Throttle valve device, fuel-cell system and vehicle
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- EP · EP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- SCHAEFFLER TECHNOLOGIES AG & CO KG
- Filing Date
- 2024-06-24
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-06
AI Technical Summary
Existing throttle valve actuators are designed specifically for their respective applications, requiring new designs for different applications, which limits their ease of manufacture, increases costs, and reduces flexibility.
A throttle valve device with a modular design featuring a throttle valve actuator, channel middle section, and adjustable end sections, allowing for changeable flow cross-sections through adjustable recess geometries, enabling easy manufacturing, low costs, and flexible usability, particularly suitable for fuel cell systems and vehicles.
The modular throttle valve device reduces manufacturing costs and enhances flexibility by allowing adaptation to various operating points, minimizing pressure drops and enabling efficient regulation of flow in fuel cell systems, particularly in vehicles with electric drives.
Smart Images
Figure EP2024067675_02012025_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Description
[0002] Throttle device, fuel cell system and vehicle
[0003] Technical area
[0004] The invention relates to a throttle valve device, a fuel cell system with such a throttle valve device and a vehicle with such a throttle valve device or such a fuel cell system.
[0005] State of the art
[0006] Throttle valve actuators are known from the state of the art that are designed exclusively for their respective area of application.
[0007] A particular disadvantage of the prior art devices is that new designs of throttle valve actuators are necessary if a different application is intended.
[0008] Description of the invention, task, solution, advantages
[0009] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an alternative throttle valve device, which is characterized in particular by its ease of manufacture, low manufacturing costs, and / or its flexible application. A further object is to provide a fuel cell system with such a throttle valve device. A further object is to provide a vehicle with such a fuel cell system and / or such a throttle valve device.
[0010] The object with regard to the throttle valve device is achieved by a throttle valve device having the features of claim 1. One aspect of the invention relates to a throttle valve device with a throttle valve actuator, a throttle valve channel central section, and a first and second throttle valve channel end section, wherein the throttle valve actuator comprises a throttle valve, wherein the throttle valve is adjustably arranged in the throttle valve channel central section and a flow cross-section is variable depending on the position of the throttle valve, wherein the flow cross-section is limited by the throttle valve and a recess geometry of the first throttle valve channel end section and / or a recess geometry of the second throttle valve channel end section, wherein in a plane perpendicular to an axis about which the throttle valve is adjustable,the recess geometry of the first throttle valve channel end section is designed to run along an adjustment range of the throttle valve and / or the recess geometry of the second throttle valve channel end section is designed to run along an adjustment range of the throttle valve.,
[0011] This creates a throttle valve device which is particularly characterized by its ease of manufacture, low manufacturing costs and / or its flexible application.
[0012] It is particularly advantageous if the throttle valve device is a throttle valve device for a fuel cell system. It is also advantageous if the throttle valve device is a throttle valve device for a fuel cell system of a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle.
[0013] It is also advantageous if the throttle valve channel center section is formed as a single piece with the throttle valve actuator. This eliminates the need for a separate assembly process, further reducing manufacturing costs.
[0014] It is also advantageous if the throttle valve has a circular or oval cross-section. The cross-section refers to a view perpendicular to the axis around which the throttle valve is adjustable and / or perpendicular to the extension surface of the throttle valve.
[0015] It is also expedient if the throttle valve is adjustable by means of an electric motor. The throttle valve actuator and / or throttle valve device preferably comprise this electric motor. The electric motor is advantageously coupled to the throttle valve in a drive-transmitting manner.
[0016] Preferably, the position of the throttle valve is variable due to its adjustability. In other words, the position of the throttle valve changes when the throttle valve is adjusted. This makes it possible to change the flow cross-section and, in particular, to adapt it to an operating point, preferably a fuel cell system.
[0017] Preferably, the axis about which the throttle valve is adjustable extends in a plane in which the throttle valve extends. Alternatively, the axis about which the throttle valve is adjustable intersects a plane in which the throttle valve extends at an angle. Alternatively, the axis about which the throttle valve is adjustable runs parallel to, and at a distance from, a plane in which the throttle valve extends.
[0018] Regardless of the direction of the axis around which the throttle valve is adjustable, the axis is defined by a shaft to which the throttle valve is connected to transmit the drive. This means that a shaft extends in the direction of the axis. The connection can be materially bonded, positively bonded, and / or non-positively bonded.
[0019] In general, it is advantageous if the axis around which the throttle valve is adjustable is an adjustment axis, adjustment shaft or throttle valve adjustment axis, throttle valve adjustment shaft.
[0020] It is particularly preferred if the adjustment range of the throttle valve refers to the adjustment movement path of the throttle valve. Furthermore, it is particularly preferred if the two recess geometries are opposite one another. The throttle valve is preferably arranged between the two recess geometries.
[0021] In principle, it is preferable for the recess geometry(s) to be non-penetrating and / or continuous. This reduces pressure drops in the flow to be regulated.
[0022] A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the adjustment range comprises a first adjustment sub-range, that the recess geometry of the first throttle valve duct end section and / or the recess geometry of the second throttle valve duct end section is designed for the first adjustment sub-range such that the flow cross-section is constant or variable over the entire first adjustment range when the throttle valve is adjusted in the first adjustment sub-range. In the event that the flow cross-section is constant over the entire first adjustment range when the throttle valve is adjusted in the first adjustment sub-range, it is preferred if the throttle valve is adjustable about the axis such that the recess geometry in the plane perpendicular to the axis runs parallel to the adjustment range or first adjustment sub-range of the throttle valve in the first adjustment sub-range.This refers to the first and / or second throttle valve channel end section.
[0023] The variability of the flow cross-section across the entire first adjustment sub-range means, in particular, that the flow cross-section can be changed depending on the position of the throttle valve in the first adjustment sub-range. The changeability and / or variability of the flow cross-section means, in particular, a changeability of the flow cross-sectional area and / or the flow cross-sectional shape of the flow cross-section. The aforementioned definitions preferably also apply to partial flow cross-sections. If the second throttle valve device does not comprise a second adjustment sub-range, the first adjustment sub-range is merely an adjustment sub-range and not the first adjustment sub-range. In general, it is preferred if the flow cross-section comprises a first and a second partial flow cross-section.The first partial flow cross-section is defined and / or limited by the throttle valve and the recess geometry of the first throttle valve end section. The second partial flow cross-section is defined and / or limited by the throttle valve and the recess geometry of the second throttle valve end section. Both recess geometries can be adapted to the first adjustment range of the throttle valve in such a way that one of the two partial flow cross-sections is constant over the entire first adjustment range when the throttle valve is adjusted in the first adjustment range, while the other partial flow cross-section is variable. A design in which both are constant or both are variable is also conceivable.
[0024] A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that the adjustment range comprises a second adjustment sub-range, that the recess geometry of the first throttle valve channel end section and / or the recess geometry of the second throttle valve channel end section is designed for the second adjustment sub-range such that the flow cross-section is variable over the entire second adjustment sub-range when the throttle valve is adjusted in the second adjustment sub-range.
[0025] A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that the flow cross-section in the second adjustment sub-range is more variable when the throttle valve is adjusted than when the throttle valve is adjusted in the first adjustment sub-range. In other words, there is a greater change in the flow cross-sectional area and / or the flow cross-sectional shape for a comparable change in the position of the throttle valve. The change in the position of the throttle valve preferably relates to a change in the angle of adjustment of the throttle valve, wherein this change in angle relates to the position of the throttle valve relative to the axis about which the throttle valve is adjustable. As a result, the pressure drop achieved in the throttle valve device varies depending on the change in the position of the throttle valve in the first and second adjustment sub-range.It is also preferable if a curvature of the recess geometry in the plane perpendicular to the axis about which the throttle valve is adjustable is greater in the second adjustment range than in the first adjustment range.
[0026] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the first adjustment sub-range, the second adjustment sub-range, the adjustment sub-range and / or the transition between the first and the second adjustment sub-range is formed continuously in the plane perpendicular to the axis about which the throttle valve is adjustable.
[0027] A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that the first adjustment section is arranged between the second adjustment section and a closed or minimum position. The closed position preferably means that the flow cross-section through the throttle valve is completely closed. Completely closed here preferably means that the flow cross-sectional area of the flow cross-section is zero. The minimum position preferably means that the throttle valve assumes a position in which the flow cross-sectional area assumes a minimum value compared to all other possible positions of the throttle valve.
[0028] It is also preferable if the throttle valve rests against a seal in one or the closed position of the throttle valve. The seal is preferably designed as an elastomer seal. In other words, it consists of or comprises an elastomer, which increases the sealing effect of the throttle valve in this position.
[0029] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the seal is clamped between the throttle valve channel center section and one of the throttle valve channel end sections or between both throttle valve channel end sections. This simplifies the assembly of the seal. A further preferred exemplary embodiment is characterized in that the recess geometry of the second throttle valve channel end section is designed for the second adjustment sub-range such that the flow cross-section in the second adjustment sub-range increases with increasing distance between the position of the throttle valve and the closed position, minimum position, or the first adjustment sub-range. In other words, the flow cross-sectional area increases with increasing distance.It is possible for one of the two partial flow cross-sections to maintain a constant partial flow cross-sectional area as the distance of the throttle valve position from the closed position, minimum position or the first adjustment range increases.
[0030] A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that the recess geometry of the first throttle valve channel end section and / or the recess geometry of the second throttle valve channel end section is spherical, preferably negatively spherical. Alternatively or additionally, the recess geometry of at least one of the two throttle valve end sections is elliptical, preferably also continuous, in the plane perpendicular to the axis about which the throttle valve is adjustable.
[0031] A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that the first throttle valve channel end section and / or the second throttle valve channel end section are formed separately from the throttle valve actuator and / or the throttle valve channel middle section. This makes it possible to create different throttle valve devices with one and the same throttle valve actuator by simply providing different throttle valve channel end sections.
[0032] A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that the first throttle valve channel end section and / or the second throttle valve channel end section is detachably fastened to the throttle valve actuator and / or to the throttle valve channel middle section. A screw connection is preferably provided for this fastening. A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that the throttle valve channel middle section comprises a receiving space in which the throttle valve is arranged, and in that the first throttle valve channel end section comprises a fluid channel that is fluidically connected to the receiving space, and / or the second throttle valve channel end section comprises a fluid channel that is fluidically connected to the receiving space.In other words, the fluid channels of the two throttle valve channel end sections lead fluidically into the receiving space in such a way that a fluid which can be conveyed into the receiving space by means of the fluid channel of the first throttle valve channel end section can be led out of the receiving space by means of the fluid channel of the second throttle valve channel end section.
[0033] A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that the receiving chamber is fluidically arranged between the fluid channel of the first throttle valve channel end section and the fluid channel of the second throttle valve channel end section. It is also preferable if a fluid entering the receiving chamber through one of the fluid channels can only exit the receiving chamber via the other fluid channel and / or through the same fluid channel.
[0034] A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that a first vector which runs through the center of gravity of the flow cross section of the fluid channel of the first throttle valve channel end section and / or that a second vector which runs through the center of gravity of the flow cross section of the fluid channel of the second throttle valve channel end section.
[0035] The flow cross-section of the fluid channel of the first throttle valve channel end section preferably refers to a flow cross-section at a location along the course of the same fluid channel. This is preferably a flow cross-section that fluidically directly adjoins or borders the receiving space. The flow cross-section of the fluid channel of the second throttle valve channel end section preferably refers to a flow cross-section at a location along the course of the same fluid channel. This is preferably a flow cross-section that fluidically directly adjoins or borders the receiving space.
[0036] In general, it is preferred if the flow cross-section of the fluid channel of the first and / or second throttle valve channel end section runs perpendicular to a flow direction of a fluid conveyed through the respective fluid channel. In principle, it is preferred if the first or second vector runs perpendicular to the respective flow cross-section.
[0037] In general, it is preferred if the throttle valve device is designed for a gas, preferably air.
[0038] A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that the throttle valve is intersected by the first vector at a first location, which is arranged at a distance from another location at which the throttle valve is intersected by the second vector. In other words, it is preferred if the two fluid channels of the throttle valve channel end sections are arranged offset from one another. This offset preferably relates to a plane that runs perpendicular to one of the vectors or perpendicular to both of the vectors.
[0039] A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that the throttle valve moves away from the first throttle valve channel end section at a first point at which it is intersected by the first vector when the throttle valve is adjusted from the closed position or the minimum position in the direction of the first adjustment sub-range or from the first adjustment sub-range in the direction of the second adjustment sub-range.
[0040] A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that the throttle valve moves away from the second throttle valve channel end section at a second location at which it is intersected by the second vector when the throttle valve is adjusted from the closed position or the minimum position in the direction of the first adjustment sub-range or from the first adjustment sub-range in the direction of the second adjustment sub-range.
[0041] A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that the vectors are spaced apart from one another and / or the vectors intersect outside the receiving space.
[0042] The object with regard to the fuel cell system is achieved by a fuel cell system which comprises at least one throttle valve device according to the invention.
[0043] The object of the vehicle is achieved by a vehicle comprising a fuel cell system according to the invention and / or at least one throttle valve device according to the invention. The vehicle is preferably a motor vehicle, a passenger car, or a truck, which particularly preferably has an electric drive. It is particularly preferred if the vehicle has only an electric drive.
[0044] Advantageous further developments of the present invention are described in the subclaims and in the following description of the figures.
[0045] Short description of the drawings
[0046] The invention is explained in detail below using exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings. In the drawings:
[0047] Fig. 1 shows a vehicle with a fuel cell system and a throttle device,
[0048] Fig. 2a a throttle valve device,
[0049] Fig. 2b is a sectional view through a throttle valve device, Fig. 2c is a detailed view of Fig. 2b,
[0050] Fig. 3a a throttle valve channel end section, and
[0051] Fig. 3b another throttle valve duct end section.
[0052] Preferred embodiment of the invention
[0053] Figure 1 shows a vehicle 1 according to the invention with a fuel cell system 2 according to the invention and a throttle valve device 3a. The vehicle 1 is a motor vehicle with an electric drive, wherein the electric drive can be supplied with electrical energy by the fuel cell system 2 and a flow channel of the fuel cell system 2 can be regulated by means of the throttle valve device 3a.
[0054] Figure 2a shows the throttle valve device 3a according to the invention, which comprises an electric motor 12 with which a throttle valve of the throttle valve device 3a can be adjusted. The throttle valve device 3a comprises a throttle valve channel central section 4a, a first throttle valve channel end section 4b, and a second throttle valve channel end section 4c. While the throttle valve channel central section 4a is formed integrally with the housing of the throttle valve actuator, the two throttle valve channel end sections 4b, 4c are formed separately from the throttle valve channel central section 4a and are fastened to the throttle valve channel central section 4a by means of a detachable screw connection.
[0055] Figure 2b shows a sectional view through the throttle valve device 3a of Figure 2a. The section of the sectional view runs in the XY plane, which extends perpendicular to an axis 6 about which a throttle valve 5 is adjustable. The throttle valve 5, together with a respective recess geometry 10a, 10b of the two throttle valve channel end sections 4b, 4c, delimits a flow cross-section in a receiving space 13 in which the throttle valve 5 is arranged. A seal 9 is clamped between the throttle valve channel middle section 4a and the first throttle valve channel end section 4b. In a closed position, the throttle valve 5 rests sealingly against the seal 9. The first throttle valve channel end section 4b comprises a fluid channel 7a, the flow cross-section of which has a flow cross-sectional area with a center of gravity through which a first vector 7b runs perpendicular to the associated flow cross-sectional area.The second throttle valve channel end section 4c also comprises a fluid channel 8a, the flow cross-section of which has a flow cross-sectional area with a center of gravity through which a second vector 8b runs perpendicular to the associated flow cross-sectional area. The two vectors 7b, 8b run at a distance from one another and intersect the throttle valve in the closed position of the throttle valve 5 at two spaced-apart points. The point intersected by the first vector 7b moves away from the first throttle valve channel end section 4b when the throttle valve 5 is adjusted from the closed position. The point intersected by the second vector 8b moves away from the second throttle valve channel end section 4c when the throttle valve 5 is adjusted from the closed position.
[0056] The throttle valve device 3a also includes a connector 3b, which serves to supply power to the throttle valve device 3a, including, in particular, the electric motor. Furthermore, the connector 3b serves to output signals representative of the position of the throttle valve 5. For this purpose, the throttle valve device 3a includes a position sensor designed to measure the position of the throttle valve 6 via the position of the shaft 6.
[0057] Figure 2c shows a detailed view of the sectional view from Figure 2a. An adjustment range 11 can be seen, which comprises a first adjustment sub-range 11a and a second adjustment sub-range 11b. The adjustment range 11 of the throttle valve 5 extends from the closed position to an open position with maximum flow cross-section. Figure 3a shows the first throttle valve duct end section 4b from Figures 2a to 2c. The throttle valve duct end section 4b is formed separately and comprises through-openings 4e distributed evenly around the circumference, which serve as screw connections to the throttle valve duct center section of the throttle valve device. Furthermore, a monolithically formed shaped element 4d ensures proper assembly at the correct location of the throttle valve device in the correct alignment with the throttle valve duct center section.For this purpose, a corresponding recess is provided in the throttle valve center section. Furthermore, a recess geometry 10a is shown, which, together with the throttle valve, limits the flow cross-section of the throttle valve device. The fluid channel 7a is also shown.
[0058] Figure 3b shows the second throttle valve channel end section 4c from Figures 2a to 2c. The throttle valve channel end section 4c is formed separately and includes through-openings 4e distributed evenly around the circumference, which serve for screw connections to the throttle valve channel center section of the throttle valve device. Furthermore, a projection 4f is shown, which serves for a clamp connection of a seal between the throttle valve channel end section 4c and the throttle valve channel center section. The fluid channel 8a can also be seen. Furthermore, a recess geometry 10b is shown, which, together with the throttle valve, limits the flow cross-section of the throttle valve device.
[0059] The embodiments of Figures 1 to 3b are not limiting in nature and serve to clarify the inventive concept. List of reference symbols
[0060] 1 vehicle
[0061] 2 Fuel cell system
[0062] 3a Throttle valve device
[0063] 3b plug
[0064] 4a Throttle valve duct center section
[0065] 4b Throttle valve duct end section
[0066] 4c Throttle valve duct end section
[0067] 4d form-locking element
[0068] 4th mounting hole
[0069] 4f lead
[0070] 5 Throttle valve
[0071] 6 axis
[0072] 7a Fluid channel
[0073] 7b Vector
[0074] 8a Fluid channel
[0075] 8b Vector
[0076] 9 Seal
[0077] 10a Recess geometry
[0078] 10b Recess geometry
[0079] 11 Adjustment range
[0080] 11 a Adjustment section
[0081] 11 b Adjustment range
[0082] 12 electric motor
[0083] 13 Recording room
Claims
Patent claims 1. Throttle valve device (3a) with a throttle valve actuator, a throttle valve channel central section (4a), and a first and second throttle valve channel end section (4b, 4c), wherein the throttle valve actuator comprises a throttle valve (5), wherein the throttle valve (5) is adjustably arranged in the throttle valve channel central section (4a) and a flow cross-section is variable depending on the position of the throttle valve (5), wherein the flow cross-section is limited by the throttle valve (5) and a recess geometry (10a) of the first throttle valve channel end section (4b) and / or a recess geometry (10b) of the second throttle valve channel end section (4c), characterized in that in a plane perpendicular to an axis (6) about which the throttle valve (5) is adjustable,the recess geometry (10a) of the first throttle valve channel end section (4b) is designed to run along an adjustment range of the throttle valve (5) and / or the recess geometry (10b) of the second throttle valve channel end section (4c) is designed to run along an adjustment range (11) of the throttle valve (5).
2. Throttle valve device (3a) according to claim 1, characterized in that the adjustment range (11) comprises a first adjustment sub-range (11a), that the recess geometry (10a) of the first throttle valve channel end section (4b) and / or the recess geometry (10b) of the second throttle valve channel end section (4c) is designed for the first adjustment sub-range (11a) in such a way that the flow cross-section is constant or variable over the entire first adjustment range (11a) when the throttle valve (5) is adjusted in the first adjustment sub-range (11).
3. Throttle valve device (3a) according to claim 2, characterized in that the adjustment area (11) comprises a second adjustment sub-area (11b), that the recess geometry (10a) of the first throttle valve channel end section (4b) and / or the recess geometry (10b) of the second throttle valve channel end section (4c) is designed for the second adjustment sub-area (11b) in such a way that the flow cross-section is variable over the entire second adjustment sub-area (11b) when the throttle valve (5) is adjusted in the second adjustment sub-area (11b).
4. Throttle valve device (3a) according to claim 3, characterized in that the flow cross-section in the second adjustment section (11b) is more variable when the throttle valve (5) is adjusted than when the throttle valve is adjusted in the first adjustment section (11a).
5. Throttle valve device (3a) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the first adjustment section (11a) is arranged between the second adjustment section (11b) and a closed position or minimum position.
6. Throttle valve device (3a) according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the recess geometry (10b) of the second throttle valve channel end section (4c) is designed for the second adjustment sub-range (11b) in such a way that the flow cross-section in the second adjustment sub-range (11b) increases with increasing distance of the position of the throttle valve (5) from the closed position, minimum position or the first adjustment sub-range.
7. Throttle valve device (3a) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the recess geometry (10a) of the first throttle valve channel end section (4b) and / or the recess geometry (10b) of the second throttle valve channel end section (4c) is spherical.
8. Throttle valve device (3a) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first throttle valve channel end section (4b) and / or the second throttle valve channel end section (4c) is formed separately from the throttle valve actuator (5) and / or the throttle valve channel middle section (4a).
9. Throttle valve device (3a) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first throttle valve channel end section (4b) and / or the second throttle valve channel end section (4b) is detachably fastened to the throttle valve actuator and / or to the throttle valve channel middle section (4a).
10. Throttle valve device (3a) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the throttle valve channel middle section (4a) comprises a receiving space (13) in which the throttle valve is arranged, and in that the first throttle valve channel end section (4b) comprises a fluid channel (7a) which is fluidically connected to the receiving space, and / or the second throttle valve channel end section (4c) comprises a fluid channel (8a) which is fluidically connected to the receiving space (13).
11. Throttle valve device (3a) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the receiving space (13) is fluidically arranged between the fluid channel (7a) of the first throttle valve channel end section (4b) and the fluid channel (8a) of the second throttle valve channel end section (4c).
12. Throttle valve device (3a) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a first vector (7b) which runs through the center of gravity of the flow cross section of the fluid channel (7a) of the first throttle valve channel end section (4b) and / or that a second vector (8b) which runs through the center of gravity of the flow cross section of the fluid channel (8a) of the second throttle valve channel end section (4c).
13. Throttle valve device (3a) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the throttle valve (5) is cut by the first vector (7b) at a first point, which is arranged at a distance from a further point at which the throttle valve (5) is cut by the second vector (8b).
14. Throttle valve device (3a) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the throttle valve (5) moves away from the first throttle valve channel end section (4b) at a first point at which it is intersected by the first vector (7b) when the throttle valve (5) is adjusted from the closed position or the minimum position in the direction of the first adjustment sub-range (11a) or from the first adjustment sub-range (11a) in the direction of the second adjustment sub-range (11b).
15. Throttle valve device (3a) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the throttle valve (5) moves away from the second throttle valve channel end section (4c) at a second point at which it is intersected by the second vector (8b) when the throttle valve (5) is adjusted from the closed position or the minimum position in the direction of the first adjustment sub-range (11a) or from the first adjustment range (11a) in the direction of the second adjustment range (11b).
16. Fuel cell system (2) with at least one throttle valve device (3a) according to one of the preceding claims.
17. Vehicle (1) with a fuel cell system (2) according to claim 16 and / or at least one throttle valve device (3a) according to one of claims 1 to 15.