Fuel cell system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fuel cell system comprising an air circuit and a cooling circuit (70) for cooling the fuel cell, the air circuit comprising an air supply line (31) connected to the cathode inlet of the cell, which air supply line (31) comprises a compressor (40), and further comprising an air discharge line (32) connected to the cathode outlet (14). The fuel cell system (1) is mounted in a spatial arrangement comprising: - positioning a portion of the air supply line (31) extending from the compressor (40) to the cathode inlet above the cooling circuit (70) in the direction of elevation (Z) of the fuel cell system; and - positioning the air circuit and the cooling circuit (70) next to the fuel cell in a plane perpendicular to the direction of elevation (Z).

Description

[0001] TITLE: Fuel Cell System

[0002] The present invention relates to a fuel cell system, preferably for a vehicle.

[0003] A fuel cell is a device that generates electricity through an electrochemical reaction between a fuel, in particular dihydrogen, also known more simply as hydrogen, and an oxidizer, in particular dioxygen, also known more simply as oxygen, typically that of the air.

[0004] This study focuses primarily on proton exchange membrane fuel cells with a solid electrolyte, commonly known by the acronym PEMFC, which typically consist of a stack of individual cells, each acting as an electrochemical generator. A cooling fluid, such as glycol water, is also typically circulated within the stack.

[0005] Hydrogen, air, and coolant are delivered to the fuel cell via dedicated circuits. Specifically, the air circuit comprises a supply line and an exhaust line, connected to a cathode inlet and cathode outlet of the fuel cell, respectively. A compressor is used to force pressurized air into the air circuit and the cathode compartments of the fuel cell. Additionally, a humidifier is often used to humidify the air flowing through the supply line.

[0006] The CN210136961 document describes an example of a fuel cell system comprising a frame on which are mounted in several layers the fuel cell, the air circuit, the cooling circuit, the hydrogen circuit, the controller and the DC converter.

[0007] However, this system is not entirely satisfactory in terms of maintenance and safety. Not only does the arrangement of the system's components make maintenance complicated due to a lack of accessibility, but it also presents a significant risk that a leak in the cooling circuit could damage other components.

[0008] The aim of the present invention is to provide a compact, safe fuel cell system that allows for easier maintenance and integration into a vehicle.

[0009] To this end, the invention relates to a first embodiment of a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell, an air circuit adapted to circulate air outside the fuel cell, and a cooling circuit adapted to circulate a cooling fluid outside the fuel cell.

[0010] the fuel cell comprising a cathode inlet, a cathode outlet, a cooling inlet, and a cooling outlet;

[0011] the air circuit comprising an air supply line connected to the cathode inlet, the air supply line comprising a compressor, and an air exhaust line connected to the cathode outlet;

[0012] the fuel cell cooling circuit comprising a cooling supply line connected to the cooling inlet, a cooling fluid circulation system, and a cooling outlet line connected to the cooling outlet;

[0013] in which the fuel cell system extends in an elevation direction, a longitudinal direction, and a lateral direction, perpendicular to each other, and the fuel cell system is mounted in a spatial arrangement comprising:

[0014] - the positioning of a portion of the air supply line extending from the compressor to the cathode inlet above the cooling circuit in the upward direction; and

[0015] - the positioning of the air circuit and the cooling circuit next to the fuel cell in a plane perpendicular to the direction of elevation.

[0016] This spatial arrangement ensures, in a compact manner, the safety and ease of maintenance of the fuel cell system. Indeed, in the event of a coolant leak, the critical part of the supply line is protected. Furthermore, positioning the air supply line and the cooling circuit on the side of the fuel cell allows for the separation of an area for accessing components requiring maintenance—namely, the components of these circuits—from an area requiring no maintenance—namely, the fuel cell itself.

[0017] According to other advantageous aspects of the invention, the first embodiment of the fuel cell system comprises one or more of the following features, taken individually or in any technically possible combination:

[0018] - the fuel cell system includes a support chassis comprising a first compartment housing the fuel cell and a second compartment housing the air circuit and the cooling circuit, the second compartment being offset from the first compartment in a plane perpendicular to the direction of elevation.

[0019] - the second compartment has an occupancy area, taken in projection in a plane perpendicular to the direction of elevation, the second compartment housing the compressor, the spatial arrangement of the fuel cell system including the positioning of the compressor at a center of the occupancy area of ​​the second compartment.

[0020] - the second compartment has an occupancy area, taken in projection in a plane perpendicular to the direction of elevation, the second compartment having a peripheral edge delimiting the occupancy area, the air supply line also including a cooler adapted to cool the air circulating in the air supply line and / or a humidifier configured to humidify the air flowing in the air supply line.

[0021] - the second compartment houses the cooler, the spatial arrangement including the positioning of the cooler on one side of the peripheral edge, preferably parallel to the lateral direction.

[0022] - the second compartment houses the humidifier, the spatial arrangement including the positioning of the humidifier substantially in a corner of the occupied surface, preferably so as to overlap the peripheral edge.

[0023] - the cooler is located downstream of the compressor, the spatial arrangement including the positioning of the cooler and the humidifier on either side of the compressor in the longitudinal direction.

[0024] - the spatial arrangement includes the positioning of the compressor, in the direction of elevation, at least partly below the cooler and / or humidifier.

[0025] - a portion of the air supply line extending between the chiller and the humidifier runs along the peripheral edge of the occupied surface and includes only one bend projecting into a plane perpendicular to the direction of elevation.

[0026] - a portion of the air supply line extending between the compressor and the cooler comprises only two bends projecting in a plane perpendicular to the direction of elevation and / or only one bend projecting in a plane passing through the direction of elevation.

[0027] - the air supply line includes an air inlet connector, the air supply line connecting the air inlet connector to the cathode inlet), the spatial arrangement includes positioning the air inlet connector on one side of the peripheral edge, preferably on the opposite side of the peripheral edge to the cooler in the longitudinal direction, preferably below the humidifier in the elevation direction.

[0028] - the fuel cell system includes an exhaust device connected at least to the air exhaust line, the exhaust device including an exhaust outlet connector, the spatial arrangement including the positioning of the exhaust outlet connector on one side of the peripheral edge, preferably below the humidifier in the direction of elevation.

[0029] - the spatial arrangement includes positioning the exhaust outlet connector on the same side of the peripheral edge as the air inlet connector, preferably below the air inlet connector in the elevation direction.

[0030] - the second compartment having an occupancy area, projected onto a plane perpendicular to the direction of elevation, the second compartment (104) having a peripheral edge delimiting the occupancy area; and, in which:

[0031] * The fuel cell cooling circuit includes a cooling inlet connector for the cooling supply line and a cooling outlet connector for the cooling exhaust line.

[0032] * the cooling circuit also including a deionization cartridge configured to eliminate ions dissolved in the coolant circulating in the cooling circuit, the deionization cartridge including a deionization inlet connector and a deionization outlet connector,

[0033] * the spatial arrangement including the positioning of the cooling inlet connector, the cooling outlet connector, the deionization inlet connector and the deionization outlet connector on the same side of the peripheral edge.

[0034] - the system further includes an auxiliary cooling circuit configured to cool components external to the fuel cell, the external components including the compressor, the auxiliary circuit including an auxiliary input connector and an auxiliary output connector, the spatial arrangement including the positioning of the cooling input connector, the cooling output connector, the auxiliary input connector, the auxiliary output connector on the same side of the peripheral edge.

[0035] - the spatial arrangement including the positioning of the cooling inlet connector and the cooling outlet connector, below, in the direction of elevation, the auxiliary input connector and the auxiliary outlet connector.

[0036] Independently, the invention also relates to a second embodiment of a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell, an air circuit adapted to circulate air outside the fuel cell, a cooling circuit adapted to circulate a cooling fluid outside the fuel cell, and an exhaust device, the fuel cell comprising a cathode inlet, a cathode outlet, a cooling inlet, and a cooling outlet;

[0037] the air circuit comprising an air supply line connected to the cathode inlet, and an air exhaust line connected to the cathode outlet;

[0038] the air supply line including an air inlet connector, the air supply line connecting the air inlet connector to the cathode ray inlet,

[0039] the exhaust device being connected at least to the air exhaust line, the exhaust device including an exhaust outlet connector;

[0040] the fuel cell system also comprising a support chassis including a first compartment housing the fuel cell and a second compartment housing the air circuit and the cooling circuit, the second compartment having an occupancy area, taken in projection in a plane perpendicular to the direction of elevation, the second compartment having a peripheral edge delimiting the occupancy area;

[0041] the fuel cell system extending in an elevation direction, a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction, perpendicular to each other, and the fuel cell system being mounted in a spatial arrangement, the spatial arrangement including the positioning of the exhaust outlet connector on the same side of the peripheral edge as the air inlet connector, preferably below the air inlet connector in the elevation direction.

[0042] According to other advantageous aspects of the invention, the second embodiment of the fuel cell system comprises one or more of the above features of the first embodiment, taken individually or in all technically possible combinations.

[0043] Independently, the invention also relates to a third embodiment of a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell, an air circuit adapted to circulate air outside the fuel cell, a cooling circuit adapted to circulate a cooling fluid outside the fuel cell, and an auxiliary cooling circuit configured to cool components external to the fuel cell.

[0044] the fuel cell comprising a cathode inlet, a cathode outlet, a cooling inlet, and a cooling outlet;

[0045] the air circuit comprising an air supply line connected to the cathode inlet, and an air exhaust line connected to the cathode outlet;

[0046] the fuel cell cooling circuit comprising a cooling inlet connector, a cooling supply line connecting the cooling inlet connector to the fuel cell cooling inlet, a cooling fluid circulation system, a cooling drain line connected to the cooling outlet, and a cooling outlet connector connected to the cooling drain line,

[0047] the auxiliary circuit comprising an auxiliary input connector and an auxiliary output connector,

[0048] the fuel cell system also comprising a support chassis including a first compartment housing the fuel cell and a second compartment housing the air circuit and the cooling circuit, the second compartment having an occupancy area, taken in projection in a plane perpendicular to the direction of elevation, the second compartment having a peripheral edge delimiting the occupancy area;

[0049] the fuel cell system extending in an elevation direction, a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction, perpendicular to each other, and the fuel cell system being mounted in a spatial arrangement, the spatial arrangement including the positioning of the cooling inlet connector, the cooling outlet connector, the auxiliary inlet connector, the auxiliary outlet connector on the same side of the peripheral edge.

[0050] According to other advantageous aspects of the invention, the third embodiment of the fuel cell system comprises one or more of the above features of the first embodiment, taken individually or in all technically possible combinations.

[0051] The invention will become clearer upon reading the following description, given solely by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the drawings in which:

[0052] [Fig. 1] Figure 1 is an example of a diagram of a fuel cell system;

[0053] [Fig. 2] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of the fuel cell system of Figure 1;

[0054] [Fig. 3] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of the air circuit, cooling circuit and auxiliary cooling circuit of the fuel cell system of Figure 2;

[0055] [Fig. 4] Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view of the cooling circuit and auxiliary cooling circuit of the fuel cell system in Figure 2;

[0056] [Fig. 5] Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view of the cooling circuit of the fuel cell system of Figure 2; [Fig. 6] Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of the air circuit of the fuel cell system of Figure 2;

[0057] [Fig. 7] Figure 7 is a schematic top view of the air circuit and chassis of the stack system in Figure 2; and

[0058] [Fig. 8] Figure 8 is a schematic side view of the stack system in Figure 2.

[0059] Figures 1 and 2 show a fuel cell system 1 which is intended, for example, to be integrated into an electric motor vehicle, so that the fuel cell system 1 produces electrical energy to power the aforementioned electric motor.

[0060] The fuel cell system 1 includes a fuel cell 10 in which fluids circulate for the purposes of the operation of the fuel cell 10. Thus, during the operation of the fuel cell 10, the latter is supplied, at the same time, with a fuel gas, typically pure dihydrogen, more commonly called "hydrogen" for the sake of simplicity, with an oxidizing gas, typically dioxygen from the air, more commonly called "oxygen" for the sake of simplicity, and with a cooling fluid, for example glycol water.

[0061] In practice, as illustrated in Figure 1, the fuel cell 10 comprises the following components for this purpose:

[0062] - an anodic inlet 11 through which the fuel cell 10 is intended to be supplied with hydrogen for reaction within the fuel cell,

[0063] - an anodic outlet 12 through which the fuel cell 10 is intended to discharge hydrogen that has not been consumed inside the fuel cell,

[0064] - a cathode inlet 13 through which the fuel cell 10 is intended to be supplied with oxygen, typically oxygen from the air, intended to react inside the fuel cell,

[0065] - a cathode outlet 14 through which the fuel cell 10 is intended to expel oxygen not consumed within the fuel cell, typically mixed with the other components of the air supplying the fuel cell, - a cooling inlet 15 through which the fuel cell 10 is intended to admit cooling fluid, and

[0066] - a cooling outlet 16 through which the fuel cell 10 is intended to discharge cooling fluid.

[0067] As schematically represented in Figure 1, the fuel cell 10 generally comprises a stack 17 of electrochemical cells, each having an anodic compartment and a cathodic compartment, separated from each other by a proton exchange membrane. Depending on the direction in which the electrochemical cells of the stack 17 are stacked, a cooling compartment is interposed between the electrochemical cells of each pair of adjacent electrochemical cells. In practice, the fuel cell 10 comprises an integer number N of electrochemical cells, N preferably being between one and several hundred.

[0068] When the fuel cell 10 is operating in steady state, hydrogen feeds the anodic compartments via the anodic inlet 11, while at the same time, oxygen, typically from the air, feeds the cathodic compartments via the cathodic inlet 13. The hydrogen not consumed in the anodic compartments is discharged from the anodic compartments via the anodic outlet 12, typically mixed with nitrogen, while at the same time, the oxygen not consumed in the cathodic compartments is discharged from the cathodic compartments via the cathodic outlet 14, typically mixed with the other components of the air that supplied these cathodic compartments.It is understood that the respective anodic compartments of the stack 17 jointly form an anode of the fuel cell 10 while the respective cathodic compartments of this stack jointly form a cathode of the fuel cell.

[0069] The cathode is connected to an electrical output connector, which is the positive output connector, and the anode is connected to another electrical output connector, which is the negative output connector. These positive and negative connectors collect the current generated by the fuel cell and transfer it to a current consumer, such as an electric motor or a battery, preferably via a power conversion device. The operation and components of such a system are well known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in further detail here.

[0070] The fuel cell system 1 also typically includes a housing 18 containing the fuel cell 10.

[0071] Regardless of the embodiment of the fuel cell 10, the fuel cell system 1 includes a hydrogen circuit 20 and an air circuit 30 which are adapted to discharge hydrogen and air, respectively, outside the fuel cell 10. The fuel cell system 1 further includes an exhaust device 60.

[0072] The fuel cell system 1 also includes a cooling circuit 70 to cool the fuel cell.

[0073] The fuel cell system 1 also preferably includes an auxiliary cooling circuit 90 configured to cool components external to the fuel cell.

[0074] The fuel cell system 1 also preferably includes a support frame 100, the latter advantageously serving to support the aforementioned compounds.

[0075] According to the invention, the fuel cell system 1 is mounted in a spatial arrangement which will be described in more detail below.

[0076] As illustrated in Figure 1, the fuel cell system 1 extends along an elevation direction Z, a longitudinal direction X and a lateral direction Y, perpendicular to each other.

[0077] The Z-axis elevation direction is parallel to and in the same direction as the vertical direction when the fuel cell system 1 is integrated into the vehicle and the vehicle is resting on a substantially horizontal ground surface. In other words, when the fuel cell system 1 is integrated into the vehicle and the vehicle is resting on a substantially horizontal ground surface, the Z-axis elevation direction is perpendicular to and away from the ground surface.

[0078] The fuel cell system 1 is shown in Figure 1 integrated into a vehicle and shown in Figure 2 isolated from the vehicle.

[0079] The fuel cell system 1 thus includes connectors, described in more detail later, which are configured to connect the fuel cell system 1 to the vehicle components when the system is integrated into the vehicle.

[0080] The housing is attached to the support chassis 100.

[0081] The housing 18, or casing, or enclosure, is, for example, of a roughly parallelepiped shape. The housing 18 is advantageously made of a metallic material, for example, aluminum or cast aluminum.

[0082] The fuel cell 10 is arranged in the casing 18. In other words, the casing 18 forms an internal volume, in which the fuel cell 10 is arranged.

[0083] Preferably, the casing 18 forms a sealed enclosure to protect the fuel cell from the external environment. It also contains any emissions that might result from leaks from the fuel cell 10, for example, from one of the fluids that flows through the electrochemical cells forming the stack 17, such as a leak of oxygen, hydrogen, coolant, or water resulting from the electrochemical reaction.

[0084] The casing 18 includes a lower wall, which extends along a plane perpendicular to the Z elevation direction.

[0085] The housing 18 advantageously includes an upper wall, which extends parallel to the lower wall and opposite the lower wall in the elevation direction Z.

[0086] The housing 18 also includes side walls joining the lower wall to the upper wall. The lower, upper, and side walls internally define the internal volume of the housing 18.

[0087] In one embodiment, the electrical output connectors of the fuel cell 10 are arranged in the housing 18 or are located outside the housing 18, for example protruding from the housing 18.

[0088] As schematically represented in Figure 1, the hydrogen circuit 20 includes a hydrogen tank 2 and a hydrogen supply line 21 which connects the hydrogen tank 2 to the anodic inlet 11, so as to be able to supply the fuel cell 10 with hydrogen from the hydrogen tank 2.

[0089] When the fuel cell is operating in steady state, hydrogen from the hydrogen tank 2 flows in the feed line 21 from the hydrogen tank 2 to the anodic inlet 11.

[0090] Here and thereafter, generally speaking, each line comprises a set of pipes fluidly connected to each other to ensure the flow of the fluid they transport.

[0091] The supply line 21 thus has an upstream end, which opens into the hydrogen tank 2, and a downstream end, which opens into the anodic inlet 11. Here and thereafter, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" are to be understood in relation to the direction of flow.

[0092] In practice, hydrogen tank 2 is a pressurized tank which is, for example, carried on board the vehicle mentioned above.

[0093] In a preferred embodiment, the supply line 21 is provided with a mixer 21.1 which allows two separate hydrogen streams to be mixed, namely a hydrogen stream, which comes from the hydrogen reservoir 2, and a hydrogen stream, which is recirculated from the anodic outlet 12. In addition, the hydrogen circuit 20 includes a recirculation line 22 which connects the anodic outlet 12 to the mixer 21.1 so as to be able to remove from the fuel cell 10 hydrogen which has not been consumed inside the latter and to make this hydrogen flow from the anodic outlet 12 to the mixer 21.1.

[0094] In practice, the recirculation line 22 is equipped with a separator 22.1 which allows a discharge stream, which exits the fuel cell 10 at the anodic outlet 12, to be separated into two distinct streams, namely recirculated hydrogen, which is sent to the mixer 21.2 from the anodic outlet 12, and effluents, which are evacuated from the recirculation line 22 by a purge line 50. The effluents include, in particular, water.

[0095] The purge line 50 is here equipped with a flow control valve 50.1 which allows the flow rate of the effluents flowing in the purge line 50 from the separator 22.1 to be controlled and adjusted.

[0096] The air circuit 30 is illustrated in more detail in figures 3, 6 and 7.

[0097] The air circuit 30 includes an air supply line 31 and an air exhaust line 32.

[0098] In the embodiment considered here, the air circuit 30 also includes a bypass line 34.

[0099] Preferably, the air circuit 30 also includes a bypass branch 35.

[0100] The air supply line 31 includes an air inlet connector 39 and connects the air inlet connector 39 to the cathode inlet 13, so as to be able to supply the fuel cell 10 with air from the air inlet connector 39, the oxygen contained in the air thus supplying the fuel cell 10 being intended to react inside the latter.

[0101] When the fuel cell is operating in steady state, air admitted through the air inlet connector 39 flows in the supply line 31 from the air inlet connector 39 to the cathode inlet 13.

[0102] The supply line 31 thus has an upstream end, which opens into the air inlet connector 39, and a downstream end, which opens into the cathode inlet 13.

[0103] When the fuel cell system 1 is integrated (Figure 1), the air inlet connector 39 is connected to an air intake 3. In practice, the air intake 3 is an air handling device with one or more openings for introducing ambient air into the supply line 31. The air handling device is, for example, mounted on board the vehicle. Preferably, the air intake 3 is equipped with one or more filters to prevent contaminants such as water, dust, etc., from entering the supply line 31 and then the cathode ray tube.

[0104] The air inlet connector 39 includes an open portion of tubing. The air inlet connector 39 is, for example, a male connector comprising a locking ring configured to cooperate with a complementary element arranged on an external female fitting. Alternatively, the air inlet connector 39 is, for example, a female connector comprising a complementary element configured to cooperate with a locking ring arranged on an external male fitting. The air inlet connector 39 is, for example, a VDA connector, preferably female, or an SAE connector.

[0105] As can be seen in Figures 1 and 7 in particular, the supply line 31 includes a compressor 40 adapted to compress, that is to say pressurize, the air coming from the air inlet 39.

[0106] Preferably, the supply line 31 also includes a cooler 42 adapted to cool the air flowing in the air supply line 31 and / or a humidifier 44 configured to humidify the air flowing in the air supply line 31.

[0107] In one embodiment, the cooler 42 is arranged downstream of the compressor 40 and the humidifier 44 is arranged downstream of the cooler 42, in the direction of flow of the supply line 31. The compressor 40, the cooler 42 and the humidifier 44 are thus successively provided in series, from upstream to downstream of the supply line 31.

[0108] The supply line 31 also includes, for example, a flow control valve 31.1, which allows the flow rate of the air flowing in the supply line 31 to be controlled and adjusted. The flow control valve 31.1 is typically a proportional valve, specifically designed to deliver a flow rate proportional to its opening.

[0109] The compressor 40 comprises a casing 40.1, a compression system received in the casing 40.1, an air inlet 40.2 and an air outlet 40.3 connected to the air supply line 31.

[0110] The compressor 40 is adapted to compress the air admitted at its inlet 40.2 and deliver the resulting compressed air at its outlet 40.3.

[0111] The compression system is configured, for example, so that the air pressure at the air discharge 40.3 is at least 1.2 bar higher than the air pressure at the air inlet 40.2. The compressor 40 preferably includes an electrical supply system, including, for example, an inverter, the electrical supply system being suitable for regulating and adjusting the compression system of the compressor 40.

[0112] Alternatively, the compressor includes a turbine connected to the air exhaust line 32, the turbine supplying mechanical energy to the compressor, and thus forming a turbocharger.

[0113] Preferably, the compressor 40 also includes a cooling inlet 40.4 through which the compressor 40 is intended to draw in the cooling fluid from the auxiliary circuit 90, and a cooling outlet 40.5 through which the compressor 40 is intended to draw out the cooling fluid.

[0114] Preferably, the casing 40.1 of the compressor 40 is mounted on the support frame 100. The casing 40.1 is advantageously mounted on the support frame 100 by means of a shock-absorbing support, for example made of rubber, the shock-absorbing support is configured to reduce or absorb vibrations produced by the compression of air within the compressor 40.

[0115] The cooler 42 is, for example, an intercooler.

[0116] The cooler 42 includes a casing 42.1, an air inlet 42.2 and an air outlet 42.3 connected to the air supply line 31 upstream of the cathode inlet 13, a heat exchanger received in the casing 42.1 suitable for reducing the temperature of the air circulating in the air supply line.

[0117] The heat exchanger is designed to reduce the temperature of the air flowing from the air inlet 42.2 to the air outlet 42.3 by means of heat exchange. The heat exchanger is, for example, of the plate or tube type.

[0118] In one embodiment, the casing 42.1 of the cooler 42 is, for example, elongated along a flow direction between the air inlet 42.2 and the air outlet 42.3 of the cooler 42.

[0119] More specifically, as illustrated, the casing 42.1 is, for example, parallelepiped in shape, with its length oriented along the airflow direction. This optimizes the operation of the cooler 42, particularly by maximizing the heat exchange surface area. Preferably, this airflow direction is parallel to the lateral direction Y.

[0120] Preferably, the cooler 42 also includes a cooling inlet 42.4 through which the cooler 42 is intended to receive the cooling fluid from the auxiliary circuit 90, and a cooling outlet 42.5 through which the cooler 42 is intended to discharge the cooling fluid. The cooler 42 then forms an air / water heat exchanger that uses the auxiliary cooling circuit to cool the air compressed by the compressor.

[0121] The humidifier 44 is designed to adjust the humidity of the air entering the fuel cell 10 in order to optimize the operation of the latter, it being noted that the air exiting the fuel cell is necessarily more humid than the air entering the fuel cell, due to the electrochemical reactions occurring inside the fuel cell.

[0122] In one embodiment, the humidifier 44 is positioned both on the supply line 31 and on the drain line 32.

[0123] Humidifier 44 is thus able to partially capture the humidity from the air exiting the fuel cell and "transfer" this humidity into the air sent to the fuel cell's inlet.

[0124] In this embodiment example, the humidifier 44 thus includes both a first part, which is arranged in the supply line 31 so as to be able to humidify the air flowing in the supply line 31 when this air passes through the humidifier 44, and a second part, which is arranged in the exhaust line 32 so as to capture the humidity of the air flowing in the exhaust line when this air passes through the humidifier 44.

[0125] The aforementioned first part of the humidifier 44 is arranged on the supply line 31 preferably downstream of the flow control valve 31.1.

[0126] The second part of the aforementioned humidifier 44 is arranged on the evacuation line 32 preferably upstream of the flow control valve 32.1.

[0127] In a preferred embodiment, the humidifier 44 comprises a casing 44.1, a first inlet 44.2 and a first outlet 44.3 connected to the air supply line 31 upstream of the cathode inlet 13, a second inlet 44.4 and a second outlet 44.5 connected to the air exhaust line 32 downstream of the cathode outlet 14.

[0128] More specifically, as illustrated, the first inlet 44.2 is a so-called "dry" inlet and receives air compressed by the compressor 40 and cooled by the cooler 42. The first inlet 44.2 is therefore downstream of the air outlet 42.3 of the cooler 42.

[0129] The first outlet 44.3 is a so-called "wet" outlet and is connected to the cathode inlet 13, so as to supply the fuel cell 10 with air having a suitable humidity level. The first outlet 44.3 is therefore upstream of the cathode inlet. The second inlet 44.4 is also a so-called "wet" inlet and receives humid air from the cathode outlet 14 of the fuel cell 10, so as to "transfer" this humidity to the aforementioned first outlet 44.3. The second inlet 44.4 is therefore downstream of the cathode outlet 14.

[0130] The second outlet 44.5 is a so-called "wet" outlet and allows excess humidity from the air that has not been "transferred" to the first outlet 44.3 to be rejected towards the exhaust device 60. The second outlet 44.5 is therefore upstream of the exhaust device 60.

[0131] The aforementioned first part of the humidifier 44 therefore corresponds to the part between the said first inlet 44.2 and first outlet 44.3, and the aforementioned second part therefore corresponds to the part between the said second inlet 44.4 and second outlet 44.5.

[0132] The humidifier 44 also includes a moisture exchanger received in the casing 44.1 suitable for transferring moisture from the air circulating in the exhaust air line 32 to the air circulating in the supply air line 31. The moisture exchanger is thus connected to the first inlet 44.2 and first outlet 44.3 on one side and to the second inlet 44.4 and second outlet 44.5 on the other.

[0133] The moisture exchanger includes, for example, at least one filter cartridge. Each filter cartridge contains a plurality of hollow fiber membranes capable of transferring moisture between two air streams.

[0134] Such filter cartridges require regular maintenance which is facilitated by the spatial arrangement of the invention as will be described in more detail later.

[0135] The exhaust line 32 connects the cathode outlet 14 to the exhaust device 60 so as to be able to evacuate from the fuel cell 10, in particular, air containing oxygen that has not been consumed inside the fuel cell.

[0136] When the fuel cell 10 is operating in steady state, air exiting the fuel cell 10 flows in the exhaust line 32 from the cathode outlet 14 to the exhaust device 60.

[0137] The evacuation line 32 thus has an upstream end, which opens into the cathode outlet 14, and a downstream end, which opens into the escapement device 60.

[0138] Thus, in the embodiment considered here, the evacuation line 32 is, at its downstream end, connected to the inlet of the exhaust device 60.

[0139] As clearly shown in Figure 1, the exhaust line 32 is equipped with a flow control valve 32.1, which allows the flow rate of the air flowing through the exhaust line 32 to be controlled and adjusted. This flow control valve 32.1 is typically a proportional valve. This valve 32.1 allows, in particular, the control of the flow rate of humid air exiting the second outlet 44.5 of the humidifier 44, and thus the control of the level of moisture exchange within the humidifier 44, and therefore the humidity level of the air exiting the first outlet 44.2.

[0140] In the embodiment considered here, the air circuit 30 also includes the bypass line 34, the bypass line 34 allowing the humidifier 44 to be bypassed, that is to say, allowing the air from the cathode outlet 14 not to pass through the humidifier 44.

[0141] Preferably, the bypass line 34 is connected in parallel to the discharge line 32, being connected to the latter on both sides of the humidifier 44. In other words, the bypass line 34 is closed on the discharge line 32, extending from upstream of the humidifier 44 to downstream of the flow control valve 32.1. Here, the connection of the bypass line 34 to the discharge line 32, downstream of the flow control valve 32.1, is for example located upstream of the exhaust device 60.

[0142] In addition, the bypass line 34 is for example provided with a flow control valve 34.1 which allows the flow rate of the air in the bypass line 34 to be controlled and adjusted. This flow control valve 34.1 is typically a proportional valve.

[0143] It is understood that the air expelled by the fuel cell 10 at its cathode outlet 14 flows:

[0144] - entirely through the humidifier 44, without bypassing it via the bypass line 34, when the flow control valve 32.1 is open while the flow control valve 34.1 is closed,

[0145] - completely within the bypass line 34, bypassing the humidifier 44, when the flow control valve 32.1 is closed while the flow control valve 34.1 is open, or

[0146] - partially in the humidifier 44 and partially in the bypass line 34 when the flow control valves 32.1 and 34.1 are both open.

[0147] It is also understood that by adjusting the degree of opening of the flow control valves 32.1 and 34.1, the respective flow rates of the air flowing into the part of the humidifier 44, arranged in the discharge line 32, and of the air flowing into the bypass line 34 are each adjustable. It is then possible to precisely control the volume of humid air entering and exiting the humidifier 44, respectively through the second inlet 44.4 and the second outlet 44.5, and thus, to precisely control the "moisture exchange" rate within the humidifier 44, and ultimately, the humidity level of the air at the first outlet 44.3 and therefore at the cathode inlet 13.

[0148] In the embodiment considered here where the air circuit 30 also includes the branch branch 35, the branch branch 35, as clearly visible in Figure 1, connects the supply line 31 to the exhaust line 32.

[0149] The bypass branch 35 is connected to the supply line 31 upstream of the flow control valve 31.1 and downstream of the compressor 40, here downstream of the cooler 42.

[0150] In addition, the branch branch 35 is for example provided with a flow control valve 35.1 which allows the flow rate of air flowing into the branch branch 35 to be controlled and adjusted. This flow control valve 35.1 is typically designed to deliver a flow rate proportional to its opening.

[0151] It is understood that, when the flow control valve 35.1 is closed, it isolates the supply line 31 and the discharge line 32 from each other at the branch branch 35. Conversely, when the flow control valve 35.1 is open, and as soon as the compressor 40 is activated, air exiting this compressor 40 flows from the supply line 31 to the discharge line 32 via the branch branch 35, with a flow controlled by the flow control valve 35.1.

[0152] The bypass branch 35 thus allows an additional airflow to be supplied to the exhaust line 32, supplementing that exiting the fuel cell 10. The compressor 40 is controlled accordingly, typically by increasing its outlet flow rate when the flow control valve 35.1 is open. This helps to dilute the hydrogen present in the exhaust system.

[0153] The exhaust device 60 is adapted to relax, mix and settle the fluids which this exhaust device 60 receives at the inlet, before expelling them as an exhaust stream, to the open air, at the outlet.

[0154] The exhaust device 60 is designed to dilute in the air exiting the fuel cell 10 the effluents from the separator 22.1, in particular for safety reasons or related to environmental standards.

[0155] The exhaust device 60 comprises a fluid mixing chamber, separate inlets fluidly connected to the mixing chamber, and an exhaust outlet fluidly connected to the mixing chamber.

[0156] In the embodiment considered here, the purge line 50 is, at its downstream end, connected at the inlet to the exhaust device 60. When the flow control valve 50.1 is opened, effluents from the separator 22.1 are sent, via the purge line 50, to the exhaust device 32.2 where they are mixed with the air flowing in the discharge line 32.

[0157] The exhaust device 60 includes an exhaust outlet connector 62 connected to the exhaust outlet.

[0158] When the fuel cell system 1 is integrated (Figure 1), the exhaust outlet connector 62 is connected to an air vent 4. In practice, the air vent 4 is an aerodynamic device that expels air from the fuel cell system 1, typically into the ambient air. The aerodynamic device is, for example, integrated into the vehicle.

[0159] The exhaust outlet connector 62 includes an open conduit portion. The exhaust outlet connector 62 is, for example, a male connector comprising a locking ring configured to cooperate with an additional element arranged on an external female fitting. Alternatively, the exhaust outlet connector 62 is, for example, a female connector comprising an additional element configured to cooperate with a locking ring arranged on an external male fitting. The exhaust outlet connector 62 is, for example, a VDA connector, preferably female, or an SAE connector.

[0160] The cooling circuit 70 is illustrated in more detail in Figures 3, 4 and 5. The cooling circuit 70 is adapted to circulate the cooling fluid inside and outside the fuel cell 10.

[0161] The cooling circuit 70 is connected to the cooling inlet 15 and the cooling outlet 16 of the fuel cell 10.

[0162] To achieve this, the fuel cell cooling circuit 70 includes a cooling supply line 72 connected to the cooling inlet 15, a cooling fluid circulation system 74, and a cooling drain line 76 connected to the cooling outlet 16.

[0163] The circulation system 74 is, for example, a hydraulic pump. The cooling circuit 70 preferably includes an electrical power supply system, the electrical power supply system being suitable for regulating and adjusting the circulation system 74, for example by adjusting the rotational speed of the hydraulic pump. The fuel cell cooling circuit 70 includes a cooling inlet connector 78 for the cooling supply line 72 and a cooling outlet connector 80 for the cooling discharge line 76.

[0164] The cooling inlet connector 78 includes an open conduit portion. The cooling inlet connector 78 is, for example, a male connector comprising a locking ring configured to cooperate with an additional element arranged on an external female fitting. Alternatively, the cooling inlet connector 78 is, for example, a female connector comprising an additional element configured to cooperate with a locking ring arranged on an external male fitting. The cooling inlet connector 78 is, for example, a VDA connector, advantageously female, or an SAE connector.

[0165] Similarly, the cooling outlet connector 80 includes an open conduit portion. The cooling outlet connector 80 is, for example, a male connector comprising a locking ring configured to cooperate with an additional element arranged on an external female fitting. Alternatively, the cooling outlet connector 80 is, for example, a female connector comprising an additional element configured to cooperate with a locking ring arranged on an external male fitting. The cooling outlet connector 80 is, for example, a VDA connector, advantageously female, or an SAE connector.

[0166] The cooling circuit 70 preferably includes a three-way valve, preferably attached to the cooling inlet connector 78. This valve manages the interaction between the fuel cell cooling circuit 70 of the fuel cell 10 and the vehicle cooling circuit (not shown), which includes a heat exchanger with the environment (radiator, as is well known). For example, the three-way valve allows the fuel cell cooling circuit 70 to be completely isolated from the fuel cell 10, so that the latter operates in a closed loop, for example, when the fuel cell starts up or during low-power operation. Conversely, the three-way valve allows the vehicle cooling circuit to enter the fuel cell cooling circuit 70 of the fuel cell 10 when the latter requires cooling, for example, during high-power operating phases of the fuel cell 10.

[0167] When the fuel cell 10 is operating in steady state, coolant is circulated by the circulation system 74 and supplies, from the cooling inlet connector 78 and via the cooling inlet 15, the cooling compartments, from which the coolant is discharged, via the cooling outlet 16 to the cooling outlet connector 80. The coolant has, at the cooling outlet 16, a higher temperature than that of the coolant at the cooling inlet 15.

[0168] The cooling fluid is, for example, glycol water.

[0169] Preferably, the cooling circuit 70 also includes a deionization cartridge 82 configured to remove ions dissolved in the coolant circulating in the cooling circuit 70, in order to make the coolant non-conductive.

[0170] The deionization cartridge 82 includes, for example, an ion exchange bed, including, for example, positively and negatively charged ion exchange resin beads, to remove negative and positive ions from the cooling fluid respectively.

[0171] The deionization cartridge 82 includes a deionization input connector 84 and a deionization output connector 86.

[0172] The deionization inlet connector 84 includes an open conduit portion. The deionization inlet connector 84 is, for example, a male connector comprising a locking ring configured to cooperate with a complementary element arranged on an external female fitting. Alternatively, the deionization inlet connector 84 is, for example, a female connector comprising a complementary element configured to cooperate with a locking ring arranged on an external male fitting. The deionization inlet connector 84 is, for example, a VDA connector or an SAE connector, preferably female.

[0173] Similarly, the deionization output connector 86 includes an open conduit portion. The deionization output connector 86 is, for example, a male connector comprising a locking ring configured to cooperate with a complementary element arranged on an external female fitting. Alternatively, the deionization output connector 86 is, for example, a female connector comprising a complementary element configured to cooperate with a locking ring arranged on an external male fitting. The deionization output connector 86 is, for example, a VDA connector, preferably female, or an SAE connector.

[0174] The auxiliary cooling circuit 90 is illustrated in more detail in figures 3, 4 and 8.

[0175] As stated above, the auxiliary circuit 90 is configured to cool components external to the fuel cell 10, by circulating a cooling fluid through said components. The external components cooled by the auxiliary circuit 90 include, for example, the compressor 40, and / or the cooler 42, and / or an electrical power conversion system of system 1, and / or an electronic control system of system 1.

[0176] To achieve this, the auxiliary circuit 90 includes a system for circulating the coolant and lines connecting these components to each other to circulate the coolant. The circulation system for the auxiliary circuit 90 is, for example, a hydraulic pump.

[0177] The auxiliary circuit 90 includes an auxiliary input connector 92 and an auxiliary output connector 94.

[0178] The auxiliary input connector 92 includes an open conduit portion. The auxiliary input connector 92 is, for example, a male connector comprising a locking ring configured to cooperate with an additional element arranged on an external female fitting. Alternatively, the auxiliary input connector 92 is, for example, a female connector comprising an additional element configured to cooperate with a locking ring arranged on an external male fitting. The auxiliary input connector 92 is, for example, a VDA connector, preferably female, or an SAE connector.

[0179] Similarly, the auxiliary output connector 94 includes an open conduit portion. The auxiliary output connector 94 is, for example, a male connector comprising a locking ring configured to cooperate with an additional element arranged on an external female fitting. Alternatively, the auxiliary output connector 94 is, for example, a female connector comprising an additional element configured to cooperate with a locking ring arranged on an external male fitting. The auxiliary output connector 94 is, for example, a VDA connector, preferably female, or an SAE connector.

[0180] The auxiliary circuit 90 preferably includes an electrical supply system, the electrical supply system being suitable for regulating and adjusting the circulation system of the auxiliary circuit 90.

[0181] When the fuel cell 10 is operating in steady state, cooling fluid is circulated in the auxiliary circuit lines 90 by the circulation system and supplies said external components, via the cooling inlets and cooling outlets of each external component.

[0182] The coolant at the cooling outlet of each external component has a higher temperature than the coolant at the cooling inlet of the external component. The coolant is, for example, glycol water.

[0183] The support chassis 100 is configured to be attached to the vehicle in which the fuel cell system 1 is integrated.

[0184] The support chassis 100 is also configured to provide support and protection for the components described above, as well as easy handling of the fuel cell system 1.

[0185] The support frame 100 is preferably metallic and / or tubular. Advantageously, the support frame 100 is parallelepiped in shape.

[0186] As illustrated in figures 1 and 7, the support frame 100 comprises a first compartment 102 and a second compartment 104, preferably each of parallelepiped shape and advantageously of substantially equal dimensions.

[0187] The first compartment 102 houses the fuel cell 10. More precisely, the first compartment 102 houses the casing 18.

[0188] The second compartment 104 houses the air circuit 30 and the cooling circuit 70. The second compartment 104 also houses the auxiliary cooling circuit 90, if present. The second compartment 104 thus houses, in particular, the compressor 40, the cooler 42, and the humidifier 44 of the air circuit 30.

[0189] As in the view of figure 7, the first compartment 102 and the second compartment 104 each have an occupancy area, taken in projection in a plane perpendicular to the Z elevation direction, and a peripheral edge delimiting the occupancy area.

[0190] Preferably, the peripheral edges of compartments 102, 104 have substantially identical shapes and / or dimensions.

[0191] The peripheral edges of compartments 102 and 104 thus advantageously have a polygonal shape, preferably a parallelogram shape, and preferably a rectangular shape. For example, it is a rectangular shape with two longer sides parallel and two shorter sides parallel, the longitudinal direction X being parallel to the longer sides, and the lateral direction Y being parallel to the shorter sides.

[0192] The peripheral edge of the second compartment 104 has a longitudinal geometric center in the longitudinal direction X and a lateral geometric center in the lateral direction Y. In the case of the rectangular shape described above, the longitudinal geometric center is at the midpoint of the longer side and the lateral geometric center is at the midpoint of the shorter side. Furthermore, the peripheral edge of the second compartment 104 has a maximum length in the longitudinal direction X and a maximum width in the lateral direction Y. In the case of the rectangular shape described above, the maximum length corresponds to the length of the longer side and the maximum width corresponds to the length of the shorter side.

[0193] The fuel cell system 1 is mounted on the support chassis 100 in a spatial arrangement which ensures, in a particularly compact manner, the safety and ease of maintenance of the fuel cell system 1.

[0194] The spatial arrangement is illustrated in more detail in figures 2 to 8.

[0195] The fuel cell system 1 is mounted on the support frame 100 so that the positioning of the various elements of the spatial arrangement described below is maintained in particular when the fuel cell 10 is operating in steady state and when the fuel cell 10 is not operating.

[0196] The spatial arrangement includes at least the positioning of the portion of the air supply line 31 extending from the compressor 40 to the cathode inlet 13 above the cooling circuit 70 in the elevation direction Z.

[0197] In other words, in this part of the air supply line 31, the cooling circuit 70 never passes over and to the right of the air supply line.

[0198] Thus, in the event of a leak of the cooling fluid, the key part of the supply line 31 is spared and will advantageously not come into contact with the glycol water of the cooling fluid, which could cause serious damage to the air supply line 31 or even to the fuel cell 10 if water were to enter the latter through the cathodic inlet 13.

[0199] In addition, the spatial arrangement also includes at least the positioning of the air circuit 30 and the cooling circuit 70 next to the fuel cell in a plane perpendicular to the Z elevation direction.

[0200] In particular, the second compartment 104 is offset from the first compartment 102 in a plane perpendicular to the Z elevation direction.

[0201] It is thus possible to differentiate between an area (the second compartment 104) for accessing components requiring maintenance (in particular, for example, the cooler 42 and / or the humidifier 44), and an area (the first compartment 102) not requiring maintenance (in this case, the fuel cell 10). Furthermore, this provides an area housing all the connectors that is separate from the fuel cell 10, thereby facilitating the integration of the system 1 into a vehicle, and also improving its safety by keeping the connectors away from the fuel cell 10. In a preferred embodiment illustrated in Figure 7, the spatial arrangement of the fuel cell system 1 includes positioning the compressor 40 at the center of the floor area of ​​the second compartment 104.

[0202] Since the compressor 40 is a heavy element, such positioning makes it possible in particular to center the center of gravity of the second compartment 104 and to improve the stability and therefore the safety of the fuel cell system 1.

[0203] In this preferred embodiment, the spatial arrangement preferably includes the positioning of the compressor 40 so as to straddle the longitudinal geometric center and the lateral geometric center of the peripheral edge of the second compartment 104 in projection respectively in each of the said longitudinal and lateral directions.

[0204] In addition or as an alternative, the spatial arrangement preferably includes the positioning of a barycenter of the compressor 40 between 40% and 60% of said maximum length and between 40% and 60% of said maximum width of the peripheral edge of the second compartment 104.

[0205] Furthermore, the spatial arrangement of the fuel cell system 1 includes the positioning of the cooler 42 and the humidifier 44 on either side of the compressor 40 in the longitudinal direction X. Since these are relatively heavy components (but less so than the compressor), this positioning on either side of the compressor 40 also allows for a good distribution of masses in the second compartment 104, thus contributing to further improving the stability and therefore the safety of the fuel cell system 1.

[0206] In a preferred embodiment illustrated in Figures 3, 6 and 7, the spatial arrangement of the fuel cell system 1 includes the positioning of the cooler 42 on one side of the peripheral edge.

[0207] This positioning is preferably parallel to the lateral direction Y as illustrated. More precisely, the casing 42.1 of the cooler 42, which is elongated in the flow direction between the inlet 42.2 and the outlet 42.3, is positioned to be elongated parallel to the lateral direction Y. In the case of the rectangular shape described above, this is, for example, one of the short sides of the peripheral edge.

[0208] Preferably, as illustrated in Figure 7, the portion of the air supply line 31 extending between the compressor 40 and the cooler 42 comprises only two bends 46 projecting into a plane perpendicular to the elevation direction Z. Furthermore, advantageously, the portion of the air supply line extending between the compressor 40 and the cooler 42 comprises only one bend 48 projecting into a plane passing through the elevation direction Z, for example a plane parallel to the elevation direction Z and the longitudinal direction X.

[0209] Furthermore, advantageously, the portion of the air supply line 31 extending between the cooler 42 and the humidifier 44 runs along the peripheral edge of the occupied surface and includes only one bend 49 projecting into a plane perpendicular to the elevation direction Z.

[0210] Such positioning makes it easier to maintain the cooler 42, by providing clear access to it, and limits bends and pressure losses in the airflow circulating in the air supply line 31. The performance of the system is greatly improved.

[0211] In a preferred embodiment illustrated in Figures 3 and 7, the spatial arrangement of the fuel cell system 1 includes the positioning of the humidifier 44 substantially in a corner of the occupied surface.

[0212] This positioning is preferably such that it overlaps the peripheral edge as illustrated. For example, this positioning is such that it overlaps two adjacent sides of the peripheral edge. In the case of the rectangular shape described above, this would be, for example, one of the shorter sides and one of the longer sides of the peripheral edge.

[0213] Such positioning makes it easier to maintain the humidifier 44, by providing clear access to it, particularly for the humidifier 44's filter cartridges when it is necessary to replace them.

[0214] In a preferred embodiment, the spatial arrangement of the fuel cell system 1 includes positioning the compressor 40, in the elevation direction Z, at least partly below the cooler 42, or below the humidifier 44, or below both the cooler 42 and the humidifier 44.

[0215] The compressor 40 is thus positioned as low as possible to allow for better handling of mechanical stresses such as vibrations.

[0216] Furthermore, the spatial arrangement also includes the positioning of the fuel cell system 1 connectors to facilitate system maintenance and integration.

[0217] In a preferred embodiment illustrated in Figures 3 and 7, the spatial arrangement includes positioning the air inlet connector 39 on one side of the peripheral edge, preferably on the opposite side of the peripheral edge to the cooler 42 in the longitudinal direction X. In the case of the rectangular shape described above, this is, for example, one of the short sides of the peripheral edge.

[0218] The spatial arrangement includes positioning the exhaust outlet connector 62 on one side of the peripheral edge. In the case of the rectangular shape described above, this is, for example, one of the short sides of the peripheral edge.

[0219] The air inlet connector 39 and the exhaust outlet connector 62 are preferably positioned below the humidifier 44 in the Z elevation direction. These connectors are therefore positioned in the lower part of the support frame 100. This makes it easier to integrate and install the fuel cell system 1 in a vehicle, especially if it is a bus and the fuel cell is mounted on the roof of the bus.

[0220] In addition, the spatial arrangement includes positioning the exhaust outlet connector 62 on the same side of the peripheral edge as the air inlet connector 39, preferably below the air inlet connector 39 in the Z elevation direction.

[0221] All the connectors associated with the air circuit 30 are thus grouped on one side, which facilitates the integration of system 1 into the vehicle.

[0222] As illustrated in Figure 8, preferably, the spatial arrangement includes positioning the cooling inlet connector 78, the cooling outlet connector 80, the deionization inlet connector 84, and the deionization outlet connector 86 on the same side of the peripheral edge. This positioning is preferably on the side opposite the air inlet connector 39 of the air circuit 30 in the longitudinal direction X.

[0223] All the connectors associated with the cooling circuit 70 are thus grouped on one side, which facilitates the integration of system 1 into the vehicle.

[0224] Preferably, as illustrated, all connectors associated with the air circuit 30 are grouped on one side, and all connectors associated with the cooling circuit 70 are grouped on a different side. In other words, the connectors associated with the air circuit 30 are not located on the same side as the connectors for the cooling circuit 70, thus limiting the risk of confusion or errors when installing the fuel cell system 1 in the vehicle.

[0225] As also illustrated in Figure 8, preferably, the spatial arrangement includes positioning the cooling inlet connector 78, the cooling outlet connector 80, the auxiliary inlet connector 92, and the auxiliary outlet connector 94 on the same side of the peripheral edge. This positioning is preferably on the opposite side from the air inlet connector 39 of the air circuit 30 in the longitudinal direction X. Advantageously, the spatial arrangement includes positioning the cooling inlet connector 78, the cooling outlet connector 80, the auxiliary inlet connector 92, and the auxiliary outlet connector 94 on the same side of the peripheral edge.

[0226] Furthermore, as illustrated in Figure 8, the spatial arrangement preferably includes the positioning of the cooling inlet connector 78 and the cooling outlet connector 80 below, in the Z elevation direction, the auxiliary inlet connector 92 and the auxiliary outlet connector 94.

[0227] All the connectors associated with the cooling circuit 70 and the auxiliary circuit 90 are thus gathered on the same side, which facilitates the integration of the fuel cell system 1, the object of the invention, into the vehicle, while limiting the risk of confusion with the connectors 39, 62 of the air circuit 30.

[0228] The cooling inlet connector 78, the cooling outlet connector 80, the auxiliary inlet connector 92, the auxiliary outlet connector 94, the deionization inlet connector 84 and the deionization outlet connector 86 are preferably positioned below the cooler 42 and the humidifier 44 respectively in the Z elevation direction. These connectors are thus positioned in the lower part of the support chassis 100, which reduces the length of the different lines and therefore the pressure losses, while facilitating integration, in particular if the fuel cell system 1 is positioned on the roof of a bus.

Claims

28 DEMANDS 1. Fuel cell system (1) comprising a fuel cell (10), an air circuit (30) adapted to circulate air outside the fuel cell, a cooling circuit (70) adapted to circulate a cooling fluid outside the fuel cell, the fuel cell comprising a cathode inlet (13), a cathode outlet (14), a cooling inlet (15), and a cooling outlet (16); the air circuit (30) comprising an air supply line (31) connected to the cathode inlet (13), the air supply line (31) comprising a compressor (40), and an air exhaust line (32) connected to the cathode outlet (14); the cooling circuit (70) of the fuel cell (10) comprising a cooling supply line (72) connected to the cooling inlet, a cooling fluid circulation system (74), and a cooling outlet line (76) connected to the cooling outlet; in which the fuel cell system (1) extends along an elevation direction (Z), a longitudinal direction (X) and a lateral direction (Y), perpendicular to each other, and the fuel cell system (1) is mounted in a spatial arrangement comprising: - the positioning of a portion of the air supply line (31) extending from the compressor (40) to the cathode inlet (13) above the cooling circuit (70) in the elevation direction (Z); and - the positioning of the air circuit (30) and the cooling circuit (70) next to the fuel cell (10) in a plane perpendicular to the direction of elevation (Z).

2. System (1) according to claim 1, wherein the fuel cell system (1) comprises a support frame (100) comprising a first compartment (102) housing the fuel cell (10) and a second compartment (104) housing the air circuit (30) and the cooling circuit (70), the second compartment (104) being offset from the first compartment (102) in a plane perpendicular to the elevation direction (Z).

3. System (1) according to claim 2, wherein the second compartment (104) has an occupancy surface, taken in projection in a plane perpendicular to the direction of elevation (Z), the second compartment (104) housing the compressor (40), the spatial arrangement of the fuel cell system (1) comprising the positioning of the compressor (40) at a center of the occupancy surface of the second compartment (104).

4. System (1) according to any one of claims 2 or 3, wherein the second compartment (104) has an occupancy area, taken in projection in a plane perpendicular to the direction of elevation (Z), the second compartment (104) having a peripheral edge delimiting the occupancy area, the air supply line (31) also comprising a cooler (42) adapted to cool the air flowing in the air supply line (31) and / or a humidifier (44) configured to humidify the air flowing in the air supply line (31).

5. System (1) according to claim 4, wherein the second compartment (104) accommodates the cooler (42), the spatial arrangement comprising the positioning of the cooler (42) on one side of the peripheral edge, preferably parallel to the lateral direction (Y).

6. System (1) according to any one of claims 4 or 5, wherein the second compartment (104) accommodates the humidifier (44), the spatial arrangement comprising positioning the humidifier (44) substantially in a corner of the occupied surface, preferably so as to overlap the peripheral edge.

7. System (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the cooler (42) is disposed downstream of the compressor (40), the spatial arrangement comprising the positioning of the cooler (42) and the humidifier (44) on either side of the compressor (40) in the longitudinal direction (X).

8. System according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the spatial arrangement includes positioning the compressor (40), in the elevation direction (Z), at least partly below the cooler (42) and / or the humidifier (44).

9. System (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein a portion of the air supply line (31) extending between the cooler (42) and the humidifier (44) runs along the peripheral edge of the occupancy surface and includes only one bend (49) projecting into a plane perpendicular to the elevation direction (Z).

10. System (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 9, wherein a portion of the air supply line (31) extending between the compressor (40) and the cooler (42) comprises only two bends (46) projecting in a plane perpendicular to the elevation direction (Z) and / or only one bend (48) projecting in a plane passing through the elevation direction (Z).

11. System (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 10, wherein the air supply line (31) comprises an air inlet connector (39), the air supply line (31) connecting the air inlet connector (39) to the cathode inlet (13), the spatial arrangement comprises the positioning of the air inlet connector (39) on one side of the peripheral edge, preferably on the opposite side of the peripheral edge to the cooler (42) in the longitudinal direction (X), preferably below the humidifier (44) in the elevation direction (Z).

12. System (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 11, wherein the fuel cell system (1) comprises an exhaust device (60) connected at least to the air exhaust line, the exhaust device (60) comprising an exhaust outlet connector (62), the spatial arrangement comprising the positioning of the exhaust outlet connector (62) on one side of the peripheral edge, preferably below the humidifier (44) in the elevation direction (Z).

13. System (1) according to claim 12, taken in combination with claim 11, wherein the spatial arrangement includes positioning the exhaust outlet connector (62) on the same side of the peripheral edge as the air inlet connector (39), preferably below the air inlet connector (39) in the elevation direction (Z).

14. System (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 13, wherein the second compartment (104) has an occupancy area, taken in projection onto a plane perpendicular to the elevation direction (Z), the second compartment (104) having a peripheral edge delimiting the occupancy area; and, wherein: - the fuel cell cooling circuit (70) includes a cooling inlet connector (78) for the cooling supply line (72) and a cooling outlet connector (80) for the cooling discharge line (76), - the cooling circuit (70) also includes a deionization cartridge (82) configured to remove ions dissolved in the cooling fluid circulating in the cooling circuit (70), the deionization cartridge (82) including a deionization inlet connector (84) and a deionization outlet connector (86), - the spatial arrangement comprising the positioning of the cooling inlet connector (78), the cooling outlet connector (80), the deionization inlet connector (84) and the deionization outlet connector (86) on the same side of the peripheral edge.

15. System (1) according to claim 14, wherein the system further comprises an auxiliary cooling circuit (90) configured to cool components external to the fuel cell, the external components comprising the compressor (40), the auxiliary circuit (90) comprising an auxiliary inlet connector (92) and an auxiliary outlet connector (94), the spatial arrangement comprising the positioning of the cooling inlet connector (78), the cooling outlet connector (80), the auxiliary inlet connector (92), the auxiliary outlet connector (94) on the same side of the peripheral edge.

16. System (1) according to claim 15, wherein the spatial arrangement includes the positioning of the cooling inlet connector (78) and the cooling outlet connector (80), below, in the elevation direction (Z), the auxiliary inlet connector (92) and the auxiliary outlet connector (94).

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