Abstract:
An example fuel cell assembly may include a shaped fuel source that is formed into a desired shape. The shaped fuel source may have an outer surface, and a fuel cell may be mounted directly on the outer surface of the shaped fuel source. In some instances, the fuel cell assembly may also include one or more of a cathode cap, an anode cap, a refill port, and an outer shell disposed around an exterior of the fuel cell assembly, but these are not required.
Abstract:
An example fuel cell assembly may include a proton exchange membrane (or membrane electrode assembly) that has a first major surface and a second major surface. An anode electrode, which may include a patterned metal layer with a plurality of apertures extending through the patterned metal layer, may also be provided. An anode gas diffusion layer secured to an anode adhesive frame may be situated between the anode electrode and the first major surface of the proton exchange membrane. A cathode electrode may, in some instances, include a patterned metal layer with a plurality of apertures extending through the patterned metal layer. A cathode gas diffusion layer secured to a cathode adhesive frame may be situated between the cathode electrode and the second major surface of the proton exchange membrane. In some instances a fuel cell assembly may be flexible so that the fuel cell assembly can be rolled into a rolled configuration that defines an inner cavity with open ends. A fuel pellet may be inserted into the inner cavity, and one or more end caps may be provided to cover and seal the open ends.
Abstract:
A power generator comprising a hydrogen generator and a fuel cell stack having an anode exposed to hydrogen from the hydrogen generator and a cathode exposed to an ambient environment. Hydrophobic and hydrophilic layers are used to promote flow of water away from the cathode. A diffusion path thus separates the fuel cell cathode from the hydrogen generator. In one embodiment, water vapor generated from the fuel cell substantially matches water used by the hydrogen generator to generate hydrogen.
Abstract:
A device has an annulus having a first end and a second end. A valve plate is coupled to the first end of the annulus by a fastener, wherein the valve plate is adapted to contact a valve seat on a hydrogen producing fuel cover. A diaphragm is coupled to the second end of the annulus by a fastener, wherein the annulus extends through a container for holding the hydrogen producing fuel and wherein the diaphragm moves the valve plate relative to the valve seat responsive to a different in pressure across the diaphragm.
Abstract:
A hydrogen generator includes a container with multiple concentric hollow cylinders of chemical hydride fuel disposed within the container. A water vapor source is disposed within the container and operable to deliver water vapor to the cylinders of chemical hydride fuel. Generated hydrogen is provided via a hydrogen output port formed in the container.
Abstract:
A power generator includes a hydrogen generator that generates hydrogen in response to water vapor. A solid oxide fuel cell is coupled to the hydrogen generator for receiving hydrogen and is coupled to a source of oxygen.
Abstract:
An apparatus includes a plurality of islands each carrying multiple cantilevers. The apparatus also includes a fluidic network having a plurality of channels separating the islands. The channels are configured to provide fluid to the islands, and the fluid at least partially fills spaces between the cantilevers and the islands. Heat from the islands vaporizes the fluid filling the spaces between the cantilevers and the islands to transfer the heat away from the islands while driving the cantilevers into oscillation. The apparatus may also include a casing configured to surround the islands and the fluidic network to create a vapor chamber, where the vapor chamber is configured to retain the vaporized fluid. The islands and the fluidic network could be formed in a single substrate, or the islands could be separate and attached together by a binder located within the channels of the fluidic network.
Abstract:
A hydrogen generator having a hydrogen generating reaction between a chemical hydride and vapor from a liquid having a freezing point below 0° C. The liquid is selected from alcohols such as ethanol and methanol used pure or diluted with distilled water, and distilled water that has had a non-reactive salt such as calcium chloride or magnesium chloride dissolved therein.
Abstract:
A power generator includes a hydrogen producing fuel and a fuel cell stack layer that includes a proton exchange membrane. An anode layer and a cathode layer are disposed on opposite surfaces of the fuel cell stack. A capacitor layer is integrated with the other layers and electrically coupled to the anode layer and the cathode layer.
Abstract:
Improved portable power sources such as batteries, fuel cells, power generators and the like can include structure or apparatus that are adapted to provide an indication of the power capacity remaining within the portable power source. In some cases, these power sources may be configured to accommodate remote communication regarding their remaining power capacity.