Quick-change adapter with flap and linear motion mechanism; stacking module; support structure; procedure

The quick-change adapter with a flap mechanism and linear motion system simplifies the replacement of stacking modules in fuel cell systems, addressing the challenges of accessibility and safety, enabling efficient and ergonomic module exchange outside the system.

DE102024135664B4Active Publication Date: 2026-06-11SCHAEFFLER TECHNOLOGIES AG & CO KG

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
SCHAEFFLER TECHNOLOGIES AG & CO KG
Filing Date
2024-12-02
Publication Date
2026-06-11

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The replacement of stacking modules in fuel cell systems is difficult, time-consuming, and ergonomically demanding due to limited accessibility and working space, especially for heavy modules, requiring significant effort and posing safety risks.

Method used

A quick-change adapter with a flap mechanism attached to a support structure via a rotary joint, allowing for a linear motion to easily remove and insert stacking modules, and a linear motion mechanism to transport them outside the system, reducing the need for manual handling and enabling replacement without interrupting the fuel cell system's operation.

Benefits of technology

Facilitates quick and safe replacement of stacking modules by a single technician, reducing ergonomic strain and minimizing safety risks while maintaining system operation, with the ability to replace modules without entering the shipping container.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The invention relates to a quick-change adapter (1) for a stationary fuel cell (2), wherein the quick-change adapter (1) has a flap (3) which can be attached to a support structure (5) of a hydrogen power plant (6) via a pivot joint (4), wherein the flap (3) has a holder (7) for holding a stacking module (8), wherein the stacking module (8) has a plurality of membrane electrolyte units and a plurality of bipolar plates which are positioned relative to each other via a clamping system, wherein the flap (3) has a linear movement mechanism (9) in order to be able to remove the stacking module (8) from or insert it into the support structure (5) when the flap (3) is open and the holder (7) is released.The invention also relates to a stacking module (8) for a hydrogen power plant (6) using a stationary fuel cell (2), comprising a plurality of membrane electrolyte units and a plurality of bipolar plates, wherein the stacking module (8) has a preparation (12) for engaging the holder (7) of the quick-change adapter (1) according to the invention. The invention also relates to a support structure (5) for a hydrogen power plant (6) with the quick-change adapter (1) according to the invention connected via the swivel joint (4). The invention also relates to a method for changing a stacking module (8).
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a quick-change adapter for a stationary fuel cell. The invention also relates to a stacking module for a hydrogen power plant utilizing a stationary fuel cell, comprising a plurality of membrane electrolyte units and a plurality of bipolar plates, which are fixed relative to one another by a clamping system, wherein the stacking module has a provision for engaging the mounting of the quick-change adapter. The invention also relates to a support structure for a hydrogen power plant with the quick-change adapter connected via the swivel joint. The invention also relates to a method for changing a stacking module.

[0002] The prior art is known from publication KR 10 2021 0 129 982 A. This publication discloses a fuel cell system for power generation in containerized construction, which enables integrated management of several stacked modules.The containerized fuel cell power generation system comprises: a container with doors on one or both sides; several stacking modules provided within the container, in which fuel cell stacks are stacked and connected, the fuel cell stacks being detachably connected; a fuel supply line, connected to a fuel supply device outside the container, inserted into the container and connected to each fuel cell stack to supply hydrogen and air, which are the fuel gases; an exhaust line, forming a flow path through which exhaust gas generated by the fuel cell stack flows and which discharges the exhaust gas outside the container; a coolant circulation line, connected to the fuel cell stack for heat exchange and through which the coolant flows; and a power converter, which converts a DC voltage generated in the stacking module into an AC voltage.

[0003] The prior art also includes publication KR 10 2024 0 074 185 A. This publication discloses a parallel-connectable modular power supply device based on a hydrogen fuel cell, and its purpose is to provide a parallel-connectable modular power supply device based on a hydrogen fuel cell, configured so that the amount of power generated can be changed by increasing or decreasing the amount of hydrogen fuel in the cell, and which can stably mount and disconnect the hydrogen fuel cell.

[0004] Fuel cells and fuel cell systems built from them, provided pure hydrogen is used as fuel, are a CO2-neutral alternative to diesel generators in stationary applications. Compared to other power plants, fuel cell systems, and especially hydrogen power plants, enable a particularly sustainable form of energy generation, as no nitrogen oxides or particulate matter are produced. The fuel cell itself is locally emission-free.

[0005] Due to their high operating hours, fuel cell systems, especially stationary fuel cell systems, cannot be designed for a lifetime. Therefore, replacement of the fuel cell system's stack modules is necessary over the system's lifetime.

[0006] These changes are difficult and time-consuming. This is mainly due to the limited accessibility of the stacking modules in the fuel cell systems and the limited working space within the fuel cell systems.

[0007] Furthermore, the changes are ergonomically demanding for the personnel performing them. This is due to the limited handling of the stacking modules, as, for example, a 100 kW stacking module can weigh more than 100 kg and have a volume of around 300 liters.

[0008] The present invention aims to achieve an improvement over the prior art. Known disadvantages are to be eliminated or at least mitigated. In particular, the effort required to replace a stacking module is to be reduced.

[0009] In a quick-change adapter presented above, this is achieved according to the invention by the fact that the quick-change adapter has a flap which can be attached to a support structure of a hydrogen power plant via a rotary joint, that the flap has a holder for holding a stacking module, wherein the stacking module has a plurality of membrane electrolyte units and a plurality of bipolar plates which are positioned relative to each other via a clamping system, and that the flap has a linear movement mechanism in order to be able to remove the stacking module from the support structure or insert it into the support structure in the open state of the flap and in the released state of the holder.

[0010] In other words, the invention relates to a quick-change system for stacking modules of stationary fuel cell systems. The quick-change system is preferably designed as a quick-change adapter. The quick-change adapter makes it advantageously easy to exchange the stacking modules / stacks of stationary fuel cell systems / hydrogen power plants.

[0011] The support structure of fuel cell systems in shipping containers incorporates so-called interchangeable flaps, i.e., tiltable interchangeable adapters. These flaps feature a mechanism that simplifies the replacement of the stacking module.

[0012] In particular, the interchangeable flaps, that is, the flaps themselves, are designed so that they can be opened away from the shipping container and fixed in a horizontal position. The flaps are configured to provide access to the stacking modules.

[0013] The stacking module is transported via fixed flaps and a linear motion mechanism to a vehicle for removal of the stacking modules. The overseas container is then loaded with a new stacking module in the reverse manner.

[0014] The flaps make it advantageous to move the stacking module, i.e. the stack, directly from the fuel cell system into a technician's vehicle.

[0015] The changeover can be carried out easily even on a fuel cell system that is already in operation.

[0016] The flap mechanism allows for quick and easy stack replacement by a single technician. The stack modules are accessible via the flaps and can be replaced using the flap mechanism.

[0017] Another advantage is that the shipping container does not need to be entered. The risk to technicians during the exchange of the stacking module(s) is reduced, as the hatch opens to the secure area outside the shipping container.

[0018] Furthermore, an ergonomic advantage can be achieved by reducing the strain on the technician when replacing the stacking module. In particular, handling such as lifting a stacking module weighing several hundred kilograms inside the shipping container can be advantageously avoided.

[0019] The operation of the fuel cell system does not need to be interrupted. Only the stack module / stack being replaced needs to be temporarily taken out of service / decommissioned for the duration of the replacement.

[0020] Advantageous embodiments are claimed in the dependent claims and are explained in more detail below.

[0021] It has proven advantageous if the flap has a section designed as a base plate to allow connection with a media adapter of the stacking module and to allow rotation of the flap and base plate relative to the support structure, or if the flap is separated from the base plate via the pivot joint to allow rotation of the flap relative to the base plate.

[0022] In this context, the flap refers to a section of a side wall of the support structure of the hydrogen power plant / fuel cell system, which is designed to provide access to the stacking modules and to simultaneously remove the stacking module by utilizing a mechanism of the flap, i.e. mechanically.

[0023] Designing the flap with a base plate makes it advantageous to attach the media adapter to or on the base plate. Alternatively, the media adapter can advantageously be designed as a detachable part of the base plate. This means that the base plate can advantageously be designed with a mechanical separation plane.

[0024] By designing the base plate in such a way that it can be rotated together with the flap via the pivot joint, it is advantageously possible to move the stacking module into a removal position with the base flap and with mechanical support from the base plate.

[0025] Preferably, the stacking module can additionally be positioned relative to the base plate during the rotation process using a positioning element, such as a mandrel. This allows for advantages in terms of the stacking module's positional accuracy during the rotational movement.

[0026] At least one pipe and / or connecting hose for supplying cooling media, hydrogen, or oxygen / air, as well as electrical supply lines that can be connected to the base plate, may preferably be designed to be flexible. This preferably flexible design advantageously prevents the tearing off of at least the pipe / flexible hoses and the electrical supply lines.

[0027] The alternative embodiment with a base plate that is mechanically independent of the flap with respect to rotation makes it advantageously possible to rotate the stacking module without the base plate. This means, in particular, that the supply lines leading to the base plate can advantageously be designed to be rigid.

[0028] In this way, the stacking module can be moved ergonomically into a removal position. Moving the stacking module into the removal position can advantageously be done by just one person.

[0029] Furthermore, it is advantageous to avoid the need for the technician to enter the shipping container / hydrogen power plant to replace the stacking module. The replacement can be carried out from outside the shipping container / hydrogen power plant, which is beneficial from an occupational safety perspective.

[0030] Also presented is a stacking module with a preparation for gripping the holder of the quick-change adapter.

[0031] In other words, the preparation includes at least one recess designed to receive the bracket. The recess is preferably a through hole or a blind hole.

[0032] It has proven advantageous if the stacking module has a connection for supplying a cooling medium, hydrogen, and air.

[0033] Cooling of the fuel cell system / hydropower plant can be advantageously achieved via the design of the stacking module with a connection for a cooling medium. The cooling medium is preferably non-conductive, and more preferably a cooling liquid.

[0034] The design of the stacking module with a hydrogen connection allows for the advantageous supply of fuel. Operating the fuel cell system / hydropower plant with hydrogen enables CO2-neutral operation of the fuel cell system / its stacking modules. This offers advantages in terms of climate protection.

[0035] With the embodiment of the stacking module having a connection for air, preferably with a connection for oxygen, it is advantageously possible to supply a reaction partner for the hydrogen.

[0036] In this way, energy generation by the fuel cell system with the stacked modules can be advantageously achieved via electrochemical reactions. Furthermore, the fuel cell system and its stacked modules can be advantageously cooled.

[0037] It has proven advantageous if the connections are matched to mating connections in the media adapter or the base plate.

[0038] By matching the connections of the stacking module to mating connections, the supply of at least the cooling medium, hydrogen, air / oxygen, and electrical energy can be advantageously simplified. Both the connections and the mating connections can be equipped with wear-resistant components. In this way, the stacking module and / or the fuel cell system, i.e., for example, the hydroelectric power plant, can be protected.

[0039] It has proven advantageous to have a positioning device between the media adapter and the base plate to force a tight fit between the connections and the mating connections.

[0040] The positioning device makes it advantageous to ensure that the connections and mating connections are precisely aligned with the system.

[0041] In this way, the positioning of the (new) stacking module can be achieved advantageously simply and reproducibly, for example, when replacing a worn stacking module. The time required for installing the stacking module can thus be reduced.

[0042] It has proven advantageous if the positioning device includes a mandrel.

[0043] In this context, a tang refers to a tool that is designed as a tapered round steel, that is, a pin that narrows towards the tip.

[0044] The design of the positioning device with a mandrel allows for an advantageously simple technical solution with low manufacturing effort.

[0045] Also presented is a support structure for a hydrogen power plant with the quick-change adapter connected via the swivel joint.

[0046] It has proven advantageous if the support structure is designed as or attached to an overseas shipping container.

[0047] Designing the support structure of the fuel cell system / hydrogen power plant as a shipping container offers advantageous protection for the stacked modules. Furthermore, the fuel cell system / hydrogen power plant's preferably compact design makes it easier to transport.

[0048] In this way, the fuel cell systems / hydrogen power plants integrated into the shipping container can be advantageously and easily used in remote locations for off-grid power supply and / or emergency power supply.

[0049] Furthermore, a method for changing a stacking module is presented, wherein a quick-change adapter according to the invention is used and wherein the stacking module is moved between an operating position and a change position via a rotary movement of a flap and a preceding or subsequent linear movement relative to the flap.

[0050] The procedure has at least the following three procedural steps S1, S2 and S3: S1: Solving the stack module, S2: Swapping the stacking module, and S3: Fixing the stacking module.

[0051] Before carrying out the process steps, the stacking module is preferably placed on the base plate and connected via ports to mating ports for media supply, such as cooling medium, hydrogen, and oxygen / air, and to a power supply, i.e., an electrical connection. The hydrogen connection can preferably be made separately if quick-release couplings for hydrogen lines cannot be installed. The stacking module can advantageously be secured to the base plate using quick-release fasteners.

[0052] In process step S1, i.e., solving the stack module, the following process substeps can be carried out, preferably in the order listed: S1.1: Switching off the stacking module, S1.2: Opening the flap, S1.3: Ensure absence of voltage, S1.4: Disconnecting a cable, and S1.5: Removing a media adapter.

[0053] Switching off the stacking module according to process substep S1.1 is advantageously accompanied by an interruption of at least the supply of the stacking module with cooling medium, hydrogen and oxygen / air as well as electrical energy, i.e. electricity.

[0054] When releasing the media adapter according to procedure substep S1.5, the media adapter can, for example, be designed as a quick-change media adapter.

[0055] In process step S2, i.e., the exchange of the stacking module, the following process substeps can be carried out, preferably in the order listed: S2.1: Closing the flap, S2.2: Securing the stacking module via a bracket on the flap, S2.3: Opening the flap, S2.4: Releasing the stacking module by detaching the bracket from the flap, S2.5: Moving the stacking module over the flap into a vehicle, S2.6: Moving a new stacking module from the vehicle onto the flap, S2.7: Locking the new stacking module via the bracket on the flap, S2.8: Closing the flap, and S2.9: Releasing the mounting of the stacking module.

[0056] In this context, a bracket refers to a device for locking and aligning the stacking module relative to and on the flap, i.e., a side wall, in order to hold, i.e., fix, the stacking module in the intended position on the flap during the rotational movement of the flap.

[0057] The mounting can be designed, for example, as a detachable fastener. The mounting can be designed, for example, as a quick-release fastener, a tensioning system with screws on the flap, a hook system, or a clamping system.

[0058] Opening the flap according to process step S2.3 can preferably be advantageously carried out by utilizing the lever action of the flap, with regard to ergonomics. The flap can preferably be opened outwards, i.e., in a direction away from the support structure.

[0059] The flap, when open, can preferably be positioned at an angle of 90 degrees to the support structure of the fuel cell system / hydropower plant. That is, the flap, when open, can preferably be in a horizontal position.

[0060] Moving the stacking module according to process substep S2.5 is preferably carried out via a linear motion mechanism. The linear motion mechanism can, for example, be designed as a sliding system, such as a guide rail with a sliding surface or another rail system, or as a roller system.

[0061] Any height difference between the tailgate and the vehicle is preferably compensated for by means of a transition device. The transition device can be, for example, a folding bridge, a loading bridge, a ramp, or a loading ramp.

[0062] In process step S3, the following process sub-steps can be carried out, preferably in the order listed: S3.1: Locking the media adapter, i.e., connecting the stacking module's connectors to the corresponding connectors, S3.2: Wiring the stacking module, S3.3: Closing the flap, and S3.4: Switching on the stacking module.

[0063] Alternatively, it is conceivable that the base plate with the stacking module folds outwards, that is, in a direction away from the support structure. In this way, aligning the stacking module and connecting it to the base plate can be advantageously carried out easily by an operator without having to reach inside the hydrogen power plant.

[0064] To further improve alignment, it is conceivable that the stacking module could be positioned using a positioning element, such as a mandrel.

[0065] The connections of the stacking module via counter connections with preferably cooling medium, hydrogen and oxygen connecting pipes can preferably be flexible, for example via flexible hoses.

[0066] The invention is explained in more detail below with the aid of drawings. These drawings illustrate embodiments of the quick-change adapter, the stacking module, the support structure, and the method according to the invention.

[0067] It shows: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a quick-change adapter in a first embodiment in a closed state, Fig. 2 a schematic representation of a quick-change adapter in a first embodiment in an open state, Fig. 3 a schematic representation of a quick-change adapter in a second embodiment in an open state, Fig. 4 a schematic representation of a stacking module in a first embodiment, Fig. 5 a schematic representation of the connections, mating connections, mechanical separation plane and positioning device for a stacking module in a first embodiment as excerpt V(1) from Fig. 4 in a longitudinal section view V(2) from Fig. 4, Fig. 6 a schematic representation of a support structure for a hydrogen power plant with a quick-change adapter and a stacking module, and Fig. 7 a flowchart of a procedure for changing a stacking module in a first embodiment.

[0068] The drawings are purely schematic and serve only to illustrate the invention. The same elements are identified by the same reference numerals. The features of the individual embodiments may be mutually complementary or interchangeable.

[0069] The Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a quick-change adapter 1 in a first embodiment in a closed state.

[0070] The quick-change adapter 1 is designed for a stationary fuel cell 2. The quick-change adapter 1 has a flap 3. The flap 3 can be attached to a support structure 5 of a stationary fuel cell system via a swivel joint 4.

[0071] The stationary fuel cell system can, for example, be designed as a hydrogen power plant 6. The flap 3 can, for example, be located in a shipping container housing a stationary fuel cell system.

[0072] The flap 3 is equipped with a holder 7. The holder 7 is designed to hold a stacking module 8. The stacking module 8 comprises a plurality of membrane electrolyte units (not shown) and a plurality of bipolar plates (also not shown).

[0073] The membrane electrolyte units (not shown) and the bipolar plates are positioned relative to each other via a clamping system (not shown). The flap 3 is equipped with a linear motion mechanism 9.

[0074] The linear motion mechanism 9 is designed to remove the stacking module 8 from the support structure 5 or to insert it into the support structure 5 when the flap 3 is open and the holder 7 is released.

[0075] The flap 3 has a section designed as a base plate 10. This section, designed as a base plate 10, can be configured to allow connection with a media adapter 11, or it can be configured to allow rotation of the flap 3 and the base plate 10 relative to the support structure 5.

[0076] Alternatively, the flap 3 can be designed to be movable separately from the base plate 10 via the pivot joint 4 in order to allow a rotational movement of the flap 3 relative to the base plate 10.

[0077] The stacking module 8 is designed with a preparation 12 for engaging the holder 7 of the quick-change adapter 1. The preparation 12 is designed as at least one recess. The recess can be, for example, a through hole or a blind hole for receiving the holder 7.

[0078] The stacking module 8 is equipped with at least one connection 13 each for supplying the stacking module 8 with a cooling medium, with hydrogen and with oxygen.

[0079] The connections 13 of the stacking module 8 are matched to mating connections 14 in the media adapter 11 or in the base plate 10.

[0080] The Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of a quick-change adapter 1 in a first embodiment in an open state.

[0081] After the connections 13 of the stacking module 8 were separated from the counter connections 14, the stacking module 8, which was fixed to the flap 3 via a bracket 7, was moved with the flap 3.

[0082] The flap 3 of the quick-change adapter 1 is connected to the support structure 5 via a pivot joint 5, which enables rotational movement. The flap 3 was rotated 90 degrees via the pivot joint 4 by actuating a handle located on the outside of the flap 3. The stacking module 8 is connected to the flap 3 via a bracket 7 during the rotational movement.

[0083] Flap 3 is open. In the open position, flap 3 is positioned at an angle of 180 degrees to base plate 10.

[0084] The base plate 10 remains in the fuel cell system. This means that the flap 3 is movable independently of the base plate 10 via the pivot joint 4.

[0085] The stacking module 8 can be moved out of and away from the support structure 5, for example, by means of the linear motion mechanism 9, after the holder 7 has been released. The stacking module 8 can be moved independently of a base plate 10. The stacking module 8 can be replaced without replacing the base plate 10.

[0086] The Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of a quick-change adapter 1 in a second embodiment in an open state.

[0087] In the second embodiment, the flap 3 is movably connected to the base plate 10. The base plate 10 rotates with the flap 3 via the pivot joint 4 when the flap 3 is opened.

[0088] This means that the flap 3 is designed with a section, i.e. with a base plate 10, which together with the flap 3 is movable relative to the support structure 5.

[0089] The angle between the base plate 10 and the flap 3 can remain unchanged, for example, at 90 degrees. This applies in particular even when the flap 3 is in a horizontal position outside the support structure 5. That is, when the flap 3 of the support structure 5 is open.

[0090] Hoses leading to the base plate, that is, in particular the hoses connected to the counter-connections 14, are preferably made flexible. This prevents the hoses from tearing during the rotation of the base plate 10.

[0091] The Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of a stacking module 8 in a first embodiment.

[0092] The stacking module 8 is connected to a base plate 10. The stacking module 8 has in Fig. 5 shots shown, 13 on, which are connected to the in Fig. 5 shown counter-connections 14 in the media adapter 11 or in the base plate 10 are matched and via a in Fig. The positioning device 15 shown in section 5 can be positioned relative to each other. The base plate 10 can be equipped with a media adapter 11.

[0093] The media adapter 11 shown has a mechanical separation plane 16. The stacking module 8 can be separated in the area of ​​the mechanical separation plane 16 such that the stacking module 8 can be exchanged with the area of ​​the media adapter 11 facing the stacking module 8.

[0094] The connections 13 of the stacking module 8 are, for example, designed to supply the stacking module 8 with a cooling medium, with hydrogen and with oxygen.

[0095] The Fig. Figure 5 shows a schematic representation of the terminals 13, mating terminals 14, mechanical separating plane 16 and the positioning device 15 for a stacking module 8 in a first embodiment as a section V(1) from Fig. 4 in a longitudinal section view V(2) from Fig. 4. The media adapter 11 and the base plate 10 are shown in a longitudinal section view.

[0096] The connections 13 of the stacking module 8 are shown, which are connected to the mating connections 14 via the positioning device 15, which is equipped with a pin 17. The positioning device 15 is arranged between the media adapter 11 and the base plate 10 to ensure a tight seal between the connections 13 and the mating connections 14.

[0097] The counter connections 14 are provided via a piping 18 for the supply of cooling medium, hydrogen and oxygen to the connections 13 of the stacking module 8.

[0098] Sealing units 19 are provided on the piping 18. The sealing units 19 are designed to protect the stacks / stack modules 8 and thus also the fuel cell system. The piping 18 can, at least in sections, be constructed using (flexible) hoses, for example.

[0099] Also shown is an electrical connection 20 for the stacking module 8.

[0100] The Fig. Figure 6 shows a schematic representation of a support structure 5 for a hydrogen power plant 6 with a quick-change adapter 1 and a stacking module 8.

[0101] Hydrogen power plant 6 is housed in a shipping container. Hydrogen power plant 6 is accessible from one side by a motor vehicle 21.

[0102] The hydrogen power plant 6, housed in the shipping container, has five hatches 4. The hatches 4 are designed to provide access to the stacking modules 8. The stacking modules 8 can be exchanged via the access provided by the hatches 4.

[0103] This means that a swapping process for the stacking modules 8 can be carried out. The stacking modules 8 can, for example, have a nominal output of 100 kW. Via the flaps 4, five stacking modules 8, each with a nominal output of 100 kW (i.e., 5 x 100 kW), can be swapped.

[0104] Hatch 4 is opened. After hatch 4 is opened, the stack / stack module 8 is moved out of the hydrogen power plant 6 via the linear motion mechanism 9 of hatch 4. The stack / stack module 8 can then be pushed into the vehicle 21, for example, a motor vehicle.

[0105] The new stack / the new stack module 8 can in turn be positioned from the vehicle 21 onto the flap 4 and moved into the hydrogen power plant 6 via the linear motion mechanism 9 of the flap 4.

[0106] The Fig. Figure 7 shows a flowchart of a procedure for changing a stacking module 8 in a first embodiment.

[0107] In method 22 for changing a stacking module 8, a quick-change adapter 1 as disclosed is used. The stacking module 8 is moved between an operating position and a changeover position relative to the flap 3 by means of a rotary movement of the flap 3 and a linear movement upstream or downstream of the flap 3.

[0108] Procedure 22 comprises at least a first procedure step S1 23, a second procedure step S3 24, and a third procedure step S3 25. The procedure steps S1 23, S2 24, and S3 25 are: S1: Solving the stack module, S2: Swapping the stacking module, and S3: Fixing the stacking module.

[0109] The process steps S1 23, S2 24 and S3 25 of process 22 are preferably carried out in the order listed and sequentially. The process steps S1 23, S2 24 and S3 25 of process 22 can be supplemented by process substeps not shown. Reference symbol list 1 quick-change adapter 2 stationary fuel cells 3 flap 4 swivel joint 5 Support structure 6 Hydrogen power plant 3 4 5 6 7 Bracket 8 Stacking module 9 Linear motion mechanism 10 Base plate 11 media adapters 12 Preparation 13 connection 14 counter connections 15 Positioning device 16 Mechanical separating planes 17 Dorn 18 pipes / piping 19 wear units 20 Electrical connection 21 Motor vehicle 22 procedures 23 First procedural step / S1 24 Second procedural step / S2 25 Third procedural step / S3

Claims

Quick-change adapter (1) for a stationary fuel cell (2), wherein the quick-change adapter (1) has a flap (3) which can be attached to a support structure (5) of a hydrogen power plant (6) via a pivot joint (4), wherein the flap (3) has a holder (7) for holding a stacking module (8), wherein the stacking module (8) has a plurality of membrane electrolyte units and a plurality of bipolar plates which are positioned relative to each other via a clamping system, wherein the flap (3) has a linear movement mechanism (9) to be able to remove the stacking module (8) from or insert it into the support structure (5) when the flap (3) is open and the holder (7) is released. Quick-change adapter (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the flap (3) has a section which is designed as a base plate (10) to enable connection with a media adapter (11) of the stacking module (8) and to allow rotation of the flap (3) and the base plate (10) relative to the support structure (5), or the flap (3) is separated from the base plate (10) via the pivot joint (4) to allow rotation of the flap (3) relative to the base plate (10). Stacking module (8) for a hydrogen power plant (6) employing a stationary fuel cell (2), comprising a plurality of membrane electrolyte units and a plurality of bipolar plates which are fixed relative to each other by means of a clamping system, wherein the stacking module (8) has a preparation (12) for engaging the holder (7) of the quick-change adapter (1) according to claim 1 or claim 2. Stacking module (8) according to claim 3, characterized in that the stacking module (8) has a connection (13) for supplying with a cooling medium, with hydrogen and with air. Stacking module (8) according to claim 4, characterized in that the connections (13) are matched to mating connections (14) in the media adapter (11) or the base plate (10). Stacking module (8) according to claim 5, characterized in that a positioning device (15) is provided between the media adapter (11) and the base plate (10) to force a sealing fit of the connections (13) with the mating connections (14). Stacking module (7) according to claim 6, characterized in that the positioning device (15) comprises a mandrel (16). Support structure (5) for a hydrogen power plant (6) with the quick-change adapter (1) connected via the swivel joint (4) according to one of claims 1 or 2 . Support structure (5) according to claim 8, characterized in that the support structure (5) is designed as or attached to an overseas container. Method for changing a stacking module (8) according to one of claims 3 to 7, wherein a quick-change adapter (1) according to one of claims 1 or 2 is used, wherein the stacking module (8) is moved between an operating position and a change position by means of a rotary movement of the flap (3) and upstream or downstream linear movement relative to the flap (3).