Fuel Cell Ejector Moisture Reuse System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fuel cell systems require external humidifiers that occupy additional space and involve complex piping, as they need to maintain moisture levels in the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) for proper operation, which can be inefficient and space-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A fuel cell system utilizing an ejector that reuses moisture generated in the air and fuel electrodes by injecting water into the fuel cell stack, reducing or eliminating the need for an external humidifier through a water injection nozzle and control system that manages moisture levels internally.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an external humidifier is installed to maintain moisture levels in the fuel cell stack, then the fuel cell operation reliability is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the humidifier function with the existing fuel circulation system by integrating a water injection nozzle into the fuel injection apparatus. Condensed water from the air electrode is injected into the fuel electrode through this integrated system, eliminating the need for a separate external humidifier while maintaining proper moisture levels in the fuel cell stack.
Solution Approach 2:
The fuel circulation system is given multiple functions: it not only supplies fuel to the fuel electrode but also transports condensed water from the air electrode to the fuel electrode for humidification. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for dedicated humidification equipment while ensuring reliable fuel cell operation.
2Reliability
If an external humidifier is installed to maintain moisture levels in the fuel cell stack, then the fuel cell operation reliability is improved, but the space requirements within the vehicle increase
Solution Approach 1:
The humidification function is merged into the existing fuel circulation system components, specifically the fuel injection nozzle and water supply line. This integration eliminates the need for separate humidifier equipment and associated piping, thereby reducing the overall space requirements within the vehicle while maintaining reliable fuel cell operation.
3Productivity
If moisture is transferred from air electrode to fuel electrode through external humidifier, then the fuel cell performance is maintained, but the system requires complex pipe connections
Solution Approach 1:
The water supply line is integrated with the existing fuel circulation line, allowing condensed water to be transported from the air electrode to the fuel electrode through the same circulation pathway used for fuel. This integration significantly reduces the number of separate pipe connections required compared to using an external humidifier system.
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 approach minimizes the size of external humidifiers or eliminates them altogether, effectively managing moisture within the system and reducing water transfer between electrodes, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and reducing space requirements.
Implementation Method 1
an ejector that can reduce the capacity of an external humidifier or omit a humidifier from the system by continuously reusing moisture generated in an air electrode or a fuel electrode
Implementation Method 2
a stack that produces electricity via an electro-chemical reaction between fuel and air
Implementation Method 3
A water injection nozzle is also disposed within the system to inject water into the fuel injection nozzle. This water may be supplied to the water injection nozzle via pressure from the fuel injected via the fuel injection nozzle.
Data Source
AI summary
A fuel cell system with an ejector is provided. In particular, the system includes a stack, fuel injection nozzle and a water injection nozzle. In particular, the stack produces electricity via an electrochemical reaction using fuel and air. The fuel injection nozzle injects fuel into the stack and the water injection nozzle injects water into the fuel injection nozzle. In particular, water is supplied from the water injection nozzle into the fuel injection nozzle due to a vacuum within the fuel injection nozzle.