Exhaust device for fuel cell system

Abstract

The present invention relates to an exhaust device (60) for a fuel cell system comprising a mixing chamber (62), a hydrogen inlet (74) connected to an anode outlet of the fuel cell, an oxygen inlet (76) connected to a cathode outlet of the fuel cell, two exhaust outlets (84.1, 84.2) fluidically connected to the mixing chamber (62) and extending along different respective main outlet axes. The exhaust device (60) comprises two distinct exhaust mounting configurations comprising a first configuration, in which only a first of the exhaust outlets (84.1) is able to exhaust to downstream a fluid contained in the mixing chamber (62), and a second configuration, in which only a second of the exhaust outlets (84.2) is able to exhaust to downstream a fluid contained in the mixing chamber (62).

Description

[0001] TITLE: Exhaust device for fuel cell system

[0002] The present invention relates to an exhaust device for a fuel cell system and a fuel cell system comprising such an exhaust device.

[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 a cathode outlet of the fuel cell, respectively. A compressor is used to force pressurized air through the air circuit and into the cathode compartments of the fuel cell. Additionally, a humidifier is often integrated partly into the supply line and partly into the exhaust line to humidify the air flowing through the supply line while simultaneously capturing moisture from the air flowing through the exhaust line.

[0006] We know of an exhaust system located downstream of the fuel cell. For safety reasons or due to environmental standards, the exhaust system is designed to expand, mix, and settle the fluid it receives at the inlet before expelling it as an exhaust stream at its outlet. Specifically, US patent 7824811 proposes an exhaust system that dilutes the hydrogen at the anodic outlet using a diluting gas, in this case, air at the cathodic outlet of the fuel cell. Furthermore, a complex system involving a fan and an ejector prevents any backpressure flow towards the fuel cell when it shuts down. However, such an exhaust system is not entirely satisfactory due to its complex structure and potentially complicated implementation.

[0007] The aim of the present invention is to provide an efficient exhaust device with a simple structure, compact, economical, versatile, and flexible installation. To this end, the invention relates to an exhaust device for a fuel cell system comprising:

[0008] - a fluid mixing chamber;

[0009] - a hydrogen inlet fluidly connected to the mixing chamber and configured to be connected to an anodic outlet for the evacuation of hydrogen not consumed inside the fuel cell;

[0010] - an oxygen inlet fluidly connected to the mixing chamber and configured to be connected to a cathodic outlet for the removal of oxygen not consumed inside the fuel cell;

[0011] - at least two exhaust outlets fluidly connected to the mixing chamber and extending from the mixing chamber along different respective main outlet axes; the exhaust device comprising at least two distinct exhaust mounting configurations including a first configuration, in which only one of the exhaust outlets is suitable for evacuating downstream a fluid contained in the mixing chamber, and a second configuration, in which only a second of the exhaust outlets is suitable for evacuating downstream a fluid contained in the mixing chamber.

[0012] The exhaust system thus allows for increased compactness by combining several functions and offers a diversity in the location of the exhaust for its installation in a vehicle.

[0013] According to other advantageous aspects of the invention, the escapement device comprises one or more of the following features, taken individually or in all technically possible combinations:

[0014] - the exhaust device includes an obstruction device such that, in the first configuration, the obstruction device prevents the downstream discharge of a fluid through any exhaust outlet other than said first of the exhaust outlets, and, such that, in the second configuration, the obstruction device prevents the downstream discharge of a fluid through any exhaust outlet other than said second of the exhaust outlets, the obstruction device preferably being removable;

[0015] - the hydrogen inlet and the oxygen inlet extend from the mixing chamber along respective main axes parallel to each other and, preferably, perpendicular to the main axes of the exhaust outlets;

[0016] - the mixing chamber includes an upper wall, a lower wall and side walls joining the upper wall to the lower wall), the oxygen inlet, the hydrogen inlet and one of the exhaust outlets extending from the side walls, the other of the exhaust outlets extending from the lower wall; - the exhaust device includes at least one ventilation inlet fluidly connected to the mixing chamber and configured to be connected to a housing containing the fuel cell;

[0017] - the exhaust device includes at least two ventilation inlets preferably comprising a high ventilation inlet and a low ventilation inlet extending from the mixing chamber, the high ventilation inlet being configured to be connected to a high point of the fuel cell casing and the low ventilation inlet being configured to be connected to a low point of the fuel cell casing;

[0018] - the exhaust device also includes a fluidically connected humidifier inlet to the mixing chamber and configured to be connected to a humidifier of an air circuit of the fuel cell system;

[0019] - the humidifier inlet extends from the mixing chamber along a main axis offset transversely with respect to the main outlet axes and / or in which the humidifier inlet and one of the exhaust outlets extend from the mixing chamber in the same direction and / or along main axes parallel to each other;

[0020] - the exhaust device also includes an intercooler inlet fluidly connected to the mixing chamber and configured to be connected to an intercooler of an air circuit of the fuel cell system;

[0021] - the intercooler inlet extends from the mixing chamber along a main axis offset transversely with respect to the main outlet axes; and / or in which the intercooler inlet and one of the exhaust outlets extend from the mixing chamber in opposite directions and / or along main axes parallel to each other;

[0022] - the humidifier inlet and the intercooler inlet extend from the mixing chamber along respective principal axes parallel to each other, preferably coinciding, and preferably in opposite directions;

[0023] - the mixing chamber comprises at least one upstream branch and one downstream branch, the downstream branch extending from the upstream branch, preferably perpendicularly, the upstream and downstream branches defining a bend between them; the oxygen inlet, the hydrogen inlet and the exhaust outlets extending preferably from the downstream branch;

[0024] - where each ventilation inlet extends from the upstream branch;

[0025] - the humidifier inlet extends from the upstream branch; - the intercooler inlet extends from the upstream branch;

[0026] - the exhaust device includes, for at least one of said inlets, a connection interface suitable for being fixed to a control valve associated with the inlet, such that, when the control valve associated with the inlet is fixed to the connection interface, the mass of said control valve is transmitted to the mixing chamber via the associated connection interface;

[0027] - two of the exhaust outlets extend from the mixing chamber along intersecting main axes, preferably perpendicular to each other;

[0028] The invention also relates to a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell and the above exhaust device, in which the fuel cell is provided with an anodic inlet through which the fuel cell is suitable for being supplied with hydrogen, an anodic outlet for evacuating hydrogen not having been consumed inside the fuel cell, a cathodic inlet through which the fuel cell is suitable for being supplied with oxygen and a cathodic outlet for evacuating oxygen not having been consumed inside the fuel cell, the hydrogen inlet of the exhaust device being connected to the anodic outlet and the oxygen inlet of the exhaust device being connected to the cathodic outlet.

[0029] 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:

[0030] [Fig. 1] Figure 1 is an example of a diagram of a fuel cell system;

[0031] [Fig. 2] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of an escapement device of the stack system of Figure 1;

[0032] [Fig. 3] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the escapement device of Figure 2 in a first mounting configuration;

[0033] [Fig. 4] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the escapement device of Figure 2 in a second mounting configuration; and

[0034] [Fig. 5] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective schematic of the exhaust device of Figure 1 and regulating valves.

[0035] Figure 1 shows 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. 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 with a fuel gas, typically pure dihydrogen, more commonly called "hydrogen" for simplicity, with an oxidizing gas, typically dioxygen from the air, more commonly called "oxygen" for simplicity, and with a cooling fluid, for example glycol water.

[0036] In practice, the fuel cell 10 includes the following for this purpose:

[0037] - an anodic inlet 11 through which the fuel cell 10 is intended to be supplied with hydrogen for reaction within the fuel cell,

[0038] - an anodic outlet 12 through which the fuel cell 10 is intended to discharge hydrogen that has not been consumed inside the fuel cell,

[0039] - 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,

[0040] - 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

[0041] - a cooling outlet 16 through which the fuel cell 10 is intended to discharge cooling fluid.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] The cathode is connected to one output connector, which is the positive output connector, and the anode is connected to another 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.

[0045] The fuel cell system 1 also typically includes a housing 18 containing the fuel cell 10.

[0046] 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 allow hydrogen and air to flow out of the fuel cell 10, respectively.

[0047] The fuel cell system 1 also includes a ventilation circuit 40. The fuel cell system 1 further includes an exhaust device 60.

[0048] The fuel cell system 1 also preferably includes a cooling circuit, not shown, adapted to allow the flow of cooling fluid.

[0049] The cooling circuit is connected to the cooling inlet 15 and the cooling outlet 16 of the fuel cell.

[0050] Also when the fuel cell 10 is operating in steady state, coolant supplies, via the cooling inlet 15, the cooling compartments, from which the coolant is discharged, via the cooling outlet 16, the coolant having, at the cooling outlet 16, a temperature higher than that of the coolant at the cooling inlet 15, the coolant having recovered heat released by the fuel cell 10.

[0051] The cooling fluid is, for example, glycol water.

[0052] The cooling circuit uses a technology that is already known, which will not be detailed further here.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] The casing 18 includes a lower wall extending along a plane defined by lengthwise and widthwise directions that are perpendicular to each other and perpendicular to a height direction. The height direction is parallel to a vertical direction and points in the same direction as the vertical direction when the fuel cell system is located in the vehicle and the vehicle is resting on a substantially horizontal ground surface. In other words, when the fuel cell system is located in the vehicle and the vehicle is resting on a horizontal ground surface, the height direction is perpendicular to the ground surface and points away from it.

[0057] The housing 18 advantageously includes an upper wall, which extends parallel to the lower wall and opposite the lower wall in the vertical direction.

[0058] 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.

[0059] In one embodiment, the output connectors are arranged in the housing 18 or are located outside the housing 18, for example protruding from the housing 18.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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 of the fluid in question.

[0063] In practice, hydrogen tank 2 is a pressurized tank which is, for example, carried on board the vehicle mentioned above.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment considered here, the feed 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.

[0065] In addition to being adapted to mix the two aforementioned hydrogen streams, the mixer 21.1 is adapted to send the mixture of these two hydrogen streams to the anodic inlet 11.

[0066] When the fuel cell 10 is operating in steady state, the hydrogen flow from the hydrogen tank 2 flows in the feed line 21 from the hydrogen tank 2 to the mixer 21.1, while the aforementioned mixture flows in the feed line 21 from the mixer 21.1 to the anodic inlet 11.

[0067] 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 evacuate from the fuel cell 10 hydrogen not having been consumed inside the latter and to make this hydrogen flow from the anodic outlet 12 to the mixer 21.1.

[0068] The recirculation line 22 thus has an upstream end, which opens into the anodic outlet 12, and a downstream end, which opens into the mixer 21.1.

[0069] When the fuel cell 10 is operating in steady state, hydrogen from the anodic outlet 12 flows in the recirculation line 22 from the anodic outlet 12 to the mixer 21.1, forming, in a downstream terminal section of the recirculation line 22, the flow of hydrogen recirculated from the anodic outlet 12, mentioned above. The recirculation line 22 prevents the discharge of hydrogen not consumed by the fuel cell 10 outside the fuel cell system 1, by recirculating, towards the anodic inlet 11, hydrogen discharged by the fuel cell 10 at its anodic outlet 12.

[0070] This hydrogen recirculation is advantageous because it improves the performance of the fuel cell 10 without increasing hydrogen consumption. In particular, this recirculation ensures a sufficient flow of hydrogen within the anodic compartments of the fuel cell 10 to prevent any accumulation of liquid water in the anodic compartments and thus avoid local hydrogen shortages, consequently ensuring optimal efficiency and durability of the fuel cell 10.

[0071] 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.

[0072] The separator 22.1 thus separates a portion of the gaseous hydrogen contained in the discharge stream from the anodic outlet 12 from the remainder of this discharge stream, that is, from the aforementioned effluents which contain, in particular, liquid water and nitrogen mixed with hydrogen. In practice, the separator 22.1 employs a well-established technology, which will not be described in further detail here.

[0073] In the embodiment considered here, the purge line 50 is provided with a purge 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.

[0074] The purge line 50 is, at its downstream end, connected to one of the inlets of the exhaust device 60.

[0075] The purge flow control valve 50.1 is, for example, located at a distance from the exhaust device 60. For example, a hose from the purge line 50 connects the purge flow control valve 50.1 to the exhaust device 60.

[0076] For its part, the air circuit 30 includes an air supply line 31, an air exhaust line 32 and a humidifier 33.

[0077] In the embodiment considered here, the air circuit 30 also includes a bypass line 34 associated with the humidifier 33.

[0078] Preferably, the air circuit 30 also includes a bypass branch 35. The air supply line 31 connects an air intake 3 to the cathode inlet 13, so as to be able to supply the fuel cell 10 with air from the air intake 3, the oxygen contained in the ambient air thus supplying the fuel cell 10 being intended to react inside the latter.

[0079] When the fuel cell is operating in steady state, air admitted through the air intake 3 flows in the supply line 31 from the air intake 3 to the cathode inlet 13.

[0080] The supply line 31 thus has an upstream end, which opens into the air intake 3, and a downstream end, which opens into the cathode inlet 13.

[0081] In practice, the air intake 3 is an aerodynamic device which is provided with one or more orifices used to introduce ambient air into the supply line 31.

[0082] Preferably, the air intake 3 is equipped with one or more filters to prevent pollutants such as water, dust, etc. from entering the supply line 31 and then the cathode circuit.

[0083] The air handling system, for example, is installed on board the vehicle.

[0084] As clearly visible in Figure 1, the supply line 31 is supplied in series, from its upstream end to its downstream end:

[0085] - of a compressor 31.1 which is adapted to compress the air admitted at its inlet and deliver the resulting compressed air at its outlet,

[0086] - of an intercooler 31.2 which is adapted to cool the air exiting the compressor 31.1, typically by heat exchange with a fluid supplying the intercooler 31.2 according to arrangements not shown in Figure 1, and

[0087] - a supply flow control valve 31.3, which allows control and adjustment of the flow of air flowing in the supply line 31, and in the cathode inlet 13, this supply flow control valve 31.3 being typically a proportional valve, in particular designed to deliver a flow proportional to its opening.

[0088] 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 air containing oxygen which has not been consumed inside the fuel cell.

[0089] 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. The exhaust line 32 thus has an upstream end, which opens into the cathode outlet 14, and a downstream end, which opens into the exhaust device 60.

[0090] Thus, in the embodiment considered here, the evacuation line 32 is, at its downstream end, connected to one of the inlets of the exhaust device 60.

[0091] As can be clearly seen in Figure 1, the evacuation line 32 is provided with an evacuation flow control valve 32.1, which allows the flow rate of the air flowing in the evacuation line 32 to be controlled and adjusted. This evacuation flow control valve 32.1 is typically a proportional valve.

[0092] The evacuation flow control valve 32.1, visible in Figure 5, includes for example a valve body 32.2 delimiting an air passage section, a shut-off member 32.3 and an actuator 32.4 suitable for controlling the shut-off member 32.3 to modify said air passage section.

[0093] As described in more detail below, the evacuation flow control valve 32.1 is preferably supported by the exhaust device 60. The evacuation flow control valve 32.1 then forms the downstream end of the evacuation line 32.

[0094] The evacuation flow control valve 32.1 also includes a connection module 32.5 to the rest of the evacuation line 32 and a sealing joint 32.6 with the exhaust device 60.

[0095] The humidifier 33 is positioned both on the supply line 31 and on the drain line 32.

[0096] The humidifier 33, which is a device based on a technology known in itself, makes it possible to control 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 leaving the fuel cell is necessarily more humid than the air entering the fuel cell, due to the electrochemical reactions occurring inside the fuel cell.

[0097] Humidifier 33 is thus able to partially capture the moisture from the air exiting the fuel cell and "transfer" this moisture into the air sent into the fuel cell.

[0098] Whatever its form of embodiment, the humidifier 33 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 33, 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 33.

[0099] The aforementioned first part of the humidifier 33 is arranged on the supply line 31 downstream of the supply flow control valve 31.3.

[0100] The second part of the aforementioned humidifier 33 is arranged on the evacuation line 32 upstream of the evacuation flow control valve 32.1.

[0101] In the embodiment considered here, the air circuit 30 also includes the bypass line 34 associated with the humidifier 33.

[0102] More specifically, the bypass line 34 is connected in parallel to the exhaust device 60 without passing through the humidifier 33. In other words, the bypass line 34 extends from upstream of the humidifier 33 to the exhaust device 60.

[0103] The bypass line 34 is thus, at its downstream end, connected to one of the inlets of the exhaust device 60.

[0104] In addition, the bypass line 34 is provided with a bypass flow control valve 34.1 which allows the flow rate of the air in the bypass line 34 to be controlled and adjusted. This bypass flow control valve 34.1 is typically a proportional valve.

[0105] The bypass flow control valve 34.1, visible in Figure 5, includes for example a valve body 34.2 delimiting an air passage section, a shut-off member 34.3 and an actuator 34.4 suitable for controlling the shut-off member 34.3 to modify said air passage section.

[0106] As described in more detail below, the bypass flow control valve 34.1 is preferably supported by the exhaust device 60. The bypass flow control valve 34.1 then forms the downstream end of the bypass line 34.

[0107] The bypass flow control valve 34.1 also includes a connection module 34.5 to the rest of the bypass line 34 and a sealing gasket 34.6 with the exhaust device 60.

[0108] It is understood that the air expelled by the fuel cell 10 at its cathode outlet 14 flows:

[0109] - entirely through the humidifier 33, without bypassing it via the bypass line 34, when the discharge flow control valve 32.1 is open while the bypass flow control valve 34.1 is closed,

[0110] - totally in the bypass line 34, bypassing the humidifier 33, when the discharge flow control valve 32.1 is closed while the bypass flow control valve 34.1 is open, or - partially in the humidifier 33 and partially in the bypass line 34 when both the discharge flow control valves 32.1 and bypass valve 34.1 are open.

[0111] It is also understood that by playing on the degree of opening of the exhaust flow control valves 32.1 and bypass valve 34.1, the respective flow rates of the air flowing into the part of the humidifier 33, arranged in the exhaust line 32, and of the air flowing into the bypass line 34 are each adjustable, which makes it possible to control the flow rate of humid air at the cathodic outlet 14 circulating in the humidifier 33 and therefore, the humidity transmitted to the air entering the humidifier 33 on the air supply line 31, and therefore, ultimately, to control the humidity level of the air at the cathodic inlet 13.

[0112] In the embodiment considered here where the air circuit 30 also includes the bypass branch 35, the bypass branch 35, as clearly visible in Figure 1, connects the supply line 31 to the exhaust device 60.

[0113] The bypass branch 35 is connected to the supply line 31 upstream of the supply flow control valve 31.3 and downstream of the compressor 31.1, here downstream of the intercooler 31.2.

[0114] The branch branch 35 is connected to the exhaust device 60. The branch branch 35 is thus, at its downstream end, connected to one of the inlets of the exhaust device 60.

[0115] In addition, the bypass branch 35 is provided with a bypass flow control valve 35.1 which allows the flow of air flowing into the bypass branch 35 to be controlled and adjusted. This bypass flow control valve 35.1 is typically designed to deliver a flow proportional to its opening.

[0116] The bypass flow control valve 35.1, visible in Figure 5, includes for example a valve body 35.2 delimiting an air passage section, a shut-off member 35.3 and an actuator 35.4 suitable for controlling the shut-off member 35.3 to modify said air passage section.

[0117] As described in more detail below, the bypass flow control valve 35.1 is preferably supported by the exhaust device 60. The flow control valve 35.1 then forms the downstream end of the bypass branch 35.

[0118] The bypass flow control valve 35.1 also includes a connection module 35.5 to the rest of the bypass branch 35 and a sealing gasket 35.6 with the exhaust device 60.

[0119] It is understood that, when the bypass flow control valve 35.1 is closed, it isolates the supply line 31 and the exhaust device 60 from each other at the bypass branch 35. Conversely, when the bypass flow control valve 35.1 is open, and as soon as the compressor 31.1 is activated, air exiting this compressor 31.1 flows from the supply line 31 to the exhaust device 60 via the bypass branch 35, with a flow controlled by the bypass flow control valve 35.1.

[0120] The bypass branch 35 thus makes it possible to bring into the exhaust device 60 an additional air flow to that exiting the fuel cell 10, the compressor 31.1 being controlled accordingly, typically by increasing its output flow rate when the flow control valve 35.1 is open.

[0121] Such an additional supply of air to the exhaust system 60 is desirable, for example, to reduce the amount of hydrogen released by the exhaust system, thereby reducing the risk of an exhaust explosion due to the hydrogen content. For instance, such an air supply is necessary when purging the fuel cell 10, particularly during its shutdown or even during normal operation.

[0122] The ventilation circuit 40 is both suitable for preventing hydrogen from accumulating in the crankcase 18 and for preventing an increase in pressure in the crankcase 18 due to the accumulation of gas.

[0123] Indeed, although normally sealed, the electrochemical cells forming the stack 17 of the fuel cell 10 can sometimes leak slightly. In this case, air and / or hydrogen can escape from the cells. This results in an increase in pressure inside the casing 18, and even a risk of explosion if the leak involves hydrogen—risks that the ventilation system 40 helps to minimize or even eliminate.

[0124] The ventilation circuit 40 includes a ventilation supply line 41 and at least one ventilation exhaust line. In the illustrated embodiment, the circuit includes at least two ventilation exhaust lines 42.1, 42.2.

[0125] The ventilation supply line 41 is connected in parallel to the air supply line 31, being connected to the latter downstream of the intercooler 31.2.

[0126] In practice, here, the ventilation supply line 41 is connected, at its upstream end, to the air supply line 31 between the intercooler 31.2 and the humidifier 33, and is connected, at its downstream end, to the housing 18. This ensures that fresh, dry air is supplied to the housing 18 for proper ventilation. Preferably, the ventilation supply line 41 is connected to the air supply line 31 upstream of the flow control valve 31.3, and for example, upstream of the bypass branch 35. This avoids affecting the flow rate and volume of air entering the cathode inlet 13, which are controlled by the supply flow control valve 31.3.

[0127] In addition, the ventilation supply line 41 is provided with a flow reducer 41.1, for example non-adjustable, which allows the flow rate of the air in the ventilation supply line 41 to be limited.

[0128] When the fuel cell 10 is operating in steady state, air exiting the compressor 31.1 flows in the ventilation supply line 41, from the upstream end to the downstream end of the latter, to the crankcase 18, thus forming an airflow which bypasses the humidifier 33.

[0129] One of the ventilation exhaust lines 42.1 is connected to a high point of the casing 18 and the other of the ventilation exhaust lines 42.2 is connected to a low point of the casing 18.

[0130] The terms "top" and "bottom" are to be understood here in reference to the height direction of the casing 18.

[0131] The lowest point is preferably such that the evacuation line 42.2 which is connected to it is suitable for evacuating gas from the crankcase 18 and water which may accumulate at the bottom of the crankcase 18.

[0132] Indeed, as mentioned previously, the cells in stack 17 can potentially leak and lose some of the fluids they contain, including oxygen, water (resulting from the electrochemical reaction), or coolant. Water from the environment (rain, splashes, etc.) could also accidentally enter the crankcase. Since these elements (oxygen, water, coolant) are heavier than hydrogen, they will tend to settle to the bottom of crankcase 18.

[0133] The highest point is preferably such that the evacuation line 42.1 connected to it is only suitable for evacuating gas, including hydrogen accumulating in the crankcase 18.

[0134] Indeed, as mentioned previously, hydrogen being lighter than air, and in particular than oxygen, in the event of a leak, the latter will accumulate in the upper part of the crankcase 18.

[0135] Preferably, the inside diameter of the 42.1 drain line connected to the high point should be greater than the inside diameter of the 42.2 drain line connected to the low point. This is because, from a safety perspective, it is preferable to ensure proper hydrogen drainage.

[0136] Each ventilation exhaust line 42.1, 42.2 connects the housing 18 to the exhaust device 60 so as to be able to evacuate the air and any undesirable components that may be contained in the internal volume of the housing 18. When the fuel cell 10 is operating in steady state, at least some of the air exiting the housing 18 flows through each ventilation exhaust line 42.1, 42.2 from the housing 18 to the exhaust device 60. Indeed, as explained previously, the air supplied by the ventilation supply line 41 into the housing 18 must also be evacuated from the housing 18 to avoid any overpressure.

[0137] Each ventilation exhaust line 42.1, 42.2 thus has an upstream end, which opens into the casing 18, and a downstream end, which opens into the exhaust device 60.

[0138] Thus, in the embodiment considered here, each ventilation exhaust line 42.1, 42.2 is, at its downstream end, connected to one of the inlets of the exhaust device 60.

[0139] 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.

[0140] The escapement device 60 is illustrated in more detail in figures 2 to 5.

[0141] The exhaust device 60 comprises a fluid mixing chamber 62, separate fluidly connected inlets, each connected to the mixing chamber 62, and at least two exhaust outlets 84.1, 84.2 fluidly connected to the mixing chamber 62.

[0142] The exhaust device 60 also includes a mounting plate 64, illustrated in Figure 5, designed to attach the exhaust device 60 to a chassis of the fuel cell system not shown, or even to any other element.

[0143] The exhaust device 60 extends in longitudinal X and transverse Y directions, perpendicular to each other and perpendicular to an elevation direction Z. The elevation direction Z is parallel to the vertical direction and directed in the same direction as the vertical direction when the fuel cell system is arranged in the vehicle.

[0144] In what follows, the terms "longitudinal", "transverse", "upper" and "lower" associated with the exhaust device 60 are to be understood with respect to said longitudinal X, transverse Y and elevation Z directions. Furthermore, in what follows, the exhaust device 60 is described as being integrated into the fuel cell system 1. The invention also relates to the exhaust device 60 outside the fuel cell system 1, in which the inlets are then configured to be connected to the various other elements of the fuel cell system 1.

[0145] The mixing chamber 62 delimits an internal volume 66 receiving the fluids from the inlets of the exhaust device 60.

[0146] The interior volume 66 is hermetically sealed from the external environment.

[0147] The mixing chamber 62 is designed to thoroughly mix the different elements it receives, and in particular hydrogen with the air and possibly water it receives, in order to ensure the healthiest and safest possible release to the environment.

[0148] In particular, mixing chamber 62 allows the hydrogen it receives to be sufficiently diluted so as not to release more than 2% of hydrogen into the environment.

[0149] The mixing chamber 62 is preferably a single piece with the exhaust inlets and outlets of the exhaust device 60, and for example made of a plastic material.

[0150] The mixing chamber 62 is suitable for being fixed to said fixing plate 64, as illustrated in figure 5.

[0151] As illustrated in Figure 2, the mixing chamber 62 comprises an upper wall 68.1, a lower wall 68.2 and side walls 68.3 joining the upper wall 68.1 to the lower wall 68.2. The internal volume 66 is more precisely delimited by the upper wall 68.1, lower wall 68.2 and side walls 68.3.

[0152] The lower wall 68.2 extends, for example, substantially along a plane defined by the longitudinal direction X and the transverse direction Y. The side walls 68.3 extend, for example, perpendicularly to the lower wall 68.2, and therefore parallel to the elevation direction Z.

[0153] As illustrated in Figure 2, the mixing chamber 62 comprises at least one upstream branch 70.1 and one downstream branch 70.2, the downstream branch 70.2 extending from the upstream branch 70.1. The upstream and downstream branches 70.1, 70.2 are formed by the upper wall 68.1, lower wall 68.2 and lateral walls 68.3.

[0154] The upstream branch 70.1 and the downstream branch 70.2 form a bend. The downstream branch 70.2 extends longitudinally parallel to the longitudinal direction X. Preferably, the downstream branch 70.2 extends perpendicularly from the upstream branch 70.1. The upstream branch 70.1 thus extends transversely parallel to the transverse direction Y. The mixing chamber 62 then has a substantially L-shaped form.

[0155] As illustrated in Figures 2 to 4, the upper wall 68.1 has at least one convex region 72. The convex region 72 of the upper wall 68.1 is, for example, located at the downstream branch 70.2. The convex region 72 extends, for example, at least between the hydrogen inlet 74 and the oxygen inlet 76 described below. Such a convex region 72 notably improves fluid mixing in the mixing chamber 62.

[0156] The inlets of the exhaust device 60 include at least one hydrogen inlet 74 connected to the anodic outlet 12 of the fuel cell 10.

[0157] The hydrogen inlet 74 is connected to the downstream end of the purge line 50 of the hydrogen circuit 20.

[0158] In this way, when the purge flow control valve 50.1 is open, effluents containing hydrogen from the separator 22.1 are sent, via the purge line 50, to the exhaust device 60. The effluents enter the mixing chamber 62 through the hydrogen inlet 74.

[0159] The hydrogen inlet 74 extends from the mixing chamber 62 along a principal axis, projecting out from the mixing chamber 62. The principal axis passes through a geometric center of an internal section of the hydrogen inlet 74. The hydrogen inlet 74 is, for example, substantially cylindrical along its principal axis.

[0160] The hydrogen inlet 74 extends from the side walls 68.3.

[0161] The hydrogen inlet 74 extends preferentially from the downstream branch 70.2 of the mixing chamber 62.

[0162] The inlets of the exhaust device 60 include at least one oxygen inlet 76 connected to the cathode outlet 14 of the fuel cell 10.

[0163] The oxygen inlet 76 is connected to the downstream end of the bypass line 34 of the air circuit 30.

[0164] In this way, when the bypass flow control valve 34.1 is open, an airflow directly from the cathode outlet 14 is sent, via the bypass line 34 and without passing through the humidifier 33, to the exhaust device 60. This airflow enters the mixing chamber 62 through the oxygen inlet 76. The oxygen inlet 76 extends from the mixing chamber 62 along a principal axis, projecting from the mixing chamber 62. The principal axis passes through a geometric center of an internal section of the oxygen inlet 76. The oxygen inlet 76 is, for example, substantially cylindrical along its principal axis.

[0165] The oxygen inlet 76 extends from the side walls 68.3.

[0166] The oxygen inlet 76 extends preferentially from the downstream branch 70.2 of the mixing chamber 62.

[0167] The oxygen inlet 76 and the hydrogen inlet 74 extend from the mixing chamber 62 along respective principal axes parallel to each other.

[0168] The oxygen inlet 76 is located upstream of the hydrogen inlet 74. This ensures that, in the mixing chamber 62, air is already present to effectively dilute the hydrogen.

[0169] The oxygen inlet 76 and the hydrogen inlet 74 respectively have an internal section having a maximum internal length, the maximum internal length of the oxygen inlet 76 being greater than the maximum internal length of the hydrogen inlet 74. The maximum internal length corresponds, for example, to the internal diameter, when said inlets are cylindrical of revolution.

[0170] In this case, the diameter of the oxygen inlet 76 is, for example, greater than the diameter of the hydrogen inlet 74. Preferably, the diameter of the oxygen inlet is between 20 mm and 60 mm, for example around 40 mm, while the diameter of the hydrogen inlet is between 4 mm and 12 mm, for example around 8 mm.

[0171] The inlets of the exhaust device 60 also preferably include at least one ventilation inlet connected to the crankcase 18 containing the fuel cell.

[0172] The inlets of the exhaust device 60 preferably include at least two ventilation inlets 78.1, 78.2 preferably comprising a high ventilation inlet 78.1 and a low ventilation inlet 78.2. As an alternative not shown, the inlets include only one ventilation inlet.

[0173] The upper ventilation inlet 78.1 is connected to the highest point of the fuel cell casing 18 and the lower ventilation inlet 78.2 is connected to the lowest point of the fuel cell casing 18.

[0174] The upper ventilation inlet 78.1 and the lower ventilation inlet 78.2 are thus respectively connected to the downstream ends of the ventilation exhaust lines 42.1, 42.2 of the ventilation circuit 40.

[0175] In this way, when the fuel cell 10 is operating in steady state, at least some of the air exiting the crankcase 18 flows into each ventilation exhaust line 42.1, 42.2 from the crankcase 18 to the exhaust device 60. This air enters the mixing chamber 62 through each ventilation inlet 78.1, 78.2.

[0176] Air containing hydrogen can be evacuated from the crankcase 18 and enter the mixing chamber 62 through the upper ventilation inlet 78.1. Furthermore, water from the bottom of the crankcase 18 can be evacuated from the crankcase 18 and enter the mixing chamber 62 through the lower ventilation inlet 78.2.

[0177] Each ventilation inlet 78.1, 78.2 extends from the mixing chamber 62, projecting from it along a principal axis that preferably passes through the geometric center of an internal section of the ventilation inlet 78.1, 78.2. Each ventilation inlet 78.1, 78.2 is, for example, substantially cylindrical along its principal axis. The diameter of each ventilation inlet 78.1, 78.2 is preferably smaller than the diameter of the oxygen inlet 76, for example, being between 5 mm and 15 mm, for example, on the order of 10 mm.

[0178] In a preferred embodiment, the upper ventilation inlet 78.1 extends from the upper wall 68.1 of the mixing chamber 62 and the lower ventilation inlet 78.2 extends from one of the side walls 68.3 of the mixing chamber 62.

[0179] Each ventilation inlet 78.1, 78.2 extends preferentially upstream of the hydrogen inlet 74, and advantageously, from the upstream branch 70.1 of the mixing chamber 62. This allows more air to be brought upstream of the hydrogen and thus to better dilute the hydrogen in the mixing chamber 62.

[0180] The inlets of the exhaust device 60 also preferably include a humidifier inlet 80 connected to the humidifier 33 of the air circuit 30.

[0181] The humidifier inlet 80 is connected to the downstream end of the exhaust line 32 of the air circuit 30.

[0182] In this way, when the exhaust flow control valve 32.1 is open, an airflow from the cathode outlet 14 is sent, passing through the humidifier 33 and via the exhaust line 32, to the exhaust device 60. This airflow enters the mixing chamber 62 through the humidifier inlet 80.

[0183] The humidifier inlet 80 extends from the mixing chamber 62 along a principal axis, projecting from the mixing chamber 62. The principal axis passes through a geometric center of an internal section of the humidifier inlet 80. The humidifier inlet 80 is, for example, substantially cylindrical along its principal axis.

[0184] The humidifier inlet 80 extends from the side walls 68.3.

[0185] The humidifier inlet 80 is advantageously located upstream of the hydrogen inlet 74, and extends preferentially from the upstream branch 70.1 of the mixing chamber 62. This allows more air to be brought upstream of the hydrogen and thus to better dilute the hydrogen in the mixing chamber 62.

[0186] The humidifier inlet 80 preferably extends perpendicularly to the oxygen inlet 76.

[0187] The humidifier inlet 80 extends from the mixing chamber 62 along a main axis offset transversely with respect to the main outlet axes described below.

[0188] The humidifier inlet 80 and one of the exhaust outlets extend from the mixing chamber 62 in the same direction and / or along principal axes parallel to each other.

[0189] The humidifier inlet 80 and the oxygen inlet 76 preferably have respectively an internal section having a maximum internal length, the maximum internal length of the oxygen inlet 76 being substantially equal to the maximum internal length of the humidifier inlet 80. The maximum internal length corresponds for example to the internal diameter, when said inlets are cylindrical of revolution.

[0190] The inlets of the exhaust device 60 also preferably include an intercooler inlet 82 connected to the intercooler 31.2 of the air circuit 30.

[0191] The intercooler inlet 82 is connected to the downstream end of the bypass branch 35 of the air circuit 30.

[0192] In this way, when the bypass flow control valve 35.1 is opened, an airflow directly from the intercooler 31.2 is sent, via the bypass branch 35, to the exhaust device 60. This airflow enters the mixing chamber 62 through the intercooler inlet 82.

[0193] The intercooler inlet 82 extends from the mixing chamber 62 along a principal axis, projecting from the mixing chamber 62. The principal axis passes through a geometric center of an internal section of the intercooler inlet 82. The intercooler inlet 82 is, for example, substantially cylindrical about its principal axis.

[0194] The intercooler inlet 82 extends from the mixing chamber 62 along a principal axis offset transversely with respect to the main outlet axes. More precisely, the principal axis of the intercooler inlet 82 is parallel to a plane defined by the main outlet axes and offset by a non-zero distance from this plane. As illustrated in Figure 2, the intercooler inlet 82 and one of the exhaust outlets extend from the mixing chamber 62 in opposite directions and / or along principal axes parallel to each other.

[0195] The intercooler inlet 82 extends from the side walls 68.3. The intercooler inlet 82 is advantageously located upstream of the hydrogen inlet 74, and, preferentially extends from the upstream branch 70.1 of the mixing chamber 62. This allows more air to be supplied upstream of the hydrogen and thus to better dilute the hydrogen in the mixing chamber 62, in particular when the bypass flow control valve 35.1 is open.

[0196] The intercooler inlet 82 preferably extends perpendicularly to the oxygen inlet 76.

[0197] In the preferred example shown, the humidifier inlet 80 and the intercooler inlet 82 extend from the mixing chamber 62 along respective principal axes parallel to each other, preferably coinciding.

[0198] The intercooler inlet 82 and the humidifier inlet 80 also extend in opposite directions.

[0199] The intercooler inlet 82 and the oxygen inlet 76 preferably have respectively an internal section having a maximum internal length, the maximum internal length of the oxygen inlet 76 being substantially equal to the maximum internal length of the intercooler inlet 82. The maximum internal length corresponds for example to the internal diameter, when said inlets are cylindrical of revolution.

[0200] The maximum internal length of the intercooler inlet 82 is substantially equal to the maximum internal length of the humidifier inlet 80.

[0201] In the example shown in Figure 2, the exhaust device 60 includes two exhaust outlets 84.1, 84.2. Alternatively, but not shown, the exhaust device 60 may include more than two exhaust outlets. Each of these exhaust outlets is open to the environment and allows the contents of the mixing chamber 62 to be released into the environment.

[0202] The exhaust device 60 is connected to an air outlet 4 outside the fuel cell system. Preferably, the air outlet 4 is an aerodynamic device that ensures the discharge of air outside the fuel cell system 1, typically into the ambient air.

[0203] Each exhaust outlet 84.1, 84.2 extends from the mixing chamber 62, projecting beyond it. The exhaust outlets 84.1, 84.2 extend from the mixing chamber 62 along different principal axes. The principal axis passes through a geometric center of an internal section of the exhaust outlet. Each exhaust outlet 84.1, 84.2 is, for example, substantially cylindrical about its principal axis.

[0204] More specifically, preferably, the exhaust outlets 84.1, 84.2 extend from the mixing chamber 62 along intersecting principal axes. In the illustrated example, these principal axes are perpendicular to each other.

[0205] The main axis of one of the exhaust outlets (outlet 84.1) is preferably longitudinal, i.e. parallel to the longitudinal direction X. The main axis of the other of the exhaust outlets (outlet 84.2) is then advantageously parallel to the elevation direction Z.

[0206] In the example in the figures, one of the exhaust outlets (outlet 84.1) extends from the side walls 68.3 of the mixing chamber 62 and the other of the exhaust outlets (outlet 84.2) extends from the lower wall 68.2 of the mixing chamber 62.

[0207] The exhaust outlet 84.2 extending from the lower wall 68.2 is oriented downwards.

[0208] The fixing plate 64 then delimits a passage opening 64.1 into which is received the exhaust outlet 84.2 extending from the lower wall 68.2.

[0209] The exhaust outlets 84.1, 84.2 are located downstream of all the inlets, and in particular downstream of the hydrogen inlet 74, and extend preferentially from the downstream branch 70.2 of the mixing chamber 62. This allows for the rejection of elements that have been properly mixed in the mixing chamber 62, as detailed previously.

[0210] The exhaust outlet 84.1 extending longitudinally, for example, prolongs the downstream branch 70.2. In other words, the main axis of this exhaust outlet 84.1 coincides with the axis along which the downstream branch 70.2 extends.

[0211] The respective main axes of the hydrogen inlet 74 and the oxygen inlet 76 are preferably perpendicular to the main axes of the exhaust outlets 84.1, 84.2.

[0212] The respective main axes of the humidifier inlet 80 and the intercooler inlet 82 are preferably parallel to the main axis of one of the exhaust outlets (outlet 84.1) and perpendicular to the main axis of the other exhaust outlet (outlet 84.2). The exhaust device 60 thus has, thanks to the two exhaust outlets 84.1 and 84.2 provided by design on the exhaust device 60, at least two distinct exhaust mounting configurations. This allows the user of the fuel cell system 1 to select the most suitable mounting configuration.

[0213] More specifically, these two configurations include a first configuration, illustrated in Figure 3, in which only one of the exhaust outlets (outlet 84.1) is suitable for evacuating downstream a fluid contained in the mixing chamber 62, and a second configuration, illustrated in Figure 4, in which only one of the exhaust outlets (outlet 84.2) is suitable for evacuating downstream a fluid contained in the mixing chamber 62.

[0214] More specifically, in each of the mounting configurations, only one of the exhaust outlets 84.1, 84.2 is fluidly connected, downstream, to the ambient air via the air vent 4.

[0215] Preferably, each of the exhaust outlets 84.1, 84.2 includes a mounting device designed to removably receive a blocking device 86, which will be detailed below. Advantageously, the mounting device includes a thread and / or a shoulder.

[0216] To achieve this, the exhaust device 60 preferably includes an obstruction device 86 such that, in the first configuration (Figure 3), the obstruction device 86 prevents the downstream discharge of a fluid through any exhaust outlet other than said first of the exhaust outlets 84.1, and, such that, in the second configuration (Figure 4), the obstruction device 86 prevents the downstream discharge of a fluid through any exhaust outlet other than said second of the exhaust outlets 84.2.

[0217] In other words, in the first configuration, the obstruction device 86 seals the vertical exhaust outlet 84.2, while in the second configuration, the obstruction device 86 seals the longitudinal exhaust outlet 84.1.

[0218] When the obstruction device 86 prevents evacuation through one of the exhaust outlets, an internal face 86.1 of the obstruction device 86 preferably lies flush with the internal volume 66 of the mixing chamber 62. It is thus possible to avoid pressure losses related to the non-use of the obstructed exhaust outlet.

[0219] For example, when the obstruction device 86 prevents evacuation through the outlet extending from the lower wall 68.2, the inner face 86.1 of the obstruction device 86 is flush with an inner face of the lower wall 68.2. Similarly, when the obstruction device 86 prevents evacuation through the outlet extending from one of the side walls 68.3, the inner face 86.1 of the obstruction device 86 is flush with an inner face of the side wall 68.3.

[0220] The obstruction device 86 is preferably removable, for example suitable for being screwed onto each exhaust outlet 84.1, 84.2. In this case, the obstruction device is preferably formed by a plug configured at the time of injection.

[0221] In a preferred embodiment illustrated in Figures 2 and 5, the exhaust device 60 includes, for at least one of said inlets, a connection interface 88 suitable for being fixed to a control valve associated with the inlet.

[0222] The relevant entries preferably include:

[0223] - the oxygen inlet 76, the associated control valve being the bypass flow control valve 34.1 of the bypass line 34 of the air circuit 30; and / or

[0224] - the humidifier inlet 80, the associated control valve being the exhaust flow control valve 32.1 of the exhaust line 32 of the air circuit 30; and / or - the intercooler inlet 82, the associated control valve being the bypass flow control valve 35.1 of the bypass branch 35 of the air circuit 30.

[0225] Each connection interface 88 is suitable for being fixed to the associated control valve such that, when the control valve associated with the inlet is fixed to the connection interface 88, the mass of said control valve is transmitted to the mixing chamber 62 via the associated connection interface 88.

[0226] This allows the mass of the control valve(s) to be transferred to the exhaust device 60 rather than to the associated hose, thus enabling the use of flexible hoses. Furthermore, this minimizes hose length, resulting in a more compact yet more efficient fuel cell system due to reduced pressure losses.

[0227] Each connection interface 88 forms, for example, a flange 90 extending radially. The flange 90 defines a face opposite the associated control valve.

[0228] Each connection interface 88 has at least one receiving port 92 for a fastening member 96 of an associated fastening system. As illustrated in Figures 2 and 5, the connection interface 88 preferably defines at least two receiving ports 92, advantageously at least three receiving ports 92.

[0229] Each receiving orifice 92 is delimited by the collar 90.

[0230] When the associated control valve is fixed to the mixing chamber 62 via the associated connection interface 88, the connection interface 88 is in contact with the valve body of said associated control valve and fixing members are received in the receiving ports 92 by also being fixed to the associated control valve.

[0231] Each connection interface 88 also preferably defines a receiving groove 94 for the sealing gasket of the control valve.

[0232] When the associated control valve is fixed to the mixing chamber 62 via the associated connection interface 88, the sealing gasket is received in the receiving groove 94 and is compressed between the connection interface 88 and the control valve.

[0233] In the example in Figure 5, when the associated control valve is fixed to the connection interface 88, the fixing member 96 passes through the control valve connection module and is received in the receiving port 92. The connection module is then hermetically connected with the mixing chamber 62.

[0234] It is therefore possible to avoid fixing the valves on the hoses forming the different evacuation lines of the fuel cell system 1 and to avoid having to provide specific supports for the valves within the fuel cell system 1.

Claims

27 DEMANDS 1. Exhaust device (60) for fuel cell system comprising: - a mixing chamber (62) for fluids; - a hydrogen inlet (74) fluidly connected to the mixing chamber (62) and configured to be connected to an anodic outlet (12) for the evacuation of hydrogen not consumed inside the fuel cell (10); - an oxygen inlet (76) fluidly connected to the mixing chamber (62) and configured to be connected to a cathodic outlet (14) for the removal of oxygen not consumed inside the fuel cell (10); - at least two exhaust outlets (84.1, 84.2) fluidly connected to the mixing chamber (62) and extending from the mixing chamber (62) along different respective main outlet axes; the exhaust device (60) comprising at least two distinct exhaust mounting configurations including a first configuration, in which only one of the first exhaust outlets (84.1) is suitable for evacuating downstream a fluid contained in the mixing chamber (62), and a second configuration, in which only one of the second exhaust outlets (84.2) is suitable for evacuating downstream a fluid contained in the mixing chamber (62).

2. Exhaust device (60) according to claim 1, wherein the exhaust device (60) comprises an obstruction device (86) such that, in the first configuration, the obstruction device (86) prevents the downstream discharge of a fluid through any exhaust outlet other than said first of the exhaust outlets (84.1), and, such that, in the second configuration, the obstruction device (86) prevents the downstream discharge of a fluid through any exhaust outlet other than said second of the exhaust outlets (84.2), the obstruction device (86) preferably being removable.

3. Exhaust device (60) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the hydrogen inlet (74) and the oxygen inlet (76) extend from the mixing chamber (62) along respective principal axes parallel to each other and, preferably, perpendicular to the principal axes of the exhaust outlets (84.1, 84.2).

4. Exhaust device (60) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the mixing chamber (62) comprises an upper wall (68.1), a lower wall (68.2) and side walls (68.3) joining the upper wall (68.1) to the lower wall (68.2), the oxygen inlet (76), the hydrogen inlet (74) and one of the exhaust outlets (84.1) extending from the side walls (68.3), the other of the exhaust outlets (84.2) extending from the lower wall (68.2).

5. Exhaust device (60) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the exhaust device (60) comprises at least one ventilation inlet (78.1, 78.2) fluidly connected to the mixing chamber (62) and configured to be connected to a housing (18) containing the fuel cell.

6. Exhaust device (60) according to claim 5, wherein the exhaust device (60) comprises at least two ventilation inlets (78.1, 78.2) preferably comprising a high ventilation inlet (78.1) and a low ventilation inlet (78.2) extending from the mixing chamber (62), the high ventilation inlet (78.1) being configured to be connected to a high point of the fuel cell casing (18) and the low ventilation inlet (78.2) being configured to be connected to a low point of the fuel cell casing (18).

7. Exhaust device (60) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the exhaust device (60) also includes a humidifier inlet (80) fluidly connected to the mixing chamber (62) and configured to be connected to a humidifier (33) of an air circuit (30) of the fuel cell system (1).

8. Exhaust device (60) according to claim 7, wherein the humidifier inlet (80) extends from the mixing chamber (62) along a principal axis offset transversely with respect to the principal outlet axes and / or wherein the humidifier inlet (80) and one of the exhaust outlets (84.1) extend from the mixing chamber (62) in the same direction and / or along principal axes parallel to each other.

9. Exhaust device (60) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the exhaust device (60) also includes an intercooler inlet (82) fluidly connected to the mixing chamber (62) and configured to be connected to an intercooler (31.2) of an air circuit (30) of the fuel cell system (1).

10. Exhaust device (60) according to claim 9, wherein the intercooler inlet (82) extends from the mixing chamber (62) along a principal axis offset transversely with respect to the principal outlet axes; and / or wherein the intercooler inlet (82) and one of the exhaust outlets (84.1) extend from the mixing chamber (62) in opposite directions and / or along principal axes parallel to each other.

11. Exhaust device (60) according to any one of claims 9 or 10, taken in combination with any one of claims 7 or 8, wherein the humidifier inlet (80) and the intercooler inlet (82) extend from the mixing chamber (62) along respective principal axes parallel to each other, preferably coinciding, and preferably in opposite directions.

12. Exhaust device (60) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mixing chamber (62) comprises at least one upstream branch (70.1) and one downstream branch (70.2), the downstream branch (70.2) extending from the upstream branch (70.1), preferably perpendicularly, the upstream branch (70.1) and the downstream branch (70.2) defining a bend between them; the oxygen inlet (76), the hydrogen inlet (74) and the exhaust outlets extending preferably from the downstream branch (70.2).

13. Exhaust device (60) according to claim 12, taken in combination with any one of claims 5 or 6, wherein the ventilation inlet or each ventilation inlet (78.1, 78.2) extends from the upstream branch (70.1).

14. Exhaust device (60) according to any one of claims 12 or 13, taken in combination with any one of claims 7 or 8, wherein the humidifier inlet (80) extends from the upstream branch (70.1).

15. Exhaust device (60) according to any one of claims 12 to 14, taken in combination with any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the intercooler inlet (82) extends from the upstream branch (70.1).

16. Exhaust device (60) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the exhaust device (60) comprises, for at least one of said inlets (76, 80, 82), a connection interface (88) adapted to be fixed to a control valve (34.1, 32.1, 35.1) associated with the inlet (76, 80, 82), such that, when the control valve associated with the inlet is fixed to the connection interface (88), the mass of said control valve is transmitted to the mixing chamber (62) via the associated connection interface (88).

17. Exhaust device (60) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which two of the exhaust outlets (84.1, 84.2) extend from the mixing chamber (62) along intersecting principal axes, preferably perpendicular to each other.

18. A fuel cell system (1), comprising a fuel cell (10) and an exhaust device (60) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the fuel cell is provided with an anodic inlet (11) through which the fuel cell (10) is suitable for being supplied with hydrogen, an anodic outlet (12) for removing hydrogen not consumed within the fuel cell, a cathodic inlet (13) through which the fuel cell (10) is suitable for being supplied with oxygen, and a cathodic outlet (14) for removing oxygen not consumed within the fuel cell (10), the hydrogen inlet (74) of the exhaust device (60) being connected to the anodic outlet (12) and the oxygen inlet (76) of the exhaust device (60) being connected to the cathodic outlet (14).

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