-Electrolyte Membranes Comprising Polyvinylphosphonic Acid and the use thereof in Fuel Cells-Celanese Ventures GMBH
-Mixture Comprising Phosponic Acid Containing Vinyl, Polymer Electrolyte Membranes 
  Comprising Polyvylphosphonic Acid and the use thereof in Fuel Cells-Celanese Ventures GMBH
-Method for inserting the anodes of Fuel Cells-MTU FRIEDRICHSHAFEN GMBH
-Mixture Comprising Sulphonic Acid Containing Vinyl, Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Comprising Polyvinylsulphonic 
  Acid And The Use Thereof In Fuel Cells-Celanese Ventures GMBH
-A Method And A Device For Controlling Fuel Cells-Sit la Precisa S.p.a.
-Bipolar Plate Having Integrated Gas-Permeable Membrane -MTI MICROFUEL CELLS, INC.
-Fuel Cell For Powering Electronic Appliances, In Particular Portable Objects -Commissariat A L'Energie Atomique
-Method For Producing A Solid Ceramic Fuel Cell-SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
-Low-Temperature Fuel Cell -SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
-Fuel cell stack-Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
-Flex based fuel cell-Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
-Method and apparatus for monitoring equivalent series resistance and for shunting a fuel cell -Avista Laboratories, Inc.
-Fuel cell system -Ballarrd Power Systems Inc.
-Electrolyte Film And Solid Polymer Fuel Cell Using The Same -JAPAN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION TOAGOSEI CO., LTD.
-Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Components And Methof of Manufacture Thereof -US NANOCORP, INC.
-Cathode For Use At High Temperatures-FORSCHUNGSZENTRUM JULICH GMBH.
-Setting Device Of Distributed Energy Supply System-MATSUSHITA ELECTRIC INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
-A Method And A Device For Controlling Fuel Cells-Sit la Precisa S.p.a.
-Fuel cell stack with variable heat capacity-Kabushikikaisha Equos Research
-Air Breathing Direct Methanol Fuel Cell-The Regents of The University of California
-Apparatus For Producing Hydrogen, Electochemical Device-Sony Corporation
-Hydrogen Sorage Bed System Including An Integrated Thermal Management System-ENERGY CONVERSION DEVICES, INC.
-Fuel cell-fuel cell hybrid system-The United States of America as represented by the Department of Energy
-Bipolar plate for a fuel cell-Asia Pacific Fuel Cell Technologies, Ltd.
-Miniature Vaporizers For Use With Chemical Converters and Energy Devices-ZTEK CORPORATION
-Fuel Cell Module Comprising A Magnetic Shielding-SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
-Method For Operating A Fuel Cell System Used In A Motor Vehicle and Corresponding Fuel Cell System-SIEMENS 
-Fuel Cell System For A Motor Vehicle-SIEMENS 
-Motor Vehicle Comprising an Electric Motor Drive and An On-Board Power Supply-SIEMENS 
-Fuel Cell Arrangement-FRAUNHOFER-GESELLSCHAFT ZUR FORDERUNG DER ANGEWANDTEN
-Cell Unit of Solid Polymeric Electorlyte Type Fuel Cell -SKABUSHIKI KAISHA RIKEN NIPPON LIGHT METAL CO., LTD.
-Fuel Cell System And Its Control Method-NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.
-Separator For Fuel Cell, Method for Producing The Same and Fuel Cell Using the Same-SANSHO KAKOU CO., LTD.
-Fuel cell battery with integrated heat exchanger-Sulzer Hexis AG
-Flooding-Reducing Fuel Cell Electrode-Graftech Inc.
 

Publication date:01-October-2003 

World Patent 

Pub. Number WO 2003075389

Appl. Data EP 0302398 2003 03 04

Applicant CELANESE VENTURES GMBH

Inventor(s) UENSAL, Oemer

KIEFER, Joachim

CHRIST, Gunter

Title:MIXTURE COMPRISING PHOSPHONIC ACID CONTAINING VINYL, POLYMER ELECTROLYTE MEMBRANES COMPRISING POLYVINYLPHOSPHONIC ACID AND THE USE THEREOF IN FUEL CELLS

Abstract: The invention relates to a proton conducting polymer membrane based on polyvinylphosphonic acid obtained by means of a method comprising the following steps: A) mixing a polymer with phosphonic acid containing vinyl, B) forming a flat structure by using the inventive mixture from step A)
on a support, C) polymerisation of the vinylphosphonic acid present in the flat structure according to step B). The inventive membrane can be used in a variety of ways on account of the excellent chemical and thermal properties thereof and is particularly suitable for use as a polymer-electrolyte-membrane (PEM) in PEM-fuel cells.
 

World Patent

Pub. Number WO 2003075389

Appl. Data EP 0302398 2003 03 04

Applicant CELANESE VENTURES GMBH

Inventor(s) UENSAL, Oemer

KIEFER, Joachim

CHRIST, Gunter

Title: MIXTURE COMPRISING PHOSPHONIC ACID CONTAINING VINYL, POLYMER ELECTROLYTE MEMBRANES COMPRISING POLYVINYLPHOSPHONIC ACID AND THE USE THEREOF IN FUEL CELLS

Abstract: The invention relates to a proton conducting polymer membrane based on polyvinylphosphonic acid obtained by means of a method comprising the following steps: A) mixing a polymer with phosphonic acid containing vinyl, B) forming a flat structure by using the inventive mixture from step A)
on a support, C) polymerisation of the vinylphosphonic acid present in the flat structure according to step B). The inventive membrane can be used in a variety of ways on account of the excellent chemical and thermal properties thereof and is particularly suitable for use as a polymer-electrolyte-membrane (PEM) in PEM-fuel cells. 

World Patents

Pub. Number WO 2003075381

Appl. Data EP 0301888 2003 02 25

Applicant MTU FRIEDRICHSHAFEN GMBH

Inventor(s) BEDNARZ, Marc

WOSKI, Michael

Title: METHOD FOR INERTING THE ANODES OF FUEL CELLS

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for interting and protecting the anodes of fuel cell, more particularly high-temperature fuel cells. The invention also relates to a fuel cell array. According to the invention, water vapor is fed to the anodes during interruptions in operation when fuel gas supply to the anodes is interrupted and during emergency stop or standby operation. By applying an external voltage to the fuel cells, a reducing atmosphere is created
by electrolysis in the anodes. This makes it possible to inert the fuel cell anodes (2) without having to specially use a sweep or protective gas for said purpose. 

World Patent

Pub. Number WO 2003074595

Appl. Data EP 0302395 2003 03 04

Applicant CELANESE VENTURES GMBH

Inventor(s) KIEFER, Joachim

UENSAL, Oemer

Title: MIXTURE COMPRISING SULPHONIC ACID CONTAINING VINYL, POLYMER ELECTROLYTE MEMBRANE COMPRISING POLYVINYLSULPHONIC ACID AND THE USE THEREOF IN FUEL CELLS

Abstract: The invention relates to a proton conducting polymer membrane based on polyvinylsulphonic acid obtained by a method comprising the following steps: A) mixing a polymer with sulphonic acid containing vinyl, B) forming a flat structure by using the inventive mixture from step A) on a
support, C) polymerisation of the vinylsulphonic acid present in the flat structure according to step B).The inventive membrane can be applied in a varied manner on account of the excellent chemical and thermal properties thereof and is particularly suitable for use as a polymer-electrolyte- membrane (PEM) in PEM-fuel cells.

A Method And A Device For Controlling Fuel Cells 

European Patents

Pub. Number EP 1342280

Appl. Data EP 01912120 2001 02 23

Applicant Sit la Precisa S.p.a.

Inventor(s) DORIGO, Roberto

PAPPALARDO, Salvatore

Title: A METHOD AND A DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING FUEL CELLS

Abstract: A method for the operative control of fuel cells (2) is described and comprises the steps of providing an electronic control unit (8), regulating the quantity of fuel and/or supporter of combustion which flows per unit of time in a supply circuit (4, 5) of the fuel cell (2) by regulation means (6, 7, 13, 14, 16, 17), obtaining a temperature signal (T) from the cell (2), obtaining a power signal (W) from a closed circuit (11) including the cell, supplying the signals to the electronic control unit (8), and making the regulation means (6, 7, 13, 14, 16, 17) subject to the electronic control unit (8), the regulation of the quantity of fuel and/or supporter of combustion being of the modulating type, and the modulation taking place in dependence on the temperature and power signals. The invention is also directed towards a device (1, 100) operating in accordance with the method. 

World Patent

Pub. Number WO 2003077342

Appl. Data US 0307397 2003 03 06

Applicant MTI MICROFUEL CELLS, INC.

Inventor(s) DEFILIPPIS, Michael, S.

Title: BIPOLAR PLATE HAVING INTEGRATED GAS-PERMEABLE MEMBRANE

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a novel anode plate forming an anode chamber of a fuel cell. The anode plate includes an anode fuel flow field, a substantially gas permeable membrane, and a channel coupled to an outlet positioned immediately adjacent said membrane. The channel directs gaseous effluents produced in the anode chamber out of the fuel cell via the outlet. This novel anode plate may be used in a single fuel cell, electrically and mechanically coupled to a cathode plate in a multi-fuel cell arrangement, or combined with a cathode plate producing a bi-polar plate for a fuel cell stack. Alternatively, the features of the anode plate and cathode plate may be integrated into a single component, thus improving performance and limiting
the size of a stack ad system implementing said stack. 

European Patents

Pub. Number EP 1344266

Appl. Data EP 01989639 2001 12 20

Applicant Commissariat A L'Energie Atomique

Inventor(s) BLOCH, Didier

DELAPIERRE, Gilles

PRIEM, Thierry

MARSACQ, Didier

LAURENT, Jean-Yves

GAUTHIER, Corinne

PERUT, Christian

Title: FUEL CELL FOR POWERING ELECTRONIC APPLIANCES, IN PARTICULAR PORTABLE OBJECTS

Abstract: The invention concerns a fuel cell (2) of the typecomprising an anode (12) and a cathode (10), between which is interposed an electrolyte (18). Solid bodies (20) storing a hydrogen mass, capable of being decomposed by combustion, are associated with pyrotechnic means (24, 26) to release the hydrogen and contact it with the anode (12). Means (38) tap ambient air to bring it into contact with the cathode (10). The ignition of the pyrotechnic means (24, 26) is subjected to addressing means (28) integrated in the appliance (2). The water surplus produced by the exchange between hydrogen and oxygen is absorbed by the rise in temperature induced by the combustion of the bodies (20). The solid bodies (20) are supported by an interchangeable card (22). 

European Patents

Pub. Number EP 1344272

Appl. Data EP 01960706 2001 08 23

Applicant SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT

Sulzer Metco AG (Switzerland)

Inventor(s) BARBEZAT, Gerard

FLECK, Robert

JANSING, Thomas

LOCH, Michael

Title: METHOD FOR PRODUCING A SOLID CERAMIC FUEL CELL

Abstract: According to the method for producing a solid ceramic fuel cell, a solid electrolyte layer (8) is gas-tightly deposited on an electrode (4) inside a coating chamber (10), using a plasma spraying technique. The pressure inside the coating chamber is set at less than approximately 15mbar for this purpose. A coating material in powder form, preferably with a particle diameter of significantly less than 10um, is finely dispersed in the plasma jet (20) in such a way that the individual particles are isolated from each other when they meet the electrode (4). This enables a very homogenous and impervious solid electrolyte layer (8) to be deposited. 

European Patents

Pub. Number EP 1344268

Appl. Data EP 01989393 2001 12 10

Applicant SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT

Inventor(s) HARTNACK, Herbert

LERSCH, Josef

MATTEJAT, Arno

STRASSER, Karl

Title: LOW-TEMPERATURE FUEL CELL

Abstract: The composite conductor plate (5) of a low-temperature fuel cell (1) poses the following problem: it must be extremely corrosion- resistant to pure oxygen that is humidified by water and to pure hydrogen and must at the same time be able to be processed mechanically. To solve said problem, the invention provides a composite conductor plate (5) consisting of 50 to 65 wt. % Ni, 12 to 22 wt. % Cr, 10 to 18 wt. % Mo, 4 to 10 wt. % Fe and 0.5 to 5 wt. % W. 

U.S. Patent

Patent Number 6620540

Issue Date 2003 09 16

Assignee Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha

Inventor(s) Sugita, Narutoshi

Wariishi, Yoshinori

State/Country JPX

Title: Fuel cell stack

Abstract: The fuel cell stack has a horizontal laminate of a plurality of fuel cell units and separators, each fuel cell unit being constituted by an electrolytic membrane sandwiched by an anode and a cathode, and fixing members disposed horizontally on both sides of the laminate, the laminate and the fixing members having a plurality of holes penetrating therethrough in a lamination direction, each hole receiving an insulator-coated rod for fastening the laminate in a lamination direction, an insulator surface of the insulator-coated rod being substantially in contact with an inner surface of each hole of the laminate.

Exmp. Claim 1
Ex Claim text: A fuel cell stack comprising a horizontal laminate of a plurality of fuel cell units and separators, each fuel cell unit being constituted by an electrolytic membrane sandwiched by an anode and a cathode, and fixing members disposed horizontally on both sides of said laminate, said laminate and said fixing members having a plurality of holes penetrating therethrough in a lamination direction, each hole receiving a rod for fastening said laminate in a
lamination direction, at least one of an inner surface of said hole and an outer surface of said rod being provided with an insulator, and the surface of said rod being at least partially in contact with the inner surface of each hole of said laminate via said insulator. 

U.S. Patents

Patent Number 6620542

Issue Date 2003 09 16

Assignee Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.

Inventor(s) Pan, Alfred I-Tsung

State/Country CA

Title: Flex based fuel cell

Abstract: A fuel cell uses porous metal layers attached on a flex substrate for delivery of liquid fuel to the active catalytic areas on the anodic side. The flex substrate may form an enclosed package such that the liquid fuel can be contained in the enclosed volume and the air can freely exchange with the cathode side of the fuel cell without the need of microchannels and plumbing for mass transporting both fuel and oxygen to the active catalytic area. The porous metal provides a large surface are for the catalytic reaction to occur.

Exmp. Claim 1
Ex Claim text: A flex circuit for use in a fuel cell, the flex circuit, comprising:a fuel-side flexible circuit, comprising:a first flex substrate, wherein the first flex substrate comprises openings through which pass liquid fuel, a first porous layer adjacent the first flex substrate, the first porous layer including a first catalyst layer, an anode electrode between the first flex substrate and the first porous layer, and a boundary layer disposed adjacent the first porous layer, the boundary layer preventing cross-over of the liquid fuel; an air/water-side flexible circuit, disposed in parallel with the fuel-side flexible circuit, comprising: a second flex substrate, wherein the second flex substrate comprises openings through which pass water, a second porous layer adjacent the second flex substrate, the second porous layer including a second catalyst layer, and a cathode electrode between the second flex substrate and the second porous layer; and a center section disposed between the first and the second flex circuits, wherein the first and the second flex substrates are conformable to non-planar shapes. 

U.S. Patents

Patent Number 6620538

Issue Date 2003 09 16

Assignee Avista Laboratories, Inc.

Inventor(s) Bai, Lijun

Lott, David R.

Martin, Vanell L.

State/Country WA

Title: Method and apparatus for monitoring equivalent series resistance and for shunting a fuel cell

Abstract: A fuel cell power system comprising a fuel cell having a cathode and an anode adapted to be coupled to a fuel supply, and which is configured to produce electrical power having a current and voltage output; a controller electrically coupled with the fuel cell, and configured to selectively short the anode to the cathode of the fuel cell; and circuitry configured to measure resistance of the fuel cell in timed relation to the shorting.

Exmp. Claim 1
Ex Claim text :A fuel cell power system comprising: a fuel cell having a cathode and an anode adapted to be coupled to a fuel supply, and which is configured to produce electrical power having a current and voltage output; a controller electrically coupled with the fuel cell, and configured to selectively short the anode to the cathode of the fuel cell; and circuitry configured to measure resistance of the fuel cell in timed relation to the shorting.

U.S. Patents

Patent Number 6620536

Issue Date 2003 09 16

Assignee Ballard Power Systems AG

Inventor(s) Strobel, Barbara

Lippert, Marco

Hassert, Alexandra

Schuessler, Martin

State/Country DEX

Title: Fuel cell system

Abstract: A fuel cell system includes a fuel cell with a cathode space and an anode space that are separated by a polymerelectrolyte membrane. The cathode space is supplied with an oxygen-containing gas, and the anode space is supplied with a hydrogen-containing gas. A gas-generation device is
provided in which a hydrogen-rich reformate containing carbon monoxide, is produced from a fuel with the aid of steam reforming and/or partial oxidation. A gas-cleaning stage selectively oxidizes the carbon monoxide in the reformate on a suitable catalyst while oxygen is added; and a heat exchanger which is arranged in the gas-cleaning stage, has a cooling medium flowing through it and serves to dissipate thermal energy. According to the invention, to dissipate the thermal energy, the anode off-gas and/or cathode off-gas emerging from the fuel cell and/or a starting-material gas which is present in the fuel cell
system flows through the heat exchanger.

Exmp. Claim 1
Ex Claim text: A fuel cell system, comprising: a fuel cell having a cathode space and an anode space separated by a polymer electrolyte membrane, the cathode space being supplied with an oxygen-containing gas and the anode space being supplied with a hydrogen-containing gas; a gas-generation device, in which a hydrogen-rich reformate, which contains carbon monoxide, is produced from a fuel, via one of steam reforming and partial oxidation; a gas-cleaning stage, in which carbon monoxide in the reformate is selectively oxidized on a suitable catalyst while oxygen is being added; a heat exchanger arranged in the gas-cleaning stage; and a cooling medium flowing through the heat exchanger for dissipating thermal energy; wherein one of the anode off-gas and the cathode off-gas discharged from the fuel cell is used as the cooling medium in the heat exchanger. 

World Patent
Pub. Number WO 2003075385

Appl. Data JP 0302629 2003 03 06

Applicant JAPAN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION TOAGOSEI CO., LTD.

Inventor(s) YAMAGUCHI, Takeo

HIRAOKA, Hideki

NAKAO, Shin-ichi

Title: ELECTROLYTE FILM AND SOLID POLYMER FUEL CELL USING THE SAME

Abstract: An electrolyte film having a porous base material which is not swelled substantially with an organic solvent containing methanol or water and has pores filled with a first polymer capable of conducting a proton, characterized in that the first polymer is derived from 2-acrylamide-2- methylpropanesulfonic acid; and a fuel cell, particularly a solid polymer fuel cell, more specifically a direct methanol polymer fuel cell, using the electrolyte film. The electrolyte film is excellent in the inhibition of permeation of methanol, exhibits no or reduced change in its area, and is excellent in proton conductivity.

World Patent
Pub. Number WO 2003075383

Appl. Data US 0305998 2003 02 28

Applicant US NANOCORP, INC.

Inventor(s) HUI, Shiqiang

MA, Xinqing

ZHANG, Heng

CHEN, Huimin

ROTH, Jeffrey

BROADHEAD, John

DECARMINE, Anthony

WANG, Meidong

XIAO, Tongsan

Title: SOLID OXIDE FUEL CELL COMPONENTS AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE THEREOF

Abstract: A solid oxide fuel cell comprises a dense electrolyte disposed between a porous anode and a porous cathode wherein the dense electrolyte comprises doped lanthanum gallate or yttria stabilized zirconia, the porous anode comprises yttrium-doped strontium titanate, yttrium-doped strontium
titanate and nickel, lanthanum-doped ceria and nickel or yttria stabilized zirconia and nickel and the porous cathode comprises doped lanthanum ferrite or strontium-doped lanthanum manganite. The fuel cell may further comprise an interlayer(s) comprising lanthanum-doped ceria disposed between an electrode (anode, cathode or both) and the electrolyte. An interconnect layer comprising doped lanthanum chromate may be disposed between the anode of a first single fuel cell and the cathode of a second single fuel cell. The anode, cathode, electrolyte and optional interlayer(s) are produced by thermal spray.

World Patent
Pub. Number WO 2003075377

Appl. Data DE 0300338 2003 02 06

Applicant FORSCHUNGSZENTRUM JULICH GMBH

Inventor(s) AL DAROUKH, Mahmoud

STOVER, Detlev

TIETZ, Frank

ULLMANN, Helmut

VASHUK, Vladimir

Title: CATHODE FOR USE AT HIGH TEMPERATURES

Abstract: Disclosed is a cathode for use at high temperatures, which consists of an oxidic material that has an electric conductivity of more than 10 S at 700 to 1000 øC and is provided with a K 2 NiF 4 layer structure, in which at least one perovskite layer borders another layer that does not have a perovskite structure. Said layer structure has the advantageous effect of providing said material with sufficient electric conductivity and a good electrocatalytic
activity already at temperatures below 800 øC as opposed to previously known oxides. The oxidic material also has the advantage of showing good thermodynamic stability and an adequate thermal expansion behavior towards electrolytes that are used in said temperature range. Said oxidic material is therefore particularly suitable for the production of cathodes in a high-temperature fuel cell.

World Patent

Pub. Number WO 2003075427

Appl. Data JP 0302588 2003 03 05

Applicant MATSUSHITA ELECTRIC INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.

Inventor(s) NAGAMITSU, Sachio

MATSUI, Masaru

MATSUBAYASHI, Shigeaki

Title: SETTING DEVICE OF DISTRIBUTED ENERGY SUPPLY SYSTEM

Abstract: In conventional distributed energy supply systems, the unit cost of the energy produced in a household has been compared to the charge unit price of the energy purchased from an electric power company, but the environmental load has been not taken into consideration. A setting device comprises a
control section (11) for controlling the operation of a fuel cell, a switch (30) for selectively supplying the power of the fuel cell or an external power to a power load, a generation unit cost calculating section (13) for calculating the generation cost of the fuel cell, an electric power charge structure storage section (14) for calculating the costs of a power plant (50) and a distributed power generator (51), an LCA information storage (16) for storing LCA information on the fuel cell, the power plant (50), and the distributed power generator (51), and a user interface section (20) for presenting the generation cost, the external power cost, and the LCA information and allowing the user to determine the control operation of the control section (11) and/or the selection operation of the switch (30). 

European Patent
Pub. Number EP 1342280

Appl. Data EP 01912120 2001 02 23

Applicant Sit la Precisa S.p.a.

Inventor(s) DORIGO, Roberto

PAPPALARDO, Salvatore

Title:  A METHOD AND A DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING FUEL CELLS
 
 

Abstract: A method for the operative control of fuel cells (2) is described and comprises the steps of providing an electronic control unit (8), regulating the quantity of fuel and/or supporter of combustion which flows per unit of time in a supply circuit (4, 5) of the fuel cell (2) by regulationmeans (6, 7, 13, 14, 16, 17), obtaining a temperature signal (T) from the cell (2), obtaining a power signal (W) from a closed circuit (11) including the cell, supplying the signals to the electronic control unit (8), and making the regulation means (6, 7, 13, 14, 16, 17) subject to the electronic control unit (8), the regulation of the quantity of fuel and/or supporter of combustion being of the modulating type, and the modulation taking place in dependence on the temperature and power signals. The
invention is also directed towards a device (1, 100) operating in accordance with the method.

European Patent

Pub. Number EP 1343214

Appl. Data EP 03002656 2003 02 11

Applicant Kabushikikaisha Equos Research

Inventor(s) Koichi, Shiraishi

Munehisa, Horiguchi

Masao, Ando

Title: Fuel cell stack with variable heat capacity

Abstract: In starting power generation under low temperature conditions, an antifreeze liquid being coolant of a cooling system 13 in a fuel cell stack 1 is once recovered in a tank136 to reduce heat capacity of the fuel cell stack 1, and thereafter the power generation is started. Heat of reaction caused by the power generation restores the temperature to temperature under normal operation, and then the antifreeze liquid is again filled to drive the cooling system 13, so as to make it function as a cooler.

European Patent

Pub. Number EP 1342282

Appl. Data EP 01996902 2001 10 31

Applicant The Regents of The University of California

Inventor(s) REN, Xiaoming

GOTTESFELD, Shimshon

Title: AIR BREATHING DIRECT METHANOL FUEL CELL

Abstract: An air breathing direct methanol fuel cell is provided with a membrane electrode assembly (14), a conductive cathode assembly (18) that is permeable to air and directly open to atmospheric air, and a conductive anode assembly (16) that is permeable to methanol and directly concacting a liquid methanol source (12). Water loss from the cell is minimized by making the conductive cathode assembly (18) hydrophobic and the conductive anode assembly (16)hydrophilic. 

European Patent

Pub. Number EP 1344844

Appl. Data EP 01994978 2001 12 20

Applicant Sony Corporation

Inventor(s) MARUYAMA, Ryuichiro, c/o Sony Corporation

MIYAZAWA, Hiroshi, c/o Sony Corporation

OKUI, Hirofumi, c/o Sony Corporation

HINOKUMA, Koichiro, c/o Sony Corporation

Title: APPARATUS FOR PRODUCING HYDROGEN, ELECTROCHEMICAL DEVICE, METHOD FOR PRODUCING HYDROGEN AND METHOD FOR GENERATING ELECTROCHEMICAL ENERGY

Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus for producing hydrogen and a method for producing hydrogen which effectively produce hydrogen in the low humidity atmosphere without humidifier or dehumidifier, and an electrochemistry device and a method for generating electrochemistry energy which
generate electrochemistry energy by an oxidation-reduction reaction using hydrogen. A fullerene derivative where a proton (H<SUP>+ </SUP>) dissociating group is introduced into a fullerene, is used as a composition material of a proton conductor 3, water is supplied to an anode 1 in a vapor or gas state and is electrolyzed, and produced protons (H<SUP>+</SUP>) are conducted to a cathode 2 through the proton conductor 3 and converted into hydrogen here.
Moreover, hydrogen produced in such a way is decomposed into protons (H<SUP>+</SUP>) at the cathode 2, the protons are conducted to the anode 1 through the proton conductor 3 and converted into water there, and then, electrochemistry energy is extracted between the cathode 2 and the anode 1. 

European Patent

Pub. Number EP 1344262

Appl. Data EP 01989209 2001 12 14

Applicant ENERGY CONVERSION DEVICES, INC.

Inventor(s) OVSHINSKY, Stanford, R.

YOUNG, Rosa, T.

LI, Yang

MYASNIKOV, Vitaliy

SOBOLEV, Valeriy

Title:  HYDROGEN STORAGE BED SYSTEM INCLUDING AN INTEGRATED THERMAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Abstract: 0 hydrogen storage bed system (1) which includes a pressure
container (2), a hydrogen alloy (3) disposed within the
pressure container (2), and an integrated thermal management
system integrally disposed within the pressure container.
The integrated thermal management system includes heat
generation means (4), cooling means(5) and heat distribution
means comprising heat sink (6) with heat distribution fins
(7). 

U.S. Patent

Patent Number 6623880

Issue Date 2003 09 23

Assignee The United States of America as represented by the Department of Energy

Inventor(s) Geisbrecht, Rodney A.

Williams, Mark C.

State/Country PA

Title: Fuel cell-fuel cell hybrid system

Abstract: A device for converting chemical energy to electricity is provided, the device comprising a high temperature fuel cell with the ability for partially oxidizing and completely reforming fuel, and a low temperature fuel cell juxtaposed to said high temperature fuel cell so as to utilize remaining reformed fuel from the high temperature fuel cell. Also provided is a method for producing electricity comprising directing fuel to a first fuel cell, completely oxidizing a first portion of the fuel and partially oxidizing a second portion of the fuel, directing the second fuel portion to a second fuel cell, allowing the first fuel cell to utilize the first portion of the fuel to produce electricity; and allowing the second fuel cell to utilize the second portion of the fuel to produce electricity.

Exmp. Claim 1
Ex Claim text: A device for converting chemical energy to electricity, the device comprising: a) a high temperature fuel cell having a means for partially oxidizing fuel can completely reforming fuel where the high temperature fuel cell operates at a temperature between 800.degree. C. and 1000.degree. C.; and b) a low temperature fuel cell juxtaposed to said high temperature fuel cell so as to utilize the reformed fuel from the high temperature fuel cell; wherein the high temperature fuel cell has anionic conducing electrolytes and the low temperature fuel cell has cationic conducting electrolytes. 

U.S. Patent

Patent Number 6623882

Issue Date 2003 09 23

Assignee Asia Pacific Fuel Cell Technologies, Ltd.

Inventor(s) Yang, Jefferson YS

State/Country CA

Title: Bipolar plate for a fuel cell

Abstract: This invention is related to a bipolar plate for a fuel cell, the bipolar plate comprises a plurality of groove type gas channels substantially parallel with one another, each of the gas channels has a cross section area defined by the walls thereof and an opening, each of the openings is provided with a reducing device to reduce the cross section area in the vicinity of the opening. This invention thus can increase the pressure difference between the inlet and outlet of the gas channels. Therefore, the gas channels of the bipolar plate will not be clogged by water droplets and the fuel cell can be operated with high efficiency.

Exmp. Claim 1
Ex Claim text: A fuel cell comprising: at least one bipolar plate defining a plurality of elongate gas channels transversely offset from one another, each of the gas channels being of a substantially even cross sectional area and having an opening; and a plurality of reducing devices each disposed in the vicinity of the opening of one gas channel, each reducing device projecting into one gas channel to reduce the cross sectional area thereof. 
 

September 30, 2003 

World Patent

Pub. Number WO 2003078895

Appl. Data US 0307189 2003 03 11

Applicant ZTEK CORPORATION

Inventor(s) HSU, Michael, S.

Title: MINIATURE VAPORIZERS FOR USE WITH CHEMICAL CONVERTERS AND ENERGY DEVICES

Abstract: A miniature vaporizer (10) for effectively vaporizing a process fluid (e. g., a liquid media) in small energy system applications, such as systems employing chemical reformers and fuel cells. The vaporizer (10) of the present invention can employ a heating medium, such as a hot exhaust generated
by a power system, as the heating source for generating steam or for evaporating a fluid (e.g., liquid chemicals or fuels). The vaporizer of the invention can optionally be configured to vaporize water thereby functioning as a miniature steam generator, to evaporate a process fluid thereby functioning as a miniature evaporator or heat exchanger, or to evaporate a process fluid and mix the fluid with another medium. This evaporator/mixer configuration can be used in reformer plants where a liquid chemical or fuel (e.g., gasoline, diesel, methanol, etc.) needs to be first evaporated and mixed with steam prior to the introduction of the resultant mixture to a converter (e.g., reformer or fuel cell).

September 30

European Patent

Pub. Number EP 1346427

Appl. Data EP 01999015 2001 11 21

Applicant SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT

Inventor(s) MATTEJAT, Arno

LERSCH, Josef

STRASSER, Karl

Title: FUEL CELL MODULE COMPRISING A MAGNETIC SHIELDING

Abstract: The invention relates to a fuel cell module (1) comprising a number of fuel cells (2), which are connected one behind the other and which are combined to form a fuel cell stack. The fuel cell module should be designed in such a manner that the magnetic field or leakage field, which can be detected
in the outer area and which is generated during the operation of the fuel cell module (1), is held at a particularly low level. To this end, the materials used for
providing the fuel cells (2) themselves, the materials used for producing the connecting components or auxiliary components, which are assigned thereto, that connect these fuel cells, and the materials used for producing the housing (4, 10, 12) are selected that have a relative magnetic permeability of less than 1.1.

September 30, 2003 

European Patent

Pub. Number EP 1346429

Appl. Data EP 01991664 2001 12 21

Applicant Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Emitec Gesellschaft fur Emissionstechnologie mbH

Inventor(s) BRUCK, Rolf

GROSSE, Joachim

POPPINGER, Manfred

REIZIG, Meike

Title:METHOD FOR OPERATING A FUEL CELL SYSTEM USED IN A MOTOR VEHICLE AND CORRESPONDING FUEL CELL SYSTEM

Abstract: The invention relates to a fuel cell system. Conventional fuel cell systems are operated by supplying them with fuel and air that supplies the oxygen required for the operation of the fuel cells in the form of an oxidant. The aim of the invention is to prevent the fuel cell module (10) from damages that might be caused when the motor vehicle is operated in different environments with possibly high pollution levels. To this end, the air is purified before it is supplied to the fuel cell system by means of an air purification device (50) associated with the fuel cell module (10).

September 30, 2003 

European Patent

Pub. Number EP 1345787

Appl. Data EP 01991663 2001 12 21

Applicant Siemens Aktiengesellschaft

Emitec Gesellschaft fur Emissionstechnologie mbH

Inventor(s) POPPINGER, Manfred

GROSSE, Joachim

BRUCK, Rolf

REIZIG, Meike

Title: FUEL CELL SYSTEM FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE

Abstract: An inventive fuel cell system has at least one fuel cell module that is mounted on the vehicle. According to the invention, the fuel cell module is placed in or on the motor vehicle so that the fuel cell module operates in a largely self-aspirating manner when the vehicle is moving. This means that the air of the relative wind is sufficient for supplying oxidants to the fuel cells.

September 30, 2003 

European Patent

Pub. Number EP 1345791

Appl. Data EP 01991665 2001 12 21

Applicant Siemens Aktiengesellschaft

Emitec Gesellschaft fur Emissionstechnologie mbH

Inventor(s) POPPINGER, Manfred

GRO E, Joachim

BRUCK, Rolf

REIZIG, Meike

Title: MOTOR VEHICLE COMPRISING AN ELECTRIC MOTOR DRIVE AND AN ON-BOARD POWER SUPPLY

Abstract: The invention relates to a motor vehicle comprising an electric motor drive and an on-board power supply. Conventional on-board power supply systems can be operated with fuel cell modules. The invention is characterized in that the motor vehicle further comprises an air conditioning system providing cooling air that comprises an air conditioning compressor (25) that is supplied by the electric systems of the vehicle. The electric systems can be
either the hybrid drive of the motor vehicle or a separate electric motor driven by a fuel cell module already mounted in the vehicle, high-temperature PEM fuel cells being especially suitable for this purpose.

September 30, 2003 
World Patent

Pub. Number WO 2003079471

Appl. Data EP 0302761 2003 03 17

Applicant FRAUNHOFER-GESELLSCHAFT ZUR FORDERUNG DER ANGEWANDTEN

FORSCHUNG E.V.

Inventor(s) HEITZLER, Axel

HEBLING, Christopher

SCHMITZ, Andreas

Title: FUEL CELL ARRANGEMENT

Abstract: The invention relates to a fuel cell arrangement (1) comprising an essentially parallel layer arrangement (2) which is provided with a first (3a) and a second (3b) end plate and at least one intermediate plate (4, 5, 6) arranged therebetween. The end plates can be tensed by tensing means in order to compress the at least one intermediate plate. The tensing means are embodied as a winding (7) which extends around the layer arrangement (2). At least one coil of the winding is offset in relation to the main direction of extension (10) of said winding. 

September 30, 2003 
World Patent

Pub. Number WO 2003079477

Appl. Data JP 0303091 2003 03 14

Applicant KABUSHIKI KAISHA RIKEN NIPPON LIGHT METAL CO., LTD.

Inventor(s) GAO, Yunzhi

KUNIMOTO, Akira

SHIMADA, Hideki

EBIHARA, Ken

Title: CELL UNIT OF SOLID POLYMERIC ELECTROLYTE TYPE FUEL CELL

Abstract: A cell unit of solid polymeric electrolyte type fuel cell comprising (a) polymeric electrolyte membrane (2), (b) a pair of electrodes (3),(4) capable of gas diffusion respectively secured to both sides of the polymeric electrolyte membrane (2), © a pair of collectors (5),(5) constituted of porous conductive graphite which are secured so as to be in contact with the outsides of the electrodes (3),(4) and are capable of gas diffusion, and (d) a pair of metal separators (7),(7) used for separately feeding fuel gas and oxy gas to the electrodes (3),(4), wherein flexible gas-permeable porous conductive buffer layers (6),(6) are arranged between the metal separators (7),(7) and the graphite collectors (5),(5) and wherein at least surfaces of the metal separators (7),(7) which are in contact with the porous conductive buffer layers (6), (6) are provided with conductive anticorrosive coatings (9),(9) of 0.01 to 10 &#x3BC;m thickness exhibiting a polarization current, as measured in accordance with a electrochemical polarization characteristics estimation method, of 10 &#x3BC;A/cm 2 or less. 

September 30, 2003 
World Patent

Pub. Number WO 2003079473

Appl. Data JP 0300761 2003 01 28

Applicant NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.

Inventor(s) OKAMOTO, Masaru

Title: FUEL CELL SYSTEM AND ITS CONTROL METHOD

Abstract: A fuel cell system comprises a reformer (8) which produces reformate gas containing hydrogen using gas containing oxygen and raw material vapor, and a fuel cell (9) which generates power by reacting hydrogen in the reformate gas with oxygen. A controller (21) determines whether or not excess hydrogen has been produced by the reformer (8), and when it is determined that excess hydrogen was produced, burns the excess hydrogen to keep the reformer (8) warm.

September 30, 2003 
World Patent

Pub. Number WO 2003079475

Appl. Data JP 0302770 2003 03 10

Applicant SANSHO KAKOU CO., LTD.

Inventor(s) KIMURA, Hajime

MATSUMOTO, Akihiro

OHTSUKA, Keiko

FUKUNAGA, Junzo

Title: SEPARATOR FOR FUEL CELL, METHOD FOR PRODUCING THE SAME, AND FUEL CELL USING THE SAME

Abstract: A fuel cell separator for a fuel cell which is prepared by forming through heating a composition comprising an electroconductive material and a thermoplastic resin which comprises a compound having a dihydrobenzoxazine ring, a compound capable of reacting with a phenolic hydroxyl group
formed by the opening of the above ring and a latent curing agent, and is free from the formation of a volatile matter during the course of the curing reaction thereof; a method for producing the separator; and a fuel cell using the separator. A separator for a fuel cell is required to be excellent in gas impermeability, electroconductivity, mechanical strength, or the like. A conventional method for producing a fuel cell separator which comprises adding a phenol resin as a binder to an electroconductive material and heating and compression molding the resulting mixture with a mold having a desired shape can not provide a
separator having a satisfactory performance capabilities, owing to problems involving a volatile matter, such as condensed water, formed during the course of the curing reaction of the phenol resin. The separator of the present invention allows the solution of above problems and the like. 

September 30, 2003 
European Patent

Pub. Number EP 1347529

Appl. Data EP 03405105 2003 02 20

Applicant Sulzer Hexis AG

Inventor(s) Schuler, Alexander

Schild, John

Jenne, Markus

Holoch, Philip

Title: Fuel cell battery with integrated heat exchanger

Abstract: Available in German Only. Link available
 

September 30, 2003 
European Patent

Pub. Number EP 1346423

Appl. Data EP 01996896 2001 11 14

Applicant Graftech Inc.

Inventor(s) MERCURI, Robert, Angelo

KRASSOWSKI, Daniel

Title: FLOODING-REDUCING FUEL CELL ELECTRODE

Abstract: An electrode for an electrochemical fuel cell is provided. More particularly, an electrode formed of a sheet of a compressed mass of expanded graphite particles having a plurality of transverse fluid channels passing through the sheet between first and second opposed surfaces of the sheet, is provided. The size, shape and/or placement of the channels, and/or the density of the sheet, is engineered so as to reduce or minimize flooding in the fuel cell.