Deferred-Action Galvanic Cell Backup Power System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional backup power solutions, such as generators and lithium-ion batteries, face limitations in reliability, environmental impact, and cost, particularly in providing continuous and sustainable power during outages, due to fuel dependency and limited capacity.
Innovation Solution
A deferred-action battery system that utilizes a fluid container holding an electrolyte solution, where an external power source energizes a fluid flow control mechanism to prevent electrolyte flow to a galvanic cell until an outage occurs, allowing the electrolyte to flow and initiate a reduction-oxidation reaction for energy generation, and recycles the solution back when power is restored, maintaining a dormant state until needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If stationary or portable generators are used to provide backup power, then power supply capability is improved, but environmental harm increases due to exhaust gases and fuel dependency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical state of the battery system from a conventional charged state to a dormant state with separated electrolyte and electrode materials. The electrolyte is stored in a container and only introduced to the galvanic cell when power is needed, transforming the battery from an always-active system to an on-demand system that eliminates harmful emissions while maintaining power supply capability.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If lithium-ion batteries are used for backup power, then environmental impact from fossil fuels is reduced, but manufacturing environmental harm and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-preparing the battery components (electrode materials and electrolyte) in a dormant state before power outages occur. The electrolyte is stored ready in a container, and the electrode materials are prepared in advance. When power is needed, the system simply activates by introducing the electrolyte to the galvanic cell, eliminating the need for complex lithium-ion battery manufacturing and mining operations.
3Ease of operation
If portable generators are used, then installation flexibility is improved, but power supply duration is limited by fuel capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by creating a battery system that transitions between two states: dormant (when power is available) and active (when power is needed). The electrolyte flow control mechanism dynamically responds to power availability, automatically preventing electrolyte flow when power is present and enabling flow when power is lost. This dynamic operation allows the system to provide extended power supply duration without requiring large fuel tanks or frequent refilling.
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 system provides near continuous energy by switching to the battery power during outages, eliminating the need for fuel and reducing environmental impact, with efficient energy production and recycling, ensuring reliable power without operator intervention.
Implementation Method 1
electrolyte solution flows to the galvanic cell, initiating a reduction-oxidation reaction and producing electric current
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for providing battery backup power to a home or other building are disclosed. Methods and systems include a fluid container holding an electrolyte solution. The electrolyte solution is prevented from flowing through an array of galvanic cells having annular flow paths via a fluid flow control mechanism, such as a valve, which is energized by an external power source. When the external power source is removed, such as during a power outage, the fluid flow control mechanism is deenergized and electrolyte solution is allowed to flow through the galvanic cell array, generating electric current. Energy produced by the system then powers the home or other building until the external power source returns, which in turn closes the fluid flow control mechanism and ceases energy production by the system.