Air filter for hydrogen fuel cell, air supply system and vehicle

By employing a multi-layered, staggered arrangement of adsorption medium units and a split-shell design for the air filter structure, the problems of shortened lifespan, high intake resistance, and low adsorption efficiency of air filters for hydrogen fuel cells have been solved. This achieves efficient filtration and convenient replacement, ensuring the stable operation of hydrogen fuel cells.

CN223927363UActive Publication Date: 2026-02-17GREAT WALL MOTOR CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202520440355.6
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-03-13
Publication Date
2026-02-17
Estimated Expiration
2035-03-13

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The existing air filter structure design for hydrogen fuel cells results in shortened filter life, high air intake resistance, high replacement costs, low adsorption efficiency, and complex manufacturing process, making it unable to effectively remove harmful gases from hydrogen fuel cells.

Method used

The adsorption filter element adopts a multi-layer structure design with staggered adsorption media units. It utilizes a support substrate and a fixed frame to improve space utilization and adsorption efficiency, and the split shell design facilitates filter element replacement.

Benefits of technology

It increases the storage capacity and adsorption efficiency of the adsorption medium, reduces processing requirements, extends filter life, reduces replacement costs, and ensures the stable operation of hydrogen fuel cells.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model relates to an air filter for a hydrogen fuel cell, an air supply system and a vehicle, and belongs to the technical field of air filtration. The air filter for the hydrogen fuel cell comprises a shell, an air filter element and an adsorption filter element, wherein the air filter element and the adsorption filter element are arranged in the shell; an air inlet and an air outlet are formed in the shell; the air filter element is close to the air inlet side and is used for filtering particulate matters in air; the adsorption filter element and the air filter element are arranged at intervals and are close to the air outlet side, the adsorption filter element comprises a plurality of gas adsorption layers which are arranged in a stacked mode in the air flowing direction, each gas adsorption layer comprises a plurality of adsorption medium units which are arranged in a plane array, and the adsorption medium units in the adjacent gas adsorption layers are arranged in a staggered mode; the adsorption medium unit is used for adsorbing harmful gas in the air. The adsorption filter element is optimized, so that the storage amount of an adsorption medium is increased, the adsorption efficiency is improved, and the process requirement is reduced.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of air filtration technology, and in particular to an air filter for hydrogen fuel cells, an air supply system, and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] In the transportation sector, new energy vehicles are gradually replacing traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. These vehicles utilize non-traditional fossil fuels as their power source and come in a wide variety of types, primarily including pure electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles generate electricity through an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. Their energy conversion efficiency is far higher than that of traditional gasoline engines, and their only emission is water, achieving true zero-pollution emissions. This makes them a highly promising green mobility solution.

[0003] To ensure stable operation of the hydrogen fuel cell engine and prevent bipolar catalyst poisoning, activated carbon needs to be added to the cathode air supply system. Activated carbon can effectively remove particulate impurities such as dust from ambient air, as well as sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). x It can detect gaseous pollutants such as ammonia (NH3). It often uses non-woven fabric as a carrier, fixed to the middle layer with adhesive. For example... Figure 1 As shown, an air filter typically includes a coarse filter layer 101', an activated carbon layer 102', and a fine filter layer 103'. The coarse filter layer 101' is located on the dirty side of the filter element and is mainly responsible for filtering dust particles, having a high dust holding capacity. The middle activated carbon layer 102' is made of activated carbon and is mainly used to adsorb gaseous pollutants. The fine filter layer 103' is located on the clean side of the filter element and plays a protective role, filtering fine particles and preventing activated carbon particles from falling off, and has a lower dust holding capacity.

[0004] However, filter elements with the above structure have higher costs during use and maintenance. Moreover, due to the limitations of the filter element structure design, they cannot achieve the ideal filtration effect, and the process requirements and manufacturing costs of the filter element are also increased. Utility Model Content

[0005] This utility model solves, to at least a certain extent, one of the technical problems in the related art.

[0006] Therefore, this application aims to provide an air filter, air supply system and vehicle for hydrogen fuel cells. By optimizing the structure of the adsorption filter element, the storage capacity of the adsorption medium inside the adsorption filter element is increased, the adsorption efficiency of harmful gases is improved, and the process requirements are reduced.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, in a first aspect, this utility model provides an air filter for a hydrogen fuel cell, comprising:

[0008] The shell has a cavity inside, and the shell is provided with an air inlet and an air outlet that communicate with the cavity. Air enters the cavity through the air inlet and flows out through the air outlet.

[0009] An air filter element is located inside the chamber and near the air inlet. The air filter element is used to filter particulate matter in the air.

[0010] An adsorption filter element is disposed in the chamber and spaced apart from the air filter element. The adsorption filter element is located on the side of the air filter element near the air outlet. The adsorption filter element includes multiple gas adsorption layers stacked in the direction of air flow. Each gas adsorption layer includes multiple adsorption medium units arranged in a planar array. The adsorption medium units in adjacent gas adsorption layers are staggered. The adsorption medium units are used to adsorb harmful gases in the air.

[0011] In the above technical solution, the adsorption filter element adopts a multi-layer structure design. Each layer includes an array of adsorption medium units, with the adsorption medium units in adjacent layers staggered, so that the adsorption medium units of the upper layer fall into the gaps between adjacent adsorption medium units of the lower layer. This structure maximizes space utilization, increases the content of adsorption medium units in the adsorption filter element, and increases the density of adsorption medium units, thereby achieving a larger adsorption surface area per unit volume. It also reduces the porosity requirement within the adsorption medium units, thus lowering the requirements for processing technology and improving adsorption efficiency. Simultaneously, the staggered distribution of adsorption medium units prevents displacement between them, avoiding the problem of particles detaching due to friction.

[0012] In some embodiments, each gas adsorption layer further includes a planar support substrate with multiple receptacles extending through it along the airflow direction. The receptacles are adapted to the size of the adsorption medium unit. Each adsorption medium unit is disposed in a corresponding receptacle and protrudes from the support substrate on both sides. The support substrate is breathable, forming an airflow space between adjacent support substrates.

[0013] In the above technical solution, the adsorption medium unit is supported by a planar carrier substrate. The arrangement of the adsorption medium units in adjacent layers can prevent the adsorption medium units from shifting. There is no adhesive or other bonding method between the carrier substrate and the adsorption medium unit, which avoids the failure of the ventilation holes of the adsorption medium unit caused by adhesives. This allows all the pores inside the adsorption medium unit to communicate with the chamber, increasing the effective adsorption area. The carrier substrate is breathable, and there are no other obstructions between adjacent carrier substrates except for the space occupied by the adsorption medium unit. When air passes through each gas adsorption layer, it can smoothly pass through the carrier substrate and enter the adsorption medium unit in the adjacent layer, improving the ventilation efficiency and adsorption efficiency.

[0014] In some embodiments, the adsorption filter element further includes a fixing frame having sidewalls arranged along the airflow direction, the sidewalls surrounding the carrier substrate and fixedly connected to the carrier substrate; the fixing frame is open on both sides in the airflow direction to allow air to flow through.

[0015] In the above technical solution, the various carrier substrates are connected by a fixed frame, making the overall structure of the adsorption filter element more stable and facilitating overall replacement. The sidewalls of the fixed frame are set along the airflow direction, and the fixed frame is open in the airflow direction. In this way, the resistance to the air passing through each gas adsorption layer can be reduced to the greatest extent, so that the air can flow evenly through each adsorption medium unit, improve the ventilation rate, and further improve the adsorption efficiency.

[0016] In some embodiments, the fixed frame is covered with a first filter medium and a second filter medium on both sides in the direction of airflow, respectively.

[0017] In the above technical solution, the first filter medium and the second filter medium respectively cover the fixed frame on both sides of the air flow direction, which isolates the adsorption filter element from the external environment and plays a filtering role, effectively preventing external particles from entering the adsorption filter element, or preventing particles in the adsorption filter element from being carried into the air outlet side with the air, thus avoiding cross-influence.

[0018] In some embodiments, the housing includes a first housing and a second housing that are detachably connected. The first housing and the second housing are connected to form a chamber. The first housing is provided with an air inlet, and the second housing is provided with an air outlet. An air filter is located inside the first housing, and an adsorption filter is located inside the second housing.

[0019] In the above technical solution, the housing adopts a split design, which facilitates the assembly and maintenance of the housing; the air filter and the adsorption filter are located in the first housing and the second housing respectively. When it is necessary to replace the air filter or the adsorption filter, it is only necessary to disassemble the first housing or the second housing to replace the internal filter, which facilitates timely replacement and maintenance of the filter.

[0020] In some embodiments, the first housing is provided with a snap-fit ​​member near the outer wall of the second housing, the end of the snap-fit ​​member is bent toward the second housing to form a snap-fit ​​portion, and the second housing is provided with a snap-fit ​​groove near the outer wall of the first housing, the snap-fit ​​portion being snapped into the snap-fit ​​groove.

[0021] In the above technical solution, the snap-fit ​​connection between the first housing and the second housing facilitates the assembly and disassembly of the first housing and the second housing, improves assembly efficiency, and ensures the stability of the connection between the two, ensuring that they will not easily loosen in vibration environments such as vehicle operation, thereby improving structural reliability.

[0022] In some embodiments, the air filter for hydrogen fuel cells further includes an adsorption filter element adapter frame, which is detachably mounted on the inner wall of the second housing and is fixedly connected to the adsorption filter element to install the adsorption filter element into the second housing.

[0023] In the above technical solution, the adsorption filter element and the second housing are connected by an adsorption filter element adapter frame, which realizes convenient installation and quick replacement of the adsorption filter element. In addition, the structure of the second housing does not need to consider the connection with adsorption filter elements of different specifications and sizes when it is designed. It only needs to be adapted to the adsorption filter element adapter frame. The development difficulty of the second housing is reduced by connecting adsorption filter elements of different specifications and sizes through the adsorption filter element adapter frame.

[0024] In some embodiments, the substrate is made of non-woven fabric and the adsorption medium unit is activated carbon particles.

[0025] In the above technical solution, activated carbon has a high specific surface area, abundant pore structure and chemical stability, and has a good adsorption effect on harmful gases in hydrogen fuel cells; non-woven fabric has good air permeability and a certain degree of flexibility, which can ensure smooth air flow in the adsorption filter element while supporting the activated carbon adsorption medium.

[0026] A second aspect of this application provides an air supply system, including an air intake system, the air intake system including an air filter for a hydrogen fuel cell as described in any of the first aspects.

[0027] In the above technical solution, the air supply system supplies air to the hydrogen fuel cell through the air intake system. The air intake system is equipped with the air filter described in this application. The filter has good filtration and adsorption performance, which can significantly remove particulate matter such as dust and harmful gases in the air, thereby greatly improving the cleanliness of the air supplied to the hydrogen fuel cell. This effectively avoids the poisoning of the hydrogen fuel cell catalyst and ensures the efficient operation and long-term stability of the fuel cell.

[0028] The fourth aspect of this application provides a vehicle including a hydrogen fuel cell engine and an air supply system as described in the second aspect, wherein the air intake system is connected to the air passage of the hydrogen fuel cell engine.

[0029] In the above technical solution, the vehicle is equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell engine. The air supply system can continuously provide the hydrogen fuel cell engine with clean air that has been filtered and adsorbed, effectively avoiding catalyst poisoning, significantly improving the operating efficiency and service life of the hydrogen fuel cell, enabling the vehicle to maintain stable power output under various operating conditions, and improving the performance and reliability of the whole vehicle.

[0030] As can be seen from the above technical solutions, additional aspects and advantages of this utility model will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this utility model. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the filter layer structure of a filter element used in the prior art;

[0032] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of an air filter for a hydrogen fuel cell according to an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 3 This is a side view of an air filter for a hydrogen fuel cell according to an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 4 This is a top view of an air filter for a hydrogen fuel cell according to an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A half-sectional view of the air filter for the hydrogen fuel cell shown along section line AA.

[0036] Figure 6 An exploded view of an air filter for a hydrogen fuel cell according to an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 7 For the three-dimensional adsorption filter element according to the embodiments of this application Figure 1 ;

[0038] Figure 8 For the three-dimensional adsorption filter element according to the embodiments of this application Figure 2 ;

[0039] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the gas adsorption layer in the adsorption filter element according to an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 10 This is a projection of the adsorption medium units arranged according to the embodiments of this application onto a plane perpendicular to the airflow direction;

[0041] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the adsorption filter cartridge adapter plate according to an embodiment of this application.

[0042] In the above figures:

[0043] 101′, Coarse filtration layer; 102′, Activated carbon layer; 103′, Fine filtration layer;

[0044] 100. Housing; 101. Chamber; 102. Air inlet; 103. Air outlet; 110. First housing; 111. Snap-fit ​​component; 120. Second housing; 121. Slot; 200. Air filter element; 300. Adsorption filter element; 310. Gas adsorption layer; 311. Adsorption medium unit; 312. Supporting substrate; 320. Fixing frame; 331. First filter medium; 332. Second filter medium; 400. Adsorption filter element adapter frame; 410. Buckle; 420. Reinforcing rod; 500. Drainage strip. Detailed Implementation

[0045] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "upper", "lower", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "axial", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this utility model.

[0046] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "fixation," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between the components; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0047] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature. The term "multiple" in this application refers to two or more features.

[0048] In this utility model, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of this utility model. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Furthermore, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0049] The present invention will now be described in detail through exemplary embodiments. However, it should be understood that, without further description, elements, structures, and features in one embodiment may be advantageously incorporated into other embodiments.

[0050] With the rapid development of the automotive industry, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, as an emerging clean energy vehicle, have gradually attracted widespread attention. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles utilize the electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen to generate electricity. Their energy conversion efficiency is far higher than that of traditional combustion engines, and their only emission is water, truly achieving zero pollution emissions. This makes them a highly promising green mobility solution.

[0051] In the electrochemical reaction process of hydrogen fuel cells, catalysts play a crucial role, accelerating electrode reactions and improving fuel cell efficiency. However, hydrogen fuel cell catalysts (such as platinum catalysts) are highly sensitive to impurity gases and are prone to "poisoning." Therefore, an air filter is needed in the intake system to remove particulate matter such as dust, as well as sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). x Gaseous pollutants such as ammonia (NH3).

[0052] like Figure 1 As shown, existing air filters typically include a coarse filter layer 101', an activated carbon layer 102', and a fine filter layer 103'. The coarse filter layer 101' is located on the dirty side of the filter element and is mainly responsible for filtering dust particles, with a high dust holding capacity. The activated carbon layer 102' is located in the middle and is made of activated carbon, mainly used to adsorb gaseous pollutants. The fine filter layer 103' is on the clean side of the filter element and plays a protective role, mainly filtering fine particles and preventing activated carbon particles from falling off, with a lower dust holding capacity.

[0053] However, the above-mentioned conventional filter layer structure has at least the following problems:

[0054] (1) Shortened filter life: The filter material itself becomes thicker, which leads to a larger gap between filter elements and a smaller filter area, ultimately resulting in a reduction in the dust holding capacity of the filter element and a shortened filter life.

[0055] (2) Decreased power performance: The increased thickness of the filter material leads to a larger gap between the filter elements, a smaller filter element area, and greater air intake resistance, resulting in insufficient air intake.

[0056] (3) High filter replacement cost: Because the requirements for dust filtration and adsorption filtration are different, the filter media are mixed together, which requires simultaneous replacement, and the mixing process is complicated.

[0057] (4) The adsorption effect of harmful gases is low, the manufacturing process of activated carbon is complicated and the cost is high: the carbon powder needs to be glued together with each layer, which leads to the failure of the ventilation holes. In addition, because the amount of carbon powder is limited by space, it is necessary to enrich the internal capillary pores of the carbon powder and increase the specific surface area of ​​the carbon powder under the premise of the same amount.

[0058] (5) Since the molecular diameter of toluene, n-butane and other molecules is about 4.65 nanometers, the number of effective adsorption pores of activated carbon (0.5-1.0 nanometers, with strong adsorption performance) is insufficient and the distribution is inappropriate. Therefore, the overall amount of activated carbon needs to be increased, but the existing technology cannot meet this requirement.

[0059] Existing technologies have introduced solutions that separate dust filter elements from activated carbon filter elements, allowing them to be replaced separately based on usage, thus reducing replacement and maintenance costs. However, due to limitations in filter element structure design, the filtration efficiency has not been significantly improved. Without enriching the capillary pores within the activated carbon, the adsorption efficiency is very low, while increasing the pore size leads to increased process complexity.

[0060] Based on this, this application proposes an air filter for hydrogen fuel cells. By optimizing the structure of the adsorption filter element, the content of adsorption medium in the adsorption filter element can be increased within the same space, maximizing space utilization and improving the adsorption efficiency of harmful gases. In addition, due to the increase in the amount of adsorption medium, the requirement for the specific surface area of ​​the adsorption medium is reduced under the same adsorption efficiency, thereby reducing the requirements for the processing technology of the adsorption medium.

[0061] In the following, embodiments of this application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0062] like Figures 2-6 As shown in an illustrative embodiment of the air filter for hydrogen fuel cells in this application, the air filter includes a housing 100 and an air filter element 200 and an adsorption filter element 300 disposed within the housing 100.

[0063] The housing 100 has a chamber 101 inside. The housing 100 is provided with an air inlet 102 and an air outlet 103 communicating with the chamber 101. Outside air enters the chamber 101 through the air inlet 102 and flows out through the air outlet 103. The internal space of the chamber 101 serves as the place where the air filter filters the air. It has a certain volume so that the air can fully interact with the filter element inside the chamber 101.

[0064] In order to improve the filtration efficiency of air in the housing 100, the air inlet 102 and the air outlet 103 are usually located at both ends of the housing 100. The arrangement of the air inlet 102 and the air outlet 103 being far apart from each other increases the flow path of air in the housing 100.

[0065] In some embodiments, the air inlet 102 is located at the lower end of the housing 100 and the air outlet 103 is located at the upper end of the housing 100, so that air flows from bottom to top. Dust, impurities and other particles in the air will sink due to gravity and thus separate from the air, improving the filtration effect.

[0066] The air filter element 200 is located in the chamber 101 and near the air inlet 102. The air filter element 200 is used to filter particulate matter in the air.

[0067] Specifically, the air filter element 200 includes a particulate filter medium that filters particulate matter in the air entering the chamber 101. The particulate filter medium can be made of materials such as non-woven fabric, filter cotton, or fiber filter paper. Outside air enters the chamber 101 through the air inlet 102 and first passes through the air filter element 200. The particulate filter medium in the air filter element 200 removes dust, smoke, and other particulate matter from the air, providing cleaner air for the subsequent adsorption process and preventing particulate matter from clogging the adsorption filter element 300 and affecting the adsorption effect.

[0068] The adsorption filter element 300 is disposed in the chamber 101 and spaced apart from the air filter element 200. The adsorption filter element 300 is located on the side of the air filter element 200 near the air outlet 103. Air enters the chamber 101 through the air inlet 102, passes through the air filter element 200 and the adsorption filter element 300 in sequence, and then flows out through the air outlet 103.

[0069] The adsorption filter element 300 and the air filter element 200 are spaced apart, allowing for separation. Compared to traditional filter layer structures, this reduces the thickness of the filter material, allowing for a smaller pleat spacing in the air filter element 200. This increases the overall surface area of ​​the air filter element 200, reduces airflow resistance, improves dust adsorption efficiency and capacity, simplifies product development, and enhances the adsorption and permeability of the air filter element 200. Furthermore, the separation of the adsorption filter element 300 and the air filter element 200 allows for individual replacement, reducing replacement costs and enabling separate maintenance for their different lifespans.

[0070] In addition, this application optimizes the structure of the adsorption filter element 300, thereby increasing the content of the adsorption medium inside the adsorption filter element 300 within the same space.

[0071] like Figure 5 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the adsorption filter element 300 includes multiple gas adsorption layers 310 stacked in the airflow direction. Each gas adsorption layer 310 includes multiple adsorption medium units 311 arranged in a planar array. The adsorption medium units 311 in adjacent gas adsorption layers 310 are staggered. The adsorption medium units 311 are used to adsorb gases in the air that are harmful to the hydrogen fuel cell.

[0072] In the technical solution of the above embodiment, the adsorption filter element 300 adopts a multi-layer structure design. Each layer includes an array of adsorption medium units 311. The adsorption medium units 311 in adjacent layers are staggered, so that the adsorption medium units 311 in the upper layer fall into the gaps between the adjacent adsorption medium units 311 in the lower layer. This structure of the adsorption filter element 300 can maximize space utilization, increase the content of adsorption medium units 311 in the adsorption filter element 300, and increase the density of adsorption medium units 311. This results in a larger adsorption surface area per unit volume, reduces the requirement for the internal porosity of the adsorption medium units 311, thereby reducing the requirements for processing technology, improving adsorption efficiency, and enhancing the adsorption performance of gases that are not easily adsorbed, such as n-butane. At the same time, the staggered distribution of adsorption medium units 311 can avoid displacement between each other, thus preventing the problem of frictional detachment of particles.

[0073] In some embodiments of this application, the adsorption surface of each gas adsorption layer 310 is perpendicular to the airflow direction, such as... Figure 10 As shown, the projection of the adsorption medium unit 311 in each gas adsorption layer 310 onto a plane perpendicular to the airflow direction at least partially covers the gap region between adsorption medium units 311 in adjacent gas adsorption layers 310. This arrangement allows the adsorption medium units 311 to fall into the gaps between multiple adsorption medium units 311 in adjacent gas adsorption layers, maximizing space utilization, increasing the content of adsorption medium units 311, and improving adsorption efficiency.

[0074] In some embodiments, the adsorption medium unit 311 can be activated carbon particles. Activated carbon has a high specific surface area, abundant pore structure, and chemical stability, exhibiting good adsorption effects on gases harmful to hydrogen fuel cells, protecting the catalyst and preventing catalyst poisoning. Different gas adsorption layers 310 can each employ activated carbon components for adsorbing different gases, thereby improving the adsorption effect on different types of gases that may be present in the air. Optionally, the activated carbon particles can be spherical.

[0075] In some embodiments, such as Figure 9 As shown, each gas adsorption layer 310 also includes a planar support substrate 312. The support substrate 312 has multiple receptacles (not shown) extending along the airflow direction. The receptacles are adapted to the dimensions of the adsorption medium unit 311. Each adsorption medium unit 311 is disposed within a corresponding receptacle, with both sides protruding from the support substrate 312. The support substrate 312 is permeable, forming an airflow space between adjacent support substrates 312. Specifically, the receptacle is a hole formed in the support substrate, and the shape of the hole matches the shape of the adsorption medium unit 311. For example, when the adsorption medium unit 311 is spherical, the receptacle can be a circular hole.

[0076] In the above technical solution, the adsorption medium unit 311 is supported by a planar support substrate 312. The arrangement of the adsorption medium units 311 in adjacent layers can prevent the adsorption medium units 311 from shifting. There is no adhesive or other connection between the support substrate 312 and the adsorption medium unit 311, avoiding the failure of the ventilation holes of the adsorption medium unit 311 caused by adhesives. This allows all the pores inside the adsorption medium unit 311 to communicate with the chamber 101, increasing the effective adsorption area. The support substrate 312 is breathable, and there are no other obstructions between adjacent support substrates 312 except for the adsorption medium unit 311 occupying the space. When air passes through each gas adsorption layer 310 from bottom to top, it can smoothly pass through the support substrate 312 and enter the adsorption medium unit 311 in the upper layer, improving the ventilation efficiency and adsorption efficiency.

[0077] In some embodiments, the substrate 312 is made of non-woven fabric. Non-woven fabric has good air permeability and a certain degree of flexibility, which can ensure smooth airflow in the adsorption filter element 300 while supporting the adsorption medium unit 311, and can also adapt to the design requirements of adsorption filter elements 300 of different shapes and sizes.

[0078] In some embodiments, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the adsorption filter element 300 also includes a fixing frame 320, which has sidewalls arranged along the airflow direction. The sidewalls surround the support base 312 and are fixedly connected to the support base 312 so that the adsorption filter element 300 is formed as a whole. The fixing frame 320 is open on both sides in the airflow direction to allow air to flow through.

[0079] In the above technical solution, the fixed frame 320 connects each carrier substrate 312, making the overall structure of the adsorption filter element 300 more stable and facilitating overall replacement. The side wall of the fixed frame 320 is set along the air flow direction, and the fixed frame 320 is open in the air flow direction. In this way, the resistance to the air passing through each gas adsorption layer 310 can be reduced to the greatest extent, so that the air can flow evenly through each adsorption medium unit 311, improving the ventilation rate and further improving the adsorption efficiency.

[0080] In some embodiments, the inner surface of the sidewall of the fixing frame 320 is fixedly connected to the edge of each support substrate 312. The support substrate 312 is only connected to the fixing frame 320 at its edge, which prevents the connection method from affecting the adsorption performance of the adsorption medium unit, increases the airflow space, and further improves the adsorption efficiency.

[0081] In some embodiments, the fixing frame 320 is fixing cotton, which can be understood as a fibrous material with a certain shaping ability. When this type of material is connected to the non-woven fabric supporting substrate 312, it can be fixed by welding or bonding, and the connection method is simple, convenient and easy to implement.

[0082] In some embodiments, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the fixed frame 320 is covered with a first filter medium 331 and a second filter medium 332 on both sides in the airflow direction. The first filter medium 331 and the second filter medium 332 cover both sides of the fixed frame 320, which isolates the adsorption filter element 300 from the external environment and plays a filtering role, effectively preventing external particles from entering the adsorption filter element 300, or preventing particles in the adsorption filter element 300 from being carried into the outlet side with the air, thus avoiding cross-influence.

[0083] In some embodiments, the fixed frame 320 is located on the air inlet side and the air outlet side of the adsorption filter element 300 on both sides in the air flow direction, respectively. Specifically, the air inlet side of the adsorption filter element 300 is covered with a first filter medium 331, which is used to prevent particles from the adsorption medium unit 311 from falling into the air filter element 200. The air outlet side of the adsorption filter element 300 is covered with a second filter medium 332, which is used to prevent particles in the adsorption medium unit 311 from entering the space of the chamber 101 located on the side of the air outlet 103 with the air.

[0084] In the above technical solution, a first filter medium 331 and a second filter medium 332 are respectively covered on both sides of the fixed frame 320. The first filter medium 331 and the second filter medium 332 do not obstruct airflow. The first filter medium 331 is located on the air inlet side of the adsorption filter element 300, isolating the adsorption filter element 300 from the air filter element 200, preventing particles from the adsorption medium unit 311 from falling into the air filter element 200 and causing cross-influence, which would adversely affect the filtration effect of the air filter element 200. The air adsorbed by the adsorption filter element 300 flows out from the air outlet side of the adsorption filter element 300. The second filter medium 332 is located on the air outlet side of the adsorption filter element 300, which can effectively prevent the flowing air from carrying particles from the adsorption medium unit 311 into the air outlet side of the chamber 101, thereby preventing the air at the air outlet 103 from being contaminated.

[0085] Optionally, the first filter medium 331 can be made of low-precision filter cotton to prevent large particles from the adsorption medium unit 311 from falling into the air filter element 200; the second filter medium 332 can be made of high-precision filter cotton to prevent fine powder particles in the adsorption medium unit 311 from entering the chamber 101 on the air outlet 103 side with the air flow. The low-precision filter cotton can be made of filter cotton with a filtration efficiency of 50% or 60% or less; the high-precision filter cotton can be made of filter cotton with a filtration efficiency of more than 90%.

[0086] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, the housing 100 includes a first housing 110 and a second housing 120 that are detachably connected. The first housing 110 and the second housing 120, when connected, form a chamber 101. The first housing 110 is located on the air inlet side and has an air inlet 102. The second housing 120 is located on the air outlet side and has an air outlet 103. An air filter 200 is located inside the first housing 110, and an adsorption filter 300 is located inside the second housing 120. Air enters the first housing 110 through the air inlet 102, is filtered by the air filter 200, then enters the second housing 120, is filtered by the adsorption filter 300, and finally flows out through the air outlet 103.

[0087] In the above technical solution, the housing 100 is designed as a detachable first housing 110 and a second housing 120, adopting a split design to facilitate the assembly and maintenance of the housing 100. The first housing 110 is located on the air intake side and has an air intake port 102, which houses an air filter element 200 responsible for the initial filtration of particulate matter in the air; the second housing 120 is located on the air outlet side and has an air outlet port 103, which houses an adsorption filter element 300 to further remove harmful substances from the air filtered by the air filter element 200. When it is necessary to replace the air filter element 200 or the adsorption filter element 300, it is only necessary to disassemble the first housing 110 or the second housing 120 to replace the internal filter element, which facilitates timely replacement and maintenance of the filter element.

[0088] In some implementations, the first housing 110 is located below and the second housing 120 is located above, thus allowing air to be filtered in an upward flow direction. Air enters the chamber 101 through the lower air inlet 102 and first passes through the air filter element 200 in the lower first housing 110, initially removing larger impurities such as dust and particulate matter. Subsequently, the pre-filtered air rises into the upper second housing 120, where it further passes through the adsorption filter element 300 to remove harmful substances and fine particles. This bottom-up filtration path reduces the accumulation of impurities within the filter element and extends its service life.

[0089] In some implementations, the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 are connected by a snap-fit ​​mechanism. In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, a snap-fit ​​member 111 is provided on the outer wall of the first housing 110 near the second housing 120. The end of the snap-fit ​​member 111 is bent toward the second housing 120 to form a snap-fit ​​part. A slot 121 is provided on the outer wall of the second housing 120 near the first housing 110. The snap-fit ​​part is snapped into the slot 121.

[0090] In the above embodiments, the snap-fit ​​connection between the first housing and the second housing facilitates the assembly and disassembly of the first housing and the second housing, improving assembly efficiency. Simultaneously, it ensures the stability of the connection, preventing easy loosening under vibration conditions such as vehicle operation, thus improving structural reliability. The slot 121 can be integrally formed on the second housing 120, or it can be formed by additional components and between the slot 121 and the outer wall of the second housing 120. When the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 are fastened together, the snap-fit ​​component 111 is lightly pressed into the slot 121, achieving the snap-fit ​​connection between the first housing 110 and the second housing 120. This is merely an example; this application does not limit the specific structure of the snap-fit ​​component, and other structures capable of achieving a snap-fit ​​connection can also be used.

[0091] In some embodiments, such as Figure 11As shown, the air filter also includes an adsorption filter element adapter 400, which is detachably installed on the inner wall of the second housing 120 and is fixedly connected to the adsorption filter element 300 to install the adsorption filter element 300 into the second housing 120.

[0092] In the above technical solution, the adsorption filter element 300 and the second housing 120 are connected by the adsorption filter element adapter 400, which realizes convenient installation and quick replacement of the adsorption filter element 300. In addition, the structure of the second housing 120 does not need to consider the connection with adsorption filter elements 300 of different specifications and sizes during design. It only needs to be adapted to the adsorption filter element adapter 400. The adsorption filter element adapter 400 can be connected with adsorption filter elements 300 of different specifications and sizes, which reduces the development difficulty of the second housing 120 and improves the compatibility and versatility between the second housing 120 and the adsorption filter element 300.

[0093] In some embodiments, to avoid the adsorption filter adapter 400 obstructing airflow, the adsorption filter adapter 400 is open on both sides in the airflow direction, thereby allowing airflow.

[0094] The adsorption filter adapter 400 can be connected to the inner wall of the second housing 120 by a snap-fit ​​method. In some embodiments, a plurality of buckles 410 are provided at intervals along the outer wall of the adsorption filter adapter 400 on one side, and a plurality of protrusions (not shown in the figure) are provided on the inner wall surface of the second housing 120 corresponding to the buckles 410. The buckles 410 can be snapped into the protrusions. The other side of the adsorption filter adapter 400 away from the buckles 410 is fixedly connected to the fixing frame 320 of the adsorption filter 300 by screws, thereby installing the adsorption filter 300 in the second housing 120.

[0095] In some embodiments, such as Figure 11 As shown, reinforcing rods 420 are also connected between the opposite sidewalls of the adsorption filter adapter 400. By connecting the sidewalls with reinforcing rods 420, the overall structural stability of the adsorption filter adapter 400 can be enhanced, preventing deformation under stress. Moreover, the effect of the reinforcing rods 420 on airflow is negligible.

[0096] In some embodiments, a sealing element (not shown in the figure) is provided at the connection between the adsorption filter element adapter 400 and the inner wall surface of the second housing 120. The sealing element seals the gap at the connection position, preventing air from flowing out through the gap without passing through the adsorption filter element 300, preventing the adsorption filter element 300 from bypassing and failing, improving the adsorption effect, and ensuring the adsorption rate of harmful gases in the air. The sealing element can be a sealing gasket, sealing ring, or other components with a sealing effect.

[0097] In some implementations, the air filter element 200 is connected to the first housing 110, or to the first housing 110 and the second housing 120, by snap-fit ​​or screws. This application does not limit the specific connection method, as long as it allows the air filter element 200 to be installed inside the first housing 110.

[0098] In some implementations, such as Figure 5 As shown, a flow guide 500 is provided on the inner surface of the first housing 110, or on the inner surface of the first housing 110 and the second housing 120. The flow guide 500 can guide the air entering the cavity, so that the air flows in a predetermined direction, thereby improving the filtration and adsorption effect.

[0099] Secondly, this application also provides an air supply system, which includes an air intake system, the air intake system including an air filter for a hydrogen fuel cell as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0100] The aforementioned air supply system supplies air to the hydrogen fuel cell through an air intake system. The air intake system is equipped with the air filter described in this application. This filter has good filtration and adsorption performance, and can significantly remove particulate matter such as dust and gases harmful to the hydrogen fuel cell from the air. This greatly improves the cleanliness of the air supplied to the hydrogen fuel cell, thereby effectively avoiding the poisoning of the hydrogen fuel cell catalyst and ensuring the efficient operation and long-term stability of the fuel cell.

[0101] Thirdly, this application also provides a vehicle including a hydrogen fuel cell engine and an air supply system as described in the second aspect above, wherein the air intake system is connected to the hydrogen fuel cell engine to provide filtered air to the hydrogen fuel cell engine.

[0102] The aforementioned vehicles are equipped with hydrogen fuel cell engines. The air supply system can continuously provide the hydrogen fuel cell engine with filtered and adsorbed clean air, effectively avoiding catalyst poisoning, significantly improving the operating efficiency and service life of the hydrogen fuel cell, enabling the vehicle to maintain stable power output under various operating conditions, and improving the overall vehicle performance and reliability.

[0103] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An air cleaner for a hydrogen fuel cell, characterized by comprising: The utility model relates to an air filter, comprising: a housing (100) having a chamber (101) formed inside, the housing (100) being provided with an air inlet (102) and an air outlet (103) communicating with the chamber (101), air entering the chamber (101) through the air inlet (102) and flowing out through the air outlet (103); an air filter element (200) arranged in the chamber (101) and close to the air inlet (102), the air filter element (200) being used to filter particulate matters in air; an adsorption filter element (300) arranged in the chamber (101) and spaced apart from the air filter element (200), the adsorption filter element (300) being located on the side of the air filter element (200) close to the air outlet (103), the adsorption filter element (300) comprising a plurality of gas adsorption layers (310) arranged in a stack in the air flow direction, each of the gas adsorption layers (310) comprising a plurality of adsorption medium units (311) arranged in a planar array, the adsorption medium units (311) in adjacent gas adsorption layers (310) being arranged in a staggered manner, the adsorption medium units (311) being used to adsorb harmful gases in air.

2. The air cleaner for a hydrogen fuel cell according to claim 1, characterized by Each of the gas adsorption layers (310) further comprises a planar carrier substrate (312) having a plurality of accommodating portions penetrating therethrough in the air flow direction, the accommodating portions being adapted to the size of the adsorption medium units (311); each of the adsorption medium units (311) is arranged in a corresponding accommodating portion and protrudes from the carrier substrate (312) on both sides; the carrier substrate (312) is air-permeable, and an air flow space is formed between adjacent carrier substrates (312).

3. The air cleaner for a hydrogen fuel cell according to claim 2, characterized by The adsorption filter element (300) further comprises a fixing frame (320) having a side wall arranged in the air flow direction, the side wall surrounding the carrier substrate (312) and being fixedly connected with the carrier substrate; the fixing frame (320) is open on both sides in the air flow direction to allow air to flow therethrough.

4. The air cleaner for a hydrogen fuel cell according to claim 3, characterized by The fixing frame (320) is covered with a first filter medium (331) and a second filter medium (332) on both sides in the air flow direction, respectively.

5. The air cleaner for a hydrogen fuel cell according to claim 1, characterized by The housing (100) comprises a first housing (110) and a second housing (120) detachably connected, the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) being connected to form the chamber (101), the first housing (110) being provided with the air inlet (102), the second housing (120) being provided with the air outlet (103), the air filter element (200) being arranged in the first housing (110), and the adsorption filter element (300) being arranged in the second housing (120).

6. The air cleaner for a hydrogen fuel cell according to claim 5, characterized by The first shell (110) is provided with a clamping piece (111) near the outer wall of the second shell (120), the end of the clamping piece (111) is bent to form a clamping part towards the second shell (120), the second shell (120) is provided with a clamping groove (121) near the outer wall of the first shell (110), and the clamping part is clamped into the clamping groove (121).

7. The air cleaner for a hydrogen fuel cell according to claim 5, characterized by The adsorption filter element adapter (400) is detachably mounted on the inner wall of the second shell (120), and the adsorption filter element adapter (400) is fixedly connected with the adsorption filter element (300) to mount the adsorption filter element (300) into the second shell (120).

8. The air cleaner for a hydrogen fuel cell according to claim 2, characterized by The material of the bearing base (312) is non-woven fabric, and the adsorption medium unit (311) is activated carbon particles.

9. An air supply system characterized by, The air filter for hydrogen fuel cell includes an air intake system.

10. A vehicle characterized by comprising: The air supply system includes a hydrogen fuel cell engine and an air intake system as claimed in claim 9, and the air intake system is connected with the hydrogen fuel cell engine in an air circuit.