Overpressure Protection Device for Fuel Cell Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for protecting fuel cells from overpressure are bulky, heavy, and have limited reactivity, making them unsuitable for autonomous and portable energy supply equipment.
Innovation Solution
A protective device with a movable shutter and valve system that responds to overpressure by using a bolt, elastic members, and intersecting sliding mechanisms to ensure effective closure of fluid passages, incorporating a purging mechanism and status indicator for efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two distinct series of materials are used to act on the first obturator and the second obturator respectively, then the protection device can effectively close both shutters, but the reactivity of the system against overpressure is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two previously separate triggering mechanisms into a single integrated membrane that acts on both the first and second obturators simultaneously. This unified membrane structure ensures that when overpressure occurs, both shutters are activated at the same time, thereby improving reactivity while maintaining protection effectiveness through the coordinated action of both closing elements.
2Reliability
If a pressure regulator with two shutters is used for overpressure protection, then the device can be protected against overpressure, but the system becomes bulky and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of two separate protection devices into a single integrated unit. By using one membrane to control both obturators and consolidating the structural components, the design achieves overpressure protection while significantly reducing the overall weight and bulk of the system, making it suitable for portable applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The single membrane structure performs multiple functions simultaneously: it detects overpressure conditions and triggers both closing mechanisms. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate sensing and actuating components for each shutter, thereby reducing weight and complexity while maintaining comprehensive protection.
3Reliability
If a pressure regulator with two shutters is used for overpressure protection, then the device can be protected against overpressure, but the system becomes bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates both closing mechanisms and their triggering systems into a single compact unit. The shared membrane structure and consolidated housing reduce the overall volume of the protection device while ensuring that both shutters remain functional for comprehensive overpressure protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The design employs a nested arrangement where the second shutter and its mechanism are positioned within or alongside the first shutter assembly. This nesting approach allows both protection mechanisms to coexist in a compact configuration, minimizing the overall volume of the device while maintaining dual-shutter protection capability.
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
Provides reliable protection against overpressure with optimal reactivity and reduced bulk, ensuring the safety of fuel cells in portable energy supply systems.
Implementation Method 1
It comprises an elastic member for recalling the lock to its first position
Implementation Method 2
triggering means for triggering the shutter operation and the valve operation from their open positions to their closed positions in response to an overpressure in the hole
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a protection device which defines a through hole (21) for the passage of a fluid which may be under overpressure conditions. In addition, the inventive device comprises: a stop plug (26) which can move between an open position and a position in which a first section of the hole (21) is sealed; a stop valve (28) which can move between an open position and a position in which a second section of the hole (21) is sealed; and means (22, 23, 27) for triggering both the movement of the stop plug (26) and the movement of the valve (28) from the open position to the sealing position in response to an overpressure (P2) in the hole (21). The invention is particularly suitable for self-contained equipment used to supply electrical power by means of a fuel cell.