Portable Fuel Cell EV Charging Using Aqueous Electrolytes
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a system capable of providing electrical power to recharge electric storage batteries powering electric vehicles and devices in remote environments without requiring a combustible fuel source or a grid connection, especially in emergency situations where traditional power generation methods are impractical or unavailable.
Innovation Solution
A power system comprising a portable renewable energy power generating source with a cell enclosure containing an anode and cathode separated by an electrolyte, which generates electrical power when an aqueous electrolyte is introduced, allowing for the charging of storage batteries or direct power supply to electric devices without relying on land-based power grids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional power generation methods (combustible fuel sources or grid connections) are used, then reliable electrical power can be provided, but the system becomes dependent on infrastructure that is unavailable in remote environments or emergency situations
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses body waste (urine) as the electrolyte source, making the power generation system self-sufficient and independent of external infrastructure. The device processes waste materials that are already present in the system to generate electricity, eliminating the need for imported fuel or grid connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a portable fuel cell system as an intermediary power generation device that bridges the gap between unavailable grid power and the need for electrical output. This intermediary system converts chemical energy from body waste directly into electrical energy through electrochemical reactions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If solar power is used to recharge storage batteries, then power can be generated without combustible fuels, but power generation is limited to daytime and sunny conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel cell system can operate continuously as long as electrolyte (body waste) is supplied, unlike solar power which is intermittent. The electrochemical reactions can proceed day and night, providing continuous power generation capability that is not dependent on weather conditions or time of day.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the energy source parameter from solar radiation (external, weather-dependent) to body waste (internal, continuously available). This parameter change enables power generation under all environmental conditions including nighttime, rain, and cloudy weather.
3Adaptability or versatility
If portable power systems are designed for remote deployment, then they can operate without grid connections, but they require combustible fuel sources which are not always available or economical
Solution Approach 1:
The system converts body waste, which is typically a harmful or unwanted byproduct, into a useful resource for power generation. By using urine as the electrolyte source, the system transforms a waste product into the fuel needed for continuous operation, eliminating the need for external combustible fuels.
Solution Approach 2:
The power system serves multiple functions: it generates electricity, processes body waste, and provides a portable power solution that works in any environment. The single device handles both power generation and waste management, eliminating the need for separate fuel storage and combustion 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
Enables the recharging of electric storage batteries and provision of emergency power in remote or emergency situations without the need for combustible fuels or grid connections, utilizing self-generated power from a portable system that can be easily deployed and operated using available aqueous solutions like seawater or urine.
Implementation Method 1
a cell enclosure comprising an anode having a standard reduction potential of less than or equal to about -1 V separated from a cathode having a standard reduction potential of greater than or equal to about 0.1 V disposed within, wherein the anode and the cathode are each in electrical communication with the power charger system; wherein the container further comprises an electrolyte inlet through which an aqueous electrolyte may be introduced in contact with the anode and the cathode, thereby causing generation of electrical power
Data Source
AI summary
A renewable energy portable electric vehicle charging system having an inlet coupled to a portable electrical power generating source, and an outlet couplable to an electrical input of a storage battery system in which the portable electrical power generating source is a self-charging battery activated by an aqueous electrolyte. A method of utilizing the system is also disclosed.