Fuel Cell Stack Connecting Module for Easy Replacement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and high costs associated with exchanging or replacing a fuel cell stack in conventional fuel cell systems, as the entire system must be replaced when the fuel cell stack ages or reaches the end of its life span, leading to inefficiencies and increased manufacturing costs due to the intricate connection with the balance-of-plant (BOP) components.
Innovation Solution
A connecting module that allows for easy detachment and replacement of the fuel cell stack by slidably connecting a link part with a guide to the opening of the fuel cell stack, featuring a connection part that moves forwards and rearwards, and includes a housing, handle, and locking device, enabling simple manipulation and secure coupling with the BOP, thereby facilitating the exchange of the fuel cell stack.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the fuel cell stack and BOP are connected by various pipelines and valves, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the structure becomes complex and difficult to connect or separate
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting module is divided into distinct functional components: a link part for mechanical connection, a connection part for fluid coupling, and a housing for integration. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while simplifying the overall assembly and disassembly process, resolving the contradiction between secure connection and structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting module integrates multiple functions into a single unified structure that simultaneously provides mechanical support, fluid connection, and sealing. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate pipelines and valves, reducing structural complexity while maintaining connection reliability
2Stability of the object's composition
If the fuel cell stack is permanently connected to the BOP, then the system structure is stable, but the entire system must be exchanged when the fuel cell stack ages
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting module employs a dynamic design that allows the link part to slide along guides within the housing, enabling easy attachment and detachment of the fuel cell stack. This dynamic mechanism maintains stable connection during operation while allowing quick replacement when needed, resolving the contradiction between structural stability and replaceability
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting module acts as an intermediary component between the fuel cell stack and the BOP. This intermediate structure allows the fuel cell stack to be easily replaced by detaching from the connecting module, while the BOP remains connected to the module, thus maintaining system stability while enabling fuel cell stack versatility
3Productivity
If the fuel cell stack and BOP are intricately connected, then the system operates efficiently, but the manufacturing costs increase due to complex connections
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting module merges multiple connection functions (mechanical support, fluid routing, sealing) into a single integrated component. This consolidation reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled, lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining efficient system operation through the unified design
Data Source
AI summary
A connecting module for connecting an opening of a fuel cell stack and a nozzle introduces and discharges a fuel gas or cooling water. The connecting module includes a link part disposed adjacent to the opening of the fuel cell stack and configured to be slid leftwards and rightwards. The link part has a guide in an inclination direction. The connecting module also includes a connection part connected to the guide of the link part to be slid along the guide such that the connection part is moved forwards and rearwards during a leftward and rightward sliding operation of the link part. The connection part is configured to be coupled to the opening of the fuel cell stack when being moved forwards and to deviate from the opening of the fuel cell stack when being moved rearwards.