Fuel Cell Module Frame Layout for Vibration and Weight Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing fuel cell modules suffer from significant vibration and deformation due to the weight of the fuel cell stack and auxiliary devices, leading to increased component count and weight when additional reinforcing members are used.
Innovation Solution
A frame member configuration with side and cross members, along with connecting members, fixes the fuel cell stack and auxiliary device assembly to the side members, utilizing them as reinforcing elements, reducing the need for additional components and weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a reinforcing member is added to the frame member to suppress deformation and vibration, then the strength and stability of the frame member are improved, but the number of components and the weight of the fuel cell module increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel cell stack and auxiliary devices are integrated with the frame member to function as reinforcing elements. The frame member includes side members, cross members, and connecting members that collectively form a rigid structure where the heavy components themselves contribute to structural reinforcement, eliminating the need for separate reinforcing members.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame member serves dual functions: supporting the heavy fuel cell stack and auxiliary devices, and simultaneously acting as a reinforcing structure to suppress deformation and vibration. The side members and cross members are designed to provide both structural support and reinforcement without requiring additional dedicated reinforcing components.
2Strength
If a reinforcing member is added to the frame member to suppress deformation and vibration, then the strength and stability of the frame member are improved, but the weight of the fuel cell module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcing function is merged into the existing frame member structure. The side members, cross members, and connecting members work together to provide reinforcement without adding separate weighty components. The heavy fuel cell stack and auxiliary devices are positioned to utilize the frame's inherent reinforcement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame member is designed to simultaneously provide structural support for heavy components and act as a self-reinforcing structure. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional reinforcing members that would increase the overall weight of the fuel cell module.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the fuel cell stack and auxiliary devices are fixed across the side members, then they function as reinforcing members to suppress deformation, but the frame member must be designed to accommodate this dual function
Solution Approach 1:
The frame member is designed so that the fuel cell stack and auxiliary devices serve dual purposes: being supported by the frame while simultaneously acting as reinforcing elements. This is achieved through strategic positioning and anchoring of these heavy components to the side members and cross members, creating a self-reinforcing structure without complex additional design.
Data Source
AI summary
The fuel cell module includes an auxiliary device assembly including a fuel cell stack and an air compressor, and a frame member supporting the auxiliary device assembly. The frame member includes: a pair of side members extending in a first direction; a pair of cross members extending along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, arranged in a rectangular shape together with the side members, and shorter than the side members; and four connecting members connecting the side members and the cross members arranged in a rectangular shape to each other. The fuel cell stack is fixed to each of the side members and is fixed to one of the cross members or a connecting member connected thereto. The auxiliary device assembly is fixed to each of the side members and is fixed to the other of the cross members or a connecting member connected thereto.