Fuel Cell Powered Magnetohydrodynamic Seawater Thruster
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Solution Overview
Problem
The commercialization of magnetohydrodynamic seawater propulsion thrusters is hindered by the need for a stable and reliable long-term energy supply, as current reliance on commercial power or battery-based systems faces challenges such as periodic charging, battery risks, and instability.
Innovation Solution
A magnetohydrodynamic seawater propulsion thruster system that incorporates a fuel cell module as part of the power supply unit, enabling the generation of electricity through an electrochemical reaction of fuel and oxidizer, thereby providing a stable and reliable long-term energy source.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If commercial power or battery-based systems are used to supply power for operation tests, then the magnetohydrodynamic seawater propulsion thruster can be tested and verified, but the reliance on commercial power supply creates challenges for commercialization including periodic charging, battery risks, and instability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical power supply systems (commercial power, batteries) with a fuel cell-based electrochemical energy conversion system. This substitution eliminates the need for external power infrastructure and battery charging cycles, providing continuous stable power supply that directly addresses the reliability issues while reducing the complexity of power supply infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the energy source parameter from electrical energy (commercial power, batteries) to chemical energy (fuel cells). This parameter change enables continuous operation without periodic charging or discharging, fundamentally improving power supply stability and eliminating battery-related risks while simplifying the overall power supply system architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If battery-based power sources are used, then the magnetohydrodynamic seawater propulsion thruster can operate without commercial power infrastructure, but this requires addressing challenges such as periodic charging and discharging process, as well as the risk of battery explosions and fires
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the battery-based electrical storage system with a fuel cell electrochemical conversion system that continuously generates electricity from fuel. This replacement eliminates periodic charging/discharging cycles and removes the safety risks associated with battery explosions and fires, while maintaining independence from commercial power infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The fuel cell system provides continuous electricity generation as long as fuel is supplied, eliminating the periodic charging and discharging nature of battery systems. This continuous operation mode ensures reliable power supply without the safety hazards and reliability issues inherent in battery-based systems.
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 use of a fuel cell module in the power supply unit secures a stable and reliable long-term energy supply for the magnetohydrodynamic seawater propulsion thruster, facilitating its commercialization by addressing the challenges of energy stability and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a fuel cell module configured to generate electricity through an electrochemical reaction of fuel and oxidizer
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic field formation unit arranged to surround at least a portion of an outer circumference of the first electrode body and generate a magnetic field in an extension direction of the first electrode body
Implementation Method 3
The magnetohydrodynamic seawater propulsion thruster generates thrust by applying a current to seawater in a magnetic field, which produces Lorentz force, causing the conductive fluid, seawater, to be ejected at high speed
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetohydrodynamic seawater propulsion thruster includes: a first electrode body including a seawater inlet, a seawater flow space, and a seawater outlet; a second electrode body arranged in the seawater flow space to be spaced apart from the first electrode body, and allowing current to flow through the seawater with the first electrode body; a flow guide having a helical shape, arranged between the first electrode body and the second electrode body in the seawater flow space to guide flowing of seawater; a magnetic field formation unit arranged to surround at least a portion of an outer circumference of the first electrode body and generate a magnetic field in an extension direction of the first electrode body; a power supply unit that supplies electricity to the first and second electrode bodies. The power supply unit includes a fuel cell module generating electricity through electrochemical reaction of fuel and oxidizer.