Encapsulated flow structure for use as insert for bipolar or end plate of fuel cell for liquid cooling medium, has inlet and outlet

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a compact flow structure insert, made from plastic and metal, that can be placed inside the bipolar or end plate of a fuel cell. The insert features carefully designed channels (meander or double helix shaped) between an inlet and an outlet, allowing efficient liquid cooling by maximizing surface area and heat transfer. The channels are thin-walled and arranged in a planar fashion to improve temperature control of the fuel cell.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Thermal management in fuel cell vehicles (e.g., cars, buses, trucks)
• Cooling systems in stationary or portable fuel cell power generation units
• Retrofit or upgrade of existing fuel cell stacks to improve cooling efficiency
• Integration into compact or space-constrained fuel cell designs for consumer electronics or backup power
• Custom cooling applications for experimental or high-performance fuel cell systems

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Improved and uniform temperature control of fuel cells, increasing efficiency and lifespan
• Lightweight due to thin-walled plastic/metal construction
• Flexible channel design (meander/double helix) optimizes surface area for heat exchange
• Can be manufactured in various shapes to fit different fuel cell designs
• Potential for cost reduction and easier manufacturing with plastic-metal composites
• Reduces risk of hotspots that could damage or degrade fuel cell performance

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The encapsulated flow structure (6) has an inlet and an outlet, and includes plastics and metals as material. The structure has wall thickness in the range between 0.05 mm and 1 mm. A channel is in the form of a meander or a double helix is provided between the inlet and the outlet. A division into flow channels is provided between inlet and outlet. The flow channels are arranged in one plane and have a round or oval cross section. An independent claim is included for a temperature control system for fuel cell.