JP5332359B2 - Fuel cell - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To miniaturize a fuel cell in the height direction, while maintaining power generation capacity of the fuel cell. <P>SOLUTION: The fuel cell includes a power generation part to generate electric power by a fuel gas and an oxidation gas supplied and a separator arranged alternately with the power generation part. In the separator, two or more oxidation gas manifold holes for oxidation gas and one or more fuel gas manifold holes for fuel gas are arranged and installed respectively along the upper side and the lower side of the power generation part, and at least one fuel gas manifold hole is installed between two oxidation gas manifold holes. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a fuel cell.

  In a fuel cell, a membrane electrode assembly is usually sandwiched between two separators. The outer periphery of the power generation unit of the membrane electrode assembly is used for supplying and discharging reaction gas (fuel gas as anode gas and oxidizing gas as cathode gas) to the power generation unit where power generation is performed from the outside of the fuel cell. Manifold holes are provided as through holes for the separator and membrane electrode assembly.

  In order to realize efficient power generation in the power generation unit, it is preferable to adopt a structure in which the fuel gas and the oxidizing gas are flowed in opposite directions (referred to as “counter flow”). However, at present, in order to place importance on improving the distribution of the supply of oxidizing gas to the power generation unit, a structure in which manifold holes for oxidizing gas are arranged above and below the power generation unit and manifold holes for fuel gas are arranged on the left and right In many cases. In such a manifold hole arrangement structure, as a contrivance for the counter flow structure, a gas flow path extending in the left-right direction from the fuel gas manifold hole is provided to effectively make the fuel gas flow vertically. Has been done.

  However, a space for providing a fuel gas supply gas flow path and a fuel gas discharge gas flow path is required above and below the power generation unit. For this reason, for example, when the size of the power generation unit is defined, in addition to this, a space for the communication path is required along the vertical direction, which may be a problem in terms of the height of the fuel cell. Conversely, when the height of the fuel cell is defined, the size of the power generation unit in the height direction is limited, which may cause a problem in terms of power generation capacity.

JP 2006-108027 A JP 2006-147217 A JP 2004-134130 A

  An object of the present invention is to provide a technique that enables downsizing in the height direction while maintaining the power generation capability of a fuel cell.

SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is to solve at least a part of the problems described above, and the invention can be implemented as the following forms or application examples.
[Form 1]
A fuel cell,
A power generation unit for generating power with supplied fuel gas and oxidizing gas;
Separators arranged alternately with the power generation unit,
With
The separator is provided with two or more oxidizing gas manifold holes for the oxidizing gas and one or more fuel gas manifold holes for the fuel gas arranged along the upper side and the lower side of the power generation unit. And
At least one of the fuel gas manifold holes is provided between the two oxidizing gas manifold holes;
The oxidizing gas manifold holes are respectively provided at both ends on the upper side and both ends on the lower side.
On the upper side, the oxidizing gas manifold hole is an oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole for discharging the oxidizing gas, and the fuel gas manifold hole is a fuel gas supply manifold hole for supplying the fuel gas,
On the lower side, the oxidizing gas manifold hole is an oxidizing gas supply manifold hole for supplying the oxidizing gas, and the fuel gas manifold hole is a fuel gas discharge manifold hole for discharging the fuel gas,
The oxidizing gas discharge pipe connected to the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole is connected horizontally or downward with reference to the position of the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole,
The fuel gas discharge pipe connected to the fuel gas discharge manifold hole is connected horizontally or downward with reference to the position of the fuel gas discharge manifold hole,
The at least one fuel gas manifold hole has a structure in which a hole width closer to the power generation unit is wider than a hole width farther from the power generation unit.
The fuel cell characterized by the above-mentioned.
In the first aspect, since both the fuel gas manifold hole and the oxidizing gas manifold hole can be provided on the upper side and the lower side of the power generation unit, the space for the gas flow path described in the related art can be eliminated. Further, it is possible to reduce the size in the height direction while maintaining the power generation capacity of the fuel cell. The fuel gas manifold holes can be arranged between the oxidizing gas manifold holes, and the number of fuel gas manifold holes can be reduced. Water generated by power generation can be easily discharged from the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole and the fuel gas discharge manifold hole. The diffusion rate of the fuel gas supplied from the fuel gas manifold hole to the power generation unit can be improved, and the efficiency of supplying the fuel gas to the entire power generation unit can be improved.
[Form 2]
A fuel cell according to aspect 1,
The two oxidizing gas manifold holes sandwiching the at least one fuel gas manifold hole have a structure connected by a communication path provided so as to surround the at least one fuel gas manifold hole.
The fuel cell characterized by the above-mentioned.
In the said form 2, the fuel gas which leaked from the fuel gas manifold hole can be made to flow in into an oxidizing gas manifold hole, and it can suppress that it leaks outside the fuel cell.
[Form 3]
A fuel cell,
A power generation unit for generating power with supplied fuel gas and oxidizing gas;
Separators arranged alternately with the power generation unit,
With
The separator is provided with two or more oxidizing gas manifold holes for the oxidizing gas and one or more fuel gas manifold holes for the fuel gas arranged along the upper side and the lower side of the power generation unit. And
At least one of the fuel gas manifold holes is provided between the two oxidizing gas manifold holes;
The oxidizing gas manifold holes are respectively provided at both ends on the upper side and both ends on the lower side.
On the upper side, the oxidizing gas manifold hole is an oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole for discharging the oxidizing gas, and the fuel gas manifold hole is a fuel gas supply manifold hole for supplying the fuel gas,
On the lower side, the oxidizing gas manifold hole is an oxidizing gas supply manifold hole for supplying the oxidizing gas, and the fuel gas manifold hole is a fuel gas discharge manifold hole for discharging the fuel gas,
The oxidizing gas discharge pipe connected to the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole is connected horizontally or downward with reference to the position of the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole,
The fuel gas discharge pipe connected to the fuel gas discharge manifold hole is connected horizontally or downward with reference to the position of the fuel gas discharge manifold hole,
The two oxidizing gas manifold holes sandwiching the at least one fuel gas manifold hole have a structure connected by a communication path provided so as to surround the at least one fuel gas manifold hole.
The fuel cell characterized by the above-mentioned.
In the third aspect, both the fuel gas manifold hole and the oxidizing gas manifold hole can be provided on the upper side and the lower side of the power generation unit, and the space for the gas flow path described in the related art can be made unnecessary. It is possible to reduce the size in the height direction while maintaining the power generation capacity of the fuel cell. The fuel gas manifold holes can be arranged between the oxidizing gas manifold holes, and the number of fuel gas manifold holes can be reduced. Water generated by power generation can be easily discharged from the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole and the fuel gas discharge manifold hole. The fuel gas leaked from the fuel gas manifold hole can be caused to flow into the oxidizing gas manifold hole, and leakage from the fuel cell can be suppressed.
[Form 4]
A fuel cell,
A power generation unit for generating power with supplied fuel gas and oxidizing gas;
Separators arranged alternately with the power generation unit,
With
The separator is provided with two or more oxidizing gas manifold holes for the oxidizing gas and one or more fuel gas manifold holes for the fuel gas arranged along the upper side and the lower side of the power generation unit. And
At least one of the fuel gas manifold holes is provided between the two oxidizing gas manifold holes;
The at least one fuel gas manifold hole has a structure in which a hole width closer to the power generation unit is wider than a hole width farther from the power generation unit.
The fuel cell characterized by the above-mentioned.
In Mode 4, both the fuel gas manifold hole and the oxidizing gas manifold hole can be provided on the upper side and the lower side of the power generation unit, and the space for the gas flow path described in the related art can be eliminated. It is possible to reduce the size in the height direction while maintaining the power generation capacity of the fuel cell. The diffusion rate of the fuel gas supplied from the fuel gas manifold hole to the power generation unit can be improved, and the efficiency of supplying the fuel gas to the entire power generation unit can be improved.
[Form 5]
The fuel cell according to item 4, wherein
The two oxidizing gas manifold holes sandwiching the at least one fuel gas manifold hole have a structure connected by a communication path provided so as to surround the at least one fuel gas manifold hole.
The fuel cell characterized by the above-mentioned.
In the fifth aspect, the fuel gas leaked from the fuel gas manifold hole can be caused to flow into the oxidizing gas manifold hole, and leakage from the fuel cell can be suppressed.
[Form 6]
A fuel cell,
A power generation unit for generating power with supplied fuel gas and oxidizing gas;
Separators arranged alternately with the power generation unit,
With
The separator is provided with two or more oxidizing gas manifold holes for the oxidizing gas and one or more fuel gas manifold holes for the fuel gas arranged along the upper side and the lower side of the power generation unit. And
At least one of the fuel gas manifold holes is provided between the two oxidizing gas manifold holes;
The two oxidizing gas manifold holes sandwiching the at least one fuel gas manifold hole have a structure connected by a communication path provided so as to surround the at least one fuel gas manifold hole.
The fuel cell characterized by the above-mentioned.
In Mode 6, both the fuel gas manifold hole and the oxidizing gas manifold hole can be provided on the upper side and the lower side of the power generation unit, and the space for the gas flow path described in the related art can be eliminated. It is possible to reduce the size in the height direction while maintaining the power generation capacity of the fuel cell. The fuel gas leaked from the fuel gas manifold hole can be caused to flow into the oxidizing gas manifold hole, and leakage from the fuel cell can be suppressed.
[Form 7]
The fuel cell according to any one of Embodiments 4 to 6,
The oxidizing gas manifold holes are respectively provided at both ends on the upper side and both ends on the lower side.
The fuel cell characterized by the above-mentioned.
In Embodiment 7, fuel gas manifold holes can be arranged between the oxidizing gas manifold holes, and the number of fuel gas manifold holes can be reduced.
[Form 8]
The fuel cell according to any one of Form 4 to Form 7,
On the upper side, the oxidizing gas manifold hole is an oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole for discharging the oxidizing gas, and the fuel gas manifold hole is a fuel gas supply manifold hole for supplying the fuel gas,
On the lower side, the oxidizing gas manifold hole is an oxidizing gas supply manifold hole for supplying the oxidizing gas, and the fuel gas manifold hole is a fuel gas discharge manifold hole for discharging the fuel gas,
The fuel cell further includes:
Comprising two end plates for sandwiching the fuel cell;
Inside the at least one end plate, an oxidizing gas discharge passage hole connected to the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole is provided horizontally or downward with reference to the position of the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole, and the fuel The fuel gas discharge passage hole connected to the gas discharge manifold hole is connected horizontally or downward with reference to the position of the fuel gas discharge manifold hole.
The fuel cell characterized by the above-mentioned.
In the eighth aspect, water generated by power generation can be easily discharged from the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole and the fuel gas discharge manifold hole.

[Application Example 1]
A fuel cell,
A power generation unit for generating power with supplied fuel gas and oxidizing gas;
Separators arranged alternately with the power generation unit,
With
The separator is provided with two or more oxidizing gas manifold holes for the oxidizing gas and one or more fuel gas manifold holes for the fuel gas arranged along the upper side and the lower side of the power generation unit. And
The fuel cell, wherein at least one of the fuel gas manifold holes is provided between the two oxidizing gas manifold holes.
According to this configuration, both the fuel gas manifold hole and the oxidizing gas manifold hole can be provided on the upper side and the lower side of the power generation unit, and the space for the gas flow path described in the related art can be made unnecessary. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the size in the height direction while maintaining the power generation capability of the fuel cell.

[Application Example 2]
A fuel cell according to Application Example 1,
The oxidizing gas manifold holes are respectively provided at both ends on the upper side and both ends on the lower side. The fuel cell, wherein:
According to this configuration, the fuel gas manifold holes can be arranged between the oxidizing gas manifold holes, and the number of fuel gas manifold holes can be reduced.

[Application Example 3]
A fuel cell according to Application Example 1 or Application Example 2,
On the upper side, the oxidizing gas manifold hole is an oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole for discharging the oxidizing gas, and the fuel gas manifold hole is a fuel gas supply manifold hole for supplying the fuel gas,
On the lower side, the oxidizing gas manifold hole is an oxidizing gas supply manifold hole for supplying the oxidizing gas, and the fuel gas manifold hole is a fuel gas discharge manifold hole for discharging the fuel gas,
The oxidizing gas discharge pipe connected to the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole is connected horizontally or downward with reference to the position of the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole,
The fuel gas discharge pipe connected to the fuel gas discharge manifold hole is connected horizontally or downward with reference to the position of the fuel gas discharge manifold hole.
According to this configuration, water generated by power generation can be easily discharged from the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole and the fuel gas discharge manifold hole.

[Application Example 4]
A fuel cell according to Application Example 1 or Application Example 2,
On the upper side, the oxidizing gas manifold hole is an oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole for discharging the oxidizing gas, and the fuel gas manifold hole is a fuel gas supply manifold hole for supplying the fuel gas,
On the lower side, the oxidizing gas manifold hole is an oxidizing gas supply manifold hole for supplying the oxidizing gas, and the fuel gas manifold hole is a fuel gas discharge manifold hole for discharging the fuel gas,
The fuel cell further includes:
Comprising two end plates for sandwiching the fuel cell;
Inside the at least one end plate, an oxidizing gas discharge passage hole connected to the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole is provided horizontally or downward with reference to the position of the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole, and the fuel A fuel cell, wherein a fuel gas discharge passage hole connected to a gas discharge manifold hole is connected horizontally or downward between the fuel gas discharge holes with reference to the position of the manifold hole.
According to this configuration, water generated by power generation can be easily discharged from the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole and the fuel gas discharge manifold hole.

[Application Example 5]
The fuel cell according to any one of Application Example 1 to Application Example 4,
The fuel cell according to claim 1, wherein the at least one fuel gas manifold hole has a structure in which a hole width closer to the power generation unit is wider than a hole width farther from the power generation unit.
According to this configuration, the diffusion rate of the fuel gas supplied from the fuel gas manifold hole to the power generation unit can be improved, and the efficiency of supplying the fuel gas to the entire power generation unit can be improved.

[Application Example 6]
The fuel cell according to any one of Application Example 1 to Application Example 6,
The two oxidizing gas manifold holes sandwiching the at least one fuel gas manifold hole have a structure connected by a communication path provided so as to surround the at least one fuel gas manifold hole. Fuel cell.
According to this configuration, the fuel gas leaked from the fuel gas manifold hole can be caused to flow into the oxidizing gas manifold hole, and leakage from the fuel cell can be suppressed.

  The present invention can be realized in various forms, for example, in the form of a fuel cell, a fuel cell system including the fuel cell, a vehicle equipped with the fuel cell system, and the like. .

A. First embodiment:
FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a fuel cell as an embodiment of the present invention. The fuel cell 100 is a polymer electrolyte fuel cell that receives supply of a fuel gas and an oxidizing gas (reactive gas) and generates power by an electrochemical reaction (fuel cell reaction). Specifically, hydrogen is supplied as an anode gas (fuel gas) to the anode electrode side of the membrane electrode assembly 10, and high-pressure air containing oxygen is supplied to the cathode electrode side as a cathode gas (oxidizing gas). The fuel cell 100 may not be a polymer electrolyte fuel cell, and the present invention can be applied to any of various types of fuel cells.

  The fuel cell 100 has a stack structure in which membrane electrode assemblies 10 and separators SP are alternately stacked. The separator SP includes a cathode plate SPc, an intermediate plate SPi, and an anode plate SPa. A cathode plate SPc is disposed on the cathode electrode side of the membrane electrode assembly 10, an anode plate SPa is disposed on the anode electrode side, and the intermediate plate SPi is sandwiched between the two plates SPc and SPa.

  FIG. 1B is a perspective view showing a state in which the fuel cell 100 is fastened. The fuel cell 100 is fastened by the fastening member 20 while being sandwiched between the two end plates 21 and 22. Note that manifold holes M1, M2, M3a, M3b, M4a, M4b, M5, and M6 of the fuel cell 100, which will be described later, and piping outside the fuel cell 100 are connected to the end plate 21 on the upper side in the stacking direction of the fuel cell 100. Channel holes EM1, EM2, EM3a, EM3b, EM4a, EM4b, EM5, and EM6 are provided.

  The two end plates 21 and 22 are substantially rectangular members that substantially overlap the membrane electrode assembly 10 and the separator SP when viewed along the stacking direction of the fuel cell 100. The straight rod-shaped shaft portion 20 s of the fastening member 20 passes through the two end plates 21 and 22 at a total of four positions CN of the two end plates 21 and 22. Nut portions 20n are provided at both ends of the shaft portion 20s, and the fuel cell 100 receives a fastening load in the stacking direction by screwing the nut portion 20n.

  Note that the membrane electrode assembly 10 and the separator SP are provided with corner recesses CV1 at portions overlapping the four corners CN of the end plates 21 and 22 when viewed in the stacking direction. That is, the shaft portion 20s passes through the two end plates 21 and 22 through the corner recess CV1. Thus, the fuel cell 100 is reduced in size because the volume is reduced by the provision of the angular recess CV1 for disposing the fastening member 20.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic view showing a configuration of the membrane electrode assembly 10 on the anode electrode side. The configuration of the membrane electrode assembly 10 on the cathode electrode side is the same as that on the anode electrode side, and is not shown.

  The membrane electrode assembly 10 is a substantially rectangular member including a power generation unit 11 in which a fuel cell reaction is performed and an outer peripheral seal frame unit 12 surrounding the power generation unit 11. At the four corners of the membrane electrode assembly 10, the corner recesses CV1 for passing the shaft portion 20s of the fastening member 20 described above are provided.

  The outer peripheral seal frame portion 12 is provided with manifold holes M1, M2, M3a, M3b, M4a, M4b, M5 and M6 which are through holes. The manifold hole M1 is responsible for supplying the anode gas (fuel gas), and the manifold hole M2 is responsible for discharging the anode exhaust gas containing hydrogen that has not been subjected to the reaction. The two manifold holes M3a and M3b are responsible for supplying the cathode gas, and the two manifold holes M4a and M4b are discharges of cathode exhaust gas containing oxygen that has not been used for the reaction and moisture generated by the fuel cell reaction. Take on. The manifold hole M5 is responsible for supplying a refrigerant for cooling reaction heat generated by the fuel cell reaction, and the manifold hole M6 is responsible for discharging the refrigerant.

  Each of the refrigerant supply manifold hole M5 and the refrigerant discharge manifold hole M6 is provided along a short side facing the power generation unit 11 in the left-right direction.

  The manifold hole M1 for anode gas supply and the two manifold holes M4a and M4b for cathode exhaust gas discharge are arranged so that the manifold hole M1 for anode gas supply is sandwiched between the two manifold holes M4a and M4b for cathode exhaust gas discharge. It is provided along the same long side above the power generation unit 11. In addition, the anode exhaust gas discharge manifold hole M2 and the cathode gas supply two manifold holes M3a and M3b are also sandwiched between the anode exhaust gas discharge manifold hole M2 and the two cathode gas supply manifold holes M4a and M4b. Are provided along the same long side below the power generation unit 11. The anode hole M1 for anode gas supply, the manifold hole M2 for discharge of anode exhaust gas, the manifold holes M3a and M3b for supply of cathode gas, and the manifold holes M4a and M4b for discharge of cathode exhaust gas respectively sandwich the power generation unit 11. It is provided at a position facing vertically.

  On the surface of the outer peripheral seal frame 12, a seal line SL (illustrated by two lines) is provided so as to surround each manifold hole M 1, M 2, M 3 a, M 3 b, M 4 a, M 4 b, M 5, M 6 and the power generation unit 11. Yes. The seal line SL is for preventing fluid leakage. The outer peripheral seal frame portion 12 can be formed of an insulating seal member such as silicon rubber.

  FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of the membrane electrode assembly 10 taken along the line 3-3 shown in FIG. 2, and shows a state of being sandwiched between two separators SP. The power generation unit 11 includes an electrolyte membrane 13 that exhibits good proton conductivity in a wet state. The electrolyte membrane 13 is sandwiched between the anode electrode layer 14a and the cathode electrode layer 14c. The electrolyte membrane 13 has a film end 13e which is an outer peripheral edge thereof protruding from the outer peripheral edges of the two electrode layers 14a and 14c. The film end portion 13 e is covered with the outer peripheral seal frame portion 12. As a result, the occurrence of cross leak in the vicinity of the film end 13e is suppressed. Here, “cross leak” refers to a phenomenon in which hydrogen on the anode electrode side moves to the cathode electrode side without being subjected to a reaction during power generation of the fuel cell.

  The two electrode layers 14 a and 14 c include a gas diffusion layer 15 and a catalyst layer 16. The gas diffusion layers 15 are provided on the surfaces of the two electrode layers 14 a and 14 c that are not in contact with the electrolyte membrane 13, and have a function of spreading the supplied reaction gas over the entire electrolyte membrane 13. The gas diffusion layer 15 can be composed of, for example, carbon paper. The catalyst layer 16 is provided by supporting a catalyst for promoting the fuel cell reaction on the surfaces of the two electrode layers 14a and 14c that are in contact with the electrolyte membrane 13. For example, platinum (Pt) can be employed as the catalyst. By the way, the power generation unit 11 includes a region where cooling with a refrigerant flowing through a refrigerant flow path, which will be described later, is efficiently performed, and a region where the fuel cell reaction is actively performed and a region where it is not performed. A region where the fuel cell reaction is actively performed is particularly referred to as “main power generation unit 11c” and is indicated by a broken line in FIG.

  When the membrane electrode assembly 10 is sandwiched between the two separators SP, the gas flow path member 18 is disposed between the two electrode layers 14a and 14c and the separator SP. The gas flow path member 18 is disposed so as to cover the entire power generation unit 11, and is disposed so as to be in contact with both the two electrode layers 14a and 14c and the separator SP. The gas flow path member 18 has a function of spreading the reaction gas supplied to the whole of the two electrode layers 14a and 14c, and also has a function as a conductive path for the generated electricity. The gas flow path member 18 can be configured by a conductive porous member, a member obtained by processing a metal plate, and a plurality of through holes provided in a mesh shape.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the seal line SL provided in the outer peripheral seal frame portion 12 is provided as a protrusion 17 (lip), and is provided at a position facing each other on the anode electrode side and the cathode electrode side. The protrusion 17 realizes a sealing property by being pressed by the separator SP from both sides of the anode electrode side and the cathode electrode side.

  FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the anode plate SPa that constitutes the separator SP, and shows the surface side in contact with the intermediate plate SPi (FIG. 1A). In FIG. 4, when the fuel cell 100 is viewed along the stacking direction, a region overlapping the power generation unit 11 of the membrane electrode assembly 10 is indicated by a one-dot chain line, and a region overlapping the main power generation unit 11 c is indicated by a broken line. It is.

  The anode plate SPa is provided with manifold holes M1, M2, M3a, M3b, M4a, M4b, M5, and M6 and a corner recess CV1 in the same manner as the membrane electrode assembly 10 (FIG. 2). A plurality of anode gas inflow holes P1 and anode exhaust gas outflow holes P2 which are through holes are provided in the region of the power generation unit 11 of the anode plate SPa. The anode gas inflow hole P1 is provided over the long side of the power generation unit 11 between the main power generation unit 11c and the manifold hole M1 for supplying anode gas. Similarly, the anode exhaust gas outflow hole P2 is provided between the main power generation unit 11c and the anode hole M2 for exhausting the anode exhaust gas. Through the anode gas inflow hole P1 and the anode exhaust gas outflow hole P2, the anode gas is supplied to and discharged from the power generation unit 11 on the anode electrode side of the membrane electrode assembly 10. A specific anode gas flow will be described later. The anode plate SPa can be made of a conductive member such as carbon or metal.

  FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the cathode plate SPc that constitutes the separator SP, and shows the surface side in contact with the membrane electrode assembly 10 (FIG. 1A). FIG. 5 is substantially the same as FIG. 4 except that a plurality of cathode gas inflow holes P3 and cathode exhaust gas outflow holes P4 are provided instead of the anode gas inflow holes P1 and the anode exhaust gas outflow holes P2. In FIG. 5, a region that overlaps the two through holes P <b> 1 and P <b> 2 (FIG. 4) of the anode plate SPa when the fuel cell 100 is viewed along the stacking direction is indicated by a two-dot chain line.

  The cathode gas inflow hole P3 and the cathode exhaust gas outflow hole P4 are through holes provided in the region of the power generation unit 11. The cathode gas inflow hole P3 is provided along the long side of the power generation unit 11 between the main power generation unit 11c and the manifold holes M3a and M3b for cathode gas supply. The cathode exhaust gas outlet hole P4 is provided along the long side of the power generation unit 11 between the main power generation unit 11c and the manifold exhaust holes M4a and M4b for cathode exhaust gas discharge. Cathode gas is supplied to and discharged from the power generation unit 11 on the cathode electrode side of the membrane electrode assembly 10 through the cathode gas inflow hole P3 and the cathode exhaust gas outflow hole P4. A specific flow of the cathode gas will be described later.

  FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing the configuration of the intermediate plate SPi that constitutes the separator SP, and shows the side in contact with the cathode plate SPc (FIG. 1A). FIG. 6 is substantially the same as FIG. 5 except that each fluid flow path to be described later is provided and two types of through holes P3 and P4 and manifold holes M5 and M6 for refrigerant are not provided. It is. In FIG. 6, when viewed along the stacking direction of the fuel cells 100, regions overlapping with the refrigerant manifold holes M <b> 5 and M <b> 6 are indicated by two-dot chain lines, and the through holes provided in the two plates SPa and SPc are shown. A region overlapping with the holes P1, P2, P3, and P4 is indicated by a broken line.

  A plurality of anode gas supply anode channels AP1 are provided through the intermediate plate SPi so as to form comb-shaped slits. The anode gas supply anode channel AP1 has one end communicating with the anode gas supply manifold hole M1 and the other end connected to the anode gas inflow hole P1 of the anode plate SPa. That is, the anode supply anode flow path AP1 is a flow path that communicates the anode gas supply manifold hole M1b and the power generation section 11 (FIG. 2) of the membrane electrode assembly 10. Similarly, an anode exhaust gas discharge anode channel AP2 is provided in the intermediate plate SPi so as to communicate the anode exhaust gas discharge manifold hole M2 and the power generation unit 11.

  The intermediate plate SPi is provided with a plurality of cathode gas supply cathode channels CP1 penetrating so as to form comb-shaped slits. One end of the cathode gas supply cathode channel CP1 is connected to the cathode gas supply manifold holes M3a and M3b, and the other end is connected to the cathode gas inflow hole P3 of the cathode plate SPc. That is, the cathode gas supply cathode channel CP1 is a channel that communicates the cathode gas supply manifold holes M3a and M3b with the power generation unit 11 (FIG. 2) of the membrane electrode assembly 10. Similarly, the cathode exhaust gas discharge cathode channel CP2 is provided in the intermediate plate SPi so as to communicate the cathode exhaust gas discharge manifold holes M4a and M4b with the power generation unit 11.

  A substantially long side refrigerant flow path WP penetrates through the central portion of the intermediate plate SPi so as to connect the two refrigerant manifold holes M5 and M6 to each other when sandwiched between the other plates SPa and SPc. Is provided. In the refrigerant flow path WP, as shown in the figure, a flow path wall WL for rectifying the flow of the refrigerant is provided. Therefore, a part of the refrigerant supplied from the outside of the fuel cell 100 to the refrigerant supply manifold hole M5 flows into the refrigerant flow path WP of the intermediate plate SPi of each separator SP, and the refrigerant discharge manifold hole M6. Head to (arrow in Fig. 6). The refrigerant is discharged to the outside of the fuel cell 100 through the refrigerant discharge manifold hole M6 with heat generated by power generation. The refrigerant flow path WP is formed so as to substantially cover the main power generation unit 11c described above, and can be cooled over the entire main power generation unit 11.

  FIG. 7A is a schematic diagram for explaining the flow of anode gas (fuel gas) in the fuel cell 100. FIG. 7A is a partial cross-sectional view of the fuel cell 100 taken along the line 7A-7A shown in FIG. The gas diffusion layer 15 and the catalyst layer 16 (FIG. 3) of the two electrode layers 14a and 14c are not shown for convenience of explanation.

  A part of the anode gas supplied from the outside of the fuel cell 100 to the manifold hole M1 flows into the anode gas supply anode channel AP1 of the intermediate plate SPi as shown by an arrow in FIG. Through the anode gas inflow hole P1 of the plate SPa, the gas channel member 18 reaches the entire anode electrode layer 14a. On the other hand, the anode exhaust gas flows out from the anode exhaust gas outflow hole P2 of the anode plate SPa as shown by the arrow in FIG. 7A, and passes through the anode exhaust gas discharge anode passage AP2 of the intermediate plate SPi to the manifold hole M2. To the outside of the fuel cell 100.

  FIG. 7B is a schematic diagram for explaining the flow of the cathode gas (oxidizing gas) in the fuel cell 100. FIG. 7B is a partial cross-sectional view of the fuel cell 100 taken along the line 7B-7B shown in FIG. The gas diffusion layer 15 and the catalyst layer 16 of the two electrode layers 14a and 14c are not shown for convenience of explanation.

  A part of the cathode gas supplied from the outside of the fuel cell 100 to the manifold holes M3a and M3b flows into the cathode channel CP1 for cathode gas supply of the intermediate plate SPi as shown by an arrow in FIG. Through the cathode gas inflow hole P3 of the cathode plate SPc, the gas channel member 18 reaches the entire cathode electrode layer 14c. On the other hand, as shown by the arrow in FIG. 7B, the cathode exhaust gas flows out from the cathode exhaust gas outflow hole P4 of the cathode plate SPc, passes through the cathode exhaust gas discharge cathode channel CP2 of the intermediate plate SPi, and reaches the manifold holes M4a, M4b is reached and discharged outside the fuel cell 100.

  FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an intermediate plate SPi-c that constitutes a separator as a comparative example, and shows the side in contact with the cathode plate. The height of the intermediate plater SPi-c in this comparative example is assumed to be the same as that of the intermediate plate SPi in the embodiment.

  The intermediate plate SPi-c of the comparative example has a manifold electrode assembly 10 provided with a manifold hole M1 for supplying anode gas and manifold holes M4a and M4b for discharging cathode exhaust gas in the embodiment shown in FIG. It is provided not along the side but along the short side of the membrane electrode assembly 10 provided with the manifold hole M5 for supplying the refrigerant. Further, the manifold exhaust M2 for discharging the anode exhaust gas is not the long side of the membrane electrode assembly 10 provided with the manifold holes M3a and M3b for supplying the cathode gas in the embodiment shown in FIG. It is provided along the short side of the membrane electrode assembly 10 provided with the hole M6. The manifold hole M1 and the manifold hole M2 are provided at diagonal positions across the power generation unit 11, and the manifold hole M5 and the manifold hole M6 are provided at diagonal positions across the power generation unit 11. It has been. Further, each of the one manifold hole M3 for supplying the cathode gas and one manifold hole M4 for discharging the cathode exhaust gas is provided along the long sides facing each other with the power generation unit 11 interposed therebetween.

  Moreover, two anode flow paths AP1-c and AP2-c for guiding the anode gas and the anode exhaust gas extending in the long side direction of the power generation unit 11 penetrate the intermediate plate SPi-c of the comparative example. Is provided. The anode gas supply anode channel AP1-c communicates with the anode gas supply manifold hole M1, and substantially overlaps with the anode gas inflow hole P1-c (shown by a wavy line in the figure) of the anode plate SPa. Is provided. The anode flow path AP2-c for discharging the anode exhaust gas communicates with the manifold hole M2 for anode exhaust gas, and is provided so as to substantially overlap the anode exhaust gas outflow hole P2-c (shown by a broken line in the drawing) of the anode plate SPa. It has been.

  As described above, in the intermediate plate SPi-c of the comparative example, the two anode flow channel rows AP1-c and AP2-c extending in the long side direction of the power generation unit 11 are provided on the upper side and the lower side of the power generation unit 11. Is provided. For this reason, the space in the height direction in which the refrigerant flow WP can be provided is limited, and the height hec of the main power generation unit 11c-c is smaller than the height he of the main power generation unit 11c in the embodiment. End up. In other words, in the case of the embodiment, since there is no space for the two anode channel rows AP1-c and AP2-c extending in the long side direction of the power generation unit 11, the refrigerant channel WP can be provided. The height can be increased, and the height he of the main power generation unit 11c can be increased as compared with the comparative example. As a result, the power generation capacity of the fuel cell can be increased. Conversely, if the main power generation unit having the same height as that of the comparative example is sufficient, the height of the fuel cell can be reduced while maintaining the power generation capacity.

B. Second embodiment:
FIG. 9 is a schematic view showing a configuration of a membrane electrode assembly 10B used in a fuel cell as a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 shows that three manifold holes M4a to M4c for discharging the cathode exhaust gas and three manifold holes M1a to M1c for supplying the anode gas are alternately provided along the upper long side of the power generation unit 11. 2 is different from the configuration of the membrane electrode assembly 10 of the first embodiment shown in FIG. In addition, three manifold holes M3a to M3c for cathode gas supply and three manifold holes M2a to M2c for anode exhaust gas discharge are alternately provided along the lower long side of the power generation unit 11, This is different from the configuration of the membrane electrode assembly 10. In addition, according to the above changes, the configuration of manifold holes and through holes, cathode flow paths, and anode flow paths provided in the separator used in the fuel cell is appropriately changed. Since this is a normal change, illustration and description are omitted here. Except for the above changes, the configuration of the fuel cell of the first embodiment is almost the same.

  Also in this embodiment, as in the case of the first embodiment, when the fuel cells have the same height, the anode flow provided above and below the main power generation unit in the configuration of the comparative example shown in FIG. Since there is no space for the road, the height of the main power generation unit can be increased and the power generation capacity can be increased. When the power generation capacity is the same, the height of the fuel cell can be reduced while maintaining the power generation capacity.

  In this embodiment, manifold holes M1c and M2c for the anode gas are present at the end of the array. In order to reduce the possibility that the anode gas leaks to the outside, it is preferable that the manifold holes for the cathode gas are arranged at the ends as in the first embodiment.

C. Third embodiment:
FIG. 10 is a schematic view showing a configuration of a membrane electrode assembly 10C used in a fuel cell as a third embodiment of the present invention. In addition to the four corner corner recesses CV1 provided to pass the shaft portion 20s of the fastening member 20 described in the first embodiment, the membrane electrode assembly 10C is provided near the center of two opposed long sides. Central recess CV2 is provided.

  On the left side of the central part where the two central concave parts CV2 that face each other exist, two cathode exhaust gas discharges along the long side on the upper side of the power generation part 11, similarly to the membrane electrode assembly 10 of the first embodiment. Manifold holes M4a and M4b are provided, and a manifold hole M1a for supplying anode gas is provided between the two manifold holes M4a and M4b. Further, two manifold holes M3a and M3b for supplying cathode gas are provided along the lower long side of the power generation unit 11, and a manifold hole for discharging anode exhaust gas is provided between the two manifold holes M3a and M3b. M2a is provided.

  Similarly, two manifold holes M4c and M4d for discharging the cathode exhaust gas are provided on the right side of the central portion along the upper long side of the power generation unit 11, and between these two manifold holes M4c and M4d. Is provided with a manifold hole M1b for supplying anode gas. Further, two manifold holes M3c and M3d for supplying cathode gas are provided along the lower long side of the power generation unit 11, and a manifold hole for discharging the anode exhaust gas is provided between the two manifold holes M3c and M3d. M2b is provided.

  In addition, according to the change in the configuration, the configuration of the manifold holes and through holes, the cathode flow path, and the anode flow path provided in the separator used in the fuel cell is appropriately changed. Therefore, the illustration and description are omitted here. Except for the above changes, the configuration of the fuel cell of the first embodiment is almost the same.

  Also in this embodiment, as in the case of the first embodiment, when the fuel cells have the same height, the anode flow provided above and below the main power generation unit in the configuration of the comparative example shown in FIG. Since there is no space for the road, the height of the main power generation unit can be increased and the power generation capacity can be increased. When the power generation capacity is the same, the height of the fuel cell can be reduced while maintaining the power generation capacity.

D. Fourth embodiment:
FIG. 11 is a schematic view showing a configuration of a membrane electrode assembly 10D used in a fuel cell as a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 shows two manifold holes M4a-4 and M4b-4 for discharging the anode exhaust gas and one manifold hole M1-4 for cathode gas supply provided along the upper long side of the power generation unit 11. Show.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the manifold hole M1-4 for supplying the anode gas is not the substantially rectangular manifold hole M1 in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 11 has a feature in that it has a structure with a shape larger than the hole width Wa on the opposite side to 11. The two manifold holes M4a-4 and M4b-4 for exhausting the cathode exhaust gas have a structure in which the hole width on the manifold hole M1 side changes according to the change in the shape of the manifold hole M1. About points other than the said structure, it is substantially the same as the fuel cell of 1st Example.

  If the hole width of the manifold hole for anode gas supply is changed as in the manifold hole M1-4 for anode gas supply of the present embodiment, the diffusivity of the anode gas (fuel gas) supplied to the power generation unit 11 is changed. It is possible to improve the efficiency of supplying the anode gas to the entire power generation unit 11.

  The anode exhaust gas discharge manifold hole may have the same shape as the anode exhaust gas discharge manifold hole.

E. Example 5:
FIG. 12 is a schematic view showing a configuration of a membrane electrode assembly 10E used in a fuel cell as a fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 shows two manifold holes M4a-5 and M4b-5 for discharging the anode exhaust gas and one manifold hole M1-5 for cathode gas supply provided along the upper long side of the power generation unit 11. Show.

  As shown in FIG. 12, the manifold exhaust holes M4a-5 and M4b-5 for discharging the cathode exhaust gas are arranged so that the manifold holes M1-5 for supplying the anode gas are surrounded by the manifold holes for discharging the cathode exhaust gas. It is characterized in that the outer periphery of the hole M1-5 has a structure connected by a communication part M4CP provided on the opposite side to the power generation part 11. Likewise, the anode exhaust gas discharge manifold hole is surrounded by the cathode gas supply manifold hole, and the anode exhaust gas discharge manifold hole is surrounded by the power generation unit 11 so as to surround the anode exhaust gas discharge manifold hole. It is set as the structure connected by the communication part provided in the opposite side. The points other than these structures are almost the same as the fuel cell of the fourth embodiment.

  By covering the outside of the manifold hole for the anode gas with the manifold hole for the cathode gas as described above, even if the anode gas leaks from the manifold hole, the manifold hole for the cathode gas Since it leaks out, it can suppress that anode gas leaks outside. Well, the anode gas leaked into the manifold hole for the cathode gas can be mixed with the cathode gas and diluted.

  In addition, although the present Example demonstrated the case of the manifold hole for anode gas supply demonstrated in 4th Example as an example, it is applicable also in the case of 1st-3rd Example.

F. External exhaust structure of cathode exhaust gas and anode exhaust gas:
FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the anode gas supply pipe 110 and the anode exhaust gas discharge pipe 120, the cathode gas supply pipe 130 and the cathode exhaust gas discharge pipe 140 connected to the end plate 21. For ease of illustration, the anode gas supply pipe 110 and the anode exhaust gas discharge pipe 120 are indicated by a one-dot chain line, and the cathode gas supply pipe 130 and the cathode exhaust gas discharge pipe 140 are indicated by a two-dot chain line.

  The cathode exhaust gas (oxidized exhaust gas: air) contains water generated by the power generation unit 11 (hereinafter referred to as “generated water”). Therefore, it is preferable that the cathode exhaust gas discharge pipe 140 is disposed so as to enhance the drainage of the generated water. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 13, the exhaust pipe 140 for cathode exhaust gas has two flow passage holes EM4a... Connected to the two manifold holes M4a and M4b for cathode exhaust gas discharge. On the lower side of EM4b, the pipe portions connected to each are arranged so as to be coupled. The anode gas (fuel gas: hydrogen) supply pipe 110 is arranged to be connected to the anode gas supply flow path hole EM1. In the figure, the case of one flow path hole for supplying anode gas is described by taking the case of the first embodiment as an example, but when there are a plurality of passage holes as in the second and third embodiments, What is necessary is just to arrange | position so that the piping part connected to each may be connected in the same horizontal position as each flow-path hole, or above them. Thus, if the cathode exhaust gas discharge pipe 140 is provided, the pipes are easily provided to the cathode exhaust gas discharge manifold hole and the anode gas supply manifold hole while improving the drainage of the generated water. be able to.

  The anode exhaust gas (fuel exhaust gas: hydrogen) also contains produced water. Therefore, the anode exhaust gas discharge pipe 120 is preferably arranged so as to enhance the drainage of the generated water. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 13, the anode exhaust gas discharge pipe 120 is connected to the anode exhaust gas flow passage hole EM1 and is disposed so as to extend in the horizontal direction. In the figure, the case of the first embodiment is used as an example to explain the case where there is one passage hole for discharging the anode exhaust gas. However, as in the second and third embodiments, What is necessary is just to arrange | position so that the piping part connected to each may be connected in the same horizontal position as each flow-path hole. The cathode gas (oxidizing gas: air) supply pipe 130 has two flow passage holes EM3a... That are connected to the two manifold holes M3a and M3b for cathode gas supply. On the upper side of EM3b, the pipe parts connected to each are arranged so as to be coupled. The anode gas (fuel gas: hydrogen) supply pipe 110 is disposed so as to be connected to the anode gas supply channel hole M1. Thus, if the anode exhaust gas discharge pipe 120 is arranged, the pipes are easily arranged for the anode exhaust gas discharge manifold hole and the cathode exhaust gas discharge manifold hole while improving the drainage of the generated water. be able to.

  Note that the piping structure for the anode exhaust gas and the cathode exhaust gas is not limited to the structure shown in FIG. 13, and any structure that is advantageous in terms of drainage of generated water can be used. Good. For example, another structure described below may be used.

  FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing another structure of the anode gas supply pipe 110 and the anode exhaust gas discharge pipe 120, the cathode gas supply pipe 130 and the cathode exhaust gas discharge pipe 140 connected to the end plate 21. .

  In the piping structure of FIG. 14, the discharge pipe 140 for discharging the cathode exhaust gas has two flow passage holes EM4a. The pipe portions are arranged so as to be connected at the same horizontal position as that of the EM 4b, and the supply pipe 110 for supplying the anode gas is connected to the anode gas supply passage hole EM1 from above. Is different from the piping structure of FIG. The supply pipe for supplying the anode gas may be arranged so as to be connected to the flow path hole EM1 from the lower side.

  In the case of the piping structure of FIG. 14, the discharge pipe 140 for discharging the cathode exhaust gas is at the same horizontal position as the cathode exhaust gas discharge passage holes EMa, EM4b, so that the drainage effect is better than the case shown in FIG. Although it is low, it is advantageous in terms of drainage.

  FIG. 15 is a schematic view showing still another structure of the anode gas supply pipe 110 and the anode exhaust gas discharge pipe 120, the cathode gas supply pipe 130 and the cathode exhaust gas discharge pipe 140 connected to the end plate 21. is there.

  In the piping structure of FIG. 15, the supply pipe 130 for supplying cathode gas has two flow passage holes EM3a. The pipe portions are arranged so as to be connected at the same horizontal position as that of the EM 3b, and the discharge pipe 120 for discharging the exhaust gas from the anode is connected to the flow path hole EM2 for discharging the exhaust gas from the lower side. This is different from the piping structure of FIG.

  In the case of the piping structure of FIG. 15, the discharge pipe 120 for anode exhaust gas is connected from the lower side to the passage hole EM2 for exhaust of anode exhaust gas. This is advantageous.

  Further, although illustration and description are omitted, a piping structure combining the piping structure of the cathode exhaust gas shown in FIG. 14 and the piping structure of the anode exhaust gas shown in FIG. 15 may be adopted.

  The structure for discharging the cathode distribution gas and the anode exhaust gas to the outside described with reference to FIGS. 13 to 15 shows a case where the structure is realized by a piping structure connected to the end plate 21. It can also be realized as a structure.

  FIG. 16 shows an anode gas supply channel hole 210 and an anode exhaust gas discharge channel hole 220, a cathode gas supply channel hole 230, and a cathode exhaust gas discharge channel hole 240 provided inside the end plate 21F. It is the schematic which shows the structure of these. For ease of illustration, the anode gas supply flow path 110 and the anode exhaust gas discharge flow path hole 220 are shown by alternate long and short dash lines, and the cathode gas supply flow path 230 and the cathode exhaust gas discharge flow path hole 240 are two. Shown with a dotted line.

  The flow path structure provided in the end plate 21F shown in FIG. 16 realizes the piping structure shown in FIG. Specifically, the anode gas supply passage hole 210 and the anode exhaust gas discharge passage hole 220 correspond to the anode gas supply pipe 110 and the anode exhaust gas discharge pipe 120 of FIG. The cathode gas supply passage hole 230 and the cathode exhaust gas discharge passage hole 240 correspond to the cathode gas supply pipe 130 and the cathode exhaust gas discharge pipe 140 of FIG.

  The other piping structures shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 can also be realized as a flow path structure in the end plate.

G. Variations:
The present invention is not limited to the above-described examples and embodiments, and can be implemented in various modes without departing from the gist thereof. For example, the following modifications are possible.

  The fuel cell of the present invention is not limited to the configuration described in the first to third embodiments, but two or more manifold holes for cathode gas (oxidizing gas) and one or more anode gas (fuel gas). ) Are arranged along each of the upper and lower sides of the power generation section, and at least one anode hole for the anode gas is provided between the two manifold holes for the cathode gas. As long as it is provided.

It is the schematic which shows the structure of a fuel cell. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a membrane electrode assembly 10 on an anode electrode side. It is sectional drawing which shows the cross section of the membrane electrode assembly 10 in 3-3 cutting | disconnection shown in FIG. It is the schematic which shows the structure of anode plate SPa which comprises separator SP. It is the schematic which shows the structure of cathode plate SPc which comprises separator SP. It is the schematic which shows the structure of intermediate | middle plate SPi which comprises the separator SP. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the flow of the reactive gas in a fuel cell. It is the schematic which shows the structure of intermediate | middle plate SPi-c which comprises the separator as a comparative example. It is the schematic which shows the structure of the membrane electrode assembly 10B used for the fuel cell as 2nd Example of this invention. It is the schematic which shows the structure of 10 C of membrane electrode assemblies used for the fuel cell as 3rd Example of this invention. It is the schematic which shows the structure of membrane electrode assembly 10D used for the fuel cell as 4th Example of this invention. It is the schematic which shows the structure of the membrane electrode assembly 10E used for the fuel cell as 5th Example of this invention. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of an anode gas supply pipe 110 and an anode exhaust gas discharge pipe 120, a cathode gas supply pipe 130, and a cathode exhaust gas discharge pipe 140 connected to an end plate 21. FIG. FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing another structure of an anode gas supply pipe 110, an anode exhaust gas discharge pipe 120, a cathode gas supply pipe 130, and a cathode exhaust gas discharge pipe 140 connected to an end plate 21; FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing still another structure of an anode gas supply pipe 110, an anode exhaust gas discharge pipe 120, a cathode gas supply pipe 130, and a cathode exhaust gas discharge pipe 140 connected to an end plate 21; Schematic showing the structure of the anode gas supply flow path hole 210, the anode exhaust gas discharge flow path hole 220, the cathode gas supply flow path hole 230, and the cathode exhaust gas discharge flow path hole 240 provided inside the end plate 21F. It is.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E ... Membrane electrode assembly 11 ... Power generation part 11c ... Main power generation part 12 ... Outer peripheral seal frame part 13 ... Electrolyte film 13e ... Membrane edge part 14a ... Anode electrode layer 14c ... Cathode electrode layer 15 ... Gas diffusion layer 16 ... catalyst layer 17 ... projection 18 ... gas flow path member 20 ... fastening member 20n ... nut portion 20s ... shaft portion 21, 22, 21F ... end plate 100 ... fuel cell 110 ... supply piping 120 ... discharge piping 130 ... Supply pipe 140 ... Discharge pipe 210 ... Supply flow path 220 ... Discharge flow path 230 ... Supply flow path 240 ... Discharge flow path AP1, AP2 ... Anode flow path CN ... Four corners CP1, CP2 ... Cathode flow path CV1 ... Square recess CV2 ... Central recess M1-M6 ... Manifold hole EM1-EM6 ... Channel hole P1 ... Anode gas inflow hole P2 ... Anode exhaust gas flow Hole P3 ... cathode gas inlet holes P4 ... cathode exhaust outlet hole SL ... seal line SP ... separator SPa ... anode plate SPc ... cathode plate SPi, SPi-c ... intermediate plate WP ... coolant channel

Claims (8)

A fuel cell,
A power generation unit for generating power with supplied fuel gas and oxidizing gas;
Separators arranged alternately with the power generation unit,
With
The separator is provided with two or more oxidizing gas manifold holes for the oxidizing gas and one or more fuel gas manifold holes for the fuel gas arranged along the upper side and the lower side of the power generation unit. And
At least one of the fuel gas manifold holes is provided between the two oxidizing gas manifold holes ;
The oxidizing gas manifold holes are respectively provided at both ends on the upper side and both ends on the lower side.
On the upper side, the oxidizing gas manifold hole is an oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole for discharging the oxidizing gas, and the fuel gas manifold hole is a fuel gas supply manifold hole for supplying the fuel gas,
On the lower side, the oxidizing gas manifold hole is an oxidizing gas supply manifold hole for supplying the oxidizing gas, and the fuel gas manifold hole is a fuel gas discharge manifold hole for discharging the fuel gas,
The oxidizing gas discharge pipe connected to the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole is connected horizontally or downward with reference to the position of the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole,
The fuel gas discharge pipe connected to the fuel gas discharge manifold hole is connected horizontally or downward with reference to the position of the fuel gas discharge manifold hole,
The fuel cell according to claim 1, wherein the at least one fuel gas manifold hole has a structure in which a hole width closer to the power generation unit is wider than a hole width farther from the power generation unit . The fuel cell according to claim 1 ,
The two oxidizing gas manifold holes sandwiching the at least one fuel gas manifold hole have a structure connected by a communication path provided so as to surround the at least one fuel gas manifold hole. Fuel cell.   A fuel cell,
  A power generation unit for generating power with supplied fuel gas and oxidizing gas;
  Separators arranged alternately with the power generation unit,
  With
  The separator is provided with two or more oxidizing gas manifold holes for the oxidizing gas and one or more fuel gas manifold holes for the fuel gas arranged along the upper side and the lower side of the power generation unit. And
  At least one of the fuel gas manifold holes is provided between the two oxidizing gas manifold holes;
  The oxidizing gas manifold holes are respectively provided at both ends on the upper side and both ends on the lower side.
  On the upper side, the oxidizing gas manifold hole is an oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole for discharging the oxidizing gas, and the fuel gas manifold hole is a fuel gas supply manifold hole for supplying the fuel gas,
  On the lower side, the oxidizing gas manifold hole is an oxidizing gas supply manifold hole for supplying the oxidizing gas, and the fuel gas manifold hole is a fuel gas discharge manifold hole for discharging the fuel gas,
  The oxidizing gas discharge pipe connected to the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole is connected horizontally or downward with reference to the position of the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole,
  The fuel gas discharge pipe connected to the fuel gas discharge manifold hole is connected horizontally or downward with reference to the position of the fuel gas discharge manifold hole,
  The two oxidizing gas manifold holes sandwiching the at least one fuel gas manifold hole have a structure connected by a communication path provided so as to surround the at least one fuel gas manifold hole.
  The fuel cell characterized by the above-mentioned.   A fuel cell,
  A power generation unit for generating power with supplied fuel gas and oxidizing gas;
  Separators arranged alternately with the power generation unit,
  With
  The separator is provided with two or more oxidizing gas manifold holes for the oxidizing gas and one or more fuel gas manifold holes for the fuel gas arranged along the upper side and the lower side of the power generation unit. And
  At least one of the fuel gas manifold holes is provided between the two oxidizing gas manifold holes;
  The at least one fuel gas manifold hole has a structure in which a hole width closer to the power generation unit is wider than a hole width farther from the power generation unit.
  The fuel cell characterized by the above-mentioned.   The fuel cell according to claim 4, wherein
  The two oxidizing gas manifold holes sandwiching the at least one fuel gas manifold hole have a structure connected by a communication path provided so as to surround the at least one fuel gas manifold hole.
  The fuel cell characterized by the above-mentioned.   A fuel cell,
  A power generation unit for generating power with supplied fuel gas and oxidizing gas;
  Separators arranged alternately with the power generation unit,
  With
  The separator is provided with two or more oxidizing gas manifold holes for the oxidizing gas and one or more fuel gas manifold holes for the fuel gas arranged along the upper side and the lower side of the power generation unit. And
  At least one of the fuel gas manifold holes is provided between the two oxidizing gas manifold holes;
  The two oxidizing gas manifold holes sandwiching the at least one fuel gas manifold hole have a structure connected by a communication path provided so as to surround the at least one fuel gas manifold hole.
  The fuel cell characterized by the above-mentioned.   A fuel cell according to any one of claims 4 to 6, comprising:
  The oxidizing gas manifold holes are respectively provided at both ends on the upper side and both ends on the lower side.
  The fuel cell characterized by the above-mentioned.   A fuel cell according to any one of claims 4 to 7,
  On the upper side, the oxidizing gas manifold hole is an oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole for discharging the oxidizing gas, and the fuel gas manifold hole is a fuel gas supply manifold hole for supplying the fuel gas,
  On the lower side, the oxidizing gas manifold hole is an oxidizing gas supply manifold hole for supplying the oxidizing gas, and the fuel gas manifold hole is a fuel gas discharge manifold hole for discharging the fuel gas,
  The fuel cell further includes:
  Comprising two end plates for sandwiching the fuel cell;
  Inside the at least one end plate, an oxidizing gas discharge passage hole connected to the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole is provided horizontally or downward with reference to the position of the oxidizing gas discharge manifold hole, and the fuel The fuel gas discharge passage hole connected to the gas discharge manifold hole is connected horizontally or downward with reference to the position of the fuel gas discharge manifold hole.
  The fuel cell characterized by the above-mentioned.

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