Fuel Cell Module Casing with Integrated Fluid Channel for Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
In fuel cell modules, the heat-resistant temperature of internal components like the fixing flange of the heating member is lower than the module surface temperature, leading to degradation and a short lifespan due to exposure to high temperatures.
Innovation Solution
A fuel cell module design featuring a single continuous fluid channel within the casing to direct fluid flow for heat removal from the fixing flange of the heating member, suppressing heat radiation and enabling efficient cooling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the glow plug is exposed to the module surface temperature for heating, then the heating function is achieved, but the fixing flange degrades easily due to low heat resistant temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The casing is divided into multiple segments including a first casing, second casing, third casing, and fourth casing arranged in sequence. The fluid channel is segmented into multiple sections that pass through different casings. This segmentation allows the fluid channel to contact different regions with varying temperature distributions, enabling effective cooling of the fixing flange while maintaining the heating function of the glow plug.
Solution Approach 2:
A fluid channel acts as an intermediary cooling system between the high-temperature glow plug and the external environment. The fluid channel conducts heat away from the fixing flange through continuous fluid flow, serving as a heat transfer mediator that protects the glow plug assembly from excessive temperature exposure.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a fluid channel is designed to cool the fixing flange, then heat radiation is suppressed, but the casing structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid channel is integrated directly into the casing structure itself rather than being a separate component. The casing walls are designed to incorporate the fluid channel passages, merging the structural function of the casing with the thermal management function of the cooling system. This reduces the number of separate parts and simplifies the overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The casing serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, contains the fuel cell stack and other components, and acts as part of the thermal management system through the integrated fluid channel. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate cooling system components, reducing overall device complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design extends the lifespan of the heating member by maintaining the fixing flange within a heat-resistant temperature range, reducing heat radiation, and improving the overall performance and durability of the fuel cell module.
Implementation Method 1
All the fluid flowing into the fluid channel is initially supplied to the first surface member to remove heat of the fixing flange
Implementation Method 2
A single continuous fluid channel is formed by connecting spaces inside the surface members. The fluid channel has a fluid inlet in a first surface member for allowing fluid to flow initially in the first surface member
Data Source
AI summary
A fuel cell module includes a fuel cell unit and a casing. The casing has hollow surface members including a front surface member, a rear surface member, a right surface member, a left surface member, and a lower surface member. A single continuous air channel is formed by connecting spaces inside of these surface members. The air channel has a fluid inlet on the front surface member for allowing the air to flow initially in the front surface member. A first flange and a second flange are provided on the front surface member.