Systems and methods for fuel cell thermal management
US8790840B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 10, 2010 |
| Grant date | Jul 29, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 18, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E60/50
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Thermal and hydration management systems and methods for fuel cell systems, including control of electrolytic membrane hydration levels. In some embodiments, the thermal properties of the fuel cell are controlled based on a variable associated with the oxidant supply stream and/or a variable associated with the fuel cell energy output. In some embodiments, the temperature of the fuel cell is controlled based on the temperature of the oxidant supply stream. In some embodiments, the temperature range across the fuel cell stack is controlled based on the flow rate of the oxidant stream and the electrical output generated by the fuel cell stack. In some embodiments, the humidity within the fuel cell stack is controlled. In some embodiments, the liquid water content of the cathode exhaust stream is controlled.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.