Bipolar plate inspection structure and fuel cell

Abstract

The utility model provides a bipolar plate inspection structure and a fuel cell, the bipolar plate inspection structure comprises a graphite bipolar plate, the edge of the graphite bipolar plate is provided with a gap, and the gap is internally provided with an inspection area for connecting an inspection device. The inspection area comprises a graphite inspection piece integrally formed with the graphite bipolar plate and metal reinforcing pieces attached to the surfaces of the two sides of the graphite inspection piece. According to the bipolar plate inspection structure and the fuel cell provided by the utility model, the inspection area is arranged in the edge notch of the graphite bipolar plate, and the graphite inspection piece integrally formed with the plate body is used as a basic structure of the inspection area, so that the phenomenon of vibration virtual connection easily caused by inserting the inspection piece outside the bipolar plate is avoided; and the metal reinforcing sheets are attached to the surfaces of the two sides of the graphite inspection sheet, so that the structural strength and the wear resistance of the inspection area are enhanced, and the stability of the bipolar plate inspection structure is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of fuel cell technology, and in particular to a bipolar plate inspection structure and a fuel cell. Background Technology

[0002] As one of the core components of fuel cells, bipolar plates are currently made of two main materials: graphite bipolar plates and metal bipolar plates. Each type has its advantages. Metal bipolar plates are easy to form, have high bending strength, and are wear-resistant. They can also be made much thinner (less than 0.1mm). Graphite bipolar plates have a more mature manufacturing process and offer a significant cost advantage in mass production, but their thickness (typically 1.5mm-3mm) is significantly greater than that of metal bipolar plates.

[0003] Fuel cells consist of several stacked bipolar plates. In practical applications, a monitoring device needs to be connected to the bipolar plates to monitor the voltage values ​​and changes of each bipolar plate in real time. Currently, there are two types of monitoring interfaces for graphite bipolar plates. One type, as shown in patent document CN 111289901 B, involves inserting a metal monitoring plate along the edge of the bipolar plate, with the monitoring plate protruding completely from the bipolar plate. This structure is simple and easy to connect, and the monitoring terminals can be directly clamped onto the monitoring plate. However, the main body of the monitoring plate is completely exposed outside the bipolar plate, lacking restraint and support, making it prone to intermittent connection when the fuel cell is subjected to vibration and impact. The other type, as shown in patent document CN 102938470 A, involves pre-drilling monitoring holes on the bipolar plates. Voltage is collected through the cooperation of monitoring pins and monitoring holes. However, over time, the gaps in the pre-drilled holes widen due to friction, the pins loosen, and eventually fall off. Utility Model Content

[0004] One of the technical problems that this utility model aims to solve is: how to improve the stability of the bipolar plate inspection structure.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, this utility model provides a bipolar plate inspection structure, including a graphite bipolar plate. The edge of the graphite bipolar plate is provided with a notch, and an inspection area for connecting an inspection device is provided in the notch. The inspection area includes a graphite inspection sheet integrally formed with the graphite bipolar plate and metal reinforcing sheets attached to both sides of the graphite inspection sheet.

[0006] In some embodiments, the thickness of the inspection area is less than the thickness of the graphite bipolar plate, so as to form an inspection trough in the inspection area that facilitates the insertion of the inspection device.

[0007] In some embodiments, the metal reinforcing sheet is attached to both sides of the graphite inspection sheet using conductive adhesive.

[0008] In some embodiments, the inspection area is provided with an anti-detachment groove formed by recessing inward relative to the outer edge contour line of the graphite bipolar plate.

[0009] In some embodiments, the thickness of the graphite bipolar plate is 1.5mm-3mm, and the thickness of the graphite inspection sheet is 0.5mm-1mm.

[0010] In some embodiments, the thickness of the metal reinforcing sheet is 0.05mm-0.15mm.

[0011] In some embodiments, the metal reinforcing plate is provided with reinforcing ribs parallel to the insertion direction of the inspection device.

[0012] In some embodiments, the graphite bipolar plate has two inspection zones that are symmetrical about its center point.

[0013] In some embodiments, the metal reinforcing sheet is a gold-plated copper sheet.

[0014] This utility model also provides a fuel cell, which includes the above-mentioned bipolar plate inspection structure.

[0015] Through the above technical solution, the bipolar plate inspection structure and fuel cell provided by this utility model, the bipolar plate inspection structure sets an inspection area in the notch at the edge of the graphite bipolar plate, and uses a graphite inspection sheet integrally formed with the plate body as the basic structure of the inspection area, avoiding the vibration and loose connection phenomenon that is easily caused by inserting the inspection sheet to the outside of the bipolar plate. In addition, metal reinforcing sheets are attached to both sides of the graphite inspection sheet, which improves the structural strength and wear resistance of the inspection area and enhances the stability of the bipolar plate inspection structure. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a partial structural diagram of the bipolar plate with the metal reinforcing sheet omitted in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0018] Figure 2 This is a partial structural diagram of the bipolar plate of the display metal reinforcing sheet according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 3 This is a front view schematic diagram of the graphite inspection sheet and the metal reinforcing sheet in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0020] Figure 4 This is a front view schematic diagram of a bipolar plate with two inspection zones according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0022] 1. Graphite bipolar plate; 2. Inspection area; 201. Graphite inspection plate; 202. Metal reinforcing plate; 203. Inspection sink; 204. Anti-detachment groove; 205. Reinforcing rib. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The embodiments of this utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The following detailed description of the embodiments and the accompanying drawings are used to exemplarily illustrate the principles of this utility model, but should not be used to limit the scope of this utility model. This utility model can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the specific embodiments of the utility model described herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

[0024] These embodiments are provided to make the present invention thorough and complete, and to fully express the scope of the present invention to those skilled in the art. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement of components and steps, material composition, numerical expressions, and values ​​set forth in these embodiments should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limiting.

[0025] It should be noted that, in the description of this utility model, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more; the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships, are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model. When the absolute position of the described object changes, the relative positional relationship may also change accordingly.

[0026] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and similar words used in this invention do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different parts. "Vertical" is not strictly vertical, but within the allowable error range. "Parallel" is not strictly parallel, but within the allowable error range. Words such as "including" or "comprising" mean that the element preceding the word encompasses the element listed after it, and do not exclude the possibility of encompassing other elements as well.

[0027] It should also be noted that, in the description of this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model depending on the specific circumstances. When a specific device is described as being located between a first device and a second device, an intermediary device may or may not be present between the specific device and the first or second device.

[0028] All terms used in this invention have the same meaning as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains, unless otherwise specifically defined. It should also be understood that terms defined in general dictionaries should be interpreted as having meanings consistent with their meanings in the context of the relevant art, and not as idealized or highly formalized, unless expressly defined herein.

[0029] Techniques, methods, and equipment known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, they should be considered part of the specification.

[0030] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, this disclosure provides a bipolar plate inspection structure, including a graphite bipolar plate 1. The edge of the graphite bipolar plate 1 is provided with a notch, and an inspection area 2 for connecting an inspection device is provided in the notch. The inspection area 2 includes a graphite inspection piece 201 integrally formed with the graphite bipolar plate 1 and metal reinforcing pieces 202 attached to both sides of the graphite inspection piece 201.

[0031] Specifically, such as Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the graphite bipolar plate 1 is a rectangular plate, and the notch where the inspection area 2 is located is at the corner of the rectangular plate, facilitating contact between the inspection device and the inspection area 2. Since the inspection area 2 is located within the notch of the graphite bipolar plate 1, and the graphite inspection piece 201, which forms the structural foundation of the inspection area 2, is integrally formed with the graphite bipolar plate 1, compared to inserting the inspection piece onto the outside of the bipolar plate, this effectively avoids loosening, poor connection, or even detachment of the inspection piece due to vibration or other factors. Simultaneously, metal reinforcing pieces 202 of the same shape and size are attached to both sides of the graphite inspection piece 201. The inspection terminals of the inspection device directly contact the metal reinforcing pieces 202. The metal reinforcing pieces 202 enhance the structural strength and wear resistance of the inspection area 2, improve the stability of the inspection structure connection, and reduce the resistance when the inspection terminals contact the inspection area 2, thus facilitating more accurate test results for the operator.

[0032] like Figure 2As shown, in some embodiments, the thickness of the inspection area 2 is less than the thickness of the graphite bipolar plate 1, so as to form an inspection groove 203 in the inspection area 2 that facilitates the insertion of the inspection device.

[0033] Specifically, during the fabrication of the graphite bipolar plate 1, a region with a thickness less than the plate body thickness is integrally formed at a designated position on its edge as a graphite inspection piece 201, and metal reinforcing pieces 202 are attached to its two side surfaces to form an inspection area 2. The combined thickness of the graphite inspection piece 201 and the metal reinforcing pieces 202 attached to its two side surfaces in the inspection area 2 is less than the plate body thickness of the graphite bipolar plate 1. The thickness difference between the two creates an inspection groove 203 in the inspection area 2 to facilitate the insertion of inspection terminals. The inspection terminals are inserted into the inspection groove 203 to adhere to the surface of the metal reinforcing pieces 202. Figure 2 As shown, inspection slots 203 are provided on both sides of the inspection area 2. Since the fuel cell is composed of multiple graphite bipolar plates 1 stacked together, when using the inspection device to perform voltage inspection on the fuel cell, multiple inspection terminals need to be connected to the graphite bipolar plates 1 respectively. The inspection slots 203 can prevent contact between adjacent inspection terminals. To facilitate the insertion of the inspection terminals into the inspection slots 203, the thickness of the graphite inspection plate 201 can be set to 1 / 3 of the thickness of the graphite bipolar plate 1.

[0034] In some embodiments, the metal reinforcing sheet 202 is attached to both sides of the graphite inspection sheet 201 with conductive adhesive.

[0035] Specifically, the conductive adhesive itself has good conductivity, ensuring that the current is smoothly transferred from the graphite inspection piece 201 to the metal reinforcing piece 202, guaranteeing that voltage inspection can proceed normally. Before attaching the metal reinforcing piece 202 with the conductive adhesive, it is necessary to remove oil, dust, or other impurities from both sides of the graphite inspection piece 201. Use a brush or dispensing equipment to evenly apply the conductive adhesive to the predetermined position on the graphite inspection piece 201. Place the metal reinforcing piece 202 on the graphite inspection piece 201 coated with conductive adhesive. A clamp can be used to gently press the metal reinforcing piece 202 to ensure that the metal reinforcing piece 202 and the graphite inspection piece 201 are tightly adhered.

[0036] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the inspection area 2 is provided with an anti-detachment groove 204 formed by recessing inward relative to the outer edge contour line of the graphite bipolar plate 1.

[0037] Specifically, the inspection terminal is provided with a fastener that can form a fixed fit with the anti-detachment groove 204. When the inspection device is connected to the graphite bipolar plate 1, the anti-detachment groove 204 can accommodate the fastener and cooperate with it to form a fixed connection, which effectively improves the connection stability between the structures and prevents the inspection device from falling off due to vibration.

[0038] In some embodiments, the thickness of the graphite bipolar plate 1 is 1.5mm-3mm, and the thickness of the graphite inspection plate 201 is 0.5mm-1mm.

[0039] Specifically, to ensure that the inspection groove 203 has sufficient depth so that there is enough spacing between the inspection areas 2 of two adjacent graphite bipolar plates 1 to facilitate the insertion of the inspection device for voltage inspection, the thickness of the graphite inspection plate 201 should be controlled to be about 1 / 3 of the thickness of the graphite bipolar plate 1. Preferably, the thickness of the graphite bipolar plate 1 is 3mm, the thickness of the graphite inspection plate 201 is 1mm, and without considering the thickness of the metal reinforcing sheet 202, inspection grooves 203 with a depth of 1mm are formed on both sides of the graphite inspection plate 201.

[0040] In some embodiments, the thickness of the metal reinforcing sheet 202 is 0.05mm-0.15mm.

[0041] Specifically, the metal reinforcing sheet 202 is typically formed by stamping a thin metal sheet. Preferably, the graphite bipolar plate 1 has a thickness of 3 mm, the graphite inspection sheet 201 has a thickness of 1 mm, and the metal reinforcing sheet has a thickness of 0.1 mm. Considering the thickness of the metal reinforcing sheet 202, inspection grooves 203 with a depth of 0.9 mm can be formed on both sides of the graphite inspection sheet 201.

[0042] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the metal reinforcing plate 202 is provided with reinforcing ribs 205 parallel to the insertion direction of the inspection device. Specifically, the reinforcing ribs 205 can enhance the bending strength of the inspection area 2 when the inspection device is inserted or removed, effectively extending the service life of the inspection area 2.

[0043] like Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the graphite bipolar plate 1 has two inspection zones 2 that are symmetrical about its center point.

[0044] Specifically, when performing voltage inspection on a fuel cell formed by stacking multiple graphite bipolar plates 1, in order to avoid the mutual contact between adjacent inspection terminals affecting the detection accuracy and safety, an inspection area 2 is set at two opposite vertices of the graphite bipolar plates 1. For the inspection area 2 at the first vertex, the inspection terminal of the inspection device adopts an interval detection method (i.e., every other one is detected). For the inspection area 2 at the other vertex, the remaining graphite bipolar plates 1 are also detected by an interval detection method, which effectively expands the spacing between the inspection terminals and improves the detection accuracy and safety.

[0045] In some embodiments, the metal reinforcing sheet 202 is a gold-plated copper sheet. Utilizing the good structural strength and excellent conductivity of the gold-plated copper sheet, it can both enhance the structural strength of the inspection area 2 and provide good conductivity, ensuring accurate detection results. In other embodiments, the metal reinforcing sheet 202 can also be made of other metal materials such as stainless steel or titanium, and its surface can be gold-plated or silver-plated.

[0046] This utility model also provides a fuel cell, which includes the above-mentioned bipolar plate inspection structure.

[0047] Specifically, the fuel cell includes multiple stacked graphite bipolar plates 1, with membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) positioned between adjacent graphite bipolar plates 1. The graphite bipolar plates 1 serve to separate fuel from oxidant, collect and conduct current, etc. An inspection zone 2 is provided within the notches of the graphite bipolar plates 1 to prevent the inspection plate from protruding from the bipolar plates, effectively improving the connection stability of the fuel cell during voltage inspection. Simultaneously, a graphite inspection plate 201 integrally formed with the graphite bipolar plates 1 serves as the structural foundation of the inspection zone 2, reducing the phenomenon of inspection plate detachment due to vibration and impact. Furthermore, the use of a metal reinforcing sheet 202 effectively enhances the structural strength and wear resistance of the inspection zone 2.

[0048] The various embodiments of this utility model have now been described in detail. To avoid obscuring the concept of this utility model, some details known in the art have not been described. Those skilled in the art can fully understand how to implement the technical solution of this utility model based on the above description.

[0049] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail by way of examples, those skilled in the art should understand that the above examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can be made to the above embodiments or equivalent substitutions can be made to some technical features without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the embodiments can be combined in any manner.

Claims

1. A bipolar plate inspection structure, characterized by, The graphite bipolar plate (1) is provided with a notch at its edge, and a patrol area (2) for connecting a patrol device is arranged in the notch, the patrol area (2) comprising a graphite patrol sheet (201) integrally formed with the graphite bipolar plate (1) and metal reinforcing sheets (202) attached to the two side surfaces of the graphite patrol sheet (201).

2. The bipolar plate inspection structure according to claim 1, characterized by The thickness of the patrol area (2) is less than the thickness of the body of the graphite bipolar plate (1), so as to form a patrol groove (203) in the patrol area (2) for facilitating the insertion of the patrol device.

3. The bipolar plate inspection structure of claim 1, wherein The metal reinforcing sheets (202) are attached to the two side surfaces of the graphite patrol sheet (201) by conductive adhesive.

4. The bipolar plate inspection structure of claim 1, wherein The patrol area (2) is provided with a anti-disengagement groove (204) formed by inwardly recessing relative to the contour line of the outer edge of the graphite bipolar plate (1).

5. The bipolar plate inspection structure of claim 1, wherein The thickness of the body of the graphite bipolar plate (1) is 1.5-3 mm, and the thickness of the graphite patrol sheet (201) is 0.5-1 mm.

6. The bipolar plate inspection structure of claim 1, wherein The thickness of the metal reinforcing sheets (202) is 0.05-0.15 mm.

7. The bipolar plate inspection structure of claim 1, wherein The metal reinforcing sheets (202) are provided with reinforcing ribs (205) parallel to the insertion direction of the patrol device.

8. The bipolar plate inspection structure of claim 1, wherein The graphite bipolar plate (1) is provided with two patrol areas (2) which are symmetric about the center point of the graphite bipolar plate (1).

9. The bipolar plate inspection structure of claim 1, wherein The metal reinforcing sheets (202) are gold-plated copper sheets.

10. A fuel cell characterized by comprising: The fuel cell comprises the bipolar plate patrol structure according to any one of claims 1-9.

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