Cartridge and its use, for maintaining compression in a stack of electrochemical cells

Abstract

Cartridge and its use, for maintaining in compression a stack of electrochemical cells Cartridge (1) for fuel cell, comprising: a base (10), for retaining the cartridge in the opposite direction to the compression direction (X1) when the base is received in a receiving orifice; a foot (20) sliding relative to the base, bearing against a stack of the fuel cell when the base is received in the receiving orifice; a spring (30), which bears on the base to apply a pressing force (F30) on the foot; and a retaining system (40), with primary (41) and secondary (42) retaining portions, adapted to be coupled to each other when the cartridge is in a pre-stressed configuration, thus preventing the foot from sliding, and to be decoupled from each other when the cartridge is in a released configuration, thus allowing the foot to slide.The invention aims to simplify the compression of the stack of electrochemical cells while improving the accuracy of this compression. Figure for the abstract: Figure 2.

Description

Title of the invention: Cartridge and its use for maintaining a stack of electrochemical cells under compression

[0001] The present invention relates to a cartridge and a dimensional compensation system for maintaining in compression a stack of electrochemical cells belonging to a fuel cell, relates to a fuel cell comprising such a compression subset and relates to the use of such a cartridge.

[0002] In the field of fuel cells, it is known to compress a stack of electrochemical cells between two terminal plates, located on either side of the stack along the stacking direction, and to protect this assembly in a casing. During its various operating phases, the stack tends to expand and / or contract along the stacking direction for several reasons, notably due to thermal effects and stack aging. To allow this expansion and / or contraction to occur without degradation of the electrochemical cells, it is known to fix a first terminal plate relative to the casing and to make a second terminal plate movable relative to the casing, parallel to the stacking direction.

[0003] To maintain the stack in compression despite the mobility of the second end plate, a compressive force is applied to this second end plate using a dimensional compensation system, including one or more springs. It is known to provide the springs with a pull on the second end plate towards the first using tie rods to compress the stack. Alternatively, it is known to interpose springs in compression between the second end plate and a fixed plate belonging to the housing, so that the springs push the second end plate towards the first, thus compressing the stack.In both cases, the mobility of the second end plate allows compensation for any expansion or contraction of the stack along the stacking direction, while the stack is kept compressed between the two end plates under the action of the springs.

[0004] These known solutions have several drawbacks. In general, the springs are difficult to install or the assembly of the fuel cell is complicated by the presence of the springs, since said springs are designed to apply a force of up to several tons on the stack. Furthermore, although the stack must be compressed under a force whose value must be within within a relatively narrow tolerance range, it is not easy to obtain a precise value for the compression of the stack using springs, the possibilities for adjusting the springs being moreover limited, difficult to implement or non-existent.

[0005] It is these drawbacks that the invention intends to remedy in particular, by proposing new solutions to simplify the compression of a stack of electrochemical cells while improving the accuracy of this compression.

[0006] To this end, the invention relates to a cartridge for maintaining, in compression along a compression direction, a stack of electrochemical cells belonging to a fuel cell. The cartridge comprises a base, by means of which the cartridge is configured to be retained in the opposite direction to the compression direction when the base is received in a receiving orifice integral with, or belonging to, the fuel cell. The cartridge also comprises a foot, which is disposed in the compression direction relative to the base, sliding relative to the base parallel to the compression direction, and which is configured to bear against the stack along the compression direction when the base is received in the receiving orifice. The cartridge also comprises a spring, which bears against the base to apply a compressive force to the foot along the compression direction.The cartridge also includes a retention system, which comprises a primary retention portion, integral with the base, and a secondary retention portion, integral with the foot, the primary retention portion and the secondary retention portion being configured to: be coupled to each other when the cartridge is in a prestressed configuration, the primary retention portion and the secondary retention portion thus coupled preventing the foot from sliding relative to the base along the compression direction; and be decoupled from each other when the cartridge is in a released configuration, the primary retention portion and the secondary retention portion thus decoupled allowing the foot to slide relative to the base along the compression direction.

[0007] Thanks to the cartridge of the invention, compressing the stack is easily achieved, in that the base of the cartridge can advantageously be pressed against the stack and the foot can be inserted into the receiving orifice to be retained there, while the cartridge is in a pre-stressed configuration, where the action of the spring on the base is contained by the retention system. In other words, the possibility of individually pre-stressing the cartridge, in particular, while the cartridge is outside the fuel cell, makes it possible to ensure that the spring is installed in the fuel cell, by mounting the cartridge, while the spring is already pre-stressed in the cartridge and is not at risk of being accidentally released, as long as the cartridge is not otherwise interposed between the stack and the receiving port. Once the cartridge is in place, it can easily be put into the released configuration by releasing the primary and secondary retaining portions from each other, so that the compressive force generated by the spring is transmitted to the stack via the foot, while the foot is resting against the stack and the cartridge is retained by the receiving port. Furthermore, the ability to put the cartridge into a pre-stressed configuration allows the value of the compressive force that will subsequently be applied to the stack to be determined in advance, as the compression force value can be adjusted when the cartridge is put into the pre-stressed configuration, that is, before the cartridge is placed in the fuel cell.

[0008] According to advantageous, but not mandatory, aspects of the invention, one or more of the following features may be incorporated, taken individually or in any technically permissible combinations.

[0009] Preferably, the retaining system is configured to allow adjustment of a foot retaining position, defined relative to the base and for which the retaining system prevents the foot from sliding, among a continuous range of foot positions along the direction of compression, in order to adjust the value of the pressing force applied by the spring.

[0010] Preferably, the retaining system includes a retaining element, through which the primary retaining portion and the secondary retaining portion are coupled, when the cartridge is in prestressed configuration.

[0011] Preferably, the retaining member comprises a head and a threaded body.

[0012] Preferably, the primary retaining portion forms a shoulder.

[0013] Preferably, the secondary retaining portion forms a threaded shaft parallel to the compression direction, the primary retaining portion and the secondary retaining portion being coupled to each other when the head is supported against the shoulder along the compression direction and the threaded body is engaged with the tapped barrel.

[0014] Preferably, the base forms an external thread, so that the cartridge can be retained in the opposite direction to the compression direction by engaging the external thread with an internal thread formed by the receiving orifice, when the base is received in the receiving orifice.

[0015] Preferably, the spring is a compression spring interposed between the base and the foot along the direction of compression.

[0016] The invention also relates to a dimensional compensation system comprising the cartridge as defined above and a support wall, separate from the cartridge and forming the receiving orifice, the receiving orifice being shaped to receive the base so that, when the base is thus received, the foot of said cartridge protrudes from the support wall in the direction of compression and the base is accessible from an outside face of the support wall, then opposite the foot.

[0017] Preferably, the receiving orifice and the base are shaped so that the base can be received in the receiving orifice by inserting the cartridge into the receiving orifice along the compression direction, the receiving orifice, the spring and the foot being shaped so that the spring and the foot can pass through the receiving orifice when inserting the base into the receiving orifice along the compression direction.

[0018] Preferably, the receiving orifice and the base are shaped so that the base can be received in the receiving orifice by inserting the cartridge into the receiving orifice in the opposite direction to the compression direction.

[0019] Preferably, the receiving orifice and the base are configured to allow adjustment of a support position of the base, defined with respect to the support wall and for which the base is retained when the base is received in the receiving orifice, among a continuous range of positions of the base along the direction of compression.

[0020] The invention also relates to a fuel cell comprising the dimensional compensation system as defined above, in which the cartridge is in its released configuration and the base is received in the receiving orifice so as to be retained relative to the support wall, in the opposite direction to the compression direction. The fuel cell also comprises a support wall, the support wall and the bearing wall being fixedly attached to each other, the support wall being disposed in the compression direction relative to the bearing wall.The fuel cell also includes the stack of electrochemical cells, which is arranged between the support wall and the bearing wall, bearing against the bearing wall in the direction of compression. The cartridge spring applies the pressing force on the stack via the foot, in the direction of compression, bearing against the base, the foot bearing against the stack in the direction of compression.

[0021] Preferably, the support wall and the bearing wall belong to a housing of the fuel cell, the stack being received inside the housing, the housing further comprising a longitudinal wall connecting the support wall to the bearing wall.

[0022] The invention also relates to a use of the cartridge as defined above, the use comprising: applying an initial compressive force to the stack using a pressure member separate from the cartridge, along the direction of compression, while the stack is supported against a supporting wall following the compression direction; an insertion of the cartridge into the receiving orifice while the cartridge is in pre-stressed configuration, until the base is received in the receiving orifice to be held in the opposite direction to the compression direction; and a release of the cartridge into its free configuration and a release of the initial compression force, while the base is received in the receiving orifice and the foot is in contact with the stack along the compression direction, so that the spring, bearing on the base, applies the pressing force on the stack via the foot, along the compression direction.

[0023] Preferably, if only one cartridge is provided, the initial compressive force has a value greater than the value of the pressing force obtained when the cartridge is in its prestressed configuration before its foot comes to rest against the stack. Alternatively, preferably, if other cartridges are provided in addition to said cartridge, the initial compressive force has a value greater than the sum of the values ​​of the pressing forces obtained when the cartridges are in their prestressed configuration, before their respective feet come to rest against the stack.

[0024] Preferably, the use further includes, prior to the application of the initial compression force: placing the stack against the support wall in the direction of compression; and fixing a support wall to the support wall, the receiving orifice being formed through the support wall, the fixing of the support wall being carried out while the stack is in contact with the support wall in the direction of compression, so that the support wall is disposed in the direction of compression with respect to the support wall and the stack is disposed between the support wall and the support wall.

[0025] Preferably, the insertion of the cartridge into the receiving orifice is carried out while the fixing of the support wall to the bearing wall has already been carried out, the insertion of the cartridge into the receiving orifice being carried out in the direction of compression, while the initial compression force is applied, until the foot comes to rest against the stack in the direction of compression.

[0026] Preferably, the fixing of the support wall to the bearing wall is carried out while the insertion of the cartridge into the receiving orifice has already been carried out, so that the base is already received in the receiving orifice when the support wall is fixed to the bearing wall.

[0027] Preferably, the cartridge is inserted into the receiving orifice until the base is in a recoiled position along the compression direction, relative to the support wall.

[0028] Preferably, the use includes a displacement of the base relative to the support wall, according to the direction of compression, from the recoiled position to a docking position, in which the foot comes to rest against the stack along the direction of compression, the displacement of the base being carried out while the base is received in the receiving orifice, while the fixing of the support wall has been carried out, while the initial compression force is applied and before carrying out the release configuration of the cartridge.

[0029] Preferably, the use further includes, prior to the insertion of the cartridge, a pre-stressed configuration of the cartridge by coupling the primary retaining portion with the secondary retaining portion, in order to bring the pressing force to a desired value for maintaining the stack in compression.

[0030] The invention will be better understood and other advantages thereof will become more apparent in the light of the illustrated examples in accordance with its principle, described with reference to the following attached drawings.

[0031] [Fig-1] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a cartouche forming part of a dimensional compensation system according to a first embodiment of the invention, the cartridge being in pre-stressed configuration.

[0032] [Fig.2] The [Fig.2] is a longitudinal section of the cartridge of the [Fig.1].

[0033] [Fig.3] Fig.3 is a perspective view of a longitudinal section of a pile fuel comprising several cartridges, including that of figures 1 and 2, the cartridges being in the released configuration.

[0034] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a cross-section similar to that of [Fig.3], where the stack The fuel is being manufactured, according to a first method of using the cartridge shown in the previous figures.

[0035] [Fig. 5] [Fig. 5] is a cross-section similar to that of [Fig. 4], showing a step following the manufacturing process for the first mode of use of the cartridge.

[0036] [Fig. 6] Fig. 6 is a cross-section similar to that of Figures 4 and 5, where the system of Dimensional compensation is shown alone, in a manufacturing step of the fuel cell, according to a second mode of use of the cartridge of the previous figures, the cartridge being in a retracted position.

[0037] [Fig.7] Fig.7 is a perspective view of a cartouche, constituting a part of a dimensional compensation system, according to a second embodiment of the invention, the cartridge being in pre-stressed configuration.

[0038] [Fig.8] The [Fig.8] is a longitudinal section of the cartridge of the [Fig.7].

[0039] [Fig.9] Fig.9 is a schematic cross-section of a fuel cell during manufacturing brication, including the dimensional compensation system, with several cartridges, notably that of figures 6 and 7, where the cartridges are in a recessed position.

[0040] Figures 1 and 2 show a cartridge 1, which includes a base 10, a foot 20, a spring 30, and a retaining system 40. The cartridge 1 has a direction of use, defining a compression direction XI, fixed relative to the base 10, and directed from the base 10 towards the foot 20. The cartridge 1 is geometrically traversed by a central axis X10, parallel to the compression direction XL.

[0041] The base 10 has a proximal end 11, a distal end 12, a peripheral wall 13, and preferably a central conduit 14, visible in [Fig. 2], which are fixed relative to each other. The axis X10 passes through the ends 11 and 12, with the end 12 being in the direction XI relative to the end 11. The wall 13 surrounds the axis X10 and connects the ends 11 and 12. The wall 13 is preferably cylindrical with a circular base, centered on the axis X10. The central conduit 14, if provided, advantageously passes through the base from the end 11 to the end 12, being centered on the axis X10.

[0042] Preferably, the base 10 includes an actuating head 16, formed at its proximal end 11. The actuating head 16 is intended to be actuated by a person, preferably using a tool, or by a machine, to rotate the base around the axis X10. For example, as illustrated, the actuating head 16 is formed by a hexagonal end centered on the axis X10, to be actuated by a hexagonal key.

[0043] Preferably, the peripheral wall 13 has an external thread 17, for example from the head 16 to the end 12. The thread 17 is centered on the axis X10, that is, is oriented in the direction XL

[0044] The foot 20 slides relative to the base 10, being guided in this sliding motion by the base 10, along the direction XL

[0045] For this purpose, for example, the foot 20 includes a sliding leg 21, which is received by sliding within a sliding conduit 18 formed by the central conduit 14. The sliding leg 21 and the sliding conduit 18 are centered here on the axis X10. The sliding conduit 18 is formed by a portion of the central conduit 14 opening at the end 12. The sliding leg 21 enters the conduit 18 through the end 12.

[0046] The foot 20 is designed to bear, along the direction XI, against a surface to be pressed, perpendicular to the direction XL

[0047] For this purpose, for example, the foot 20 includes a support pad 22. The support pad 22 is fixed here relative to the sliding leg 21 and is formed in the direction XI relative to the sliding leg 21. Regardless of the position of the foot 20 relative to the base 10 for its sliding motion, the support pad 22 is arranged in the direction XI relative to the distal end 12 of the base 10, and thus forms a distal end of the cartridge 1. The support pad 22 forms, for example, a surface axial discoid, rotated in direction XI, to bear along direction XI. Preferably, the support pad 22 is generally discoid in shape. Preferably, the support pad 22 has an outer diameter less than or equal to that of the peripheral wall 13, which, as explained below, allows the cartridge 1 to be inserted along direction XI during the manufacture of the battery 50. Preferably, more generally, the foot 20 has a radial footprint smaller than that of the base 10, around the axis X10.

[0048] The spring 30 bears against the base 10 to apply a pressing force F30 on the foot 20 along the direction XI, by means of the elasticity of the spring 30. Preferably, the spring 30 is a spring that acts in compression, along the direction XL. Here the spring 30 is a helical spring, centered on the axis X10. The spring 30, whether helical or not, is preferably configured so that the value of the pressing force F30 that it produces depends on an elongation value of the spring 30, measured along the axis XI, to allow adjustment of the value of the pressing force F30 by adjusting the elongation value. By "elongation," we mean a change in the length of the spring 30, measured from one end of the spring 30 to the other parallel to the direction XL. In the case of a compression spring, the force F30 increases when the length of the compression spring is reduced. Thus, the force F30 increases for a negative elongation value.

[0049] For example, in order to apply the force F30 on the foot 20 while bearing on the base 10, it is provided that, parallel to the direction XI, the spring 30 is interposed between the distal end 12 of the base and the support pad 22. The end 12 and the pad 22 respectively form opposing support walls, each receiving a respective end belonging to the spring 30. The spring 30 is, for example, arranged around the leg 21.

[0050] Radially with respect to the axis X10, the spring 30 advantageously has a radial footprint smaller than that of the base 10, in particular at the wall 13, and also, in the example, than that of the support pad 22. In other words, radially, the spring 30 and the foot 20 do not protrude from the base 10.

[0051] As explained below, the cartridge 1 is configured to switch between a pre-stressed configuration, shown in Figures 1, 2 and 5, and a released configuration, shown in [Fig.3], by means of the holding system 40.

[0052] Preferably, the conduit 14 forms an axial shoulder 41, disposed at the end 11, or between the end 11 and the sliding conduit 18, and rotated in the opposite direction to XL. The shoulder is centered on the axis X10. The shoulder 41 is, for example, formed on an internal collar belonging to the conduit 14. The axial shoulder 41 forms a primary retaining portion belonging to the retaining system 40 and being integral with the base 10.

[0053] Preferably, a threaded shaft 42 is provided in the leg 21, centered on the axis X10 and extending from the leg 21 towards the base 10. In the present example, the shaft 42 even passes completely through the foot 20. The threaded shaft 42 is parallel to the direction XL. The threaded shaft 42 is positioned along the axis of the shoulder 4L. The threaded shaft forms a secondary retaining portion belonging to the retaining system 40 and being integral with the foot 20.

[0054] Preferably, the retaining system 40 further comprises a screw 43, with a head 44 and a threaded body 45. The screw 43 advantageously constitutes a retaining element belonging to the retaining system 40 and which interacts with the primary retaining portion and the secondary retaining portion.

[0055] In the pre-stressed configuration, the screw 43 is received in the central channel 14 and in the threaded shaft 42, as shown in Figures 2, 3, and 5. The screw 43 provides mutual coupling of the primary retaining portion with the secondary retaining portion, in that the screw 43 bears, along the direction XI, against the shoulder 41, via the head 44, and in that the threaded body 45 is engaged in the threaded shaft 42 by means of a screw-nut connection. The screw-nut connection is preferably non-reversible, in the sense that the force imposed by the spring does not allow for relative rotation between the screw 43 and the foot 20. In the pre-stressed configuration, the threaded body 45 is oriented along the compression direction XI, while the head 44 is oriented in the opposite direction, and the screw is advantageously coaxial with the axis X10.This mutual coupling of the primary retaining portion with the secondary retaining portion via the retaining member means that the retaining system 40 prevents the foot 20 from sliding relative to the base 10, in the direction XI, despite the pressing force F30 applied by the spring on the foot 20 while the spring bears against the base 10. In this case, the engagement of the threaded body 45 in the threaded shaft 42 makes the screw 43 fixed to the foot, while, at the same time, the head 44 is held against the shoulder 41 of the base in the compression direction XI, due to the force F30, which is transmitted to the screw 43 via the foot 20. The pre-stressed configuration thus keeps the spring 30 pre-stressed, the spring 30 applying the force F30.

[0056] The retaining system 40 of this example allows adjustment of the position of the foot 20 relative to the base 10 along the compression direction XI, referred to as the "retaining position," for which the retaining system 40 prevents the foot 20 from sliding. Indeed, by tightening or loosening the screw 43 in the threaded barrel 42, the retaining position in which the foot 20 is held by the screw 43 is modified. Tightening the screw brings the foot 20 closer to the base 10, while loosening it moves the foot 20 further away from the base 10. The retaining position in which the foot 20 is held by the retaining system 40 can therefore be chosen from a continuous range of positions of foot 20 along direction XI. In the present example, this continuous range corresponds to the screw stroke of the screw 43 in the threaded barrel 42, parallel to direction XI.

[0057] This possibility of adjusting the position of the foot 20 allows the value of the pressing force F30 to be adjusted, in that each holding position corresponds to a distinct elongation value for the spring 30, on which the value of the pressing force F30 depends. In the preloaded configuration, the value of the force F30 applied by the spring 30 on the foot can therefore be chosen by adjusting the holding system 40.

[0058] To put the cartridge 1 in its released configuration, the primary retaining portion is decoupled from the secondary retaining portion, preferably by removing the retaining element. In the present example, the screw 43 is removed, in particular by disengaging the threaded body 45, by unscrewing it, from the threaded shaft 42. [Fig. 3] shows the cartridge 1 in its released configuration, where the screw 43 is absent. In the released configuration, the foot 20 is therefore allowed to slide relative to the base 10, particularly under the action of the force F30, because the foot is no longer retained by the retaining system 40. Then, the foot 20 is able to transmit the pressing force F30 onto a surface to be pressed, against which the foot 20 bears in the compression direction XI, when the base 10 is otherwise retained in the opposite direction to XL.

[0059] Preferably, one end of the screw 43, located at the level of the head 44, has a recess 46, for example a hexagonal recess, so that a person, using a tool, or a machine, can actuate the screw 43 in rotation around the axis X10.

[0060] Figure 3 shows a fuel cell 50 equipped with the cartridge 1 of Figures 1 and 2. The fuel cell 50 also includes other cartridges 1' identical to cartridge 1. It can be envisaged that the fuel cell 50 is equipped with a single cartridge 1, or with several cartridges 1.

[0061] The fuel cell 50 comprises a stack 51 of electrochemical cells 52, which are not individually represented for the sake of simplification, and a casing 60. The cartridges 1 serve to maintain the stack 51 in compression along the compression direction XI throughout the life of the cell.

[0062] The stack 51 comprises, for example, between 200 and 500 cells 52. Each cell The electrochemical cell 52, for example, consists of an anode and a cathode, separated by a polymer membrane allowing the passage of protons from the anode to the cathode. When the cell 50 is in use, each anode of the stack 51 is supplied with fuel, for example dihydrogen, and each cathode of the stack 51 is supplied with an oxidant, for example oxygen or air.

[0063] To form the stack 51, the electrochemical cells 52 are stacked, that is to say superimposed, according to a stacking direction, which here is parallel to the compression direction XI, when cartridge 1 is integrated into stack 50. Preferably, when stack 50 is in operation, for example in a vehicle, the stacking direction and compression direction XI are approximately horizontal.

[0064] The housing 60 surrounds and protects the stack 51. The housing 60 comprises a transverse wall 61, referred to as the "support wall," a longitudinal wall 62, and a transverse wall 63, referred to as the "bearing wall." Here, the walls 61 and 63 are perpendicular to the direction XI, and the longitudinal wall 62 is parallel to the direction XL. The longitudinal wall 62 is a peripheral wall that surrounds the stack 51 and connects the walls 61 and 63 to each other by being attached to their respective perimeters. The stack 51 is also arranged between the walls 61 and 63, which are preferably substantially planar, with the wall 63 being arranged in the direction XI relative to the wall 61. Overall, the walls 61, 62, and 63 are arranged so that the housing 60 has a general parallelepiped shape.

[0065] In the present example, the support wall 61 and the bearing wall 63 are removable relative to the longitudinal wall 62. Alternatively, the support wall 61 may be permanently fixed or form a single piece with the longitudinal wall 62, such that the walls 61 and 62 form a subassembly that is attached to the wall 63, which is removable relative to this subassembly. Alternatively, the walls 62 and 63 may be permanently fixed or form a single piece, while the wall 61 is removably fixed to this subassembly. Whatever the situation, it is advantageously provided that the wall 61 is removable with respect to the wall 63, either for example in that the wall 61 is removable with respect to the wall 62, or in that the wall 62 is removable with respect to the wall 63, or both at the same time, as in the present example.

[0066] The support wall 63 serves here as a fixed end plate for the stack 51, in that the stack 51 is supported, along the direction XI, against the support wall 63, without the interposition of an elastic element for dimensional compensation. However, it could be envisaged that the stack 51 includes a separate fixed end plate, through which the stack 51 would be supported against the support wall 63. Preferably, the support wall 63 has openings that can be passed through by connectors, not shown, intended to be connected to fluid circulation lines, thus allowing the stack 51 to be supplied with fuel, oxidizer, a possible cooling fluid, and the removal of reaction products if any.

[0067] The support wall 61 supports each cartridge 1 via its respective base 10. In particular, for each cartridge 1 to be fitted, the support wall 61 provides a respective receiving orifice 64, which passes through the support wall. 61 throughout, parallel to the compression direction XI. The base 10 of each cartridge 1 is received in one of these orifices 64. If several cartridges are provided, they are then distributed over the surface of the support wall 61.

[0068] Preferably, when the base 10 is received in the orifice 64, its proximal end 11 is accessible from an outer face 66 of the support wall 61. The outer face 66 advantageously faces the outside of the housing 60 and is opposite the stack 51. The foot 20 then protrudes from the wall 61 in the direction XL. The support wall 61 also has an inner face 69, opposite the outer face 66, facing the inside of the housing 60 opposite the stack 51. The outer face 66 is oriented in the opposite direction to XI, while the inner face 69 is oriented in the direction XL.

[0069] Preferably, each orifice 64 has an internal thread 65, formed within it. When the base 10 is received in the corresponding orifice 64, the external thread 17 of the base 10 engages with the internal thread 65 of the orifice 64. In other words, a screw / nut connection is established between the base 10 and the orifice 64 via the threads 17 and 65. Consequently, when the base 10 is received in the receiving orifice 64, the cartridge 1 is retained by the support wall 61, at least in the opposite direction to XI, but also, in this case, in the direction XL. The screw-nut connection between the base 10 and the orifice 64 is preferably irreversible, in the sense that the force imposed by the spring 30 on the base 10 does not allow for a relative rotation between the base 10 and the orifice 64.

[0070] The threads 17 and 65, when engaged with each other, allow adjustment of a support position for the base 10, defined relative to the support wall 61, along the direction XI, in which the base 10 is held by the wall 61. The adjustment of the support position can be made within a continuous range of positions of the base 10 along the compression direction XI, the range of positions corresponding here to the screw travel of the thread 17 in the thread 65. In other words, by screwing and unscrewing the base 10 in the opening 64, the support position of the base 10 relative to the wall 61 is adjusted, parallel to the direction XL.

[0071] To actuate the base in rotation around the axis X10 and thus perform the screwing and / or unscrewing to adjust the support position of the base 10, the actuating head 16 can advantageously be used from outside the housing 60, in particular from the outer face 66.

[0072] At one of its ends, opposite the support wall 63, the stack 51 advantageously comprises a movable end plate 53, sometimes called a "spring plate". When the base 10 is received in the orifice 64 and the cartridge 1 is in the released configuration, the foot 20 of the cartridge 1 comes to rest against the movable end plate 53. Thus, the respective pressing force F30 of each cartridge 1 is applied, via their respective foot 20, on the stack 51, following the direction XI.

[0073] During the use of the stack 50, while the stack 51 is likely to expand and contract parallel to the direction XI, the foot 20 remains held against the stack along the direction XI by the action of the spring 30, sliding if necessary relative to the base 10 to adapt to this expansion or contraction. The base 10 remains fixed, being retained by the receiving port 64 into which the base 10 is received. The support wall 61 carrying the orifice 64 is fixedly attached to the opposite support wall 63, via the longitudinal wall 62. While the stack 51 comes to rest against the wall 63 along the direction XI, the stack 51 is compressed between the feet 20 and the support wall 63 and takes in compression the pressing force F30 applied by the spring 30 of each cartridge 1.

[0074] The support wall 61 and the cartridge(s) 1 together constitute a dimensional compensation system, here integrated into the fuel cell 50.

[0075] Other elements can be interposed in the stack 51, between the plate 53 and the wall 63, for example a current collector plate and / or an insulation plate.

[0076] In order for the base 10 to be received in the orifice 64 while the foot 20 protrudes beyond the orifice 64 to bear against the stack 51, the cartridge 1 and the orifice 64 are preferably configured so that the cartridge 1 can be inserted into the orifice 64 in the direction XI, that is to say from the outer face 66 of the support wall 61. Moreover, this insertion will be possible even when the support wall 61 is already fixed to the bearing wall 63, in particular via the wall 62. Advantageously, this insertion of the cartridge 1 is carried out while the cartridge 1 is in a pre-stressed configuration, so that the base 10, the foot 20, the spring 30 and the retaining system 40 form a single unit that remains fixed and is therefore easy to handle.The cartridge 1 is then inserted into the orifice 64, by first inserting the foot 20, until the base 10 is received in the orifice 64 and is held there in the opposite direction to the XI direction, here by mutual engagement of the threads 17 and 65. This advantageously allows the cartridge 1 to be installed when the housing 60 is already assembled, or partially assembled, and when the inside of the housing 60 is difficult to access and / or already receives the stack 51.

[0077] Inserting the cartridge 1 into the orifice 64 along the direction XI is made possible by the shape of the cartridge 1, in particular by the fact that, around the axis X10, the foot 20 and the spring 30 have a smaller radial footprint compared to that of the base 10. In particular, the foot 20 is provided to be sufficiently narrow to be able to pass through the orifice 64, during the insertion of the cartridge 1 through the orifice 64 along the direction XI, from the outer face 66, until it protrudes beyond the support wall 61, inside the housing 60. In particular, it is also provided that the spring 30 is sufficiently narrow to be able to pass through the orifice 64, during the insertion of the cartridge 1 through the orifice 64 in the direction XI. It is also provided that the distal end 12 of the base 10 can enter the orifice 64 by being inserted in the direction XI, that is to say from the outer face 66.

[0078] Preferably, when the base 10 is received in the orifice 64, the cartridge 1 is provided to be able to be moved from the outer face 66 to its free position if it was in a pre-tensioned position, and / or to its pre-tensioned position if it was in a free position. For this purpose, for example, when the cartridge 1 is in its pre-tensioned position and received in the orifice 64, the head 44 of the screw 43, and in particular the recess 46, is accessible from the proximal end 11 of the base 10, and therefore from the outer face 66. The screw 43 can thus be actuated from outside the housing 60. In particular, the screw 43 can be removed via the opening of the conduit 14 on the end 11 side, to put the cartridge 1 in its free position.Conversely, when the cartridge 1 is in the released configuration, the screw 43 can be inserted into the conduit 14, through the opening of the conduit 14 at the end 11, and then the screw 43 can be rotated from the end 11 to engage the threaded body 45 with the threaded shaft 42, thus achieving the pre-stressed configuration, for example, for opening the casing 60 of the fuel cell. Maintenance of the fuel cell 50 is then facilitated.

[0079] Preferably, the actuation of screw 43 is intended solely to switch cartridge 1 between the preloaded and released configurations. Alternatively, screw 43 may be actuated to adjust the value of force F30 when cartridge 1 is in the preloaded configuration.

[0080] Below is described a first mode of use of the compensation system and in particular of the cartridge 1. This use can also be seen as a method of manufacturing the fuel cell 50, or as a method of putting and maintaining in compression the stack 51.

[0081] Preferably, prior to inserting the cartridge 1 into the orifice 64, it is planned to prepare the cartridge 1 on the one hand and to prepare the stack 51 and the housing 60 on the other hand.

[0082] As shown in [Fig.4], to prepare the stack 51 and the housing 60, the stack 51 is supported against the support wall 63 along the compression direction XL. For this purpose, for example, the support wall 63 is positioned horizontally, and the cells 52 are stacked, then the movable end plate 53.

[0083] As shown in [Fig. 4], the support wall 61 is also fixed to the bearing wall 63, preferably after the stack 51 has been placed against the wall 63. For this fixing step, the longitudinal wall 62 is first fixed to the bearing wall 63, for example with screws. Then, the wall 61 is fixed to the wall 62, for example with with the aid of screws. The support wall 63 is then arranged in a predetermined position, according to the compression direction XI, relative to the support wall 61 and is fixedly attached to the support wall 61 via the wall 62. The stack 51 is then received inside the housing 60, between the walls 61 and 63, at a distance from the wall 61, and being surrounded by the wall 62.

[0084] Independently of the preparation of the housing 60, the cartridge 1 is prepared. This step can, in particular, be carried out in parallel with the preparation of the housing 60. In any case, the preparation of the cartridge 1 is done prior to its insertion into the orifice 64. To prepare the cartridge 1, once the base 10, the foot 20, the spring 30, and the system 40 have been supplied or manufactured, they are assembled. This includes positioning the spring 30 so that the spring 30 bears against the base 10 in the opposite direction to the compression direction XI and against the foot 20 in the direction XL. At this stage, the cartridge 1 is in a released configuration, so that the foot 20 is free to slide relative to the base 10, while still being subjected to the pressing force F30 of the spring 30.

[0085] Next, while holding the base 10 in the opposite direction to XI, a force is applied to the foot 20 in the opposite direction to XI, for example using a press, to slide the foot 20 towards the base 10 and thus put the spring 30 under tension, i.e., in this case, into compression. The value of the force applied to the foot 20 at this instant is preferably calibrated to correspond to the value of the pressing force F30 that the cartridge 1 is intended to apply later on the stack 51, when the cartridge 1 is received in the orifice 64 and placed in the released configuration. Once the desired force is reached, the cartridge 1 is put into pre-stressed configuration, which blocks the sliding of the foot 20 relative to the base 10 and fixes the value of the pressing force F30 to the value of the force that was applied in the opposite direction on the foot 20.For example, the value of the compressive force F30 within cartridge 1 in a prestressed configuration is expected to be between two and three kiloNewtons, if only one cartridge 1 is used. If there are several cartridges, it is advantageous to divide this value by the number of cartridges used to maintain the stack 51 in compression.

[0086] In particular, to put the cartridge 1 in the pre-stressed configuration, the screw 43 is inserted into the channel 14 until the threaded body 45 reaches the threaded shaft 42. The screw 43 is then tightened, here by actuating the recess 46. This actuating causes the threaded body 45 to be tightened into the threaded shaft 42 until the head 44 comes to rest, along the direction XI, against the shoulder 4L. The screw 43 then prevents the foot 20 from sliding relative to the base 10 along the direction XI, so that the base 10, the foot 20, and the retaining system 40 hold the spring 30 pre-stressed with the desired value for the compressive force F30. The fact that it is able to Adjusting the pressing force F30 before installing the spring 30 in the stack 50 is easier and the adjustment more precise.

[0087] If it is planned to install other cartridges 1' for the stack, as is the case for the present example, they are prepared in the same way as cartridge 1, in order to obtain a desired value for their respective pressing force F30.

[0088] Once the cartridge 1 and the housing 60 are ready, as well as any other cartridges 1', an initial compressive force F70 is applied to the stack 51 using a press 70, or any other pressing element separate from the cartridge 1 itself, as shown in [Fig. 4]. For this purpose, the support wall 61 is provided, for example, with secondary openings 67 that pass through it parallel to the direction XI. These openings 67 are visible in [Fig. 3] and are separate from the openings 64. The press 70 advantageously includes one or more compression elements 71, which are then passed through the openings 67 to jointly apply the force F70 to the stack 51 through the wall 61.

[0089] If only one cartridge 1 is to be fitted to the pier 50, it is advantageously assumed that the value of the initial compressive force F70 is slightly greater than the value of the force F30 contained in the cartridge 1 in its prestressed configuration. If, in addition to the cartridge 1, other cartridges 1' are to be fitted to the pier 50, it is advantageously assumed that the value of the initial compressive force F70 is slightly greater than the sum of the values ​​of all the cumulative forces F30 contained in the cartridges 1 and 1' in their prestressed configuration.

[0090] By maintaining the initial compressive force F70 on the stack 51, the cartridge 1 is inserted into the corresponding receiving orifice 64. During the entire insertion, the cartridge 1 is in a pre-stressed configuration. For insertion, the cartridge 1 is inserted from outside the housing 60, or at least from the side of the outer face 66. For insertion, the cartridge 1 is translated along the compression direction XL. The foot 20 is first moved through the orifice 64, then the spring 30. Once the orifice 64 has been moved, the foot 20 and then the spring 30 are inside the housing 60, while the base 10 is still preferably outside, on the side of the outer face 66, at least for the proximal end 11. The insertion begins with a translation of the cartridge 1, then advantageously continues by screwing the base 10 into the orifice 64, upon engagement of the threads 17 and 65.To perform the screwing, the base is preferably actuated using the actuating head 16, which is accessible from outside the housing 60, in particular from face 66.

[0091] The insertion, including here the screwing, is carried out until the foot 20 comes to rest against the stack 51 along the compression direction XI, in particular against the plate 53. When the foot 20 is thus in contact with the stack 51, the base 10 is advantageously in a position known as the "docking position", along the direction XI, relative to the wall 61. When the foot 20 reaches the stack 51, the base 10 is received in the receiving orifice 64, being held by the orifice 64 in the opposite direction to the compression direction XI relative to the support wall 61, here by mutual engagement of the threads 17 and 65. During these steps, the cartridge 1 is always in prestressed configuration and the initial compressive force F70 is maintained.

[0092] If other cartridges 1' are to be installed, they are installed in the same way as cartridge 1, in their respective orifice 64.

[0093] Once cartridge 1 is installed, as well as the other cartridges 1', in particular with the base 10 received and retained in the orifice 64, as described above, and the foot 20 resting against the stack 51, cartridge 1, or, where applicable, each cartridge 1 and 1', is put into the released configuration. For this purpose, in the example, screw 43 is unscrewed to free the translation of foot 20 relative to base 10. Then, since the retaining system 40 no longer takes up the force F30, spring 30 applies the force F30 to the stack 51 via foot 20, bearing on the support wall 61 via base 10. With cartridge 1 in the freed configuration, the force F30 it generates is added to the initial compression force F70 applied by press 70, in order to take over force F70.If several cartridges are used, their force F30 is added to the force F70 to collectively take over the force F70. The force F70 can then be released once cartridge 1, or, if applicable, all cartridges 1, are in the released configuration. This leads to the situation shown in [Fig. 3]. Then, for cartridge 1, or for each cartridge 1 and 1', the force F30, as calibrated when the cartridge was put into the prestressed configuration, is applied to the stack 51 with the same value, or a very close value. Thanks to this method, the desired compressive force value for the stack 51 has been applied in a particularly easy, reliable, precise, and safe manner.

[0094] Preferably, throughout the life of the stack 50, apart from any maintenance operations, the cartridge(s) are left in the released configuration and thus maintain the compression of the stack 51 at the value of the force F30, or where applicable, the sum of the forces F30.

[0095] Alternatively, for the spring 30 of the cartridge 1, a spring of a different type than a helical spring could be provided, for example including spring washers, sometimes called Belleville washers.

[0096] Alternatively, whether the spring 30 has spring washers or not, it can be provided that the spring 30 is designed so that the value of the pressing force F30 of the spring 30 does not vary, or varies very little, for a range of elongation values ​​of the spring 30, a range having a certain extent around the elongation value obtained when the Cartridge 1 is in a pre-stressed configuration. Preferably, the extent of this range covers the dimensional variation of the stack 50 during operation. This can be achieved, in particular, by a spring with spring washers. It is then advantageously provided that, once cartridge 1 is mounted in the stack 50 and is in its released configuration, the spring 30 is within this range of elongation values, so that the value of the pressing force F30 does not vary, or varies very little, despite the dimensional variations of the stack 51.

[0097] A second mode of use of the compensation system and in particular of the cartridge 1 is described below. As before, it is preferentially provided that, prior to inserting the cartridge 1 into the orifice 64, the said cartridge 1 is prepared on the one hand and the stack 51 and the housing 60 are prepared on the other hand.

[0098] The cartridge 1 is prepared in the same way as described previously, so that the cartridge 1 is in a prestressed configuration before its insertion into the orifice 64 of the wall 61. The value of the force applied on the foot 20 at this moment is preferably calibrated to correspond to the value of the pressing force F30 that we want the cartridge 1 to apply later on the stack 51, when the cartridge 1 is received in the orifice 64 and put in a released configuration within the stack 50.

[0099] Independently, as seen previously, to prepare the stack 51 and the housing 60, the stack 51 is supported against the support wall 63 along the compression direction XL. For this purpose, for example, the support wall 63 is positioned horizontally, and the cells 52 are stacked, then the movable end plate 53.

[0100] As shown in [Fig. 6], unlike the previous method of use, the cartridge 1 is inserted into the receiving hole 64 of the support wall 61 before the support wall 61 is fixed to the wall 63. To do this, while the cartridge 1 is in its pre-stressed configuration and the wall 61 is not yet attached to the rest of the housing 60, the cartridge 1 is inserted into the hole 64 until the base 10 is positioned in a particular support position, called the "recessed position," along the direction XI, relative to the wall 61. Once received in the recessed position in the hole 64, the base 10 is held there in the opposite direction to XI, here by mutual engagement of the threads 17 and 65. According to this second method of use, the dimensional compensation system, including the wall 61 and the cartridge 1, is therefore assembled to the advance, before its integration into stack 50.

[0101] According to this second mode of use, the cartridge 1 can be inserted as previously described, that is, along the direction XI from the outer face 66 of the wall 61. Alternatively, since the wall 61 is not yet fixed, the cartridge 1 can be inserted in the opposite direction to XI, from the face inner face 69 of the wall 61. This second mode of use therefore advantageously allows the cartridge 1 to be inserted either from the outer face 66 or from the inner face 69, provided that the base 10 and the orifice 64 have a geometry that allows the cartridge 1 to be inserted into the orifice 64 from the inner face 69, in the opposite direction to XI. This second mode of use also allows the insertion of the cartridge 1 into the orifice 64 to be carried out independently, in particular in advance or in parallel with the assembly of the rest of the stack 50, in particular the stack 51 and the rest of the housing 60.

[0102] If there are several cartridges 1 to be mounted, advantageously all the cartridges 1 are inserted into their respective orifice 64 before fixing the wall 61.

[0103] Once the cartridge 1, or each cartridge 1, is received in the retracted position in the corresponding opening 64 of the support wall 61 as shown in [Fig. 6], the support wall 61 is fixed to the bearing wall 63, while the cartridge 1 is carried by the wall 61, via the opening 64, in the retracted position and is in a prestressed configuration. Since the cartridge 1 is in the retracted position, the foot 20 does not bear against the stack 51, even though the wall 61 is fixed to the wall 63, here via the wall 62. In other words, the foot 20 is distant from the stack 51 in the direction XI, when the wall 61 is fixed and the base 10 is in the retracted position with the cartridge 1 in the prestressed configuration.In other words, the retracted position is a waiting position, which is defined in that, when the base 10 is in the retracted position and the cartridge 1 is in the pre-stressed configuration, a first distance, measured along the direction XI, between the inner face 69 and the pad 22, is less than a second distance, measured along the direction XI, between the inner face 69 and the stack 51 while the wall 61 is fixed.

[0104] Preferably, the fixing of the wall 61, carrying the cartridge 1 in a retracted position, takes place while the initial compression force F70 is not yet applied to the stack 51. This may possibly facilitate the design of the pressing member which will apply the force F70 afterwards.

[0105] The initial compression force F70 is then applied to the stack 51 using the pressure member, separate from the cartridge 1.

[0106] While the initial compressive force F70 is applied, the base 10 is actuated to move it within the orifice 64, along the direction XI, relative to the wall 61, from the retracted position to a specific support position, referred to as the "docking position," where the foot 20 comes to rest against the stack along the direction XI. This can be achieved by screwing the base 10 into the orifice 64, while the threads 17 and 65 are engaged with each other, allowing continuous adjustment of the base's support position relative to the support wall 61 along the direction XI. In this situation, the base 10 is held in the docking position by the orifice 64 along direction XI, while foot 20 is supported against stack 51 along direction XI and cartridge 1 is still in prestressed configuration.

[0107] If other cartridges 1' are provided, all are moved to their docking position in a similar manner, with their foot 20 resting against the stack 51.

[0108] Once cartridge 1 is in the docking position, as well as any other possible cartridge 1', the cartridge or cartridges 1 are tilted into the released configuration. As seen previously, this is done by unscrewing screw 43 to allow the foot 20 to move freely relative to the base 10. As seen previously, the initial compression force F70 is then released. Alternatively, the cartridge or cartridges 1 are tilted into the released configuration after releasing the initial compression force F70.

[0109] Alternatively, for this second mode of use, it is provided that the fixing of the support wall 61 with the bearing wall 63, the support wall 61 carrying the cartridge 1 in the retracted position, takes place while the initial compression force F70 is already applied on the stack 51. This may possibly allow to reduce the stroke to be made by the base 10 between the retracted position and the docking position.

[0110] Alternatively, whatever the intended use, a spring of a different type than a helical spring can be provided for the spring 30 of the cartridge 1, for example including spring washers.

[0111] Alternatively, whether the spring 30 is a spring washer type or of another type, it can be provided that the spring 30 is designed so that the value of the compressive force F30 of the spring 30 does not vary, or varies very little, over a range of elongation values ​​of the spring 30, a range having a certain extent around the elongation value obtained when the cartridge 1 is in the preloaded configuration. This can notably be achieved by a spring with spring washers. It is then advantageously provided that, once the cartridge 1 is mounted in the stack 50 and is in the released configuration, the spring 30 is within this range of elongation values, so that the value of the compressive force F30 does not vary, or varies very little, despite dimensional variations in the stack 51.

[0112] Figures 7 to 9 show a cartridge 101, according to a second embodiment, connected with a fuel cell 150, which is identical to the fuel cell 50 except that the cartridges 1 are replaced by the cartridges 101. The cartridge 101 is identical to the cartridge 1, except for the differences discussed below. The same reference numerals are used in Figures 1 to 9 to designate features or functions common to the embodiments of Figures 1 to 6 and Figures 7 to 9. Reference numerals augmented by 100 are used in Figures 7 to 9 for designate different characteristics, but ensuring similar functions and / or replacing characteristics of the embodiment of figures 1 to 6.

[0113] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the cartridge 101 comprises a base 110, replacing the base 10, a foot 120, replacing the foot 20, a spring 130, replacing the spring 30, and a retaining system 40. The cartridge 101 has a direction of use, defining a compression direction XI, fixed relative to the base 110, and directed from the base 110 towards the foot 120. The cartridge 101 is geometrically traversed by a central axis X10, parallel to the compression direction XL

[0114] Like cartridge 1, cartridge 101 is configured to switch between a pre-stressed configuration, shown in Figures 7 and 8, and a released configuration, thanks to the holding system 40.

[0115] The base 110 is identical to the base 10, except for the differences mentioned below. In particular, the base 110 has a proximal end 11, identical to that provided for the base 10, a distal end 12 identical to that of the cartridge 1, a peripheral wall 13, identical to that provided for the base 10, and, preferably, a central conduit 14 visible in [Fig. 8], identical to that of the cartridge 1. These elements are fixed relative to each other. The axis X10 passes through the ends 11 and 12, the end 12 being in the direction XI with respect to the end 11. The wall 13 surrounds the axis X10 and connects the ends 11 and 12. The central conduit 14, if provided, advantageously passes through the base from the end 11 to the end 12, being centered on the axis X10.

[0116] Preferably, the base 110 comprises an actuating head 16 identical to that of the cartridge 1, and the peripheral wall 13 has an external thread 17 identical to that of the cartridge 1. The foot 120 slides relative to the base 110, guided in this sliding motion by the base 10, along the direction XL. For this purpose, as with the cartridge 1, the foot 120 comprises, for example, a sliding leg 21, received by sliding in a sliding channel 18 formed by the central channel 14. As with the cartridge 1, the foot 120 of the cartridge 101 is designed to bear, along the direction XI, against a pressing surface, perpendicular to the direction XI, via a support pad 22, identical to that of the cartridge 1. As seen previously, the pressing surface is that of the stack 51.

[0117] Foot 120 differs from foot 20 by having an optional sleeve 129, which extends from the periphery of the skate 22, in the opposite direction to XL. Sleeve 129 is tubular in shape, preferably with a circular base, centered on the X10 axis.

[0118] Preferably, the support pad 22 of the cartridge 101 is generally discoid in shape, like that of the cartridge 1.

[0119] Whereas, for cartridge 1, the end 12 terminates the base 10, the base 110 of cartridge 101 further includes a skirt 119, which extends the base 110 from the end 12. The skirt 119 forms an external rim 181 and, optionally, a sleeve 182.

[0120] The external rim 181 extends radially outwards, relative to the axis X10, from the peripheral wall 13, being formed at the height of the end 12 along the axis X10. The external rim 181 extends preferentially over the entire periphery of the base 110.

[0121] The outer rim 181 forms a shoulder, facing in the opposite direction to XL. As shown in [Fig. 9], during the manufacture of the pile 150, the base 110 can bear against the support wall 61 in the opposite direction to XI, via the rim 181, when the base 110 is received in the opening 64 in a retracted position. In particular, the rim 181 is intended to bear against the inner face 69 of the wall 61 when the base 110 is in a retracted position.The rim 181 ensures that the cartridge 101 cannot completely pass through the orifice 64 when inserted in the opposite direction to XL

[0122] . The presence of the external rim 181, extending radially outwards from the peripheral wall 13 and being radially larger than the orifice 64, advantageously prevents insertion of the cartridge 101 into the orifice 64 along the direction XI, allowing insertion only in the opposite direction to XI, from the inner face 69. When the base 110 is received in the orifice 64 in the docking position, the external rim 181 is distant from the wall 61, in particular from the inner face 69, along the direction XL.

[0123] The sleeve 182, if provided, extends along the direction XI from the periphery of the outer rim 181. The sleeve 182 is tubular in shape, advantageously with a circular base, centered on the axis X10. The sleeve 182 radially surrounds the foot 120 and the spring 130 on their outer edges. The sleeve 182 also surrounds the sleeve 129. It can be envisaged that the sleeve 182 contributes to guiding the sliding of the foot 120 along the direction XI, in that the sleeve 182 receives the sleeve 129 to guide its sliding along the direction XL. The sliding guidance of the foot 120 is thus improved. It can be envisaged that the sleeves 129 and 182, enclosing the spring 130, have a protective function for the spring 130, particularly when the cartridge 101 is in a pre-loaded configuration.

[0124] Unlike cartridge 1, the support pad 22 of cartridge 101, as well as the sleeve 129, can be provided to have an outside diameter and / or radial dimension greater than or equal to that of the peripheral wall 13, since cartridge 101 is intended to be inserted into the orifice 64 exclusively in the opposite direction to XL. Indeed, it is not necessary for the foot 120 to pass through the orifice 64 during the insertion of the cartridge 101, the foot 120, or at least the pad 22 and the sleeve 129, remaining on the side of the inner face 69.

[0125] The spring 130 performs the same function as the spring 30, but differs in being made up of a stack of spring washers centered on the axis X10 rather than being made up of a helical spring. The spring 130 bears against the base 110 to apply a compressive force F30 to the foot 120 along the direction XI, by elasticity of the spring 130. Preferably, the spring 130 is a spring that acts in compression, along the direction XL. The spring 130, made up of spring washers, is configured so that the value of the compressive force F30 is constant, or varies little, for a range of elongation values ​​of the spring 130. Preferably, when the cartridge 101 is in the pre-stressed configuration and when the cartridge 101 is in the released configuration by being installed in the stack 150, the elongation value of the spring 130 is in the range where the force F30 depends little on, or is not affected by, a variation in the elongation value.

[0126] In order to apply the force F30 on the foot 120 while bearing on the base 110, it is provided that, parallel to the direction XI, the spring 130 is interposed between the distal end 12 of the base 110 and the support pad 22 of the foot 120. As seen previously, the end 12 and the pad 22 respectively form opposing support walls, each receiving a respective end belonging to the spring 130. The spring 130 is, for example, arranged around the sliding leg 21 of the foot 120.

[0127] Alternatively, the spring 130 could be replaced by the helical spring 30 described above.

[0128] As with the spring 30, it is provided here that, radially with respect to the axis X10, the spring 130 has a radial footprint smaller than that of the base 110, in particular at the wall 13, and also, in the example, than that of the support pad 22. In other words, radially, the spring 130 does not protrude from the base 110. However, this is not mandatory, since the spring does not need to pass through the orifice 64, insofar as the cartridge 101 is inserted in the opposite direction to XI into the orifice 64, the spring 130 then remaining on the side of the inner face 69, possibly being partially received in the orifice 64.

[0129] As with cartridge 1, the conduit 14 of cartridge 101 preferably forms an axial shoulder 41, disposed at the end 11, or between the end 11 and the sliding conduit 18, and rotated in the opposite direction to XL. The axial shoulder 41 forms a primary retaining portion belonging to the retaining system 40 and being integral with the base 110. As with cartridge 1, preferably, a threaded shaft 42 is provided in the sliding leg 21 of the foot 120 of cartridge 101. The threaded shaft 42 forms a secondary retaining portion. belonging to the retaining system 40 and being integral with the foot 120. As with the cartridge 1, the retaining system 40 of the cartridge 101 preferably also includes a screw 43, with a head 44 and a threaded body 45. The screw 43 advantageously constitutes a retaining element belonging to the retaining system 40 of the cartridge 101 and which interacts with the primary retaining portion and the secondary retaining portion, in the same way as for the cartridge 1.

[0130] As with cartridge 1, the retaining system 40 of cartridge 101 advantageously allows adjustment of the position of the foot 120 relative to the base 110 along the compression direction XI, referred to as the "retaining position," for which the retaining system 40 prevents the foot 120 from sliding. Indeed, by tightening or loosening the screw 43 in the threaded barrel 42, the retaining position in which the foot 120 is held by the screw 43 is changed. Tightening the screw brings the foot 120 closer to the base 110, while loosening it moves the foot 120 further away from the base 110. The retaining position in which the foot 120 is held by the retaining system 40 can therefore be chosen from a continuous range of positions of the foot 120 along the direction XL

[0131] Adjusting the position of the foot 120 can be advantageous for adjusting the dimensions of the cartridge 101 along the direction XI and adapting to different usage situations of the cartridge 101.

[0132] To switch the cartridge 101 into the released configuration, the primary retaining portion is decoupled from the secondary retaining portion, preferably by removing the retaining member, in the same way as for the cartridge 1. As with the cartridge 1, one end of the screw 43, located at the level of the head 44, has a recess 46, for example a hexagonal recess, so that a person, using a tool, or a machine, can actuate the screw 43 in rotation around the axis X10.

[0133] Below is described a method of using the compensation system of figures 7 to 9 and in particular of the cartridge 101. As before, it is preferable to plan, prior to inserting the cartridge 101 into the orifice 64, to prepare the said cartridge 101 and to prepare the stack 51 and the housing 60.

[0134] The cartridge 101 is prepared in the same way as described previously, so that the cartridge 101 is in a pre-stressed configuration before its insertion into the orifice 64 of the wall 61.

[0135] Independently, as seen previously, to prepare the stack 51 and the housing 60, the stack 51 is supported against the support wall 63 along the compression direction XL. For this purpose, for example, the support wall 63 is positioned horizontally, and the cells 52 are stacked, then the movable end plate 53.

[0136] The cartridge 101 is inserted into the receiving orifice 64 of the support wall 61, before the support wall 61 is fixed to the bearing wall 63, while the cartridge 101 is in its pre-stressed configuration and the support wall 61 is not yet attached to the rest of the housing 60. The cartridge 101 is inserted in the opposite direction to XI, from the inner face 69. The cartridge 101 is inserted into the opening 64 until the base 110 is positioned in the retracted position, this retracted position being the position of the cartridge for which the rim 181 is bearing against the inner face 69. Thus received in the opening 64 in the retracted position, the base 110 is held there in the opposite direction to XI by mutual engagement of the threads 17 and 65. The dimensional compensation system, including the wall 61 and the cartridge 101, is therefore assembled in advance, before its integration into the pile 150.While the cartridge 101 was inserted in the opposite direction to XI, the spring 130 and the foot 120 did not pass through the orifice 64 and remained on the side of the inner face 69.

[0137] If there are several cartridges to be mounted, advantageously all the cartridges are inserted into their respective orifices 64 before the wall 61 is fixed, in a similar manner, in a retracted position. The support wall 61 is then fixed to the bearing wall 63, while the cartridge 101 is carried by the wall 61, via the orifice 64, in a retracted position and is in a prestressed configuration. This results in the situation illustrated in [Fig. 9]. Since the cartridge 101 is in a retracted position, the foot 120 does not bear against the stack 51, even though the wall 61 is fixed to the support wall 63, here via the wall 62. In other words, the foot 120 is distant from the stack 51 along the direction XI, when the support wall 61 is fixed to the support wall and the base 110 is in a retracted position with the cartridge 101 in the prestressed configuration.As seen previously, the retracted position is a waiting position, which is defined in that, when the base 110 is in the retracted position and the cartridge 101 is in the pre-stressed configuration, a first distance, measured along the direction XI, between the inner face 69 and the pad 22 is less than a second distance, measured along the direction XI, between the inner face 69 and the stack 51 while the support wall 61 is fixed to the bearing wall.

[0138] As seen previously, it can be anticipated that the fixing of the wall 61, carrying the cartridge 101 in a retracted position, occurs while the initial compression force F70 is not yet applied to the stack 51. This may possibly facilitate the design of the pressing member which will apply the force F70 subsequently.

[0139] The force F70 is then applied to the stack 51 using the pressure member, separate from the cartridge 101.

[0140] While the initial compressive force F70 is applied, the base 110 is actuated to move it in the orifice 64, along the direction XI, relative to the wall 61, From the rearward position to the docking position, where the foot 120 rests against the stack 51 along direction XI, this can be achieved by screwing the base 110 into the hole 64, while the threads 17 and 65 are engaged, allowing continuous adjustment of the position of the base 110 relative to the wall 61 along direction XI. The same procedure is followed for any other cartridge. In the docking position, the rim 181 is away from the inner face 69. In this situation, the base 110 is held in the docking position by the hole 64 along direction XI, while the foot 120 rests against the stack 51 along direction XI and the cartridge 101 remains in its pre-stressed configuration.

[0141] Once cartridge 101 is in the docking position, as well as any other cartridges, the cartridge(s) are tilted into the released configuration. As seen previously, this is done by unscrewing screw 43 to free the translation of foot 120 relative to base 110. As seen previously, the initial compression force F70 is then released.

[0142] Alternatively, it is provided that the fixing of the support wall 61 with the bearing wall 63, the support wall 61 carrying the cartridge 101 in a retracted position, takes place while the initial compressive force F70 is already applied to the stack 51.

[0143] Any feature described above for one embodiment or variant applies to the other embodiments and variants described above, as far as technically possible.

Claims

Demands

1. Cartridge (1; 101), for maintaining in compression, along a compression direction (XI), a stack (51) of electrochemical cells (52) belonging to a fuel cell (50; 150), the cartridge (1; 101) comprising: • a base (10; 110), through which the cartridge (1; 101) is configured to be retained in the opposite direction to the compression direction (XI), when the base (10; 110) is received in a receiving orifice (64) integral with, or belonging to, the fuel cell (50; 150); • one foot (20; 120): • which is arranged in the compression direction (XI) relative to the base (10; 110), sliding relative to the base (10; 110) parallel to the compression direction (XI), and • which is configured to come into contact with the stack (51) along the compression direction (XI) when the base (10; 110) is received in the receiving orifice (64); • a spring (30; 130), which bears against the base (10; 110) to apply a pressing force (F30) on the foot (20; 120) along the compression direction (XI); and • a retaining system (40), which includes a primary retaining portion (41), integral with the base (10; 110), and a secondary retaining portion (42), integral with the foot (20; 120), the primary retaining portion (41) and the secondary retaining portion (42) being configured to: • be coupled to each other when the cartridge (1; 101) is in a prestressed configuration, the primary retaining portion (41) and the secondary retaining portion (42) thus coupled preventing the foot (20; 120) from sliding relative to the base (10; 110) along the compression direction (XI); and • be decoupled from each other when the cartridge (1; 101) is in a released configuration, the primary retaining portion (41) and the retaining portion se- secondary (42) thus decoupled allowing the foot (20; 120) to slide relative to the base (10; 110) along the compression direction (XI).

2. Cartridge (1; 101) according to claim 1, wherein the retaining system (40) is configured to allow adjustment of a retaining position of the foot (20; 120), defined with respect to the base (10; 110) and for which the retaining system (40) prevents the foot (20; 120) from sliding, among a continuous range of positions of the foot (20; 120) along the compression direction (XI), in order to adjust the value of the pressing force (F30) applied by the spring (30; 130).

3. Cartridge (1; 101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the retaining system (40) comprises a retaining member (43), through which the primary retaining portion (41) and the secondary retaining portion (42) are coupled, when the cartridge (1; 101) is in prestressed configuration.

4. Cartridge (1; 101) according to claim 3, wherein: • the retaining member (43) comprises a head and a threaded body; • the primary retaining portion (41) forms a shoulder; and • the secondary retaining portion (42) forms a threaded shaft parallel to the compression direction (XI), the primary retaining portion (41) and the secondary retaining portion (42) being coupled to each other when the head is bearing against the shoulder along the compression direction (XI) and the threaded body is engaged with the threaded shaft.

5. Cartridge (1; 101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base (10; 110) forms an external thread (17), so that the cartridge (1; 101) can be retained in the opposite direction to the compression direction (XI) by engaging the external thread (17) with an internal thread (65) formed by the receiving orifice (64), when the base (10; 110) is received in the receiving orifice (64).

6. Cartridge (1; 101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the spring (30; 130) is a compression spring interposed between the base (10; 110) and the foot (20; 120) along the compression direction (XI).

7. Dimensional compensation system comprising the cartridge (1; 101) according to any one of the preceding claims and a support wall (61), separate from the cartridge (1; 101) and forming the receiving orifice (64), the receiving orifice (64) being shaped to receive the base (10; 110) so that, when the base (10; 110) is thus received, the foot (20; 120) of said cartridge (1; 101) protrudes from the support wall (61) in the compression direction (XI) and the base (10; 110) is accessible from an external face (66) of the support wall (61), then opposite the foot (20; 120).

8. Dimensional compensation system according to claim 7, wherein the receiving orifice (64) and the base (10) are shaped so that the base (10) can be received in the receiving orifice (64) by insertion of the cartridge (1) into the receiving orifice (64) along the compression direction (XI), the receiving orifice (64), the spring (30) and the foot (20) being shaped so that the spring (30) and the foot (20) can pass through the receiving orifice (64) when the base (10; 110) is inserted into the receiving orifice (64) along the compression direction (XI).

9. Dimensional compensation system according to any one of claims 7 or 8, wherein the receiving orifice (64) and the base (10; 110) are shaped so that the base (10; 110) can be received in the receiving orifice (64) by inserting the cartridge (1; 101) into the receiving orifice (64) in the opposite direction to the compression direction (XI).

10. Dimensional compensation system according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the receiving orifice (64) and the base (10; 110) are configured to allow adjustment of a support position of the base (10; 110), defined with respect to the support wall (61) and for which the base (10; 110) is retained when the base (10; 110) is received in the receiving orifice (64), among a continuous range of positions of the base (10; 110) along the compression direction (XI).

11. Fuel cell (50; 150) comprising: • the dimensional compensation system according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein: • the cartridge (1; 101) is in the released configuration, and • the base (10; 110) is received in the receiving orifice (64) so ​​as to be retained relative to the support wall (61), in the opposite direction to the compression direction (XI); • a support wall (63), the support wall (63) and the supporting wall (61) being fixedly attached to each other, the support wall (63) being disposed in the compression direction (XI) relative to the supporting wall (61); and • the stack (51) of electrochemical cells (52), which is arranged between the support wall (61) and the bearing wall (63) and is supported against the bearing wall (63) along the compression direction (XI), the spring (30; 130) of the cartridge (1; 101) applying the pressing force (F30) on the stack (51) via the foot (20; 120), along the compression direction (XI), bearing on the base (10; 110), the foot (20; 120) being supported along the compression direction (XI) against the stack (51).

12. Fuel cell (50; 150) according to claim 11, wherein the support wall (61) and the bearing wall (63) belong to a housing (60) of the fuel cell (50; 150), the stack (51) being received inside the housing (60), the housing (60) further comprising a longitudinal wall (62) connecting the support wall (61) to the bearing wall (63).

13. Use of the cartridge (1; 101) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, use including: • an application of an initial compression force (F70) on the stack (51) using a pressure member (70) separate from the cartridge (1; 101), along the compression direction (XI), while the stack (51) is supported against a support wall (63) along the compression direction (XI); • insertion of the cartridge (1; 101) into the receiving orifice (64) while the cartridge (1; 101) is in its pre-stressed configuration, until the base (10; 110) is received in the receiving orifice (64) to be held in the opposite direction to the compression direction (XI); and • a configuration freed from the cartridge (1; 101) and a release of the initial compression force (F70), while the base (10; 110) is received in the receiving orifice (64) and the foot (20; 120) is in contact with the stack (51) along the direction of compression (XI), so that the spring (30; 130), bearing on the base (10; 110), applies the pressing force (F30) on the stack (51) via the foot (20; 120), along the direction of compression (XI).

14.

15. Use according to claim 13, wherein: if only one cartridge (1; 101) is provided, the initial compression force (F70) has a value greater than a value of the pressing force (F30) obtained when the cartridge (1; 101) is in prestressed configuration before the foot (20; 120) comes to rest against the stack (51); or if other cartridges (1') are provided in addition to said cartridge (1; 101), the initial compression force (F70) has a value greater than a sum of the values ​​of the pressing forces (F30) obtained when the cartridges (1; 101) are in prestressed configuration, before their respective foot (20; 120) comes to rest against the stack (51). Use according to any one of claims 13 or 14, further including, prior to the application of the initial compression force (F70): a support of the stack (51) against the support wall (63) along the compression direction (XI); and a fixing of a support wall (61) to the support wall (63), the receiving orifice (64) being formed through the support wall (61), the fixing of the support wall (61) being carried out while the stack (51) is supported against the support wall (63) along the compression direction (XI), so that the support wall (63) is disposed in the compression direction (XI) with respect to the support wall (61) and that the stack (51) is disposed between the support wall (61) and the support wall (63).

16. Use according to claim 15, wherein the insertion of the cartridge (1) into the receiving orifice (64) is carried out while the fixing of the support wall (61) to the bearing wall (63) has already been carried out, the insertion of the cartridge (1) into the receiving orifice (64) being carried out in the direction of compression (XI), while the initial compression force (F70) is applied, until the foot (20) comes to rest against the stack (51) in the direction of compression (XI).

17. Use according to claim 15, wherein the fixing of the support wall (61) to the bearing wall (63) is carried out while the insertion of the cartridge (1; 101) into the receiving orifice (64) has already been carried out, so that the base (10; 110) is already received in the receiving orifice (64) when the support wall (61) is fixed to the bearing wall (63).

18. Use according to claim 17, wherein: • the insertion of the cartridge (1; 101) into the receiving orifice (64) is carried out until the base (10; 110) is in a recoiled position along the compression direction (XI), relative to the support wall (61); and • the use includes a displacement of the base (10; 110) relative to the support wall (61), along the compression direction (XI), from the recoiled position to a docking position, in which the foot (20; 120) comes to rest against the stack (51) along the compression direction (XI), the displacement of the base (10; 110) being carried out while the base (10; 110) is received in the receiving orifice (64), while the fixing of the support wall (61) has been carried out, while the initial compression force (F70) is applied and before carrying out the release configuration of the cartridge (1; 101).

19. Use according to any one of claims 13 to 18, further comprising, prior to the insertion of the cartridge (1; 101), pre-stressing the cartridge (1; 101) by coupling the primary retaining portion (41) with the portion of secondary retention (42), in order to bring the pressing force (F30) to a desired value for maintaining the stack (51) in compression.

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