Kaye, Ian W. (Livermore, CA, US)
Kaschmitter, James L. (Pleasanton, CA, US)

Plaque It! Sponsored by: Flash of Genius

11/228693

07/22/2008

09/16/2005

Images are available in PDF form when logged in. To view PDFs, Login  or  Create Account (Free!)

View patents that cite this patent

Click for automatic bibliography generation

UltraCell Corporation (Livermore, CA, US)

222/3

429/34

H01M8/00

220/495.05, 222/23, 220/495.01, 222/3, 429/19, 220/495.04, 220/694, 429/12, 429/34, 137/260, 222/92

5081095	Method of making a support containing an alumina-ceria washcoat for a noble metal catalyst	January, 1992	Bedford et al.
5525436	Proton conducting polymers used as membranes	June, 1996	Savinell et al.
5534328	Integrated chemical processing apparatus and processes for the preparation thereof	July, 1996	Ashmead et al.
5601938	Carbon aerogel electrodes for direct energy conversion	February, 1997	Mayer et al.
5611214	Microcomponent sheet architecture	March, 1997	Wegeng et al.
5641585	Miniature ceramic fuel cell	June, 1997	Lessing et al.
5716727	Proton conducting polymers prepared by direct acid casting	February, 1998	Savinell et al.
5789093	Low profile fuel cell	August, 1998	Malhi
5811062	Microcomponent chemical process sheet architecture	September, 1998	Wegeng et al.
5961930	Integrated micro-ceramic chemical plant with insertable reaction chambers and micro-filters	October, 1999	Chatterjee et al.
5961932	Reaction chamber for an integrated micro-ceramic chemical plant	October, 1999	Ghosh et al.
6077620	Fuel cell system with combustor-heated reformer	June, 2000	Pettit
6080501	Fuel cell with integral fuel storage	June, 2000	Kelley et al.
6193501	Microcombustor having submillimeter critical dimensions	February, 2001	Masel et al.
6200536	Active microchannel heat exchanger	March, 2001	Tonkovich et al.
6245214	Electro-catalytic oxidation (ECO) device to remove CO from reformate for fuel cell application	June, 2001	Rehg et al.
6265093	Direct methanol feed fuel cell and system	July, 2001	Surampudi et al.
6268077	Portable fuel cell power supply	July, 2001	Kelley et al.
6280865	Fuel cell system with hydrogen purification subsystem	August, 2001	Eisman et al.
6312846	Fuel cell and power chip technology	November, 2001	Marsh
6406808	Method and apparatus for thermal management of fuel cell systems	June, 2002	Pratt et al.
6415860	Crossflow micro heat exchanger	July, 2002	Kelly et al.
6423434	Method and apparatus for managing fuel cell performance	July, 2002	Pratt et al.
6447945	Portable electronic device powered by proton exchange membrane fuel cell	September, 2002	Streckert et al.
6460733	Multiple-walled fuel container and delivery system	October, 2002	Acker et al.
6465119	Fuel cell array apparatus and method of fabrication	October, 2002	Koripella et al.
6470569	Method for producing a compact catalytic reactor	October, 2002	Lippert et al.
6479920	Direct charge radioisotope activation and power generation	November, 2002	Lal et al.
6506513	Liquid fuel-housing tank for fuel cell and fuel cell	January, 2003	Yonetsu et al.
6537506	Miniaturized reaction apparatus	March, 2003	Schwalbe et al.
6541676	Integrated palladium-based micromembranes for hydrogen separation and hydrogenation/dehydrogenation reactions	April, 2003	Franz et al.
6569553	Fuel processor with integrated fuel cell utilizing ceramic technology	May, 2003	Koripella et al.
6613972	Microcombustor and combustion-based thermoelectric microgenerator	September, 2003	Cohen et al.
6630518	Polymer membrane and a process for the production thereof	October, 2003	Paronen
6638654	MEMS-based thin-film fuel cells	October, 2003	Jankowksi et al.
6660421	System for storing fuel in a handheld device	December, 2003	Merin Celemin et al.
6660423	Direct methanol fuel cell including a water management system and method of fabrication	December, 2003	Neutzler et al.
6673130	Method of fabrication of electrodes and electrolytes	January, 2004	Jankowski et al.
6673742	Method for producing a preferential oxidation catalyst	January, 2004	Abdo et al.
6677070	Hybrid thin film/thick film solid oxide fuel cell and method of manufacturing the same	January, 2004	Kearl
6696195	Direct methanol fuel cell including a water recovery and recirculation system and method of fabrication	February, 2004	Pavio et al.
6713201	Systems including replaceable fuel cell apparatus and methods of using replaceable fuel cell apparatus	March, 2004	Bullock et al.
6727479	Integrated device based upon semiconductor technology, in particular chemical microreactor	April, 2004	Villa et al.
6739578	Coupling mechanism and valve system for a pressurized fluid container	May, 2004	Barton et al.
6746960	Electronic techniques for analyte detection	June, 2004	Goodman
6753036	Method for fabrication of electrodes	June, 2004	Jankowski et al.
6766817	Fluid conduction utilizing a reversible unsaturated siphon with tubarc porosity action	July, 2004	da Silva
6777118	Power supply system, fuel pack constituting the system, and device driven by power generator and power supply system	August, 2004	Shioya
6789421	Density-based fuel indicator system for fuel cells	September, 2004	Gore et al.
6794067	Fuel cell control and measurement apparatus and method, using dielectric constant measurements	September, 2004	Acker et al.
6808833	Fuel supply for a fuel cell	October, 2004	Johnson
6815110	Fuel cell and power chip technology	November, 2004	Marsh
6821666	Method of forming a package for mems-based fuel cell	November, 2004	Morse et al.
6824905	Power supply system and device driven by power supply system	November, 2004	Shioya et al.
6828049	Replaceable fuel cell apparatus having information storage device	December, 2004	Bullock et al.
6835488	Fuel cell with patterned electrolyte/electrode interface	December, 2004	Sasahara et al.
6872486	Scalable all-polymer fuel cell	March, 2005	Srinivasan et al.
6878480	Electrochemical apparatus with reactant micro-channels	April, 2005	Ruhl et al.
6885298	Fuel cell system with a detection system for fire or elevated temperatures	April, 2005	Everson et al.
6887596	Portable disposable fuel-battery unit for a fuel cell system	May, 2005	Leban
6913998	Vapor-deposited porous films for energy conversion	July, 2005	Jankowski et al.
6916565	Power supply system, fuel pack constituting the system, and device driven by power generator and power supply system	July, 2005	Shioya
6921593	Fuel additives for fuel cell	July, 2005	Pan et al.
6921603	Microfluidic fuel cell systems with embedded materials and structures and method thereof	July, 2005	Morse et al.
6924054	Fuel supply for a fuel cell	August, 2005	Prasad et al.
6926852	Cell plate structure for solid electrolyte fuel cell, solid electrolyte fuel cell and related manufacturing method	August, 2005	Satou et al.
6939632	Thermally efficient micromachined device	September, 2005	Arana et al.
6955863	Dual-purpose compartment for a hybrid battery and fuel cell powered device	October, 2005	Bean et al.
6960235	Chemical microreactor and method thereof	November, 2005	Morse et al.
6998185	Dye-based fuel indicator system for fuel cells	February, 2006	Gore et al.
7004207	Refilling system for a fuel cell and method of refilling a fuel cell	February, 2006	Finkelshtain et al.
7010972	Thermal type flow measuring instrument with mold casing in metal insert	March, 2006	Kozawa et al.
7059582	Fuel cell supply having fuel compatible materials	June, 2006	Adams et al.
7074511	Fuel container and delivery apparatus for a liquid feed fuel cell system	July, 2006	Becerra et al.
7077643	Microcombustors, microreformers, and methods for combusting and for reforming fluids	July, 2006	Holladay et al.
7093623	Methods of providing refueling for fuel cell-powered devices	August, 2006	Soucy
7099018	Measurement of optical properties of radiation sensitive materials	August, 2006	Ziger
7105245	Fluid cell system reactant supply and effluent storage cartridges	September, 2006	Ohlsen et al.
7115335	Connector assembly for fluid transfer	October, 2006	Eggum
7128106	Apparatus for refueling a direct oxidation fuel cell	October, 2006	Becerra et al.
7156131	Method and apparatus for filling a fuel container	January, 2007	Adams et al.
7158375	Portable computer system	January, 2007	Kornmayer
7159130	Portable computer using a fuel cell	January, 2007	Koo
7172825	Fuel cartridge with flexible liner containing insert	February, 2007	Adams et al.
20010029974	Microcombustor and combustion-based thermoelectric microgenerator	October, 2001	Cohen et al.
20010045364	Portable chemical hydrogen hydride system	November, 2001	Hockaday et al.
20020012825	Fuel cell with patterned electrolyte/electrode interface	January, 2002	Sasahara et al.
20020018925	System for storing fuel in a handheld device	February, 2002	Merin Celemin et al.
20020045082	Fuel cell and power chip technology	April, 2002	Marsh
20020076599	Direct methanol fuel cell including a water management system and method of fabrication	June, 2002	Neutzler et al.
20020081468	Power supply system, fuel pack constituting the system, and device driven by power generator and power supply system	June, 2002	Shioya
20020094462	Power supply system and device driven by power supply system	July, 2002	Shioya et al.
20020098119	Electronic techniques for analyte detection	July, 2002	Goodman
20020106540	Power supply system, fuel pack constituting the system, and device driven by power generator and power supply system	August, 2002	Shioya
20020114984	Fuel cell system with stored hydrogen	August, 2002	Edlund et al.	429/19
20020127141	Multiple-walled fuel container and delivery system	September, 2002	Acker
20020127451	Compact direct methanol fuel cell	September, 2002	Cao et al.
20020131915	Platinum group metal promoted copper oxidation catalysts and methods for carbon monoxide remediation	September, 2002	Shore et al.
20020132156	Electrochemical apparatus with reactant micro-channels	September, 2002	Ruhl et al.
20020147107	Method for producing a preferential oxidation catalyst	October, 2002	Abdo et al.
20020150804	Scalable all-polymer fuel cell	October, 2002	Srinivasan et al.
20020154915	Memory on a container for a consumable substance used to designate recycle information and method	October, 2002	Bullock et al.
20020155335	Hybrid thin film/thick film solid oxide fuel cell and method of manufacturing the same	October, 2002	Kearl
20020182459	Fuel generator with diffusion ampoules for fuel cells	December, 2002	Hockaday et al.
20020192537	Metallic layer component for use in a direct oxidation fuel cell	December, 2002	Ren
20020197522	Fuel cell assembly for portable electronic device and interface, control, and regulator circuit for fuel cell powered electronic device	December, 2002	Lawrence et al.
20030006668	DIRECT CHARGE RADIOISTOPE ACTIVATION AND POWER GENERATION	January, 2003	Lal et al.
20030027022	Thermally effcient micromachined device	February, 2003	Arana et al.
20030031910	Cell plate structure for solid electrolyte fuel cell, solid electrolyte fuel cell and related manufacturing method	February, 2003	Satou et al.
20030031913	Direct methanol fuel cell including a water recovery and recirculation system and method of fabrication	February, 2003	Pavio et al.
20030041899	Pressurized gas canister	March, 2003	Frank
20030057199	Integrated device based upon semiconductor technology, in particular chemical microreactor	March, 2003	Villa et al.
20030064258	Fuel additives for fuel cell	April, 2003	Pan et al.
20030077495	Fuel cell system, and method of testing a fuel cell for a gas leak	April, 2003	Scartozzi et al.
20030082416	Systems including replaceable fuel cell apparatus and methods of using replaceable fuel cell apparatus	May, 2003	Bullock et al.
20030082426	Replaceable fuel cell apparatus having information storage device	May, 2003	Bullock et al.
20030082427	Fuel supply for a fuel cell	May, 2003	Prasad et al.
20030091502	Microcombustors, microreformers, and methods for combusting and for reforming fluids	May, 2003	Holladay et al.
20030103878	Chemical microreactor and method thereof	June, 2003	Morse et al.
20030129464	Fuel container and delivery apparatus for a liquid feed fuel cell system	July, 2003	Becerra et al.
20030131663	Density-based fuel indicator system for fuel cells	July, 2003	Gore et al.
20030134162	Dye-based fuel indicator system for fuel cells	July, 2003	Gore et al.
20030136453	Fuel supply for a fuel cell	July, 2003	Johnson
20030138676	Portable disposable fuel-battery unit for a fuel cell system	July, 2003	Leban
20030138679	Fuel cartridge and reaction chamber	July, 2003	Prased et al.
20030143444	Fuel cell with fuel droplet fuel supply	July, 2003	Liu et al.
20030157389	Portable computer system	August, 2003	Kornmayer
20030194363	Chemical reactor and fuel processor utilizing ceramic technology	October, 2003	Koripella
20040001989	Fuel reservoir for liquid fuel cells	January, 2004	Kinkelaar et al.
20040009381	Direct methanol fuel cell system, fuel cartridge, and memory for fuel cartridge	January, 2004	Sakai et al.
20040013927	Fuel cell assembly for portable electronic device and interface, control, and regulator circuit for fuel cell powered electronic device	January, 2004	Lawrence et al.
20040043273	Solid oxide MEMS-based fuel cells	March, 2004	Jankowski et al.
20040048128	Solid polymer mems-based fuel cells	March, 2004	Jankowski et al.
20040062965	Bonded polyimide fuel cell package and method thereof	April, 2004	Morse et al.
20040081884	Dual-purpose compartment for a hybrid battery and fuel cell powered device	April, 2004	Bean et al.
20040086755	Portable fuel cell system	May, 2004	Kalal
20040096714	Fuel cell installation	May, 2004	Bette et al.
20040096721	Closed liquid feed fuel cell systems and reactant supply and effluent storage cartridges adapted for use with the same	May, 2004	Ohlsen et al.
20040146769	Fuel cell cartridge for portable electronic device	July, 2004	Birschbach
20040151962	Fuel cartridge for fuel cells	August, 2004	Adams
20040166385	Metal hydride fuel storage and method thereof	August, 2004	Morse et al.
20040166395	Method for fabrication of electrodes	August, 2004	Jankowski et al.
20040173615	Fuel storage container for a fuel cell	September, 2004	Goodman
20040175598	Fuel cell power supply for portable computing device and method for fuel cell power control	September, 2004	Bliven et al.
20040175600	Integrated fuel container and impurity removal cartridge	September, 2004	Arthur et al.
20040191588	Hydrogen storage systems and fuel cell systems with hydrogen storage capacity	September, 2004	Esraghi et al.
20040209142	Apparatus for refueling a direct oxidation fuel cell	October, 2004	Becerra et al.
20040211054	Microfluidic systems with embedded materials and structures and method thereof	October, 2004	Morse et al.
20040229101	Fuel consuming agent	November, 2004	Davis
20040234826	Method for localising a gas leak in a fuel cell system	November, 2004	Stuhler
20040241521	Self-contained fuel cell and cartridge therefor	December, 2004	Finkelshtain et al.
20040253500	Fuel cartridge interconnect for portable fuel cells	December, 2004	Bourilkov et al.
20040265650	Portable computer using a fuel cell	December, 2004	Koo
20040265652	Methods of providing refueling for fuel cell-powered devices	December, 2004	Soucy
20050008908	Portable fuel cartridge for fuel cells	January, 2005	Kaye et al.
20050008909	Efficient micro fuel cell systems and methods	January, 2005	Kaye et al.
20050011125	Annular fuel processor and methods	January, 2005	Kaye et al.
20050014040	Fuel preheat in fuel cells and portable electronics	January, 2005	Kaye
20050014041	Management system for a fuel cell and method thereof	January, 2005	Becerra et al.
20050014059	Micro fuel cell architecture	January, 2005	Kaye
20050022883	Fuel cartridge with connecting valve	February, 2005	Adams et al.
20050023236	Fuel cartridge with flexible liner	February, 2005	Adams et al.
20050058879	Enhanced fuel delivery for direct methanol fuel cells	March, 2005	Guay
20050074643	Fuel cartridges for fuel cells and methods for making same	April, 2005	Adams et al.
20050074656	Fuel cell, electronic appliance and business method	April, 2005	Koyama et al.
20050095500	Cast enclosures for battery replacement power units	May, 2005	Corless
20050115637	Method and apparatus for filling a fuel container	June, 2005	Adams et al.
20050115882	Fuel cell system including an ion filter	June, 2005	Curello et al.
20050116190	Fuel cell supply having fuel compatible materials	June, 2005	Adams et al.
20050118468	Fuel cell supply including information storage device and control system	June, 2005	Adams et al.
20050147864	Connector assembly for fluid transfer	July, 2005	Eggum
20050155668	Refilling system for a fuel cell and method of refilling a fuel cell	July, 2005	Finkelshtain et al.
20060008687	Fuel cell system internal to portable computer	January, 2006	Kaye et al.
20060014069	Smart fuel cell cartridge	January, 2006	Kaye et al.
20060014070	Hydrogen fuel source refiller	January, 2006	Kaye et al.
20060021882	Fire retardant fuel cell cartridge	February, 2006	Kaye et al.
20060024543	Fuel cell system with controller and smart cartridge	February, 2006	Kaye et al.	429/22
20060024553	Hot swappable fuel cell system	February, 2006	Kaye et al.
20060024554	Fuel cell cartridge connector	February, 2006	Kaye et al.
20060070891	Fuel cell cartridge filters and pressure relief	April, 2006	Kaye
20060071009	Fuel cell cartridge with leak detection	April, 2006	Kaye
20060073365	Fuel cell cartridge with reformate filtering	April, 2006	Kaye

DE19841993	March, 2000
JP2002161997	July, 2002			HYDROGEN CARTRIDGE, HYDROGEN GAS SUPPLY SYSTEM AND HYDROGEN CARTRIDGE ADMINISTRATIVE METHOD
JP2003017102	January, 2003			FUEL SUPPLYING DEVICE FOR FUEL CELL
JP2003049996	February, 2003			FUEL STORING DEVICE, FUEL FEED SYSTEM, FUEL CONSUMING DEVICE, FUEL TRADING SYSTEM, FUEL SALES METHOD, AND FUEL PURCHASING METHOD
KR2005041265	May, 2005
WO/2000/045457	August, 2000			MEMS-BASED THIN-FILM FUEL CELLS
WO/2002/059993	August, 2002			INTEGRATED FUEL PACK, REFORMER AND GAS PURIFICATION DEVICE FOR FUEL CELL POWER GENERATION SYSTEM____________
WO/2002/093665	November, 2002			LIQUID FEED FUEL CELL SYSTEM WITH FUEL PUMP DRIVEN BY ANODE EXHAUST GAS
WO/2002/103832	December, 2002			APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR RAPIDLY INCREASING POWER OUTPUT FROM A DIRECT OXIDATION FUEL CELL
WO/2002/103878	December, 2002			METALLIC LAYER COMPONENT FOR USE IN A DIRECT OXIDATION FUEL CELL
WO/2003/012902	February, 2003			FUEL CELL COMPONENT
WO/2004/030805	April, 2004			A CHEMICAL MICROREACTOR AND METHOD THEREOF

S. Ahmed et al., “Catalytic Partial Oxidation Reforming of Hydrocarbon Fuels”, Nov. 16-19, 1998, 1998 Fuel Cell Seminar, Palm Springs, CA.
A.R. Boccaccini et al., “Electrophoretic Deposition of Nanoceramic Particles onto Electrically Conducting Fibre Fabrics”, Sep. 21-24, 1998, 43rd International Scientific Colloquium, Technical University of Ilmenau.
J. Bostaph et al., “1 W Direct Methanol Fuel Cell System as a Desktop Charger”, Oct. 14, 2002, Motorola Labs, Tempe, AZ.
K. Brooks et al., “Microchannel Fuel Processing, Fuel Cells for Transportation/Fuels for Fuel Cells”, May 6-10, 2002, 2002 Annual Program/Lab R&D Review, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.
M.J. Castaldi et al., “A Compact, Lightweight, Fast-Response Preferential Oxidation Reactor for PEM Automotive Fuel Cell Applications”, Sep. 6, 2002, Precision Combustion, Inc., North Haven, CT.
S. Ehrenberg et al., “One Piece Bi-Polar (OPB) Plate with Cold Plate Cooling”, Dec. 13, 2002, Session PEM R&D II (2A), Dais Analytic—Rogers.
J.D. Holladay et al., “Miniature Fuel Processors for Portable Fuel Cell Power Supplies”, Nov. 26, 2002, Battelle Pacific Northwest Division, Richland, WA.
S.W. Janson et al., “MEMS, Microengineering and Aerospace Systems”, 1999, The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Inc.
J. Kaschmitter et al., “Micro-Fabricated Methanol/Water Reformers for Small PEM Fuel Cell Systems”, Jul. 21-24, 2003, 8th Electrochemical Power Sources R&D Symposium, Portsmouth, VA.
K. Keegan et al., “Analysis for a Planar Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Based Automotive Auxiliary Power Unit”, Mar. 4-7, 2002, SAE 2002 World Congress, Detroit, MI.
K. Kempa et al., “Photonic Crystals Based on Periodic Arrays of Aligned Carbon Nanotubes”, Oct. 3, 2002, Nano Letters 2003, vol. 3, No. 1, 13-18.
R. Kumar et al., “Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Research at Argonne National Laboratory”, Mar. 29-30, 2001, 2nd Solid Sate Energy Conversion Alliance Workshop, Arlington, VA.
S.H. Lee et al., “Removal of Carbon Monoxide from Reformate for Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Application”, Nov. 16-19, 1998, 1998 Fuel Cell Seminar, Palm Springs, CA.
Q. Li et al., “The CO Poisoning Effect in PEMFCs Operational at Temperatures up to 200° C.”, 2003, Journal of The Electrochemical Society, 150 (12) A1599-A1605.
D. Myers et al., “Alternative Water-Gas Shift Catalysts”, Jun. 7-8, 2000, 2000 Annual National Laboratory R&D Meeting, DOE Fuel Cells for Transportation Program, Argonne National Laboratory.
D.R. Palo et al., “Development of a Soldier-Portable Fuel Cell Power System, Part I: A Bread-Board Methanol Fuel Processor”, 2002, Journal of Power Sources 108 (2002) 28-34.
A. Pattekar et al., “A Microreactor for In-situ Hydrogen Production by Catalytic Methanol Reforming”, May 27-30, 2001, Proceedings of the 5th International Conference on Microreaction Technology.
A. Pattekar et al., “Novel Microfluidic Interconnectors for High Temperature and Pressure Applications”, 2003, Journal of Micromechanics and Microengineering, 13, 337-345.
A.J. Franz et al., “High Temperature Gas Phase Catalytic and Membrane Reactors”, Jun. 1999, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA.
D. Prater et al., “Systematic Examination of a Direct Methanol-Hydrogen Peroxide Fuel Cell”, Sep. 22, 2001, Swift Enterprises, Ltd., Lafayette, IN.
W. Ruettinger et al., “A New Generation of Water Gas Shift Catalysts for Fuel Cell Applications”, 2003, Journal of Power Sources, 118, 61-65.
O. Savadogo et al., Hydrogen/Oxygen Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) Based on Acid-Doped Polybenzimidazole (PBI), 2000, Journal of New Materials for Electrochemical Systems, 3, 345-349.
R.F. Savinell et al., “High Temperature Polymer Electrolyte for PEM Fuel Cells”, Sep. 4, 2002, Department of Chemical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University.
R. Srinivasan et al., “Micromachined Reactors for Catalytic Partial Oxidation Reactions”, Nov. 1997, AIChe Journal, vol. 43, No. 11, 3059-3069.
S. Swartz et al., “Ceria-Based Water-Gas-Shift Catalysts”, Aug. 1, 2003, NexTech Materials, Ltd., Wolrthington, OH.
S. Tasic et al., “Multilayer Ceramic Processing of Microreactor Systems”, Oct. 14, 2002, Motorola Labs, Tempe, AZ.
V. Toma{hacek over (s)}ić et al., “Development of the Structured Catalysts for the Exhaust Gas Treatment”, 2001, Chem. Biochem. Eng. Q. 15 (3), 109-115.
Tiax LLC, “Advanced Hydrogen Storage: A System's Perspective and Some Thoughts on Fundamentals”, Aug. 14-15, 2002, Presentation for DOE Workshop on Hydrogen Storage, Cambridge, MA.
Wan et al., “Catalyst Preparation: Catalytic Converter”, Feb. 19, 2003, www.insightcentral.net/encatalytic.html.
J. Zalc et al., “Are Noble Metal-Based Water-Gas Shift Catalysts Practical for Automotive Fuel Processing?”, 2002, Journal of Catalysis, 206, 169-171.
J. Zizelman et al., “Solid-Oxide Fuel Cell Auxiliary Power Unit: A Paradigm Shift in Electric Supply for Transportation”, undated, Delphi Automotive Systems.
“Methanol-Powered Laptops—Cleared for Take-Off”, www.silicon.com, Oct. 7, 2002.
Melissa Funk, “Methanol Fuel Quality Specification Study for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells, Final Report”, XCELLSIS, Feb. 2002, 65 pages.
Dr. Detlef zur Megede et al., “MFCA Research Document, Complete”, Methanol Fuel Cell Alliance, Sep. 2000, 242 pages.
International Search Report, related to U.S. Appl. No. 10/877,766, dated Mar. 28, 2005.
T.M. Floyd et al., “Liquid-Phase and Multi-Phase Microreactors for Chemical Synthesis”, Jun. 1999, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA.
Office Action dated Aug. 29, 2006 in U.S. Appl. No. 11/229,049.
Office Action dated Dec. 4, 2006 in U.S. Appl. No. 11/229,049.
Office Action dated Mar. 8, 2005 in U.S. Appl. No. 10/877,766.
Office Action dated Aug. 11, 2005 in U.S. Appl. No. 10/877,766.
Office Action dated Mar. 8, 2006 in U.S. Appl. No. 10/877,766.
Office Action dated Aug. 24, 2006 in U.S. Appl. No. 10/877,766.
Office Action dated Feb. 27, 2007 in U.S. Appl. No. 10/877,766.
Office Action dated Jun. 14, 2007 in U.S. Appl. No. 10/877,766.
International Search Report dated May 18, 2006 from PCT Application No. PCT/US05/46816.
Written Opinion from PCT application No. PCT/US05/46816 dated May 18, 2006.

Lawrence, Frank M.

Beyer Law Group LLP

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority under U.S.C. § 120 from co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/877,766, filed Jun. 25, 2004 and entitled, “PORTABLE FUEL CARTRIDGE FOR FUEL CELLS”, which is incorporated herein for all purposes and which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) from: a) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/482,996 filed Jun. 27, 2003 and entitled “Fuel cell system startup procedure and self-heating apparatus”, which is incorporated by reference for all purposes; b) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/483,415 filed Jun. 27, 2003 and entitled “Refillable Smart Methanol Cartridge for Fuel Cells”, which is incorporated by reference for all purposes; and c) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/483,416 filed Jun. 27, 2003 and entitled “Fuel Preheat in Portable Electronics Powered by Fuel Cells”, which is incorporated by reference for all purposes.

What is claimed is:

1. A portable hydrogen fuel source cartridge for storing a hydrogen fuel source, the cartridge comprising: a bladder that contains the hydrogen fuel source; a housing that provides mechanical protection for the bladder; a connector that interfaces with a mating connector to permit transfer of the fuel source between the bladder and a device that includes the mating connector; and a wireless identification tag configured for wireless communication, wherein the wireless identification tag is configured to receive power from a wireless signal and configured to power one or more electrical components included with the cartridge using power from the wireless signal.

2. The cartridge of claim 1 wherein the wireless identification tag is configured to reply with its identification when wirelessly probed by an interrogator.

3. The cartridge of claim 2 wherein the wireless identification tag includes a unique identification for the cartridge.

4. The cartridge of claim 1 further including a memory that stores information relevant to usage of the cartridge.

5. The cartridge of claim 4 wherein, when probed by an interrogator, the wireless identification tag is configured to reply with information stored in the memory.

6. The cartridge of claim 1 further comprising a sensor that monitors a condition related to the health or functioning of the storage device.

7. A hydrogen fuel source supply system for use with a fuel cell, the supply system comprising: a hydrogen fuel source cartridge for storing a hydrogen fuel source, the cartridge including a first connector and a wireless identification tag configured for wireless communication; and a device that includes a) a mating connector that interfaces with the first connector to permit transfer of the fuel source between the cartridge and the device and b) an interrogator configured to communicate, using a wireless signal, with the wireless identification tag, wherein the interrogator is configured to provide power to one or more electrical components in the cartridge using the wireless signal.

8. The supply system of claim 7 wherein the device is a hydrogen fuel source refiller that is configured provide the hydrogen fuel source to the cartridge when the connector is coupled to the mating connector.

9. The supply system of claim 7 wherein the device further includes: a fuel processor configured to receive the hydrogen fuel source and to output hydrogen; and a fuel cell configured to produce electrical energy using hydrogen output by the fuel processor.

10. The supply system of claim 7 wherein the wireless identification tag is configured to reply with its identification when probed by the interrogator.

11. The supply system of claim 7 wherein the cartridge further includes a memory that stores information relevant to usage of the cartridge.

12. The supply system of claim 11 wherein, when probed by the interrogator, the wireless identification tag is configured to reply with information stored in the memory.

13. The supply system of claim 7 wherein the wireless identification tag includes a unique identification for the cartridge.

14. The supply system of claim 7 wherein the interrogator and wireless identification tag communicate using radio frequency or microwave frequency radiation.

15. The supply system of claim 7 wherein the wireless identification tag includes a rectifier that receives the wireless signal.

16. The supply system of claim 7 wherein the cartridge also includes a bladder that contains the hydrogen fuel source and a housing that provides mechanical protection for the bladder.

17. A hydrogen fuel source storage device for storing a hydrogen fuel source, the storage device comprising: a bladder that contains the hydrogen fuel source; a housing that provides mechanical protection for the bladder; a connector that interfaces with a mating connector to permit transfer of the fuel source between the bladder and a device that includes the mating connector; memory that stores information relevant to usage of the storage device; and a sensor that monitors a condition related to the health or functioning of the storage device, wherein the sensor is configured to detect mechanical damage in the housing.

18. The storage device of claim 17 wherein the sensor comprises a wire on an inside surface of the housing.

19. The storage device of claim 18 wherein an electrical state of the wire is configured to provide an indication of health of the housing.

20. The storage device of claim 17 wherein the sensor comprises a filament network of wires that extends two-dimensionally on an inside surface of the housing.

21. The storage device of claim 17 wherein the memory stores information detected by the sensor.

22. The storage device of claim 21 wherein the memory stores whether the sensor detected a leak.

23. The storage device of claim 22 wherein the memory stores whether the sensor detected a leak in the housing.

24. The storage device of claim 17 wherein the memory comprises a digital memory and the storage device further includes a wireless communication device that permits wireless communication with a wireless interrogator associated with the controller.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to fuel cell technology. In particular, the invention relates to portable fuel cell storage devices that store a fuel source, allow transportation of the fuel source, and permit coupling to electronics devices including a fuel processor that converts the fuel source to hydrogen.

A fuel cell electrochemically combines hydrogen and oxygen to produce electrical energy. The ambient air readily supplies oxygen. Hydrogen provision, however, calls for a working supply. Gaseous hydrogen has a low energy density that reduces its practicality as a portable fuel. Liquid hydrogen, which has a suitable energy density, must be stored at extremely low temperatures and high pressures, making storing and transporting liquid hydrogen burdensome.

A reformed hydrogen supply processes a fuel source to produce hydrogen. The fuel source acts as a hydrogen carrier. Currently available hydrocarbon fuel sources include methanol, ethanol, gasoline, propane and natural gas. Liquid hydrocarbon fuel sources offer high energy densities and the ability to be readily stored and transported. A fuel processor reforms the hydrocarbon fuel source to produce hydrogen.

To date, fuel cell evolution has concentrated on large-scale applications such as industrial size generators for electrical power back-up. Consumer electronics devices and other portable electrical power applications currently rely on lithium ion and similar battery technologies. Portable fuel source storage devices that service portable electronics such as laptop computers would be desirable but are not yet commercially available.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a portable storage device that stores a hydrogen fuel source. The storage device includes a bladder that contains the hydrogen fuel source and conforms to the volume of the hydrogen fuel source. A housing provides mechanical protection for the bladder. The storage device also includes a connector that interfaces with a mating connector to permit transfer of the fuel source between the bladder and a device that includes the mating connector. The device may be a portable electronics device such as a laptop computer. A digital, electrical or mechanical means of identifying and updating information relevant to usage of the storage device may also be employed.

Refillable hydrogen fuel source storage devices are also provided. A hydrogen fuel source refiller includes the mating connector and fills the storage device with hydrogen fuel source.

In a fuel cell system that receives the hydrogen fuel source from the storage device, a fuel processor may reform the hydrogen fuel source to produce hydrogen, and then provides the hydrogen to a fuel cell that generates electricity using the hydrogen.

Hot swappable fuel storage systems described herein allow a portable hydrogen fuel source storage device to be removed from a fuel processor or electronics device it provides the hydrogen fuel source to, without shutting down the receiving device or without compromising hydrogen fuel source provision to the receiving device for a limited time. The hot swappable system comprises a reserve that provides the hydrogen fuel source to the receiving device. The reserve includes a volume that stores the hydrogen fuel source when the connector and mating connector are separated.

In one aspect, the present invention relates to a storage device for storing a hydrogen fuel source. The storage device comprises a bladder that contains the hydrogen fuel source and conforms to the volume of the hydrogen fuel source in the bladder. The storage device also comprises a housing that provides mechanical protection for the bladder. The storage device further comprises a connector that interfaces with a mating connector to permit transfer of the fuel source between the bladder and a device that includes the mating connector. The storage device additionally comprises memory that stores information relevant to usage of the storage device.

In another aspect, the present invention relates to a storage device for storing a hydrogen fuel source. The storage device comprises a bladder that contains the hydrogen fuel source and conforms to the volume of the hydrogen fuel source in the bladder. The storage device also comprises a housing that provides mechanical protection for the bladder. The storage device further comprises a connector that interfaces with a mating connector included in a hydrogen fuel source refiner to permit transfer of the hydrogen fuel source from the hydrogen fuel source refiner to the bladder.

In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a hot swappable fuel storage system. The hot swappable system comprises a hydrogen fuel source storage device. The storage device includes a) a bladder that contains the hydrogen fuel source and conforms to the volume of the hydrogen fuel source in the bladder, b) a housing that provides mechanical protection for the bladder; and c) a connector. The hot swappable system also comprises a mating connector that interfaces with the connector to permit transfer of the hydrogen fuel source between the storage device and a device that includes the mating connector. The hot swappable system further comprises a fuel processor that includes a reformer configured to receive the hydrogen fuel source from the mating connector, configured to output hydrogen, and including a catalyst that facilitates the production of hydrogen. The hot swappable system additionally comprises a hot swappable reserve configured to store the hydrogen fuel source when the connector and mating connector are separated.

In still another aspect, the present invention relates to system for providing a refillable hydrogen fuel source storage device. The system comprises a hydrogen fuel source storage device. The storage device includes a) a bladder that contains the hydrogen fuel source and conforms to the volume of the hydrogen fuel source in the bladder, b) a housing that provides mechanical protection for the bladder; and c) a connector that interfaces with a mating connector to permit transfer of the hydrogen fuel source between the bladder and a device that includes the mating connector. The system also comprises a hydrogen fuel source refiller including the mating connector and configured to provide hydrogen fuel source to the storage device when the connector is coupled to the mating connector.

In another aspect, the present invention relates to a fuel cell system for producing electrical energy. The fuel cell system comprises a hydrogen fuel source storage device for storing a hydrogen fuel source. The storage device includes a bladder that contains the hydrogen fuel source and conforms to the volume of the hydrogen fuel source in the bladder. The storage device also includes a housing that provides mechanical protection for the bladder. The storage device further includes a memory that stores information relevant to usage of the storage device. The storage device additionally includes a connector that interfaces with a mating connector to permit transfer of the hydrogen fuel source between the bladder and a device that includes the mating connector. The fuel cell system also comprises a fuel processor. The fuel processor includes a reformer configured to receive the hydrogen fuel source from the mating connector, configured to output hydrogen, and including a catalyst that facilitates the production of hydrogen. The fuel processor also includes a burner configured to provide heat to the reformer. The fuel cell system also comprises a fuel cell including a fuel cell stack configured to produce electrical energy using hydrogen output by the fuel processor.

These and other features and advantages of the present invention will be described in the following description of the invention and associated figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A illustrates a fuel cell system for producing electrical energy in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1B illustrates schematic operation for the fuel cell system of FIG. 1A in accordance with a specific embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2A shows a simplified hydrogen fuel source storage device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2B illustrates a cross sectional view of a hydrogen fuel source storage device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2C illustrates a bellows configuration used in the storage device of FIG. 2B at its maximum volume.

FIG. 2D illustrates a front view of a fuel source storage device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2E illustrates a front view of a storage device that is compatible with the storage device of FIG. 2D in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2F illustrates a front view of a storage device that is not compatible with the storage device of FIG. 2D in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2G illustrates a side view of the storage device of FIG. 2F.

FIG. 3 illustrates of a system for refilling a hydrogen fuel source storage device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 illustrates of a system for producing electrical energy for a portable electronics device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention is described in detail with reference to a few preferred embodiments as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well known process steps and/or structures have not been described in detail in order to not unnecessarily obscure the present invention.

FIG. 1A illustrates a fuel cell system 10 for producing electrical energy in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Fuel cell system 10 comprises storage device 16, fuel processor 15 and fuel cell 20.

Storage device 16 and fuel processor 15 provide hydrogen to fuel cell 20. Storage device 16 and fuel processor 15 collectively act as a ‘reformed’ hydrogen supply that processes a hydrogen fuel source 17 to produce hydrogen. Hydrogen fuel source 17 acts as a carrier for hydrogen and can be processed to separate hydrogen. Hydrogen fuel source 17 may include any hydrogen bearing fuel stream, aliphatic fuel source or other hydrogen carrier such as ammonia. Currently available hydrocarbon fuel sources 17 suitable for use with the present invention include methanol, ethanol, gasoline, propane, butane and natural gas, for example. Several hydrocarbon and ammonia products may also produce a suitable fuel source 17. Liquid fuel sources 17 offer high energy densities and the ability to be readily stored and shipped.

Storage device 16 stores fuel source 17, and may comprise a refillable and/or disposable fuel cartridge. A refillable cartridge offers a user instant recharging. In one embodiment, the cartridge includes a collapsible bladder within a hard plastic case. Storage device 16 is portable and described in further detail below.

A separate fuel pump typically controls fuel source 17 flow from storage device 16. If system 10 is load following, then a control system meters fuel source 17 to deliver fuel source 17 to processor 15 at a flow rate determined by the required power level output of fuel cell 20.

Fuel processor 15 processes the hydrocarbon fuel source 17 and outputs hydrogen. A hydrocarbon fuel processor 15 heats and processes a hydrocarbon fuel source 17 in the presence of a catalyst to produce hydrogen. Fuel processor 15 comprises a reformer, which is a catalytic device that converts a liquid or gaseous hydrocarbon fuel source 17 into hydrogen and carbon dioxide. As the term is used herein, reforming refers to the process of producing hydrogen from a fuel source.

Fuel cell 20 electrochemically converts hydrogen and oxygen to water, generating electrical energy and heat in the process. Ambient air commonly supplies oxygen for fuel cell 20. A pure or direct oxygen source may also be used for oxygen supply. The water often forms as a vapor, depending on the temperature of fuel cell 20 components. The electrochemical reaction also produces carbon dioxide as a byproduct for many fuel cells.

In one embodiment, fuel cell 20 is a low volume polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell suitable for use with portable applications such as consumer electronics. A polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell comprises a membrane electrode assembly 40 that carries out the electrical energy generating electrochemical reaction. The membrane electrode assembly 40 includes a hydrogen catalyst, an oxygen catalyst and an ion conductive membrane that a) selectively conducts protons and b) electrically isolates the hydrogen catalyst from the oxygen catalyst. A hydrogen gas distribution layer contains the hydrogen catalyst and allows the diffusion of hydrogen therethrough. An oxygen gas distribution layer contains the oxygen catalyst and allows the diffusion of oxygen and hydrogen protons therethrough. The ion conductive membrane separates the hydrogen and oxygen gas distribution layers. In chemical terms, the anode comprises the hydrogen gas distribution layer and hydrogen catalyst, while the cathode comprises the oxygen gas distribution layer and oxygen catalyst.

A PEM fuel cell often includes a fuel cell stack having a set of bi-polar plates. A membrane electrode assembly is disposed between two bi-polar plates. Hydrogen distribution 43 occurs via a channel field on one plate while oxygen distribution 45 occurs via a channel field on a second facing plate. Specifically, a first channel field distributes hydrogen to the hydrogen gas distribution layer, while a second channel field distributes oxygen to the oxygen gas distribution layer. The ‘term ‘bi-polar’ refers electrically to a bi-polar plate (whether comprised of one plate or two plates) sandwiched between two membrane electrode assembly layers. In this case, the bi-polar plate acts as both a negative terminal for one adjacent membrane electrode assembly and a positive terminal for a second adjacent membrane electrode assembly arranged on the opposite face of the bi-polar plate.

In electrical terms, the anode includes the hydrogen gas distribution layer, hydrogen catalyst and bi-polar plate. The anode acts as the negative electrode for fuel cell 20 and conducts electrons that are freed from hydrogen molecules so that they can be used externally, e.g., to power an external circuit. In a fuel cell stack, the bi-polar plates are connected in series to add the potential gained in each layer of the stack. In electrical terms, the cathode includes the oxygen gas distribution layer, oxygen catalyst and bi-polar plate. The cathode represents the positive electrode for fuel cell 20 and conducts the electrons back from the external electrical circuit to the oxygen catalyst, where they can recombine with hydrogen ions and oxygen to form water.

The hydrogen catalyst separates the hydrogen into protons and electrons. The ion conductive membrane blocks the electrons, and electrically isolates the chemical anode (hydrogen gas distribution layer and hydrogen catalyst) from the chemical cathode. The ion conductive membrane also selectively conducts positively charged ions. Electrically, the anode conducts electrons to a load (electrical energy is produced) or battery (energy is stored). Meanwhile, protons move through the ion conductive membrane. The protons and used electrons subsequently meet on the cathode side, and combine with oxygen to form water. The oxygen catalyst in the oxygen gas distribution layer facilitates this reaction. One common oxygen catalyst comprises platinum powder very thinly coated onto a carbon paper or cloth. Many designs employ a rough and porous catalyst to increase surface area of the platinum exposed to the hydrogen and oxygen.

In one embodiment, fuel cell 20 comprises a set of bi-polar plates formed from a single plate. Each plate includes channel fields on opposite faces of the plate. Since the electrical generation process in fuel cell 20 is exothermic, fuel cell 20 may implement a thermal management system to dissipate heat from the fuel cell. Further description of a fuel cell suitable for use with the present invention is included in commonly owned co-pending patent application entitled “Micro Fuel Cell Architecture” naming Ian Kaye as inventor and filed on Jun. 25, 2004, which is incorporated by reference for all purposes.

While the present invention will mainly be discussed with respect to PEM fuel cells, it is understood that the present invention may be practiced with other fuel cell architectures. The main difference between fuel cell architectures is the type of ion conductive membrane used. In one embodiment, fuel cell 20 is phosphoric acid fuel cell that employs liquid phosphoric acid for ion exchange. Solid oxide fuel cells employ a hard, non-porous ceramic compound for ion exchange and may be suitable for use with the present invention. Generally, any fuel cell architecture may benefit from the fuel storage improvements described herein. Other such fuel cell architectures include direct methanol, alkaline and molten carbonate fuel cells.

Fuel cell 20 generates dc voltage that may be used in a wide variety of applications. For example, electrical energy generated by fuel cell 20 may be used to power a motor or light. In one embodiment, the present invention provides ‘small’ fuel cells that are configured to output less than 200 watts of power (net or total). Fuel cells of this size are commonly referred to as ‘micro fuel cells’ and are well suited for use with portable electronics devices. In one embodiment, fuel cell 20 is configured to generate from about 1 milliwatt to about 200 watts. In another embodiment, fuel cell 20 generates from about 3 W to about 20 W. Fuel cell 20 may also be a stand-alone fuel cell, which is a single unit that produces power as long as it has an a) oxygen and b) hydrogen or a hydrocarbon fuel supply. A stand-alone fuel cell 20 that outputs from about 40 W to about 100 W is well suited for use in a laptop computer.

In one embodiment, fuel processor 15 is a steam reformer that only needs steam and the fuel source 17 to produce hydrogen. Several types of reformers suitable for use in fuel cell system 10 include steam reformers, auto thermal reformers (ATR) or catalytic partial oxidizers (CPOX). ATR and CPOX reformers mix air with the fuel and steam mix. ATR and CPOX systems reform fuels such as methanol, diesel, regular unleaded gasoline and other hydrocarbons. In a specific embodiment, storage device 16 provides methanol 17 to fuel processor 15, which reforms the methanol at about 250° C. or less and allows fuel cell system 10 use in applications where temperature is to be minimized. Further description of a fuel processor suitable for use with the present invention is included in commonly owned co-pending patent application entitled “Efficient Micro Fuel Cell Systems and Methods” naming Ian Kaye as inventor and filed on Jun. 25, 2004, which is incorporated by reference for all purposes.

FIG. 1B illustrates schematic operation for fuel cell system 10 in accordance with a specific embodiment of the present invention. As shown, fuel cell system 10 comprises hydrogen fuel source storage device 16, hydrogen fuel source 17, fuel processor 15, fuel cell 20, multiple pumps 21 and fans 35, fuel lines and gas lines, and one or more valves 23.

Fuel container 16 stores methanol as a hydrogen fuel source 17. An outlet 26 of fuel container 16 provides methanol 17 into hydrogen fuel source line 25. As shown, line 25 divides into two lines: a first line 27 that transports methanol 17 to a burner 30 for fuel processor 15 and a second line 29 that transports methanol 17 to reformer 32 in fuel processor 15. Lines 25, 27 and 29 may comprise plastic tubing, for example. Separate pumps 21a and 21b are provided for lines 27 and 29, respectively, to pressurize the lines and transmit the fuel source at independent rates if desired. A model P625 pump as provided by Instech of Plymouth Meeting, Pa. is suitable to transmit liquid methanol for system 10 is suitable in this embodiment. A flow sensor or valve 23 situated on line 29 between storage device 16 and fuel processor 15 detects and communicates the amount of methanol 17 transfer between storage device 16 and reformer 32. In conjunction with the sensor or valve 23 and suitable control, such as digital control applied by a processor that implements instructions from stored software, pump 21b regulates methanol 17 provision from storage device 16 to reformer 32.

Fan 35a delivers oxygen and air from the ambient room through line 31 to regenerator 36 of fuel processor 15. Fan 35b delivers oxygen and air from the ambient room through line 33 to regenerator 36 of fuel processor 15. In this embodiment, a model AD2005DX-K70 fan as provided by Adda USA of California is suitable to transmit oxygen and air for fuel cell system 10. A fan 37 blows cooling air over fuel cell 20 and its heat transfer appendages 46.

Fuel processor 15 receives methanol 17 from storage device 16 and outputs hydrogen. Fuel processor 15 comprises burner 30, reformer 32 and boiler 34. Burner 30 includes an inlet that receives methanol 17 from line 27 and a catalyst that generates heat with methanol presence. Boiler 34 includes an inlet that receives methanol 17 from line 29. The structure of boiler 34 permits heat produced in burner 30 to heat methanol 17 in boiler 34 before reformer 32 receives the methanol 17. Boiler 34 includes an outlet that provides heated methanol 17 to reformer 32. Reformer 32 includes an inlet that receives heated methanol 17 from boiler 34. A catalyst in reformer 32 reacts with the methanol 17 and produces hydrogen and carbon dioxide. This reaction is slightly endothermic and draws heat from burner 30. A hydrogen outlet of reformer 32 outputs hydrogen to line 39. In one embodiment, fuel processor 15 also includes a preferential oxidizer that intercepts reformer 32 hydrogen exhaust and decreases the amount of carbon monoxide in the exhaust. The preferential oxidizer employs oxygen from an air inlet to the preferential oxidizer and a catalyst, such as ruthenium or platinum, that is preferential to carbon monoxide over carbon dioxide.

Fuel processor may also include a dewar 36 that pre-heats air before the air enters burner 30. The dewar also reduces heat loss from fuel cell 20 by heating the incoming air before it escapes fuel processor 15. In one sense, dewar acts as a regenerator that uses waist heat in fuel processor 15 to increase thermal management and thermal efficiency of the fuel processor. Specifically, waist heat from burner 30 may be used to pre-heat incoming air provided to burner 30 to reduce heat transfer to the air in the burner so more heat transfers to reformer 32.

Line 39 transports hydrogen from fuel processor 15 to fuel cell 20. Gaseous delivery lines 31, 33 and 39 may comprise plastic tubing, for example. A hydrogen flow sensor (not shown) may also be added on line 39 to detect and communicate the amount of hydrogen being delivered to fuel cell 20. In conjunction with the hydrogen flow sensor and suitable control, such as digital control applied by a processor that implements instructions from stored software, fuel processor 15 regulates hydrogen gas provision to fuel cell 20.

Fuel cell 20 includes a hydrogen inlet port that receives hydrogen from line 39 and delivers it to a hydrogen intake manifold for delivery to one or more bi-polar plates and their hydrogen distribution channels 43. An oxygen inlet port of fuel cell 20 receives oxygen from line 33 and delivers it to an oxygen intake manifold for delivery to one or more bi-polar plates and their oxygen distribution channels 45. An anode exhaust manifold collects gases from the hydrogen distribution channels 43 and delivers them to an anode exhaust port, which outlets the exhaust gases into the ambient room. A cathode exhaust manifold collects gases from the oxygen distribution channels 45 and delivers them to a cathode exhaust port.

In addition to the components shown in shown in FIG. 1B, system 10 may also include other elements such as electronic controls, additional pumps and valves, added system sensors, manifolds, heat exchangers and electrical interconnects useful for carrying out functionality of a fuel cell system 10 that are known to one of skill in the art and omitted herein for sake of brevity.

FIG. 2A shows a simplified hydrogen fuel source storage device 16 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2B illustrates a cross sectional view of a storage device 16 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Referring initially to FIG. 2A, hydrogen fuel source storage device 16 comprises a bladder 100, housing 102, connector 104 and memory 106.

Bladder 100 contains the hydrogen fuel source 17 and conforms to the volume of the hydrogen fuel source in the bladder. In one embodiment, bladder 100 comprises a compliant structure that mechanically assumes a volume 115 according to a volume of liquid stored therein. The volume 115 is formed by compliant walls 101 of bladder 100, which expand and/or open when fluid is added to bladder 100, and contract and/or collapse when fluid is removed according to the negative pressure developed upon fluid removal. In one embodiment, bladder 100 includes a sac that changes size and shape with the volume of liquid contained therein. Plastic, rubber, latex or a metal such as nickel are suitable materials for use with the walls 101 of bladder 100. In this case, the walls 101 are compliant and change size with a changing liquid volume 115. FIG. 2B illustrates a bellows design for bladder 100 that will be discussed in further detail below. Plastic walls 101 may also comprise a fire retardant plastic material. One suitable fire retardant plastic material for walls 101 is NFPA-701-99 Test 1 Polyethelyne as provided by Plasticare of Orange Park, Fla. In another embodiment, bladder 100 comprises a fixed cylinder and a piston that is pushed by a spring and moves in the cylinder to displace used fuel.

Bladder 100 is characterized by a maximum volume 119 when the bladder fully expands. FIG. 2C illustrates the bellows configuration used in the storage device of FIG. 2B at its maximum volume 119. In a specific embodiment, maximum volumes for bladder 100 range from about 20 milliliters to about 4 liters. Maximum volumes from about 20 milliliters to about 400 milliliters are suitable for many portable electronics applications. A maximum volume for bladder 100 of 200 milliliters is suitable for laptop computer usage. Some extended run time systems may rely on storage devices 16 having 80 liters of maximum volume. The maximum volume for bladder 100 may differ from the fuel source capacity of storage device 16. In some cases, storage device 16 comprises multiple bladders 100 that each contributes a maximum volume that cumulatively add to a total fuel source capacity for storage device 16. For example, a spare storage device 16 intended for electronics power back-up may contain two bladders 100 each including 300 milliliters of hydrogen fuel source 17.

While the present invention primarily refers to the storage of methanol in bladder 100 and storage device 16, it is understood that bladder 100 and storage device 16 may contain other hydrocarbon fuel sources such as those listed above. In addition, bladder 100 may contain a fuel mixture. For example, when the fuel processor 15 fed by storage device 16 comprises a steam reformer, bladder 100 may contain a fuel mixture of a hydrocarbon fuel source and water. Hydrocarbon fuel source/water fuel mixtures are often represented as a percentage fuel source in water. In one embodiment, hydrogen fuel source 17 comprises methanol or ethanol concentrations in water in the range of 1%-99.9%. Alternatively, hydrogen fuel source 17 may comprise 100% methanol or ethanol. Other liquid fuels such as butane, propane, gasoline, military grade “JP8” etc. may also be contained in storage device 16 with concentrations in water from 5-100%. In a specific embodiment, bladder 100 stores 67% methanol by volume.

Housing 102 provides mechanical protection for bladder 100 and any other components of storage device 16 included within housing 102. Housing 102 comprises a set of rigid walls 110 that contain bladder 100 and other internal components of storage device 16. In one embodiment, all components of storage device 16 are contained within housing 102 save any portions of connector 104 that protrude out of the housing for interface with mating connector 140. In another embodiment, connector 104 is recessed within housing 102 and housing 102 provides an outer shell that substantially defines outer bounds and shape of storage device 16. Walls 110 collectively form an outer case or shell for storage device 16 that mechanically separates components internal to housing 102 from the external environment. Walls 110 also collectively form an interior cavity 112. Interior cavity 112 is a space within storage device that contains bladder 100. As described below, interior cavity 112 may comprises multiple compartments, each of which include a separate bladder 100.

Rigid walls 110 may comprise a suitably stiff material such as a plastic, metal (e.g., aluminum), polycarbonate, polypropelene, carbon fiber matrix, carbon composite material, etc. Rigid walls 110 may also be formed from a fire retardant material such as a fire retardant plastic material. One suitable fire retardant plastic material for walls 110 is 8-12% weight, JLS-MC mixed with PA66 Polyamide as provided by JLS Chemical of Pomona, Calif. Rigid walls 110 may be designed according to criteria for construction of thin walled pressure vessels. Such criteria are known to those of skill in the art. In this case, walls 110 and housing 102 may be designed to withstand a maximum pressure within internal cavity 112 or for bladder 100.

Housing 102 may include an elliptical (including circular) shape, a rectangular shape with chamfered corners, or other substantially consistent profile or shape in a given direction. FIGS. 2D-2F illustrate some suitable housing 102 shapes. For the embodiment of FIG. 2B, housing 102 includes a substantially consistent shape in a direction 125 that extends normally away from a tube 107 in connector 104. In one embodiment, housing 102 comprises a transparent section or clear window to allow for visual fuel gauging.

In one embodiment, housing 102 is integrally formed to prevent disassembly of housing 102. In this case, walls 110 may be permanently bonded or extruded from a common material in one piece such that access into housing 102 is only gained through destruction of walls 110 and housing 102.

Connector 104 interfaces with a mating connector 140 (see FIG. 2B) included in an external device. Together, connector 104 and mating connector 140 permit transfer of fuel source 17 between bladder 100 and the external device. When mating connector 140 is included in fuel processor 15 or a device that includes fuel processor 15, connector 104 and mating connector 140 interface to permit transfer of fuel source 17 from storage device 16 to the fuel processor 15. Alternatively, when mating connector 140 is included in a hydrogen fuel source refiller, connector 104 and mating connector 140 interface to permit transfer of fuel source 17 from the refiner to storage device 16. Interface between connector 104 and mating connector 140 may comprise any relationship and mating structures that permit fluid communication between the two connectors. Connector 104 and/or mating connector 140 may also include mechanical coupling to secure the interface, such as latching elements that bind connector 104 and mating connector 140 together until physically released. Connector 104 and mating connector 140 may also each include electrical leads that contact when the connectors are attached to enable electrical and digital communication.

Connector 104 and mating connector 140 each comprise a geometry that at least partially matches geometry of the other. Exemplary connector 104 and mating connector 140 geometries are described below with respect to FIGS. 2D-2G.

In one embodiment, connector 104 incorporates a quick disconnect that permits storage device 16 to be readily removed by pulling on housing 102. This separates connector 104 and mating connector 140 and detaches any electrical links and plumbing responsible for fluid communication between storage device 16 and the device including mating connector 140. A second storage device 16 with a quick disconnect connector 104 may then be readily inserted back into mating connector 140. The quick disconnect thus allows rapid replacement of storage device 16 with another storage device 16 when fuel source volume levels are low. The quick disconnect connector 104 includes one port or multiple ports according to the plumbing needs of storage device 16 (e.g., fuel provision and a scrubbing bed). A quick disconnect connector 104 may also include other features to control removal requirements such as two handed operation or a high force actuator. Commercially available quick disconnect connectors are available from a variety of vendors. One suitable quick disconnect connector is model number QDC 101 as provided by Beswick of Greenland, N.H. As will be described in further detail below, storage device 16 may also include a hot swappable capability that improves quick disconnect usage for connector 104 and mating connector 140.

Connector 104 and mating connector 140 may provide an automatic shutoff capability when device 16 is removed from system 202. In this case, each only open when connected to the other and when device 16 interfaces with device 202. In one embodiment, device 16 comprises a small sponge or swab located on or near connector 104 to collect any fuel leakage during device connection or disconnect.

In one embodiment, one of connector 104 and mating connector 140 includes a ‘male’ designation and configuration while the other includes a ‘female’ designation and configuration. The male configuration includes portions of the connector that protrude, such as one or more pins or electrical leads. The female configuration includes portions of the connector that receive the male portions, such as holes electrically lined to receive the male portion and facilitate electrical communication. As shown in FIG. 2G, connector 104 on storage device 16 includes a female configuration that recesses within housing 102. Since it is recessed, connector 104 cannot be knocked off during rough handling. Mating connector 140 is configured on a side portion of an OEM device (i.e., a laptop computer). As will be described in further detail below, mating connector 140 is also included in refilling hardware that refills storage device 16 with fuel source 17.

Memory 106 stores information relevant to usage of storage device 16. Memory 106 may comprise a mechanical, electrical and/or digital mechanism for information storage. In one embodiment, memory 106 comprises a digital memory source that permits an external controller to read and write from the digital memory. In another embodiment, memory 106 includes a mechanical device. One suitable mechanical device comprises “break-off” pins 158 (see FIG. 2D). Other forms of mechanical memory 106 may comprise discs or rods which are removed or otherwise manipulated every time a storage device 16 is refilled. For the embodiment shown in FIG. 2D, memory 106 is external to housing 102 and comprises a visible identification tag that uniquely identifies storage device 16. Various types of external identification tags are known in the art and may be used with this invention. Two examples of identification identifier tags include magnetic recording devices and optical bar codes.

In one embodiment, storage device 16 is considered ‘smart’ since memory 106 stores information related to the performance, status and abilities of storage device 16. A digital memory allows an external controller or logic to read and write information relevant to usage of the storage device to memory 106. Reading from a digital memory 106 allows reception and assessment of information in memory 106 to improve usage of storage device 16. For example, a computer that receives storage device 16 may inform a user that the storage device 16 is empty or how much fuel is left (or how much time on the system is available based on its power consumption and the amount of fuel remaining). Writing to a digital memory 106 allows information in memory 106 to be updated according to storage device 16 usage. Thus, if a user nearly depletes fuel source 17 in storage device 16 while powering a computer, the next user may be informed after the first computer writes an updated amount of fuel source 17 remaining in storage device 16 into memory 106.

Storage device 16 specifications stored in memory 106 generally do not change with device 16 usage and may comprise a) a fuel type stored in the storage device when device 16 is dedicated to service a particular hydrocarbon fuel source 17, b) a model number for storage device 16, c) an identification signature for the manufacturer of storage device 16, d) manufacture date, and e) a volume capacity for bladder 100 or storage device 16. The model number of device 16 allows it to be distinguished from a number of similar devices.

Transient information stored in memory 106 that changes according to the status and usage of storage device 16 may comprise a) hydrogen fuel mixture information, b) a number of refills provided to storage device 16 when device 16 is configured for re-usable service, c) the last refill date, d) the refilling service provider that refilled storage device 16 when the device is configured for re-usable service, e) usage history according to a storage device identification, and f) a current volume for the storage device.

Referring now to FIG. 2B, storage device 16 comprises a bladder 100 with a collapsible bellows configuration 126, housing 102, connector 104, memory 106, air vent 132, filter 134, pressure relief valve 136, fire retardant foam 138, mechanical shield 142, and fuel source filter 144. Connector 104 comprises tube 107 and female bay 117. Storage device 16 connects to a laptop computer 202, which includes mating connector 140. Mating connector 140 comprises tube 109, reserve volume 302 and male housing 113.

Mating connector 140 interfaces with connector 104 to permit transfer of hydrogen fuel source 17 from storage device 16 to laptop computer 202. In one embodiment, storage device 16 resembles a battery-sized cartridge including a female connector 104 that receives a male mating connector 140. Male housing 113 of mating connector 140 fits snugly into a female bay 117 of connector 104 (see FIG. 2G for side view of a bay 117). The fit provides mechanical support for the interface between mating connector 140 and connector 104. Distal end of tube 107 in storage device 16 and a distal end of tube 109 in mating connector 140 align when connector 104 and mating connector 140 join. In a specific embodiment, tube 109 comprises a pointed end that pierces into tube 107 and tube 109 comprises a diameter that snugly fits into tube 107 when connector 104 and mating connector 140 are attached.

When mating connector 140 and connector 104 are joined as shown, a pump run by a fuel cell system 10 within laptop computer 202 draws fluid from bladder 100 into the fuel cell system 10. More specifically, fuel source 17 travels from bladder 100, through tube 107 in connector 104, into and through tube 109 in mating connector 140, and through tube 109 in laptop computer 202 to a fuel processor 15 included therein.

Connector 104 and mating connector 140 may also include electrical connectivity for digital communication between memory 106 and a processor or controller (see FIG. 4) on laptop computer 202. FIG. 2F illustrates female electrical slots 155 on connector 104b. A mating connector 140 for connector 104b then includes male leads (not shown) that fit into slots 155 for electrical communication between laptop computer 202 and storage device 16.

For the embodiment of FIG. 2B, bladder 100 comprises a collapsible bellows design 126. One end 127a of bellows 126 attaches and opens to tube 107, while the opposite end 127b is free to move in direction 125. When bladder 100 fills with fuel source 17, free end 127b moves in direction 125 and bellows 126 expands and increases in volume. When bladder 100 loses fuel source 17, free end 127b moves opposite to direction 125 and bellows 126 collapses and decreases in volume. Free end 127b and bladder 100 thus compresses towards the location where fuel source 17 is outlet and where negative pressure is created to contract or collapse bellows 126 (tube 107 and connector 104 in this case). FIG. 2C illustrates a bellows configuration 126 at its maximum volume. As shown in FIG. 2B, bladder 100 is less than half full of fuel source 17 and assumes less than half the space in internal cavity 112. Bellows 126 comprises collapsible rings 128 that fold as bellows 126 expands (the angle of each ring 128 opens) and as bellows 126 collapse (the angle of each ring 128 closes). Bellows 126 may comprise plastic or Nickel, for example. Bellows 126 may be custom molded or electroformed. Similarly designed bellows are used to protect tubular warp in machine tools, for example. Servometer Corp. of New Jersey provides several suitable commercially available nickel bellows.

Storage device 16 includes an air vent 132 in housing 102 that allows air to enter and exit in internal cavity 112 within housing 102 as bladder 100 changes in volume. Air vent 132 comprises one or more holes or apertures in a wall 110 of housing 102. In operation, as fuel source 17 is consumed and drawn from storage device 16, bladder 100 collapses and creates a negative pressure in internal cavity 112 outside of bladder 100. Based on this negative pressure caused by a decreasing volume of bladder 100 (or increasing volume of internal cavity 112 outside bladder 100), air enters through air vent 132 into internal cavity 112 and displaces the decreasing volume of bladder 100. This prevents the pressure of fuel source 17 in bladder 100 from decreasing and affecting the ability of storage device 16 to provide fuel source 17 at a substantially constant pressure. When filling storage device 16, positive pressure caused by an increasing volume of fuel source 17 and bladder 100 causes air to exit through air vent 132. Since walls of bladder 100 separate fuel source 17 within bladder 100 from air in internal cavity 112, air in cavity 112 does not enter bladder 100 or mix with fuel source 17.

A filter 134 spans the cross section of air vent 132 and intercepts air passing through air vent 132. In one embodiment, filter 134 comprises a hydrophobic and gas permeable filter that prevents foreign materials from entering storage device 16. Materials blocked by filter 134 may include liquids and particles such as undesirable oils and abrasives that may affect storage device 16 performance. The hydrophobic filter also prevents fuel source 17 from escaping housing 102 in the event that bladder 100 develops a leak. Filter 134 may comprise micro porous Teflon or another micro porous material such as Teflon coated paper. A sintered metal filter, for example one with a 3 micron pore size, may also be used. One suitable filter 134 includes micro porous “Gore Tex” Teflon as provided by WL Gore Associates of Elkton, Md.

Mechanical shield 142 spans and covers air vent 132 and prevents foreign bodies from entering housing 102 through air vent 132 and damaging bladder 100. In one embodiment, air vent 132 is recessed into a wall 110 such that mechanical shield 142 is flush with the outer surface of housing 102. As shown, filter 134 is located internal to shield 142 such that shield 142 mechanically protects filter 134. In one embodiment, mechanical shield 142 includes a flame suppressor or a suitable means of flame suppression. The mechanical shield 142 then prevents flame propagation into or out from interior cavity 112. One suitable mechanical shield 142 includes cut to size 180×180 mesh stainless steel screen as provided by McNichols of Tampa, Fla.

Pressure relief valve 136 limits pressure in storage device 16. More specifically, pressure relief valve 136 releases fuel source 17 from bladder 100 when the pressure within bladder 100 reaches a threshold pressure. The threshold pressure refers to a pressure for bladder 100 that represents the upper limit of operational pressure for fuel source 17 use in storage device 16. Threshold pressures from about 5 psig to about 25 psig are suitable for some fuel sources 17 and storage devices 16. A threshold pressure of about 15 psig is suitable in many cases. Other suitable threshold pressures may relate to the boiling point of the fuel source 17, which ranges from about 2 Atm to about 10 Atm. Thus, if temperature for storage device 16 rises above the boiling point of fuel source 17, the threshold pressure is reached and pressure relief valve 136 releases fuel source 17 from bladder 100. During normal operation and storage, the partial pressure of fuel source 17 in bladder 100 is less than the threshold pressure and pressure relief valve 136 is not used. In the event that pressure of fuel source 17 in bladder 100 rises above the threshold pressure, pressure relief valve 136 releases fuel source 17 from bladder 100, thereby limiting the pressure within bladder 100.

In a specific embodiment, pressure relief valve 136 comprises a sprung diaphragm mechanism. The sprung diaphragm includes a diaphragm and a spring that attaches to the diaphragm. Pressure in bladder 100 pushes the diaphragm outward against the spring force. At the threshold pressure, the diaphragm opens a port—a small hole that opens outside of housing 102—to permit the release of fuel source 17 from bladder 100. Spring selection permits a designer to control the threshold pressure at which the port opens and fuel source 17 escapes. In another specific embodiment, pressure relief valve 136 comprises a burst disk mechanism that includes a thin diaphragm. The diaphragm breaks outward when pressure in bladder 100 rises above the threshold pressure. The diaphragm break and the resultant opening releases fuel source 17 from bladder 100. For either design, the port or opening may be configured to direct venting fuel vapors away from storage device 16 and into a ventilated area when installed in an electronics or OEM device.

A fuel source filter 144 intercepts fuel source 17 as it leaves bladder 100 and before it leaves connector 104. As shown, filter 144 spans an entrance to tube 107 from bladder 100. Fuel source filter 144 removes any contaminants or chemicals added to fuel source 17 for storage in bladder 100 and device 16. In one embodiment, fuel source 17 comprises an odorant 150, a bitterant 152 and/or a colorant 154 mixed therein. If fuel source 17 comprises an odorless liquid, odorant 150 provides olfactory stimulus to inform a person that fuel source 17 has escaped bladder 100 and storage device 16 via a path other than through tube 107 and filter 144. Two suitable odorants 150 includes trimethyl amine at 1-10 ppm in methanol and ethyl mercaptan at 1-7 ppm weight in methanol. Fuel source filter 144 removes odorant 150 from fuel source 17 when the fuel source leaves bladder 100 through tube 107.

If fuel source 17 comprises a colorless liquid, colorant 154 provides visual stimulus to inform a person that fuel source 17 has leaked or escaped from bladder 100 via a path other than through tube 107 and filter 144. Suitable colorants 154 include acid blue 9 at 1 ppm, table 5-4 food dye, and bright green/blue erioglaicine disodium salt as provided by Dudley Chemical Corp of Lakewood, N.J. Fuel source filter 144 removes colorant 154 from hydrogen fuel source 17 when the fuel source leaves bladder 100 through tube 107.

If fuel source 17 comprises liquid with no taste, a bitterant 152 may be added to provide taste stimulus that informs a person that fuel source 17 has escaped bladder 100 via a path other than through tube 107 and filter 144. One suitable bitterant 152 includes Denatonium Benzoate at 1-50 ppm (20-50 ppm is adversely bitter) as provided by Bitrex of Edinburgh, UK. Fuel source filter 144 removes bitterant 152 from hydrogen fuel source 17 when fuel source 17 leaves bladder 100 through tube 107. One suitable filter 144 for removing odorant 150, bitterant 152 and/or colorant 154 includes an ultra-pure polyethersulfone membrane. Another suitable filter 144 for removing odorant 150, bitterant 152 and/or colorant 154 from fuel source 17 includes 0.1 Advantage PS C-7012 filter as provided by Parker Hanafin Corp.

A fire retardant foam 138 is disposed in bladder 100. Foam 138 is compliant and conforms in size to the size of bladder 100. Thus, as bladder 100 collapses, foam 138 compresses. In one embodiment, foam 138 acts as a wicking foam that directs some flame behavior in storage device 16. One suitable foam 138 is polyurethane mil Spec Mil-B-83054 as provided by Foamex of Lindwood, Pa.

In one embodiment, memory 106 comprises a wireless identification (ID) tag. This allows memory 106 to communicate with an external device, such as hydrogen fuel source refiner 162 described in FIG. 3. In this case, the external device includes an interrogator that probes memory 106 via wireless communication when storage device 16 is in range of the interrogator. The interrogator may include any hardware for performing this function such as a computer, transceiver and interrogator antenna. Coupling between the interrogator and storage device 16 may occur via radio frequency (RF) or microwave frequency radiation. When probed by the interrogator, storage device 16 replies with its identification (as stored in a digital or electrical memory 106) and any other information stored in memory 106, such as the status of any sensors used in storage device 16 to monitor health of the device and sensors that detect the volume of fuel source in bladder 100. The storage device 16 identification provides a means for automated logging of data corresponding to the status of storage device 16. The identification also facilitates inventory logging of information for numerous storage devices 16.

In one embodiment, the interrogator provides power to storage device 16. The power is transmitted by RF waves, for example, and received by a rectifier in storage device 16 that rectifies the signal, thereby providing sufficient DC power to operate any circuitry of storage device 16. A transponder included in storage device 16 responds to a wireless stimulus. The transponder transmits signals when actuated by a signal from an external interrogator. In some cases, the transponder includes an amplifier for increasing the strength of a received incident signal, a modulator for modifying the signal with information stored by memory 106, and an antenna or antennas for receiving and transmitting signals.

Wireless ID tags are commercially well known and there exists numerous manufacturers that currently offer a wide selection of RFID tags. These tags are either passive (typically operating near 125 kHz) or active (often operating near 2.45 GHz). Major manufacturers include Texas Instruments of Dallas, Tex. and Motorola of San Jose, Calif. or Alien Technologies of San Jose, Calif. Products are available for inventory control, product labeling, etc. For example, storage device 16 may use a commercial RFID tag, such as a 125-kHz tag supplied by Texas Instruments of Dallas, Tex., which includes a microchip for memory 106 and inductor for wireless communication.

Storage device 16 may also comprise a sensor that monitors a condition related to the health or functioning of storage device 16. In one embodiment, the sensor comprises a wire 156 that runs about an inside surface of housing 102 or is formed within a wall 110 housing 102 (see FIG. 2C). An electrical state or performance of wire 156 provides an indication of the health of housing 102. Mechanical damage, cracking or structural compromise of housing 102 affects wire 156—mechanically and electrically. More specifically, when wire 156 breaks, stretches or loses contact due to mechanical changes housing 102, an electrical signal sent through wire 156 changes. The according change may be read and assessed. Thus, a break in wire 156 may be read by non-transmittance of a signal. Changes in electrical resistance of wire 156 may also provide an indication of health. In one embodiment, the sensor relies on external (e.g., RFID) probing to assess the state of wire 156 and health of housing 102. In this case, the interrogator powers memory 106 to test the resistance of wire 156. The RFID memory 106 then responds with a signal indicative of the status of wire 156. Although the sensor is shown as a single wire 156, it is understood that more complex designs may comprise filament networks that extend two dimensionally throughout housing 102. Each filament may then be probed for its electrical status, e.g., resistance to provide a meshed status check of integrity and health of housing 102 and storage device 16.

FIG. 2D illustrates a front view of fuel source storage device 16a in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2E illustrates a front view of a storage device 16b that is partially compatible with storage device 16a. FIG. 2F illustrates a front view of a storage device 16c that is not compatible with storage device 16a. FIG. 2G illustrates a side view of a storage device 16c.

Connector 104 and/or mating connector 140 may include a ‘keyed’ configuration that provides interface selectivity. For example, connector 104 may comprise a configuration unique to a particular hydrogen fuel source (e.g., methanol). In this case, mating connector 140 offers an exclusive interface that only receives a connector 104 for a methanol based storage device 16. This keying system prevents the wrong fuel type from being installed in a device that cannot accept that fuel, e.g., gasoline burns at a higher temperature and may not be suitable for use in all methanol fuel processors. This keying system also prevents storage device 16 from being refilled with the wrong hydrogen fuel source 17.

For example, storage device 16a of FIG. 2D includes a circular connector 104a that interfaces with a circular mating connector (not shown). Similarly, storage device 16b of FIG. 2E includes a circular connector 104a of the same dimensions that interfaces with the same circular mating connector as that employed for connector 104a. The storage device 16c of FIG. 2F includes a rectangular connector 104b that would not interface with the same circular mating connector. Circular connectors 104a may be used for methanol fuel mixtures of different blends for example, while rectangular connector 104b is used for ethanol.

The keyed configuration of connector also allows for variation of one of connector 104 or mating connector 140, while the other remains constant. This controlled variability has numerous commercial applications. In one commercial system, connector 104 may change slightly while mating connector 140 remains constant. A common mating connector 140 may receive different storage devices 16 that share a connector 104a configuration. The different storage devices 16 may be produced by different manufacturers and may include varying volumes or other storage device 16 features. This permits competition for the provision of storage devices 16 but standardization of their interface. In another commercial application, an electronics device manufacturer such as Dell specifies a custom mating connector 140 configuration (e.g., a circular configuration used in their laptop computers and other electronics devices). All storage devices 16 that service these electronics devices must then include a connector 104 that matches Dell's custom mating connector 140 configuration. The electronics device manufacturer may then control who manufacturers storage devices 16 and connectors 104 for use with their electronics devices. Keyed connectors 104a for one electronics device manufacturer may also be designed to not fit a mating connector 140 for another computer manufacturer, e.g., Apple employs a rectangular configuration 104b.

Custom connector 104 and mating connector 140 configurations may vary based on geometry, dimensions, depth and size for example. A connector 104 or mating connector 140 may also include one or more features 149 that distinguish a custom connector or mating connector. As shown in FIG. 2E, feature 149 is a tab that extends into the female bay 117 of connector and mechanically distinguishes storage device 16b from storage device 16a.

Connector 104/mating connector 140 configuration selectivity may also be implemented to distinguish developing technology in fuel cell system 10 or storage device 16. By changing mating connector 140 to receive only certain connectors 104, the present invention permits continuing development of fuel cell system 10 or storage device 16 and ensures rejection of previous storage device 16 models that are no longer suitable. For example, storage device 16b may represent a newer version of storage device 16a that is mechanically distinguished by feature 149. An electronics device that receives storage devices 16 may include a mating connector 140 that mechanically rejects storage device 16a based omission of feature 149. Memory 106 may also be digitally read to indicate incompatibility.

The keyed configurations shown in FIGS. 2D-2F may also be implemented for particular fuel source 17 types. For example, storage device 16a and connector 104a may designate a methanol fuel mixture ‘A %’, while storage device 16b and feature 149 designate a methanol fuel mixture ‘B %’ and storage device 16c and connector 104b designates an ethanol fuel mixture.

Storage devices 16a also comprise “break-off” pins 158 that form a mechanical memory 106. Pins 158 indicate the number of refills for each storage device 16. Each time storage device 16 is refilled, the refiner breaks a pin 158. When all the pins have been removed, a mating connector to connector 104 will not accept storage device 16. Pins 158 may comprise plastic and be molded into the cartridge housing 102 or to connector 104.

In one embodiment, storage device 16 is intended for disposable use. In this case, a user purchases a storage device 16 with a