Parallel Jet Pump Anode Recirculation Without a Second Check Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost and space requirements of using two separate check valves in jet pumps for recirculating anode gas in fuel cell systems, which increases overall costs and poses risks such as freezing at low temperatures, are problematic.
Innovation Solution
A device with at least two jet pumps connected in parallel, where only the first jet pump has a check valve, allowing for efficient recirculation of anode gas by eliminating the need for a second check valve, thereby reducing costs and design space, and ensuring reliable operation at low temperatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two separate check valves are used in each jet pump to prevent reverse flow, then the reliability of reverse flow prevention is improved, but the overall costs and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the reverse flow prevention function from a separate check valve into the jet pump's own internal structure. The jet pump utilizes its inherent pressure differential and flow direction characteristics to prevent reverse flow, eliminating the need for an additional check valve component while maintaining the reliability of reverse flow prevention.
Solution Approach 2:
The jet pump is designed to perform multiple functions: it not only conveys the anode gas stream from the anode outlet back to the anode inlet, but also inherently prevents reverse flow through its operational characteristics. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for reverse flow prevention.
2Reliability
If two separate check valves are installed in parallel jet pumps, then reverse flow protection is ensured, but the design space and volume requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the reverse flow prevention capability from a separate check valve component and integrates it into the jet pump's operational principles. By removing the unnecessary check valve component, the design space and volume requirements are significantly reduced while maintaining the essential reverse flow protection function.
3Reliability
If check valves are installed in jet pumps operating at low temperatures, then reverse flow prevention is maintained, but the risk of freezing and service life reduction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the check valve component that would be susceptible to freezing damage in cold environments. By using a simpler jet pump design without vulnerable check valves, the system avoids the harmful effects of freezing while maintaining reverse flow prevention through the jet pump's inherent operational characteristics.
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 configuration enhances the cold start capability, reduces design space, and increases the service life of the device by preventing freezing and reverse flow issues, while maintaining high recirculation performance and efficiency across various load conditions.
Implementation Method 1
uses a pressure difference to move the anode gas from the anode outlet (39) back to the anode inlet (38)
Implementation Method 2
a check valve is typically additionally used in each of the two jet pumps in order to prevent a reverse flow of the conveying quantity through the respective jet pump
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (1) for recirculating anode gas in an anode circuit of a fuel cell system (31) and to a fuel cell system (31) comprising a device (1) according to the invention.The invention additionally relates to a method for recirculating anode gas in an anode circuit of the fuel cell system (31), in which at least two jet pumps (4, 6) connected in parallel are used and are operated individually or jointly depending on the load.