Middle mounting structure of fuel cell engine

Abstract

The utility model discloses a centrally-mounted mounting structure of a fuel cell engine, which comprises the fuel cell engine, a skid-mounted frame, a frame and a ventilation system, the ventilation system is mounted on one side of the fuel cell, and the ventilation system and the fuel cell are both arranged on the bottom side of the middle of the frame and supported by the skid-mounted frame. The fuel cell engine is connected to the bottom of the frame through an engine mounting bracket; a plurality of mounting brackets are arranged in the skid-mounted frame; and the skid-mounted frame is rigidly connected with the frame through a plurality of mounting feet. The fuel cell engine can solve the problems that in the prior art, a fuel cell engine is difficult to install, the safety risk of hydrogen leakage is high, and the ventilation condition is poor, installation efficiency and safety are improved, and meanwhile maintenance and overhaul are convenient.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of vehicle technology, specifically relating to a mid-mounted installation structure for a fuel cell engine. Background Technology

[0002] In the design and manufacturing of fuel cell buses and highway vehicles, the fuel cell engine, as a core power component, has a significant impact on the overall vehicle performance, safety, and production efficiency due to its placement. Currently, fuel cell engines are typically installed in the rear equipment compartment of the vehicle, sharing a mounting structure with other high- and low-voltage electrical equipment. While this arrangement meets the space utilization requirements to some extent, it presents several problems that need to be addressed in practical applications. First, the installation of the fuel cell engine during vehicle production is quite difficult. Due to the limited space in the rear equipment compartment, it usually requires skid-mounting, which not only increases the installation difficulty but also increases the risk of collisions with other equipment due to insufficient operating space. Second, the fuel cell engine may release a small amount of hydrogen during operation, and the current arrangement places it in the same compartment as other electrical equipment, posing a fire hazard and reducing the overall electrical safety of the vehicle. Furthermore, the poor ventilation in the rear equipment compartment may lead to hydrogen accumulation, further increasing safety risks. These problems indicate that the existing fuel cell engine placement method has certain shortcomings in terms of production convenience, safety, and reliability. Therefore, developing a structural design that can optimize the arrangement of fuel cell engines to improve installation efficiency, enhance electrical safety, and improve ventilation has become a pressing technical challenge in this field. Utility Model Content

[0003] This utility model addresses the problems of installation difficulties, high hydrogen leakage safety risks, and poor ventilation in existing fuel cell engine mounting structures. To this end, this utility model adopts the following technical solution: a mid-mounted fuel cell engine mounting structure, including a fuel cell engine, a skid-mounted frame, a vehicle frame, and a ventilation system. The ventilation system is installed on one side of the fuel cell, and both are located on the bottom side of the middle of the vehicle frame and supported by the skid-mounted frame. The fuel cell engine is connected to the bottom of the vehicle frame through an engine mounting bracket. The skid-mounted frame has multiple built-in mounting brackets and is rigidly connected to the vehicle frame through multiple mounting feet.

[0004] Preferably, the ventilation system includes an air compressor, an air filter, and an exhaust muffler.

[0005] Preferably, the ventilation system further includes an air flow meter, the fuel cell engine has an engine controller, and the air flow meter is signal-connected to the engine controller.

[0006] Preferably, the skid-mounted frame is provided with an integrated fuel cell system radiator bracket, which is used to support the integrated fuel cell system radiator, and the integrated fuel cell system radiator is used to dissipate heat from the fuel cell engine.

[0007] Preferably, the ventilation system further includes a ventilation duct and an exhaust vent located in the middle of the vehicle, as well as a hydrogen concentration sensor.

[0008] Preferably, the ventilation system further includes a forced exhaust device, which is activated when the hydrogen concentration sensor detects that the hydrogen concentration exceeds a preset value.

[0009] This invention offers the following advantages: By centrally arranging the fuel cell engine and its accessories in the middle of the vehicle and integrating them using a skid-mounted frame, it solves many problems existing in the prior art. Specifically, the central arrangement facilitates skid-mounting operations in the production workshop, significantly improving production efficiency. Furthermore, the centralized arrangement of the fuel cell system and its accessories in the middle of the vehicle, without sharing an equipment compartment with other electrical equipment, reduces the risk of fire caused by hydrogen leakage and also reduces the need for hydrogen protection measures for other electrical equipment, thereby lowering costs. In particular, the central location facilitates ventilation design, effectively expelling accumulated hydrogen from the compartment, reducing safety hazards caused by hydrogen accumulation, and further improving the overall vehicle safety performance. In addition, the integrated skid-mounted design makes the fuel cell system easier to disassemble and transport, facilitating maintenance and repair work, and improving operational convenience and efficiency.

[0010] In summary, this utility model solves the problems of installation difficulties, high hydrogen leakage safety risks, and poor ventilation in the prior art by centrally arranging the fuel cell engine and its accessories in the middle of the vehicle and integrating them with a skid-mounted frame. It has significant practical value and promising prospects for promotion. Attached Figure Description

[0011] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this utility model and should not be regarded as a limitation on the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0012] Figure 1 This is a side view of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 2 The bottom view of this utility model is shown in Figure v.

[0014] In the diagram: 1-Fuel cell engine; 2-Air compressor; 3-Air flow meter; 4-Engine controller (FDC); 5-Fuel cell controller (FCU); 6-Exhaust muffler; 7-Skid-mounted frame; 8-Engine mounting bracket; 9-Vehicle frame; 10-Air filter. Detailed Implementation

[0015] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this utility model clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this utility model, not all of them. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this utility model. Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of this utility model provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed utility model, but merely represents selected embodiments of this utility model. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this utility model.

[0016] Example

[0017] The following are merely preferred embodiments of this utility model. The protection scope of this utility model is not limited to the following embodiments. All technical solutions that fall within the scope of this utility model are protected.

[0018] This utility model provides a mid-mounted fuel cell engine installation structure, combined with the attached... Figure 1-2 The specific embodiments of this utility model will be described in detail.

[0019] Instruction manual attached Figure 1-2 The overall structure of this utility model is shown, including a fuel cell engine 1, a skid-mounted frame 7, a chassis 9, and a ventilation system. The ventilation system is installed on one side of the fuel cell, and both are located on the bottom side of the middle of the chassis 9 and supported by the skid-mounted frame 7. The fuel cell engine 1 is connected to the bottom of the chassis via an engine mounting bracket 8 to further ensure its stability during operation. The skid-mounted frame 7 has multiple built-in mounting brackets and is rigidly connected to the chassis via multiple mounting feet. The fuel cell engine 1 is also equipped with an engine controller (FDC) 4 and a fuel cell controller (FCU) 5, which are used to control the operating status of the fuel cell engine 1 and the fuel consumption of the battery according to the environmental conditions.

[0020] The core of this invention lies in centrally arranging the fuel cell engine and its accessories in the original luggage compartment location in the middle of the vehicle, achieving modular installation through a skid-mounted frame, and improving safety through optimized ventilation system design. In the specific implementation process, the first step is to assemble the skid-mounted frame. The skid-mounted frame 7, as the core load-bearing component, has multiple dedicated brackets inside for fixing different functional modules. The ventilation system includes an air compressor 2, an air flow meter 3, an air filter 10, and an exhaust muffler 6, all of which are mounted and supported by corresponding dedicated brackets within the skid-mounted frame 7. Specifically, an air filter mounting bracket is provided to fix the air filter 10, an air compressor bracket is provided to fix the air compressor 2 to ensure the air quality entering the fuel cell system, and an exhaust muffler mounting bracket 5 is provided to fix the exhaust muffler 6 to reduce operating noise. The skid-mounted frame 7 also has a reserved bracket for an integrated fuel cell system radiator (not shown in the figure), providing additional installation space for the integrated fuel cell system radiator to meet the heat dissipation requirements of specific vehicle models. The design of the skid-mounted frame 7 fully considers the relative positional relationships and ease of installation between the components, enabling all components to be assembled in the production workshop at once, forming a complete modular unit.

[0021] After the assembly within the skid-mounted frame 7 is completed, a forklift is used to move the entire skid-mounted frame from the side of the vehicle and install it in the predetermined position in the middle of the vehicle. This process requires the assembly of the skid-mounted frame, fuel cell engine, and its accessories to be completed in the workshop, ensuring that the mounting feet of the skid-mounted frame are perfectly aligned with the connection points of the frame 9. The mounting feet are fixed with bolts, facilitating quick disassembly and reinstallation later. In practice, the use of a forklift solves the problem of limited space at the rear of the vehicle, significantly improving installation efficiency while avoiding the risk of damage caused by bumping into other equipment. The skid-mounted frame is rigidly connected to the frame 9 via four mounting feet. This connection method effectively transmits and disperses vibrations generated during operation, ensuring the stable operation of the fuel cell engine under various working conditions.

[0022] To further enhance vehicle safety, this invention optimizes the ventilation system in the vehicle's central area. Specifically, ventilation ducts and exhaust vents are positioned in the center of the vehicle to promptly expel any hydrogen that may accumulate inside the cabin, reducing the safety risks associated with hydrogen buildup. The ventilation system design also includes a hydrogen concentration sensor within the cabin. When the hydrogen concentration exceeds a preset value, the forced ventilation device is automatically activated, further improving the vehicle's safety performance. The layout of the ventilation ducts needs to be rationally planned based on the spatial characteristics of the vehicle's central area to ensure smooth airflow within the cabin while avoiding interference with other components.

[0023] In practical applications, the centrally located arrangement of this invention offers significant advantages. For example, in the actual production of a fuel cell bus, the centrally located installation structure provided by this invention reduced skid-mounting time in the production workshop by approximately 30%. Furthermore, because the fuel cell system and its accessories are centrally located in the middle of the vehicle, they do not share an equipment compartment with other electrical equipment, reducing the risk of fire caused by hydrogen leakage. Simultaneously, it reduces the need for hydrogen protection measures for other electrical equipment, thereby lowering the overall vehicle manufacturing cost. The central location also facilitates ventilation design, effectively expelling accumulated hydrogen from the compartment, reducing safety hazards caused by hydrogen buildup, and further improving the overall vehicle safety performance.

[0024] In terms of maintenance and repair, the overall design of the skid-mounted frame also brings great convenience. Specifically, the fuel cell engine and its accessories are disassembled and transported as a whole module, allowing the entire system to be easily moved out when maintenance or repair is required. The four mounting feet 7 of the skid-mounted frame are bolted to the frame 8, facilitating quick disassembly and reinstallation. Furthermore, the structural design of the skid-mounted frame fully considers stability during transport, with multiple lifting points to ensure that tilting or damage does not occur during handling. For example, during a routine maintenance of the fuel cell system, technicians only needed to loosen the bolts on the four mounting feet to use a forklift to move the entire skid-mounted frame out, significantly reducing maintenance time.

[0025] The implementation of this utility model also includes the selection of materials and manufacturing processes for the skid-mounted frame. The skid-mounted frame is made of high-strength steel, ensuring good vibration resistance while bearing the weight of the fuel cell engine and its accessories. The welding process of the frame is strictly controlled, resulting in uniform and defect-free welds, guaranteeing the strength and durability of the overall structure. Furthermore, the surface of the skid-mounted frame undergoes anti-corrosion treatment, enabling it to withstand long-term use under various harsh environmental conditions.

[0026] In practical applications, the technical solution of this utility model can be widely used in various fuel cell vehicles, including buses, highway vehicles, and other special vehicles. Taking a certain fuel cell highway vehicle as an example, after adopting the mid-mounted installation structure provided by this utility model, the overall production efficiency of the vehicle is significantly improved, while the safety and reliability of the vehicle are also comprehensively improved. Specifically, the production workshop of this model achieves efficient assembly of the fuel cell system by introducing a skid-mounted frame and forklift lateral installation method; the ventilation system design in the middle of the vehicle effectively eliminates the risk of hydrogen accumulation, ensuring the safety of the vehicle operation; and the overall modular design of the skid-mounted frame greatly simplifies the later maintenance work and improves the vehicle's operating efficiency.

[0027] In summary, this utility model, by centrally arranging the fuel cell engine and its accessories in the middle of the vehicle and integrating them using a skid-mounted frame, solves the problems of installation difficulties, high hydrogen leakage safety risks, and poor ventilation in existing technologies, and has significant practical value and promising prospects for widespread application. (See attached...) Figure 1-2 The structural design and technical solution shown demonstrate that this utility model exhibits excellent performance and reliability in practical applications, providing a brand-new solution for the manufacturing and use of fuel cell vehicles.

[0028] The above embodiments are only for illustrating the technical concept and features of this utility model, and are intended to enable those skilled in the art to understand the content of this utility model and implement it accordingly. They should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this utility model. All equivalent changes or modifications made in accordance with the spirit and essence of this utility model should be included within the scope of protection of this utility model.

Claims

1. A mid-mounting structure of a fuel cell engine, characterized by comprising: The application relates to a fuel cell engine, a pry frame, a vehicle frame and a ventilation system, wherein the ventilation system is installed on one side of the fuel cell engine, and both are arranged on the bottom side of the middle part of the vehicle frame and are supported by the pry frame; the fuel cell engine is connected to the bottom of the vehicle frame through an engine mounting support; the pry frame is internally provided with a plurality of mounting supports and is rigidly connected to the vehicle frame through a plurality of mounting feet.

2. The mid-mount structure of a fuel cell engine according to claim 1, characterized by The ventilation system comprises an air compressor, an air filter and an exhaust silencer.

3. The mid-mount structure of a fuel cell engine according to claim 2, characterized by The ventilation system further comprises an air flow meter, the fuel cell engine is provided with an engine controller, and the air flow meter is signal-connected to the engine controller.

4. The mid-mount structure of a fuel cell engine according to claim 1, characterized by The pry frame is provided with an integrated fuel cell system radiator support for supporting an integrated fuel cell system radiator, and the integrated fuel cell system radiator is used for radiating the fuel cell engine.

5. The mid-mount structure of a fuel cell engine according to claim 3, characterized by The ventilation system further comprises ventilation pipes and air outlets arranged in the middle part of the vehicle and a hydrogen concentration sensor.

6. The mid-mount structure of a fuel cell engine according to claim 5, characterized by The ventilation system further comprises a forced air exhaust device which is started when the hydrogen concentration sensor detects that the hydrogen concentration exceeds a preset value.

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