Integrated cell voltage monitoring module
US7153600B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 24, 2004 |
| Grant date | Dec 26, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 2, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T90/40
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An integrated cell voltage unit for monitoring the voltage of each fuel cell in a fuel cell stack that is easily and reliably electrically coupled to the bipolar plates of the fuel cell stack. The bipolar plates of the fuel cell stack are equipped with a specialized tab connector that engages with a corresponding electrical connector on the cell voltage unit. Either the tab connectors on the bipolar plates or the corresponding connectors on the cell voltage unit include flexible members to provide a suitable electrical friction engagement. The cell voltage unit is attached to the bipolar plates and does not require its own separate housing. In one embodiment, the housing of the fuel cell stack includes a recessed portion in which the cell voltage unit is positioned.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.