17949581. FUEL CELL STACK RE-COMPRESSION METHOD AND DESIGN simplified abstract (GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC)

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FUEL CELL STACK RE-COMPRESSION METHOD AND DESIGN

Organization Name

GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC

Inventor(s)

Yeh-Hung Lai of Oakland MI (US)

Jeffrey A. Rock of Rochester Hills MI (US)

FUEL CELL STACK RE-COMPRESSION METHOD AND DESIGN - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 17949581 titled 'FUEL CELL STACK RE-COMPRESSION METHOD AND DESIGN

Simplified Explanation

The patent application describes a method, fuel cell system, and vehicle for maintaining compression via re-compression. This involves recovering fuel cell stacks after a certain period of operation and performing re-compression on each stack to restore power generation capacity, active area pressure, and seal force. This process helps address issues such as increased contact resistance, loss of power generation capacity, decreased seal force, and the risk of gas and coolant leaks.

  • Fuel cell system and vehicle maintenance method
  • Recovery and re-compression of fuel cell stacks
  • Restoration of power generation capacity, pressure, and seal force
  • Addressing contact resistance, power loss, seal force decrease, and leak risks

Potential Applications

The technology could be applied in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, and stationary power generation where fuel cell systems are utilized.

Problems Solved

This technology solves issues related to decreased performance and potential leaks in fuel cell systems, ensuring optimal operation and longevity.

Benefits

The benefits of this technology include improved efficiency, extended lifespan of fuel cell systems, and reduced maintenance costs.

Potential Commercial Applications

The technology could be used in electric vehicles, drones, backup power systems, and other applications requiring reliable and efficient fuel cell technology.

Possible Prior Art

One potential prior art could be the use of re-compression techniques in other mechanical systems to restore performance and functionality.

Unanswered Questions

How does the re-compression process impact the overall efficiency of the fuel cell system?

The article does not delve into the specific efficiency gains or losses associated with the re-compression process. Further research or testing may be needed to determine the exact impact on efficiency.

Are there any limitations to the re-compression method in terms of the types of fuel cell systems it can be applied to?

The article does not mention any limitations regarding the compatibility of the re-compression method with different types of fuel cell systems. Additional studies could explore whether certain systems may not benefit from this maintenance technique.


Original Abstract Submitted

A method, fuel cell system and vehicle for maintaining compression via re-compression is provided. By recovering fuel cell stacks of the fuel cell system after a pre-determined time of operation and performing re-compression on each of the recovered fuel cell stacks, power generation capacity, active area pressure and seal force is recovered to address increased contact resistance and loss of fuel cell system power generation capacity as well as decreased seal force and increased risk of reactant gas and coolant leak.