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Небесная энциклопедия

Космические корабли и станции, автоматические КА и методы их проектирования, бортовые комплексы управления, системы и средства жизнеобеспечения, особенности технологии производства ракетно-космических систем

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Мониторинг СМИ

Мониторинг СМИ и социальных сетей. Сканирование интернета, новостных сайтов, специализированных контентных площадок на базе мессенджеров. Гибкие настройки фильтров и первоначальных источников.

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Применить Всего найдено 179. Отображено 100.
31-05-2012 дата публикации

IDENTIFYING THE OPERATION OF A SPECIFIED TYPE OF APPLIANCE

Номер: US20120136593A1
Автор: DONALDSON James, Matthews Alexander, McCulloch Malcolm, Surrall Sarah
Принадлежит: INTELLIGENT SUSTAINABLE ENERGY LIMITED

A method of identifying the operation of an electrical appliance comprising an induction motor is described. The method comprises identifying the operation of an electrical appliance comprising an induction motor when a path traced by real power values against corresponding reactive power values over a time period of interest comprises one or more substantially circular arcs. The real power values are related to the total real power supplied to one or more electrical appliances as a function of time, and the reactive power values are related to the total reactive power supplied to the one or more electrical appliances as a function of time. 1. A method of identifying the operation of an electrical appliance comprising an induction motor , the method comprising:identifying the operation of an electrical appliance comprising an induction motor when a path traced by real power values against corresponding reactive power values over a time period of interest comprises one or more substantially circular arcs;wherein the real power values are related to the total real power supplied to one or more electrical appliances as a function of time and the reactive power values are related to the total reactive power supplied to the one or more electrical appliances as a function of time.2. The method of wherein the real power values and the corresponding reactive power values are determined from measurements of the total current and the total voltage supplied to the one or more electrical appliances as a function of time.3. The method of further comprising a step of identifying the time period of interest wherein the step of identifying the time period of interest comprises:detecting a time at which an electrical appliance is switched on from an increase in the total power being supplied to the one or more electrical appliances as a function of time;detecting a time at which the electrical appliance reaches a steady state power consumption; andidentifying the time period of ...

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Номер записи: 1
08-08-2013 дата публикации

DETERMINING AN INDICATION OF A BACKGROUND LEVEL OF UTILITY CONSUMPTION

Номер: US20130204399A1
Автор: DONALDSON James, Matthews Alexander, McCulloch Malcolm, Surrall Sarah
Принадлежит: INTELLIGENT SUSTAINABLE ENERGY LIMITED

A non-intrusive method of determining, in respect of a group of appliances that are arranged to consume a utility, an indication of a background level of consumption of the utility by the group of appliances, the method comprising: receiving a series of utility values representative of a total level of consumption of the utility by the group of appliances; determining, based on the received utility values, an indication of a background level of consumption of the utility; and outputting the determined indication of the background level of consumption of the utility. 130-. (canceled)31. A non-intrusive method of determining , in respect of a group of appliances that are arranged to consume a utility , an indication of a background level of consumption of the utility by the group of appliances , the method comprising:receiving a series of utility values representative of a total level of consumption of the utility by the group of appliances;identifying, based on the received utility values, an indication of a background level of consumption of the utility; andoutputting the identified indication of the background level of consumption of the utility;wherein identifying an indication of a background level of consumption comprises:calculating a series of moving averages from the received utility values; andusing the series of moving averages to determine the indication of the background level of consumption of the utility.32. The method of claim 31 , wherein calculating the series of moving averages is biased to respond more quickly to decreases in the received utility values than to increases in received utility values.33. The method of claim 31 , comprising calculating a next moving average according to =(1−α) +αp claim 31 , where is the most recently calculated moving average in the series of moving averages claim 31 , p is a next received utility value and α is a value in the range 0<α<1.34. The method of comprising setting the value of α in dependence on the value ...

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Номер записи: 2
09-01-2014 дата публикации

REVERSE FLOW RELIEF VALVE FOR A FUEL CELL SYSTEM

Номер: US20140011105A1
Автор: Adcock Paul, Baird Scott, Hood Peter David
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A method of shutting down operation of a fuel cell system is disclosed, comprising a fuel cell stack, the method comprising the sequential steps of: i) ceasing a supply of fuel to the fuel cell stack; ii) closing a shut-off valve on an exhaust line in fluid communication with a cathode system of the fuel cell system, the cathode system comprising a cathode fluid flow path passing through the fuel cell stack; iii) pressurizing the cathode system with an air compressor in fluid communication with a cathode air net port in the fuel cell stack; and iv) ejecting water from the cathode flow path. 1. A cathode pressure reduction method the method comprising: a first feed port;', 'a second feed port;', 'the non-return valve configured to allow fluid to pass from the first to the second feed ports and to block passage of fluid in the reverse direction;', 'providing a bypass fluid passage in fluid communication with the main fluid passage; and,', 'placing a sealing valve biased against an end of the bypass passage between the bypass passage and a purge port, whereby the sealing valve is maintains a seal against the bypass passage when fluid pressure in the first feed port exceeds fluid pressure at the second feed port to prevent fluid flow from the main fluid passage to the purge port through the bypass fluid passage, and to allow fluid flow from the second feed port to the purge port through the bypass fluid passage when fluid pressure at the second feed port exceeds fluid pressure at the first feed port, wherein the second feed port is connected to a fuel cell cathode water injection line and is in fluid communication with a purge port., 'placing a reverse flow relief valve having a non-return valve in a main fluid passage between;'}2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the sealing valve allows fluid flow from the second feed port to the purge port through the bypass fluid passage when fluid pressure at the second feed port exceeds fluid pressure at the first feed port by a ...

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Номер записи: 3
27-02-2014 дата публикации

MAINS POWER ADAPTOR COMPRISING A FUEL CELL

Номер: US20140057196A1
Автор: Bignell Mark, Provost Michael, Winand Henri
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A mains power adaptor () incorporating a fuel cell () for providing alternative power to a low voltage portable device when no mains power is available. The adaptor () includes electrical pins () configured to connect with a mains power supply socket; a power converter circuit () having an input coupled to the electrical pins () for converting mains power to a lower voltage supply (); an electrical output () of the lower voltage supply (); and a fuel cell () switchably coupled to said electrical output. The adaptor () has a fluid connection port () for coupling a fluid fuel outlet of a fuel cartridge (not shown) to a fuel inlet of the fuel cell () and the fluid connection port () is disposed in a face () of the adaptor () from which the electrical pins () extend. A valve of the fuel cartridge is operable by engagement with the electrical pins () of the adaptor (). 1. A mains power adaptor comprising:electrical pins configured to connect with a mains power supply socket;a power converter circuit having an input coupled to the electrical pins for converting mains power to a lower voltage supply;an electrical output of the lower voltage supply;a fuel cell switchably coupled to said electrical output.2. The adaptor of further including a fluid connection port for coupling a fluid fuel outlet of a fuel cartridge to a fuel inlet of the fuel cell.3. The adaptor of in which the fluid connection port is disposed in a face of the adaptor from which the electrical pins extend.4. The adaptor of in which the fluid connection port is disposed between the electrical pins.5. The adaptor of further including a receptacle for engaging with a fuel cartridge and enabling coupling of the fluid connection port to the fuel outlet of the fuel cartridge.6. The adaptor of in which the electrical output includes a data connection.7. The adaptor of further including a data processor for communicating with a device coupled to the electrical output and for transmitting usage data thereto.8. The ...

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Номер записи: 4
05-01-2017 дата публикации

FUEL CELL CARTRIDGE

Номер: US20170005349A1
Автор: GETCHEL Paul, Melack John, WALLACE Andrew
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

This disclosure is drawn to systems, devices, apparatuses, and/or methods, related to fuel cell cartridges. Specifically, the disclosed systems, devices, apparatuses, and/or methods relate to compact fuel cell cartridges for producing hydrogen gas for use by fuel cells. Some example fuel cell cartridges may include a reactor module for storing a reactant, a water module for storing water, and an interface coupling the reactor module and the water module. The interface may permit the water to flow from the water module to the reactor module such that the water mixes with the reactant in the reactor module to form a gas (e.g., hydrogen gas) that may exit through a gas outlet. 1. A fuel cell cartridge , comprising:a reactor module for storing a reactant;a water module for storing water;an interface coupling the reactor module and the water module, the interface permitting the water to flow from the water module to the reactor module such that the water mixes with the reactant in the reactor module to form a gas that may exit through a gas outlet.2. The fuel cell cartridge of claim 1 , further comprising:a water control mechanism disposed in the water module, the water control mechanism configured to control a flow of the water between the water module and the reactor module.3. The fuel cell cartridge of claim 2 , wherein the water control mechanism comprises at least one of a spring claim 2 , a piston claim 2 , a bladder claim 2 , a pressurized water source claim 2 , a plunger claim 2 , a gas overpressure claim 2 , a gas pressure feedback claim 2 , a valve claim 2 , and a pump.4. The fuel cell cartridge of claim 3 , wherein the water control mechanism comprises a pump outside of the water module that controls the flow of the water out of and into the water module.6. The fuel cell cartridge of claim 5 , wherein the fluid comprises at least one of gas and liquid.7. The fuel cell cartridge of claim 5 ,wherein the first end of the water module is coupled to the reactor ...

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Номер записи: 5
28-01-2016 дата публикации

ENERGY RESOURCE SYSTEM

Номер: US20160029342A1
Автор: Bishop Christopher William, Murray John Joseph, Ninan Daniel, NIRWAN Prajwal, SAMRA Amarpal Singh, WINAND Henri M. A.
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

An energy resource management server comprising: means for receiving energy availability messages from remote energy resources and geographic location indicators indicative of the geographical location of said remote energy resources; means for receiving energy request messages from remote energy resources and geographic location indicators indicative of the geographical location of said remote energy resources; a processor configured to determine counterparties in an energy resource transfer based on received energy availability messages and received energy request messages and the geographical location of the remote energy resources, and to transmit, to one or both of the counterparties, location information of the other counterparty of the determined counterparties. 1. An energy resource management server comprising:means for receiving energy availability messages from remote energy resources and geographic location indicators indicative of the geographical location of said remote energy resources;means for receiving energy request messages from remote energy resources and geographic location indicators indicative of the geographical location of said remote energy resources;a processor configured to determine counterparties in an energy resource transfer based on received energy availability messages and received energy request messages and the geographical location of the remote energy resources, and to transmit, to one or both of the counterparties, geographical location information of the other counterparty of the determined counterparties.2. The energy resource management server of in which the processor is configured to determine counterparties to an energy resource transfer based on one or more of: energy resource type claim 1 , energy resource level claim 1 , energy availability quantum claim 1 , required energy transfer quantum claim 1 , transfer time claim 1 , energy availability time window claim 1 , geographical proximity.3. The energy resource ...

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Номер записи: 6
02-02-2017 дата публикации

ELASTOMERIC HYDROGEN REACTOR WITH CLOG-LESS FILTER

Номер: US20170028372A1
Автор: Barton Russell, Garozzo, HUANG HUA, III Gaelle, Stimits Jason
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A hydrogen producing reactor having a pellet core within a containment vessel. The vessel having an exit nozzle surrounding the pellet. At least one elastomeric winding surrounding the containment vessel; and, a water line to deliver fluid to the pellet. Whereby the elastomeric windings compress the containment vessel around the fuel pellet as it is used. Hydrogen and other products produced by the reactor within a cartridge is filtered with a clog-less filter and substantially pure hydrogen is output. 1. A reactor cartridge comprising:{'b': 11', '12', '13, 'a body (, , ) enclosinga core within a containment vessel having an exit nozzle;at least one elastomeric winding surrounding the containment vessel;a water line to deliver fluid to the core;{'b': 210', '201', '202', '310, 'an expanded PTFE tube () having a sealed end () and an open end () fluidly connected to a valve (); and,'}wherein fluid delivered to the core via the water line urges the core to produce hydrogen via a reaction and the hydrogen permeates the ePTFE tube and is delivered to the valve.2204. The reactor cartridge of claim 1 , further comprising a desiccant () placed within the e PTFE tube.3207. The reactor cartridge of claim 1 , further comprising a hydrogen clog-less filter () placed around the e-PTFE tube.4. The reactor cartridge of claim 1 , further comprising a desiccant placed around the e-PTFE tube when it is wrapped in the clog-less filter.5. The reactor cartridge of claim 1 , further comprising NaOH within the body wherein the NaOH at least one of reduces the rate of reaction and reduces pressure.6. The reactor catridge of wherein the core is a solid portion of about 70% Sodium Borohydride “NaBH” (SBH) and about 30% Oxalic Acid; and claim 1 , the fluid is a liquid portion of about 98% distilled water claim 1 , and 2% Cobalt chloride hexahydrate “CoCl.6HO”.7. The reactor catridge of wherein the core is a solid portion of about 70% Sodium Borohydride “NaBH” (SBH) and about 30% Oxalic Acid; ...

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Номер записи: 7
29-01-2015 дата публикации

Fuel Cell Assembly

Номер: US20150030950A1
Автор: Gurney Christopher James, Hood Peter David
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell assembly comprising an enclosure having a fuel cell stack mounted therein, and an inlet opening into the enclosure. The fuel cell stack having an inlet face for receiving coolant/oxidant fluid. The fuel cell assembly further comprises a delivery gallery extending from the inlet in the enclosure to the inlet face of the fuel cell stack, the delivery gallery having a first region and a second region separated by an aperture. The delivery gallery and aperture are configured such that, in use, coolant/oxidant fluid within the first region of the delivery gallery is turbulent, and coolant/oxidant fluid within the second region of the delivery gallery has a generally uniform pressure. 1. A fuel cell assembly comprising:an enclosure having a fuel cell stack mounted therein,an inlet opening into the enclosure,the fuel cell stack having an inlet face for receiving coolant/oxidant fluid,a delivery gallery extending from the inlet in the enclosure to the inlet face of the fuel cell stack,the delivery gallery having a first region and a second region separated by an aperture,wherein the delivery gallery and aperture are configured such that, in use, coolant/oxidant fluid within the first region of the delivery gallery is turbulent, and coolant/oxidant fluid within the second region of the delivery gallery has a generally uniform pressure.2. The fuel cell assembly of in which the aperture defines a restriction to flow of the coolant/oxidant between the first and second regions of the delivery gallery.3. The fuel cell assembly of in which the aperture represents a reduction in cross-sectional area in the flow path of the coolant/oxidant flow between the first and second regions of the delivery gallery.4. The fuel cell assembly of in which the aperture is defined claim 1 , at least in part claim 1 , by a bottom end face of the fuel cell stack.5. The fuel cell assembly of in which the aperture is defined claim 4 , at least in part claim 4 , by a protrusion extending ...

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Номер записи: 8
04-02-2021 дата публикации

FUEL CELL SYSTEM

Номер: US20210036337A1
Автор: Armour Simon Carl, Curnick Oliver James, Dufton Jesse Thomas Robin, Jackson Russell Oliver, Ninan Daniel
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

The invention relates to a fuel cell system and associated method of manufacture. The fuel cell system has at least a first surface region and a second surface region, wherein the first surface region is more hydrophilic than the second surface region, wherein the first and second surface regions are arranged in accordance with a parameter distribution of the fuel cell system. 1. A fuel cell system comprising:{'b': '30', 'a fuel cell assembly () comprising;'}{'b': 34', '11, 'a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) () comprising; an ion transfer membrane ();'}{'b': '32', 'fluid transport () on the anode face;'}{'b': '33', 'fluid transport means () on the cathode face;'}{'b': '21', 'inlet manifold apertures ();'}{'b': '22', 'outlet manifold apertures ();'}wherein one of the fuel cell assembly components contains a regions of greater hydrophobicity.2. The fuel cell assembly of wherein region of greater hydrophobicity is a chemically inert patterned surface.3. The fuel cell assembly of wherein the region of greater hydrophobicity is configured to promote water flow away from the said region.4. The fuel cell assembly of wherein the region of greater hydrophobicity is on the ion transfer membrane.5. The fuel cell assembly of wherein the region of increased hydrophobicity exists on a surface of a fuel cell separator plate. Wherein the fuel cell separator plate is one of a monopolar plate and a bipolar.6. The fuel cell assembly of wherein the region of greater hydrophobicity is formed on a portion of one of the anode face claim 1 , cathode face and both anode and cathode faces.7. The fuel cell assembly of wherein the region of greater hydrophobicity is on the outlet manifold.8. The fuel cell assembly of wherein the region of greater hydrophobicity is on one of the water separator and heat exchanger.9. The fuel cell assembly of wherein the region of greater hydrophobicity is configured as gradient.10. The fuel cell assembly of wherein the gradient is a 2-dimensional flow ...

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Номер записи: 9
11-02-2016 дата публикации

FLUID MANIFOLD ATTACHED BY INTERFACE TO FUEL STORAGE FOR FUEL CELL SYSTEM

Номер: US20160043416A1
Автор: Dépatie Isabelle, Schrooten Jeremy, Sobejko Paul, Zimmermann Joerg
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

An electrochemical cell system includes a fluid manifold having a layered structure. The fluid manifold includes at least one conduit layer having a first side and a second side. The at least one conduit later has at least one conduit channel. 1. A planar fuel cell comprising:at least one fuel cell layer with a first and a second side having;a plurality of anodes, a plurality of cathodes, and an ion-conducting electrolyte;the plurality of anodes arranged adjacently on the first side of the fuel cell layer and the plurality of cathodes arranged on the second side;a fluid manifold fluidly coupled with the first side of the fuel cell layer;wherein the fluid manifold has a first barrier layer providing at least one inlet port in fluid communication with a hydrogen source, and at least one outlet port to remove any unreacted hydrogen and byproducts from the first side of the fuel cell layer;a plurality of conduit layers, on at least one of which is disposed one or more conduits configured to communicate with the at least one inlet port and the at least one outlet port of the cover plate; anda second barrier layer disposed above the plurality of conduit layers and configured to provide a gas-tight seal with the first side of the fuel cell layer.2. The planar fuel cell of wherein the plurality of conduit layers further comprises at least one conduit layer having a plurality of conduits disposed above the first barrier layer and at least one perforated layer disposed above the at least one conduit layer and having a portion of which has perforations forming flow channels.3. The planar fuel cell of wherein the one or more conduits further comprises a network of interconnected inlet flow conduits in communication with the at least one inlet port and one or more outlet flow conduits in communication with the at least outlet port.4. The fuel cell layer of wherein the conduit layer or plate channels or perforations have a nominal diameter of between about 0.05 mm and about 2 mm. ...

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Номер записи: 10
09-02-2017 дата публикации

CONNECTOR SYSTEM FOR A FUEL CELL STACK ASSEMBLY

Номер: US20170040622A1
Автор: Adcock Paul Leonard
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell stack assembly comprises fuel cells disposed in a stacked configuration, each cell substantially parallel to an x-y plane and including a tab extending laterally from an edge of a plate in the cell in the x-direction to form an array of tabs extending along a side face of the fuel cell stack in a z-direction orthogonal to the x-y plane. A connector engages with the tabs of the fuel cell stack. The connector comprises a support region and engagement regions, each engagement region bounded by the support region and configured to receive one of the array of tabs by engagement in the x-direction. The connector has flexible conductors, each of the flexible conductors laterally extending from the support region over at least a portion of one of the engagement regions and configured to be deflected away from the support region by a received tab. 1. A fuel cell stack assembly comprising:fuel cells disposed in a stacked configuration, each cell substantially parallel to an x-y plane and including a tab extending laterally from an edge of a plate in the cell in the x-direction to form an array of tabs extending along a side face of the fuel cell stack in a z-direction orthogonal to the x-y plane; and,a connector for engaging with tabs of the fuel cell stack, the connector comprising:a support region;engagement regions, each engagement region bounded by the support region and configured to receive one of the array of tabs by engagement in the x-direction; andflexible conductors, each of the flexible conductors laterally extending from the support region over at least a portion of one of the engagement regions and configured to be deflected away from the support region by a received tab.2. The fuel cell stack assembly of claim 1 , wherein the flexible conductors are configured to be deflected in the x-direction away from the support region by the received tab.3. The fuel cell stack assembly of claim 1 , wherein each engagement region is provided by a separate ...

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Номер записи: 11
19-02-2015 дата публикации

FUEL CELL FLUID DISTRIBUTION

Номер: US20150050575A1
Автор: Hood Peter David
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A bipolar fuel cell plate () for use in a fuel cell comprising a plurality of flow field channels () and a coolant distribution structure () formed as part of the fluid flow field plate. The coolant distribution structure is configured to direct coolant droplets () into the flow field channels. The coolant distribution structure comprises one or more elements () associated with one or more flow field channels, the elements having a first surface () for receiving a coolant droplet and a second surface () having a shape that defines a coolant droplet detachment region for directing a coolant droplet into the associated field flow channel. 1. A bipolar fuel cell plate for use in a fuel cell comprising:a plurality of flow field channels;a coolant distribution structure formed as part of the fluid flow field plate, the coolant distribution structure configured to direct coolant droplets into the flow field channels; andwherein the coolant distribution structure comprises one or more elements associated with one or more flow field channels, the elements having a first surface for receiving a coolant droplet and a second surface having a shape that defines a coolant droplet detachment region for directing a coolant droplet into the associated field flow channel.2. The bipolar fuel cell plate of claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of coolant introducing openings configured to provide coolant droplets to the first surface of the elements.3. The bipolar fuel cell plate of claim 2 , wherein the elements are located in a line of sight between the coolant introducing openings and the flow field channels.4. The bipolar fuel cell plate of claim 2 , wherein the elements are each associated with two coolant introducing openings.5. The bipolar fuel cell plate of claim 2 , further comprising a plurality of air introducing openings for providing air to the flow field channels claim 2 , wherein air received from the air introducing openings is configured to cause droplets to pass ...

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Номер записи: 12
25-02-2016 дата публикации

A SECURING DEVICE

Номер: US20160053798A1
Автор: SMITHERS Stuart
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

The disclosure relates to a securing device () for an elongate member, the securing device () comprising a plurality of teeth () that are configured to engage an outer surface of the elongate member such that the teeth () provide less of a barrier to movement of the securing device () relative to the elongate member in a first axial direction () than in an opposite, second axial direction (), wherein the teeth () are spaced apart from each other both in an axial direction () and a circumferential direction (). 1. A securing device for an elongate member , the securing device comprising a plurality of teeth that are configured to engage an outer surface of the elongate member such that the teeth provide less of a barrier to movement of the securing device relative to the elongate member in a first axial direction than in an opposite , second axial direction , wherein the teeth are spaced apart from each other both in an axial direction and a circumferential direction.2. The securing device of claim 1 , further comprising a cavity through the thickness of the securing device thereby defining an aperture in opposing external surfaces of the securing device claim 1 , wherein the plurality of teeth are provided on an inwardly facing surface of the securing device that defines the cavity.3. The securing device of claim 2 , wherein the plurality of teeth are resiliently biased such that the point of each of the plurality of teeth extends to a position that is inside the aperture at each end of the cavity.4. The securing device of claim 3 , wherein the bias force has a component in the first axial direction.5. The securing device of claim 3 , wherein at least a portion of the plurality of teeth is configured to be displaced in the second axial direction by insertion of the elongate member.6. The securing device of claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of teeth comprises a first contact surface which is oblique to the second axial direction and extends in the second axial ...

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Номер записи: 13
25-02-2016 дата публикации

FLUIDIC INTERFACE MODULE FOR A FUEL CELL SYSTEM

Номер: US20160056485A1
Автор: Iaconis Jean-Louis, MACDONALD Aaron, Tam Benjamin
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

Purge valves (I , I ) that are manually turned ON but are automatically or electrically turned OFF as the fuel cell ()'s production of electricity reaches a predetermined level, e.g., steady state or thereabout are disclosed. The purge valve may be opened at system start-up, or may be opened at system shut-down so that the purge valve is anned and the fuel cell system is purged at the next start-up. Also disclosed is an integrated fluidic interface module () that contains various fluidic components including one of these purge valves. The integrated fluidic interface module () can operate passively or without being actively controlled by a processor. Methods of operating a fuel cell system, wherein the fuel cell system is purged at system start-up, are also disclosed. The purging automatically stops when the anode plenum is fully purged and replaced with fuel. 1. A valve comprising:an inlet, an outlet, a diaphragm,a biasing member that urges the diaphragm toward the inlet or outlet to a sealing position to close the valve,a slider that moves the biasing member to an open position to allow the diaphragm to move away from the inlet or outlet to open the valve, and,a shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator connected to the biasing member and is actuated by an electrical current to move the biasing member to the open position.2. A valve comprising:an inlet, an outlet, a diaphragm, a biasing member that is biased away from the inlet or outlet,a slider that moves in one direction to move the biasing member and the diaphragm toward the inlet or outlet to a sealing position to close the valve, wherein the slider moves in another direction to move the biasing member to an open position to allow the diaphragm to move away from the inlet or outlet to open the valve, and,a shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator connected to the biasing member and is actuated by an electrical current to move the biasing member to the open position.3. The valve of claim 1 , wherein the electrical current is ...

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Номер записи: 14
23-02-2017 дата публикации

FLEXIBLE FUEL CELL POWER SYSTEM

Номер: US20170054175A1
Автор: Melack John, Peng Linna, Rambach Glenn, Sparks Rodney, WALLACE Andrew
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A flexible fuel cell power system comprising one or more fuel cell cartridges (which contain fuel cell modules) connected to a fuel cell system is provided. The components of the flexible fuel cell power system may be placed on a shared backbone with flexible joints, and may be made of flexible materials so that the entire system can be worn by a human being. 1. A flexible fuel cell power system comprisinga fuel cell cartridge comprising a plurality of fuel cell modules,a fuel cell system, anda platform,wherein said fuel cell cartridge and said fuel cell system are attached to said platform, andwherein said platform includes bendable joints or flexures which permit said platform to be flexible.2. The flexible fuel cell power system of claim 1 , wherein said platform is a shared back plane or a thinly constructed spine.3. The flexible fuel cell power system of claim 1 , further comprising a shared water input/gas output line to each of the modules in said cartridge.4. The flexible fuel cell power system of claim 1 , wherein said fuel cell cartridge or plurality of fuel cell modules are each removably attached to said platform.5. The flexible fuel cell power system of claim 1 , wherein one or more of said platform claim 1 , said fuel cell cartridge claim 1 , plurality of fuel cell modules claim 1 , and said fuel cell system are constructed from flexible material.6. The flexible fuel cell power system of claim 5 , wherein said flexible material comprises Mylar.7. The flexible fuel cell power system of claim 1 , wherein said plurality of fuel cell modules form a flexible fuel cartridge array connected by hinged or elastic joints.8. The flexible fuel cell power system of claim 1 , wherein said fuel cell cartridge comprises reactant fuel material that is NaSi or NaSi/NaBH4 mixture.9. The flexible fuel cell power system of claim 1 , wherein said fuel cell cartridge further comprises a collapsible water bladder.10. The flexible fuel cell power system of claim 1 , wherein ...

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Номер записи: 15
03-03-2016 дата публикации

APPARATUS COMPRISING AN ENERGY SOURCE

Номер: US20160062381A1
Автор: Edgar David, HUGHES Julian Anthony, Ninan Daniel
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

Apparatus comprising an energy source () configured to provide energy to an energy-consuming device (). The energy source () can be embedded within an item of furniture. The apparatus also includes a communication resource () configured to be in communication with a remote sever () in order to authorise delivery of a predetermined amount of energy by the energy source () to the energy-consuming device (). 1. Apparatus comprising:an energy source configured to provide energy to an energy-consuming device, wherein the energy source is embedded within an item of furniture, and a communication resource configured to be in communication with a remote sever in order to authorize delivery of a predetermined amount of energy by the energy source to the energy-consuming device.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the energy source is configured to be in communication with the remote sever via the energy-consuming device.3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the energy-consuming device comprises a mobile communications device.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the communication resource is configured to receive a signal representative of an instruction for the energy source to deliver the predetermined amount of energy.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the energy source is a fuel cell energy source.6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the predetermined amount of energy comprises:a predetermined absolute amount of energy;a predetermined relative amount of energy, such as a predetermined portion of the energy-consuming device's capacity for storing energy; oran amount of energy associated with a predetermined period of time.7. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the communication resource is configured to send a signal to the remote server that is representative of a request for energy by the energy-consuming device.8. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the energy source is configured to receive a signal from the remote server that is representative of a specific ...

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Номер записи: 16
03-03-2016 дата публикации

METHODS FOR OPERATING A FUEL CELL SYSTEM

Номер: US20160064753A1
Автор: Iaconis Jean-Louis
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

Purge valves that are manually turned ON but are automatically or electrically turned OFF as the fuel cell production of electricity reaches a predetermined level, e.g., steady state or thereabout are disclosed. The purge valve may be opened at system start-up, or may be opened at system shut-down so that the purge valve is armed and the fuel cell system is purged at the next start-up. Also disclosed is an integrated fluidic interface module that contains various fluidic components including one of these purge valves. The integrated fluidic interface module can operate passively or without being actively controlled by a processor. Methods of operating a fuel cell system, wherein the fuel cell system is purged at system start-up, are also disclosed. The purging automatically stops when the anode plenum is fully purged and replaced with fuel. 1. A method for operating a fuel cell system comprising at least one fuel cell , said method comprises the steps of(a) activating a switch to enable a flow a fuel from a fuel source to the at least one fuel cell and to initiate a venting step of an anode compartment in the at least one fuel cell with said fuel;wherein the venting step continues until a power from the at least one fuel cell stops the venting step, and(b) deactivating the switch to stop the flow of said fuel from said fuel source.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein step (a) further comprises opening a purge valve.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein step (b) further comprises opening a purge valve.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the at least one fuel cell stops the venting step when the anode compartment is substantially vented.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein said power is generated during the at least one fuel cell's conditioning period.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein said power is substantially free of power from other sources.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein step (a) further comprises the step of regulating a pressure of said fuel.8. The method of claim ...

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Номер записи: 17
03-03-2016 дата публикации

FUEL CELL DC-DC CONVERTER

Номер: US20160065057A1
Автор: HARRISON Jadon M., Iaconis Jean-Louis, McLean Gerard F.
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A method and system for supplying power to a portable electronic device includes supplying current from one or more fuel cells to a DC-DC converter and regulating a current limit of the DC-DC converter as a function of a measured temperature of at least one of the power supply system and the portable electronic device. The current limit can vary as an inverse function of the measured temperature. The current limit can be an input current limit of the DC-DC converter or an output current limit of the DC-DC converter. Current produced by the one or more fuel cells can decrease proportionally to a decrease of the current limit of the DC-DC converter, reducing the heat produced by the one or more fuel cells and thereby reducing the measured temperature. A temperature sensor can be located on or near the one or more fuel cells. A temperature sensor can be located on an internal housing of the portable electronic device. 1. A system for supplying power to a portable electronic device , the system comprising:a temperature sensor configured to measure a temperature of at least one of the portable electronic device and the system;one or more fuel cells configured to produce electrical power; anda DC-DC converter comprising an input connected to the one or more fuel cells and an output connected to the portable electronic device, the DC-DC converter configured to receive the electrical power from the one or more fuel cells at an input current and an input voltage, and provide an output electrical power to the electronic device at a substantially fixed voltage, wherein the DC-DC converter comprises an current limit that varies as a function of the measured temperature.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the current limit varies as an inverse function of the measured temperature.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein an amount of current produced by the one or more fuel cells decreases proportionally to a decrease of the current limit of the DC-DC converter claim 1 , regardless of ...

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Номер записи: 18
04-03-2021 дата публикации

Thermal Managing End Plate For Fuel Cell Stack Assembly

Номер: US20210066730A1
Автор: Cole Jonathan, Longley Stephen
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

Fuel cell stack assemblies () have a positive end plate () and a negative end plate (), The end plates () can be formed from a central structural element () with an insulating end plate cover () and an insulating end plate manifold (). A plurality of cathode plates () and a plurality of fuel cell assemblies () can be arranged in a stack having an alternating pattern of cathode plates () and fuel cell assemblies (), with the positive end plate () and the negative end plate () provided on either end of the stack of cathode plates and fuel cell assemblies. 16-. (canceled)7300. A negative end plate () comprising:{'b': 320', '322', '321, 'a central structural element () having a top face () and a bottom face ();'}{'b': 310', '322, 'a negative end plate cover () covering the top face (); and'}{'b': 330', '321, 'a negative end plate manifold () covering the bottom face ();'}wherein:{'b': 310', '330', '320, 'the negative end plate cover () and negative end plate manifold () are releasably engageable to each other through a portion of the central structural element () via a plurality of snap clips.'}8. The negative end plate of claim 7 , wherein:{'b': 320', '321', '322, 'the central structural element () is formed with a rib-and-core or honeycombed structure with voids formed extending from the top face () to the bottom face ().'}9. The negative end plate of claim 7 , wherein:{'b': 330', '331', '332, 'the negative end plate manifold () is provided with a ribbed structure to provide for air flow channels from a first side edge () to an opposing side edge ().'}10. The negative end plate of claim 9 , wherein the air flow channels are formed as sinusoidal wave-shaped airflow channels.1116-. (canceled)17200. A positive end plate () comprising:{'b': 220', '221', '222, 'a central structural element () having a top face () and a bottom face ();'}{'b': 210', '221, 'a positive end plate cover () covering the top face (); and'}{'b': 230', '222, 'a positive end plate manifold () ...

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Номер записи: 19
04-03-2021 дата публикации

Apparatus for Determining Reactant Purity

Номер: US20210066735A1
Автор: Foster Simon Edward, Kells Ashley James, KUPCHO Kevin M., Provost Michael John
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

An apparatus () configured to determine reactant purity comprising: a first fuel cell () configured to generate electrical current from the electrochemical reaction between two reactants, having a first reactant inlet () configured to receive a test reactant comprising one of the two reactants from a first reactant source (); a second fuel cell () configured to generate electrical current from the electrochemical reaction between the two reactants, having a second reactant inlet () configured to receive the test reactant from a second reactant source (); a controller () configured to apply an electrical load to each fuel cell and determine an electrical output difference, OD, between an electrical output of the first fuel cell () and an electrical output of the second fuel cell (), and determine a difference between a predicted output difference and the determined electrical output difference, OD, the predicted output difference determined based on a historical output of difference and a historical rate of change in said output difference determined at an earlier time, said controller () configured to provide a purity output indicative of the test reactant purity at least based on the difference between the predicted and determined output difference. 1. A reactant distribution method comprising:a reactant distribution system configured to receive a reactant purity indicator from each of a plurality of sensors located at geographically disparate reactant use locations;a location associated with each of the indicators with reference to a reactant distribution network configured to supply reactant to the reactant use locations; andthe distribution system adapted to reconfigure the reactant distribution network and/or disable the use of reactant at one or more reactant use locations in response to a received indicator that is representative of poor reactant purity from a particular reactant use location based on the location of said particular reactant use location in ...

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Номер записи: 20
10-03-2016 дата публикации

FUEL CELL SYSTEM

Номер: US20160072138A1
Автор: BOWMAN Jeremy David, KARMAZYN Harry John, KUPCHO Kevin M., Roberts Jason
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell system () comprises a first fuel cell stack (), a second fuel cell stack () in series with the first fuel cell stack (), and a first rectifier () in parallel with the first fuel cell stack (). The fuel cell system () also comprises a controller () configured to modulate air flow through the first fuel cell stack () independent of current demand on the fuel cell system () to provide rehydration intervals that increase the hydration levels of the first fuel cell stack (). 1. A fuel cell system , comprising:a first fuel cell stack;a second fuel cell stack in series with the first fuel cell stack;a first rectifier in parallel with the first fuel cell stack; and,a controller configured to modulate air flow through the first fuel cell stack independent of current demand on the fuel cell system to provide rehydration intervals that increase the hydration levels of the first fuel cell stack.2. The fuel cell system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured to modulate air flow through the first fuel cell stack on a periodic basis.3. The fuel cell system of claim 2 , wherein the controller is configured to periodically reduce the amount of air flow through the first fuel cell stack from an active value claim 2 , and then after a predetermined period of time increase the amount of air flow through the first fuel cell stack back to the active value.4. The fuel cell system of claim 2 , wherein the controller is configured to periodically reduce the amount of air flow through the first fuel cell stack to zero and then after the predetermined period of time increase the amount of air flow through the first fuel cell stack from zero.5. The fuel cell system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured to modulate the air flow through the first fuel cell stack in response to measured parameters of the fuel cell system.6. The fuel cell system of claim 1 , wherein the first rectifier is an active diode.7. The fuel cell system of claim 1 , wherein a first ...

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Номер записи: 21
10-03-2016 дата публикации

A WATER SEPARATOR

Номер: US20160072141A1
Автор: Cole Jonathan, Rama Pratap
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A liquid separator () comprising: 1. A liquid separator comprising:an inlet configured to receive a fluid flow;an outlet; anda separation chamber defining a fluid flow path between the inlet and the outlet,wherein the separation chamber comprises an aerofoil in the fluid flow path configured to separate liquid out of the fluid flow at regions of reduced fluid pressure.2. The liquid separator of claim 1 , wherein the aerofoil is horizontally disposed in the separation chamber.3. The liquid separator of claim 1 , wherein the aerofoil defines a negative angle of attack.4. The liquid separator of claim 1 , wherein the aerofoil comprises a liquid communication surface comprising a liquid communication structure configured to direct separated liquid to a liquid exit region of the aerofoil.5. The liquid separator of claim 4 , wherein the liquid communication surface is a lower surface of the aerofoil.6. The liquid separator of claim 4 , wherein the liquid communication structure comprises one or more channels extending in the direction of the fluid flow path.7. The liquid separator of claim 1 , further comprising a cooling means configured to cool the aerofoil.8. The liquid separator of claim 7 , wherein the cooling means comprises a conduit passing through the aerofoil claim 7 , the conduit configured to receive a coolant.9. The liquid separator of claim 1 , further comprising a drain configured to communicate the separated liquid out of the separation chamber.10. The liquid separator of claim 9 , wherein the drain is at a bottom wall of the separation chamber.11. The liquid separator of claim 1 , further comprising an aerofoil angle setting mechanism configured to set the angle of attack of the aerofoil.12. The liquid separator of claim 1 , comprising a plurality of aerofoils disposed in a longitudinally extending array relative to the flow path claim 1 , wherein the plurality of aerofoils are each separated from one another by a longitudinal flow space.13. The liquid ...

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Номер записи: 22
14-03-2019 дата публикации

Fueling Station

Номер: US20190077521A1
Автор: Adcock Paul Leonard, ELLIOTT Zachary, KELLY Andrew Paul
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

The application relates to a fueling station for a fuel generator having a fuel generator reservoir, the fueling station comprising: a station reservoir () for storing at least one reactant for fuel generation; a fueling interface () configured to engage with the fuel generator reservoir and dispense the at least one reactant to the fuel generator reservoir; and a controller () configured to: receive a parameter indicative of an intended use of the fuel generator; and control the fueling interface to dispense the at least one reactant in accordance with the parameter. 1. A fueling station for a fuel generator having a fuel generator reservoir , the fueling station comprising:a station reservoir for storing at least one reactant for fuel generation;a fueling interface configured to engage with the fuel generator reservoir and dispense the at least one reactant to the fuel generator reservoir; anda controller configured to:receive a parameter indicative of an intended use of the fuel generator;control the fueling interface to dispense a quantity of the at least one reactant in accordance with the parameter; andwherein the fueling interface is configured to receive data from the reactant cartridge.2. The fueling station of in which the station reservoir has a plurality of compartments claim 1 , each compartment comprising a different reactant.3. The fueling station of in which the fueling interface comprises a mixing device configured to mix the different reactants during dispensation of the different reactants to the fuel generator reservoir.4. The fueling station of in which the fuel generator reservoir and the station reservoir each has a plurality of corresponding compartments claim 2 , each compartment comprising a different reactant claim 2 , and in which the fueling interface is configured to dispense the different reactants into the corresponding compartments of the fuel generator reservoir.5. The fueling station of in which the at least one reactant comprises ...

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Номер записи: 23
24-03-2016 дата публикации

FUEL SUPPLY APPARATUS

Номер: US20160083250A1
Автор: KARMAZYN Harry John
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel supply apparatus comprising; a reaction chamber for hosting a reaction when a fuel generating fluid and a fuel generating substance are brought together to generate fuel, a plurality of discrete fuel generating fluid chambers, each chamber being separately rupturable; and, a heater assembly adapted to, when in use, selectively rupture the fuel generating fluid chambers to supply fuel generating fluid to the reaction chamber. 1. A fuel supply apparatus comprising;a reaction chamber for hosting a reaction when a fuel generating fluid and a fuel generating substance are brought together to generate fuel,a plurality of discrete fuel generating fluid chambers comprising a plurality of sealed bladders formed in a sheet, each bladder containing fuel generating fluid and being separately rupturable; and,a heater assembly adapted to, when in use, selectively rupture the fuel generating fluid chambers to supply fuel generating fluid to the reaction chamber.2. A The fuel supply apparatus of claim 1 , in which the fuel generating fluid comprises an activation fluid and the fuel generating substance comprises a fuel source claim 1 , wherein a reaction between the activation fluid and the fuel source will generate fuel.3. The fuel supply apparatus of claim 1 , in which the heater assembly comprises a plurality of heaters arranged such that each fuel generating fluid chamber is associated with at least one heater for heating claim 1 , and thereby rupturing claim 1 , said fuel generating fluid chamber.4. The fuel supply apparatus of claim 3 , in which the heaters eitherform part of the plurality of discrete fuel generating fluid chambers or are formed on part of the fuel supply apparatus, the heaters configured such that they can be selectively activated and arranged adjacent the plurality of discrete fuel generating fluid chambers.56-. (canceled)7. The fuel supply apparatus of claim 1 , in which the sheet is of at least two layers claim 1 , the two layers sealed together at ...

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Номер записи: 24
26-03-2015 дата публикации

FAN AND PCB MOUNTING IN FUEL CELL STACK ASSEMBLIES

Номер: US20150086810A1
Автор: Grange Nathan, Pinchin Raymond
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell stack assembly () comprises a fuel cell stack (); an air flow plenum chamber () disposed on a face () of the stack () for delivering air to or receiving air from flow channels in the fuel cell stack (), at least a part of the plenum chamber wall being defined by a printed circuit board, the printed circuit board having at least one aperture () therein; and a fan () mounted to the board adjacent the aperture () and configured to force air through the aperture into or out of the plenum chamber. The assembly provides integration of circuit boards essential or supportive to operation of the fuel cell assembly with the air flow plenum for forced ventilation of the fuel cells in the stack. 1. A fuel cell stack assembly comprising:a fuel cell stack;an air flow plenum chamber disposed on a face of the stack for delivering air to or receiving air from flow channels in the fuel cell stack, at least a part of the plenum chamber wall being defined by a printed circuit board, the printed circuit board having at least one aperture therein; anda fan mounted to the board adjacent the aperture and configured to force air through the aperture into or out of the plenum chamber.2. The fuel cell stack of in which a face of the printed circuit board forming an internal wall of the plenum chamber is coated with a potting compound or other fluid tight coating.3. The fuel cell stack of further including a frame coupled to the fuel cell stack forming side walls of the plenum chamber claim 1 , the printed circuit board being attached to the frame and forming a fluid tight seal therewith.4. The fuel cell stack of in which the printed circuit board includes at least one temperature sensing device mounted thereon.5. The fuel cell stack of in which the printed circuit board includes at least one fan control circuit incorporated therein.6. The fuel cell stack of in which the face of the stack on which the air flow plenum chamber is disposed is a face having open channel ends therein.7. ...

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Номер записи: 25
24-03-2016 дата публикации

Hydrogen-Generating Fuel Cell Cartridges

Номер: US20160087294A1
Автор: Curello Andrew J., Curello Michael R., Rosenzweig Alain, Spahr Paul
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

The present application is directed to a gas-generating apparatus (). Hydrogen is generated within the gas-generating apparatus and is transported to a fuel cell. The generation of hydrogen is regulated automatically by the selective exposure of a catalyst () to the fuel mixture depending on the pressure inside the reaction chamber () of the gas-generating apparatus. Catalyst sealing mechanisms () are provided at least partially within the reaction chamber to regulate the hydrogen pressure and to minimize the fluctuations in pressure of the hydrogen received by the fuel cell. 1. A reaction chamber for producing hydrogen for fuel cells comprising:a housing containing a fuel mixture formed by dissolving a solid fuel in a liquid fuel to produce hydrogen in the presence of a catalyst; at least one gas permeable liquid permeable membrane component to separate hydrogen produced from the fuel and reaction by-products and configured to transport hydrogen to the fuel cell;a catalyst sealing member, the catalyst sealing member containing the catalyst and comprising a reference pressure chamber being capable of reversibly expanding and contracting in response to a difference between a reference pressure and an internal pressure of the reaction chamber, wherein the catalyst sealing member is open when the internal pressure is equal to or less than the reference pressure of the reference pressure chamber such that, during use, the catalyst is exposed to the fuel mixture, and,wherein the catalyst sealing member is closed isolating the catalyst from the fuel mixture, when the internal pressure is greater than the reference pressure.2. The reaction chamber of claim 1 , wherein the reference pressure is atmospheric pressure.3. The reaction chamber of claim 1 , wherein the reference pressure chamber is at least partially formed of an elastomeric material.4. The reaction chamber of claim 1 , wherein the catalyst sealing member comprises a cup disposable against a sealing member claim ...

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Номер записи: 26
24-03-2016 дата публикации

COOLING SYSTEM FOR FUEL CELLS

Номер: US20160087297A1
Автор: Hood Peter David
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell assembly has a fuel cell with a membrane electrode assembly disposed between an anode fluid flow plate and a cathode fluid flow plate. The cathode flow plate defines a flow channel for conveying oxidant to the membrane electrode assembly. The flow channel has an inlet and an outlet. A plasma discharge fan is configured to generate air flow into said inlet. The plasma discharge fan may also be configured to generate ozone flow into the inlet, thereby enhancing electrochemical reaction at the cathode side of the membrane electrode assembly. A plurality of the fuel cells may be configured in a stack arrangement, whereby the inlets for the plurality of fuel cells in the stack form an air inlet face of the fuel cell stack. The plasma discharge fan may comprise a plate structure disposed over the stack air inlet face, being configured to deliver a generally uniform air flow into the stack air inlet face over substantially its entire area. 1. A fuel cell assembly comprising:a fuel cell having a membrane electrode assembly disposed between an anode fluid flow plate and a cathode fluid flow plate, the cathode flow plate defining a flow channel for conveying oxidant to the membrane electrode assembly, the flow channel having an inlet and an outlet; anda plasma discharge fan configured to generate air flow into said inlet.2. The fuel cell assembly of in which the plasma discharge fan is configured to generate both air flow and ozone flow into the inlet.3. The fuel cell assembly of further comprising a plurality of said fuel cells configured in a stack arrangement claim 1 , the inlets for the plurality of fuel cells in the stack forming an air inlet face of the fuel cell stack; andwherein the plasma discharge fan comprises a plate structure disposed over the stack air inlet face.4. The fuel cell assembly of in which the plate structure of the plasma discharge fan is configured to deliver a generally uniform air flow into the stack air inlet face over substantially ...

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Номер записи: 27
21-03-2019 дата публикации

FLUID FLOW PLATE FOR A FUEL CELL

Номер: US20190088957A1
Автор: Adcock Paul Leonard, Hood Peter David
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fluid flow plate for an electrochemical fuel cell assembly comprises a first plurality of fluid flow channels extending across an area of the flow plate to define a flow field of the fluid flow plate. An array of first fluid transfer points is disposed along an edge of the flow field for communicating fluid into or out of the fluid flow channels. A gallery has a first peripheral edge portion bounded by the array of first fluid transfer points and at least two second peripheral edge portions each bounded by an array of second fluid transfer points disposed along fluid access edges of the fluid flow plate. The at least two second peripheral edge portions are disposed at oblique angles to the first peripheral edge portion such that the total length of the any of second fluid transfer points is at least as long as, and preferably longer than, the length of the array of first fluid transfer points. Disposing the at least two second peripheral edge portions at oblique angles to the first peripheral edge portion enables the lengths of the second peripheral edge portions of each gallery to be increased compared to the length of the first fluid transfer points (i.e. width of the active flow field area) which optimises fluid distribution into the channels of the flow plate. 1. A method of directing a fluid flow in an electrochemical fuel cell assembly , the method comprising:defining a flow field of fluid flow channels in a fluid flow plate, the first plurality of fluid flow channels defining a cathode fluid flow field, an array of first fluid transfer points disposed along an edge of the flow field for communicating fluid into or out of the first plurality of fluid flow channels;forming a first distribution gallery having a first peripheral edge portion bounded by the array of first fluid transfer points with at least two second peripheral edge portions each bounded by one of at least two arrays of second fluid transfer points disposed along at least two cathode fluid ...

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Номер записи: 28
05-04-2018 дата публикации

FLOW FIELD PLATES IN FUEL CELLS

Номер: US20180097241A1
Автор: Conlon Christopher
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A method of producing a flow field plate for a fuel cell comprises over-profiling relief features in a die set to more accurately reproduce the intended flow channel features in the pressed plate. The process includes determining a target relief profile of features extending across the plate along at least a first dimension of the plate, modulating the relief profile with an over-profiling parameter, as a function of the first dimension; forming a die with the modulated relief profile; and pressing a flow field plate using the die with modulated relief profile to thereby produce the unmodulated, target relief profile in the flow field plate. 1. A flow field plate for a fuel cell , comprising:a plate with a relief profile extending along at least a first dimension of the plate;said plate having a plurality of channels extending across the plate, the plurality of channels having a uniform height across the flow field plate, andwherein the relief profile defines the plurality of channels with a non-uniform height, with channel depth increasing towards the center of the modulated relief profile.2. The plate of claim 1 , further comprising a relief profile of features extending across the plate along a second dimension of the plate orthogonal to the first dimension.3. The plate of claim 2 , wherein the relief profile comprises a height factor applied to the height of features in the relief profile claim 2 , the height factor varying as a function of distance along at least one of the first and second dimension.4. The plate of claim 2 , wherein the relief profile comprises a width factor applied to the width of features in the relief profile claim 2 , the width factor varying as a function of distance along at least one of the first dimension and second dimension.5. The plate of claim 1 , which the relief profile comprises an offset to a baseline of the relief profile claim 1 , the offset varying as a function of distance along at least the first dimension.6. The plate of ...

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Номер записи: 29
13-04-2017 дата публикации

FUEL CELL SYSTEM

Номер: US20170104226A9
Автор: Adcock Paul, Baird Scott, Hood Pater David, Kells Ashley
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A method of starting operation of a fuel cell system which includes at least a fuel cell stack the method includes opening an anode inlet valve to allow fuel to enter an anode volume of the fuel cell stack; then operating an air compressor in fluid communication with a cathode air inlet of the fuel cell stack to allow air to enter a cathode volume of the fuel cell stack monitoring the temperature of the cathode inlet and/or outlet operating a water injection system to inject water into the cathode volume once the temperature of fluid passing through the cathode inlet and/or outlet exceeds a preset level, wherein a current drawn from the fuel cell stack is limited to prevent a voltage measured across one or more cells in the fuel cell stack from falling below a first voltage threshold. 1. A fuel cell stack comprising a plurality of fuel cells , each end of the fuel cell stack having a heater plate disposed between a current collector plate and an end plate , each heater plate being thermally insulated from a respective end plate.2. The fuel cell stack of wherein each heater plate comprises a heating element in the form of an electrically conductive track on the heater plate.3. The fuel cell stack of wherein the electrically conductive track is in the form of a serpentine track across a portion of the heater plate corresponding to an active area of cells within the fuel cell stack.4. The fuel cell stack of wherein the electrically conductive track is buried beneath a surface of the heater plate.5. The fuel cell stack of wherein the heater plate comprises a pair of spade terminals extending from an edge of the heater plate claim 2 , the terminals being separated by an air gap.6. The fuel cell stack of wherein the heater plate comprises a water distribution passageway configured to allow passage of coolant from a water injection line in communication with a first face of the heater plate through to one or more coolant ports on an opposing second face of the heater plate ...

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Номер записи: 30
20-04-2017 дата публикации

COOLING PLATES FOR FUEL CELLS

Номер: US20170110740A1
Автор: Adcock Paul Leonard, Christie Carl, Conlon Christopher, Gurney Christopher James, Jowsey Lydia, Stevenson Simon
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A separator plate in an air-cooled fuel cell comprises a series of airflow channels, each channel extending longitudinally between first and second opposing edges of the separator plate. Each channel has a cross-sectional profile defining an airflow cross-section at points along the length of the channel, and at least selected ones of the channels each have a thermally conductive structure extending into the channel cross-section at selected intermediate longitudinal positions of the channel. The positions are disposed over an active area of the fuel cell, to locally enhance heat transfer from the active area via the plate to airflow moving through the channel. 1. A separator plate in an air-cooled fuel cell comprising:a series of airflow channels, each channel extending longitudinally between first and second opposing edges of the separator plate,each channel having a cross-sectional profile defining an airflow cross-section at points along the length of the channel, and,at least selected ones of the channels each having a thermally conductive structure extending into the channel cross-section at selected intermediate longitudinal positions of the channel, the positions being disposed over an active area of the fuel cell, to locally enhance heat transfer from the active area via the plate to airflow moving through the channel.2. The fuel cell separator plate of in which the thermally conductive structure extending into the channel cross-section is a fin.3. The fuel cell separator plate of in which the thermally conductive structure extending into the channel cross-section is one or more bumps.4. The fuel cell separator plate of in which the thermally conductive structure extending into the channel cross-section is a partition wall extending to the height or width of the channel cross-section.5. The fuel cell separator plate of in which the fin or bump varies in height as a function of distance along the length of the channel.6. The fuel cell separator plate of in ...

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Номер записи: 31
19-05-2016 дата публикации

PUMP ASSEMBLY

Номер: US20160138579A1
Автор: NORMAN Alexander David
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A pump assembly comprising: a chamber; a compressible conduit provided along a periphery of the chamber; a sun member provided within the chamber; and a planet member arranged to orbit around the sun member, the planet member having: a first portion engaged with the sun member; and a second portion configured to be engaged with a section of the compressible conduit in order to cause the section to be constricted, wherein the first portion has a different texture to the second portion. 2. The pump assembly of in which the sun member comprises a drive member for providing the motive force to planet member.3. The pump assembly of in which the drive member is driven by a stepper motor.4. The pump assembly of in which the second portion is smoother than the first portion.5. The pump assembly of in which the first portion comprises a cylindrical roller that is co-axial with the first portion.6. (canceled)7. (canceled)8. The pump assembly of in which the first portion of the planet member comprises a first gear part and a second gear part separated by the second portion of the planet member; and a first portion of the sun member comprises a first gear part and a second gear part separated by a second portion of the sun member.9. The pump assembly of in which the diameter of the second portion of the planet member and the pitch circle diameter of the first portion of the planet member are substantially equal and the diameter of the second portion of the sun member and the pitch circle diameter of the first portion of the sun member are substantially equal.10. The pump assembly of wherein the planet member is configured to occlude the section.11. The pump assembly of comprising an annulus engaged with the first portion of the planet member.12. The pump assembly of wherein the compressible tube is provided in an arc around the sun member.13. The pump assembly of wherein the compressible tube is provided in a channel in the chamber.14. The pump assembly of wherein the channel ...

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Номер записи: 32
19-05-2016 дата публикации

COOLANT PURIFICATION

Номер: US20160141648A1
Автор: Crespy Mathias, Ninan Daniel, Rama Pratap
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell system comprises an antimicrobial patterned surface. The fuel cell system may comprise a fuel cell stack, a coolant reservoir, and a coolant flow path configured to supply coolant from the coolant reservoir to the fuel cell stack. One or more of the fuel cell stack, the coolant reservoir and the coolant flow path may comprise the antimicrobial patterned surface. 1. A fuel cell system comprising an antimicrobial patterned surface.3. The fuel cell system of claim 1 , wherein the antimicrobial patterned surface comprises microscale corrugations for inhibiting microbial growth.4. The fuel cell system of claim 3 , wherein the microscale corrugations each have a width of between 10 and 100 microns.5. The fuel cell system of claim 3 , wherein the microscale corrugations are separated across their width by a spacing of between 10 and 100 microns.6. The fuel cell system of claim 3 , wherein the microscale corrugations each have a depth of between 10 and 100 microns.7. The fuel cell system of claim 1 , wherein the antimicrobial patterned surface comprises a cellular relief pattern.8. The fuel cell system of any of claim 1 , wherein the antimicrobial patterned surface has an average roughness factor of between 2 and 30 claim 1 , the average roughness factor determined as the ratio of the actual surface area to the geometric surface area.9. The fuel cell system of wherein the antimicrobial patterned surface is chemically inert.10. The fuel cell system of wherein the antimicrobial patterned surface is chemically antimicrobial.11. The fuel cell system of wherein the coolant is water.12. The fuel cell system of comprising an ultra violet light source arranged in a coolant flow path for supplying coolant to a fuel cell stack claim 1 , the UV light source positioned upstream of the fuel cell stack.13. The fuel cell system of comprising a deionisation apparatus arranged in a coolant flow path for supplying coolant to a fuel cell stack claim 1 , the deionisation apparatus ...

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Номер записи: 33
07-08-2014 дата публикации

Fuel Cell Assembly

Номер: US20140220473A1
Автор: Cole Jonathan, Conlon Christopher, Hood Peter David, Kirk Christopher James
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

The invention relates to fuel cell assemblies, and in particular to improvements relating to sealing of such assemblies, embodiments of which include a fuel cell assembly () comprising a membrane electrode assembly (), a cathode separator plate () having a series of corrugations extending, and providing air flow paths, between first and second opposing edges of the plate, a gasket () providing a fluid seal around a peripheral edge of the membrane electrode assembly () between the separator plate () and the membrane electrode assembly () and a metal shim () disposed between the gasket () and the separator plate () over the peripheral edge of the membrane electrode assembly (). 1. A fuel cell assembly comprising:a membrane electrode assembly;a cathode separator plate having a series of corrugations extending, and providing air flow paths, between first and second opposing edges of the plate;a gasket providing a fluid seal around a peripheral edge of the membrane electrode assembly between the separator plate and the membrane electrode assembly; anda metal shim disposed between the gasket and the separator plate over the peripheral edge of the membrane electrode assembly,wherein the metal shim is provided as an integral part of the separator plate, the metal shim comprising first and second strips longitudinally extending transverse the corrugations of the separator plate and extending along respective first and second opposing edges of the plate.2. The fuel cell assembly of wherein the metal shim is composed of a stainless steel.3. The fuel cell assembly of wherein the metal shim has a thickness of between 50 and 150 micrometres.4. The fuel cell assembly of wherein the metal shim has a nominal thickness of around 100 micrometres.5. A fuel cell assembly comprising:a membrane electrode assembly;a cathode separator plate having a series of corrugations extending, and providing air flow paths, between first and second opposing edges of the plate;a gasket providing a fluid ...

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Номер записи: 34
04-06-2015 дата публикации

Hydrogen Generator with Improved Volume Efficiency

Номер: US20150151265A1
Автор: Stimits Jason L., Zheng Guanghong
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A hydrogen generator with improved volume efficiency and a method of producing hydrogen gas with the hydrogen generator are disclosed. A fluid containing a reactant is transported from a reactant storage area to a reaction area. Hydrogen gas passes through, and an effluent pass from the reaction area into the effluent storage area that is in a volume exchanging relationship with one or both of the reactant storage area and the reaction area. An initially compressed filter is disposed in the effluent storage area to remove solids from the hydrogen gas. The filter is attached to a moveable partition separating the effluent storage area from the reactant storage area and/or the reaction area, and the filter expands as the volume of the effluent storage area increases. 1. A hydrogen generator comprising:a container;a pump with the container;a first reactant storage area within the container, the first reactant storage area having a volume and configured to contain a fluid comprising a first reactant;a reaction area within the container, the reaction area having a volume;a fluid passage from the first reactant storage area to the pump, to the reaction area;an effluent storage area within the container, the effluent storage area having a volume and configured to pass through hydrogen gas and store an effluent produced by a reaction of the first reactant within the reaction area;an effluent passage from the reaction area to the effluent storage area;an initially compressed filter within the effluent storage area;a liquid impermeable, gas permeable component in fluid communication with the effluent storage area; and a hydrogen outlet; wherein: the initially compressed filter is configured to expand to contain a portion of the effluent, the effluent storage area volume is configured to increased, and at least one of the first reactant storage area volume and the reaction area volume is configured to decrease during operation of the hydrogen generator;a moveable partition ...

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Номер записи: 35
26-05-2016 дата публикации

MODULAR FUEL CELL AND FUEL SOURCE

Номер: US20160149235A1
Автор: Carnall Andrew John, Kells Ashley James, Nicholas Simon
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell power module is coupled to a fuel supply reactor module by way of an adaptor which includes some of the control elements for controlling reaction of reactants in the reactor module. The adaptor includes a housing and a first connection interface in the housing for detachably coupling the adaptor to a fuel cell power module fuel inlet port and a second connection interface in the housing for detachably coupling the adaptor to a reactor module fuel outlet port. A fluid line extends between the first connection interface and the second connection interface. The adaptor includes a motive unit of a flow control mechanism configured to provide motive power to a flow circuit of a reactor module when the reactor module is coupled to the adaptor. The adaptor enables a fuel cell power module to be interfaced with different types of reactor modules having different form factor and different control requirements. 1. An adaptor for a fuel cell power source comprising:a housing;a first connection interface in the housing for detachably coupling the adaptor to a fuel cell power module fuel inlet port;a second connection interface in the housing for detachably coupling the adaptor to a reactor module fuel outlet port;a fluid line extending between the first connection interface and the second connection interface;a motive unit of a flow control mechanism configured to provide motive power to a flow circuit of a reactor module when the reactor module is coupled to the adaptor.2. The adaptor of in which:the motive unit comprises a motor and pump, andthe second connection interface further comprises a first reactant port and a second reactant port, the pump being disposed in a fluid line extending between the first reactant port and the second reactant port.3. The adaptor of in which the motive unit comprises a pump motor having a drive output disposed on the second connection interface for coupling to a pump head in the reactor module.4. The adaptor of in which the motor ...

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Номер записи: 36
09-06-2016 дата публикации

HYDROGEN PRODUCING FUEL CARTRIDGE AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING HYDROGEN

Номер: US20160164123A1
Автор: Hood Peter David, Winand Henri
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

In aspects of the disclosure, a fuel cartridge wherein the fuel is in a powdered form is admixed with inert materials such as alumina or other ceramics to improve thermal conductivity. Said cartridge having fuel zones, heating zones, and controllers to selectively heat fuel zones and thereby generate hydrogen via decomposition of fuel is disclosed. 11. A fuel cartridge () comprising:{'b': 6', '5, 'a frame () and folded PCB () forming a box sealed together forming a substantially hydrogen impermeable enclosure;'}{'b': '16', 'a plurality of fuel regions (A-N)'}{'b': 11', '19', '19, 'affixed to inner wall () of the PCB are one or more switching thermal control mechanisms (A and B);'}{'b': '17', 'electrically connected to said switching thermal control mechanisms are resistance heater elements ();'}{'b': '100', 'fuel () within each of the plurality fuel regions;'}{'b': '15', 'a hydrogen output () fluidly communicating from inside the box to outside; and,'}{'b': '14', 'a power connection () electrically connected to said thermal control mechanisms communicating from outside the box to inside the box.'}2. The fuel cartridge of claim 1 , wherein said fuel is comprised of at least one of sodium borohydrate claim 1 , alane or ammonia borane.3. The fuel cartridge of wherein inert materials such as alumina or other ceramics are added to the fuel to improve thermal conductivity.4. The fuel cartridge of claim 1 , further comprising one or more bulkheads (DV) to separate fuel regions.5. The fuel cartridge of claim 1 , further comprising one or more switching mechanisms.612. The fuel cartridge of claim 1 , further comprising malleable regions () of the PCB whereby the PCB may be folded.7. The fuel cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the sealing is at least one adhesive bond claim 1 , membrane claim 1 , cover claim 1 , epoxy claim 1 , coating claim 1 , wrapping claim 1 , sonic weld claim 1 , weld claim 1 , high temperature silicone and will withstand the operating pressures to provide ...

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Номер записи: 37
09-06-2016 дата публикации

SWITCHING CONTROLLER

Номер: US20160164285A1
Автор: Adcock Paul, Braithwate Mark, ELLIOTT Zachary, Kirk Christopher, Kupcho Kevin
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A switching controller for coupling one of a plurality of voltage sources to a load. The switching controller is configured to receive a characteristic of one of the plurality of voltage sources; for each of the plurality of voltage sources, set a proportion of a switching period of a control signal during which the voltage source is connected to the load, wherein the proportion of the switching period is set based on the received characteristic of one of the plurality of voltage sources; and control which of the plurality of voltage sources is connected to the load in accordance with the control signal. 1. A switching controller to couple one of a plurality of voltage sources to a load , the switching controller configured to:receive a characteristic of a fuel cell stack;for each of the plurality of voltage sources, including but not limited to the fuel cell stack, set a proportion of a switching period of a control signal during which the voltage source is connected to the load, wherein the proportion of the switching period is set based on the received characteristic of the fuel cell stack; andcontrol which of the plurality of voltage sources is connected to the load in accordance with the control signal such that an average energy provided to the load over the switching period is shared between the fuel cell and the other voltage sources.2. (canceled)3. The switching controller of claim 1 , wherein the received characteristic of the fuel cell stack is a function of one or more of: stack voltage claim 1 , voltage of one or more fuel cells in the fuel cell stack claim 1 , stack current claim 1 , stack temperature and fuel cell stack fuel pressure.4. The switching controller of claim 1 , wherein the frequency of the switching period is less than 1 kHz.5. The switching controller of claim 1 , wherein the frequency of the switching period is less than 100 Hz.6. The switching controller of claim 1 , wherein one of the plurality of voltage sources is a battery.7. The ...

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Номер записи: 38
24-06-2021 дата публикации

AERIAL DRONE

Номер: US20210188453A1
Автор: Edgar David, Winand Henri
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

The disclosure relates to an unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein the fuel cell provides a structural component of the vehicle. 1. An unmanned aerial vehicle comprising a plurality of fuel cells , wherein the fuel cells provide a structural component of the vehicle;wherein the fuel cells are distributed about the vehicle and,wherein the vehicle comprises a plurality of propulsion modules and each propulsion module is associated with a respective one of the plurality of fuel cells.2. An unmanned aerial vehicle comprising a plurality of fuel cells , wherein the fuel cells provide a structural component of the vehicle; andwherein an air inlet of each fuel cell is associated with a respective propulsion module.3. The unmanned aerial vehicle of claim 1 , wherein each propulsion module is configured to provide oxidant and/or coolant to the associated fuel cell.4. The unmanned aerial vehicle of claim 3 , wherein each propulsion module is the only active source of oxidant and/or coolant to the associated fuel cell.5. The unmanned aerial vehicle of claim 3 , wherein each propulsion module has a propeller or rotor.6. The unmanned aerial vehicle of claim 3 , wherein at least one fuel cell is integral with a surface of the vehicle.7. The unmanned aerial vehicle of claim 3 , wherein each fuel cell provides power for propulsion of the vehicle.8. The unmanned aerial vehicle of claim 3 , wherein at least one of the plurality of fuel cells provides power for auxiliary or on-board functions of the vehicle.9. The unmanned aerial vehicle of claim 2 , wherein each propulsion module is configured to provide oxidant and/or coolant to the associated fuel cell.10. The unmanned aerial vehicle of claim 9 , wherein each propulsion module is the only active source of oxidant and/or coolant to the associated fuel cell.11. The unmanned aerial vehicle of claim 9 , wherein each propulsion module has a propeller or rotor.12. The unmanned aerial vehicle of claim 9 , wherein at least one fuel cell is ...

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Номер записи: 39
14-05-2020 дата публикации

FLUID FLOW PLATE FOR A FUEL CELL

Номер: US20200152999A1
Автор: Adcock Paul Leonard, Hood Peter David
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fluid flow plate for an electrochemical fuel cell assembly comprises a first plurality of fluid flow channels extending across an area of the flow plate to define a flow field of the fluid flow plate. An array of first fluid transfer points is disposed along an edge of the flow field for communicating fluid into or out of the fluid flow channels. A gallery has a first peripheral edge portion bounded by the array of first fluid transfer points and at least two second peripheral edge portions each bounded by an array of second fluid transfer points disposed along fluid access edges of the fluid flow plate. The at least two second peripheral edge portions are disposed at oblique angles to the first peripheral edge portion such that the total length of the any of second fluid transfer points is at least as long as, and preferably longer than, the length of the array of first fluid transfer points. Disposing the at least two second peripheral edge portions at oblique angles to the first peripheral edge portion enables the lengths of the second peripheral edge portions of each gallery to be increased compared to the length of the first fluid transfer points (i.e. width of the active flow field area) which optimizes fluid distribution into the channels of the flow plate. 1. A method of directing a fluid flow in an electrochemical fuel cell assembly , the method comprising:defining a flow field of fluid flow channels in a fluid flow plate, a first plurality of fluid flow channels defining a cathode fluid flow field, an array of first fluid transfer points being disposed along an edge of the flow field for communicating fluid into or out of the first plurality of fluid flow channels; andforming a first distribution gallery having a first peripheral edge portion bounded by the array of first fluid transfer points with at least two second peripheral edge portions each bounded by one of at least two arrays of second fluid transfer points disposed along at least two cathode ...

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Номер записи: 40
16-06-2016 дата публикации

FUEL CELL STACK ASSEMBLY

Номер: US20160172703A1
Автор: Horlock Mark Phillip
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell stack assembly () comprising a fuel cell stack () comprising one or more fuel cells and a retaining member () comprising a first engaging region () that engages a first end face () of the fuel cell stack (), a second engaging region () that engages a second opposing end face () of the fuel cell stack (, and a joining region () configured to bias the first engaging region () towards the second engaging region (). The retaining member () defines a fluid chamber () for communicating a fluid to or from the fuel cell stack (). 1. A fuel cell stack assembly comprising:a fuel cell stack having one or more fuel cells; and a first engaging region that engages a first end face of the fuel cell stack;', 'a second engaging region that engages a second opposing end face of the fuel cell stack; and', 'a joining region configured to bias the first engaging region towards the second engaging region,, 'a retaining member withwherein the retaining member defines a fluid chamber for communicating a fluid to or from the fuel cell stack.2. The fuel cell stack assembly of claim 1 , wherein the fluid is fuel or water.3. The fuel cell stack assembly of claim 1 , wherein the retaining member extends in a direction that is parallel to the direction of air flow through the fuel cell stack.4. The fuel cell stack assembly of claim 1 , wherein the fluid chamber is encased within the retaining member.5. The fuel cell stack assembly of claim 4 , wherein the fluid chamber comprises a gallery within the retaining member.6. The fuel cell stack assembly of claim 1 , wherein the retaining member defines:a first fluid chamber for communicating air to or from the fuel cell stack; anda second fluid chamber for communicating fuel to or from the fuel cell stack.7. The fuel cell stack assembly of claim 6 , wherein the retaining member is configured to define the first fluid chamber with a ventilation face of the fuel cell stack claim 6 , and define the second fluid chamber with a fuel ...

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Номер записи: 41
30-05-2019 дата публикации

COOLANT PURIFICATION

Номер: US20190165388A1
Автор: Crespy Mathias, Rama Pratap
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell stack is disclosed. An ozone generator is configured to introduce ozone into a coolant in the fuel cell system. A deionisation apparatus is coupled to the fuel cell stack. A bypass conduit is arranged in parallel with the deionisation apparatus. A controller is configured to control flow of the coolant to the fuel cell stack through either the deionisation apparatus or the bypass conduit based on the operating state of the ozone generator. 1. A method of operating a fuel cell system , the method comprising:introducing ozone with an ozone generator into a coolant in the fuel cell system;controlling flow of the coolant to a fuel cell stack in the fuel cell system with a controller,determining a level of ozone in the flow of the coolant; andcomparing the level of ozone with a predetermined threshold level of ozone in the coolant;wherein the controlling of the flow of the coolant comprises directing the flow of the coolant through either a deionisation apparatus or a bypass conduit based on an operating state of the ozone generator,wherein the bypass conduit is arranged in parallel with the deionization apparatus and the deionization apparatus is coupled to the fuel cell stack;wherein the flow of the coolant is directed through the bypass conduit when the level of ozone in the coolant is above the predetermined threshold level of ozone in the coolant; and,wherein the flow of the coolant is directed through the deionisation apparatus when the level of ozone in the coolant is below a predetermined threshold level of ozone in the coolant.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the method further comprises controlling the coolant flow to the fuel cell stack by controlling the position of a valve to direct coolant either through the deionisation apparatus or through the bypass conduit.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the method further comprises:directing coolant containing ozone to a coolant reservoir;wherein the coolant reservoir is ...

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Номер записи: 42
02-07-2015 дата публикации

FUEL CELL SYSTEM

Номер: US20150188158A1
Автор: Adcock Paul, Baird Scott, Hood Pater David, Kells Ashley
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A method of starting operation of a fuel cell system which includes at least a fuel cell stack the method includes opening an anode inlet valve to allow fuel to enter an anode volume of the fuel cell stack; then operating an air compressor in fluid communication with a cathode air inlet of the fuel cell stack to allow air to enter a cathode volume of the fuel cell stack monitoring the temperature of the cathode inlet and/or outlet operating a water injection system to inject water into the cathode volume once the temperature of fluid passing through the cathode inlet and/or outlet exceeds a preset level, wherein a current drawn from the fuel cell stack is limited to prevent a voltage measured across one or more cells in the fuel cell stack from falling below a first voltage threshold. 1. A fuel cell stack comprising a plurality of fuel cells , each end of the fuel cell stack having a heater plate disposed between a current collector plate and an end plate , each heater plate being thermally insulated from a respective end plate.2. The fuel cell stack of wherein each heater plate comprises a heating element in the form of an electrically conductive track on the heater plate.3. The fuel cell stack of wherein the electrically conductive track is in the form of a serpentine track across a portion of the heater plate corresponding to an active area of cells within the fuel cell stack.4. The fuel cell stack of wherein the electrically conductive track is buried beneath a surface of the heater plate.5. The fuel cell stack of wherein the heater plate comprises a pair of spade terminals extending from an edge of the heater plate claim 2 , the terminals being separated by an air gap.6. The fuel cell stack of wherein the heater plate comprises a water distribution passageway configured to allow passage of coolant from a water injection line in communication with a first face of the heater plate through to one or more coolant ports on an opposing second face of the heater plate ...

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Номер записи: 43
08-07-2021 дата публикации

Thermal Managing End Plate For Fuel Cell Stack Assembly

Номер: US20210210772A1
Автор: Cole Jonathan, Longley Stephen
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

Fuel cell stack assemblies having a positive end plate and a negative end plate. The end plates can be formed from a central structural clement with an insulating end plate cover and an insulating end plate manifold. A plurality of cathode plates and a plurality of fuel cell assemblies can be arranged in a stack having an alternating pattern of cathode plates and fuel cell assemblies, with the positive end plate and the negative end plate provided on either end of the stack of cathode plates and fuel cell assemblies. 1300300. A negative end plate () for thermal management in a fuel cell stack assembly , wherein the negative end plate () is formed from a plurality of separate components comprising:{'b': 320', '321', '322, 'a central structural element () having a top face () and a bottom face ();'}{'b': 310', '321, 'a negative end plate cover () covering the top face (); and'}{'b': 330', '322, 'a negative end plate manifold () for fluid flow, covering the bottom face ();'}{'b': '320', 'claim-text': {'b': 310', '330, 'wherein the negative end plate cover (), negative end plate manifold (), or both are formed from an electrically insulating material selected from the group consisting of PC-ABS blends, PET, glass-filled PET, PA6, glass-filled PA6, PBT, PEI, and mixtures thereof.'}, 'wherein the central structural element () is formed from one of aluminum, a para-aramid synthetic fiber and a carbon fiber composite; and'}2. The negative end plate of any claim 1 , wherein:{'b': 310', '330', '320, 'the negative end plate cover () and negative end plate manifold () are releasably engageable to each other through a portion of the central structural element () via a plurality of snap clips.'}3. The negative end plate of claim 1 , wherein:{'b': 320', '321', '322, 'the central structural element () is formed with a honeycombed structure with voids formed extending from the top face () to the bottom face ().'}4200200. A positive end plate () for thermal management in a fuel cell ...

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Номер записи: 44
30-06-2016 дата публикации

Fuel Cell Supply Including Information Storage Device and Control System

Номер: US20160190621A1
Автор: Adams Paul, Curello Andrew J., Fairbanks Floyd
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

The present invention is directed to a fuel cell system with various features for optimal operations of an electronic device, a battery charger or a fuel refilling device. The fuel cell system includes an information storage device associated with the fuel supply, pump and/or refilling device. The information storage device can be any electronic storage device including, but not limited to, an EEPROM or a PLA. The information storage device can include encrypted information. The information storage device can include software code for confirming the identification of the cartridge before operation of the electronic device and/or refilling device. The information storage device can include instructions for a hot swap operation to shut down properly when the fuel supply is ejected while the electronic device is in operation. The present invention is also directed to system architecture for a fuel cell system that utilizes information storage devices. The system architecture may have flow regulators, which include a regulating valve. 1. A fuel cell system to power an electronic device , the system comprising:a fuel supply,a controller operatively connected to an information storage device and a fuel cell,wherein the information storage device contains information relating to the fuel cell system including a fuel regulator and the fuel cell, and the controller reads and writes to the information storage device,wherein the fuel supply is in fluid communication with the fuel regulator and the fuel regulator is in fluid communication with the fuel cell, such that fuel from the fuel supply is transportable to the fuel cell for conversion to electricity, and,wherein the fuel regulator comprises a regulating valve.2. A fuel cell system to power an electronic device , the system comprising:a proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell system to provide electricity from a fuel;a fuel supply in fluid communication with the fuel cell system;at least one information storage device;a ...

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Номер записи: 45
13-06-2019 дата публикации

FLEXIBLE FUEL CELL POWER SYSTEM

Номер: US20190181484A1
Автор: Melack John, Peng Linna, Rambach Glenn, Sparks Rodney, WALLACE Andrew
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A flexible fuel cell power system comprising one or more fuel cell cartridges (which contain fuel cell modules) connected to a fuel cell system is provided. The components of the flexible fuel cell power system may be placed on a shared backbone with flexible joints, and may be made of flexible materials so that the entire system can be worn by a human being. 1. A portable flexible fuel cell power system comprising:a fuel cell cartridge comprising a plurality of fuel cell modules and a water compartment,a fuel cell system, anda platform having bendable joints or flexures which permit said platform to be flexible;a plurality of connection points configured to engage a plurality of fuel cell modules and water compartments via a plurality of interface pins;wherein one of the plurality of connection points comprises a water supply interface connected with a tube to a water pump, with the water compartment connected to the water supply interface;{'sub': '2', 'wherein two or more of the plurality of connection points each comprise an H-out interface pin and a water-in interface pin, with the plurality of fuel cell modules connected to the two or more connection points;'}wherein each water-in interface pin is connected with a tube to a selector valve block configured to control and direct the flow of water to the plurality of fuel cell modules.2. The portable flexible fuel cell power system of claim 1 , wherein the platform is conformable to mount around at least a portion of a person.3. The portable flexible fuel cell power system of claim 1 , further comprising a common rail line connected to the plurality of H-out interface pins and configured to feed Hto the fuel cell system.4. The portable flexible fuel cell power system of claim 1 , wherein said fuel cell cartridge or said plurality of fuel cell modules are removably attached to said platform.5. The portable flexible fuel cell power system of claim 1 , wherein one or more of said platform claim 1 , said fuel cell ...

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Номер записи: 46
07-07-2016 дата публикации

GAS FILLING APPARATUS AND METHOD

Номер: US20160195219A1
Автор: BENNETT Colin, Choudhury Monjur, Conlon Christopher, Cort Colin, Mistry Hiten, Payne Simon
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A gas filling apparatus for filling a plurality of gas storage vessels with a gas, the apparatus comprising a plurality of gas filling ports, each port configured to introduce gas into one of the gas storage vessels, and a controller configured to supply gas to the gas filling ports for filling the vessels and to control the supply of gas to all of the gas filling ports based on a property of any one of the vessels. 1. A gas filling apparatus for filling a plurality of gas storage vessels with a gas , the apparatus comprising:a plurality of gas filling ports, each port configured to introduce gas into one of the gas storage vessels; and,a controller configured to supply gas to the gas filling ports for filling the vessels and to control the supply of gas to all of the gas filling ports based on a property of any one of the vessels.2. A gas filling apparatus according to claim 1 , in which the gas filling ports extend from a common manifold which is adapted to be supplied with gas.3. A gas filling apparatus according to claim 1 , in which the apparatus includes a plurality of vessel sensors claim 1 , each sensor configured to be associated with one of the gas storage vessels for determining the property of any one of the vessels.4. A gas filling apparatus according to claim 3 , in which each sensor is configured to measure the temperature of its associated vessel.5. A gas filling apparatus according to claim 1 , in which the controller is configured to progressively increase the pressure of the gas supplied to the vessels.6. A gas filling apparatus according to claim 5 , in which the controller is configured to control the supply of gas to the vessels in the event the temperature of any one of the plurality of vessels exceeds a predetermined threshold.7. A gas filling apparatus according to claim 5 , in which the controller claim 5 , in the event the temperature of any one of the plurality of vessels exceeds a predetermined threshold claim 5 , is configured to halt ...

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Номер записи: 47
15-07-2021 дата публикации

COOLING PLATES FOR FUEL CELLS

Номер: US20210218038A1
Автор: Christie Carl, Gurney Christopher J., Jowsey Lydia, Karmazyn Harry J.
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

Separator plates () for fuel cell assemblies have a first edge () and a second, opposing edge (). The fuel cell separator plates define a series of airflow channels () extending longitudinally between the first and second edges. The airflow channels can be non-linear airflow channels formed from a linked series of bumps () opposite to corresponding recesses () in the facing channel walls. The linked series of bumps and recesses can run the entire channel length. The linked series of bumps and recesses can be formed as a sinusoidal wave having an amplitude and a frequency. 1108300400410. A fuel cell separator plate (; ; ; ) comprising:{'b': 110', '310, 'a first edge (; );'}{'b': 111', '311, 'a second, opposing, edge (; );'}{'b': 108', '300', '400', '410', '112', '113', '312', '313', '401', '411', '108', '300', '400', '410, 'wherein the separator plate (; ; ; ) defines a series of airflow channels (, ; , ; ; ) extending longitudinally between the first and second opposing edges of the separator plate (; ; ; );'}{'b': 108', '300', '400', '410', '320', '321, 'wherein the separator plate (; ; ; ) comprises non-linear airflow channels formed from a linked series of bumps () opposite to corresponding recesses () in the facing channel wall;'}{'b': 110', '111', '310', '311, 'wherein the distance between the first and second opposing edges (,; ,) corresponds to a channel length l; and'}{'b': 320', '321', '320', '321, 'sub': 'b', 'wherein the linked series of bumps () and recesses () run the entire channel length l, and the linked series of bumps () and recesses () are formed as a sinusoidal wave having an amplitude hand a frequency.'}2108300400410. The fuel cell separator plate (; ; ; ) of claim 1 , wherein:{'b': 201', '201', '213', '214', '112', '113, 'the separator plate defines the series of airflow channels with a plurality of corrugations (), each corrugation () in the separator plate comprising a crest () and a trough () defining the air flow channels (, ); and'}{'b': ...

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Номер записи: 48
07-07-2016 дата публикации

COOLANT PURIFICATION

Номер: US20160197364A1
Автор: Crespy Mathias, Rama Pratap
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell stack is disclosed. An ozone generator is configured to introduce ozone into a coolant in the fuel cell system. A deionisation apparatus is coupled to the fuel cell stack. A bypass conduit is arranged in parallel with the deionisation apparatus. A controller is configured to control flow of the coolant to the fuel cell stack through either the deionisation apparatus or the bypass conduit based on the operating state of the ozone generator. 1. A fuel cell system comprising:a fuel cell stack;an ozone generator configured to introduce ozone into a coolant in the fuel cell system;a deionisation apparatus coupled to the fuel cell stack;a bypass conduit arranged in parallel with the deionisation apparatus; and,a controller configured to control flow of the coolant to the fuel cell stack through either the deionisation apparatus or the bypass conduit based on the operating state of the ozone generator.2. The fuel cell system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured such that coolant passes through the bypass conduit when a level of ozone in the coolant is determined to be above a predetermined threshold claim 1 , and such that coolant passes through the deionisation apparatus when the level of ozone in the coolant is determined to be below a predetermined threshold.3. The fuel cell system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured to control the coolant flow to the fuel cell stack such that: an ozone generation period, during which the ozone generator introduces ozone into the coolant; and,', 'an ozone decomposition period., 'the coolant passes through the bypass conduit during;'}4. The fuel cell system of claim 3 , such that the controller is configured to control the coolant flow to the fuel cell stack such that coolant passes through the deionisation apparatus outside the ozone generation period and the ozone decomposition period.5. The fuel cell system of claim 3 , wherein the ozone decomposition period is a ...

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Номер записи: 49
22-07-2021 дата публикации

Devices and Methods for Controlling A Fluid Module

Номер: US20210226231A1
Автор: Gurney Christopher James
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

Disclosed are methods and devices for controlling freezing of a cooling module for use in a fuel cell system. The cooling module includes a first chamber configured to receive a first material, a second chamber configured to receive a second material, and a first insulating layer disposed between the first chamber and the second chamber. The second chamber surrounds, at least partly, the first chamber. As ambient temperature decreases, the second material begins freezing before the first material begins freezing. 1. A cooling module for use in a fuel cell system , the cooling module comprising:a first chamber configured to receive a first material;a second chamber configured to receive a second material; anda first insulating layer disposed between the first chamber and the second chamber,wherein the second chamber at least partly surrounds the first chamber, andwherein, upon a decrease in ambient temperature, the second material begins freezing before the first material begins freezing.2. The coolant module of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first and second material is water.3. The coolant module of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first and second material is an exothermic gel.4. The coolant module of further comprising a second insulation surrounding the cooling module.5. The coolant module of further comprising at least one heating element in fluid communication with the first material.6. The coolant module of further comprising at least one heating element in fluid communication with the second material.7. The coolant module of or claim 1 , further comprising:at least one temperature sensor;a controller in signal communication with the at least one temperature sensor,wherein the controller controls the power provided to the at least one heating element in response to temperature data as indicated by the at least one temperature sensor.8. The coolant module of claim 7 , wherein the at least one temperature sensor includes a bimetallic switch.9. The ...

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Номер записи: 50
20-07-2017 дата публикации

PERFORMANCE BALANCING ELASTOMERIC HYDROGEN REACTOR

Номер: US20170203964A1
Автор: Garozzo Gaelle, HUANG HUA, KNIGHT Douglas, Stimits Jason
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A hydrogen producing reactor having a pellet core within a containment vessel. The vessel having an exit nozzle surrounding the pellet. Optionally, one or more elastomeric winding may be placed around the elastomeric or compressing material of the containment vessel; and, a water line to deliver fluid to the pellet. Whereby the containment compresses around the fuel pellet as it is used. Hydrogen and other products produced by the reactor within a cartridge is filtered with a clog-less filter and substantially pure hydrogen is output. 1. A hydrogen producing cartridge comprising:{'b': 11', '12', '13, 'a body (, , ) enclosing{'b': '22', 'a fuel core () within an elastomeric containment vessel having an exit nozzle;'}{'b': '300', 'a fluid filled flexible container (′) impenetrable to hydrogen;'}a fluid line to deliver fluid to the core;{'b': 210', '201', '202', '310, 'an expanded PTFE (ePTFE) tube () having a sealed end () and an open end () fluidly connected to a valve (); and,'}wherein fluid delivered to the core via a water line urges the core to produce hydrogen via a reaction;wherein the hydrogen permeates the microporous ePTFE tube and is delivered to the valve.2. The cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the fuel core is about 67 wt.-% SBH claim 1 , about 30 wt.-% oxalic acid claim 1 , and about 3 wt.-% PEG (glycol).3. The cartridge of claim 1 , wherein; the fluid is about 2 wt.-% CoCl2 claim 1 , about 9.7 wt.-% malic acid in water; and claim 1 ,wherein the acid solution reduces pressure fluctuations from about 1100 mbar to about 300 mbar.4. The cartridge of claim 2 , wherein the fluid is about 2 wt.-% CoCl2 claim 2 , about 9.7 wt.-% malic acid in water.5204. The cartridge of claim 4 , further comprising a desiccant () placed within the ePTFE tube.6207. The cartridge of claim 5 , further comprising a hydrogen clog-less filter () placed around the ePTFE tube.7. The cartridge of claim 4 , further comprising; a desiccant placed around the ePTFE tube when it is wrapped in ...

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Номер записи: 51
27-06-2019 дата публикации

FLUID FLOW PLATE FOR A FUEL CELL

Номер: US20190198892A1
Автор: Adcock Paul Leonard, Hood Peter David
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fluid flow plate having first and second fluid flow channels on a fluid flow plate with an active area of fluid flow fields having one or more arrays of fluid transfer points ( ) disposed along an edge of the flow field for communicating fluid into or out of flow channels. A first and second distribution gallery ()with peripheral edge portions bounded by the arrays including at least one pair of inlets in external edges of the fluid flow plate and wherein the first fluid distribution gallery is shaped such that the combined lengths of the first-gallery second peripheral edge portions are longer than the first-gallery first peripheral edge portion, and wherein the internal edges of the flow plate comprise edges of a hole, aperture, or port passing through the flow plate, and the external edges of the flow plate comprise an outer peripheral edge of the plate. The edges each may comprise a castellated structure (). 1. A method of directing a fluid flow , the method comprising:forming a plurality of first fluid flow channels extending across an active area of the flow plate to define a first fluid flow field of the fluid flow plate;forming a plurality of second fluid flow channels extending across the active area of the flow plate to define a second fluid flow field of the fluid flow plate;providing an array of first fluid transfer points disposed along an edge of the first fluid flow field for communicating fluid into or out of the first fluid flow channels;providing an array of second fluid transfer points disposed along an edge of the second fluid flow field for communicating fluid into or out of the second fluid flow channels;a first fluid distribution gallery with a first peripheral edge portion bounded by the array of first fluid transfer points having second peripheral edge portion with a first fluid communication edge configured to provide for delivery of fluid into the first fluid distribution gallery and comprising a pair of inlets in the external edges of ...

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Номер записи: 52
13-08-2015 дата публикации

Pump Assembly For A Fuel Cell System

Номер: US20150225232A1
Автор: Barton Russell H., Stimits Jason L.
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

The invention is a hydrogen generator including a housing, a reaction area, a fluid reservoir, a pellet comprising a first reactant within the reaction area, a fluid comprising a second reactant within the fluid reservoir, a fluid flow path between the fluid reservoir and the reaction area, and a hydrogen outlet. The fluid flow path comprises a follower assembly biased toward the pellet, the follower assembly includes an articulated joint and a follower, and the second reactant can react with the first reactant in the reaction area to produce hydrogen gas and byproducts. 2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the articulated joint comprises at least one of a ball joint claim 1 , a universal joint and a flexible joint in which a component can bend.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the follower comprises a plurality of fluid outlets on a face facing the pellet.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the follower assembly comprises a fluid control mechanism configured to selectively adjust fluid flow through the plurality of fluid outlets based on an orientation of the follower.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the follower comprises at least a portion of the fluid control mechanism.6. The method of claim 4 , wherein the fluid control mechanism comprises a plurality of valves.7. The method of claim 4 , wherein the flow of the fluid from the fluid reservoir through the fluid flow path between the fluid reservoir to the reaction area is controlled by the fluid control mechanism.8. The method of claim 1 , wherein a fluid dispersion layer is disposed on a face of the follower.9. The method of claim 8 , wherein the fluid dispersion layer comprises a porous claim 8 , compressible material.10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the hydrogen generator further comprises filter elements capable of separating the hydrogen gas from the byproducts before passing through the hydrogen outlet claim 1 , said filter elements located in one or more of locations including:(a) in a space around or ...

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Номер записи: 53
25-06-2020 дата публикации

PLASTIC FRAME ASSEMBLY AND BIPOLAR PLATE WITH THROUGH-FLOW FUEL FEED

Номер: US20200203737A1
Автор: Cole Jonathan, Duckworth Lee
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

The present disclosure provides methods for forming flow plate and frame assemblies that comprise an anode frame member, a flow plate, and a cathode frame member with the flow plate retained between the anode and cathode frame members. The present disclosure also provides for flow plate and frame assemblies, fuel cell stacks containing a plurality of the flow plate and frame assemblies, and fuel cell systems containing the fuel cell stacks. A fluidly connected anode fluid pathway can be provided from an anode fluid inlet, through conduits in the anode frame member, onto an anode surface of the flow plate, and into anode flow channels. 1. A flow plate and frame assembly comprising:{'b': 100', '101', '102', '103, 'an anode frame member () comprising an outer surface (), an inner surface (), and an anode frame opening ();'}{'b': 200', '202', '201', '203, 'a cathode frame member () comprising an outer surface (), an inner surface (), and a cathode frame opening (); and'}{'b': 300', '301', '302, 'and a flow plate () comprising an anode surface () and a cathode surface ();'}{'b': 200', '100', '102', '201', '300', '102', '201', '301', '102', '302', '101, 'wherein the cathode frame member () and anode frame member () engage with each other along their respective inner surfaces (/), and retain and surround the flow plate () in between the inner surfaces (/) with a portion of the anode surface () in contact with the anode frame member inner surface () and a portion of the cathode surface () in contact with the cathode frame member inner surface ().'}2300301304302305. The flow plate and frame assembly of claim 1 , wherein the flow plate () comprises an anode surface () having a plurality of anode flow channels () and a cathode surface () having a plurality of cathode flow channels ().3. The flow plate and frame assembly of claim 1 , wherein:{'b': 100', '160', '170', '150', '180', '190, 'the anode frame member () comprises one or more anode fluid inlets (), one or more coolant ...

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Номер записи: 54
04-07-2019 дата публикации

Overload Protection Device

Номер: US20190207232A1
Автор: Khater Moutazbellah, Roberts Jason
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell system comprises an electrochemical fuel cell stack for generating electrical power. A load circuit is switchably coupled to the fuel cell stack for periodically receiving a discharge current from the fuel cell stack during an energy dissipation phase, such as an air stall operation for conditioning the fuel cell stack. A protection circuit is coupled to the load circuit, configured to monitor a cumulative energy dissipation level during an energy dissipation phase and to abort an energy dissipation phase if the cumulative energy level reaches a predetermined threshold. In this way, lower specification resistor components can be used for stack conditioning. 1. A fuel cell system comprising:an electrochemical fuel cell for generating electrical power;a load circuit switchably coupled to the fuel cell for periodically receiving a discharge current from the fuel cell during an energy dissipation phase;a protection circuit coupled to the load circuit, the protection circuit configured to monitor a cumulative energy dissipation level during an energy dissipation phase and to abort an energy dissipation phase if the cumulative energy level reaches a predetermined threshold.2. The fuel cell system of in which the load circuit comprises a resistor.3. The fuel cell system of in which the protection circuit comprises a voltage sensor and a module configured to integrate a function of the sensed voltage during an energy dissipation phase claim 1 , the protection circuit further configured to abort the energy dissipation phase if the integration reaches said predetermined threshold.4. The fuel cell system of in which the voltage sensor is configured to sense a voltage across a resistor of the load circuit.5. The fuel cell system of in which the protection circuit comprises a current sensor and a module configured to integrate a function of the sensed current during an energy dissipation phase claim 1 , the protection circuit further configured to abort the energy ...

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Номер записи: 55
03-08-2017 дата публикации

FUEL CELLS IN LAPTOP COMPUTER DEVICES

Номер: US20170220071A1
Автор: ELLIOTT Zachary, Ostadi Hossein
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A portable computing device such as a laptop computer has a base unit () and a display screen unit () coupled together by a hinge assembly () configured to allow rotation of the base unit and the screen unit relative to one another. The display screen unit has a display panel on a first face of the display screen unit and a fuel cell array () disposed adjacent to a second face of the display screen unit. Ventilation apertures through the second face of the display screen unit provide air flow to the fuel cell array. A fuel conduit extends between the base unit and the display screen unit across the hinge assembly for delivering fuel from the base unit to the display screen unit. 1. A portable computing device comprising: a base unit and a display screen unit coupled together by a hinge assembly configured to allow rotation of the base unit and the screen unit relative to one another;the display screen unit having a display panel on a first face of the display screen unit; and,a fuel cell array disposed adjacent to a second face of the display screen unit.2. The portable computing device of further including ventilation apertures through the second face of the display screen unit configured to provide air flow to the fuel cell array.3. The portable computing device of further including a fuel conduit extending between the base unit and the display screen unit across the hinge assembly claim 1 , the fuel conduit configured for delivering fuel from the base unit to the display screen unit.4. The portable computing device of wherein the fuel conduit extends through the hinge assembly.5. The portable computing device of further including a fuel source incorporated within the base unit.6. The portable computing device of further including a fuel supply connector within the base unit.7. The portable computing device of further including a power conductor extending between the fuel cell array in the display screen unit and the base unit via the hinge assembly.8. The ...

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Номер записи: 56
03-08-2017 дата публикации

FUEL CELL ASSEMBLY

Номер: US20170222291A1
Автор: ELLIOTT Zachary, Grange Nathan
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell assembly comprising at least two fuel cells, each fuel cell in the fuel cell assembly having an anode and a cathode to provide for electrical interconnections with other fuel cells of the assembly or assembly output terminals wherein the electrical interconnections between a plurality of the fuel cells of the fuel cell assembly are configurable such that said plurality of fuel cells or a subset thereof are connectable without changing the spatial relationship between the fuel cells in at least two of; i) in series with one another; ii) in parallel with one another; or iii) disconnected from the assembly. 1. A fuel cell assembly comprising at least two fuel cells , each fuel cell in the fuel cell assembly having an anode and a cathode to provide for electrical interconnections with other fuel cells of the assembly or assembly output terminals wherein the electrical interconnections between a plurality of the fuel cells of the fuel cell assembly are configurable such that said plurality of fuel cells or a subset thereof are connectable without changing the spatial relationship between the fuel cells in at least two of;i) in series with one another;ii) in parallel with one another; oriii) disconnected from the assembly.2. A fuel cell assembly according to claim 1 , in which the interconnections include a plurality of switches to configure the electrical interconnections between the plurality of fuel cells of the assembly.3. A fuel cell assembly according to claim 2 , in which the switches comprise transistors.4. A fuel cell assembly according to claim 2 , in which the switches comprisemicro-switches.5. A fuel cell assembly according to claim 2 , in which the switches are actively reconfigurable such that interconnections between fuel cells can be changed in use.6. A fuel cell assembly according to claim 2 , in which the switches form part of a centralised or distributed interconnection controller configured to control the interconnections to provide ...

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Номер записи: 57
02-07-2020 дата публикации

FUEL CELL UNITS HAVING ANGLED OFFSET FLOW CHANNELS

Номер: US20200212470A1
Автор: Baird Scott, Cole Jonathan
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

The present disclosure provides fuel cell units formed from a plurality of flow plate assemblies disposed in a stack configuration, with adjacent flow plate assemblies in the stack configuration disposed at an offset angle relative to each other. Fuel cell stacks can be formed from a plurality of the fuel cell units placed into a stack aligned with each other with no offset. The present disclosure also provides for methods of forming the fuel cell units, fuel cell stacks, and fuel cell systems containing the former. 1. A fuel cell unit comprising:a plurality of flow plate assemblies disposed in a stack configuration;{'b': 300', '400', '401', '402, 'wherein each flow plate assembly comprises an identical flow plate () and a membrane electrode assembly (//);'}{'b': 300', '330', '315, 'wherein each flow plate () comprises a corrugated plate having cathode fluid flow channels () on a first face of the corrugated plate and anode fluid flow channels () across a second face of the corrugated plate,'}{'b': 330', '315', '310', '320', '305, 'wherein the cathode fluid flow channels () and anode fluid flow channels () are arranged to provide fluid flow from a flow plate inlet region () to a flow plate outlet region (), and the flow plate further comprises one or more pairs of side seal regions ();'}{'b': 400', '401', '402, 'wherein each membrane electrode assembly (//) is disposed on the first face of the corrugated plate;'}{'b': 200', '800', '205', '310', '210', '320', '215', '305, 'wherein each flow plate assembly further comprises a fluid manifold periphery plate (/) having an inlet manifold portion () configured to engage with the flow plate inlet region (), an outlet manifold portion () configured to engage with the flow plate outlet region (), and one or more pairs of pass-through manifold portions () configured to engage with the one or more pairs of side seal regions ();'}wherein adjacent flow plate assemblies are disposed at an offset angle.2801200800. The fuel cell ...

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Номер записи: 58
10-08-2017 дата публикации

FUEL CELL AND BATTERY

Номер: US20170229729A1
Автор: ELLIOTT Zachary, Grange Nathan
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell assembly in combination with an electrochemical battery, having an electrical connection therebetween, the electrical connection including a current blocking element to prevent current stored in the battery from flowing into the fuel cell assembly and wherein the electrical connection is absent of a current control component for current generated by the fuel cell assembly flowing to the battery. 1. A fuel cell assembly in combination with an electrochemical battery , having an electrical connection therebetween , the electrical connection including a current blocking element to prevent current stored in the battery from flowing into the fuel cell assembly and wherein the electrical connection is absent of a current control component for current generated by the fuel cell assembly flowing to the battery.2. A fuel cell assembly in combination with an electrochemical battery according to claim 1 , in which the electrical connection is absent of one or both ofi) a current control component comprising a DC-DC convertor; andii) a current control component configured to apply a cut-off limit on the current flow from the fuel cell assembly to the battery.3. (canceled)4. A fuel cell assembly in combination with an electrochemical battery according to claim 1 , in which the maximum open circuit voltage of the fuel cell assembly is one of:i) configured to be less or equal to the battery's maximum output voltage; and,ii) is less than a threshold voltage equal to 10% greater than the battery's maximum output voltage.5. (canceled)6. A fuel cell assembly in combination with an electrochemical battery according to claim 1 , in which the fuel cell assembly is configured to provide a current output at the full power of the fuel cell assembly claim 1 , less than or equal to a current capable of meeting the C rate of the battery when the battery is operating at its operational lower voltage limit.7. A fuel cell assembly in combination with an electrochemical battery ...

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Номер записи: 59
10-08-2017 дата публикации

AN INDUCTIVE CHARGER

Номер: US20170229901A1
Автор: ELLIOTT Zachary
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

An inductive charger comprising an inductive charging coil for providing energy to a inductive receiving coil; and a fuel cell configured to provide electricity to the inductive charging coil. 1. An inductive charger comprising:an inductive charging coil for providing energy to a inductive receiving coil; and,a fuel cell configured to provide electricity to the inductive charging coil.2. The inductive charger of claim 1 , further comprising a housing that houses both the inductive charging coil and the fuel cell.3. The inductive charger of claim 1 , wherein the inductive charger is portable.4. The inductive charger of claim 1 , further comprising a support structure configured to support an electronic device comprising the inductive receiving coil such that the inductive receiving coil is positioned adjacent to the inductive charging coil claim 1 , in use.5. The inductive charger of claim 4 , wherein the support structure comprises a profiled surface for supporting the electronic device in a predetermined position.6. The inductive charger of claim 4 , wherein the support structure comprises a profiled surface for supporting the electronic device in a predetermined alignment.7. The inductive charger of claim 5 , wherein the profiled surface comprises a curved surface portion claim 5 , and wherein the inductive charging coil is adjacent to the curved surface portion.8. The inductive charger of claim 5 , wherein the profiled surface comprises a curved surface portion and a substantially planar surface portion claim 5 , wherein the inductive charging coil is adjacent to the substantially planar surface portion.9. The inductive charger of claim 5 , wherein the profiled surface is an outer surface of a cone shaped housing.10. The inductive charger of claim 9 , wherein the inductive charging coil is movable along the length of the cone shaped housing such that it can be associated with regions of the cone shaped housing that have different circumferences.11. The inductive ...

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Номер записи: 60
18-08-2016 дата публикации

ANODE BLEED CONTROL IN A FUEL CELL STACK

Номер: US20160240875A1
Автор: Adcock Paul Leonard, Patel Jignesh Karsan Devshi, Rama Pratap
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

An electrochemical fuel cell assembly comprises a fuel cell stack having a fuel delivery inlet and a fuel delivery outlet. The fuel cell stack further includes a number of fuel cells each having a membrane-electrode assembly and a fluid flow path coupled between the fuel delivery inlet and the fuel delivery outlet for delivery of fuel to the membrane-electrode assembly. A fuel delivery conduit is coupled to the fuel delivery inlet for delivery of fluid fuel to the stack. A bleed conduit is coupled to the fuel delivery outlet for venting fluid out of the stack. A variable orifice flow control device coupled to the bleed conduit configured to dynamically vary an amount of fluid from the fuel delivery outlet passing into the bleed conduit as a function of one or more of the control parameters: (i) measured fuel concentration; (ii) measured humidity; (iii) cell voltages of fuel cells in the stack; (iv) impedance of fuel cells in the stack; (v) resistance of fuel cells in the stack. The variable orifice flow control device may be coupled to a recirculation conduit and may be configured to dynamically vary a proportion of fluid from the fuel delivery outlet passing into the bleed conduit as a function of the control parameters. 1. An electrochemical fuel cell assembly comprising:a fuel cell stack having a fuel delivery inlet and a fuel delivery outlet,the fuel cell stack further comprising a number of fuel cells each having a membrane-electrode assembly and a fluid flow path coupled between the fuel delivery inlet and the fuel delivery outlet for delivery of fuel to the membrane-electrode assembly;a fuel delivery conduit coupled to the fuel delivery inlet for delivery of fluid fuel to the stack;a bleed conduit coupled to the fuel delivery outlet for venting fluid out of the stack;a variable orifice flow control device coupled to the bleed conduit configured to dynamically vary an amount of fluid from the fuel delivery outlet passing into the bleed conduit as a function of ...

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Номер записи: 61
17-08-2017 дата публикации

A GAS CONNECTOR

Номер: US20170237089A1
Автор: ELLIOTT Zachary
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A gas connector comprising a gas outlet port; and a re-configurable mating interface. The mating interface is configured to provide a first mating profile and a second mating profile. The first mating profile is configured for connecting the gas connector to a first type of electronic device and the second mating profile is configured for connecting the gas connector to a second, different, type of electronic device. 1. A gas connector comprising:a gas outlet port; anda reconfigurable mating interface, which is configured to provide a first mating profile and a second mating profile, wherein the first mating profile is configured for connecting the gas connector to a first type of electronic device and the second mating profile is configured for connecting the gas connector to a second, different, type of electronic device.2. The gas connector of claim 1 , wherein the mating interface defines the shape of a first mechanical connector in the first mating profile claim 1 , and defines the shape of a second mechanical connector in the second mating profile.3. The gas connector of claim 2 , wherein the first mechanical connector is configured to retain the gas connector in position when the gas connector is connected to the first type of electronic device claim 2 , and the second mechanical connector is configured to retain the gas connector in position when the gas connector is connected to the second type of electronic device.4. The gas connector of claim 3 , wherein the first mechanical connector defines a first mating surface that is configured to be mechanically retained in two dimensions relative to a docking surface of the first type of electronic device.5. The gas connector of claim 4 , wherein the mating interface comprises a magnetic latch configured to retain the gas connector in a third dimension relative to the docking surface of the first type of electronic device.6. The gas connector of claim 1 , wherein the first type of electronic device is a laptop ...

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Номер записи: 62
17-08-2017 дата публикации

FUEL SOURCE FOR ELECTROCHEMICAL FUEL CELL POWER SUPPLY

Номер: US20170237097A1
Автор: Adcock Paul Leonard, ELLIOTT Zachary, Ninan Daniel
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A protective cover () for a portable computing device () provides a fuel source () disposed within a compartment in the protective cover. The fuel source may be a hydrogen fuel source suitable for delivering hydrogen to a fuel cell () within the protective cover or within the portable computing device, for generating electrical power for use by the portable computing device. The protective cover may have a plurality of planar panels () separated by a one or more hinge regions () which can each house a fuel source compartment. The protective cover may also be serviceable as a stand. 1. A protective cover for a portable computing device , comprising:a fuel source disposed in a compartment within the protective cover.2. The protective cover of comprising a plurality of separate compartments each providing a separately actuatable fuel source.3. The protective cover of comprising a controller configured to actuate release of fuel from each compartment independently.4. The protective cover of wherein each compartment is configured to be ruptured electrically by passing a current through a respective heating element claim 3 , wherein the individual heating elements are controlled by the controller.5. The protective cover of comprising a plurality of substantially planar fuel sources provided within respective planar panels that are separated by one or more hinge regions.6. The protective cover of comprising a plurality of planar panels separated by a one or more hinge regions.7. The protective cover of in which the fuel source compartment is substantially planar.8. The protective cover of in which the fuel source is a hydrogen fuel source.9. The protective cover of wherein the hydrogen fuel source is configured to generate gaseous hydrogen by at least one of a hydrolysis reaction claim 8 , and a thermolysis reaction; a desorption process.10. The protective cover of further including a hydrogen fluid line and hydrogen port for coupling the cover to a fuel consuming device. ...

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Номер записи: 63
16-07-2020 дата публикации

Dewar Vessel Storage Apparatus

Номер: US20200224825A1
Автор: Adcock Paul Leonard, Chellappa Anand, Winand Henri
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A dewar vessel storage apparatus configured to hold at least two dewar vessels containing liquefied gas or cryo-compressed gas, comprising; a box having an outer, thermally insulating, wall; the box comprising a plurality of insulating cavities, each cavity configured to receive a single dewar vessel and is thermally insulated from each other cavity; a thermally insulating closure arrangement configured to close an open end of each cavity; a ventilation assembly comprising at least one conduit within the box configured to provide for venting of gas released from the dewar vessels when stored in the respective cavities of the box, the ventilation assembly configured to provide a gas outlet flow path from each cavity. 1. A dewar vessel storage apparatus configured to hold at least two dewar vessels containing liquefied gas or cryo-compressed gas , comprising;a box having an outer, thermally insulating, wall;the box comprising a plurality of insulating cavities, each cavity configured to receive a single dewar vessel and is thermally insulated from each other cavity;each cavity including a separately removable thermally insulating bung configured to close an open end of its cavity;a ventilation assembly comprising at least one conduit within the box configured to provide for venting of gas released from the dewar vessels when stored in the respective cavities of the box, the ventilation assembly configured to provide a gas outlet flow path from each cavity; andin which each cavity and its associated bung is configured complimentary to the shape of the dewar vessel it is configured to receive such that there is substantially no air space when the dewar vessel is received in the cavity and the bung is in place.2. A dewar vessel storage apparatus according to claim 1 , in which the outer claim 1 , thermally insulating claim 1 , wall and/or insulation between each cavity comprises at least one of;a vacuum insulated panel utilizing a multilayer insulation blanket in the ...

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Номер записи: 64
24-08-2017 дата публикации

FUEL CELL POWERED PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Номер: US20170244121A1
Автор: ELLIOTT Zachary
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A wrist-mountable portable electronic device comprises an electronic device which is incorporated into a housing and a strap, coupled to the housing and configured to retain the wrist-mountable portable electronic device on the wrist of a user. The strap incorporates at least one fuel cell coupled to provide power to the portable electronic device. The portable electronic device may be a watch or a personal communication device or a personal health and/or activity monitor. The strap may further include an integral fuel source coupled to the at least one fuel cell, and the fuel source may be a replaceable cartridge. High power devices to be worn on the wrist may therefore be powered for extended periods of time. 1. A wrist-mountable portable electronic device comprising:an electronic device incorporated into a housing;a strap, coupled to the housing and configured to retain the wrist-mountable portable electronic device on the wrist of a user,the strap incorporating at least one fuel cell coupled to provide power to the portable electronic device.2. The wrist-mountable portable electronic device of in which the strap comprises a flexible band incorporating the at least one fuel cell.3. The wrist-mountable portable electronic device of comprising a watch.4. The wrist-mountable portable electronic device of comprising a personal communication device.5. The wrist-mountable portable electronic device of in which the personal communication device comprises a cellular telephone.6. The wrist-mountable portable electronic device of in which the personal communication device comprises a transceiver configured for short range wireless communication to a cellular telephone.7. The wrist-mountable portable electronic device of comprising a personal health and/or activity monitor.8. The wrist-mountable portable electronic device of in which the strap further includes an integral fuel source coupled to the at least one fuel cell.9. The wrist-mountable portable electronic device of ...

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Номер записи: 65
10-09-2015 дата публикации

CURRENT COLLECTOR FOR A FUEL CELL

Номер: US20150255806A1
Автор: Horlock Phillip Mark
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell stack assembly has a plurality of cells in a stack configuration. Each cell comprises a membrane-electrode assembly disposed between an anode flow plate and a cathode flow plate. A current collector plate is disposed at each end of the stack and a compression assembly maintains the stack under compression. At least one of the current collector plates is formed as a printed circuit board having a first face disposed against a cathode flow plate or an anode flow plate of an outermost cell in the stack and a second face opposite the first face. The first face includes an electrically conductive layer disposed on a substrate of the printed circuit board to serve as a stack current collector electrode. Electrical components such as temperature sensors can be mounted on the printed circuit board such that they lie in or adjacent to a flow channel extending along an adjacent face of the anode or cathode flow plate. The printed circuit board can provide laterally extending connection tabs for electrical connection to the current collector electrode and to the electrical components. 1. A fuel cell stack assembly comprising:a plurality of cells in a stack configuration, each cell comprising a membrane-electrode assembly disposed between an anode flow plate and a cathode flow plate;a current collector plate at each end of the stack; anda compression assembly configured to maintain the stack under compression;wherein at least one of the current collector plates comprises a printed circuit board having a first face disposed against a cathode flow plate or an anode flow plate of an outermost cell in the stack; andwherein the first face includes an electrically conductive layer disposed on a substrate of the printed circuit board.2. The fuel cell stack assembly of in which the first face of the printed circuit board further includes at least one electronic component disposed thereon.3. The fuel cell stack assembly of in which the at least one electronic component ...

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Номер записи: 66
10-09-2015 дата публикации

EXCESS COOLANT FLUID FEED TO FUEL CELL STACKS

Номер: US20150255810A1
Автор: Adcock Paul Leonard, Cole Jonathan, Foster Simon Edward, Kells Ashley James
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell stack assembly has a plurality of fuel cells each having a fluid coolant conduit. A coolant feed inlet manifold has a coolant inlet, and the coolant feed inlet manifold is coupled to each fluid coolant conduit for distribution of coolant to each fuel cell. The coolant feed inlet manifold also has a discharge conduit located at one end of the coolant feed inlet manifold. The discharge conduit is configured to discharge excess coolant from the coolant feed inlet manifold. By supplying excess coolant to the coolant feed inlet manifold problems arising due to very low coolant flow rates through the fluid coolant conduits in the fuel cells can be reduced or eliminated. 1. A fuel cell stack assembly comprising:a plurality of fuel cells each having a fluid coolant conduit; and the coolant feed inlet manifold coupled to each fluid coolant conduit for distribution of coolant to each fuel cell; and', 'the coolant feed inlet manifold further comprising a discharge conduit located at one end of the coolant feed inlet manifold, the discharge conduit configured to discharge excess coolant from the coolant feed inlet manifold., 'a coolant feed inlet manifold having a coolant inlet;'}2. The fuel cell stack assembly of claim 1 , wherein the discharge conduit comprises an additional plate extending across the stack and disposed at the one end of the fuel cell stack.3. The fuel cell stack assembly of claim 1 , wherein the additional plate comprises a heater plate claim 1 , a current collector plate or an insulator plate.4. The fuel cell stack assembly of claim 1 , wherein the discharge conduit comprises a conduit of increased flow impedance compared to the coolant feed inlet manifold claim 1 , such that a coolant flow rate from the coolant feed inlet manifold to the discharge conduit is within a predetermined flow rate range.5. The fuel cell stack assembly of claim 1 , wherein:the discharge conduit located at the one end of the coolant feed inlet manifold is a first ...

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Номер записи: 67
01-08-2019 дата публикации

ANODE BLEED CONTROL IN A FUEL CELL STACK

Номер: US20190237784A1
Автор: Adcock Paul Leonard, Patel Jignesh Karsan Devshi, Rama Pratap
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

An electrochemical fuel cell assembly comprises a fuel cell stack having a fuel delivery inlet and a fuel delivery outlet. The fuel cell stack further includes a number of fuel cells each having a membrane-electrode assembly and a fluid flow path coupled between the fuel delivery inlet and the fuel delivery outlet for delivery of fuel to the membrane electrode assembly. A fuel delivery conduit is coupled to the fuel delivery inlet for 10 delivery of fluid fuel to the stack. A bleed conduit is coupled to the fuel delivery outlet for venting fluid out of the stack. A variable orifice flow control device coupled to the bleed conduit configured to dynamically vary an amount of fluid from the fuel delivery outlet passing into the bleed conduit as a function of one or more of the control parameters: (i) measured fuel concentration; (ii) measured humidity; (iii) cell voltages of fuel cells in the 15 stack; (iv) impedance of fuel cells in the stack; (v) resistance of fuel cells in the stack. The variable orifice flow control device may be coupled to a recirculation conduit and may be configured to dynamically vary a proportion of fluid from the fuel delivery outlet passing into the bleed conduit as a function of the control parameters. 1. An electrochemical fuel cell assembly comprising:a fuel cell stack having a fuel delivery inlet and a fuel delivery outlet, the fuel cell stack further comprising a number of fuel cells each having a membrane-electrode assembly and a fluid flow path coupled between the fuel delivery inlet and the fuel delivery outlet for delivery of fuel to the membrane-electrode assembly;a fuel delivery conduit coupled to the fuel delivery inlet for delivery of fluid fuel to the stack;a bleed conduit coupled to the fuel delivery outlet for venting fluid out of the stack; and,a variable orifice flow control device coupled to the bleed conduit configured to dynamically vary an amount of fluid from the fuel delivery outlet passing into the bleed conduit as a ...

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Номер записи: 68
08-08-2019 дата публикации

Coolant Storage Tank

Номер: US20190245222A1
Автор: Adcock Paul Leonard, Cole Jonathan, Fraser Iain, Harris Sophie Charlotte, Hood Peter David, Ninan Daniel, Palmer Nathaniel, Wardle Phillip
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A coolant storage tank () for storing coolant in a fuel cell system (), the coolant storage tank comprising a plurality of individually controllable heater elements (). A coolant storage tank comprising a first heater element () located at a base of the coolant storage tank and a second heater element () is also disclosed. A coolant storage tank comprising a first coolant storage compartment () in fluid communication with a second coolant storage compartment (), the first coolant storage compartment including at least a first heater element () and wherein the second coolant storage compartment is unheated is also disclosed. A method of melting frozen coolant in a coolant storage tank is also disclosed. 1. A method of heating coolant in a coolant storage tank in a fuel cell system , the method comprising sequentially activating via a controller at least two individually controllable heater elements;wherein the controller configured to;activate a first heater element of the plurality of individually controllable heater elements for a first period at a first power level, provide coolant heated by said first heater element, and activate at least one other of the plurality of heater elements for a second period at a second power level;wherein the energy output per unit volume occupied by the first heater element is higher than the energy output per unit volume occupied by the second heater element; and,wherein coolant is supplied to a fuel cell.2. The method of heating coolant in a coolant storage tank in a fuel cell system of claim 1 , in which at least one of the at least two individually controllable heater elements comprises:a heater element located at a base of the coolant storage tank;a heater element extending upwardly from a base of the coolant storage tank;a heater element extending downwardly from an upper surface of the tank;a heater element located along a side of the tank; ora heater element extending from a side of the tank.3. The method of heating coolant ...

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Номер записи: 69
15-09-2016 дата публикации

PORTABLE SPEAKER

Номер: US20160266627A1
Автор: Hood Peter David, Kupcho Kevin, Winand Henri
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A portable speaker incorporates a fuel cell that may be used to supply power to a computer device or audio coupled to the portable speaker. The portable speaker comprises a housing and speaker circuitry within the housing for providing an audible output. A data interface provides for data transfer to and/or from the computer device or audio. A fuel cell power source is incorporated into the portable speaker. A power interface provides power transfer to the computer device when connected thereto. A power controller is configured to supply power from the fuel cell power source to the power interface for supplying said power to said computer device or audio when connected thereto. 1. A portable speaker comprising:a housing;audio speaker circuitry within the housing to provide an audible output;a data interface for providing data transfer to and/or from a computer or audio device;a fuel cell power source incorporated into the portable speaker;a power interface for providing power transfer to the computer or audio device when connected thereto; and,a power controller configured to supply power from the fuel cell power source to the power interface for supplying said power to said computer or audio device when connected thereto.2. The portable speaker of claim 1 , in which the housing has a base claim 1 , the portable speaker comprising a detachable fuel cartridge for supplying fuel to the fuel cell claim 1 , the cartridge configured to be operably coupled to the base of the housing claim 1 , in which the detachable fuel cartridge claim 1 , when coupled to the base of the housing claim 1 , defines a base of the portable speaker.3. The portable speaker of in which the data interface comprises a wireless interface.4. The portable speaker of in which the data interface and power interface comprise a USB interface.5. The portable speaker of in which the power controller is configured to recharge the computer or audio device using the fuel cell power source incorporated into ...

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Номер записи: 70
01-10-2015 дата публикации

RADIAL FLOW REACTOR SYSTEMS AND RELATED METHODS

Номер: US20150274522A1
Автор: Knobbe Mack
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

The present disclosure provides liquid/solid phase reactor systems that generate product gases. The present disclosure also provides for methods of generating gas using the systems of the present disclosure. 1. A hydrogen gas generator comprising: a casing comprising an outer housing;', 'an internal compartment comprising two end caps comprising solid material impermeable to gas flow and one or more side walls configured to be gas permeable and restrictive of liquid and solid material transport;', 'a hydrogen outlet valve in the casing;', 'a hydrogen flow path from a volume between the one of the one or more internal compartment side walls and the outer housing to the hydrogen outlet valve;', 'a solid reactant material disposed within the internal compartment, said solid reactant material comprising a hydrogen containing material capable of releasing hydrogen gas when contacted with a liquid reactant; and', 'one or more fluid distribution networks disposed within the internal compartment and configured to deliver the liquid reactant to the solid reactant material; and, 'a cartridge, the cartridge comprisinga fluid injection system configured to controllably provide the liquid reactant through at least one end cap and into the one or more fluid distribution networks.2. The hydrogen gas generator of claim 1 , wherein the fluid injection system is disposed within the cartridge.3. The hydrogen gas generator of claim 1 , wherein the fluid injection system is disposed external to the cartridge.4. The hydrogen gas generator of claim 1 , wherein the solid reactant material comprises an alkali metal silicide.5. The hydrogen gas generator of claim 1 , wherein the one or more fluid distribution networks are configured to change the location of fluid distribution during operation.6. The hydrogen gas generator of claim 1 , wherein the one or more side walls comprise one or more layers of wire mesh claim 1 , PTFE membrane claim 1 , and fiberglass.7. A method of generating ...

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Номер записи: 71
13-09-2018 дата публикации

Thin Fluid Manifolds and Methods Therefor

Номер: US20180261854A1
Автор: Dépatie Isabelle, Faucheux Vincent, Foster Simon, Kirk Christopher, Schrooten Jeremy, Sobejko Paul, Zimmermann Joerg
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell system with planar manifold having at least one fuel cell assembly with a first side and a second side; a plurality of anodes on the first side; a plurality of cathodes on the second side; ion-conducting electrolyte between the first and second sides; a fluid manifold assembly fluidly connected to the first side. In the planar manifold a first barrier layer provides at least one inlet port in fluid communication with a hydrogen source, and at least one outlet port to remove any unreacted hydrogen and byproducts from the first side; a plurality of conduit layers, on at least one of which is disposed one or more channels fluidly connected to the at least one inlet port and one of which is fluidly connected to the at least one outlet port; and, a second barrier layer disposed above the plurality of conduit layers containing a plurality of perforations affixed to the first side to supply hydrogen gas. 2600. The fuel cell system of wherein the plurality of perforations receive waste and water from the anode and are fluidly connected via the manifold assembly () layers to the outlet.3. (canceled)4. The fuel cell system of wherein the perforations more evenly distribute hydrogen over the first side then if the manifold did not have perforations.5. A planar manifold assembly for delivering hydrogen to a fuel cell anode and removing waste and water comprising:{'b': 142', '152', '154, 'a first barrier layer () providing at least one inlet port () in fluid communication with a hydrogen source, and at least one outlet port () to remove any unreacted hydrogen and byproducts from the first side;'}{'b': 118', '604', '610, 'a plurality of conduit layers, on at least one () of which is disposed one or more channels () fluidly connected to the at least one inlet port and one of which () is fluidly connected to the at least one outlet port;'}{'b': 144', '150, 'a second barrier () layer disposed above the plurality of conduit layers containing a plurality of perforations () ...

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Номер записи: 72
06-08-2020 дата публикации

COOLING MODULE FOR A FUEL CELL SYSTEM AND METHOD OF DETECTING FLOWABLE COOLANT IN A FUEL CELL SYSTEM

Номер: US20200251754A1
Автор: Grimwade David James, Harris Sophie Charlotte, NIRWAN Prajwal, Palmer Nathaniel Thomas, Rama Pratap
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

Disclosed is a cooling module for use in a fuel cell system, the module includes a tank configured to receive a coolant therein, a coolant, a pump in fluid communication with the coolant in the tank and the fuel cell system, the pump being configured to transport the coolant to the fuel cell system, a heating element within the coolant in the tank, the heating element configured to heat the coolant, and at least one sensor in signal communication with a controller and in fluid communication with the tank. The sensor is configured to detect a change corresponding to the presence or absence of sufficient liquid coolant to initiate said pump, and the controller processes sensor data and is configured to actuate the pump. 1. A cooling module for use in a fuel cell system , the cooling module comprising:a tank configured to receive a coolant therein;coolant;a pump in fluid communication with the coolant in the tank and the fuel cell system, the pump being configured to transport the coolant to the fuel cell system;a heating element configured to be in thermal communication with the coolant;at least one sensor in signal communication with a pump and in fluid communication with the tank, the sensor configured to detect a change corresponding to the presence or absence of sufficient liquid coolant to initiate said pump.2. The cooling module for use in a fuel cell system of claim 1 , wherein the coolant is at least one of frozen and partially frozen.3. The cooling module for use in a fuel cell system of claim 1 , wherein the sensor is located remote from the liquid or frozen coolant and positioned to measure a quality of the vapor phase of the coolant.4. The cooling module for use in a fuel cell system of claim 3 , wherein the sensor measures change of at least one of vapor pressure and vapor temperature.5. The cooling module of claim 1 , further comprising a controller in signal communication with the sensor and the pump claim 1 , the controller configured to actuate the ...

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Номер записи: 73
28-10-2021 дата публикации

FUEL CELL SUB-ASSEMBLY

Номер: US20210336280A1
Автор: Wilson Antony Richard
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

Disclosed herein are aspects of methods, systems, and devices forming fuel cell sub-assemblies including placing a gasket with a peripheral seal defining a central aperture of the gasket on at least one of an anode flow plate and a cathode flow plate then placing a gas diffusion layer having less rigidity than the gasket within said within said central aperture wherein the gas diffusion layer is substantially uniformly spaced by a predetermined spacing from the inside facing surface of the gasket for forming a gallery. 1. A method of forming of a fuel cell sub-assembly comprising;placing a gasket with a peripheral seal defining a central aperture of the gasket on at least one of an anode flow plate and a cathode flow plate;placing a gas diffusion layer having less rigidity than the gasket within said within said central aperture; and,wherein the gas diffusion layer is substantially uniformly spaced by a predetermined spacing from the inside facing surface of the gasket for forming a gallery.2. The method of fuel claim 1 , wherein the gas diffusion layer is configured to substantially fill the central aperture.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the gas diffusion layer is substantially planar.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein a gasket and gas diffusion layer are placed on each of the cathode flow plates and the anode flow plates.5. The method of claim 4 , the method further comprising adding a proton exchange membrane between the cathode flow plate and the anode flow plate.6. A fuel cell sub-assembly comprising;a gasket comprising a peripheral seal for a fuel cell assembly, the peripheral seal defining a central aperture;a gas diffusion layer for providing diffused gases to a proton exchange membrane of a fuel cell, the gas diffusion layer located within the central aperture; andwherein the gasket includes a channel extending from its inside facing surface into the peripheral seal for providing a fluid connection to a fluid transfer conduit and the at least one ...

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Номер записи: 74
01-10-2015 дата публикации

CELL VOLTAGE MONITORING CONNECTOR SYSTEM FOR A FUEL CELL STACK

Номер: US20150280261A1
Автор: Horlock Phillip Mark, Kupcho Kevin
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell stack assembly comprising an electrical connection system for cell voltage monitoring is described. The fuel cell stack () has a plurality of fuel cells disposed in a stacked configuration, each cell having a membrane-electrode assembly (MEA) sandwiched between an anode flow field plate and a cathode flow field plate. The flow field plates () each extend to a lateral face of the fuel cell stack and each has an exposed portion generally coplanar with the lateral face of the fuel cell stack surface. A connector assembly has an array of contacts () each configured to bias against, and form electrical contact with, a respective one of selected flow field plates () at a contact zone thereof and each contact is biased against its respective flow plate () in a direction in the plane of the respective flow field plate. The exposed portion may be an exposed edge of the respective flow field plate and each contact is biased against the exposed edge of its respective flow plate. Alternatively, the exposed portion may be a buckled or folded peripheral portion of the respective flow field plate and each contact is biased against the buckled or folded portion of its respective flow plate. 1. A fuel cell stack assembly comprising:a plurality of fuel cells disposed in a stacked configuration, each cell having a membrane-electrode assembly (MEA) sandwiched between an anode flow field plate and a cathode flow field plate,the flow field plates each extending to a lateral face of the fuel cell stack and each having an exposed portion generally coplanar with the lateral face of the fuel cell stack surface;a connector assembly having an array of contacts each configured to bias against, and form electrical contact with, a respective one of selected flow field plates at a contact zone thereof, in which each contact is biased against its respective flow plate in a direction in the plane of the respective flow field plate.2. The fuel cell stack assembly of in which the exposed ...

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Номер записи: 75
20-09-2018 дата публикации

FUEL CELL SUB-ASSEMBLY

Номер: US20180269498A1
Автор: Wilson Antony Richard
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell sub-assembly () comprising; a gasket () comprising a peripheral seal () for a fuel cell assembly, the peripheral seal defining a central aperture () of the gasket; a gas diffusion layer () for providing diffused gases to a proton exchange membrane () of a fuel cell, the gas diffusion layer () located within the central aperture; wherein at at least one convection point (), an inside facing surface () of the peripheral seal of the gasket is welded to a corresponding outward facing surface () of the gas diffusion layer (). 1. A fuel cell sub-assembly comprising;a gasket comprising a peripheral seal for a fuel cell assembly, the peripheral seal defining a central aperture of the gasket;a gas diffusion layer for providing diffused gases to a proton exchange membrane of a fuel cell, the gas diffusion layer located within the central aperture;wherein at least one connection point, an inside facing surface of the peripheral seal of the gasket is welded to a corresponding outward facing surface of the gas diffusion layer; and,wherein the gas diffusion layer, except at the or each connection point, is substantially uniformly spaced by a predetermined spacing from the inside facing surface of the gasket for forming a gallery.2. A fuel cell sub-assembly according to claim 1 , in which the gas diffusion layer is configured to substantially fill the central aperture.3. A fuel cell sub-assembly according to claim 1 , in which the gas diffusion layer is substantially planar having a first major face claim 1 , a second major face opposite the first major face and a plurality of surfaces between the first and second major faces claim 1 , the connection point located on at least one of said plurality of surfaces.4. (canceled)5. A fuel cell sub-assembly comprising;a gasket comprising a peripheral seal for a fuel cell assembly, the peripheral seal defining a central aperture of the gasketa gas diffusion layer for providing diffused gases to a proton exchange membrane of a ...

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Номер записи: 76
20-09-2018 дата публикации

FUEL CELL SYSTEM CONTROLLER AND ASSOCIATED METHOD

Номер: US20180269503A1
Автор: BOWMAN Jeremy
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

The disclosure relates to a fuel cell stack and corresponding method of operating the fuel cell stack. The method comprises: determining a maximum allowable current that may be drawn from the fuel cell stack; repeatedly determining a magnitude of change to the prevailing maximum allowable current based on a prevailing allowable current ramp rate and an actual measured current of the fuel cell stack; updating the maximum allowable current according to the periodically determined magnitude of change; and controlling operating parameters of the fuel cell stack according to the prevailing maximum allowable current. 1. A method of operating a fuel cell system comprising:determining a maximum allowable current that may be drawn from the fuel cell system;repeatedly determining a magnitude of change to the prevailing maximum allowable current based on a prevailing allowable current ramp rate and an actual measured current of the fuel cell system;updating the maximum allowable current according to the repeatedly determined magnitude of change;controlling operating parameters of the fuel cell system according to the prevailing maximum allowable current; and,modifying the maximum allowable current as a function of parasitic current load of the system.2. The method of in which the step of controlling operating parameters of the fuel cell system comprises controlling an electrical load on the fuel cell system.3. The method of in which the determined magnitude of change comprises an increment or a decrement.4. The method of in which the magnitude of change is determined according to the smaller of a magnitude of change corresponding to the prevailing allowable current ramp rate and a magnitude of change indicated by a current load requirement claim 1 , and applying the determined value as an increment to the maximum allowable current.5. The method of in which the magnitude of change is determined as a function of a period of time corresponding to a drying time of one or more fuel ...

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Номер записи: 77
13-08-2020 дата публикации

METHOD FOR OPERATING A FUEL CELL AND CONTROLLER THEREFORE

Номер: US20200259191A1
Автор: MOGHIMI Shahin, Palmer Nathaniel Thomas, Rama Pratap, Thirkell Alex Mark
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A method for operating a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell assembly of a plurality of fuel cells configured to generate electrical power from a fuel flow and an oxidant flow to the plurality of fuel cells, the fuel cell assembly arranged in combination with a coolant storage module configured to supply the fuel cell assembly with a flow of coolant, the method performed when the temperature of the coolant in the coolant storage module is below a coolant temperature threshold and comprises; a first phase performed prior to activation of a coolant pump configured to deliver coolant from the coolant storage module to the fuel cell assembly and a second phase performed after activation of the coolant pump. 1. A method for operating a fuel cell system configured to generate electrical power from a fuel flow and an oxidant flow to a plurality of fuel cells in an assembly arranged in combination with a coolant storage module configured to supply the fuel cell assembly with a flow of coolant , the method comprising;activating one or more heaters configured to heat frozen coolant of the coolant storage module;providing a compressor configured to provide the flow of oxidant and/or the flow of fuel, based on a low performance threshold comprising a voltage across the fuel cells of the fuel cell assembly being below a first predetermined assembly voltage threshold and/or a voltage of one or more of the fuel cells being below a first cell voltage threshold;performing a first recovery routine comprising deactivating one or more of the activated heaters; andprovided that, within a first predetermined time, a recovery threshold is met comprising a voltage across the fuel cells of the fuel cell assembly is above a second predetermined assembly voltage threshold and/or a voltage of one or more of the fuel cells is above a second cell voltage threshold, perform a heater activation procedure that includes activating one or more of the heaters; otherwiseperforming a further ...

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Номер записи: 78
27-09-2018 дата публикации

AERIAL VEHICLE

Номер: US20180273194A1
Автор: Edgar David, Winand Henri
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

The disclosure relates to an unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein the fuel cell provides a structural component of the vehicle. 1. An unmanned aerial vehicle comprising a fuel cell , wherein the fuel cell provides a structural component of the vehicle.242-. (canceled) The present invention relates to aerial vehicles and, in particular, to unmanned aerial vehicles.Aerial vehicles, or aircraft, may be powered or unpowered. Unpowered aircraft include gliders and some lighter-than-air vehicles, such as balloons. Powered aircraft generally include planes, helicopters or other rotorcraft, microlights, and other lighter-than-air vehicles, such as airships.Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have many applications including reconnaissance, remote sensing and providing an airborne base for a telecommunications transceiver. UAVs are typically smaller than manned aircraft and may weigh between a few grams and 20 kilograms, for example. The expression “unmanned aerial vehicle” as used herein is intended to encompass aerial vehicles not capable of conveying a pilot.UAVs typically require power in order to provide propulsion, which may in some cases be necessary in order for a UAV to remain airborne for a prolonged period, and power for auxiliary functions such as image or video capture, signal telemetry, or other on-board systems. In addition, for many applications the computing power required on-board the vehicle in order to provide the necessary functionality may represent a significant power demand. This is particularly the case in autonomous UAV applications in which an on-board computer may make decisions regarding flight path and the deployment of auxiliary functions. Such an autonomous UAV is pilotless in a strict sense. Alternatively, a UAV may be piloted remotely and so although the vehicle itself is unmanned, it is still under human control.Some conventional UAVs use primary cells to provide power, although it is now more common to use secondary cells such as lithium-ion ...

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Номер записи: 79
29-09-2016 дата публикации

ENERGY RESOURCE NETWORK

Номер: US20160284033A1
Автор: Murray John Joseph, Winand Henri
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

An energy resource network with plurality of energy resources) each capable of delivering a quantum of energy; and a plurality of energy-consuming-devices each capable of accepting a quantum of energy. Each energy resource is associated with an energy-resource-processor which is configured to issue one or more offer-messages in respect of a quantum of energy available for supply from the energy resource Each energy-consuming-device is associated with at least one energy-consuming-processor) that is configured to receive one or more offer-messages in respect of a transaction for receiving a quantum of energy from one of the energy resources The energy-resource-processor and/or the energy-consuming-processor being configured to issue a cryptographically-secured transaction record of the transaction for inclusion within a publicly-available distributed ledger. 1. An energy resource network comprising:a plurality of energy resources each capable of delivering a quantum of energy;a plurality of energy-consuming-devices each capable of accepting a quantum of energy;each energy resource being associated with an energy-resource-processor configured to issue one or more offer-messages in respect of a quantum of energy available for supply from the energy resource;each energy-consuming-device being associated with an energy-consuming-processor configured to receive one or more offer-messages in respect of a transaction for receiving a quantum of energy from one of the energy resources; and,the energy-resource-processor and/or the energy-consuming-processor being configured to issue a cryptographically-secured transaction record of the transaction for inclusion within a publicly-available distributed ledger.2. The energy resource network of claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of third party nodes claim 1 , each configured to locally store and maintain the publicly-available distributed ledger.3. The energy resource network of claim 2 , wherein the third party nodes are ...

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Номер записи: 80
18-11-2021 дата публикации

FUEL CELL UNITS HAVING ANGLED OFFSET FLOW CHANNELS

Номер: US20210359323A1
Автор: Baird Scott, Cole Jonathan
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

The present disclosure provides fuel cell units formed from a plurality of flow plate assemblies disposed in a stack configuration, with adjacent flow plate assemblies in the stack configuration disposed at an offset angle relative to each other. Fuel cell stacks can be formed from a plurality of the fuel cell units placed into a stack aligned with each other with no offset. The present disclosure also provides for methods of forming the fuel cell units, fuel cell stacks, and fuel cell systems containing the former. 1. A fuel cell system comprising:a plurality of flow plate assemblies disposed in a stack configuration;{'b': 300', '400', '401', '402, 'wherein each flow plate assembly comprises an identical flow plate () and a membrane electrode assembly (//);'}{'b': 300', '330', '315, 'wherein each flow plate () comprises a corrugated plate having cathode fluid flow channels () on a first face of the corrugated plate and anode fluid flow channels () across a second face of the corrugated plate,'}{'b': 330', '315', '310', '320', '305, 'wherein the cathode fluid flow channels () and anode fluid flow channels () are arranged to provide fluid flow from a flow plate inlet region () to a flow plate outlet region (), and the flow plate further comprises one or more pairs of side seal regions ();'}{'b': 400', '401', '402, 'wherein each membrane electrode assembly (//) is disposed on the first face of the corrugated plate;'}{'b': 200', '800', '205', '310', '210', '320', '215', '305, 'wherein each flow plate assembly further comprises a fluid manifold periphery plate (/) having an inlet manifold portion () configured to engage with the flow plate inlet region (), an outlet manifold portion () configured to engage with the flow plate outlet region (), and one or more pairs of pass-through manifold portions () configured to engage with the one or more pairs of side seal regions (); and'}wherein adjacent cross-flowed channels in adjacent plates reduces deformation of the membrane ...

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Номер записи: 81
08-10-2015 дата публикации

Fuel Cell Components

Номер: US20150288019A1
Автор: Wilson Antony Richard
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

The invention relates to a strip of fuel cell components comprising a plurality of fuel cell components spaced apart in a first direction and a support structure connected to the plurality of fuel cell components. The plurality of fuel cell components comprise a first surface. The support structure comprises two lateral fold regions between adjacent fuel cell components such that the support structure is foldable in order for the first surfaces of the plurality of fuel cell components to face in the same direction when folded. 1. A strip of fuel cell components comprising:a plurality of fuel cell components spaced apart in a first direction;an indexing structure connected to the plurality of fuel cell components, the indexing structure configured to define the position of one of the plurality of fuel cell components in the first direction; and,wherein the indexing structure comprises a different material to the plurality of fuel cell components.2. The strip of fuel cell components of claim 1 , wherein the indexing structure is releasably or severably connected to the plurality of fuel cell components.3. The strip of fuel cell components of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of fuel cell components comprises a plurality of fuel cell assemblies claim 1 , each fuel cell assembly comprising a fuel cell plate.4. The strip of fuel cell components of claim 3 , wherein the plurality of fuel cell components comprises a first end plate claim 3 , a plurality of fuel cell assemblies and a second end plate claim 3 , in that order extending in the first direction.5. The strip of fuel cell components of claim 1 , wherein the indexing structure comprises a plurality of indentations or holes for engaging with an indexor in order to define the position of one of the plurality of fuel cell components.6. The strip of fuel cell components of claim 1 , wherein the indexing structure is connected to the plurality of fuel cell components by at least one spot weld.7. The strip of fuel cell ...

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Номер записи: 82
27-09-2018 дата публикации

EXHAUST PROCESSING UNIT

Номер: US20180277862A1
Автор: Baird Scott
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell exhaust processing unit for consuming fuel in the exhaust flow of a main fuel cell module comprising a fuel cell assembly configured to receive the exhaust flow from an anode flow path of the main fuel cell module, the fuel cell assembly electrically connected and configured to consume fuel remaining in the exhaust flow from the main fuel cell module to a predetermined level before the exhaust flow exits the unit. 1. A fuel cell exhaust processing unit for consuming fuel in the exhaust flow of a main fuel cell module comprising;a fuel cell assembly configured to receive the exhaust flow from an anode flow path of the main fuel cell module, the fuel cell assembly including a controller configured to control a flow of current between an anode and a cathode of at least one fuel cell in the fuel cell assembly to consume fuel remaining in the exhaust flow from the main fuel cell module to a predetermined level before the exhaust flow exits the unit.2. The fuel cell exhaust processing unit according to claim 1 , in which the fuel cell assembly comprises a plurality of individual fuel cells arranged in gas flow series to receive the exhaust flow from the anode flow path.3. The fuel cell exhaust processing unit according to claim 2 , in which the plurality of fuel cells are electrically unconnected to each other.4. The fuel cell exhaust processing unit according to claim 3 , in which the controller comprises a passive controller having a predetermined resistance.5. The fuel cell exhaust processing unit according to claim 3 , in which the controller is configured to control the flow of current of at least one fuel cell of the fuel cell assembly in response to a measure of the electrical output of at least one of the fuel cells of the fuel cell assembly.6. The fuel cell exhaust processing unit according to claim 3 , in which the fuel cell assembly comprises at least two fuel cells and the controller is configured to control the flow of current between the anode ...

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Номер записи: 83
15-10-2015 дата публикации

Fuel Cell Components

Номер: US20150295269A1
Автор: Karampurwala Mustafa Altaf Husain, Peart Richard Albert, Wilson Antony Richard
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A strip of fuel cell components () comprising: a plurality of fuel cell components () spaced apart in a first direction; an indexing structure () connected to the plurality of fuel cell components, the indexing structure configured to define the position of one of the plurality of fuel cell components in the first direction; wherein the indexing structure is made from a different material to the plurality of fuel cell components. A component transfer mechanism for transferring a fuel cell sub-component to a substrate, using a roller and transfer tape. A strip of fuel cell components with a sub-component which is rotatable about a pivot. An apparatus and a method for assembling a fuel cell by applying a sub-component to an underside of a strip moving on a conveyor. 1. A strip of fuel cell components comprising:a plurality of fuel cell components spaced apart in a first direction;an indexing structure connected to the plurality of fuel cell components, the indexing structure configured to define the position of one of the plurality of fuel cell components in the first direction; and,wherein the indexing structure comprises a different material to the plurality of fuel cell components.2. The strip of fuel cell components of claim 1 , wherein the indexing structure is releasably or severably connected to the plurality of fuel cell components.3. The strip of fuel cell components of wherein the plurality of fuel cell components comprises a plurality of fuel cell assemblies claim 1 , each fuel cell assembly comprising a fuel cell plate.4. The strip of fuel cell components of claim 3 , wherein the plurality of fuel cell components comprises a first end plate claim 3 , a plurality of fuel cell assemblies and a second end plate claim 3 , in that order extending in the first direction.5. The strip of fuel cell components of claim 1 , wherein the indexing structure comprises a plurality of indentations or holes for engaging with an indexor in order to define the position of one ...

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Номер записи: 84
05-10-2017 дата публикации

CONNECTOR DEVICE INCLUDING PLANAR MEMBER WITH SLITS TO RECEIVE ELECTRICAL TABS OF FUEL CELL STACK

Номер: US20170288351A1
Автор: Hood Peter David
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

An electrical connection system for cell voltage monitoring in a fuel cell stack. A fuel cell stack assembly comprises a plurality of fuel cells disposed in a stacked configuration, each cell substantially parallel to an x-y plane and including an electrical tab extending laterally from an edge of a plate in the cell in the x-direction to form an array of tabs extending along a side face of the fuel cell stack in a z-direction orthogonal to the x-y plane. A connector device comprises a planar member having a plurality of spaced-apart slits formed in an edge of the planar member, each slit having an electrically conductive material on an inside face of the slit. The slits are spaced along the edge of the planar member and configured to receive the tabs by sliding engagement in the y-direction. Alternatively, each tab may be crimped to create a distortion in the tab out of the x-y plane of the plate and a connector device comprises a planar member having a plurality of generally parallel slits formed in the body of the planar member, each slit having an electrically conductive material on an inside face of the slit, the slits being spaced within the planar member and configured to receive the tabs by sliding engagement in the x-direction so that each tab engages with at least a portion of the electrically conductive material on the inside face of a respective slit. 1. A fuel cell stack assembly comprising:a plurality of fuel cells disposed in a stacked configuration, each cell substantially parallel to an x-y plane and including an electrical tab extending laterally from an edge of a plate in the cell in the x-direction to form an array of tabs extending along a side face of the fuel cell stack in a z-direction orthogonal to the x-y plane, each tab being crimped to create a distortion in the tab out of the x-y plane of the plate;a connector device comprising a planar member having a plurality of spaced-apart slits formed in the body of the planar member, each slit ...

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Номер записи: 85
22-10-2015 дата публикации

COMPUTING DEVICE

Номер: US20150303503A1
Автор: Winand Henri
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

The invention relates to a computing device comprising: an outer covering having at least a first portion which is an oxygen-permeable microstructure, wherein the first portion is integrally formed with the outer covering; an electronic component within the outer covering; and a fuel cell with an oxidant inlet that is in fluid communication with the first portion of the outer covering. 1. A computing device comprising:an outer covering having at least a first portion which is an oxygen-permeable microstructure, wherein the first portion is integrally formed with the outer covering;an electronic component within the outer covering; anda fuel cell with an oxidant inlet that is in fluid communication with the first portion of the outer covering.2. The computing device of claim 1 , wherein the first portion of the outer covering provides a structural support to the electronic component or the fuel cell.3. The computing device of claim 1 , wherein the first portion of the outer covering provides mechanical protection to the electronic component or the fuel cell.4. The computing device of claim 2 , wherein the first portion of the outer covering is rigid.5. The computing device of claim 1 , wherein the outer covering has a second portion which is a microstructure that provides a lower oxygen permeability than the first portion claim 1 , wherein the second portion is integrally formed with the outer covering.6. The computing device of claim 5 , wherein the second portion has a substantially non-oxygen-permeable microstructure.7. The computing device of claim 1 , wherein the outer covering has no visible apertures.8. The computing device of claim 1 , wherein the outer covering is a unitary structure.9. The computing device of claim 1 , wherein the oxygen-permeable microstructure of the first portion comprises pores or apertures with a mean length less than one of 0.1 claim 1 , 0.5 claim 1 , 1 claim 1 , 2 claim 1 , 5 claim 1 , 10 or 20 microns in their longest dimension in a ...

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Номер записи: 86
26-09-2019 дата публикации

ENERGY RESOURCE NETWORK

Номер: US20190295193A1
Автор: Murray John Joseph, Winand Henri
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A solar panel energy system, energy resource network comprising a plurality of energy resources each capable of delivering a quantum of energy; and a plurality of energy-consuming-devices each capable of accepting a quantum of energy. Each energy resource is associated with an energy-resource-processor which is configured to issue one or more offer-messages in respect of a quantum of energy available for supply from the energy resource Each energy-consuming-device is associated with at least one energy-consuming-processor) that is configured to receive one or more offer-messages in respect of a transaction for receiving a quantum of energy from one of the energy resources The energy-resource-processor and/or the energy-consuming-processor being configured to issue a cryptographically-secured transaction record of the transaction for inclusion within a publicly-available distributed ledger. 1. A solar panel energy system comprising:a plurality of solar panels each capable of producing and delivering a quantum of energy and comprising a computing device having a processor configured to determine a quantum of energy available for supply and generate an offer message indicative of the quantum of energy available;a plurality of energy-consuming-devices each capable of accepting the quantum of energy from the solar panels and comprising a processor configured to determine an available energy capacity and energy request message, the energy request message being cryptographically-secured and recorded on the publicly-available distributed ledger; monitor offer messages from the plurality of solar panels and energy request messages from the plurality of energy-consuming-devices;', 'analyze energy consumption within the solar panel energy system; and', 'facilitate delivery of offer messages and energy request messages between one or more solar panels and energy-consuming-devices;, 'a monitoring station in data communication with the plurality of solar panels and the plurality ...

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Номер записи: 87
05-11-2015 дата публикации

FLUIDIC DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS

Номер: US20150318566A1
Автор: McLean Gerard F., Schrooten Jeremy, Sobejko Paul, Zimmermann Joerg
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

Embodiments of the present invention relate to a fluid distribution system. The system may include one or more electrochemical cell layers, a bulk distribution manifold having an inlet, a cell layer feeding manifold in direct fluidic contact with the electrochemical cell layer and a separation layer that separates the bulk distribution manifold from the cell feeding manifold, providing at least two independent paths for fluid to flow from the bulk distribution manifold to the cell feeding manifold. 1. A fuel cell system comprising:a bulk distribution manifold having an inlet;a feeding manifold;a separation layer disposed between the bulk distribution manifold and the feeding manifold, wherein the separation layer defines at least two independent fluid flow paths, each of the fluid flow paths spanning through the separation layer and fluidly communicating with both the bulk distribution manifold and the feeding manifold; and,one or more planar fuel cell layers, each planar fuel cell layer including an array of fuel cells, wherein one or more of the planar fuel cell layers are in direct fluid communication with the feeding manifold.2. (canceled)3. The fuel cell system of claim 1 , wherein the separation layer is sealed to the planar fuel cell layer.4. The fuel cell system of claim 1 , wherein the feeding manifold includes at least two discrete regions claim 1 , each region served by at least one independent fluid flow path.5. The fuel cell system of claim 1 , further including fluid contained within the bulk distribution manifold at the first pressure and fluid contained within the feeding manifold at a second pressure.6. The fuel cell system of claim 1 , wherein the layered fluid distribution system is a component of a portable electronic device.7. The fuel cell system of claim 1 , wherein each of the independent fluid flow paths includes a fluidic controller claim 1 , and wherein each fluidic controller is configured to regulate flow of fluid from the first pressure ...

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Номер записи: 88
26-10-2017 дата публикации

COOLANT INJECTION CONTROLLER

Номер: US20170309929A1
Автор: Foster Simon, GARDNER Vince, MOGHIMI Shahin, Palmer Nathaniel, Rama Pratap
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A coolant injection controller for a fuel cell system, the coolant injection controller configured to actively control the flow of a coolant to a fuel cell assembly for cooling and/or hydrating the fuel cell assembly in response to a measure of fuel cell assembly performance, wherein the coolant injection controller is configured to provide for a first mode of operation if the measure of fuel cell assembly performance is below a predetermined threshold and a second mode of operation if the measure of fuel cell assembly performance is above the predetermined threshold, the first and second modes having different coolant injection profiles and wherein, in the first mode of operation, the coolant injection profile provides for control of the flow of coolant by alternating between at least two different injection flow rates. 1. A coolant injection controller for a fuel cell system , comprising:a coolant injection controller configured to actively control the flow of a coolant to a fuel cell assembly for cooling and/or hydrating the fuel cell assembly in response to a measure of fuel cell assembly performance;wherein the coolant injection controller is configured to provide for a first mode of operation if the measure of fuel cell assembly performance is below a predetermined threshold and a second mode of operation if the measure of fuel cell assembly performance is above the predetermined threshold, the first and second modes having different coolant injection profiles; and,wherein, in the first mode of operation, the coolant injection profile provides for control of the flow of coolant by alternating between at least two different injection flow rates.2. The coolant injection controller according to claim 1 , in which the measure of fuel cell assembly performance comprises a measure of the electrical output of the fuel cell assembly.3. The coolant injection controller according to claim 1 , in which the measure of fuel cell assembly performance comprises one or more ...

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Номер записи: 89
03-11-2016 дата публикации

MULTIMODE CHARGING DEVICE AND METHOD

Номер: US20160322832A1
Автор: Bishop Christopher William, Elliot Zachary, III John Joseph, KELLY ANDREW, Kirk Christopher James, Kirsopp Graham, Mathar Marco, Murray, Winand Henri
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A charging device is configured to deliver power to a portable, power-consuming device, having a profile sensor which can detect information relating to the identity of power-consuming device to which the charging device is connected and may also have a communication channel configured to transmit said information to a remote server. In use, data can be collected or aggregated relating to power-consuming devices by connecting the charging device to the portable power-consuming device; sensing, by a profile sensor in the charging device, information relating to the identity of the power-consuming device; and transmitting the information to a remote server over a communication channel. Collected data may, for example, be used to identify when fuel for a charging device may need replenishment. 1. A charging system comprising:a housing comprising an output end comprising an output port, a fuel supply end comprising a fuel inlet port and an external power input, and a housing body having cooling vents;a fuel cell system comprising an inlet valve actuated by a latching solenoid and fluidly connected to the fuel inlet port, a fuel cell stack, a purge valve actuated by a normally-closed non-latching solenoid and fluidly connected to the stack, a hydrogen pressure transducer, a stack temperature sensor, and a cooling system; and,an internal battery; and,wherein the charging device is configured to provide power to the output port via one of the internal battery and the fuel cell stack.2. The charging system of further comprising:a profile sensor configured to detect information relating to the identity of power-consuming device to which the charging device is connected; and,a communication channel configured to transmit said information to a remote server.3. The charging system of wherein the profile sensor is configured to receive an identity of the power-consuming device via a data exchange protocol for connectivity of the charging device and the power consuming device.4. ...

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Номер записи: 90
19-11-2015 дата публикации

HYDROGEN GENERATION SYSTEMS UTILIZING SODIUM SILICIDE AND SODIUM SILICA GEL MATERIALS

Номер: US20150329357A1
Автор: LEFENFELD Michael, MELACK John M., WALLACE Andrew P.
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

Systems, devices, and methods combine reactant materials and aqueous solutions to generate hydrogen. The reactant materials can sodium silicide or sodium silica gel. The hydrogen generation devices are used in fuels cells and other industrial applications. One system combines cooling, pumping, water storage, and other devices to sense and control reactions between reactant materials and aqueous solutions to generate hydrogen. Multiple inlets of varied placement geometries deliver aqueous solution to the reaction. The reactant materials and aqueous solution are churned to control the state of the reaction. The aqueous solution can be recycled and returned to the reaction. One system operates over a range of temperatures and pressures and includes a hydrogen separator, a heat removal mechanism, and state of reaction control devices. The systems, devices, and methods of generating hydrogen provide thermally stable solids, near-instant reaction with the aqueous solutions, and a non-toxic liquid by-product.

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Номер записи: 91
10-11-2016 дата публикации

VALVE ASSEMBLY

Номер: US20160327164A1
Автор: TYERS Gary
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A valve assembly () comprises a valve stem () with a resilient proximal seal member () and a distal seal member () disposed around the stem. The proximal and distal seal members are axially separated from one another along the valve stem. A housing defines a valve chamber in which the valve stem is confined so as to be axially displaceable within the valve chamber. The housing defines a first portion () of the valve chamber in which the proximal seal member resides and a second portion () of the valve chamber in which the distal seal member resides. The housing further defines a cross-bore chamber() which opens into the valve chamber in a third portion () between the first and second portions. The third portion has a minimum cross-sectional diameter greater than the cross-sectional diameter of the first portion, and preferably larger than the uncompressed diameter of the proximal seal member. During assembly, as the proximal seal on the valve stem passes the cross-bore, risk of damage to the proximal seal by machined edges of the cross-bore/valve chamber is reduced or avoided. 1. A valve assembly comprising:a valve stem having a resilient proximal seal member disposed around the stem and a distal seal member disposed around the stem, the proximal and distal seal members being axially separated from one another along the valve stem;a housing defining a valve chamber in which the valve stem is confined so as to be axially displaceable within the valve chamber, the housing defining a first portion of the valve chamber in which the proximal seal member resides and a second portion of the valve chamber in which the distal seal member resides and further defining a cross-bore chamber which opens into the valve chamber in a third portion between the first and second portions; and,wherein the third portion has a minimum cross-sectional diameter greater than the cross-sectional diameter of the first portion.2. The valve assembly of in which the third portion of the valve ...

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Номер записи: 92
10-11-2016 дата публикации

FUEL CELL FLOW PLATE

Номер: US20160329574A1
Автор: Ostadi Hossein
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell flow plate having a first layer () comprising an electrically conductive hydrophobic layer; and a second layer () comprising a graphene coating. 1. A fuel cell flow plate having:a first layer comprising an electrically conductive hydrophobic layer; anda second layer comprising a graphene coating.2. A fuel cell flow plate according to claim 1 , in which the first layer is anisotropically electrically conductive.3. A fuel cell flow plate according to claim 2 , in which the first layer is arranged to lie in a plane on the fuel cell flow plate and be electrically conductive in a direction through the plane and less conductive in a direction in the plane.4. A fuel cell flow plate according to claim 3 , in which the first layer is non-conductive in the plane.5. A fuel cell flow plate according to claim 1 , in which the first layer comprises a polymer having conductive particles dispersed therein.6. A fuel cell flow plate according to claim 1 , in which the first layer comprises an acrylic tape.7. A fuel cell flow plate according to claim 1 , in which the tape includes a pressure sensitive adhesive.8. A fuel cell flow plate according to claim 1 , in which the second layer comprises a graphene coating of less than ten graphene layers.9. A fuel cell flow plate according to claim 1 , in which the first layer is hydrophobic with a contact angle of greater than 90°.10. A fuel cell flow plate according to claim 1 , in which the fuel cell flow plate is of metal and the first layer is disposed thereon with the second layer coating the first layer.11. A fuel cell flow plate according to claim 1 , in which the fuel cell flow plate comprises an anode flow plate.12. A fuel cell including a flow plate as defined in .13. A method of manufacturing a fuel cell flow plate comprising the steps of;receiving a flow plate base;receiving a first layer comprising an electrically conductive hydrophobic layer;receiving a second layer comprising a graphene coating;forming a fuel cell ...

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Номер записи: 93
09-11-2017 дата публикации

FUEL CELL SYSTEM

Номер: US20170324102A1
Автор: Burrow Emma Caroline Louise, Edgar David, Nash Gareth David John
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell system comprises a fuel cell having an anode flow path extending through the fuel cell between an anode inlet and an anode outlet, and a cathode flow path extending through the fuel cell between a cathode inlet and a cathode outlet. An anode purge valve is coupled to the anode outlet and has an outlet coupled to the cathode inlet. A purge valve controller is configured to effect a purge cycle by opening and closing the anode purge valve and to monitor a fuel cell voltage profile during the purge cycle to determine an operational state of the anode purge valve. A fuel cell voltage drop during a period following a command signal instructing opening of the anode purge valve is used to indicate successful start of a purge cycle. A fuel cell voltage rise during a period following a command signal instructing closing of the anode purge valve is used to indicate a successful end to a purge cycle. 1. A fuel cell system comprising:a fuel cell having an anode flow path extending through the fuel cell between an anode inlet and an anode outlet, and a cathode flow path extending through the fuel cell between a cathode inlet and a cathode outlet;an anode purge valve coupled to the anode outlet, the anode purge valve having an outlet coupled to the cathode inlet; and,a purge valve controller configured to effect a purge cycle by opening and closing the anode purge valve and to monitor a fuel cell voltage profile during the purge cycle to determine an operational state of the anode purge valve.2. The fuel cell system of in which the purge valve controller is configured to determine a fuel cell voltage drop during a period following a command signal instructing opening of the anode purge valve.3. The fuel cell system of in which the purge valve controller is configured to determine a fuel cell voltage rise during a period following a command signal instructing closing of the anode purge valve.4. The fuel cell system of in which the purge valve controller is configured ...

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Номер записи: 94
08-11-2018 дата публикации

Isolation and Voltage Regulation Circuit

Номер: US20180323781A1
Автор: DEVANEY Brendan, Lawes Stephen
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

The disclosure relates to an isolation and voltage regulation circuit for an electrochemical power source, the circuit comprising: an input terminal () for coupling to the power source and receiving an input voltage (Vin) from the power source; an output terminal () for coupling to a load; a diode circuit () connected between the input terminal and the output terminal; a diode controller () configured to control electrical conduction through the diode circuit between the input terminal and the output terminal, the diode controller having a first controller input () coupled to the output terminal and a second controller input (); and a reference controller () configured to set a voltage at the second controller input () in accordance with a comparison between the input voltage (Vin) and a reference voltage (Vref). 1. An isolation and voltage regulation circuit for an electrochemical power source , the circuit comprising:an input terminal for coupling to the power source and for receiving an input voltage from the power source;an output terminal for coupling to a load;a diode circuit connected between the input terminal and the output terminal;a diode controller configured to control electrical conduction through the diode circuit between the input terminal and the output terminal, the diode controller having a first controller input coupled to the output terminal and a second controller input; anda reference controller configured to set a voltage at the second controller input in accordance with a comparison between the input voltage and a reference voltage.2. The circuit of in which the reference controller is coupled between the input terminal and the second controller input.3. The circuit of in which the reference controller is configured to set the voltage at the second controller input by switchably coupling the second controller input to (i) a reference voltage source when the input voltage is greater than the reference voltage and (ii) the input terminal when ...

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Номер записи: 95
16-11-2017 дата публикации

FUEL CELL AND COOLANT STORAGE

Номер: US20170331127A1
Автор: Foster Simon, GARDNER Vince, MOGHIMI Shahin, Palmer Nathaniel, Rama Pratap
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A method of operating a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell assembly configured to generate electrical power from a fuel flow and an oxidant flow, the method comprising a first phase and a subsequent second phase, the first phase comprising; operating the fuel cell assembly with a first stoichiometric ratio of oxidant flow to fuel flow to generate electrical power; providing said generated electrical power to a heater element for heating a coolant for supply to said fuel cell assembly; the second phase comprising; delivering coolant heated in the first phase to the fuel cell assembly; operating the fuel cell assembly with a second stoichiometric ratio of oxidant flow to fuel flow to generate electrical power, the second stoichiometric ratio lower than the first ratio. 1. A method of operating a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell assembly configured to generate electrical power from a fuel flow and an oxidant flow , the method comprising: operating the fuel cell assembly with a first stoichiometric ratio of oxidant flow to fuel flow to generate electrical power;', 'providing said generated electrical power to a heater element for heating a coolant for supply to said fuel cell assembly;', 'the second phase comprising;', 'delivering coolant heated in the first phase to the fuel cell assembly;', 'operating the fuel cell assembly with a second stoichiometric ratio of oxidant flow to fuel flow to generate electrical power, the second stoichiometric ratio lower than the first ratio., 'a first phase and a subsequent second phase, the first phase comprising;'}2. A method according to claim 1 , in which the second phase includes the step of providing said generated electrical power to the heater element or a different heater element for heating a coolant for supply to said fuel cell assembly.3. A method according to claim 1 , in which the first phase includes setting a fuel flow supply pressure to a first pressure and the second phase comprises setting the fuel flow ...

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Номер записи: 96
03-12-2015 дата публикации

HYDROGEN QUALITY MONITOR

Номер: US20150346140A1
Автор: Foster Simon Edward, Kirk Christopher James
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A pair of fuel cells are configured as a hydrogen purity monitor. A first cell, acting as a reference cell, is configured to generate electrical current from the electrochemical reaction of hydrogen and oxidant and has a first fuel inlet configured to receive hydrogen from a first hydrogen source. A second fuel cell, acting as a test cell, is configured to generate electrical current from the electrochemical reaction of hydrogen and oxidant and has a second fuel inlet configured to receive hydrogen from a second hydrogen source. A control system is configured to apply an electrical load to each fuel cell and determine an electrical output of each fuel cell. The control system has a comparator for comparing the electrical outputs of the first and second fuel cells and a purity monitor output configured to give an indication of hydrogen purity based on an output of the comparator. 1. A hydrogen purity monitor having a controller to process output voltages from at least two fuel cells utilizing the comparison result to indicate fuel purity comprising:a first fuel cell configured to generate electrical current from the electrochemical reaction of hydrogen and oxidant, having a first fuel inlet configured to receive hydrogen from a first hydrogen source;a second fuel cell configured to generate electrical current from the electrochemical reaction of hydrogen and oxidant, having a second fuel inlet configured to receive hydrogen from a second hydrogen source;a control system configured to apply an electrical load to each fuel cell and determine an electrical output of each fuel cell, the control system including a comparator for comparing the electrical outputs of the first and second fuel cells; anda purity monitor output configured to give an indication of hydrogen purity based on an output of the comparator.2. The hydrogen purity monitor of further including a first hydrogen source comprising a hydrogen source of known purity.3. The hydrogen purity monitor of in which ...

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Номер записи: 97
08-10-2020 дата публикации

COOLANT PURIFICATION

Номер: US20200321636A1
Автор: Crespy Mathias, Rama Pratap
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell stack is disclosed. An ozone generator is configured to introduce ozone into a coolant in the fuel cell system. A deionisation apparatus is coupled to the fuel cell stack. A bypass conduit is arranged in parallel with the deionisation apparatus. A controller is configured to control flow of the coolant to the fuel cell stack through either the deionisation apparatus or the bypass conduit based on the operating state of the ozone generator. 1. A method of operating a fuel cell system , the method comprising:introducing ozone into a coolant in a fuel cell system;controlling flow of the coolant to a fuel cell stack in the fuel cell system with a controller,determining a level of ozone in the flow of the coolant; andcomparing the level of ozone in the flow with a predetermined threshold level of ozone;wherein coolant is either directed through a deionisation apparatus or a bypass conduit based on an operating state of the ozone generator; and,wherein the bypass conduit is arranged in parallel with the deionization apparatus and the deionization apparatus is coupled to the fuel cell stack.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the method further comprises controlling the coolant flow to the fuel cell stack by controlling the position of a valve to direct coolant either through the deionisation apparatus or through the bypass conduit.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the method further comprises:directing coolant containing ozone to a coolant reservoir;wherein the coolant reservoir is coupled to the fuel cell stack via the deionization apparatus and the bypass conduit.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the method further comprises using the controller to periodically introduce ozone in the coolant with the ozone generator.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the method further comprises using the controller to cause the ozone generator to dynamically introduce ozone in the coolant based on at least one of:a level of bacteria in the ...

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Номер записи: 98
03-12-2015 дата публикации

PUMP ASSEMBLY FOR A FUEL CELL SYSTEM

Номер: US20150349357A1
Автор: BRAITHWAITE DANIEL, FABIAN TIBOR, Fisher Tobin J., Glassmann Jonathan Louis, Peterson Andrew Gust, Rodriguez Adam
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

A pump assembly including a first subassembly and a second subassembly. The first subassembly includes a fluid conduit; an inlet fluidly coupled to the liquid reactant dispenser and the fluid conduit; an outlet fluidly coupled to a reaction chamber and the fluid conduit; and a diaphragm, defining a portion of the fluid conduit, that flexes to pump the liquid reactant from the inlet to the outlet. The diaphragm preferably includes an actuation point coupled to the diaphragm, wherein the liquid reactant is substantially contained within the first subassembly during pumping. The second subassembly is couplable to the first subassembly, and is fluidly isolated from the liquid reactant. The second subassembly includes an actuator that couples to the actuation point, wherein operation of the actuator causes pumping action. 118-. (canceled)19. A method of supplying fuel to operate a fuel cell system comprising:a fuel cartridge including a liquid reactant dispenser containing a liquid reactant and a reaction chamber distinct from the liquid reactant dispenser, a pump assembly including:a first subassembly including: a fluid conduit, an inlet fluidly coupled to the liquid reactant dispenser and the fluid conduit, an outlet fluidly coupled to the reaction chamber and the fluid conduit, a diaphragm that defines a portion of the fluid conduit and that flexes to pump the liquid reactant from the inlet to the outlet, and an actuation point coupled to the diaphragm; wherein the liquid reactant is substantially contained within the first subassembly during pumping; and, 'flexing the diaphragm between a flexed and unflexed state; and,', 'a second subassembly, couplable to the first subassembly and fluidly isolated from the liquid reactant, the second subassembly including an actuator that couples to the actuation point, wherein operation of the actuator causes diaphragm flexion;'}wherein the flexed state creates a positive pressure within the fluid conduit so as to facilitate the ...

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Номер записи: 99
24-10-2019 дата публикации

FLUID FLOW PLATE FOR A FUEL CELL

Номер: US20190326614A1
Автор: Adcock Paul Leonard, Hood Peter David
Принадлежит: Intelligent Energy Limited

The invention relates to bipolar plates for electrochemical fuel cell assemblies, and in particular to configurations of bipolar plates allowing for multiple fluid flow channels for the passage of anode, cathode and coolant fluids. Embodiments disclosed include a bipolar plate () for an electrochemical fuel cell assembly, comprising: a first plurality of fluid flow channels () extending across a first face of the bipolar plate between first inlet and outlet ports () at opposing ends of the bipolar plate; a second plurality of fluid flow channels () extending across a second opposing face of the bipolar plate between second inlet and outlet ports () at opposing ends of the bipolar plate; and a third plurality of fluid flow channels () extending between third inlet and outlet ports () at opposing ends of the bipolar plate, the third plurality of fluid flow channels provided between first and second corrugated plates () forming the first and second opposing faces of the bipolar plate, wherein the first, second and third fluid flow channels are coplanar. 1. A bipolar plate for an electrochemical fuel cell assembly , comprising:a first corrugated plate having a plurality of first fluid flow channels extending thereacross between first inlet and outlet ports;A second corrugated plate having a second plurality of fluid flow channels extending thereacross between second inlet and outlet ports;a first gasket forming a fluid seal around a periphery of the first and second corrugated plates;first inlet and outlet ports and forming the first inlet and outlet manifolds,a third plurality of fluid flow channels extending between third inlet and outlet ports at opposing ends of the assembled bipolar plate, the third plurality of fluid flow channels provided between first and second corrugated plates, respectively;the first inlet and outlet manifolds each comprising an open array of raised features formed in the first gasket configured to provide a defined separation between the ...

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Номер записи: 100