Fuel Cell with Integrated Fluid Management

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

This patent describes an innovative fuel cell design where fluid management components—such as gas supply, recycling of unconsumed gases, water removal, and coolant distribution—are at least partly integrated directly into one or both of the fuel cell's end plates. By embedding fluid control systems (including recycling, pressure regulation, and water management) within the structural end plates, the system reduces the size, complexity, and costs associated with external piping and hardware.

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

• Automotive fuel cell systems, providing compact and robust solutions for electric vehicles.
• Stationary backup power units using fuel cells for homes, businesses, or telecom sites, with easier installation and maintenance.
• Portable fuel cell power systems requiring simplified assembly and minimal plumbing.
• Industrial fuel cell stacks where space savings and modularity are important for integration into facilities.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Significantly reduces the overall volume and weight of the fuel cell system by eliminating bulky, external fluid management assemblies.
• Enhances reliability by reducing the number of external joints, hoses, and potential leakage points.
• Simplifies manufacturing, assembly, and automation, leading to lower production costs.
• Facilitates easier maintenance, installation, and replacement (e.g., in vehicles) due to integrated connections and quick coupling design.
• Improves thermal and fluid management, potentially increasing cell performance and lifespan.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a fuel cell (FC) comprising an alternating stack (A) of bipolar plates and ion exchange membranes, said stack (A) being clamped between two end plates (B and C). In addition, the stack (A) comprises supply and return channels for the fluids that are required for the operation of the cell, including at least one fuel gas. The aforementioned channels communicate with a fluid management installation comprising elements for controlling certain operating parameters, elements for recycling the gases not consumed by the cell and elements for removing the water produced by the cell. The fluid management installation also comprises connections for supplying the cell with gas, said installation being integrated at least partially inside one of the end plates.