Patent Description:
A fuel cell has advantages in that it is possible to continuously generate electricity as long as hydrogen and oxygen are supplied, unlike a general chemical cell, such as a dry cell or a storage cell, and in that there is no heat loss, whereby efficiency of the fuel cell is about twice as high as efficiency of an internal combustion engine.

In addition, the fuel cell directly converts chemical energy generated by combination of hydrogen and oxygen into electrical energy, whereby the amount of contaminants that are discharged is small. Consequently, the fuel cell has advantages in that the fuel cell is environmentally friendly and in that a concern about depletion of resources due to an increase in energy consumption can be reduced.

Based on the kind of an electrolyte that is used, such a fuel cell may be classified as a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), a phosphoric acid fuel cell (PAFC), a molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC), a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC), or an alkaline fuel cell (AFC).

These fuel cells are operated fundamentally by the same principle, but are different from each other in terms of the kind of fuel that is used, operating temperature, catalyst, and electrolyte. Among these fuel cells, the polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is known as being the most favorable to a transportation system as well as small-scale stationary power generation equipment, since the polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell is operated at a lower temperature than the other fuel cells and the output density of the polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell is high, whereby it is possible to miniaturize the polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell.

One of the most important factors in improving the performance of the polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is to supply a predetermined amount or more of moisture to a polymer electrolyte membrane or a proton exchange membrane (PEM) of a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) in order to retain moisture content. The reason for this is that, if the polymer electrolyte membrane or the proton exchange membrane is dried, power generation efficiency is abruptly reduced.

<NUM>) A bubbler humidification method of filling a pressure-resistant container with water and allowing a target gas to pass through a diffuser in order to supply moisture, <NUM>) a direct injection method of calculating the amount of moisture to be supplied that is necessary for fuel cell reaction and directly supplying moisture to a gas stream pipe through a solenoid valve, and <NUM>) a membrane humidification method of supplying moisture to a gas fluid bed using a polymer separation membrane are used as methods of humidifying the polymer electrolyte membrane or the proton exchange membrane.

Among these methods, the membrane humidification method, which provides water vapor to air that is supplied to the polymer electrolyte membrane or the proton exchange membrane using a membrane configured to selectively transmit only water vapor included in off-gas in order to humidify the polymer electrolyte membrane or the proton exchange membrane, is advantageous in that it is possible to reduce the weight and size of a humidifier.

When a module is formed, a hollow fiber membrane having large transmission area per unit volume is suitable for a permselective membrane used in the membrane humidification method. That is, when a humidifier is manufactured using a hollow fiber membrane, high integration of the hollow fiber membrane having large contact surface area is possible, whereby it is possible to sufficiently humidify the fuel cell even at a small capacity, it is possible to use a low-priced material, and it is possible to collect moisture and heat included in off-gas discharged from the fuel cell at a high temperature and to reuse the collected moisture and heat through the humidifier.

<FIG> is a schematic exploded perspective view of a conventional humidifier for fuel cells.

As illustrated in <FIG>, a conventional membrane humidification type humidifier <NUM> includes a humidifying module <NUM>, in which moisture exchange is performed between air supplied from the outside and off-gas discharged from a fuel cell stack (not shown), and caps <NUM> coupled respectively to opposite ends of the humidifying module <NUM>.

One of the caps <NUM> transmits air supplied from the outside to the humidifying module <NUM>, and the other cap transmits air humidified by the humidifying module <NUM> to the fuel cell stack.

The humidifying module <NUM> includes a mid-case <NUM> having an off-gas inlet 111a and an off-gas outlet 111b and a plurality of hollow fiber membranes <NUM> in the mid-case <NUM>. Opposite ends of a bundle of hollow fiber membranes <NUM> are potted in fixing layers <NUM>. In general, each of the fixing layers <NUM> is formed by hardening a liquid polymer, such as liquid polyurethane resin, using a casting method.

Air supplied from the outside flows along hollow parts of the hollow fiber membranes <NUM>. Off-gas introduced into the mid-case <NUM> through the off-gas inlet 111a comes into contact with the outer surfaces of the hollow fiber membranes <NUM>, and is discharged from the mid-case <NUM> through the off-gas outlet 111b. When the off-gas comes into contact with the outer surfaces of the hollow fiber membranes <NUM>, moisture contained in the off-gas is transmitted through the hollow fiber membranes <NUM> to humidify air flowing along the hollow parts of the hollow fiber membranes <NUM>.

Inner spaces of the caps <NUM> must fluidly communicate with only the hollow parts of the hollow fiber membranes <NUM> in a state of being completely isolated from an inner space of the mid-case <NUM>. If not, air leakage due to pressure difference occurs, whereby the amount of humidified air that is supplied to the fuel cell stack is reduced and power generation efficiency of a fuel cell is lowered.

In general, as illustrated in <FIG>, the fixing layers <NUM>, in which opposite ends of the hollow fiber membranes <NUM> are potted, and resin layers <NUM> provided between the fixing layers <NUM> and the mid-case <NUM> isolate the inner spaces of the caps <NUM> from the inner space of the mid-case <NUM>. Similarly to the fixing layers <NUM>, each of the resin layers <NUM> is generally formed by hardening a liquid polymer, such as liquid polyurethane resin, using a casting method.

However, a casting process for forming the resin layers <NUM> requires a relatively long process time, whereby productivity of the humidifier <NUM> is lowered. <CIT> relates to a fuel cell membrane humidifier, and more particularly, to a fuel cell membrane humidifier capable of performing an airtight function in a high temperature / high pressure / high humidity environment by a mechanical assembly structure. <CIT> relates to a structure for preventing leakage of a vacuum membrane distillation module using a hollow fiber membrane in a membrane distillation system and more particularly to a structure for preventing leakage of water generated between a membrane bundle having different thermal expansion coefficients and a housing module in a seawater desalination technology and more particularly, to a module leakage preventing structure using a hollow fiber membrane vacuum distillation method. <CIT> relates to a membrane humidifier, and more particularly, to a membrane humidifier having a sealing member interposed between a housing and a potting portion fixing an end portion of a hollow fiber membrane bundle to the housing. <CIT> relates to a humidifier for a fuel cell and a packing member therefor, and more specifically, to a humidifier for a fuel cell capable of significantly reducing maintenance cost as well as being manufactured with improved productivity, and a packing member for the same.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and it is an object of the present invention to provide a humidifier for fuel cells capable of preventing lowering in productivity of the humidifier due to formation of a resin layer through a casting process.

In order to accomplish the above object, the present invention provides for a humidifier as defined in claim <NUM>.

A humidifier for fuel cells according to the present disclosure may include a humidifying module configured to humidify dry gas supplied from outside using wet gas discharged from a fuel cell stack and a first cap coupled to one end of the humidifying module. The humidifying module may include a mid-case and at least one cartridge disposed in the mid-case, the cartridge being configured to receive a plurality of hollow fiber membranes. The humidifier for fuel cells according to the present disclosure may further include a first packing member airtightly coupled to at least one end of the humidifying module through mechanical assembly such that the first cap fluidly communicates with only the hollow fiber membranes. The first packing member may be brought into tight contact with the cartridge using pressure of at least one of dry gas and wet gas.

The present disclosure is implemented such that a casting process for hermetically sealing an inner space of a cap and an inner space of a mid-case is omitted. In the present disclosure, therefore, it is possible to improve productivity through reduction in process time for production.

In the present disclosure, it is possible to increase hermetic sealing force using the pressure of at least one of dry gas and wet gas. Also, in the present disclosure, it is possible to increase hermetic sealing force without an additional construction, whereby it is possible to reduce cost necessary to increase hermetic sealing force.

Hereinafter, embodiments of a humidifier for fuel cells according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Referring to <FIG>, a humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure humidifies dry gas supplied from the outside using wet gas discharged from a fuel cell stack. The dry gas may be fuel gas or air.

The humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure includes a humidifying module <NUM> configured to humidify dry gas and a first cap <NUM> coupled to one end of the humidifying module <NUM>. The humidifying module <NUM> includes a cartridge <NUM>, to which a plurality of hollow fiber membranes <NUM> is coupled, a mid-case <NUM>, to which the cartridge <NUM> is coupled, and a first packing member <NUM> disposed between the cartridge <NUM> and the mid-case <NUM> to hermetically seal between the cartridge <NUM> and the mid-case <NUM>. The first packing member <NUM> may hermetically seal between the cartridge <NUM> and the mid-case <NUM> through coupling without a casting process. Consequently, the first packing member <NUM> may hermetically seal an inner space of the first cap <NUM> and an inner space of the mid-case <NUM>. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, the casting process, which requires a relatively long process time, may be omitted, whereby it is possible to improve productivity through reduction in process time for production.

Hereinafter, the humidifying module <NUM> and the first cap <NUM> will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Referring to <FIG>, the humidifying module <NUM> humidifies dry gas supplied from the outside using wet gas discharged from the fuel cell stack. The first cap <NUM> may be coupled to one end of the humidifying module <NUM>. A second cap <NUM> may be coupled to the other end of the humidifying module <NUM>. The first cap <NUM> may transmit dry gas supplied from the outside to the humidifying module <NUM>. The second cap <NUM> may transmit the dry gas humidified by the humidifying module <NUM> to the fuel cell stack. The second cap <NUM> may transmit dry gas supplied from the outside to the humidifying module <NUM>, and the first cap <NUM> may transmit the dry gas humidified by the humidifying module <NUM> to the fuel cell stack.

The humidifying module <NUM> includes the cartridge <NUM>, the mid-case <NUM>, and the first packing member <NUM>.

The cartridge <NUM> includes the plurality of hollow fiber membranes <NUM>. The hollow fiber membranes <NUM> may be implemented as the cartridge <NUM> so as to be modularized. Consequently, the hollow fiber membranes <NUM> may be installed in the mid-case <NUM> through a process of coupling the cartridge <NUM> to the mid-case <NUM>. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, ease in installation, separation, and replacement of the hollow fiber membranes <NUM> may be improved. The cartridge <NUM> may include an inner case <NUM> configured to receive the hollow fiber membranes <NUM>. The hollow fiber membranes <NUM> may be disposed in the inner case <NUM> so as to be modularized. Each of the hollow fiber membranes <NUM> may include a polymer membrane made of polysulfone resin, polyethersulfone resin, sulfonated polysulfone resin, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) resin, polyacrylonitrile (PAN) resin, polyimide resin, polyamide imide resin, polyester imide resin, or a mixture of two or more thereof.

The cartridge <NUM> may include a first potting portion <NUM>. The first potting portion <NUM> fixes the hollow fiber membranes <NUM>. The first potting portion <NUM> may fix one side of each of the hollow fiber membranes <NUM>. In this case, the first potting portion <NUM> may be formed so as not to block hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes <NUM>. The first potting portion <NUM> may be formed by hardening a liquid resin, such as liquid polyurethane resin, using a casting process. The first potting portion <NUM> may fix the inner case <NUM> and one side of each of the hollow fiber membranes <NUM> to each other.

The cartridge <NUM> may include a second potting portion <NUM>. The second potting portion <NUM> fixes the other side of each of the hollow fiber membranes <NUM>. In this case, the second potting portion <NUM> may be formed so as not to block the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes <NUM>. Consequently, dry gas may be supplied to the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes <NUM>, may be humidified, and may be supplied to the fuel cell stack without being disturbed by the second potting portion <NUM> and the first potting portion <NUM>. The second potting portion <NUM> may be formed by hardening a liquid resin, such as liquid polyurethane resin, using a casting process. The second potting portion <NUM> may fix the inner case <NUM> and the other side of each of the hollow fiber membranes <NUM> to each other.

The cartridge <NUM> is coupled to the mid-case <NUM>. The cartridge <NUM> may be disposed in the mid-case <NUM> such that a space is defined between the inner surface of the mid-case <NUM> and the outer surface of the cartridge <NUM>. The mid-case <NUM> may include an inlet <NUM> and an outlet <NUM>. Wet gas containing moisture may be introduced into the mid-case <NUM> through the inlet <NUM>, and may then come into contact with the outer surfaces of the hollow fiber membranes <NUM>. During this process, the moisture contained in the wet gas may be transmitted through the hollow fiber membranes <NUM>, whereby the dry gas flowing along the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes <NUM> may be humidified. The humidified dry gas may be discharged from the hollow fiber membranes <NUM>, and may then be supplied to the fuel cell stack. After humidifying the dry gas, the wet gas may be discharged from the mid-case <NUM> through the outlet <NUM>. The inlet <NUM> may be connected to the fuel cell stack. In this case, the wet gas may be off-gas discharged from the fuel cell stack.

Meanwhile, the cartridge <NUM> may be provided with an introduction hole (not shown) configured to allow the wet gas to be introduced therethrough and a discharge hole (not shown) configured to allow the wet gas, after humidifying the dry gas flowing along the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes <NUM>, to be discharged therethrough. In this case, the wet gas may be introduced between the inner surface of the mid-case <NUM> and the outer surface of the cartridge <NUM> through the inlet <NUM>, may be introduced into the cartridge <NUM> through the introduction hole, may humidify the dry gas flowing along the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes <NUM>, may be discharged between the inner surface of the mid-case <NUM> and the outer surface of the cartridge <NUM> through the discharge hole, and may be discharged from the mid-case <NUM> through the outlet <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the first packing member <NUM> hermetically seals between the cartridge <NUM> and the mid-case <NUM>. The first packing member <NUM> may be airtightly coupled to at least one end of the humidifying module <NUM> through mechanical assembly. Consequently, the first packing member <NUM> allows the first cap <NUM> to fluidly communicate with only the hollow fiber membranes <NUM>. Consequently, the first packing member <NUM> may prevent direct mixing between dry gas to be supplied to the fuel cell stack and wet gas supplied into the mid-case <NUM>. The first packing member <NUM> may be inserted between the cartridge <NUM> and the mid-case <NUM>. In this case, the cartridge <NUM> may be inserted into a first passing hole 23a formed in the first packing member <NUM>. The first packing member <NUM> may contact each of an inner wall of the mid-case <NUM>, an outer wall of the cartridge <NUM>, and the first potting portion <NUM>. Through such contact, the first packing member <NUM> may be airtightly coupled to one end of the humidifying module <NUM>. In this case, the first packing member <NUM> may contact each of a portion of the inner wall of the mid-case <NUM>, a portion of the outer wall of the cartridge <NUM>, and a portion of the first potting portion <NUM>.

The humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure may include a plurality of first packing members <NUM>. The first packing members <NUM> and <NUM>' may be airtightly coupled to opposite ends of the humidifying module <NUM>, respectively. In this case, the first packing members <NUM> and <NUM>' may be disposed at opposite sides of the cartridge <NUM>. The first packing member <NUM>' may contact each of the inner wall of the mid-case <NUM>, the outer wall of the cartridge <NUM>, and the second potting portion <NUM>, whereby the first packing member <NUM>' may be airtightly coupled to the other end of the humidifying module <NUM>. In this case, the first packing member <NUM>' may contact each of a portion of the inner wall of the mid-case <NUM>, a portion of the outer wall of the cartridge <NUM>, and a portion of the second potting portion <NUM>. Since the first packing members <NUM> and <NUM>' are implemented so as to have the same structure except that the positions thereof are different from each other, a description will be given based on the first packing member <NUM> disposed at one end of the humidifying module <NUM>. It is obvious to those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains that the first packing member <NUM>' disposed at the other end of the humidifying module <NUM> is derived therefrom.

The first packing member <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> using the pressure of at least one of dry gas and wet gas. During a humidification process, both the dry gas and the wet gas flow at a considerable pressure, whereby each of the dry gas and the wet gas has pressure sufficient to press the first packing member <NUM> toward the cartridge <NUM>. Consequently, the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure is implemented such that the first packing member <NUM> is brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> using the pressure of at least one of the dry gas and the wet gas during the humidification process. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, it is possible to implement hermetic sealing force necessary to prevent direct mixing between the dry gas and the wet gas without an additional construction, whereby it is possible to reduce cost necessary to increase hermetic sealing force. The first packing member <NUM> may be made of an elastically deformable material. For example, the first packing member <NUM> may be made of rubber. The first packing member <NUM> may be formed in a ring shape so as to hermetically seal between the cartridge <NUM> and the mid-case <NUM>.

The first packing member <NUM> may include a first packing body <NUM>. The first packing body <NUM> defines the overall external appearance of the first packing member <NUM>. When the first packing body <NUM> is inserted between the cartridge <NUM> and the mid-case <NUM>, a first outer surface 230a of the first packing body <NUM> may be disposed so as to face the first cap <NUM>. In this case, a first inner surface 230b of the first packing body <NUM> may be disposed so as to face the interior of the mid-case <NUM>. The first inner surface 230b and the first outer surface 230a may be disposed so as to face in opposite directions.

The first packing member <NUM> may include a first outer groove <NUM> and a first outer member <NUM>.

The first outer groove <NUM> receives dry gas. The first outer groove <NUM> may be formed in the first outer surface 230a. Consequently, the first outer groove <NUM> may be disposed so as to face the first cap <NUM>, and therefore the first outer groove may receive dry gas located between the first cap <NUM> and the cartridge <NUM>.

The first outer member <NUM> contacts the cartridge <NUM> between the first outer groove <NUM> and the cartridge <NUM>. Depending on the pressure of the dry gas received in the first outer groove <NUM>, the first outer member <NUM> may be pressed toward the cartridge <NUM>, and therefore the first outer member may be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM>. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, it is possible to increase hermetic sealing force between the first packing member <NUM> and the cartridge <NUM> using the pressure of the dry gas received in the first outer groove <NUM>. The first outer member <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the first potting portion <NUM>.

The first packing member <NUM> may include a first outer protrusion <NUM>. The first outer protrusion <NUM> contacts the mid-case <NUM> between the first outer groove <NUM> and the mid-case <NUM>. Depending on the pressure of the dry gas received in the first outer groove <NUM>, the first outer protrusion <NUM> may be pressed toward the mid-case <NUM>, and therefore the first outer protrusion may be brought into tight contact with the mid-case <NUM>. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, it is possible to increase hermetic sealing force between the first packing member <NUM> and the mid-case <NUM> using the pressure of the dry gas received in the first outer groove <NUM>.

When the first packing member <NUM> includes both the first outer member <NUM> and the first outer protrusion <NUM>, the first outer groove <NUM> may be disposed between the first outer member <NUM> and the first outer protrusion <NUM> in a first-axis direction (X-axis direction). Consequently, the pressure of the dry gas received in the first outer groove <NUM> may act in a direction in which the distance between the first outer member <NUM> and the first outer protrusion <NUM> is increased. Using the pressure of the dry gas received in the first outer groove <NUM>, therefore, the first outer member <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM>, and the first outer protrusion <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the mid-case <NUM>. The first outer member <NUM>, the first outer protrusion <NUM>, and the first packing body <NUM> may be integrally formed.

The first packing member <NUM> may include a first inner groove <NUM> and a first inner member <NUM>.

The first inner groove <NUM> receives wet gas. The first inner groove <NUM> may be formed in the first inner surface 230b. Consequently, the first inner groove <NUM> may be disposed so as to face the interior of the mid-case <NUM>, and therefore the first inner groove may receive wet gas located in the mid-case <NUM>. In this case, wet gas located between the inner surface of the mid-case <NUM> and the outer surface of the cartridge <NUM> may be received in the first inner groove <NUM>.

The first inner member <NUM> contacts the cartridge <NUM> between the first inner groove <NUM> and the cartridge <NUM>. Depending on the pressure of the wet gas received in the first inner groove <NUM>, the first inner member <NUM> may be pressed toward the cartridge <NUM>, and therefore the first inner member may be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM>. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, it is possible to increase hermetic sealing force between the first packing member <NUM> and the cartridge <NUM> using the pressure of the wet gas received in the first inner groove <NUM>. The first inner member <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the inner case <NUM>. A portion of the first inner member <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the first potting portion <NUM>, and a portion of the first inner member may also be brought into tight contact with the inner case <NUM>.

The first packing member <NUM> may include a first inner protrusion <NUM>. The first inner protrusion <NUM> contacts the mid-case <NUM> between the first inner groove <NUM> and the mid-case <NUM>. Depending on the pressure of the wet gas received in the first inner groove <NUM>, the first inner protrusion <NUM> may be pressed toward the mid-case <NUM>, and therefore the first inner protrusion may be brought into tight contact with the mid-case <NUM>. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, it is possible to increase hermetic sealing force between the first packing member <NUM> and the mid-case <NUM> using the pressure of the wet gas received in the first inner groove <NUM>.

When the first packing member <NUM> includes both the first inner member <NUM> and the first inner protrusion <NUM>, the first inner groove <NUM> may be disposed between the first inner member <NUM> and the first inner protrusion <NUM>. Consequently, the pressure of the wet gas received in the first inner groove <NUM> may act in a direction in which the distance between the first inner member <NUM> and the first inner protrusion <NUM> is increased. Using the pressure of the wet gas received in the first inner groove <NUM>, therefore, the first inner member <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM>, and the first inner protrusion <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the mid-case <NUM>. The first inner member <NUM>, the first inner protrusion <NUM>, and the first packing body <NUM> may be integrally formed.

The first packing member <NUM> may include an extension member <NUM> and a catching member <NUM>.

The extension member <NUM> extends toward the mid-case <NUM>. The extension member <NUM> may extend from the first outer protrusion <NUM> toward the mid-case <NUM>. The extension member <NUM> may be supported by the mid-case <NUM>. The extension member <NUM> may connect the catching member <NUM> and the first outer protrusion <NUM> to each other. The extension member <NUM>, the catching member <NUM>, the first outer protrusion <NUM>, and the first packing body <NUM> may be integrally formed. The extension member <NUM> may extend from the first packing body <NUM> toward the mid-case <NUM>.

A catching groove 237a may be formed in the extension member <NUM>. The catching groove 237a may be disposed between the first outer protrusion <NUM> and the catching member <NUM>. The mid-case <NUM> may be inserted into the catching groove 237a.

The catching member <NUM> is coupled to the extension member <NUM>. The catching member <NUM> may be disposed outside of the mid-case <NUM> inserted into the catching groove 237a. In this case, the mid-case <NUM> may be disposed between the catching member <NUM> and the first outer protrusion <NUM>. The mid-case <NUM> may also be disposed between the catching member <NUM> and the first packing body <NUM>.

Since the first packing member <NUM> is coupled to the mid-case <NUM> by catching, as described above, the depth by which the first packing member <NUM> is inserted into the mid-case <NUM> may be limited during the process of increasing hermetic sealing force using the pressure of at least one of the dry gas and the wet gas. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, it is possible to improve stability in increasing hermetic sealing force using the pressure of at least one of the dry gas and the wet gas.

Referring to <FIG>, the first packing member <NUM> may include a first reinforcement member <NUM>. The first reinforcement member <NUM> may be disposed in the first packing body <NUM>. The first reinforcement member <NUM> may be made of a material that has higher rigidity than the first packing body <NUM>. For example, the first reinforcement member <NUM> may be made of metal or plastic. The first reinforcement member <NUM> may be implemented so as to be disposed in the first packing body <NUM> by insert molding.

As shown in <FIG>, the first packing member <NUM> may be implemented so as to include all of the first outer groove <NUM>, the first outer member <NUM>, the first outer protrusion <NUM>, the first inner groove <NUM>, the first inner member <NUM>, and the first inner protrusion <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the first packing member <NUM> may be implemented so as to include only the first outer groove <NUM>, the first outer member <NUM>, and the first outer protrusion <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the first packing member <NUM> may be implemented so as to include only the first inner groove <NUM>, the first inner member <NUM>, and the first inner protrusion <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the first cap <NUM> is coupled to one end of the humidifying module <NUM>. The space between the first cap <NUM> and the cartridge <NUM> may be isolated from the space between the cartridge <NUM> and the mid-case <NUM> in a hermetically sealed state by the first packing member <NUM>.

The first cap <NUM> may include a first pushing member <NUM>. When the first cap <NUM> is coupled to one end of the humidifying module <NUM>, the first pushing member <NUM> may push the extension member <NUM> toward the mid-case <NUM>. Consequently, the first pushing member <NUM> may further increase fixing force necessary for the first packing member <NUM> to be maintained in a state of hermetically sealing between the cartridge <NUM> and the mid-case <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the second cap <NUM> is coupled to the other end of the humidifying module <NUM>. The space between the second cap <NUM> and the cartridge <NUM> may be isolated from the space between the cartridge <NUM> and the mid-case <NUM> in a hermetically sealed state by the first packing member <NUM>'. The first packing member <NUM>' is approximately identical to the first packing member <NUM> described above, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Referring to <FIG>, the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure may be implemented such that a plurality of cartridges <NUM> is coupled in the mid-case <NUM>. In this case, the mid-case <NUM> may include a partition member (not shown) disposed between the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>'. The cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>' may be individually detachably coupled to the mid-case <NUM> in a state of being disposed between the partition members. Meanwhile, in <FIG>, only the first potting portion is shown with omission of a plurality of hollow fiber membranes and an inner case, although each of the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>' includes the plurality of hollow fiber membranes and the inner case.

When the humidifying module <NUM> is implemented such that the plurality of cartridges <NUM> is coupled to the mid-case <NUM>, the humidifying module may include a second packing member <NUM>.

The second packing member <NUM> is disposed between the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>' to hermetically seal between the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>'. The second packing member <NUM> may prevent direct mixing between dry gas and wet gas through the space between the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>'. The humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure may include a plurality of second packing members <NUM>. The second packing members <NUM> and <NUM>' may be disposed at opposite sides of the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>'. Since the second packing members <NUM> and <NUM>' are implemented so as to have the same structure except that the positions thereof are different from each other, a description will be given based on the second packing member <NUM> disposed at one side of each of the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>'. It is obvious to those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains that the second packing member <NUM>' disposed at the other side of each of the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>' is derived therefrom.

The second packing member <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>' using the pressure of at least one of dry gas and wet gas. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, it is possible to implement hermetic sealing force necessary to prevent direct mixing between the dry gas and the wet gas through the space between the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>' without an additional construction, whereby it is possible to reduce cost necessary to increase hermetic sealing force. The second packing member <NUM> may be made of an elastically deformable material. For example, the second packing member <NUM> may be made of rubber.

The second packing member <NUM> may include a second packing body <NUM>. The second packing body <NUM> defines the overall external appearance of the second packing member <NUM>. When the second packing body <NUM> is inserted between the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', a second outer surface 240a of the second packing body <NUM> may be disposed so as to face the first cap <NUM>. In this case, a second inner surface 240b of the second packing body <NUM> may be disposed so as to face the interior of the mid-case <NUM>. When a partition member is provided in the mid-case <NUM>, the second inner surface 240b may be disposed so as to face the partition member. The second inner surface 240b and the second outer surface 240a may be disposed so as to face in opposite directions.

The second packing member <NUM> may include a second outer groove <NUM> and a plurality of second outer members <NUM> and <NUM>'.

The second outer groove <NUM> receives dry gas. The second outer groove <NUM> may be formed in the second outer surface 240a. Consequently, the second outer groove <NUM> may be disposed so as to face the first cap <NUM>, and therefore the first outer groove may receive dry gas located between the first cap <NUM> and the cartridge <NUM>.

The second outer members <NUM> and <NUM>' contact the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>' between the second outer groove <NUM> and the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>'. Depending on the pressure of the dry gas received in the second outer groove <NUM>, the second outer members <NUM> and <NUM>' may be pressed toward the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', and therefore the second outer members may be brought into tight contact with the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', respectively. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, it is possible to increase hermetic sealing force between the second packing member <NUM> and the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>' using the pressure of the dry gas received in the second outer groove <NUM>. The second outer members <NUM> and <NUM>' may be brought into tight contact with the first potting portion <NUM>. The second outer groove <NUM> may be disposed between the second outer members <NUM> and <NUM>'. Consequently, the pressure of the dry gas received in the second outer groove <NUM> may act in a direction in which the distance between the second outer members <NUM> and <NUM>' is increased. The second outer members <NUM> and <NUM>' and the second packing body <NUM> may be integrally formed.

The second packing member <NUM> may include a second inner groove <NUM> and second inner members <NUM> and <NUM>'.

The second inner groove <NUM> receives wet gas. The second inner groove <NUM> may be formed in the second inner surface 240b. Consequently, the second inner groove <NUM> may be disposed so as to face the interior of the mid-case <NUM>, and therefore the first inner groove may receive wet gas located in the mid-case <NUM>. In this case, wet gas located between the outer surfaces of the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>' may be received in the second inner groove <NUM>.

The second inner members <NUM> and <NUM>' contact the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>' between the second inner groove <NUM> and the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>'. Depending on the pressure of the wet gas received in the second inner groove <NUM>, the second inner members <NUM> and <NUM>' may be pressed toward the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', and therefore the second inner members may be brought into tight contact with the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', respectively. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, it is possible to increase hermetic sealing force between the second packing member <NUM> and the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>' using the pressure of the wet gas received in the second inner groove <NUM>. The second inner members <NUM> and <NUM>' may be brought into tight contact with the inner cases <NUM> of the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', respectively. A portion of each of the second inner members <NUM> and <NUM>' may be brought into tight contact with a corresponding one of the first potting portions <NUM> and <NUM>' of the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', and a portion of each of the second inner members may be brought into tight contact with a corresponding one of the inner cases <NUM> of the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>'. The second inner groove <NUM> may be disposed between the second inner members <NUM> and <NUM>'. Consequently, the pressure of the wet gas received in the second inner groove <NUM> may act in a direction in which the distance between the second inner members <NUM> and <NUM>' is increased. The second inner members <NUM> and <NUM>' and the second packing body <NUM> may be integrally formed.

Here, the second packing member <NUM> and the first packing member <NUM> may be integrally formed. Consequently, the second packing member <NUM> and the first packing member <NUM> may be installed through single insertion. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, it is possible to improve ease in hermetically sealing between the mid-case <NUM> and the cartridge <NUM> and between the cartridges <NUM> even when the plurality of cartridges <NUM> is coupled to the mid-case <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the second packing member <NUM> may include a second reinforcement member <NUM>. The second reinforcement member <NUM> may be disposed in the second packing body <NUM>. The second reinforcement member <NUM> may be made of a material that has higher rigidity than the second packing body <NUM>. For example, the second reinforcement member <NUM> may be made of metal or plastic. The second reinforcement member <NUM> may be implemented so as to be disposed in the second packing body <NUM> by insert molding.

As shown in <FIG>, the second packing member <NUM> may be implemented so as to include all of the second outer groove <NUM>, the second outer members <NUM> and <NUM>', the second inner groove <NUM>, and the second inner members <NUM> and <NUM>'. Although not shown, the second packing member <NUM> may be implemented so as to include only the second outer groove <NUM> and the second outer members <NUM> and <NUM>'. Although not shown, the second packing member <NUM> may be implemented so as to include only the second inner groove <NUM> and the second inner members <NUM> and <NUM>'.

<FIG> show that two cartridges <NUM> are coupled to the mid-case <NUM>. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. As shown in <FIG>, the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure may be implemented such that three cartridges <NUM>, <NUM>', and <NUM>" are coupled to the mid-case <NUM>. In this case, two second packing members <NUM> may be provided at one side of the humidifying module <NUM>, and two second packing members <NUM>' may be provided at the other side of the humidifying module <NUM>. Although not shown, the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure may be implemented such that four or more cartridges <NUM> are coupled to the mid-case <NUM>. In this case, the number of second packing members <NUM> and <NUM>' may be increased in proportion to the number of cartridges <NUM> coupled to the mid-case <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the humidifying module <NUM> may include a first elastic member <NUM>. In this case, the first packing member <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> using elastic force of the first elastic member <NUM>. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, it is possible to increase hermetic sealing force necessary to prevent direct mixing between the dry gas and the wet gas using the first elastic member <NUM>. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, it is possible to improve stability in humidifying the dry gas.

The first elastic member <NUM> is coupled to the first packing member <NUM>. The first elastic member <NUM> may bring the first packing member <NUM> into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> using elastic force thereof. The first elastic member <NUM> may be implemented as a spring having elastic force. The first elastic member <NUM> may be formed in a ring shape.

The first elastic member <NUM> may be inserted into the first outer groove <NUM>. In this case, the first elastic member <NUM> may press the first outer member <NUM> toward the cartridge <NUM> using elastic force thereof, whereby the first outer member <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM>. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, it is possible to increase hermetic sealing force between the first packing member <NUM> and the cartridge <NUM> using the elastic force of the first elastic member <NUM>. In this case, the first outer member <NUM> may be pressed toward the cartridge <NUM> by the elastic force of the first elastic member <NUM>, and therefore the first outer member may be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM>. The first outer member <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the first potting portion <NUM>.

When the first packing member <NUM> includes the first outer groove <NUM> and the first outer member <NUM>, the first packing member <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> using the pressure of dry gas. During the humidification process, both the dry gas and the wet gas flow at a considerable pressure, whereby the dry gas has pressure sufficient to press the first packing member <NUM> toward the cartridge <NUM>. Consequently, the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure is implemented such that the first packing member <NUM> is brought into tighter contact with the cartridge <NUM> using the pressure of the dry gas during the humidification process, in addition to using the elastic force of the first elastic member <NUM>. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, it is possible to further increase hermetic sealing force necessary to prevent direct mixing between the dry gas and the wet gas. Also, in the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, it is possible to further increase hermetic sealing force without an additional construction, since the pressure of the dry gas is used. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, it is possible to reduce cost necessary to further increase hermetic sealing force.

When the first packing member <NUM> is brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> using the elastic force of the first elastic member <NUM> and the pressure of the dry gas, as described above, the first outer groove <NUM> may receive the dry gas located between the first cap <NUM> and the cartridge <NUM>. The first outer member <NUM> may be pressed toward the cartridge <NUM> depending on the pressure of the dry gas received in the first outer groove <NUM>, whereby the first outer member may be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the first elastic member <NUM> may be disposed in the first packing body <NUM>. In this case, the first elastic member <NUM> may press the first packing body <NUM> toward the cartridge <NUM> using the elastic force thereof, whereby the first packing body <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM>. Consequently, the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure is implemented such that the first outer member <NUM> is brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> using the pressure of the dry gas received in the first outer groove <NUM> and such that the first packing body <NUM> is brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> using the elastic force of the first elastic member <NUM>. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, different portions of the first packing member <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM>, whereby it is possible to increase hermetic sealing force through a dual structure. The first elastic member <NUM> may be implemented so as to be disposed in the first packing body <NUM> by insert molding.

Referring to <FIG>, the first elastic member <NUM> may be disposed at the first inner surface 230b such that the first packing member <NUM> is brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM>. The first elastic member <NUM> may be inserted into the first inner groove <NUM> so as to contact the first inner member <NUM>. Consequently, the first elastic member <NUM> may bring the first inner member <NUM> into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> using the elastic force thereof. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, it is possible to increase hermetic sealing force between the first packing member <NUM> and the cartridge <NUM> using the elastic force of the first elastic member <NUM>. In this case, the first inner member <NUM> may be pressed toward the cartridge <NUM> by the elastic force of the first elastic member <NUM>, whereby the first inner member may be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM>. The first inner member <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the inner case <NUM>. A portion of the first inner member <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the first potting portion <NUM>, and a portion of the first inner member may be brought into tight contact with the inner case <NUM>.

When the first packing member <NUM> includes the first inner groove <NUM> and the first inner member <NUM>, the first packing member <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> using the pressure of wet gas. Consequently, the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure is implemented such that the first packing member <NUM> is brought into tighter contact with the cartridge <NUM> using the pressure of the wet gas during the humidification process, in addition to using the elastic force of the first elastic member <NUM>.

When the first packing member <NUM> is brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> using the elastic force of the first elastic member <NUM> and the pressure of the wet gas, as described above, the first inner groove <NUM> may receive the wet gas located between the first cap <NUM> and the cartridge <NUM>. The first inner member <NUM> may be pressed toward the cartridge <NUM> depending on the pressure of the wet gas received in the first inner groove <NUM>, whereby the first inner member may be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM>.

Although not shown, the first packing member <NUM> may also be implemented such that the first outer member <NUM> is brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> by the elastic force of the first elastic member <NUM> disposed in the first outer groove <NUM> and such that the first inner member <NUM> is brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> by the pressure of the wet gas received in the first inner groove <NUM>. In this case, the first outer member <NUM> may also be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> by the elastic force of the first elastic member <NUM> and the pressure of the dry gas received in the first outer groove <NUM>.

Although not shown, the first packing member <NUM> may also be implemented such that the first inner member <NUM> is brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> by the elastic force of the first elastic member <NUM> disposed in the first outer groove <NUM> and such that the first outer member <NUM> is brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> by the pressure of the dry gas received in the first outer groove <NUM>. In this case, the first inner member <NUM> may also be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> by the elastic force of the first elastic member <NUM> and the pressure of the wet gas received in the first inner groove <NUM>.

Although not shown, the first packing member <NUM> may also be implemented such that the first packing body <NUM> is brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> by the elastic force of the first elastic member <NUM> disposed in the first packing body <NUM> and such that the first inner member <NUM> is brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> by the pressure of the wet gas received in the first inner groove <NUM>.

Although not shown, the first packing member <NUM> may also be implemented such that the first packing body <NUM> is brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> by the elastic force of the first elastic member <NUM> disposed in the first packing body <NUM>, such that the first outer member <NUM> is brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> by the pressure of the dry gas received in the first outer groove <NUM>, and such that the first inner member <NUM> is brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> by the pressure of the wet gas received in the first inner groove <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the humidifying module <NUM> may include a second elastic member <NUM>.

The second elastic member <NUM> is coupled to the first packing member <NUM>. The second elastic member <NUM> may bring the first packing member <NUM> into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> using elastic force thereof. The second elastic member <NUM> may be implemented as a spring having elastic force. The second elastic member <NUM> may be formed in a ring shape.

The second elastic member <NUM> may be inserted into the first inner groove <NUM>. In this case, the second elastic member <NUM> may press the first inner member <NUM> toward the cartridge <NUM> using elastic force thereof, whereby the first inner member <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM>. In this case, the first elastic member <NUM> may bring the first outer member <NUM> into contact with the cartridge <NUM> using the elastic force thereof in a state of being disposed in the first outer groove <NUM>.

In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, the first inner member <NUM> and the first outer member <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> using the elastic force of the second elastic member <NUM> and the elastic force of the first elastic member <NUM>. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, different portions of the first packing member <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM>, whereby it is possible to increase hermetic sealing force through a dual structure. In this case, the first inner member <NUM> may be brought into tighter contact with the cartridge <NUM> by the elastic force of the second elastic member <NUM> and the pressure of the wet gas received in the first inner groove <NUM>. The first outer member <NUM> may be brought into tighter contact with the cartridge <NUM> by the elastic force of the first elastic member <NUM> and the pressure of the dry gas received in the first outer groove <NUM>.

Although not shown, one of the second elastic member <NUM> and the first elastic member <NUM> may be disposed in the first packing body <NUM>, and the other elastic member may be disposed in one of the first inner groove <NUM> and the first outer groove <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the humidifying module <NUM> may include a plurality of first elastic members <NUM>. The first elastic members <NUM> and <NUM>' may be inserted respectively into the first outer groove <NUM> and the second outer groove <NUM> to bring the first packing member <NUM> and the second packing member <NUM> into tight contact with the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', respectively. The first elastic members <NUM> and <NUM>' may be disposed so as to surround the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', respectively, to elastically press the first packing member <NUM> and the second packing member <NUM> toward the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', respectively. Consequently, the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure is implemented such that the first packing member <NUM> and the second packing member <NUM> are brought into tight contact with the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', respectively, using the pressure of the dry gas received in the first outer groove <NUM> and the second outer groove <NUM> and the elastic force of the first elastic members <NUM> and <NUM>'. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, it is possible to increase hermetic sealing force through a dual structure.

The humidifying module <NUM> may further include a plurality of second elastic members <NUM>, in addition to the first elastic members <NUM> and <NUM>'. The second elastic members <NUM> and <NUM>' may be inserted respectively into the first inner groove <NUM> and the second inner groove <NUM> to bring the first packing member <NUM> and the second packing member <NUM> into tight contact with the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', respectively. The second elastic members <NUM> and <NUM>' may be disposed so as to surround the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', respectively, to elastically press the first packing member <NUM> and the second packing member <NUM> toward the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', respectively. Consequently, the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure is implemented such that the first packing member <NUM> and the second packing member <NUM> are brought into tight contact with the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', respectively, using the pressure of the dry gas received in the first inner groove <NUM> and the second inner groove <NUM> and the elastic force of the second elastic members <NUM> and <NUM>'. In the humidifier <NUM> for fuel cells according to the present disclosure, therefore, it is possible to further increase hermetic sealing force.

Although not shown, the humidifying module <NUM> may be implemented such that the first elastic members <NUM> and <NUM>' are inserted respectively into the first inner groove <NUM> and the second inner groove <NUM> to bring the first packing member <NUM> and the second packing member <NUM> into tight contact with the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', respectively. The first elastic members <NUM> and <NUM>' may be inserted respectively into the first inner groove <NUM> and the second inner groove <NUM> so as to surround the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', respectively, whereby the first packing member <NUM> and the second packing member <NUM> may be elastically pressed toward the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', respectively.

Referring to <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the cartridge <NUM> may include a first support <NUM>. The first packing member <NUM> may be implemented so as to be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> in a state of being compressed through interference fit using the first support <NUM>.

The first support <NUM> may be coupled to the first potting portion <NUM>. The first support <NUM> may be disposed so as to surround the periphery of the first potting portion <NUM>. As a result, the first potting portion <NUM> may be disposed inside the first support <NUM>. The first support <NUM> may be formed in a ring shape. The first support <NUM> may be disposed so as to protrude to the outside of the first potting portion <NUM>. During insertion of the first packing member <NUM> between the mid-case <NUM> and the cartridge <NUM>, therefore, the portion of the first packing member <NUM> disposed between the mid-case <NUM> and the first support <NUM> may be compressed as the result of interference fit. Consequently, it is possible to further increase hermetic sealing force using the first packing member <NUM>.

The first support <NUM> may be supported by the inner case <NUM> through hook coupling such that movement of the first support in a second-axis direction (Y-axis direction) is limited. The second-axis direction (Y-axis direction) is an axis direction perpendicular to the first-axis direction (X-axis direction) and is an axis direction parallel to a direction in which the first cap <NUM> and the second cap <NUM> are spaced apart from each other. In the state in which the first support <NUM> is coupled to the inner case <NUM>, the first potting portion <NUM> may be formed through a casting process, whereby the first support <NUM> may be implemented so as to be coupled to the first potting portion <NUM>. Afterwards, the first packing member <NUM> may be inserted between the cartridge <NUM> and the mid-case <NUM>. The first support <NUM> may be made of a material that has higher rigidity than the first packing member <NUM>. For example, the first support <NUM> may be made of metal or plastic.

The first support <NUM> may be implemented so as to be shorter than the first packing member <NUM> in the second-axis direction (Y-axis direction). For example, as shown in <FIG>, the first support <NUM> may be implemented such that the first support <NUM> is not present between the first outer member <NUM> and the first potting portion <NUM> but is present only between the first packing body <NUM> and the first potting portion <NUM>. Consequently, the first outer member <NUM> may be pressed by the pressure of the dry gas received in the first outer groove <NUM>, whereby the first outer member may be brought into tight contact with the first potting portion <NUM>. The first packing body <NUM> may be compressed between the mid-case <NUM> and the first support <NUM> as the result of interference fit, whereby the first packing body may be brought into tight contact with the first support <NUM>.

The first support <NUM> may be implemented so as to have the same length as the first packing member <NUM> or to have a larger length than the first packing member <NUM> in the second-axis direction (Y-axis direction). For example, as shown in <FIG>, the first support <NUM> may be implemented such that the first support <NUM> is present between the first outer member <NUM> and the first potting portion <NUM> and is also present between the first packing body <NUM> and the first potting portion <NUM>. Consequently, the first outer member <NUM> and the first packing body <NUM> may be compressed between the mid-case <NUM> and the first support <NUM> as the result of interference fit, whereby the first outer member and the first packing body may be brought into tight contact with the first support <NUM>. In this case, the first outer member <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM> by both pressing by the first support <NUM> and the pressure of the dry gas received in the first outer groove <NUM>.

When the first support <NUM> is implemented so as to contact both the first outer member <NUM> and the first packing body <NUM>, the first support <NUM> may be used as a potting cap during formation of the first potting portion <NUM> through a casting process. In this case, as indicated by a dotted line in <FIG>, the first potting portion <NUM> is formed through a casting process in the state in which the first support <NUM> is coupled to the inner case <NUM> so as to be implemented as a potting cap, and then the cartridge <NUM> may be manufactured through a cutting process of cutting a portion CP of the first support <NUM> and a portion of the first potting portion <NUM> such that the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes <NUM> are opened. In an embodiment in which the first support <NUM> is used as the potting cap, a potting cap assembly process and a potting cap removal process may be omitted, compared to a comparative example using a separate potting cap. In the embodiment in which the first support <NUM> is used as the potting cap, therefore, it is possible to reduce manufacturing cost and to improve productivity through shortening of a manufacturing time.

The cartridge <NUM> may include a second support (not shown). The second support may be coupled to the second potting portion <NUM>. Since the second support and the first support <NUM> are implemented so as to have the same structure except that the positions thereof are different from each other, it is obvious to those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains that the structure of the second support can be understood from the description of the first support <NUM>. Therefore, a detailed description of the second support will be omitted.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the first cap <NUM> may include a first pushing protrusion <NUM>. The first pushing protrusion <NUM> protrudes from the first pushing member <NUM>. When the first cap <NUM> is coupled to one end of the humidifying module <NUM>, the first pushing protrusion <NUM> may push the extension member <NUM> toward the mid-case <NUM>, whereby the extension member <NUM> may be brought into tight contact with the mid-case <NUM>. Consequently, the first pushing protrusion <NUM> may further increase hermetic sealing force between the first cap <NUM> and the mid-case <NUM> and may further increase force that fixes the first packing member <NUM>. The first pushing protrusion <NUM> may be formed such that the size of the first pushing protrusion is gradually decreased as the first pushing protrusion protrudes from the first pushing member <NUM>. The first pushing protrusion <NUM> may be formed in a ring shape.

The first cap <NUM> includes a first supporting member <NUM>. The first supporting member <NUM> is inserted into the first outer groove <NUM> to support the first packing body <NUM>. Consequently, the first supporting member <NUM> may limit movement of the first packing member <NUM>, whereby it is possible to prevent separation of the first packing member <NUM> due to vibration and shaking. The first supporting member <NUM> may be formed so as to have a length capable of pressing the first packing body <NUM>. In this case, the first supporting member <NUM> may press the first packing body <NUM> such that the first outer groove <NUM> is maintained in a state of having a size sufficient to receive a fluid for cells. In addition, the first supporting member <NUM> may press the first packing body <NUM> in order to further increase tight contact force by which the first packing member <NUM> is brought into tight contact with the cartridge <NUM>. The first supporting member <NUM> may be formed in a ring shape.

Although not shown, the second cap <NUM> may include a second pushing member, a second pushing protrusion, and a second supporting member. The second pushing member, the second pushing protrusion, and the second supporting member are implemented so as to be approximately identical respectively to the first pushing member <NUM>, the first pushing protrusion <NUM>, and the first supporting member <NUM> described above, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Referring to <FIG>, when the humidifying module <NUM> includes a plurality of cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>' may include the first supports <NUM> and <NUM>', respectively. Each of the first supports <NUM> and <NUM>' may be disposed so as to surround the periphery of a corresponding one of the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>'. During insertion of the second packing member <NUM> between the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', therefore, the portion of the second packing member <NUM> disposed between the first supports <NUM> and <NUM>' may be extruded as the result of interference fit. Consequently, hermetic sealing force using the second packing member <NUM> may be further increased. Each of the first supports <NUM> and <NUM>' may be made of a material that has higher rigidity than the second packing member <NUM>. For example, each of the first supports <NUM> and <NUM>' may be made of metal or plastic.

Each of the first supports <NUM> and <NUM>' may be implemented so as to be shorter than the second packing member <NUM> in the second-axis direction (Y-axis direction). For example, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the first supports <NUM> and <NUM>' may be implemented such that the first supports <NUM> and <NUM>' are not present between the second outer members <NUM> and <NUM>' and the first potting portions <NUM> and <NUM>' but are present only between the second packing body <NUM> and the first potting portions <NUM> and <NUM>'. Consequently, the second outer members <NUM> and <NUM>' may be pressed by the pressure of the dry gas received in the second outer groove <NUM>, whereby the second outer members may be brought into tight contact with the first potting portions <NUM> and <NUM>', respectively. The second packing body <NUM> may be compressed between the first supports <NUM> and <NUM>' as the result of interference fit, whereby the second packing body may be brought into tight contact with the first supports <NUM> and <NUM>'.

Each of the first supports <NUM> and <NUM>' may be implemented so as to have the same length as the second packing member <NUM> or to have a larger length than the second packing member <NUM> in the second-axis direction (Y-axis direction). For example, as shown in <FIG>, the first supports <NUM> and <NUM>' may be implemented such that the first supports <NUM> and <NUM>' are present between the second outer members <NUM> and <NUM>' and the first potting portions <NUM> and <NUM>' and are also present between the second packing body <NUM> and the first potting portions <NUM> and <NUM>'. Consequently, the second outer members <NUM> and <NUM>' and the second packing body <NUM> may be compressed between the first supports <NUM> and <NUM>' as the result of interference fit, whereby the second outer members and the second packing body may be brought into tight contact with the first supports <NUM> and <NUM>'. In this case, the second outer members <NUM> and <NUM>' may be brought into tight contact with the cartridges <NUM> and <NUM>', respectively, by both pressing by the first supports <NUM> and <NUM>' and the pressure of the dry gas received in the second outer groove <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A humidifier for fuel cells, the humidifier (<NUM>) comprising:
a humidifying module (<NUM>) configured to humidify dry gas supplied from outside using wet gas discharged from a fuel cell stack; and
a first cap (<NUM>) coupled to one end of the humidifying module (<NUM>), wherein
the humidifying module (<NUM>) comprises: a mid-case (<NUM>); and at least one cartridge (<NUM>) disposed in the mid-case (<NUM>), the cartridge (<NUM>) being configured to receive a plurality of hollow fiber membranes (<NUM>),
the humidifier (<NUM>) further comprises a first packing member (<NUM>) airtightly coupled to at least one end of the humidifying module (<NUM>) through mechanical assembly such that the first cap (<NUM>) fluidly communicates with only the hollow fiber membranes (<NUM>),
the first packing member (<NUM>) is configured to be brought into tight contact with the cartridge (<NUM>) using pressure of at least one of dry gas and wet gas,
the first packing member (<NUM>) comprises: a first outer groove (<NUM>) configured to receive dry gas located between the first cap (<NUM>) and the cartridge (<NUM>); and a first packing body (<NUM>) having the first outer groove (<NUM>) formed therein, and
the first cap (<NUM>) comprises a first supporting member (<NUM>) inserted into the first outer groove (<NUM>), the first supporting member (<NUM>) being configured to support the first packing body (<NUM>).