Fuel cell tractor
By designing a low-level filling system at the bottom of the fuel cell tractor, combined with a water pump and a stop valve, the active delivery of coolant is achieved, solving the problem of inconvenient coolant filling and improving operational convenience and efficiency.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- ZHIZI AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-05-27
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-17
AI Technical Summary
The existing fuel cell tractor is inconvenient to fill with coolant, especially because the expansion tank is too high. Operators need to use ladders and other auxiliary tools to fill with coolant, which makes the operation inconvenient and labor-intensive.
A low-position filling system is designed, with the coolant filling port located at the bottom of the vehicle. The coolant is added to the fuel cell cooling system through the low-position filling system, and the active delivery of coolant is achieved by combining a water pump and a stop valve, which simplifies the filling process.
Operators can add coolant directly on the ground without the need for ladders or other tools, simplifying the operation process, reducing labor intensity and risks, and improving the efficiency of adding coolant.
Smart Images

Figure CN224130894U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of vehicle technology, and more specifically, to a fuel cell tractor. Background Technology
[0002] A fuel cell tractor is a commercial vehicle that uses a fuel cell as its primary power source. Its basic principle is to utilize the electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen in a fuel cell stack to generate electricity to power the vehicle. Specifically, hydrogen undergoes an oxidation reaction at the anode, releasing electrons. These electrons travel through an external circuit to the cathode, while hydrogen ions travel through the electrolyte to the cathode and undergo a reduction reaction with oxygen to produce water. The electrical energy generated in this process is used to drive an electric motor, thereby propelling the tractor.
[0003] Currently, the power of fuel cell tractor stacks has gradually exceeded 240kW. High-power stacks require high-power cooling systems. Existing fuel cell cooling systems generally adopt a solution that places the stack on top of the hydrogen supply system to meet the cooling requirements of fuel cell tractors. The drawback of this solution is that the expansion tank is too high, making it very inconvenient to add coolant. Utility Model Content
[0004] The purpose of this application is to provide a fuel cell tractor that improves the convenience of coolant refilling.
[0005] The embodiments of this application are implemented as follows:
[0006] This application provides a fuel cell tractor, including a frame, a cab mounted on the frame, and a hydrogen supply system. A drive system, a fuel cell engine, and a power battery module are disposed at the bottom of the frame. The fuel cell engine, the power battery module, and the drive system are electrically connected in sequence. The hydrogen supply system supplies hydrogen to the fuel cell engine, which converts the hydrogen into electrical energy and transmits it to the power battery module or the drive system. The power battery module transmits electrical energy to the drive system. A fuel cell cooling system is disposed above the hydrogen supply system to dissipate heat from the fuel cell engine. A low-level filling system connected to the fuel cell cooling system is also disposed on the frame, through which coolant is added to the fuel cell cooling system.
[0007] Optionally, as an implementable method, the low-level filling system includes a water tank and a water pump disposed in the water tank, through which the liquid in the water tank is pumped into the fuel cell cooling system.
[0008] Optionally, as an implementable method, the cab is equipped with a water pump switch electrically connected to the water pump, which controls the opening and closing of the water pump, and a stop valve is provided on the connecting pipe between the water pump and the fuel cell cooling system.
[0009] Optionally, as an implementable approach, the vehicle frame is further provided with a waste heat recovery system connected to the fuel cell cooling system, and the cab is provided with HVAC piping connected to the waste heat recovery system.
[0010] Alternatively, as an implementable approach, an electronic control valve is installed on the HVAC pipeline, and the opening and closing of the electronic control valve is controlled by the vehicle's infotainment system.
[0011] Optionally, as an implementable method, the vehicle frame is also provided with a drive cooling system and a power battery cooling system. The drive cooling system is arranged below the cab. The drive cooling system and the power battery cooling system are arranged sequentially along the direction from the vehicle body to the rear of the vehicle. The drive cooling system cools down the drive system, and the power battery cooling system cools down the power battery.
[0012] Optionally, as an implementable approach, the vehicle frame is also equipped with an integrated controller, which is electrically connected to the hydrogen supply system, the drive system, the fuel cell engine, the power battery module, the steering system, and the braking system.
[0013] Optionally, as one possible implementation, the hydrogen supply system includes an installation frame and a hydrogen cylinder disposed within the installation frame, the hydrogen cylinder being in communication with the fuel cell engine, and the fuel cell cooling system being disposed above the installation frame.
[0014] Alternatively, as an implementable approach, the drive system is an integrated electric drive bridge system.
[0015] Alternatively, as an implementable approach, a low-voltage battery is also provided on the frame, located at the rear, to provide power to the vehicle's low-voltage electrical equipment.
[0016] The beneficial effects of the embodiments of this application include:
[0017] The fuel cell tractor provided in this application includes a frame, a cab mounted on the frame, and a hydrogen supply system. A drive system, a fuel cell engine, and a power battery module are located at the bottom of the frame. The fuel cell engine, power battery module, and drive system are electrically connected in sequence. The hydrogen supply system supplies hydrogen to the fuel cell engine, which converts the hydrogen into electrical energy and transmits it to the power battery module or drive system. The power battery module transmits electrical energy to the drive system. A fuel cell cooling system is located above the hydrogen supply system to dissipate heat from the fuel cell engine. A low-level filling system connected to the fuel cell cooling system is also installed on the frame, through which coolant is added to the fuel cell cooling system. Adding coolant to the fuel cell cooling system via the low-level filling system allows operators to complete the filling operation directly on the ground without the need for ladders or other auxiliary tools, greatly simplifying the filling process, improving filling efficiency, and reducing the labor intensity and operational risks for operators. Attached Figure Description
[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.
[0019] Figure 1 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the fuel cell tractor provided in the embodiments of this application;
[0020] Figure 2 This is a second schematic diagram of the structure of the fuel cell tractor provided in the embodiments of this application.
[0021] Icons: 100-Fuel cell tractor; 110-Chassis; 111-Drive cooling system; 112-Integrated controller; 113-Low-voltage battery; 114-Power battery cooling system; 120-Cabin; 130-Hydrogen supply system; 140-Drive system; 150-Fuel cell engine; 160-Power battery module; 170-Fuel cell cooling system; 180-Low-level refueling system; 190-Waste heat recovery system. Detailed Implementation
[0022] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of this application described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.
[0023] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of this application provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed application, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.
[0024] It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in the following figures indicate similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.
[0025] In the description of this application, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "set up," "install," "connect," and "link" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.
[0026] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 This embodiment provides a fuel cell tractor 100, including a frame 110, a cab 120 disposed above the frame 110, and a hydrogen supply system 130. A drive system 140, a fuel cell engine 150, and a power battery module 160 are disposed at the bottom of the frame 110. The fuel cell engine 150, the power battery module 160, and the drive system 140 are electrically connected in sequence. The hydrogen supply system 130 transmits hydrogen to the fuel cell engine 150. The fuel cell engine 150 converts the hydrogen into electrical energy and transmits it to the power battery module 160 or the drive system 140. The power battery module 160 transmits electrical energy to the drive system 140. A fuel cell cooling system 170 is disposed above the hydrogen supply system 130. The fuel cell cooling system 170 dissipates heat from the fuel cell engine 150. A low-level filling system 180 connected to the fuel cell cooling system 170 is also disposed on the frame 110. Coolant is added to the fuel cell cooling system 170 through the low-level filling system 180.
[0027] A fuel cell cooling system 170 is installed above the hydrogen supply system 130 of this application. This fuel cell cooling system 170 is used to dissipate heat from the fuel cell engine 150, ensuring that the fuel cell engine 150 operates stably within a suitable temperature range. When coolant needs to be added to the fuel cell cooling system 170, the operator only needs to add coolant through the low-position filling system 180. This low-position filling system 180 significantly lowers the location of the coolant filling port, allowing the operator to conveniently perform coolant filling directly on the ground without the need for auxiliary tools, compared to the prior art solution where the port is located at the top of the hydrogen supply system 130.
[0028] The fuel cell tractor 100 provided in this application includes a frame 110, a cab 120 disposed above the frame 110, and a hydrogen supply system 130. A drive system 140, a fuel cell engine 150, and a power battery module 160 are disposed at the bottom of the frame 110. The fuel cell engine 150, the power battery module 160, and the drive system 140 are electrically connected in sequence. The hydrogen supply system 130 transmits hydrogen to the fuel cell engine 150. The fuel cell engine 150 converts the hydrogen into electrical energy and transmits it to the power battery module 160. The power battery module 160 transmits electrical energy to the drive system 140. A fuel cell cooling system 170 is disposed above the hydrogen supply system 130. The fuel cell cooling system 170 dissipates heat from the fuel cell engine 150. A low-level filling system 180 connected to the fuel cell cooling system 170 is also disposed on the frame 110. Coolant is added to the fuel cell cooling system 170 through the low-level filling system 180. By adding coolant to the fuel cell cooling system 170 through the low-level filling system 180, operators can complete the filling operation directly on the ground without the need for ladders or other auxiliary tools. This greatly simplifies the filling process, improves filling efficiency, and reduces the labor intensity and operational risks for operators.
[0029] In one possible embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the low-level filling system 180 includes a water tank and a water pump installed inside the water tank, which pumps the liquid in the water tank into the fuel cell cooling system 170.
[0030] Specifically, the water tank stores coolant, while the water pump pumps the coolant from the tank into the fuel cell cooling system 170. This structural design enables active coolant delivery, allowing for more efficient and stable coolant filling compared to traditional gravity-based or manual methods. The water pump facilitates active coolant delivery, quickly pumping coolant from the tank into the fuel cell cooling system 170, reducing filling time and improving maintenance efficiency. The water tank is mounted on the vehicle frame 110 for easy coolant filling, enhancing convenience.
[0031] In one possible embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the cab 120 is equipped with a water pump switch that is electrically connected to the water pump. The water pump is turned on and off by controlling the water pump through the water pump switch. A stop valve is installed on the connecting pipe between the water pump and the fuel cell cooling system 170.
[0032] Specifically, a water pump switch electrically connected to the water pump is installed in the cab 120. The operator can conveniently control the water pump's on / off state from inside the cab 120, achieving flexible control over the coolant filling process. Simultaneously, a stop valve is installed on the connecting pipe between the water pump and the fuel cell cooling system 170. This stop valve closes after filling to prevent coolant backflow and ensure a stable coolant level within the cooling system.
[0033] In one possible embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the chassis 110 is also equipped with a waste heat recovery system 190 connected to the fuel cell cooling system 170, and the cab 120 is equipped with heating and ventilation pipes connected to the waste heat recovery system 190.
[0034] Specifically, a waste heat recovery system 190 connected to the fuel cell cooling system 170 is added to the chassis 110, while a heating and ventilation system (HVAC) pipe connected to the waste heat recovery system 190 is installed in the cab 120. The waste heat recovery system 190 collects the waste heat generated by the fuel cell cooling system 170 during heat dissipation and transfers this heat to the cab 120 via the HVAC pipes, thus providing vehicle heating and effectively utilizing previously wasted heat resources. Using waste heat to heat the cab 120 quickly raises the temperature inside, providing a comfortable driving environment and improving the driving experience.
[0035] In one possible embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, electronic control valves are installed on the HVAC piping, and their opening and closing are controlled by the vehicle's infotainment system. The system can intelligently control the opening and closing of the electronic control valves based on the temperature requirements inside the cab 120 and the vehicle's operating status, thereby achieving precise adjustment of the heat delivery in the HVAC piping and flexibly controlling the temperature inside the cab 120.
[0036] In one possible embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the vehicle frame 110 is also equipped with a drive cooling system 111 and a power battery cooling system 114. The drive cooling system 111 is located below the cab 120. The drive cooling system 111 and the power battery cooling system 114 are arranged sequentially along the vehicle body to the rear of the vehicle. The drive cooling system 111 cools down the drive system 140, and the power battery cooling system 114 cools down the power battery.
[0037] Specifically, by setting up independent cooling systems for the drive system 140 and the power battery, the operating temperature of each component can be precisely controlled, effectively preventing performance degradation and malfunctions caused by excessive temperature, extending component lifespan, and improving overall vehicle reliability. The rational layout of the cooling system makes full use of vehicle space, avoids interference between the cooling system and other components, and facilitates maintenance and repair, thus improving vehicle maintainability.
[0038] In one possible embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, an integrated controller 112 is also installed on the frame 110. The integrated controller 112 is electrically connected to the hydrogen supply system 130, drive system 140, fuel cell engine 150, power battery module 160, steering system, and braking system. As the core control unit of the vehicle, the integrated controller 112 can monitor and control the operating status of each system in real time, realize the coordinated work between the systems, and improve the overall performance and intelligence level of the vehicle.
[0039] In one possible embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the hydrogen supply system 130 includes an installation frame and a hydrogen cylinder disposed within the installation frame. The hydrogen cylinder is connected to the fuel cell engine 150, and the fuel cell cooling system 170 is disposed above the installation frame.
[0040] Specifically, the hydrogen supply system 130 includes a mounting frame and a hydrogen cylinder housed within the mounting frame. The hydrogen cylinder is connected to the fuel cell engine 150 and is used for storing and supplying hydrogen. The fuel cell cooling system 170 is positioned above the mounting frame. This layout makes full use of the space of the hydrogen supply system 130, resulting in a more compact vehicle structure, while also facilitating heat dissipation from the fuel cell engine 150. Positioning the fuel cell cooling system 170 above the mounting frame of the hydrogen supply system 130 optimizes vehicle space, making the vehicle structure more compact, reducing the overall vehicle volume, improving space utilization, and providing more possibilities for the arrangement of other vehicle components.
[0041] Furthermore, the drive system 140 is an integrated electric drive axle system. The integrated electric drive axle system integrates components such as the motor, reducer, and differential into one unit. Compared with the traditional drive system 140, it has a more compact structure, higher transmission efficiency, and can provide the vehicle with stronger and more stable power output.
[0042] Furthermore, a low-voltage battery 113 is also installed on the chassis 110. Located at the rear, the low-voltage battery 113 provides power to the vehicle's low-voltage electrical equipment. The low-voltage battery 113 primarily powers the vehicle's low-voltage electrical equipment, such as lights, dashboard, and control systems, ensuring their proper functioning. Positioning the low-voltage battery 113 at the rear of the vehicle makes efficient use of space and facilitates wiring and maintenance.
[0043] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.
Claims
1. A fuel cell tractor vehicle characterized by, The vehicle includes a frame, a driver's cab mounted on the frame, and a hydrogen supply system. A drive system, a fuel cell engine, and a power battery module are located at the bottom of the frame. The fuel cell engine, the power battery module, and the drive system are electrically connected in sequence. The hydrogen supply system supplies hydrogen to the fuel cell engine, which converts the hydrogen into electrical energy and transmits it to the power battery module or the drive system. The power battery module transmits electrical energy to the drive system. A fuel cell cooling system is located above the hydrogen supply system to dissipate heat from the fuel cell engine. A low-level filling system connected to the fuel cell cooling system is also located on the frame, through which coolant is added to the fuel cell cooling system.
2. The fuel cell tractor of claim 1, wherein, The low-level filling system includes a water tank and a water pump installed in the water tank, which pumps the liquid in the water tank into the fuel cell cooling system.
3. The fuel cell tractor of claim 2, wherein, The driver's cab is equipped with a water pump switch that is electrically connected to the water pump. The water pump is controlled to open and close via the water pump switch. A stop valve is installed on the connecting pipe between the water pump and the fuel cell cooling system.
4. The fuel cell tractor of claim 1, wherein, The vehicle frame is also equipped with a waste heat recovery system connected to the fuel cell cooling system, and the cab is equipped with HVAC piping connected to the waste heat recovery system.
5. The fuel cell tractor of claim 4, wherein, The HVAC piping is equipped with an electronic control valve, which is opened and closed by the vehicle's infotainment system.
6. The fuel cell tractor of claim 1, wherein, The vehicle frame is also equipped with a drive cooling system and a power battery cooling system. The drive cooling system is located below the cab. The drive cooling system and the power battery cooling system are arranged sequentially along the vehicle body to the rear. The drive cooling system cools down the drive system, and the power battery cooling system cools down the power battery.
7. The fuel cell tractor of claim 1, wherein, The vehicle frame is also equipped with an integrated controller, which is electrically connected to the hydrogen supply system, the drive system, the fuel cell engine, the power battery module, the steering system, and the braking system.
8. The fuel cell tractor of claim 1, wherein, The hydrogen supply system includes an installation frame and a hydrogen cylinder disposed within the installation frame. The hydrogen cylinder is connected to the fuel cell engine, and the fuel cell cooling system is disposed above the installation frame.
9. The fuel cell tractor of claim 1, wherein, The drive system is an integrated electric drive bridge system.
10. The fuel cell tractor of claim 1, wherein, The vehicle frame is also equipped with a low-voltage battery located at the rear, which provides power to the vehicle's low-voltage electrical equipment.