Remote-controlled powered boat equipped with aluminum-air battery

Abstract

This invention provides an aluminum-air battery-powered remotely controlled boat, comprising a hull, a power transmission system, an aluminum-air battery module, and a control system. The power transmission system is located on the hull to drive the hull's movement. The aluminum-air battery module is located on the hull and electrically connected to the power transmission system to output electricity to power the power transmission system. The control system is located on the hull and electrically connected to the aluminum-air battery module and the power transmission system to control their operation. This invention integrates an aluminum-air battery into the remotely controlled boat, offering extremely high safety, producing no harmful substances during operation, causing no environmental pollution, and utilizing the regenerative properties of aluminum to achieve near-complete renewable energy utilization.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of aluminum-air battery technology, and more particularly to an aluminum-air battery-powered remote-controlled boat. Prior Technology

[0002] Maritime transport is a vital component of global trade, but the environmental pollution it generates is becoming increasingly serious. Ships burn low-quality fuel oil, releasing large amounts of sulfur oxides (SOx) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), posing a significant threat to marine ecosystems and air quality in coastal areas. These harmful gases not only damage human health but also contribute to acid rain and ocean acidification, further destroying biodiversity. Therefore, finding viable alternative fuels and technologies to reduce ship emissions has become a top priority.

[0003] However, according to 2023 statistics, although Taiwan is actively striving towards its energy transition goal, it still relies heavily on natural gas and coal for power generation, which account for approximately 81.81% of total electricity generation. Among numerous new energy technologies, metal-air fuel cells (MAFCs) are considered an excellent energy supply product due to their simple structure, low process requirements, reliable fuel sources, and stable operation. Furthermore, compared to other energy technologies, they do not pose a risk of battery explosion. Currently, most people associate metal-air fuel cells with zinc-air batteries and lithium-air batteries. The former is widely used in hearing aids and small electronic devices, while the latter, although theoretically possessing a high specific energy of 11.14 kWh / kg, is limited by material issues, safety concerns, and byproducts generated during discharge, and therefore has not yet been widely commercialized, with most being manufactured in laboratories. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of the above, the purpose of this invention is to provide an aluminum-air battery-powered remote-controlled boat. Integrating the aluminum-air battery into the remote-controlled boat not only provides extremely high safety and eliminates the risk of explosion, but also ensures that the aluminum-air battery does not pollute the environment during operation. Its byproducts can fall off automatically, simplifying battery maintenance and operation, thus facilitating commercial development.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides an aluminum-air battery-powered remotely controlled boat, comprising a hull, a power transmission system, an aluminum-air battery module, and a control system. The power transmission system is disposed on the hull to drive the hull's movement. The aluminum-air battery module is disposed on the hull and electrically connected to the power transmission system to output electricity to supply the power transmission system. The control system is disposed on the hull and electrically connected to the aluminum-air battery module and the power transmission system to control the operation of the aluminum-air battery module and the power transmission system.

[0006] In embodiments of the present invention, the aforementioned hull material is painted carbon steel, galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminum alloy, or fiberglass.

[0007] In an embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned aluminum-air battery module includes a plurality of aluminum-air batteries connected in parallel or in series with each other. Each aluminum-air battery includes a battery box and an air cathode disposed in the battery box, a replaceable aluminum electrode, and an electrolyte spaced between the air cathode and the aluminum electrode.

[0008] In an embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned aluminum electrode is made of aluminum metal or aluminum alloy, wherein the aluminum alloy includes aluminum and at least one alloying element selected from manganese, magnesium, copper, zinc and silicon.

[0009] In an embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned air cathode is composed of a nickel-plated iron mesh coated with carbon material.

[0010] In an embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned carbon material is porous graphite with added nickel or potassium catalyst.

[0011] In an embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned nickel-plated iron mesh contains at least one alloying element selected from platinum, palladium, gold and silver.

[0012] In embodiments of the present invention, the aforementioned electrolyte is an alkaline electrolyte, a neutral electrolyte, or an acidic electrolyte.

[0013] In an embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned alkaline electrolyte is a potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide solution.

[0014] In embodiments of the present invention, the aforementioned electrolyte is an alkaline gel electrolyte or an ionic liquid electrolyte.

[0015] In an embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned control system is a 2.4GHz wireless communication module, a Bluetooth control module, a Wi-Fi control module, a LoRa control module, or a 5G control module.

[0016] In an embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned aluminum-air battery remote-controlled boat further includes a wireless controller, which is electrically connected to the control system to transmit command signals to the control unit.

[0017] Compared with prior art, the present invention has the following advantages:

[0018] (1) Prevent crude oil contamination Oil-fired ships are prone to oil spills and the emission of SOx and NOx byproducts from burning low-quality fuel oil, both of which pollute the marine and atmospheric environment. The aluminum-air battery-powered ship provided by this invention requires no fuel and does not emit harmful gases during operation, thus avoiding the two drawbacks of oil-fired ships and fundamentally preventing pollution of the marine and atmospheric environment.

[0019] (2) Safety and low maintenance costs Oil-fired ships require regular maintenance and cleaning of their fuel systems. Furthermore, oil-fired ships pose a potential risk of explosion and fire during operation, especially under high temperatures or collision conditions. The aluminum-air battery-powered ship provided by this invention eliminates the risk of explosion during operation, offering high safety and suitability for most environments. Moreover, aluminum-air batteries have virtually no maintenance costs and a single-use lifespan of up to 3 days, reducing overall operating costs.

[0020] (3) Environmental protection and sustainability While solar-powered ships do not generate pollution during operation, their production process produces alarming carbon emissions. Polycrystalline silicon cells are the core component of solar panels, and their production generates large amounts of highly toxic silicon tetrachloride (SiCl4) wastewater, causing severe environmental pollution. The aluminum-air battery used in this invention has a relatively simple production process, and the required raw material, aluminum, is abundant on Earth. Its extraction and processing have a smaller environmental impact, and the used aluminum electrodes can be recycled and reused, contributing to resource recycling.

[0021] (4) High energy density and long battery life The aluminum-air battery used in this invention has high energy density, can stably supply energy for a long time, and is not affected by weather. This makes aluminum-air battery-powered boats particularly suitable for long-term operation applications.

[0022] (5) Technology promotion and market application This invention demonstrates the enormous potential of aluminum-air battery technology in the field of remotely operated boats, laying the foundation for the popularization and application of green energy technologies. This technology is not limited to remotely operated boats but can also be extended to other fields requiring a stable, long-term energy supply, such as drones and remote monitoring equipment.

[0023] The following detailed description, using specific embodiments and accompanying drawings, will make it easier to understand the purpose, technical content, features, and effects achieved by this invention. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0024] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an aluminum-air battery-powered remote-controlled boat provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a structural schematic diagram of an aluminum-air battery-powered remote-controlled boat provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of an aluminum-air battery provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Implementation

[0025] Embodiments of the present invention will be further explained below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals in the drawings and description represent the same or similar components. In the drawings, shapes and thicknesses may be exaggerated for simplicity and convenience. It is understood that elements not specifically shown in the drawings or described in the description are forms known to those skilled in the art. Those skilled in the art can make various changes and modifications based on the content of this invention.

[0026] The technical solutions employed in the embodiments of this invention are used to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of this invention, and are therefore only examples. Unless specifically stated otherwise, they should not be used to limit the scope of protection of this invention. In the description of the specification, many specific details are provided to give the reader a more complete understanding of this invention; however, this invention may still be practiced even if some or all of the specific details are omitted. Furthermore, well-known steps or elements are not described in the details to avoid unnecessarily limiting this invention. Unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features in the embodiments of this invention can be arbitrarily combined with each other. It should be noted that, unless specifically stated otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used in this invention have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains.

[0027] Please refer to Figures 1 through 3. Figure 1 is a block diagram of the aluminum-air battery-powered remote-controlled boat provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 is a structural schematic diagram of the aluminum-air battery-powered remote-controlled boat provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the aluminum-air battery provided in an embodiment of the present invention, omitting the electrolyte. The aluminum-air battery-powered remote-controlled boat 100 of this embodiment is mainly composed of a hull 10, a power transmission system 20, an aluminum-air battery module 30, and a control system 40.

[0028] The hull 10 must be able to resist resistance in fluid movement and not deform, and must have characteristics such as corrosion resistance and high strength; the material of the hull 10 can be painted carbon steel, galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminum alloy or fiberglass.

[0029] The power transmission system 20 is installed on the hull 10 to drive the hull 10 to move. The power transmission system 20 typically includes a motor, drive shaft, propeller, and bearings. The primary function of the motor is to provide power for the movement of the hull 10; a secondary function is the cooling mechanism. In embodiments of the invention, the motor can employ a dual-motor module design, with a starting voltage set at 9V and an operating voltage set at 7V, ensuring stable power output. If the number of aluminum-air battery modules 30 is increased, a higher-power motor can be used to achieve a higher moving speed. The drive shaft must meet high torsional strength and corrosion resistance requirements; the material of the drive shaft can be stainless steel or high-strength aluminum alloy, and surface treatments such as anodizing or chrome plating can be applied to improve corrosion resistance and wear resistance. The propeller must be able to propel the hull without easily being damaged; the propeller material can be a plastic propeller, or optimized materials such as stainless steel, aluminum alloy, polymer materials, or composite materials. The bearing must be able to achieve both high temperature resistance and low friction; the bearing material can be high carbon steel, or optimized materials such as ceramic materials; the bearing type can be a sliding bearing, and the lubrication method can be a closed lubrication or self-lubricating system. The detailed configuration method of the power transmission system 20 is readily known to those skilled in the art, and therefore will not be elaborated further.

[0030] An aluminum-air battery module 30 is disposed on the hull 10 and electrically connected to the power transmission system 20 to output power to supply the power transmission system 20. In an embodiment of the present invention, the aluminum-air battery module 30 can output power to supply the motor for operation without passing through a rechargeable battery. The aluminum-air battery module 30 includes a plurality of aluminum-air batteries 31, which are connected in parallel or series to form a battery pack. Each aluminum-air battery 31 includes a battery box 311 and an air cathode 312 disposed within the battery box 311, a replaceable aluminum electrode 313, and an electrolyte (not shown) spaced between the air cathode 312 and the aluminum electrode 313. The aluminum electrode 313 serves as the anode; the material of the aluminum electrode 313 can be aluminum metal or an aluminum alloy, and the aluminum alloy includes aluminum and at least one alloying element selected from manganese, magnesium, copper, zinc, and silicon. In an embodiment of the present invention, the material of the aluminum electrode 313 can be a pentagonal aluminum alloy to improve corrosion resistance and discharge performance, and the alloying elements are manganese, magnesium, copper, zinc, and silicon. The air cathode 312 is made of carbon material coated on a nickel-plated iron mesh to ensure the efficiency of oxygen reaction at the cathode. The material of the nickel-plated iron mesh can be further enriched with at least one alloying element selected from platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), and silver (Ag) to increase conductivity or lifespan. In an embodiment of the present invention, the aluminum-air battery 31 can accommodate two aluminum alloy metal plates (aluminum electrodes 313) inside the battery box 311, and the nickel-plated iron mesh is coated with porous graphite (air cathode 312). The top of the battery box 311 can be connected to various charging interface wires, USB and Type-C output ports (not shown in the figure).

[0031] Electrolytes can be alkaline, neutral, or acidic. Alkaline electrolytes commonly use potassium hydroxide (KOH) or sodium hydroxide solution (NaOH) (such as commercially available hydroxylamine) to ensure good conductivity and stability. Using acidic electrolytes releases a large amount of hydrogen gas during the reaction, and battery efficiency is relatively low. Neutral electrolytes, with a pH close to neutral, have lower anode corrosion efficiency during use, but their power generation performance is inferior to alkaline electrolytes, requiring consideration of output power. Alternatively, non-aqueous solid electrolytes can be used, such as alkaline gel electrolytes composed of low molecular weight polymers and alkaline solutions; or ionic liquid electrolytes, including organic carbonates, ethers, esters, and lithium salts, such as LiPF6, LiAsF6, LiN(SO2CF3)2, and LiSO3CF3.

[0032] A control system 40 is installed on the hull 10 and electrically connected to the aluminum-air battery module 30 and the power transmission system 20 to control the operation of the aluminum-air battery module 30 and the power transmission system 20, thereby controlling the speed, direction, and drainage function of the hull 10. In an embodiment of the present invention, the control system 40 uses a 2.4GHz wireless communication module, but Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, LoRa, or 5G control modules can also be selected.

[0033] The aluminum-air battery remote-controlled boat 100 of this embodiment further includes a wireless controller 50, which is electrically connected to the control system 40 to transmit command signals to the control unit 40, so that the control unit 40 controls the operation mode of the above-mentioned components according to the command signals.

[0034] The operation of the aluminum-air battery-powered remote-controlled boat 100 of this invention involves first ensuring that all components (including the motor, aluminum-air battery module 30, and control system 40) are correctly installed and connected before startup. Then, an electrolyte is added to the aluminum-air battery module 30. In this embodiment, an alkaline electrolyte solution (such as commercially available Toleron) is used. This electrolyte is added to the battery box 311 and allowed to stand for 5 minutes to allow the internal chemical reaction of the aluminum-air battery 31 to stabilize before operation. Afterward, the motor is started via the control system 40, gradually increasing the power output to ensure smooth motor operation. During operation, the voltage of the aluminum-air battery 31 is checked periodically to ensure there are no abnormalities. If the voltage drops after prolonged use, the electrolyte is replaced. After operation is complete, the control system 40 and the motor are turned off. The electrolyte is then poured out and allowed to dry. The hull 10 and the aluminum-air battery module 30 are cleaned, and any damage or abnormalities are checked.

[0035] The aluminum-air battery-powered remote-controlled boat provided by this invention integrates a currently little-known aluminum-air battery into the remote-controlled boat. Due to the special nature of this battery, only electrolyte needs to be added before use. After standing for about 5 minutes until the battery output stabilizes, it can be used immediately. Furthermore, the hydrogen gas emitted during use will not cause environmental harm, and even in the event of capsizing, it will not pollute marine resources. In emergencies, simply adding seawater can provide emergency power.

[0036] The aluminum-air battery-powered remote-controlled boat provided by this invention significantly reduces battery costs due to the low price of aluminum. It offers extremely high safety during use, eliminating the risk of explosion, and does not pollute the environment during operation. Its byproducts automatically fall off, simplifying battery maintenance and operation. Furthermore, it utilizes the recyclable properties of aluminum, achieving near-complete renewable energy utilization. These advantages lay a solid foundation for the research and development of aluminum-air batteries, giving them significant potential in future energy supply.

[0037] The significant advantages of this invention are further explained below:

[0038] (1) Environmental protection: Aluminum-air batteries do not produce harmful gases during operation, and their byproducts are mainly aluminum oxide or aluminum hydroxide, which are harmless to the environment. The hydrogen produced during use will not cause pollution to the environment.

[0039] In traditional remote-controlled boat applications, lithium-ion batteries are widely used due to their high energy density and excellent charge-discharge performance. However, Taiwan's power generation structure shows that up to 82% of its electricity still relies on fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas. This means that even with lithium batteries as energy storage devices, the underlying energy supply still presents significant carbon emission problems. In contrast, aluminum-air batteries offer significant advantages. They do not produce harmful gases during operation, and the main byproducts are harmless alumina or aluminum hydroxide, causing no environmental pollution. More importantly, aluminum-air batteries can utilize the regenerative properties of aluminum metal, achieving near-complete renewable energy utilization, thereby significantly reducing the carbon footprint in remote-controlled boat applications and promoting the sustainable development of green energy.

[0040] (2) Safety: Aluminum-air batteries do not pose an explosion risk, are relatively simple to use and maintain, and are suitable for use in aquatic environments.

[0041] The anode material in aluminum-air batteries is aluminum, which is chemically stable. Aluminum does not spontaneously combust at room temperature and pressure, nor will it explode due to impact, puncture, or overcharging / overdischarging. The oxidation reaction of aluminum occurs in a controlled environment inside the battery, without releasing large amounts of heat, thus avoiding thermal runaway. In contrast, lithium metal in lithium-ion batteries is highly reactive and prone to violent chemical reactions under conditions such as overcharging, overdischarging, impact, or puncture, generating large amounts of heat, leading to thermal runaway or even explosion.

[0042] Aluminum-air batteries do not generate a large amount of heat during operation, making thermal management relatively simple. However, lithium-ion batteries have extremely high thermal management requirements during charging and discharging. System failures or improper handling can easily lead to thermal runaway, which in turn can cause risks such as combustion.

[0043] (3) Renewable resources: Aluminum can be recycled and reused, further reducing environmental impact and contributing to the achievement of sustainable development goals.

[0044] Aluminum is one of the most abundant metals in the Earth's crust, accounting for about 8.3% of its mass, ranking third after oxygen and silicon. This means that aluminum resources are relatively abundant and easy to mine on Earth.

[0045] Aluminum has excellent recyclability. Compared to other metals, aluminum retains its original physical and chemical properties during recycling. Whether pure aluminum or aluminum alloys, it can be reused after recycling and reprocessing. This makes aluminum highly valuable in recycling.

[0046] The recycling and reuse of aluminum generates less wastewater, waste gas, and solid waste compared to the initial production. This not only reduces environmental pollution but also lowers the risk of ecological damage, helping to protect natural resources and ecosystems.

[0047] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Therefore, all equivalent variations or modifications made in accordance with the features and spirit described in the claims of this invention should be included within the scope of the patent application of this invention.

[0048] 100: Aluminum-air battery remote-controlled powered boat 10:Hull 20: Power transmission system 30: Aluminum-air battery module 31: Aluminum-air battery 311: Battery Box 312: Air Cathode 313: Aluminum electrode 40: Control System 50: Wireless remote control

Claims

1. An aluminum-air battery-powered remotely controlled boat, comprising: One hull; A power transmission system is disposed on the hull to drive the hull to move; an aluminum-air battery module is disposed on the hull and electrically connected to the power transmission system to output power to supply the power transmission system; and a control system is disposed on the hull and electrically connected to the aluminum-air battery module and the power transmission system to control the operation of the aluminum-air battery module and the power transmission system; wherein the aluminum-air battery module includes a plurality of aluminum-air batteries connected in parallel or in series, each aluminum-air battery including a battery box and an air cathode disposed in the battery box, a replaceable aluminum electrode, and an electrolyte spaced between the air cathode and the aluminum electrode, the air cathode being composed of a carbon-coated nickel-plated iron mesh.

2. The aluminum-air battery remote-controlled powered boat as claimed in claim 1, wherein the hull is made of painted carbon steel, galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminum alloy, or fiberglass.

3. The aluminum-air battery remote-controlled powered boat as claimed in claim 1, wherein the aluminum electrode is made of aluminum metal or aluminum alloy, the aluminum alloy comprising aluminum and at least one alloying element selected from manganese, magnesium, copper, zinc and silicon.

4. The aluminum-air battery remote-controlled powered boat as claimed in claim 1, wherein the carbon material is porous graphite and a catalyst containing nickel or potassium is added.

5. The aluminum-air battery remote-controlled powered boat as claimed in claim 1, wherein the nickel-plated iron mesh contains at least one alloying element selected from platinum, palladium, gold and silver.

6. The aluminum-air battery remote-controlled powered boat as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electrolyte is an alkaline electrolyte, a neutral electrolyte, or an acidic electrolyte.

7. The aluminum-air battery remote-controlled powered boat as claimed in claim 6, wherein the alkaline electrolyte is a potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide solution.

8. The aluminum-air battery remote-controlled powered boat as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electrolyte is an alkaline gel electrolyte or an ionic liquid electrolyte.

9. The aluminum-air battery remote-controlled powered boat as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control system includes a 2.4 GHz wireless communication module, a Bluetooth control module, a Wi-Fi control module, a LoRa control module, or a 5G control module.

10. The aluminum-air battery-powered remote-controlled boat as claimed in claim 11 further includes a wireless controller electrically connected to the control system to transmit a command signal to the control unit.

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