MXPA00012320A - Improved fuel cell and method for controlling same - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to an improved fuel cell (10) and method for controlling same, having an anode and a cathode, which produces an electrical current having a given voltage and current output, and which includes a controller (122) electrically coupled to the fuel cell, and which shunts the electrical current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell. The invention also includes a method for controlling the fuel cell having a given voltage and current output, and which includes determining the voltage and current output of the fuel cell, and shunting the electrical current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell under first and second operational conditions.

Description

IMPROVED FUEL CELL AND METHOD TO CONTROL THE SAME TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to an improved fuel cell and a method for controlling it, and more specifically to a fuel cell that includes an electrical circuit which, on the other hand, prevents damage to the internal components of the same when failing the fuel cell; and that can also be used to increase the electric power output of it.

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND The fuel cell is an electrochemical device that reacts hydrogen, and oxygen, which is normally supplied from the ambient air, to produce electricity and water. The basic procedure is highly efficient and the fuel cells fueled directly by hydrogen are substantially free of contamination. In addition, because the fuel cells can be assembled into stacks of various sizes, energy systems have been developed to produce a broad scale of output levels of electrical energy and can therefore be used in numerous industrial applications.

Although the fundamental electrochemical process involved in all fuel cells is well understood, engineering solutions have shown that they are elusive to make certain types of fuel cells reliable, and economical to some others. In the case of polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell energy systems, reliability has not been the main concern to date, but rather has been the installed cost per watt of generating capacity. More recently, and in order to further reduce the cost of PEM fuel cell per watt, much attention has been directed to increase the power output of the same. Historically, this has resulted in additional sophisticated additional systems that are necessary to optimize and maintain a high PEM fuel cell power output. One consequence of highly complex complementary systems is that they are not easily reduced to low capacity applications. As a result, cost, efficiency, reliability and maintenance costs are adversely affected in low-generation applications. It is well known that single PEM fuel cells produce a useful voltage of only 0.45 to 0.7 volts of direct current under a load. Practical PEM fuel cell plants have been constructed from multiple cells stacked together so that they are electrically connected in series. It is also well known that PEM fuel cells can operate at higher energy output levels when complementary humidification is made available to the proton exchange membrane (electrolyte). Considering this, humidification decreases the resistance of the proton exchange membranes to the flow of protons. To achieve this increased humidification, complementary water can be introduced into the hydrogen or oxygen streams by various methods, or more directly to the proton exchange membrane by means of the physical phenomenon known as the wicking effect, for example. However, the focus of research, in recent years, has been to develop membrane electrode assemblies (MEA) with energy output that is improved each time when it operates without complementary humidification. Being able to operate an MEA when it is self-humidified is advantageous because it decreases the complexity of the complementary systems with their associated costs. However, self-humidification to date has resulted in fuel cells operating at lower energy densities and therefore, in turn, has resulted in more of these assemblies being required in order to generate an amount given of energy. While PEM fuel cells of various designs have operated with varying degrees of success, they have also had disadvantages that have set them apart from their usefulness. For example, PEM fuel cell power systems typically have a number of individual fuel cells that are electrically connected in series (stacked) together so that the power system can have a voltage - * - »- • - - '. ^ < ^ «^ K of output increased. In this arrangement, if one of the fuel cells in the stack fails, it no longer contributes voltage and energy. One or more common faults of such PEM fuel cell power systems is where a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) becomes less hydrated than other MEAs in the same fuel cell stack. This loss of membrane hydration increases the electrical resistance of the affected fuel cell, and therefore results in more wasted heat being generated. In turn, this additional heat dries the membrane electrode assembly. This situation creates a spiral of negative hydration. The continuous overheating of the fuel cell may eventually cause the polarity of the affected fuel cell to reverse so that it now begins to dissipate electrical energy from the rest of the fuel cells in the cell. If this condition is not rectified, the excessive heat generated by the failing fuel cell will cause the membrane electrode assembly to be punctured and therefore leak hydrogen. When this drilling occurs the fuel cell stack must be disassembled completely and repaired. Depending on the design of the fuel cell stack that is being used, this repair or replacement can be a costly effort, and therefore a time consuming one. In addition, designers have sought a means by which current densities in self-humidified PEM fuel cells are can improve while simultaneously not increasing; requirements of complementary systems for those same devices. Accordingly, an improved fuel cell is described which addresses the perceived problems associated with prior art designs and practices while avoiding the disadvantages associated individually with them.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION A first aspect of the present invention is to provide a fuel cell having a controller electrically coupled to the fuel cell and diverting the electric current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell during predetermined operating conditions. Another aspect of the present invention relates to a fuel cell having a controller which is electrically coupled to the fuel cell and which deflects the electric current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell, and in which a First condition, the controller upon detecting a given voltage and current output terminates the supply of the fuel gas to the defective fuel cell while simultaneously diverting the electric current between the anode and the cathode of the defective fuel cell thereby effecting an electrical deviation from it.

Another aspect of the present invention relates to a fuel cell having a controller that is electrically coupled to the fuel cell, and which deflects the electric current between the anode and the cathode of the fuel cell during predetermined operating conditions, and in which in a second condition, the fuel cell has a working and operating cycle, and the controller periodically diverts electrical current between the anode and cathode during the fuel cell duty cycle thereby causing a resultant increase in the energy output of it. Yet another aspect of the present invention relates to a fuel cell having an anode, and a cathode and which produces electrical energy having a given voltage and current output and which includes: a membrane having sides set, and in wherein the anode is mounted on one side of the membrane and the cathode is mounted on the side of the membrane opposite the anode; a supply of fuel gas disposed in flow relation flowing to the anode, and a supply of an oxidizing gas disposed in a relationship that flows in relation to the cathode; voltage and current sensors that are electrically coupled individually with the anode and cathode; a valve disposed in fluid dosing relation in relation to the fuel gas supply to control the supply of fuel gas to the fuel cell; an electrical switch electrically coupled to the anode and cathode and which can be placed in an open and closed electrical condition; and a controller coupled with the electrical switch, the valve, the voltage and current sensors, the controller upon sensing a given voltage and current in the voltage and current detectors causes the valve to adjust at a predetermined fluid dosage ratio in relation to the fuel gas supply, and that the electric switch assumes a predetermined open or closed electrical condition, and in which the controller in a first condition, diverts the current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell when the electrical switch is in the closed electrical condition, and simultaneously causes the valve to terminate the supply of fuel gas to the anode of the fuel cell, and in which the electrical switch when placed in the electrical condition opened by the controller causes the valve to is placed in a condition that allows the substantially continuous supply of gas fuel to the anode of the fuel cell; and in which the controller, in a second condition, deflects the current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell when the electrical switch is placed in the closed electrical condition while simultaneously maintaining the valve in a condition that allows the supply substantially continued fuel gas to the anode of the fuel cell during the opening and closing of the electric switch.

Yet a further aspect of the present invention relates to a fuel cell having a controller that is operable to divert electrical current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell during the fuel cell duty cycle, and in which second operating condition the operating cycle is from about 0.01 seconds to about 4 minutes; and in which the electrical power output of the fuel cell is increased by at least 5%, and in which the duration of the deviation during the work cycle is less than 20% of the operating cycle. These and other aspects of the present invention will be discussed in more detail below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The appended drawings serve to explain the main parts of the present invention. Figure 1 is a partial, perspective, side elevational, exploded view of a PEM fuel cell module used with the present invention and the portion that accompanies the subframe that coincides therewith. Figure 2 is a perspective, partial, exploded view of a PEM fuel cell module that is used in connection with the present invention.

Figure 3 is a very simplified schematic representation of the electrical circuit that is used in the present invention. Figure 4 is a flow chart of a computer program that coordinates the operation of the electrical circuit shown in Figure 3.

BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION AND DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEM) Improved of the present invention is best understood by reference to Figure 2 and is designated in general by the number 10. The PEM fuel cell, as a matter of course, includes a hydrogen distribution structure 11. The structure Hydrogen distribution is manufactured from a substrate having a flexural modulus of less than 35,150 kg / cm2, and a compressive strength of less than 1,406 kg / cm2. As such, any number of suitable thermoplastic materials and equivalents can be used in the manufacture thereof. The hydrogen distribution structure 11 includes a main body 12 as seen in Figure 2. The main body has opposite ends, and a handle 13, which allows convenient manual handling thereof. The handle is made integrally with the main body 12. Still additionally, elongated guide members or spines 14 are located on the ends opposite of the main body 12. Each spine 14 is operable to be received so as to coincide with, or cooperating with, elongated channels that are formed in the upper and lower portions of a sub-frame that will be described in greater detail below. As seen in Figure 2, the main body 12 defines a plurality of substantially opposite cavities which are generally indicated by the number 20, but which are individually indicated by the numbers 21, 22, 23 and 24, respectively. Still further, a plurality of openings 25 are formed in given locations in the main body 12 and are operable to receive fasteners 26. The main body further defines a pair of conduits 30. The pair of conduits includes a first conduit 31 that allows the supply of hydrogen gas from a source thereof (as seen in Figure 3) and a second conduit 32 which facilitates the removal of impurities, water and unreacted hydrogen gas from each of the cavities 21 to 24. A conduit link 33 operably couples each of the first and second cavities 21 and 22 and the third and fourth cavities 23 and 24 in fluid flow relation to each other, so that the hydrogen gas supplied by means of the first conduit 31 can find your way to each of the cavities 21 to 24 respectively. Each of the cavities 21 to 24 are substantially identical in their dimensions and overall shape. Still additionally, each cavity has a recessed area 34 that has a given surface area and depth. Placed in each of the areas with recess 34 and substantially extending outwardly therefrom there is a plurality of small projections 35. The function of those individual projections will be discussed in more detail below. As seen in Figure 2, the first and second conduits 31 and 32 are connected in flow relation to each of the recessed areas 34. The main body 12 also includes a peripheral edge that is discontinuous. In particular, the peripheral edge defines a number of holes or openings 36 therethrough. Additionally, each duct 31 and 32 has a terminal end 37 which has a given outside diameter dimension. The terminal end 37 of each conduit 31 and 32 is operable to couple in a manner that coincides in flow relationship with respect to the valves to be discussed in greater detail below. Mounted within each of the respective cavities 21 to 24, respectively, is a membrane electrode assembly 50. The membrane electrode assembly (MEA) has a main body 51 formed of a solid electrolyte. This membrane electrode assembly is described in significant detail in the application of E.U.A. copending with series No. 08 / 979,853, and which was filed on November 20, 1997, the teachings of which are incorporated by reference herein. The main body 51 of the MEA has an anode side 52, and an opposite cathode side 53. The anode side 52 is held in spaced relationship in relation to the hydrogen distribution structure 11 which forms the respective cavities 21 to 24 through the plurality of projections 35.

The relation ensures that the hydrogen supplied to the respective cavities, and more specifically to the anode side thereof, reaches all the anode side parts 52 of the MEA. The electrodes 54, comprising catalytic anode and cathode electrodes are formed on the main body 52. These electrodes are further described in the patent application of E.U.A. mentioned above, the teachings of which are also incorporated herein by reference. Additionally, catalytic, electrically conductive diffusion layers, which are not shown, are fixed on the anode and cathode electrodes and have a given porosity. These non-catalytic electrically conductive diffusion layers are also described in the aforementioned patent application., but for purposes of brevity, are not described in more detail in the present. As can be seen further in Figure 2, the PEM fuel cell 10 of the present invention further includes a pair of current collectors 60 which are received in each of the respective cavities 21 to 24 respectively. The respective current collectors are individually arranged in ohmic electrical contact juxtaposed with the opposite anode and cathode side 52 and 53 of each of the MEAs 50. Each current collector has a main body 61 having a plurality of openings 62. formed in it. A conductor member or portion 63 extends outwardly from the main body and is designed to extend through one of the openings or openings. . ^. ai.,. ^ * ,. which are in the hydrogen distribution structure 11. This is understood by a study of Figure 1. Each conductor member 63 is received between and electrically coupled with pairs of conductive contacts that are mounted on the rear wall of a sub. -Bracket that will be described in more detail right away. The manufacture of current collectors is described in detail in the patent application of E.U.A. mentioned above, the teachings of which are incorporated by reference herein. As further illustrated in FIG. 2, the PEM fuel cell 10 of the present invention further includes individual force application assemblies 70 for applying a given force to each of the current collectors 60, and the MEA 50 which is sandwich between them. Considering this, the individual force application assemblies comprise a cathode cover 71 which partially hides the respective cavities of the hydrogen distribution structure 11. As seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, the respective cathode covers 71 cooperate in a individually releasable or otherwise matched to each other, and to the hydrogen distribution structure 11. A biasing assembly 72, which is shown herein as a plurality of metal wave springs, cooperates with the cathode cover and is operable to impart force to an adjacent pressure transfer assembly 73. Each of the cathode covers is supported or mated in a matching manner or engages with one of the respective cavities 21 to 24, respectively, which are defined by the hydrogen distribution structure 11. When properly nested, the individual openings 75 that are defined by the outer surface 74 of the cathode cover, define conduits 76 that allow air to flow to the cathode side of the assembly. of membrane electrode 50. The insulators 26 are received through each of the cathode covers and through the hydrogen distribution structure that is sandwiched therebetween in order to exert a predetermined force sufficient to maintain the collectors. of respective current 60 in ohmic electrical contact with the associated MEA 50. The circulation of air through the fuel cell 10 and its functional cooperation with the associated sub-frame are discussed in significant detail in the aforementioned previously filed patent application, the teachings of which are also incorporated by reference herein. . As seen in Figure 1, and as described in a much more complete manner in the patent application of E.U.A. initially presented to which reference is made above, fuel cell PEM 10 is operable to be electrically coupled in series with a plurality of other fuel cells by means of a sub-frame which is indicated generally by the number 90 The sub-frame 90 has a main body 91 having upper and lower portions 92 and 93 respectively. The upper and lower portions are joined together by a rear wall 94. Elongated channels 95 are formed individually in the upper and lower portions and are operable to slidably receiving the individual spines 14 which are formed on the hydrogen distribution structure 11. As best understood in the exploded view of Figure 1, the subframe 90 is manufactured from a number of mirror portions 96, the which when joined together form the main body 91 of the sub-frame 90. These mirror portions 96 are made from a dielectric moldable substrate. The functional attributes of the subframe 90 are described in significant detail in the initially filed application, the teachings of which are incorporated herein by reference. As it looks better in the figure, a DC distribution bar 100 (direct current) is fixed on the rear wall 94 of the subframe 90. A repeating pattern of eight pairs of conductive contacts 101 is adhered on the rear wall. In addition, first and second valves 101 and 102 are also adhered to the rear wall and are operable to couple in a matching manner in flow relationship with the hydrogen distribution structure. The respective first and second valves extend through the rear wall and connect with suitable conduits (not shown). The first valve 102 is coupled in flow relation to a source of hydrogen 105 (Figure 3). In addition, the second valve 102 emits to the environment or may be coupled in flowing relationship with other systems such as a hydrogen recovery and recycling system as described in the initially filed application. Finally, the fuel cell 10 includes a third valve 104, as shown in Figure 3, which is arranged in a of fluid dosing between the hydrogen supply 105 and the first valve 102. The sub-frame 90 also includes an air distribution system (not shown) and which moves ambient air in a predetermined pattern through the fuel cell 10. This air distribution system is discussed in significant detail in the application initially filed, but for brevity purposes, it is not discussed in more detail here. Referring next to Figure 3, a plurality of fuel cells 10 are shown where they are electrically coupled in series together to produce electric current having a given voltage and current output. A deviation control circuit 120 is shown. Deflection control circuit 120 includes an electrical path 121 that electrically couples the anode and cathode 52 and 53 of one of the fuel cells together. It should be understood that this electrical circuit is present for or otherwise associated with each of the fuel cells shown in Figure 3, ie, discrete deviation control circuits 120 electrically individually couple the anode and cathode of each of the fuel cells coupled together in series. In Figure 3, however, for the sake of simplicity, only one of its circuits is shown. Each of the deflection control circuits are electrically coupled to a single deflection controller which is designated generally by the number 122. As noted above, the deflection controller is illustrated as being coupled only to a control circuit of deviation. However, the driver deviation actually ^ -gy ^ it would be coupled to numerous deviation control circuits that correspond to each of the fuel cells coupled in series. Figure 3, as noted above, is greatly simplified to illustrate the present invention. The deflection controller 122 comprises a number of individual components that include a pair of voltage sensors 123 that are electrically coupled to the anode and cathode 52 and 53 to detect the voltage at the anode and cathode 52 and 53 of each of the cells of fuel 10 respectively. Additionally, the deflection controller is electrically coupled to an electrical switch 124, which is shown here as a conventionally designed field effect transistor. A commercially acceptable acceptable MOSFET can be secured from Mitsubishi under the trademark designated FS100UMJ. The deviation controller 122 can be acquired through sources that are often conventional. A suitable controller 122 for this application is the programmable microcontroller microcircuit having the commercial designation MC68HC705P6A, and which can be used and programmed to execute the program logic, as shown in Figure 4, and which will allow the control circuit of deviation reacts to the first and second operating conditions of the fuel cell 10, as will be described in more detail below. The deflection controller 122 is additionally electrically coupled in control relation in relation to the valves 104 which are arranged in fluid dosage relation in relation to the fuel gas supply 105 (identified as the fuel gas shutdown control). The deviation control circuit 120 has a bypass electrical circuit 126 that additionally electrically couples the anode and cathode 52 and 53 of each of the fuel cells 10 together. The electrical bypass circuit comprises a diode 127. A current sensor 128 is electrically coupled in addition to the fuel cells 10 to detect the current thereof. The current sensor is manufactured integrally with the deflection controller 122. As noted above, the deviation control circuit 120 is controlled by the programmable logic which is more specifically set forth in FIG. 4 and is indicated generally by the number 130. The deviating electric circuit is operable to divert electric current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cells 10 upon failure of the deflection controller 122. As best understood by a study of Figure 3, the fuel cell 10 has an anode and a cathode 52 and 53 that produce electric power having a current and a given voltage output. The controller 122 is electrically coupled to the fuel cell 10 and is operable to deflect the electric current between the anode and the cathode of the fuel cell under predetermined operating conditions. As discussed initially, the deflection controller 122 includes voltage and current sensors 123 and 128 that are arranged in voltage and current sensing relationship in relation to the voltage and current output of the power cell. «^^ t ^ rz ^ rfj ^ & ^^ - fuel 10 and further are electrically coupled to the anode and cathode 52 and 52 of the fuel cell 10. In addition, the deflection controller 122 further comprises an electrical switch, and which is shown here as a field effect transistor 124. The field effect transistor 124 has open and closed electrical conditions. As will be described in more detail below, the controller 122, by detecting, via the voltage and current sensors 123 and 128, a given voltage and current output of the fuel cell 10, adjusts the valve 104 in a fluid dosage ratio. predetermined in relation to the fuel gas supply 105. Yet additionally, the controller 122 positions the field effect transistor in an open or closed electrical condition, based on the predetermined performance parameters for the respective fuel cells. Considering this, and in a first operational condition where a given fuel cell is operating at or below predetermined performance parameters or expectations, as may be the case where the voltage output of the fuel cell is less than 0.4 volts, the controller 122 is operable to simultaneously cause the valve 104 to assume a position where the fuel gas supply 105 ends to the fuel cell 10 and places the electrical switch 124 in a closed electrical condition thereby deviating the current from the anode 52 to the cathode 53 to substantially prevent heat-related damage from occurring to the fuel cell 10 as it could be caused when the negative hydration spiral occurs. This was discussed initially in the application. Additionally, if the electrical switch 124 is subsequently positioned in the open position, the controller 122 is operable to cause the valve 104 to be placed in a condition that allows substantially continuous supply of fuel gas to the fuel cell. In the first and second operating conditions described herein, the predetermined performance parameters of the individual fuel cells 10 and electrically coupled in series comprise selected current and voltage outputs of the fuel cell 10. Those performance parameters of predetermined thresholds can be determined by various means including but not limited to, experiment; operational history or electric charge, for example. Additionally, the predetermined performance parameters could include, in the first condition, for example, wherein the performance parameters of the fuel cell are simply or in general declining over a given time interval; they are declining or on a scale of less than 0.4 volts; or are declining or degrading, generally speaking, in relation to the performance parameters of other fuel cells 10 with which it is electrically coupled in series. This list of possible parameters does not include all of them and many other physical and operational parameters could be monitored, which would tend to suggest that a selected fuel cell is starting to fail, and should be disconnected. the stack for repair or replacement if the performance disadvantage is severe, or on the other side it is subjected to increased deviation to determine if the fuel cell 10 can be recovered to the selected predetermined performance parameters. This is best illustrated by reference to FIG. 4. In the second operating condition, the bypass circuit 120 is operable to increase the resulting electrical power output of the fuel cell 20. As discussed above, the fuel cells 10 have predetermined performance parameters comprising selected current and voltage outputs of the fuel cell 10. In the second condition, and wherein the performance parameters may simply be declining and have not decreased below a minimum threshold, and as discussed above, the bypass circuit 120 is used in an effort to restore individual and group fuel cells 10 the given performance parameters. For example, fuel cells 10 selected, or in groups, may begin to decline in their voltage and current output over time. As this decline is detected by the deviation controller 122, the controller 122 is operable, by the deviation control circuit 121 to serially deviate, in a repeated manner, the current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cells 10 of performance degraded at individual discrete speeds that are effective for restoring the fuel cells to the predetermined performance parameters. In other ñMMMiMI-íiillÉiki example, where the performance parameters are simply declining, the controller 122 is effective to adjust the duty cycle of the individual fuel cells by reference to the declining performance parameters of the fuel cell in comparison relative to the fuel parameters. performance of other fuel cells to improve the electrical performance of the same. As it should be understood, the word "duty cycle" as used hereinafter means the ratio of the "in time" interval occupied to operate a device to the total time of an operating cycle (the ratio of pulse duration time to time of operation). repetition of pulses). Another way to define the term work cycle is the ratio of working time to total operating time for devices that operate intermittently. This work cycle is expressed as a percentage of the total operating cycle time. In the present invention, therefore, the deviation controller 122 is operable to adjust the duration of the deviation, as well as the operating cycle time for selected fuel cells in order to restore or maintain the fuel cells above. of the selected default performance parameters. As noted above, the inventors have discovered that in the second operating condition, improved fuel cell performance can be achieved by offsetting the current in an adjustable, repeatable, and serial fashion between the anode and cathode 52 and 53 of the fuel cell 10. Considering this, and in the second operative condition, the iHMIitt-i programmable logic as shown at 130 in Figure 4 is used by the deflection controller 122 to individually open, individually and adjustably, each of the electrical switches 124 that are electrically coupled individually and associated with each of the fuel cells 10. Those electrical switches 124 can be activated individually, in series, in given groups, or patterns, or in any way to achieve the desired predetermined voltage and current output. Considering this, it has been determined that the preferred operating cycle time is from 0.01 seconds to about 4 minutes. When this periodic deviation is implemented, it has been discovered that the voltage output of the fuel cells 10 is increased by at least 5%. Additionally, the deviation control circuit 120 is operable to deflect the electric current for a duration of less than 20% of the operating cycle. During the second operating condition the bypass controller 122 causes the valve 104 to remain in a condition that allows the substantially continuous supply of fuel gas 105 to the fuel cell 10. It is speculated that this repeated, periodic deviation causes each of the fuel cells 10 is "conditioned," that is, said deviation is believed to cause an increase in the amount of water that becomes available to the MEA 50 thereby increasing the performance of the MEAs. It is also possible that the deviation provides a short-term increase in heat dissipation that is sufficient to Evaporate the excess water from the diffuser layers that are mounted on the MEA. This evaporation of water therefore means that more oxygen from the ambient air is available next to the MEA cathode. Whatever the cause, the deviation seems to increase the proton conductivity of the MEA. This increase in proton conductivity results in a momentary increase in the energy output of the fuel cell that slowly decreases with time. The total increase in the electrical power output of the fuel cell 10, as controlled by the adjustable deviation sequentially and periodically of the fuel cells 10 individually and in groups, it results in the whole group connected in series of fuel cells increasing their total energy production. As noted above, the respective deviation control circuits 120 are operatively connected individually with each of the fuel cells 10 coupled in series, and can be made operable for single fuel cells, and fuel cell groups. . Additionally, the working and operating cycles of the respective fuel cells can be adjusted in any number of different combinations and for individual discrete durations, depending on the performance of the individual fuel cells, to boost their performance.; or for purposes of stabilizing the diminishing performance of a given group of fuel cells or individual fuel cells as the case may be.

OPERATION The operation of the described embodiment of the present invention is believed to be readily apparent and briefly summarized at this point. In its broadest sense, the present invention relates to a fuel cell 10 having an anode and a cathode 52 and 53 and producing electrical energy having a given current and voltage output. The fuel cell 10 includes a controller 122 which is electrically coupled to the fuel cell 10 and which deflects the electric current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell. As noted at the beginning, the controller 122 comprises voltage and current sensors 123 and 128 which are arranged in voltage and current sensing relationship in relation to the electrical power output of the fuel cell 10. The controller 122 further comprises a electrical switch 124 that has open and closed electrical conditions. The controller in a first operative condition, by detecting by means of the voltage and current detectors a given electric power output of the fuel cell 10, places the valve 104 in a predetermined relation preventing the flow in relation to the fuel gas supply 105. In this condition, the electrical switch can be placed in an open or closed electrical condition, depending on the predetermined performance parameters of the fuel cell 10. As noted above, in the first operating condition, assuming that the performance parameters are not met, the controller 122, in response, closes the electrical switch. This closed switch diverts current between the anode and the cathode of the fuel cell. Substantially, simultaneously, the controller 122 causes the valve 104 to terminate the supply of fuel gas to the fuel cell 10 when this condition exists. As noted above, when the voltage output of the fuel cell 10 is less than 0.4 volts, the electrical switch assumes a closed position thereby diverting the voltage between the anode and cathode, while simultaneously causing the valve terminates the fuel gas supply 105. As discussed at the beginning of this application, a negative hydration spiral may result in excessive heat causing damage to the MEA 50. In this first operating condition, the deviation control circuit 120 is operable to divert the current thus avoiding this damage. Of course, the performance parameters that can trigger the first operating condition may include performance parameters that decline; or performance parameters that decline in comparison relative to the performance parameters that are achieved by other fuel cells 10. Still other parameters that are not listed herein could be used. The deviation control circuit 120, as described at the beginning, has an electrical passive bypass circuit 126 that comprises a diode 127. In the case that the deviation control circuit 121 fails in .M tfl íi-lÉÉlliHÉlfeflI In conjunction with a failing fuel cell, the electric deviation circuit causes the deviation control circuit to become operational to prevent this damage mentioned above from occurring. The selected diode 127 is normally deflected in reverse when the fuel cell 10 is producing power, and has no effect on the deflection control circuit 121 under normal operating conditions. As the fuel cell 10 fails, however, and the voltage output approaches 0 or becomes negative, the diode 127 becomes deflected forward. The voltage can then travel through diode 27 instead of fuel cell 10. The maximum negative voltage depends on the type of diode selected. A Schottky barrier diode that is commercially available as 85CNQ015 is preferred. Those diodes allow high current to flow at approximately 0.3 volts. This voltage limitation limits the maximum negative and positive voltage of the fuel cell thus preventing overheating and subsequent damage. In the second operating condition, the deflection controller 122, by implementing the logic shown in Figure 4 at number 130 diverts the current between the anode and cathode 52 and 53 of the fuel cell 10 when the electrical switch 124 is in the condition closed, while simultaneously maintaining valve 104 in a condition that allows substantially continuous supply of fuel gas to the fuel cell as the diverter controller periodically opens and closes the electrical switch. As noted at In principle, the fuel cell 10 has a duty cycle; and an operating cycle of approximately 0.01 seconds to 4 minutes. The inventors have discovered that the periodic deviation opening and closing the electrical switch 124 during the duty cycle increases the total electrical power output of the fuel cell 10. This results in the fuel cells coupled in series increasing in voltage output and current by at least 5%. The duration of the deviation during the work cycle is less than 20% of the operating cycle. The fuel cell 10 present, and the associated circuitry 121, provide a convenient method for controlling the fuel cell 10 having an anode and a cathode 52 and 53 and a given voltage and current output including, providing a supply of a fuel gas 105 in flowing relation in relation to the anode 52 of the fuel cell; providing a valve 104 disposed in adjustable fluid dosage relation in relation to the fuel gas supply 105; providing a controller 122 that is electrically coupled in current and voltage sensing relationship to the anode 52 and the cathode 53 and that is effective to deflect the electrical current between the anode and cathode and that is further coupled in control relationship relative to the valve 104; determining, by means of the controller 122, whether the voltage and current output of the fuel cells 10 have a voltage and current output that is less than a predetermined amount; after the step of determining the voltage and current output, adjust the valve 104 by means of the controller 122 to terminate the flow of fuel gas 105 to the anode 52 if the voltage and current outputs are less than the predetermined amount; and diverting the electric current by means of the controller 122 between the anode 52 and cathode 53 of the fuel cell 10 if the voltage and current outputs are less than the predetermined amount. As discussed at the beginning, the method, noted above, is useful in the first operating condition where the fuel cell's decreasing performance (whether related to predefined predetermined performance parameters, or compared to the performance parameters of other fuel cells, or otherwise), may result in damage to the fuel cell due to increased heat buildup or other unsatisfactory environmental conditions within the fuel cell 10. In a manner Further, the present invention provides a method for controlling the fuel cell 10 having an anode 52, a cathode 53, a given voltage and current output, and a duty cycle and operating cycle, in a second operating condition that includes: providing a supply of a fuel gas 105 in a flow relation in relation to the anode 52 of the fuel cell; providing a valve 104 disposed in adjustable fluid dosage relation in relation to the fuel gas supply 105; providing a controller 122 that is electrically coupled in current and voltage sensing relationship with the anode 52 and the cathode 53 and that is effective to divert the electrical current between the anode and the cathode of the fuel cell, and that is further coupled in relation to control in relation to the valve; and after determining the voltage and current output of the fuel cell, and with the valve being maintained in a position which ensures the substantially continuous supply of fuel gas 105 to the anode of the fuel cell, deflecting periodically, during the duty cycle, the current between the anode and cathode to cause an output of increased electrical energy resulting, and in which the operating cycle is from approximately 0.01 seconds to approximately 4 minutes, and in which the duration of the deviation during the cycle of work is less than 20% of the operating cycle.

Claims (73)

NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION CLAIMS

1. - A fuel cell having an anode and a cathode and producing an electric current having a voltage output, comprising: a controller electrically coupled to the fuel cell and diverting the electric current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell; a supply of fuel gas arranged in flow relation in relation to the anode of the fuel cell; and a valve arranged in fluid flow control in relation to the fuel gas supply, and in which the controller is coupled in control relationship in relation to the valve.

2. A fuel cell according to claim 1, further characterized in that the controller further comprises voltage and current detectors that are arranged in voltage and current detection relation in relation to the electrical power output of the fuel cell .

3. A fuel cell according to claim 2, further characterized in that the controller further comprises an electrical switch having open and closed electrical conditions, and in which the controller when detecting, by means of voltage and current detectors, a output voltage and current of the fuel cell, adjusts the valve in a fluid dosing ratio in relation to the fuel gas supply, and the electrical switch is placed in the open or closed electrical condition, and in which the fuel cell, in the second condition, has a cycle of work.

4. A fuel cell according to claim 3, further characterized in that the controller, in a first condition, deflects the current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell when the electrical switch is in the closed electrical condition, and in which the controller simultaneously causes the valve to terminate the fuel gas supply to the fuel cell, and in which the electric switch when placed in the open electrical condition by the controller also causes the valve to be placed in a condition that allows substantially continuous supply of fuel gas to the fuel cell.

5. A fuel cell according to claim 4, further characterized in that the controller, in a second condition, deflects the current during the duty cycle between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell when the electrical switch is in the closed electrical condition, and in which the controller maintains the valve in a condition that allows substantially continuous supply of the fuel gas to the fuel cell during the opening and closing of the electrical switch.

6. - A fuel cell according to claim 4, further characterized in that the fuel yield has performance parameters comprising current and voltage outputs, and in which in the first condition, the voltage and current output of the fuel cell Fuel is less than the performance parameters; and in which in the second condition, the electrical switch is periodically opened and closed during the duty cycle to cause a resultant increase in the electrical power output of the fuel cell.

7. A fuel cell according to claim 4, further characterized in that the fuel cell has performance parameters comprising current and voltage outputs, and in which in the first condition, the performance parameters are declining.

8. A fuel cell according to claim 4, further characterized in that the fuel cell has performance parameters comprising current and voltage outputs at a full nominal current, and in which in the first condition the performance parameters they are declining or on a scale of less than 0.4 volts.

9. A fuel cell according to claim 4, further characterized in that the fuel cell has performance parameters comprising current and voltage outputs, and in which in the second condition the fuel cell has a cycle operative from approximately 0.01 seconds to 4 minutes, and in which; Work and operational cycles are adjusted individually and selectively by the controller at least in part by reference to fuel cell performance parameters.

10. A fuel cell according to claim 4, further characterized in that the fuel cell has predetermined performance parameters comprising selected current and voltage outputs, and in which in the second condition the fuel cell has a cycle operating time from about 0.01 seconds to 4 minutes, and in which the work and operating cycles are individually selectively adjusted by the controller at least in part by reference to the relative fuel efficiency parameters of the fuel cell in relative comparison to the performance parameters of other fuel cells.

11. A fuel cell according to claim 4, further characterized in that the fuel cell is electrically coupled in series with another fuel cell.

12. A fuel cell according to claim 11, further characterized in that in the second condition, the fuel cell has a duty cycle and an operating cycle of approximately 0.01 seconds to 4 minutes, and in which the controller is electrically coupled with each of the fuel cells to divert electrical current during the duty cycle between the anode and cathode of each of the fuel cells, and in which the controller deflected the individual fuel cells in a given repetition pattern.

13. A fuel cell according to claim 12, further characterized in that in the second condition, the controller that is electrically coupled with each of the fuel cells periodically diverts electrical current during the duty cycle between the anode and cathode of each of the fuel cells to achieve an increased electric power output resulting from the electrically coupled fuel cells in series, and in which the given repetition pattern of the controller comprises serially bypassing the individual fuel cells in the pattern of repetition.

14. A fuel cell according to claim 13, further characterized in that in the second condition, the work and operational cycles are selectively adjusted individually to optimize the output of electrical energy from the fuel cells, and in the which the electrical power output of the electrically connected fuel cells in series is increased by at least 5%; and in which the duration of the deviation during the work cycle is less than 20% of the operating cycle.

15. A fuel cell according to claim 14, further characterized in that the electric switch comprises a field effect transistor, and in which the controller that is operable to divert the electric current between the anode and cathode of each One of the fuel cells further comprises an electrical passive deflection circuit which operates upon failure of the field effect transistor to divert current between the anode and cathode of each of the fuel cells.

16. A fuel cell according to claim 15, further characterized in that the passive deflection electric circuit comprises a diode.

17. A fuel cell having an anode and cathode and producing electrical energy having a current and voltage output, comprising: a supply of fuel gas arranged in flowing relation in relation to the anode of the fuel cell; a valve disposed in fluid control relationship in relation to the supply of fuel gas for dosing the fuel gas to the anode of the fuel cell; and a controller electrically coupled to the fuel cell and arranged in control relationship in relation to the valve, and in which the controller adjusts the valve in a given fluid dosage relationship in relation to the fuel gas supply, and the controller diverts current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell.

18. A fuel cell according to claim 17, further characterized in that the controller further comprises voltage and current detectors that are arranged in a detection relationship in relation to the electrical power output of the fuel cell; and an electric switch that has open electrical conditions and closed, and in which the controller causes the electrical switch to move between the open and closed electrical conditions.

19. A fuel cell according to claim 18, further characterized in that the controller, in a first condition, diverts current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell l when the electrical switch is in the closed electrical condition, and in which the controller simultaneously causes the valve to terminate the fuel gas supply to the fuel cell, and in which the electric switch when placed in the electrical condition opened by the controller also causes the valve to be placed in a condition that allows substantially continuous supply of fuel gas to the fuel cell.

20. A fuel cell according to claim 19, further characterized in that the controller, in a second condition, diverts current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell when the electrical switch is placed in the closed electrical condition, and wherein the controller maintains the valve in a condition that allows substantially continuous supply of the fuel gas to the fuel cell during the opening and closing of the electrical switch, and in which the fuel cell in the second condition has a cycle of job.

21. A fuel cell according to claim 20, further characterized in that the fuel cell has performance parameters comprising current and voltage outputs, and in which in the first condition, the voltage output of the fuel cell is less than the performance parameters; and in which in the second condition, the electrical switch is periodically opened and closed during the duty cycle to cause a resultant increase in the electrical power output of the fuel cell.

22. A fuel cell according to claim 20, further characterized in that the fuel cell has performance parameters comprising current and voltage outputs, and in which in the first condition, the performance parameters are declining.

23. A fuel cell according to claim 20, further characterized in that the fuel cell has performance parameters comprising current and voltage outputs at a full rated current, and in which in the first condition the performance parameters they are declining or on a scale of less than approximately 0.4 volts.

24. A fuel cell according to claim 20, further characterized in that the fuel cell has performance parameters comprising current and voltage outputs, and in which in the second condition the fuel cell has an operating cycle and of work, and in which the work and operational cycles are adjusted individually and selectively by the controller at least in part by reference to the performance parameters of the fuel cell.

25. A fuel cell according to claim 20, further characterized in that the fuel cell has predetermined performance parameters comprising current and voltage outputs, and in which in the second condition the fuel cell has a cycle of work from approximately 0.01 seconds to 4 minutes, and in which work and operational cycles are adjusted individually and selectively by the controller at least in part by reference to the fuel cell performance parameters that decline relative relative to the performance parameters of other fuel cells.

26. A fuel cell according to claim 20, further characterized in that the fuel cell is electrically coupled in series with another fuel cell.

27. A fuel cell according to claim 26, further characterized in that the controller is electrically coupled with each of the fuel cells to divert current between the anode and cathode of each of the fuel cells.

28. A fuel cell according to claim 27, further characterized in that the fuel cell has a duty cycle and an operating cycle of approximately 0.01 seconds to 4 minutes, and in which in the second condition, the controller that this '^ 4 > electrically coupled with each of the fuel cells periodically diverts current during the duty cycle between the anode and cathode of each of the fuel cells to cause an increased electrical output resulting from the electrically coupled fuel cells in series.

29. A fuel cell according to claim 28, further characterized in that in the second condition, the work and operating cycles are selectively adjusted individually to optimize the output of electrical energy from the respective fuel cells; and wherein the electrical power output of the electrically connected fuel cells in series is increased by at least 5%; and in which the duration of the deviation during the work cycle is less than 20% of the operating cycle.

30. A fuel cell according to claim 29, further characterized in that the electric switch comprises a field effect transistor, and in which the controller that is operable to divert electrical current between the anode and cathode of each of the fuel cells connected in series further comprises an electrical passive deflection circuit which operates upon failure of the field effect transistor to divert current between the anode and cathode of each of the fuel cells.

31. A fuel cell according to claim 30, further characterized in that the electric circuit of Passive deviation comprises a diode, and the controller is an automated intelligent controlled ...

32.- A fuel cell that has an anode, a cathode and that produces electric current that has an electrical power output, which comprises: a membrane that has opposite sides, and in which the anode is mounted on one side of the membrane, and the cathode is mounted on the side of the membrane opposite the anode, a supply of fuel gas arranged in flowing relation in relation to the anode, and a supply of an oxidizing gas disposed in fluid relation to the cathode, voltage and current detectors that are electrically coupled individually with the anode and cathode, a valve arranged in fluid control relationship in relation to the supply of fuel gas for Dosing the supply of fuel gas to the fuel cell, an electrical switch electrically coupled to the anode and cathode and that e can place in an open and closed electrical condition; a controller coupled with the electrical switch, the valve and the voltage and current detectors, the controller when detecting a voltage and current in the voltage and current detectors causes the valve to adjust at a fluid dosage ratio in relation to the supply of combustible gas, and that the electric switch assumes a predetermined open or closed electrical condition.

33.- A fuel cell according to claim 32, further characterized in that the controller, in a first condition, diverts current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell when the electric switch is in the closed electrical condition, and in which the controller simultaneously causes the valve to terminate the supply of fuel gas to the fuel cell, and in which the electric switch when placed in the electrical condition opened by the controller causes the valve to be placed in a condition that allows substantially continuous supply of fuel gas to the anode of the fuel cell.

34. A fuel cell according to claim 33, further characterized in that the controller, in a second condition, diverts current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell when the electrical switch is placed in the closed electrical condition, and in which the controller maintains the valve in a condition that allows substantially continuous supply of the fuel gas to the fuel cell during the opening and closing of the electrical switch, and in which the fuel cell, in the second condition, has a work cycle and an operative one.

35.- A fuel cell according to claim 34, further characterized in that the fuel transfer has performance parameters comprising current and voltage outputs, and in which in the first condition, the voltage output of the fuel cell fuel is lower than the performance parameters; and in which in the second condition, the electric switch is periodically opened and closed - - * - »- * - * > - during the work cycle to increase the output of electrical energy resulting from the fuel cell.

36. A fuel cell according to claim 34, further characterized in that the fuel cell has performance parameters comprising current and voltage outputs, and in which in the first condition, the performance parameters are declining.

37.- A fuel cell according to claim 34, further characterized in that the fuel cell has performance parameters comprising current and voltage outputs at a full nominal current, and in which in the first condition the performance parameters they are declining or on a scale of less than 0.4 volts.

38.- A fuel cell according to claim 34, further characterized in that the fuel cell has performance parameters comprising current and voltage outputs, and in which in the second condition the operating cycle is approximately 0.01 seconds at 4 minutes, and in which the work and operating cycles are adjusted individually and selectively by the controller at least in part by reference to fuel cell performance parameters.

39.- A fuel cell according to claim 34, further characterized in that the fuel cell has performance parameters comprising current and voltage outputs, and in which in the second condition the operating cycle is from approximately 0.01 seconds to 4 minutes, and in which the work and operating cycles are adjusted individually and selectively by means of the controller at least in part by reference to the declining performance parameters of the fuel cell in comparison relative to the performance parameters of other fuel cells.

40.- A fuel cell according to claim 34, further characterized in that the fuel cell is electrically coupled in series with another fuel cell.

41. A fuel cell according to claim 40, further characterized in that the controller is electrically coupled with each of the fuel cells to divert current between the anode and cathode of each of the fuel cells.

42.- A fuel cell according to claim 41, further characterized in that in the second condition, the controller that is coupled with the anode and cathode of each of the fuel cells diverts current during the duty cycle between the anode and cathode of the respective fuel cells to achieve increased electric power output of the fuel cells electrically coupled in series.

43.- A fuel cell according to claim 42, further characterized in that in the second condition, the work and operating cycles are selectively adjusted and individually adjusted to optimize the output of electric power from the respective fuel cells; and wherein the electrical power output of the electrically connected fuel cells in series is increased by at least 5%; and in which the duration of the deviation during the work cycle is less than 20% of the operating cycle.

44.- A fuel cell having an anode, a cathode and producing a current having an electrical power output, comprising: a membrane having opposite sides, and in which the anode is mounted on one side of the membrane, and the cathode is mounted on the side of the membrane opposite the anode; a supply of fuel gas arranged in flowing relation in relation to the anode, and a supply of an oxidizing gas disposed in fluid relation in relation to the cathode; voltage and current detectors that are electrically coupled individually with the anode and cathode; a valve arranged in fluid control relationship in relation to the fuel gas supply to dose the fuel gas supply to the fuel cell; an electrical switch electrically coupled to the anode and cathode and which can be placed in an open and closed electrical condition; a controller coupled with the electrical switch, the valve and the voltage and current detectors, the controller when detecting a voltage and current in the voltage and current detectors causes the valve to adjust at a fluid dosage ratio in relation to the supply of combustible gas, and that the switch á? r-É. electrical assumes an open or closed electrical condition, and in which the controller, in a first condition, diverts current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell when the electrical switch is in the closed electrical condition, and simultaneously causes the valve terminates the supply of fuel gas to the anode of the fuel cell, and in which the electrical switch when placed in the electrical condition opened by the controller causes the valve to be placed in a condition that allows substantially continuous supply of fuel gas to the anode of the fuel cell; and in which the controller, in a second condition, diverts current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell when the electrical switch is placed in the closed electrical condition, and simultaneously maintains the valve in a condition that allows the substantially continuous supply of fuel gas to the fuel cell at the anode during the opening and closing of the electrical switch.

45.- A fuel cell according to claim 44, further characterized in that the fuel transfer in the first and second conditions has performance parameters comprising selected current and voltage outputs, and in which in the first condition, the The voltage output of the fuel cell is less than the performance parameters; and in which the fuel cell has a duty cycle, and in which in the second condition, the electric breaker opens and closes periodically during the duty cycle for cause a resultant increase in the electrical power output of the fuel cell.

46. A fuel cell according to claim 44, further characterized in that the fuel cell has performance parameters comprising current and voltage outputs, and in which in the first condition, the performance parameters are declining.

47. A fuel cell according to claim 44, further characterized in that the fuel cell has performance parameters that comprise current and voltage outputs at a full rated current, and in which in the first condition the performance parameters they are declining or on a scale of less than 0.4 volts.

48. A fuel cell according to claim 44, further characterized in that the fuel cell has performance parameters comprising selected current and voltage outputs, and in which in the second condition the fuel cell has an operating cycle from about 0.01 seconds to 4 minutes, and in which the work and operating cycles are adjusted individually and selectively by the controller at least in part by reference to fuel cell performance parameters.

49.- A fuel cell according to claim 44, further characterized in that the fuel cell has performance parameters comprising current and voltage outputs, and in which in the second condition the fuel cell has an operating cycle of approximately 0.01 seconds to 4 minutes, and in which the work and operating cycles are adjusted individually and selective by the controller at least in part by reference to the performance parameters that decline of the fuel cell in comparison relative to the performance parameters of other fuel cells, and in which the duration of the deviation during the cycle of work is less than 20% of the operating cycle.

50.- A fuel cell according to claim 44, further characterized in that the fuel cell has a duty cycle and an operating cycle of approximately 0.01 seconds to 4 minutes, and in which the electrical power output of the cells of fuel electrically connected in series is increased by at least 5%.

51.- A fuel cell according to claim 44, further characterized in that the fuel cell is electrically coupled in series with another fuel cell.

52. A fuel cell according to claim 44, further characterized in that the controller is electrically coupled to the anode and cathode of each of the fuel cells to divert current between the anode and cathode of each of the cells of the fuel cell. gas.

53. - A fuel cell according to claim 44, further characterized in that the controller that is coupled with each of the fuel cells periodically opens and closes the electric switch to divert current between the anode and cathode of each of the fuel cells. fuel to cause an increased electric power output resulting from the electrically coupled fuel cells in series.

54.- A fuel cell according to claim 44, further characterized in that the electric switch comprises a field effect transistor, and in which the controller further comprises an electrical passive deflection circuit that operates upon failure of the effect transistor field to divert current between the anode and cathode of each of the fuel cells.

55.- A fuel cell according to claim 54, further characterized in that the deflection electric circuit comprises a diode.

56.- A plurality of fuel cells that are electrically connected together in series and that individually produce voltage and current outputs comprising: a membrane having opposite sides and that is manufactured integrally with each of the cells of fuel, and in which an anode is mounted on one side of the membrane, and a cathode is mounted on the side of the membrane opposite the anode; a combustible gas supply arranged in a flowing in relation to the anode of each of the fuel cells, and a supply of an oxidizing gas disposed in fluid relation in relation to the cathode of each of the fuel cells; voltage and current detectors that are electrically coupled individually with the anode and cathode of each of the fuel cells and which detect the output of electrical energy from each of the fuel cells; a valve disposed in fluid control relationship in relation to the fuel gas supply for dosing the fuel gas supply to each of the fuel cells; an electrical switch electrically coupled to the anode and cathode of each of the fuel cells and which can be placed in an open and closed electrical condition; and a controller coupled with each of the electrical switches, valves and voltage and current detectors, the controller operable to adjust the respective valves in a fluid dosage ratio relative to the fuel gas supply, and that one or more of the electrical switches assume an open or closed electrical condition in relation to one or more of the fuel cells under operating conditions, and in which the controller, in a first operating condition, upon detecting, in one or more of the fuel cells of interest a voltage and current output in the voltage and current detectors electrically coupled therewith, diverts current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell of interest when the electrical switch is in the closed electrical condition, and in which the controller simultaneously causes the valve that is coupled with the fuel cell of interest to terminate the supply of fuel gas to the anode of the fuel cell of interest, and in which the electrical switch when placed in the electrical condition opened by the controller causes the valve coupled with the fuel cell of interest is placed in a condition that allows the substantially continuous supply of fuel gas to the fuel cell of interest, and in which the controller, in a second condition, diverts current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell of interest when the electrical switch is placed in the closed electrical condition, and in which the controller maintains the valve coupled with the fuel cell of interest in a condition that allows substantially continuous supply of the fuel gas to the fuel cell of interest during the opening and closing of the electric switch .

57.- A fuel cell according to claim 56, further characterized in that the fuel cell has a working and operational cycle, and in which in the first and second conditions, the fuel cell has performance parameters comprising selected current and voltage outputs, and in which in the First condition, the current and voltage outputs of the fuel cell are lower than the performance parameters; and in which in the second condition, the electric switch opens and closes periodically during the duty cycle to increase the electrical power output of the fuel cell.

58. - A fuel cell according to claim 56, further characterized in that the fuel cell has a working and operational cycle, and in which in the first and second conditions, the fuel cell has performance parameters comprising an output of current and voltage and in which in the first condition, the performance parameters are declining.

59.- A fuel cell according to claim 56, further characterized in that the fuel cell has a duty cycle, and in which, in the first and second conditions, the fuel cell has performance parameters comprising outputs of current and voltage at a full rated current and in which in the first condition the performance parameters are declining or on a scale of less than 0.4 volts.

60.- A fuel cell according to claim 56, further characterized in that the fuel cell has a working and operational cycle, and in which in the first and second conditions the fuel cell has performance parameters comprising outputs of current and voltage, and in which the operating cycle is from approximately 0.01 seconds to 4 minutes, and in which the working and operating cycles are adjusted by the controller at least in part by reference to the performance parameters of the cell made out of fuel.

61. - A fuel cell according to claim 56, further characterized in that the fuel cell has a duty cycle, and in which in the first and second conditions, the fuel cell has performance parameters comprising current outputs and voltage, and in which in the second condition the fuel cell has an operating cycle of approximately 0.01 seconds to 4 minutes, and in which the work and operating cycles are adjusted individually and selectively by the controller at least in part by reference to the declining performance parameters of the fuel cell in comparison relative to the performance parameters of other fuel cells.

62.- A fuel cell according to claim 60, further characterized in that in the second condition, the work and operating cycles are selectively adjusted individually to optimize the electric power output of the fuel cells, and in the which the electrical power output of the electrically connected fuel cells in series is increased by at least 5%; and in which the duration of the deviation during the work cycle is less than 20% of the operating cycle.

63.- A fuel cell according to claim 56, further characterized in that the electric switch comprises a field effect transistor, and in which the controller further comprises an electrical passive deflection circuit that operates at failure of the field effect transistor to divert current between the anode and cathode of each of the fuel cells.

64.- A fuel cell according to claim 56, further characterized in that the deflection electric circuit comprises a diode.

65.- A method for controlling a fuel cell having an anode and a cathode, and a voltage and current output, comprising: determining the voltage and current output of the fuel cell; diverting electric current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell under operating conditions; provide a supply of a combustible gas in flow relation in relation to the anode of the fuel cell; providing a valve disposed in fluid dosing ratio in relation to the fuel gas supply; and providing a controller that is electrically coupled to the anode and the cathode and that is effective in diverting the electric current between the anode and the cathode, and that is further coupled in control relationship in relation to the valve.

66.- A method according to claim 65, and further characterized in that the fuel cell has performance parameters, and in which in a first condition the method further comprises: determining by means of the controller the voltage and current output of the fuel cell; adjust the valve, by means of the controller, to terminate the flow of combustible gas to the anode when the voltage and current outputs of the fuel cell are less than the parameters of performance; and diverting the current between the anode and the cathode by means of the controller.

67.- A method according to claim 66, and further characterized in that the fuel cell has performance parameters, and in which in a second operating condition the method further comprises: determining, by means of the controller, the voltage output and current of the fuel cell; supplying the fuel cell substantially continuously with the fuel gas; and periodically diverting the current between the anode and the cathode, by means of the controller, to cause an output of increased electrical energy resulting from the fuel cell, and in which the periodic deviation of the current comprises the duty cycle of the cell made out of fuel.

68.- A method according to claim 67, further characterized in that in the second operating condition the controller periodically deviates the current between the anode and the cathode during an operating cycle that is 0.01 seconds to 4 minutes in duration.

69.- A method according to claim 68, further characterized in that in the second operating condition, the duration of the deviation during the work cycle is less than 20% of the operating cycle.

70. A method according to claim 69, further characterized in that in the second operating condition, the voltage output of the fuel cell is increased by at least 5%.

71. - A method for controlling a fuel cell having an anode and a cathode, and a voltage and current output, comprising: providing a supply of a combustible gas in flow relation in relation to the anode of the fuel cell; providing a valve disposed in fluid dosing ratio in relation to the fuel gas supply; providing a controller that is electrically coupled in voltage and current sensing relationship to the anode and the cathode and that is effective in diverting the electric current between the anode and the cathode, and that is further coupled in control relationship relative to the valve; determine through the controller whether the voltage and current output of the fuel cell has a voltage and current output; after the step of determining the voltage and current output, adjust the valve by means of the controller to terminate the flow of the fuel gas to the anode if the voltage and current output is less than a predetermined amount, and deflect the electric current by means of the controller between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell. 72.- A method to control a fuel cell that has an anode, a cathode, a voltage and current output, and a work and operational cycle that includes: providing a supply of a combustible gas in relation to flow in relation to the anode of the fuel cell; providing a valve disposed in adjustable fluid dosage ratio in relation to the fuel gas supply; provide a controller that is electrically coupled in the detection ratio of ^^ mtá uiil voltage and current with the anode and the cathode and which is effective to divert the electric current during the duty cycle between the anode and the cathode of the fuel cell, and which is further coupled in relation to the control in relation to the valve; and after determining the voltage and current output of the fuel cell, and with the valve held in a position which ensures the substantially continuous supply of the fuel gas to the anode of the fuel cell, periodically diverting by means of the controller, the current between the anode and the cathode to cause a resultant increase in electrical output, and in which the operating cycle is from approximately 0.01 seconds to 4 minutes, and in which the duration of the deviation during the work cycle is less of 20% of the operating cycle. 73.- A fuel cell that has an anode, a cathode and that produces an electric current having a voltage output comprising: a controller electrically coupled to the fuel cell and periodically deflecting the electric current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell, and in which the The fuel cell has an operating cycle and a duty cycle, and in which the periodic deviation increases the electric power output of the fuel cell, and the duration of the deviation during the duty cycle is less than 20% of the operational cycle.