Fuel Cell System and Method for Operating the Same

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

This patent discloses a novel, compact integrated system for direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). The core invention is to combine essential system components—such as methanol supply, recirculation pump, CO2 separator, and fluid lines—within a single central system block that is tightly integrated into the fuel cell stack. This arrangement reduces the number of external components, improves efficiency, and simplifies the design. The patent also includes a method for operating such an integrated DMFC system.

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

• Backup power supplies (UPS systems) for electronics and critical infrastructure
• Portable electronics requiring extended battery life (e.g., laptops, field equipment)
• Auxiliary power units (APUs) for vehicles, boats, and aircraft
• Small electric vehicles such as scooters and micro-mobility solutions
• Remote sensing stations or off-grid power generation setups
• Military or emergency deployment energy systems

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Highly compact and lightweight system due to integrated design
• Reduced system complexity lowers costs and potential points of failure
• Faster response to changes in methanol supply because of minimized tubing and internal volume
• Improved heat management and lower thermal losses
• Elimination or severe reduction of external pipes and separate cooling components simplifies installation and increases robustness
• Increased energy efficiency and potentially longer device lifetimes by reducing corrosion and contact resistance at interfaces
• Greater ease of manufacturing, particularly if plastic components are used

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The system has a methanol supply, a circulating pump (P1), a carbon dioxide separator (B1) and anode side lines arranged in a system block, where the system block is adjoined by fuel cells on both sides. An identical number of fuel cells are arranged on both sides of the system block. The system block is firmly uptight with stack halves. The block has contact surfaces with a low transition resistance to the adjacent fuel cells. An independent claim is also included for a method for operating a fuel cell system.