Fuel Cell Power Converter for Open-Circuit Voltage Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fuel cell systems face challenges in controlling and removing open circuit voltage (OCV) when the fuel cell is stopped, leading to reduced performance and life of the fuel cell, and requiring separate batteries and complex control processes.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a power converter and a controller that maintains a current linkage to the system or load to reduce the OCV of the fuel cell after power generation is ended, without the need for a separate battery, thereby minimizing heating and preventing performance reduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a resistor is used to buck voltage and remove OCV, then the OCV can be removed, but heating occurs and performance of the stack is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
A DC/DC converter is introduced as an intermediary device between the fuel cell stack and the load. This converter acts as a mediator that can buck the voltage and remove OCV without directly dissipating power as heat like a resistor would. The converter transforms the electrical energy in a controlled manner, enabling OCV removal while minimizing harmful heating effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operating parameters of the fuel cell system by using a power converter to dynamically adjust voltage and current levels. Instead of using a fixed resistor that causes continuous heating, the converter allows for precise parameter control, adjusting the bucking degree and current linkage to remove OCV efficiently while maintaining optimal operating conditions and minimizing heat generation.
2Reliability
If a high voltage battery is used to remove OCV, then the OCV can be removed using charging function, but a separate battery and charging/discharging device are required making the control process complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The DC/DC converter is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the power management device for normal operation and the OCV removal mechanism when needed. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate battery and charging/discharging devices. The converter can operate in different modes (power transmission mode and OCV removal mode) depending on system requirements, simplifying the overall device architecture and control process.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the OCV removal function with the existing DC/DC converter that is already part of the fuel cell power system. Instead of adding a separate battery system for OCV removal, the converter's capabilities are utilized to perform both power delivery and OCV management functions, reducing device complexity and integrating multiple functions into a single component.
3Productivity
If the fuel cell stack is stopped, then power generation stops, but OCV remains causing reduced performance and life of the fuel cell
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by continuously managing the electrical load and current linkage even when the fuel cell stack is stopped. The DC/DC converter maintains controlled current flow to prevent OCV buildup before it can cause damage. This preliminary management of electrical parameters ensures that when the stack is not generating power, OCV does not accumulate to harmful levels, thereby protecting fuel cell performance and longevity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device implements feedback control by continuously monitoring the voltage and current parameters of the fuel cell stack. When the stack is stopped, the system detects the cessation of power generation and automatically adjusts the current linkage through the DC/DC converter to prevent OCV formation. This closed-loop feedback ensures that the fuel cell is protected from OCV damage regardless of its operational state, maintaining reliability while allowing flexible power generation control.
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
The solution effectively removes the OCV of the fuel cell, preventing damage and reducing the risk of performance and life degradation, while simplifying control processes and eliminating the need for additional batteries.
Implementation Method 1
A fuel cell system generates power using hydrogen or the like
Implementation Method 2
a power converter that converts and supplies power generated by the fuel cell to a system or load
Implementation Method 3
a controller that maintains a current linkage to the system or load to reduce an open circuit voltage (OCV) of the fuel cell
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for converting power of a fuel cell for power generation to remove an open voltage of the fuel cell and a method thereof are provided. A power converter converts and supplies power generated by the fuel cell to a system or load. A controller maintains a current linkage to the system or load to reduce an open circuit voltage (OCV) of the fuel cell, after power generation of the fuel cell is ended. The apparatus removes the OCV of the fuel cell to reduce performance and life of the fuel cell, when the fuel cell is stopped.