Apparatus and method for generating heat

Abstract

An electrode carrying insert for an energy battery, the insert comprising: a body having: a proximal region, a distal region, and a sealing region; and an electrode extending within the body from the proximal region to the distal region; wherein the insert is insertable into a housing of the energy cell, where the sealing region seals an opening in the housing, the body extends through the opening from a proximal end region of an exterior of the housing to a distal end region of an interior of the housing, and the electrode is configured to apply electrical energy to a fluid within the interior of the housing, to generate one or more plasma bubbles in the fluid.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of energy batteries. In particular, this disclosure relates to the field of energy batteries in which plasma is generated for the indirect and direct heating of fluids. Background Technology

[0002] GB2604853 discloses a heating system comprising a battery that applies electrical energy to a liquid within the battery to generate plasma bubbles in the liquid. This, in turn, causes energy to be released into the battery, both into the fluid contained within the battery and into the battery casing. This energy release results in the generation of a heated fluid within the battery. The heated fluid can be output from the battery and used by a work extraction system to extract usable work from the heated fluid. This arrangement disclosed in GB2604853 provides for the efficient generation of the heated fluid. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Various aspects of this disclosure are set forth in the independent claims, and optional features are set forth in the dependent claims. Various aspects of this disclosure may be provided in combination with each other, and features of one aspect may be applied to the other aspects.

[0004] In one aspect, an electrode carrier insert for an energy battery is provided, the insert comprising: a body having: a proximal region, a distal region, and a sealing region; and an electrode extending within the body from the proximal region to the distal region; wherein the insert is insertable into a housing of the energy battery, wherein the sealing region seals an opening in the housing, the body extends through the opening from the proximal region outside the housing to the distal region inside the housing, and the electrode is configured to apply electrical energy to a fluid inside the housing to generate one or more plasma bubbles in the fluid.

[0005] In one aspect, an energy battery is provided, comprising: a housing having an opening therein; and an electrode carrier comprising: (i) a body having: a proximal region, a distal region, and a sealing region; and (ii) an electrode within the body; wherein the electrode carrier is coupled to the housing, wherein a sealing member of the electrode carrier seals the opening in the housing, and wherein the distal region of the body is inside the housing, and the proximal region of the body is outside the housing; wherein the electrode extends from the proximal region to the distal region within the body and is configured to apply electrical energy to a fluid inside the housing to generate one or more plasma bubbles in the fluid.

[0006] The embodiments enable the use of the electrode carrier inserts to provide a “complete energy cell.” This simplifies the design constraints for providing the entire cell, as well as the manufacturing and / or installation of the cell. For example, the electrode carrier inserts can provide replaceable components, such that multiple electrode carrier inserts can be used in combination with the cell throughout its entire lifespan. This can increase the lifespan of such a complete energy cell. The inserts can also be manufactured more efficiently, for example, using 3D printing. Inserting individual electrode carrier inserts to provide a complete cell facilitates providing complete energy cells more easily and efficiently.

[0007] The distal region of the body may include a member surrounding the electrode, wherein the member extends distally from the sealed region. The member may surround the electrode along a portion of its length, but not its entire length, within the housing. The distal end of the electrode may extend beyond the distal end of the member. The device may also include a protective element, such as an electric shield, arranged to at least partially surround the distal end of the electrode. At least one of (i) the protective element and (ii) the body may be configured to have a coefficient of thermal expansion similar to or the same as that of the electrode. The protective element may be coupled to the distal end of the member, optionally wherein the coupling includes a threaded connection. The member may be narrower at the distal end of the member than at the proximal end of the member.

[0008] The sealing area may include a flange. The flange may be larger than the opening in the housing and is arranged to completely circumsect the opening. A proximal end of the component may be coupled to the flange, and wherein the flange surrounds the proximal end of the component. The device may also include a recess in the flange, wherein the recess is arranged to receive components of the energy cell within the housing, optionally wherein the components include resistive elements. The recess may be configured to hold the components in a fixed spatial arrangement relative to an electrode. The recess may surround an electrode. The recess may be circular. The electrode may extend distally from the center point of the circular recess.

[0009] The electrode may include a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being arranged inside the housing, and the second portion being arranged to connect the first portion to an electrical power source. The size and / or shape of the first portion may differ from the size and / or shape of the second portion. A sealing region may be configured to seal an opening in the housing in response to pressure from fluid within an internal portion of the housing. The device may include a coupling element configured to secure an insert to the housing. The body may include at least one fluid channel arranged to allow fluid to flow through the body and into the housing. The fluid channel may include an orifice in the sealing region. The fluid channel may be configured to provide turbulence and / or eddies for fluid entry into the housing. The at least one fluid channel may include at least one conduit extending distally from the sealing region, optionally wherein the at least one conduit follows a path that is at least partially curved. The body may be removably inserted into the housing, for example, to allow multiple different inserts to be used with the housing and / or to allow one insert to be used with multiple different housings. The body may be arranged such that the electrode extends coaxially into the housing along with one or more battery electrodes within the housing.

[0010] The distal portion of the body may be more heat-resistant than the proximal portion. The distal end of the electrode may extend beyond the distal end of the body. The distal end of the electrode may extend beyond the distal end of the body by a distance selected to provide a cooler region within the internal volume of the housing. This distance may be selected to provide a cooler region adjacent to the proximal end of the battery. The proximal portion of the body may be located within the cooler region of the internal volume, and wherein the material of the proximal portion has lower heat resistance than the material of the distal portion of the body. The distal end of the electrode may extend beyond the distal end of the body by a distance selected such that a line extending from the distal end of the electrode through the distal end of the body intersects one or more walls of the battery at a location remote from the proximal end of the battery. A solid angle extending from the distal end of the electrode through the distal end of the body may intersect the one or more walls in a plane remote from the proximal end of the battery. The device may include one or more components for sealing the proximal end of the battery to one or more walls of the battery, and wherein the components are located within the cooler region of the internal volume. The main body can be arranged such that electrons are ejected from the distal end of the electrode into the distal volume of the battery, but prevented from being ejected into the proximal volume, thereby providing a cooler region in the proximal volume. A more heat-resistant portion can be located in the region that is hotter than the cooler region.

[0011] In one aspect, a component kit is provided, comprising: an energy battery including: a housing having an opening therein; and an electrode carrier insert including: a body having: a proximal region, a distal region, and a sealing region; and an electrode extending within the body from the proximal region to the distal region; wherein the insert is insertable into the housing of the energy battery, wherein the sealing region seals the opening in the housing, the body extends through the opening from the proximal region outside the housing to the distal region inside the housing, and the electrode is configured to apply electrical energy to a fluid inside the housing to generate one or more plasma bubbles in the fluid.

[0012] In one aspect, an energy battery is provided, comprising: a housing having a proximal end, a distal end, and one or more walls extending from the proximal end to the distal end to define an internal volume within the housing for containing a fluid to be heated; and an electrode member extending from the proximal end into the internal volume, and comprising: an electrode configured to apply electrical energy to the fluid in the internal volume to generate plasma bubbles in the fluid; and a body surrounding a proximal region of the electrode within the internal volume; wherein the distal end of the electrode extends beyond the distal end of the body by a distance selected to provide a cooler region within the proximal portion of the internal volume; and wherein the cooler region intersects the battery wall at a location remote from the proximal end of the housing.

[0013] The distance can be selected such that (i) electrons are ejected from the distal end of the electrode into the distal portion of the internal volume, and (ii) electrons are prevented from being ejected from the distal end of the electrode into the proximal portion of the internal volume. The distance is selected such that a line passing from the distal end of the electrode through the distal end of the body intersects one or more walls at a location away from the proximal end. The distance is selected such that a solid angle passing from the distal end of the electrode through the distal end of the body intersects one or more walls in a plane away from the proximal end. The battery may include one or more components for sealing the proximal end of the body to one or more walls. The components may be arranged within the proximal portion of the internal volume. The material of the distal portion of the body is more heat-resistant than the material of the proximal portion of the body. The proximal portion of the body may be located in a cooler region. The electrode components may be part of the battery housing, or wherein the electrode components are provided by electrode-bearing inserts.

[0014] In one aspect, an energy battery is provided, comprising: a housing including one or more walls defining an internal volume of the container for containing a fluid to be heated; and an electrode member disposed within the internal volume and including: an electrode configured to apply electrical energy to the fluid in the internal volume to generate plasma bubbles in the fluid; and a body surrounding a proximal region of the electrode within the internal volume; wherein the body includes a distal portion and a proximal portion, and wherein the material of the distal portion of the body is more heat-resistant than the material of the proximal portion of the body.

[0015] The distal end of the electrode may extend beyond the distal end of the body by a distance corresponding to the length of the distal portion of the body. This distance is chosen to provide a cooler region in the proximal portion of the internal volume, wherein the proximal portion of the body is located in the cooler region. The proximal end of the housing may be located in the cooler region. The distal end of the electrode may extend beyond the distal end of the body by a distance chosen to prevent the temperature of the fluid adjacent to the proximal portion of the body from exceeding a threshold value. The distal end of the body may be arranged to prevent electrons from being ejected from the distal end of the electrode into the proximal portion of the internal volume, thereby preventing the temperature of the fluid in the proximal portion of the internal volume from exceeding a threshold value. A solid angle extending from the distal end of the electrode through the distal end of the body may intersect one or more walls at a plane away from the proximal end. A more heat-resistant material may be used for the portion of the component away from said plane. The proximal portion of the body may be separated from the distal portion by said plane. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Some examples of this disclosure will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing an energy battery.

[0017] Figure 2a and Figure 2b This is a schematic diagram showing the electrode carrier insert.

[0018] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing an energy cell in which electrodes are inserted to support inserts.

[0019] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing an electrode carrier insert that is inserted into a portion of a power battery.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing an energy battery.

[0021] In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to refer to the same elements. Detailed Implementation

[0022] This disclosure relates to an electrode carrier for an energy battery. The electrode carrier, once inserted into the energy battery, provides one of the electrodes of the energy battery. By applying electrical energy to this electrode (once inserted into the battery), plasma bubbles may appear, thereby generating heat within the energy battery. The electrode carrier is designed such that once inserted into the battery, the internal volume of the battery can be suitably sealed to enable the generation of plasma within that internal volume. The electrode carrier can provide a suitable connection between the internal volume of the battery and an external region of the battery, where the voltage at the electrode causes the generation of plasma bubbles within the internal volume, and where the electrode is connected to an electrical energy source in the external region of the battery. Therefore, the electrode carrier can provide an insert for the energy battery that allows the battery to remain intact upon insertion. That is, once the insert is inserted, the combination of the insert and the housing can seal the internal volume of the battery. In other words, with the electrode carrier inserted, the battery can function as intended to generate a heating fluid using the inserted electrode carrier and the remainder of the battery.

[0023] First, refer to Figure 1 An example of an energy cell is described. Following this, reference will be made to Figure 2 to... Figure 4 Describe an exemplary electrode carrier insert, wherein, Figure 3 and Figure 4 An exemplary insert is shown once inserted to provide power to the battery. Then reference... Figure 5 Another example describing an energy cell.

[0024] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of energy cell 1 is shown. The battery is in... Figure 1 The image is shown in its complete form, with no distinction between the electrode carrier insert and the rest of the battery. This is to provide context for how a "complete battery" (i.e., a battery in which the electrode carrier insert is disposed) would be arranged and how such a complete battery would function. Reference will be made below to Figures 2 through 3. Figure 4 Examples are described to make the difference between the battery and the insert clearer. As described below, the insert of this disclosure is designed so that the resulting complete battery can be used with reference to the present reference. Figure 1 The way it is described is how it is arranged and how it functions.

[0025] Battery 1 includes a fluid inlet 54 and a fluid outlet 58. Battery 1 has a housing 50. Housing 50 defines an internal volume 56 of battery 1. Battery 1 also includes multiple electrodes. As shown, the battery includes a first electrode 10, a second electrode 20, and a third electrode 30. Battery 1 may also include a resistive element 40. Although not shown, battery 1 can be connected to a supply system. The supply system can supply liquid to battery 1 through inlet 54. Similarly, although not shown, battery 1 can be connected to a power extraction system. The power extraction system can extract usable power from heated fluid from outlet 58.

[0026] The housing 50 of battery 1 encapsulates the internal volume 56. A fluid inlet 54 provides a flow path for fluid to flow into the internal volume 56 of battery 1. A fluid outlet 58 provides a flow path for fluid to flow out of the internal volume 56 of battery 1. Fluid can flow along any suitable path between the fluid inlet 54 and the fluid outlet 58. For example, fluid can flow along a very indirect (e.g., tortuous) path. Additionally, the internal volume 56 of battery 1 can be sealed by the housing 50.

[0027] The first electrode 10 is at least partially disposed within the internal volume 56 of the battery 1. The second electrode 20 may also be at least partially disposed within the internal volume 56 of the battery 1. The first electrode and the second electrode 20 are arranged concentrically. The first electrode 10 extends within the central region of the internal volume 56 of the battery 1. The second electrode 20 is disposed radially outward of the first electrode 10. The second electrode 20 may be cylindrical, as may the first electrode 10. Figure 1 In the example shown, the first electrode and the second electrode 20 are arranged coaxially. The second electrode 20 is located adjacent to the inner surface of the housing 50 (however, in some examples, the second electrode 20 may be integral with the housing 50, for example, to form part of the housing 50, and / or a part of the housing 50 may provide the second electrode 20, for example, if said part of the housing is conductive).

[0028] The first end of the first electrode 10 is located outside the internal volume 56 of the housing 50. The second end of the first electrode 10, located away from the first end, is located within the internal volume 56 of the housing 50. The second electrode 20 may extend along part or all of the length of the internal volume 56 of the housing 50. At least one end of the second electrode 20 may extend out of the internal volume 56 of the battery 1. Although in Figure 1 Not shown, but the first electrode and / or the second electrode 20 can each be connected to a power source. For example, each electrode may have an end extending outside the internal volume 56 (e.g., extending into the housing 50), and this end can be connected to a power source. In some examples, the housing 50 may provide a ground, and the first electrode 10 may be connected to the positive terminal of the power source. Figure 1In the diagram, the second electrode 20 is shown as a component separate from the housing 50, but this is not necessarily the case, as the second electrode 20 may be provided by the housing 50 (for example, the housing 50 may be made of a conductive material that can be used for the second electrode 20).

[0029] A third electrode 30 is also disposed within the internal volume 56 of the battery 1. A first end of the third electrode 30 may be located outside the internal volume 56, and the third electrode 30 may extend from the first end to a second end located within the internal volume 56. The second end of the third electrode 30 may be located near the second end of the first electrode 10 within the internal volume 56. The first electrode 10 and the third electrode 30 may be parallel (e.g., coaxial). The second electrode 20 and the third electrode 30 may be parallel (e.g., coaxial). The first electrode 10 may extend from the outside of the first end of the housing 50 toward the opposite end of the housing 50 into the internal volume 56. The third electrode 30 may extend from the outside of the opposite end of the housing 50 toward the first end into the internal volume 56. The first electrode 10 and the third electrode 30 may extend into the internal volume 56 such that there is no spatial overlap between these electrodes 10, 30 (e.g., the corresponding second ends of these electrodes 10, 30 do not contact / overlap). The second electrode 20 may extend along the length of the internal volume 56 from the first end or outside the first end to the opposite end or outside the opposite end. The distance between the second end of the first electrode 10 and the second end of the third electrode 30 may be less than the minimum distance between the first electrode 10 and the second electrode 20. The third electrode 30 may be positioned away from the intended current path between the first electrode and the second electrode 20.

[0030] Resistive element 40 may also be included within internal volume 56. Resistive element 40 may also be cylindrical. Resistive element 40 may be arranged to increase the resistance of the conductive path between the first electrode 10 (anode) and the second electrode 20 (cathode). Resistive element 40 may be provided from a single (e.g., continuous) sheet of material, or resistive element 40 may be provided from multiple sheets of material. For example, different portions of resistive element 40 may be provided from different components, each of which may contribute to providing resistance to the entire resistive element 40. Different portions of the resistive element may be electrically connected and provided from different materials / components. For example, resistive element 40 may include circuitry such as a sensor (e.g., a photovoltaic sensor). Different portions of resistive element 40 do not require physical and / or electrical connections. Resistive element 40 may increase the resistance between the first electrode 10 and the second electrode 20. Resistive element 40 may extend around a large portion of internal volume 56 (e.g., along the length and width of internal volume 56 to impede most of the possible conductive path from the anode to the cathode). Resistive element 40 may be located between the first electrode 10 / third electrode and the second electrode 20. For example, the resistive element 40 may be located radially outside the first electrode 10 / third electrode 30, but not as far radially outside the second electrode 20. The resistive element 40 may extend along part or all of the length of the internal volume 56.

[0031] The housing 50 can be cylindrical. That is, the cross-sectional shape of the housing 50 (i.e., when viewed in a plan view) can be circular. Alternatively, the housing 50 can be polygonal. The housing 50 can be provided with a shape that is mateable (i.e., capable of being mated with other copies of the same shape). For example, multiple batteries 1 can be provided together, for example, to increase the output compared to the output provided by a single battery. In this case, the batteries 1 can be stacked together. The batteries 1 can be designed to facilitate stacking in a more space-saving manner. For example, the batteries 1 can be arranged such that when the batteries 1 are stacked together, the batteries 1 mate with each other (or at least substantially mate with each other to provide a more space-saving stack). As will be understood, any suitable mateable shape can be used for this purpose. For example, the shape can be any suitable polygon, such as a hexagon or an octagon. This shape can be given by the outer surface of the housing 50, for example, all components inside the housing (including the inner surface of the housing 50) are circular, or the shape can be given by the inner surface of the housing 50.

[0032] A fluid inlet 54 is disposed at the end of housing 50 opposite to fluid outlet 58. First and second electrodes 20 extend along an axis (e.g., the longitudinal axis of battery 1) extending from fluid inlet 54 to fluid outlet 58. Fluid outlet 58 may be disposed higher than fluid inlet 54 (e.g., above fluid inlet 54, such as directly above or laterally offset from fluid inlet 54). Housing 50 is configured to encapsulate an internal volume 56. Housing 50 is arranged to define the internal volume 56 to provide an area where liquid can be heated. An inner surface of housing 50 (e.g., the inner surface facing / defining the internal volume 56) may be configured to generate heat in response to incident photons (e.g., housing 50 may be conductive). The inner surface may include a region of housing 50 adjacent to the internal volume 56. The inner surface may include a portion of housing 50 and / or the inner surface may include additional components, such as layers / films disposed on the inner surface to absorb incident photons and generate heat in response. For example, the inner surface can be configured to absorb electromagnetic energy, such as electromagnetic energy in the form of visible light. When the inner surface receives incident photons, the inner surface is configured to be heated. For example, when the inner surface is heated due to incident photons, the inner surface is configured to provide heating for the fluid within the internal volume 56.

[0033] The housing 50 can be made of a metal such as steel, or other materials such as ceramic. For example, glass with, for example, boron or lead can be used. The housing 50 can be formed of a variety of different materials. Different materials can be selected based on their photon absorption properties. For example, materials that absorb photons in different wavelength ranges (e.g., visible light, infrared light, ultraviolet light) can be selected, for which photons are expected within the internal portion 56 for different wavelength ranges. The housing 50 may include multiple layers, such as having an outer shell layer and an inner layer (such as a sleeve) located inside the outer layer. Different layers can be made of different materials. The housing 50 is configured to retain fluid in the internal volume 56 under pressure.

[0034] A fluid inlet 54, an internal volume 56, and a fluid outlet 58 are arranged to define a flow path for fluid to flow through the internal volume 56 of the housing 50. The internal volume 56 is arranged to contain a liquid to be heated through the fluid inlet 54. The battery 1 is arranged to heat the liquid in the internal volume 56 to provide a heating fluid. The fluid outlet 58 is arranged to provide a flow path for the heating fluid away from the internal volume 56.

[0035] The first electrode 10 and the second electrode 20 are configured to provide a current flow path through the internal volume 56 of the battery 1. One of the electrodes 10 and 20 can provide an anode, while the other can provide a cathode. For example, the first electrode 10 can provide an anode for bringing current into the internal volume 56 of the battery 1. The second electrode 20 can then provide a cathode for carrying current away from the internal volume 56 of the battery 1. The first electrode and the second electrode 20 are spaced apart from each other. The first electrode 10 is arranged to accommodate a voltage, such that a potential difference exists between the first electrode 10 and the second electrode 20. The first electrode 10 and the second electrode 20 are arranged capacitively. The presence of fluid in the internal volume 56 can provide a conductive path between the first electrode 20 and the second electrode 20. The fluid will provide resistance between the two electrodes 10 and 20. The first electrode and the second electrode 20 having fluid in the battery 1 can effectively provide a circuit with both capacitance and resistance. The first electrode 10 and the second electrode 20 are configured to provide voltage stress to the fluid and / or plasma within the internal volume 56.

[0036] The third electrode 30 can be active or passive. When the third electrode 30 is active, a voltage is applied to it. When the third electrode 30 is passive, it can be conductive to accommodate current within the internal volume 56, but not power from the power source 30. The third electrode 30 can be configured to provide a balancing electrode (e.g., it can be arranged to balance the electric field / current generated within the internal volume 56). The third electrode 30 may include a tip of conductive material (i.e., a tip of conductive material is arranged within the internal volume 56 of the battery 1). The tip does not need to be electrically connected to any external component of the battery 1. For example, in the case where the third electrode 30 is passive, providing an electrical conductor within the housing 1 can provide passive balancing. For example, such a tip can self-charge and self-discharge.

[0037] For example, the first electrode 10 can be active, the second electrode 20 can be passive, and the third electrode 30 can be either active or passive. The distal tip of the first electrode 10 (i.e., the exposed tip within the battery) is electrically connected to a voltage source (e.g., a voltage source external to battery 1). The second electrode 20 can be electrically grounded (e.g., so that current can flow from the second electrode 20 to the ground). When the third electrode 30 is passive, it can provide an exposed portion of conductive material within the internal volume 56 of battery 1. This passive exposed portion of conductive material can be arranged to charge and / or discharge within the battery (e.g., due to the internal electrical conditions of the battery). When the third electrode 30 is active, it can be connected to a voltage source. Thus, the exposed portion of the third electrode 30 within battery 1 can be connected to a voltage source.

[0038] Resistive element 40 can be arranged in the current flow path between the first electrode 10 and the second electrode 20, for example, such that current will need to flow through resistive element 40 to reach the second electrode 20 from the first electrode 10. Resistive element 40 can extend along one or both ends of the internal volume 56 (e.g., to reduce the likelihood that the conductive path from the anode to the cathode does not pass through resistive element 40). Resistive element 40 can be configured to have relatively high resistance (e.g., compared to the resistance of the electrodes and / or fluid within the internal volume 56). Resistive element 40 can have sufficient resistance to effectively provide electrical insulation (between the anode and cathode).

[0039] During operation, liquid is supplied through fluid inlet 54 and enters the internal volume 56 of battery 1. In this example, the liquid will be water, but other liquids can be used. For example, the liquid can be any aqueous solution, such as tap water, seawater, deionized water, etc. The liquid can be any non-Newtonian liquid. The liquid can be a non-electrically insulating liquid. The liquid can be at least partially resistive (but not completely resistive). Battery 1 will be filled with water. Any gas previously in battery 1 can be expelled through fluid outlet 58 of battery 1. Thus, battery 1 can be substantially filled with water.

[0040] A voltage is applied to the first electrode 10 (anode). This causes some current to flow into the water. Due to the resistance of the water, this current and resistance will cause some heating of the water (e.g., I²R heating). This resistive heating process continues as the voltage is applied to the first electrode 10. As the temperature of the water within the internal volume 56 rises, microbubbles of gas will begin to form within the water in the internal volume 56. These can be formed steam bubbles or released air bubbles, which are trapped in the water supplied to the internal volume 56 of the battery 1. As a result, some cavitation will form within the liquid in the internal volume 56 of the battery 1. As the voltage continues to be applied to the first electrode 10, plasma bubbles will be generated within the internal volume 56 of the housing 50. These bubbles will release energy to the surrounding fluid and the inner surface of the housing 50. This, in turn, provides heating to the fluid within the internal volume 56.

[0041] By applying a voltage to the first electrode 10, the capacitor provided by the first and second electrodes 20 can be charged. When the fluid within the internal volume 56 is heated, the dielectric constant of the fluid can change, and this can change the capacitance of the battery 1 (e.g., between the first and second electrodes 10 and 20). For example, when water is used, the dielectric constant of water decreases as the water is heated (and then decreases again when the water becomes steam). In particular, when microbubbles of gas (e.g., steam) begin to form within the liquid in the internal volume 56, these microbubbles will provide local regions with a lower dielectric constant. This process can effectively provide a dielectric constant anomaly in local regions. For example, in the case of water, the difference in dielectric constant between the bubbles formed in the water and the surrounding water can be approximately 40 times (e.g., the capacitance per unit volume of these bubbles can be 1 / 40th of the capacitance per unit volume of the surrounding water). During this process, the volumetric energy density of the fluid and / or plasma within the internal volume 56 will remain constant. Due to the dielectric constant anomaly within the gas bubbles, the capacitance of this region will decrease. When the volumetric energy density remains constant and the capacitance decreases, the voltage per meter will increase accordingly (e.g., according to E=1 / 2CV², saving energy). In the example using water, the voltage per meter will increase by approximately √40 times.

[0042] While electrical energy is still applied to the first electrode 10, these gas microbubbles (with a density lower than that of the surrounding liquid) will attempt to expand rapidly around them. However, due to the non-Newtonian properties of the liquid under these conditions, the surrounding liquid will resist this expansion. This will cause the temperature and pressure of the microbubbles to increase rapidly. Consequently, the capacitance of the microbubbles will further decrease (e.g., causing an increase in dV / dr), resulting in a further increase in the voltage stress across the bubbles. With sufficient voltage stress across the bubbles, ionization can occur, leading to the formation of plasma within the bubbles. Thus, one or more plasma bubbles can form in the liquid within the internal volume 56. The density of the plasma is even lower than that of the gas, so while voltage is still applied to the first electrode 10, the plasma bubbles will further attempt to expand rapidly. In particular, this process of plasma bubble formation will occur rapidly, so each plasma bubble will drive rapid expansion. Consequently, this will generate a non-Newtonian fluid response in the liquid within the internal volume 56 of the battery 1. For example, in the case of using water, water will not be generated immediately before the pressure wave caused by the attempting expansion of the plasma bubbles. Therefore, the plasma bubble is kept in a relatively fixed volume (e.g., the plasma bubble can only expand relatively slowly). While the volume of the plasma remains relatively constant, the temperature and pressure inside the bubble rise rapidly in response to the voltage stress caused by the voltage applied to the first electrode 10.

[0043] As described above, gas breakdown can occur, resulting in the formation of a low-impedance bridge (e.g., a decrease in gas resistivity), but not complete breakdown leading to arcing. Furthermore, thermionic emission can occur within the cell 1. Electron ejection can occur as electrons move between the different electrodes of the cell. Specifically, electrons can be transferred from the first electrode 10 to the second electrode 20 and / or from the first electrode 10 to the third electrode 30. Furthermore, electrons can also be transferred from the third electrode 30 to the second electrode 20. In other words, the third electrode 30 can be used to attract electrons before they are ejected (i.e., delivered to the second electrode 20) (i.e., from the first electrode 10). This can be used to stretch the plasma generation region, which in turn can increase the stability of the plasma generation region. Electrons can be accelerated through the already formed bubbles.

[0044] Electrodes can be designed to provide preferential flow for electron movement. For example, the material of each electrode (specifically, its valence) can be chosen to impart this preferential flow of electrons. For instance, tungsten can be used for the first electrode because it has a high valence. The electrodes can be arranged to provide preferential flow from the first electrode 10 to the third electrode 30 (compared to flow from the first electrode 10 to the second electrode 20). This can be used to stretch the plasma generation region, which in turn can provide greater stability and / or a larger amount of work output.

[0045] Energy can be absorbed by the atoms (and molecules) within the bubble. Therefore, the energy levels (e.g., states) of these particles can rise. Within the plasma, atoms can move their electrons to higher electronic energy levels, and / or the spin states of these particles can change. For example, the spin state of a hydrogen atom can change from its lower-energy para state to its higher-energy ortho state. Molecules can also move to higher rotational and / or vibrational energy levels, and / or further splitting of these molecules can occur. As a result, the atoms within each bubble will be at disproportionately high energy levels (e.g., compared to a conventional fluid / fluid within an internal volume of 56). Photon emission from the plasma can occur to adapt to the high energies within the plasma. Electrons can move to lower-energy electronic states, and / or for atoms / molecules, changes to lower-energy vibrational / rotational / spin states can occur. It is this return to lower-energy configurations that leads to photon emission (e.g., a decrease in energy levels according to the Bohr model). This photon emission can occur on a relatively large scale. In the case of water, most of this photon emission occurs in the visible spectrum.

[0046] The photons emitted from each plasma bubble are then absorbed by the fluid in the internal volume 56 or the outer casing 50 of the battery 1. In response to receiving these incident photons, the fluid and / or casing 50 will heat up as it absorbs the photons. Specifically, the inner surface of the casing 50 can absorb a large number of these photons, thus raising the temperature of the inner surface of the casing 50. This heating of the inner surface of the casing 50, in turn, provides conductive heating to the fluid within the internal volume 56. This may lead to convection, thus increasing turbulence in the fluid within the internal volume 56 of the battery 1. As a result of this process, the fluid within the internal volume 56 will be heated. A large portion of the liquid supplied to the internal volume 56 of the battery 1 can then evaporate to provide a gas (e.g., vapor). It should be understood that, in the context of this disclosure, some of the fluid leaving the battery 1 may have a certain unconventional or at least lower energy configuration compared to the liquid supplied to the battery 1. This is a result of the plasma generation and subsequent energy release occurring within the battery 1.

[0047] In this sense, battery 1 can operate as a heat pump. That is, battery 1 contains a liquid, such as water (e.g., cold water), and converts that liquid into vapor. Although not shown, battery 1 may also include one or more filters. The filters can be used to filter solid contaminants, such as manganese, iron compounds, or other material deposits that may accumulate within battery 1. For example, the filters may include gravity filters or another suitable type of filter arranged to prevent excessive accumulation of such material deposits within the battery.

[0048] The heating fluid then exits through fluid outlet 58. Typically, the heating fluid is in the form of steam, which is generated within the internal volume 56 and rises before exiting through fluid outlet 58. Thus, the heating fluid output from battery 1 can be used in a power extraction system to extract usable power from the heating fluid.

[0049] In the above example, battery 1 is effectively described as comprising a single housing 50, wherein different components of battery 1 are provided as part of battery 1. This disclosure relates to providing a separate component for providing a first electrode 10 of battery 1. This separate component is in the form of an electrode insert configured to provide a portion of the resulting battery 1 (the lower portion of battery 1, such as...). Figure 1 (As shown). As will be described in more detail below, in addition to providing the first electrode 10 of the battery 1, the insert can also effectively provide a portion of the housing 50 for the battery 1. The insert can also provide a fluid inlet 54 for the battery 1.

[0050] Now refer to Figure 2a and Figure 2b Describe an exemplary insert.

[0051] Figure 2a A cross-sectional view of the electrode insert 100 is shown. Figure 2a It shows the relationship with Figure 1 The cross-sectional view shown is the same as that of the energy cell 1 shown. Figure 2b This shows what it looks like when viewed in a plan view (i.e., viewed from top to bottom). Figure 2a Insert 100.

[0052] Electrode insert 100 includes an electrode 110 and a body 120. The body 120 has a distal region 121, a sealing region 122, and a proximal region 123. The body 120 includes an inner end portion 130, a tapered portion 132, and a flange 134. The flange 134 includes a groove 152 and a fluid channel 154. The body 120 also includes a bushing 136 and an outer end portion 138. Insert 100 also includes a grounding element 156. The electrode 110 has an outer portion 116 and an inner portion 114. A protective element 140 is also included.

[0053] The body 120 extends from its proximal region 123 (which will be located outside the housing 50 of the battery 1) to its distal region 121 (which will be located inside the housing 50 of the battery 1). A sealing region 122 of the body 120 is located between the proximal and distal regions (to provide a seal for the housing 50 of the battery 1). The central axis of the insert 100 can extend from the proximal end (i.e., outside the housing 50) to the distal end (i.e., inside the housing 50).

[0054] Flange 134 is located in the sealing region 122 of body 120. Flange 134 provides a wider area of ​​body 120. Flange 134 extends radially outward from the central axis of insert 100. Flange 134 may include a distal surface and a proximal surface. The distal surface may face the internal volume 56 of battery 1, and the proximal surface may face away from the internal volume 56 of battery 1. Flange 134 may include at least one hole. The hole extends from the proximal side of flange 134 to the distal side of flange 134 to provide a fluid passage 154. Recess 152 may be provided in the distal surface of flange 134. Recess 152 provides a recess within flange 134 (e.g., in the distal surface of flange 134). Flange 134 may be circular. Recess 152 may be circular. Recess 152 and flange 134 may be arranged concentrically. Recess 152 may be arranged concentrically about a central axis. Flange 134 can also be arranged concentrically around the central axis.

[0055] The proximal region 123 of the body 120 is located proximal to the flange 134. The bushing 136, grounding element 156, and outer end portion 138 are located proximal to the flange 134. The bushing 136 may be arranged concentrically about the central axis of the insert 100 (e.g., the outer end portion 138 may also be arranged concentrically). The bushing 136 and / or the outer carrier may be circular. The outer carrier may extend proximally away from the bushing 136. The grounding element 156 may be located on the proximal surface of the bushing 136. The grounding element 156 may be a plate. For example, the plate may be annular in shape. The plate may be concentric about the central axis. The outer end portion 138 may extend through the central region of the plate. The grounding element 156 may at least partially (e.g., completely) external to the outer end portion 138. The outer end portion 138 may extend proximally beyond the grounding element 156 (and the bushing 136). Bushing 136 and / or grounding element 156 may be electrically connected to the housing 50 of battery 1 (once insert 100 is inserted to make battery 1 complete) and electrically grounded, for example to electrically ground the second electrode 20 which is electrically connected to the housing 50 (e.g., a portion of housing 50).

[0056] The distal region 121 of the body 120 is located distal to the flange 134. The tapered portion 132 and the inner end portion 130 are located distal to the flange 134. The tapered portion 132 can extend distally from the distal surface of the flange 134 to the inner end portion 130 of the body 120. In other words, the tapered portion 132 connects the flange 134 to the inner end portion 130 of the body 120. The tapered portion 132 may be wider at the flange 134 than at the inner end portion 130. For example, the tapered portion 132 may have a linear taper between its proximal end (at the flange 134) and its distal end (at the inner end portion 130 of the body 120). The inner end portion 130 is narrower than the flange 134 (and narrower than most of the tapered portion 132). The tapered portion 132 and / or the inner end portion 130 may be arranged concentrically about a central axis. For example, when viewed in a plan view, the tapered portion 132 and / or the inner end portion 130 may be circular.

[0057] Electrode 110 extends along the central axis of insert 100. Electrode 110 extends from its outer portion 116 (located proximal to flange 134) to its inner portion 114 (located distal to body 120). Electrode 110 extends distally beyond the distal end of body 120. A portion of the distal length of electrode 110 is surrounded (e.g., externally) by protective element 140. Protective element 140 may be a shield (e.g., an electrical shield). Protective element 140 may be secured to the distal end of body 120. For example, the protective element 140 may be threaded, allowing it to be screwed into the distal end of body 120 to hold it in place. Protective element 140 is connected to body 120. The width of protective element 140 may be narrower than the width of the inner end portion 130 of body 120. The protective element 140 may be arranged concentrically around the electrode 110. The protective element 140 may be circular. The protective element 140 may extend along a portion of the distal length, rather than the entire distal length. The distal tip of the electrode 110 may extend distally beyond the distal end of the protective element 140. This may provide an exposed distal tip of the electrode 110.

[0058] The electrode carrier insert 100 is configured to be inserted into the housing 50 of the energy battery 1. The insert 100 is configured such that a portion of the insert 100 effectively provides a portion of the resulting housing 50 of the battery 1 (i.e., once the insert 100 has been inserted). The housing 50 may include an opening 52, which the insert 100 is configured to seal. A sealing portion of the body 120 is configured to provide such a portion of the housing 50. In other words, the sealing portion of the body 120 is arranged to seal the opening 52 in the housing 50 of the battery 1 (e.g., such that the housing 50 and the sealing portion define an internal volume 56 of the battery 1).

[0059] When the insert 100 is inserted into the housing 50, the electrode 110 is configured to provide the first electrode 10 of the energy battery 1. With the insertion of the insert 100, the sealing region 122 seals the opening 52 in the housing 50 to define the internal volume 56 of the housing 50, and the electrode 110 provides the first electrode 10 for the battery 1. Therefore, the battery 1 can be provided by at least two separable components. The insert 100 can be removably inserted into the housing 50 (e.g., such that the insert 100 can be attached to the housing 50 to provide the battery 1 and removed from the housing 50).

[0060] Electrode 110 is conductive. The outer portion 116 of electrode 110 is configured to be connected to an electrical energy source. For example, the outer portion 116 of electrode 110 may be connected to a controlled voltage source. Electrode 110 is configured to conduct electricity from its outer portion 116 to its inner portion 114 (and to its distal tip). The controlled voltage source may be configured to control the voltage applied to the distal tip within the housing 50. Therefore, current can flow along electrode 110 (from the outer portion 116 to the inner portion 114).

[0061] The body 120 is configured to electrically insulate the conductor along at least a portion of its length. The body 120 may include an electrical insulator. For example, the body 120 may be formed of PEEK (polyetheretherketone) or nylon. Other suitable materials include ceramic materials such as alumina, epoxy resin, polycarbonate, silicone resin, ceramics, PVC, polyethylene, and / or EPDM. The body 120 may be 3D printed. The protective element 140 may also be configured to electrically insulate the conductor. For example, the protective element 140 may include an electrical shield. The body 120 and the protective element 140 may electrically insulate the electrode 110 along a substantial portion of its length within the internal volume 56 of the battery 1. For example, a substantial portion of the length of the electrode 110 from the sealing region 122 to its distal tip may be surrounded by the body 120 and / or the protective element 140 (e.g., completely external). The distal tip of the electrode 110 may be the only portion of the electrode 110 exposed within the internal volume 56 of the battery 1. The protective element 140 can reduce turbulence around the distal tip of the electrode 110. For example, this may cause a slight capacitive effect in the surrounding water.

[0062] In other words, the insert 100 can be configured to provide a focal point for applying voltage from the first electrode 10 (i.e., electrode 110) to the fluid within the energy cell 1 (i.e., at the distal tip). The electrode 110 can be insulated between this distal tip and the sealing region 122. The fluid adjacent to this portion of the body 120 can be subjected to lower electrical energy. The fluid in this region may be colder. The length of the distal tip of the electrode 110 (i.e., the portion of the electrode exposed within the battery) can be less than 50 mm, for example less than 40 mm, for example less than 35 mm, for example less than 30 mm, for example less than 25 mm, for example less than 20 mm, for example less than 15 mm, for example less than 10 mm, for example less than 5 mm, or less than 5 mm.

[0063] Flange 134 is configured to provide a sealing portion of body 120. The distal surface of flange 134 is configured to provide an inner surface of housing 50 of battery 1. A recess 152 in flange 134 can be configured to support an item within battery 1. Specifically, recess 152 can be configured to retain resistive element 40 within battery 1. Recess 152 is configured to be externally circumscribed to a central axis (and electrode 110). Recess 152 is concentrically arranged about the central axis. Recess 152 can be circular. The center of recess 152 can be the central axis. For example, recess 152 can be configured to retain resistive element 40 in a fixed orientation relative to electrode 110 to provide the above-mentioned... Figure 1 The spatial arrangement is described. The recess 152 can be arranged to support the resistive element 40 such that once the resistive element 40 is inserted into the recess 152, the resistive element 40 surrounds the electrode 110. For example, the resistive element 40 is circular and coaxial with the electrode 110.

[0064] An orifice is arranged to extend from the proximal side through flange 134 to the distal side to provide a fluid passage 154. The proximal side of fluid passage 154 (i.e., outside the internal volume 56 of battery 1) can be configured to receive fluid, such as water, from a fluid supply. For example, a tube can be connected to fluid inlet 54 to connect the internal volume 56 of battery 1 to the fluid supply. In other words, fluid inlet 54 is configured to provide a pathway for fluid to enter the internal volume 56 of battery 1 (where insert 100 is inserted into battery 1).

[0065] The body 120 extends from the proximal region (where the body 120 will be located outside the internal volume 56 of the housing 50) to the sealing region 122 (where the body 120, i.e., the flange 134, forms part of the housing 50) and extends through to the distal region 121 (where the body 120 will be inside the internal volume 56 of the housing 50). The body 120 may include a one-piece structure. For example, a single sheet of material may be used for all the different regions of the body 120.

[0066] The thickness of the inner end portion 130 of the body 120 can be uniform; for example, the inner end portion 130 of the body 120 can be cylindrical. Alternatively, as described above, other shapes can be used. In particular, a shape can be selected to enable embedding. In this case, the inner end portion 130 can correspond to an embeddable shape for a battery. When the inner end portion 130 is circular, the radius of the inner end portion 130 can be constant. A protective element 140 can be connected to the inner end portion 130 of the body 120. For example, there can be a threaded fit between the protective element 140 and the inner end portion 130 of the body 120. The distal end of the body 120 can be coupled to the protective element 140 such that the electrode 110 is surrounded in this area by an insulating material (body 120 or protective element 140). The protective element 140 (e.g., an electric shield) can be removably inserted into the body 120. For example, the protective element 140 can be a replaceable item, wherein another protective element 140 can be inserted into the body 120. The protective element 140 may be subject to more material damage than the body 120, and therefore, by having a removable protective element 140, these protective elements can be replaced more frequently, thereby extending the lifespan of the insert 100. The coefficient of thermal expansion of the protective element 140 and / or the body 120 (e.g., the distal region 121 of the body 120) may be similar to (e.g., the same as) the coefficient of thermal expansion of the electrode 110.

[0067] A tapered portion 132 is disposed between the inner end portion 130 of the body 120 and the flange 134. The tapered portion 132 is wider at the flange 134 than at the inner end portion 130 of the body 120. The tapered portion 132 may be circular along its length. The radius may decrease continuously from the flange 134 to the inner end portion 130. The body 120 may have a channel extending through its central axis. The electrode 110 is inserted into the channel. The body 120 may be symmetrical about the central axis. A bushing 136 may be arranged to be inserted into another opening 52. A grounding element 156 may be electrically connected to an electrical ground. The grounding element 156 may be electrically connected to the housing 50 (e.g., the grounding element 156 and the housing 50 may be in electrical contact with each other). The grounding element 156 is configured to guide current from the housing 50 to the electrical ground. The outer end portion 138 of the body 120 is configured to electrically insulate the electrode 110 from the grounding element 156. The outer end portion 138 provides an electrical insulator separating the electrode 110 from the grounding element 156. The proximal region 123 of the body 120 can extend from the flange 134 in a proximal direction (i.e., away from the internal volume 56 of the battery 1). The proximal region 123 can be arranged to electrically insulate the electrode 110 until the electrode 110 is connected to an electrical power source.

[0068] Insert 100 can be configured such that once inserted into the housing 50 of battery 1, battery 1 can be arranged as described above. Figure 1 It works as described.

[0069] Figure 2b The insert 100 is shown in plan view. It can be seen that the body 120 may be symmetrical about a central axis, wherein different portions are coaxial. The groove 152 may be circular. The electrode 110 may extend in the central region. The electrode 110 may be circular. The flange 134, the tapered portion 132, and the inner end portion 130 of the body 120 may be circular. The protective element 140 (e.g., a shield) may also be circular and concentrically arranged. Although not shown, multiple holes may be present, for example, to provide multiple fluid inlets. These holes may be uniformly distributed around the flange 134. For example, the fluid inlets may be located in different portions of the flange 134, for example, distributed at a uniform angle.

[0070] Now refer to Figure 3 The electrode inserter 100 inserted into the energy cell 1 is described.

[0071] Figure 3 Energy cell 1 is shown, wherein, Figure 2a and Figure 2b The electrode insert 100 shown is inserted into the battery 1. Figure 1 The same as the energy cell 1. Figure 3 The energy battery 1 includes a second electrode 20, a third electrode 30, a resistive element 40, and a casing 50. Inside the casing 50 is the internal volume 56 of the battery 1.

[0072] The housing 50 includes an opening 52. For example... Figure 3 As shown, housing 50 has one or more sidewalls, a top wall, and a bottom wall. Opening 52 is located in the bottom wall of housing 50. A portion of the bottom wall may also be included. Figure 3 In the diagram, a portion of the bottom wall is shown as a lip 53. The opening 52 is where no material is present in the bottom wall of the housing 50, between one or more lips 53. Figure 3 The contact area 94 between the flange 134 and the lip 53 is shown. Figure 3 The diagram shows a tube 155 for connecting the outside of the battery 1 to the internal volume 56 via a fluid channel 154 of the body 120.

[0073] Electrode carrier insert 100 and Figure 2a and Figure 2bThe electrode carrier insert 100 shown is the same and therefore will not be described again here. The insert 100 is included inside the battery 1. The flange 134 of the insert 100 overlaps with the lip 53 of the housing 50. The area of ​​the flange 134 is larger than the area of ​​the opening 52. The flange 134 covers a portion of the lip 53 to define a contact area 94. Although... Figure 3 Not shown, but flange 134 contacts lip 53 in contact area 94. In operation, fluid is included in battery 1, and the pressure of battery 1 causes flange 134 to abut lip 53, thereby sealing battery 1 (to define internal volume 56). This is due, for example, both to the weight of the fluid pushing down onto flange 134 (and onto lip 53) and to the increased pressure in internal volume 56 (e.g., due to plasma / vapor generation). The area defined by flange 134 is larger than the area of ​​opening 52, such that at least a portion of flange 134 covers lip 53. This portion of flange 134 may include a peripheral region of flange 134. In other words, sealing region 122 of body 120 (i.e., flange 134) is arranged to interact with lip 53 to seal opening 52 (e.g., to prevent fluid in internal volume 56 from escaping through opening 52).

[0074] As will be understood, the dimensions of the insert 100 may be determined such that the insert 100 can be fitted through the opening 52 (e.g., when the insert 100 is tilted or lateral). Additionally or alternatively, at least a portion of the housing 50 may be removable. For example, the top and / or bottom portions of the housing 50 may be removable, for example, by selective connection, such as by threaded engagement or other attachment means. The removable portion of the housing 50 may allow the insert 100 to be disposed within the housing 50, wherein the flange 134 blocks the opening 52 (e.g., the resistive element 40 is inserted into the recess 152).

[0075] The resistive element 40 is disposed in the recess 152 of the insert 100. The recess 152 holds the resistive element 40 in its intended spatial arrangement. Although Figure 3 Not shown, but may include a plastic and / or biasing member to interact with the other end of the resistive element 40, retaining the resistive element in the recess 152. For example, the resistive element 40 may comprise a relatively brittle or breakable material that may break under increased stress. The plastic / biasing member may be located between the resistive element 40 and the portion of the housing 50 adjacent to the resistive element 40. Thus, the member can be used to buffer any interaction between the resistive element 40 and the housing 50 (e.g., to prevent the element 40 from breaking due to contact with the housing 50). Including this member may be particularly useful when inserting the electrode-carrying insert 100 for use in the battery 1.

[0076] Once the insert 100 is located in the housing 50, the electrodes 110 of the insert 100 will be arranged within the housing 50 according to their intended spatial arrangement. With the insert 100 inserted into the housing 50, the first electrode 10, the second electrode 20, the third electrode 30, and the resistive element 40 will be as described above. Figure 1 The arrangement is such that the battery 1 can function as described above. The pipe 155 connects the fluid supply section to the internal volume 56 to supply fluid to that internal volume 56. Therefore, the pipe 155 can provide... Figure 1 The entrance 54 shown is Figure 3 The exit is not shown, which is understandable as it will be included.

[0077] Figure 3 The operation of battery 1 shown will be similar to that described above. Figure 1 The operation is the same, except that some components are provided by separate inserts 100. Note that... Figure 1 The first electrode 10 will be provided by the electrode 110 of the insert 100. The resistive element 40 will be held by the recess 152 of the insert 100, the fluid inlet 54 will be provided by one or more holes in the flange 134, and a portion of the flange 134 / sealing region 122 will provide a portion of the housing 50 of the battery 1.

[0078] Now refer to Figure 4 Another example of describing the electrode carrier insert 100. Figure 4 Electrode carrier insert 100 is shown. Figure 4 The insert 100 is related to the above regarding Figure 2 and Figure 3 The inserts described are similar, therefore similar components will not be described in detail.

[0079] Regarding the above text about Figure 2 and Figure 3 The electrode carrier insert 100, and the electrode 110, can be provided from a single sheet of conductive material (e.g., a continuous block of material). For Figure 4 Electrode 110 is formed from different parts with different properties. Figure 4 In the middle, electrode 110 includes a first part 111 and a second part 112.

[0080] Regarding the above text about Figure 2 and Figure 3 The electrode carrier insert 100 can be configured for self-sealing. That is, Figure 2 and... Figure 3 The insert 100 is arranged to seal the opening 52 in the housing 50 itself in response to fluid supplied in the battery 1. For Figure 4 The insert 100 and the housing 50 are configured to be connected to each other, that is, the insert 100 is connected to the housing 50 to provide a seal for the internal volume 56. For this purpose, Figure 4 The connecting element 96 and the sealing element 92 are shown in the figure.

[0081] Figure 4 The grounding element contact 157 and lip 153 are also shown. Figure 4 The diagram also shows cavity 146, fixed area 144, limiter 142 and turbulent pipe 158.

[0082] A first portion 111 of electrode 110 is located at the distal end of a second portion 112 of electrode 110. The first portion 111 will be located inside the housing 50. The distal tip of electrode 110 will be provided by the distal end of the first portion 111. Cavity 146 is located in the distal region 121 of body 120. At least a portion of electrode 110 is received within cavity 146. The proximal end of the first portion 111 of electrode 110 is received within cavity 146. The first portion 111 of electrode 110 is electrically connected to the second portion 112 of electrode 110. The connection can be within cavity 146. For example, the second portion 112 can be attached to the first portion 111 within cavity 146. The second portion 112 extends through body 120 to an external portion 116 (e.g., where the second portion 112 is connected to an electrical power source).

[0083] The second portion 112 of electrode 110 may be thinner than the first portion 111. For example, the second portion 112 may be relatively thin (e.g., linear) compared to the first portion 111. The first portion 111 may be much thicker. The first portion 111 may be provided by a rod of conductive material. The second portion 112 may be provided by a portion of conductive wire. The first portion 111 may be a portion of electrode 110 that is received within cavity 146 and extends beyond the distal end of body 120 (and protective element 140) to the distal tip. The second portion 112 may be a portion of electrode 110 that connects electrical energy (e.g., external portion 116) to the first portion 111 of electrode 110. The second portion 112 may extend through body 120.

[0084] The second portion 112 of electrode 110 can be configured to have a lower impedance and / or resistance than the first portion 111. The second portion 112 can be configured to provide greater heat dissipation and / or generate less resistive heating than the first portion 111. For example, the second portion 112 can be configured to electrically connect the first portion 111 of electrode 110 (particularly the distal tip of electrode 110) to an electrical energy source. By utilizing the narrower configuration of the second portion 112, less heat can be generated within the body 120, which avoids the need for cooling the body 120 (and / or prevents overheating of the body 120).

[0085] For example, the first portion 111 may be a rod or bar of a conductive material, such as a metal. The distal tip may include a material more capable of withstanding stress than the material of the rest of the electrode. For example, the distal tip may include tungsten. The first portion 111 may be provided with two separate materials; for example, the distal tip may be formed of one material, such as tungsten, while the remainder of the first portion 111 may be formed of another material, such as stainless steel. This can reduce material costs by using a more expensive material only in the portion that will be immersed in the fluid in the battery (e.g., the distal tip). The second portion 112 of the electrode 110 may be provided with a braid. The second portion 112 may utilize a material selected to prevent overheating within the body 120. For example, the second portion 112 may be provided with a copper braid.

[0086] The insert 100 and the housing 50 can be configured to be fixed to each other. For this purpose, a connecting element 96 can attach a portion of the insert 100 to a portion of the housing 50. The connecting element 96 may include a bolt or another attachment element. The insert 100 may include a hole through which the connecting element 96 is inserted. A portion of the housing 50 ( Figure 4 The lip 53 may include a hole through which the connecting element 96 is inserted. For example, the connecting element 96 may include a bolt extending through at least a portion of the insert 100 and the housing 50. The bolt may be secured in place using one or more nuts. To aid in illustrating the different components included, in Figure 4 In the illustration, the insert 100 is shown not in contact with the housing 50, but it should be understood that once the insert 100 and the housing 50 are properly secured, the insert 100 and the housing 50 may come into contact with each other.

[0087] In other words, the coupling element 96 is configured to selectively connect the insert 100 to the housing 50. The insert 100 and the housing 50 are arranged to engage together using the coupling element 96. The coupling element 96 can provide a robust connection between the housing 50 and the insert 100 while reducing the stress applied to the insert 100. The coupling element 96 can be used to connect the insert 100 to the housing 50 to define the internal volume 56 of the battery 1.

[0088] A sealing element 92 may be included to facilitate a tighter seal between the insert 100 and the housing 50. The sealing element 92 may include a mechanical seal member, such as a gasket. For example, the sealing element 92 may include an O-ring. The sealing element 92 may be located between the surface of the insert 100 and the surface of the housing 50, which are joined together (e.g., by a connecting element 96). For example, the sealing element 92 may be compressed by the housing 50 and the insert 100 within a gap between the housing 50 and the insert 100. In other words, the sealing element 92 is configured to facilitate a greater seal (e.g., a watertight seal) to ensure that the internal volume 56 is adequately sealed.

[0089] The grounding element 156 may have an extension for connection to the housing 50. This is in Figure 4 The image shows a grounding element contact 157. For example, the grounding element contact 157 may include an extension of material providing the grounding element 156. The material may extend in a direction toward the housing 50. The grounding element contact 157 may be configured to contact the lip 53 of the housing 50 (e.g., near the location where the connecting element 96 is connected to the housing 50). The grounding element contact 157 is configured to electrically connect the housing 50 to the electrical grounding point to which the grounding element 156 is connected. Thus, the grounding element 156 may be configured to provide an electrical ground for the housing 50 of the battery 1.

[0090] A first portion 111 of electrode 110 may be accommodated in cavity 146. Cavity 146 may extend from the distal end of body 120 toward the proximal end. Protective element 140 (e.g., an electrical shield) may be inserted into the distal end of cavity 146 in fixing region 144. For example, protective element 140 may be attached to the inner surface of cavity 146, for example, threads may be present on the inner surface of cavity wall for connecting protective element 140 to body 120 (e.g., screwing protective element 140 into body 120 to secure protective element 140 to body 120).

[0091] Limiter 142 may include a sheet of material extending radially outward from protective element 140. Limiter 142 may be configured to abut a distal end of body 120 (e.g., limiter 142 may be wider than cavity 146). Limiter 142 is configured to limit proximal movement of protective element 140 into cavity 146 by an amount exceeding a threshold. For example, limiter 142 may abut a distal end of body 120 to prevent further proximal movement of protective element 140 into cavity 146. Limiter 142 may be configured to limit the distal tip of electrode 110 from being exposed in internal volume 56 by an amount exceeding a threshold.

[0092] The turbulent conduit 158 ​​may include a portion of a conduit whose dimensions and / or shape are designed to provide turbulence for the liquid entering the battery 1. For example, the conduit may be curved and / or the cross-sectional shape of the conduit may include one or more internal obstructions / changes that cause turbulence as the liquid flows out from the end of the conduit 155. In other words, the turbulent conduit is arranged to provide a fluid inlet to the battery 1, resulting in turbulence within the battery 1.

[0093] First, refer to Figure 5 Describe another example of an energy cell.

[0094] Figure 5 Energy cell 1 is shown. Energy cell 1 is similar to the battery described herein and shown in other figures, therefore Figure 5 The repetitive aspects of battery 1 will not be described here. Figure 5 The content specifically shown relates to the selection of the exposure length of the first electrode 10 within the internal volume 56 of the battery 1.

[0095] like Figure 5 As shown, the distal end of the first electrode 10 is exposed within the internal volume 56. As in other examples described herein, the electrode 10 extends from the proximal end of the housing 50 into the internal volume 56. A body extends into the internal volume 56 from the proximal end of the housing 50 around the electrode 10 for at least a portion of its length. Figure 5 In the example, the body is shown as part of the housing 50, for example, where the electrode members are not configured as separate inserts for the housing (e.g., as shown in Figures 2 to 3). Figure 4 (As shown). However, it should be understood that the electrode components can be provided by a separate insert. Similarly, in Figure 5 In the image, the main body is shown as conical, but the main body is not necessarily conical.

[0096] like Figure 5 As shown, battery 1 includes an electrode assembly. The electrode assembly includes an electrode 10 and a body that surrounds the electrode 10 within an internal volume 56 along its proximal end. The distal end 115 of the electrode 10 extends beyond the distal end of the body.

[0097] exist Figure 5 The main body comprises two distinct parts: (i) a distal portion 125 and (ii) a proximal portion 126. The proximal portion 126 is positioned within the internal volume 56 of the housing 50, facing the proximal end of the housing 50. Figure 5(See the bottom end shown). The distal portion 125 is positioned distal to the proximal portion 126, within the internal volume 56 of the housing 50. The distal portion 125 may have one or more characteristics different from the proximal portion 126. In particular, the distal portion 125 may include a material that is more heat-resistant than the proximal portion 126. The proximal portion 126 may be thicker than the distal portion 125, for example, it may have a larger cross-section (diameter) than the distal portion 125. The distal portion 125 may include an electrical shield.

[0098] The inventors have determined that by selecting the length of the distal end 115 of the electrode 10 (which extends beyond the distal end of the body (distal portion 125)), it is possible to control which portions of the internal volume 56 and the housing 50 are heated. Specifically, the inventors have determined that the body surrounding the electrode (e.g., the distal portion 125) will prevent electrons from being ejected through the electrode. In other words, the body is configured to prevent electrons from being ejected from the portion of the electrode 10 surrounded by the body into the internal volume 56. This causes the distal end 115 of the electrode 10 to eject electrons into its surrounding environment (e.g., because the electrode is not surrounded by the body).

[0099] To showcase these different areas, Figure 5 Two lines are shown in dashed lines. The first line 225 is a solid angle line that begins at the distal end 115 of the electrode 10 (e.g., from the periphery of the distal end 115), passes through the distal end of the distal portion 125 of the body (e.g., from the periphery of the distal end), and extends toward the housing 50 of the battery 1. The first line 225 intersects the inner surface of the housing 50 at an intersection point 227. It will be understood that a plane may be defined on the housing, representing the height at which each trajectory from the distal end 115 through the distal end of the distal portion 125 intersects the housing 50. This plane is defined by... Figure 5 The second line 226 is shown in the diagram.

[0100] The region above the first line 125 accommodates electrons ejected from the distal end 115 during operation. Consequently, as described above, this region will be heated due to the application of electrical energy to the electrode 10. The region below the first line 125 may not accommodate any (or at least not many) ejected electrons, and therefore will be heated less during operation. It will be understood that radiative and conductive heat transfer will still occur for the liquid within the casing. As a result, the volume above the second line will be heated even below the first line 225. For the lower regions within the internal volume 56, such as the region below the second line 226, the heating of the liquid and the walls surrounding it will be much less.

[0101] The inventors have determined that by limiting the exposed length of the distal end 115 of the electrode 10 within the internal volume 56, a cooler region can be provided at the proximal end of the internal volume 56. The portion of the housing 50 surrounding this cooler region can also be subjected to much lower heating. Similarly, the portion of the body surrounding the electrode 10 (proximal portion 126) and the proximal end of the housing 50 within the cooler region of the internal volume 56 will experience much lower temperatures during operation.

[0102] Choosing the exposed length of the distal end 115 of electrode 10 to create a cooler region within the internal volume can have several advantageous effects on the energy cell. First, the proximal portion 126 of the body can be made of a material that is less heat-resistant than the distal portion 125 of the body. This material choice allows for the use of lower-cost materials in a portion of the body, which in turn simplifies the manufacturing options for these components. Second, this can improve any fixation of the proximal end of the housing to one or more sidewalls. For example, in the case where the electrode member is an insert that seals an opening in the proximal end of the body (e.g., as described above with respect to Figures 2 to 10), this can be beneficial. Figure 4 As described above, when subjected to lower temperatures, the connection between the insert and the wall of the housing can be more secure and durable.

[0103] In other words, the length of the distal end 115 exposed within the internal volume 56 can be selected to create a cooler region within the internal volume 56. The cooler region may surround a liquid volume adjacent to the proximal end of the housing. At least some of the material of the body within the cooler region may be formed of a different material than that of the body in the hotter region. The region where the proximal end of the housing is attached to one or more sidewalls of the housing may be located within the cooler region.

[0104] The distal portion 125 may include an electrical shield. The distal portion 125 may be configured to provide a light-shielding portion; for example, the distal portion 125 may be substantially opaque. The distal portion 125 may include a non-conductive electrical insulator. The distal portion may include alumina or colored quartz. The distal portion 125 may include a chemically resistant material. The proximal portion 125 may be non-porous. Although in Figure 5 Although not shown, a gap may exist between electrode 10 and the distal portion 125 of the body. The gap may radially surround electrode 10, for example, such that the gap is located between electrode 10 and the distal portion 125. For example, in use, water and / or plasma may be present in the gap. The proximal portion 126 may include a non-conductive electrical insulator. The proximal portion 126 may be chemically resistant.

[0105] Any battery or electrode insert disclosed herein may have a distal end with an exposed length selected for the reasons stated above. That is, the exposed distal end may have a length selected to provide a cooler region within the internal volume 56. At least some of the materials used for the housing and / or electrode components (e.g., the body of the electrode component) differ in the cooler region from those in the hotter region. For example, the body of the electrode component may have a more heat-resistant portion and a less heat-resistant portion. The more heat-resistant portion may be arranged for the distal portion of the body (e.g., the distal portion of the body will be in the hotter region).

[0106] The examples described above typically involve Figure 1 The energy cell 1 shown. However, it should be understood that... Figure 1 The battery 1 should not be considered limiting. For example, it is not necessary to include a third electrode 30 and / or a resistive element. For example, any suitable energy cell (such as the one disclosed in GB2604853) can be provided in combination with the electrode inserts of this disclosure.

[0107] As will be understood from the foregoing discussion, the examples shown in the accompanying drawings are merely exemplary and include features that can be generalized, removed, or replaced as set forth herein and in the claims. Referring generally to the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that the schematic functional block diagrams are used to indicate the functions of the systems and devices described herein. Additionally, processing functions may also be provided by means of electronically supported devices. However, it should be understood that functions need not be divided in this manner and should not be construed as implying any particular hardware structure other than the hardware described below and claimed. The functions of one or more elements shown in the accompanying drawings may be further subdivided and / or distributed throughout the device of this disclosure. In some examples, the functions of one or more elements shown in the accompanying drawings may be integrated into a single functional unit.

[0108] As will be understood by those skilled in the art in the context of this disclosure, each of the examples described herein can be implemented in a variety of different ways. Any feature of any aspect of this disclosure can be combined with any other aspect of this disclosure. For example, a method aspect can be combined with a device aspect, and a feature described with reference to the operation of a particular element of a device can be used in a method that does not use those particular types of devices. Furthermore, each feature of each example is intended to be separable from the features described in combination with that feature, unless it is explicitly stated that some other feature is essential for its operation. Each of these separable features can, of course, be combined with any other feature of the example describing that feature, or with any other feature or combination of features of any other example described herein. In addition, equivalents and variations not described above may be employed without departing from the invention.

[0109] Other examples and variations of this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art in the context of this disclosure.

Claims

1. An electrode carrier insert for an energy battery, the insert comprising: The main body has: a proximal region, a distal region, and a sealing region; as well as An electrode that extends within the body from the proximal region to the distal region; The insert is capable of being inserted into the housing of the energy battery, wherein the sealing region seals an opening in the housing, the body extends through the opening from the proximal region outside the housing to the distal region inside the housing, and the electrodes are configured to apply electrical energy to a fluid inside the housing to generate one or more plasma bubbles in the fluid.

2. An energy battery, the energy battery comprising: A housing having an opening therein; as well as An electrode carrier comprising: (i) a body having: a proximal region, a distal region and a sealing region, and (ii) an electrode within the body; The electrode carrier is connected to the housing, the sealing member of the electrode carrier seals the opening in the housing, and the distal region of the body is inside the housing, while the proximal region of the body is outside the housing. The electrodes extend from the proximal region to the distal region within the body and are configured to apply electrical energy to a fluid inside the housing to generate one or more plasma bubbles in the fluid.

3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The distal region of the body includes a component surrounding the electrode, wherein the component extends distally from the sealed region.

4. The device according to claim 3, wherein, The component surrounds the electrode along a portion of its length, rather than its entire length, within the housing.

5. The device according to claim 4, wherein, The distal end of the electrode extends beyond the distal end of the component.

6. The device according to claim 5, wherein, The device also includes a protective element arranged to at least partially surround the distal end of the electrode.

7. The device according to claim 6, wherein, (i) at least one of the protective element and (ii) the body: is configured to have a coefficient of thermal expansion similar to or the same as that of the electrode.

8. The device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, The protective element is coupled to the distal end of the component, and optionally, the coupling includes a threaded connection.

9. The device according to claim 3 or any claim dependent to claim 3, wherein, The component is narrower at its distal end than at its proximal end.

10. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The sealing area includes a flange.

11. The device according to claim 10, wherein, The flange is larger than the opening in the housing and is arranged to be completely external to the opening.

12. The device according to claim 10 or 11, which is dependent on or refers to claim 3, wherein, The proximal end of the component is connected to the flange, and wherein the flange surrounds the proximal end of the component.

13. The device according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein, The device may further include a groove in the flange, wherein the groove is arranged to accommodate components of the energy battery within the housing, optionally wherein the components include a resistive element.

14. The device according to claim 13, wherein, The groove is configured to hold the component in a fixed spatial arrangement relative to the electrode.

15. The device according to claim 13 or 14, wherein, The groove surrounds the electrode.

16. The device according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein, The groove is circular, and the electrode extends distally from the center point of the circular groove.

17. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The electrode includes a first part and a second part, the first part being arranged inside the housing, and the second part being arranged to connect the first part to an electrical energy source; and The size and / or shape of the first part is different from the size and / or shape of the second part.

18. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, It has at least one of the following: The sealing area is configured to seal the opening in the housing in response to pressure from fluid within the internal portion of the housing; and The device includes a coupling element configured to secure the insert to the housing.

19. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The body includes at least one fluid channel arranged such that fluid can flow through the body and into the housing.

20. The device according to claim 19, wherein, The fluid passage includes a hole in the sealed area.

21. The device according to claim 19 or 20, wherein, The fluid channel is configured to provide turbulence and / or eddies for fluid to enter the housing.

22. The device according to claim 19, 20 or 21, wherein, The at least one fluid passage includes at least one conduit extending distally from the sealed region, optionally wherein the at least one conduit follows a path that is at least partially curved.

23. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The main body can be removably inserted into the housing.

24. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The body is arranged such that the electrodes extend coaxially into the housing along with one or more battery electrodes within the housing.

25. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The distal portion of the main body is more heat-resistant than the proximal portion.

26. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The distal end of the electrode extends beyond the distal end of the body.

27. The device according to claim 26, wherein, The distal end of the electrode extends beyond the distal end of the body by a distance selected to provide a cooler region within the internal volume of the housing.

28. The device according to claim 27, wherein, The distance was chosen to provide a cooler region adjacent to the proximal end of the battery.

29. The device according to claim 27 or 28, wherein, The proximal portion of the body is located in a cooler region of the internal volume, and the material of the proximal portion has lower heat resistance than the material of the distal portion of the body.

30. The device according to any one of claims 26 to 29, wherein, The distal end of the electrode extends beyond the distal end of the body by a distance such that a line extending from the distal end of the electrode through the distal end of the body intersects one or more walls of the battery at a location away from the proximal end of the battery.

31. The device according to claim 30, wherein, The solid angle extending from the distal end of the electrode through the distal end of the body intersects the one or more walls in a plane away from the proximal end of the battery.

32. The device according to claim 27 or any claim dependent on claim 27, wherein, The device includes one or more components for sealing the proximal end of the battery to one or more walls of the battery, wherein the components are located in the cooler region of the internal volume.

33. A component kit, the component kit comprising: An energy battery, comprising: a housing having an opening therein; and Electrode carrier insert, the electrode carrier insert comprising: The body, comprising: a proximal region, a distal region, and a sealing region; and An electrode that extends within the body from the proximal region to the distal region; The insert is insertable into the housing of the energy battery, wherein the sealing region seals the opening in the housing, the body extends through the opening from the proximal region outside the housing to the distal region inside the housing, and the electrode is configured to apply electrical energy to a fluid inside the housing to generate one or more plasma bubbles in the fluid.

34. An energy battery, the energy battery comprising: A housing having a proximal end, a distal end, and one or more walls extending from the proximal end to the distal end to define an internal volume within the housing for containing a fluid to be heated; as well as An electrode member extending from the proximal end into the internal volume, and comprising: Electrodes configured to apply electrical energy to a fluid within the internal volume to generate plasma bubbles in the fluid; and A body, the body surrounding the proximal region of the electrode within the internal volume; The distal end of the electrode extends beyond the distal end of the body by a distance chosen to provide a cooler region within the proximal portion of the internal volume; and The cooler region intersects the wall of the battery at a location near the proximal end of the casing.

35. The battery according to claim 34, wherein, The distance is selected such that (i) electrons are ejected from the distal end of the electrode into the distal portion of the internal volume, and (ii) electrons are prevented from being ejected from the distal end of the electrode into the proximal portion of the internal volume.

36. The battery according to claim 34 or 35, wherein, The distance is selected such that a line passing from the distal end of the electrode through the distal end of the body intersects the one or more walls at a position away from the proximal end.

37. The battery according to claim 36, wherein, The distance is selected such that the solid angle of the electrode extending from the distal end of the electrode through the distal end of the body intersects the one or more walls in a plane away from the proximal end.

38. The battery according to any one of claims 34 to 37, wherein, The battery includes one or more components for sealing the proximal end of the body to the one or more walls, wherein the components are arranged within the proximal portion of the internal volume.

39. The battery according to any one of claims 34 to 38, wherein, The material of the distal portion of the body is more heat-resistant than the material of the proximal portion of the body.

40. The battery according to claim 39, wherein, The proximal portion of the main body is located in the cooler region.

41. The battery according to any one of claims 34 to 40, wherein, The electrode component is part of the battery casing, or the electrode component is provided by an electrode carrier insert.

42. An energy battery, the energy battery comprising: A housing, the housing including one or more walls defining an internal volume of the container for containing a fluid to be heated; as well as An electrode component, the electrode component being disposed within the internal volume, and comprising: Electrodes configured to apply electrical energy to a fluid within the internal volume to generate plasma bubbles in the fluid; and A body surrounding a proximal region of the electrode within the internal volume; wherein the body includes a distal portion and a proximal portion, and wherein the material of the distal portion of the body is more heat-resistant than the material of the proximal portion of the body.

43. The energy battery according to claim 42, wherein, The distal end of the electrode extends beyond the distal end of the body by a distance corresponding to the length of the distal portion of the body.

44. The energy battery according to claim 43, wherein, The distal end of the electrode extends beyond the distal end of the body by a distance selected to provide a cooler region in the proximal portion of the internal volume, wherein the proximal portion of the body is located in the cooler region.

45. The energy battery according to claim 44, wherein, The proximal end of the housing is located in the colder region.

46. ​​The energy battery according to any one of claims 42 to 45, wherein, The distal end of the electrode extends beyond the distal end of the body by a distance selected to prevent the temperature of the fluid adjacent to the proximal portion of the body from exceeding a threshold.

47. The energy battery according to any one of claims 42 to 46, wherein, The distal end of the body is arranged to prevent electrons from being ejected from the distal end of the electrode into the proximal portion of the internal volume, thereby preventing the temperature of the fluid in the proximal portion of the internal volume from exceeding a threshold.

48. The energy battery according to any one of claims 42 to 47, wherein, The solid angle extending from the distal end of the electrode through the distal end of the body intersects the one or more walls in a plane away from the proximal end.

49. The energy battery according to claim 48, wherein, More heat-resistant materials are used for the portion of the component that is away from the plane.

50. The energy battery according to claim 48 or 49, wherein, The proximal portion of the main body is separated from the distal portion by the plane.

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