Humidification apparatus and fuel cell system

Abstract

The application relates to a humidification device and a fuel cell system. The humidification device comprises a mixing pipe and a water sprayer. The mixing pipe comprises a main pipe body, a variable-diameter pipe body and a mixing body. The variable-diameter pipe body and the mixing body are arranged in the main pipe body and are spaced to form a mixing area. The variable-diameter pipe body has a first flow channel. In the axial direction of the main pipe body, from the variable-diameter pipe body to one side of the mixing body, the cross-sectional area of the first flow channel gradually decreases. The variable-diameter pipe body and the main pipe body are spaced to form a second flow channel. The mixing body is used to induce the fluid to flow away from the side of the variable-diameter pipe body, so as to prolong the time length of the fluid flowing through the mixing body. The water sprayer is arranged in the main pipe body, and the water sprayer is configured to spray liquid towards the mixing area. According to the humidification device, a high-speed low-pressure central airflow and a low-speed high-pressure peripheral airflow are formed in the humidification device, so that the water and the air are preliminarily and fully mixed. Then, the airflow passes through the mixing body again for secondary mixing, and finally, air with uniform and stable humidity and temperature is output.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of fuel cell technology, and in particular to humidification equipment and fuel cell systems. Background Technology

[0002] In fuel cell systems, maintaining proper hydration of the proton exchange membrane requires air entering the stack cathode to have suitable temperature and humidity. Water spray humidification is a common technique, but it has significant drawbacks: in traditional methods, water mist and high-speed airflow are difficult to mix uniformly in a short time, easily leading to localized over-humidification or dryness of the air at the stack inlet, resulting in poor humidity control accuracy. Simultaneously, some droplets may enter the stack due to insufficient evaporation, posing a risk of "liquid slugging." Furthermore, the complex structures added to improve mixing increase flow resistance and system volume. Therefore, current technologies cannot achieve efficient and uniform gas-liquid mixing and precise temperature and humidity control within a compact structure. Utility Model Content

[0003] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a humidification device to address the above-mentioned problems.

[0004] A humidification device includes:

[0005] The mixing pipe comprises: a main pipe body, a reducing pipe body, and a mixing agent. The reducing pipe body and the mixing agent are both housed within the main pipe body and spaced apart, creating a mixing zone between them.

[0006] The variable diameter pipe body has a first flow channel, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow channel gradually decreases from the variable diameter pipe body to the mixing body side in the axial direction of the main pipe body; and the outer peripheral wall of the variable diameter pipe body and the inner peripheral wall of the main pipe body form a second flow channel; the mixing body is used to induce the fluid to flow away from the variable diameter pipe body, so as to prolong the time the fluid flows through the mixing body.

[0007] A water sprayer is located on the main pipe and is configured to spray liquid toward the mixing area.

[0008] The aforementioned humidification device forms a high-speed, low-pressure central airflow and a low-speed, high-pressure peripheral airflow inside. The two converge in the mixing area to create a "coupling effect" that penetrates from the outside in, thereby powerfully mixing the sprayed water mist with the air in a comprehensive and three-dimensional manner. Subsequently, the airflow passes through a mixing medium specially designed to extend the flow path for secondary mixing and full evaporation, ultimately providing the fuel cell stack with air that has uniform humidity and temperature, effectively improving the performance and durability of the stack.

[0009] In one embodiment, the first flow channel includes a first sub-flow segment and a second sub-flow segment connected together, with the second sub-flow segment connected to the first sub-flow segment adjacent to one end of the mixing body along the axial direction of the main body; wherein...

[0010] The cross-sectional area of ​​the first sub-flow section remains constant, while the cross-sectional area of ​​the second sub-flow section gradually decreases towards the mixed body.

[0011] In one embodiment, the main pipe has a water collection trough, which is located on the side of the mixing body away from the variable diameter pipe body in the axial direction of the main pipe.

[0012] The main body has a drain outlet connected to the water collection tank, which is used to drain the liquid in the water collection tank.

[0013] In one embodiment, the main body has a return channel, one end of which is connected to a drain outlet, and the other end of which is adjacent to the port of the first flow channel near the mixing region.

[0014] In one embodiment, the humidification device further includes a pump disposed in a return channel, the pump being configured to pump liquid in the return channel to the other end of the return channel.

[0015] In one embodiment, in the axial direction of the mixing tube, the projected area of ​​the first flow channel is Q1, and the projected area of ​​the second flow channel is Q2; satisfying the relationship: 1:9 < Q1:Q2 < 3:7.

[0016] In one embodiment, the hybrid body is constructed as a turbofan structure.

[0017] In one embodiment, the axis of the spray nozzle of the water sprayer intersects perpendicularly with the axis of the first flow channel.

[0018] In one embodiment, the number of water sprayers is configured to be multiple, with the multiple water sprayers arranged at circumferential intervals along the main pipe.

[0019] This application further proposes a fuel cell system, which includes:

[0020] The humidification devices in some of the above embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a humidification device according to an embodiment of this application.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a humidification device according to an embodiment of this application.

[0023] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a humidification device according to an embodiment of this application.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of a humidification device according to another embodiment of this application.

[0025] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of a humidification device according to another embodiment of this application.

[0026] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of a humidification device according to another embodiment of this application.

[0027] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of a humidification device according to yet another embodiment of this application.

[0028] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of a humidification device according to yet another embodiment of this application.

[0029] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a humidification device according to yet another embodiment of this application.

[0030] Figure label:

[0031] 1000 Humidification equipment; 100 Mixing zone; 1 Mixing pipe; 101 First flow channel; 1011 First sub-flow section; 1012 Second sub-flow section; 102 Second flow channel; 103 Return channel; 11 Main body; 111 Water collection tank; 112 Drain outlet; 12 Variable diameter pipe body; 13 Mixing body; 2 Sprayer. Detailed Implementation

[0032] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0033] In the description of this application, it should be understood that if terms such as "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential" appear, these terms indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application 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, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0034] Furthermore, where the terms "first" and "second" appear, these terms are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, where the term "multiple" appears, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0035] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," 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 or an electrical connection; 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 expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0036] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the use of descriptions such as "above" or "below" the second feature indicates that the first and second features are in direct contact or indirect contact via an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. Similarly, "below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0037] It should be noted that if an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. If an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. If so, the terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this application are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0038] See Figures 1 to 3As shown, the humidification device 1000 according to this application includes a mixing pipe 1 and a sprayer 2. The mixing pipe 1 includes a main pipe 11, a variable diameter pipe 12, and a mixing body 13. The variable diameter pipe 12 and the mixing body 13 are both disposed within the main pipe 11 and spaced apart, forming a mixing region 100 between the variable diameter pipe 12 and the mixing body 13. The sprayer 2 is disposed within the main pipe 11 and is configured to spray liquid toward the mixing region 100. The variable diameter pipe 12 has a first flow channel 101, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow channel 101 gradually decreases from the variable diameter pipe 12 to the mixing body 13 in the axial direction of the main pipe 11. The outer peripheral wall of the variable diameter pipe 12 and the inner peripheral wall of the main pipe 11 form a second flow channel 102 spaced apart. The mixing body 13 is used to induce fluid to flow away from the variable diameter pipe 12, thereby prolonging the time the fluid flows through the mixing body 13.

[0039] Specifically, along the axial direction of the main pipe 11, the two ends of the main pipe 11 serve as the inlet and outlet of the main pipe 11, respectively. The inlet of the main pipe 11 is the inlet of the humidification device 1000, and the outlet of the main pipe 11 is the outlet of the humidification device 1000. A variable diameter pipe 12 is located on the inlet side of the main pipe 11, and a mixing body 13 is located on the outlet side of the main pipe 11, thereby forming a mixing region 100 in the middle of the main pipe 11.

[0040] When the humidification device 1000 is used in the fuel cell system, the inlet of the humidification device 1000 (i.e., the inlet of the main pipe 11) is connected to the outlet of the air compressor of the fuel cell system, and the outlet of the humidification device 1000 (i.e., the outlet of the main pipe 11) is connected to the fuel cell stack of the fuel cell system. That is, in the fuel cell system, the gas delivered from the air compressor to the fuel cell stack must be processed by the humidification device 1000 of this application before flowing into the fuel cell stack.

[0041] Specifically, for the variable-diameter pipe body 12 disposed within the main pipe body 11, the cross-sectional area inside the variable-diameter pipe body 12 (i.e., the cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow channel 101) gradually decreases in the axial direction from the inlet side to the outlet side of the main pipe body 11. In other words, for the first flow channel 101, its cross-sectional area gradually decreases from its inlet side to its outlet side in the extending direction of the first flow channel 101. Based on this, as the airflow passes through the first flow channel 101, the airflow velocity gradually increases as the cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow channel 101 gradually decreases, resulting in the airflow velocity at the inlet side of the first flow channel 101 being greater than the airflow velocity at the outlet side of the first flow channel 101. According to Bernoulli's principle, since the airflow velocity at the outlet side of the first flow channel 101 is greater than the airflow velocity at the inlet side of the first flow channel 101, the static pressure at the outlet side of the first flow channel 101 is less than the static pressure at the inlet side of the first flow channel 101.

[0042] Furthermore, for the second flow channel 102 formed by the outer peripheral wall of the variable-diameter pipe body 12 and the inner peripheral wall of the main pipe body 11, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second flow channel 102 in the axial direction of the main pipe body 11 from the inlet side to the outlet side either remains constant or gradually increases from the inlet side to the outlet side. Thus, according to Bernoulli's principle, since the air velocity at the outlet side of the second flow channel 102 is equal to or less than the air velocity at the inlet side, the static pressure at the outlet side of the second flow channel 102 is equal to or greater than the static pressure at the inlet side.

[0043] Based on this, in the mixing region 100, the air flowing into the mixing region 100 from the first flow channel 101 forms a first airflow zone, and the air flowing into the mixing region 100 from the second flow channel 102 forms a second airflow zone. The static pressure in the first airflow zone is lower than the static pressure in the second airflow zone. Furthermore, in the transverse direction of the mixing pipe 1 (taking a circular pipe structure as an example, the transverse direction can be understood as radial), the second airflow zone is arranged around the outside of the first airflow zone (i.e., the first airflow zone is located inside the second airflow zone), so that within the mixing region 100, the static pressure difference between the first and second airflow zones can promote the flow of gas from the second airflow zone towards the first airflow zone.

[0044] Therefore, when the water sprayer 2 sprays liquid towards the mixing zone 100, the liquid sprayed by the water sprayer 2 first mixes with the gas in the second airflow zone, and under the influence of the gas in the second airflow zone, the liquid sprayed by the water sprayer 2 can further diffuse into the first airflow zone. In this way, the moisture can be distributed very evenly in the airflow for both gas and liquid within the mixing zone 100. It is important to understand that the lateral flow from the "high-pressure peripheral zone" to the "low-pressure central zone" generates a strong "entrainment" effect. This forces the peripheral airflow, which has already mixed with water mist, to actively and comprehensively penetrate into the dry core airflow, achieving three-dimensional, high-intensity mixing from the edge of the pipe to the center, effectively avoiding localized dryness or localized over-humidity.

[0045] After the liquid and gas undergo primary mixing in the mixing zone 100, they further flow into the mixing body 13 located on the outlet side of the humidification device 1000. As the mixed gas (i.e., the gas in a gas-liquid mixture) flows through the mixing body 13, the mixing body 13 intentionally prolongs the path and time of the mixed gas from the mixing zone 100 to the outlet of the humidification device 1000 by altering the flow path of the mixed gas. For example, the mixing body 13 can be constructed as a turbine structure, a multi-stage static mixer, a mesh turbulence generator, or an array of micro-protrusions on its surface. This allows small droplets that have not yet fully evaporated to have additional opportunities to fully contact the airflow and complete evaporation, ensuring that the relative humidity of the airflow at the outlet of the humidification device 1000 reaches or approaches saturation.

[0046] It is also important to understand that the temperature of the gas discharged from the air compressor outlet is usually above 150 degrees Celsius. During the process of the gas flowing through the humidification equipment 1000, the gas and liquid come into full contact and melt, so as to transfer the heat carried by the gas to the liquid, thereby reducing the temperature of the resulting gas mixture to a suitable temperature (e.g., 110 degrees Celsius).

[0047] For fuel cell systems, this means that the humidity of the air entering the stack is uniform and stable, which can greatly improve the hydration state of the proton exchange membrane, thereby improving the stack's performance, efficiency, and durability.

[0048] In summary, according to the humidification device 1000 of this application, a high-speed, low-pressure central airflow and a low-speed, high-pressure peripheral airflow are formed inside. The two converge in the mixing area 100 to generate a "coupling effect" that penetrates from the outside in, thereby powerfully mixing the sprayed water mist with the air in an all-round, three-dimensional preliminary process. Subsequently, the airflow passes through the mixing body 13, which is specially designed to extend the flow path, for secondary mixing and full evaporation. Finally, the air output to the fuel cell stack has uniform and stable humidity and temperature, effectively improving the performance and durability of the stack.

[0049] See Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, the first flow channel 101 includes a first sub-flow segment 1011 and a second sub-flow segment 1012 connected together. In the axial direction of the main body 11, the second sub-flow segment 1012 is connected to the first sub-flow segment 1011 at one end adjacent to the blending body 13. The cross-sectional area of ​​the first sub-flow segment 1011 remains constant, while the cross-sectional area of ​​the second sub-flow segment 1012 gradually decreases towards the blending body 13.

[0050] Specifically, in the extension direction of the first flow channel 101, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow channel 101 remains constant in the first sub-flow section 1011 on its inlet side, while it gradually decreases in the second sub-flow section 1012 on its outlet side. Based on this, as the airflow passes through the first flow channel 101, the airflow velocity remains stable in the first sub-flow section 1011 due to the constant cross-sectional area; in the second sub-flow section 1012, the airflow velocity gradually increases as the cross-sectional area gradually decreases, resulting in the airflow velocity at the outlet side of the first flow channel 101 being greater than the airflow velocity at the inlet side of the first flow channel 101.

[0051] It should be further explained that when the airflow enters the humidification device 1000 from the air compressor, it may carry some turbulence and velocity non-uniformity. The first sub-flow section 1011 provides a "stabilization zone." Within this zone, the airflow becomes smooth and the velocity distribution becomes uniform, laying a stable and predictable foundation for the subsequent acceleration process. This avoids the additional eddies and energy losses that may occur due to direct acceleration caused by unstable incoming flow. In the first flow channel 101, the first sub-flow section 1011 is connected to the outlet of the upstream air compressor. Since the first sub-flow section 1011 is a constant cross-section section, it has better adaptability to airflow pulsations or pressure fluctuations at the outlet of the upstream air compressor. The first sub-flow section 1011 can play a certain buffering role, reducing the sensitivity of the humidification device 1000 to the operational stability of the air compressor. Concentrated acceleration is then performed on the basis of a stable airflow. This makes the velocity increase more efficient and controllable, forming a "low-pressure core zone" with extremely high and concentrated velocity distribution at the outlet of this section.

[0052] See Figures 4 to 6 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, the main pipe 11 has a water collection tank 111, which is located on the side of the mixing body 13 opposite to the reducing pipe 12 in the axial direction of the main pipe 11. The main pipe 11 has a drain outlet 112 communicating with the water collection tank 111, which is used to drain the liquid in the water collection tank 111.

[0053] Specifically, in the axial direction of the main body 11, the water collection tank 111 is located downstream of the mixing body 13, that is, near the outlet side of the main body 11. When the mixed gas (i.e., the gas in a gas-liquid mixed state) flows through the mixing body 13, most of the liquid has evaporated and is uniformly mixed in the gas, but there may still be a small amount of incompletely evaporated droplets. These liquids enter the area of ​​the water collection tank 111 under the influence of airflow. Due to the structural design of the water collection tank 111, the liquid is collected in the water collection tank 111 under the influence of gravity or airflow disturbance, while the gas continues to flow towards the outlet of the main body 11.

[0054] Through the drain outlet 112, the liquid in the water collection tank 111 can be periodically or continuously discharged from the water collection tank 111 (this liquid can be directly discharged from the humidification device 1000 or recycled for rehumidification), preventing excessive accumulation of liquid in the main body 11. This ensures that the liquid content in the airflow at the outlet of the humidification device 1000 is effectively controlled, avoiding excessive liquid entering the fuel cell stack, thereby protecting the stack from potential damage such as flooding or uneven local humidity.

[0055] See Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, the mixing body 13 is constructed as a turbofan structure, and the water collection tank 111 is constructed as an annular structure extending circumferentially along the main body 11. Since the mixing body 13, which is constructed as a turbofan structure, is arranged on the upstream side of the water collection tank 111, when the airflow passes through the mixing body 13, the structural characteristics of the mixing body 13 are used to throw excess water backward toward the water collection tank 111.

[0056] Specifically, the mixing body 13 adopts a turbofan structure design, which includes multiple guide vanes arranged at a specific angle. These vanes induce rotation or vortex motion in the mixed gas (i.e., gas in a gas-liquid mixture) as it flows through the mixing body 13. This vortex motion not only prolongs the airflow path and increases the mixing time, but also uses centrifugal force to throw unevaporated droplets or excess moisture in the airflow outwards. Simultaneously, the water collection tank 111 is designed as a ring structure, continuously extending along the inner circumferential wall of the main pipe 11 to form a collection area located downstream of the mixing body 13. Thus, when the airflow carrying droplets passes through the turbofan structure, the droplets are thrown towards the inner wall of the main pipe 11 under centrifugal force and fall directly into the annular water collection tank 111.

[0057] During the operation of the humidification device 1000, as the mixed gas flows from the mixing zone 100 to the mixing body 13 (turbo fan structure), the airflow direction is changed, forming a rotating flow field. Because the density of liquid droplets is greater than that of gas, under centrifugal force, the droplets tend to move towards the pipe wall, thus separating from the airflow. These separated droplets are then collected in the annular water collection tank 111 and discharged or recycled through the drain outlet 112. This design ensures that only fully evaporated and mixed gas continues to flow to the outlet of the main body 11, while excess liquid is effectively removed. This avoids excessive liquid entering the fuel cell stack, thus preventing flooding or uneven humidity within the stack. Simultaneously, the vortex effect brought about by the turbo fan structure further promotes secondary mixing of gas and liquid, enhancing evaporation efficiency and making the outlet airflow humidity more uniform and stable. In summary, this embodiment, through the cooperation of the turbo fan structure and the annular water collection tank 111, achieves efficient gas-liquid separation and humidity control, improving the reliability of the humidification device 1000 and the overall performance of the fuel cell system.

[0058] See Figures 7 to 9 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, the main body 11 also has a return channel 103, one end of which is connected to the drain outlet 112, and the other end of which extends to the port of the first flow channel 101 near the mixing region 100 (i.e., the outlet of the first flow channel 101). Since the static pressure at the outlet of the first flow channel 101 in the mixing region 100 is lower than the static pressure at the water collection tank 111, a pressure difference is formed, causing the liquid collected in the water collection tank 111 to automatically flow along the return channel 103 towards the outlet side of the first flow channel 101 under the action of the pressure difference.

[0059] Specifically, the outlet of the return channel 103 is adjacent to the outlet of the first flow channel 101. When the liquid flows out of the return channel 103, it encounters the high-speed airflow ejected from the first flow channel 101. At the outlet of the first flow channel 101, the airflow velocity is extremely high due to the reduced cross-sectional area of ​​the channel, and according to Bernoulli's principle, the static pressure in this region is low; while the water collection tank 111 is under relatively high pressure, and the pressure difference drives the liquid to return. Under the impact and entrainment of the high-speed airflow, the returned liquid is rapidly atomized and mixed into the airflow, thereby realizing the reuse of the liquid in the water collection tank 111 and participating in the humidification process. This design allows the humidification device 1000 to not only effectively collect unevaporated residual liquid and prevent it from entering the fuel cell stack, but also to reintroduce the collected liquid into the mixing region 100 through the return mechanism for secondary mixing and evaporation. This further improves the utilization rate of the liquid, ensures the uniformity and stability of the humidification effect, reduces liquid waste, and improves the overall efficiency and reliability of the fuel cell system.

[0060] In some embodiments of this application, the humidification device 1000 may further include a pump disposed in the return channel 103, configured to pump liquid in the return channel 103 to the other end of the return channel 103. Specifically, the pump may be installed on the pipeline of the return channel 103, and its power source may be independently configured or electrically connected to the control system of the fuel cell system, intelligently starting and stopping or regulating the flow rate according to the operating status of the system. The pump provides an active and controllable driving force for the liquid flow within the return channel 103.

[0061] During the operation of the humidification equipment 1000, although the natural pressure difference between the outlet of the first flow channel 101 and the water collection tank 111 can achieve liquid recirculation, under certain operating conditions, such as when the pressure difference has not yet stabilized during the initial startup of the system, or when the air compressor is operating at a low load resulting in insufficient core airflow velocity, the natural pressure difference may be weak, leading to insufficient recirculation power. The pump can actively pump out the liquid collected in the water collection tank 111 and ensure its stable delivery to the vicinity of the outlet of the first flow channel 101.

[0062] When the liquid is pumped to the outlet of the return channel 103, it encounters the high-speed airflow ejected from the first flow channel 101. Under the intense shearing and impact of the high-speed airflow, the liquid is further broken up and atomized, forming finer droplets, which then rapidly mix with the core airflow. This process not only achieves the recycling of the collected liquid and improves the efficiency of water resource utilization, but also, because the pump provides a stable delivery guarantee, ensures that the reuse of this liquid can be reliably carried out under various operating conditions, enhancing its adaptability to fluctuations in system operating conditions.

[0063] Furthermore, by controlling the pump flow rate, the amount of liquid participating in recirculation can be precisely adjusted, thereby achieving more refined control over the humidity of the airflow at the humidification unit's outlet. This helps ensure that the air entering the stack maintains optimal humidity levels under any load conditions, thereby optimizing the stack's hydrothermal management and improving the overall performance, stability, and durability of the fuel cell system.

[0064] In summary, by adding a pump, the reliability and controllability of the liquid reflux process are enhanced, ensuring that the liquid collected in the water collection tank 111 can be stably and efficiently recovered and used for humidification, further improving the adaptability and overall performance of the humidification equipment 1000.

[0065] In some embodiments of this application, in the axial direction of the mixing pipe 1, the projected area of ​​the first flow channel 101 is Q1, and the projected area of ​​the second flow channel 102 is Q2; satisfying the relationship: 9:1 < Q1:Q2 < 7:3. Specifically, the projected areas Q1 and Q2 refer to the areas of the inlet cross-sections of the first flow channel 101 and the second flow channel 102, respectively, on a plane perpendicular to the axis of the main pipe 11. This proportional relationship directly determines the airflow distribution into the first flow channel 101 and the second flow channel 102. According to this relationship, for the total airflow into the mixing pipe 1, approximately 70% to 90% of the air enters the first flow channel 101, while approximately 10% to 30% of the air enters the second flow channel 102.

[0066] It is important to understand that if all or most of the air flowing into the mixing pipe 1 enters the first flow channel 101 and is converted into a high-speed jet, although a stronger low-pressure zone can be generated to entrain the returning liquid, it will produce extremely high flow resistance and pressure loss locally. This will cause the upstream air compressor to consume more energy to overcome this resistance, significantly increasing the load on the air compressor and reducing the overall efficiency of the fuel cell system. By limiting Q1:Q2 to the range of 9:1 to 7:3, a sufficient proportion of the airflow (70%-90%) is ensured to be accelerated through the first flow channel 101 to form a stable low-pressure core region and maintain sufficient entrainment capacity; at the same time, an appropriate proportion of the airflow (10%-30%) is reserved to pass through the second flow channel 102. This part of the airflow has a lower velocity and higher static pressure, constituting the crucial peripheral high-pressure airflow in the mixing region 100.

[0067] Based on this, the flow distribution scheme of the first flow channel 101 and the second flow channel 102 in the humidification device 1000 of this application makes the static pressure difference distribution in the mixing region 100 more reasonable. It ensures that the "entrainment effect" of penetration from the second airflow zone to the first airflow zone can occur effectively, promoting uniform mixing of water mist, while avoiding excessive overall system pressure loss due to excessive flow in the first flow channel 101. Thus, while achieving efficient humidification and liquid reuse, it also takes into account the system's flow resistance characteristics, helping to control the power consumption of the air compressor and improving the operating economy and stability of the fuel cell system.

[0068] See Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, the axis of the spray nozzle of the water sprayer 2 intersects perpendicularly with the axis of the first flow channel 101. Specifically, the water sprayer 2 is disposed on the side wall of the main pipe 11 and faces the interior of the mixing region 100, such that the spraying direction of the water sprayer 2 intersects the centerline of the first flow channel 101 at a 90-degree angle. This perpendicularly intersecting configuration ensures that the sprayed liquid can be directly and efficiently injected into the core part of the mixing region 100, i.e., the boundary between the first airflow zone and the second airflow zone. Since the axis of the first flow channel 101 represents the main flow direction of the central airflow in the mixing region 100, and the axis of the spray nozzle is perpendicular to it, the liquid can cover the transverse cross section of the mixing region 100 to the maximum extent when sprayed, thereby enhancing the initial mixing efficiency of the liquid and airflow. Furthermore, this vertical spraying method can utilize the static pressure difference from the second airflow zone to the first airflow zone to drive the liquid particles to be more easily sheared and diffused in the airflow, avoiding liquid accumulation on the pipe wall or in local areas, and improving the mixing uniformity.

[0069] In some embodiments of this application, the number of water sprayers 2 is configured to be multiple, with the multiple water sprayers 2 arranged at circumferential intervals along the main pipe 11. This arrangement allows the water sprayers 2 to spray liquid simultaneously toward the mixing region 100 from multiple directions, thereby forming a more uniform liquid distribution within the mixing region 100.

[0070] When the humidification device 1000 is running, liquid sprayed from multiple sprayers 2 enters the mixing zone 100 in atomized form. Because the sprayers 2 are uniformly distributed circumferentially along the main pipe 11, the liquid spray covers the entire cross-section of the mixing zone 100, avoiding situations where some areas have too little or too much liquid. Specifically, within the mixing zone 100, the high-speed, low-pressure airflow flowing in through the first flow channel 101 constitutes the first airflow zone (central zone), and the low-speed, high-pressure airflow flowing in through the second flow channel 102 constitutes the second airflow zone (peripheral zone). The liquid sprayed from the multiple sprayers 2 first contacts the gas in the second airflow zone and, under the action of the static pressure difference, diffuses from the second airflow zone to the first airflow zone. Because the sprayers 2 are circumferentially spaced, the liquid enters the second airflow zone simultaneously from multiple directions, ensuring the uniformity of humidity in the second airflow zone. This allows for more comprehensive moisture delivery into the central airflow zone when penetrating the first airflow zone.

[0071] In some embodiments of this application, the water sprayer 2 is configured as a pressure swirl atomizing nozzle or an ultrasonic atomizer. By selecting the water sprayer 2 as a pressure swirl atomizing nozzle or an ultrasonic atomizer, more efficient and uniform gas-liquid mixing can be achieved, further improving humidification efficiency and reliability.

[0072] The fuel cell system according to this application includes a humidification device 1000. When the humidification device 1000 is used in the fuel cell system, its inlet (i.e., the inlet of the main pipe 11) is connected to the outlet of the air compressor of the fuel cell system, and its outlet (i.e., the outlet of the main pipe 11) is connected to the fuel cell stack of the fuel cell system. That is, in the fuel cell system, the gas delivered from the air compressor to the fuel cell stack must be processed by the humidification device 1000 before flowing into the fuel cell stack. Inside the humidification device 1000, a high-speed, low-pressure central airflow and a low-speed, high-pressure peripheral airflow are formed. The two converge in the mixing region 100 to generate a "coupling effect" that penetrates from the outside in, thereby powerfully mixing the injected water mist with the air in a comprehensive and three-dimensional manner. Subsequently, the airflow passes through a mixing body 13, which is specially designed to extend the flow path, for secondary mixing and full evaporation, ultimately outputting air with uniform humidity and temperature to the fuel cell stack, effectively improving the performance and durability of the fuel cell stack.

[0073] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0074] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A humidification device, characterized in that, include: A mixing pipe, comprising: a main pipe body, a reducing pipe body, and a mixing agent, wherein the reducing pipe body and the mixing agent are both disposed within the main pipe body and spaced apart, forming a mixing region between the reducing pipe body and the mixing agent; wherein... The variable diameter pipe body has a first flow channel, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow channel gradually decreases from the variable diameter pipe body to the mixing body in the axial direction of the main body; and the outer peripheral wall of the variable diameter pipe body and the inner peripheral wall of the main body form a second flow channel at intervals; the mixing body is used to induce fluid to flow away from the variable diameter pipe body, so as to prolong the time of fluid flowing through the mixing body; A water sprayer is disposed on the main body and configured to spray liquid toward the mixing area.

2. The humidification device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first flow channel includes a first sub-flow segment and a second sub-flow segment connected together. In the axial direction of the main body, the second sub-flow segment is connected to the first sub-flow segment adjacent to one end of the mixing body. The cross-sectional area of ​​the first sub-flow segment remains constant, while the cross-sectional area of ​​the second sub-flow segment gradually decreases toward the side of the blending body.

3. The humidification device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main pipe has a water collection groove, which is located on the side of the mixing body opposite to the variable diameter pipe body in the axial direction of the main pipe. The main body has a drain outlet connected to the water collection tank, which is used to discharge the liquid in the water collection tank.

4. The humidification device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The main body has a return channel, one end of which is connected to the drain outlet, and the other end of which is adjacent to the port of the first flow channel near the mixing area.

5. The humidification device according to claim 4, characterized in that, Also includes: A pump is disposed in the return channel and configured to pump liquid in the return channel to the other end of the return channel.

6. The humidification device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, In the axial direction of the mixing tube, the projected area of ​​the first flow channel is Q1, and the projected area of ​​the second flow channel is Q2; satisfying the relationship: 1:9 < Q1:Q2 < 3:

7.

7. The humidification device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The hybrid body is constructed as a turbofan structure.

8. The humidification device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The axis of the spray nozzle of the water sprayer intersects perpendicularly with the axis of the first flow channel.

9. The humidification device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The number of water sprayers is configured to be multiple, and the multiple water sprayers are arranged at circumferential intervals along the main body.

10. A fuel cell system, characterized in that, include: The humidification device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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