Device and method for supporting a fuel cell stack

Abstract

A device for holding a fuel cell stack comprises: a receiving device for receiving the fuel cell stack, wherein the receiving device has a positioning element for positioning a fuel cell stack to be received by the receiving device, and the positioning element is designed, when used as intended, to be arranged at least partially in an opening, in particular an opening of a media channel, of the fuel cell stack, while the fuel cell stack is received by the receiving device, wherein a penetration depth of the positioning element into the opening, in particular along a stacking direction of the fuel cell stack, is smaller than a height of the fuel cell stack.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a device and a method for supporting a fuel cell stack. In particular, the present invention relates to a device for supporting a fuel cell stack, an assembly comprising the device and the fuel cell stack, and a method for supporting a fuel cell stack and, optionally, for performing a work step on the fuel cell stack.

[0002] A fuel cell stack, which may be a component of a fuel cell, may comprise a bipolar plate stack composed of a plurality of bipolar plates and a first and a second end plate, wherein the bipolar plate stack is arranged between the first and second end plates. The first end plate, the bipolar plate stack, and the second end plate are stacked one above the other along a stacking direction such that the bipolar plate stack is arranged between the first and second end plates.

[0003] The fuel cell stack includes a plurality of fuel cells including a plurality of fuel cells having two adjacent bipolar plates and a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) disposed therebetween, a fuel cell having a bipolar plate adjacent to the first end plate, the first end plate, and a membrane electrode assembly disposed therebetween, and a fuel cell having a bipolar plate adjacent to the second end plate, the second end plate, and a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) disposed therebetween.

[0004] The fuel cell stack further comprises a plurality of media channels within its interior, in particular one media channel and another media channel for supplying a fuel, such as hydrogen, or an oxidant, such as oxygen, to each of the fuel cells to enable a reaction between the fuel and the oxidant in the fuel cell, and for removing the reaction products and unused fuel and oxidant from each of the fuel cells. Another media channel of the plurality of media channels serves to supply and remove a coolant to cool the fuel cell stack.

[0005] In this case, the respective media channels each have (through) openings or apertures in each of the bipolar plates as well as an inlet and an outlet opening for supplying the corresponding medium to the fuel cell stack or for discharging the medium from the fuel cell stack, wherein the inlet and outlet openings can be provided, for example, in the first end plate or the second end plate.

[0006] In prototype production, for customer-oriented orders, or on a fuel cell stack test bench, the voltage must be measured on each fuel cell or on several or a group of fuel cells to check the condition of the bipolar plates. To do this, the corresponding two bipolar plates must each be connected or equipped with a so-called CVM (Cell Voltage Monitoring) measuring unit.

[0007] The bipolar plates, which are pressed together (together with the two end plates) to form the fuel cell stack using clamping straps, for example, are highly sensitive to impact, so any handling and transport must be carried out with great care. Even working in an open space without suitable support can damage the bipolar plates and require further work or repair of the fuel cell stack. If the fuel cell stack rests freely on a (work) surface, such a weight is exerted on the lowest components of the fuel cell stack on the (work) surface that the components of the fuel cell stack, especially the bipolar plates, can be damaged, even if the fuel cell stack is resting on a padded, flat surface.

[0008] It is an object of the present invention to facilitate handling of a fuel cell stack, in particular to reduce the risk of damage to the fuel cell stack when carrying out work on or with the fuel cell stack and / or when transporting the fuel cell stack from one location to another location and / or when storing the fuel cell stack.

[0009] This object is achieved by the features of the independent patent claims. Further preferred embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent patent claims.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a device according to an embodiment for supporting a fuel cell stack comprises: a receiving device for receiving the fuel cell stack, wherein the receiving device has a positioning element for positioning a fuel cell stack to be received by the receiving device, and the positioning element is designed to be arranged, during intended use, at least partially in an opening, in some embodiments an opening of a media channel, of the fuel cell stack, while the fuel cell stack is received by the receiving device, wherein a penetration depth of the positioning element into the opening, in some embodiments along a stacking direction of the fuel cell stack, is smaller than a height of the fuel cell stack.

[0011] As a result, in some embodiments, the fuel cell stack can be lifted from a base or a support, for example using a lifting tool such as a crane, and placed on the receiving device in such a way that the positioning element projects into the opening of the fuel cell stack, whereby in some embodiments an (unintentional) movement of the fuel cell stack relative to the receiving device, in some embodiments in a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction, can be restricted and / or a secure hold of the fuel cell stack on the receiving device can be ensured, whereby handling of the fuel cell stack can be made easier and / or the risk of damage to the fuel cell stack can be reduced.

[0012] In this case, the dimensions of the opening and of the positioning element are preferably selected such that a cross section of the positioning element along a plane which is parallel to a support surface of the receiving device on which the fuel cell stack received by the receiving device rests essentially corresponds to a cross section of the opening of the fuel cell stack along a plane which is parallel to the support surface of the receiving device and / or perpendicular to the stacking direction.

[0013] The terms "comprises," "includes," "includes," "has," "has," "with," or any other variation thereof, as used herein, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a method or apparatus that includes or has a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or that are inherent in such a method or apparatus.

[0014] Furthermore, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, "or" refers to an inclusive "or" and not an exclusive "or." For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by one of the following conditions: A is true (or present) and B is false (or absent), A is false (or absent) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0015] The terms "a" or "an" as used herein are defined as "one or more." The terms "another" and "another," and any other variations thereof, are defined as "at least one other."

[0016] The term “plurality” as used here shall mean “two or more”.

[0017] The term “configured” or “set up” to fulfil a specific function (and respective modifications thereof) is to be understood within the meaning of the invention that the corresponding device or device is already in a design or setting in which it can carry out the function or is at least adjustable - i.e. configurable - so that it can carry out the function after being set accordingly. The configuration can be carried out, for example, by appropriately setting parameters of a process sequence or of switches or the like for activating or deactivating functionalities or settings. In particular, the device or device can have a plurality of predetermined configurations or operating modes, so that the configuration can be carried out by selecting one of these configurations or operating modes.

[0018] Preferred embodiments of the invention and further developments thereof are described below, which, unless expressly excluded, can be combined with one another and with the second aspect of the invention described below and with the third aspect of the invention described below.

[0019] In some embodiments, the receiving device has a further positioning element for positioning the fuel cell stack to be received by the receiving device, wherein the further positioning element is designed to be arranged, during intended use, at least partially in another opening, in some embodiments another opening of the media channel or another media channel, of the fuel cell stack, while the fuel cell stack is received by the receiving device, wherein a penetration depth of the further positioning element into the other opening, in some embodiments along the stacking direction of the fuel cell stack, is smaller than the height of the fuel cell stack.

[0020] As a result, in some embodiments, the fuel cell stack can be lifted, for example using the lifting tool, and placed on the receiving device in such a way that the positioning element projects into the opening of the fuel cell stack and the further positioning element projects into the other opening of the fuel cell stack, whereby in some embodiments the (unintentional) movement of the fuel cell stack relative to the receiving device, in some embodiments in a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction, can be further restricted and / or a more secure hold of the fuel cell stack on the receiving device can be ensured, whereby the handling of the fuel cell stack can be further facilitated and / or the risk of damage to the fuel cell stack can be further reduced.

[0021] In some embodiments, the receiving device has a frame, in some embodiments quadrangular, on which the positioning element and / or the further positioning element is arranged, wherein the positioning element is configured, while the fuel cell stack is received by the receiving device, to extend from the frame along the stacking direction of the fuel cell stack into the opening and / or the further positioning element is configured, while the fuel cell stack is received by the receiving device, to extend from the frame along the stacking direction of the fuel cell stack into the other opening.

[0022] The frame can, for example, comprise a pair of (parallel) longitudinal struts and a pair of (parallel) transverse struts that are connected to one another, and can, for example, comprise a metal such as aluminum. The positioning element and / or the further positioning element can be arranged on at least one of the transverse struts of the frame, with the positioning element and the further positioning element preferably being arranged on the frame in such a way that the positioning element is arranged on or at one of the transverse struts of the frame, and the further positioning element is arranged on or at the other transverse strut of the frame.

[0023] In some embodiments, the receiving device is configured such that, during intended use, a portion of a lower end of the fuel cell stack, in some embodiments a portion of a bottom surface of the fuel cell stack, rests on the frame.

[0024] In this case, the receiving device can be configured such that, during intended use, a (respective) section of the lower end of the fuel cell stack, in some embodiments a (respective) section of the bottom surface of the fuel cell stack, rests on the frame, in some embodiments on the cross struts or on a respective cross strut of the frame.

[0025] In some embodiments, the device is designed to hold a fuel cell stack, which contains a first end plate, a second end plate and a bipolar plate stack having a plurality of bipolar plates, which in some embodiments are stacked one above the other and which are stacked one above the other along the stacking direction in such a way that the bipolar plate stack is arranged between the first end plate and the second end plate, wherein in the intended use a distance of the first end plate from the frame is smaller than a distance of the second end plate from the frame, in some embodiments wherein the first end plate rests on the frame, and a free end of the positioning element is arranged within an opening in the first end plate, which in some embodiments is the opening of the fuel cell stack, in particular of the media channel thereof.this corresponds, and / or a free end of the further positioning element is arranged within another opening of the first end plate, which in some embodiments is the other opening of the fuel cell stack, in particular other opening of the media channel or the other media channel or corresponds to this.

[0026] In other words, during intended use, when the fuel cell stack is received in the receiving device, no section of the positioning element and / or no section of the further positioning element is arranged within an opening of a (any) bipolar plate of the fuel cell stack associated with the corresponding media channel. In particular, the penetration depth of the positioning element and / or the further positioning element into the fuel cell stack is smaller than a thickness (measured in the stacking direction) of the first end plate.

[0027] In some embodiments, this can prevent a (any) bipolar plate of the fuel cell stack from coming into contact with the positioning element and / or the further positioning element when the fuel cell stack is placed on the receiving device, whereby damage to the bipolar plate by the positioning element and / or the further positioning element can be avoided.

[0028] In some embodiments, the positioning element has a section, in some embodiments adjoining the free end of the positioning element, which tapers in the direction of the free end of the positioning element and / or the further positioning element has a section, in some embodiments adjoining the free end of the further positioning element, which tapers in the direction of the free end of the further positioning element.

[0029] In some embodiments, this can facilitate placement of the fuel cell stack on the receiving device such that, after placement, the positioning element is at least partially arranged in the opening and / or the further positioning element is at least partially arranged in the other opening, since this requires less precise alignment of the opening and / or the other opening with the positioning element or the further positioning element during placement.

[0030] In some embodiments, the device further comprises a frame and a fastening element, wherein the frame, in some embodiments one end of the frame, is coupled to the fastening element such that the frame is rotatable or pivotable relative to the frame, in some embodiments about a rotation axis or pivot axis of the fastening element.

[0031] As a result, in some embodiments, the frame can be tilted together with the fuel cell stack arranged thereon, whereby a person can assume an ergonomic, in particular back-friendly, position when carrying out certain work on the fuel cell stack, such as when equipping the fuel cell stack with CVM measuring units, and / or the person can be given a better view of a section of the fuel cell stack relevant for the specific work, whereby in some embodiments the specific work can be completed by the person more quickly, which can lead to time savings.

[0032] The frame may comprise a first frame (lower during intended use, for example extending in a horizontal plane) and a second frame (upper during intended use, for example extending in another horizontal plane).

[0033] Furthermore, the frame may further comprise a plurality of connecting struts (extending, for example, perpendicular to the horizontal plane or at least substantially perpendicular to the horizontal plane during intended use), which are each connected to the first frame and the second frame.

[0034] The first frame may, for example, comprise a pair of (parallel) longitudinal struts and a pair of (parallel) transverse struts which are connected to one another, and may, for example, comprise a metal such as aluminum, wherein one of the transverse struts of the first frame may be longer than the other of the transverse struts of the first frame. The second frame may, for example, comprise a pair of (parallel) longitudinal struts and a pair of (parallel) transverse struts which are connected to one another, and may, for example, comprise a metal such as aluminum, wherein one of the transverse struts of the second frame may be longer than the other of the transverse struts of the second frame.

[0035] In this case, the fastening element can be mounted on a cross strut of the second frame, wherein the frame, in some embodiments one end of the frame, in particular one of the cross struts of the frame, is coupled to the fastening element in such a way that the frame is rotatable or tiltable or pivotable relative to the frame, in some embodiments about the rotation axis or pivot axis of the fastening element.

[0036] In some embodiments, a position of the frame can be changed within an angular range limited by a first end position of the frame, which in some embodiments is horizontal or at least substantially horizontal during intended use, and a second (tilted) end position of the frame by rotating or pivoting relative to the frame, in some embodiments relative to the second frame.

[0037] The limited angular range can, for example, be an angular range of 15° or 30°.

[0038] In some embodiments, the receiving device further comprises a further frame, in some embodiments rectangular, which is mounted on the frame, in some embodiments on the other end of the frame opposite the end of the frame, and which extends at least in sections, for example perpendicularly, away from the frame, in some embodiments during intended use at least in sections parallel to the stacking direction or substantially parallel to the stacking direction away from the frame.

[0039] The further frame may, for example, comprise a pair of (parallel) longitudinal struts and a pair of (parallel) transverse struts which are connected to one another and may, for example, comprise a metal such as aluminum.

[0040] In this case, a cross member of the further frame containing a (different) end of the further frame may be mounted on the frame, in some embodiments on another end of the frame opposite the end of the frame, which is part of a cross member of the frame.

[0041] In this case, the second end position of the frame can be determined or fixed, for example, in that the further frame, in some embodiments at least one longitudinal strut thereof, in the second end position rests against a cross strut of the second frame which is located remotely with respect to the fastening element, in particular against a cross strut of the second frame to which the fastening element is not mounted, and thus prevents further rotation or tilting or pivoting of the frame or the receiving device.

[0042] The frame and the further frame may be connected via diagonal braces, wherein one end of a diagonal brace is connected to a longitudinal brace of the frame, and the other end of the diagonal brace is connected to a longitudinal brace of the further frame.

[0043] In some embodiments, the device further comprises a locking device mounted on the frame, wherein the position of the frame can be fixed in the first position of the frame by means of the locking device.

[0044] In some embodiments, this can facilitate the placement of the fuel cell stack on the receiving device by fixing the position of the frame in the first end position by actuating the locking device during placement.

[0045] In some embodiments, the locking device can be mounted on the second frame, for example on one of the longitudinal struts of the second frame, or on a connecting part connected to the second frame.

[0046] The locking device can have a lever and a clamping part, wherein the locking device can be brought from an unlocked position of the locking device, in which the clamping part does not hinder the relative (rotational or tilting or pivoting) movement of the frame or the receiving device relative to the rack, into a locked position of the locking device by actuating the lever, wherein the locking device is designed to prevent the relative movement of the frame or the receiving device relative to the rack in the locked position by pressing the clamping part of the locking device against the receiving device, in some embodiments against a longitudinal strut of the further frame, when the frame is in the first end position.

[0047] In some embodiments, the device further comprises a return element, in some embodiments a pressure damper, with a first end mounted on a region of the frame not having the end of the frame, in some embodiments on another end of the frame opposite the end of the frame, and with a second end mounted on the frame, wherein the return element is configured to exert a torque on the frame for rotating or pivoting the frame into the first end position when the position of the frame is different from the first end position.

[0048] As a result, in some embodiments, by means of a support by means of the return element, a return of the frame, in some embodiments in the case that the fuel cell stack rests on the frame, into the first end position can be facilitated if the position of the frame is different from the first end position.

[0049] In this case, the first end of the return element can be mounted on the cross strut of the frame having the other end of the frame or on a lower cross strut of the further frame during intended use, and / or the second end of the return element can be mounted on the first frame, preferably on a cross strut of the first frame.

[0050] In some embodiments, the device further comprises a holding element which, during intended use in a holding position of the holding element, is configured to exert a force, in some embodiments counter to the stacking direction, on a portion of an upper end of the fuel cell stack, in some embodiments a portion of an upper side of the fuel cell stack, in order to press the fuel cell stack in the direction of the frame, wherein the holding element is mounted in some embodiments on an end of the further frame which is remote from the frame.

[0051] In some embodiments, this can prevent or at least restrict movement of the fuel cell stack received by the receiving device in the stacking direction away from the frame. In particular, in some embodiments, this can prevent the fuel cell stack received on the receiving device and pressed toward the frame by the holding element from tipping over, for example, during work to be performed on the fuel cell stack, especially even if the frame is in a position different from the first end position.

[0052] The holding element can have a lever and a clamping element, wherein the holding element can be brought from a non-holding position of the holding element by actuating the lever into a holding position of the holding element, in which the fuel cell stack can be securely held on the frame by pressing the clamping element onto the section of the upper end of the fuel cell stack, in particular if at the same time the positioning element and / or the further positioning element is arranged at least partially in the opening or the other opening of the fuel cell stack.

[0053] In some embodiments, the device further comprises a handle disposed on the further frame, in some embodiments at the distal end of the further frame or a region of the further frame adjacent thereto.

[0054] The handle can, for example, be used to rotate or pivot the receiving device around the rotation axis or pivot axis of the fastening element when the locking device is unlocked.

[0055] In some embodiments, the device further comprises rollers which are mounted on the frame, in some embodiments on an end of the connecting struts which, during intended use, faces a surface on which the device is arranged, and which, during intended use, are in contact with the surface, wherein the device can be moved on the surface by exerting an external force which, in some embodiments, acts parallel to the surface in conjunction with a rolling movement of the rollers.

[0056] In some versions, this allows the fuel cell stack to be safely stored and transported from one location to another.

[0057] An arrangement according to a second aspect of the invention comprises a device for holding a fuel cell stack as described above and a fuel cell stack with an opening, in some embodiments an opening of a media channel of the fuel cell stack, wherein the fuel cell stack is received by the receiving device in such a way that the positioning element is arranged at least partially in the opening of the fuel cell stack, wherein a penetration depth of the positioning element into the opening, in some embodiments along the stacking direction of the fuel cell stack, is smaller than a height of the fuel cell stack.

[0058] A method for supporting a fuel cell stack and, optionally, for performing a work step on the fuel cell stack according to a third aspect of the invention comprises: providing a device for supporting a fuel cell stack as described above; providing a fuel cell stack with an opening, in some embodiments an opening of a media channel of the fuel cell stack, and / or another opening, in some embodiments another opening of the media channel or another media channel, of the fuel cell stack; placing the fuel cell stack on the receiving device such that the positioning element is at least partially arranged in the opening of the fuel cell stack and a penetration depth of the positioning element into the opening, in some embodiments along a stacking direction of the fuel cell stack, is smaller than a height of the fuel cell stack when the fuel cell stack is placed on the receiving device; and / or placing the fuel cell stack on the receiving device such that the further positioning element is at least partially arranged in the other opening of the fuel cell stack and a penetration depth of the further positioning element into the other opening, in some embodiments along the stacking direction of the fuel cell stack, is smaller than the height of the fuel cell stack when the fuel cell stack is placed on the receiving device.

[0059] In some embodiments, the method may further comprise: fixing the position of the frame in the first position of the frame by means of the locking device; wherein the placement of the fuel cell stack takes place in a state in which the position of the frame is fixed in the first position of the frame by the locking device.

[0060] In some embodiments, the method may further comprise: actuating the holding element to move the holding element into the holding position; and exerting a force, by means of the holding element in the holding position, in some embodiments counter to the stacking direction, on a portion of an upper end, in some embodiments a portion of a top side of the fuel cell stack, in order to press the fuel cell stack towards the frame.

[0061] In some embodiments, the method may further comprise: a release of the fixation of the position of the frame in the first position of the frame by a corresponding actuation, in some embodiments by a release, of the locking device; and pivoting the frame relative to the rack into a position different from the first position of the frame, in some embodiments into the second position of the frame.

[0062] In some embodiments, performing the step on the fuel cell stack may include equipping the fuel cell stack with a cell voltage monitoring measuring unit.

[0063] Further advantageous developments will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments. This is shown, partly schematically: Fig. 1 a device for holding a fuel cell stack according to an embodiment in a first position of a frame of the device, Fig. 2 an arrangement according to an embodiment, which is a Fig. 1 and a fuel cell stack, in a second position of the frame of the device, Fig. 3 which in Fig. 2 shown arrangement, in the first position of the frame of the device, and Fig. 4 a fuel cell stack of the arrangement according to an embodiment.

[0064] Fig. 1 shows a device 100 for holding a fuel cell stack 300 according to an embodiment in a first position of a frame 210 of the device 100, Fig. Figure 2 shows an arrangement according to an embodiment, which has a Fig. 1 and a fuel cell stack 300, in a second position of the frame 210 of the device 100, Fig. 3 shows the Fig. 2, in the first position of the frame 210 of the device 100, and Fig. 4 shows a fuel cell stack 300 of the arrangement according to one embodiment.

[0065] With reference to Fig. 4, the fuel cell stack 300 comprises a bipolar plate stack 310 comprising a plurality of stacked bipolar plates 311, as well as a first end plate 320 and a second end plate 330. Here, the first end plate 320, the bipolar plate stack 310, and the second end plate 330 are stacked along a stacking direction Z' of the fuel cell stack 300 such that the bipolar plate stack 310 is arranged between the first end plate 320 and the second end plate 330.

[0066] The fuel cell stack 300 includes a plurality of fuel cells, including a plurality of fuel cells each having two adjacent bipolar plates 311 and a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) (not shown) disposed therebetween, a fuel cell having a bipolar plate 311 adjacent to the first end plate 320, the first end plate 320, and a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) (not shown) disposed therebetween, and a fuel cell having a bipolar plate 311 adjacent to the second end plate 330, the second end plate 330, and a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) (not shown) disposed therebetween.

[0067] The fuel cell stack 300 further comprises a plurality of media channels 340, 350, 360, each having an inlet opening 301, 302, 303 and an outlet opening 301', 302', 303', which are arranged in the Fig. 4 are provided at a lower end 305 (with respect to the stacking direction Z') of the fuel cell stack 300 or a bottom surface thereof.

[0068] Here, a media channel 340 and another media channel 350 serve to supply a fuel such as hydrogen or an oxidant such as oxygen to each of the fuel cells to enable a reaction between the fuel and the oxidant in the fuel cell, and to remove the reaction products and unused fuel and oxidant from each of the fuel cells. Another media channel 360 serves to supply and remove a coolant to cool the fuel cell stack 300.

[0069] During operation of a fuel cell containing the fuel cell stack 300, the respective medium guided in the media channels 340, 350, 360 flows from the Fig. 4 sections of the media channels 340, 350, 360 (containing the respective openings or breakthroughs of the first end plate 320 and each of the bipolar plates 311) shown on the left via Fig. 4 connections indicated by dashed lines, which in particular each contain a section of a respective fuel cell, into which Fig. 4 sections of the media channels 340, 350, 360 (containing other openings or apertures of the first end plate 320 and each of the bipolar plates 311) shown on the right.

[0070] With reference to the Fig. 1 to 3, the device 100 comprises a receiving device 200 for receiving the fuel cell stack 300, which, as shown for example in Fig. 3 can be clamped by means of circumferential tensioning straps 321. The receiving device 200 has a positioning element 221 for positioning a fuel cell stack 300 to be received by the receiving device 200, wherein the positioning element 221 is configured, during intended use (of the device 100), to be arranged at least partially in one of the (inlet or outlet) openings 301, 302, 303, 301', 302', 303' of one of the media channels 340, 350, 360 of the fuel cell stack 300, while the fuel cell stack 300 is received by the receiving device 200. In this case, a penetration depth of the positioning element 221 into the opening 301, 302, 303, 301', 302', 303', in some embodiments along the stacking direction Z' of the fuel cell stack 300, is smaller than a height h of the fuel cell stack 300 (measured along the stacking direction Z').

[0071] The receiving device 200 further comprises a further positioning element 222 for positioning the fuel cell stack 300 to be received by the receiving device 200, wherein the further positioning element 222 is configured, during intended use, to be arranged at least partially in another opening 301', 302', 303', 301, 302, 303 of the media channel 340, 350, 360 or another of the media channels 340, 350, 360 of the fuel cell stack 300, while the fuel cell stack 300 is received by the receiving device 200. In this case, a penetration depth of the further positioning element 222 into the other opening 301', 302', 303', 301, 302, 303, in some embodiments along the stacking direction Z' of the fuel cell stack 300, is smaller than the height h of the fuel cell stack 300 (measured along the stacking direction Z').

[0072] Preferably, if the positioning element 221 is configured to be arranged in one of the inlet openings 301, 302, 303 during the intended use, the further positioning element 222 is configured to be arranged in one of the outlet openings 301', 302', 303' during the intended use.

[0073] The receiving device 200 comprises a frame 210, which in some embodiments is rectangular and has, for example, a pair of (parallel) longitudinal struts 213 and a pair of (parallel) transverse struts 214 that are connected to one another, and which may, for example, comprise a metal such as aluminum. The positioning element 221 and / or the further positioning element 222 is / are arranged on the frame 210, in some embodiments on at least one of the transverse struts 214.

[0074] As in Fig. 1, the positioning element 221 and the further positioning element 222 are preferably arranged on the frame 210 such that the positioning element 221 is arranged on or at one of the cross struts 214 of the frame 210, and the further positioning element 222 is arranged on or at the other cross strut 214 of the frame 210.

[0075] The positioning element 221 is configured to extend from the frame 210 along the stacking direction Z' of the fuel cell stack 300 into the opening 301, 302, 303, 301', 302', 303' while the fuel cell stack 300 is received by the receiving device 200. Alternatively or additionally, the further positioning element 222 is configured to extend from the frame 210 along the stacking direction Z' of the fuel cell stack 300 into the other opening 301', 302', 303', 301, 302, 303' while the fuel cell stack 300 is received by the receiving device 200.

[0076] In this case, the receiving device 200 is configured such that, during intended use, a (respective) section of the lower end 305 of the fuel cell stack 300, in some embodiments a (respective) section of the bottom surface of the fuel cell stack 300, rests on the frame 210, in some embodiments on the cross struts 214 or on a respective cross strut 214 of the frame 210.

[0077] In this case, during intended use, the fuel cell stack 300 can be received by the receiving device 200 in such a way that a distance of the first end plate 320 from the frame 210 is smaller than a distance of the second end plate 330 from the frame 210. In some embodiments, the first end plate 320 or an underside thereof rests on the frame 210, wherein a free end 223 of the positioning element 221 is arranged within an opening of the first end plate 320 (which is simultaneously the opening 301, 302, 303, 301', 302', 303' of the media channel 340, 350, 360 or forms a part thereof) and / or a free end 224 of the further positioning element 222 is arranged within another opening of the first end plate 320 (which is simultaneously the other opening 301', 302', 303', 301, 302, 303 of the media channel 340, 350, 360 or forms a part thereof).

[0078] In other words, during intended use (and in the arrangement according to the invention), when the fuel cell stack 300 is received by the receiving device 200, no portion of the positioning element 221 and / or no portion of the further positioning element 222 is arranged within an opening of a (any) bipolar plate 311 of the fuel cell stack 300 associated with the corresponding media channel 340, 350, 360. In particular, the penetration depth of the positioning element 221 and / or the further positioning element 222 into the fuel cell stack 300 is smaller than a thickness (measured in the stacking direction Z') of the first end plate 320.

[0079] The positioning element 221 has a section 225 adjoining the free end 223 of the positioning element 221, which tapers toward the free end 223 of the positioning element 221, i.e., in the direction away from the frame 210. Additionally or alternatively, the further positioning element 222 has a section 226 adjoining the free end 224 of the further positioning element 222, which tapers toward the free end 224 of the further positioning element 222, i.e., in the direction away from the frame 210.

[0080] The device 100 further comprises a frame 110 with a first (lower in the intended use, for example in a horizontal direction, to a through in a coordinate system of the Fig. 1 to 3) and a second frame 160 (upper during intended use, for example extending in a different horizontal plane).

[0081] The frame 110 further comprises a plurality of connecting struts 170 (extending, for example, perpendicular to the horizontal plane or at least substantially perpendicular to the horizontal plane during intended use), which are each connected to the first frame 150 and the second frame 160.

[0082] The first frame 150 may, for example, comprise a pair of (parallel) longitudinal struts 151 and a pair of (parallel) transverse struts 152 which are connected to one another, and may, for example, comprise a metal such as aluminum, wherein one of the transverse struts 152 may be longer than the other of the transverse struts 152. The second frame 160 may, for example, comprise a pair of (parallel) longitudinal struts 161 and a pair of (parallel) transverse struts 162 which are connected to one another, and may, for example, comprise a metal such as aluminum, wherein one of the transverse struts 162 may be longer than the other of the transverse struts 162.

[0083] The device 100 further comprises a fastening element 120 which, in some embodiments, is mounted on the frame 110, in particular on a cross strut 162 of the second frame 160, wherein the frame 210, in some embodiments an end 211 of the frame 210, in particular one of the cross struts 214 of the frame 210, is coupled to the fastening element 120 such that the frame 210 is rotatable, tiltable or pivotable relative to the frame 110, in some embodiments about a rotation axis or pivot axis of the fastening element 120.

[0084] In this case, a position of the frame 210 within a first end position of the frame 210, which is in particular horizontal or at least substantially horizontal in the intended use and which is in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 3, and a second (tilted) end position of the frame 210, which is shown in the Fig. 2, can be changed by rotating or pivoting relative to the frame 110 or the second frame 160. The limited angular range can be, for example, an angular range of 15° or 30°.

[0085] The receiving device 200 further comprises a further frame 250, which in some embodiments is square and which has, for example, a pair of (parallel) longitudinal struts 254 and a pair of (parallel) transverse struts 255 which are connected to one another and may, for example, comprise a metal such as aluminum. The further frame 250, in some embodiments a cross strut 255 thereof containing a (different) end 252 of the further frame 250, is mounted on the frame 210, in some embodiments on another end 212 of the frame 210 opposite the end 211 of the frame 210, which is part of a cross strut 214 of the frame 210, and extends at least in sections, in particular perpendicularly, away from the frame 210, in some embodiments during intended use at least in sections parallel to the stacking direction Z' or substantially parallel to the stacking direction Z' away from the frame 210.

[0086] In this case, the second end position of the frame 210 can be determined or fixed, for example, in that the further frame 250, in some embodiments at least one longitudinal strut 254 thereof, in the second end position rests against a cross strut 162 of the second frame 160 located remote from the fastening element 120, in particular against a cross strut 162 of the second frame 160 on which the fastening element 120 is not mounted, and thus prevents further rotation or tilting or pivoting of the frame 210 or the receiving device 200.

[0087] The frame 210 and the further frame 250 are connected via diagonal struts 270, wherein one end of a diagonal strut 270 is connected to a longitudinal strut 213 of the frame 210, and the other end of the diagonal strut 270 is connected to a longitudinal strut 254 of the further frame 250.

[0088] Furthermore, the device 100 has a Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, which is mounted on the frame 110, in some embodiments on the second frame 160, for example on one of the longitudinal struts 161, or on a connecting part connected to the second frame 160, wherein the position of the frame 210 in the first position of the frame 210 can be fixed or locked by means of the locking device 220.

[0089] The locking device 220 has a lever 227 and a clamping part 228, wherein the locking device 220 consists of a Fig. 2, in which the clamping part 228 does not hinder the relative (rotational or tilting or pivoting) movement of the frame 210 or the receiving device 200 relative to the frame 110, by actuating the lever 227 into a position shown in the Fig. 3 shown locked position of the locking device 220 in order to prevent the relative movement of the frame 210 or the receiving device 200 with respect to the frame 110 by pressing the clamping part 228 against the receiving device 200, in some embodiments against a longitudinal strut 254 of the further frame 250, when the frame 210 is in the first end position.

[0090] The device 100 further comprises a return element 130, in some embodiments in the form of a pressure damper, which has a first end which is mounted on a region of the frame 210 not having the end 211 of the frame 210, in some embodiments on the other end 212 of the frame 210 opposite the end 211 of the frame 210, preferably on the cross strut 214 having the other end 212 of the frame 210 or on the lower cross strut 255 of the further frame 250, and a second end 131 which is mounted on the frame 110, in some embodiments on the first frame 150, preferably on a cross strut 152 of the first frame 150.

[0091] Here, the return element 130 is configured to exert a torque on the frame 210 for rotating or pivoting the frame 210 into the first end position when the position of the frame 210 is different from the first end position.

[0092] The device 100 further comprises a holding element 260, which, during intended use in a holding position of the holding element 260, is configured to exert a force, in some embodiments counter to the stacking direction Z', on a portion of an upper end 304 of the fuel cell stack 300, in some embodiments a portion of an upper side of the fuel cell stack 300, in order to press the fuel cell stack 300 toward the frame 210. In some embodiments, the holding element 260 is mounted on an end 251 of the further frame 250, which is remote from the frame 210.

[0093] The holding element 260 has a lever 261 and a clamping element 262, wherein the holding element 260 can be moved from a non-holding position of the holding element 260 (not shown in the figures) by actuating the lever 261 into a Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig.3, in order to hold the fuel cell stack 300 securely on the frame 210 by pressing the clamping element 262 onto the section of the upper end 304 of the fuel cell stack 300, in particular if at the same time the positioning element 221 and / or the further positioning element 222 are arranged at least partially in a respective opening 301, 302, 303, 301', 302', 303' of the fuel cell stack 300.

[0094] The device 100 further includes a handle 253 arranged on the further frame 250, in some embodiments at the distal end 251 of the further frame 250 or an adjacent region of the further frame 250. The handle 253 can be used, for example, to rotate or pivot the receiving device 200 about the rotation axis or pivot axis of the fastening element 120 when the locking device 220 is unlocked.

[0095] In addition, the device 100 has rollers 140 which are mounted on the frame 110, in some embodiments on an end of the connecting struts 170 which, during intended use, faces a surface on which the device 100 is arranged, and which, during intended use, are in contact with the surface, wherein the device 100 can be moved on the surface by exerting an external force which, in some embodiments, acts parallel to the surface in conjunction with a rolling movement of the rollers 140.

[0096] An arrangement according to the invention according to one embodiment comprises a device 100 as described above and a fuel cell stack 300 as described above with an opening 301, 302, 303, in some embodiments an opening of a media channel of the fuel cell stack 300, wherein the fuel cell stack 300 is received by the receiving device 200 in such a way that the positioning element 221 is at least partially arranged in the opening 301, 302, 303 of the fuel cell stack 300, wherein a penetration depth of the positioning element 221 into the opening 301, 302, 303, in some embodiments along the stacking direction Z' of the fuel cell stack 300, is smaller than the height h of the fuel cell stack 300.

[0097] A method according to the invention for holding a fuel cell stack 300 and, optionally, for performing a work step on the fuel cell stack 300 comprises, according to one embodiment, the following steps: providing a device 100 as described above; providing a fuel cell stack 300 with an opening, in some embodiments opening 301, 302, 303 of a media channel 340, 350, 360 of the fuel cell stack 300, and / or another opening 301', 302', 303', in some embodiments another opening of the media channel 340, 350, 360 or another media channel 340, 350, 360, of the fuel cell stack 300; placing the fuel cell stack 300 on the receiving device 200 such that the positioning element 221 is at least partially arranged in the opening 301, 302, 303 of the fuel cell stack 300 and a penetration depth of the positioning element 221 into the opening 301, 302, 303, in some embodiments along a stacking direction Z' of the fuel cell stack 300, is less than a height h of the fuel cell stack 300 when the fuel cell stack 300 is placed on the receiving device 200; and / or placing the fuel cell stack 300 on the receiving device 200 such that the further positioning element 222 is at least partially arranged in the other opening 301', 302', 303' of the fuel cell stack 300 and a penetration depth of the further positioning element 222 into the other opening 301', 302', 303', in some embodiments along the stacking direction Z' of the fuel cell stack 300, is smaller than the height h of the fuel cell stack 300 when the fuel cell stack 300 is placed on the receiving device 200.

[0098] In some embodiments, the method may further comprise: fixing the position of the frame 210 in the first position of the frame 210 by means of the locking device 220; wherein the placement of the fuel cell stack 300 takes place in a state in which the position of the frame 210 is fixed in the first position of the frame 210 by the locking device 220.

[0099] In some embodiments, the method may further comprise: actuating the holding element 260 to move the holding element 260 into the holding position; and exerting a force, by means of the holding element 260 in the holding position, in some embodiments counter to the stacking direction Z', on a portion of an upper end 304, in some embodiments a portion of an upper side of the fuel cell stack 300, in order to press the fuel cell stack 300 in the direction of the frame 210.

[0100] In some embodiments, the method may further comprise: a release of the fixation of the position of the frame 210 in the first position of the frame 210 by a corresponding actuation of the locking device 220; and pivoting the frame 210 relative to the frame 110 into a position different from the first position of the frame 210.

[0101] In some embodiments, performing the step on the fuel cell stack 300 may include equipping the fuel cell stack 300 with a cell voltage monitoring measuring unit. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS 100 Device for holding a fuel cell stack 110 frame 120 Fastener 130 Reset element 131 second end of the return element 140 roll 150 first frame of the frame 151 Longitudinal strut of the first frame 152 Cross brace of the first frame 160 second frame of the frame 161 Longitudinal strut of the second frame 162 Cross brace of the second frame 170 connecting strut 200 recording facility 210 frames 211 End of frame 212 other end of the frame 213 Longitudinal strut of the frame 214 Cross member of the frame 220 locking device 221 Positioning element 222 additional positioning element 223 free end of the positioning element 224 free end of the further positioning element 225 Section of the positioning element 226 Section of the further positioning element 227 Lever of the locking device 228 Clamping part of the locking device 250 additional frames 251 End of the further frame 252 other end of the further frame 253 handle 254 Longitudinal strut of the further frame 255 Cross brace of the further frame 260 holding element 261 Lever of the holding element 262 Clamping element of the holding element 270 Diagonal brace 300 fuel cell stacks 301, 301' Opening of the fuel cell stack 302, 302' Opening of the fuel cell stack 303, 303' Opening of the fuel cell stack 304 upper end of the fuel cell stack 305 lower end of the fuel cell stack 310 bipolar plate stacks 311 Bipolar plate 320 first end plate 321 tensioning strap 330 second end plate 340 media channels 350 other media channels 360 other media channels h Height of the fuel cell stack Z' stacking direction

Claims

[1] Device (100) for supporting a fuel cell stack (300), comprising: a receiving device (200) for receiving the fuel cell stack (300), wherein the receiving device (200) has a positioning element (221) for positioning a fuel cell stack (300) to be received by the receiving device (200), and the positioning element (221) is designed, when used as intended, to be arranged at least partially in an opening (301, 302, 303), in particular an opening of a media channel (340, 350, 360), of the fuel cell stack (300), while the fuel cell stack (300) is received by the receiving device (200), wherein a penetration depth of the positioning element (221) into the opening (301, 302, 303), in particular along a stacking direction (Z') of the fuel cell stack (300), is less than a height (h) of the fuel cell stack (300). [2] Device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the receiving device (200) has a further positioning element (222) for positioning the fuel cell stack (300) to be received by the receiving device (200), and the further positioning element (222) is designed to be arranged, during intended use, at least partially in another opening (301', 302', 303'), in particular another opening of the media channel (340, 350, 360) or another media channel (340, 350, 360), of the fuel cell stack (300), while the fuel cell stack (300) is received by the receiving device (200), wherein a penetration depth of the further positioning element (222) into the other opening (301', 302', 303'), in particular along the stacking direction (Z') of the fuel cell stack (300), is smaller than the height (h) of the fuel cell stack (300). [3] Device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the receiving device (200) has a frame (210), in particular a square frame, on which the positioning element (221) and / or the further positioning element (222) is arranged, and the positioning element (221) is configured, while the fuel cell stack (300) is received by the receiving device (200), to extend from the frame (210) along the stacking direction (Z') of the fuel cell stack (300) into the opening (301, 302, 303) and / or the further positioning element (222) is configured, while the fuel cell stack (300) is received by the receiving device (200), to extend from the frame (210) along the stacking direction (Z') of the fuel cell stack (300) into the other opening (301', 302', 303'). extend. [4] Device (100) according to claim 3, wherein the receiving device (200) is configured such that, during intended use, a portion of a lower end (305) of the fuel cell stack (300), in particular a portion of a bottom surface of the fuel cell stack (300), rests on the frame (210). [5] Device (100) according to one of claims 3 or 4, wherein the device (100) is designed to hold a fuel cell stack (300) which contains a first end plate (320), a second end plate (330) and a bipolar plate stack (310) comprising a plurality of bipolar plates (311), in particular stacked one above the other, which are stacked one above the other along the stacking direction (Z') such that the bipolar plate stack (310) is arranged between the first end plate (320) and the second end plate (330), wherein, during intended use, a distance of the first end plate (320) from the frame (210) is smaller than a distance of the second end plate (330) from the frame (210), in particular wherein the first end plate (320) rests on the frame (210),and a free end (223) of the positioning element (221) is arranged within an opening of the first end plate (320) and / or a free end (224) of the further positioning element (222) is arranged within another opening of the first end plate (320). [6] Device (100) according to claim 5, wherein the positioning element (221) has a section (225), in particular adjoining the free end (223) of the positioning element (221), which tapers in the direction of the free end (223) of the positioning element (221) and / or the further positioning element (222) has a section (226), in particular adjoining the free end (224) of the further positioning element (222), which tapers in the direction of the free end (224) of the further positioning element (222). [7] Device (100) according to one of claims 3 to 6, further comprising a frame (110) and a fastening element (120), wherein the frame (210), in particular an end (211) of the frame (210), is coupled to the fastening element (120) in such a way that the frame (210) is rotatable or pivotable relative to the frame (110), in particular about a rotation axis or pivot axis of the fastening element (120). [8] Device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein a position of the frame (210) can be changed within an angular range limited by a first, in the intended use in particular horizontal or at least substantially horizontal, end position of the frame (210) and a second end position of the frame (210) by a rotation or pivoting relative to the frame (110). [9] Device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the receiving device (200) further comprises a further frame (250) which is mounted on the frame (210), in particular on the other end (212) of the frame (210) opposite the end (211) of the frame (210), and extends at least in sections away from the frame (210), in particular during intended use at least in sections parallel to the stacking direction (Z') or substantially parallel to the stacking direction (Z') away from the frame (210). [10] Device (100) according to claim 8 or 9, further comprising a locking device (220) mounted on the frame (110), wherein the position of the frame (210) can be fixed in the first position of the frame (210) by means of the locking device (220). [11] Device (100) according to one of claims 8 to 10, further comprising a return element (130), in particular a pressure damper, with a first end which is mounted on a region of the frame (210) not having the end (211) of the frame (210), in particular on another end (212) of the frame (210) opposite the end (211) of the frame (210), and with a second end (131) which is mounted on the frame (110), wherein the return element (130) is designed to exert a torque on the frame (210) for rotating or pivoting the frame (210) into the first end position when the position of the frame (210) is different from the first end position. [12] Device (100) according to the preceding claim, further comprising a holding element (260) which is configured, during intended use in a holding position of the holding element (260), to exert a force, in particular counter to the stacking direction (Z'), on a portion of an upper end (304), in particular a portion of an upper side of the fuel cell stack (300), in order to press the fuel cell stack (300) in the direction of the frame (210), wherein the holding element (260) is mounted in particular on an end (251) of the further frame (250) which is remote from the frame (210). [13] Device (100) according to one of claims 9 to 12, further comprising a handle (253) arranged on the further frame (250), in particular on the distal end (251) of the further frame (250) or an area of the further frame (250) adjacent thereto. [14] Device (100) according to one of claims 7 to 13, further comprising rollers (140) which are mounted on the frame (110) and, during intended use, are in contact with a base on which the device (100) is arranged, wherein the device (100) is movable on the base by exerting an external force, in particular acting parallel to the base, in conjunction with a rolling movement of the rollers (140). [15] Arrangement, comprising a device (100) according to one of the preceding claims and a fuel cell stack (300) with an opening (301, 302, 303), in particular an opening of a media channel (340, 350, 360) of the fuel cell stack (300), wherein the fuel cell stack (300) is received by the receiving device (200) in such a way that the positioning element (221) is arranged at least partially in the opening (301, 302, 303) of the fuel cell stack (300), wherein a penetration depth of the positioning element (221) into the opening (301, 302, 303), in particular along the stacking direction (Z') of the fuel cell stack (300), is smaller than a height (h) of the fuel cell stack (300). [16] A method for supporting a fuel cell stack (300) and, optionally, for performing a work step on the fuel cell stack (300), the method comprising: providing a device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 14; providing a fuel cell stack (300) with an opening, in particular opening (301, 302, 303) of a media channel (340, 350, 360) of the fuel cell stack (300), and / or another opening (301', 302', 303'), in particular another opening of the media channel (340, 350, 360) or another media channel (340, 350, 360), of the fuel cell stack (300); placing the fuel cell stack (300) on the receiving device (200) such that the positioning element (221) is at least partially arranged in the opening (301, 302, 303) of the fuel cell stack (300) and a penetration depth of the positioning element (221) into the opening (301, 302, 303), in particular along a stacking direction (Z') of the fuel cell stack (300), is smaller than a height (h) of the fuel cell stack (300) when the fuel cell stack (300) is placed on the receiving device (200); and / or placing the fuel cell stack (300) on the receiving device (200) in such a way that the further positioning element (222) is at least partially arranged in the other opening (301', 302', 303') of the fuel cell stack (300) and a penetration depth of the further positioning element (222) into the other opening (301', 302', 303'), in particular along the stacking direction (Z') of the fuel cell stack (300), is smaller than the height (h) of the fuel cell stack (300) when the fuel cell stack (300) is placed on the receiving device (200). [17] A method according to the preceding claim, wherein an apparatus (100) according to claim 10 is provided, and the method further comprises: fixing the position of the frame (210) in the first position of the frame (210) by means of the locking device (220); wherein the placement of the fuel cell stack (300) takes place in a state in which the position of the frame (210) is fixed in the first position of the frame (210) by the locking device (220). [18] A method according to the preceding claim, wherein an apparatus (100) according to claims 10 and 12 is provided, and the method further comprises: actuating the holding element (260) to move the holding element (260) into the holding position; and exerting a force, by means of the holding element (260) located in the holding position, in particular counter to the stacking direction (Z'), on a portion of an upper end (304), in particular a portion of an upper side of the fuel cell stack (300), in order to press the fuel cell stack (300) in the direction of the frame (210). [19] The method of claim 17 or 18, further comprising: releasing the fixation of the position of the frame (210) in the first position of the frame (210) by a corresponding actuation of the locking device (220); and pivoting the frame (210) relative to the rack (110) into a position different from the first position of the frame (210). [20] The method according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein performing the step on the fuel cell stack (300) comprises equipping the fuel cell stack (300) with a cell voltage monitoring measuring unit.

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