Method for measuring the quality of at least one through-hole in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell

Abstract

A method for measuring the quality of at least one through-hole (18) in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell (20) is described, using a quality measuring device (10) comprising at least one pump element (12) configured to generate a start value, at least one measuring element (14) which records a final value in at least one measuring step (16), wherein the final value represents an influence factor of the at least one through-hole (18) in the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell (20) on the start value, and comprising at least one first chamber element (22) and at least one second chamber element (24) which enclose the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell (20) in two directions, wherein in at least one evaluation step (46) the quality of the through-hole (18) is determined using a reference value, wherein the reference value is correlated with the final value determined by the measuring element (14)., proposed.

Description

State of the art

[0001] An optical measuring method for quality measurement has already been proposed. Disclosure of the invention

[0002] The invention proposes a method for measuring the quality of at least one through-hole in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell by means of a quality measuring device, with at least one pump element which is designed to generate a starting value, with at least one measuring element which records an end value in at least one measuring step, wherein the end value represents an influencing factor of the at least one through-hole in the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell on the starting value, and with at least one first chamber element and at least one second chamber element which enclose the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell in two directions, wherein in at least one evaluation step the quality of the through-hole is determined by means of a reference value, wherein the reference value is correlated with the end value determined by the measuring element.

[0003] In this context, a “quality measuring device” should be understood in particular to mean a device which is configured to check at least one through-hole in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell. The quality measuring device is preferably designed in several parts. Particularly preferably, the quality measuring device is configured to check a plurality of through-holes. The quality measuring device is preferably configured to check the quality of the at least one through-hole in the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell. “Configured” should be understood in particular to mean specially programmed, designed and / or equipped. The fact that an object is configured for a specific function should be understood to mean that the object fulfills and / or executes this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state.Particularly preferably, the quality measuring device is configured to perform a quality measurement. In particular, at least one through-hole in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell is evaluated by means of the quality measurement. Preferably, a quality measurement checks whether at least one through-hole in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell is formed free of impairments. In this context, an "impairment" is to be understood in particular as a blockage of the through-hole, for example due to an incomplete formation of the through-hole and / or due to residual particles and / or melt. Preferably, the quality measurement is performed as a result of processing a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell.Preferably, at least one, particularly preferably several, through-holes are formed in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell during processing. In particular, it is conceivable for a quality measurement to be performed directly after processing of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell. Preferably, the quality measurement device is configured to perform a measuring step and / or an evaluation step and / or an operating step. Preferably, a quality measurement is performed in a processing area.

[0004] In this context, a “pump element” should be understood to mean, in particular, an element which is designed to accelerate a medium and subsequently generate a pressure difference between a pre- and post-state of the pump. Preferably, the medium in a post-state has a higher acceleration and a resulting higher pressure compared to a pre-state of the medium. Preferably, the medium is designed as a gaseous medium. Preferably, the pump element is designed to generate a medium flow. Preferably, the pump element is designed to generate a starting value. Particularly preferably, the pump element is designed to accelerate a medium to a defined starting value and / or to adapt the medium to a defined pressure. Preferably, the starting value generated by the pump element is constant.In this context, a "starting value" is preferably understood to mean a pressure generated by a pump element. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the starting value is defined as the acceleration of a medium. Furthermore, any other flow parameter of the medium that appears appropriate to a person skilled in the art can also be used to define a starting value. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the starting value can be variably adapted to an application. The pump element is preferably arranged at the beginning of a quality measurement device.

[0005] In this context, a “measuring element” should be understood in particular to mean a unit that is intended to record at least one parameter and / or a physical property, wherein the recording can take place actively, such as in particular by generating and emitting an electrical measurement signal, and / or passively, such as in particular by detecting changes in the properties of a sensor component. Various measuring elements that appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art are conceivable. Preferably, the measuring element is designed to determine a final value of the medium in one measuring step. A “final value” in this context should preferably be understood to mean a pressure that is determined by means of a measuring element. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the final value is defined as the acceleration of a medium. Preferably, a flow parameter of the medium is determined as a final value in one measuring step using a measuring element.Furthermore, any other flow parameter of the medium that appears appropriate to a person skilled in the art is also conceivable for defining a final value. Preferably, the medium flows through the measuring element in one measuring step. The final value is preferably configured to indicate an influencing factor of the at least one through-hole in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell on the starting value. The measuring element is preferably arranged at one end of a quality measuring device.

[0006] In this context, a “measuring step” should be understood in particular to mean a method step in which a final value is determined. Preferably, a parameter of the medium is determined in a measuring step. Preferably, a measuring step takes place in an operating step. Preferably, the measuring element is designed to determine a flow parameter of the medium. Preferably, in a measuring step, a final value is determined as a function of the influence of the through-hole in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell on a starting value. In this context, an “evaluation step” should be understood in particular to mean a method step in which the quality of the through-hole is determined using a reference value. Preferably, in an evaluation step, the reference value is correlated with the final value determined by the measuring element.Preferably, in an evaluation step, the flow of a medium through at least one through-hole in a substrate sheet is determined using a reference value. Preferably, an evaluation step follows a measuring step. Alternatively, it is conceivable for an evaluation step to occur simultaneously and / or overlapping in time with a measuring step. In this context, an “operating step” is to be understood as a method step in which a method for measuring the quality of at least one through-hole in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell is carried out using a quality measuring device. Preferably, an evaluation step and a measuring step take place in one operating step. Preferably, in an operating step, the pump element generates a start value. Preferably, in an operating step, the measuring element determines an end value in a measuring step.

[0007] In this context, a “chamber element” is to be understood in particular as an element which is designed to apply a medium over the entire surface of at least one side of the substrate for an electrochemical cell. The chamber element is preferably designed as a cuboid open on one side. The cuboid is preferably hollow. Particularly preferably, the cover side of the cuboid is open. Furthermore, other geometric shapes which appear expedient to a person skilled in the art, for example a cylinder open on the cover side, are also conceivable. Particularly preferably, the quality measuring device has a first and a second chamber element. The first chamber element and the second chamber element are preferably arranged on different sides of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell.The first chamber element and the second chamber element preferably enclose the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell in two directions. The first chamber element and the second chamber element are preferably each formed in one piece. The term “one piece” should be understood in particular to mean at least materially connected, for example by a welding process, an adhesive process, an injection molding process and / or another process that appears appropriate to a person skilled in the art, and / or advantageously formed in one piece, for example by production from a cast and / or by production using a single or multi-component injection molding process and advantageously from a single blank. Advantageously, the term “one piece” should also be understood to mean one-piece. “One-piece” should be understood in particular to mean formed in one piece.Preferably, this one piece is produced from a single blank, a mass and / or a cast, particularly preferably using an injection molding process, in particular a single-component and / or multi-component injection molding process. Alternatively, a multi-part design of the first and second chamber elements is also conceivable. Preferably, the first chamber element has a coupling point with a pump element. Preferably, the coupling point is designed as a detachable connection. Preferably, the second chamber element has a connection point with a measuring element. Preferably, the connection point is designed as a detachable connection. In particular, it is conceivable for the connection point and the coupling point to be detachable by means of a tool. Furthermore, it is conceivable for the connection point and the coupling point to be non-detachable.

[0008] In this context, a “substrate for an electrochemical cell” should preferably be understood to mean a substrate that is intended for use in a fuel cell. Preferably, the substrate for an electrochemical cell is in the form of a sheet metal. Preferably, the substrate is intended for use in an electrolytic cell. Particularly preferably, the substrate for an electrochemical cell is used in a solid oxide fuel cell. Furthermore, a substrate made of a pre-sintered ceramic is conceivable. Furthermore, other materials that appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art are also conceivable. In this context, a non-shrinking material should be understood to mean a material that does not shrink further during a shrinking process, for example a sintering process, and / or that has already been shrunk beforehand, for example by a sintering process.Preferably, in a processing step prior to an operating step, at least one through-hole is introduced into the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell. In this context, a "through-hole" is understood to mean a recess extending completely through the substrate for an electrochemical cell. The through-hole is preferably arranged perpendicular to a main extension plane of the substrate for an electrochemical cell.

[0009] The inventive design of the method for quality measurement of at least one through-hole in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell using a quality measurement device makes it possible to achieve particularly advantageous properties with regard to quality measurement. In particular, the short process time of, in particular, advantageously a maximum of 10 s, preferably a maximum of 8 s, and particularly preferably a maximum of 6 s makes it possible to provide advantageous properties with regard to process time and quality measurement costs. Particularly advantageous properties with regard to application variability as well as process efficiency and measurement efficiency can be provided.

[0010] Furthermore, it is proposed that in at least one measuring step the final value is measured by means of the measuring element in a vicinity of the second chamber element. Preferably, in at least one measuring step the final value is measured by means of the measuring element as a flow parameter of the medium flow. Preferably, in at least one measuring step the final value is measured by means of the measuring element as a flow parameter of the medium flow in an end region of the second chamber element. Preferably, the measuring element is arranged between an exhaust air outlet and a second chamber element. Preferably, the medium flows through the measuring element in one measuring step. Preferably, the final value of the medium flow is determined at a transition between a second chamber element and the measuring element in one measuring step. Particularly preferably, in one measuring step the final value of the medium flow between a second chamber element and an exhaust air outlet in the measuring element is determined.In this context, a "near area" is understood to mean, in particular, a spatial, particularly spherical, area that preferably extends with a radius of a maximum of 10 cm, preferably a maximum of 5 cm, and particularly preferably a maximum of 3 cm around a geometric center of a processing area. The measuring element is particularly preferably arranged in contact with a second chamber element. This makes it possible to provide particularly advantageous properties with regard to determining the final value.

[0011] It is further proposed that in at least one evaluation step a loss value is determined as the difference between the reference value and the final value. The loss value is preferably determined in real time. The reference value is preferably subtracted from the final value. The influence which the at least one through-hole of a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell has on the flow parameter is preferably at least substantially constant compared to a reference value. The final value preferably changes due to the influence of a blockage and / or contamination of the at least one through-hole. The reference value is preferably defined as an optimum value for a flow parameter of a defined number of through-holes. The reference value is preferably determined experimentally before an operating step. Alternatively, the reference value is determined mathematically before an operating step.In this context, an "optimal value" is understood to mean a value of a flow parameter at which no blockage and / or contamination of the defined number of through-holes occurs. The reference value is preferably formed from a starting value and a loss value, wherein the loss value is defined as a constant value depending on a defined number of through-holes without blockage and / or contamination. A reference value is preferably determined for a deviating number of through-holes. This makes it possible to provide particularly advantageous properties with regard to a method for measuring the quality of at least one through-hole in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell using a quality measuring device. In particular, advantageous properties with regard to an evaluation of the final value can be provided.

[0012] Furthermore, it is proposed that in at least one evaluation step, an evaluation of the at least one through-hole is carried out based on the loss value. Preferably, in one evaluation step, a defined number of through-holes in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell is assessed as permissible if the reference value is analogous to a final value. Preferably, in one evaluation step, a defined number of through-holes in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell is assessed as impermissible if the final value deviates from a reference value. In particular, it is conceivable that the reference value has a tolerance within which a value measured in a measuring step is assessed as permissible. Preferably, in one evaluation step, a tolerance of preferably a maximum of 10%, preferably a maximum of 5%, and particularly preferably a maximum of 3% of a target value is assessed as permissible.Preferably, a change in the final value of the flow parameter occurs in an operating step if a blockage and / or contamination of at least one through-hole occurs. Preferably, a change in the loss value occurs in an operating step if a blockage and / or contamination of at least one through-hole occurs. Particularly preferably, the loss value increases if a blockage and / or contamination of at least one through-hole occurs. Preferably, a user can access the results of the evaluation step in real time. Preferably, a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell with a blocked and / or contaminated through-hole is clearly displayed for a user.This makes it possible to provide particularly advantageous properties with regard to a method for measuring the quality of at least one through-hole in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell using a quality measuring device. In particular, advantageous properties with regard to evaluating the final value can be provided.

[0013] It is further proposed that in at least one operating step the pump element generates a pneumatic pressure. Preferably, in one operating step compressed air is used as the medium flow. Particularly preferably the compressed air is used as test air in a measuring step. Preferably in one operating step the pump element is designed as a pneumatic pump element. Preferably in one measuring step a starting value with a defined pneumatic flow parameter is generated by means of the pump element. Preferably a defined pressure of the compressed air is used as the starting value. Preferably the pump element is designed to convert ambient air into compressed air. Alternatively it is conceivable that the pump element draws compressed air from a compressed air tank and regulates the pressure. Furthermore it is conceivable that the pump element is designed as a control unit. Preferably in one operating step a constant pneumatic pressure is generated.Preferably, a defined pneumatic pressure of preferably a maximum of 2 bar, preferably a maximum of 1 bar, and particularly preferably a maximum of 0.5 bar is generated by the pump element. This makes it possible to provide particularly advantageous properties with regard to inspection quality. It makes it possible to provide particularly advantageous properties with regard to a method for measuring the quality of at least one through-hole in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell using a quality measuring device.

[0014] It is further proposed that the measuring element detects a pneumatic pressure in at least one measuring step. Preferably, compressed air is used as the medium flow in one operating step. Particularly preferably, the compressed air is used as test air in one measuring step. Preferably, the measuring element is designed as a pneumatic measuring element in one operating step. Preferably, the measuring element is designed as a pneumatic flow measuring element. Preferably, a variable pneumatic pressure is determined in one measuring step. Preferably, a starting value changed by the influence of the through-hole is determined as a variable pressure in one measuring step. Preferably, a pneumatic pressure is determined in one measuring step by means of a measuring element according to the calorimetric principle. In particular, it is conceivable that a thermal mass flow or standard volume flow is measured by the measuring element in one measuring step.Preferably, a pressure- and temperature-dependent pneumatic flow rate is determined in one measurement step. This can provide particularly advantageous properties with regard to test quality. It can also achieve particularly advantageous properties with regard to measurement accuracy.

[0015] It is further proposed that, in at least one operating step, a double-sided seal is created on the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell by the first chamber element and the second chamber element. Preferably, the first chamber element forms a gas-tight contact surface with a side of the substrate sheet of an electrochemical cell facing the pump element. Preferably, the second chamber element forms a gas-tight contact surface with a side of the substrate sheet of an electrochemical cell facing the measuring element. In this context, a "gas-tight contact surface" is to be understood as a contact point which has a technical gas density. Preferably, the gas-tight contact surface has a leakage of preferably a maximum of 5%, more preferably a maximum of 3%, and particularly preferably a maximum of 1% of the volume of the medium located in a cavity.In particular, during an operating step, the coupling point between the first chamber element and the second chamber element is formed as a detachable connection to the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell. Preferably, the coupling point between the first chamber element and the second chamber element is connected in a gas-tight manner to a surface of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell before an operating step. This makes it possible, in particular, to provide advantageous guidance of the medium flow via the first chamber element, the through-hole in the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell, and the second chamber element. In particular, loss-free guidance of the medium flow from a pump element to a measuring element can be guaranteed.

[0016] Furthermore, it is proposed that, in at least one operating step, several through-holes in the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell are simultaneously subjected to a quality measurement. Preferably, in one operating step, all through-holes in the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell are simultaneously subjected to a quality measurement. Alternatively, it is conceivable that all through-holes in the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell in a defined area are simultaneously subjected to a quality measurement. Preferably, in one operating step, an evaluation of a defined number of through-holes in the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell is carried out based on a reference value for the defined number of through-holes in the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell.Preferably, in one operating step, a final value with a total influence of several through-holes in the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell on a medium flow is compared with a reference value. The reference value is preferably defined with respect to the total influence of several through-holes in the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell on a medium flow. Particularly preferably, the reference value is defined with respect to the total influence of a defined number of through-holes in the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell on a medium flow. This makes it possible to provide particularly advantageous properties with respect to process time and quality measurement costs.

[0017] Furthermore, a quality measuring device is proposed which has at least one pump element which is designed to generate a starting pressure, at least one measuring element which is designed to detect a final value, at least one first chamber element and at least one second chamber element which enclose the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell in two directions, wherein in at least one operating step the quality of the through-hole is determined by means of a reference value, wherein the reference value is correlated with the final value determined by the measuring element. Preferably, the first chamber element and the second chamber element are smaller in a cross-section parallel to the main extension plane than a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell in a cross-section parallel to the main extension plane.Furthermore, it is conceivable that the first chamber element and the second chamber element are formed in a cross section parallel to the main extension plane identical to a cross section parallel to the main extension plane of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell. Preferably, the chamber element and the further chamber element enclose a plurality of through-holes. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the first chamber element and the second chamber element enclose at least one through-hole. Preferably, the first chamber element and the second chamber element are formed on a side of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell arranged parallel to the main extension plane of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell.A “main extension plane” of a structural unit is to be understood in particular as a plane which is parallel to a largest side surface of a smallest imaginary cuboid which just completely encloses the structural unit and in particular runs through the center point of the cuboid. Preferably, the first chamber element is arranged on a side of the substrate sheet of an electrochemical cell facing the pump element. Preferably, the second chamber element is arranged on a side of the substrate sheet of an electrochemical cell facing the measuring element. Preferably, the side of the substrate sheet of an electrochemical cell facing the pump element is defined as the lower side of the substrate sheet of an electrochemical cell. Preferably, the side of the substrate sheet of an electrochemical cell facing the measuring element is defined as the upper side of the substrate sheet of an electrochemical cell.Preferably, the pump element is arranged at an inlet of the first chamber element. Preferably, the first chamber element and the pump element have a coupling point. Preferably, the measuring element has a connection point with the second chamber element. This makes it possible to provide, in particular, an advantageous quality measurement device. In particular, a simultaneous quality measurement of several through-holes can be advantageously provided.

[0018] Furthermore, it is proposed that the measuring element be arranged in a close region of the second chamber element. Preferably, the measuring element is arranged as an extension contacting an outer surface on the second chamber element. Preferably, the measuring element is arranged between an exhaust air outlet and the second chamber element. Preferably, the final value of the medium flow is determined at a transition between the second chamber element and the measuring element in one measuring step. Particularly preferably, the final value of the medium flow between the second chamber element and an exhaust air outlet in the measuring element is determined in one measuring step. In this context, a “close region” is to be understood in particular as a spatial, in particular spherical, region which preferably extends with a radius of a maximum of 10 cm, preferably a maximum of 5 cm, and particularly preferably a maximum of 3 cm around a geometric center of the processing region.Particularly preferably, the measuring element is arranged in contact with a second chamber element. The measuring element is preferably constructed in multiple parts. Alternatively, the measuring element is arranged at a distance from the second chamber element. This allows for particularly advantageous properties with regard to determining the final value.

[0019] It is further proposed that the first chamber element forms a sealed contact surface with the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell, wherein the first chamber element is arranged on the lower side of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell. Preferably, the first chamber element forms at least one gas-tight contact surface with the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell. Preferably, the first chamber element and the pump element have a coupling point. Preferably, the coupling point, which has the gas-tight contact surface, is formed on a side facing the pump element. Preferably, the first chamber element and the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell form a cavity. Preferably, the coupling point is designed to hold a medium, in particular a pneumatic pressure, in the cavity created by the first chamber element on the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell.The coupling point is preferably designed to be detachable. Furthermore, the coupling point is designed to be detachable without tools. In this context, a "gas-tight contact surface" is understood to mean a contact point that has a technical gas density. The gas-tight contact surface preferably has a leakage of at most 5%, preferably at most 3%, and particularly preferably at most 1% of the volume of the process gas located in the cavity. This makes it possible, in particular, to provide an advantageous first chamber element. In particular, advantageous process gas utilization can be achieved.

[0020] Furthermore, it is proposed that the second chamber element forms a sealed contact surface with the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell, wherein the second chamber element is arranged on the upper side of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell. Preferably, the second chamber element forms at least one gas-tight contact surface with the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell. Preferably, the measuring element has a connection point with the second chamber element. Preferably, the connection point, which has the gas-tight contact surface, is formed on a side facing the measuring element. Preferably, the second chamber element and the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell form a cavity.Preferably, the connection point is configured to retain a medium, in particular a pneumatic pressure, in the cavity created by the second chamber element on the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell. Preferably, the connection point is designed to be detachable. Furthermore, the connection point is designed to be detachable without the use of tools. This makes it possible, in particular, to provide an advantageous first chamber element. In particular, advantageous process gas utilization can be achieved.

[0021] Furthermore, a solid fuel cell with a substrate for an electrochemical cell, tested by means of a method and / or a device according to the invention, is proposed. The solid fuel cell preferably has an anode and a cathode. The solid fuel cell is preferably designed to convert chemical reaction energy of a continuously supplied fuel and an oxidizing agent into electrical energy. For example, hydrogen is used as the fuel and oxygen is used as the oxidizing agent. Alternatively, other fuels that appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art, such as methanol, butane, and / or natural gas, are also conceivable. Preferably, in one process step in the solid fuel cell, electrical energy is generated between the anode and the cathode. The anode preferably splits off the electrons from the fuel.Preferably, the electrons are guided to the cathode via a connecting element. In particular, this movement of electrons from the anode to the cathode generates the electrical energy. Preferably, the electrons are transferred to the oxidant in the cathode and split the oxidant. The negatively charged oxidant is attracted to the positively charged protons of the fuel, particularly through the substrate for an electrochemical cell. Preferably, the end product of the chemical reaction is water and exhaust air. This makes it possible to provide, in particular, an advantageous solid-state fuel cell.

[0022] The quality measuring device according to the invention is not intended to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the quality measuring device according to the invention may have a number of individual elements, components, units, and method steps that differs from the number stated herein to fulfill a functionality described herein. Furthermore, in the value ranges specified in this disclosure, values ​​within the stated limits are also to be considered disclosed and can be used arbitrarily. drawing

[0023] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. Those skilled in the art will also expediently consider the features individually and combine them into useful further combinations.

[0024] They show: Fig. 1 a solid fuel cell with a substrate for an electrochemical cell, produced by a method according to the invention and / or a device according to the invention, in a schematic representation, Fig. 2 a quality measuring device in a schematic representation and Fig. 3 a schematic flow diagram of a method for operating a quality measuring device according to the invention. Description of the embodiment

[0025] Fig. 1 shows a solid fuel cell 26 with a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell, manufactured by means of a method according to the invention and / or a quality measurement device 10 according to the invention. The solid fuel cell 26 has an anode 28 and a cathode 30. An electrolyte 72 is arranged between the anode 28 and the cathode 30. The substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 16a is designed to provide a base for the electrolyte 72. The solid fuel cell 26 is designed to convert a chemical reaction energy of a continuously supplied fuel 32 and an oxidizing agent 34 into electrical energy. Hydrogen is used as the fuel 32 and oxygen as the oxidizing agent 32. Alternatively, other fuels 32 that would be deemed appropriate by a person skilled in the art, for example, methanol, butane, and / or natural gas, are also conceivable.In one process step of the solid-state fuel cell 26, electrical energy is generated between the anode 28 and the cathode 30. The anode 28 splits off an electron 36 from the fuel 32. The electrons 36 are conducted to the cathode 30 via a connecting element 38. This movement of the electrons 36 from the anode 28 to the cathode 30 generates the electrical energy. The electrons 36 in the cathode 30 are transferred to the oxidant 34 and split the oxidant 34. The negatively charged oxidant 34 is attracted to the positively charged protons 40 of the fuel 32. The end products of the chemical reaction are, in particular, water 42 and exhaust air 44.

[0026] Fig. 2 shows a quality measuring device 10 for carrying out a method according to the invention. The quality measuring device 10 is designed in several parts. The quality measuring device 10 is configured to inspect a plurality of through-holes 18. The quality measuring device 10 is configured to check the quality of the at least one through-hole 18 in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20. The substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 has at least one through-hole 18. The through-hole 18 is arranged perpendicular to a main extension plane of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20. The quality measuring device 10 is configured to carry out a quality measurement. At least one through-hole 18 in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 is evaluated by means of the quality measurement.A quality measurement checks whether at least one through-hole 18 in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 is free of impairments. The quality measurement is carried out following processing of a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20. During processing of a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20, at least one, particularly preferably several, through-hole(s) 18 are formed in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20. In particular, it is conceivable for a quality measurement to take place directly after processing of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20. The quality measuring device 10 is configured to carry out a measuring step 16 and / or an operating step 48 and / or an evaluation step 46.

[0027] The quality measuring device 10 has a pump element 12 which is configured to generate a starting pressure. The pump element 12 is configured to accelerate a medium and subsequently generate a pressure difference between a pre- and post-state of the medium. In a post-state, the medium has a higher acceleration and a resulting higher pressure compared to a pre-state of the medium. The medium is embodied as a gaseous medium. The pump element 12 is configured to generate a medium flow. The pump element 12 is configured to generate a starting value. The pump element 12 is configured to accelerate a medium to a defined starting value and / or to adapt the medium to a defined pressure. The starting value generated by the pump element 12 is constant. A starting value is understood to be a pressure generated by a pump element 12.Alternatively, it is conceivable that the starting value is defined as the acceleration of a medium. Furthermore, any other flow parameter of the medium that appears appropriate to a person skilled in the art can be used to define a starting value. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the starting value can be variably adapted to an application. The pump element 12 is arranged at the beginning of a quality measuring device 10.

[0028] The quality measuring device 10 has a measuring element 14 which is configured to record a final value. The measuring element 14 is configured to determine a final value of the medium in a measuring step 16. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the final value is defined as the acceleration of a medium. In a measuring step 16, a flow parameter of the medium is determined as a final value using the measuring element 14. Furthermore, any other flow parameter of the medium that appears reasonable to a person skilled in the art is also conceivable for defining a final value. The medium flows through the measuring element 14 in a measuring step 16. The final value is configured to indicate an influencing factor of the at least one through-hole 18 in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 on the starting value. The measuring element 14 is arranged at one end of a quality measuring device 10.

[0029] The quality measuring device 10 has at least one chamber element 22, 24. The chamber element 22, 24 is designed as a cuboid open on one side. The cuboid is hollow. A top side 50 and / or a bottom side 52 of the cuboid is open. Furthermore, other geometric shapes that appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art, for example a cylinder open on the top side, are also conceivable. The quality measuring device 10 has a first chamber element 22 and a second chamber element 24. The first chamber element 22 and the second chamber element 24 are arranged on different sides of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20. The first chamber element 22 and the second chamber element 24 enclose the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 in two directions. The first chamber element 22 and the second chamber element 24 are each formed as a single piece.Alternatively, a multi-part design of the first chamber element 22 and the second chamber element 24 is also conceivable. The first chamber element 22 has a coupling point 54 with a pump element 12. The coupling point 54 is designed as a detachable connection. The second chamber element 24 has a connection point 56 with a measuring element 14. The connection point 56 is designed as a detachable connection. In particular, it is conceivable that the connection point 56 and the coupling point 54 are designed so that they can be detached using a tool. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the connection point 56 and the coupling point 54 are designed so that they cannot be detached. The first chamber element 22 and the second chamber element 24 are designed so that they are smaller in a cross-section parallel to the main extension plane than a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 in a cross-section parallel to the main extension plane.Furthermore, it is conceivable that the first chamber element 22 and the second chamber element 24 are formed in a cross section parallel to the main extension plane identical to a cross section parallel to the main extension plane of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20. The first chamber element 22 and the further chamber element 24 enclose a plurality of through-holes 18. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the first chamber element 22 and the second chamber element 24 enclose at least one through-hole 18. The first chamber element 22 and the second chamber element 24 are formed on a side of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 arranged parallel to the main extension plane of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20. The first chamber element 22 is arranged on a side of the substrate sheet of an electrochemical cell 20 facing the pump element 12.The second chamber element 24 is arranged on a side of the substrate sheet of an electrochemical cell 20 facing the measuring element 14. The side of the substrate sheet of an electrochemical cell 20 facing the pump element 12 is defined as the lower side of the substrate sheet of an electrochemical cell 20. The side of the substrate sheet of an electrochemical cell 20 facing the measuring element 14 is defined as the upper side of the substrate sheet of an electrochemical cell 20. The pump element 12 is arranged at an inlet of the first chamber element 22. The first chamber element 22 and the pump element 12 have a coupling point 58. The measuring element 14 has a connection point 60 with the second chamber element 24.

[0030] The measuring element 14 is arranged in a close region of the second chamber element 24. The measuring element 14 is arranged as an extension in contact with an outer surface of the second chamber element 24. The measuring element 14 is arranged between an exhaust air outlet 62 and the second chamber element 24. The final value of the medium flow is determined at a transition between the second chamber element 24 and the measuring element 14 in a measuring step 16. In a measuring step 16, the final value of the medium flow between the second chamber element 24 and the exhaust air outlet 62 in the measuring element 14 is determined. The measuring element 14 is arranged in contact with the second chamber element 24. The measuring element 14 is designed in several parts. Alternatively, the measuring element 14 is arranged at a distance from the second chamber element 24.

[0031] The first chamber element 22 forms a sealed contact surface with the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20, wherein the first chamber element 22 is arranged on the lower side of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20. The first chamber element 22 forms at least one gas-tight contact surface with the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20. The coupling point 58, which has the gas-tight contact surface, is formed on a side facing the pump element 12. The first chamber element 22 and the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 form a cavity 64. The coupling point 58 is designed to hold a medium, in particular a pneumatic pressure, in the cavity 64 created by the first chamber element 22 and on the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20. The coupling point 58 is designed to be detachable. Furthermore, the coupling point 58 is designed to be detachable without tools.

[0032] The second chamber element 24 forms a sealed contact surface with the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20, wherein the second chamber element 24 is arranged on the upper side of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20. The second chamber element 24 has at least one gas-tight contact surface with the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20. The connection point 60, which has the gas-tight contact surface, is formed on a side facing the measuring element 14. The second chamber element 24 and the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 form a cavity 66. The connection point 60 is designed to hold a medium, in particular a pneumatic pressure, in the cavity 66 created by the second chamber element 24 and on the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20. The connection point 60 is designed to be detachable. Furthermore, the connection point 60 is designed to be detachable without tools.

[0033] Fig.3 shows a method for measuring the quality of at least one through-hole 18 in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 using a quality measuring device 10. In at least one measuring step 16, a final value is recorded. The final value represents an influencing factor of the at least one through-hole 18 in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 on the starting value. In at least one operating step 48, the quality of the through-hole 18 is determined using a reference value, wherein the reference value is correlated with the final value determined by the measuring element 14. In a measuring step 16, a parameter of the medium is determined. A measuring step 16 takes place in an operating step 48. The measuring element 14 is configured to determine a flow parameter of the medium.In a measuring step 16, a final value is determined depending on the influence of the through-hole 18 of a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 on a starting value. In an evaluation step 46, the reference value is correlated with the final value determined by the measuring element 14. In an evaluation step 46, the flow of the medium through at least one through-hole 18 of a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 is determined using a reference value. An evaluation step 46 takes place following a measuring step 16. Alternatively, it is conceivable for an evaluation step 46 to take place simultaneously and / or overlapping in time with a measuring step 16. An evaluation step 46 and a measuring step 16 take place in an operating step 48. In an operating step 48, the pump element 12 generates a starting value. In the operating step 48, a measuring element 14 determines a final value in a measuring step 16.

[0034] In at least one measuring step 16, the final value is measured by means of the measuring element 14 in a region close to the second chamber element 24. In at least one measuring step 16, the final value is measured by means of the measuring element 14 as a flow parameter of the medium flow. In at least one measuring step 16, the final value is measured by means of the measuring element 14 as a flow parameter of the medium flow in an end region of the second chamber element 24. The measuring element 14 is arranged between the exhaust air outlet 62 and the second chamber element 24. The medium flows through the measuring element 14 in a measuring step 16. The final value of the medium flow is determined at a transition between the second chamber element 24 and the measuring element 14 in a measuring step 16. In a measuring step 16, the final value of the medium flow between the second chamber element 24 and the exhaust air outlet 62 is determined in the measuring element 14.

[0035] In the at least one evaluation step 46, a loss value is determined as the difference between the reference value and the final value. The loss value is determined in real time. The reference value is subtracted from the final value. In this case, the influence which the at least one through-hole 18 of a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 has on the flow parameter is at least substantially analogous to a loss value. The final value changes due to the influence of a blockage and / or contamination 70 of at least one through-hole 18. The reference value is defined as an optimal value for a flow parameter of a defined number of through-holes 18. The reference value is determined experimentally before an operating step 48. Alternatively, the reference value is determined mathematically before an operating step 48.The reference value is formed from a starting value and a loss value, whereby the loss value is defined as a constant value depending on a defined number of through-holes 18 without blockage and / or contamination 70. A reference value is determined for a different number of through-holes 18.

[0036] In the at least one evaluation step 46, an evaluation of the at least one through-hole 18 is carried out based on the loss value. In the evaluation step 46, a defined number of through-holes 18 in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 is assessed as permissible if the reference value is analogous to a final value. In an evaluation step 46, a defined number of through-holes 18 in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 is assessed as impermissible if the final value deviates from a reference value. In particular, it is conceivable that the reference value has a tolerance within which a value measured in a measuring step 16 is assessed as permissible. In an operating step 48, a change in the loss value occurs if a blockage and / or contamination 70 of at least one through-hole 18 occurs.The loss value increases when a blockage and / or contamination 70 of at least one through-hole 18 occurs. A user can access the results of the evaluation step 46 in real time. A substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 with a blocked and / or contaminated through-hole 18 is clearly displayed for a user.

[0037] In at least one operating step 48, the pump element 12 generates a pneumatic pressure. In an operating step 48, compressed air is used as the medium flow. The compressed air is used as test air in a measuring step 16. In an operating step 48, the pump element 12 is designed as a pneumatic pump element. In a measuring step 16, a starting value with a defined pneumatic flow parameter is generated by means of the pump element 12. A defined pressure of the compressed air is used as the starting value. The pump element 12 is configured to convert ambient air into compressed air. In at least one measuring step 16, the measuring element 14 detects a pneumatic pressure. In an operating step 48, the measuring element 14 is designed as a pneumatic measuring element. The measuring element 14 is designed as a pneumatic flow measuring element. In a measuring step 16, a variable pneumatic pressure is determined.In a measuring step 16, a starting value modified by the influence of the through-holes 18 is determined as a variable pressure. In a measuring step 16, a pneumatic pressure is determined using a measuring element 14 according to the calorimetric principle. In particular, it is conceivable that in a measuring step 16, a thermal mass flow or standard volume flow is measured by the measuring element 14. In a measuring step 14, a pressure- and temperature-dependent pneumatic flow rate is determined.

[0038] In at least one operating step 48, the first chamber element 22 and the second chamber element 24 create a double-sided seal on the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20. The first chamber element 22 forms a gas-tight contact surface with a side of the substrate sheet of an electrochemical cell 20 facing the pump element 12. The second chamber element 24 forms a gas-tight contact surface with a side of the substrate sheet of an electrochemical cell 20 facing the measuring element 14. In an operating step 48, the coupling point 58 and / or connection point 56 between the first chamber element 22 and the second chamber element 24 is formed as a detachable connection to the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20.The coupling point 58 and / or connection point 56 between the first chamber element 22 and the second chamber element 24 is connected in a gas-tight manner to a surface 68 of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 before an operating step 48.

[0039] In at least one operating step 48, a plurality of through-holes 18 of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 are simultaneously subjected to a quality measurement. In one operating step 48, all through-holes 18 of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 are simultaneously subjected to a quality measurement. Alternatively, it is conceivable that all through-holes 18 of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 in a defined area are simultaneously subjected to a quality measurement. In one operating step 48, an evaluation of a defined number of through-holes 18 of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 is carried out based on a reference value for the defined number of through-holes 18 of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20.In an operating step 48, a final value with a total influence of several through-holes 18 of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 on a medium flow is compared with a reference value. The reference value is defined for the total influence of several through-holes 18 of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 on a medium flow. The reference value is defined for the total influence of a defined number of through-holes 18 of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell 20 on a medium flow.

Claims

[1] Method for measuring the quality of at least one through-hole (18) in a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell (20) by means of a quality measuring device (10), with at least one pump element (12) which is designed to generate a starting value, with at least one measuring element (14) which records a final value in at least one measuring step (16), wherein the final value represents an influencing factor of the at least one through-hole (18) in the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell (20) on the starting value, and with at least one first chamber element (22) and at least one second chamber element (24) which enclose the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell (20) in two directions, wherein in at least one evaluation step (46) the quality of the through-hole (18) is determined by means of a reference value, wherein the reference value is correlated with the final value determined by the measuring element (14). [2] Method according to claim 1, characterized by that in at least one measuring step (16) the final value is measured by means of the measuring element (14) in a close range of the second chamber element (24). [3] Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that in at least one evaluation step (46) a loss value is determined as the difference between the reference value and the final value. [4] Method according to claim 3, characterized by that in at least one evaluation step (46) an evaluation of the at least one through-hole (18) is carried out on the basis of the loss value. [5] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that in at least one operating step (48) the pump element (12) generates a pneumatic pressure. [6] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that in at least one measuring step (16) the measuring element (14) detects a pneumatic pressure. [7] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that in at least one operating step (48) a double-sided seal is created on the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell (20) by the first chamber element (22) and the second chamber element (24). [8] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that in at least one operating step (48) several through-holes (18) of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell (20) are simultaneously subjected to a quality measurement. [9] Quality measuring device (10) for carrying out a method according to claim 1, characterized byat least one pump element (12) which is designed to generate a starting pressure, at least one measuring element (14) which is designed to detect a final value, at least one first chamber element (22) and at least one second chamber element (24) which enclose the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell (20) in two directions, wherein in at least one operating step (48) the quality of the through-hole (18) is determined by means of a reference value, wherein the reference value is correlated with the final value determined by the measuring element (14). [10] Quality measuring device (10) according to claim 9, characterized by that the measuring element (14) is arranged in a close region of the second chamber element (24). [11] Quality measuring device (10) according to claims 9 and 10, characterized bythat the first chamber element (22) forms a sealed contact surface with the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell (20), wherein the first chamber element (22) is arranged on the lower side of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell (20). [12] Quality measuring device (10) according to claims 9 to 11, characterized by that the second chamber element (24) forms a sealed contact surface with the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell (20), wherein the second chamber element (24) is arranged on the upper side of the substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell (20). [13] Solid fuel cell (26) with a substrate sheet for an electrochemical cell (16), tested by means of a quality measuring device (10) according to one of claims 9 to 12 and / or by means of a method according to one of claims 1 to 8.

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