Concentric Conduit Water Reservoir and Electrolysis Cell
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for water electrolysis in confined spaces, such as engine compartments of motor vehicles, are complex and difficult to integrate due to multiple flow connections, making them hard to build, connect, and fit efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A simplified structure combining a water reservoir and electrolysis cell using concentric conduits for water and gas flow, where water flows by gravity from the reservoir to the electrolysis cell and gases rise back through an annular space in the conduits, simplifying the setup and allowing easier integration into compact spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If multiple flow connections are used in existing electrolysis systems, then water and gas flow paths can be established, but the system becomes complex and difficult to integrate into confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple flow connections into a single integrated structure where the first conduit (water flow) and second conduit (gas flow) are merged into one assembly. This single structure accomplishes what previously required multiple separate connections, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining all necessary flow paths for water supply and gas venting.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested configuration where the second conduit (carrying gas flow) is positioned concentrically around the first conduit (carrying water flow). This nesting arrangement allows both conduits to occupy the same spatial envelope, significantly reducing the overall footprint and making the system suitable for integration into confined spaces such as vehicle engine compartments.
2Ease of manufacture
If a simplified structure with concentric conduits is used, then ease of assembly and fitment into confined spaces is improved, but proper isolation of accumulating gas must be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the gas isolation challenge by transitioning from a simple linear arrangement to a three-dimensional concentric configuration. The second conduit is positioned at a higher vertical level than the first conduit, creating a dimensional separation that allows gas to accumulate and be properly isolated at the top of the electrolysis cell while water flows through the lower first conduit. This vertical dimensionality ensures reliable gas isolation while maintaining the simplified nested structure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration simplifies the construction and integration of water electrolysis systems in confined areas, enhancing ease of assembly and fitment while maintaining effective water dissociation into hydrogen and oxygen gases.
Implementation Method 1
The inner bore serves as a first flow path for the flow of water by force of gravity from the water reservoir to an outlet for the first conduit positioned within the electrolysis cell
Implementation Method 2
In the process of electrolysis, electric current is used to dissociate the molecules of water to produce hydrogen gas and oxygen gas
Implementation Method 3
The annular space is defined between the outer surface of the first conduit and the inner surface of the second conduit which serves as a second flow path for an upward flow of gas from an inlet positioned for the second conduit within the electrolysis cell to the water reservoir
Data Source
AI summary
A water reservoir and electrolysis cell combination that has a flow connection between a lower fluid port of the water reservoir and an upper fluid port of the electrolysis cell. The flow connection includes a first conduit with an inner bore which serves as a first flow path for the flow of water by force of gravity from the water reservoir to an outlet for the first conduit positioned within the electrolysis cell. The second conduit is concentric to the first conduit and defines an annular space between the outer surface of the first conduit and the inner surface of the second conduit which serves as a second flow path for an upward flow of gas from the electrolysis cell to the water reservoir.