Mobile device and Vehicle

Abstract

The present invention relates to an exhaust device and a vehicle having the same. The exhaust device of the present invention comprises: an exhaust line connected to a fuel cell stack through which water generated by an electrochemical reaction in the fuel cell stack flows; a muffler provided in the exhaust line for reducing exhaust noise; and a water tank connected to the muffler and storing water introduced through the muffler, wherein the muffler comprises a reservoir for storing water generated in the fuel cell stack, a first pump for pumping water from the reservoir, and a flow path pipe connected to the water tank and delivering water pumped by the first pump to the water tank.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an exhaust device for removing water discharged from a fuel cell stack and a vehicle having the same. Background Technology

[0002] A vehicle is a machine that moves on a road by driving its wheels. These vehicles include internal combustion engine vehicles (conventional engine vehicles) that control starting using batteries and, once started, burn petroleum fuels such as gasoline or diesel to generate mechanical power for driving, as well as eco-friendly vehicles that drive using electricity from batteries to improve fuel efficiency and reduce harmful gas emissions.

[0003] Eco-friendly vehicles include electric vehicles that include a rechargeable battery and a motor, rotate the motor using electricity stored in the battery, and drive the wheels using the rotation of the motor; hybrid vehicles that include an engine, a battery, and a motor, and drive by controlling the mechanical power of the engine and the electrical power of the motor; and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.

[0004] In hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, water is inevitably produced because air must be supplied for the hydrogen reaction within the fuel cell stack. To this end, the exhaust system of a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle includes an exhaust line connected to the outlet of the fuel cell stack and a muffler installed on the exhaust line.

[0005] A mixture of gases (hydrogen, air, and water vapor) discharged from the fuel cell stack outlet flows through the exhaust line of the exhaust system. The water vapor in the mixture passing through the exhaust line is converted into condensate as it passes through the muffler and can then be released into the atmosphere. Additionally, the hydrogen and air in the mixture passing through the exhaust line can be recirculated within the vehicle.

[0006] Furthermore, some of the water vapor passing through the exhaust line may accumulate, and some may experience obstruction of flow due to the accumulated water; in this case, the uneven flow of the gas mixture (hydrogen, air, and water vapor) leads to an increase in pressure in the exhaust device, inevitably resulting in a degradation of system performance.

[0007] In particular, the pressure rise in the exhaust system can be further exacerbated when water accumulated in the exhaust line freezes under low temperatures, such as during winter, which inevitably leads to a more severe degradation of system performance.

[0008] In addition, water may freeze in exhaust lines during the winter, or water leaking out may freeze on the road, potentially causing safety issues in the road environment.

[0009] In other words, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles generate water and water vapor as byproducts of the electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen; this generated water and water vapor is produced in greater quantities during winter or in countries with consistently low temperatures (Northern / Southern Hemispheres). When this generated water is released into the environment during winter, it causes roads to freeze like ice or form thin ice. This raises concerns about the formation of black ice and causes safety issues for other vehicles. The problem to be solved

[0010] One aspect provides an exhaust device and a vehicle having the same, wherein water generated as a byproduct of the electrochemical generation reaction of hydrogen and oxygen is collected in a muffler, pumping is controlled based on the water level in the muffler, and the pumped water is guided to a water tank.

[0011] Another aspect provides an exhaust device and a vehicle having the same that automatically discharges water from a water tank based on the amount of water stored in the water tank or outputs guidance information requesting the user to discharge it.

[0012] Another aspect provides an exhaust device having a discharge member that is opened or closed by the pressure of water inside the muffler, and a vehicle having the same. means of solving the problem

[0013] An exhaust device according to one aspect comprises: an exhaust line connected to a fuel cell stack through which water generated by an electrochemical reaction in the fuel cell stack flows; a muffler provided in the exhaust line for reducing exhaust noise; and a water tank connected to the muffler and storing water introduced through the muffler, wherein the muffler includes a reservoir for storing water generated in the fuel cell stack, a first pump for pumping water from the reservoir, and a flow path connected to the water tank and delivering water pumped by the first pump to the water tank.

[0014] A silencer of an exhaust device according to one aspect further includes a first water level detection unit for detecting a water level, which is the height of water in a reservoir. A first pump performs a pumping operation in response to the water level of the reservoir detected by the first water level detection unit.

[0015] A silencer of an exhaust device according to one aspect further includes a first filter provided in a first pump and for removing foreign substances from water pumped by the first pump.

[0016] A silencer of an exhaust device according to one aspect further includes a drain pipe provided in a water tank and automatically opened or closed by the pressure of water stored in the water tank.

[0017] A drain pipe of an exhaust device according to one aspect comprises a body provided in a reservoir and having a plurality of drainage holes and openings formed therein, a cover that moves back and forth in a straight line within the body to open and close the openings of the body, and an elastic member whose elastic force is adjusted in response to pressure applied to the cover.

[0018] A water tank of an exhaust device according to one aspect includes a housing provided with an opening for discharging stored water.

[0019] A water tank of an exhaust device according to one aspect further includes a second pump provided in a housing and pumping water stored in the housing, and a second filter for removing foreign substances from the water pumped by the second pump.

[0020] A water tank of an exhaust device according to one aspect further includes a second water level detection unit for detecting a water level, which is the height of water stored in a housing.

[0021] A vehicle according to another aspect comprises: a fuel cell stack; and an exhaust device comprising a muffler for storing water generated by an electrochemical reaction in the fuel cell stack and reducing exhaust noise, and a water tank for storing water introduced through the muffler, wherein the muffler of the exhaust device comprises a reservoir for storing water generated in the fuel cell stack, a first pump for pumping water from the reservoir, and a flow path for delivering water pumped by the first pump to the water tank.

[0022] A muffler of a vehicle according to another aspect further includes a first filter for removing foreign substances from water pumped by the first pump, provided in the first pump.

[0023] A muffler of a vehicle according to another aspect further includes a drain pipe provided in a reservoir and automatically opening or closing by the pressure of the water stored in the reservoir.

[0024] A drain pipe of a vehicle according to another aspect comprises a body provided in a reservoir and having a plurality of drain holes and openings formed therein, a cover that moves back and forth in a straight line within the body to open and close the openings of the body, and an elastic member whose elastic force is adjusted in response to pressure applied to the cover.

[0025] A water tank of a vehicle according to another aspect further comprises a housing having an opening for discharging stored water, a second pump provided in the housing for pumping water stored in the housing, and a second filter for removing foreign substances from the water pumped by the second pump.

[0026] A vehicle according to another aspect further includes: a first water level detection unit for detecting a water level, which is the height of water in a reservoir of a muffler; and a control unit that determines whether the water level of the reservoir is above a first reference water level based on water level information detected by the first water level detection unit during the consumption of a fuel cell stack, controls the operation of a first pump if it is determined that the water level of the reservoir is above the first reference water level, and controls the first pump to stop if it is determined that the water level of the reservoir is below a second reference water level during the operation of the first pump.

[0027] A vehicle according to another aspect further includes a display unit, and a control unit determines whether the water level of the reservoir changes based on water level information detected by a first water level detection unit during the operation of the first pump, and controls the display unit to display notification information regarding a fault if it is determined that the water level of the reservoir does not change.

[0028] A vehicle according to another aspect further includes a display unit; a second water level detection unit for detecting a water level, which is the height of water stored in a water tank, and a control unit determines whether the water level of the water tank is above a third reference water level based on water level information detected by the second water level detection unit and reference water level information during the consumption of a fuel cell stack, and controls the display unit to output water discharge request information for the water tank if it is determined that the water level of the water tank is above the third reference water level.

[0029] The control unit of the vehicle according to another aspect controls the operation of the first pump based on the water level information detected by the first water level detection unit when it is determined that the water level of the water tank is below the third reference water level.

[0030] A vehicle according to another aspect further includes an input unit, and when water discharge implementation information is received through the input unit, the control unit controls the operation of the first pump based on the water level information detected by the first water level detection unit.

[0031] A vehicle according to another aspect further includes an input unit, and when a water discharge command is received through the input unit, the control unit controls the opening and closing of an opening and closing member provided in the water tank to discharge water from the water tank.

[0032] A vehicle according to another aspect further includes a nozzle member provided in a water tank for discharging water stored inside the water tank to the outside. Effects of the invention

[0033] The present invention can prevent water generated by the chemical reaction of hydrogen and oxygen from freezing within the exhaust device under environmental conditions below a reference temperature. As a result, the present invention can prevent problems of starting failure or inability to start caused by the freezing of water within the exhaust device under environmental conditions below a reference temperature.

[0034] In addition, since the present invention does not discharge water to the outside, it can prevent road freezing caused by water discharged to the outside under environmental conditions below the standard temperature, thereby improving the driving safety of other vehicles on the road.

[0035] The present invention allows water stored in a water tank to be used in various ways.

[0036] For example, by installing a pump and filter corresponding to the intended use of water in the water tank, it can be used for various purposes such as car washing, camping water, humidifier water, and simple water supply.

[0037] The present invention does not require a separate device to improve the heating rate of a fuel cell stack, and thereby can prevent the use of electricity required for the operation of a separate device, which can prevent a decrease in the fuel efficiency of the fuel cell stack.

[0038] As such, the present invention can improve the quality and marketability of the exhaust system and the vehicle, further increase user satisfaction, enhance user convenience, reliability, and vehicle safety, and secure product competitiveness. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0039] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a power device provided in a vehicle according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is an example diagram of an exhaust device among the power devices provided in a vehicle according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a muffler provided in the exhaust system of a vehicle according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of a drain pipe of a muffler provided in the exhaust system of a vehicle according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is an example diagram of a water tank provided in the exhaust system of a vehicle according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 is a control configuration diagram of a vehicle according to an embodiment. FIG. 7 is an example of a vehicle control sequence according to an embodiment. FIG. 8 is another example of a vehicle control sequence according to an embodiment. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0040] Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same components. This specification does not describe all elements of the embodiments, and general content in the art to which the invention pertains or content that overlaps between embodiments is omitted. The terms 'part, module, component, device' used in the specification may be implemented in software or hardware, and depending on the embodiments, a plurality of 'parts, modules, components, devices' may be implemented as a single component, or a single 'part, module, component, device' may include a plurality of components.

[0041] Throughout the specification, when a part is described as being "connected" to another part, this includes not only cases where they are directly connected but also cases where they are indirectly connected, and indirect connections include connections made via a wireless communication network.

[0042] Furthermore, when it is stated that a part "includes" a certain component, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may include additional components.

[0043] The terms first, second, etc. are used to distinguish one component from another, and the components are not limited by the aforementioned terms.

[0044] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless there is an obvious exception in the context.

[0045] In each step, identification codes are used for convenience of explanation and do not describe the order of the steps; the steps may be performed differently from the specified order unless a specific order is clearly indicated in the context.

[0046] The operating principle and embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0047] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a power device provided in a vehicle according to an embodiment, and will be explained with reference to FIGS. 2 to 5.

[0048] FIG. 2 is an example diagram of an exhaust device among power devices provided in a vehicle according to an embodiment, FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a muffler provided in the exhaust device of a vehicle according to an embodiment, and FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram of a drain pipe of a muffler provided in the exhaust device of a vehicle according to an embodiment.

[0049] FIG. 5 is an example diagram of a water tank provided in the exhaust system of a vehicle according to an embodiment.

[0050] The vehicle (1) of this embodiment is a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle that generates electricity through an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen in the air, rotates a motor with the generated electricity to produce power, and discharges water as a byproduct.

[0051] The vehicle (1) includes a body having an exterior and an interior, and a chassis on which mechanical devices necessary for driving are installed in the remaining parts excluding the body.

[0052] The chassis of the vehicle is a frame that supports the vehicle body, and the chassis may be provided with a plurality of wheels (10) arranged in the front, rear, left, and right directions, a power device (100) for applying driving force to the plurality of wheels (10), a steering device, a braking device for applying braking force to the wheels (10) in the front, rear, left, and right directions, and a suspension device for adjusting the suspension of the vehicle.

[0053] The power unit (100) may include a hydrogen tank (110), an ejector (120), a fuel cell stack (130), a blower (140), a motor (150), a battery (160), a reduction gear (170), and an exhaust device (180).

[0054] The hydrogen tank (110) is connected to a charger at a hydrogen charging station, receives hydrogen from the charger, and stores (i.e., charges) the supplied hydrogen. That is, the hydrogen tank (110) stores hydrogen, which is the fuel for the hydrogen fuel cell vehicle (1).

[0055] An ejector (120) is provided between the hydrogen tank (110) and the fuel cell stack (130) and supplies hydrogen stored in the fuel cell stack (130) to the fuel cell stack (130).

[0056] The ejector (120) is connected to a part of the fuel electrode of the fuel cell stack (130) and can inject hydrogen into the fuel electrode of the fuel cell stack (130).

[0057] In another part of the fuel electrode of the fuel cell stack (130), a recirculation line may be connected to recirculate hydrogen, which is fuel injected into the fuel electrode through the ejector (120).

[0058] The fuel cell stack (130) is a stack of multiple unit fuel cells.

[0059] A fuel cell stack includes a fuel electrode and an air electrode, and hydrogen is supplied to the fuel electrode and air is supplied to the air electrode. The air and hydrogen resulting from the electrochemical reaction can then be discharged to the outside through an exhaust device.

[0060] A fuel cell includes a negative electrode (hydrogen electrode) and a positive electrode (oxygen electrode), and may include an electrolyte provided between the negative electrode (hydrogen electrode) and the positive electrode (oxygen electrode). Such a fuel cell can generate power between the negative electrode (hydrogen electrode) and the positive electrode (oxygen electrode).

[0061] In order to produce power in the fuel cell stack (130), hydrogen (H2) must be supplied to the negative electrode (hydrogen electrode) of the unit cell and oxygen (O2) must be supplied to the positive electrode (oxygen electrode).

[0062] At the negative electrode (hydrogen electrode) of the unit cell, the supplied hydrogen (H2) undergoes an oxidation reaction, producing 2H + It is converted to +2e-. The electrons (2e-) separated from hydrogen (H2) in this way move to an electric load (e.g., a motor) and form an electric current. Of course, the direction of the current is opposite to the direction of electron movement, going from the positive electrode (oxygen electrode) to the negative electrode (hydrogen electrode).

[0063] Hydrogen ions (H+) that have lost electrons move through the electrolyte to the anode (oxygen electrode) and oxygen (1 / 2 O₃) 2) and as it combines with electrons (2e-), a reduction reaction of oxygen occurs, converting it into water (H2O) and heat.

[0064] As such, the water and heat generated in the fuel cell stack are either discharged externally or utilized as renewable energy. In particular, thermal energy plays a significant role in increasing the energy efficiency of the fuel cell.

[0065] The power produced by the fuel cell stack (130) is supplied to a high-voltage junction box (not shown) through a high-voltage bidirectional DC-DC converter (not shown) and can be supplied to loads requiring high voltage, such as a control unit and a motor (150), through the high-voltage junction box (not shown).

[0066] The fuel cell stack (130) can supply the generated power to the battery (160).

[0067] The fuel cell stack (130) can be cooled by a cooling module (not shown, for example, a radiator).

[0068] The blower (140) supplies air (oxygen) to the fuel cell stack (130). The purpose of supplying air (oxygen) is to supply oxygen to the fuel cell stack (130) so that it reacts with hydrogen in the fuel cell stack.

[0069] A blower (140) can be connected to a part of the air electrode of the fuel cell stack. Here, an exhaust device can be connected to another part of the air electrode of the fuel cell stack, and in this case, air and water can be discharged through the exhaust device.

[0070] The motor (150) converts electrical energy supplied from the fuel cell stack (130) into kinetic energy.

[0071] The motor (150) can be connected to the wheel (10). That is, the motor (50) rotates the wheel (10) using kinetic energy.

[0072] The motor (150) can transmit driving force to the front wheel or the rear wheel.

[0073] The motor (150) can also convert electrical energy supplied from the battery (160) into kinetic energy.

[0074] The rotational speed of the motor (150) can be controlled by the control unit.

[0075] The battery (160) can charge electric energy generated from the fuel cell stack according to the driving condition of the vehicle.

[0076] The battery (160) is an auxiliary battery separate from the fuel cell stack (130) and can provide high voltage (e.g., 180V) power to the motor (150). The voltage supplied from the battery (160) can be stepped up to 250 to 400V by a high-voltage bidirectional DC-DC converter and then supplied to an electrical load such as the motor (150) through a high-voltage junction box.

[0077] The battery (160) may be a large-capacity lithium-ion battery.

[0078] For example, the battery (160) can supply charged power to the vehicle when the current mode of the vehicle (1) is Electric Vehicle Mode (EV Mode). In this case, the vehicle can drive using the power from the battery.

[0079] The battery (160) can also supply power to various loads provided in the vehicle (1).

[0080] The vehicle may further include a power converter (not shown) connected to a battery, and through the power converter, convert the amount of power charged in the battery into the amount of power required by various loads, and then supply the converted power to various loads.

[0081] To improve the durability and fuel efficiency of the fuel cell stack, the battery (160) can also supply power to various loads within the vehicle when the vehicle does not require a large amount of power, such as when the vehicle is stationary.

[0082] When the state of charge (SOC) of the battery (160) is below a certain charge level, the vehicle can control the operation of the fuel cell stack to use the power generated from the fuel cell stack to supply power to various loads within the vehicle and to charge the battery.

[0083] A reduction gear (170) can be provided between the motor (150) and the wheel (10).

[0084] The reduction gear (170) adjusts the rotational speed and torque of the motor (150) with a reduction ratio corresponding to the target driving speed of the vehicle. This reduction gear (170) can reduce the rotational speed of the motor (150) and increase the torque of the motor. That is, the reduction gear (170) can rotate the wheels with the adjusted rotational speed and adjusted torque.

[0085] Unlike a conventional transmission, the reduction gear (170) can transmit power input from the motor (150) to the vehicle's axle at a constant reduction ratio.

[0086] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the exhaust device (180) includes an exhaust line (180a) connected to a fuel cell stack (130) and discharging air and hydrogen generated from the fuel cell stack (130) to the outside and discharging some of the steam and water generated from the fuel cell stack (130) to the outside, a muffler (180b) provided in the exhaust line, and a water tank (180c) connected to the muffler (180b) and storing water.

[0087] The muffler (180b) is a device for reducing exhaust noise.

[0088] A muffler may be provided at the rear end of the silencer (180b). Through this muffler, air and hydrogen passing through the silencer (180b) can be discharged to the outside, and some of the water vapor and water passing through the silencer can be discharged to the outside.

[0089] The muffler (180b) receives air, hydrogen, water vapor, and water generated from the fuel cell stack (130), and discharges a portion of the received air, hydrogen, and water vapor to the muffler.

[0090] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the remainder of the water vapor introduced into the silencer (180b) is not discharged to the outside but can be condensed within the silencer and turned into water. That is, the water condensed from the remainder of the water vapor introduced into the silencer (180b) and the water introduced into the silencer are stored inside the silencer (180b), and can be stored in a reservoir (b1) provided inside the silencer (180b).

[0091] The silencer may further include an etching mesh (b2), and some of the water vapor, air, and hydrogen that enter the silencer may pass through the etching mesh (b2) and then be discharged to the outside through the muffler.

[0092] The silencer (180b) comprises a first housing (181), a water passage (182) connected to the first housing (181) for water to flow through, a drain pipe (183) provided in the first housing (181) and located on the lower side of the first housing (181) and located in a water tank (b1) to discharge water to the outside, a first pump (184) provided inside the first housing (181) and connected to the water passage (182), and a first filter (185) provided in the first pump (184) and located on the outside of the first pump (184).

[0093] The flow path (182) of the silencer (180b) can deliver water pumped by the first pump to the water tank (180c).

[0094] The drain pipe (183) can be opened or closed by the pressure of the water stored in the reservoir (b1).

[0095] The silencer may further include a first water level detection unit (Fig. 6, 191) for detecting the water level in the reservoir. The first water level detection unit may be provided in the first pump.

[0096] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the drain pipe (183) includes a body (d1) having a plurality of drainage holes (h1) formed therein, a cover (d2) that opens and closes the opening of the body (d1), and an elastic member (d3) that enables the cover (d2) to move back and forth in response to pressure applied to the cover (d2).

[0097] Explains the drainage principle of the drain pipe.

[0098] When the water level in the reservoir (b1) exceeds the limiting water level due to a failure of the first water level detection unit in the silencer or a failure of the first pump, the pressure applied to the cover (d2) of the drain pipe by the water in the reservoir (b1) exceeds the reference pressure, and an elastic force acts on the elastic member (d3). At this time, the cover (d2) of the drain pipe moves in a straight line in the opposite direction of the opening of the body, and the opening of the body (d1) is opened, and as the opening of the body (d1) is opened in this way, the water in the reservoir (b1) can be discharged to the outside through a plurality of drain holes (d1) formed in the body (d1).

[0099] That is, the drain pipe (183) of the silencer (180b) can automatically open and discharge water from inside the reservoir to the outside when the water level (i.e., water level) inside the reservoir (b1) is above the first limiting water level.

[0100] In addition, by discharging the water from the reservoir pipe to the outside, the pressure applied to the cover (d2) of the drain pipe by the water in the reservoir (b1) decreases, and the elastic force of the elastic member (d3) changes. At this time, as the cover (d2) of the drain pipe moves in a straight line toward the opening of the body, the opening of the body (d1) is closed, and as the opening of the body (d1) is closed in this way, it is possible to prevent the water in the reservoir (b1) from being discharged to the outside through the multiple drainage holes (d1) formed in the body (d1).

[0101] The drain pipe (183) can also discharge foreign substances stored in the reservoir (b1) to the outside when discharging water stored in the reservoir (b1).

[0102] The first pump (184) pumps water stored in the reservoir (b1) and discharges the pumped water through the flow path (182).

[0103] The first pump (184) can perform a pumping operation in response to the operation of the fuel cell stack and can perform a pumping operation in response to the water level information detected by the first water level detection unit.

[0104] The first filter (185) may be provided on the outer surface of the first pump (184). The first filter (185) may be provided on the outer surface of the first pump (184) where an inlet hole is provided for water to be introduced by pumping.

[0105] The first filter (185) removes foreign substances from the pumped water when the water pumped by the operation of the first pump (184) is discharged into the flow channel (182), and allows the water from which foreign substances have been removed to be delivered into the flow channel (182).

[0106] The water tank (180c) can be provided to be detachable within the vehicle (1). The water tank (180c) can be remounted within the vehicle (1).

[0107] As shown in FIG. 5, the water tank (180c) stores the water that flows in when water pumped by the operation of the first pump (184) of the silencer (180b) flows in through the flow path (182).

[0108] The water tank (180c) may include a second housing (186) to which a flow path (182) is connected and an opening (h2) is formed.

[0109] The Euro tube (182) connected to the water tank (180c) can be detached from and reattached from the second housing of the water tank.

[0110] It is also possible to make it possible to separate the water tank (180c) within the vehicle (1) by first separating the Euro pipe (182) connected to the water tank (180c).

[0111] The opening (h2) of the water tank (180c) may be a hole through which water stored in the water tank (180c) is discharged. This opening (h2) of the water tank (180c) may be opened or closed by a user.

[0112] The water tank (180c) may further include a second pump (187) provided within the second housing (186), and may further include a second filter (188) provided adjacent to the second pump (187) to remove foreign substances from the water pumped by the second pump.

[0113] The water tank (180c) may further include a nozzle member (189) to which various lines provided for use in the water tank are connected.

[0114] A flow path (182) can be connected to the second pump (187).

[0115] The second pump (187) may include a pump of specifications corresponding to the purpose of use of the water stored inside the water tank (180c).

[0116] The second filter (188) may be provided to surround the outer surface of the second pump (187), and may also be provided on the outer surface of the second pump (187) where a suction port is formed for water intake.

[0117] When the water tank (180c) pumps water stored inside, the second filter (188) can remove foreign substances from the pumped water and allow the water from which foreign substances have been removed to be delivered to the nozzle member (189).

[0118] The second filter (188) may include one or more filters of specifications corresponding to the intended use of the water stored inside the water tank (180c).

[0119] For example, if the purpose of use of the water stored inside the water tank (180c) is car washing, the second pump may be a pump of the first specification and the second filter may be a filter of the second specification.

[0120] If the water stored inside the water tank (180c) is intended for use as camping water, the second pump may be a pump of the third specification and the second filter may be a filter of the fourth specification. Here, the third specification may be lower than the first specification and the fourth specification may be higher than the second specification.

[0121] For example, the capacity of the second pump of the first specification may be greater than the capacity of the second pump of the third specification. Also, the filtering capacity of the second filter of the fourth specification may be higher than the filtering capacity of the second filter of the second specification.

[0122] The nozzle member (189) can be connected to an ejector line provided in the ejector, a supply line for car wash water, and a supply line for camping water.

[0123] The water tank (180c) may further include a second water level detector (Fig. 6, 192) for detecting the level of water stored inside.

[0124] A second water level detection unit may be provided in the second pump.

[0125] The water tank (180c) may further include an opening / closing member for opening / closing a port (h2) and an actuator for controlling the operation of the opening / closing member. In this case, the vehicle may cause the opening / closing port to be opened / closed by the opening / closing member by operating the actuator in response to water level information detected by the second water level detection unit of the water tank (180c).

[0126] The vehicle can control the output of water level information detected by the second water level detection unit of the water tank (180c) and, by operating an actuator in response to user input, allow the opening and closing port to be opened and closed by the opening and closing member.

[0127] In this way, by storing the water generated from the fuel cell stack in a water tank and then discharging it in response to the user's will, it is possible to prevent water from freezing inside the exhaust device under environmental conditions below the standard temperature.

[0128] FIG. 6 is a control configuration diagram of a vehicle according to an embodiment.

[0129] It includes a fuel cell stack (130), a first water level detection unit (191), a second water level detection unit (192), an input unit (210), a display unit (220), a control unit (230), a storage unit (231), a first driving unit (241) and a second driving unit (242).

[0130] The fuel cell stack (130) generates power through an electrochemical reaction of hydrogen and oxygen in response to a control command from the control unit (230) and transmits the generated power to the motor (150).

[0131] The fuel cell stack (130) can transfer the generated power to the battery (160). At this time, the battery (160) can perform charging.

[0132] The first water level detection unit (191) detects the water level of the reservoir (b1) of the silencer (180b) and transmits water level information regarding the detected water level to the control unit (230).

[0133] The second water level detection unit (192) detects the water level of the water tank (180c) and transmits water level information regarding the detected water level to the control unit (230). Depending on the embodiment, the second water level detection unit may be omitted.

[0134] The input unit (210) receives user input.

[0135] The input unit (210) can receive a water discharge command from the water tank.

[0136] The input unit (210) can also receive usage information regarding the purpose of water use of the water tank.

[0137] The input unit (210) can receive information on the water discharge of the water tank.

[0138] The display unit (220) may display fault information of the first pump in the silencer in response to a control command of the control unit (230), and may also display fault information of the first water level detection unit of the silencer.

[0139] The display unit (220) may also display water discharge request information of the water tank in response to a control command of the control unit (230).

[0140] The input section (210) and the display section (220) can be provided in the interior of the vehicle.

[0141] The input unit (210) can be implemented as a jog dial or touch pad for inputting movement commands of a cursor displayed on the display unit (220) and selection commands of icons or buttons.

[0142] The input unit (210) may include hardware devices such as various buttons or switches, pedals, keyboards, mice, trackballs, various levers, handles or sticks.

[0143] Additionally, the input unit (210) may include a device that is a GUI (Graphical User Interface), such as a touch panel, i.e., software. The touch panel may be implemented as a touch screen panel (TSP) and form a layered structure with the display unit (220).

[0144] The display unit (220) may be provided with a cathode ray tube (CRT), digital light processing (DLP) panel, plasma display panel, liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, electroluminescence (EL) panel, electrophoretic display (EPD) panel, electrochromic display (ECD) panel, light-emitting diode (LED) panel or organic light-emitting diode (OLED) panel, but is not limited thereto.

[0145] The control unit (230) controls the overall operation of the vehicle (1).

[0146] For example, the electronic control unit (230) controls the rotation and stopping of the motor (150) for driving the vehicle (1), and also controls the rotation speed of the motor (150) when the motor (150) rotates.

[0147] The control of the motor (150) by the control unit (230) can be performed in response to the driver's acceleration and braking, and the operation of the transmission. In addition, the control unit (230) can also control the power supply to various loads provided in the vehicle.

[0148] In addition, the supply of hydrogen and oxygen to the fuel cell stack (130), cooling operation, and water discharge operation are also controlled for power generation.

[0149] The air and water used in the electrochemical reaction in the fuel cell stack (130) may be discharged outside the vehicle (1) or may be recirculated to the fuel cell stack (130) and reused to react with hydrogen in the fuel cell stack (130).

[0150] (1) Below, we will describe the control configuration of the control unit (230) for removing water from the exhaust device in cases where the second water level detection unit is not provided in the water tank.

[0151] The control unit (230) obtains water height information (i.e., water level information) stored in the reservoir (b1) of the silencer (180b) based on water level information received from the first water level detection unit (191) during the operation of the fuel cell stack (130), controls the operation of the first pump based on the obtained water level information and reference water level information, and can stop the first pump based on the water level information and reference water level information obtained from the first water level detection unit (191) during the operation control of the first pump.

[0152] The operation of the fuel cell stack (130) includes producing power through the fuel cell stack and consuming the produced power.

[0153] More specifically, when the first pump is in a stopped state, the control unit (230) determines whether the water level of the reservoir (b1) of the silencer (180b) is above the first reference water level based on the water level information obtained from the first water level detection unit (191), and if it is determined that the water level of the reservoir (b1) of the silencer (180b) is above the first reference water level, the first pump can be controlled to operate at a preset rotational speed.

[0154] When the first pump is in operation, the control unit (230) determines whether the water level of the reservoir (b1) of the silencer (180b) is below the second reference water level based on the water level information obtained from the first water level detection unit (191), and if it is determined that the water level of the reservoir (b1) of the silencer (180b) is below the second reference water level, it can stop the first pump.

[0155] Here, the second standard water level may be lower than the first standard water level.

[0156] The control unit (230) can control the display unit (220) to output the first water level detection unit (191) and the first pump failure notification information when it is determined that there is no change in the water level of the reservoir (b1) of the silencer (180b) before and after the operation of the first pump.

[0157] (2) Below, a control configuration of a control unit (230) for removing water from an exhaust device is described, in the case where a second water level detection unit is provided in the water tank.

[0158] The control unit (230) determines whether water discharge from the water tank is necessary based on water level information and reference water level information received from the second water level detection unit (192) during the operation of the fuel cell stack (130), and if it is determined that water discharge from the water tank is necessary, it controls the display of water discharge request information through the display unit (220).

[0159] The control unit (230) determines whether the water level of the water tank is above the third reference water level based on the water level information and reference water level information received from the second water level detection unit (192), and if it is determined that the water level of the water tank is above the third reference water level, it determines that water discharge from the water tank is necessary, and if it is determined that the water level of the water tank is below the third reference water level, it determines that water discharge from the water tank is unnecessary.

[0160] If the control unit (230) determines that water discharge from the water tank is unnecessary, it can control the operation of the first pump to move the water inside the silencer to the water tank.

[0161] When the control unit (230) determines that water discharge from the water tank is unnecessary, it can obtain water level information of the reservoir (b1) of the silencer (180b) based on water level information received from the first water level detection unit (191) and control the operation of the first pump based on the obtained water level information and reference water level information.

[0162] When the control unit (230) receives water discharge implementation information corresponding to the water discharge of the water tank through the input unit (210), it can control the operation of the first pump based on the water level information received from the first water level detection unit (191) and the reference water level information.

[0163] The vehicle may further include a coupling detection unit (not shown) for detecting the separation or coupling state of the water tank. In this case, the control unit (230) may also determine whether water in the water tank has been discharged by checking the water level information detected by the second water level detection unit in response to the coupling signal received from the coupling detection unit (not shown).

[0164] Based on the water level information received from the first water level detection unit (191), the height information (i.e., water level information) of the water stored in the reservoir (b1) of the silencer (180b) is obtained, and the operation of the first pump is controlled based on the obtained water level information and reference water level information, and the first pump can be stopped during the operation control of the first pump based on the water level information and reference water level information obtained from the first water level detection unit (191).

[0165] The control unit (230) can control the display unit (220) to output the first water level detection unit (191) and the first pump failure notification information when it is determined that there is no change in the water level of the reservoir (b1) of the silencer (180b) during the operation control of the first pump.

[0166] In addition, if the device further includes an opening / closing member for opening / closing the opening / closing port (h2) of the water tank (180c) and an actuator for controlling the operation of the opening / closing member, the control unit (230) can cause the opening / closing port to be opened / closed by the opening / closing member by operating the actuator in response to water level information detected by the second water level detection unit of the water tank (180c).

[0167] In addition, the control unit (230) can operate the actuator in response to a water discharge command input through the input unit (210) so that the opening and closing member can open and close the opening and closing port.

[0168] The vehicle may further include a temperature detection unit for detecting the outdoor temperature, and in this case, the control unit (230) may control the operation of the first pump based on the water level information detected by the first and second water level detection units when it is determined that the outdoor temperature is below the reference temperature based on the outdoor temperature information detected by the temperature detection unit.

[0169] If the control unit (230) determines that the outdoor temperature exceeds the reference temperature based on the outdoor temperature information detected by the temperature detection unit, it is possible to deactivate the first and second water level detection units and the first pump, and to open and close the drain pipe of the silencer by the pressure of the water so that the water of the silencer is discharged to the outside.

[0170] The storage unit (231) stores reference water level information for the first and second reference water levels of the silencer and reference water level information for the third reference water level of the water tank.

[0171] The storage unit (231) may be implemented as at least one of a non-volatile memory device such as a cache, ROM (Read Only Memory), PROM (Programmable ROM), EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM), and flash memory, a volatile memory device such as RAM (Random Access Memory), or a storage medium such as a hard disk drive (HDD) and CD-ROM, but is not limited thereto.

[0172] The storage unit (231) may be a memory implemented as a separate chip from the processor described above in relation to the control unit (230), or it may be implemented as a single chip with the processor.

[0173] The first drive unit (241) controls the operation of the first pump in response to a control command from the control unit (230), and the second drive unit (242) controls the operation of the second pump in response to a control command from the control unit (230).

[0174] The first and second drive units (241, 242) can adjust the rotational speed of the first and second pumps in response to a control command from the control unit (230).

[0175] At least one component may be added or removed in response to the performance of the components of the power device (100) shown in FIG. 6. Additionally, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the relative positions of the components may be changed in response to the performance or structure of the system.

[0176] Meanwhile, each component illustrated in Fig. 6 refers to a software and / or hardware component such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) and an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC).

[0177] FIG. 7 is an example of a vehicle control sequence according to an embodiment, which is a vehicle control sequence in the case where a water level detection unit is not provided in the water tank.

[0178] The vehicle determines whether the fuel cell stack is being consumed (251), and if it determines that the fuel cell stack is being consumed, it detects the water level inside the muffler using the first water level detection unit (252).

[0179] The vehicle can obtain water level information of the reservoir (b1) of the muffler (180b) based on water level information received from the first water level detection unit (191).

[0180] The vehicle determines (253) whether the water level of the reservoir (b1) of the muffler (180b) is above the first standard water level based on the acquired water level information and the standard water level information, and if it is determined that the water level of the reservoir (b1) is below the first standard water level, it keeps the first pump in a stopped state, and if it is determined that the water level of the reservoir (b1) is above the first standard water level, it operates the first pump (254).

[0181] When the first pump is in operation, the vehicle determines (255) whether the water level of the reservoir (b1) of the muffler (180b) is below the second reference water level based on the water level information obtained from the first water level detection unit (191), and if it is determined that the water level of the reservoir (b1) of the muffler (180b) is below the second reference water level, the first pump can be stopped (256).

[0182] If the vehicle determines that the water level of the reservoir (b1) of the muffler (180b) is not below the second reference water level, it determines whether there is a change in the water level within the reservoir (257), and if it determines that there is no change in the water level, it outputs a fault notification (258).

[0183] That is, if the vehicle determines that the water level of the reservoir (b1) of the muffler (180b) exceeds the second standard water level, it can determine whether there is a change in water level.

[0184] The vehicle can check the amount of change in the water level of the reservoir (b1) of the silencer (180b) before the operation of the first pump and after the operation of the first pump, and if it is determined that the amount of change is less than a certain amount, it is possible to determine that there is no change in the water level.

[0185] FIG. 8 is another example of a vehicle control sequence according to an embodiment, which is a control sequence in which a water level detection unit is provided in the water tank.

[0186] The vehicle determines whether the fuel cell stack is being consumed (261), and if it determines that the fuel cell stack is being consumed, it detects the water level in the water tank using the second water level detection unit (262).

[0187] The vehicle determines whether it is possible to store water in the water tank based on the water level in the water tank (263), and if it is determined that it is impossible to store water in the water tank, it outputs a notification (264) indicating that the water in the water tank is discharged.

[0188] More specifically, the vehicle determines whether the water level of the water tank is above the third reference water level based on the water level information and reference water level information received from the second water level detection unit (192), and if it is determined that the water level of the water tank is above the third reference water level, it determines that water discharge from the water tank is necessary, and if it is determined that the water level of the water tank is below the third reference water level, it determines that water discharge from the water tank is unnecessary.

[0189] The fact that water drainage is required means that water storage within the water tank is impossible. Conversely, the fact that water drainage is unnecessary means that water storage within the water tank is possible.

[0190] If the vehicle determines that the water tank level is above the third standard level, it notifies the user that water needs to be drained because water storage in the tank is impossible.

[0191] When the vehicle determines that the water level in the water tank is below the third standard water level, it determines that water storage is possible in the water tank and detects the water level in the muffler using the first water level detection unit (265).

[0192] When the vehicle receives information regarding the discharge of water from the water tank, it determines that water storage is possible within the water tank and can detect the water level within the muffler using the first water level detection unit.

[0193] When the vehicle receives information regarding the discharge of water from the water tank, it is also possible to check whether the water in the water tank has been emptied by using a second water level detection unit to check the water level inside the water tank.

[0194] The vehicle determines (266) whether the water level of the reservoir (b1) of the muffler (180b) is above the first standard water level based on the acquired water level information and the standard water level information, and if it is determined that the water level of the reservoir (b1) is below the first standard water level, it keeps the first pump in a stopped state, and if it is determined that the water level of the reservoir (b1) is above the first standard water level, it operates the first pump (267).

[0195] When the first pump is in operation, the vehicle determines (268) whether the water level of the reservoir (b1) of the muffler (180b) is below the second reference water level based on the water level information obtained from the first water level detection unit (191), and if it is determined that the water level of the reservoir (b1) of the muffler (180b) is below the second reference water level, the first pump can be stopped (269).

[0196] If the vehicle determines that the water level of the reservoir (b1) of the muffler (180b) is not below the second reference water level, it determines (270) whether there is a change in the water level within the reservoir, and if it determines that there is no change in the water level, it outputs a fault notification (271).

[0197] That is, if the vehicle determines that the water level of the reservoir (b1) of the muffler (180b) exceeds the second standard water level, it can determine whether there is a change in water level.

[0198] The vehicle can check the amount of change in the water level of the reservoir (b1) of the silencer (180b) before the operation of the first pump and after the operation of the first pump, and if it is determined that the amount of change is less than a certain amount, it is possible to determine that there is no change in the water level.

[0199] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium that stores instructions executable by a computer. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code and, when executed by a processor, may generate a program module to perform the operation of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0200] Computer-readable recording media include all types of recording media that store instructions that can be decoded by a computer. Examples include ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), magnetic tape, magnetic disk, flash memory, optical data storage devices, etc. Explanation of the symbols

[0201] 1: Vehicle 10: Wheels 100: Power unit 130: Fuel cell stack 180: Exhaust device 230: Control unit 231: Storage unit

Claims

Claim 1 An exhaust device comprising: an exhaust line connected to a fuel cell stack through which water generated by an electrochemical reaction in the fuel cell stack flows; a muffler provided in the exhaust line for reducing exhaust noise; and a water tank connected to the muffler and storing water introduced through the muffler, wherein the muffler comprises a reservoir for storing water generated in the fuel cell stack, a first pump for pumping water from the reservoir, and a flow path connected to the water tank for delivering water pumped by the first pump to the water tank, wherein the muffler further comprises a drain pipe provided in the reservoir and automatically opening or closing by the pressure of the water stored in the reservoir, wherein the drain pipe comprises a body provided in the reservoir and having a plurality of drain holes and openings formed therein, a cover that reciprocates within the body to open and close the openings of the body, and an elastic member whose elastic force is adjusted in response to pressure applied to the cover. Claim 2 In claim 1, the silencer further comprises a first water level detection unit for detecting a water level, which is the height of the water in the reservoir, and the first pump is an exhaust device that performs a pumping operation in response to the water level of the reservoir detected by the first water level detection unit. Claim 3 An exhaust device according to claim 1, wherein the silencer is provided in the first pump and further comprises a first filter for removing foreign substances from the water pumped by the first pump. Claim 4 delete Claim 5 delete Claim 6 In claim 1, the water tank is an exhaust device comprising a housing provided with an opening for discharging stored water. Claim 7 In claim 6, the water tank further comprises a second pump provided in the housing and pumping water stored in the housing, and a second filter for removing foreign substances from the water pumped by the second pump. Claim 8 In claim 6, the water tank further comprises a second water level detection unit for detecting a water level, which is the height of the water stored in the housing. Claim 9 A vehicle comprising: a fuel cell stack; and an exhaust device including a muffler for storing water generated by an electrochemical reaction in the fuel cell stack and reducing exhaust noise, and a water tank for storing water introduced through the muffler, wherein the muffler of the exhaust device includes a reservoir for storing water generated in the fuel cell stack, a first pump for pumping water from the reservoir, and a flow path for delivering water pumped by the first pump to the water tank, wherein the muffler further includes a drain pipe provided in the reservoir and automatically opening or closing by the pressure of the water stored in the reservoir, and wherein the drain pipe includes a body provided in the reservoir and having a plurality of drain holes and openings formed therein, a cover that moves back and forth in a straight line within the body to open and close the openings of the body, and an elastic member whose elastic force is adjusted in response to pressure applied to the cover. Claim 10 In claim 9, the vehicle further comprises a first filter for removing foreign substances from water pumped by the first pump, wherein the muffler is provided in the first pump. Claim 11 delete Claim 12 delete Claim 13 In claim 9, the vehicle further comprises a water tank having a housing provided with an opening for discharging stored water, a second pump provided in the housing for pumping water stored in the housing, and a second filter for removing foreign substances from the water pumped by the second pump. Claim 14 A vehicle according to claim 9, further comprising: a first water level detection unit for detecting a water level, which is the height of water in a reservoir of the muffler; and a control unit that determines whether the water level of the reservoir is above a first reference water level based on water level information detected by the first water level detection unit during the consumption of the fuel cell stack, controls the operation of the first pump if it is determined that the water level of the reservoir is above the first reference water level, and controls the stop of the first pump if it is determined that the water level of the reservoir is below a second reference water level during the operation of the first pump. Claim 15 A vehicle according to claim 14, further comprising a display unit, wherein the control unit determines whether the water level of the reservoir changes based on water level information detected by the first water level detection unit during the operation of the first pump, and controls the display unit to display notification information regarding a malfunction if it is determined that the water level of the reservoir does not change. Claim 16 A vehicle according to claim 14, further comprising: a display unit; and a second water level detection unit for detecting a water level, which is the height of water stored in the water tank, wherein the control unit determines whether the water level of the water tank is above a third reference water level based on water level information detected by the second water level detection unit and reference water level information during the consumption of the fuel cell stack, and controls the display unit to output water discharge request information of the water tank if it is determined that the water level of the water tank is above the third reference water level. Claim 17 In claim 16, the control unit controls the operation of the first pump based on water level information detected by the first water level detection unit when it is determined that the water level of the water tank is less than the third reference water level. Claim 18 A vehicle according to claim 16, further comprising an input unit, wherein the control unit controls the operation of the first pump based on water level information detected by the first water level detection unit when water discharge transfer information is received through the input unit. Claim 19 A vehicle according to claim 16, further comprising an input unit, wherein the control unit controls the opening and closing of an opening and closing member provided in the water tank to discharge water from the water tank when a water discharge command is received through the input unit. Claim 20 A vehicle according to claim 9, further comprising a nozzle member provided in the water tank and for discharging water stored inside the water tank to the outside.

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