Fuel Cell Stack Retensioning for Stable Compression Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fuel cell stacks face challenges in maintaining consistent compression due to variations in height and aging of tensioning elements, particularly with elastic band or strip-shaped tensioning elements, which can lead to reduced sealing efficiency and increased risk of tension spikes.
Innovation Solution
A fuel cell stack design that incorporates a retensioning element with adjustable distance from the surface section, allowing for variable adjustment and fixation of the tensioning element's force, enabling re-tensioning of the elastic tensioning element and local adjustment of stack compression, thereby maintaining optimal sealing and compression force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If elastic tensioning elements are used to compress the fuel cell stack, then the stack can accommodate height variations and breathing, but the elasticity of the tensioning element decreases over time leading to elongation and reduced compression force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an adjustable tensioning mechanism that allows the compression force to be dynamically adjusted. The tensioning element includes an adjustment device that enables modification of the tensioning force applied to the fuel cell stack, compensating for the loss of elasticity over time and maintaining reliable compression despite the dynamic degradation of the elastic material.
2Force
If metallic tensioning elements with kinks are used to run around the fuel cell stack, then the stack can be tensioned, but the kinks cause elongation of the tensioning element over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes by providing an adjustment mechanism that allows the tensioning element to be re-tensioned. When elongation occurs due to kinks, the adjustment device enables modification of the tensioning parameters, restoring the appropriate compression force and compensating for the structural changes in the tensioning element.
3Device complexity
If the distance between the retensioning element and surface section is fixed, then the structure is simple, but the compression force cannot be adjusted to maintain optimal sealing over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the fixed distance structure into a dynamic, adjustable one. The retensioning element includes an adjustment device that enables modification of the distance between the retensioning element and the surface section, allowing the compression force to be optimized over time to maintain reliable sealing while managing the increased structural 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 solution ensures consistent and adjustable compression of the fuel cell stack, enhancing sealing efficiency and preventing tension spikes by allowing for re-tensioning of the elastic tensioning elements, thus maintaining the stack's operational integrity over time.
Implementation Method 1
at least one elastic tensioning element which is stretched between a first end plate and a second end plate in the stack direction
Data Source
AI summary
A fuel cell stack is provided comprising a first end plate and a second end plate between which a plurality of fuel cells is arranged. At least one elastic tensioning element is tensioned in a stack direction between the end plates. According to the invention, a section of the at least one tensioning element is arranged between a surface section of the fuel cell stack and a retensioning element, wherein a distance between the retensioning element and the surface section can be variably adjusted and set. In this way, the tensioning element can be stretched in a targeted manner by means of the retensioning element and as such the compressive tensile force acting on the fuel cell stack can be increased. A vehicle is also provided comprising such a fuel cell stack.