Single-Layer Humidifying Membrane Module for Lightweight Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional humidifying membrane modules for fuel batteries are heavy, expensive, and complex due to their two-layer structure, requiring high assembly time and unable to be downsized effectively.
Innovation Solution
A single-layer structure humidifying membrane module with a hollow fiber membrane bundle integrated into a case, using potting members to seal gaps and maintain liquid tightness, and employing sealing members to simplify assembly and thermal resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a two-layer structure (module case and outer case member) is used to seal gaps, then liquid tightness is maintained, but weight increases and device size enlarges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the module case and outer case member into a single integrated case structure. The case is formed as one piece with a single continuous wall that defines both the inner and outer boundaries, eliminating the need for separate layer components while maintaining sealing functionality through integrated design.
2Reliability
If a two-layer structure with seal member is used, then liquid tightness is maintained, but manufacturing cost increases and assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple case components into a single molded case structure, reducing the number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled. This integration reduces manufacturing complexity and associated costs while maintaining the necessary sealing functions through the unified design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the seal member function from a separate component and integrates it directly into the case structure through molded-in sealing features. The case includes built-in sealing surfaces and structures that provide liquid tightness without requiring separate seal members, thereby simplifying manufacturing.
3Reliability
If a two-layer structure is used, then sealing is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the case structure into a single integrated component that performs multiple functions simultaneously. The unified case design eliminates the complexity of coordinating multiple layers and their interfaces while maintaining sealing performance through integrated geometric features.
4Reliability
If a two-layer structure with seal member is used, then liquid tightness is maintained, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the sealing function directly into the case structure, eliminating the need to separately install seal members during assembly. The molded-in sealing features are built into the case during manufacturing, reducing assembly steps and time while maintaining liquid tightness.
Data Source
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AI summary
A humidifying membrane module that is reduced in weight and size and can be manufactured at low cost by forming a case in a single-layer structure is provided. The humidifying membrane module has a hollow fiber membrane bundle constructed from a plurality of hollow fiber membranes, the case for accommodating the hollow fiber membrane bundle, a first flow passage extending through hollow inner portions of the hollow fiber membranes, and a second flow passage extending through the outer wall surface sides of the hollow fiber membranes. The hollow fiber membrane bundle and the case are simultaneously integrated with each other at both ends of the hollow fiber membrane bundle by using potting members for sealing gaps between the hollow fiber membrane bundle and the case. An inlet and an outlet for forming the first flow passage are formed respectively at the both ends of the case. An entrance and an exit for forming the second flow passage are formed respectively in side surfaces near the both ends of the case.