Fuel Cell System with Selective Membrane for Hydrogen Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydrogen storage methods, such as metal hydrides, have low energy storage density per mass, leading to heavy storage tanks and inefficiencies in hydrogen-based fuel cell systems.
Innovation Solution
A fuel cell system with a membrane that allows oxygen flow while preventing water flow, using a switching mechanism to alternate between hydrogen collection and electricity generation modes, and allowing units to be connected in series or parallel for increased voltage or amperage, utilizing conductive studs and receptacles for efficient energy production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If metal hydride storage is used, then hydrogen can be stored in a compact form, but the energy storage density per mass is low and storage tanks become heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of hydrogen from solid metal hydride form to gaseous form stored at high pressure (up to 700 bar). This parameter change from solid-state chemical bonding to high-pressure gas storage achieves higher energy density per mass while reducing storage system weight, directly resolving the technical contradiction between hydrogen storage density and storage tank weight
2Power
If multiple fuel cells are connected in series to achieve appreciable output voltage, then voltage output increases, but system complexity and heat dissipation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the fuel cell system into modular units, each containing one or more fuel cells connected in series to achieve the desired voltage output. These modules can be independently configured and connected in parallel to scale power output without proportionally increasing system complexity. The segmentation allows flexible voltage configuration while maintaining manageable system architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a bipolar plate as an intermediary component that serves multiple functions: electrical connection between cells, gas distribution, and heat dissipation. This single component mediates between the need for high voltage (through series connection) and the need to manage complexity and heat, consolidating multiple functions into one element that simplifies the overall system architecture
3Productivity
If PEM electrolyzers are used for hydrogen production, then hydrogen can be produced on-demand, but the system requires precise control of voltage thresholds and membrane hydration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the PEM electrolyzer system to automatically self-regulate hydrogen production based on available solar power and stored hydrogen levels. The system uses the solar panels to directly power the electrolyzer when sunlight is available, and automatically switches to using stored hydrogen in the fuel cell when solar power is insufficient, without requiring complex external control systems. This self-service approach maintains high productivity while minimizing control system complexity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides a portable, durable, and efficient energy source with improved energy density and reduced tank weight, enabling regular electricity supply and increased power output through modular unit connections.
Implementation Method 1
the membrane is operable to enable a flow of oxygen through at least a portion of fuel cell unit. The membrane is further operable to prevent water from flowing through at least a portion of the fuel cell
Implementation Method 2
an electrolyzer is used for producing a source of hydrogen from water. As known in the art, hydrogen and oxygen are produced by electrolysis of water. A water electrolysis reaction occurs when sufficient energy is applied to break the water's oxygen-hydrogen-bond
Implementation Method 3
fuel cell technology allows the use of hydrogen as fuel to produce electricity. Every two di-hydrogen molecules (2H2) are include 4 hydrogen protons and 4 free electrons of potential energy (4H++4e−). The oxygen atoms bond with the hydrogen protons, thereby producing atoms of water and leaving the free electrons, thereby generating electricity (4H++4e−+O2−>4H++O2+4e−−>2H2O+4e−)
Data Source
AI summary
A fuel cell system is disclosed that comprises a fuel cell unit operable to store at least one of water and hydrogen. At least one membrane is provided at one or more ends of the fuel cell unit. The membrane is operable to enable a flow of oxygen through the at least a portion of fuel cell unit. Further, the membrane is further operable to prevent water from flowing through at least a portion of the fuel cell. Moreover, an electrical source in operative engagement with the fuel cell unit. The fuel cell operates in a first mode to collect the hydrogen when receiving voltage from the electrical source, and further the fuel cell operates in a second mode to generate electricity using the hydrogen. The fuel cell unit is preferably stackable via a combination of conductible studs and receptacles.