Fuel Cell Cooling Control via Thermal Energy Change Calculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing cooling control methods for fuel cell systems face challenges in accurately measuring the temperature of the fuel cell stack, leading to inefficient heat radiation and delayed cooling performance due to indirect temperature estimation and minimal heat generation, resulting in thermal impact and reduced cooling efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A control system and method that calculates the thermal energy change of the fuel cell based on heating value and radiant heat, using temperature sensors and a controller to operate the cooling water pump and adjust the thermostat valve, optimizing the rotational speed and flow rate of the cooling water to prevent excessive temperature increases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If indirect temperature estimation using outlet cooling water temperature is used, then the fuel cell stack temperature can be monitored, but the temperature measurement precision is insufficient leading to delayed cooling response
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses thermal energy change calculation as an intermediary parameter between direct temperature measurement and cooling control. Instead of relying on indirect temperature estimation from cooling water outlet temperature, the system calculates thermal energy change based on heating value and coolant temperature difference, providing a more accurate and timely indicator for cooling control decisions
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary calculation of thermal energy change before actual cooling is needed. By continuously monitoring heating value and coolant temperatures, the system proactively determines thermal energy accumulation trends and triggers cooling actions in advance, preventing temperature overshoot and reducing response delay
2Use of energy by moving object
If minimal heat radiation is maintained by the radiator, then energy consumption is reduced, but cooling performance is delayed when heat generation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of cooling system operation based on real-time thermal energy change calculations. The cooling water pump and thermostat valve are controlled dynamically according to the calculated thermal energy accumulation, allowing the system to transition from minimal heat radiation mode to active cooling mode seamlessly when heat generation increases, optimizing both energy consumption and cooling response speed
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes a feedback loop where thermal energy change calculations continuously inform cooling control decisions. The controller monitors heating value and coolant temperatures, calculates thermal energy change, and adjusts pump speed and valve opening accordingly, creating a responsive feedback mechanism that balances energy consumption with cooling performance requirements
3Temperature
If low-temperature cooling water from the radiator is used to cool the fuel cell stack, then cooling efficiency is improved, but thermal impact is applied to the fuel cell stack
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the control parameter from direct temperature-based control to thermal energy change-based control. By calculating thermal energy accumulation rather than relying on coolant temperature alone, the system can determine the appropriate cooling intensity needed, adjusting the mix of bypass and radiator cooling water to achieve effective cooling while minimizing thermal shock to the fuel cell stack
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 solution enables effective cooling performance by directly addressing thermal energy changes, improving fuel cell temperature regulation, reducing power consumption, and enhancing fuel efficiency by preemptively adjusting the cooling system based on real-time thermal energy changes.
Implementation Method 1
a cooling flow path in which cooling water flows is formed between respective unit cells included in the fuel cell stack to cool the fuel cell stack
Implementation Method 2
a radiator configured to cool the cooling water in the cooling water inlet line
Data Source
AI summary
A cooling control system and method for fuel cells are provided. The cooling control system includes a fuel cell, a cooling circulation line connected to the fuel cell to circulate cooling water for cooling the fuel cell therein and a cooling water pump provided on the cooling circulation line to adjust a circulation amount of the cooling water. A calculation unit calculates a thermal energy change of the fuel cell based on a heating value and an amount of radiant heat of the fuel cell. A controller operates the cooling water pump based on the calculated thermal energy change of the fuel cell.