Plug Power. has been granted a patent for a method of manufacturing a fuel cell stack. The method involves assembling a membrane electrode assembly with a bypass blocker designed to prevent reactant bypass flow, enhancing the efficiency of the fuel cell during operation. GlobalData’s report on Plug Power gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Plug Power, Reformer integrated fuel cells was a key innovation area identified from patents. Plug Power's grant share as of June 2024 was 50%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
Fuel cell stack manufacturing method with bypass flow inhibition
The patent US12009559B2 outlines a method for manufacturing a fuel cell stack, focusing on the assembly of a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) that includes a membrane situated between two gas diffusion layers. The process involves positioning the MEA between two fluid flow plates and incorporating a bypass blocker in a designated space between the first gas diffusion layer and a seal. This design ensures that the bypass blocker is deformed in a controlled manner, creating different heights that effectively inhibit the bypass flow of reactants during the fuel cell's operation. The method emphasizes the importance of the spatial arrangement and deformation of the blocker to maintain optimal performance.
Additionally, the claims detail various aspects of the manufacturing process, including the positioning of the bypass blocker, the application of compressive forces to achieve deformation, and the potential use of multiple blockers for enhanced functionality. The blockers are described as nonporous and elastically deformable, with specific dimensions that align with the gas diffusion layers. The method also includes steps for laminating the components to secure the blocker in place and ensure that it remains undeformed in certain areas while being deformed in others. Overall, the claims present a comprehensive approach to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of fuel cell stacks through innovative design and assembly techniques.
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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.
