Fuel Tank Integrated Into Portable Device Frame
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of fuel cells and fuel tanks into electronic portable devices is challenging due to space constraints and the need for efficient fuel management, as these devices require a compact solution that can store fuel and provide structural support while maintaining operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A modular or unitary fuel tank is designed to be integrated within the frame of an electronic portable device, serving both as a fuel storage unit and structural component, with features like mechanical interlocking couplers, impact-resistant materials, and temperature control to manage fuel distribution and heat management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a fuel tank is added to an electronic portable device, then fuel storage capability is improved, but device volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel tank is merged with the device frame to form an integrated structure. The frame itself serves as the fuel tank, eliminating the need for a separate fuel storage component. This merging allows the device to have fuel storage capability while maintaining a compact form factor, as the frame performs dual functions of structural support and fuel containment.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is designed to perform multiple functions: providing structural support for the device and simultaneously serving as a fuel tank for storing and delivering fuel to the fuel cell. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by making the frame a universal component that addresses both structural and fuel storage requirements without increasing overall device volume.
2Volume of moving object
If a fuel tank is integrated into the device frame, then space utilization is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel tank and frame are combined into a single integrated component, which simplifies the manufacturing process by reducing the number of separate parts that need to be produced and assembled. The frame is manufactured with fuel storage cavities or channels directly incorporated into its structure, eliminating the need for separate fuel tank fabrication and assembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is designed with segmented or modular sections that can be manufactured separately and then assembled, or with integrated fuel channels that are formed as distinct features during frame manufacturing. This segmentation allows for easier manufacturing of complex fuel storage structures within the frame while maintaining space efficiency.
3Device complexity
If the frame serves dual purposes as structural support and fuel tank, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame and fuel tank are merged into a single component, reducing device complexity by eliminating separate fuel storage and structural elements. However, this merging increases reliability requirements because the frame must simultaneously withstand mechanical loads and contain fuel without leakage or failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is constructed from composite materials or specially engineered materials that provide both structural strength and fuel compatibility. These materials resist fuel corrosion while maintaining mechanical integrity, thereby meeting the increased reliability requirements imposed by the dual-function design.
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 solution enables compact, efficient fuel storage and power generation within portable devices, addressing space constraints and ensuring reliable operation by providing structural integrity and efficient fuel management, while potentially reducing costs by utilizing materials that perform multiple functions.
Implementation Method 1
a fuel cell is an electrochemical conversion device that produces electricity from a reaction between a fuel and an oxidant in the presence of an electrolyte
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments herein relate to an electronic portable having at least one electronic component. The electronic portable device includes a fuel cell operable for powering at least in part the at least one electronic component, and a fuel tank for storing fuel to be used by the fuel cell. The fuel tank is defined by at least one body section, the at least one body section sized and shaped so as to form a frame of the electronic device. The frame has at least one hollow region for storing the fuel therein, the at least one body section including an inlet for introducing fuel into the hollow region and an outlet for releasing fuel from the hollow region to the fuel cell.