Fuel Cell Seal Member Support via Convex Inflow Passage

The patent applies preliminary action by providing convex supports in advance within the inflow passage to prevent the seal member from deforming. These supports are positioned before the seal member can sag, thereby maintaining its flatness without requiring complex processing or thick materials.

The convex supports act as intermediaries between the inflow passage structure and the seal member. They provide mechanical support to the seal member in the inflow passage region, preventing direct contact between the sagging seal member and the underlying structure, thus maintaining seal flatness.

The patent extracts the coating requirement from the seal member by providing structural support through convex supports instead. This removes the need for titanium oxide coating on the seal member, thereby reducing manufacturing precision requirements while still preventing corrugated deformation.

The convex supports serve as intermediaries that provide the necessary structural support to prevent seal member deformation, replacing the function previously achieved through titanium oxide coating. This eliminates the complex coating process while maintaining seal flatness.

The patent applies local quality by providing convex supports only in specific locations within the inflow passage where the seal member is most likely to deform. This localized support approach maintains seal flatness while minimizing the area occupied by supports, thereby preserving maximum fuel gas flow region.

The patent uses partial action by providing just enough convex support area to prevent seal member deformation without excessive support coverage. The convex supports are sized and positioned to provide necessary support stability while leaving sufficient space for fuel gas flow.