Mobile fuel cell device

Abstract

The invention relates to a mobile fuel cell device (1) for providing electrical energy, comprising at least one fuel cell (2) to which a fuel is able to be supplied in order to generate the electrical energy to be provided, a tank system (3) for storing the fuel for the fuel cell (2), a receiving device module (60) having at least two receiving devices (4) that are each designed both to interchangeably receive an electrical battery pack (C) in a receiving direction (AR) of the receiving device module (60) that is common to the receiving device (4) and to enable the associated electrical connection of the received battery pack (C) to the mobile fuel cell device (1), such that electrical energy generated by the fuel cell (2) is able to be supplied to the received battery pack (C) in order to charge the received battery pack (C) with electrical energy, and a support device (80) that defines a support plane (E) of the mobile fuel cell device (1) and is designed to make contact with a substrate (F) in the support plane (E), wherein the receiving direction (AR) of the receiving device module (60) runs obliquely relative to the support plane (E).

Description

[0001] P 61623 WO 20 November 2025

[0002] - 1 -

[0003] Mobile fuel cell facility

[0004] SCOPE OF APPLICATION AND STATE OF THE ART

[0005] The invention relates to a mobile fuel cell device for providing electrical energy.

[0006] TASK AND SOLUTION

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide a mobile fuel cell device for supplying electrical energy which has improved properties. In particular, it is intended to enable the supply of electrical energy in remote locations, especially those used for forestry, which are not connected to a public electrical power grid.

[0008] This problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent patent claim. Preferred embodiments are the subject matter of the dependent patent claims. The wording of all claims is incorporated by express reference into the present description.

[0009] A mobile fuel cell device according to the invention serves to provide electrical energy. The mobile fuel cell device can be portable. The mobile fuel cell device comprises at least one fuel cell, to which fuel can be supplied to generate the electrical energy to be provided. The mobile fuel cell device also has a tank system designed to store the fuel for the fuel cell. Furthermore, the mobile fuel cell device has a receiving module comprising at least two receiving devices. Each receiving device is designed to interchangeably receive an electrical battery pack, in particular in the form of a rechargeable battery pack, in a receiving direction common to both receiving devices of the receiving module.Furthermore, the receiving devices are designed for the electrical connection of the respective battery pack to the mobile fuel cell unit. In other words, the receiving devices are each designed such that, upon interchangeable insertion of a battery pack into the respective receiving device, the battery pack is electrically connected to the mobile fuel cell unit. As a result of this electrical connection, electrical energy can be supplied to the battery pack, which is generated, or rather converted, by the at least one fuel cell of the fuel cell unit.Each battery pack can be charged using the electrical energy supplied to it and generated by the fuel cell. The mobile fuel cell unit also includes a mounting device, which defines a mounting plane for the mobile fuel cell unit and is designed to make contact with a surface in the mounting plane, particularly ensuring stability. Specifically, the mobile fuel cell unit can be positioned on the surface using the mounting device in such a way that the mounting device makes contact with the surface, particularly at at least three different points, in the mounting plane. The direction in which the battery packs can be picked up by the mounting devices is inclined to the mounting plane.This allows for particularly good accessibility of the mounting devices for replacing a particular battery pack.

[0010] The terms "encompass" or "have" can be used synonymously with each other and with the term "exhibit".

[0011] The wording as well as alternatively or additionally, in the present context the phrase “and / or” can be used synonymously, and vice versa.

[0012] In this context, "control" can mean "steer" and / or "regulate." Accordingly, "controllable" can be understood as synonymous with "regulatory" and / or "controllable."

[0013] The fuel cell system can expediently consist of a stack of several fuel cells.

[0014] Advantageously, at least one fuel cell of the fuel cell system can be a PEM fuel cell. The fuel can be molecular hydrogen (H2). In particular, the fuel is oxidized in the fuel cell using oxygen, especially atmospheric oxygen, to generate the electrical energy to be provided. Advantageously, the fuel can be produced by means of an electrolyzer, which is particularly separate from the mobile fuel cell system, and subsequently stored using the tank system of the mobile fuel cell system. It is conceivable that the electrolyzer is supplied with electrical energy, which is generated at least partially by means of at least one photovoltaic cell.Therefore, solar energy can be used, at least in part, to produce the fuel, which in turn – at a later time and / or location – can be used to generate electrical energy using the mobile fuel cell system. It is understood that the electrolyzer can alternatively or additionally be supplied with electrical energy from another energy source. For example, electrical energy can be supplied to the electrolyzer from a power grid, particularly a public and / or stationary one.

[0015] Advantageously, at least one fuel cell, and in particular alternatively, an ammonia fuel cell, can be used, especially wherein the fuel is ammonia (NH3), and in particular wherein molecular nitrogen (N2) is a product of a reactive conversion of the fuel during the generation of electrical energy. Ammonia fuel cells can be advantageous because ammonia contains about 1.7 times more hydrogen per cubic meter than liquid hydrogen (LH2). The nitrogen required for ammonia production can be obtained from legumes, which can reduce the initial energy required for nitrogen production.

[0016] The receiving module of the mobile fuel cell device expediently has at least or exactly two or three or four receiving devices.

[0017] Advantageously, the fuel cell device can include an electronic device which has an electrical relay for each receiving device for reversibly disconnecting an electrical connection between the respective receiving device and the at least one fuel cell and / or for reversibly disconnecting an electrical connection between the respective receiving device and an electrical energy storage device of the mobile fuel cell device. In particular, the electrical relays serve to prevent sparking when the respective battery pack is subsequently received by one of the receiving devices. In an embodiment of the invention, the receiving devices of the receiving device module are designed to be essentially or exactly identical to one another.Alternatively or additionally, the mobile fuel cell device, in particular the receiving device module of the fuel cell device, has an electronic control device, wherein the control device is set up, in particular that is adapted, to control a distribution of supplied electrical energy to the receiving devices.

[0018] In a further embodiment of the invention, the mobile fuel cell device includes an electrical energy storage device for buffering peak loads when providing electrical energy. In particular, the electrical energy storage device includes or is itself an electrical buffer battery. The electrical energy storage device is configured to store electrical energy generated by the at least one fuel cell and to release the stored energy when providing electrical energy by means of the fuel cell device.

[0019] In a further embodiment of the invention, the mobile fuel cell device comprises a separately handleable electrical energy storage module. In particular, the electrical energy storage module is removable from the other components of the fuel cell device. The electrical energy storage module includes the electrical energy storage device and the receiving module. The electrical energy storage device and the receiving module can be combined to form the energy storage module in order to be removed together from the other components of the fuel cell device, particularly reversibly. For separate handling, the electrical energy storage module can be electrically disconnected from the at least one fuel cell, particularly reconnected.In particular, the electrical energy storage module is electrically separable from the at least one fuel cell if the electrical energy storage module is at least partially charged with energy generated by the at least one fuel cell.

[0020] In a further embodiment of the invention, the mobile fuel cell device comprises a support structure for carrying the tank system, the at least one fuel cell, and the receiving module. In particular, the support structure is clad externally. The support structure has an internal support structure space. The tank system and the fuel cell are arranged within this internal support structure space. Advantageously, the tank system includes a pressure tank designed for storing fuel at an internal pressure, in particular a maximum of 350 bar. The tank system can also include a thermal pressure relief device (TPRD). The tank system can have at least one pressure reduction stage. The tank system can have a filling port for filling with fuel, particularly at internal pressure.The tank system can include a mass flow meter for measuring the mass flow of fuel leaving the tank system, particularly after fuel has been added. The tank system can include a controllable filling valve for fluid-conducting connection of the pressure tank to the filling port. The tank system can include a controllable outlet valve for fluid-conducting connection of the pressure tank to the at least one fuel cell. In particular, the mass flow meter is arranged in a fuel line of the tank system between the outlet valve and the pressure tank. In particular, the tank system can be configured to supply fuel to the at least one fuel cell at an operating pressure lower than the internal pressure of the pressure tank. The operating pressure can be from 0.1 bar to 10 bar, for example, 0.5 bar.

[0021] Advantageously, a fuel-sensitive sensor device of the fuel cell device can be arranged within the interior of the supporting structure. In particular, the fuel cell device can have a signaling device operatively connected to the fuel-sensitive sensor device, wherein the signaling device is designed to output a signal, in particular an acoustic signal.

[0022] In a further embodiment of the invention, the mobile fuel cell device has at least one base wheel, wherein the at least one base wheel is rotatable relative to the support structure about a wheel axis of the fuel cell device. The at least one base wheel is designed to roll on the surface for the fuel cell device, particularly when the fuel cell device is not yet or no longer switched off. Advantageously, at least a part of the support structure of the fuel cell device does not touch the surface when the fuel cell device is not yet or no longer switched off.

[0023] Advantageously, the fuel cell unit can be in an operating position when placed on the ground. In particular, the fuel cell unit is stable when placed on the ground. When not yet or no longer placed on the ground, the fuel cell unit can be in a rolling position tilted relative to the operating position. The roller axle can be arranged such that, in this tilted rolling position relative to the operating position of the fuel cell unit, the base roller is in contact with the ground, in particular by rolling along its circumference and / or being movable, along a direction of gravity. In the operating position, the base roller can be in contact with the ground, in particular along its circumference, and in particular so that the base roller is part of the support structure.Alternatively, it may be conceivable that the floor roller in the operating position does not form any contact with the ground, especially on the circumference of the roller, in particular so that the floor roller is only in contact with the ground in the rolling position tilted relative to the operating position.

[0024] Advantageously, the receiving module is arranged on an outer section of the fuel cell assembly extending along the roll axis, this outer section facing the environment and / or the ground when the fuel cell assembly is in the roll position. The outer section can be substantially planar, in particular, the outer section forming an acute angle with the ground when in the roll position. In particular, the outer section forming a more acute angle with the ground when in the roll position than when in the operating position.

[0025] Advantageously, the fuel cell assembly can have a stopper device, wherein the stopper device projects from the outer section such that, in the rolling position, the distance between the stopper device and the surface is smaller than the distance between the receiving module and the surface. The stopper device can be designed and positioned to limit the rolling position. In particular, the distance between the stopper and the surface is smaller than the distance between the receiving module and the surface in the operating position. The stopper device can be designed to prevent the fuel cell assembly from being accidentally tipped beyond the rolling position from the operating position.In particular, in both the operating position and the rolling position, the axis of rotation can be arranged in a top view in the direction of gravity between a total center of mass of the mobile fuel cell device and the stopper device.

[0026] Advantageously, the receiving devices of the receiving device module are each designed for the interchangeable receiving of a battery pack to be charged from an external environment of the mobile fuel cell device. Alternatively or additionally, the receiving devices for the interchangeable receiving of the respective battery pack to be charged are open to the outside from the external environment. In particular, the receiving devices can each have a battery compartment for receiving the battery pack to be charged, wherein the battery compartment has a receiving space that communicates fluidly with the external environment of the fuel cell device, in particular directly, and is fluidly separated from the internal support structure of the fuel cell device, for receiving the respective battery pack, in particular complementarily.In particular, the battery compartments of the recording devices extend parallel to each other along the common recording direction.

[0027] Advantageously, the fuel cell device has a predominantly cuboid external shape. The fuel cell device can have an external length of 40 mm to 500 mm. The fuel cell device can have an external width of 40 mm to 100 mm. The fuel cell device can have an external height of 100 mm to 1000 mm. The aforementioned values ​​for external length, external width, and external height can refer, in particular, to the operating position of the fuel cell device, specifically such that the external length and external width are measured parallel to the ground plane and the external height is measured perpendicular to the ground plane. The external length can be extended perpendicular to both the external width and the external height, with the external width being perpendicular to the external height.

[0028] The fuel cell system, particularly its external shape, can be expediently adapted to the internal dimensions of a shipping container and / or a transport platform. Such a shipping container can be a sea container. Such a transport platform can be a Euro pallet. Alternatively or additionally, such a transport platform can be a 19" rack in U-units.

[0029] It is advantageous to transport the fuel cell unit using a transport stretcher, particularly a foldable one. The transport stretcher can be modeled after a hospital or rescue stretcher. Specifically, the fuel cell unit, along with the transport stretcher, can be moved into and out of a transport container. The transport stretcher can be designed to automatically compensate for any height difference between the ground and the container floor. Advantageously, the fuel cell unit has a handle for handling it. This handle can be positioned opposite the at least one base wheel of the fuel cell unit and / or extend at least partially parallel to the wheel axis of the fuel cell unit, particularly in an elongated shape.

[0030] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fuel cell assembly has a lifting contour for transferring the force of gravity acting on the fuel cell assembly to a lifting device for raising the fuel cell assembly relative to the ground. The lifting contour can be adapted to the lifting device, in particular complementarily. The lifting contour can be adapted to the tines of a fork, for example, of a forklift or crane equipped with the lifting device. Alternatively or additionally, the lifting contour can be adapted to a hook of the lifting device. In particular, the lifting contour is formed by at least one recess in the fuel cell assembly, wherein the recess can be at least partially bounded by the supporting structure.

[0031] In a further embodiment of the invention, the mobile fuel cell device has at least one electrical connection device for connecting an electrical load. The connection device is designed to allow the electrical load to be supplied with electrical energy provided by the fuel cell device. The electrical connection device is, in particular, different from the receiving devices. The connection device can, for example, be designed in the manner of a household socket, especially according to DIN VDE 0620-1. Alternatively or additionally, a connection device designed according to IEC 60309 can be provided.

[0032] Advantageously, the mobile fuel cell device has an electrical connection device, in particular a different one, for connecting an external electrical energy source, especially one with at least one photovoltaic cell. This connection device, in particular a different one, is electrically connected to the electrical energy storage device of the fuel cell device, so that electrical energy can be supplied to the electrical energy storage device from the connected external electrical energy source.

[0033] In a further embodiment of the invention, the mobile fuel cell device has a first end region and a second end region opposite the first end region, particularly along a longitudinal direction of the fuel cell device. The at least one fuel cell is arranged in the first end region, particularly together with other fuel-carrying components of the fuel cell device. In particular, the at least one fuel cell, particularly together with the other fuel-carrying components of the fuel cell device, is arranged exclusively in the first end region. The receiving device module is arranged in the second end region, particularly together with other electrical and non-fuel-carrying components of the fuel cell device.In particular, the receiving device module, especially together with the other electrical non-fuel-carrying components of the fuel cell device, is arranged exclusively in the second end area.

[0034] In a further embodiment of the invention, the mobile fuel cell device comprises an operating device, wherein the operating device includes a display device and / or an input device. Alternatively or additionally, the fuel cell device comprises a central electrical switch, which is designed to electrically disconnect the power to the receiving devices and / or at least one electrical connection device of the fuel cell device and / or can be manually operated.

[0035] Advantageously, the display device includes a display that is configured, or rather adapted, to display a user interface modeled on the receiving module of the fuel cell device with at least two, and in particular exactly four, receiving devices. The user interface can have a user interface section for each receiving device that is adapted to visually indicate whether a battery pack is currently being received by the respective receiving device and / or whether the received battery pack is currently being charged and / or what the current state of charge of the received battery pack is and / or what the currently expected remaining charging time of the received battery pack is.Alternatively or additionally, a further user interface section may be provided that is adapted to visually indicate whether an electrical consumer is currently connected to at least one electrical connection device of the fuel cell device and / or whether the connected consumer is currently supplied with electrical voltage.

[0036] The user interface may expediently include a separate section designed to visually display the current fuel level in the tank system, the number of battery packs that can still be fully charged based on the current fuel level, the amount of electrical power produced by the mobile fuel cell unit, the amount of electrical power currently being drawn, and / or the power reserve of the fuel cell unit relative to the electrical power currently being drawn. The power reserve can be expressed as a ratio of the electrical power currently being drawn to the maximum electrical power, in particular the rated power, that the fuel cell unit can provide.

[0037] The display may optionally include a touchscreen. The touchscreen may, in particular, simultaneously serve as both the display and input device.

[0038] The input device allows the user to conveniently select which of several recorded battery packs should be charged.

[0039] The user interface can be conveniently generated and / or displayed on a substantially flat display surface. This display surface is inclined both to the recording direction and to the floor. The display surface can extend perpendicular to a virtual vertical plane. This vertical plane can extend parallel to the recording direction and perpendicular to the floor.

[0040] Various measures can be implemented to detect unwanted fuel leaks from the fuel cell system. In particular, the electronic control unit of the mobile fuel cell system is adapted for these measures. Specifically, the electronic control unit is designed to automatically perform fuel leak detection measures, especially without intervention from the user and / or other external persons.

[0041] Advantageously, the electronic control device can be connected to a comparative circuit of the mobile fuel cell device, wherein the comparative circuit is adapted for fuel leakage detection. Advantageously, the comparative circuit can be adapted to check for the presence of a fuel leakage between the pressure tank and the at least one fuel cell.

[0042] Advantageously, the fuel can be routed through the fuel cell assembly as follows. Starting from the filler neck, the fuel can be fed into the tank via the controllable filler valve. From the tank, the fuel can be routed successively through the controllable outlet valve, the at least one pressure reduction stage, the mass flow meter, and a supply valve of the at least one fuel cell, which is controllable, in particular electrically, before reaching the at least one fuel cell and subsequently flowing through it for the reactive reaction. The at least one fuel cell can have an outlet valve, which is controllable, in particular electrically, for releasing at least one product of the reactive reaction of the fuel.

[0043] The comparative circuit can expediently include fuel-sensitive sensors, a mass flow meter, and a fill pressure sensor that detects the internal pressure of the pressure tank. The fill pressure sensor can be installed on, and in particular within, the fill valve and / or outlet valve. Using the fuel-sensitive sensors, the fuel concentration can be continuously measured at various points within the interior of the supporting structure. Each sensor generates a sensor signal, dependent on the measured fuel concentration, which is then fed to the control unit.

[0044] If a fuel concentration measured by one of the sensor devices exceeds a predetermined limit, the filling valve and / or the outlet valve can be closed by means of the electronic control device, and at least one fuel cell can be deactivated by means of the electronic control device. Furthermore, a mass flow of fuel detected by the mass flow meter can be compared to a drop in tank pressure, i.e., a change in internal pressure over a defined time interval. The electronic control device can be adapted for this comparison.

[0045] The electronic control device can expediently access a database containing predefined pairs of mass flow rates and tank pressure change values, particularly tank internal pressure drop values. If the current measured values ​​for mass flow and tank pressure change do not match the database and / or if the difference to the nearest data record in the database is too large, the control device can control the filler valve and / or the outlet valve such that the filler valve and / or the outlet valve are closed. In addition, the electronic control device can deactivate at least one fuel cell in this case.Furthermore, the measured mass flow rate of fuel can be compared with the mass flow rate of the at least one fuel cell, which can be calculated from the power output of the at least one fuel cell. In the event of a deviation, particularly an excessive one, the control device shuts down the fuel cell and closes the filling valve and / or the delivery. Advantageously, the comparative circuit can be used to query the fuel-sensitive sensor devices and to correlate a pressure drop in the tank's internal pressure with the mass flow rate of fuel and the power output of the fuel cell, in order to check the fuel-carrying lines of the fuel cell system for fuel leakage.

[0046] The comparative circuit can expediently provide redundant detection options, which can prevent a fuel leakage from going undetected due to an unforeseen condition or a failure of individual sensor devices.

[0047] The electronic control device can expediently be adapted to check whether at least one fuel cell is activated, in particular by querying the voltage supply of a display of the fuel cell, which may be separate from the display device of the fuel cell device. If the fuel cell is activated, the control device expediently opens the outlet valve. If the fuel cell is not activated, the control device expediently closes the outlet valve. In the event that one of the fuel-sensitive sensor devices detects fuel, the electronic control device expediently closes the outlet valve and deactivates the fuel cell. If the fuel cell is not in operation, the fuel-sensitive sensors may, if necessary,will be switched off, especially since the exhaust valve is automatically closed when the fuel cell is not in operation.

[0048] The user can conveniently deactivate a recording device via the user interface displayed on the screen of the display unit, in particular by switching off the power to the associated relay, and then remove the battery pack from the deactivated recording device. In case the user forgets to deactivate the recording device, a battery pack detection device, in particular comprising an optocoupler circuit, can be provided on the recording device. This device is connected to the electronic control unit, so that the electronic control unit can automatically deactivate the recording device if the battery pack detection device detects that no battery is present.The user can conveniently select a specific battery pack to be charged via the user interface. Due to a power limitation of the fuel cell system's inverter, the number of battery packs that can be charged simultaneously may be limited to two. Once a battery pack is fully charged, the next uncharged battery pack with the highest state of charge (SOC) can be charged automatically. This process can continue until all connected battery packs are fully charged. The fuel cell system can then automatically shut down.

[0049] The control unit can be conveniently adapted to read data from the received battery packs, particularly to display important information such as the charge level on the display unit. To read data from a specific battery pack, the corresponding receiving unit can be switched on via a relay. Communication between the battery pack and the control unit can begin with a time delay, particularly after a few seconds. Accordingly, the receiving unit can be automatically switched on as soon as the relevant battery pack is received, using the battery pack detection device of the respective receiving unit and the associated control unit. The control unit can then check whether a signal, particularly an electrical one, is being received from the battery pack.As long as this is not the case, the recording device can remain activated, and a signal check is skipped. A second pass can then be initiated to check again whether a signal from the recorded battery pack is present. If a signal from the recorded battery pack is received by the control unit, the battery data can be read, processed, and displayed to the user on the display unit's screen. The recording device can then be switched off again.

[0050] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] Further advantages and features of the invention will become apparent from the claims and from the following description of a preferred embodiment of the invention, which is illustrated with reference to the drawings. In this context, identical reference numerals refer to identical, similar, or functionally equivalent components.

[0052] It is understood that the features mentioned above and those to be explained below can be used not only in the combination specified, but also in other combinations or on their own, without leaving the scope of the present invention.

[0053] Fig. 1 shows in schematic perspective a embodiment of a mobile fuel cell device according to the invention,

[0054] Fig. 2 shows a schematic side view of the mobile fuel cell device according to Fig. 1.

[0055] Fig. 3 shows a schematic rear view of the mobile fuel cell device according to Figs. 1 and 2, and

[0056] Fig. 4 shows a user interface that can be visualized by means of a display of a display device of the mobile fuel cell device according to Figs. 1 to 3.

[0057] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXECUTION EXAMPLES

[0058] A mobile fuel cell unit 1 is designed to provide electrical energy. For example, the mobile fuel cell unit 1 can be set up at a location far from a public power grid in order to provide electrical energy at that location.

[0059] The fuel cell device 1 comprises at least one fuel cell 2. Fuel can be supplied to the fuel cell 2 in order to generate the electrical energy to be provided by the fuel cell device 1, in particular in the course of a so-called cold combustion.

[0060] The fuel cell device 1 has a tank system 3, which serves to store the fuel for the at least one fuel cell 2.

[0061] Tank system 3, for example, has a pressure tank 9 designed for storing fuel at an internal pressure, in particular a maximum of 350 bar. Tank system 3, for example, has a thermal pressure relief device 10. Tank system 3, for example, also has at least one pressure reduction stage 11. Tank system 3, for example, further has a filling port 12 for filling with fuel, in particular at internal pressure. Tank system 3, for example, has a mass flow meter 49 for measuring the mass flow of fuel leaving the pressure tank 9. Tank system 3, for example, has a controllable filling valve 13 for fluid-conducting connection of the pressure tank 9 to the filling port 12. Tank system 3, for example, also has a controllable outlet valve 14 for fluid-conducting connection of the pressure tank 9 to the fuel cell 2.In the present case, the mass flow measuring device 49 is arranged in a fuel line 15 of the tank system 3 between the outlet valve 14 and the pressure tank 9.

[0062] The tank system 3 can, for example, be configured to supply fuel to the fuel cell 2 at an operating pressure that is lower than the internal pressure of the pressure tank 9. The operating pressure is, for example, 100 mbar to 10 bar, in this case 0.5 bar.

[0063] The fuel cell device 1 has a receiving module 60. The receiving module 60 has at least two, and in this case exactly four, receiving devices 4. The receiving devices 4 are arranged in a 2x2 grid. Each receiving device 4 is designed both for the interchangeable receiving of an electric battery pack C in a common receiving direction AR of the receiving module 60 and for the associated electrical connection of the received battery pack C to the mobile fuel cell device 1. The receiving devices 4 are each designed for receiving and electrically connecting the received battery pack C such that electrical energy generated by the fuel cell 2 can be supplied to the received battery pack C in order to charge it.

[0064] The receiving devices 4 are, for example, essentially identical in design. In the present case, the receiving devices 4 are designed exactly identically, in particular such that a respective battery pack C can be received and charged by means of each of the receiving devices 4.

[0065] For example, the fuel cell device 1 has an electronic control device 31, which is configured to control the distribution of supplied electrical energy to the receiving devices 4. In this case, the electronic control device 31 is part of the receiving device module 60.

[0066] The fuel cell device 1 has a mounting device 80, wherein the mounting device 80 defines a mounting plane E of the mobile fuel cell device 1. The mounting device 80 is designed to contact a surface F in the mounting plane E, particularly when the mobile fuel cell device 1 is placed on the surface F. The receiving direction AR of the receiving device module 60 is inclined relative to the mounting plane E.

[0067] The fuel cell device 1, for example, has a stack of several fuel cells 2, which in this case are designed as PEM fuel cells.

[0068] The fuel cell device 1, for example, has an electronic device 32 which includes an electrical relay 33 for each receiving device 4 for disconnecting an electrical connection between the respective receiving device 4 and the at least one fuel cell 2. Alternatively or additionally, the respective electrical relay 33 can be configured to disconnect an electrical connection between the respective receiving device 4 and an electrical energy storage device 5 of the fuel cell device 1. The electrical relays 33 can be configured to prevent sparking during the subsequent electrical connection of a respective battery pack C.

[0069] The electrical energy storage device 5 of the mobile fuel cell device 1 serves, for example, to buffer peak loads when providing electrical energy by means of the fuel cell device 1. The electrical energy storage device 5 comprises an electrical buffer battery 6. For example, the electrical energy storage device 5 is designed to store electrical energy generated by means of the fuel cell 2 and to release stored energy when providing electrical energy by means of the fuel cell device 1.

[0070] The mobile fuel cell device 1, for example, has a separately handleable electrical energy storage module 50. The energy storage module 50 is removable from the other components of the fuel cell device 1. The electrical energy storage device 5 and the receiving module 60 are components of the electrical energy storage module 50. The electrical energy storage module 50 is electrically disconnectable from the fuel cell 2 for separate handling, for example, when the electrical energy storage device 5 is at least partially charged with energy generated by the fuel cell 2. The energy storage module 50 can be designed to be user-portable.

[0071] The fuel cell assembly 1 comprises a support structure 7. The support structure 7 is designed to support both the tank system 3 and the fuel cell 2, as well as the receiving module 60. The support structure 7 may be clad externally. The support structure 7 comprises an internal support structure space 8. Both the tank system 3 and the fuel cell 2 are arranged within this internal support structure space 8.

[0072] In the present case, at least one fuel-sensitive sensor device 16 of the fuel cell device 1 is arranged in the interior of the supporting structure 8. The fuel cell device 1 can have a signaling device 17 operatively connected to the sensor device 16 for outputting a signal, in particular an acoustic signal.

[0073] The fuel cell device 1 can include an electrical DC / DC converter 18. The fuel cell device 1 can include an electrical IGBT power switch 19. The fuel cell device 1 can include an electrical feedback diode 20.

[0074] For example, the fuel cell device 1 has at least one base roller 23 rotatable relative to the support structure 7 about a roller axis A of the fuel cell device 1. The base roller 23 serves for rolling on the surface F around its circumference. In this case, two rotatable base rollers 23 of the fuel cell device 1 are provided, which are rotatably mounted on the support structure 7 about the common roller axis A. The roller axis A is arranged such that the base rollers 23, in a rolling position of the fuel cell device 1 tilted relative to an operating position PB of the fuel cell device 1, are in contact with the surface F, in particular by rolling and - alternatively or additionally - by rolling, along a direction of gravity G. The roller axis A is, for example, horizontally extended. In particular, the roller axis A is longitudinally extended perpendicular to a virtual vertical plane of the fuel cell device 1.

[0075] The fuel cell assembly 1 has an outer section 24 extending parallel to the roller axis A, and in particular being substantially planar. The receiving module 60 is arranged on this outer section 24. In the rolling position of the fuel cell assembly 1, the outer section 24 faces the surface F. In particular, the angle between the surface F and the outer section 24 decreases when the fuel cell assembly 1 is tilted from its operating position PB into the rolling position.

[0076] The fuel cell assembly 1 has a stopper device 25. The stopper device 25 projects from the outer section 24, for example, such that in the rolling position, the stopper-substrate distance SUA between the stopper device 25 and the substrate F is smaller than the receiving module-substrate distance AUA between the receiving module 60 and the substrate F. In the present case, the stopper-substrate distance SUA in the operating position PB is smaller than the receiving module-substrate distance AUA.

[0077] For example, the receiving devices 4 are each designed to interchangeably receive the respective battery pack C to be charged from the external environment U of the mobile fuel cell device 1. Alternatively or additionally, the receiving devices 4 can be open to the outside towards the external environment U, as is the case here.

[0078] The receiving devices 4 each have a battery compartment 21 for receiving the battery pack C to be charged. The battery compartments 21 each have a receiving space 22 for receiving, in particular complementary, a respective battery pack C. The receiving space 22 of the respective battery compartment 21 is fluidly connected to the external environment U of the fuel cell device 1, but fluidly separated from the interior of the supporting structure 8. Electrical contacts of the receiving devices 4 can thus be, in particular, fuel-tight, separated from the interior of the supporting structure 8.

[0079] The fuel cell device 1 has a substantially cuboid external shape. For example, the fuel cell device 1 has an external length L of 40 mm to 500 mm. The fuel cell device 1 can have an external width B of 40 mm to 1000 mm. The fuel cell device 1 can have an external height H of 100 mm to 1000 mm. In this case, the external length L extends perpendicular to the external width B and perpendicular to the external height H, with the external width B extending perpendicular to the external height H. For example, the fuel cell device 1 can be adapted to the internal dimensions of a transport container, particularly a standardized one, and / or to the external dimensions of a transport platform, particularly a standardized one.

[0080] It is conceivable to transport the fuel cell unit 1 using a transport stretcher, particularly a foldable one. The transport stretcher can be modeled after a hospital or rescue stretcher. In particular, the fuel cell unit 1, together with the transport stretcher, can be moved into and out of a transport container, the transport stretcher being designed to automatically compensate for any height difference between the ground F and the container floor. The fuel cell unit 1 has a handle 26 for handling it. The handle 26 is, for example, positioned opposite the at least one floor roller 23. Alternatively or additionally, the handle 26 can—as in the present case—extend longitudinally, at least partially, parallel to the roller axis A of the fuel cell unit 1.

[0081] The fuel cell assembly 1 has a lifting contour 27. The lifting contour 27 is designed, for example, to transfer the force of gravity acting on the fuel cell assembly 1 to a lifting device for raising the fuel cell assembly 1 relative to the ground F. The lifting contour 27 can be matched to the lifting device, for example, in a complementary manner. In this case, the lifting contour 27 is matched to the tines of a fork, which may be, for example, a forklift or crane. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the lifting contour 27 is matched to a hook of a lifting device. In this case, the lifting contour 27 is formed by at least one recess 28 in the fuel cell assembly 1, the recess 28 being at least partially bounded by the supporting structure 7.

[0082] The mobile fuel cell device 1 can, for example, have at least one electrical connection device 29. The electrical connection device 29 can be configured for connecting an electrical load. By connecting the electrical load to the connection device 29, the electrical load can be supplied with electrical energy provided by the fuel cell device 1. The connection device 29 can be configured in the form of a household socket and / or a three-phase socket. The electrical connection device 29 is, in particular, configured as an electrical output.

[0083] The fuel cell device 1 also has another electrical connection device 30. This other electrical connection device 30 serves, for example, to connect an external electrical energy source, in particular at least one photovoltaic cell. The other connection device 30 is electrically connected to the electrical energy storage device 5, so that electrical energy can be supplied to the electrical energy storage device 5 from the connected external electrical energy source. The other electrical connection device 30 is specifically designed as an electrical input. The fuel cell device 1 has, for example, a first end region E1 and a second end region E2. The first end region is located opposite the second end region along a longitudinal extension direction LE of the fuel cell device 1.For example, the fuel cell 2 is arranged in the first end region E1, and in particular not in the second end region E2. For example, the receiving device module 60 is arranged in the second end region E2, and in particular not in the first end region E1. In the present case, the fuel cell 2 together with other fuel-carrying components of the fuel cell device 1 is arranged in the first end region E2, whereas the receiving device module 60 together with other electrical non-fuel-carrying components of the fuel cell device 1 is arranged in the second end region E2.

[0084] For example, the mobile fuel cell device 1 has an operating device 34. The operating device 34 has, for example, a display device 35 and / or an input device 36. In this case, the display device 35 and the input device 36 are simultaneously formed by a display S of the fuel cell device 1, which is designed as a touchscreen 48.

[0085] The display S of the display unit 35 is configured, for example, to display a user interface 38. The user interface 38 is, in this case, modeled on a layout of the four recording units 4 of the recording unit module 60. The user interface sections 39 can be arranged in a 2x2 grid.

[0086] The user interface 38 can have a user interface section 39 for each recording device 4, which is configured to visually indicate whether a battery pack C is currently being recorded by the respective recording device 4 or not. Alternatively or additionally, the respective user interface section 39 can be configured to visually indicate whether the recorded battery pack C is currently being charged or not. Alternatively or additionally, the respective user interface section 39 can be configured to visually indicate the current charge level of the recorded battery pack C. Alternatively or additionally, the respective user interface section 39 can be configured to visually indicate the currently expected remaining charging time 41 of the recorded battery pack C.

[0087] In the present case, the user interface 38 has a further user interface section 42, which is configured to visually indicate whether an electrical load is currently connected to the at least one electrical connection device 29, 30 or not. Alternatively or additionally, the further user interface section 42 can be configured to visually indicate whether the connected load is currently supplied with electrical voltage or not.

[0088] The user interface 38 can have another user interface section 43 configured to visually display the current fuel level 44 of the tank system 3. Alternatively or additionally, the other user interface section 43 can be configured to visually display how many battery packs C remain fully chargeable with electrical energy based on the current fuel level 44. Alternatively or additionally, the other user interface section 43 can be configured to visually display the amount of electrical power 45 produced by the mobile fuel cell unit 1. Alternatively or additionally, the other user interface section 43 can be configured to visually display the amount of electrical power 46 currently being drawn.Alternatively or additionally, the other user interface section 43 can be configured to visually display the size of the power reserve 47 of the fuel cell device 1 compared to the currently drawn electrical power 46. The power reserve.

[0089] 47 can be expressed by a ratio V of the currently extracted electrical power 46 to a maximum electrical nominal power that can be provided by the fuel cell device 1.

[0090] For example, the input device 36, which in this case is the touchscreen, can be used

[0091] 48 is trained, the user can select which of several recorded battery packs C should be charged.

[0092] The fuel cell device 1 has an electrical central switch 37. The central switch 37 is designed to electrically disconnect the power to the receiving devices 4 and / or at least one of the electrical connection devices 29, 30. In particular, the central switch 37 can be operated manually.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Mobile fuel cell device (1) for providing electrical energy, wherein the mobile fuel cell device (1) comprises: at least one fuel cell (2) to which fuel can be supplied in order to generate the electrical energy to be provided, a tank system (3) for storing the fuel for the fuel cell (2), a receiving device module (60) comprising at least two receiving devices (4), each of which is designed both for the interchangeable receiving of an electrical battery pack (C) in a receiving direction (AR) common to the receiving devices (4) of the receiving device module (60) and for the associated electrical connection of the received battery pack (C) to the mobile fuel cell device (1), so that electrical energy generated by the fuel cell (2) can be supplied to the received battery pack (C) in order to charge the received battery pack (C) with electrical energy.and a mounting device (80) defining a mounting plane (E) of the mobile fuel cell device (1) and designed to contact a ground (F) in the mounting plane (E), wherein the receiving direction (AR) of the receiving device module (60) is inclined relative to the mounting plane (E).

2. Mobile fuel cell device according to the preceding claim, wherein the receiving devices (4) are substantially similar to one another; and / or wherein the fuel cell device (1), in particular the receiving device module (60), has an electronic control device (31) which is configured to control a distribution of supplied electrical energy to the receiving devices (4).

3. Mobile fuel cell device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the mobile fuel cell device (1) has an electrical energy storage device (5), in particular with an electrical buffer battery (6), for buffering load peaks when providing electrical energy, wherein the electrical energy storage device (5) is configured for storing electrical energy generated by means of the fuel cell (2) and for releasing stored energy when providing electrical energy by means of the fuel cell device (1).

4. Mobile fuel cell device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the mobile fuel cell device (1) comprises an electrical energy storage module (50) that is removable, in particular from the other components of the fuel cell device (1), and which is separately manageable, wherein the electrical energy storage module (50) comprises the electrical energy storage device (5) and the receiving device module (60), wherein the electrical energy storage module (50) is electrically separable from the fuel cell (2) for separate handling, in particular reconnectable, especially when the electrical energy storage device (5) is at least partially charged with energy generated by means of the fuel cell (2).

5. Mobile fuel cell device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fuel cell device (1) has a support structure (7), in particular one with external cladding, for supporting the tank system (3) and the fuel cell (2) and the receiving device module (60), wherein the support structure (7) has a support structure interior (8), wherein the tank system (3) and the fuel cell (2) are arranged within the support structure interior (8).

6. Mobile fuel cell device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the fuel cell device (1) has at least one base roller (23) rotatable relative to the support structure (7) about a roller axis (A) of the fuel cell device (1) for rolling on the surface (F), in particular wherein the roller axis (A) is arranged such that the base roller (23) is in contact with the surface (F) in a rolling position of the fuel cell device (1) that is tilted relative to an operating position (PB) of the fuel cell device (1), in particular rolling and / or being movable along a direction of gravity (G).

7. Mobile fuel cell device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fuel cell device (1) has a lifting contour (27) for transferring the gravity acting on the fuel cell device (1) to a lifting device for raising the fuel cell device (1) relative to the ground (F), in particular wherein the lifting contour (27) is adapted to the lifting device, in particular complementarily.

8. Mobile fuel cell device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, - wherein the mobile fuel cell device (1) has at least one electrical connection device (29) for connecting an electrical consumer in order to supply the consumer with electrical energy provided by the fuel cell device (1).

9. Mobile fuel cell device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fuel cell device (1) has a first end region (E1) and a second end region (E2) opposite the first end region (E1), in particular along a longitudinal extension direction (LE) of the fuel cell device (1), wherein the fuel cell (2), in particular together with further fuel-carrying components of the fuel cell device (1), is arranged in the first end region (E1) and the receiving device module (60), in particular together with further electrical non-fuel-carrying components of the fuel cell device (1), is arranged in the second end region (E2).

10. Mobile fuel cell device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, - wherein the mobile fuel cell device (1) comprises an operating device (34), wherein the operating device (34) comprises a display device (35) and / or an input device (36); and / or - wherein the fuel cell device (1) has an electrical central switch (37) designed to electrically disconnect the receiving devices (4) and / or at least one electrical connection device (29, 30) of the fuel cell device (1) and / or which can be manually operated.

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