A stacking device with alignment function for hydrogen fuel cell stacks

By cooperating with the linkage and the limiting plate to form an alignment channel, combined with the reset mechanism of the elastic pressure rod, the lack of alignment accuracy and stability of the hydrogen fuel cell stacking device is solved, and high-precision and highly automated stack assembly is achieved, which improves the overall performance and stability of the stack.

CN120261652BActive Publication Date: 2025-08-29XIE HYDROGEN (SHANGHAI) NEW ENERGY TECH CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202510748583.4
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-06-06
Publication Date
2025-08-29
Estimated Expiration
2045-06-06

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The existing hydrogen fuel cell stacking devices have shortcomings in the alignment accuracy and stability of single cells. They have low manual or semi-automatic adjustment efficiency, are easy to introduce human errors, and cannot effectively deal with component deformation or cumulative errors, which affects the overall performance and reliability of the stack.

Method used

The linkage cooperation between the first linkage member and the limiting plate is adopted to form a center alignment channel based on the stacked single cells, and the support is driven smoothly to disengage through the second linkage member to achieve a seamless transition from support to limit, and the compression and reset mechanism of the elastic pressing rod ensures accurate stacking of single cells.

Benefits of technology

It improves the accuracy and automation of single-cell stacking, reduces manual intervention, improves the overall consistency and assembly quality of the stacking process, ensures the stability and positioning accuracy of the stacking process, and improves the long-term operating performance of the stack.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present invention relates to the field of hydrogen fuel cells, and specifically to a stacking device with an alignment function for hydrogen fuel cell stacks. It is used for stacking a number of single cells, and includes a conveying mechanism and a loading platform that can move in the vertical direction. A fixed frame is provided directly above the loading platform, and the fixed frame is provided with a pair of support members for supporting the single cells. The support members can move horizontally on the fixed frame. The fixed frame is also provided with an alignment discharge mechanism, and the alignment discharge mechanism includes a pressing assembly and limiting plates evenly distributed around the fixed frame. The pressing assembly is provided with a first linkage member that cooperates with each limiting plate and a second linkage member that cooperates with each supporting member. The present invention forms a centered alignment channel based on the stacked single cells through the linkage cooperation of the first linkage member and the limiting plate, ensuring the precise positioning of the single cells to be stacked, and at the same time drives the supporting members to be smoothly disengaged through the second linkage member, thereby achieving a seamless transition from support to limitation.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of hydrogen fuel cells, and in particular to a stacking device for hydrogen fuel cell stacks with an alignment function. Background Art

[0002] During the assembly of a hydrogen fuel cell stack, the alignment accuracy between individual cells directly impacts the stack's overall performance and reliability. Existing stacking devices have limited alignment accuracy, and manual or semi-automatic adjustment methods are inefficient and prone to human error. Furthermore, the stacking process lacks a real-time compensation mechanism, making it ineffective against positional shifts caused by component deformation or accumulated errors. This makes it difficult to ensure stability during the stacking process, impacting the long-term performance of the stack.

[0003] The currently disclosed Chinese patent authorization announcement number CN119381492B is an automatic stacking line for air-cooled stacks for hydrogen fuel cell stack production, including a rack and conveyor belts arranged on both sides of the material transfer mechanism, the two conveyor belts are used to alternately transport bipolar plates and electrode plates to the rack; a storage rack for placing the stack is provided between the two conveyor belts; a material transfer mechanism for transporting electrode plates or bipolar plates is provided on the rack; the material transfer mechanism includes a support frame fixedly connected to the frame, a drive assembly and a downward pressure assembly, and support rods that can extend along the transport direction of the conveyor belt are provided on both sides of the support frame, and a flip frame is provided on the two support rods. The bottom of the frame is provided with multiple sliding rollers arranged at equal distances along the axis of the support rod, and the axis of the sliding rollers is perpendicular to the axis of the support rod; the driving component is arranged between the two flip frames and can slide in the vertical direction; the pressing component is located below the driving component, and the pressing component is arranged on the support frame and can slide in the vertical direction; when the driving component slides in the vertical direction, the driving component will synchronously drive the two flip frames to rotate toward opposite sides around the axis of the support rod until the electrode plate or bipolar plate located between the two flip frames falls, and at the same time the driving component will drive the pressing component below it, and the electrode plate or bipolar plate will be pressed down by the pressing component sliding in the vertical direction.

[0004] According to the above patent, the patent supports the electrode plate or bipolar plate by multiple sliding rollers at the bottom of the flip rack, and then drives the two flip racks to move synchronously through the movement of the driving assembly, so that the electrode plate or bipolar plate between the two flip racks can naturally fall onto the storage rack, and cooperate with the downward pressure of the electrode plate or bipolar plate by the downward pressure assembly, so that the auxiliary electrode plate or bipolar plate can fall stably on the storage rack without manual intervention. However, this patent cannot ensure precise positioning in the horizontal direction, and correcting the placement position after falling may affect the stacking accuracy and the long-term operation stability of the stack. Therefore, there is a need for a hydrogen fuel cell stacking device with a high-precision alignment function that can automatically adjust the stacking position during the stacking process. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In response to the problems existing in the existing technology, a stacking device with a positioning function for a hydrogen fuel cell stack is provided. Through the linkage cooperation of the first linkage member and the limit plate, a centered alignment channel based on the stacked single cells is formed to ensure the precise positioning of the single cells to be stacked. At the same time, the second linkage member drives the support member to disengage smoothly, realizing a seamless transition from support to limitation.

[0006] In order to solve the problems of the prior art, the present invention provides a stacking device with a positioning function for a hydrogen fuel cell stack, which is used for stacking a plurality of single cells. It includes a conveying mechanism and a loading platform that can move in a vertical direction for stacking a plurality of single cells in sequence. A fixed frame is provided directly above the loading platform, and the fixed frame is provided with a pair of support members for supporting the single cells, and the support members can move horizontally on the fixed frame. The fixed frame is also provided with a positioning discharge mechanism, and the positioning discharge mechanism includes a downward pressure component arranged on the fixed frame and limit plates evenly distributed around the fixed frame. The downward pressure component is provided with a first linkage member that cooperates with each limit plate and a second linkage member that cooperates with each support member. When the downward pressure component applies pressure to the single cell, each limit plate moves inward synchronously under the drive of the corresponding first linkage member, gradually forming an alignment channel for the single cell to be centered and limited therein, and at the same time, each support member gradually separates from the single cell under the drive of the corresponding second linkage member, so that the single cell is accurately stacked on the loading platform along the alignment channel under the action of pressure.

[0007] Preferably, the downward pressing assembly includes a movable plate and elastic pressure rods evenly distributed around it. When the elastic pressure rods follow the movement of the movable plate to squeeze the single battery, the elastic pressure rods are in a gradually compressed state, and when the support member is completely separated from the single battery, the elastic pressure rods are in a gradually reset state, so that the single battery is in a downward pressed state under the elastic force of the elastic pressure rods.

[0008] Preferably, the first linkage is specifically a pressure rod structure fixedly provided on the movable plate and capable of always maintaining a state of interference with the limit plate. When the first linkage follows the movable plate to squeeze the limit plate, the limit plate gradually rotates downward, so that the single cell to be stacked is in a positioned state relative to the stacked single cell.

[0009] Preferably, the second linkage is specifically a connecting rod structure hinged between the movable plate and the support member. When the second linkage follows the movable plate to squeeze the support member, the support member gradually moves outward, so that the single battery can be released from the supported state and be confined between all the limit plates.

[0010] Preferably, one end of each limit plate is rotatably connected to the fixing frame, and the other end extends outward. A torsion spring is provided between each limit plate and the fixing frame. When the limit plate is pressed and rotated downward, the torsion spring is in a torsion state.

[0011] Preferably, each limiting plate can contact the edge of the stacked single cells after it is rotated into position. When all the limiting plates are synchronously rotated into position to form the alignment channel, the single cells to be stacked are in an alignment state based on the stacked single cells, so that the positions of adjacent single cells remain consistent.

[0012] Preferably, the inner side of each limiting plate is a rubber surface that can flexibly contact the single battery, and the outer side of each limiting plate is a smooth surface that can slidably cooperate with the first linkage member.

[0013] Preferably, each support member is composed of a sliding frame and a plurality of balls arranged thereon, and the fixed frame is provided with a slide rail that slides with the sliding frame. When the sliding frame is away from the single cell, the single cell and the sliding frame are in a rolling contact state under the action of the balls.

[0014] Preferably, the elastic pressure rod consists of an upper rod body and a lower rod body, the upper rod body is fixedly connected to the movable plate, a compression spring is provided between the lower rod body and the upper rod body, and a rubber block is provided at the lower end of the lower rod body. When the single battery is transported, the rubber block and the single battery are in a non-contact state, and the compression spring is in a normal state.

[0015] Preferably, the fixing frame is provided with a guide column extending vertically upward to guide the movable plate to maintain vertical movement. The movable plate has a sleeve slidingly sleeved on the guide column, and a plurality of balls are evenly distributed in the sleeve along its circumference and in rolling contact with the guide column.

[0016] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following advantages:

[0017] 1. This invention utilizes the linkage of a first linkage member and a limiting plate, causing the limiting plate to rotate inward synchronously as the movable plate moves downward, forming an alignment channel based on the stacked cells. Simultaneously, a second linkage member drives the supporting member outward, achieving a smooth transition from a supporting state to a limiting state for the cells.

[0018] With the coordinated action of the limit plate and the support, each layer of single cells can be squeezed downward by the downward pressure assembly after being separated from the support until the stacking is completed, which greatly improves the stacking accuracy and degree of automation, reduces manual intervention, and improves the overall consistency and assembly quality of the hydrogen fuel cell stack.

[0019] 2. The present invention has an elastic pressure rod that follows the movement of the movable plate, so that the elastic pressure rod descends synchronously and is gradually compressed. When the support member is separated from the single cell, the restoring force of the elastic pressure rod is used to continuously apply downward pressure, so that the single cell can still be stably fitted into the alignment channel after being separated from the support, and uniform pressure is applied to the single cell through the rubber block.

[0020] It not only achieves flexible buffering control during the stacking process of single cells to prevent damage caused by rigid impact, but also ensures the precise drop of single cells along the alignment channel through the adaptive reset of the elastic pressure rod, effectively improving the stability, positioning accuracy and force uniformity of the stacking process.

[0021] 3. The present invention forms a centering alignment channel by rotating the limiting plate under the pressure of the first linkage member and taking the stacked single cells as a reference, thereby ensuring that the single cells to be stacked maintain the same relative position with the single cells below, achieving precise alignment and improving repeated positioning accuracy.

[0022] During this process, the smooth outer surface of the limit plate ensures smooth and synchronous linkage with the first linkage member, while the inner rubber surface achieves flexible contact, avoiding damage to the edges of the single cell and assisting in stable positioning, thus improving the consistency of the stack assembly. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a stacking device with an alignment function for a hydrogen fuel cell stack of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 2 It is a partial three-dimensional structural cross-sectional view of a stacking device with an alignment function for a hydrogen fuel cell stack according to the present invention.

[0025] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a stacking device with a positioning function of a hydrogen fuel cell stack of the present invention, excluding the conveying mechanism. Figure 1 .

[0026] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a stacking device with a positioning function of a hydrogen fuel cell stack of the present invention, excluding the conveying mechanism. Figure 2 .

[0027] Figure 5 It is a plan view of a hydrogen fuel cell stack of the present invention having an alignment function, in which the alignment and discharge mechanism of the stacking device is not activated.

[0028] Figure 6 It is a partial three-dimensional structural cross-sectional view of a stacking device with an alignment function for a hydrogen fuel cell stack of the present invention, in an inactivated state of an alignment discharge mechanism.

[0029] Figure 7 It is a plan view of the alignment discharge mechanism of a stacking device with an alignment function of a hydrogen fuel cell stack of the present invention in an activated state.

[0030] Figure 8 It is a partial three-dimensional structural cross-sectional view of a hydrogen fuel cell stack of the present invention, in which the alignment and discharge mechanism of the stacking device with an alignment function is activated.

[0031] Figure 9 This is a planar cross-sectional view of a stack of single cells of a hydrogen fuel cell stack having an alignment function according to the present invention. Figure 1 .

[0032] Figure 10 This is a planar cross-sectional view of a stack of single cells of a hydrogen fuel cell stack having an alignment function according to the present invention. Figure 2 .

[0033] The numbers in the figure are: 1. single battery; 2. conveying mechanism; 3. loading platform; 4. fixed frame; 41. slide rail; 42. guide column; 5. support member; 51. sliding frame; 52. ball; 6. pressing assembly; 61. first linkage member; 62. second linkage member; 63. movable plate; 631. sphere; 64. elastic pressure rod; 641. upper rod; 642. lower rod; 6421. rubber block; 643. compression spring; 7. limit plate; 71. alignment channel; 72. torsion spring. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] In order to further understand the features, technical means, specific objectives and functions achieved by the present invention, the present invention is further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0035] See also Figures 1-8 As shown, a stacking device with an alignment function for a hydrogen fuel cell stack is used for stacking a plurality of single cells 1, comprising a conveying mechanism 2 and a loading platform 3 that can move in a vertical direction for stacking a plurality of single cells 1 in sequence, a fixing frame 4 is provided just above the loading platform 3, the fixing frame 4 is provided with a pair of support members 5 for supporting the single cells 1, the support members 5 can move horizontally on the fixing frame 4, the fixing frame 4 is also provided with an alignment discharge mechanism, the alignment discharge mechanism comprises a pressing component 6 arranged on the fixing frame 4 and a plurality of support members 5 uniformly distributed on the four sides of the fixing frame 4. The limiting plates 7 around the battery 1 are provided on the pressing assembly 6, and a first linkage member 61 cooperating with each limiting plate 7 and a second linkage member 62 cooperating with each support member 5 are provided. When the pressing assembly 6 applies pressure to the single battery 1, each limiting plate 7 moves inward synchronously under the drive of the corresponding first linkage member 61, and gradually forms an alignment channel 71 for the single battery 1 to be centered and limited therein. At the same time, each support member 5 gradually separates from the single battery 1 under the drive of the corresponding second linkage member 62, so that the single battery 1 is accurately stacked on the loading platform 3 along the alignment channel 71 under the action of pressure.

[0036] The lifting mechanism for driving the loading platform 3 to move is not shown in the figure.

[0037] During the alignment and stacking of hydrogen fuel cell stacks, the entire process is highly automated and precise, ensuring that each cell 1 is stacked in the optimal position and orientation. First, a number of cells 1 to be stacked are sequentially delivered into the stacking device's work area by a conveyor mechanism 2. The conveyor mechanism 2 smoothly transports the cells 1 to a position directly above the loading platform 3, which is now at its initial height, ready to receive the first cell 1.

[0038] When a cell 1 reaches its designated position, a pair of horizontally movable supports 5 on the mounting bracket 4 provide temporary support for the incoming cell 1. As the cell 1 is transferred to the supports 5, the down-pressing assembly 6 begins to move downward, applying appropriate pressure to the cell 1. Simultaneously, the first linkage 61 on the down-pressing assembly 6 drives the surrounding limit plates 7 inward, gradually forming a centrally aligned alignment channel 71. This ensures that the cell 1 is precisely centered after it is lowered onto the loading platform 3, preventing displacement or misalignment.

[0039] At the same time, the second linkage 62 also operates synchronously, driving the two support members 5 outward, gradually releasing them from contact with the cells 1. This allows the cells 1, now fully aligned and secured by the stop plates 7, to no longer rely on the support members 5 for positioning, thus enabling interference-free vertical stacking. As the downward pressure assembly 6 continues to apply pressure, the cells 1 accurately fall along the alignment channel 71 and are stacked on the loading platform 3.

[0040] Subsequently, the lifting mechanism is started, causing the loading platform 3 to descend a certain distance in the vertical direction to reserve space for the stacking of the next single cell 1. In this process, the accuracy of the position mainly depends on the precise control of the alignment channel 71 and the lifting mechanism. The alignment channel 71 ensures that the single cell 1 falls along a fixed path to the designated position on the loading platform 3, and the lifting mechanism ensures that the distance of each descent of the loading platform 3 remains consistent through precise distance control. This reserves accurate space for the stacking of the next single cell 1. Since the position of the alignment channel 71 is fixed and the guidance is precise, even if the loading platform 3 is lifted or lowered, the horizontal positioning of the single cell 1 will not be changed. Moreover, the amplitude of each descent is not large. It is only necessary to ensure that the support member 5 does not affect the stacked single cell 1 below when supporting the single cell 1 to be stacked. Therefore, the position accuracy of each single cell 1 can be guaranteed when it is stacked.

[0041] The above process is repeated, and a new single cell 1 enters the stacking station through the conveying mechanism 2 again. After the same positioning, support release, and downward pressing stacking steps, it is precisely stacked on the previous single cell 1. This cycle repeats until the predetermined number of single cells 1 are stacked, forming a complete hydrogen fuel cell stack.

[0042] The entire stacking process not only improves production efficiency but also significantly reduces the risk of errors caused by manual intervention. Furthermore, because each layer of cells undergoes rigorous position calibration, the resulting stack structure is compact and consistent, providing a solid foundation for subsequent sealing and connection processes.

[0043] After the stack is stacked on the loading platform 3, the stability of the overall stack structure is ensured because the single cells 1 have been accurately stacked on the loading platform 3 through the alignment channels 71. Therefore, to prevent the stack from displacement or damage during transfer, the stack is fixed or other protective measures are taken. The entire stack is then transferred from the loading platform 3 to the next process using a robot or manual operation. The equipment for fixing and transporting the stack is not shown in the figure.

[0044] See also Figures 1-8 As shown, the pressing assembly 6 includes a movable plate 63 and elastic pressure rods 64 evenly distributed around it. When the elastic pressure rods 64 follow the movement of the movable plate 63 to squeeze the single cell 1, the elastic pressure rods 64 are in a gradually compressed state. When the support member 5 is completely separated from the single cell 1, the elastic pressure rods 64 are in a gradually reset state, so that the single cell 1 is in a pressed down state under the elastic force of the elastic pressure rods 64.

[0045] The pressing driver for driving the movable plate 63 to move is not shown in the figure.

[0046] When the downward actuator is activated, it moves the movable plate 63 downward, causing the elastic pressure rod 64 to descend synchronously and contact the surface of the cell 1. As the movable plate 63 continues to descend, the elastic pressure rod 64 begins to feel pressure and gradually compresses, transferring force to the cell 1, keeping it stable on the support member 5. At this point, the second linkage member 62 simultaneously actuates, causing the support member 5 to move outward and gradually separate from the bottom of the cell 1.

[0047] Once the support member 5 is completely free of the cell 1, the elastic pressure rod 64 is no longer restrained and, under its own elastic force, slowly returns to its original length. During this process, the elastic pressure rod 64 remains in contact with the top of the cell 1, relying on its resilience to continuously apply downward force to the cell 1, ensuring its precise fall along the alignment channel 71 formed by the limiting plate 7 and ultimately stacking at the designated position on the loading platform 3. This entire downward pressure process ensures stable buffering and release, ensuring the positioning accuracy and uniformity of the force applied to the cell 1 during stacking.

[0048] See also Figure 3-Figure 9As shown, the first linkage member 61 is specifically a pressure rod structure fixedly provided on the movable plate 63 and capable of always maintaining a state of interference with the limit plate 7. When the first linkage member 61 follows the movable plate 63 to squeeze the limit plate 7, the limit plate 7 gradually rotates downward, so that the single cell 1 to be stacked is in a positioned state relative to the stacked single cell 1.

[0049] When the pressing assembly 6 begins operating, the movable plate 63 moves downward as driven by the pressing actuator, driving the first linkage member 61 downward in tandem. The pressing rod structure continuously applies force to the limiting plate 7 during the downward movement. As the movable plate 63 descends, the limiting plate 7, propelled by the pressing rod structure, gradually rotates downward and moves inward, constraining the edges of the cell 1.

[0050] The rotation of the limit plate 7 creates a gradually narrowing alignment channel 71 around the cells 1, guiding the cells 1 to be stacked directly above the already stacked cells. Through the dynamic adjustment of the limit plate 7, the cells 1 in the current layer are precisely aligned relative to the cells below, ensuring their accurate stacking position. Throughout the downward pressure process, the first linkage 61 maintains contact with the limit plate 7, driving it through a continuous motion from initial opening to precise alignment, thus achieving efficient and stable automatic alignment.

[0051] See also Figure 3-Figure 8 and Figure 10 As shown, the second linkage member 62 is specifically a connecting rod structure hinged between the movable plate 63 and the support member 5. When the second linkage member 62 follows the movable plate 63 to squeeze the support member 5, the support member 5 gradually moves outward, so that the single battery 1 can be released from the supported state and be restricted between all the limit plates 7.

[0052] When the downward pressing assembly 6 begins to operate and the movable plate 63 moves downward, the movement of the movable plate 63 is transmitted to the support member 5 through the connecting rod structure, generating an outward pushing force. As the movable plate 63 continues to descend, the connecting rod structure drives the two support members 5 to move horizontally to the sides, gradually releasing them from their supporting position on the bottom of the single cell 1.

[0053] During this process, the movement of the support member 5 increases as the movable plate 63 descends, until it completely clears the area beneath the cell 1, causing it to lose support and enter the alignment channel 71 formed by the limit plates 7. At this point, the cell 1 is no longer supported by the support member 5 but is instead surrounded and precisely positioned by the limit plates 7. The second linkage 62, through a continuous mechanical transmission process, achieves a controlled release of the support state, ensuring that the cell 1 enters the stacking position without deflection, completing a smooth transition from support to positioning.

[0054] See also Figure 3-Figure 9As shown, one end of each limit plate 7 is rotatably connected to the fixing frame 4, and the other end extends outward. A torsion spring 72 is provided between each limit plate 7 and the fixing frame 4. When the limit plate 7 is pressed and rotated downward, the torsion spring 72 is in a torsion state.

[0055] When the movable plate 63 drives the first linkage 61 downward, the compression rod structure exerts a downward force on the outwardly extending end of the limit plate 7, forcing the limit plate 7 to rotate downward about the rotation axis. As the limit plate 7 rotates, the angle between it and the fixed frame 4 gradually decreases, causing the torsion spring 72 to twist and store elastic potential energy.

[0056] As the limiting plate 7 rotates, it gradually moves toward the periphery of the cell 1, forming a gradually narrowing alignment channel 71. This guides the cell 1 to be stacked directly above the already stacked portion and achieves centering. When the downward pressure completes the stacking of the cells 1 and resets, the torsion spring 72 releases its previously stored energy, driving the limiting plate 7 to rotate in the opposite direction, returning it to its initial open state and preparing for the next stacking. Throughout this process, the limiting plate 7, in conjunction with the torsion spring 72, automatically resets, ensuring that the limiting plate 7 is in its standard starting position before each stacking operation, without hindering the transfer of new cells 1 to the support 5.

[0057] See also Figure 3-Figure 9 As shown, each limiting plate 7 can contact the edge of the stacked single cell 1 after it is rotated into position. When all the limiting plates 7 are synchronously rotated into position to form the alignment channel 71, the single cells 1 to be stacked are in an alignment state based on the stacked single cells 1, so that the positions of adjacent single cells 1 remain consistent.

[0058] As the movable plate 63 moves downward, driving the first linkage 61 and gradually rotating the stop plates 7 downward, each stop plate 7 simultaneously converges inward around its pivot point with the fixed frame 4 until it reaches its set position. At this point, the outer extension of each stop plate 7 precisely contacts the edge of the stacked battery cell 1 on the loading platform 3, forming a unified alignment reference surface. As all stop plates 7 complete their synchronous rotation, they collectively form a central, symmetrical alignment channel 71, the central axis of which aligns with the center of the stacked battery cell 1.

[0059] After the support members 5 are detached, the cells 1 to be stacked slowly fall along the alignment channels 71 formed by the limiting plates 7 and, guided by the limiting plates 7, precisely align with the position of the cells 1 in the lower layer. Because the limiting plates 7 are positioned relative to the already stacked cells 1, the newly stacked cells 1 maintain a highly consistent relative position with each previously stacked layer of cells 1, ensuring alignment accuracy and assembly consistency between adjacent cells 1 throughout the stack, thereby improving overall structural stability and sealing performance.

[0060] See also Figure 3-Figure 9 As shown, the inner side of each limiting plate 7 is a rubber surface that can flexibly contact the single battery 1 , and the outer side of each limiting plate 7 is a smooth surface that can slidably cooperate with the first linkage member 61 .

[0061] When the lower pressure assembly 6 is in operation, the elastic pressure rod 64 continuously applies pressure along the smooth outer surface of the limit plate 7, ensuring that the limit plate 7 rotates stably along the predetermined trajectory, thereby guaranteeing the synchronization and smoothness of its movement. This helps to maintain precise control of the elastic pressure rod 64 in applying force to the limit plate 7, avoiding movement deviation caused by rough or uneven surfaces, thereby ensuring the positioning accuracy of the single cells 1 during the stacking process.

[0062] At the same time, the rubber surface of the limiting plate 7 can achieve flexible contact with the edge of the single cell 1 to avoid damage caused by rigid collision, while providing sufficient friction to assist positioning.

[0063] See also Figure 3-Figure 8 and Figure 10 As shown, each support member 5 is composed of a sliding frame 51 and a plurality of balls 52 arranged thereon. The fixed frame 4 is provided with a slide rail 41 that slides with the sliding frame 51. When the sliding frame 51 is away from the single cell 1, the single cell 1 and the sliding frame 51 are in a rolling contact state under the action of the balls 52.

[0064] As the second linkage 62 drives the carriage 51 outward along the slide rail 41, the support member 5 gradually moves away from the area surrounding the cells 1. During this process, the balls 52 maintain contact with the bottom edge of the cells 1 and roll as the carriage 51 moves, creating rolling contact between the cells 1 and the support member 5. This effectively reduces frictional resistance between the cells 1 during transport and during removal, preventing damage to their surfaces.

[0065] See also Figure 3-10 As shown, the elastic pressure rod 64 is composed of an upper rod body 641 and a lower rod body 642. The upper rod body 641 is fixedly connected to the movable plate 63. A compression spring 643 is provided between the lower rod body 642 and the upper rod body 641. A rubber block 6421 is provided at the lower end of the lower rod body 642. When the single cell 1 is transported, the rubber block 6421 is in a non-contact state with the single cell 1. At this time, the compression spring 643 is in a normal state.

[0066] When the single cell 1 is conveyed to the support 5, the elastic pressure rod 64 is in the initial state. At this time, the rubber block 6421 maintains a certain distance from the top of the single cell 1 and no contact occurs. The compression spring 643 is also in an uncompressed natural state, which is conducive to the smooth conveyance of the single cell 1 to the support 5.

[0067] As the movable plate 63 begins to move downward, the elastic pressure rod 64 moves downward accordingly, and the rubber block 6421 gradually approaches the surface of the single cell 1 and begins to apply pressure to the single cell 1 after contact. At the same time, the compression spring 643 enters the compression stage, providing stable downward pressure and buffer protection for the subsequent stacking process.

[0068] See also Figure 3-Figure 9 As shown, the fixed frame 4 is provided with a guide column 42 extending vertically upward to guide the movable plate 63 to maintain vertical movement. The movable plate 63 has a sleeve that is slidably mounted on the guide column 42, and a plurality of balls 631 that are in rolling contact with the guide column 42 are evenly distributed in the sleeve along its circumferential direction.

[0069] As the movable plate 63 moves up and down along the guide post 42, the spheres 631 form rolling contact with the surface of the guide post 42, effectively reducing frictional resistance while ensuring that the movable plate 63 does not deflect or wobble during operation. This not only improves the smoothness and guiding accuracy of the movable plate 63 but also enhances the reliability of the entire hold-down assembly 6.

[0070] The present invention utilizes the linkage of the first linkage member 61 and the limiting plate 7 to cause the limiting plate 7 to rotate synchronously as the movable plate 63 moves downward, forming a central alignment channel 71 based on the stacked cells 1, ensuring precise positioning of the cells 1 to be stacked. Simultaneously, the second linkage member 62 drives the support member 5 to smoothly disengage, achieving a seamless transition from support to limiting.

[0071] As the single cell 1 falls along the alignment channel 71, the compression and reset mechanism of the elastic pressure rod 64 continuously applies uniform downward pressure to the single cell 1 after the support member 5 is withdrawn, ensuring its stable fall along the alignment channel 71. This achieves high-precision, highly automated assembly of the hydrogen fuel cell stack, significantly improving the consistency, stability, and production efficiency of the stack.

[0072] The above embodiments merely represent one or more embodiments of the present invention, and their descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, but they should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the present invention. It should be noted that a person of ordinary skill in the art may make various modifications and improvements without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and such modifications and improvements fall within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention shall be subject to the appended claims.

Claims

1. A stacking device for a hydrogen fuel cell stack with an alignment function, used for stacking multiple single cells, comprising a conveying mechanism and a loading platform capable of moving in a vertical direction for stacking multiple single cells in sequence; It is characterized by: A fixing frame is provided directly above the loading platform, and a pair of supporting members for supporting the single battery are provided on the fixing frame, and the supporting members can move horizontally on the fixing frame. The fixing frame is also provided with a positioning discharge mechanism, and the positioning discharge mechanism includes a pressing assembly provided on the fixing frame and limiting plates evenly distributed around the fixing frame. The pressing assembly is provided with a first linkage member cooperating with each limiting plate and a second linkage member cooperating with each supporting member; When the pressing assembly applies pressure to the single cell, each limiting plate moves inward synchronously under the drive of the corresponding first linkage member, gradually forming an alignment channel for the single cell to be centered and limited therein. At the same time, each supporting member gradually separates from the single cell under the drive of the corresponding second linkage member, so that the single cell is accurately stacked on the loading platform along the alignment channel under the action of pressure; The pressing assembly includes a movable plate and elastic pressure rods evenly distributed around it. When the elastic pressure rods follow the movement of the movable plate to squeeze the single cell, the elastic pressure rods are in a gradually compressed state. When the support member is completely separated from the single cell, the elastic pressure rods are in a gradually restored state, so that the single cell is in a pressed state under the elastic force of the elastic pressure rods. The first linkage member is specifically a pressure rod structure fixedly arranged on the movable plate and capable of always maintaining a state of interference with the limit plate. When the first linkage member follows the movable plate to squeeze the limit plate, the limit plate gradually rotates downward, so that the single cell to be stacked is in a positioned state relative to the stacked single cells.

2. A stacking device for hydrogen fuel cell stacks with an alignment function according to claim 1, characterized in that: The second linkage is specifically a connecting rod structure hinged between the movable plate and the support member. When the second linkage follows the movable plate to squeeze the support member, the support member gradually moves outward, allowing the single battery to be released from the supported state and confined between all the limit plates.

3. The stacking device of a hydrogen fuel cell stack with an alignment function according to claim 1, characterized in that: One end of each limit plate is rotatably connected to the fixing frame, and the other end extends outward. A torsion spring is provided between each limit plate and the fixing frame. When the limit plate is pressed and rotated downward, the torsion spring is in a torsion state.

4. A stacking device for hydrogen fuel cell stacks with an alignment function according to claim 3, characterized in that: Each limiting plate can contact the edge of the stacked single battery after it is rotated into position. When all the limiting plates are synchronously rotated into position to form the alignment channel, the single battery to be stacked is in an alignment state based on the stacked single battery, so that the positions of adjacent single batteries remain consistent.

5. A stacking device with an alignment function for a hydrogen fuel cell stack according to claim 4, characterized in that: The inner side of each limiting plate is a rubber surface that can flexibly contact the single battery, and the outer side of each limiting plate is a smooth surface that can slidably cooperate with the first linkage member.

6. The stacking device of a hydrogen fuel cell stack with an alignment function according to claim 2, characterized in that: Each support member consists of a sliding frame and multiple balls arranged on it. The fixed frame is provided with a slide rail that slides with the sliding frame. When the sliding frame is away from the single battery, the single battery and the sliding frame are in a rolling contact state under the action of the balls.

7. The stacking device of a hydrogen fuel cell stack with an alignment function according to claim 1, characterized in that: The elastic pressure rod consists of an upper rod body and a lower rod body. The upper rod body is fixedly connected to the movable plate. A compression spring is provided between the lower rod body and the upper rod body. A rubber block is provided at the lower end of the lower rod body. When the single battery is transported, the rubber block and the single battery are in a non-contact state. At this time, the compression spring is in a normal state.

8. The stacking device of a hydrogen fuel cell stack with an alignment function according to claim 1, characterized in that: The fixed frame is provided with a guide column extending vertically upward to guide the movable plate to maintain vertical movement. The movable plate has a sleeve slidingly sleeved on the guide column. The sleeve is evenly distributed with multiple balls in rolling contact with the guide column along its circumferential direction.

Citation Information

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