Fuel cell membrane humidifier having multiple humidification modules connected in parallel

Abstract

The present invention relates to a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell, in which multiple humidification modules are connected in parallel, the membrane humidifier comprising: a first humidification module including a first mid-case having a first air inlet provided on one side thereof and a first air outlet provided on the other side thereof and having one or more humidification membranes disposed therein; a second humidification module including a second mid-case having a second air inlet on one side thereof and a second air outlet on the other side thereof and having one or more humidification membranes disposed therein; and a connection member having a first coupling hole into which the first humidification module may be inserted and a second coupling hole into which the second humidification module may be inserted.

Description

Membrane humidifier for fuel cells with multiple humidifying modules connected in parallel

[0001] The present invention relates to a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected in parallel, and more particularly, to a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected in parallel and can be used by connecting the plurality of humidifying modules in parallel through a connecting member connecting the plurality of humidifying modules and an end cap coupled to the connecting member.

[0002] A fuel cell is a power-generating battery that combines hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity. Unlike conventional chemical cells like batteries or accumulators, fuel cells can continuously produce electricity as long as hydrogen and oxygen are supplied. They also have the advantage of no heat loss, making them about twice as efficient as internal combustion engines.

[0003] A fuel cell system includes a stack, which is an electricity-generating assembly of unit fuel cells composed of an air electrode and a fuel electrode, an air supply device for supplying air to the air electrode of the fuel cell, and a hydrogen supply device for supplying hydrogen to the fuel electrode of the fuel cell.

[0004] In order for the ion exchange membrane of the membrane-electrode assembly (MEA) of the polymer fuel cell of the fuel cell system to function smoothly, an appropriate amount of moisture is required, and for this purpose, a humidifier is provided in the air supply device of the fuel cell system to humidify the air supplied to the fuel cell.

[0005] The humidifier uses moisture in the hot and humid air discharged from the cathode of the fuel cell to humidify the dry air supplied through the air compressor of the air supply device, and supplies the humidified air to the cathode of the fuel cell.

[0006] Fuel cell humidifiers utilize a membrane humidification method. Membrane humidifiers achieve membrane humidification through a gas-to-gas moisture exchange process between the hot, humid exhaust gas emitted from the fuel cell's cathode and the dry air supplied by the air compressor. The membrane humidifier may include a hollow fiber membrane, through which moisture can be exchanged between the hot, humid exhaust gas and the dry air.

[0007] Meanwhile, fuel cell systems requiring high output require a large amount of moisture, which may require large-capacity membrane humidifiers or multiple membrane humidifiers connected together. However, manufacturing large-capacity membrane humidifiers requires changes to the product design, making it difficult to apply existing products.

[0008] To address these issues, conventional membrane humidifiers have traditionally been connected via hoses or pipelines. However, connecting multiple membrane humidifiers via hoses or pipelines increases pressure heat loss and complicates the system configuration. Furthermore, connecting multiple membrane humidifiers via hoses or pipelines makes it difficult to arrange them in parallel.

[0009] The present invention is intended to solve the above-described problem, and more specifically, relates to a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected in parallel, which can be used by connecting a plurality of humidifying modules in parallel through a connecting member that connects a plurality of humidifying modules and an end cap coupled to the connecting member.

[0010] In order to solve the above-described problem, a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected according to the present invention comprises: a first humidifying module including a first mid-case having a first air inlet on one side and a first air outlet on the other side, and in which at least one humidifying membrane is disposed; a second humidifying module including a second mid-case having a second air inlet on one side and a second air outlet on the other side, and in which at least one humidifying membrane is disposed; and a connecting member having a first connecting hole into which the first humidifying module can be inserted, and a second connecting hole into which the second humidifying module can be inserted.

[0011] In order to solve the above-described problem, in the membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected, one side of the first humidifying module having the first air inlet port can be fitted into the first joining hole of the connecting member, and one side of the second humidifying module having the second air inlet port can be fitted into the second joining hole of the connecting member.

[0012] In order to solve the above-described problem, a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell having a plurality of humidifying modules connected includes an end cap having an internal space and an air inlet that is open to the outside and communicates with the internal space, and the internal space of the end cap is communicated with the first air inlet of the first humidifying module and the second air inlet of the second humidifying module, and air introduced into the air inlet of the end cap can pass through the internal space and be introduced into the first air inlet of the first humidifying module and the second air inlet of the second humidifying module.

[0013] In order to solve the above-described problem, in the membrane humidifier for a fuel cell having a plurality of humidifying modules connected, the other side of the first humidifying module having the first air outlet can be fitted into the first joining hole of the connecting member, and the other side of the second humidifying module having the second air outlet can be fitted into the second joining hole of the connecting member.

[0014] In order to solve the above-described problem, a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell having a plurality of humidifying modules connected includes an end cap having an internal space and an air outlet open to the outside while communicating with the internal space, and the internal space of the end cap is communicated with the first air outlet of the first humidifying module and the second air outlet of the second humidifying module, and air discharged from the first air outlet of the first humidifying module and the second air outlet of the second humidifying module can pass through the internal space and be discharged to the air outlet of the end cap.

[0015] In order to solve the above-described problem, the sizes of the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole provided in the connecting member of the membrane humidifier for a fuel cell having a plurality of humidifying modules connected according to the present invention may be made to be different sizes.

[0016] In order to solve the above-described problem, the thickness of the connecting member at the point where the first connecting hole into which the first humidifying module is fitted is provided in the membrane humidifier for a fuel cell having a plurality of connected humidifying modules of the present invention may be thicker than the thickness of the connecting member at the point where the second connecting hole into which the second humidifying module is fitted is provided.

[0017] In order to solve the above-described problem, a first sealing member may be provided between the first joining hole of the connecting member and the first humidifying module of the membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected, and between the second joining hole of the connecting member and the second humidifying module.

[0018] In order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention provides a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell having a plurality of humidifying modules connected, the membrane humidifier comprising: a first humidifying module including a first mid-case having a first wet air inlet and a first wet air outlet and having at least one humidifying membrane disposed therein; a second humidifying module including a second mid-case having a second wet air inlet and a second wet air outlet and having at least one humidifying membrane disposed therein; and a connecting member having a first connecting hole into which the first wet air inlet or the first wet air outlet can be fitted, and a second connecting hole into which the second wet air inlet or the second wet air outlet can be fitted.

[0019] In order to solve the above-described problem, a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell having a plurality of humidifying modules connected includes an end cap having an internal space and a wet air inlet open to the outside while communicating with the internal space, wherein the first wet air inlet is fitted into the first joining hole of the connecting member, and the second wet air inlet is fitted into the second joining hole, and the internal space of the end cap is communicated with the first wet air inlet and the second wet air inlet, and wet air introduced into the wet air inlet of the end cap can pass through the internal space and be introduced into the first wet air inlet and the second wet air inlet.

[0020] In order to solve the above-described problem, a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell having a plurality of humidifying modules connected includes an end cap having an internal space and a wet air outlet open to the outside while communicating with the internal space, wherein the first wet air outlet is fitted into the first joining hole of the connecting member, and the second wet air outlet is fitted into the second joining hole, and the internal space of the end cap is communicated with the first wet air outlet and the second wet air outlet, and air discharged from the first wet air outlet and the second wet air outlet can pass through the internal space and be discharged to the wet air outlet of the end cap.

[0021] In order to solve the above-described problem, the sizes of the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole provided in the connecting member of the membrane humidifier for a fuel cell having a plurality of humidifying modules connected according to the present invention may be made to be different sizes.

[0022] In order to solve the above-described problem, the thickness of the connecting member at the point where the first connecting hole into which the first wet air inlet or the first wet air outlet is fitted is provided in the membrane humidifier for a fuel cell having a plurality of humidifying modules connected according to the present invention, may be thicker than the thickness of the connecting member at the point where the second connecting hole into which the second wet air inlet or the second wet air outlet is fitted is provided.

[0023] In order to solve the above-described problem, a sealing member may be provided between the first joining hole and the first wet air inlet or between the first joining hole and the first wet air outlet of a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected, and between the second joining hole and the second wet air inlet or between the second joining hole and the second wet air outlet.

[0024] The present invention relates to a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected in parallel, and has the advantage of being able to use a plurality of humidifying modules by connecting them in parallel through a connecting member connecting the plurality of humidifying modules and an end cap coupled to the connecting member.

[0025] In addition, the present invention has the advantage of improving the space utilization within the system by connecting a plurality of humidifying modules in parallel through a connecting member that connects a plurality of humidifying modules and an end cap that is coupled to the connecting member.

[0026] In addition, the present invention has the advantage of being able to use multiple humidifying modules while securing freedom in system design by connecting multiple humidifying modules in parallel through a connecting member that connects multiple humidifying modules and an end cap that is coupled to the connecting member.

[0027] In addition, the present invention has the advantage of being able to apply a membrane humidifier to a high-capacity fuel cell system by connecting a plurality of humidifying modules in parallel through a connecting member that connects a plurality of humidifying modules and an end cap coupled to the connecting member.

[0028] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a humidifying module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a first humidifying module and a second humidifying module arranged in parallel to arrange air inlets or air outlets in parallel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a connection member coupled to a first humidifying module and a second humidifying module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing an end cap coupled to a connecting member according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing that the sizes of the first and second connecting holes of the connecting member are formed differently according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing that, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the thickness of the connecting member at a point where a first connecting hole into which a first humidifying module is fitted is thicker than the thickness of the connecting member at a point where a second connecting hole into which a second humidifying module is fitted is provided.

[0034] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a first humidifying module and a second humidifying module arranged in parallel to arrange a humid air inlet or a humid air outlet in parallel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a connection member being connected to a first humidifying module and a second humidifying module, and an end cap being connected to the connection member according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of part AA of Fig. 8.

[0037] This specification clarifies the scope of the present invention and explains the principles of the invention and discloses embodiments thereof to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. The disclosed embodiments may be implemented in various forms.

[0038] Expressions such as “includes” or “may include” that may be used in various embodiments of the present invention indicate the existence of the disclosed function, operation, or component, etc., and do not limit one or more additional functions, operations, or components, etc. In addition, in various embodiments of the present invention, it should be understood that terms such as “includes” or “has” are intended to specify the existence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, and do not exclude in advance the possibility of the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0039] When a component is referred to as being "connected, coupled" to another component, it should be understood that while the component may be directly connected or coupled to the other component, there may also be a new component between the component and the other component. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another component, it should be understood that no new component exists between the component and the other component.

[0040] The terms first, second, etc. used in this specification may be used to describe various components, but the components should not be limited by the terms. The terms are used only to distinguish one component from another.

[0041] The present invention relates to a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected in parallel, and more particularly, to a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected in parallel through a connecting member connecting the plurality of humidifying modules and an end cap coupled to the connecting member, wherein the plurality of humidifying modules can be connected in parallel and used. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0042] A membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected in parallel according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a first humidifying module (110), a second humidifying module (210), and a connecting member (150).

[0043] The first humidification module (110) and the second humidification module (210) can humidify gas to be supplied to the fuel cell stack. The first humidification module (110) and the second humidification module (210) can have the same structure, and Fig. 1 illustrates the first humidification module (110).

[0044] However, this is not limited thereto, and the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) may be formed with the same structure but different sizes. In addition, the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) may be formed with different structures.

[0045] Referring to FIG. 1, the first humidifying module (110) may include a first mid-case (120) in which one or more humidifying membranes (121) or a plurality of humidifying membranes (121) are arranged. The first mid-case (120) may be a housing of the first humidifying module (110) and may humidify gas to be supplied to the stack through the humidifying membrane (121). According to an embodiment of the present invention, the humidifying membrane (121) may be a hollow fiber membrane.

[0046] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first mid-case (120) may include a cartridge (122) in which one or more humidifying films (121) are arranged. The cartridge (122) includes an inner case in which one or more of the humidifying films (121) are arranged, and the cartridge (122) may be a unit module in which one or more of the humidifying films (121) are arranged. The first mid-case (120) may be equipped with a plurality of the cartridges (122).

[0047] Referring to FIG. 1, a first air inlet (131) may be provided on one side of the first humidifying module (110), and a first air outlet (132) may be provided on the other side of the first humidifying module (110).

[0048] The first air inlet (131) is provided on one side of the first humidifying module (110), and dry air can be introduced into the first humidifying module (110) through the first air inlet (131). The dry air can be humidified by exchanging moisture with moist air inside the first humidifying module (110).

[0049] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first air inlet (131) and the first air outlet (132) may be open portions on one side and the other side of the first humidifying module (110) so that dry air can move.

[0050] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first air inlet (131) may be a portion that is open to the outside on one side of the first humidifying module (110) as shown in FIG. 1 so that dry air can be introduced. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the first air inlet (131) may be provided in an end cap coupled to the first humidifying module (110).

[0051] The first air outlet (132) is provided on the other side of the first humidifying module (110), and dry air humidified in the first humidifying module (110) can be discharged through the first air outlet (132).

[0052] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first air outlet (132) may be a portion that is open to the outside on the other side of the first humidifying module (110) as shown in FIG. 1 so that humidified dry air can be discharged. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the first air inlet (131) may be provided in an end cap coupled to the first humidifying module (110).

[0053] The second humidifying module (210) may have the same structure as the first humidifying module (110), and the second humidifying module (210) may have the same structure as the first humidifying module (110) but may have different sizes. In addition, the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) may have different structures.

[0054] The second humidifying module (210) may include a second mid-case (220) in which one or more humidifying membranes (221) or a plurality of humidifying membranes (221) are arranged. The second mid-case (220) may be a housing of the second humidifying module (210) and may humidify gas to be supplied to the stack through the humidifying membrane (221). According to an embodiment of the present invention, the humidifying membrane (121) may be a hollow fiber membrane.

[0055] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the second mid-case (220) may include a cartridge (222) in which one or more humidifying films are arranged. The cartridge (222) includes an inner case in which one or more of the humidifying films (221) are arranged, and the cartridge (222) may be a unit module in which one or more of the humidifying films (221) are arranged. The second mid-case (220) may be equipped with a plurality of the cartridges (222).

[0056] A second air inlet (231) may be provided on one side of the second humidifying module (210), and a second air outlet (232) may be provided on the other side of the second humidifying module (210).

[0057] The second air inlet (231) is provided on one side of the second humidifying module (210), and dry air can be introduced into the second humidifying module (210) through the second air inlet (231). The dry air can be humidified by exchanging moisture with moist air inside the second humidifying module (210).

[0058] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the second air inlet (231) and the second air outlet (232) may be open portions on one side and the other side of the second humidifying module (210) so that dry air can move.

[0059] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the second air inlet (231) may be a portion that is open to the outside on one side of the second humidifying module (210) so that dry air can be introduced. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the second air inlet (231) may be provided on an end cap coupled to the second humidifying module (210).

[0060] The second air outlet (232) is provided on the other side of the second humidifying module (210), and dry air humidified in the second humidifying module (210) can be discharged through the second air outlet (232).

[0061] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the second air outlet (232) may be a portion that is open to the outside on the other side of the second humidifying module (210) so that humidified dry air can be discharged. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the second air inlet (231) may be provided in an end cap coupled to the second humidifying module (210).

[0062] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the connecting member (150) is provided with a first connecting hole (151) into which the first humidifying module (110) can be fitted and a second connecting hole (152) into which the second humidifying module (210) can be fitted.

[0063] The above connecting member (150) may be used to connect and fix the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) when the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) are arranged in parallel as shown in Fig. 2. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the connecting member (150) may be a housing provided with the first connecting hole (151) and the second connecting hole (152).

[0064] According to an embodiment of the present invention, one side of the first humidifying module (110) provided with the first air inlet (131) can be fitted into the first joining hole (151) of the connecting member (150), and one side of the second humidifying module (210) provided with the second air inlet (231) can be fitted into the second joining hole (152) of the connecting member (150).

[0065] Referring to FIG. 4, a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected according to an embodiment of the present invention may include an end cap (160) having an internal space (161) and an air inlet (171) that is open to the outside and communicates with the internal space (161).

[0066] The end cap (160) is coupled to the connecting member (150), and the end cap (160) may be provided with one air inlet (171). Air introduced into the air inlet (171) may pass through the internal space (161) and be introduced into the first air inlet (131) of the first humidifying module (110) and the second air inlet (231) of the second humidifying module (210).

[0067] Specifically, the internal space (161) of the end cap (160) can be communicated with the first air inlet (131) of the first humidifying module (110) and the second air inlet (231) of the second humidifying module (210).

[0068] Through this, air introduced into the air inlet (171) of the end cap (160) can pass through the internal space (161) and be introduced into the first air inlet (131) of the first humidifying module (110) and the second air inlet (231) of the second humidifying module (210).

[0069] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the other side of the first humidifying module (110) provided with the first air outlet (132) can be fitted into the first joining hole (151) of the connecting member (150), and the other side of the second humidifying module (210) provided with the second air outlet (232) can be fitted into the second joining hole (152) of the connecting member (150).

[0070] Referring to FIG. 4, a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected according to an embodiment of the present invention may include an end cap (160) having an internal space (161) and an air outlet (172) that is open to the outside and communicates with the internal space (161).

[0071] The end cap (160) is coupled to the connecting member (150), and the end cap (160) may be provided with one air outlet (172). Air discharged through the first air outlet (132) of the first humidifying module (110) and the second air outlet (232) of the second humidifying module (210) may pass through the internal space (161) of the end cap (160) and be discharged through the air outlet (172).

[0072] Specifically, the internal space (161) of the end cap (160) can be communicated with the first air outlet (132) of the first humidifying module (110) and the second air outlet (232) of the second humidifying module (210).

[0073] Through this, the air discharged through the first air discharge port (132) of the first humidifying module (110) and the second air discharge port (232) of the second humidifying module (210) can pass through the internal space (161) of the end cap (160) and be discharged through the air discharge port (172) of the end cap (160).

[0074] Referring to FIG. 5, the size of the first connecting hole (151) and the size of the second connecting hole (152) of the connecting member (150) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be made to be different sizes.

[0075] As described above, the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) may be formed with different sizes. The first joining hole (151) and the second joining hole (152) may be formed with sizes corresponding to the sizes of the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) so that the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) can be fitted therein.

[0076] When the sizes of the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) are different from each other, the sizes of the first coupling hole (151) and the second coupling hole (152) may be different from each other.

[0077] Specifically, when the cross-sectional areas of the portions fitted into the first coupling hole (151) and the second coupling hole (152) in the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) are made of different sizes, the size of the first coupling hole (151) and the size of the second coupling hole (152) may be made of different sizes.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 6, the thickness (a) of the connecting member (150) at the point where the first connecting hole (151) into which the first humidifying module (110) is fitted is provided may be thicker than the thickness (b) of the connecting member (150) at the point where the second connecting hole (152) into which the second humidifying module (210) is fitted is provided.

[0079] As described above, the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) may be made of different sizes, and the lengths of the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) may also be made different.

[0080] Depending on the length of the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210), the thickness (a) of the connecting member (150) at the point where the first connecting hole (151) into which the first humidifying module (110) is fitted is provided, and the thickness (b) of the connecting member (150) at the point where the second connecting hole (152) into which the second humidifying module (210) is fitted is provided can be formed differently.

[0081] Specifically, the thickness can be increased at the joint point where a short humidifying module is fitted, and the thickness can be decreased at the joint point where a long humidifying module is fitted.

[0082] FIG. 6 illustrates a case where the length of the first humidifying module (110) is shorter than the length of the second humidifying module (210). Since the length of the first humidifying module (110) is shorter than the length of the second humidifying module (210), the thickness (a) of the connecting member (150) at the point where the first connecting hole (151) into which the first humidifying module (110) is fitted is provided may be thicker than the thickness (b) of the connecting member (150) at the point where the second connecting hole (152) into which the second humidifying module (210) is fitted is provided.

[0083] Referring to FIG. 3, a first sealing member (153) may be provided between the first joining hole (151) of the connecting member (150) and the first humidifying module (110), and between the second joining hole (152) of the connecting member (150) and the second humidifying module (210).

[0084] The first sealing member (153) can seal the gap between the first humidifying module (110) and the first coupling hole (151), and between the second humidifying module (210) and the second coupling hole (152).

[0085] When connecting a plurality of humidifying modules according to an embodiment of the present invention, air leakage that may occur between the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) and the connecting member (150) can be prevented through the first sealing member (153).

[0086] Referring to FIG. 3, a second sealing member (154) may be provided between the connecting member (150) and the end cap (160). The second sealing member (154) can seal the gap between the connecting member (150) and the end cap (160).

[0087] When connecting a plurality of humidifying modules according to an embodiment of the present invention, air leakage that may occur between the connecting member (150) and the end cap (160) can be prevented through the second sealing member (154).

[0088] Hereinafter, a connecting member connecting a humid air inlet and a humid air outlet of a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected in parallel according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 1, the first humidifying module (110) may be provided with a first wet air inlet (141) and a first wet air outlet (142). The first wet air inlet (141) and the first wet air outlet (142) may be provided on the same surface of the first mid-case (120) as shown in FIG. 1. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the first wet air inlet (141) and the first wet air outlet (142) may be provided on different surfaces of the first mid-case (120).

[0090] High temperature and high humidity wet air discharged from the fuel cell stack can be introduced into the first humidification module (110) through the first wet air inlet (141). The wet air introduced into the first humidification module (110) through the first wet air inlet (141) exchanges moisture with dry air, and then the wet air can be discharged through the first wet air outlet (142).

[0091] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first wet air inlet (141) may be a portion that is open to the outside of the first humidifying module (110) so that wet air can be introduced. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the first wet air inlet (141) may be provided with a wet air inlet port.

[0092] The first wet air outlet (142) can discharge wet air introduced into the first humidifying module (110). According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first wet air outlet (142) may be a portion of the first humidifying module (110) that is open to the outside so that wet air can be discharged. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the first wet air outlet (142) may be provided with a wet air discharge port.

[0093] The second humidifying module (210) may be provided with a second wet air inlet (241) and a second wet air outlet (242). The second wet air inlet (241) and the second wet air outlet (242) may be provided on the same surface of the second mid-case (220). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the second wet air inlet (241) and the second wet air outlet (242) may be provided on different surfaces of the second mid-case (220).

[0094] High temperature and high humidity wet air discharged from the fuel cell stack can be introduced into the second humidification module (210) through the second wet air inlet (241). The wet air introduced into the second humidification module (210) through the second wet air inlet (241) exchanges moisture with dry air, and then the wet air can be discharged through the second wet air outlet (242).

[0095] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the second wet air inlet (241) may be a portion that is open to the outside of the second humidifying module (210) so that wet air can be introduced. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the second wet air inlet (241) may be provided with a wet air inlet port.

[0096] The second wet air outlet (242) can discharge wet air introduced into the second humidifying module (210). According to an embodiment of the present invention, the second wet air outlet (242) may be a portion of the second humidifying module (210) that is open to the outside so that wet air can be discharged. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the second wet air outlet (242) may be provided with a wet air discharge port.

[0097] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the connecting member (150) is provided with a first connecting hole (151) into which the first wet air inlet (141) or the first wet air outlet (142) can be fitted, and a second connecting hole (152) into which the second wet air inlet (241) or the second wet air outlet (242) can be fitted.

[0098] The above connecting member (150) may be used to connect and fix the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) when the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) are arranged in parallel as shown in Fig. 7. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the connecting member (150) may be a housing provided with the first coupling hole (151) and the second coupling hole (152).

[0099] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first wet air inlet (141) can be fitted into the first joining hole (151) of the connecting member (150), and the second wet air inlet (241) can be fitted into the second joining hole (152) of the connecting member (150).

[0100] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected according to an embodiment of the present invention may include an end cap (160) having an internal space (161) and a wet air inlet (181) that is open to the outside and communicates with the internal space (161).

[0101] The above end cap (160) is coupled to the connecting member (150), and the end cap (160) may be provided with one wet air inlet (181). Wet air introduced into the wet air inlet (181) may pass through the internal space (161) and be introduced into the first wet air inlet (141) and the second wet air inlet (241).

[0102] Specifically, the internal space (161) of the end cap (160) can be communicated with the first wet air inlet (141) and the second wet air inlet (241). Through this, wet air introduced into the wet air inlet (181) of the end cap (160) can pass through the internal space (161) and be introduced into the first wet air inlet (141) and the second wet air inlet (241).

[0103] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first wet air discharge port (142) can be fitted into the first joining hole (151) of the connecting member (150), and the second wet air discharge port (242) can be fitted into the second joining hole (152) of the connecting member (150).

[0104] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected according to an embodiment of the present invention may include an end cap (160) having an internal space (161) and a wet air outlet (182) open to the outside while communicating with the internal space (161).

[0105] The end cap (160) is coupled to the connecting member (150), and the end cap (160) may be provided with one wet air outlet (182). The wet air discharged from the first wet air outlet (142) and the second wet air outlet (242) may pass through the internal space (161) and be discharged through the wet air outlet (182) of the end cap (160).

[0106] Specifically, the internal space (161) of the end cap (160) can be communicated with the first wet air outlet (142) and the second wet air outlet (242). Through this, the wet air discharged from the first wet air outlet (142) and the second wet air outlet (242) can pass through the internal space (161) and be discharged to the wet air outlet (182) of the end cap (160).

[0107] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the size of the first connecting hole (151) and the size of the second connecting hole (152) of the connecting member (150) may be different sizes.

[0108] As described above, the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) may be formed in different sizes. The first wet air inlet (141) or the first wet air outlet (142) of the first humidifying module (110) and the second wet air inlet (241) or the second wet air outlet (242) of the second humidifying module (210) may be fitted into the first joining hole (151) and the second joining hole (152).

[0109] When the sizes of the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) are different from each other, the sizes of the first coupling hole (151) and the second coupling hole (152) may be different from each other.

[0110] Specifically, when the cross-sectional areas of the portions where the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) are fitted into the first coupling hole (151) and the second coupling hole (152) are made of different sizes, the size of the first coupling hole (151) and the size of the second coupling hole (152) may be made of different sizes.

[0111] The thickness (a) of the connecting member (150) at the point where the first connecting hole (151) into which the first wet air inlet (141) or the first wet air outlet (142) of the first humidifying module (110) is fitted is provided may be thicker than the thickness (b) of the connecting member (150) at the point where the second connecting hole (152) into which the second wet air inlet (241) or the second wet air outlet (242) of the second humidifying module (210) is fitted is provided.

[0112] As described above, the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) may be made of different sizes, and the heights of the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) may also be made different.

[0113] Depending on the heights of the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210), the thickness of the connecting member (150) at the point where the first connecting hole (151) into which the first humidifying module (110) is fitted is provided and the thickness (b) of the connecting member (150) at the point where the second connecting hole (152) into which the second humidifying module (210) is fitted is provided can be made different from each other.

[0114] Specifically, the thickness can be increased at the joint point where a humidifying module with a low height is fitted, and the thickness can be decreased at the joint point where a humidifying module with a high height is fitted.

[0115] The height of the first humidifying module (110) may be lower than the height of the second humidifying module (210). Since the height of the first humidifying module (110) is lower than the height of the second humidifying module (210), the thickness (a) of the connecting member (150) at the point where the first connecting hole (151) into which the first wet air inlet (141) or the first wet air outlet (142) of the first humidifying module (110) is fitted may be thicker than the thickness (b) of the connecting member (150) at the point where the second connecting hole (152) into which the second wet air inlet (241) or the second wet air outlet (242) of the second humidifying module (210) is fitted is provided.

[0116] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, a first sealing member (153) may be provided between the first joining hole (151) of the connecting member (150) and the first wet air inlet (141) or between the first joining hole (151) and the first wet air outlet (142), and between the second joining hole (152) of the connecting member (150) and the second wet air inlet (241) or between the second joining hole (152) and the second wet air outlet (242).

[0117] The first sealing member (153) can seal a gap between the first joining hole (151) and the first wet air inlet (141), or between the first joining hole (151) and the first wet air outlet (142), or between the second joining hole (152) and the second wet air inlet (241), or between the second joining hole (152) and the second wet air outlet (242).

[0118] When connecting a plurality of humidifying modules according to an embodiment of the present invention, air leakage that may occur between the first humidifying module (110) and the second humidifying module (210) and the connecting member (150) can be prevented through the first sealing member (153).

[0119] A second sealing member (154) may be provided between the connecting member (150) and the end cap (160). The second sealing member (154) can seal the gap between the connecting member (150) and the end cap (160).

[0120] When connecting a plurality of humidifying modules according to an embodiment of the present invention, air leakage that may occur between the connecting member (150) and the end cap (160) can be prevented through the second sealing member (154).

[0121] A membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected in parallel according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention has the following effects.

[0122] A membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected in parallel according to an embodiment of the present invention has the advantage of being able to use a plurality of humidifying modules by connecting them in parallel through a connecting member connecting the plurality of humidifying modules and an end cap coupled to the connecting member.

[0123] In addition, a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected in parallel according to an embodiment of the present invention has the advantage of reducing pressure and heat loss by connecting a plurality of humidifying modules in parallel through a connecting member formed of a separate housing with a first connecting hole and a second connecting hole without using a separate hose or pipeline.

[0124] In addition, a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected in parallel according to an embodiment of the present invention has the advantage of a simple system configuration since the plurality of humidifying modules are connected in parallel through a connecting member formed of a separate housing and having a first connecting hole and a second connecting hole without using a separate hose or pipeline.

[0125] In addition, a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected in parallel according to an embodiment of the present invention has the advantage of improving the space utilization within the system by using a plurality of humidifying modules connected in parallel through a connecting member connecting the plurality of humidifying modules and an end cap coupled to the connecting member.

[0126] In addition, a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected in parallel according to an embodiment of the present invention has the advantage of being able to use a plurality of humidifying modules while securing freedom in the design of the system by using a plurality of humidifying modules connected in parallel through a connecting member connecting the plurality of humidifying modules and an end cap coupled to the connecting member.

[0127] In addition, the membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected in parallel according to an embodiment of the present invention has the advantage of being able to apply the membrane humidifier to a high-capacity fuel cell system by using a plurality of humidifying modules connected in parallel through a connecting member connecting the plurality of humidifying modules and an end cap coupled to the connecting member.

[0128] While the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, these are merely exemplary, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations of the embodiments are possible. Therefore, the true scope of technical protection of the present invention should be determined by the technical spirit of the appended claims.

Claims

1. In a membrane humidifier for fuel cells, A first humidifying module including a first mid-case having a first air inlet on one side and a first air outlet on the other side, and having one or more humidifying membranes arranged therein; A second humidifying module including a second mid-case having a second air inlet on one side and a second air outlet on the other side, and having one or more humidifying membranes arranged therein; A membrane humidifier for a fuel cell, characterized in that it includes a connecting member having a first connecting hole into which the first humidifying module can be inserted and a second connecting hole into which the second humidifying module can be inserted.

2. In paragraph 1, One side of the first humidifying module having the first air inlet is fitted into the first joining hole of the connecting member, A membrane humidifier for a fuel cell, wherein a plurality of humidifying modules are connected, characterized in that the second connecting hole of the connecting member is fitted into one side of the second humidifying module having the second air inlet port.

3. In paragraph 2, An end cap having an internal space and an air inlet open to the outside while communicating with the internal space, The internal space of the end cap is connected to the first air inlet of the first humidifying module and the second air inlet of the second humidifying module, A membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected, characterized in that air introduced into the air inlet of the end cap passes through the internal space and is introduced into the first air inlet of the first humidifying module and the second air inlet of the second humidifying module.

4. In paragraph 1, The other side of the first humidifying module having the first air outlet is fitted into the first connecting hole of the above connecting member, A membrane humidifier for a fuel cell having a plurality of humidifying modules connected, characterized in that the other side of the second humidifying module having the second air outlet is fitted into the second joining hole of the connecting member.

5. In paragraph 4, An end cap having an internal space and an air outlet open to the outside while communicating with the internal space, The internal space of the end cap is connected to the first air outlet of the first humidifying module and the second air outlet of the second humidifying module, A membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected, characterized in that the air discharged from the first air discharge port of the first humidifying module and the second air discharge port of the second humidifying module passes through the internal space and is discharged to the air discharge port of the end cap.

6. In paragraph 1, A membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected, characterized in that the sizes of the first connecting hole and the second connecting hole provided in the connecting member are different sizes.

7. In paragraph 1, The thickness of the connecting member at the point where the first connecting hole into which the first humidifying module is fitted is provided is A membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected, characterized in that the thickness of the connecting member at the point where the second connecting hole into which the second humidifying module is fitted is thicker than that of the connecting member.

8. In paragraph 1, A membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected, characterized in that a first sealing member is provided between the first connecting hole of the connecting member and the first humidifying module, and between the second connecting hole of the connecting member and the second humidifying module.

9. In membrane humidifiers for fuel cells, A first humidifying module including a first mid-case having a first humidifying air inlet and a first humidifying air outlet and having one or more humidifying membranes arranged therein; A second humidification module including a second mid-case having a second humidification air inlet and a second humidification air outlet and having one or more humidification membranes arranged therein; A membrane humidifier for a fuel cell, characterized in that it comprises a connecting member having a first connecting hole into which the first wet air inlet or the first wet air outlet can be fitted, and a second connecting hole into which the second wet air inlet or the second wet air outlet can be fitted; 10. In paragraph 9, An end cap having an internal space and a moist air inlet open to the outside while communicating with the internal space, The first wet air inlet is fitted into the first joining hole of the above connecting member, and the second wet air inlet is fitted into the second joining hole. The internal space of the end cap is connected to the first wet air inlet and the second wet air inlet, A membrane humidifier for a fuel cell having a plurality of humidifying modules connected, characterized in that the moist air introduced into the moist air inlet of the end cap passes through the internal space and is introduced into the first moist air inlet and the second moist air inlet.

11. In paragraph 9, An end cap having an internal space and a moist air outlet open to the outside while communicating with the internal space, The first wet air outlet is fitted into the first connecting hole of the connecting member, and the second wet air outlet is fitted into the second connecting hole. The internal space of the above end cap is connected to the first wet air outlet and the second wet air outlet, A membrane humidifier for a fuel cell having a plurality of humidifying modules connected, characterized in that the air discharged from the first wet air outlet and the second wet air outlet passes through the internal space and is discharged to the wet air outlet of the end cap.

12. In paragraph 9, A membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected, characterized in that the sizes of the first connecting hole and the second connecting hole provided in the connecting member are different sizes.

13. In paragraph 9, The thickness of the connecting member at the point where the first joint hole into which the first wet air inlet or the first wet air outlet is fitted is provided, A membrane humidifier for a fuel cell in which a plurality of humidifying modules are connected, characterized in that the thickness of the connecting member is thicker than that of the second connecting hole at the point where the second humid air inlet or the second humid air outlet is fitted.

14. In paragraph 9, Between the first coupling hole and the first wet air inlet or between the first coupling hole and the first wet air outlet, A membrane humidifier for a fuel cell having a plurality of humidifying modules connected, characterized in that a sealing member is provided between the second coupling hole and the second wet air inlet or between the second coupling hole and the second wet air outlet.

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