Robotic fuel cell assembly system
US9314931B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 11, 2014 |
| Grant date | Apr 19, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 11, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB25J15/0616
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A robotic fuel cell assembly system includes an end-effector, robotic workcell, and fuel cell components that have integrated design features that allow accurate component alignment during the assembly process of a fuel cell stack within a desired tolerance, while avoiding component overlap, which is a major cause of overboard gas leaks during the fuel cell operation. Accurate component alignment is achieved by electrically non-conductive alignment pins that are mounted on a fuel cell base plate, which are configured to be received by guide holes formed on the fuel cell components, and alignment holes provided by an alignment arm attached to the end-effector. The end-effector also includes a passive compliance system that includes two perpendicularly mounted miniature linear blocks and rails, which serve to compensate for the limitations in the ability of the robotic arm to move the end-effector accurately in a repeated manner.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.