Modular Fuel Ejector for Adjustable Fuel Cell Recirculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing venturi devices for fuel cell recirculation systems require specific dimensional configurations tailored to each application, limiting their adaptability and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A modular fuel ejector design with adjustable and interchangeable components, including a nozzle, sleeve, and shim system, allowing for customizable throat diameter and mixing volume to accommodate varying flow rates and recirculation ratios across different fuel cell applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a venturi device is configured with specific dimensional parameters for a fuel cell application, then the required flow velocities and recirculation ratios are achieved, but the device lacks adaptability to different fuel cell applications
Solution Approach 1:
The venturi device is divided into multiple interchangeable components including the venturi body, nozzle, and throat section. Each component can be independently replaced or adjusted to modify the overall dimensional parameters, allowing the same base structure to be adapted to different fuel cell applications while maintaining precise flow characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates adjustable elements such as movable nozzles and interchangeable throat sections that allow the dimensional parameters to be dynamically changed between operations. This enables the venturi device to adapt to different flow velocity requirements and recirculation ratios for various fuel cell applications without requiring complete redesign.
2Reliability
If a custom venturi device is designed for each fuel cell application, then optimal performance is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The venturi device employs a universal base structure with standardized connection interfaces and modular components that can serve multiple fuel cell applications. By combining this universal platform with interchangeable specialized components (nozzles, throat sections), the device achieves application-specific performance optimization without requiring entirely custom designs for each use case.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of designing completely different devices for each application, the invention allows optimization by changing specific parameters such as throat diameter, nozzle angle, and passage cross-section through interchangeable components. This approach maintains overall structural simplicity while enabling parameter customization to match different fuel cell performance requirements.
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
Enables flexible and efficient recirculation of residual gases in fuel cells by providing adjustable fuel flow characteristics, enhancing performance and adaptability to different power output requirements.
Implementation Method 1
Such recirculation systems typically employ a venturi device such as a fuel ejector to incorporate the recirculated gases into the main gaseous hydrogen fuel supply
Implementation Method 2
Fuel cells can use hydrogen gas as a fuel source to mix with air to form water and electricity via electrolysis in a fuel cell membrane
Data Source
AI summary
A fuel ejector is disclosed to provide gaseous fuel to a fuel cell. The fuel ejector includes an ejector body having first and second fluid inlets and a mixing volume. A nozzle is removably engaged to the ejector body in axial alignment with the first fluid inlet. The nozzle is axially adjustable in position with shims to position the nozzle inlet at a desired location within the mixing volume. A sleeve may also be selected and positioned in the first inlet to establish a throat diameter.