Assembly device, housing device, electrochemical system and method for assembling an electrochemical system

Abstract

The invention relates to an assembly device (10) for the prefabrication of a modular electrochemical system (12; 12'), in particular a fuel cell system, which comprises at least one electrochemical unit (14) for the electrochemical conversion of at least one reactant and at least one auxiliary unit (16) for the operation of the electrochemical unit (14). It is proposed that the mounting device (10) comprises a uniform platform (18) for optional indoor or outdoor installation of the electrochemical system (12; 12').

Description

State of the art

[0001] A mounting device for the prefabrication of a modular electrochemical system, in particular a fuel cell system, which includes at least one electrochemical unit for the electrochemical conversion of at least one reactant and at least one auxiliary unit for the operation of the electrochemical unit, has already been proposed. Disclosure of the invention

[0002] The invention relates to an assembly device for the prefabrication of a modular electrochemical system, in particular a fuel cell system, which comprises at least one electrochemical unit for the electrochemical conversion of at least one reactant and at least one auxiliary unit for the operation of the electrochemical unit.

[0003] It is proposed that the mounting device comprise a uniform platform for optional indoor or outdoor installation of the electrochemical system. The modular electrochemical system preferably comprises several prefabricated modules, which are particularly suitable for separate transport. Preferably, the at least one electrochemical unit is a prefabricated module of the electrochemical system. Preferably, the at least one auxiliary unit is also a prefabricated module of the electrochemical system. The number and arrangement of the modules of the electrochemical system can be adapted, in particular, depending on the application and / or location, especially at the point of use. The electrochemical system is preferably fully functional even without the mounting device.The assembly device is preferably designed for pre-assembly of the electrochemical system at a location different from the installation site. The assembly device is preferably designed for arranging and fixing several, in particular at least the majority, of the modules of the electrochemical system relative to one another. The assembly device is preferably designed for an electrochemical system whose electrochemical unit comprises at least one fuel cell, in particular at least one high-temperature fuel cell, for example, at least one solid oxide fuel cell, at least one molten carbon fuel cell, at least one polymer electrolyte fuel cell, or the like.Alternatively or additionally, the assembly device is designed for an electrochemical system whose electrochemical unit comprises at least one electrolysis cell, in particular at least one high-temperature electrolysis cell, for example at least one solid oxide electrolysis cell, at least one molten carbon electrolysis cell, at least one polymer electrolysis cell or the like.

[0004] The platform comprises, for example, a mounting plate, a mounting frame, a mounting rack, or the like. The platform is specifically designed for use either indoors, in a covered location, or outdoors. The platform is preferably weather-resistant to enable continuous outdoor use of the electrochemical system, particularly for several years. The platform is preferably designed differently from the housing containing the modules of the electrochemical system, particularly to keep the electrochemical system advantageously compact during indoor installations. The platform is preferably designed as part of a housing that can be supplemented with a complete housing if required, especially for outdoor installations.The platform preferably forms a common base plate and / or a common wall element on which the at least one electrochemical unit and the at least one auxiliary unit can be arranged, and in particular fixed. The platform is preferably designed to absorb at least a portion, and in particular at least a large part, of the weight of the modules of the electrochemical system. "Large part" of a reference quantity is preferably understood to mean a proportion of more than 25%, more preferably more than 50%, and more preferably more than 75% of the reference quantity. The platform is preferably designed to support an electrochemical system with several electrochemical units, each of which has a mass of at least 100 kg, preferably at least 500 kg, and in particular more than 1000 kg.

[0005] The platform preferably comprises at least one mounting position for arranging the at least one electrochemical unit. More preferably, the platform comprises several, preferably at least four, and particularly preferably at least six mounting positions for arranging several, in particular up to four, and more preferably up to six, electrochemical units of the electrochemical system. The platform preferably comprises at least one mounting position for arranging the at least one auxiliary unit, and more preferably several mounting positions for arranging several auxiliary units of the electrochemical system.The electrochemical system comprises, as auxiliary components, for example, an electrical module for connecting the electrochemical units, a grid connection module for connecting the electrochemical units to a public or private power grid, a control module for controlling the at least one electrochemical unit, in particular for balancing the operation of several electrochemical units, a reactant processing module, in particular a desulfurizer, a fluid transport module for handling the at least one reactant and / or a product of the electrochemical reaction, a heat exchanger for recovering heat from a product of the electrochemical reaction, an air conditioning module, an ambient air purification module, or the like. Preferably, at least one of the mounting positions comprises a fixing element for fixing the at least one electrochemical unit and / or the at least one auxiliary component.The fixing element can be designed, for example, as a through hole or blind hole, in particular with or without thread, for screws, rivets, bolts or the like, as a positive locking element, in particular as a guide rail, as a protruding rim, as a recess or the like.

[0006] The term "intended" should be understood to mean specifically programmed, designed, and / or equipped. The fact that an object is intended for a specific function should be understood to mean, in particular, that the object fulfills and / or executes this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state.

[0007] The design according to the invention allows for the advantageously simple production of a large number of different versions of the electrochemical system, particularly without the effort required for development, production preparation, manufacturing, and logistics increasing proportionally with each version. In particular, versions for outdoor and indoor installation can be produced on the same production line. Furthermore, the electrochemical system can advantageously be pre-assembled to a large extent, so that installation work at the installation site is limited to connecting the system to the media interfaces, such as a reactant source, a product discharge, an electrical power supply, or the like. Moreover, the electrochemical system as a whole can advantageously be tested before installation.

[0008] It is further proposed that the platform includes at least one housing fixing point for securing a housing that accommodates at least one electrochemical unit and at least one auxiliary unit. The at least one housing fixing point is preferably designed for subsequent mounting of a housing onto the mounting device, particularly after mounting of the at least one electrochemical unit and / or the at least one auxiliary unit onto the mounting device. The at least one housing fixing point is preferably designed for securing a pre-assembled housing. Alternatively or additionally, the housing fixing point is designed for mounting, in particular separate, housing elements onto the platform. The housing fixing point is designed, for example, as a through-hole, blind hole, recess, in particular with or without threads, for screws, rivets, bolts, a locking element of the housing, or the like.The housing fixing point is designed, for example, as a groove, mounting strip, angle connector, base, snap-in element, or the like, for arranging, and in particular receiving, housing elements of the housing, such as, in particular, a wall plate, a housing frame, a support strut, or the like of the housing to be mounted. According to the invention, a variant of the electrochemical system for outdoor installation can advantageously be produced simply by a further manufacturing step or by retrofitting a variant of the electrochemical system that already includes the mounting device.

[0009] It is further proposed that the assembly device includes at least one separating element for the structural separation of a first mounting position on the platform for the at least one electrochemical unit and at least one further mounting position on the platform for the at least one auxiliary unit. Preferably, all mounting positions for arranging electrochemical units are arranged on the same side of the platform with respect to a principal extension plane of the separating element. Preferably, at least the majority, and in particular all, of the mounting positions for arranging auxiliary units are arranged on the same side of the platform with respect to the principal extension plane of the separating element.A "principal extent plane" of a structural unit is understood to be, in particular, a plane that is parallel to a major side face of the smallest imaginary cuboid that just completely encloses the structural unit, and especially that passes through the center of the cuboid. The principal extent plane of the separating element is preferably oriented at least substantially perpendicular to a principal extent plane of the platform. The term "substantially perpendicular" here is intended to define, in particular, an orientation of a direction relative to a reference direction, wherein the direction and the reference direction, especially when viewed in a projection plane, form an angle of 90° and the angle has a maximum deviation of, in particular, less than 8°, advantageously less than 5°, and most advantageously less than 2°.The main plane of extension of the separating element is preferably aligned at least substantially parallel to the maximum longitudinal extent of the platform. Preferably, the separating element extends over at least a large part of the maximum longitudinal extent, in particular the entire maximum longitudinal extent of the platform. The separating element is preferably designed as a stop for aligning the at least one electrochemical unit and / or the at least one auxiliary unit with the mounting device. The separating element preferably has a double-T profile and / or openings in a cross-section perpendicular to the main plane of extension of the separating element, particularly for weight reduction. The design according to the invention advantageously makes the intended placement and orientation of the electrochemical modules readily apparent and simplifies the assembly process.

[0010] It is further proposed that the platform comprises a support frame and mounting plates attached to the support frame. The support frame preferably comprises at least two longitudinal beams that are at least substantially parallel and several crossbeams arranged between the longitudinal beams. "Substantially parallel" here refers in particular to an alignment of a direction relative to a reference direction, especially in a plane, wherein the direction has a deviation from the reference direction of preferably less than 8°, advantageously less than 5°, and most advantageously less than 2°. The crossbeams preferably run at least substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal beams. The longitudinal beams and crossbeams are preferably made of steel, in particular of stainless steel. The mounting plates are preferably attached to at least two, and preferably three, of the crossbeams.The mounting plates preferably form the mounting positions for the at least one electrochemical unit and / or for the at least one auxiliary unit. Preferably, the mounting plates extend over at least a large part of the maximum longitudinal extent of the crossbeams. Preferably, the platform has at least two mounting plates, preferably one mounting plate per mounting position for arranging the electrochemical units. The mounting plates can be made of the same material as the support frame or of a different material. The design according to the invention advantageously allows the platform to be both stable and lightweight. Furthermore, the platform can be advantageously adapted flexibly to revised versions of the electrochemical system by replacing individual mounting plates, without having to completely rebuild the production line.

[0011] It is further proposed that the platform includes at least one engagement element as a point of attachment, in particular a lifting point, for an external transport device for moving the platform. The at least one engagement element can be designed, for example, as a recess, a through-hole, a blind hole, an eyelet, a hook, or the like. The at least one engagement element is preferably arranged on the support frame, in particular the longitudinal beams, or is formed by them. Preferably, the platform includes several, in particular identical, engagement elements. Most preferably, the platform includes at least four engagement elements, in particular at least two engagement elements on each longitudinal beam. The at least one engagement element is preferably designed to fasten the external transport device to the mounting device, for example, by means of screws, hooks, straps, steel cables, or the like.The at least one engagement element is preferably designed for transporting the assembly device, particularly with the electrochemical system attached to it, by means of a crane, dolly, crane truck, trolley, or the like as an external transport device. The design according to the invention allows the assembly device, especially together with the modules of the electrochemical system, to be transported advantageously and easily along the production line and / or to the point of use. In particular, the risk of damage to the electrochemical system during transport can be advantageously minimized.

[0012] It is further proposed that the mounting device comprises at least one guide unit arranged on the platform for securing the at least one electrochemical unit and / or the at least one auxiliary unit. Preferably, the guide unit comprises several, in particular separately designed, guide rails for securing the at least one electrochemical unit. In particular, the guide unit comprises at least two guide rails per mounting position for the electrochemical units. The guide rails of immediately adjacent mounting positions can be formed in one piece or separately. The guide rails are preferably aligned at least substantially parallel to the main plane of extension of the platform. The guide rails are preferably aligned at least substantially perpendicular to the maximum longitudinal extent of the platform.The guide rails are preferably attached to the platform's mounting plates, in particular by screws and / or welding. The design according to the invention allows for advantageously simple and correct placement and alignment of the electrochemical units. Furthermore, the positions of the electrochemical unit connections can be advantageously precisely defined, enabling the assembly of fluid lines and electrical lines with advantageously minimal slack and / or play.

[0013] Furthermore, a housing device for a modular electrochemical system is proposed, comprising at least one mounting device according to the invention and at least one housing fixed to the platform of the mounting device for receiving the at least one electrochemical unit and the at least one auxiliary unit. The housing preferably comprises at least one open side with which it is arranged on the platform. Preferably, the platform closes the open side of the housing. The platform can, for example, be designed as the base plate of the housing, as a side wall of the housing, or as a roof of the housing. The maximum longitudinal extent of the housing preferably corresponds at least substantially to the maximum longitudinal extent of the platform.The phrase "essentially corresponds to a reference size" preferably means that the size deviates from the reference size by less than 10%, preferably by less than 5%, and particularly preferably by less than 3%. The platform may have a larger or smaller maximum longitudinal extent than the housing, or be the same size. For example, the housing is arranged on the side of the platform that has the mounting positions, and in particular, is mounted on it, for example, in a groove surrounding the mounting positions. For example, the housing surrounds the platform and is arranged, in particular, on edges of the platform that extend transversely to the mounting positions, and in particular, at least substantially perpendicularly. The housing is particularly preferably attached to the platform at least one housing fixing point.The housing is preferably made of a weather-resistant material, in particular stainless steel and / or corrosion-resistant steel. The housing is preferably attached to the platform in a non-destructive manner. The design according to the invention allows the operation of the electrochemical system within the housing and the functionality of the housing components to be advantageously tested and, in particular, certified before installation.

[0014] Furthermore, a modular electrochemical system is proposed, comprising at least one electrochemical unit for the electrochemical reaction of at least one reactant, at least one auxiliary unit for operating the electrochemical unit, and at least one mounting device or housing device according to the invention. The electrochemical system preferably comprises several, particularly structurally identical, electrochemical units, in particular at least four, and more preferably at least six. The at least one electrochemical unit preferably comprises a plurality of electrochemical cells, which are preferably connected electrically in series. The at least one electrochemical unit preferably has a nominal electrical power of at least 5 kW, more preferably at least 10 kW, and most preferably at least 20 kW.The at least one electrochemical unit preferably has a rated electrical power of less than 100 kW, particularly less than 50 kW. As mentioned above, the at least one electrochemical cell can be a fuel cell and / or an electrolysis cell. The at least one electrochemical unit preferably comprises several fluid handling units for handling the at least one reactant and / or product of the electrochemical reaction carried out by the electrochemical cells. The electrochemical unit includes, for example, a reactant metering valve and / or a reactant conveying unit, internal product-reactant heat exchangers, a reformer, an afterburner, a steam injection system, a product recirculation system, or the like for monitoring and / or adjusting a unit-specific operating point of the electrochemical unit.The fluid handling units and the electrochemical cells are preferably arranged together in a module housing of the electrochemical unit, which is particularly thermally insulated. The electrochemical system preferably comprises several auxiliary units for operating the at least one electrochemical unit, and in particular for operating all electrochemical units of the electrochemical system in parallel. The at least one auxiliary unit is preferably designed as a central auxiliary unit, which is assigned to several, and in particular all, electrochemical units. In particular, at least two, and preferably all, of the electrochemical units are connected to the at least one auxiliary unit in parallel, either fluidically and / or electrically.The at least one auxiliary unit and the at least one electrochemical unit are preferably designed as separate modules, each of which has its own module housing and its own fluid connections and / or electrical connections. The at least one auxiliary unit and the at least one electrochemical unit are preferably arranged at a distance from each other. It is particularly preferred that the electrochemical units are arranged at a distance from each other. The at least one electrochemical unit and the at least one auxiliary unit are preferably arranged on the platform, particularly at the mounting positions provided in front of the platform. In particular, the separating element is arranged between the at least one electrochemical unit and the at least one auxiliary unit.The electrochemical system preferably comprises a fluid guide unit for a fluid-technical connection between the at least one electrochemical unit and the at least one auxiliary unit. The electrochemical system preferably includes a support frame to which the fluid guide unit is attached, in particular suspended. The support frame is preferably attached to the separating element, the support frame, and / or the mounting plates. The design according to the invention allows for the provision of an advantageously easy-to-adapt electrochemical system, whereby different variants can be manufactured on the same production line, particularly with advantageously low changeover costs.

[0015] Furthermore, a method for assembling a modular electrochemical system according to the invention is proposed, wherein in at least one assembly step of the method, the at least one electrochemical unit and the at least one auxiliary unit are arranged on the assembly device. Preferably, the method comprises a platform manufacturing phase. The platform manufacturing phase is preferably carried out before the at least one assembly step. The platform manufacturing phase preferably includes a frame provisioning step in which the support frame is provided. For example, in the frame provisioning step, the support frame is arranged on a workpiece carrier of a workpiece conveyor.

[0016] Preferably, the platform manufacturing step comprises at least one mounting plate assembly step in which the mounting plates are attached to the support frame. Preferably, the platform manufacturing step also comprises at least one separator element assembly step in which the separator element is attached to the mounting plates and / or the support frame. Preferably, in the at least one assembly step, and in particular in several assembly steps of the process, the at least one electrochemical unit and the at least one auxiliary unit are arranged at the designated mounting locations on the platform.The design according to the invention allows the electrochemical system to be advantageously pre-assembled in its entirety, so that installation work at the site of use is limited to connecting the system to the media interfaces, such as, in particular, a reactant source, a product discharge, an electrical power supply, or the like. Furthermore, the electrochemical system as a whole can advantageously be tested before installation.

[0017] It is further proposed that, in at least one process step downstream of the assembly step, a housing accommodating the at least one electrochemical unit and the at least one auxiliary unit is attached to the assembly device. The housing is preferably arranged on the assembly device only after at least the majority, and in particular all, of the auxiliary units and preferably all of the electrochemical units have been arranged on the assembly device. The housing is preferably prefabricated in a housing pre-assembly step and arranged on the assembly device as a whole, in particular by being placed over or slid over the at least one electrochemical unit and the at least one auxiliary unit. The housing is preferably attached to the housing fixing points of the platform.The design according to the invention allows a variant of the electrochemical system comprising only the assembly device and a variant of the electrochemical system comprising the housing device to be advantageously manufactured in the same production line.

[0018] The assembly device, housing device, modular electrochemical system, and / or method according to the invention are not / should not be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the assembly device, housing device, modular electrochemical system, and / or method according to the invention may, to achieve a functionality described herein, comprise a different number of individual elements, components, units, and process steps than that specified herein. Furthermore, values ​​within the specified limits of the value ranges stated in this disclosure shall also be considered disclosed and freely usable. Drawings

[0019] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate an embodiment of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. A person skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and combine them into meaningful further combinations.

[0020] They show: Fig. 1 a schematic perspective view of an assembly device according to the invention, Fig. 2 a schematic top view of the assembly device according to the invention, Fig. 3 a schematic view of an electrochemical system according to the invention with the assembly device according to the invention, Fig. 4 a further schematic view of the electrochemical system according to the invention, Fig. 5 a schematic exploded view of an extension of the assembly device according to the invention to a housing device according to the invention, Fig. 6 a schematic representation of the electrochemical system according to the invention with a housing device according to the invention in an assembled state, Fig. 7 a schematic cross-section through the in Fig. 6 electrochemical systems shown and Fig. 8 a schematic flowchart of a process according to the invention for producing the electrochemical system according to the invention. Description of the exemplary embodiment

[0021] Fig. Figure 1 shows an assembly device 10 for the prefabrication of a modular electrochemical system 12, which is located in the Fig. 3 and Fig. Section 4 will be explained in more detail. Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view of the assembly device 10 and in Fig. Figure 2 shows a top view of the mounting device 10. The mounting device 10 comprises a uniform platform 18 for optional indoor or outdoor installation of the electrochemical system 12. The platform 18 comprises a support frame 32. The support frame 32 preferably defines a main extension plane of the platform 18 and, in particular, of the mounting device 10. The support frame 32 preferably comprises at least two, here exactly two, longitudinal beams 48 and crossbeams 46 arranged between the longitudinal beams 48. The support frame 32 is preferably designed as a ladder frame. The crossbeams 46 preferably extend at least substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal beams 48. The longitudinal beams 48 are preferably aligned at least substantially parallel to a maximum longitudinal extension 50 of the platform 18 (see Figure 2). Fig. 2) The maximum length of the longitudinal beams 48 preferably corresponds at least substantially to the maximum longitudinal extent 50 of the platform 18, particularly up to the width of each end crossbar at the ends of the longitudinal beams 48. The maximum longitudinal extent 50 is preferably more than 3.5 m, more preferably more than 5 m, and most preferably at least 7 m. The maximum longitudinal extent 50 is preferably less than 20 m, more preferably less than 10 m. A direction specified relative to the maximum longitudinal extent 50 shall hereinafter be referred to as the longitudinal direction. The crossbeams 46 are preferably aligned at least substantially parallel to a maximum transverse extent 52 of the platform 18 (see Fig. 2) The maximum length of the crossbeams 46 corresponds at least substantially to the maximum transverse extent 52 of the platform 18, particularly up to the width of the longitudinal beams 48. The maximum transverse extent 52 is preferably more than 1 m, particularly more than 2 m, and most preferably more than 2.5 m. The maximum transverse extent 52 is preferably less than 10 m, particularly less than 5 m, and most preferably less than 3 m. A direction parallel to the maximum transverse extent 52 shall hereinafter be referred to as the transverse direction. Preferably, the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction define the main plane of extension of the platform 18. A direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction shall hereinafter be referred to as the system direction. The system direction is preferably at least substantially perpendicular to the main plane of extension of the platform 18.The maximum thickness of the platform 18 in the system direction is preferably less than 1 m, more preferably less than 50 cm, and particularly less than 30 cm.

[0022] The platform 18 is preferably designed as a base plate. The platform 18 preferably has a base side and a mounting side with respect to the system direction. The base side is provided for setting up the mounting device 10 on a surface, which may be located outdoors or in a building. The mounting side is provided for arranging modules of the electrochemical system 12. The platform 18 comprises mounting plates 34 attached to the support frame 32. The mounting plates 34 are arranged on the mounting side of the support frame 32. The mounting plates 34 are preferably screwed to the crossbeams 46. Preferably, the support frame 32 comprises at least two, and more preferably at least three, crossbeams 46 per mounting plate 34. The mounting plates 34 are preferably arranged one behind the other in the longitudinal direction. Fig. Figure 1 shows platform 18 with only two mounting plates 34 to allow a view of the crossbeams 46. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the platform 18 preferably comprises more than two mounting plates 34, the combined longitudinal extent of which corresponds at least substantially to the maximum longitudinal extent 50 of the platform 18. The mounting plates 34 can be arranged longitudinally, in particular butt-jointed or with an expansion joint between each pair of plates. A maximum longitudinal extent of the mounting plates 34 is preferably aligned at least substantially parallel to the transverse direction and preferably corresponds at least substantially to the maximum longitudinal extent of the crossbeams 46. The mounting plates 34 are preferably arranged flush with the longitudinal beams 48 on the crossbeams 46 in the system direction. The mounting plates 34 are preferably attached to at least two, in particular three, crossbeams 46 of the support frame 32. Preferably, each mounting plate 28 provides at least one mounting position 28, 30 for a module of the electrochemical system 12.Preferably, the platform 18 comprises at least four, preferably at least six, here by way of example exactly six, mounting plates 28.

[0023] The assembly device 10 comprises at least one separating element 26 for structurally separating a first assembly station 28 of the platform 18 from at least one further assembly station 30 of the platform 18. The separating element 26 has a main extension plane that is oriented at least substantially perpendicular to the main extension plane of the platform 18. A maximum longitudinal extension of the separating element 26 preferably corresponds at least substantially to the maximum longitudinal extension 50 of the platform 18 and is preferably oriented at least substantially parallel to it. The separating element 26 is particularly designed as a partition wall. The separating element 26 is preferably arranged on the mounting plates 34 and projects from the assembly side of the support frame 32, preferably in the system direction.The partition element 26 divides a receiving space defined by the mounting plates 34 for arranging modules of the electrochemical system 12 in the transverse direction preferably into two compartments. The partition element 26 preferably has openings which allow fluid exchange between the compartments. The partition element 26 preferably has a double-T profile in a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (see . Fig. 7) The maximum width of the separating element 26 in the system direction is preferably less than the maximum transverse extent 52 of the platform 18, and in particular at most half the maximum transverse extent 52. The maximum width of the separating element 26 in the system direction is preferably greater than 1 / 5, preferably greater than 1 / 4, and in particular greater than 1 / 3 of the maximum transverse extent 52 of the platform 18.

[0024] Platform 18 includes at least one intervention element 36, here by way of example four intervention elements 36 (see Fig. 2) as a point of attachment for an external transport device for moving the platform 18. The engagement elements 36 are preferably arranged on the longitudinal beams 48. The engagement elements 36 are shown here by way of example as structural elements, in particular eyelets or hooks, which project transversely from the longitudinal beams 48. The platform 18 comprises at least one housing fixing point 22 for fixing a housing 24 accommodating the modules of the electrochemical system 12 (see Figure 1). Fig. 5 to 7). The housing fixing point 22 is preferably formed by the support frame 32. For example, the support frame 32 forms a groove circumferentially in the main extension plane of the platform 18 to provide a positive-locking reception in the system direction of an edge of the housing 24. Preferably, the longitudinal beams 48 have a U-shaped profile or a double-T profile in a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, with one open end of the profile oriented in the transverse direction to form the groove. The engagement elements 36 are preferably arranged in the groove.

[0025] Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 4 shows the aforementioned modular electrochemical system 12. Fig. Figure 3 shows a view of one of the compartments created by the separating element 26 and Fig. Figure 4 shows a view of the other compartment created by the separating element 26. The electrochemical system 12 is, for example, configured as a fuel cell system. The electrochemical system 12 comprises at least one electrochemical unit 14 for the electrochemical reaction of at least one reactant. The electrochemical system 12 preferably comprises several, here by way of example six, identical electrochemical units 14. The electrochemical units 14 are preferably arranged longitudinally one behind the other on the platform 18. The electrochemical units 14 are preferably arranged on the mounting plates 34, in particular placed on the mounting plates 34, and preferably fixed to them, in particular screwed to them. The electrochemical units 14 are preferably spaced apart from one another.The mounting device 10 comprises a guide unit 38 arranged on the platform 18 for securing the electrochemical units 14. The guide unit 38 preferably comprises at least two guide rails per mounting position 28 for arranging one electrochemical unit 14 each. The guide rails are preferably fixed to the mounting plates 34, in particular by screws and / or welds, and are designed to guide a support element, such as a baseboard, plinth, or the like, for the electrochemical units 14. The guide rails are preferably aligned at least substantially parallel to the transverse direction. All electrochemical units 14 of the electrochemical system 12 are arranged on the same side of the separating element 26 with respect to the transverse direction.

[0026] The electrochemical system 12 comprises at least one auxiliary unit 16 for operating the electrochemical unit 14. The electrochemical system 12 preferably comprises several auxiliary units 16. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, all auxiliary units 16 are preferably arranged on the same side of the separating element 26 with respect to the transverse direction. In particular, the electrochemical units 14 and the auxiliary units 16 are arranged on opposite sides of the separating element 26 with respect to the transverse direction. At least the majority of the auxiliary units 16 are arranged on the mounting plates 34 and fixed to them, in particular by screws. The electrochemical system 12 comprises, as an auxiliary unit 16, for example, a reactant preparation module, here for example a desulfurizer 68, for central preparation of the reactant before it is fed into the individual electrochemical units 14. In a configuration of the electrochemical system 12 as a fuel cell system, the at least one reactant is preferably a fuel, in particular hydrogen, methane, natural gas, biogas or the like.The electrochemical system 12 comprises, as an auxiliary unit 16, for example, a fluid transport module 70, which includes at least one fluid conveying unit, for example, a compressor, a blower, and / or a pump, to apply a defined inlet pressure to the at least one reactant. The electrochemical system 12 also comprises, as an auxiliary unit 16, for example, a further reactant preparation module, in particular a particle filter 72, for cleaning ambient air drawn in via a central air intake 56 before it is fed into the electrochemical units 14 as a further reactant and / or as cooling air. Finally, the electrochemical system 12 includes, as an auxiliary unit 16, for example, an electrical module 74 for interconnecting the electrochemical units 14 and connecting them to a public or private power grid.The electrochemical system 12 comprises, as an auxiliary unit 16, for example a central heat exchanger 60 for recovering heat from a product of the electrochemical conversion in the individual electrochemical units 14. The central heat exchanger 60 is preferably arranged at a distance from the mounting device 10 at a product outlet 58 of the electrochemical system 12. Preferably, the reactant preparation units, the fluid transport module 70 and / or the electrical module 74 are arranged on the mounting plates 34.

[0027] The electrochemical system 12 preferably comprises a fluid transfer unit 54 for exchanging the at least one reactant and / or product between the electrochemical units 14 and the auxiliary units 16. Connections of the electrochemical units 14 for connection to the fluid transfer unit 54 are preferably arranged on a ceiling of the electrochemical units 14. With respect to the system direction, the fluid transfer unit 54 is preferably arranged above the electrochemical units 14 and the majority of the auxiliary units 16. The fluid transfer unit 54 is preferably suspended from a support frame 76 of the electrochemical system 12. The support frame 76 is preferably attached to the support frame 32 and / or the separating element 26. The fluid transfer unit 54 comprises, for example, a reactant inlet 66, a process air inlet 62, in particular a cooling air connection 64, and a product outlet 80 for each electrochemical unit 14.

[0028] Fig. Figure 5 shows an extension of the electrochemical system 12 depicted in the preceding figures by a housing device. For differentiation, the reference symbol of the electrochemical system 12' in the extended state is marked with an apostrophe. In particular, a basic version of the electrochemical system 12 as shown in the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 shown to be supplemented to the extended state and the extended state to be reduced to the basic version. The basic version of the electrochemical system 12 of the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 is preferably intended for indoor installation in a weatherproof location. The extended state of the electrochemical system 12' is preferably intended for outdoor installation. In both variants of the electrochemical system 12, 12', the mounting device 10 and, in particular, the modules of the electrochemical system 12, 12' are identical.

[0029] The housing device comprises the mounting device 10 and at least one housing 24 fixed to the platform 18 for receiving the at least one electrochemical unit 14 and the at least one auxiliary unit 16. The housing 24 is preferably designed to be arranged on the mounting device 10 in a pre-assembled state of the housing 24 and in a pre-assembled state of the modules of the electrochemical system 12' on the mounting device 10. The housing 24 has, for example, an open side instead of a base plate, in particular so that the housing 24 can be placed over the modules of the electrochemical system 12', for example, by means of a crane 78. The housing 24 preferably surrounds the platform 18 in the main extension plane of the platform 18.The housing 24 preferably has an edge defining the open side, which is particularly complementary to the housing fixing point 22, especially the groove of the mounting device 10, and is arranged, and in particular fixed, on it. Components of the electrochemical system 12 arranged outside the housing 24, such as the product outlet 58, are preferably pre-mounted on the housing 24 or can be arranged on the housing 24 after the housing 24 has been mounted on the mounting device 10.

[0030] Fig. Figure 6 shows the electrochemical system 12' in the expanded state. Fig. Figure 7 shows a cross-section of the electrochemical system 12' in the expanded state, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Preferably, the housing 24 is large enough to accommodate all electrochemical units 14 and all auxiliary units 16. The housing 24 preferably has side walls with, in particular closable, passages to allow subsequent access to the electrochemical units 14 and / or the auxiliary units 16.

[0031] Fig. Figure 8 shows a flowchart of a method 42 for assembling the modular electrochemical system 12. The method 42 comprises several assembly steps 44, 110, 112, 116, 118, 120, in which the at least one electrochemical unit 14 and the at least one auxiliary unit 16 are arranged on the assembly device 10.

[0032] Preferably, the method 42 comprises a platform manufacturing phase. The platform manufacturing phase is preferably performed before the assembly steps 44, 110, 112, 116, 118, and 120. The platform manufacturing phase preferably includes a frame provisioning step 86 in which the support frame 32 is provided. For example, in the frame provisioning step 86, the support frame 32 is arranged on a workpiece carrier of a workpiece conveyor. Preferably, the platform manufacturing step comprises at least one mounting plate assembly step 88 in which the mounting plates 34 are attached to the support frame 32. Preferably, the platform manufacturing step comprises at least one separator element assembly step 90 in which the separator element 26 is attached to the mounting plates 34 and / or the support frame 32. Preferably, the method 42 comprises a support frame pre-assembly step 92 in which the support frame 76 is pre-assembled.Preferably, method 42 comprises a support frame assembly step 94, in which the support frame 76, in particular pre-assembled, is attached to the assembly device 10. Preferably, method 42 comprises a piping pre-assembly step 96, in which the fluid guide unit 54 is at least partially pre-assembled. Preferably, method 42 comprises a piping assembly step 98, in which the fluid guide unit 54, in particular at least partially pre-assembled, is arranged on the support frame 76. Preferably, method 42 comprises a cable duct assembly step 100, in which cable ducts of the electrochemical system 12 are arranged on the assembly device 10 and / or the support frame 76. Preferably, method 42 comprises a unit assembly step 44, in which the electrochemical units 14 are arranged on the assembly device 10 and, in particular, fixed.Preferably, in the unit assembly step 44, the electrochemical units 14 are arranged at the designated mounting positions 28 of the platform 18. Preferably, the electrochemical units 14 are connected to the fluid guide unit 54 in the unit assembly step 44. Preferably, the method 42 comprises a unit wiring step 102, in which electrical lines for connecting the electrochemical units 14, in particular in the form of cable harnesses, are laid in the cable ducts. Preferably, the method 42 comprises a heat exchanger support pre-assembly step 104, in which a support structure for supporting the central heat exchanger 60 is pre-assembled. Preferably, the method 42 comprises a heat exchanger support assembly step 106, in which the support structure, in particular pre-assembled, for supporting the central heat exchanger 60 is mounted on the mounting device 10 and / or on the support frame 76.Preferably, method 42 comprises an electrical pre-assembly step 108 in which the electrical module 74 is pre-assembled. Preferably, method 42 comprises an electrical component placement step 110 in which the electrical module 74, particularly pre-assembled, is arranged and, in particular, fixed to the mounting device 10. In the electrical component placement step 110, the electrical module 74 is preferably connected to the previously installed electrical lines. Preferably, method 42 comprises a particulate filter component placement step 112 in which the particulate filter 72 is arranged on the mounting device 10, particularly longitudinally adjacent to the electrical module 74. Preferably, method 42 comprises a fluid transport pre-assembly step 114 in which the fluid transport unit is pre-assembled.Preferably, method 42 comprises a fluid transport assembly step 116, in which the fluid transport module 70 is arranged and, in particular, fixed to the mounting device 10. In fluid transport assembly step 116, the fluid transport module 70 is preferably arranged longitudinally next to the particle filter 72. In fluid transport assembly step 116, the fluid transport module 70 is preferably connected to the fluid guide unit 54 by means of fluid technology. Method 42 preferably comprises a processing assembly step 118, in which the feedstock processing module, in particular the desulfurizer 68, is arranged and fixed to the mounting device 10, in particular longitudinally next to the fluid transport module 70. In processing assembly step 118, the feedstock processing module is preferably connected to the fluid guide unit 54.

[0033] The process 42 includes a unit boundary 142, wherein all process steps of the process 42 up to this unit boundary 142 are identical for all versions of the electrochemical system 12, 12'. In particular, frame provision step 86, mounting plate assembly step 88, separator element assembly step 90, support frame pre-assembly step 92, support frame assembly step 94, piping pre-assembly step 96, piping assembly step 98, unit assembly step 44, cable duct assembly step 100, unit wiring step 102, heat exchanger support pre-assembly step 104, heat exchanger support assembly step 106, electrical pre-assembly step 108, electrical assembly step 110, particle filter assembly step 112, fluid transport pre-assembly step 114, fluid transport assembly step 116 and / or processing assembly step 118 are identical for all versions of the electrochemical system 12, 12'.In process steps which are carried out according to the unit boundary 142, a specific adaptation of the electrochemical system 12, 12' to a place of use, country-specific requirements and / or customer wishes can be carried out.

[0034] Preferably, the method 42 comprises a heat exchanger assembly step 120 in which the central heat exchanger 60 is arranged and fixed to the support structure. Preferably, the heat exchanger 60 is connected to the fluid guide unit 54 in the heat exchanger assembly step 120. The central heat exchanger 60 can be designed, in particular, depending on whether the recovered heat is to be provided externally or reused within the electrochemical system 12, 12', for example, for heating ambient air of the electrochemical system 12, 12' and / or for preheating the at least one reactant. Preferably, the method 42 comprises a grid connection pre-assembly step 122 in which a grid connection module of the electrochemical system 12, 12' is pre-assembled. The grid connection module is preferably designed for connecting the electrochemical system 12, 12' to a public power grid.The grid connection module is preferably designed specifically for a given installation location of the electrochemical system 12 in order to comply with the grid and system regulations of the public electricity grid operators applicable at the installation location. The grid connection module comprises, for example, at least one current and / or voltage transformer, which, depending on the application, may be configured as a DC-DC converter or as an inverter. The grid connection module also includes, for example, at least one electrical energy storage device, for example in the form of a supercapacitor, to compensate for short-term grid fluctuations and / or short-term operational disturbances of the electrochemical system 12, 12'. The method 42 preferably includes a grid connection assembly step 124 in which the grid connection module is inserted into the electrical module 74 and electrically connected to it.

[0035] Method 42 preferably comprises a variant boundary 144. Preferably, in the case of an indoor installation of the electrochemical system 12, method 42 can be terminated at the variant boundary 144, in particular to operate the electrochemical system 12 as described in the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. Preferably, in addition to the process steps carried out up to the unit limit 142, the heat exchanger assembly step 120, the network connection pre-assembly step 122 and the network connection assembly step 124 are carried out before the variant limit 144.

[0036] Preferably, the method 42 comprises further process steps, which are carried out according to variant boundary 144, to obtain the electrochemical system 12' in the extended state. The further process steps can be adapted to the specific application and / or customer requirements or partially omitted. The further process steps are provided in particular for equipping the housing device. For example, the method 42 comprises at least one sensor assembly step 126 in which at least one sensor is arranged on the electrochemical system 12', which is intended for monitoring an interior of the housing 24. Examples of sensors to be installed in the sensor assembly step 126 include at least one smoke detector, at least one carbon dioxide sensor, at least one reactant sensor, in particular a gas sensor, at least one temperature sensor, or the like.Preferably, method 42 comprises at least one temperature control assembly step 128, in which a heater and / or air conditioner is arranged on the electrochemical system 12' to heat and / or cool an interior of the housing 24. Preferably, method 42 comprises at least one housing pre-assembly step 130, in which the housing 24 is pre-assembled. Preferably, in housing pre-assembly step 130, the housing 24 is equipped with ventilation. Method 42 preferably comprises a housing assembly step 132, in which the housing 24 is arranged on the assembly device 10 and, in particular, fixed to it. Housing assembly step 132 is preferably performed downstream of the assembly steps 44, 110, 112, 116, 118, and 120. Method 42 preferably comprises an exhaust assembly step 134, in which the product outlet 58 and exhaust air from the housing 24 are assembled.Method 42 includes, for example, a weatherproofing assembly step 136, in which the housing 24 is provided with, for example, a lightning rod, a rain gutter, an earthing system, or the like. Method 42 includes, for example, an operator adaptation step 138, in which at least one socket for use by an operator of the electrochemical system 12' is arranged inside the housing 24 and connected to the electrical module 74. Method 42 includes, for example, a further operator adaptation step 140, in which at least one user interface for a controller of the electrochemical system 12' is arranged in the housing 24.

Claims

[1] Assembly device (10) for prefabrication of a modular electrochemical system (12; 12'), in particular a fuel cell system, comprising at least one electrochemical unit (14) for the electrochemical conversion of at least one reactant and at least one auxiliary unit (16) for the operation of the electrochemical unit (14), characterized by a uniform platform (18) for optional indoor or outdoor installation of the electrochemical system (12; 12'). [2] Mounting device (10) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the platform (18) includes at least one housing fixing point (22) for fixing a housing (24) accommodating at least one electrochemical unit (14) and at least one auxiliary unit (16). [3] Mounting device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized byat least one separating element (26) for a structural separation of a first assembly station (28) of the platform (18) for the at least one electrochemical unit (14) and at least one further assembly station (30) of the platform (18) for the at least one auxiliary unit (16). [4] Assembly device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the platform (18) comprises a support frame (32) and mounting plates (34) attached to the support frame (32). [5] Assembly device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the platform (18) includes at least one engagement element (36) as a point of attack for an external transport device for moving the platform (18). [6] Assembly device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized byat least one guide unit (38) arranged on the platform (18) for securing the at least one electrochemical unit (14) and / or the at least one auxiliary unit (16). [7] Housing device for a modular electrochemical system (12; 12') with at least one mounting device (10) according to one of the preceding claims and with at least one housing (24) fixed to the platform (18) for receiving the at least one electrochemical unit (14) and the at least one auxiliary unit (16). [8] Modular electrochemical system (12; 12') comprising at least one electrochemical unit (14) for the electrochemical conversion of at least one reactant, comprising at least one auxiliary unit (16) for the operation of the electrochemical unit (14) and comprising at least one assembly device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 6 or a housing device according to claim 7. [9] Method (42) for assembling a modular electrochemical system (12; 12') according to claim 8, wherein in at least one assembly step (44) the at least one electrochemical unit (14) and the at least one auxiliary unit (16) are arranged on the assembly device (10). [10] Method (42) according to claim 9, characterized by , that in at least one process step downstream of the assembly step (44) a housing (24) accommodating the at least one electrochemical unit (14) and the at least one auxiliary unit (16) is attached to the assembly device (10).

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