Patent ID: 6497975
Filing Date: 2002-12-24
Classification: H01M,Y02E

Abstract:
A fuel cell device comprising:a base portion, formed of a singular body, and having a major surface; at least one fuel cell membrane electrode assembly formed on the major surface of the base portion; a fluid supply channel defined in the base portion and communicating with the at least one fuel cell membrane electrode assembly, the fluid supply channel including a mixing chamber and at least one fuel-bearing fluid inlet; an exhaust channel defined in the base portion and communicating with the at least one fuel cell membrane electrode assembly, the exhaust channel including a water recovery and recirculation channel for the recovery and recirculation of a spent fuel-bearing fluid and a reaction water, the exhaust channel spaced apart from the fluid supply channel for exhausting fluid from the at least one fuel cell membrane electrode assembly, the at least one fuel cell membrane electrode assembly and the cooperating fluid supply channel and cooperating exhaust channel forming a single fuel cell assembly; a multi-dimensional fuel flow field defined in the base portion and communicating with the fluid supply channel, the at least one fuel cell membrane electrode assembly, and the exhaust channel, the multi-dimensional fuel flow field including a plurality of fuel flow returns, thereby providing for the three-dimensional flow of fuel within the base portion to the fuel cell membrane electrode assembly; and a plurality of electrical components formed in the base portion for electrical integration of the fuel cell assembly.