Fluid-Surfaced Electrode with Sensor Feedback for Battery Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery technologies for renewable energy sources are expensive, have limited cycle lifetimes, and low energy densities, making them inefficient for widespread adoption of electric vehicles powered by 'green' energy generation.
Innovation Solution
An electrochemical device with two electrodes and an electrolyte that includes an electrochemically active fluid layer, equipped with sensors to monitor operating conditions and a controller to adjust parameters such as fluid flow, enabling efficient energy storage and management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing battery technologies are used for renewable energy storage, then energy storage capacity is provided, but the cost is high and cycle lifetime is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the electrode by introducing a fluid layer that can dynamically adjust its properties. The fluid layer's composition, viscosity, and electrochemical activity can be modified to optimize performance, potentially extending cycle lifetime while controlling costs through parameter optimization rather than expensive material substitutions
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode is constructed as a composite structure combining a solid support with an electrochemically active fluid layer. This composite approach allows integration of multiple functional materials - the solid support provides structural stability while the fluid layer contributes electrochemical activity and flexibility, potentially improving reliability without proportionally increasing manufacturing cost
2Quantity of substance
If existing battery technologies are used, then energy storage is achieved, but energy density is substantially below that of fossil fuels
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid layer's composition and physical state can be dynamically adjusted to maximize energy density. By changing parameters such as fluid composition, temperature, and pressure, the electrode can achieve higher energy density closer to fossil fuel levels while maintaining electrochemical efficiency through optimized reaction conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode incorporates a dynamic fluid layer that can adapt its properties during operation. This dynamic characteristic allows the system to optimize energy density in real-time based on operating conditions, potentially achieving higher effective energy density while maintaining efficiency through adaptive parameter adjustment
3Productivity
If sensors and controllers are added to monitor and adjust operating conditions, then energy storage efficiency is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by using sensors to monitor operating conditions (such as fluid layer state, temperature, or electrochemical potential) and using this information to adjust operating parameters. This feedback mechanism enhances energy storage efficiency by optimizing performance in real-time while managing complexity through targeted sensing and control rather than comprehensive system overhaul
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
The device enhances energy storage efficiency, extends battery life, and increases energy density, making it more viable for electric vehicles supported by renewable energy sources.
Implementation Method 1
At least one of the electrodes includes an electrochemically active fluid layer, a surface of the electrochemically active fluid layer being in contact with the electrolyte
Implementation Method 2
The electrolyte is arranged to conduct an ionic current from a first electrolyte surface in contact with one of the electrodes to a second electrolyte surface in contact with another of the electrodes
Data Source
AI summary
An electrochemical device (such as a battery) includes at least one electrode having a fluid surface and one or more sensors configured to detect an operating condition of the device. Fluid-directing structures may modulate flow or retain fluid in response to the sensors. An electrolyte within the device may also include an ion-transport fluid, for example infiltrated into a porous solid support.