JP5077187B2 - Manufacturing apparatus and manufacturing method of electrode material assembly for fuel cell - Google Patents

Description

  TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a manufacturing apparatus and a manufacturing method for an electrode material assembly for a fuel cell, and more specifically, an apparatus for manufacturing an electrode material assembly for a fuel cell and an electrode material bonded to both surfaces of an electrolyte membrane that is continuously transported. The present invention relates to a manufacturing method, the fuel cell electrode material assembly, and a fuel cell including the fuel cell electrode material assembly.

  An outline of a configuration of a general unit cell (also referred to as a fuel cell unit cell) corresponding to the minimum unit of the fuel cell, in particular, a main part including an electrode portion will be described. As illustrated in FIG. 7, a cathode catalyst layer 12 (also referred to as an oxidation electrode or a cathode electrode) and an anode catalyst layer 14 (also referred to as a fuel electrode or an anode electrode) are provided so as to face each other with the electrolyte membrane 10 interposed therebetween. A so-called membrane electrode assembly (MEA) 30 is configured. A so-called membrane electrode diffusion layer assembly (MEGA) 40 is configured by providing the cathode diffusion layer 16 outside the cathode catalyst layer 12 and the anode diffusion layer 18 outside the anode catalyst layer 14. . Further, a cathode-side separator 26 in which an oxidizing gas flow path 20 and a cell refrigerant flow path 22 are formed outside the cathode diffusion layer 16, and a fuel gas flow path 24 and a cell refrigerant flow path 22 outside the anode diffusion layer 18. A single cell 50 is formed by integrating the anode-side separator 28 on which is formed by, for example, adhesion or thermocompression bonding.

  A fuel cell stack (also simply referred to as a fuel cell) in which a plurality of single cells 50 obtained as described above are stacked so as to obtain a desired electromotive force is applied in various fields. In general, the fuel cell stack generates electricity by supplying an oxidation gas such as oxygen or air to the cathode catalyst layer 12 and a fuel gas such as hydrogen to the anode catalyst layer 14. Such a fuel cell is normally controlled to have a predetermined temperature range of, for example, about 60 ° C. to 100 ° C. during power generation, but generates heat associated with a chemical reaction during power generation, thereby preventing overheating of the fuel cell. For this purpose, a refrigerant such as water or ethylene glycol is circulated through the cell refrigerant flow path 22 shown in FIG.

  In order to reduce manufacturing costs, studies are underway for mass production of fuel cells. For example, membrane electrode assemblies (MEA) and / or membrane electrode diffusions are made by sequentially joining electrode materials such as catalyst layer materials and diffusion layer materials to predetermined positions on both sides of a belt-shaped electrolyte membrane that is continuously conveyed. Various methods of manufacturing a layered assembly (MEGA) and, in some cases, continuously manufacturing single cells including gaskets and separators in a series of processes and performing a series of lamination processes in line processing Is being considered.

  Patent Document 1 describes a technique in which a band-shaped sheet material is formed, MEA is assembled to a separator band on which a separator is formed, and then cut to form individual single cells.

  In Patent Document 2, in order to improve the positioning accuracy at the time of bonding, a film tension portion that improves the bending at the time of transport of the electrolyte membrane is provided, and a positioning mark or transport that is regularly provided at the edge of the electrolyte membrane It describes a technique for joining on the basis of holes.

  Patent Documents 3 and 4 describe a technique for carrying a sheet while maintaining a predetermined tension in order to prevent wrinkles from occurring on an electrolyte membrane or the like.

  In Patent Document 5, positioning is performed for accurately stacking diffusion layers and cutting a bonded body in a member in which a bonded body in which a catalyst layer is stacked on a web-like electrolyte membrane that is continuously fed is formed. It is described that the sensor for use is applied.

JP-A-2005-190946 JP 2005-183182 A JP 2004-356075 A JP 2006-116816 A JP 2005-129292 A

  On the other hand, especially in a heated state, the electrolyte membrane has a property of easily extending even with a slight tension. Such characteristics of the electrolyte membrane are a major obstacle to continuous production and high-speed production, and stable transport control of the electrolyte membrane having high deformability is based on the functional characteristics and assembly accuracy of the fuel cell. This is one of the important issues affecting durability.

  When a fuel cell is continuously manufactured in a series of processes, there is a possibility that various problems may be caused by a difference in water content and processing temperature of the electrolyte membrane in each processing process. If too much tension is applied to the electrolyte membrane surface during heat processing, for example, there is a concern that it may lead to elongation in the transport direction of the electrolyte membrane and a cross-leakage of reaction gas due to a partial decrease in film thickness. Is done. In addition, if excessive tension is applied to the electrolyte membrane, the electrolyte membrane may be broken or damaged in some cases.

  On the other hand, in order to sequentially join electrode materials such as a catalyst layer and a diffusion layer to a predetermined location on the surface of the electrolyte membrane, it is necessary to accurately laminate at a predetermined timing according to the transport speed of the electrolyte membrane to be transported. However, under conditions where the interval between the joined bodies may become non-uniform due to the contraction / elongation of the electrolyte membrane, it is necessary to adjust the timing for supplying the electrode material to be laminated next. I must. In some cases, it may be possible to suppress the occurrence of such problems by reducing the manufacturing speed and transporting while adjusting the temperature and humidity in the environment. The production cost reduction effect by the system cannot be expected so much.

  The present invention provides a manufacturing apparatus and a manufacturing method for a fuel cell material assembly capable of continuously producing a fuel cell with high assembly accuracy.

  The configuration of the present invention is as follows.

(1) A fuel cell electrode material assembly manufacturing apparatus for joining electrode materials to both surfaces of an electrolyte membrane that is continuously conveyed, the driving mechanism for conveying the electrolyte membrane in a predetermined direction, and the electrolyte membrane A tension relaxation mechanism that relaxes the tension in the transport direction of the material, and a plurality of joint locations that apply different electrode materials to the electrolyte membrane to be transported, and the tension relaxation mechanism is provided at each of the joint locations. A manufacturing apparatus comprising tension relief means provided independently.

(2) In the manufacturing apparatus according to (1), each of the plurality of joints includes a processing roller through which the electrolyte membrane is inserted, and the circumference of each processing roller is based on a difference in processing time at each joint. Manufacturing equipment that sets the diameter.

(3) In the manufacturing apparatus according to the above (1), each of the plurality of joining locations has a plurality of processing rollers that allow the electrolyte membrane to pass therethrough, and each joining location is based on a difference in processing time at each joining location. A manufacturing apparatus for setting the number of processing rollers in the machine.

  (4) The manufacturing apparatus according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein each of the tension relaxation means includes a plurality of tension relaxation apparatuses.

( 5 ) A method for producing an electrode material assembly for a fuel cell in which electrode materials are joined to both surfaces of an electrolyte membrane, wherein the step of transporting the electrolyte membrane continuously differs from the electrolyte membrane being conveyed. A plurality of bonding steps for bonding electrode materials; and a tension relaxation step for relaxing tension in the transport direction of the electrolyte membrane, wherein the tension relaxation step is performed corresponding to at least each of the bonding steps. ,Production method.

  It is possible to efficiently produce a fuel cell electrode material assembly with high assembly accuracy.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In addition, about the same structure in each drawing, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and the description is abbreviate | omitted. Moreover, the ratio of the dimension as a whole drawing differs from an actual thing.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram for explaining an apparatus for producing a fuel cell electrode material assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. The fuel cell electrode material assembly manufacturing apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1 includes a first processing apparatus 110, a second processing apparatus 120, a third processing apparatus 130, and a tension relaxation mechanism (first tension relaxation apparatus 62, A second tension relief device 72, a third tension relief device 82, and a fourth tension relief device 92), respectively, on both surfaces of the electrolyte membrane 10 that is continuously conveyed from the unwinding roller 84 in the direction of the arrow 66. This is an apparatus for manufacturing an electrode material assembly for a fuel cell by sequentially joining each electrode material.

  2 to 4 show the first processing device 110, the second processing device 120, and the third processing device 130 in order to explain the manufacturing apparatus 100 for the fuel cell electrode material assembly in FIG. 1 in more detail. It is the schematic which expanded each about front and back.

  First, FIG. 2 enlarged about the vicinity of the first processing apparatus 110 shown in FIG. 1 is referred to. In FIG. 2, the first processing apparatus 110 joins the electrode catalyst layer materials 12 and 14 to predetermined positions on both surfaces of the electrolyte membrane 10 continuously conveyed from the unwinding roller 84 to produce the MEA 30. It is a layer bonding apparatus.

  The electrode catalyst layer joining device (first processing device) 110 shown in FIG. 2 includes a cathode catalyst layer material supply unit 54a, an anode catalyst layer material supply unit 54b, and a first joining unit 58. The cathode catalyst layer material supply unit 54a is configured to be able to supply the cathode catalyst layer material 12 to the first joint portion 58 by, for example, a supply belt such as a conveyor. On the other hand, the anode catalyst layer material supply unit 54b is configured to be able to supply the anode catalyst layer material 14 to the first joint 58 using, for example, a conveyor-type transport belt.

  The cathode catalyst layer material 12 and the anode catalyst layer material 14 supplied to the first joint portion 58 are transferred to the processing rollers 60 and 61 in the first joint portion 58, respectively, and then predetermined on both surfaces of the electrolyte membrane 10. Are supplied and joined at the timing. At this time, the gap between the processing rollers 60 and 61 is adjusted in advance so that a predetermined pressure can be applied to the cathode catalyst layer material 12 and the anode catalyst layer material 14 laminated on both surfaces of the electrolyte membrane 10. . By rotating the processing rollers 60 and 61 in the direction of the arrow, the electrolyte membrane 10 and the catalyst layer materials 12 and 14 are joined by pressing and sandwiching, and the MEA 30 is formed. As another embodiment, when the electrolyte membrane 10 and the catalyst layer materials 12 and 14 are pressed and clamped, the processing rollers 60 and 61 are heated to a predetermined temperature as necessary to manufacture the MEA 30 by thermocompression bonding. It is also preferable to adopt a configuration that facilitates the process.

  In FIG. 2, as the cathode catalyst layer material 12 and the anode catalyst layer material 14 respectively supplied by the catalyst layer material supply units 54a and 54b, a catalyst containing a metal or alloy containing platinum or the like is used, such as carbon black. A so-called catalyst ink in which each catalyst layer raw material supported on a catalyst carrier such as a carbon material is dispersed in a dispersion medium such as water or ethanol to form a liquid or paste can be applied. Specifically, for example, the surface of a sheet-like base material prepared in advance is formed by applying the above-described catalyst ink in the shape of a desired catalyst layer by spraying or coating, for example, and applying the dried electrolyte membrane. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as another embodiment, an electrolyte in which a material corresponding to the above-described catalyst ink is continuously conveyed is used. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the surface of the film 10 is directly applied or sprayed. Further, the cathode catalyst layer material 12 and the anode catalyst layer material 14 may have the same composition or different compositions.

  On the other hand, in FIG. 2, a first information acquisition unit 94 that detects and acquires information of the moving electrolyte membrane 10 is provided on the upstream side (the unwinding roller 84 side) of the first processing apparatus 110. . The catalyst layer material supply control unit 55 can control the timing of supply of the catalyst layer materials 12 and 14 by the catalyst layer material supply units 54a and 54b based on the information obtained by the first information acquisition unit 94. it can.

  The first information acquisition unit 94 non-contacts information recorded (printed) on a specific portion of the electrolyte membrane 10, for example, information recorded (printed) using a photoelectric tube mark or a visible or invisible ink corresponding thereto. And information on the electrolyte membrane 10 is acquired. As another embodiment, the first information acquisition unit 94 includes an identifier (for example, a mark having an optical characteristic (for example, color) provided in a specific part of the electrolyte membrane 10, or written on the electrolyte membrane 10. It is also possible to obtain a movement information of the electrolyte membrane 10 by identifying a symbol and / or a number (for example, a production number).

  On the other hand, the catalyst layer material supply control unit 55 controls the supply of the catalyst layer materials 12 and 14 by the catalyst layer material supply units 54a and 54b based on the information obtained by the first information acquisition unit 94, and the electrolyte. The cathode catalyst layer material 12 and the anode catalyst layer material 14 are respectively supplied to both surfaces of the membrane 10 at a predetermined timing.

  In addition, as the information regarding the electrolyte membrane 10 conveyed by the 1st information acquisition part 94, the information regarding the position of the electrolyte membrane 10 may be used, for example, and it is the information regarding the speed of the electrolyte membrane 10. There may be. The catalyst layer material supply control unit 55 combines information on the position and / or speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 acquired by the first information acquisition unit 94 and information on a tension relaxation mechanism described later to combine each of the catalyst layer materials. It can also be set as the structure which controls supply.

  Here, the information regarding the position of the electrolyte membrane 10 acquired by the first information acquisition unit 94 may be, for example, information on the coating end face applied to the electrolyte membrane 10 in advance. A method of controlling the timing of supplying the catalyst layer materials 12 and 14 onto the electrolyte membrane 10 based on the position information of the portion may be included, but is not limited thereto. Specifically, it is possible to adopt a configuration based on detection by a position sensor such as an image such as a conveyance speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 and a processing position formed in advance on the electrolyte membrane 10, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

On the other hand, the information on the velocity of the electrolyte membrane 10 acquired by the first information acquisition unit 94 is, for example, information on the velocity of the membrane using the Doppler effect or a specific portion (recording portion) of the electrolyte membrane 10 is predetermined. Information on the transport speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 obtained by dividing the difference in time (that is, the passage time) passing through at least two information acquisition units provided at the interval from the interval. Based on this, a method of controlling the timing of supplying the catalyst layer materials 12 and 14 onto the electrolyte membrane 10 may be included, but the present invention is not limited to this.

  The processing rollers 60 and 61 shown in FIG. 2 can also function as drive rollers that assist the conveyance of the electrolyte membrane 10 on which the MEA 30 is formed in the direction of the arrow 66. That is, the rotation of the processing rollers 60 and 61 in the direction shown in FIG. 2 in a state where the catalyst layer materials 12 and 14 and / or the electrolyte membrane 10 are pressed and sandwiched is at least one of the transport driving force of the electrolyte membrane 10. As well as being a factor in generating tension on the electrolyte membrane 10. Therefore, in the present embodiment, in order to relieve the tension on the electrolyte membrane 10, the peripheral speed of the processing rollers 60 and 61 can be controlled according to the conveyance speed of the electrolyte membrane 10. On the other hand, the difference between the transport speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 transported to the first joint portion 58 and the peripheral speed of the processing rollers 60 and 61 that supply the catalyst layer materials 12 and 14 onto the electrolyte membrane 10 is expressed in the film. The level is not damaged, more specifically, as small as possible within the range of the elastic region of the electrolyte membrane 10, and when the catalyst layer materials 12 and 14 are pressed and held, the catalyst layer materials 12. , 14 (MEA 30) and the processing rollers 60, 61 are preferably free from friction and slippage. In this case, the conveyance roller 86 shown in FIG.

  Next, FIG. 3 enlarged about the vicinity of the second processing apparatus 120 shown in FIG. 1 will be referred to. In FIG. 3, the second processing apparatus 120 uses electrode diffusion layer materials on both sides of the MEA 30 formed by bonding the electrode catalyst layer materials 12 and 14 to predetermined positions on both sides of the electrolyte membrane 10 that is continuously conveyed. This is an electrode diffusion layer bonding apparatus that bonds ME 16 and 18 to manufacture MEGA 40.

  The electrode diffusion layer bonding apparatus (second processing apparatus) 120 shown in FIG. 3 includes a cathode diffusion layer material supply unit 64a, an anode diffusion layer material supply unit 64b, and a second bonding unit 68. The cathode diffusion layer material supply unit 64a and the anode diffusion layer material supply unit 64b respectively supply the cathode diffusion layer material 16 and the anode diffusion layer material 18 to both sides of the MEA 30 with a predetermined conveyor belt, for example. It can be supplied at the timing.

  On the other hand, the 2nd junction part 68 is provided with the processing rollers 70 and 71 which have a predetermined space | gap and can rotate in the arrow direction. The gap between the processing rollers 70 and 71 is adjusted in advance so that a predetermined pressure can be applied to the cathode diffusion layer material 16 and the anode diffusion layer material 18 laminated on both surfaces of the MEA 30. By rotating the processing rollers 70 and 71 in the direction of the arrow, the MEA 30 and the diffusion layer materials 16 and 18 are joined by pressing and clamping to form the MEGA 40. When the MEA 30 and the diffusion layer materials 16 and 18 are pressed and clamped, it is also preferable that the processing rollers 70 and 71 are heated to a predetermined temperature as required to promote the MEGA 40 by thermocompression bonding.

  In FIG. 3, as the cathode diffusion layer material 16 and the anode diffusion layer material 18 respectively supplied by the respective diffusion layer material supply sections 64a and 64b, a sheet shape having a predetermined width and length such as carbon paper or carbon cloth is generally used. Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is used in order to ensure the desired air permeability and electronic conductivity, and to prevent flooding due to the retention of moisture in the catalyst layer and diffusion layer. It is also possible to use a material that has been treated with a binder such as the above or other hydration material and imparted the desired hydrophobicity or hydrophilicity. Moreover, it is also suitable to improve electroconductivity by using together electroconductive particles, such as a carbon particle, as needed.

  Further, as the cathode diffusion layer material 16 and the anode diffusion layer material 18 shown in FIG. 3, a predetermined shape corresponding to the shape of the MEGA 40 in advance (that is, substantially the same as the cathode catalyst layer material 12 and the anode catalyst layer material 14 except for the thickness). The same shape (refer to FIG. 7) shows an embodiment using a processed material, but in other embodiments, a rotary cutter or the like is shown in a part of each diffusion layer supply unit 64a, 64b. It is also preferable to provide a cutting member that is not to be supplied, and supply and join a series of the cathode diffusion layer material 16 and the anode diffusion layer material 18 to be conveyed while cutting into a predetermined shape.

  On the other hand, in FIG. 3, a second information acquisition unit 96 that detects and acquires information of the moving electrolyte membrane 10 and / or MEA 30 is provided on the upstream side of the second processing apparatus 120. The diffusion layer material supply control unit 65 can control the timing of supply of the diffusion layer materials 16 and 18 by the diffusion layer material supply units 64a and 64b based on the information obtained by the second information acquisition unit 96. it can. Specifically, it is possible to adopt a configuration based on detection by an image position sensor such as the conveyance speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 and a processing position (for example, transfer / processing end face in the previous process) formed in advance on the electrolyte membrane 10. There is, but is not limited to this.

  The second information acquisition unit 96 non-contacts information recorded (printed) on a specific portion of the electrolyte membrane 10, for example, information recorded (printed) with a photoelectric tube mark or a visible or invisible ink corresponding thereto. And information on the electrolyte membrane 10 is acquired. As another embodiment, the second information acquisition unit 96 includes an identifier (for example, a mark having an optical characteristic (for example, color) provided in a specific part of the electrolyte membrane 10, or written on the electrolyte membrane 10. It is also possible to obtain a movement information of the electrolyte membrane 10 by identifying a symbol and / or a number (for example, a production number).

  On the other hand, the diffusion layer material supply control unit 65 controls the supply of the diffusion layer materials 16 and 18 by the diffusion layer material supply units 64a and 64b based on the information obtained by the second information acquisition unit 96, and the MEA 30 The cathode diffusion layer material 16 and the anode diffusion layer material 18 are supplied to each of the two surfaces at a predetermined timing.

  The information on the electrolyte membrane 10 to be conveyed acquired by the second information acquisition unit 96 may be, for example, information on the position of a specific portion of the electrolyte membrane 10 or the specification of the electrolyte membrane 10. Information on the speed of the part may be used. The diffusion layer material supply control unit 65 includes the information detected by the first information acquisition unit 94 shown in FIG. 2 in addition to the information on the position and / or speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 acquired by the second information acquisition unit 96. The supply of each diffusion layer material may be controlled by combining information on the position and / or speed of a specific portion of the film 10 and information on a tension relaxation mechanism described later.

  Here, the information regarding the position of the specific portion of the electrolyte membrane 10 acquired by the second information acquisition unit 96 may be, for example, information on an end face of a catalyst or the like applied to the electrolyte membrane 10 in advance. A method of controlling the timing of supplying the respective diffusion layer materials 16 and 18 on the MEA 30 based on the position information may be included, but is not limited thereto.

On the other hand, the information regarding the speed of the specific portion of the electrolyte membrane 10 acquired by the second information acquisition unit 96 is, for example, the specification if the electrolyte membrane 10 does not need to consider the influence of expansion and contraction due to thermal external force or the like. Information on the transport speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 obtained by dividing the time difference (that is, the passage time) when the portion (recording portion) passes through at least two information acquisition units provided at a predetermined interval from the interval. A method of controlling the timing of supplying each diffusion layer material 16, 18 on the MEA 30 based on this speed information may be included, but is not limited thereto.

  Further, as another embodiment of the second information acquisition unit 96, it is also preferable to employ a configuration using a film thickness measuring device. For example, the catalyst layer materials 12 and 14 are supplied to predetermined locations on the electrolyte membrane 10, and the MEA 30 is utilized by utilizing the difference in outer dimensions (film thickness) between the formed MEA 30 and the portion where the electrolyte membrane 10 is exposed. The position where is formed is grasped. The cathode diffusion layer material 16 and the anode diffusion layer are arranged on the MEA 30 based on the arrangement of the second information acquisition unit 96 including the film thickness measuring device and the diffusion layer material supply units 64a and 64b, and further on the transport speed of the electrolyte membrane 10. The materials 18 are synchronized so that each is supplied. According to the present embodiment, a predetermined catalyst layer material is not supplied to the surface of the electrolyte membrane 10 due to some trouble, and there is a waste of supplying each diffusion layer material 16, 18 to a place where the desired MEA 30 is not formed. Therefore, it is possible to contribute to improving the yield of the cathode diffusion layer material 16 and the anode diffusion layer material 18.

  The processing rollers 70 and 71 shown in FIG. 3 can also function as drive rollers that assist the conveyance of the electrolyte membrane 10 in the direction of the arrow 66 in the same manner as the processing rollers 60 and 61 shown in FIG. That is, the rotation of the processing rollers 70 and 71 in the direction shown in FIG. 3 in a state where the diffusion layer materials 16 and 18 and / or the electrolyte membrane 10 are pressed and sandwiched is at least one of the transport driving force of the electrolyte membrane 10. As well as being a factor in generating tension on the electrolyte membrane 10. Therefore, in the present embodiment, in order to relieve the tension on the electrolyte membrane 10, the peripheral speed of the processing rollers 70 and 71 can be controlled according to the conveyance speed of the electrolyte membrane 10, and the electrolyte membrane 10 On the other hand, the difference between the transport speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 transported to the second joint portion 68 and the peripheral speed of the processing rollers 70 and 71 for joining the diffusion layer materials 16 and 18 supplied on the MEA 30 by pressing and sandwiching them, The stress is reduced as much as possible so as not to cause tensile damage to the electrolyte membrane 10, and when each diffusion layer material 16, 18 is pressed and held, each diffusion layer material 16, 18 (MEGA 40) and the processing roller 70. , 71 is preferably free from friction and slippage.

  As another embodiment, for example, when the processing time by the processing rollers 70 and 71 is very short and the driving force for the electrolyte membrane 10 cannot be expected (in this case, generally, the electrolyte is between the processing roller and the electrolyte membrane). It is also preferable that the electrolyte membrane 10 is positively conveyed by the conveyance (auxiliary) roller 86 in order to prevent slippage at a level at which the quality of the film does not easily deteriorate.

  Next, FIG. 4 enlarged about the front and rear of the third processing apparatus 130 shown in FIG. 1 will be referred to. In FIG. 4, the third processing device 130 has sealing member materials 52, 52 on both sides of the MEGA 40 in which the electrode catalyst layer material and the electrode diffusion layer material are respectively joined at predetermined positions on both sides of the electrolyte membrane 10 that is continuously conveyed. 56 is a seal member joining device for joining ME 56 and producing a MEGA-seal member assembly 90.

  The seal member joining apparatus (third processing apparatus) 130 shown in FIG. 4 includes a cathode side seal member material supply unit 74a, an anode side seal member material supply unit 74b, and a third joint unit 78. The cathode-side seal member material supply unit 74a is configured to be able to supply the cathode-side seal member material 52 to the third joint portion 78 at a predetermined timing, for example, using a conveyor-like transport belt. On the other hand, the anode-side seal member supply unit 74b is configured to be able to supply the anode-side seal member material 56 to the third joint 78 at a predetermined timing, for example, with a conveyor-like transport belt.

  The cathode side sealing member material 52 and the anode side sealing member material 56 supplied to the third joint portion 78 are transferred to the processing rollers 80 and 81 in the third joint portion 78, respectively, and then are predetermined on both surfaces of the MEGA 40. Are supplied and joined at the timing. The gap between the processing rollers 80 and 81 is adjusted in advance so that a predetermined pressure can be applied to the cathode side sealing member material 52 and the anode side sealing member material 56 laminated on both surfaces of the MEGA 40. By rotating the processing rolls 80 and 81 in the direction of the arrow, the MEGA 40 and the seal member materials 52 and 56 that are sequentially conveyed are joined by pressing and clamping, whereby the MEGA-seal member assembly 90 is formed. As another embodiment, when the MEGA 40 and the seal member materials 52 and 56 are pressed and clamped, the processing rollers 80 and 81 are heated to a predetermined temperature as necessary, so that the MEGA-seal member assembly 90 It is also preferable to adopt a configuration that facilitates production by thermocompression bonding.

  In FIG. 4, the cathode side sealing member material 52 and the anode side sealing member material 56 are arranged, for example, in the outer peripheral portion of a manifold that circulates a fluid such as a reaction gas or a refrigerant in a fuel cell stack. Gaskets, line seals, and the like may be included that prevent fluid from leaking out and / or contamination of foreign matter including foreign fluids into the manifold. As such a cathode side sealing member material 52 and / or an anode side sealing member material 56, for example, elastic members such as ethylene propylene rubber, fluorine rubber, and silicone rubber can be used alone or in appropriate combination. Note that the cross-sectional shapes of the cathode-side sealing member material 52 and the anode-side sealing member material 56 shown in FIG. 4 are merely examples, and may not be the shapes shown in FIGS. It can be designed accordingly.

  On the other hand, in FIG. 4, a third information acquisition unit 98 that detects and acquires information on the moving electrolyte membrane 10 and / or MEGA 40 is provided on the upstream side of the third processing apparatus 130. The seal member material supply control unit 75 can control the timing of supplying the seal member materials 52 and 56 by the seal member material supply units 74a and 74b based on the information obtained by the third information acquisition unit 98. it can. Specifically, it is possible to adopt a configuration based on detection by an image position sensor such as the conveyance speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 and a processing position (for example, transfer / processing end face in the previous process) formed in advance on the electrolyte membrane 10. There is, but is not limited to this.

  The third information acquisition unit 98 non-contacts information recorded (printed) on a specific portion of the electrolyte membrane 10, for example, information recorded (printed) using a photoelectric tube mark or a visible or invisible ink corresponding thereto. And information on the electrolyte membrane 10 is acquired. As another embodiment, the third information acquisition unit 98 includes an identifier (for example, a mark having an optical characteristic (for example, color) provided in a specific part of the electrolyte membrane 10, or written on the electrolyte membrane 10. It is also possible to obtain a movement information of the electrolyte membrane 10 by identifying a symbol and / or a number (for example, a production number).

  On the other hand, the seal member material supply control unit 75 controls the supply of the seal member materials 52 and 56 by the seal member material supply units 74a and 74b based on the information obtained by the third information acquisition unit 98, and the MEGA 40 The cathode side sealing member material 52 and the anode side sealing member material 56 are respectively supplied at predetermined timings to both sides.

  The information on the electrolyte membrane 10 to be conveyed that is acquired by the third information acquisition unit 98 may be, for example, information on the position of a specific portion of the electrolyte membrane 10 or the specification of the electrolyte membrane 10. Information on the speed of the part may be used. The seal member material supply control unit 75 uses the electrolyte detected by the first information acquisition unit 94 shown in FIG. 2 in addition to the information on the position and / or speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 acquired by the third information acquisition unit 98. Information on the position and / or speed of the specific part of the membrane 10, information on the position and / or speed of the specific part of the electrolyte membrane 10 detected by the second information acquisition unit 96 shown in FIG. It can also be set as the structure which controls supply of each sealing member material 52,56 combining the information regarding a mechanism.

  Here, the information related to the position of the specific portion of the electrolyte membrane 10 acquired by the third information acquisition unit 98 is related to, for example, the laminated end surface on which the MEGA 40 is formed in the previous process, or a mark that is processed at the same time. Information may be included, and a method of controlling the timing of supplying the seal member materials 52 and 56 onto the MEGA 40 based on the position information may be included, but is not limited thereto.

On the other hand, the information regarding the speed of the specific part of the electrolyte membrane 10 acquired by the third information acquisition unit 98 is, for example, at least 2 in which the specific part (recording part) of the electrolyte membrane 10 is provided at a predetermined interval. One difference time passing the information acquisition unit (i.e., the transit time) may be information of the transport speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 obtained by dividing from the interval, based on this speed information, each seal on MEGA40 A method of controlling the timing of supplying the member materials 52 and 56 may be included, but is not limited thereto.

  Further, as another embodiment of the third information acquisition unit 98, it is also preferable to employ a configuration using a film thickness measuring device. For example, the diffusion layer materials 16 and 18 are supplied to predetermined locations on the MEA 30, and the MEGA 40 is formed using the difference in outer dimension (film thickness) between the formed MEGA 40 and the portion where the electrolyte membrane 10 is exposed. The position on the cathode side on the MEGA 40 is determined based on the distance between the third information acquisition unit 98 including the film thickness measuring instrument 98 and each sealing member material supply unit 74a, 74b and the transport speed of the electrolyte membrane 10. Synchronization is performed so that the seal member material 52 and the anode side seal member material 56 are respectively supplied. According to the present embodiment, it is possible to eliminate the waste of supplying the sealing member materials 52 and 56 to a place where the desired MEA 30 and / or MEGA 40 is not formed due to some problem, which contributes to an improvement in yield. It becomes possible.

  The MEGA-seal member assembly 90 joined in the third joint 78 is then further conveyed in the direction of arrow 66 and taken up by the take-up roller 88. Then, the MEGA-seal member assembly 90 is cut for each unit in another device (not shown), and the unit cell 50 is manufactured using a member such as a separator (see FIG. 7) not shown in FIG. Stacking is performed using a predetermined number of single cells 50 to form a fuel cell stack.

  The processing rollers 80 and 81 shown in FIG. 4 can also function as drive rollers for assisting the conveyance of the electrolyte membrane 10 in the direction of the arrow 66, similarly to the processing rollers 60 and 61 shown in FIG. That is, the rotation of the processing rollers 80 and 81 in the direction shown in FIG. 4 in a state where the seal member materials 52 and 56 and / or the electrolyte membrane 10 are pressed and sandwiched is at least one of the transport driving force of the electrolyte membrane 10. As well as being a factor in generating tension on the electrolyte membrane 10. Therefore, in the present embodiment, in order to relieve the tension on the electrolyte membrane 10, the peripheral speed of the processing rollers 80 and 81 can be controlled according to the conveyance speed of the electrolyte membrane 10, and the electrolyte membrane 10 On the other hand, the difference between the transport speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 transported to the third joint 78 and the rotational speed of the processing rollers 80 and 81 for joining the seal member materials 52 and 56 supplied onto the MEGA 40 by pressing and clamping is as much as possible. When the seal member materials 52 and 56 are pressed and clamped, friction or slippage is caused between the seal member materials 52 and 56 (membrane electrode diffusion layer-seal member assembly 90) and the processing rollers 80 and 81. It is preferable not to generate.

  In the embodiment described above, each joint 58, 68, 78 shown in FIGS. 2-4 includes a pair of processing rollers (60, 61), (70, 71), (80, 81), respectively. ing. The processable time in each of these processing rollers depends on the pressure contact time by the processing roller based on the transport speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 and the peripheral diameter and peripheral speed of the roller, so that these must be adjusted. Thus, it is possible to secure a desired processing time. That is, in order to perform predetermined processing at each processing site on the electrolyte membrane 10 transported at a constant speed, the peripheral diameter (ratio) of each processing roller is set in advance based on the processing time difference at each processing roller. It is preferable to do. According to the present embodiment, it is possible to perform predetermined processing on each processing roller (joining portion) while keeping the conveying speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 constant.

  On the other hand, it is also preferable to perform processing by a plurality of processing rollers such as a series of processing members to which a caterpillar system is applied including a plurality of rolls as shown in FIG. In the processing member 102 shown in FIG. 5, the processing belt 104 rotates in the direction of the arrow 109 as the plurality of rolls 106 rotate in the direction of the arrow (counterclockwise). When such a processing member 102 is applied to each processing portion, the base material 108 conveyed in the direction of the arrow 66 is set by appropriately setting the number of processing rollers based on the difference in processing time in each processing portion in advance. Even in a state where the transport speed of (electrolyte membrane 10, MEA 30 or MEGA 40) is constant, it is possible to maintain desired processing conditions in each processing portion, which is preferable. In the processing member 102 shown in FIG. 5, an outline of only the configuration above the base material 108 is shown, and the configuration below the base material 108 is omitted. For example, a configuration using a processing roller having a predetermined peripheral diameter is used. For example, it is also preferable to employ a processing member (processing belt) that includes a plurality of rolls and has the same configuration as that of the processing member 102 provided above the base material 108.

  In the present embodiment, for example, by changing the number of rolls 106 that are in contact with the base material 108 that is transported in the direction of the arrow 66, the number of rolls 106 that come into contact with the processing belt 104 and the base material 108 is varied. By changing the contact length L, or by varying the pressing force against the base material 108 by the roll 106 and the processing belt 104 (including the heating time when the roll 106 is a heating roll), the processing conditions are appropriately adjusted. However, a configuration that can be optimized is also preferable.

  As explained above, for example, the coating / drying process is long, and if the device is stopped halfway, processes that are likely to cause defective products are eliminated as much as possible, and the process is relatively short and stable. By forming a bonded body to which a processing roller or a processing belt capable of performing the above processing is formed, it is possible to perform continuous processing according to the capability of the manufacturing apparatus and increase the manufacturing efficiency of the electrode material bonded body.

  Further, by controlling the relative speed (peripheral speed) with each processing roll provided at each joint 58, 68, 78 according to the transport speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 at the time of manufacture, Although the generation of tension on the electrolyte membrane 10 can be suppressed to some extent, it may still be insufficient.

  In the electrode material assembly manufacturing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 1, each drive mechanism such as a plurality of drive rollers (conveyance rollers) and processing rollers is rotated at a predetermined speed (circumferential speed) (rotation speed). This is a device that performs a series of joining processes on the electrolyte membrane 10 that is continuously conveyed by being driven. However, in each rotational drive part (processing roller and / or drive roller), a difference in motor characteristics, backlash of a speed reducer, etc. occur, and in fact, a slight delay or advance occurs for each predetermined rotational speed. There is a case. Due to such a slight shift in the rotation cycle (speed) that can be inevitably caused, there are cases where the transport speed and processing time of the substrate including the electrolyte membrane 10 change slightly. For this reason, excessive tension is locally applied to the electrolyte membrane 10, which not only causes expansion and breakage of the electrolyte membrane 10, but can also cause processing (bonding) defects. With respect to such inevitable problems due to mechanical characteristics, a tension relaxation mechanism (a first tension relaxation device 62, a second tension relaxation device 72, and a third tension relaxation device 82 as shown in FIG. 1). And the fourth strain relief device 92) is effective.

  1 and 2 includes a drive control of the unwinding roller 84 relative to the electrolyte membrane 10 and rotation of the processing rolls 60 and 61 between the unwinding roller 84 and the electrode catalyst layer bonding apparatus 110. It is an apparatus that relieves the tension caused by the above and suppresses the expansion of the electrolyte membrane 10 that is continuously conveyed. When a tension sensing unit (not shown) senses an increase in tension with respect to the electrolyte membrane 10, the first tension relaxation control unit 63 issues a tension relaxation command, and the first tension relaxation device 62 performs a predetermined tension relaxation process. .

  As such a first tension relaxation device 62, various known tension relaxation means can be applied. For example, in order to absorb and adjust local fluctuations in the electrolyte membrane length, for example, a mechanism for controlling the transport drive of the electrolyte membrane 10 and temporarily changing the transport speed to relax the tension (for example, A dancer roller, etc.) or the electrolyte membrane 10 is retained for a predetermined length, and the supply is promptly performed in response to a delay in conveyance in the downstream portion thereof, but temporarily for excessive conveyance from the upstream. It is preferable to provide one or more conveyance buffering devices (accumulators, etc.) that repeatedly perform the operation of staying in the chamber as required.

  Further, as a tension sensing unit (not shown) in the first tension relief device 62, a rotary encoder that senses the conveyance speed from the unwinding roller 84 and reflects it in the control of the unwinding roller by the powder brake, or built in the roller It is possible to use a tension pickup that reflects the tension sensed by the load cell in dancer roller control, but is not limited to this. In another embodiment, the tension pickup itself can be configured to relieve the tension based on the information on the tension obtained by the tension pickup.

  As another embodiment, a control method such as powder brake control or torque control, which is generally incorporated in advance in the unwinding roller 84 and used for driving control of the unwinding roller 84, together with the first tension relaxation device 62, A configuration in which the first tension relaxation control unit 63 performs control is also preferable.

  The second tension relaxation device 72 shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 is a catalyst by rotation of the processing rollers 60 and 61 between the electrode catalyst layer bonding device 110 and the conveying roller 86 or the electrode diffusion layer bonding device 120 adjacent thereto. This is a device that relieves tension generated on the electrolyte membrane 10 due to bonding of layer materials, conveyance control of the conveyance rollers 86, processing and / or bonding of diffusion layer materials by rotation of the conveyance rollers 70 and 71, and the like. When a tension sensing unit (not shown) senses an increase in tension on the electrolyte membrane 10, the second tension relaxation control unit 73 issues a tension relaxation command, and the second tension relaxation device 72 performs a predetermined tension relaxation process.

  As the second tension relaxation device 72, various known tension relaxation means can be applied as in the first tension relaxation device 62. The second tension relaxation device 72 may be used in the same or similar combination as the first tension relaxation device 62 described above, or may be in a different combination. Depending on the characteristics of the electrode catalyst layer bonding apparatus 110, the transport roller 86, and the electrode diffusion layer bonding apparatus 120, selection can be made as appropriate.

  1 and 4 includes a diffusion layer member material joined by rotation of the processing rollers 70 and 71 between the electrode diffusion layer joining device 120 and the seal member joining device 130, and a processing roller 80. , 81 is a device that relieves the tension generated on the electrolyte membrane 10 due to the joining of the sealing member material by the rotation of 81 and the like. When a tension sensing unit (not shown) senses an increase in tension on the electrolyte membrane 10, the third tension relaxation control unit 83 issues a tension relaxation command, and the third tension relaxation device 82 performs a predetermined tension relaxation process.

  As such a third tension relaxation device 82, various known tension relaxation means can be applied in the same manner as the first tension relaxation device 62 and the second tension relaxation device 72. The third strain relief device 82 may be used in the same or similar combination as the first strain relief device 62 and / or the second strain relief device 72 described above, or by a different combination. May be. Depending on the characteristics of the electrode diffusion layer bonding apparatus 120 and the seal member bonding apparatus 130, the selection can be made as appropriate.

  1 and 4, the fourth tension relief device 92 includes a seal member joining device 130 and a take-up roller 88, and joining of the seal member material by rotation of the processing rolls 80 and 81 and rotation of the take-up roller 88. Is a device that relieves the tension generated on the electrolyte membrane 10 when the membrane electrode diffusion layer-sealing member assembly 90 is wound. When a tension sensing unit (not shown) senses an increase in tension on the electrolyte membrane 10, the fourth tension relaxation control unit 93 issues a tension relaxation command, and the fourth tension relaxation device 92 performs a predetermined tension relaxation process.

  As such a fourth tension relaxation device 92, various known tension relaxation means can be applied in the same manner as the first tension relaxation device 62, the second tension relaxation device 72, and the third tension relaxation device 82. it can. The fourth strain relief device 92 may be the same as or similar to the first strain relief device 62, the second strain relief device 72, and / or the third strain relief device 82 described above. Moreover, it may be based on different combinations. The seal member joining device 130 and the take-up roller 88 can be selected as appropriate according to the characteristics of the take-up roller 88.

  As another embodiment, a taper tension control mechanism (not shown) that is incorporated in advance in the fourth tension relief device 92 as a pair that generally forms a pair with the take-up roller 88 and is used for driving control of the take-up roller 88. It is also preferable to adopt a configuration in which these are controlled by the fourth tension relaxation control unit 93 together with the fourth tension relaxation device 92.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the tension relaxation mechanisms including the first tension relaxation device 62, the second tension relaxation device 72, the third tension relaxation device 82, and the fourth tension relaxation device 92 are provided independently. It is preferred that By providing each processing part independently, rapid tension relaxation control can be realized even when local tension is generated in the electrolyte membrane 10.

  In addition, in the electrode material assembly manufacturing apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1, the conventional electrode material assembly is not limited to the case where the electrolyte membrane 10 is operated at a stable speed at a desired conveyance speed as described above. It is possible to ensure a desired processing quality even in a state where the change in the conveyance speed is large, such as immediately after the start of conveyance (start of operation) or immediately before the end of conveyance (stop of operation), which is generally difficult to control with a manufacturing apparatus.

  As described above, in the electrode material assembly manufacturing apparatus 100, the processing time at each processing location depends on the transport speed of the electrolyte membrane 10. As described above, in order to avoid the generation of tension on the electrolyte membrane 10, it is preferable to eliminate the difference between the conveyance speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 and the peripheral speed of the processing roller as much as possible. For this reason, for example, in a state where the transport speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 is gradually accelerated, such as immediately after the start of transport, the processing time becomes shorter as compared with the case of constant speed transport as the process proceeds to the subsequent process. On the other hand, in a state where the transfer speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 is gradually reduced, such as immediately before the end of transfer, the processing time becomes longer as compared with the case of constant speed transfer as the process proceeds to the subsequent process.

  In order to maintain good processing performance regardless of the change in the conveyance speed of the electrolyte membrane 10, suitable processing (joining) conditions for a predetermined processing time are defined in advance at each processing location. Is preferred. Then, by controlling to suitable processing conditions (for example, processing pressure and / or processing temperature) according to changes in the transport speed of the electrolyte membrane 10, a high-quality joined body even under conditions where the transport speed is unstable. Can be produced.

  On the other hand, when the conveying speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 is constant, as described above, the peripheral speeds of the drive roller and the processing roller are all made substantially constant, so that good processing can be performed at each processing point. Is possible. When slip occurs between the electrolyte membrane 10 being conveyed and each roller, the conveyance speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 is reduced (for example, a dancer roller can be used) or the electrolyte membrane at a predetermined location. -It can be eliminated by increasing the surface pressure between the rollers to such an extent that the tension on the electrolyte membrane 10 does not increase.

  As another embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to increase or decrease the number of drive system rollers such as processing rollers. In FIG. 1, for example, when using an electrode material that is preliminarily coated with a catalyst material on both surfaces of the electrolyte membrane 10, the first processing device 110 is unnecessary, and accordingly, the tension relaxation device 72 (or It is also possible to dispense with the tension relief device 62). Similarly, when the number of drive system rollers such as processing rollers is increased, good processing control can be performed by providing a corresponding tension relaxation device.

  EXAMPLES Hereinafter, although an Example is given and it demonstrates in detail more concretely, this invention is not limited to a following example.

  FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing an outline of the configuration of the fuel cell electrode material assembly manufacturing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention. In addition, about the structure of the material supply control part and information acquisition part (refer FIGS. 2-4) which can perform suitably positioning of each to-be-joined material, such as a catalyst layer and a diffusion layer, in the predetermined position of the electrolyte membrane 10 Omitted.

  In FIG. 6, the electrolyte membrane 10 wound up in a roll shape is unwound from the unwinding roller 84 at a predetermined conveyance speed. After the transport speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 is adjusted by the transport roller 86a provided immediately before the first processing device 110, the electrode catalyst layer material is supplied and joined in the first processing device 110.

  The first processing apparatus 110 is provided with a cathode catalyst layer material supply unit 54a, an anode catalyst layer material supply unit 54b, and heating and pressure rollers (processing rollers) 60 and 61, respectively. In the present embodiment, a cathode catalyst layer material roll wound in a roll shape is set in the cathode catalyst layer material supply unit 54a, and an anode catalyst layer material roll is set in the anode catalyst layer material supply unit 54b. The The cathode catalyst layer material supply unit 54 a and the anode catalyst layer material supply unit 54 b transfer the cathode catalyst layer material 12 and the anode catalyst layer material 14 to both surfaces of the electrolyte membrane 10 in accordance with the conveyance of the electrolyte membrane 10 from the unwinding roller 84. Are supplied at predetermined intervals. The cathode catalyst layer material 12 and the anode catalyst layer material 14 supplied to both surfaces of the electrolyte membrane 10 to be conveyed have a predetermined temperature by rotation of the heating and pressing rollers 60 and 61 set to a predetermined temperature and a predetermined clamping pressure. The MEA 30 is formed at predetermined intervals by thermocompression bonding over time.

  On the other hand, between the unwinding roller 84 and the first processing device 110 (conveying roller 86a), the tension is reduced including the first accumulator 62a, the first tension pickup 62b, and the first dancer roll 62c. A device 62 is provided. The tension relaxation device 62 relieves the tension generated between the unwinding roller 84 and the transporting roller 86a with respect to the electrolyte membrane 10 and, at the same time, has a transport speed that can be generated between the unwinding roller 84 and the transporting roller 86a. Even small differences can be mitigated.

The electrolyte membrane 10 (MEA 30) on which the MEA 30 is formed in the first processing apparatus 110 is adjusted in the transport speed by the transport roller 86b provided immediately before the second processing apparatus 120, and then the second processing apparatus. At 120, electrode diffusion layer material is supplied and bonded. The second processing apparatus 120 is provided with a cathode diffusion layer material supply unit 64a, an anode diffusion layer material supply unit 64b, and heating and pressure rollers (processing rollers) 70 and 71, respectively. Electrode diffusion layer materials 1 6 and 18 are respectively supplied to both sides of the MEA 30 at a predetermined conveyance interval and joined by heating and pressing rollers 70 and 71.

On the other hand, a second tension pickup 72b and a second dancer roll 72c are included between the first processing device 110 (processing rollers 60 and 61) and the second processing device 120 (conveying roller 86b). A tension relief device 72 is provided. The tension relaxation device 72 relieves the tension generated between the processing rollers 60 and 61 and the transport roller 86b with respect to the electrolyte membrane 10, and at the same time, may increase the transport speed that may be generated between the transport roller 86a and the transport roller 86b. Even small differences can be mitigated.

After the MEGA 40 is formed in the second processing apparatus 120, the seal member material is supplied and joined in the third processing apparatus 130. The third processing apparatus 130 is provided with a cathode-side seal member material supply unit 74a, an anode-side seal member material supply unit 74b, and heat and pressure rollers (processing rollers) 80 and 81, respectively. On either side of the MEGA 40, the sealing member material 5 2, 56 is supplied at a predetermined transport distance, it is joined by hot pressing rollers 80 and 81.

  On the other hand, between the second processing device 120 (processing rollers 70 and 71) and the third processing device 130 (processing rollers 80 and 81), a second accumulator 82a, a third tension pickup 82b, A tension relief device 82 including a third dancer roll 82c is provided. The tension relaxation device 82 relaxes the tension generated between the processing rollers 70 and 71 and the processing rollers 80 and 81 with respect to the electrolyte membrane 10 and may occur between the transport roller 86b and the processing rollers 80 and 81 depending on circumstances. Even a slight difference in the conveyance speed can be reduced.

  The electrolyte membrane 10 on which the MEGA-seal member assembly 90 is formed in the third processing apparatus 130 is then wound up by the winding roller 88. It is preferable that the tension applied to the electrolyte membrane 10 is relaxed by controlling the torque by the take-up roller 88 in accordance with the winding of the electrolyte membrane 10 (MEGA-seal member assembly 90) by the winding roller 88. At this time, a third accumulator 92a and a fourth tension pickup provided between the third processing device 130 (processing rollers 80 and 81) and the winding roller 88, as well as torque control by the winding roller 88. The tension relaxation device 92 including the 92b and the fourth dancer roll 92c can relax the tension generated between the processing rollers 80 and 81 and the take-up roller 88 with respect to the electrolyte membrane 10.

  As an embodiment of the present invention, any electrolyte membrane 10 may be used as long as it is conventionally used for fuel cells. For example, Nafion (registered trademark) 112 and 115 (manufactured by DuPont), which are perfluorosulfuric electrolyte membranes, are suitable, but not limited thereto. Further, the thickness of the electrolyte membrane 10 is not particularly limited as long as it can move hydrogen ions quickly and has a strength that does not cause damage due to a series of conveyance and joining. For example, the thing of about 10-100 micrometers is suitable.

  In the electrode material assembly manufacturing apparatus shown in FIG. 6, the electrolyte membrane 10 is transported by a plurality of drive system rollers (unwinding roller 84, transport rollers 86a and 86b, processing rollers 60, 61, 70, 71, 80, 81). , The take-up roller 88). For this reason, even if a problem occurs in the electrolyte membrane 10 to be transported for some reason, it is possible to suitably manufacture the final product at a location downstream of the non-defective product. This is preferable because it contributes to improving the yield of the joined body material, particularly the electrolyte membrane 10.

  On the other hand, among the tension relaxation devices that are preferably used in the electrode material assembly manufacturing apparatus shown in FIG. 6, particularly in a transfer buffer device such as an accumulator, the start of the electrode material assembly manufacturing apparatus (start of transfer of the electrolyte membrane 10) ) Due to the large change in the transport speed of the electrolyte membrane 10 immediately after, for example, it is easy to receive a relatively large tension on the electrolyte membrane 10, and the tension is relaxed for a relatively long period of time from several tens of seconds to several minutes in some cases. Is preferably used in the case of continuously performing. In other words, it is not suitable for fine tension relaxation, but it is particularly advantageous when relatively large tension relaxation is required. For this reason, it is preferably used on the downstream side of the unwinding roller 84, for example, as in the accumulator 62a, and on the upstream side of the winding roller 88, for example, in the form of the accumulator 92a. Furthermore, by using an accumulator as a tension relaxation device, for example, it is not necessary to stop the device at the time of roll replacement, and it is possible to continue processing to some extent even when replacing the roll. It can also contribute to improving production efficiency and yield.

  INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention can be suitably used for producing a fuel cell electrode assembly and a fuel cell using the same.

It is a figure which shows the outline of a structure of the electrode material conjugate | zygote manufacturing apparatus in embodiment of this invention. It is an enlarged view which shows the outline of a structure of the electrode material assembly manufacturing apparatus in embodiment of this invention. It is an enlarged view which shows the outline of a structure of the electrode material assembly manufacturing apparatus in embodiment of this invention. It is an enlarged view which shows the outline of a structure of the electrode material assembly manufacturing apparatus in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the outline of the structure of the processing member in other embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the outline of a structure of the electrode material assembly manufacturing apparatus in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which illustrates the outline of a structure of a single cell.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Electrolyte membrane, 12 Cathode catalyst layer (material), 14 Anode catalyst layer (material), 16 Cathode diffusion layer (material), 18 Anode diffusion layer (material), 20 Oxidation gas flow path, 22 Cell refrigerant flow path, 24 Fuel Gas channel, 26 Cathode side separator, 28 Anode side separator, 30 Membrane electrode assembly (MEA), 40 Membrane electrode diffusion layer assembly (MEGA), 50 single cell, 52 Cathode side sealing member material, 54a, 54b Catalyst layer Material supply part, 56 Anode-side seal member material, 55 Catalyst layer material supply control part, 58, 68, 78 Joint part, 60, 61, 70, 71, 80, 81 Processing roller, 62, 72, 82, 92 Tension relaxation Apparatus (mechanism), 63, 73, 83, 93 tension relaxation control unit, 64a, 64b diffusion layer material supply unit, 65 diffusion layer material supply control unit, 66 Transport direction, 74a, 74b Seal member material supply section, 75 Seal member material supply control section, 84 Unwind roller, 86, 86a, 86b Transport roller, 88 Wind roller, 90 Membrane electrode diffusion layer-seal member assembly, 94, 96, 98 Information acquisition unit, 100 Electrode material assembly manufacturing apparatus, 102 Processing member, 104 Processing belt, 106 Roll, 108 Base material, 110 Electrode catalyst layer bonding apparatus (first processing apparatus), 120 Electrode diffusion layer Joining device (second processing device), 130 Seal member joining device (third processing device).

Claims (5)

An apparatus for manufacturing an electrode material assembly for a fuel cell in which electrode materials are joined to both surfaces of an electrolyte membrane that is continuously conveyed,
A drive mechanism for conveying the electrolyte membrane in a predetermined direction;
A tension relaxation mechanism that relaxes the tension in the transport direction of the electrolyte membrane;
A plurality of joining locations for joining different electrode materials to the electrolyte membrane to be conveyed,
With
The manufacturing apparatus, wherein the tension relaxation mechanism includes tension relaxation means provided independently for each of the joint portions. The manufacturing apparatus according to claim 1,
Each of the plurality of joints has a processing roller for inserting the electrolyte membrane,
A manufacturing apparatus characterized in that the peripheral diameter of each processing roller is set based on a difference in processing time at each joint location. The manufacturing apparatus according to claim 1,
Each of the plurality of joints has a plurality of processing rollers for inserting the electrolyte membrane,
A manufacturing apparatus characterized in that the number of processing rollers at each joint location is set based on a difference in processing time at each joint location. In the manufacturing apparatus of any one of Claim 1 to 3,
Each of the tension relaxation means includes a plurality of tension relaxation devices. A method for producing a fuel cell electrode material assembly comprising electrode materials bonded to both surfaces of an electrolyte membrane,
A step of continuously conveying the electrolyte membrane;
A plurality of bonding steps for bonding different electrode materials to the electrolyte membrane to be conveyed;
A tension relaxation step for relaxing the tension in the transport direction of the electrolyte membrane;
Including
The manufacturing method, wherein the tension relaxation step is performed corresponding to at least each of the joining steps.

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