Abstract: An integrated thermal management of an electrochemical energy conversion device (e.g., a fuel cell) and an electronic device powered by the electrochemical energy conversion device is described. According to the present invention, an integrated thermal management interface may be used to intentionally manage and control the heat generated by both devices in a shared and efficient manner (e.g., in addition to natural heat dissipation). In particular, the interface may be a unified sub-system, which may be electrical or mechanical (or a combination of both), used to actively control the heat of the two distinct devices, i.e., the heat-generating portions of the two devices, by creating a thermally conductive path to a shared heat dissipation mechanism. In accordance with aspects of the present invention, the interface may be embodied as one or more shared thermally conductive paths, fans, air pumps, heat sinks, switches, etc.

Abstract: Fuel cell systems, as well as related components and methods, are disclosed.