Modular system for pressing units, pressing unit for a pressing tool, pressing tool, and method for producing a pressing unit, method for producing a component

Abstract

The invention relates to a modular system for pressing units (11), comprising first parts (110, 210) which each have a first partial topography (112, 212), and / or second parts (120, 220) which are provided for arrangement on end faces (104, 204) of the pressing unit (11) and which each have a second partial topography (122), and / or third parts (130, 230) which are provided for arrangement on side edges (106, 206) of the pressing unit (11) and which each have a third partial topography (132), and / or fourth parts (106, 206) which are provided for arrangement at corners (108, 208) of the pressing units (11) and which each have a fourth partial topography (142), wherein in the assembled state, the corresponding partial topographies (112, 212, 122, 132, 142) form a topography (102, 202) of the pressing unit (11).

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] title

[0003] Modular system for press units, press unit for a press tool, press tool, and method for manufacturing a press unit, method for manufacturing a component

[0004] State of the art

[0005] The invention relates to a modular system for press units, such a press unit, a press tool with at least one such press unit, a method for manufacturing such a press unit and a method for manufacturing a component using such a press tool.

[0006] Formed sheet metal or other suitable formed materials, structured surfaces, components, as well as press units for press tools and press tools with at least one such press unit are known. Press tools are also known which form a component, in particular bipolar plate halves and / or plates for heat exchangers and / or structured surfaces and / or other suitable components, from a workpiece made of sheet metal or another suitable material.

[0007] For example, sheet metal can be formed into bipolar plates for electrolysis stacks, plates for heat exchangers, or vehicle parts, such as body panels. Other products are also conceivable.

[0008] Furthermore, numerous variations of methods for manufacturing such press units are known. For example, pressing with a press and a press tool is known. In this case, the press tool comprises two press units.

[0009] DLR-4313 WO

[0010] 2025-09-09 Additionally, deep drawing using a press tool with at least one press unit is known. A press unit can be designed as a die unit and a press unit can be designed as a punch unit. A press presses the punch unit with the workpiece into the die unit, the shape of the component formed from the workpiece depending on the shapes of the die unit and / or punch unit.

[0011] Another known process is hydroforming, in which a fluid is introduced into a chamber containing the workpiece and a die unit. The press tool comprises the chamber with the fluid supply line and the die unit. The fluid in the chamber presses the workpiece into the die unit, which determines the shape of the component formed from the workpiece.

[0012] Forming using a roller is also known. In this process, the workpiece is placed on a die unit, which can at least partially define the shape, particularly the shape of the underside, of the component formed from the workpiece, or on another suitable surface. The roller, which can at least partially define the shape, particularly the shape of the top side, of the component formed from the workpiece, rolls over the workpiece. The roller can press the workpiece into the forming die unit. The press tool can include the roller and the die unit.

[0013] Forming using multiple rollers is also known. In this process, two counter-rotating rollers with appropriate surfaces can deform the workpiece.

[0014] The deformation can be achieved by pressing, embossing, rolling, hydroforming, or a combination of the aforementioned deformation methods.

[0015] DLR-4313 WO

[0016] September 9, 2025 Typically, producing additional components with a different design requires at least one new press unit or press tool. These new press units or press tools, in turn, can only be used for that specific type of component. This is because the dimensions of each press unit are designed so that all forming operations that can be performed on a workpiece in a single operation can be carried out with a unique press unit in a unique press tool. Therefore, each press tool and each press unit within the press tool is unique for precisely that one type of component.

[0017] The individual press units are typically manufactured using machining processes, such as milling, drilling, grinding, and other suitable methods. The use of these manufacturing processes is a time-consuming process for producing press tools, as the surface topography of the press unit usually needs to be modified accordingly. Since each individual press unit generally has the dimensions of the entire component being manufactured, large surfaces are machined to produce a correspondingly large press unit, depending on the component being manufactured. This results in an enormous amount of time and correspondingly high costs for the press units, especially when manufacturing large, structured surfaces, such as those found in bipolar plates and / or plates for heat exchangers.Furthermore, depending on the size of the press unit, sufficient installation space must be provided for its manufacture and storage. For large components, components produced in small quantities, or large components produced in relatively small quantities, such as bipolar plate halves, the manufacturing costs for the press units can represent a significant portion of the total costs and increase the price of the components.

[0018] Disclosure of the invention

[0019] The purpose of the invention is to create a modular system for the cost-effective production of press units.

[0020] DLR-4313 WO

[0021] 2025-09-09 Another object of the invention is to create a cost-effective press unit for pressing processes, in particular for deep drawing processes and / or hydroforming processes and / or embossing processes and / or rolling processes.

[0022] Another object of the invention is to create a cost-effective press tool for the production of components, in particular for the production of bipolar plate halves or plates for heat exchangers or other structured surfaces or other structured components, with at least one press unit.

[0023] Another objective of the invention is to create an effective method for manufacturing a cost-effective press unit.

[0024] Another objective of the invention is to create a cost-effective method for manufacturing a component from a workpiece.

[0025] The problems are solved by the features of the independent claims. Favorable embodiments and advantages of the invention become apparent from the further claims, the description, and the drawings.

[0026] The features listed individually in the patent claims can be combined in a technologically meaningful way and can be supplemented by explanatory facts from the description and by details from the figures, showing further embodiment variants of the invention.

[0027] According to one aspect of the invention, a modular system for press units is provided. The modular system according to the invention comprises first parts, each having a first partial topography. Additionally or alternatively, the modular system according to the invention comprises second parts, which are intended for arrangement on the end faces of the press unit and each have a second partial topography. Additionally or alternatively, the modular system according to the invention comprises third parts, which are intended for arrangement on the side edges of the press unit and each have a third partial topography.

[0028] DLR-4313 WO

[0029] 2025-09-09 Additionally or alternatively, the modular system according to the invention comprises fourth parts, which are provided for arrangement at the corners of the press unit and which each have a fourth partial topography. In the assembled state, the corresponding partial topographies form a topography of the press unit. Here, first parts are designed to abut at least one second part at their transverse sides. Third parts are designed to abut at least one fourth part at their transverse sides. First parts are designed to abut at least one third part at their longitudinal sides. Second parts are designed to abut at least one fourth part at their longitudinal sides. Where and how the respective parts abut each other depends in particular on the shape of the respective parts and on the shape of the press unit to be manufactured.

[0030] For example, the longitudinal sides of the parts can essentially run lengthwise along the press unit to be formed. The transverse sides of the parts can essentially run lengthwise along the press unit to be formed. This allows, in rectangular press units with longitudinal and transverse extensions, the transverse sides of the rectangular parts to abut each other lengthwise, and the longitudinal sides of the rectangular parts to abut each other crosswise. In an alternative embodiment, the parts can also have other suitable shapes, in which case adjacent parts abut each other in a suitable manner. Furthermore, the press units can have other suitable shapes. In cylindrical press units, the longitudinal sides of the parts can extend lengthwise along the press unit or crosswise along the press unit.radial direction of the cylinder shell and the transverse sides of the parts run in the longitudinal direction of the cylinder shell of the press unit to be formed.

[0031] The topography of the press unit defines the shape of one side of the component formed from the workpiece after the pressing process, in particular the bipolar plate half, the plates for heat exchangers, or other structured surfaces or components, that faces the press unit. The topography of the press unit is formed from the composite partial topographies of the respective parts used.

[0032] DLR-4313 WO

[0033] 2025-09-09 In the following, topography is understood to mean a combination of areas with elevations and / or depressions and / or flat areas. The shape and / or pattern and / or number of elevations, flat areas and / or depressions depend on the desired surface of the component to be manufactured. It is also possible that one of the sub-topographies consists solely of flat areas or a continuous flat area.

[0034] In the following, a workpiece is understood to be an element, in particular a sheet of steel or a metallic sheet or a metallic foil, or another suitable foil, or wax or plastic or a suitable foam, from which the component to be manufactured, in particular the bipolar plate half or the plate for heat exchangers or another structured surface, or another structured component, is formed or manufactured.

[0035] Advantageously, the modular system and its components allow for the production of many different press units in various sizes using existing parts of the modular system.

[0036] In this way, similar types of components, which differ in size (e.g., length and / or width), can be formed from workpieces using press units with similar or even identical parts, with the press unit for the longer and / or wider component having additional parts. An example of such components could be fenders for different vehicle models.

[0037] Furthermore, similar press units can easily be created in different sizes, as smaller press units can be supplemented with additional parts, or larger press units can be adjusted in size by omitting components. This is particularly advantageous for bipolar plates and / or heat exchangers, whose performance can be modified by increasing or decreasing the number or length of existing channels. Internal channels of the bipolar plates and / or heat exchangers can be lengthened by adding additional parts, or internal channels can be added by adding additional parts.

[0038] DLR-4313 WO

[0039] 2025-09-09 Furthermore, similar component types, which differ from each other only in one area, can be manufactured from similar parts using press units, whereby only different parts are used in the press units to form the different areas.

[0040] Advantageously, by using a set with several first parts, several second parts, several third parts, several fourth parts, or a set with a combination of the aforementioned parts, the production of press units and thus the production of different types of components can be made significantly more flexible and cost-effective.

[0041] The individual parts of the kit according to the invention can advantageously be combined with one another in any desired way and are therefore reusable. In this process, the partial topographies of the individual parts, when assembled, form the desired topography for shaping the workpiece.

[0042] Numerous combinations of parts are possible; for example, individual parts can form a press unit on their own.

[0043] Alternatively, several first parts, several second parts, several third parts, or several fourth parts can form a press unit.

[0044] Alternatively, two different parts can form a press unit, whereby the number of each part can vary. For example, first parts and second parts, or first parts and third parts, or second parts and fourth parts, or third parts and fourth parts can form a press unit.

[0045] Alternatively, three different parts can form a press unit, with the number of each part varying. For example, a press unit can consist of first parts, second parts, and third parts; or first parts, second parts, and fourth parts; or first parts, third parts, and fourth parts; or second parts, third parts, and fourth parts.

[0046] Alternatively, all four parts can form a press unit, whereby the number of each part can vary.

[0047] DLR-4313 WO

[0048] 2025-09-09 The user can freely decide how and in what quantity the individual parts are combined to form a press unit, depending on requirements. This allows for the creation of many different component types and basic modules.

[0049] A user has the option of assembling the component to be manufactured from several, in particular different, basic modules, whereby at least one of the basic modules is formed with a press unit from one or more parts of the kit. Press units for basic modules can be assembled from one or more parts. Alternatively, the user can assemble a press unit from different parts to form the component from a single workpiece.

[0050] One possible application is the production of bipolar plates. Here, for example, two fourth parts, at least one second part, at least two third parts, and at least one first part can form a press unit for a basic module of a bipolar plate half. One or two press units can be used for the press tool to press the basic modules. At least two of the basic modules produced with the press tool can be joined together, for example, welded together, to form a bipolar plate half. Two such bipolar plate halves can be stacked on top of each other to form a bipolar plate. In this process, the same press tool with the same press unit(s) can be used for all basic modules when producing the bipolar plate from basic modules. This reduces costs by decreasing the number of press units and press tools. Furthermore, the press unit, or rather the press unit, isThe press units are smaller than the bipolar plate or bipolar plate half composed of the basic modules, thus enabling space-saving manufacturing. Furthermore, using one press unit or press tool for all basic modules reduces the manufacturing costs of the press tool or press unit.

[0051] DLR-4313 WO

[0052] September 9, 2025 Thus, the individual parts of a press unit are no longer limited to the production of a single type of component, in particular a single type of bipolar plate, a single type of plate for heat exchangers, a single type of other structured surfaces, or a single type of other structured components. Instead, with a sufficiently large inventory of parts, a wide variety of press units can be manufactured for different types of components or for different types of basic modules of a component assembled from basic modules. This means that the manufacturing costs for the individual parts are incurred only once. This approach can be compared to the use of type in traditional letterpress printing. Each part can be used multiple times and does not need to be manufactured for each new type of component or for each new component.Each new type of bipolar plate, especially the bipolar plate half, or each plate type for heat exchangers, or any other structured surface or component, can be manufactured anew. This allows the manufacturing costs of the press units to be reduced to the proportional costs of the parts used. Furthermore, reusing the same parts for different press units significantly reduces material consumption and, consequently, material costs. Manufacturing time can also be reduced to assembling the parts until the desired dimensions and topography are achieved. Additionally, storing smaller individual parts is easier and more flexible than storing large press units, thus reducing storage costs.

[0053] The aforementioned advantages allow for a significant reduction in manufacturing costs, storage costs and setup times for the press units.

[0054] According to an advantageous embodiment of the modular system, first parts and / or second parts and / or third parts and / or fourth parts can each exist in at least two forms. For example, the basic shapes of the forms and / or the sub-topographies of the forms can differ from one another. In this context, the basic shapes of the forms and / or the sub-topographies of the forms can be mirror-symmetric and / or point-symmetric to each other. Additionally or alternatively, the sub-topography of a first form can be the inverse of an otherwise identical sub-topography of a second form.

[0055] DLR-4313 WO

[0056] 2025-09-09 The partial topographies of the basic bodies of the part types can, for example, be symmetrical. Additionally or alternatively, the basic bodies of the part types can have fastening elements at their edges that are not arranged symmetrically to fastening elements of another part type. Additionally or alternatively, the basic bodies of the types can differ from one another in their longitudinal and / or transverse dimensions and / or in their shapes. This allows for the implementation of different lengths, widths, and shapes of the press units, which are not multiples of a fixed longitudinal dimension of the existing types of first, second, third, and fourth parts. The longitudinal and transverse dimensions of the part types can be chosen arbitrarily or be multiples of one of the longitudinal and / or one of the transverse dimensions.

[0057] The symmetry of the different parts types allows for the easy production of symmetrical press units and press unit topographies. Furthermore, the parts can be easily assembled if symmetry exists. By simply adding or removing parts, the length and / or width of the press units can be easily scaled.

[0058] Due to different longitudinal and / or transverse expansions of the types of parts, the lengths and widths of the corresponding press units can be easily changed and adapted.

[0059] With symmetrical types of parts, the probability can be increased that different parts and different types of parts from the modular system will fit together and form a suitable press unit.

[0060] Two matching press units can be easily formed by using inverse partial topographies of the types of parts.

[0061] DLR-4313 WO

[0062] 2025-09-09 For example, a second type of first part could be a reflection of the first type of first part or a rotation of the first type of first part by 90°, 180°, or 270°. The basic bodies of these types of first parts can have different shapes and can have identical, rotated, or reflected subtopographies, or the basic bodies can differ from the other basic bodies of the other types only in their first subtopography. Furthermore, in another alternative embodiment, different first subtopographies are conceivable that do not exhibit symmetries with other types of first parts. Additionally, a second type of first part could be an inversion of a first type of first part. Moreover, the types of first parts can differ in their shapes and / or in their subtopographies.For example, the basic bodies of the types of the first parts may differ from each other in their extensions, or at least in one extension.

[0063] For example, a second type of second part could be a mirror image of the first type of second part or a 180° rotation of the first type of second part. This allows a suitable second part to be provided for each end face of the press unit. Alternatively, the types of second parts can differ in their partial topographies, with a second type of second partial topography being a mirror image of the first type of second partial topography or a 180° rotation of the first type of second partial topography. This allows a suitable second part to be provided for each end face of the press unit. The basic bodies of these types of second parts can have different shapes or can differ from the other basic bodies of this type solely in their partial topography. Furthermore, different second partial topographies are also conceivable that do not exhibit any symmetries with other types of second parts.Furthermore, a second type of second part can be an inversion of a first type of second part. Additionally, the types of second parts can differ in their shapes and / or their partial topographies. For example, the types of second parts can vary in their longitudinal extent or in their transverse extent, or in both their longitudinal and transverse extent.

[0064] DLR-4313 WO

[0065] 2025-09-09 For example, a second type of third part could be a mirror image of the first type of third part or a 180° rotation of the first type of third part. This would allow a suitable third part to be provided for each side edge of the press unit. Alternatively, the types of third parts could differ in their partial topographies, with a second type of third partial topography being a mirror image of the first type of third partial topography or a 180° rotation of the first type of third partial topography. This would also allow a suitable third part to be provided for each side edge of the press unit. The basic bodies of these types of third parts could have different shapes or could differ from other basic bodies of this type solely in their partial topography. Furthermore, different third partial topographies are also conceivable that do not exhibit any symmetries with other types of third parts.Furthermore, a second type of third part can be an inversion of a first type of third part. Additionally, the types of third parts can differ in their shapes and / or their partial topographies. For example, the types of third parts can vary in their longitudinal extent, their transverse extent, or both their longitudinal and transverse extent.

[0066] For example, a second type of fourth part can be a mirror image of the first type of fourth part or a rotation of the first type of fourth part by 90°, 180°, or 270°. This allows a suitable fourth part to be provided for each corner between an end face and a side edge of the press unit. Alternatively, the types of fourth parts can differ in their part topographies, with a second type of fourth part topography being a mirror image of the first type of fourth part topography or a rotation of the first type of fourth part topography by 90°, 180°, or 270°. This allows a suitable fourth part to be provided for each corner between an end face and a side edge of the press unit. The basic bodies of these types of fourth parts can have different shapes or can differ from the other basic bodies of this type solely in their part topography.Furthermore, different fourth subtopographies are conceivable, which do not exhibit symmetries with other types of fourth parts. Additionally, a second type of fourth part can be an inversion of a first type of fourth part. Moreover, the types of fourth parts can differ in their forms and / or their subtopographies.

[0067] DLR-4313 WO

[0068] 2025-09-09 Additionally or alternatively, the types of the fourth parts may vary in their longitudinal extent or in their transverse extent or in their longitudinal and transverse extent.

[0069] The kit consists of individual parts, with second and third parts being edge parts, fourth parts being corner parts, and first parts being middle parts, which are suitable for being arranged at an edge formed by the other parts, within a frame formed by the edges, or surrounded by other first parts. Different types of first, second, third, and fourth parts can exist, differing in the shape of their basic forms and / or in the shape of their respective topographies. The parts, or rather the types of parts, can be combined with one another in any way.

[0070] The additional types of first parts and / or second parts and / or third parts and / or fourth parts allow for further variations when assembling the press unit.

[0071] According to an advantageous embodiment of the modular system, at least one type of first part, at least one type of second part, at least one type of third part, and at least one type of fourth part can each be adapted to one another in their longitudinal and transverse dimensions, such that parts abutting each other on transverse sides and parts abutting each other on longitudinal sides are flush. Large surfaces can be easily assembled from the parts by means of this flush fit.

[0072] According to an advantageous embodiment of the modular system, at least one type of first part and / or one type of second part and / or one type of third part and / or one type of fourth part can have at least one cutting element. This at least one cutting element allows a punching process to take place in parallel with the forming process. In this case, one type of the respective part can have the at least one cutting element in addition to its part topography, while another type of the respective part can be identical to the type with the at least one cutting element, except for the at least one cutting element.

[0073] DLR-4313 WO

[0074] 2025-09-09 Furthermore, the cutting elements can be arranged on the respective parts in such a way that, for example, abutting parts can form a continuous cutting element. The cutting elements of the individual parts can be aligned and / or arranged to form a frame with each other. This allows a cutting element to be formed for the press units, which cuts or punches out the finished shape in the same way. This cutting element can be individually adapted by means of the individual, assembled cutting elements.

[0075] In an advantageous embodiment of the modular system, the first sub-topography of the first part can have straight, for example, parallel, raised sections and / or, if possible with an internal flow field of the component to be formed, meandering raised sections, for example, parallel to each other. In this way, the first sub-topography of the first parts can form a flow field for media on the workpiece during intended use. The flow field can be formed particularly in components designed as bipolar plate halves or plates for heat exchangers. Other sub-topographies for other components are also conceivable. Straight and meandering raised sections of the press unit's sub-topographies can form open grooves in the pressed component.If the pressed components are designed as bipolar plate halves, bipolar plate halves can be stacked on top of each other, so that the open grooves of both bipolar plate halves can form closed internal flow channels.

[0076] A first type of first element can exhibit meandering elevations, a second type can exhibit straight elevations, a third type can exhibit meandering elevations with straight sections, or straight elevations with meandering sections. Furthermore, a fourth type of first element can exhibit both meandering and straight elevations. In addition, the aforementioned elevations can be combined to create further types of first elements.

[0077] DLR-4313 WO

[0078] 2025-09-09 The end sections of the different types of protrusions can be aligned with each other at edge areas, for example at end faces, where the first parts abut each other. The protrusions can run parallel to each other and thereby form parallel flow fields for bipolar plate halves or plates for heat exchangers or other suitable components.

[0079] The first part can also be used without further parts to manufacture components or basic modules. In this way, several initial basic modules with the flow field or another suitable shape can be created from the first part, which, when combined with identical or different basic modules, form larger components.

[0080] According to an advantageous embodiment of the modular system, the second sub-topography of the first type of the second part can have at least curved elevations, in particular parabolic elevations. Furthermore, the second sub-topography of the second type of the second part can have at least elevations with at least partially straight contours. Furthermore, the second sub-topography of the third type of the second part can have elevations with sections of curved contours and sections of straight contours. Advantageously, these curved elevations, in particular parabolic elevations, can form channels from a media inlet or to a media outlet on the corresponding side of the workpiece. The channels can form an inlet zone or an outlet zone. The channels can form a media distributor that distributes the media from the media inlet to the channels of the flow field.Additionally, the channels can combine the media from the flow field to the media outlet. The straight sections of the elevations of the second sub-topography can be located, in particular, at one of the edge areas, for example, the front face, of the second part.

[0081] DLR-4313 WO

[0082] 2025-09-09 This allows the raised areas of the second part to connect more effectively to the raised areas of the first part. Furthermore, the second part's topography can include raised areas that form the media entry and / or exit points on the corresponding side of the workpiece. These raised areas can be located on one of the end faces of the second part, particularly the end face opposite the end face that abuts the first part when assembled.

[0083] The curved elevations of the press unit's sub-topography can form open grooves as channels in the pressed component. If the pressed components are designed as bipolar plate halves, these halves can be stacked on top of each other, so that the open grooves of both bipolar plate halves can form closed internal flow channels.

[0084] Furthermore, the elevations of the second sub-topography can form sealing zones and / or supply line zones. Other shapes that could be formed by the second sub-topography are also conceivable.

[0085] The second part can also be used independently to form components or basic modules. In this way, several second basic modules can be created with the second part, including the inlet zone and / or the outlet zone and / or the media distributor and / or the media entry and / or the media exit, or with another suitable shape. These modules, when combined with identical or other basic modules, form larger components.

[0086] According to an advantageous embodiment of the modular system, the end regions of the raised areas of the first sub-topography and the end regions of the raised areas of the second sub-topography of first and second parts, which are arranged abutting each other at transverse sides, can be aligned with each other. This allows continuous flow channels or continuous structures to be formed on the corresponding side of the workpiece during the pressing process. In particular, the end regions of the channels of the flow fields and the end regions of the channels of the inlet zone and / or outlet zone are aligned with each other.

[0087] DLR-4313 WO

[0088] 2025-09-09 This allows fluidic interconnected channels to be created on the manufactured components. If second parts are arranged on both end faces of the press unit, inlet channels can transition into outlet channels.

[0089] According to an advantageous embodiment of the modular system, the third sub-topography of third parts and / or the fourth sub-topography of fourth parts and / or the second sub-topography of second parts can have at least one raised section at its respective edge. The raised section arranged at the respective edge of the sub-topography can, for example, run parallel to a section of the edge of the corresponding part. This at least one raised section can form a sealing surface, an inlet, or a drain on the corresponding side of the workpiece. With multiple raised sections of the respective topographies, sealing surfaces and / or inlets and / or drains can be formed on the corresponding side of the workpiece. A sealing surface formed at the edge of the component by the press unit can enable a reliable seal of the manufactured component.Internal sealing surfaces are also conceivable, where, for example, the first parts could have a corresponding raised section, or the second, third, and fourth parts could have raised sections that, when assembled, are positioned at a distance from the edge. An inlet or outlet located at the edge can be routed along the edge to save space. As with the sealing surfaces, internal inlets or outlets are also conceivable. Furthermore, depending on the component being formed, other topographies that create different structures are also conceivable.

[0090] The third and / or fourth part can also form a press unit without any further parts.

[0091] With the third part as a press unit, a third basic module can be produced which has an edge with at least one sealing surface and / or at least one inlet and / or at least one outlet and / or another suitable structure.

[0092] DLR-4313 WO

[0093] 2025-09-09 With the fourth part as a press unit, a fourth basic module can be produced which forms a corner and has at least one sealing surface and / or at least one inlet and / or at least one outlet and / or another suitable structure.

[0094] The third and / or fourth basic modules can be combined with identical or other basic modules to form larger components. Second, third, and fourth basic modules can be arranged at the edge of the component composed of different basic modules.

[0095] In an advantageous embodiment of the modular system, the end regions of the raised sections at the edge of the third sub-topography and the end regions of the raised sections at the edge of the fourth sub-topography of third and fourth parts abutting each other at their transverse sides can be aligned with each other. Additionally or alternatively, the end regions of the raised sections at the edge of the fourth sub-topography and the end regions of the raised sections at the edge of the second sub-topography of fourth and second parts abutting each other at their longitudinal sides can be aligned with each other. This allows the raised sections to form continuous sealing surfaces and / or continuous inlets and / or continuous outlets and / or continuous other structures on the corresponding side of the workpiece during the pressing process.

[0096] A continuous sealing element can advantageously be arranged on a continuous sealing surface of the manufactured component, enabling a reliable seal. Continuous supply or discharge lines allow for tight and fluidic connections. Third and fourth parts can enclose the press unit in the transverse direction, creating a component that is closed in this direction. In this case, one edge of the press unit, and thus one edge of the component, or both edges of the press unit, and thus both edges of the component, can be closed in the transverse direction.

[0097] DLR-4313 WO

[0098] 2025-09-09 Second and fourth parts can close off the press unit longitudinally and produce a longitudinally closed component. In this case, one of the end faces of the press unit, and thus one of the end faces of the component, or both end faces of the press unit, and thus both end faces of the component, can be longitudinally closed.

[0099] If the raised areas on the edge of the fourth component are arranged diagonally and connected to each other, a circumferential sealing surface and / or inlet and / or outlet and / or other suitable structure can be created on the corresponding side of the workpiece. A circumferential sealing element can be arranged on the continuous sealing surface of the manufactured component. Additionally or alternatively, other continuous structures can be created.

[0100] With an advantageous design of the modular system, the partial topographies can be incorporated into the respective surface using subtractive manufacturing processes. For example, the partial topographies can be incorporated into the respective surface using mechanical processes such as milling, drilling, or grinding, or thermal processes such as electrical discharge machining (EDM). The manufacturing processes can also be combined. Furthermore, other suitable manufacturing processes are conceivable. The application of these manufacturing processes is less complex for smaller parts than for large press units. Moreover, the manufacturing process is performed only once for each of these parts, and the respective part can be used for multiple press units.

[0101] In addition to the described elevations of the topographies and sub-topographies, depressions and flat surfaces of the topographies and sub-topographies naturally also contribute to the shaping of the component.

[0102] In an advantageous embodiment of the modular system, at least one of the parts can have at least one guide for at least one fastening element. The at least one fastening element can connect the corresponding parts to each other, or the at least one fastening element can connect the corresponding part to a retaining element.

[0103] DLR-4313 WO

[0104] 2025-09-09 The fasteners enable a reliable connection of the parts to each other and / or to a holding element, and improve the stability of the corresponding press unit during the pressing process and / or storage and / or transport. The guide allows for easy application of the fasteners.

[0105] According to an advantageous embodiment of the modular system, at least one of the parts can have at least one groove and / or at least one tongue. The edges of the at least one part can, for example, have at least one groove and / or one tongue. The types of the first, second, third, and / or fourth parts can differ in the arrangement of the grooves and / or tongues. With otherwise identical base bodies, one type of part can have only grooves and another type of part only tongues on all sides or on opposite sides. Alternatively, one type of part can have both grooves and tongues. The tongues and grooves enable a reliable connection of the parts and improve the stability of the corresponding press unit during the pressing process, storage, and / or transport.

[0106] In addition, various connection types can be combined. These connection techniques enable a reliable connection of the parts and improve the stability of the corresponding press unit during the pressing process, storage, and / or transport.

[0107] According to a further aspect of the invention, a press unit is provided for the production of components. For example, bipolar plate halves, plates for heat exchangers or other structured surfaces and other structured components can be produced with such a press unit according to the invention. Furthermore, the press unit according to the invention can be used in various processes for the production of a component, for example in pressing processes and / or deep drawing processes and / or embossing processes and / or hydroforming processes and / or rolling processes.

[0108] DLR-4313 WO

[0109] 2025-09-09 The press unit can, for example, form a die unit and / or a punch unit for a press tool. The press unit according to the invention comprises a surface facing a workpiece to be formed, which has a topography that shapes the workpiece. The press unit according to the invention is modularly formed from several assembleable parts of the described modular system, each of which has a partial topography and each of which deforms a corresponding area of ​​the side of the workpiece facing the surface of the press unit.

[0110] The press unit formed from at least two parts of the modular system according to the invention has the same advantages as the modular system according to the invention or has the same advantages as the described parts of the modular system. Therefore, not all advantages of the modular system according to the invention and the corresponding parts of the modular system will be repeated below.

[0111] Advantageously, the press unit according to the invention is no longer manufactured from a single element possessing the dimensions of the entire press unit or the component to be produced. Instead, each press unit consists of individual parts that can be combined with one another. The individual parts each form or machine a specific area of ​​the workpiece from which the component is formed. In this way, each part of the kit can be used multiple times for different, and in particular, differing, press units. This eliminates the need to manufacture parts anew for each new component type and each new press unit, thereby reducing costs and time in the production of press units. Furthermore, material consumption in the production of press units can be reduced by reusing the parts.Furthermore, the manufacturing time can be reduced to the assembly of the parts until the desired dimensions and topography are achieved.

[0112] The aforementioned advantages allow for a significant reduction in manufacturing costs and setup times for the press units.

[0113] DLR-4313 WO

[0114] 2025-09-09 In a pressing process using a hydroforming process and / or a pressing process with a press and / or a rolling process, several identical components of a component type are formed or manufactured from several workpieces using a press unit.

[0115] The press unit according to the invention can form a die unit for a hydroforming process. In the following, a hydroforming process is understood to be a forming process in which a working medium, in particular a fluid, is introduced into a chamber containing the die unit, which is designed, in particular, as a half-mold. The pressure of the working medium presses the workpiece into the die unit, which determines the shape of the component formed from the workpiece.

[0116] Furthermore, the press unit according to the invention can form a die unit for a press tool in a pressing process with a press. The press unit according to the invention can also form a punch unit for such a press tool. In the pressing process, a press presses the punch unit and the workpiece into the die unit, wherein the die unit or the punch unit defines the shape of the component formed from the workpiece, or wherein the die unit and the punch unit define the shape of the component formed from the workpiece. The press tool can have one or two press units according to the invention. A combination of a press unit according to the invention and a known press unit in a single press tool is also conceivable.

[0117] Furthermore, the press unit according to the invention can form a cylinder for a rolling process. The press unit according to the invention can also form a die unit for a rolling process. In the rolling process, the workpiece is placed on the die unit or on another suitable surface. The die unit can be another cylinder, with the cylinders rotating in opposite directions. Alternatively, the die unit can form another suitable surface over which the cylinder rolls. The cylinder rolls over the workpiece, the pressure pressing the workpiece against the cylinder and against or into the die unit, with the cylinder and / or the die unit or its surface defining the shape of the component formed from the workpiece.

[0118] DLR-4313 WO

[0119] 2025-09-09 The arrangement for the rolling process can comprise one or two press units according to the invention. A combination of a press unit according to the invention and a known press unit is also conceivable.

[0120] First parts can each have a first sub-topography, which, for example, forms a flow field for media for bipolar plate halves or plates for heat exchangers or other suitable components. The first sub-topography can also form other elements on the components. Second parts are intended for arrangement on the end faces of the press unit and can each have a second sub-topography, which, for example, forms distributors for media. The second sub-topography can also form other elements on the components. Third parts are intended for arrangement on the side edges of the press unit. Fourth parts are intended for arrangement at the corners of the press unit.

[0121] In the assembled state, end-mounted first parts can abut at least one transverse side of a corresponding second part. In a press unit extending in a plane, end-mounted first parts can abut at least one second part longitudinally. In the assembled state, end-mounted third parts can abut at least one transverse side of a corresponding fourth part. In a press unit extending in a plane, end-mounted third parts can abut at least one fourth part longitudinally. In the assembled state, edge-mounted first parts can abut at least one longitudinal side of a corresponding third part.In a press unit running in a plane, first parts arranged at the edges can abut at least one third part in the transverse direction. In the assembled state, second parts arranged at the edges can abut at least one longitudinal side of a corresponding fourth part with their longitudinal sides. In a press unit running in a plane, second parts arranged at the edges can abut at least one fourth part in the transverse direction.

[0122] DLR-4313 WO

[0123] 2025-09-09 Depending on the shape of the components to be manufactured and the shape of the respective parts, the parts may also touch each other in areas other than those mentioned.

[0124] The size of the press units, and therefore the size of the components—especially the size of bipolar plates, heat exchanger plates, structured surfaces, or structured components—can be easily adapted to individual requirements, such as required dimensions and / or performance classes, for example, power, current, voltage, and / or desired heat transfer. This, in turn, can significantly reduce the production costs of a single component, a bipolar plate half, and thus of a fuel cell stack, a heat exchanger plate, a structured surface, or a structured component, particularly when dealing with individual pieces or small production runs.

[0125] The topography of the press unit defines the shape of the side of the component formed from the workpiece after the pressing process that faces the press unit. The topography of the press unit is formed from the combined partial topographies of the respective parts used.

[0126] The arrangement of the parts can be advantageously varied. One possibility is to assemble the parts in such a way that the at least one third part and / or the at least one fourth part enclose the formed press unit in the transverse direction at the side edges, or at one of the side edges, or at a section of at least one side edge.

[0127] Additionally or alternatively, at least a second part and / or at least a fourth part can close off the formed press unit longitudinally at the end faces or at one of the end faces or at a section of at least one of the end faces.

[0128] DLR-4313 WO

[0129] 2025-09-09 Furthermore, the second, third, and fourth parts can define a frame in which at least one, and in particular several, first parts are arranged. Besides bipolar plate halves, other components can also be manufactured with such press units, in particular components with an internal flow field, for example, plates for heat exchangers or other structured components or other structured surfaces. Components manufactured with such press units in different lengths and / or widths can also be produced.

[0130] Furthermore, the parts of the kit according to the invention can be used as a press unit to create basic modules.

[0131] Numerous combinations of the parts are possible; for example, first and second parts can form a press unit without third and fourth parts. The user can freely decide how and in what quantity the individual parts are combined to form a press unit, according to their needs. This allows for the creation of many different component types and basic modules. A user has the option of either assembling the component to be manufactured from various basic modules and assembling press units from the parts of the inventive kit, which then form workpieces into the basic modules. Alternatively, the user can assemble a press unit from various parts to manufacture the component from a single workpiece.

[0132] In an advantageous embodiment of the press unit, at least one of the assembleable parts is movably mounted in the vertical direction and can move independently of the other parts. This allows pressure to be exerted during pressing on a single, vertically movably mounted part or on a group of vertically movably mounted parts. This advantageously enables the component to be pressed sequentially through individual parts or groups of parts. In this process, pressure is not exerted on the entire press unit, but rather on each part or group of parts individually and successively. This allows the workpiece to be deformed in sections or segments. This makes it possible to form large components with small presses, since uniform pressure on all parts of the press unit by a large press is not required.

[0133] DLR-4313 WO

[0134] 2025-09-09 A press that is smaller than the press unit can successively exert pressure on the various groups or parts of the press unit that are movable in the vertical direction, thereby achieving uniform pressing of the workpiece.

[0135] According to an advantageous embodiment of the press unit, the press unit can be designed as a multi-part die unit, which is configured to guide a punch unit designed as a roller. The length and / or width of the die unit can advantageously be easily adapted to the length and / or width of the workpiece and / or to the height of the roller. This allows many different components to be manufactured using a single roller and various parts of the assembly according to the invention via the rolling process. For this purpose, the assembly can provide a type of third part and / or a type of second part, which has a rim that guides the roller.

[0136] In an advantageous embodiment of the press unit, the press unit can be designed as a punch unit or as a die unit, which is configured as a multi-part cylinder, wherein one cylinder shell of the cylinder exhibits the multi-part topography. In particular, longitudinal sides of first parts and / or third parts, or transverse sides of first parts and / or second parts, can be curved to form the cylinder shell. The parts can be assembled at the curved longitudinal sides and aligned transverse sides, or at the curved transverse sides and aligned longitudinal sides of the parts. Advantageously, the cylinder can form a roller capable of deforming a workpiece of virtually any length. If the width of the workpiece is a multiple of the height of the cylinder, a workpiece of any width can also be deformed by the cylinder through repeated insertion of the cylinder.Furthermore, two cylinders can rotate in opposite directions to each other, with one cylinder forming the punch unit and the other forming the die unit. At least one of the cylinders is configured as a press unit according to the invention.

[0137] DLR-4313 WO

[0138] 2025-09-09 According to an advantageous embodiment of the press unit, the press unit and / or at least a region of the press unit and / or a cylindrical surface of the press unit can be designed to be mirror-symmetric about a longitudinal axis of symmetry and / or mirror-symmetric about a transverse axis of symmetry and / or point-symmetric about a point of symmetry.

[0139] This allows a component to be advantageously designed to be mirror-symmetrical about a longitudinal axis of symmetry and / or mirror-symmetrical about a transverse axis of symmetry and / or point-symmetrical about a point of symmetry. Furthermore, the press unit can be arranged in a symmetrical press configuration, which facilitates assembly. If the press unit is designed as a cylinder, the cylinder shell can be mirror-symmetrical about a longitudinal axis of symmetry and / or mirror-symmetrical about a transverse axis of symmetry and / or point-symmetrical about a point of symmetry.

[0140] According to an advantageous design of the press unit, the topography formed from the partial topographies can be mirror-symmetrical about the longitudinal axis of symmetry and / or mirror-symmetrical about the transverse axis of symmetry and / or point-symmetrical about the point of symmetry. The remainder of the press unit, for example, lower surfaces or side surfaces, can exhibit different symmetries than the formed topography or may have no symmetries at all. This allows a surface to be created on the corresponding side of the workpiece that is mirror-symmetrical about the longitudinal axis of symmetry and / or mirror-symmetrical about the transverse axis of symmetry and / or point-symmetrical about the point of symmetry. The press unit can be adapted to a press that has different symmetries or no symmetries.

[0141] DLR-4313 WO

[0142] 2025-09-09 According to an advantageous embodiment of the press unit, several first parts can be arranged abutting each other longitudinally on transverse sides and / or transversely on longitudinal sides. In this case, the end regions of the respective elevations of the first partial topographies can be designed such that longitudinally abutting first parts have end regions aligned with each other and form continuous elevations.

[0143] Different types of first elements can be combined, or the same type of first element can be combined. Furthermore, first elements abutting each other transversely could have protrusions with aligned end regions, forming continuous protrusions. The length of a flow field or another suitable structure can be defined by several first elements abutting each other longitudinally. The width of a flow field or another suitable structure can be defined by several first elements abutting each other transversely.

[0144] In an advantageous embodiment of the press unit, at least two of the parts can be connected to each other via grooves and tongues and / or by fastening elements, in particular threaded rods and / or screws. The edges of the respective parts can, for example, have grooves and / or tongues. Grooves and tongues allow for a reliable connection between adjacent parts. Additionally or alternatively, a threaded rod or other suitable element can be guided through several parts. The parts can have corresponding guides or passages for the threaded rod or element. A press unit can have several such threaded rods or elements. The threaded rods or elements can be tightened and fixed to the side edges of the press unit using a suitable fastening element, for example, a nut or a clamp.Furthermore, the connection types can be combined. These connection techniques enable a reliable connection of the parts and improve the stability of the corresponding press unit during the pressing process, storage, and / or transport.

[0145] DLR-4313 WO

[0146] 2025-09-09 According to an advantageous embodiment of the press unit, at least one part can be fixed to at least one holding element. A holding element can be a frame, a base plate, or a grid of lattice-like arranged elements. Furthermore, several holding elements can be combined with one another to form a holding arrangement.

[0147] For example, the frame can be combined with the base plate and / or the grid. The components can be fixed to the retaining element individually or as a unit. For example, the components can be secured within a frame using a clamping arrangement that clamps the components between opposing frame elements. Alternatively, the frame can have fastening devices, such as tongue and groove joints, guides, and / or rails that can be guided in guides, and / or guides for screws or other fasteners. Components located adjacent to the frame can have corresponding fastening devices that interact with the frame-side fastening devices and ensure secure fixation of the edge components to the frame. Furthermore, edge components can be attached to the frame using detachable fasteners, such as screws.A similar approach can be taken with a base plate or grid, where the underside of the parts has corresponding fastening devices that interact with fastening devices on the base plate or grid to securely fix the parts to the base plate or grid. For example, the undersides of the parts can have guides that are guided by rails and fixed by the rails in at least one spatial direction. Such rails and guides allow the parts to be easily threaded and enable flush connections between adjacent parts. The rails can form the grid. Additionally or alternatively, the parts can be attached to the base plate or grid using detachable fasteners. Furthermore, the threaded rods or elements can be attached to the frame and / or the base plate and / or the grid.

[0148] DLR-4313 WO

[0149] 2025-09-09 Additionally or alternatively, vertically movable components can be connected to the holding assembly via movable bolts. A force can be applied to the respective component via the bolts, pressing it onto the workpiece and / or lifting it away from the workpiece. This enables sequential pressing of the component to be manufactured by individual parts.

[0150] According to a further aspect of the invention, a press tool for manufacturing components, in particular for manufacturing bipolar plate halves or plates for heat exchangers or other structured surfaces or other structured components, is proposed, comprising at least one press unit. At least one of the press units is designed like the press unit described in the invention. In intended use, a workpiece is deformed at least on one side by a pressing force and the forming topography of the at least one press unit. A surface of the press unit facing the workpiece exhibits the forming topography.

[0151] Advantageously, at least one of the press units of the press tool according to the invention is no longer manufactured from a single element that has the dimensions of the entire press unit and the component to be produced. Instead, the at least one press unit consists of individual parts that can be combined with one another. The individual parts each form or machine a region of the workpiece from which the component is formed. In this way, each part can be used multiple times for different, and in particular, differing, press units. This eliminates the need to manufacture new parts for each new type of component and each new press unit, thereby advantageously reducing costs and setup times in the manufacture of the press tool.

[0152] DLR-4313 WO

[0153] 2025-09-09 The press tool with at least one press unit formed from at least two parts of the modular system according to the invention has the same advantages as the modular system according to the invention and / or as the press unit. Therefore, not all advantages of the modular system according to the invention and the corresponding parts or the press unit according to the invention are repeated below.

[0154] Because the press units can be provided more cheaply and quickly thanks to the modular system, the corresponding press tools can also be provided more cheaply and quickly in an advantageous way.

[0155] In an advantageous embodiment of the press tool, at least one of the press units is designed as a die unit or a punch unit. The press tool can comprise a die unit, a punch unit, or both a die unit and a punch unit. The die unit and / or the punch unit can have the surface facing the workpiece with the forming topography.

[0156] In one embodiment of the press tool according to the invention, the die unit can be formed from several reusable parts. The punch unit can correspond to a conventional punch unit.

[0157] In an alternative embodiment of the press tool according to the invention, the punch unit can be formed from several reusable parts. The die unit can correspond to a conventional die unit.

[0158] In an alternative embodiment of the press tool according to the invention, the die unit and the punch unit can be formed from several reusable parts.

[0159] According to an advantageous design of the press tool, the dimensions of the die unit and / or the punch unit can be adapted to the dimensions of the component to be manufactured and / or to the dimensions of an area of ​​the workpiece to be formed.

[0160] DLR-4313 WO

[0161] 2025-09-09 Since at least one of the press units is made up of several parts, the dimensions of this press unit can easily be adapted to the dimensions of the component to be manufactured by adding further parts. This allows even very small batches or individual pieces to be produced quickly and cost-effectively using the press tool, as the corresponding press tool and press units can be provided quickly and inexpensively.

[0162] In an advantageous embodiment of the pressing tool, a mechanical press, a cylinder, or the pressure of a fluid can generate the pressing force. In a mechanical press, the pressing tool can comprise a punch unit and a die unit, wherein the press presses the punch unit, along with the workpiece, into the die unit. Alternatively, the press can move individual bolts sequentially, each of which presses one of the parts or a group of parts of a pressing unit designed as a punch unit according to the invention towards the workpiece and the die unit. Alternatively, the pressing tool can comprise only the punch unit and no die unit. In this case, the mechanical press presses the punch unit onto the workpiece. Alternatively, the punch unit of the pressing tool can be designed as a cylinder or as a roller that rolls over the workpiece.If the workpiece is arranged on a die unit, the punch unit and / or the die unit can be designed as a multi-part press unit according to the invention. Alternatively, a fluid in a chamber can press the workpiece into a die unit. In this case, the fluid replaces the punch unit, so that the die unit is designed as a multi-part press unit according to the invention.

[0163] The pressing tool can be advantageously adapted to the method used.

[0164] In an advantageous embodiment of the press tool, the press tool can comprise two counter-rotating cylinders, one cylinder being designed as a punch unit and the other as a die unit. Here, at least one of the cylinders is designed as a multi-part press unit according to the invention. Advantageously, a continuous process can be realized by means of two counter-rotating cylinders.

[0165] DLR-4313 WO

[0166] 2025-09-09 According to an advantageous embodiment of the pressing tool, at least one part can be attached to at least one retaining element. The retaining element can advantageously increase the stability of the pressing unit and thus of the pressing tool.

[0167] According to a further aspect of the invention, a method for manufacturing a press unit or press tool according to the invention, for manufacturing components, in particular for manufacturing bipolar plate halves or plates for heat exchangers or other structured surfaces or other structured components, is proposed, comprising the step of providing a modular system according to the invention. The modular system can comprise first parts, each having a first partial topography, and / or second parts, which are provided for arrangement on the end faces of the press unit and each have a second partial topography, and / or third parts, which are provided for arrangement on the side edges of the press unit and each have a third partial topography, and / or fourth parts, which are provided for arrangement at the corners of the press unit and each have a fourth partial topography.A further step in the process for manufacturing a press unit according to the invention is determining the required parts based on the specifications for the component to be pressed. A further step is assembling the parts. In the assembled state, first parts arranged at the end face can abut at least one second part at their transverse sides. Furthermore, third parts arranged at the end face can abut at least one fourth part at their transverse sides. Additionally, first parts arranged at the edges can abut at least one third part at their longitudinal sides. Furthermore, second parts arranged at the edges can abut a fourth part at their longitudinal sides. The parts used for assembly are those determined based on the specifications.It is possible to assemble a press unit from just one or more first parts and / or one or more second parts and / or one or more third parts and / or one or more fourth parts. This allows for the rapid production of a wide variety of press units.

[0168] DLR-4313 WO

[0169] 2025-09-09 Furthermore, the time-consuming step of creating the topography can be avoided, as the topography can be generated from the sub-topographies of the individual parts. This can reduce manufacturing times for press units, especially if the required parts are already available in sufficient quantities.

[0170] If necessary, first, second, third, and / or fourth parts can also be produced in the initial stages if there are not enough parts available. Since smaller parts can be produced more quickly than larger parts, and parts from previous press cycles can be reused, production times can be advantageously reduced.

[0171] This approach offers additional advantages in the design and development of new press units. Depending on the application, a suitable press unit can easily be generated by varying the number of parts. Such a modular system significantly reduces the development costs for new press units.

[0172] In an advantageous embodiment of the method, at least one part can be connected to at least one other part and / or a retaining element. By connecting individual parts to each other or to at least one retaining element, or by connecting individual parts to each other and to at least one retaining element, a stable press unit can advantageously be created.

[0173] With the press units and press tools according to the invention, which are part of the kit according to the invention, various types of components can be manufactured using different methods. The press units and press tools can be adapted to different pressing processes. Furthermore, various specifications for the components to be manufactured can be implemented easily and quickly. This allows for the cost-effective production of many different press units, and thus many different components, from a single stock of individual parts.

[0174] DLR-4313 WO

[0175] 2025-09-09 According to a further aspect of the invention, a method for manufacturing a component from a workpiece using a press tool according to the invention is proposed, wherein in one process step at least one press unit according to the invention is manufactured and the workpiece is deformed in a further process step at least on one side by a pressing force and a shaping topography of at least one press unit of the press tool. For example, the method can be an embossing process and / or a rolling process and / or a pressing process and / or a hydroforming process.

[0176] One possible application is the production of bipolar plates. Here, for example, two fourth parts, at least one second part, at least two third parts, and at least one first part can form a press unit for a basic module of a bipolar plate half. One or two press units can be used for the press tool to press the basic modules. At least two of the basic modules produced with the press tool can be joined together, for example, welded together, to form a bipolar plate half. Two such bipolar plate halves can be stacked on top of each other to form a bipolar plate. In this process, the same press tool with the same press unit or the same press units can be used for all basic modules when producing the bipolar plate from basic modules. This reduces costs by decreasing the number of press units and press tools. Furthermore, the press unit, or rather the press unit, isThe press units are smaller than the bipolar plate or bipolar plate half composed of the basic modules, thus enabling space-saving manufacturing. Furthermore, using one press unit or press tool for all basic modules reduces the manufacturing costs of the press tool or press unit.

[0177] DLR-4313 WO

[0178] 2025-09-09 Drawing

[0179] Further advantages become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments 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.

[0180] They show, for example:

[0181] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a press tool according to the invention for the production of a component or component module;

[0182] Fig. 2 shows a sectional view of a press tool;

[0183] Fig. 3 shows an embodiment of a press unit according to the invention in the unassembled state with six first parts, six second parts, four third parts and four fourth parts;

[0184] Fig. 4 shows a view of a further embodiment of the press unit according to the invention in the unassembled state with six first parts, six second parts, four third parts and four fourth parts;

[0185] Fig. 5 shows a view of the embodiment of the press unit according to the invention as shown in Figure 4 in the unassembled state with five first parts, five second parts, two third parts and three fourth parts;

[0186] Fig. 6 shows an enlarged view of a second part of the press unit according to the invention as shown in Figures 4 and 5;

[0187] Fig. 7 shows a view of a further embodiment of the press unit according to the invention in the unassembled state with six first parts, six second parts, four third parts and four fourth parts;

[0188] Fig. 8 shows a view of the embodiment of the press unit according to the invention as shown in Figure 7 in the partially assembled state;

[0189] DLR-4313 WO

[0190] 2025-09-09 Fig. 9 shows a sectional view of a further embodiment of the press unit according to the invention;

[0191] Fig. 10 shows a sectional view of a section of a further embodiment of the press tool according to the invention;

[0192] Fig. 11 is a schematic block diagram of a device according to the invention.

[0193] Method for manufacturing a press unit; and

[0194] Fig. 12 is a schematic block diagram of a device according to the invention.

[0195] Method for manufacturing a component.

[0196] Embodiments of the invention

[0197] In the figures, similar or equivalent components are numbered with the same reference symbols. The figures merely show examples and are not to be understood as limiting.

[0198] Before the invention is described in detail, it should be noted that it is not limited to the respective components of the device or the respective process steps, as these components and processes can vary. The terms used here are intended solely to describe particular embodiments and are not used restrictively. Furthermore, where the singular or indefinite articles are used in the description or in the claims, this also refers to the plural of these elements, unless the overall context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0199] The directional terminology used below, including terms like "left," "right," "above," "below," "in front," "behind," "after," and the like, serves only to improve the understanding of the figures and is in no way intended to limit their generality. The components and elements depicted, their interpretation, and their use may vary according to the considerations of a person skilled in the art and be adapted to the specific applications.

[0200] DLR-4313 WO

[0201] 2025-09-09 Figures 1 and 10 show exemplary embodiments of the press tools 10 according to the invention. These each have two press units 11 according to the invention. In an alternative embodiment not shown, only one of the press units 11 can be a press unit 11 according to the invention.

[0202] Figure 2 shows a sectional view of a press tool 10. A representation of several parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 has been omitted in Figure 2.

[0203] The modular system for press units is not explicitly shown, but each illustrated press unit 11 according to the invention comprises several parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 from such a modular system. Furthermore, the parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 of the illustrated press units 11 can form such a modular system or form the basis for such a modular system.

[0204] An embodiment of the modular system for press units 11 according to the invention, not shown, comprises first parts 110, 210 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7 to 10, each of which has a first partial topography 112, 212.

[0205] An alternative embodiment of the modular system for press units 11 according to the invention, not shown, comprises second parts 120, 220 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 8, which are provided for arrangement on end faces 104, 204 of the press unit 11 and which each have a second partial topography 122. A second part 120 is shown enlarged in Figure 6.

[0206] An alternative embodiment of the modular system for press units 11 according to the invention, not shown, comprises the first parts 110, 210 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7 to 10 and the second parts 120, 220 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 8.

[0207] DLR-4313 WO

[0208] 2025-09-09 An alternative embodiment of the modular system for press units 11 according to the invention, not shown, comprises third parts 130, 230 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7 to 9, which are provided for arrangement on side edges 106, 206 of the press unit 11 and which each have a third partial topography 132.

[0209] An alternative embodiment of the modular system for press units 11 according to the invention, not shown, comprises the first parts 110, 210 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7 to 10 and the third parts 130, 230 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7 to 9.

[0210] An alternative embodiment of the modular system for press units 11 according to the invention, not shown, comprises the second parts 120, 220 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 8 and the third parts 130, 230 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7 to 9.

[0211] An alternative embodiment of the modular system for press units 11 according to the invention, not shown, comprises the first parts 110, 210 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7 to 10, the second parts 120, 220 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 8 and the third parts 130, 230 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7 to 9.

[0212] An alternative embodiment of the modular system for press units 11 according to the invention, not shown, comprises fourth parts 140, 240 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7, 8, which are provided for arrangement at corners 108, 208 of the press unit 11 and which each have a fourth partial topography 142.

[0213] An alternative embodiment of the modular system for press units 11 according to the invention, not shown, comprises the first parts 110, 210 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7 to 10 and the fourth parts 140, 240 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7, 8. Since the first parts 110, 210 and the fourth parts 140, 240 do not abut each other, this embodiment of the modular system according to the invention might be rather unlikely to be used in practice.

[0214] DLR-4313 WO

[0215] 2025-09-09 An alternative embodiment of the modular system for press units 11 according to the invention, not shown, comprises the second parts 120, 220 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 8 and the fourth parts 140, 240 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7, 8.

[0216] An alternative embodiment of the modular system for press units 11 according to the invention, not shown, comprises the third parts 130, 230 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7 to 9, and the fourth parts 140, 240 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7, 8.

[0217] An alternative embodiment of the modular system for press units 11 according to the invention, not shown, comprises the first parts 110, 210 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7 to 10, the second parts 120, 220 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 8 and the fourth parts 140, 240 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7, 8.

[0218] An alternative embodiment of the modular system for press units 11 according to the invention, not shown, comprises the units shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5.

[0219] The first parts shown in figures 7 to 10: 110, 210; the third parts shown in figures 1, 3 to 5, 7 to 9: 130, 230; and the fourth parts shown in figures 1, 3 to 5, 7, 8: 140, 240.

[0220] An alternative embodiment of the modular system for press units 11 according to the invention, not shown, comprises the second parts 120, 220 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 8, the third parts 130, 230 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7 to 9 and the fourth parts 140, 240 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7, 8.

[0221] An embodiment of the modular system for press units 11 according to the invention, not shown in detail in the figures, comprises the first parts 110, 210 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7 to 10, the second parts 120, 220 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 8, the third parts 130, 230 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7 to 9 and those shown in Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7,

[0222] The fourth parts 140, 240 shown in Figures 8. The parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 of the corresponding press units 11 shown in Figures 1, 3 to 10 come from such a kit.

[0223] DLR-4313 WO

[0224] 2025-09-09 As can be seen from Figures 1 to 5, 7 to 10, in the assembled state of parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240, the corresponding partial topographies 112, 212, 122, 132, 142 form a topography 102, 202 of the press unit 11.

[0225] Additionally, parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 can be in different types.

[0226] As can be seen from Figure 1, in the illustrated embodiments, a first type of first part 110, a first type of second part 120, a first type of third part 130, and a first type of fourth part 140 are provided for a die unit 100. A second type of first part 210, a second type of second part 220, a second type of third part 230, and a second type of fourth part 240 are provided for a punch unit 200. Naturally, the types of parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, and 240 can also be used for press units 11 other than those shown in Figure 1.

[0227] Numerous combinations of the first parts 110, 210, the second parts 120, 220, the third parts 130, 230, and the fourth parts 140, 240 and their types are possible; for example, individual parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 can form a press unit 11 on their own, or a combination of different types of part 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 can form a press unit 11, or a combination of different parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 and their types can form different press units 11.

[0228] As can be seen from Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7 to 8, the first parts 110, 210, where first parts 210 are only shown in Figures 1 and 10, are designed to abut at least one second part 120, 220 on transverse sides, where the second parts 220 are only shown in Figures 1 and 10.

[0229] As can be seen from Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7 to 8, the third parts 130, 230, where third parts 230 are only shown in Figure 1, are designed to abut at least one fourth part 140, 240 on transverse sides, where the fourth part 240 is only shown in Figure 1.

[0230] DLR-4313 WO

[0231] 2025-09-09 As can be seen from Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7 to 9, the first parts 110, 210, where first parts 210 are only shown in Figures 1 and 10, are designed to abut at least a third part 130, 230 on their long sides, where the third part 230 is only shown in Figure 1.

[0232] As can be seen from Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7 to 8, second parts 120, 220, where second parts 220 are only shown in Figure 1, are designed to abut at least a fourth part 140, 240 on their longitudinal sides, where fourth parts 240 are only shown in Figure 1.

[0233] In an alternative embodiment not shown, parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 may also have other shapes and may abut each other in other areas.

[0234] As already mentioned, first parts 110, 210 and / or second parts 120, 220 and / or third parts 130, 230 and / or fourth parts 140, 240 can each occur in at least two types. These types can differ from one another, in particular, in their respective subtopography 112, 122, 132, 142, 212.

[0235] The basic bodies of the species and / or the subtopographies 112, 122, 132, 142, 212 of the species can be mirror-symmetric and / or point-symmetric to each other.

[0236] Furthermore, the subtopography 112, 122, 132, 142 of a first type can be formed inversely to an otherwise identical subtopography 212 of the second type. In this case, the two types of the respective part can form an inverse pair, between which the workpiece is arranged.

[0237] Furthermore, one type of first part 110, 210 and / or one type of second part 120, 220 and / or one type of third part 130, 230 and / or one type of fourth part 140, 240 may have at least one cutting element not shown.

[0238] Additionally or alternatively, the basic bodies of types 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 may differ from each other in their longitudinal and / or transverse dimensions.

[0239] DLR-4313 WO

[0240] 2025-09-09 In the illustrated embodiments, the longitudinal extensions run in the longitudinal direction X of the corresponding press unit 11. The transverse extensions run in the transverse direction Y of the corresponding press unit 11 in the illustrated embodiments. Other orientations of parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 are also conceivable. Furthermore, the partial topographies of the types of parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 can be symmetrical to each other, for example, but the basic bodies of the types can be non-symmetrical to each other, for example because of a groove 114, 124, 134, 144, 224, 234, 244 or a tongue 116, 126, 136, 146, 226, 236, 246 at the edge of the respective basic bodies.

[0241] In addition, the basic bodies of one type of first parts 110, 210, at least one type of second parts 120, 220, at least one type of third parts 130, 230 and at least one type of fourth parts 140, 240, can each be adapted to one another in their longitudinal and transverse dimensions, so that parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 abutting each other on transverse sides and parts 110, 210, 130, 230, 120, 220, 140, 240 abutting each other on longitudinal sides are flush.

[0242] In Figures 1, 3 to 5, 7, and 8, the first parts 110, 210 (shown only in Fig. 1) and second parts 120, 220 (shown only in Fig. 1), as well as the third parts 130, 230 (shown only in Fig. 1) and fourth parts 140, 240 (shown only in Fig. 1), are each adapted to one another in their transverse dimensions. The first parts 110, 210 (shown only in Fig. 1) and the third parts 130, 230 (shown only in Fig. 1), as well as the second parts 120, 220 (shown only in Fig. 1) and fourth parts 140, 240 (shown only in Fig. 1), are each adapted to one another in their longitudinal dimensions.

[0243] The depicted types of first parts 110, 210 exhibit first sub-topographies 112, 212 with straight, extending elevations. Additionally or alternatively, the modular system can include another type of first part 110, 210 with meandering elevations or other suitable elevations. The depicted first sub-topography 112 of the first parts 110 can, in its intended use on the workpiece 20, form a flow field for media.

[0244] DLR-4313 WO

[0245] 2025-09-09 The depicted types of second parts 120, 220 have second sub-topographies 122 with at least curved elevations, in particular parabolic elevations. Additionally or alternatively, the modular system can include another type of second parts 120, 220 with elevations that are at least partially straight or with other suitable shapes. The depicted second sub-topography 122 of the second parts 120 can, in its intended use on the workpiece 20, form distributors for media and / or sealing areas and / or supply line areas.

[0246] The depicted end regions of the elevations of the first partial topography 112, 212 and end regions of the elevations of the second partial topography 122 of first parts 110, 210 and second parts 120, 220, arranged abutting each other at transverse sides, are aligned with each other. This allows continuous flow channels to be created on the corresponding side 22, 24 of the workpiece 20 during the pressing process.

[0247] The first parts 110, 210 can also have other first sub-topographies 112, 212 besides the sub-topographies 112, 212 shown and described, so that other structures besides flow channels can also be formed on the component to be manufactured.

[0248] The second parts 120, 220 can also have other second sub-topographies 122 besides the sub-topographies 122 shown and described, so that other structures besides inlet channels and distributors can also be formed on the component to be manufactured.

[0249] The illustrated third subtopography 132 of third parts 130, 230 and the fourth subtopography 142 of fourth parts 140, 240 and the second subtopography 122 of second parts 120, 220 each have at least one raised section at their respective edge. In the illustrated embodiment, this raised section runs parallel to the edge of the corresponding part 130, 230, 140, 240, 120, 220. However, other orientations of the raised sections are also conceivable. Furthermore, parts or types of parts may also have no raised section at their edge. In addition, parts 130, 230, 140, 240, 120, 220 with a flat surface are conceivable.

[0250] DLR-4313 WO

[0251] 2025-09-09 The illustrated end regions of the raised sections at the edge of the third sub-topographies 132 and end regions of the raised sections at the edge of the fourth sub-topographies 142 of third parts 130, 230 and fourth parts 140, 240, arranged abutting each other at transverse sides, are aligned with each other in the illustrated embodiment. These raised sections can create continuous sealing surfaces and / or continuous inlets and / or continuous outlets on the corresponding side 22, 24 of the workpiece 20 during the pressing process.

[0252] The illustrated end regions of the raised sections at the edge of the fourth sub-topography 142 and the end regions of the raised sections at the edge of the second sub-topography 122 of fourth parts 140, 240 and second parts 120, 220 abutting each other along their longitudinal sides are aligned with each other in the illustrated embodiment. These raised sections can create continuous sealing surfaces and / or continuous inlets and / or continuous outlets on the corresponding side 22, 24 of the workpiece 20 during the pressing process.

[0253] Other partial topographies 112, 212, 122, 132, 142 of parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230 are of course conceivable, creating different structures in the components. In the illustrated embodiments, the partial topographies 112, 212, 122, 132, 142 of parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 are milled, drilled, or ground into the respective surface. Combinations of surface treatments are also possible. Additionally or alternatively, other subtractive mechanical or thermal manufacturing processes, in particular electrical discharge machining (EDM), are also conceivable for introducing the partial topographies 112, 212, 122, 132, 142. Additionally or alternatively, the sub-topographies 112, 212, 122, 132, 142 can also be created by additive processes or by a combination of additive and subtractive processes.

[0254] As can be seen from Figure 9, several parts 110, 130 can have at least one guide 166 for at least one fastening element 150, 162. Figure 9 shows only first parts 110 and third parts 130. Of course, second parts 120, 220 and fourth parts 140, 240 can also have such guides 166.

[0255] DLR-4313 WO

[0256] 2025-09-09 As can be seen from Figures 1, 4 to 9, several parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 can have at least one groove 114, 124, 224, 134, 234, 144, 244 and / or at least one spring 116, 126, 226, 136, 236, 146, 246. The types of parts can differ in the arrangement of the grooves 114, 124, 224, 134, 234, 144, 244 and / or springs 116, 126, 226, 136, 236, 146, 246. For example, with otherwise identical parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240, one type of part 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 may only have grooves 114, 124, 224, 134, 234, 144, 244 and the other type of part 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 may only have springs 116, 126, 226, 136, 236, 146, 246 on sides or undersides of the base body.

[0257] Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of a press tool 10 according to the invention with two press units 11 according to the invention, which are designed as a die unit 100 and a punch unit 200.

[0258] The two press units 11 each have, as shown in Figure 1, side edges 106, 206, end faces 104, 204 and corners 108, 208. Besides the rectangular shape shown, other shapes are also conceivable, for example triangular shapes or shapes with more than four corners, or round shapes. Cylindrical press units 11 are also conceivable.

[0259] The assembled parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 of the press units 11 each have a partial topography 112 (visible only in Figure 10), 212 (visible only in Figure 10), 122, 132, 142, which each deform a corresponding area of ​​the facing side 22, 24 of the workpiece 20. In the assembled state of the respective parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240, the partial topographies 112 (visible only in Figure 10), 212 (visible only in Figure 10), 122, 132, 142 form the desired topography 102, 202 of the respective press unit 11.

[0260] DLR-4313 WO

[0261] 2025-09-09 As can be seen from Figure 2, the press tool 10 can be used for the production of bipolar plate halves 21. In its intended use, a workpiece 20 is positioned between the die unit 100 and the punch unit 200. The punch unit 200 presses the workpiece 20 into the die unit 100, wherein a surface 101 of the die unit 100 facing the workpiece 20 has a shaping topography 102 and / or a surface 201 of the punch unit 200 facing the workpiece 20 has a shaping topography 202. During pressing, the workpiece 20 assumes the shape of the shaping topographies 102, 202 and forms the desired component. The upper side of the component has a surface that is shaped by the lower side 201 of the punch unit 200. The underside of the component has a surface which is formed by the top side 101 of the matrix unit 100.

[0262] Of course, in addition to bipolar plate halves 21, other components can also be manufactured with such a press tool 10.

[0263] In the following, workpiece 20 is understood to be an element, in particular a steel sheet or a metallic sheet or a metallic foil, or another suitable foil or wax or suitable plastic or hardening foam, from which the desired component, in particular the bipolar plate half 21, is manufactured. A soft material can only be deformed on one surface, while a hard material can be deformed on both sides.

[0264] In an alternative embodiment of the press tool 10 according to the invention, not shown, either the punch unit 200 or the die unit 100 can have a shaping topography 101 , 201.

[0265] In a further, alternative embodiment of the press tool 10 according to the invention, not shown, either the punch unit 200 or the die unit 100 can be designed as a multi-part press unit 11 according to the invention.

[0266] DLR-4313 WO

[0267] 2025-09-09 As can be seen from Figures 1 and 2, the dimensions of the illustrated die unit 100 and the illustrated punch unit 200 are adapted to the dimensions of the component to be manufactured and / or to the dimensions of a region of the workpiece 20 to be formed. In an alternative embodiment not shown, either the dimensions of the die unit 100 or the punch unit 200 can be adapted to the dimensions of the component to be manufactured and / or to the dimensions of a region of the workpiece 20 to be formed.

[0268] In an alternative configuration, the workpiece 20 can be larger than the die unit 100, or larger than the punch unit 200, or larger than both the die unit 100 and the punch unit 200. The protruding and undeformed areas of the workpiece 20 can be removed after pressing.

[0269] Furthermore, a type of part 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 (not shown) can, in addition to the respective part topography 112, 212, 122, 132, 142, have cutting elements with which a punching process can be carried out in parallel with the forming process. In this process, undeformed areas of the workpiece 20 can be removed during pressing.

[0270] In the embodiments of the press tool 10 shown in Figures 1, 2 and 10, a mechanical press (not shown) generates the pressing force.

[0271] In an alternative embodiment of the press tool 10 according to the invention, not shown, a press unit 11 designed as a cylinder or the pressure of a fluid can generate the pressing force instead of the punch unit 200. In this case, the press tool 10 can comprise the multi-part press unit 11 designed as a cylinder according to the invention and / or a multi-part die unit 100 according to the invention, or a single-piece cylinder and a multi-part die unit 100 according to the invention, or a chamber with a fluid supply and a multi-part die unit 100 according to the invention arranged in the chamber.

[0272] DLR-4313 WO

[0273] 2025-09-09 In an alternative embodiment of the press tool 10 according to the invention (not shown), the press unit 11 can be configured as a punch unit 200 or as a die unit 100, which is configured as a multi-part cylinder, wherein one cylinder shell of the cylinder has the multi-part topography 102, 202. Here, the press tool 10 according to the invention can have a cylinder as already described. Alternatively, the press tool 10 according to the invention can comprise two counter-rotating cylinders, wherein one cylinder is configured as a punch unit 200 and another cylinder as a die unit 100. At least one of the cylinders is configured as a multi-part press unit 11 according to the invention.

[0274] In the section of an embodiment of the press tool 10 shown in Figure 10, at least one part 210 of one of the press units 11 is attached to at least one retaining element 264. In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining element 264 is designed as a perforated plate, and the fastening elements are designed as movably mounted bolts 262. Furthermore, the illustrated parts 210 are movably mounted in the vertical direction Z, so that sequential pressing by applying pressure to the respective bolt is possible.

[0275] Figures 3 to 9 show different embodiments of a press unit 11 according to the invention for the press tool 10 according to the invention.

[0276] The illustrated press unit 11 according to the invention corresponds to a die unit 100, in particular a die unit 100 of the press tool 10 according to the invention. Of course, a press unit 11 according to the invention can also form a punch unit 200 or a cylinder. Therefore, the features of the die unit 100 described below also apply to the punch unit 200 or the multi-part cylinder.

[0277] First, the common features of the embodiments of the press unit 11 designed as a die unit 100 are described in more detail; later, the differences between the embodiments are discussed.

[0278] DLR-4313 WO

[0279] 2025-09-09 As can be seen from Figures 3 to 8, a surface 101 of the press unit 11 facing the workpiece 20 to be formed has a topography 102 that shapes the workpiece 20. The press unit 11 according to the invention is modularly formed from several assembleable parts 110, 120, 130, 140, each of which has a partial topography 112, 122, 132, 142, each of which deforms a corresponding area of ​​the facing side 22, 24 of the workpiece 20 shown in Figure 1. The partial topographies 112, 122, 132, 142 of the parts 110, 120, 130, 140 used form the shaping topography 102.

[0280] First parts 110 each exhibit a first sub-topography 112, which forms an unspecified flow field for media.

[0281] Second parts 120 are intended for arrangement on end faces 104 of the press unit 11 and each have a second partial topography 122 which forms unspecified distributors for media.

[0282] Third parts 130 are intended for arrangement on side edges 106 of the press unit 11.

[0283] Fourth parts 140 are intended for arrangement at corners 108 of the press unit 11.

[0284] In the assembled state, first parts 110 arranged at the ends abut at least one second part 120 at their transverse sides in the longitudinal direction X. In the assembled state, third parts 130 arranged at the ends abut at least one fourth part 140 at their transverse sides in the longitudinal direction X. In the assembled state, first parts 110 arranged at the edges abut at least one third part 130 at their longitudinal sides in the transverse direction Y. In the assembled state, second parts 120 arranged at the edges abut a fourth part 140 at their longitudinal sides in the transverse direction Y.

[0285] DLR-4313 WO

[0286] 2025-09-09 As can be further seen from Figures 3 to 9, the dimensions of the first parts 110, the second parts 120, the third parts 130, and the fourth parts 140 in the illustrated embodiments are designed in the vertical direction Z such that the parts 110, 120, 130, 140 are flush in the vertical direction Z. This allows the partial topographies 112, 122, 132, 142 to form the topography 102, whereby the topography 102 is not interrupted by differences in height of the individual parts 110, 120, 130, 140.

[0287] As can be seen from Figures 3 to 9, the longitudinal dimensions of the first parts 110 and the second parts 120, as well as the longitudinal dimensions of the third parts 130 and the fourth parts 140, are coordinated such that adjacent parts 110, 120, 130, 140 are flush. Furthermore, the transverse dimensions of the first parts 110 and the third parts 130, as well as the transverse dimensions of the second parts 120 and the fourth parts 140, are coordinated such that adjacent parts 110, 120, 130, 140 are flush. By flushly terminating the parts 110, 120, 130, 140, the press unit 11 can be extended as desired in the longitudinal direction X and in the transverse direction Y by adding further parts 110, 120, 130, 140 without gaps or offsets between the individual parts 110, 120, 130, 140.

[0288] As can be seen from Figures 3 to 9, at least one third part 130 and at least one fourth part 140 enclose the depicted press unit 11 at the side edges 106 in the transverse direction Y. Enclosing the side edges 106 with fourth parts 140 and third parts 130 is not strictly necessary for the formation of the press unit 11. Optionally, press units 11 can also be formed without third parts 130 and / or without fourth parts 140.

[0289] As can be seen from Figures 3 to 9, at least one second part 120 and at least one fourth part 140 enclose the depicted press unit 11 in the longitudinal direction X at the end faces 104. Enclosure at the end faces 104 by fourth parts 140 and second parts 120 is not strictly necessary for the formation of the press unit 11. Optionally, press units 11 can also be formed without second parts 120 and / or without fourth parts 140.

[0290] DLR-4313 WO

[0291] 2025-09-09 As can be seen from Figures 3 to 9, in the illustrated embodiments, the second parts 120, third parts 130 and fourth parts 140 form a frame around the first parts 110. This frame is not strictly necessary for the creation of the press unit 11.

[0292] The embodiments of the press unit 11 according to the invention, shown in Figures 3, 4, and 7, comprise six first parts 110, six second parts 120, four third parts 130, and four fourth parts 140. Each first part 110 abuts a second part 120 with one of its transverse sides or end faces in the longitudinal direction X. Opposing transverse sides or end faces of adjacent first parts 110 abut each other. Four first parts 110 abut a third part 130 with one of their longitudinal sides or side wheels in the transverse direction Y. Opposing longitudinal sides or side edges of adjacent first parts 110 abut each other. Four second parts 120 abut a fourth part 140 with one of their longitudinal sides or side edges in the transverse direction Y. Opposing longitudinal sides or side edges of adjacent second parts 120 abut each other.All third parts 130 abut with one of their transverse sides or end faces a fourth part 140. Opposite transverse sides or end faces of adjacent third parts 110 abut each other.

[0293] In a simple embodiment not shown, the press unit 11 can comprise at least one of the parts 110, 120, 130, 140.

[0294] In a further embodiment not shown, the press unit 11 according to the invention comprises a first part 110, which abuts a third part 130 at both side edges 106 and a second part 120 at both end faces 104. A fourth part 140 is arranged at each corner 108 of the press unit 11, abutting a second part 120 and a third part 130. This embodiment can be extended as desired in the longitudinal direction X and in the transverse direction Y by adding further parts 110, 120, 130.

[0295] DLR-4313 WO

[0296] 2025-09-09 In a further embodiment not shown, the press unit 11 comprises a first part 110, which abuts a third part 130 at both side edges 106 and a second part 120 at one of the end faces 104. A fourth part 140 is arranged at each of two corners 108 of the press unit 11, abutting a second part 120 and a third part 130 respectively. Several component modules can be formed from this press unit 11. Two such component modules can be joined together to form a component. This embodiment can be extended as desired in the longitudinal direction X and in the transverse direction Y by adding further parts 110, 120, 130.

[0297] Further combinations of parts 110, 120, 130, and 140 are possible, though not explicitly described. For example, four fourth parts 140 can be assembled to form a press unit 11. Furthermore, two opposing second components 120 or a plurality of opposing pairs of second components 120 can be assembled to form a press unit 11. Similarly, two opposing third components 130 or a plurality of opposing pairs of third components 130 can be assembled to form a press unit 11. Additionally, several adjacent first parts 110 can form a press unit 11. Further combinations of parts 110, 120, 130, and 140 are conceivable. In addition to the rectangular shape of the press units 11 shown, a square shape or a triangular shape or a shape with more than four corners 108 or a round shape is also conceivable.Parts 110, 120, 130, and 140 are shaped accordingly.

[0298] Furthermore, the first parts 110, 210, the second parts 120, 220, the third parts 130, 230, the fourth parts 140, 240 can be in different forms as already mentioned, which allow further variations of the press unit 11 according to the invention.

[0299] In another embodiment of the press unit 11 not shown, the press unit 11 can be designed as a multi-part die unit 100, which is designed to guide a punch unit 200 designed as a roller.

[0300] DLR-4313 WO

[0301] 2025-09-09 In a further embodiment of the press unit 11 (not shown), the press unit 11 can be configured as a multi-part punch unit 200 or as a multi-part die unit 100, which is configured as a multi-part cylinder, wherein a cylinder shell of the cylinder has the multi-part topography 102, 202. The corresponding parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 can be curved for this purpose to form the cylinder shell.

[0302] As can be seen from Figures 3 to 9, the first partial topography 112 of the first part 110 has straight elevations. In an alternative embodiment not shown, the first partial topography 112 has meandering elevations. In another alternative embodiment not shown, the first partial topography 112 has elevations with straight and meandering sections. In yet another alternative embodiment not shown, the first partial topography 112 has meandering and straight elevations; these can be arranged side by side. Other shapes and arrangements of the elevations are also conceivable in an alternative embodiment not shown.

[0303] As can be seen from Figures 3 to 9, the second partial topography 122 of the second part 120 in the illustrated embodiment has at least curved elevations, in particular parabolic elevations with at least a partially straight course. Furthermore, the second partial topography 122 has elevations that form inlets and / or outlets, to which the curved elevations extend. This allows an inlet zone and / or outlet zone to be created on the component to be manufactured. Other courses and arrangements of the elevations are also conceivable in an alternative embodiment not shown.

[0304] DLR-4313 WO

[0305] 2025-09-09 As can be seen from Figures 3 to 9, in the illustrated embodiments, the end regions of the elevations of the first partial topography 112 and the end regions of the elevations of the second partial topography 122 of first parts 110 and second parts 120 arranged abutting each other in the longitudinal direction X are aligned with each other and generate continuous flow channels on the corresponding side 22, 24 of the workpiece 20 during the pressing process.

[0306] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiments, the end regions of the elevations of the first partial topography 112 of first parts 110 arranged abutting each other in the longitudinal direction X are aligned with each other and generate continuous flow channels on the corresponding side 22, 24 of the workpiece 20 during the pressing process.

[0307] As can be seen from Figures 3 to 9, in the illustrated embodiments, a third partial topography 132 of third parts 130, a fourth partial topography 142 of fourth parts 140, and the second partial topography 122 of the second part 120 each have a raised area at their respective edges, which runs parallel to a section of the edge of the corresponding part 130, 140, 120. The fourth partial topography 142 of the fourth part 140 runs along the corner. In the illustrated embodiments, a raised area runs along the edge of parts 120, 130, 140. In an alternative embodiment not shown, several raised areas can run along the edge. Other paths and arrangements of the raised areas are also conceivable in an alternative embodiment not shown.

[0308] As can be seen from Figures 3 to 9, the end regions of the raised sections at the edge of the third sub-topography 132 and the end regions of the raised sections at the edge of the fourth sub-topography 142 of the third parts 130 and fourth parts 140, which are arranged abutting each other in the longitudinal direction X, are aligned with each other. During the pressing process, these form continuous sealing surfaces and / or continuous supply channels on the corresponding side 22, 24 of the workpiece 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the raised sections form a continuous sealing surface.

[0309] DLR-4313 WO

[0310] 2025-09-09 As can be further seen from Figures 3 to 9, the end regions of the protrusions at the edge of the fourth sub-topography 142 and the end regions of the protrusions at the edge of the second sub-topography 122 of the fourth parts 140 and second parts 120, which abut each other in the transverse direction Y, are aligned with each other and form continuous sealing surfaces and / or continuous supply lines on the corresponding side 22, 24 of the workpiece 20 during the pressing process. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusions form a continuous sealing surface. Since the fourth parts 140 have protrusions that extend around corners, closed sealing surfaces can be formed at the edge of the press unit 11.

[0311] In an alternative embodiment not shown, the elevations can form a channel or a channel boundary.

[0312] As can be seen from Figures 3 to 9, second parts 120 and third parts 130 and fourth parts 140 each exist in at least two types, in particular wherein the types and / or the subtopographies 112, 122, 132, 142 of the types are mirror-symmetric and / or point-symmetric to each other.

[0313] A second type of second part 120 is a reflection of the first type of second part 120 across a symmetry axis Y1 in the transverse direction Y. In an alternative embodiment not shown, the second type of second part 120 can be a 180° rotation of the first type. Furthermore, the second type of second part 120 can be a reflection of the first type across a symmetry axis in the longitudinal direction X. Additionally or alternatively, the types of second part 120 can also differ in their dimensions in the longitudinal direction X and the transverse direction Y.

[0314] A second type of third part 130 is a reflection of the first type of third part 130 across a symmetry axis in the longitudinal direction X. In an alternative embodiment not shown, the second type of third part 130 can be a 180° rotation of the first type. Furthermore, the second type of third part 130 can be a reflection of the first type across the symmetry axis Y1 in the transverse direction Y. Additionally or alternatively, the types of third part 130 can also differ in their dimensions in the longitudinal direction X and the transverse direction Y.

[0315] DLR-4313 WO

[0316] 2025-09-09 A second type of fourth part 140 is a 90° rotation of the first type. A third type of fourth part 140 is a 180° rotation of the first type. A fourth type of fourth part 140 is a 270° rotation of the first type. The rotation is performed about the point of symmetry O. In an alternative embodiment not shown, the second type of fourth part 140 can be a reflection of the first type across a mirror axis Y1 in the transverse direction Y or across a mirror axis in the longitudinal direction X. Additionally or alternatively, the types of fourth part 140 can also differ in their dimensions in the longitudinal direction X and transverse direction Y.

[0317] In an alternative embodiment not shown, the press unit 11 can have several types of first parts 110. A first type of first parts 110 can have meandering projections, a second type of first parts 110 can have straight projections, a third type of first parts 110 can have meandering projections with straight sections, and a fourth type of first parts can have both meandering projections and straight projections.

[0318] In an alternative embodiment not shown, the press unit 11 can have several types of first parts 110 and / or several types of second parts 120 and / or several types of third parts 130 and / or several types of fourth parts 140, which differ from each other in their dimensions in the longitudinal direction X and / or transverse direction Y.

[0319] As can be seen from Figures 3 to 9, the press unit 11 is mirror-symmetric about a symmetry axis Y1 extending in the transverse direction Y and point-symmetric about a symmetry point O. In an alternative embodiment not shown, the press unit 11 can additionally or alternatively also be mirror-symmetric about a symmetry axis extending in the longitudinal direction X. Furthermore, only individual areas of the press unit 11 can exhibit symmetries.

[0320] As can be seen from Figures 3 to 9, the topography 102 formed from the sub-topographies 112, 122, 132, 142 is mirror-symmetric about a symmetry axis Y1 running in the transverse direction Y and point-symmetric about a symmetry point O.

[0321] DLR-4313 WO

[0322] 2025-09-09 In an alternative embodiment not shown, the topography 102 can additionally or alternatively be mirror-symmetrical about an axis of symmetry extending in the longitudinal direction X. Furthermore, only individual areas of the topography 102 can exhibit symmetries.

[0323] As can be seen from Figures 3 to 9, in the illustrated embodiments several first parts 110 are arranged abutting each other in the longitudinal direction X and in the transverse direction Y.

[0324] In an alternative embodiment not shown, the press unit 11 may also have only one first part 110, or have first parts 110 abutting each other only in the transverse direction Y, or have first parts 110 abutting each other only in the longitudinal direction X.

[0325] The end areas of the elevations of the first sub-topographies 112 are designed in such a way that first parts abutting each other in the longitudinal direction X have aligned end areas of the elevations, thereby forming continuous elevations.

[0326] As can be seen from Figures 3 to 9, the partial topographies 112, 122, 132, 142 of parts 110, 120, 130, 140 are milled and / or drilled and / or ground into the respective surface.

[0327] As can be seen from Figures 4 to 6, the parts 110, 120, 130, 140 of the second embodiment are connected to each other via grooves 114, 124, 134, 144 and springs 116, 126, 146. Other fastening methods are also conceivable. In this case, each part 110, 120, 130, 140 has a groove 114, 124, 134, 144 and / or a spring 116, 126, 136, 146 at its edge, which interacts with the corresponding counterpart of the adjacent part 110, 120, 130, 140.

[0328] Figure 5 does not show all parts 110, 120, 130, 140 of the press unit 11, in order to show the grooves 114 and springs 116 of the inner first parts 110. A press unit 11 with the shape shown in Figure 5 can also be implemented.

[0329] DLR-4313 WO

[0330] 2025-09-09 As can be seen from Figure 8, at least one part 110, 120, 130, 140 of the third embodiment of the press unit 11 is fixed to at least one retaining element 164. The fixing can be effected, for example, by means of a screw 162 or a clamp.

[0331] In Figure 8, several retaining elements 164 are arranged in a grid pattern to form a retaining assembly 160. The retaining elements 164 serve as rails on which the individual parts 110, 120, 130, 140 are guided by a corresponding groove 124, 144, 114. Additionally, the parts 110, 120, 130, 140 are fixed to the corresponding retaining element 164 shown in Figure 8 by at least one screw 162, shown in Figure 9. The retaining elements 164 have guides 166, shown in Figures 8 and 9, for the screws 162 shown in Figure 9. Alternatively, the individual parts 110, 120, 130, 140 could also be fixed to a retaining element 164 designed as a base plate.

[0332] In an alternative embodiment not shown, parts 110, 120, 130, 140 can either be guided on a rail or fixed with a fastening element. Furthermore, other detachable fastening elements besides screws 162 are of course conceivable. Additionally, parts 110, 120, 130, 140 can be connected to one another via grooves 114, 124, 134, 144 and springs 116, 126, 136, 146, as shown in Figures 4 to 6.

[0333] As can be seen from Figure 9, the illustrated embodiment of the press tool 11 according to the invention has several fastening methods. Parts 120 and 130 are connected to each other via threaded rods 150. The threaded rod 150 is guided through the corresponding parts 130 and, optionally, through a retaining element 164 of the holding assembly 160. As shown in Figure 9, the threaded rod 150 is tightened at its end with at least one nut 152.

[0334] DLR-4313 WO

[0335] 2025-09-09 Instead of a threaded rod, a rod can also be used which only has a thread for a nut 152 at its ends. Furthermore, the parts 110 are additionally connected to each other via grooves 114 and springs 116, as shown in Figures 4 to 6. In addition, the parts 110 and 130 can be fixed to the corresponding retaining element 164 by means of at least one screw 162, as shown in Figure 9, as shown in Figure 8.

[0336] In an alternative embodiment not shown, parts 110, 120, 130, 140 can be fixed only by threaded rods 150 or rods.

[0337] In an alternative embodiment not shown, the parts 110, 120, 130, 140 can be fixed to the corresponding retaining element 164 via at least one screw 162 as shown in Figures 7 and 8, and connected to the adjacent parts 110, 124, 134, 144 via grooves 114, 124, 134, 144 and springs 116, 126, 136, 146 on the sides.

[0338] The parts 110, 120, 130, 140 shown in Figure 3 can be arranged in a frame (not shown) which forms the holding arrangement 160 and pressed between frame parts of the frame.

[0339] In an alternative embodiment not shown, the parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 can have grooves extending in the vertical direction Z and corresponding springs extending in the vertical direction Z in order to connect adjacent parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 to each other or to connect the parts 120, 130, 140 arranged on the side edge 106 or on the end face 104 to a retaining element 164, 264 designed as a frame.

[0340] The described fastening structures can be combined in any way to create a stable press unit 11.

[0341] As can be seen from Figure 10, the illustrated section of the embodiment of the press tool 11 according to the invention, which is designed as a punch unit 200, has at least one first part 210 which is movable in the vertical direction Z independently of the other first parts 210.

[0342] DLR-4313 WO

[0343] 2025-09-09 The punch unit 200 comprises a holding arrangement 260, which includes a holding element 264 designed as a perforated plate. The openings of the perforated plate form a guide 266 for bolts 262. The depicted section shows two first parts 210, each of which is attached to the holding element 264 designed as a perforated plate by a bolt 262. The first parts 210 are movable in the vertical direction Z by means of the bolt 262. Additionally, the first parts 210 could be connected to each other by grooves and tongues (not shown) extending in the vertical direction Z. By applying pressure to the respective bolt 262, the corresponding first part 210 can be moved towards the workpiece 20 and form the corresponding area of ​​the workpiece 20. Of course, other parts 220, 230, 240 can also be movably mounted in addition to the first parts 210.Furthermore, interconnected parts can be movably mounted as groups and moved independently of other groups. The die unit 200 belonging to the press tool 10 is also multi-part, but does not have any movably mounted parts. In an alternative embodiment of the press tool 10, the die unit 200 can be designed as a single piece or as a multi-part assembly with movable parts 110, 120, 130, 140. In addition, the parts 110, 120, 130, 140 can be connected to each other in a suitable manner.

[0344] Figure 11 shows a method according to the invention for manufacturing a press unit 11 comprising the following steps:

[0345] In a process step S1100, a modular system according to the invention is provided with first parts 110, 210, each having a first partial topography 112, 212, and / or second parts 120, 220, which are provided for arrangement on end faces 104, 204 of the press unit 11 and each having a second partial topography 122, and / or third parts 130, 230, which are provided for arrangement on side edges 106, 206 of the press unit 11 and each having a third partial topography 132, and / or fourth parts 140, 240, which are provided for arrangement on corners 108, 208 of the press unit 11 and each having a fourth partial topography 142. In a further process step S1200, the required parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 are determined based on the specifications for the component to be pressed. In a further process step S1300, the parts 110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240 are assembled.

[0346] DLR-4313 WO

[0347] 2025-09-09 In the illustrated embodiments of the press units 11, in the assembled state, first parts 110 arranged at the front abut at least one second part 120 at their transverse sides, third parts 130 arranged at the front abut at least one fourth part 140 at their transverse sides, first parts 110 arranged at the edges abut at least one third part 130 at their longitudinal sides, and second parts 120 arranged at the edges abut a fourth part 140 at their longitudinal sides. It is also possible that at least one of the first parts 110 is arranged only adjacent to first parts 110 and does not abut second parts 120 or third parts 130.

[0348] In an additional process step S1400, at least one part 110, 120, 130, 140 is connected to at least one other part 110, 120, 130, 140 and / or a retaining element 164.

[0349] These press units 11 can be used for various pressing processes.

[0350] The press unit 11 can form a die unit 100 for a hydroforming process.

[0351] Furthermore, the press unit 11 can form a die unit 100 for a press tool 10 in a pressing process with a press.

[0352] Furthermore, the press unit 11 can form a punch unit 200 for such a press tool 10. In the pressing process, a press pushes the punch unit 200 and the workpiece 20 into the die unit 100, or the press pushes the punch unit 200 onto the workpiece 20.

[0353] Furthermore, the press unit 11 can form a cylinder for a rolling process.

[0354] Furthermore, the press unit 11 can form a die unit 100 for a rolling process, wherein the die unit 100 can be cylindrical or rectangular.

[0355] DLR-4313 WO

[0356] 2025-09-09 In the rolling process, the workpiece 20 is placed between two counter-rotating cylinders, one cylinder being designed as a punch unit 200 and the other as a die unit 100. The two cylinders exert pressure on the workpiece 20, so that the workpiece 20 is deformed by the corresponding topographies 102, 202.

[0357] Alternatively, in the rolling process, the workpiece 20 is placed on the die unit 100 or on another suitable surface. The cylinder rolls over the workpiece 20, the pressure pressing the cylinder against the workpiece 20 and, if present, the workpiece 20 against or into the die unit 100.

[0358] This process can be used to form bipolar plates for electrolysis stacks, plates for heat exchangers, other structured surfaces, or other structured components. For example, body parts are conceivable.

[0359] Figure 12 shows a method 2000 according to the invention for producing a component from a workpiece 20 using a press tool 10 according to the invention comprising the following process steps:

[0360] In a process step S2100, at least one press unit 11 according to the invention is manufactured for the press tool 10. In a further process step S2200, the existing workpieces 20 are successively deformed at least on one side by a pressing force and a shaping topography 102, 202 of at least one press unit 11 of the press tool 10. For example, the process can be an embossing process and / or a rolling process and / or a pressing process and / or a hydroforming process.

[0361] DLR-4313 WO

[0362] 2025-09-09 Reference number

[0363] 10 Press tools

[0364] 11 Press unit

[0365] 20 workpieces

[0366] 21 Bipolar plate half

[0367] 22 Top

[0368] 24 Underside

[0369] 100 matrix units

[0370] 101 Surface facing the workpiece

[0371] 102 Topography

[0372] 104 Front

[0373] 106 page margin

[0374] 108 Corner

[0375] 200 stamp units

[0376] 201 Surface facing the workpiece

[0377] 202 Topography

[0378] 204 Front

[0379] 206 page margin

[0380] 208 Corner

[0381] 110, 210 first part

[0382] 112, 212 first partial topography

[0383] 114 Nut

[0384] 116 spring

[0385] 120, 220 second part

[0386] 122 second sub-topography

[0387] 124, 224 Nut

[0388] 126, 226 spring

[0389] 130, 230 third part

[0390] 132 third sub-topography

[0391] 134, 234 Nut

[0392] 136, 236 spring

[0393] 140, 240 fourth part

[0394] 142 fourth sub-topography

[0395] 144, 244 Nut

[0396] 146, 246 spring

[0397] DLR-4313 WO 2025-09-09 150 Threaded rod

[0398] 152 Mother

[0399] 160, 260 holding arrangement

[0400] 162 screw

[0401] 262 bolts

[0402] 164, 264 retaining element

[0403] 166, 266 Leadership

[0404] 1000 methods for manufacturing a press unit

[0405] S1100, S1200, S1300, S1400 Procedure steps

[0406] 2000 methods for manufacturing a component

[0407] S2100, S2200 Procedure steps

[0408] X Longitudinal direction

[0409] Y transverse direction

[0410] Z Upward direction

[0411] Y1 axis of symmetry

[0412] 0 Point of symmetry

[0413] DLR-4313 WO 2025-09-09

Claims

Claims 1. Modular system for press units (11) comprising first parts (110, 210), each having a first partial topography (112, 212), and / or second parts (120, 220), which are intended for arrangement on end faces (104, 204) of the press unit (11), and which each have a second partial topography (122), and / or third parts (130, 230), which are intended for arrangement on side edges (106, 206) of the press unit (11), and which each have a third partial topography (132), and / or fourth parts (140, 240), which are intended for arrangement on corners (108, 208) of the press unit (11), and which each have a fourth partial topography (142), wherein in the assembled state the corresponding partial topographies (112, 212, 122, 132, 142) form a topography (102, 202) of the press unit (11), wherein first parts (110, 210) are designed to abut at least one second part (120, 220) on transverse sides,wherein third parts (130, 230) are designed to abut at least a fourth part (140, 240) on their transverse sides, wherein first parts (110, 210) are designed to abut at least a third part (130, 230) on their longitudinal sides, and wherein second parts (120, 220) are designed to abut at least a fourth part (140, 240) on their longitudinal sides.

2. Modular system according to claim 1, wherein first parts (110, 210) and / or second parts (120, 220) and / or third parts (130, 230) and / or fourth parts (140, 240) are each available in at least two types, in particular wherein the basic bodies of the types and / or the partial topographies (112, 122, 132, 142, 212) of the types are mirror-symmetric and / or point-symmetric and / or inverse to each other and / or wherein the basic bodies of the types differ from each other in their longitudinal and / or transverse dimensions. DLR-4313 WO 2025-09-09 3. Modular system according to claim 2, wherein the basic bodies of at least one type of first parts (110, 210), at least one type of second parts (120, 220), at least one type of third parts (130, 230) and at least one type of fourth parts (140, 240), are each adapted to one another in their longitudinal and transverse dimensions, so that parts (110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240) abutting each other on transverse sides and parts (110, 210, 130, 230, 120, 220, 140, 240) abutting each other on longitudinal sides are flush.

4. Modular system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein at least one type of first parts (110, 210) and / or one type of second parts (120, 220) and / or one type of third parts (130, 230) and / or one type of fourth parts (140, 240) have at least one cutting element.

5. Modular system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first partial topography (112, 212) of the first part (110, 210) has straight, in particular parallel to each other, elevations and / or meandering, in particular parallel to each other, elevations.

6. Modular system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second partial topography (122) of the second part (120, 220) has at least curved elevations, in particular parabolic elevations, and / or elevations with at least partially straight contours.

7. Modular system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein end areas of the elevations of the first partial topography (112, 212) and end areas of the elevations of the second partial topography (122) of first parts (110, 210) and second parts (120, 220) arranged abutting each other at transverse sides are aligned with each other. DLR-4313 WO 2025-09-09 8. Modular system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the third partial topography (132) of third parts (130, 230) and / or the fourth partial topography (142) of fourth parts (140, 240) and / or the second partial topography (122) of the second parts (120, 220) has at least one elevation at the respective edge, which in particular runs parallel to a section of the edge of the corresponding part (130, 230, 140, 240, 120, 220).

9. Modular system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein end regions of the elevations at the edge of the third sub-topography (132) and end regions of the elevations at the edge of the fourth sub-topography (142) of third parts (130, 230) and fourth parts (140, 240) arranged abutting each other at transverse sides are aligned with each other, and / or wherein end regions of the elevations at the edge of the fourth sub-topography (142) and end regions of the elevations at the edge of the second sub-topography (122) of fourth parts (140, 240) and second parts (120, 220) arranged abutting each other at longitudinal sides are aligned with each other.

10. Modular system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the partial topographies (112, 212, 122, 132, 142) of the parts (110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240) are introduced into the respective surface by subtractive manufacturing processes, in particular by milling and / or drilling and / or grinding and / or by electrical discharge machining.

11. Modular system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the parts (110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240) has at least one guide (166) for at least one fastening element (150, 162).

12. Modular system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the parts (110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240) has at least one groove (114, 124, 224, 134, 234, 144, 244) and / or at least one tongue (116, 126, 226, 136, 236, 146, 246). DLR-4313 WO 2025-09-09 13. Press unit (11), in particular die unit (100) and / or punch unit (200), for a press tool (10), for the production of components, in particular for the production of bipolar plate halves (21) or plates for heat exchangers or other structured surfaces or other structured components, with a surface (101, 201) facing a workpiece (20) to be formed, which has a topography (102, 202) that shapes the workpiece (20), wherein the press unit (11) is modularly formed from several assembleable parts (110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240) of a modular system according to one of the preceding claims, each of which has a partial topography (112, 212, 122, 132, 142), and each of which has a corresponding area of ​​the surface (101) , 201) the side (22, 24) of the workpiece (20) facing the press unit (11).

14. Press unit according to claim 13, wherein at least one of the assembleable parts (110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240) is movably mounted in the vertical direction (Z) and is movable independently of the other parts (110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240).

15. Press unit according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the press unit (11) is designed as a multi-part die unit (100) which is designed to guide a punch unit (200) designed as a roller.

16. Press unit according to one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the press unit (11) is designed as a punch unit (200) or as a die unit (100), which is designed as a multi-part cylinder, wherein a cylinder shell of the cylinder has the multi-part topography (102, 202). DLR-4313 WO 2025-09-09 17. Press unit according to one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the press unit (11) and / or at least a region of the press unit (11) and / or a lateral surface of the press unit is designed to be mirror-symmetric about a longitudinal axis of symmetry (X) and / or mirror-symmetric about a transverse axis of symmetry (Y1) and / or point-symmetric about a symmetry point (O).

18. Press unit according to claim 17, wherein the topography (102, 202) formed from the partial topographies (112, 212, 122, 132, 142) is mirror-symmetric to the longitudinal axis of symmetry (X) and / or mirror-symmetric to the transverse axis of symmetry (Y1) and / or point-symmetric to the symmetry point (O).

19. Press unit according to one of claims 13 to 18, wherein several first parts (110, 210) are arranged abutting each other on transverse sides and / or longitudinal sides.

20. Press unit according to one of claims 13 to 19, wherein at least two of the parts (110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240) are connected to each other via grooves (114, 124, 224, 134, 234, 144, 244) and / or springs (116, 126, 226, 136, 236, 146, 246) and / or by fastening elements, in particular by threaded rods (150).

21. Press unit according to one of claims 13 to 20, wherein at least one part (110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240) is attached to at least one retaining element (164, 264).

22. Pressing tool (10) for the production of components, in particular for the production of bipolar plate halves (21) or plates for heat exchangers or other structured surfaces or other structured components, with at least one press unit (11), wherein at least one of the press units (11) is designed according to one of claims 13 to 21, wherein in intended use a workpiece (20) is deformed at least on one side (22, 24) by a pressing force and the shaping topography (102, 202) of the at least one press unit (11). DLR-4313 WO 2025-09-09 23. Pressing tool according to claim 22, wherein at least one of the press units (11) is designed as a matrix unit (100) or as a stamp unit (200).

24. Press tool according to claim 23, wherein the dimensions of the die unit (100) and / or the punch unit (200) are adapted to the dimensions of the component to be manufactured and / or to the dimensions of a region of the workpiece (20) to be formed.

25. Pressing tool according to one of claims 22 to 24, wherein a mechanical press or a cylinder or a pressure of a fluid generates the pressing force.

26. Pressing tool according to one of claims 22 to 25, wherein the pressing tool (10) comprises two counter-rotating cylinders, one cylinder being designed as a punch unit (200) and another cylinder being designed as a die unit (100).

27. Pressing tool according to one of claims 22 to 26, wherein at least one of the parts (110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240) is attached to at least one retaining element (164, 264).

28. Method for manufacturing a press unit (11) according to one of claims 13-21 for a press tool (10) according to one of claims 22-27 comprising the steps: Providing a modular system according to one of claims 1 to 12 with first parts (110, 210) which each have a first partial topography (112, 212), and / or second parts (120, 220) which are provided for arrangement on end faces (104, 204) of the press unit (11) and which each have a second partial topography (122), and / or third parts (130, 230) which are provided for arrangement on side edges (106, 206) of the press unit (11) and which each have a third partial topography (132), DLR-4313 WO 2025-09-09 and / or fourth parts (140, 240), which are intended for arrangement at corners (108, 208) of the press unit (11) and which each have a fourth part topography (142), Determine the required parts (110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240) based on the specifications for the component to be pressed, Assembling the parts (110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240).

29. Method according to claim 28, wherein at least one part (110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240) is connected to at least one other part (110, 210, 120, 220, 130, 230, 140, 240) and / or a retaining element (164).

30. Method for producing a component from a workpiece (20) using a press tool (10) according to one of claims 22 to 27, wherein at least one press unit (11) is produced according to one of claims 28 to 29 and the workpiece (20) is deformed at least on one side (22, 24) by a pressing force and a shaping topography (102, 202) of at least one press unit (11) of the press tool (10), in particular wherein the method is an embossing process and / or a rolling process and / or a pressing process and / or hydroforming process. DLR-4313 WO 2025-09-09

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