JP5417809B2 - Separator assembly for fuel cell, fuel cell, manufacturing method and manufacturing apparatus for separator assembly for fuel cell, manufacturing method and manufacturing apparatus for fuel cell - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a separator assembly for a fuel cell, a fuel cell, a method and a manufacturing apparatus for a separator assembly for a fuel cell, a manufacturing method and a manufacturing apparatus for a fuel cell.

  In a fuel cell, by ensuring the positional accuracy between cells, a decrease in flowability and an increase in contact resistance due to excessive surface pressure on the power generation surface are suppressed. However, since the separator used for a fuel cell is a thin plate, it is difficult to ensure positioning accuracy. In addition, when the separator is made of a metal material, it is necessary to correct deformation (warping or undulation).

For this reason, positioning accuracy is ensured by passing a positioning bar through a locating hole provided in the separator and pulling it in an extending direction to correct the deformation to correct the deformation of the separator (see, for example, Patent Document 1). .)
JP-A-2005-79024

  However, providing the locate hole has a problem that the separator is enlarged. For example, since the portion where the locate hole is provided does not contribute to battery output, the area used for power generation becomes relatively small, and it is difficult to obtain good battery output. Further, providing the locate hole has a problem that the manufacturing cost of the separator increases.

  On the other hand, when the locate hole is made small, it is necessary to reduce the cross-sectional area of the positioning bar, so it is difficult to ensure the rigidity of the positioning bar. Therefore, for example, when positioning the separator, the positioning bar itself may be bent, and the positioning accuracy may not be ensured.

  Furthermore, in order to move the positioning bar in the extending direction, a high-precision and high-speed actuator is required, and there is a problem that the equipment cost increases.

  The present invention has been made to solve the problems associated with the above-described prior art, and aims to improve the output density of the fuel cell and reduce the manufacturing cost.

In order to achieve the above object, a uniform phase of the present invention includes a first separator and a second separator superimposed and positioned and joined to the first separator, and a membrane for manufacturing a fuel cell. It is a separator assembly for fuel cells laminated | stacked alternately with an electrode assembly. A manifold hole for introducing fuel gas, oxidant gas or refrigerant and a manifold hole for discharging the fuel gas, oxidant gas or refrigerant in the first and second separators are for the fuel cell. When the separator assembly is stacked, the positioning bar is used as a locate hole inserted from an oblique direction. Further, the manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the first separator and the manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the corresponding second separator have an extension direction for correcting the deformation of the fuel cell separator assembly. In the direction of the perpendicular lamination , they are formed offset from each other, and have inner peripheral edge portions protruding alternately. In the stacking, the inner peripheral edge of the first separator constitutes a positioning reference side with which one side of the positioning bar abuts, and the inner peripheral edge of the second separator is the other side of the positioning bar. It is set so as to constitute a pressing side for pressing. The extending direction is a direction in which the introduction manifold hole and the discharge manifold hole in the first separator and the second separator are separated from each other, and the positioning bar is finally removed. .

Another uniform phase of the present invention for achieving the above object is a fuel cell obtained by alternately laminating the separator assembly for fuel cells and the membrane electrode assembly. And when laminating | stacking the said separator assembly, the said positioning bar is slanted to the manifold hole which comprises the said locate hole in the said 1st separator, and the manifold hole which comprises the said locate hole in the said 2nd separator. Inserting from the direction. At this time, one side of the positioning bar is brought into contact with the inner peripheral edge of the first separator constituting the positioning reference side, and the other side of the positioning bar is brought into contact with the second separator constituting the pressing side. The inner peripheral edge is pressed, the inclination of the positioning bar is eliminated, and the opening of the manifold hole constituting the locating hole in the first separator and the second separator is narrowed. As a result, the separator assembly is automatically shifted in the elongation direction to correct the deformation of the separator assembly, thereby correcting the deformation of the separator assembly and positioning the separator assembly. The extending direction includes a manifold hole for introducing fuel gas, oxidant gas or refrigerant in the first and second separators, and a manifold hole for discharging the fuel gas, oxidant gas or refrigerant. The positioning bar is finally removed.

Another uniform phase of the present invention for achieving the above object is a method of manufacturing the fuel cell separator assembly, comprising a separator positioning step of positioning the first and second separators. Then, in the separator positioning step, positioning pillars, which are different members from the positioning bar, a manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the first separator, and a manifold constituting the locate hole in the corresponding second separator Inserted into the hole from an oblique direction. At this time, one side of the positioning column is brought into contact with the inner peripheral edge of the first separator constituting the positioning reference side, and the other side of the positioning column is arranged in the second separator constituting the pressing side. The inner peripheral edge is pressed, the inclination of the positioning column is eliminated, and the opening of the manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the first separator and the second separator is narrowed. As a result, the first and second separators are automatically shifted in the extending direction to correct the deformation of the first and second separators, thereby correcting the deformation of the first and second separators and the first. And the second separator is positioned. The extending direction includes a manifold hole for introducing fuel gas, oxidant gas or refrigerant in the first and second separators, and a manifold hole for discharging the fuel gas, oxidant gas or refrigerant. The positioning struts are finally removed.

Another aspect of the present invention for achieving the above object is the apparatus for manufacturing a separator assembly for a fuel cell. Prior to joining the first and second separators, the manufacturing apparatus includes a manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the first separator and a manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the corresponding second separator. And a positioning column inserted from an oblique direction. The positioning column is a different member from the positioning bar, and when positioning the first and second separators, the inner peripheral edge of the first separator is in contact with one side of the positioning column. Is set so that the inner peripheral edge portion of the second separator forms the pressing side by pressing the other side of the positioning column. The positioning column is finally removed from the locating holes in the first and second separators .

Another aspect of the present invention for achieving the above object is a method for manufacturing a fuel cell, in which the separator assembly for a fuel cell and a membrane electrode assembly are alternately laminated. And a separator assembly for positioning the fuel cell separator assembly when the separator assembly for a battery is laminated. In the joined body positioning step, the positioning bar is inserted into the manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the first separator and the manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the corresponding second separator from an oblique direction. doing. At this time, one side of the positioning bar is brought into contact with the inner peripheral edge of the first separator constituting the positioning reference side, and the other side of the positioning bar is brought into contact with the second separator constituting the pressing side. The inner peripheral edge is pressed, the inclination of the positioning bar is eliminated, and the opening of the manifold hole constituting the locating hole in the first separator and the second separator is narrowed. Accordingly, the fuel cell separator assembly is automatically shifted in an extending direction to correct the deformation of the fuel cell separator assembly, thereby correcting the deformation of the fuel cell separator assembly and the fuel cell. The separator assembly is positioned. The extending direction includes a manifold hole for introducing fuel gas, oxidant gas or refrigerant in the first and second separators, and a manifold hole for discharging the fuel gas, oxidant gas or refrigerant. The positioning bar is finally removed.

Another uniform phase of the present invention for achieving the above object is a fuel cell manufacturing apparatus in which the fuel cell separator assembly and the membrane electrode assembly are alternately laminated. The manufacturing apparatus, when laminating the separator assembly for a fuel cell, forms a manifold hole that constitutes the locate hole in the first separator and a manifold hole that constitutes the locate hole in the corresponding second separator. And a positioning bar inserted from an oblique direction. The positioning bar forms a positioning reference side by contacting the inner peripheral edge of the first separator with one side of the positioning bar during the stacking, and the inner peripheral edge of the second separator is The pressing side is set by pressing the other side of the positioning bar. The positioning bar is finally removed from the locate holes in the first and second separators .

  According to the fuel cell separator assembly according to the present invention for achieving the above object, the manifold holes of the first and second separators serve as locate holes when the fuel cell separator assembly is stacked. Therefore, a dedicated locating hole forming portion that does not contribute to battery output is not required. Therefore, the manufacturing cost for providing the locate hole can be reduced, and the output density can be improved by downsizing the first and second separators. In addition, the positioning bar is inserted into the manifold hole constituting the locate hole from an oblique direction, one side of the positioning bar is brought into contact with the inner peripheral edge constituting the positioning reference side, and the other side of the positioning bar is pushed. It can be made to press by the inner peripheral edge part which comprises a contact edge. When the inclination of the positioning bar is eliminated, the opening of the manifold hole is narrowed, and the fuel cell separator assembly is automatically shifted in the extending direction, so that the deformation (warping and undulation) of the fuel cell separator assembly is corrected. At the same time, it is possible to position the fuel cell separator assembly. As a result, an actuator for moving the positioning bar in the extending direction becomes unnecessary, and the equipment cost can be reduced. Therefore, it is possible to obtain a fuel cell having good power density and manufacturing cost. That is, the output density of the fuel cell can be improved and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

  According to the fuel cell according to another uniform phase of the present invention for achieving the above object, the manifold holes of the first and second separators are used as locating holes when the fuel cell separator assemblies are stacked. Therefore, a dedicated locating hole forming portion that does not contribute to battery output is not necessary. Therefore, the manufacturing cost for providing the locate hole can be reduced, and the output density can be improved by downsizing the first and second separators. In addition, when the positioning bar is inserted into the manifold hole constituting the locate hole from an oblique direction, and the inclination is eliminated, the opening of the manifold hole is narrowed and the fuel cell separator assembly is automatically shifted in the extending direction. By doing so, deformation (warping or undulation) of the fuel cell separator assembly is corrected and the fuel cell separator assembly is positioned. Therefore, an actuator for moving the positioning bar in the extending direction becomes unnecessary, and the equipment cost can be reduced. Therefore, the fuel cell has a good power density and manufacturing cost. That is, the output density of the fuel cell can be improved and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

  According to the method of manufacturing a fuel cell separator assembly according to another aspect of the present invention for achieving the above object, the manifold holes of the first and second separators position the first and second separators. Since it is used as a locating hole, a dedicated locating hole forming portion that does not contribute to battery output is not required. Therefore, the manufacturing cost for providing the locate hole can be reduced, and the first and second separators can be reduced in size. Moreover, the first and second separators are automatically extended in the extending direction by inserting the positioning posts into the manifold holes constituting the locating holes from an oblique direction, and eliminating the inclination and narrowing the opening of the manifold holes. The first and second separators are positioned while the first and second separators are deformed (warped and undulated) by shifting to the position. Therefore, an actuator for moving the positioning column in the extending direction becomes unnecessary, and the equipment cost can be reduced. Therefore, the manufactured fuel cell separator assembly can be reduced in size and the manufacturing cost can be reduced, and the fuel cell separator assembly and the membrane electrode assembly are alternately laminated. The fuel cell will have good power density and manufacturing cost. That is, the output density of the fuel cell can be improved and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

  According to the fuel cell separator assembly manufacturing apparatus according to another aspect of the present invention for achieving the above object, the manifold holes of the first and second separators position the first and second separators. Since it is used as a locating hole, a dedicated locating hole forming portion that does not contribute to battery output is not required. Therefore, the manufacturing cost for providing the locate hole can be reduced, and the first and second separators can be reduced in size. In addition, the positioning column is inserted into the manifold hole constituting the locate hole from an oblique direction, and one side of the positioning column is brought into contact with the inner peripheral edge of the first separator constituting the positioning reference side. The side can be pressed by the inner peripheral edge of the second separator constituting the pressing side. Then, the first and second separators are automatically shifted in the extending direction by eliminating the inclination of the positioning struts and narrowing the opening of the manifold holes constituting the locate holes, so that the first and second separators are deformed. It is possible to correct and position the first and second separators. As a result, an actuator for moving the positioning column in the extending direction becomes unnecessary, and the equipment cost can be reduced. Therefore, the manufactured fuel cell separator assembly can be reduced in size and the manufacturing cost can be reduced, and the fuel cell separator assembly and the membrane electrode assembly are alternately laminated. The fuel cell will have good power density and manufacturing cost. That is, the output density of the fuel cell can be improved and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

  According to the fuel cell manufacturing apparatus according to another uniform phase of the present invention for achieving the above object, the manifold holes of the first and second separators serve as locate holes when the separator assemblies for fuel cells are stacked. Therefore, a dedicated locating hole forming portion that does not contribute to battery output is not required. Therefore, the manufacturing cost for providing the locate hole can be reduced, and the output density can be improved by downsizing the first and second separators. In addition, the positioning bar is inserted into the manifold hole constituting the locating hole from an oblique direction, and the inclination of the positioning bar is eliminated and the opening of the manifold hole is narrowed. The shift is automatically performed to correct the deformation (warping or undulation) of the fuel cell separator assembly, and the fuel cell separator assembly is positioned. Therefore, an actuator for moving the positioning bar in the extending direction becomes unnecessary, and the equipment cost can be reduced. Therefore, the manufactured fuel cell has a good power density and manufacturing cost. That is, the output density of the fuel cell can be improved and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

  According to the fuel cell manufacturing apparatus according to another uniform phase of the present invention for achieving the above object, the manifold holes of the first and second separators serve as locate holes when the separator assemblies for fuel cells are stacked. Therefore, a dedicated locating hole forming portion that does not contribute to battery output is unnecessary. Therefore, the manufacturing cost for providing the locate hole can be reduced, and the output density can be improved by downsizing the first and second separators. In addition, the positioning bar is inserted into the manifold hole constituting the locate hole from an oblique direction, and one side of the positioning bar is brought into contact with the inner peripheral edge of the first separator constituting the positioning reference side. The side can be pressed by the inner peripheral edge of the second separator constituting the pressing side. Then, the inclination of the positioning bar is eliminated, and the manifold hole constituting the locate hole is narrowed, so that the fuel cell separator assembly is automatically shifted in the extending direction, and the deformation of the fuel cell separator assembly ( It is possible to correct the warpage and undulation and to position the fuel cell separator assembly. As a result, an actuator for moving the positioning bar in the extending direction becomes unnecessary, and the equipment cost can be reduced. Therefore, the manufactured fuel cell has a good power density and manufacturing cost. That is, the output density of the fuel cell can be improved and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view for explaining a fuel cell according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  A fuel cell 10 shown in FIG. 1 has a stack portion 12 in which a plurality of single cells are stacked, is used as a power source, and has a good output density and manufacturing cost as will be described later. Applications of the power source include, for example, stationary devices, consumer portable devices such as mobile phones, emergency devices, outdoor devices such as leisure and construction power sources, and mobile objects such as automobiles with limited mounting space. In particular, the power source for the mobile body is particularly preferable for the use of the fuel cell 10 because a high output voltage is required after a relatively long period of shutdown.

  On both sides of the stack portion 12, current collecting plates 70 and 80, insulating plates 74 and 84, and end plates 76 and 86 are arranged. The current collecting plates 70 and 80 are formed of a gas impermeable conductive member such as dense carbon or copper plate, and output terminals 72 and 82 for outputting the electromotive force generated in the stack portion 12 are provided. Yes. The insulating plates 74 and 84 are formed from an insulating member such as rubber or resin.

  The end plates 76 and 86 are made of a material having rigidity, for example, a metal material such as steel. The end plate 76 includes a hydrogen inlet 90 and a hydrogen outlet 91 for circulating hydrogen as a fuel gas, an air inlet 93 and an air outlet 94 for circulating air (oxygen) as an oxidant gas, and a refrigerant. It has a coolant introduction port 96 and a coolant discharge port 97 for circulating a certain coolant.

  Through holes through which the tie rods 78 are inserted are arranged at the four corners of the stack portion 12, the current collecting plates 70 and 80, the insulating plates 74 and 84, and the end plates 76 and 86. The tie rod 78 is fastened with the fuel cell 10 by a nut (not shown) being screwed into a male screw portion formed at the end thereof.

  The tie rod 78 is formed of a material having rigidity, for example, a metal material such as steel, and has a surface portion that is insulated to prevent an electrical short circuit between the single cells. The number of tie rods 78 installed is not limited to four (four corners). The fastening mechanism of the tie rod 78 is not limited to screwing, and other means can be applied. The fastening mechanism of the fuel cell 10 is not limited to a form using the tie rod 78 extending the inside, and a tension rod extending the outside can also be used.

  2 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the stack portion shown in FIG. 1, and FIGS. 3, 4 and 5 are plan views for explaining the membrane electrode assembly, cathode and anode separator shown in FIG. It is.

  The stack unit 12 has a stacked body in which a plurality of assemblies 14 constituting a single cell are stacked. The assembly 14 is formed by sandwiching a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) 20 between a cathode separator (second separator) 50 and an anode separator (first separator) 60. A sealing material (not shown) is disposed on the outer peripheral edge between the membrane electrode assembly 20 and the separators 50 and 60.

  The separators 50 and 60 are respectively joined to the separators 60 and 50 of another adjacent assembly 14 to constitute a separator joined body (fuel cell separator joined body) 40. The separator joined body 40 has an offset structure as will be described later. The offset structure corrects the deformation (warping or undulation) of the separator assembly 40 without using an actuator when the stack portion 12 is formed by alternately laminating the separator assembly 40 and the membrane electrode assembly 20. And is used to position the separator assembly 40 (self-alignment).

  The membrane electrode assembly 20 includes an electrolyte membrane 30, an anode electrode (fuel electrode) 32 and a cathode electrode (air electrode) 34 that are disposed with the electrolyte membrane 30 interposed therebetween, and has substantially the same shape as the separators 50 and 60. 3 and has manifold holes 24 (24A, 24B, 24C) for introducing hydrogen, air and coolant and manifold holes 26 (26A, 26B, 26C) for discharging as shown in FIG. . The anode electrode 32 has an anode catalyst layer and a gas diffusion layer, and the cathode electrode 34 has a cathode catalyst layer and a gas diffusion layer. The electrolyte membrane 30 is a proton conductive ion exchange membrane formed of a solid polymer material, for example, a fluororesin, and exhibits good electrical conductivity in a wet state.

  The anode catalyst layer and the cathode catalyst layer include an electrode catalyst in which a catalyst component is supported on a conductive carrier, and a polymer electrolyte. The conductive support of the electrode catalyst is not particularly limited as long as it has a specific surface area for supporting the catalyst component in a desired dispersed state and sufficient electronic conductivity as a current collector, but the main component is carbon. Particles are preferred. The catalyst component applied to the anode catalyst layer is not particularly limited as long as it has a catalytic action on the oxidation reaction of hydrogen. The catalyst component applied to the cathode catalyst layer is not particularly limited as long as it has a catalytic action for the oxygen reduction reaction.

  The separators 50 and 60 are substantially rectangular, and are formed by pressing a stainless steel plate. The stainless steel plate is preferable in that it can be easily subjected to complicated machining and has good conductivity, and can be coated with a corrosion-resistant coating as necessary. As a material of the separators 50 and 60, a metal material other than the stainless steel plate, for example, an aluminum plate or a clad material can be applied.

  The cathode separator 50 is disposed relative to the cathode electrode 34. As shown in FIG. 4, the uneven portion 52 and the manifold holes 54 (54A, 54B, 54C) for introducing hydrogen, air, and coolant are provided. And a manifold hole 56 (56A, 56B, 56C) for discharging.

And the inner surface of the opposite concave-convex portion 52 to the cathode electrode 34, the space _{S 1} formed by the surface of the cathode electrode 34 constitutes a flow path for circulating air, the air manifold holes 24B, 26B, 54B, 56B , 64B, 66B, are connected to an air inlet 93 and an air outlet 94 disposed in the end plate 76. Therefore, the inner surface of the concavo-convex portion 52 facing the cathode electrode 34 constitutes a flow channel for allowing air to flow.

  The anode separator 60 is disposed relative to the anode electrode 32. As shown in FIG. 5, the concavo-convex portion 62, manifold holes 64 (64A, 64B, 64C) for introducing hydrogen, air, and coolant, and Manifold holes 66 (66A, 66B, 66C) for discharging are provided.

And the inner surface of the opposite concave-convex portion 62 to the anode electrode 32, the space _{S 2} formed by the surface of the anode electrode 32 constitutes a flow path for circulating the hydrogen, the hydrogen manifold holes 24A, 26A, 54A, 56A , 64A, 66A, to the hydrogen inlet 90 and the hydrogen outlet 91 disposed on the end plate 76. Therefore, the inner surface of the concavo-convex portion 62 facing the anode electrode 32 constitutes a flow channel for circulating hydrogen.

And the outer surface of the opposite concave-convex portion 62 to the anode electrode 32, the space S ₃ formed by the outer surface of the cathode separator 50 of another assembly 14 adjacent constitutes a flow path for circulating the cooling liquid, cooling liquid The manifold holes 24C, 26C, 54C, 56C, 64C, and 66C are connected to a coolant introduction port 96 and a coolant discharge port 97 disposed in the end plate 76. Therefore, the outer surface of the concavo-convex portion 62 facing the anode electrode 32 constitutes a flow channel for circulating the coolant.

The manifold holes 24C, 54C and 64C for introducing the coolant and the manifold holes 26C, 56C and 66C for discharging are separators in the direction perpendicular to the insertion direction of the positioning bar described later (on the surface perpendicular to the stacking direction). It has a tapered trapezoidal cross section in the extending direction X to correct deformation (warping or undulation) of the joined body 40, and the other manifold holes 24A, 24B, 26A, 26B, 54A, 54B, 56A, 56B, 64A, 64B, 66A and 66B have substantially elliptical cross sections, but are not limited to these shapes. The direction orthogonal to the insertion direction of the positioning bar is the direction orthogonal to the stacking direction , and the extending direction X is the manifold holes 54 (54A, 54B, 54C), 64 (64A, 64B, 64C) and the manifold. This is a direction in which the holes 56 (56A, 56B, 56C) and 66 (66A, 66B, 66C) are separated from each other.

  Next, the separator assembly 40 and the offset structure will be described.

  6 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the separator assembly for a fuel cell shown in FIG. 2, and FIG. 7 is a plan view for explaining the offset structure shown in FIG.

  The manifold holes 54C and 64C for introducing the coolant and the manifold holes 56C and 66C for discharging in the separators 50 and 60 constituting the separator assembly 40 are inserted into the positioning bar from an oblique direction when the separator assembly 40 is stacked. Used as a locate hole. Therefore, a dedicated locating hole forming portion that does not contribute to the battery output is not required, the manufacturing cost for providing the locating hole can be reduced, and the output density can be improved by downsizing the first and cathode separators 50. be able to. The manifold holes constituting the locate holes are not limited to the manifold holes 54C and 64C for introducing the coolant and the manifold holes 56C and 66C for discharging.

  The manifold holes (locating holes) 54C and 56C of the cathode separator 50 and the manifold holes (locating holes) 64C and 66C of the anode separator 60 are in a direction Y orthogonal to the extending direction X that corrects the deformation of the separator assembly 40. The inner peripheral edge portions 42 and 44 are formed so as to be offset from each other (offset amount G) and project alternately.

  As will be described later, when the separator assembly 40 is stacked, the inner peripheral edge portion 44 of the anode separator 60 constitutes a positioning reference side with which one side of the positioning bar abuts, and the inner peripheral edge portion 42 of the cathode separator 50 corresponds to the positioning bar. It sets so that the pressing edge which presses the other side may be comprised. In other words, the positioning bar is inserted into the manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, 66C constituting the locate hole from an oblique direction, and one side of the positioning bar is brought into contact with the inner peripheral edge (positioning reference side) 44 for positioning. The other side of the bar can be pressed by an inner peripheral edge (pressing side) 42.

  When the positioning bar is orthogonal to the separator assembly (inclination is eliminated), the manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, and 66C are narrowed so that the separator assembly 40 is automatically shifted in the extending direction. It is possible to correct the deformation of the separator assembly 40 and position the separator assembly for the fuel cell. Therefore, an actuator for moving the positioning bar in the extending direction becomes unnecessary, and the equipment cost can be reduced. Therefore, the fuel cell has a good power density and manufacturing cost. That is, the output density of the fuel cell can be improved and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

  Bending is applied to the inner peripheral edge 44 of the anode separator 60 in order to improve rigidity compared to the inner peripheral edge 42 of the cathode separator 50. This is because a large contact force can be applied when the separator assembly 40 is stacked, and deformation of the anode separator 60 (manifold holes 64C and 66C) is suppressed to improve positioning accuracy. The bending process is preferable because rigidity can be easily improved, but other processes can be applied as appropriate.

The edge 42 of the cathode separator 50 is processed to be raised in a direction away from the inner edge 44 of the anode separator 60, and the bent end is in contact with the positioning bar. It is set as that Sessu. This is because the positioning bar is easily and reliably pressed against the inner peripheral edge portion 42 of the cathode separator 50 when the separator assembly 40 is laminated. The bending process is preferable because the inner peripheral edge part (pressing side) 42 can be easily raised from the inner peripheral edge part (positioning reference side) 44, but other processes can be applied as appropriate.

The manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, 66C have a trapezoidal cross section tapered in the extending direction X with respect to the direction orthogonal to the insertion direction of the positioning bar (on the plane orthogonal to the stacking direction) . Accordingly, when a positioning bar having a tapered trapezoidal cross section in the extending direction X is applied in the direction perpendicular to the insertion direction of the positioning bar (on the plane perpendicular to the stacking direction) , the offset structure of the inner peripheral edge portions 42 and 44 is applied. When the separator joined body 40 is corrected and the separator joined body 40 is positioned, it is possible to make contact with the sides, so that the deformation of the separator joined body 40 can be suppressed.

  The protruding end of the inner peripheral edge 42 of the cathode separator 50 is inserted into the manifold holes 24C and 26C of the membrane electrode assembly 20 corresponding to the manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, and 66C. The membrane electrode assembly 20 and the cathode separator 50 are fitted. Therefore, the positioning accuracy of the membrane electrode assembly 20 when the separator assembly 40 is laminated is improved, and the dynamic positional deviation after the lamination is suppressed.

  Next, an apparatus for manufacturing the separator assembly 40 will be described.

  FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view for explaining an apparatus for manufacturing a separator assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a positioning support shown in FIG.

  The separator bonded body 40 manufacturing apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 8 includes a positioning column 110, a pedestal portion 120, pressing devices 130 and 140, and a pressure plate 150.

  The positioning column 110 has a protruding portion 112 and is fixed to the pedestal portion 120, and is used for positioning the separators 50 and 60 before joining the separators 50 and 60. The manifold holes 54C of the separators 50 and 60 are used. , 56C, 64C, 66C. That is, the manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, 66C are used as locating holes when the separators 50, 60 are positioned. Therefore, a dedicated locating hole forming portion that does not contribute to battery output is not required, the manufacturing cost for providing the locating hole can be reduced, and the separators 50 and 60 can be downsized.

  When positioning the separators 50 and 60, the positioning column 110 constitutes a positioning reference side by the inner peripheral edge 44 of the anode separator 60 coming into contact with one side of the positioning column 110, and the inner peripheral edge 42 of the cathode separator 50. However, the pressing side is set by pressing the other side of the positioning support 110.

  Therefore, the positioning column 110 is inserted into the manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, 66C from an oblique direction, one side of the positioning column 110 is brought into contact with the inner peripheral edge 44 of the anode separator 60, and the other side of the positioning column 110 is The inner peripheral edge 42 of the cathode separator 50 can be pressed. When the positioning column 110 is orthogonal to the separators 50 and 60 (the inclination is eliminated), the openings of the manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, and 66C are narrowed. As a result, the separators 50 and 60 are automatically shifted in the extending direction X to correct the deformation of the separators 50 and 60 and position the separators 50 and 60. Thereby, an actuator for moving the positioning column 110 in the extending direction becomes unnecessary, and the equipment cost can be reduced. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the size of the manufactured separator assembly 40 and reduce the manufacturing cost, and the fuel cell 10 in which the separator assembly 40 and the membrane electrode assembly 20 are alternately stacked. Will have good power density and manufacturing cost.

As shown in FIG. 9, the positioning column 110 has a trapezoidal cross section that is tapered in the extending direction X with respect to the direction orthogonal to the insertion direction of the positioning column 110 (on the plane orthogonal to the stacking direction) . On the other hand, the manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C and 66C also have a trapezoidal trapezoidal cross section in the extending direction X with respect to the direction orthogonal to the insertion direction of the positioning column 110 (in the plane orthogonal to the stacking direction) . Therefore, when the positioning column 110 is inserted, it is possible to use the offset structure of the inner peripheral edge portions 42 and 44 to correct the deformation of the separators 50 and 60 and to contact the sides when positioning the separators 50 and 60. Therefore, deformation of the separators 50 and 60 can be suppressed.

  The protruding portion 112 of the positioning column 110 is set so as to contact the protruding end portion of the inner peripheral edge portion 42 of the cathode separator 50, and functions as an additional pressing side, thereby positioning the cathode separator 50. Accuracy can be improved.

  The pressing device 130 includes a pressing portion (pressing means) 132, a spring 134, and a support portion 136. The pressing part 132 has a recess 133 and is used to press the anode separator 60 to press the inner peripheral edge 44 of the anode separator 60 against the positioning column 110 to improve the positioning accuracy of the anode separator 60. Is done. The recess 133 is opposed to the end face of the cathode separator 50 and is set so that the pressing portion 132 does not contact the cathode separator 50. The spring 134 is disposed between the pressing portion 132 and the support portion 136. The support portion 136 is movable, and generates a pressing force based on the compression of the spring 134 by being close to the anode separator 60.

  The pressing device 140 includes a pressing portion (pressing means) 142, a spring 144, and a support portion 146. The pressing portion 142 has a recess 143 and is used to press the cathode separator 50 to press the inner peripheral edge portion 42 of the cathode separator 50 against the positioning column 110 to improve the positioning accuracy of the cathode separator 50. Is done. The concave portion 143 is opposed to the end face of the anode separator 60 and is set so that the pressing portion 142 does not contact the anode separator 60. The spring 144 is disposed between the pressing portion 142 and the support portion 146. The support portion 146 is movable, and generates a pressing force based on compression of the spring 144 by being close to the cathode separator 50.

  The springs 134 and 144 are appropriately selected in consideration of the rigidity of the positioning column 110 and the rigidity of the inner peripheral edge portions 42 and 44. The pressing force is not limited to the form using the compression of the springs 134 and 144, and for example, an actuator can be applied.

  The pressure plate 150 has a plurality of openings and is used for fixing and joining the positioned separators 50 and 60. The joining is laser welding, but is not particularly limited to this form, and other welding methods and adhesion can be applied. The opening 152 is used for inserting the positioning support 110.

  Next, a method for manufacturing the separator assembly 40 will be described.

  FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view for explaining oblique insertion in the separator positioning step in the method of manufacturing a separator assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 11 is in the method of manufacturing the separator assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the extension amount in the separator positioning step, and FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the separator joined body removing step in the method for manufacturing a separator joined body according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The manufacturing method of a separator joined body according to an embodiment of the present invention generally includes a separator positioning step, a separator joining step, and a separator joined body removing step.

In the separator positioning step, first, an overlapped body of the separators 50 and 60 is placed on the pedestal portion 120. At this time, the separators 50 and 60 are positioned in the oblique direction with respect to the pedestal portion 120, and the positioning columns 110 protruding upward from the pedestal portion 120 are obliquely inserted into the manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, and 66C (insertion angle θ _A ) is inserted (see FIG. 10).

  One side of the positioning post 110 abuts on the inner peripheral edge 44 of the anode separator 60, and the other side of the positioning post 110 is pressed by the peripheral edge 42 of the cathode separator 50. Then, the separators 50 and 60 are orthogonal to the positioning column 110 (the inclination is eliminated), and the openings of the manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, and 66C are narrowed. As a result, the separators 50 and 60 are automatically shifted (extension amount S) in the extending direction X to correct the deformation of the separators 50 and 60 and position the separators 50 and 60 (see FIG. 11). At this time, the inner peripheral edge 44 of the anode separator 60 is improved in rigidity by the application of the bending process, so that a large contact force can be applied, and the anode separator 60 (manifold hole caused by the applied tension) can be applied. 64C, 66C) can be suppressed and positioning accuracy can be improved.

  Next, the protruding end portion of the inner peripheral edge portion 42 of the cathode separator 50 is brought into contact with the protruding portion 112 of the positioning column 110. Therefore, the positioning accuracy of the separators 50 and 60 can be improved. Further, the inner peripheral edge portions 42 and 44 of the separators 50 and 60 are pressed against the positioning column 110 by the pressing devices 130 and 140. Thereby, the positioning accuracy of the separators 50 and 60 can be further improved.

  Thereafter, the pressure plate 150 is disposed on the upper surface of the stacked body of the positioned separators 50 and 60, and the separators 50 and 60 are fixed.

  As described above, manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, 66C are used as locating holes for positioning separators 50, 60, so that a dedicated locating hole forming portion that does not contribute to battery output is unnecessary. Become. Therefore, the manufacturing cost for providing the locate hole can be reduced, and the separators 50 and 60 can be downsized.

  Further, the positioning column 110 is inserted into the manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, and 66C from an oblique direction, and the positioning column 110 is orthogonal to the separators 50 and 60 (the inclination is eliminated), and the manifold holes 54C and 56C. , 64C and 66C are narrowed to automatically shift the separators 50 and 60 in the extending direction X, thereby correcting deformation (warping and undulation) of the separators 50 and 60 and positioning the separators 50 and 60. . Therefore, an actuator for moving the positioning column 110 in the extending direction X becomes unnecessary, and the equipment cost can be reduced. Therefore, the manufactured fuel cell separator assembly can be reduced in size and the manufacturing cost can be reduced, and the fuel cell separator assembly and the membrane electrode assembly are alternately laminated. The fuel cell will have good power density and manufacturing cost.

  The manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, 66C and the positioning column 110 have a tapered trapezoidal cross section in the extending direction X (see FIG. 9). Therefore, when the offset structures of the inner peripheral edge portions 42 and 44 are used to correct the deformation of the separators 50 and 60 and the separators 50 and 60 are positioned, they come into contact with the sides. Therefore, deformation of the separators 50 and 60 caused by the positioning support 110 can be suppressed.

  In the separator bonding step, the portion of the cathode separator 50 exposed through the opening of the pressure plate 150 is irradiated with a laser and bonded to the anode separator 60, whereby the separator bonded body 40 is formed.

  In the separator assembly removing step, the formed separator assembly 40 is removed from the positioning support 110 at an angle to the positioning support 110. At this time, since the opening of the manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, 66C into which the positioning column 110 is inserted is widened, the removal from the positioning column 110 is facilitated, and the workability can be improved.

  Next, an apparatus for manufacturing the fuel cell 10 will be described.

  FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a fuel cell manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a positioning bar shown in FIG.

  The fuel cell 10 manufacturing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a positioning bar 170 that is fixed to a support plate 180 and extends upward. The positioning bar 170 is used for alternately laminating the separator assembly 40 and the membrane electrode assembly 20, and is inserted into the manifold holes 24C, 26C, 54C, 56C, 64C, 66C from an oblique direction.

  Since the manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, 66C are used as locate holes when the separator assembly 40 is stacked as described above, a dedicated locate hole forming portion that does not contribute to battery output becomes unnecessary. . Therefore, the manufacturing cost for providing the locate hole can be reduced, and the output density can be improved by downsizing the separator assembly 40 (separators 50 and 60).

  Further, the inner peripheral edge 44 of the anode separator 60 constitutes a positioning reference side with which one side of the positioning bar 170 abuts, and the inner peripheral edge 42 of the cathode separator 50 has a pressing side that presses the other side of the positioning bar 170. Set to configure. Therefore, the positioning bar 170 is inserted into the manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, 66C from an oblique direction, one side of the positioning bar 170 is brought into contact with the inner peripheral edge 44, and the other side of the positioning bar 170 is The peripheral portion 42 can be pressed. Then, the positioning bar 170 is orthogonal to the separator assembly 40 (the inclination is eliminated), and the manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, 66C are narrowed to automatically shift the separator assembly 40 in the extending direction X. Thus, it is possible to correct the deformation (warping or undulation) of the separator assembly 40 and position the separator assembly.

  Thereby, an actuator for moving the positioning bar 170 in the extending direction X becomes unnecessary, and the equipment cost can be reduced. Therefore, the manufactured fuel cell has a good power density and manufacturing cost. That is, the output density of the fuel cell can be improved and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

  The positioning bar 170 has a tapered trapezoidal cross section in the extending direction X. On the other hand, the manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C and 66C also have a substantially trapezoidal cross section tapered in the extending direction X. Therefore, when the offset structure of the inner peripheral edge portions 42 and 44 is used to correct the deformation of the separator joined body 40 and the separator joined body 40 is positioned, the separator joined body is caused by the positioning bar 170 by being brought into contact with the side. 40 deformations can be suppressed.

  Next, a method for manufacturing the fuel cell 10 will be described.

  FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view for explaining oblique insertion in the separator assembly positioning step in the fuel cell manufacturing method according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The fuel cell manufacturing method according to the embodiment of the present invention generally includes a joined body positioning step, a membrane electrode assembly positioning step, and a laminate removing step.

In the bonded body positioning step, the separator bonded body 40 is positioned in order to stack the separator bonded body 40. At this time, the manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, and 66C of the separators 50 and 60 constituting the separator assembly 40 are inserted into the positioning bar 170 from an oblique direction (insertion angle θ _A ).

  One side of the positioning bar 170 contacts the inner peripheral edge 44 of the anode separator 60, and the other side of the positioning bar 170 is pressed by the peripheral edge 42 of the cathode separator 50. Then, the positioning bar 170 is orthogonal to the separator assembly 40 (inclination is eliminated), and the manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, 66C are narrowed to automatically shift the extension direction X of the separator assembly 40. Thus, the deformation of the separator assembly 40 is corrected and the separator assembly 40 is positioned.

  Since the inner peripheral edge 44 of the anode separator 60 has improved rigidity due to the application of the bending process, a large contact force can be applied, and the separator assembly 40 (manifold hole) caused by the applied contact force. 64C, 66C) can be suppressed and positioning accuracy can be improved.

  As described above, the manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, and 66C are used as locating holes when the separator assembly 40 is stacked, so that a dedicated locating hole forming portion that does not contribute to battery output is unnecessary. Become. Therefore, the manufacturing cost for providing the locate hole can be reduced, and the output density can be improved by downsizing the separator assembly 40 (separators 50 and 60). Further, the positioning bar 170 is inserted into the manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, 66C from an oblique direction, and the positioning bar 170 is orthogonal to the separator assembly 40 (the inclination is eliminated), so that the manifold holes 54C, 56C , 64C, 66C, the separator joined body 40 is automatically shifted in the extending direction X to correct the deformation (warp and undulation) of the separator joined body 40 and position the separator joined body 40. Yes. Therefore, an actuator for moving the positioning bar 170 in the extending direction X becomes unnecessary, and the equipment cost can be reduced. Therefore, the manufactured fuel cell has a good power density and manufacturing cost. That is, the output density of the fuel cell can be improved and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

  The manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, 66C and the positioning bar 170 have a tapered trapezoidal cross section in the extending direction X (see FIG. 14). Therefore, when the offset structure of the inner peripheral edge portions 42 and 44 is used to correct the deformation of the separator joined body 40 and the separator joined body 40 is positioned, it comes into contact with the side. Therefore, deformation of the separator assembly 40 caused by the positioning bar 170 can be suppressed.

  In the membrane electrode assembly positioning step, the membrane electrode assembly 20 is laminated on the positioned separator assembly 40. At this time, the positioning bar 170 is inserted into the manifold holes 24C and 26C of the membrane electrode assembly 20 corresponding to the manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C and 66C of the separator assembly 40. Then, the protruding end of the inner peripheral edge 42 of the cathode separator 50 is inserted into the manifold holes 24C and 26C of the membrane electrode assembly 20, and the membrane electrode assembly 20 and the cathode separator 50 are fitted. Thereby, the positioning accuracy of the membrane electrode assembly 20 at the time of laminating the separator assembly 40 is improved, and the dynamic positional deviation after the lamination is suppressed.

  In the laminated body removing step, the laminated body of the separator assembly 40 and the membrane electrode assembly 20 formed by appropriately repeating the joined body positioning step and the membrane electrode assembly positioning step is positioned in a fixed state. Removed from bar 170. Then, it is transferred to a post-process including an assembly process and finally assembled into a fuel cell. In addition, fixation of a laminated body is implemented by attaching a fastening means (for example, band) in the state which pressurized and fixed the upper surface of the laminated body with the pressing plate, for example.

Next, stretching amount S, explaining the relationship between the offset amount G and the insertion angle theta _A.

  FIG. 16 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the relationship between the offset amount and the insertion angle of the positioning bar, and FIG. 17 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a method for calculating the stretch amount.

  The mechanism for applying tension, correcting deformation, and positioning is substantially the same in the stacked body of the separators 50 and 60 and the separator assembly 40, and therefore, the separator assembly 40 will be described as a representative.

The offset amount G, the insertion angle θ _A of the positioning bar 170, and the separation distance T between the positioning reference side (inner peripheral edge portion 44) and the pressing side (inner peripheral edge portion 42) can be understood from FIG. By satisfying the relational expression F ₁ (tan θ _A = G / T) and converting the expression, a calculation formula F ₂ (G = T * tan θ _A ) for the offset amount G is obtained. For example, if 13 degrees and 1.1 mm are substituted into the calculation formula F ₂ with the insertion angle θ _A and the separation distance T, the offset amount G is 0.25 mm (= 1.1 * tan (13)). Is obtained.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 17, the extension amount S is a hypotenuse, the offset amount G is one adjacent side, and the trapezoidal angle θ _B of the positioning bar 170 and manifold holes 54C, 56C, 64C, 66C is one internal angle. If a triangle is assumed and the other adjacent side is represented by symbol A, a relational expression F ₃ (tan θ _B = G / A) and a relational expression F ₄ (cos θ _B = A / S) are obtained. Substituting the calculation formula F ₅ (A = G / tan θ _B ) of the adjacent side A obtained by converting the relation F ₃ into the relation F ₄ gives the relation F ₆ (cos θ _B = G / S * tan θ). _B is obtained, and the formula F ₇ (S = G / cos θ _B * tan θ _B ) for the elongation amount S is obtained by converting the formula.

Then, for example, if 25 degrees and 0.25 mm are substituted into the calculation formula F ₇ with the trapezoidal angle θ _B and the offset amount G, 0.59 mm (= 0.25 / (cos (25)) * Tan (25))) is obtained. Since the manifold holes 54C and 64C and the manifold holes 56C and 66C are arranged on both sides in the extending direction X to be corrected by the separator assembly 40, for example, when the length L of the separator assembly 40 is 800 mm, 0 is provided. .15% (= 2 * S * 100 / L) deformation (warping and undulation) can be corrected.

  18 and 19 are cross-sectional views for explaining the modifications 1 and 2 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The manifold hole, the positioning column 110, and the positioning bar 170 constituting the locate hole are not limited to a form having a trapezoidal cross section, and an ellipse other than a quadrangle, a circle, a polygon, or the like is applicable. For example, as shown in FIG. 18, it is possible to combine a manifold hole having an elliptical cross section with a positioning post 110 and a positioning bar 170 having a circular cross section.

  Further, the inner peripheral edge 44 of the anode separator 60 constituting the positioning reference side is not limited to a form in which bending processing is applied in a circular shape. For example, as shown in FIG. It is also possible to apply a bending process so that it simply rises.

  As described above, according to the separator joined body according to the present embodiment, the manifold holes of the separator constituting the separator joined body are used as locate holes when the separator joined body is stacked, which contributes to battery output. No dedicated locating hole formation site is required. Therefore, the manufacturing cost for providing the locate hole can be reduced, and the output density can be improved by downsizing the separator. Further, the inner peripheral edge portion of the anode separator constitutes a positioning reference side with which one side of the positioning bar comes into contact, and the inner peripheral edge portion of the cathode separator constitutes a pressing side that presses the other side of the positioning bar. ing. Therefore, the positioning bar is inserted into the manifold hole constituting the locate hole from an oblique direction, one side of the positioning bar is brought into contact with the inner peripheral edge part constituting the positioning reference side, and the other side of the positioning bar is pushed. It can be made to press by the inner peripheral edge part which comprises a contact edge. When the positioning bar is orthogonal to the separator assembly (inclination is eliminated), the manifold hole is narrowed and the separator assembly automatically shifts in the extending direction. ) And the separator assembly can be positioned. As a result, an actuator for moving the positioning bar in the extending direction becomes unnecessary, and the equipment cost can be reduced. Therefore, according to the separator assembly according to the embodiment, it is possible to obtain a fuel cell having good power density and manufacturing cost. That is, the output density of the fuel cell can be improved and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

  In addition, the inner peripheral edge of the anode separator that constitutes the positioning reference side is processed to improve rigidity, so that deformation of the anode separator caused by the contact force applied to the separator assembly is suppressed, and positioning accuracy is improved. Can be improved. The process for improving the rigidity is a bending process, and the rigidity of the inner peripheral edge of the anode separator can be easily improved.

Further, the end portion of the inner peripheral edge portion of the cathode separator that constitutes the pressing side is processed to be raised in a direction away from the inner peripheral edge portion of the anode separator that constitutes the positioning reference side, and , the end portion is raised and positioning bar is set so you contact. Therefore, the positioning bar can be easily and reliably pressed against the inner peripheral edge of the second separator that constitutes the pressing side. The process of raising is a bending process, for example. Bending is preferable because the end of the inner peripheral edge of the cathode separator that constitutes the pressing side can be easily raised.

  In addition, the manifold hole and positioning bar that make up the locate hole have a trapezoidal cross section that tapers in the direction of extension, so the offset structure of the inner peripheral edge is used to correct the deformation of the separator assembly and position the separator assembly. In doing so, the deformation of the separator assembly can be suppressed by making contact with the sides.

  According to the fuel cell according to the present embodiment, the separator assembly is provided, and the manifold hole of the separator constituting the separator assembly is used as a locate hole for stacking the separator assembly. In addition, a dedicated locating hole forming portion that does not contribute to battery output is not required. Therefore, the manufacturing cost for providing the locate hole can be reduced, and the output density can be improved by downsizing the separator. In addition, the positioning bar is inserted into the manifold hole constituting the locating hole from an oblique direction, and the positioning bar is perpendicular to the separator assembly (inclination is eliminated), thereby narrowing the opening of the manifold hole and separating the separator. By automatically shifting the joined body in the extending direction, deformation (warping or undulation) of the separator joined body is corrected and the separator joined body is positioned. Therefore, an actuator for moving the positioning bar in the extending direction becomes unnecessary, and the equipment cost can be reduced. Therefore, the fuel cell according to the present embodiment has a good power density and manufacturing cost. That is, the output density of the fuel cell can be improved and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

In addition, the end of the inner peripheral edge of the cathode separator that constitutes the pressing side is raised in a direction away from the inner peripheral edge of the anode separator that constitutes the positioning reference side. to the end portion is positioned and a bar is set to you contact, and the manifold holes in the membrane electrode assembly corresponding to the manifold hole constituting the locating hole, said end portion being raised By being inserted, the membrane electrode assembly and the cathode separator are fitted. Accordingly, the positioning accuracy of the membrane electrode assembly when the separator assembly is laminated is improved, and the dynamic positional deviation after the lamination is suppressed.

  According to the method for manufacturing a separator assembly according to the present embodiment, since the manifold hole of the separator is used as a locate hole when positioning the separator, a dedicated locate hole forming portion that does not contribute to battery output is provided. It becomes unnecessary. Therefore, the manufacturing cost for providing the locate hole can be reduced, and the separator can be downsized. In addition, the positioning column is inserted into the manifold hole constituting the locate hole from an oblique direction, and the positioning column is perpendicular to the separator (the inclination is eliminated), thereby narrowing the opening of the manifold hole and extending the separator. By automatically shifting in the direction, the deformation (warp and undulation) of the separator is corrected and the separator is positioned. Therefore, an actuator for moving the positioning column in the extending direction becomes unnecessary, and the equipment cost can be reduced. Therefore, according to the method for manufacturing a separator assembly according to the present embodiment, the manufactured separator assembly can be downsized and the manufacturing cost can be reduced. The separator assembly and the membrane electrode assembly A fuel cell obtained by alternately laminating and has a good power density and manufacturing cost. That is, the output density of the fuel cell can be improved and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

  In addition, since the inner peripheral edge of the separator is pressed against the positioning column by the pressing means, the positioning accuracy of the separator can be improved.

  In addition, the end protruding in the direction away from the inner peripheral edge of the cathode separator at the inner peripheral edge of the cathode separator is brought into contact with the protruding portion of the positioning column, and the protruding portion serves as an additional pressing side. Since it functions, the positioning accuracy of the separator can be improved.

  In addition, the manifold hole and the positioning column constituting the locate hole have a tapered trapezoidal cross section in the extending direction, and when using the offset structure of the inner peripheral edge to correct the separator deformation and position the separator Therefore, the deformation of the separator caused by the positioning support can be suppressed.

  Further, after the positioned separator is joined and the separator joined body is formed, the separator joined body is inclined with respect to the positioning support and is removed from the positioning support, so that the opening of the manifold hole constituting the locate hole becomes wide . Therefore, the removal from the positioning column becomes easy, and the workability can be improved.

  According to the apparatus for manufacturing a separator assembly for a fuel cell according to the present embodiment, since the manifold hole of the separator is used as a locate hole for positioning the separator, a dedicated locate hole that does not contribute to battery output is used. A formation site becomes unnecessary. Therefore, the manufacturing cost for providing the locate hole can be reduced, and the separator can be downsized. Further, the inner peripheral edge portion of the anode separator constitutes a positioning reference side with which one side of the positioning column contacts, and the inner peripheral edge portion of the cathode separator sets so as to constitute a pressing side that presses the other side of the positioning column. ing. Therefore, the positioning column is inserted into the manifold hole constituting the locating hole from an oblique direction, one side of the positioning column is brought into contact with the inner peripheral edge of the anode separator, and the other side of the positioning column is connected to the inner side of the cathode separator. It can be pressed by the peripheral edge. Then, the positioning column is perpendicular to the separator (the inclination is eliminated), and the opening of the manifold hole constituting the locate hole is narrowed, so that the separator is automatically shifted in the extending direction, and the separator is deformed (warped or warped). It is possible to correct the undulation and position the separator. As a result, an actuator for moving the positioning column in the extending direction becomes unnecessary, and the equipment cost can be reduced. Therefore, according to the apparatus for manufacturing a separator assembly for a fuel cell according to the present embodiment, the separator assembly to be manufactured can be downsized and the manufacturing cost can be reduced. A fuel cell in which electrode assemblies are alternately stacked has a good power density and manufacturing cost. That is, the output density of the fuel cell can be improved and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

  Moreover, since it has a press means for pressing the peripheral part in a separator against a positioning support | pillar, the positioning accuracy of a separator can be improved.

  In addition, the inner peripheral edge of the cathode separator has an end protruding in a direction away from the separator, and the positioning column has a protrusion with which the end abuts. Since it functions as a side, the positioning accuracy of the separator can be improved.

  Moreover, since the manifold hole and the positioning support | pillar which comprise a locating hole have a trapezoid trapezoidal cross section in the extending | stretching direction, the deformation | transformation of the separator caused by the positioning support | pillar can be suppressed by making it contact | abut.

  According to the method for manufacturing a fuel cell according to the present embodiment, the manifold holes of the separator constituting the separator assembly are used as locating holes when the separator assembly is stacked, and thus the dedicated does not contribute to the battery output. This eliminates the need for forming the locating hole. Therefore, the manufacturing cost for providing the locate hole can be reduced, and the output density can be improved by downsizing the separator. In addition, the positioning bar is inserted into the manifold hole that constitutes the locate hole from an oblique direction, and the positioning bar is orthogonal to the separator assembly (inclination is eliminated), and the manifold hole that constitutes the locate hole is opened. By narrowing, the separator joined body is automatically shifted in the extending direction to correct the deformation (warping and undulation) of the separator joined body and position the separator joined body. Therefore, an actuator for moving the positioning bar in the extending direction becomes unnecessary, and the equipment cost can be reduced. Therefore, according to the manufacturing method of the fuel cell according to the present embodiment, the manufactured fuel cell has a good power density and manufacturing cost. That is, the output density of the fuel cell can be improved and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

  Moreover, the process which raises the edge part of the inner peripheral part of a cathode separator to the direction spaced apart from the inner peripheral part of an anode separator is given. Then, in the membrane electrode assembly positioning step of stacking the membrane electrode assembly on the positioned separator assembly, the membrane electrode assembly protrudes from the manifold hole of the membrane electrode assembly corresponding to the manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the separator. Since the end portion is inserted and the membrane electrode assembly and the cathode separator are fitted to each other, the positioning accuracy of the membrane electrode assembly when the separator assembly is laminated is improved, and the dynamic position deviation after the lamination is increased. Is suppressed.

  Further, the manifold hole and the positioning bar constituting the locating hole have a tapered trapezoidal cross section in the extending direction and contact with the side, so that deformation of the separator assembly caused by the positioning bar can be suppressed. .

  According to the fuel cell manufacturing apparatus according to the present embodiment, the manifold holes of the separator constituting the separator assembly are used as locating holes when the separator assembly is stacked. The location of the locate hole is not required. Therefore, the manufacturing cost for providing the locate hole can be reduced, and the output density can be improved by downsizing the separator. Further, the inner peripheral edge of the anode separator constitutes a positioning reference side with which one side of the positioning bar abuts, and the inner peripheral edge of the cathode separator constitutes a pressing side that presses the other side of the positioning bar. ing. Therefore, the positioning bar is inserted into the manifold hole constituting the locate hole from an oblique direction, one side of the positioning bar is brought into contact with the inner peripheral edge part constituting the positioning reference side, and the other side of the positioning bar is pushed. It can be made to press by the inner peripheral edge part which comprises a contact edge. Then, the separator assembly is automatically shifted in the extending direction by making the positioning bar orthogonal to the separator assembly (releasing the inclination) and narrowing the opening of the manifold hole that constitutes the locate hole, thereby separating the separator assembly. It is possible to correct the deformation (warping and undulation) of the separator and position the separator assembly. As a result, an actuator for moving the positioning bar in the extending direction becomes unnecessary, and the equipment cost can be reduced. Therefore, according to the fuel cell manufacturing apparatus according to the present embodiment, the manufactured fuel cell has a good power density and manufacturing cost. That is, the output density of the fuel cell can be improved and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

  In addition, the manifold hole and positioning bar that make up the locate hole have a trapezoidal cross section that tapers in the direction of extension, so the offset structure of the inner peripheral edge is used to correct the deformation of the separator assembly and position the separator assembly. In doing so, the deformation of the separator assembly caused by the positioning bar can be suppressed by making it hit the side.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims.

These are the perspective views for demonstrating the fuel cell which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is sectional drawing for demonstrating the stack part shown by FIG. It is a top view for demonstrating the membrane electrode assembly shown by FIG. It is a top view for demonstrating the cathode separator shown by FIG. It is a top view for demonstrating the anode separator shown by FIG. It is sectional drawing for demonstrating the separator assembly shown by FIG. It is a top view for demonstrating the offset structure shown by FIG. It is sectional drawing for demonstrating the manufacturing apparatus of the separator zygote concerning the embodiment of the present invention. It is sectional drawing for demonstrating the positioning support | pillar shown by FIG. It is sectional drawing for demonstrating the diagonal insertion in the separator positioning process in the manufacturing method of the separator zygote concerning the embodiment of the present invention. It is a conceptual diagram for demonstrating the amount of elongation in the separator positioning process in the manufacturing method of the separator zygote concerning the embodiment of the present invention. It is sectional drawing for demonstrating the separator assembly removal process in the manufacturing method of the separator assembly which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is sectional drawing for demonstrating the manufacturing apparatus of the fuel cell which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is sectional drawing for demonstrating the positioning bar shown by FIG. It is sectional drawing for demonstrating the diagonal insertion in the separator assembly positioning process in the manufacturing method of the fuel cell which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a conceptual diagram for demonstrating the relationship between offset amount and the insertion angle of a positioning bar. It is a conceptual diagram for demonstrating the calculation method of elongation amount. It is sectional drawing for demonstrating the modification 1 which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is sectional drawing for demonstrating the modification 2 which concerns on embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

10 Fuel cell,
12 Stack part,
14 assembly,
20 Membrane electrode assembly,
24 (24A, 24B, 24C), 26 (26A, 26B, 26C) Manifold hole,
30 electrolyte membrane,
32 anode electrode,
34 cathode electrode,
40 separator assembly,
42 Inner peripheral edge (pressing edge),
44 Inner peripheral edge (positioning reference side),
50 cathode separator (second separator),
52 Concavity and convexity,
54 (54A, 54B, 54C), 56 (56A, 56B, 56C) Manifold hole,
60 anode separator (first separator),
62 Concavity and convexity,
64 (64A, 64B, 64C), 66 (66A, 66B, 66C) Manifold hole,
70, 80 current collector plate,
72, 82 output terminals,
74, 84 insulation plate,
76,86 end plate,
78 Tie rod,
90 Hydrogen inlet,
91 Hydrogen outlet,
93 Air inlet,
94 Air outlet,
96 Coolant inlet,
97 Coolant outlet,
100 Separator assembly manufacturing apparatus,
110 positioning struts,
112 protrusion,
120 pedestal,
130 pressing device,
132 pressing part,
133 recess,
134 spring,
136 support part,
140 pressing device,
142 pressing part,
143 recess,
144 Spring,
146 support,
150 pressure plate,
152 opening,
170 positioning bar,
180 support plate,
A neighbor,
G offset amount,
S stretching amount,
S ₁ , S ₂ , S ₃ space,
T separation distance,
X direction of elongation,
Y direction perpendicular to the direction of elongation,
θ _A insertion angle,
θ _B trapezoidal angle.

Claims (21)

A fuel cell separator joint comprising a first separator and a second separator superimposed and positioned and joined to the first separator, the fuel cell separator being alternately stacked with a membrane electrode assembly for manufacturing a fuel cell Body,
A manifold hole for introducing fuel gas, oxidant gas or refrigerant and a manifold hole for discharging the fuel gas, oxidant gas or refrigerant in the first and second separators are joined to the fuel cell separator joint. When laminating the body, the positioning bar is used as a locate hole inserted from an oblique direction,
The manifold hole that constitutes the locate hole in the first separator and the manifold hole that constitutes the locate hole in the corresponding second separator are orthogonal to the extension direction for correcting the deformation of the fuel cell separator assembly. In the direction of the stacking , they are formed offset from each other, and have inner peripheral edge portions protruding alternately,
During the stacking, the inner peripheral edge portion of the first separator constitutes a positioning reference side with which one side of the positioning bar abuts, and the inner peripheral edge portion of the second separator presses the other side of the positioning bar. Is configured to configure the pushing edge,
The extension direction is a direction in which the introduction manifold hole and the discharge manifold hole in the first separator and the second separator are separated from each other,
The positioning bar is finally removed. The fuel cell separator assembly. The inner peripheral edge portion of the first separator constituting the positioning reference side is subjected to processing for improving rigidity,
2. The fuel cell separator assembly according to claim 1, wherein the process for improving the rigidity is a bending process. The end of the inner peripheral edge of the second separator that constitutes the pressing side has been processed to rise in a direction away from the inner peripheral edge of the first separator that constitutes the positioning reference side,
3. The fuel cell separator assembly according to claim 2, wherein the raised processing is set so that the raised end portion and the positioning bar come into contact with each other. 4.   The fuel cell separator assembly according to claim 3, wherein the process of raising is a bending process. The manifold hole which comprises the said locate hole in the said 1st separator and the said 2nd separator has a trapezoid trapezoidal cross section tapering in the said extension direction in the surface orthogonal to the said lamination direction . 5. The separator assembly for a fuel cell according to any one of 4 above. A fuel cell obtained by alternately laminating the separator assembly for a fuel cell according to claim 1 and the membrane electrode assembly,
When laminating the separator assembly, the positioning bar is inserted into the manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the first separator and the manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the corresponding second separator from an oblique direction. Insert,
One side of the positioning bar is brought into contact with the inner peripheral edge portion of the first separator constituting the positioning reference side, and the other side of the positioning bar is arranged on the inner peripheral edge of the second separator constituting the pressing side. The separator assembly is made to extend in the direction of extension by pressing with a portion and canceling the inclination of the positioning bar and narrowing the opening of the manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the first separator and the second separator. Automatically shifting to correct the deformation of the separator assembly and positioning the separator assembly,
The positioning bar is finally removed. A fuel cell, wherein: The end of the inner peripheral edge of the second separator that constitutes the pressing side is subjected to a process of raising in the direction away from the inner peripheral edge of the first separator that constitutes the positioning reference side, and is raised. Processing is set so that the raised end and the positioning bar abut, and
By inserting the protruding end into the manifold hole in the membrane electrode assembly corresponding to the manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the first and second separators, the membrane electrode assembly and The second separator is fitted,
The fuel cell according to claim 6, wherein the positioning bar is finally removed. A method for producing a fuel cell separator assembly according to claim 1,
A separator positioning step for positioning the first and second separators;
In the separator positioning step, a positioning column that is a different member from the positioning bar includes a manifold hole that constitutes the locate hole in the first separator, and a manifold hole that constitutes the locate hole in the corresponding second separator. Into the diagonal direction,
One side of the positioning support is brought into contact with the inner peripheral edge of the first separator constituting the positioning reference side, and the other peripheral edge of the second separator constituting the pressing side is placed on the other side of the positioning support. The first separator and the second separator are made to be pressed by a portion, and the inclination of the positioning post is eliminated, and the manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the first separator and the second separator is narrowed. Automatically shifting in an extending direction to correct the deformation of the first and second separators to correct the deformation of the first and second separators and positioning the first and second separators;
The extension direction for correcting the deformation of the first and second separators is the same as the extension direction for correcting the deformation of the fuel cell separator assembly,
The positioning posts, Ru is finally removed,
A method for producing a separator assembly for a fuel cell. After correcting the deformation of the first and second separators and positioning the first and second separators, and before fixing the first and second separators,
9. The method for producing a separator assembly for a fuel cell according to claim 8, wherein the inner peripheral edge portions of the first and second separators are pressed against the positioning column by pressing means. After correcting the deformation of the first and second separators and positioning the first and second separators, and before fixing the first and second separators,
The positioning column has an end protruding in a direction away from the inner peripheral edge of the first separator constituting the positioning reference side at the inner peripheral edge of the second separator constituting the pressing side. The method for manufacturing a separator assembly for a fuel cell according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the protrusion is brought into contact with the protrusion. The manifold hole and the positioning column constituting the locate hole in the first separator and the second separator have a trapezoidal cross section tapered in the extension direction on a plane orthogonal to the direction of the lamination ,
The fuel cell separator according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein a manifold hole constituting the locate hole and the positioning column in the first separator and the second separator are brought into contact with each side. Manufacturing method of joined body.   After the positioned first and second separators are joined to form the fuel cell separator assembly, the fuel cell separator assembly is inclined with respect to the positioning column and removed from the positioning column. The manufacturing method of the separator assembly for fuel cells of any one of Claims 8-11 characterized by the above-mentioned. It is a manufacturing apparatus of the separator assembly for fuel cells according to claim 1,
Before joining the first and second separators, the manifold holes constituting the locating holes in the first separator and the manifold holes constituting the locating holes in the corresponding second separator are inserted from an oblique direction. Has a positioning post to be
The positioning column is a different member from the positioning bar, and when the first and second separators are positioned, the inner peripheral edge portion of the first separator is in contact with one side of the positioning column. A reference side is configured, and the inner peripheral edge of the second separator is set to configure a pressing side by pressing the other side of the positioning column,
The positioning post is finally removed from the locate hole in the first and second separators . The apparatus for manufacturing a separator assembly for a fuel cell, wherein:   The apparatus for manufacturing a separator assembly for a fuel cell according to claim 13, further comprising pressing means for pressing the inner peripheral edge portions of the first and second separators against the positioning column. The inner peripheral edge of the second separator constituting the pressing side has an end protruding in a direction away from the inner peripheral edge of the first separator constituting the positioning reference side;
The apparatus for manufacturing a separator assembly for a fuel cell according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the positioning column has a protruding portion with which the end portion abuts. The manifold hole and the positioning column constituting the locate hole in the first separator and the second separator have a trapezoidal cross section tapered in the extending direction on a surface orthogonal to the direction of the stacking. The manufacturing apparatus of the separator assembly for fuel cells of any one of Claims 13-15. A method for producing a fuel cell, wherein the separator assembly for a fuel cell according to claim 1 and a membrane electrode assembly are alternately laminated,
When laminating the fuel cell separator assembly, it has a joined body positioning step for positioning the fuel cell separator assembly,
In the joined body positioning step,
A positioning bar is inserted into the manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the first separator and the manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the corresponding second separator from an oblique direction,
One side of the positioning bar is brought into contact with the inner peripheral edge portion of the first separator constituting the positioning reference side, and the other side of the positioning bar is arranged on the inner peripheral edge of the second separator constituting the pressing side. The separator assembly for a fuel cell is made to be pressed by a portion, and the inclination of the positioning bar is eliminated and the manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the first separator and the second separator is narrowed. Automatically shifting in the extension direction to correct the deformation of the fuel cell separator assembly and positioning the fuel cell separator assembly;
The fuel cell manufacturing method, wherein the positioning bar is finally removed. A membrane electrode assembly positioning step of stacking the membrane electrode assembly on the fuel cell separator assembly positioned;
The end of the inner peripheral edge of the second separator that constitutes the pressing side is subjected to a process of raising in the direction away from the inner peripheral edge of the first separator that constitutes the positioning reference side, and is raised. The processing is set so that the protruding end and the positioning bar come into contact with each other,
In the membrane electrode assembly positioning step, the raised end portion is inserted into a manifold hole in the membrane electrode assembly corresponding to a manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the first and second separators. The method of manufacturing a fuel cell according to claim 17, wherein the membrane electrode assembly and the second separator are fitted. The manifold hole and the positioning bar constituting the locate hole in the first separator and the second separator have a trapezoidal cross section tapered in the extending direction on a surface orthogonal to the direction of the stacking ,
19. The method of manufacturing a fuel cell according to claim 17, wherein the manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the first separator and the second separator and the positioning bar are brought into contact with each side. A fuel cell manufacturing apparatus comprising a fuel cell separator assembly according to claim 1 and a membrane electrode assembly alternately stacked.
When stacking the fuel cell separator assembly, it is inserted from a diagonal direction into a manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the first separator and a manifold hole constituting the locate hole in the corresponding second separator. Having a positioning bar
The positioning bar forms a positioning reference side by contacting the inner peripheral edge of the first separator with one side of the positioning bar during the stacking, and the inner peripheral edge of the second separator is It is set so as to constitute a pressing side by pressing the other side of the positioning bar,
The positioning bar is finally removed from the locating holes in the first and second separators . The fuel cell manufacturing apparatus, wherein: The manifold hole and the positioning bar constituting the locate hole in the first separator and the second separator have a trapezoidal cross section tapered in the extension direction on a plane orthogonal to the direction of the stacking. 21. The fuel cell manufacturing apparatus according to claim 20.

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