve is a dual proportional valve.

[0021] In one embodiment, the hydrogen range extender is further provided with a heater capable of heating the solid-state hydrogen storage tank; one of the following solutions is selected:

[0022] (1) The heater is located before the solid hydrogen storage tank and is configured to heat the coolant. The heated coolant can reach the jacket to provide heat to the solid hydrogen storage tank to promote the release of hydrogen;

[0023] (2) The heater is arranged on the solid hydrogen storage tank and can directly heat the hydrogen storage tank to promote the release of hydrogen.

[0024] A second aspect of the present application provides a hydrogen-powered vehicle, which has a lithium battery capable of providing power for the vehicle, a BMS control module for detecting the lithium battery, and a hydrogen range extender as described in any of the preceding embodiments; wherein the hydrogen range extender is connected to the lithium battery and the BMS control module; wherein the lithium battery is configured to be able to supply power to the BMS control module and the hydrogen range extender in a started state; and the BMS control module is configured to collect voltage level signals and power signals of the lithium battery in real time and transmit them to the hydrogen range extender.

[0025] The third aspect of the present application provides a control method for a hydrogen range extender for improving the charging efficiency of a lithium battery, which includes at least one of the following states:

[0026] Startup status:

[0027] In the startup state, the lithium battery powers the BMS control module and the hydrogen range extender;

[0028] The BMS control module collects the power signal and voltage level signal of the lithium battery in real time, sends it to the conversion control module, and then passes it to the FCU control module;

[0029] The conversion control module controls the relay to switch to a normally open contact, turns on the power supply line, and supplies power to the hydrogen range extender; and controls the DC voltage regulator module to operate, so that the voltage of the power supply line remains stable;

[0030] The FCU control module controls the fuel cell stack to start generating electricity; after the fuel cell stack starts generating electricity, the FCU control module monitors the voltage level signal of the fuel cell stack in real time, and obtains the voltage level signal of the lithium battery from the BMS control module from the conversion control module in real time; compares the two voltage levels; when the voltage level of the fuel cell stack is lower than the voltage level of the lithium battery, continues to increase the power generation; when the voltage level of the fuel cell stack is greater than or equal to the voltage level of the lithium battery, feeds the signal back to the conversion control module; the conversion control module controls the relay to switch from the normally open contact to the normally closed contact and then back to the normally open contact, completing the switching of the current direction, so that the fuel cell stack starts to charge the lithium battery and power the hydrogen range extender itself; thereby entering a normal working state;

[0031] Normal working status:

[0032] Under normal working conditions, the FCU control module monitors the power signal and voltage level signal output by the fuel cell stack in real time, and obtains the power signal and voltage level signal of the lithium battery from the BMS control module from the conversion control module in real time; and charges the lithium battery according to the power gap;

[0033] Stack overvoltage status:

[0034] Since the FCU control module has been monitoring the voltage level signal of the fuel cell stack in real time, when it is detected that the voltage level of the fuel cell stack reaches a preset threshold, the FCU control module transmits the signal to the conversion control module; the conversion control module controls the relay to switch from a normally open contact to a normally closed contact, thereby disconnecting the power supply line, so that the fuel cell stack stops supplying power to the lithium battery.

[0035] In one embodiment, the FCU control module adopts a preset segmented control logic to charge the lithium battery in segments; specifically, the power of the lithium battery is divided into multiple levels, and multiple charging powers of the fuel cell stack are set accordingly; when the lithium battery is at a certain level, the FCU control module controls the fuel cell stack to output the corresponding charging power according to the lithium battery power signal fed back by the BMS control module.

[0036] A fourth aspect of the present application provides a control method for a hydrogen range extender for improving the charging efficiency of a lithium battery, which includes at least one of the following states:

[0037] Startup status:

[0038] In the startup state, the lithium battery supplies power to the BMS control module and the hydrogen range extender. Specifically, the lithium battery supplies power to the FCU control module, the conversion control module, the air compressor, the opening regulating valve and the circulation pump.

[0039] The BMS control module collects the power signal and voltage level signal of the lithium battery in real time, sends it to the conversion control module, and then passes it to the FCU control module;

[0040] The conversion control module controls the relay to switch to a normally open contact, turns on the power supply line, and supplies power to the hydrogen range extender; and controls the DC voltage regulator module to operate, so that the voltage of the power supply line remains stable;

[0041] The FCU control module controls the powered air compressor, the opening regulating valve and the circulating pump to start working; wherein the air compressor provides air, and the circulating pump provides circulating power for the coolant; the opening regulating valve is opened under the control of the FCU control module, so that hydrogen reaches the fuel cell stack; thereby the fuel cell stack starts to generate electricity;

[0042] After the fuel cell stack starts to generate electricity, the FCU control module monitors the voltage level signal of the fuel cell stack in real time, and obtains the voltage level signal of the lithium battery from the BMS control module from the conversion control module in real time; compares the two voltage levels; when the voltage level of the fuel cell stack is lower than the voltage level of the lithium battery, continues to increase the power generation; when the voltage level of the fuel cell stack is greater than or equal to the voltage level of the lithium battery, feeds the signal back to the conversion control module; the conversion control module controls the relay to switch from the normally open contact to the normally closed contact and then back to the normally open contact, completing the switching of the current direction, so that the fuel cell stack starts to charge the lithium battery and power the hydrogen range extender itself; thus entering the normal working state;

[0043] Normal working status:

[0044] Under normal working conditions, the FCU control module monitors the power signal and voltage level signal output by the fuel cell stack in real time, and obtains the power signal and voltage level signal of the lithium battery from the BMS control module from the conversion control module in real time; and charges the lithium battery according to the power gap;

[0045] Stack overvoltage status:

[0046] Since the FCU control module has been monitoring the voltage level of the fuel cell stack in real time, when it is detected that the voltage level of the fuel cell stack reaches a preset threshold, the FCU control module transmits the signal to the conversion control module; the conversion control module controls the relay to switch from a normally open contact to a normally closed contact, thereby disconnecting the power supply line, so that the fuel cell stack stops supplying power to the lithium battery.

[0047] A hydrogen range extender for improving the charging efficiency of lithium batteries provided by at least one embodiment of the present application can maintain the internal charge of the semi-solid lithium iron phosphate battery between 20% and 90%; it can increase the reaction efficiency of the fuel cell stack by about 21%, and extend the service life of the fuel cell stack by about 110 days, thereby increasing the endurance.

[0048] The hydrogen range extender for improving the charging efficiency of lithium batteries provided in at least one embodiment of the present application is innovative compared to the starting mode of existing hydrogen-powered two-wheeled vehicles, and adopts cold start to greatly shorten the starting time.

[0049] A hydrogen-powered vehicle equipped with a hydrogen range extender for improving the charging efficiency of lithium batteries provided by at least one embodiment of the present application can solve the pain point of the existing hydrogen system that is insufficient in power when starting and needs time to increase power. The range extender design also has the advantages of low carbon and environmental protection, and a wide range of application scenarios. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] The drawings described herein are used to provide a further understanding of the present application and constitute a part of the present application. The illustrative embodiments of the present application and their descriptions are used to explain the present application and do not constitute an improper limitation on the present application. In the drawings:

[0051] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a hydrogen range extender according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0052] In the figure: 1 hydrogen range extender, 2 lithium battery, 11 fuel cell stack, 111 air compressor, 112 humidifier, 113 fin, 12 coolant circulation system, 121 liquid storage tank, 122 circulation pump, 123 first heat exchange part, 124 second heat exchange part, 125 deionizer, 13 solid hydrogen storage tank, 131 second pipeline, 132 mechanical valve, 133 flow meter, 134 dual proportional valve, 104 conversion unit; 100 FCU control module, 200 conversion control module, 300 BMS control module. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of the present application to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative work are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0054] In the description of the present application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "lateral", "longitudinal", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", etc., indicating orientations or positional relationships, are based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be understood as a limitation on the present application.

[0055] The terms "first", "second", and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of the technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first", "second", and "third" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features.

[0056] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "installed", "connected", and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense, for example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a direct connection, or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or it can be the internal communication of two components. For ordinary technicians in this field, the specific meanings of the above terms in this application can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0057] The first embodiment of the present application provides a hydrogen range extender 1 (hereinafter referred to as the hydrogen range extender) for improving the charging efficiency of a lithium battery. The hydrogen range extender 1 can be connected to an external lithium battery 2 and a BMS control module 300 (i.e., a lithium battery control module) to improve the charging efficiency of the lithium battery 2.

[0058] It can be understood that the "external" mentioned here does not refer to the real external physical structure, but means that the hydrogen range extender can be relatively independent of the lithium battery 2 and the BMS control module 300; for example, where technology permits, the hydrogen range extender can be plugged and connected to the lithium battery 2 and the BMS control module 300 as an independent module; however, the hydrogen range extender can also be integrated with the lithium battery 2 and the BMS control module 300 and installed together on the vehicle.

[0059] The lithium battery 2 can be a semi-solid lithium battery installed on the hydrogen vehicle, such as a semi-solid lithium iron phosphate battery. The lithium battery 2 is configured to: in the startup state, it can supply power to the hydrogen range extender 1, and in the normal working state, it can be charged by the hydrogen range extender to increase the vehicle's endurance.

[0060] The BMS control module 300 is also installed on the hydrogen vehicle and is configured to collect the power and voltage level signals of the lithium battery 2 in real time and transmit them to the hydrogen range extender 1, mainly to the control module in the hydrogen range extender for control. In one embodiment, the BMS control module 300 is always powered by the lithium battery 2.

[0061] The hydrogen range extender 1 comprises: a fuel cell stack 11 (hereinafter referred to as the fuel cell stack 11), a coolant circulation system 12 and a solid hydrogen storage tank 13. Among them:

[0062] The battery stack 11 is configured to generate electrical energy and charge the lithium battery 2 under normal working conditions, as well as to supply power to the hydrogen range extender 1. Specifically, on the one hand, the battery stack 11 is connected to the air and can obtain oxygen in the air; on the other hand, the battery stack 11 is connected to the solid hydrogen storage tank 13 and can obtain hydrogen; through the reaction of hydrogen and oxygen, electrical energy and heat are generated. The principle of the battery stack 11 using oxygen and hydrogen to generate electricity belongs to the prior art and will not be described in detail here.

[0063] In one embodiment, the stack 11 is connected to an air compressor 111, through which air is delivered to the stack 11. In addition, a humidifier 112 may be provided between the air compressor 111 and the stack 11 to humidify the air before entering the stack 11, so as to be more conducive to the power generation of the stack.

[0064] The battery stack 11 is provided with fins 113 for heat dissipation, which can cool the battery stack in operation.

[0065] The coolant circulation system 12 includes a liquid storage tank 121, a circulation pump 122, a first heat exchange part 123 and a second heat exchange part b04, through which the coolant passes in sequence through a circulation pipeline. The liquid storage tank 121 is configured to store coolant. The circulation pump 122 is configured to provide power for the circulation of the coolant in the pipeline. The first heat exchange part 123 is configured to exchange heat with the fins 113 of the battery stack to increase the temperature of the coolant and reduce the temperature of the battery stack 11. The second heat exchange part b04 is the outer jacket of the solid hydrogen storage tank 13, and the coolant flows through the jacket of the solid hydrogen storage tank 13 to heat the solid hydrogen storage tank 13 and release hydrogen.

[0066] In a specific embodiment, the first heat exchange part 123 has a sealed cavity for coolant to flow in and out; the fins 113 extend from the fuel cell stack 11 to the cavity of the first heat exchange part 123 to exchange heat with the coolant therein.

[0067] The coolant can be selected as water. When the coolant is water, a deionizer 125 is provided before the first heat exchange part 123, for example, between the circulating pump 122 and the first heat exchange part 123, to obtain deionized water, which can effectively prevent the scaling of the coolant (for example, preventing the coolant from scaling on the outer wall of the fin, the inner wall of the first heat exchange part, the inner wall of the jacket of the solid hydrogen storage tank 13, etc.), thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency. At this time, the water used for humidification in the humidifier 112 can also come from the coolant circulation system 12, for example, the water after passing through the deionizer b03 is taken, that is, the humidifier 112 is connected to the first pipeline between the deionizer 125 and the first heat exchange part 123 through a pipeline to obtain deionized water. The deionized water contained in the air that reaches the stack through the humidifier 112 can prevent the damage to the reaction membrane of the stack; and the humidifier 112 uses the water in the coolant circulation system 12, which can avoid the additional water supply system, making the overall structure of the hydrogen range extender simpler and more compact.

[0068] Solid-state hydrogen storage is an existing hydrogen storage technology that mainly uses physical or chemical reactions to store hydrogen in a high-density hydrogen storage medium. Its main principle is to store hydrogen in a medium through an adsorbent based on the hydrogen absorption / desorption reaction, thereby achieving high-density hydrogen storage. The stored hydrogen can be released when heated.

[0069] The solid-state hydrogen storage tank 13 stores hydrogen using solid-state hydrogen storage technology. As mentioned above, the jacket of the solid-state hydrogen storage tank 13 is located outside it, as the second heat exchange part 124, which can allow coolant to pass through and provide heat to release hydrogen. The solid-state hydrogen storage tank 13 is also connected to the battery stack 11 through the second pipeline 131, and can provide hydrogen for the battery stack 11. More specifically, a mechanical valve 132 for controlling the opening or closing of the solid-state hydrogen storage tank 13 is provided at the bottle mouth of the solid-state hydrogen storage tank 13; in one embodiment, the mechanical valve 132 can be a set of needle valves arranged between the solid-state hydrogen storage tank 13 and the second pipeline 131; the female valve of the needle valve is installed at the bottle mouth of the solid-state hydrogen storage tank 13, and the male valve of the needle valve is installed at the end of the second pipeline 131. The mechanical valve 132 is connected and disconnected by manual plugging and unplugging between the male valve and the female valve, thereby exporting hydrogen or preventing hydrogen from being exported; in addition, the replacement of the solid-state hydrogen storage tank can also be achieved. The needle valve is a conventional valve, and the required model can be purchased on the market as needed. Of course, the mechanical valve 132 may also be implemented by other mechanical valves.

[0070] The second pipeline 131 is also provided with a flow meter 133 and an opening regulating valve. The flow meter 133 is configured to detect the hydrogen flow in the second pipeline 131 in real time and feed it back to the FCU control module 100 (described in detail later). The opening regulating valve is an electrically controlled valve capable of adjusting the opening. A dual proportional valve 134 can be selected, which is configured to receive a signal from the FCU control module 100 to adjust the opening (described in detail later), thereby controlling the output hydrogen pressure and hydrogen flow. The dual proportional valve 134 can control the hydrogen supply pressure at a certain stable pressure (for example, within the range of 120kPa-220kPa), and enter the membrane electrode MEA of the stack 11, whereby electric energy is generated.

[0071] The hydrogen range extender may also be provided with a heater (not shown in the figure) capable of heating the solid-state hydrogen storage tank 13. In one embodiment, the heater is located before the solid-state hydrogen storage tank 13, for example, in the first heat exchange portion 123, and is configured to heat the coolant. The heated coolant can reach the jacket to provide heat to the solid-state hydrogen storage tank 13 to promote the release of hydrogen (indirect heating). In another alternative embodiment, the heater is provided on the solid-state hydrogen storage tank 13 and can be directly used to heat the hydrogen storage tank and release hydrogen. The heater is mainly used for heating when the hydrogen range extender is started. If the external temperature is high enough, the solid-state hydrogen storage tank 13 can release hydrogen normally, and the heater may not be provided. When the fuel cell stack starts working, it will generate heat into the coolant itself, so the heater may no longer be used.

[0072] The hydrogen range extender also has a conversion unit 14 connected between the battery stack 11 and the lithium battery 2 , which is configured to enable power supply from the lithium battery 2 to the hydrogen range extender, or charging of the hydrogen range extender (mainly the battery stack) to the lithium battery 2 .

[0073] The conversion unit 14 includes a power supply circuit, and a DC voltage regulator module, a relay, and a DC / DC port electrically connected to the power supply circuit.

[0074] The power supply line is at least connected between the battery stack 11 and the lithium battery 2 .

[0075] The DC voltage stabilization module is configured to stabilize the voltage of the power supply line; for example, the DC voltage stabilization module can be provided with a DC mutual inductance coil and a voltage stabilization chip to achieve voltage stabilization. The DC voltage stabilization module is a common hardware device for stabilizing voltage, and the voltage stabilization function can be achieved using existing technology.

[0076] The relay has a normally open contact and a normally closed contact that can be switched with each other, and is configured as follows: in the startup state and the normal working state, the relay connects the normally open contact to conduct the power supply line, so that the lithium battery 2 can supply power to the hydrogen range extender 1 or the battery stack 11 can charge the lithium battery 2; in the battery stack overvoltage state, when the output voltage level of the battery stack 11 exceeds the preset threshold (that is, the upper limit voltage of the lithium battery, excessive voltage can easily cause damage to the lithium battery), the relay switches to the normally closed contact to cut off the power supply line, preventing the battery stack 11 from continuing to supply power to the lithium battery 2.

[0077] The DC / DC port is connected to the power supply line on one hand and to the lithium battery 2 on the other hand for power transmission.

[0078] In some embodiments, the conversion unit 14 is also provided with fins for cooling; the fins 113 of the fuel cell stack 11 and the fins of the conversion unit 14 can be combined together and disposed in the first heat exchange part 123 .

[0079] Furthermore, the hydrogen range extender also has an FCU control module 100 (ie, a fuel cell stack control module 100 ) and a conversion control module 200 .

[0080] As mentioned above, the lithium battery 2 is configured to: in the startup state, be able to power the hydrogen range extender 1; including starting related equipment for each control module 100, 200, 600 and the battery stack 11, such as the air compressor 111, the humidifier 112, the dual proportional valve 134, the circulating pump 122, the heater, etc.

[0081] The BMS control module 300 is configured to collect the power and voltage level signals of the lithium battery 2 in real time, and send them to the conversion control module 200, which then transmits them to the FCU control module 100.

[0082] The conversion control module 200 is configured as follows:

[0083] In the startup state, at least the voltage level signal of the lithium battery collected by the BMS control module 300 is transmitted to the FCU control module 100; the DC voltage regulator module is controlled to work to stabilize the power supply voltage of the lithium battery 2 to the hydrogen range extender 1; and the control relay is connected to the normally open contact to conduct the power supply line, allowing the lithium battery 2 to supply power to the hydrogen range extender 1;

[0084] Under normal working conditions, the voltage level and power signal of the lithium battery collected by the BMS control module 300 are transmitted to the FCU control module 100; the DC voltage regulator module is controlled to work to stabilize the charging voltage of the hydrogen range extender 1 to the lithium battery 2; and the control relay is connected to the normally open contact to conduct the power supply line;

[0085] When the battery stack is over-voltage, the control relay switches to the normally closed contact to cut off the power supply line to prevent overcharging.

[0086] The FCU control module 100 is configured to:

[0087] In the startup state, the air compressor 111 is controlled to start working to supply oxygen to the fuel cell stack 11; the humidifier 112 is controlled to start working to humidify the air before entering the fuel cell stack 11; the circulation pump 122 and the heater are controlled to start working to provide heat for the solid hydrogen storage tank 13 to release hydrogen; the opening of the dual proportional valve 134 is controlled to supply hydrogen to the fuel cell stack 11, so that the fuel cell stack 11 starts to generate electricity; at this time, the lithium battery 2 supplies power to the hydrogen range extender 100.

[0088] The FCU control module 100 collects the voltage level signal output by the stack 11 in real time, and obtains the voltage level signal of the lithium battery 2 (from the BMS control module 300 and the conversion control module 200) in real time; when the voltage level output by the stack 11 is equal to the voltage level of the lithium battery 2, the stack 11 is switched to supply power to the hydrogen range extender 1 and charge the lithium battery 2; thus entering a normal working state. Specifically, when the voltage level output by the stack 11 is the same as the voltage level of the lithium battery 2, the conversion control module 200 controls the relay to switch from a normally open contact to a normally closed contact and then back to a normally open contact, completing the switching of the current direction, so that the stack 11 starts to supply power to the hydrogen range extender and charge the lithium battery 2.

[0089] The FCU control module 100 continuously collects the voltage level signal output by the fuel cell stack 11. When the voltage level output by the fuel cell stack exceeds a preset threshold, the signal is transmitted to the conversion control module 200. The conversion control module 200 controls the relay to switch to a normally closed contact to disconnect the power supply line.

[0090] In the above arrangement, by detecting the voltage levels of the lithium battery and the fuel cell stack, it can be determined whether the lithium battery is supplying power to the hydrogen range extender, or whether the fuel cell stack is supplying power to the hydrogen range extender and the lithium battery, thereby switching between the startup state and the normal working state.

[0091] In addition, a first temperature sensor connected to the FCU control module 100 is provided at the fuel cell stack 11 , which can obtain the temperature of the fuel cell stack 11 in real time and feed it back to the FCU control module 100 .

[0092] The liquid storage tank 121 is provided with a fan (not shown in the figure) connected to the FCU control module 100, and the circulating pump 122 is connected to the FCU control module 100; when the temperature of the battery stack 11 is too high, the FCU control module 100 is configured to control the fan to start to cool the coolant; and / or increase the speed of the circulating pump 122 to increase the heat exchange rate of the coolant. After starting, the battery stack 11 has been dissipating heat, which is generally prone to the problem of over-temperature, but not prone to the problem of under-temperature.

[0093] In some embodiments, the FCU control module 100 can also control the amount of electricity output by the battery stack 11. Specifically, the FCU control module 100 is configured to: at least under normal working conditions, obtain in real time the amount of electricity signal of the lithium battery 300 fed back by the BMS control module 300 transmitted by the conversion control module 200, and control the amount of electricity output by the battery stack 11 by controlling the hydrogen flow output by the solid-state hydrogen storage tank 13.

[0094] There are two aspects to controlling the hydrogen flow rate. One aspect is to control the temperature of the solid hydrogen storage tank 13 to control the amount of hydrogen that can be released. For example, when the temperature is low, the amount of hydrogen released is small; when the temperature is high, the amount of hydrogen released is large. The other aspect is to control the amount of hydrogen that can reach the fuel cell stack due to the control of the second pipeline 131. Under the condition of the same amount of hydrogen released by the hydrogen storage tank, the larger the opening of the dual proportional valve 134 on the second pipeline 131, the more hydrogen reaches the fuel cell stack 11, and vice versa.

[0095] For the control of the temperature of the solid-state hydrogen storage tank 13, a second temperature sensor connected to the FCU control module 100 is provided at the solid-state hydrogen storage tank 13, which can collect the temperature of the solid-state hydrogen storage tank 13 in real time and feed it back to the FCU control module 100. The FCU control module 100 controls the hydrogen supply and thus the power generation by controlling the temperature of the solid-state hydrogen storage tank 13. Specifically, the temperature of the solid-state hydrogen storage tank 13 is controlled by controlling the fan and the circulating pump 122 and controlling the temperature of the coolant.

[0096] Under normal working conditions, the temperature of the battery stack 11 is generally maintained at about 80° C., and the temperature of the solid hydrogen storage tank 13 is generally maintained at about 60°-65° C. Each temperature sensor is powered by the lithium battery 2 in the startup state and by the hydrogen range extender in the normal working state.

[0097] For the control of the dual proportional valve 134 on the second pipeline 131, the FCU control module 100 is configured to: receive the hydrogen flow rate from the flow meter 133 in real time, and control the opening of the dual proportional valve 134 by analyzing the hydrogen flow rate and the power required to be output by the stack. The conversion method between the hydrogen flow rate, the power generated by the stack and the opening of the dual proportional valve is a conventional technical solution in the field of hydrogen-powered vehicles, and can be directly calculated and implemented by calling the corresponding calculation module; therefore, no further explanation is given here.

[0098] It can be seen from the above description that the amount of hydrogen reaching the fuel cell stack can be controlled in many aspects through the FCU control module 100 to control the amount of electricity output by the fuel cell stack.

[0099] The hydrogen range extender 1 is only connected to the lithium battery 2 and the BMS control module 300 in the vehicle, and is not connected to other components of the vehicle, such as the motor, instrument, etc. In other words, the hydrogen range extender 1 does not directly serve as a power source to supply power to the vehicle, that is, it does not directly supply power to the motor, instrument, and other equipment of the vehicle, but only charges the lithium battery 2 of the vehicle and supplies power to the hydrogen range extender, and the lithium battery 2 supplies power for driving-related power consumption.

[0100] It can be understood that each module in the present application may include a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, which can realize the corresponding functions of each module.

[0101] The second embodiment of the present application provides a control method for a hydrogen range extender for improving the charging efficiency of a lithium battery (hereinafter referred to as a control method), using the hydrogen range extender 1 described in any of the above embodiments; the control method includes at least one of the following states:

[0102] (1) Startup status:

[0103] In the startup state, the lithium battery 2 supplies power to the BMS control module 300 and the hydrogen range extender 1. Specifically, the lithium battery 2 supplies power to the FCU control module 100 and the conversion control module 200 in the hydrogen range extender 1, as well as to the air compressor 111, the humidifier 112, the dual proportional valve 134, the circulating pump 122 and the heater in the hydrogen range extender.

[0104] The BMS control module 300 collects the power and voltage level signals of the lithium battery 2 in real time, sends them to the conversion control module 200, and then transmits them to the FCU control module 100.

[0105] The conversion control module 200 controls the relay to switch to a normally open contact, turns on the power supply line, and supplies power to the hydrogen range extender 1; and controls the DC voltage stabilization module to operate, so that the voltage of the power supply line remains stable.

[0106] The FCU control module 100 controls the powered air compressor 111, humidifier 112, dual proportional valve 134, circulating pump 122 and heater to start working; wherein, the air compressor 111 provides air, which enters the humidifier 112 and then enters the fuel cell stack 11; the heater heats the coolant, and the circulating pump 122 provides power so that the heated coolant reaches the solid hydrogen storage tank 13, accelerating the release of hydrogen; the dual proportional valve 134 opens under the control of the FCU control module 100, so that hydrogen reaches the fuel cell stack 11; thus, the fuel cell stack starts to generate electricity. When the heater is set on the solid hydrogen storage tank 13, the heater is controlled to generate heat, directly to the solid hydrogen storage tank 13, accelerating the release of hydrogen.

[0107] After the battery stack starts to generate electricity, the FCU control module 100 monitors the voltage level signal of the battery stack in real time, and obtains the voltage level signal of the lithium battery from the BMS control module 300 from the conversion control module 200 in real time; compares the two voltage levels; when the voltage level of the battery stack is lower than the voltage level of the lithium battery, continues to increase power generation; when the voltage level of the battery stack is greater than or equal to the voltage level of the lithium battery, feeds the signal back to the conversion control module 200; the conversion control module 200 controls the relay to switch from the normally open contact to the normally closed contact and then back to the normally open contact, completing the switching of the current direction, so that the battery stack 11 starts to charge the lithium battery 2 and power the hydrogen range extender 1 itself; thereby entering a normal working state.

[0108] (2) Normal working status:

[0109] Under normal working conditions, the FCU control module 100 monitors the power signal and voltage level signal output by the battery stack in real time, and obtains the power signal and voltage level signal of the lithium battery from the BMS control module 300 from the conversion control module 200 in real time; and charges the lithium battery according to the power gap.

[0110] In some embodiments, the FCU control module 100 can use a preset segmented control logic to perform segmented charging on the lithium battery 2. Specifically, the power of the lithium battery 2 is divided into multiple levels, and multiple charging powers of the battery stack 11 are set accordingly; when the lithium battery is at a certain level, the FCU control module 100 controls the battery stack 11 (mainly by controlling the temperature of the solid-state hydrogen storage tank 13 and by controlling the opening of the dual proportional valve 134 on the second pipeline 131) to output the corresponding charging power according to the power signal of the lithium battery fed back by the BMS control module 300.

[0111] For example, the power of the lithium battery and the charging efficiency of the battery stack 11 are divided into the following levels:

[0112] Lithium battery power segmentation Charging power segmentation of battery stack <20％ 1500W ≥20 and <40% 1200W ≥40 and <60% 900W ≥60 and <80% 400W ≥80 and <90% 200W

[0113] The FCU control module 100 detects the actual value (power percentage) of the lithium battery in real time according to the BMS control module 300; when the internal power of the lithium battery is less than 20%, the FCU control module 100 will send a control signal to the coolant circulation system and the dual proportional valve on the second pipeline to increase the output power of the battery stack to the maximum, so that the battery stack can charge the lithium battery at a power of 1500W; similarly, when the internal power of the lithium battery is between 20% and 40%, the FCU control module 100 will control the battery stack to charge the lithium battery at a power of 1200W; and so on according to the above table. During the whole process, the total power generation, current, coolant temperature, hydrogen pressure, flow rate and other information of the battery stack are stored in the FCU control module 100; the real-time power of the lithium battery is stored in the BMS control module 300.

[0114] (3) Stack overvoltage state:

[0115] Since the FCU control module 100 has been monitoring the voltage level of the battery stack in real time, when it is detected that the voltage level of the battery stack reaches a preset threshold (generally the upper limit voltage of the lithium battery), the FCU control module 100 transmits the signal to the conversion control module 200; the conversion control module 200 controls the relay to switch from a normally open contact to a normally closed contact, thereby disconnecting the power supply line, so that the battery stack 11 stops supplying power to the lithium battery 2.

[0116] From the previous description, we can know that by monitoring the voltage level of the lithium battery, we can determine when the lithium battery is supplying power, when it is charging, and when the power is cut off; by monitoring the power level of the lithium battery, we can determine the power at which the battery stack is generating electricity, so as to charge the lithium battery in segments.

[0117] The third embodiment of the present application provides a hydrogen-powered vehicle, which has a lithium battery 2 capable of providing power for the vehicle, a BMS control module 300 for detecting the power of the lithium battery, and a hydrogen range extender as described in any of the above embodiments. The hydrogen range extender is electrically connected to the lithium battery 2, so that the lithium battery 2 can power the hydrogen range extender 1, or the hydrogen range extender 1 can charge the lithium battery 2; the hydrogen range extender 1 is electrically connected to the BMS control module 300 to obtain the power and voltage level signals of the lithium battery 2 in real time.

[0118] When the hydrogen vehicle is in use, the user turns on the vehicle by inserting the key, and the vehicle controller controls the internal discharge of the lithium battery 2. The lithium battery 2 can power the power-consuming components of the vehicle, such as instruments, lights, motors, BMS control module 300, and vehicle controller. When the hydrogen range extender 1 is started, the lithium battery 2 also powers the hydrogen range extender 1, so that the battery stack 11 starts working, starts to generate electricity and heat. When the voltage level output by the battery stack 11 is high enough, it switches to the battery stack 11 to charge the lithium battery 2 and power the hydrogen range extender 1.

[0119] The hydrogen range extender provided in this embodiment can solve the pain point of insufficient kinetic energy when the vehicle is started; the hydrogen-powered two-wheeled vehicle (hydrogen-powered vehicle) equipped with a hydrogen range extender starts faster and has more stable power, improves the efficiency and service life of the fuel cell, and has the advantages of low carbon and environmental protection, efficient and time-saving hydrogen replenishment and replacement, etc., which can meet the vast majority of application scenarios of existing two-wheeled vehicles.

[0120] Finally, it should be noted that: the various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, and each embodiment focuses on the differences from other embodiments. The same or similar parts between the various embodiments can be referenced to each other.

[0121] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solution of the present application rather than to limit it. Although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the preferred embodiments, ordinary technicians in the relevant field should understand that the specific implementation methods of the present application can still be modified or some technical features can be replaced by equivalents without departing from the spirit of the technical solution of the present application, which should be included in the scope of the technical solution requested for protection in the present application.

Claims

1. A hydrogen range extender for improving the charging efficiency of a lithium battery, which can be connected to a lithium battery and a BMS control module; characterized in that: The lithium battery is configured to be able to supply power to the BMS control module and the hydrogen range extender in the startup state; The BMS control module is configured to collect voltage level signals and power signals of the lithium battery in real time; the hydrogen range extender includes: A fuel cell stack; which is configured to receive oxygen and hydrogen to generate electrical energy; A solid-state hydrogen storage tank; which stores hydrogen; the solid-state hydrogen storage tank is connected to the fuel cell stack and can provide the required hydrogen for it; A coolant circulation system; connected to the fuel cell stack on one hand for cooling the fuel cell stack; connected to the solid hydrogen storage tank on the other hand for heating the solid hydrogen storage tank; and, The FCU control module is configured to: in the startup state, control the solid-state hydrogen storage tank to release hydrogen and control the fuel cell stack to start generating electricity; and collect the voltage level signal output by the fuel cell stack in real time, and obtain the voltage level signal of the lithium battery from the BMS control module in real time. When the voltage level output by the fuel cell stack is equal to the voltage level of the lithium battery, the fuel cell stack is switched to power the hydrogen extender and charge the lithium battery, thereby entering a normal working state.

2. The hydrogen range extender according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a conversion unit and a conversion control module; wherein the conversion unit includes a power supply line and a DC voltage stabilizing module, a relay and a DC / DC port electrically connected to the power supply line; the power supply line is at least connected between the fuel cell stack and the lithium battery to realize power supply between the two; the DC voltage stabilizing module is configured to stabilize the voltage of the power supply line; the relay has a normally open contact and a normally closed contact that can be switched with each other, and is configured as follows: in the startup state and the normal working state, the relay connects the normally open contact to conduct the power supply line, so that the lithium battery can supply power to the hydrogen range extender or the hydrogen range extender can charge the lithium battery; wherein the hydrogen range extender only charges the external lithium battery and supplies power to the hydrogen range extender itself; the DC / DC port is connected to the power supply line on the one hand and to the lithium battery on the other hand to transmit power; The conversion control module is configured to: in the startup state, at least transmit the voltage level signal of the lithium battery collected by the BMS control module to the FCU control module; control the DC voltage stabilization module to work to stabilize the power supply voltage of the lithium battery to the hydrogen range extender; and control the relay to be connected to the normally open contact to conduct the power supply line, allowing the lithium battery to supply power to the hydrogen range extender; in the normal working state, transmit the voltage level signal and power signal of the lithium battery collected by the BMS control module to the FCU control module; control the DC voltage stabilization module to work to stabilize the charging voltage of the hydrogen range extender to the lithium battery; and control the relay to be connected to the normally open contact to conduct the power supply line.

3. The hydrogen range extender according to claim 2, characterized in that: The FCU control module is also configured to: continuously collect the voltage level signal output by the fuel cell stack, and when the voltage level output by the fuel cell stack exceeds a preset threshold, transmit the signal to the conversion control module; the conversion control module is configured to: control the relay to switch to a normally closed contact to cut off the power supply line to prevent overcharging.

4. The hydrogen range extender according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that: The fuel cell stack is connected to an air compressor to provide air containing oxygen; the fuel cell stack is provided with fins for heat dissipation; A second pipeline is provided between the solid-state hydrogen storage tank and the fuel cell stack, on which a flow meter and an opening regulating valve are provided; wherein the flow meter is configured to collect hydrogen flow information on the second pipeline in real time and feed it back to the FCU control module; the opening regulating valve is an electrically controlled valve with adjustable opening; the FCU control module is configured to: control the opening of the opening regulating valve according to the acquired hydrogen flow information combined with the power output required by the fuel cell stack; The coolant circulation system includes a liquid storage tank, a circulation pump, a first heat exchange part and a second heat exchange part connected in series for the coolant to pass through; wherein the liquid storage tank is configured to store the coolant, and the circulation pump is configured to provide power for the circulation of the coolant; the first heat exchange part is configured to exchange heat with the fins of the fuel cell stack to cool it down; and the second heat exchange part is configured to exchange heat with the solid hydrogen storage tank to heat it up.

5. The hydrogen range extender according to claim 4, characterized in that: The BMS control module is powered only by a lithium battery; the fuel cell stack and the solid-state hydrogen storage tank are respectively provided with a first temperature sensor and a second temperature sensor connected to the FCU control module, which can obtain the temperature of the fuel cell stack and the solid-state hydrogen storage tank in real time and feed it back to the FCU control module; the FCU control module is configured to control the temperature of the fuel cell stack and the solid-state hydrogen storage tank by controlling the speed of the circulation pump and / or starting or shutting down the cooling fan in the liquid storage tank.

6. The hydrogen range extender according to claim 4, characterized in that: The coolant is water, and a deionizer is connected in series in the coolant circulation system; a humidifier is arranged between the air compressor and the fuel cell stack to humidify the air before entering the fuel cell stack; the water used for humidification in the humidifier comes from the coolant circulation system.

7. The hydrogen range extender according to claim 4, characterized in that: The first heat exchange part has a sealed cavity for coolant to flow in and out; the fins extend from the fuel cell stack to the cavity of the first heat exchange part to exchange heat with the coolant therein; the second heat exchange part is a jacket on the outside of the solid-state hydrogen storage tank, which is isolated from the inside of the solid-state hydrogen storage tank; the coolant passes through the jacket to provide heat for the solid-state hydrogen storage tank to release hydrogen.

8. The hydrogen range extender according to claim 4, characterized in that: A mechanical valve is provided between the solid hydrogen storage tank and the second pipeline, which is a set of needle valves; the opening regulating valve is a double proportional valve.

9. The hydrogen range extender according to claim 7, characterized in that: The hydrogen range extender is also provided with a heater capable of heating the solid-state hydrogen storage tank; one of the following options is selected: (1) The heater is located before the solid hydrogen storage tank and is configured to heat the coolant. The heated coolant can reach the jacket to provide heat to the solid hydrogen storage tank to promote the release of hydrogen; (2) The heater is arranged on the solid hydrogen storage tank and can directly heat the hydrogen storage tank to promote the release of hydrogen.

10. A hydrogen vehicle, characterized in that: A method of providing a vehicle with a lithium battery capable of providing power, a BMS control module for detecting the lithium battery, and a hydrogen range extender as described in any one of claims 1 to 9; wherein the hydrogen range extender is connected to the lithium battery and the BMS control module; wherein the lithium battery is configured to be able to supply power to the BMS control module and the hydrogen range extender in a startup state; and the BMS control module is configured to collect voltage level signals and power signals of the lithium battery in real time and transmit them to the hydrogen range extender.

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