U.S. patent application number 09/910366 was filed with the patent office on 2003-09-04 for system of and method for power management.
Invention is credited to Colborn, Jeffrey A..
Application Number | 20030167105 09/910366 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 24515935 |
Filed Date | 2003-09-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030167105 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Colborn, Jeffrey A. |
September 4, 2003 |
System of and method for power management
Abstract
A system and method for power management is described that
provides for monitoring and controlling a regenerative fuel cell
and at least one powered device. The power management system
includes a communication interface to facilitate data transmission,
a communication device for monitoring and controlling a
regenerative fuel cell and at least one powered device, the
communication device providing for sending data to and receiving
data from at least one powered device over a communication
interface, a regenerative fuel cell for providing storage and
supply of electricity, and a power interface for allowing
electricity generated by the regenerative fuel cell to power at
least one powered device.
Inventors: |
Colborn, Jeffrey A.;
(Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HOWREY SIMON ARNOLD & WHITE LLP
BOX 34
1299 PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE NW
WASHINGTON
DC
20004
US
|
Family ID: |
24515935 |
Appl. No.: |
09/910366 |
Filed: |
July 20, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09910366 |
Jul 20, 2001 |
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09627742 |
Jul 28, 2000 |
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6522955 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
700/295 ;
429/406; 429/418; 429/515; 700/286 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H02J 2300/30 20200101;
H02J 4/00 20130101; H02J 3/005 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
700/295 ;
700/286; 429/13; 429/22 |
International
Class: |
H01M 008/00; G05D
009/00 |
Claims
We claim:
1. A system for power management, comprising: (a) a regenerative
fuel cell; and (b) a controller configured to (1) receive data from
a source; and (2) manage, responsive to the data, providing power
from one or the other of an energy source and the regenerative fuel
cell to one or more loads.
2. The system of claim 1 wherein the controller is configured to
operatively engage, responsive to the data, one or the other of the
energy source and the regenerative fuel cell to provide power to
the one or more loads.
3. The system of claim 1 wherein the controller is configured to
operatively disengage, responsive to the data, one or the other of
the energy source and the regenerative fuel cell from providing
power to the one or more loads.
4. The system of claim 3 wherein the controller is configured to
adjust, responsive to the data, the power requirements of the one
or more loads.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein the regenerative fuel cell
comprises a fuel storage unit for storing fuel, a device for
electrochemically reacting the fuel with a second reactant to
release electricity, a reaction product storage unit for storing
reaction product resulting from the reaction, and a fuel
regeneration unit for electrochemically recovering the fuel from
the reaction product.
6. The system of claim 5, wherein the regenerative fuel cell
further comprises a second reactant storage unit.
7. The system of claim 5, wherein the fuel is hydrogen.
8. The system of claim 5, wherein the fuel is zinc.
9. The system of claim 5, wherein the second reactant is
oxygen.
10. The system of claim 1, wherein the energy source is configured
to supply primary power to the one or more loads.
11. The system of claim 10, wherein the regenerative fuel cell is
configured to supply backup power to the one or more loads.
12. The system of claim 1, wherein the regenerative fuel cell is
configured to supply primary power to the one or more loads.
13. The system of claim 12, wherein the energy source is configured
to supply backup power to the one or more loads.
14. The system of claim 1 wherein the source of data is the power
source.
15. The system of claim 1 wherein the source of data is the one or
more loads.
16. The system of claim 1 wherein the source of data is a user
input device.
17. The system of claim 1 wherein the source of data is an external
device.
18. The system of claim 1 wherein the controller further comprises
a memory for storing the data.
19. The system of claim 1 wherein the data represents one or more
rules or procedures.
20. The system of claim 1 wherein the controller is configured to
operatively engage the regenerative fuel cell to provide power to
the one or more loads during peaks usage periods, and operatively
engage the energy source to provide power to the one or more loads
during off-peak usage periods.
21. The system of claim 20 wherein the controller is configured to
operatively disengage the energy source from providing power to the
one or more loads during off-peak usage periods, and to operatively
disengage the regenerative fuel cell from providing power to the
one or more loads during peak usage periods.
22. A method of providing power to one or more loads, comprising:
(a) receiving data from a source; (b) managing, responsive to the
data, providing power from one or the other of an energy source and
a regenerative fuel cell to one or more loads.
23. The method of claim 22 further comprising operatively engaging,
responsive to the data, one or the other of an energy source and a
regenerative fuel cell to provide power to the one or more
loads.
24. The method of claim 22 further comprising operatively
disengaging, responsive to the data, one or the other of an energy
source and a regenerative fuel cell from providing power to the one
or more loads.
25. The method of claim 22 wherein the data represents one or more
rules or parameters.
26. The method of claim 22 further comprising receiving the data
from the energy source.
27. The method of claim 22 further comprising receiving the data
from one or more of the loads.
28. The method of claim 22 further comprising receiving the data
from a user input device.
29. The method of claim 22 further comprising receiving the data
from an external source.
30. The method of claim 29 wherein the external source is an
Internet site.
31. The method of claim 22 further comprising storing the data in a
memory.
32. The method of claim 22 further comprising operatively engaging
the energy source to provide power to the one or more loads during
off-peak usage periods, and operatively engaging the regenerative
fuel to provide power to the one or more loads during peak usage
periods.
33. The method of claim 32 further comprising operatively
disengaging the energy source from providing power to the one or
more loads during peak usage periods, and operatively disengaging
the regenerative fuel cell from providing power to the one or more
loads during off-peak usage periods.
34. The method of claim 32 further comprising powering a
regeneration unit of the regenerative fuel cell during the off-peak
usage periods.
Description
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/627,742, filed Jul. 28, 2000, which is
hereby fully incorporated by reference herein as though set forth
in full.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to a system and
method for power management in monitoring and controlling a
regenerative fuel cell and at least one powered device, and is
specifically concerned with a system and method providing for the
power management system to communicate with a user and at least one
powered device over a communication interface.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The business world and our personal lives have become highly
dependent on the communications industry. Technological advances
have created the ability for individuals to access and control vast
amounts of information from anywhere in the world using electronic
devices such as computers and computer network systems. These
electric consuming devices require a high level of reliable
electricity along with minimal power interruptions. For example, in
the industry of facilities automation management billions of
dollars are spent each year on electricity delivered to homes,
commercial facilities, industrial facilities, and on automated
systems used for monitoring and controlling all aspects of these
facilities. The automated systems can be highly sophisticated
processing systems that require a steady, reliable supply of
electricity.
[0004] The growth of technology has created one of the most
important and fastest growing global problems because there is a
growing gap between the reliability of the current electricity
supply and the level of reliability actually needed by today's
electric consuming devices. The reliability of electricity supply
in the United States is currently dropping because demand is
increasing faster than supply. The growth of the electric supply
has been curtailed, in part, because of the uncertainty due to the
electric industry deregulation, increased environmental concerns,
and opposition to new powerplants due to aesthetic reasons and the
perceived health and safety risks.
[0005] Alternative methods of supplying reliable electricity are
being evaluated such as distributed generation and energy storage.
Distributed generation is the generation of electricity using many
small generators scattered throughout a service territory.
Distributed generation can be used to augment the local electricity
supply without having to build additional large central-station
powerplants.
[0006] Energy storage can significantly improve the electricity
supply by storing energy at off-peak times for consumption during
peak demand periods. This use of energy storage is often referred
to as "load leveling" since it levels the power demand on the
electric grid by the load. Load leveling is particularly useful
when it is widely distributed and located at or near the point of
electricity use, since it reduces the regional requirement for peak
generating capacity and reduces the local requirements for
transmission and distribution capacity. When energy storage is
performed on the customer side of the electric meter, it is often
called "peak shaving" rather than load leveling. Many structures
and facilities in remote locations or in developing nations use
energy storage in the form of non-electric grid renewable energy
systems such as a wind energy collector or solar power. These
non-electric grid systems require backup generators or another
means of energy storage to provide electricity when the wind is not
blowing or the sun is not shining.
[0007] Many electric consuming devices require premium, highly
reliable power well beyond typical 99.9% electric grid power
supplied in the United States. The demand for premium power has
traditionally been served with backup power systems or
uninterruptible power systems (UPSs). All backup power systems and
UPSs include some form of energy storage, generation, or
combination of both. In current state-of-the-art systems, lead-acid
batteries are generally used for energy storage and generators
running on gasoline, diesel fuel, propane, or natural gas are used
for generation. Lead-acid batteries are generally used because they
provide instantaneous energy and can handle most power outages,
which are generally under 20 minutes in duration. For power outages
that are longer in duration, a generator can be configured to
automatically supply electricity when needed.
[0008] There are several disadvantages in using lead-acid batteries
for energy storage within a system including: (1) a limited energy
storage capacity, (2) rapid deterioration when exposed to
temperatures over 35.degree. C., (3) rapid deterioration if
discharged without frequent recharges, (4) inability to provide
continuous power backup since they take many hours to recharge, (5)
contain a large amount of lead that is toxic, (6) the energy
contained in the batteries cannot be physically extracted for use
in other devices, and (8) impractical for daily load leveling or
peak shaving due to limited cycle life.
[0009] Some of the disadvantages in using lead-acid batteries can
be overcome by combining them with a generator, which introduces
other disadvantages including (1) noise and emission of poisonous
gases, (2) not electrically rechargeable and reliant on fuel that
goes bad after prolonged storage, (3) operates using highly
flammable fuels that create a hazard to personnel and property, and
(4) requires a relatively high level of maintenance.
[0010] A fuel cell can overcome most of the problems encountered
with using lead-acid batteries, a generator, or a combination of
both. A fuel cell provides the ability to generate reliable
electricity and to deliver that energy on demand to powered
devices. Fuel cells come in many different forms including zinc
fuel cells and various types of hydrogen fuel cells such as
phosphoric acid, proton exchange membrane (solid polymer), molten
carbonate, solid oxide, and alkaline. Fuel cells generally produce
electricity by electrochemically reacting a fuel and a reactant
resulting in a reaction product. The fuel cells provide a clean and
efficient energy source by producing zero emission electricity.
[0011] A fuel cell that has the added ability to regenerate or
reuse reaction product is even more environmentally friendly. These
fuel cells are often called "regenerative fuel cells" since the
fuel cell includes hardware that can turn the reaction product back
into fuel and reactant. This regenerative ability makes the
regenerative fuel cell a perfect system to be used in remote
locations, onboard a vehicle, and in facilities where it is
inconvenient to periodically refuel the fuel cell.
[0012] Though still relatively undeveloped, regenerative fuel cells
are now taking the form of hydrogen fuel cells and zinc fuel cells.
A hydrogen regenerative fuel cell is configured for hydrogen and
oxygen to be fed into the fuel cell. The resulting reaction results
in the generation of electricity and a reaction product in the form
of water. The water is recirculated back to a storage unit where it
can later be regenerated back into hydrogen and oxygen. A zinc fuel
cell is configured for zinc and oxygen to be fed into a fuel cell
along with an electrolyte. The electrolyte is used as the transport
medium for the zinc fuel, which is usually in the form of small
particles. The resulting reaction results in the generation of
electricity and a reaction product in the form of zinc oxide. The
zinc oxide is recirculated back to a storage unit where it can
later be regenerated back into zinc and oxygen.
[0013] The lack of significant energy storage capacity in the
electric distribution system, combined with shrinking excess
generating capacity, has caused and will continue to cause a
reduction in the reliability of the electricity supply in the
United States and developing nations, which have an even less
reliable electric supply.
[0014] As the global community becomes more dependent on highly
specialized electronic devices, the need for reliable electricity
will increase along with the need to manage the supplied
electricity. Power management in monitoring and controlling the
electricity to these powered devices is essential in assuring that
with increasing power loads the powered devices will have reliable
power along with power backup when needed. Communication between
the electric grid, the fuel cell, and powered devices is necessary
to monitor and control operating conditions for reliable power.
[0015] As air pollution and rising fuel costs become increasingly
important for operators of long-haul trucks and other vehicles, it
is becoming more important for the operators of these vehicles to
adopt new zero-emission technologies for powering auxiliary
devices. For example, it is estimated by the US Department of
Energy that the average long-haul heavy-duty truck spends up to
$4,500 per year in fuel, repairs, and shortened engine life due to
idling the truck's main engine to power auxiliary devices such as
the television and air conditioner when the truck is parked. An
on-board power management system incorporating a regenerative fuel
cell could solve this problem.
[0016] For the reasons described above, there remains a need for a
power management system that provides for monitoring and
controlling a regenerative fuel cell and at least one powered
device using energy storage for backup power, UPS, or load
leveling/peak shaving applications, is electrically rechargeable or
rapidly refuelable, and incorporates a method for communicating
over an interface with a user, a regenerative fuel cell, and at
least one powered device for sending and receiving data.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] It is an object of the present invention to provide a power
management system for supplying reliable electricity to be used for
backup power, load leveling/peak shaving, supplying a regional
electric grid, or powering electric consuming devices in a manner
that is environmentally safe.
[0018] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a
power management system with a regenerative fuel cell that is
electrically rechargeable or rapidly refuelable by having a
refillable fuel system utilizing refillable transportable
containers.
[0019] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide a power management system that monitors and controls a
regenerative fuel cell and at least one powered device.
[0020] It is an object of the present invention to provide a power
management system that provides for communication between a user, a
regenerative fuel cell, and at least one powered device over a
communication interface.
[0021] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a
power management system that provides generated electricity to
powered devices located onboard a vehicle and where the electricity
is used to propel the vehicle or to power auxiliary devices onboard
the vehicle.
[0022] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide a power management system that is compact, efficient, and
easy to use.
[0023] Additional objects include any of the foregoing objects,
singly or in combination.
[0024] According to one aspect of the invention, a power management
system is provided in which a communication device is configured to
receive data from a source, and then manage, responsive to the
data, providing power from one or the other of an energy source and
a regenerative fuel cell to one or more loads. The data may
represent one or more rule or procedures, and the source of the
data may be the energy source, one or more of the loads, the
regenerative fuel cell, a user input device, or an external source
such as an Internet site. The data may be stored in a memory.
[0025] In one implementation, the regenerative fuel cell is
operatively engaged to provide power to the one or more loads
during peak usage periods when power from the energy source is
expensive, and the energy source is operatively engaged to provide
power to the one or more loads during off-peak usage periods when
power from the energy source is less expensive. In this example,
time of day pricing information for driving this process may be
obtained from the energy source, an external source such as an
Internet site, or a user input device.
[0026] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
power management system comprises a regenerative fuel cell and a
communication interface configured to allow communication of data
between the regenerative fuel cell and an external device, wherein
the regenerative fuel cell is configured to deliver and receive
power responsive to one or more parameters received from the
external device over the interface.
[0027] The regenerative fuel cell comprises a fuel storage for
storing fuel, a fuel cell for electrochemically reacting the fuel
with a second reactant to release electricity, a reaction product
storage for storing reaction product resulting from the reaction, a
fuel regenerator for electrochemically recovering the fuel from the
reaction product, and an optional second reactant storage unit. In
some cases, the fuel cell itself may be used to regenerate the
fuel. A communication device may be provided for monitoring and
controlling the regenerative fuel cell, at least one powered
device, and at least one energy source.
[0028] The power management system may further include a power
interface, wherein electricity can be sent and received over the
power interface; at least one energy source in communication with
the communication device, the at least one energy source providing
electricity to the regenerative fuel cell and at least one powered
device, wherein the regenerative fuel cell can send electricity to
and receive electricity from the at least one energy source. The
system may further include a user interface for exchanging data
between a user and the regenerative fuel cell or device.
[0029] In another aspect of the present invention, a method for
remotely controlling a regenerative fuel cell comprises the steps
of inputting data over a user interface; providing the data to the
regenerative fuel cell over a communication interface; and
configuring the regenerative fuel cell to deliver power responsive
to the data. The data comprises control parameters for the
regenerative fuel cell.
[0030] In another aspect of the present invention, a method for
monitoring at least one powered device comprises the steps of
gathering data from at least one powered device; transmitting the
data from at least one powered device to a regenerative fuel cell
over a communication interface; and receiving and storing the data
on a communication device in communication with the regenerative
fuel cell. The data can be transmitted to a user. The data can be
selected from the group comprising power usage information,
environmental information, operating parameters, and control
parameters.
[0031] The method for monitoring at least one powered device may
further comprise the steps of comparing the data against preset
control parameters supplied by a user; delivering power to the
powered device responsive to the data; receiving the updated
control parameters by at least one powered device; sending the
updated control parameters from the powered device to other powered
devices; and adjusting operation to perform within the updated
control parameters.
[0032] In another aspect of the present invention, a method of
power management for monitoring and controlling a regenerative fuel
cell and at least one powered device through the use of a
communication device comprises the steps of receiving power
delivery requests; activating the regenerative fuel cell by
commands from the communication device; electrochemically reacting
a fuel and a second reactant; generating electricity and a reaction
product from the reaction; and delivering the generated
electricity.
RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS AND PATENTS
[0033] This application is related to U.S. Pat. No. 5,952,117 and
U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 09/449,176; 09/521,392; and
09/353,422, all of which are owned in common by the assignee
hereof, and all of which are fully incorporated by reference herein
as though set forth in full.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0034] Understanding of the present invention will be facilitated
by consideration of the following detailed description of exemplary
embodiments of the present invention taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings, in which like numerals refer to like part
and in which:
[0035] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of one embodiment of the present
invention comprising a regenerative fuel cell and a communication
device; FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an implementation of one
embodiment of the present invention comprising a regenerative fuel
cell, a communication device, an interface, and at least one
powered device;
[0036] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an implementation of one
embodiment of the present invention comprising a regenerative fuel
cell, a communication device, an interface, at least one powered
device, and at least one energy source;
[0037] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an implementation of one
embodiment of the present invention comprising a regenerative fuel
cell, a communication device, an interface, at least one powered
device, and a user interface;
[0038] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an implementation of one
embodiment of the present invention comprising a regenerative fuel
cell, a communication device, an interface, at least one powered
device, at least one energy source, and a user interface;
[0039] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an example implementation of
the communication device configured as a computer;
[0040] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an example implementation of
the regenerative fuel cell along with a communication device and an
interface;
[0041] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of an example method of the present
invention for remotely monitoring and controlling the regenerative
fuel cell;
[0042] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of an example method of the present
invention for a communication device to monitor and control at
least one powered device;
[0043] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of an example method of the
present invention for monitoring and controlling a regenerative
fuel cell and at least one powered device through the use of a
communication device, the communication device monitors for power
delivery requests;
[0044] FIG. 11 is a system block diagram showing the communication
device and regenerative fuel cell having the ability to send data
to and receive data from a plurality of example devices over the
communication interface;
[0045] FIG. 12 is a system block diagram showing the communication
device and regenerative fuel cell having the ability to send power
to a plurality of example devices over the power interface along
with the ability to receive power from a plurality of example
devices over the power interface; and
[0046] FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating the operation
processes of the power management system.
[0047] FIGS. 14A-14D are block diagrams of embodiments of power
management systems according to the invention.
[0048] FIGS. 15A-15B are block diagrams of implementations of
communications devices of power management systems according to the
invention.
[0049] FIG. 16 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a
regenerative fuel cell system according to the invention.
[0050] FIG. 17 is a flowchart of one embodiment of a method of
operation according to the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0051] A first embodiment of a power management system in
accordance with the subject invention is illustrated in FIG. 1. The
power management system of FIG. 1 comprises a regenerative fuel
cell 100 and a communication device 102.
[0052] In one implementation as illustrated in FIG. 7, the
regenerative fuel cell 100 comprises a fuel storage unit 702 for
storing fuel, a fuel cell 700 for electrochemically reacting the
fuel with a second reactant to release electricity, a reaction
product storage unit 704 for storing reaction product resulting
from the reaction, and a fuel regenerator 708 for electrochemically
recovering the fuel from the reaction product. The fuel storage
unit 702 can store a fuel that can be any material that releases
electrical energy when reversibly combined electrochemically with a
second reactant. For example, the fuel can be, but is not limited
to, hydrogen or zinc.
[0053] A second reactant product storage unit 706 can optionally be
included for storing the second reactant. The second reactant can
be any substance that will react with the fuel for producing
electricity. For example, the second reactant will generally be an
oxidant such as, but not limited to, oxygen (either in pure form or
in air from the atmosphere), peroxides, or halogens. The choice of
a second reactant will depend on the choice of fuel used for a
selected reaction. The regenerative fuel cell 100 may provide for
at least one of the fuel storage unit 702, the fuel cell 700, or
the reaction product storage unit 704 to simultaneously store an
electrolyte. The electrolyte can be used in combination with the
fuel and second reactant in the fuel cell 700 for contributing to
the reaction for producing electricity. In some cases the
electrolyte may also be used as a transport medium for moving fuel
and reaction product in and out of the fuel cell and fuel
regenerator.
[0054] The fuel regenerator 708 is used for the regeneration
process of electrochemically reducing the fuel from its oxidized
state and releasing the second reactant. The fuel regenerator 708
can be configured to use various methods for the regeneration
process. The fuel regenerator 708 can be physically incorporated
into the regenerative fuel cell 100 or can be physically separate
from the regenerative fuel cell 100. Alternatively, the fuel
regenerator 708 is the fuel cell 700.
[0055] In one implementation as illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 13, the
fuel regenerator 708 is supplied electricity from at least one
energy source 300 for the regeneration process. The reaction
product is moved from the reaction product storage unit 704 into
the fuel regenerator 708. The electrochemical reaction that takes
place within the fuel regenerator involves reducing the fuel from
its oxidized state and releasing the second reactant. Once this
reverse reaction has occurred, the fuel is moved into the fuel
storage unit 702 and the second reactant is moved into the second
reactant storage unit 706 or released to the environment.
[0056] In one implementation, the regenerative fuel cell 100 will
include a system for inserting and removing quantities of fuel,
reaction product, and second reactant. This system will provide the
regenerative fuel cell 100 with ability to be rapidly refueled in a
quick and efficient manner. For example, refueling can take place
by removing reaction product and adding fuel. This can be
accomplished using refillable transportable containers, hoses, or
any other acceptable means. The fuel can be compressed hydrogen
gas, liquid hydrogen, hydrogen stored in a metal hydride, zinc
particles immersed in potassium hydroxide electrolyte, or any other
acceptable fuel. Alternatively, the refueling procedure can also be
used in reverse where fuel can be removed and stored for emergency
use or to power other devices. The fuel is removed and replaced
with an equivalent quantity of reaction product. The reaction
product will be used for regeneration back into fuel and a second
reactant.
[0057] In one implementation example, zinc is used as the fuel and
oxygen as the second reactant. In this implementation example, the
regenerative fuel cell 100 could include a second reactant storage
for storing the oxygen. Alternatively, the oxygen can be obtained
from the ambient air. The regenerative fuel cell 100 may have a
small power source to provide initial startup power to a pump and a
blower to move the fuel, the second reactant, and the electrolyte
into the fuel cell 700. The power source can be a battery or other
electricity source. Within the fuel cell 700 a reaction occurs
resulting in the generation of electricity. The zinc is consumed
and releases electrons to drive a load (the anodic part of the
electrochemical process), and the oxygen accepts electrons from the
load (the cathodic part). The reaction between the zinc and oxygen,
mediated by the electrolyte, yields a reaction product of zinc
oxide. The zinc oxide gets mixed or dissolved into the electrolyte
and is then pumped into the reaction product storage unit 704 until
regeneration is needed.
[0058] In another implementation example, hydrogen is used as the
fuel and oxygen or air as the second reactant. In this
implementation example, the regenerative fuel cell 100 can include
a second reactant storage unit 706 for storing the oxygen. The
regenerative fuel cell 100 has a small power source to provide
initial startup power to a pump and a blower to move the fuel, the
second reactant, and the electrolyte into the fuel cell 700. The
power source can be a battery or other electric source.
[0059] Within the fuel cell 700 a reaction occurs resulting in the
generation of electricity. The reaction between the hydrogen and
oxygen, mediated by the electrolyte (which may be liquid or solid)
yields a reaction product of water. The water is then pumped into
the reaction product storage unit 704 until regeneration is needed.
The regeneration process is initiated by circulating the water into
the fuel regenerator 708 from the reaction product storage unit
704. The reaction product (water) is then electrochemically
converted back into hydrogen and oxygen.
[0060] More detailed information on the regenerative fuel cell can
be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,952,117, U.S. patent application Ser.
Nos. 09/449,176; 09/521,392; and 09/353,422, each of the following
references is hereby fully incorporated by reference herein as
though set forth in full.
[0061] The communication device 102 has the capability of
monitoring and controlling all components of the power management
system including the regenerative fuel cell 100, at least one
powered device 200, and at least one energy source 300. The
communication device 102 can be any device that allows for data to
be sent and received over a communication interface 712 as
illustrated in FIGS. 2, 7, and 11. The communication device 102 can
be incorporated into the physical structure of the regenerative
fuel cell 100. Alternatively, the communication device 102 can be
housed in a separate structure independent of the regenerative fuel
cell 100, but is directly connected to the regenerative fuel cell
100.
[0062] The communication device 102 is at least one selected from
the group comprising of a processor coupled to memory, a computer,
laptop, handheld computer, PDA (Personal Digital Assistant),
mainframe, server system, mobile phone, or any other device that
contains a processor and memory.
[0063] In one implementation, the communication device 102 is
incorporated into the physical structure of the regenerative fuel
cell 100 and is a processor coupled to memory. This implementation
can provide for a display and an input device to be connected
externally to the regenerative fuel cell 100 allowing the display
and input device to communicate with the processor and memory for
monitoring and controlling. The display can be any device that
allows for data to be displayed to a user. For example, an LCD
display, monitor, TV, or other similar device. The input device can
be any device that allows for entry or selection of data such as a
mouse, pointing device, input device, keypad, keyboard, light pen,
remote control, shortcut buttons, or any other related entry
device.
[0064] In another implementation, the communication device 102 is
incorporated into the physical structure of the regenerative fuel
cell 100 and comprises a processor coupled to memory, a display,
and an input device. The display and input device can be the same
as discussed above except that they would be internal rather than
external to the regenerative fuel cell 100.
[0065] In another implementation, the communication device 102 is
not physically incorporated into the structure of the regenerative
fuel cell 100, but is directly connected to the regenerative fuel
cell 100 to provide monitoring and controlling. For example, the
direct connection can be cable, wire, electrical wiring connection,
or any other related connection mechanism. The communication device
in this implementation can be a computer.
[0066] In an exemplary implementation of a communication device,
the communication device 102 is configured as a computer as
illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 6. The communication device 102 can be a
computer with the hardware architecture including a display 600,
input device 404 (keyboard 602, pointing device 604), CPU (Central
Processing Unit) 606, memory 608, I/O controller 610, disk
controller 612, hard drive 614, floppy drive 616, optical drive
618, modem 620, and network card 622. Each of the devices
intercommunicate over bus 624 either directly or over their
respective interfaces or controllers. The computer is not limited
to these generally common devices as the computer can and does
include any other computer related devices.
[0067] The communication device 102 can include a software system
in any of the above implementations. The software system can
include any of the following an operating system (OS),
communication software, graphical user interface (GUI), and
software applications. The operating system manages all the
programs in the communication device 102 referred to as software
applications.
[0068] The operating system can be any standard operating system
for use on a communication device. For example, the operating
system can be Microsoft Windows.TM., Microsoft Windows 95.TM.,
Microsoft Windows 98.TM., Microsoft Windows 2000.TM., Microsoft
Windows NT.TM., Microsoft Windows CE.TM., any Microsoft Windows
based operating system, the Palm.TM. OS, Mac OS.TM., IBM OS/2.TM.,
Unix, Linux, PLC based, proprietary based, or any other similar
based operating system. The operating system will preferably allow
a communication device 102 to communicate with external devices and
run related applications. The communication software allows the
communication device 102 to send data to and receive data from
external devices over the communication interface 712.
[0069] The graphical user interface (GUI) can be any program that
allows information to be displayed to a user. For example, a
proprietary software program or an Internet web browser (web
browser) can be used. The Internet web browser can be any software
that will communicate with an Internet server over the
communication interface 102 such as Netscape Navigator.TM.,
Netscape Communicator.TM., Microsoft Internet Explorer.TM.,
HotJava.TM., Mosaic.TM., Opera.TM., or similar related web browser
software.
[0070] The communication device 102 is connected to the
regenerative fuel cell 100 so that the communication device 102 can
be the master control to operate each component independently or
dependently. The communication device 102 can be connected to
associated sensors, relays, electronic components, or electrical
devices of the regenerative fuel cell 100 for monitoring and
controlling all aspects of operation. In addition, the
communication device 102 can provide for tracking operational and
statistical information regarding the regenerative fuel cell 100.
For example, the communication device 102 can store information
including power usage, fuel consumption, fuel storage unit 702
information, second reactant storage unit 706 information, reaction
product storage unit 704 information, fuel regenerator 708
information, and fuel regeneration information.
[0071] The communication device 102 can provide for updating and
storing information regarding the operation and performance of the
regenerative fuel cell 100 to other communication devices, which
will be discussed further below. The communication device 102 can
operate independently of the regenerative fuel cell 100 in
communicating with powered devices and other communication devices
as shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, which will be discussed further below.
The implementations of the present invention is not dependent on
any particular device and can be implemented in various
configurations and architectures.
[0072] A second embodiment of the power management system in
accordance with the subject invention is illustrated in FIG. 2 in
which, compared to FIG. 1, like elements are referenced with like
identifying numerals. The power management system of FIG. 2,
includes, as before, a regenerative fuel cell 100, a communication
device 102, and further includes an interface 202 and at least one
powered device 200.
[0073] The interface 202 is connected to the regenerative fuel cell
100. The interface 202 comprises at least one of a power interface
710 or a communication interface 712 as illustrated in FIG. 7. The
power interface 710 and the communication interface 712 can be the
same interface or each can be a different interface.
[0074] The power interface 710 allows for the power management
system to be easily interconnected with the existing electrical
power wiring of a facility, structure, building, or vehicle to
perform power management. For example, the existing electrical
power wiring can become part of the power interface 710. The power
interface 710 is configured to deliver electricity generated by the
regenerative fuel cell 100. The power interface 710 can also
receive electricity from at least one energy source as shown in
FIG. 3, which will be discussed further below.
[0075] The power interface 710 provides for any conversion or
conditioning that needs to take place in supplying or receiving
electricity. In one implementation, the power interface 710 can
convert the DC generated by the regenerative fuel cell 100 and
convert it to AC for supplying to at least one powered device 200.
In another implementation, the power interface 710 can receive AC
and convert it to DC for use by the regenerative fuel cell 100. The
power interface 710 can also supply and receive DC without the need
for conversion. Generally, it is preferable for any power
conversion and conditioning hardware portion of the power interface
710 to be located, on, or within the regenerative fuel cell.
[0076] The communication interface 712 can be any interface that
allows the sending and receiving of data. In one implementation,
the communication interface 712 is a wireless based system such as
cellular based, digital cellular, GSM (Global System for Mobile
communication), PCS (Personal Communications Services), PDC
(Personal Digital Cellular), radio communications, or satellite
communications system. The wireless based systems as discussed
above can utilize either a Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) or
Bluetooth Wireless Technology Standard for sending and receiving
data over the communication interface 712. WAP is a specification
for a set of communication protocols to standardize the way that
wireless communication devices can be used for Internet access,
including email, the World Wide Web (WWW), Usenet, and Internet
Relay Chat (IRC). The Bluetooth Wireless Technology Standard is a
computing and telecommunications industry specification that
describes how mobile phones, computers, and PDAs (personal digital
assistants) can easily interconnect with each other and with home
and business phones and computers using a short-range wireless
connection.
[0077] In one implementation, the communication interface 712 is a
land-line based system such as a local area network (LAN), wide
area network (WAN), ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network), DSL
(Digital Subscriber Line), xDSL (ADSL, HDSL, RADSL), Internet
Cable, cable modem, PPP (Point-to-Point Protocol) connections,
fiber-optic cabling, or electrical wiring. The electrical wiring,
for example, can be the existing power wiring in a building,
structure, facility, or vehicle.
[0078] Internet access or Internet communication is considered to
be inherent in any implementation of the communication interface
712. Selection and incorporation of such a communication interface
will be apparent to those of skill in the art.
[0079] In another implementation, the communication interface 712
is the Internet. The Internet is a global network of computers
referred to as servers which are accessible by communication
devices, often referred to as "user nodes" or "client computers."
These communication devices typically access the Internet through
Internet Service Providers (ISPs), On-line Service Providers
(OSPs), or direct Internet connections. Each computer on the
Internet, referred to as a host, has at least one address that
uniquely identifies it from all other computers on the Internet
often referred to as an IP (Internet Protocol) address.
[0080] The at least one powered device 200 can be any device that
is electric consuming as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 12. The at
least one powered device 200 comprises at least one selected from
the group of an energy usage system, security system, environmental
system, commercial devices 1200, consumer devices 1202, industrial
devices 1204, manufacturing devices, vehicles, automobiles 1208,
trucks 1206, trailer, recreational vehicle, motorcycle, smart
appliances, household appliances, engines, computers,
telecommunication equipment, cellular base stations, distributed
terminals, sensors, electrical devices located onboard a vehicle,
or any electric powered device.
[0081] The at least one powered device 200 can also include a
communication capability for sending data to and receiving data
from the communication device 102 over the communication interface.
The at least one powered device 200 can provide for monitoring and
controlling other powered devices.
[0082] In one implementation, the communication device 102 can
monitor and control the regenerative fuel cell 100 to send and
receive electricity along with allowing communication of data
between the regenerative fuel cell 100 and an external device over
a communication interface 712. The external device can be an at
least one powered device or at least one other communication
device.
[0083] The communication device 102 can perform energy management
within a building or structure. For example, the communication
device 102 can monitor for energy usage of powered devices 200, a
regenerative fuel cell 100, or electricity used within a building
including all independent loads. The fuel contained within the
regenerative fuel cell 100 is regenerated using at least one energy
source 300. The implementations of the present invention is not
dependent on any particular device and can be implemented in
various configurations and architectures.
[0084] A third embodiment of the power management system in
accordance with the subject invention is illustrated in FIG. 3 in
which, compared to FIG. 2, like elements are referenced with like
identifying numerals. The power management system of FIG. 3,
includes, as before, a regenerative fuel cell 100, a communication
device 102, an interface 202, at least one powered device 200, and
further includes at least one energy source 300.
[0085] The at least one energy source 300 can be any source used
for supplying electricity to the regenerative fuel cell 100,
communication device 102, and at least one powered device 200 at
any time before, during, or after operations. Alternatively, the at
least one energy source can receive power generated from the
regenerative fuel cell 100 in the form of AC or DC. The at least
one energy source 300 can deliver power as AC (alternating current)
or DC (direct current) depending on the type of source.
[0086] In one implementation, the at least one energy source 300
can be selected from the following group a reciprocating engine,
combustion engine, regional electric grid, rotating engine, solar
energy collector, battery, generator, turbine, water wheel,
flywheel, capacitor, wind energy collector, or any similar related
device or combination as discussed above.
[0087] In one implementation example, the at least one energy
source 300 supplies power to all components of the regenerative
fuel cell 100 including the fuel cell 700, fuel regenerator 708,
fuel storage unit 702, reaction product storage unit 704, any
electric consuming devices on the fuel cell, pumps, blowers, and
the optional second reactant storage unit 706. The at least one
energy source 300 supplies power as either AC or DC through the
power interface 710 to the regenerative fuel cell 100. The power
interface 710 will make any necessary power conversions for
supplying DC to the perspective components such as AC into DC.
[0088] In another implementation example, the at least one energy
source 300 supplies power to the communication device 102. The at
least one energy source 300 can be configured to directly supply
power to the communication device 102. Alternatively, the at least
one energy source 300 can supply power indirectly to the
communication device 102 through delivering the power to the
regenerative fuel cell 100. In either case, the at least one energy
source 300 will deliver the power through the power interface and
the proper power conversion will take place.
[0089] In another implementation example, the at least one energy
source 300 can be configured to supply primary power to at least
one powered device 200 at any time. The at least one energy source
300 can supply power to the at least one powered device 200 through
a direct connection. The direct connection can be any power
interface that allows for the sending of electricity.
Alternatively, the at least one energy source 300 can supply power
to the at least one powered device 200 over the power interface
710. In this configuration, the at least one energy source 300 can
supply power over the power interface independent of the
regenerative fuel cell 100 or under the control of the
communication device 102. The power interface 710 can also reduce
harmonic distortion of power delivered to the at least one powered
device 200 (power conditioning). The at least one energy source 300
can be configured to power to the at least one powered device 200
during the period immediately following loss of power and until the
regenerative fuel cell 100 can provide power. The at least one
energy source 300 can be configured to provide extra power for at
least one powered device 200 when the regenerative fuel cell 100 is
simultaneously powering at least one powered device 200.
[0090] In another implementation example, the at least one energy
source 300 can receive power from the regenerative fuel cell 100.
The regenerative fuel cell 100 can send generated electricity over
the power interface 710 directly to the regional electric grid.
This allows a business using the power management system to sell
back electricity to the Utility company resulting in cost savings
for both. In this implementation, the power interface 710 can match
the phase and power factor of the generated electricity to those
required for selling electricity to the Utility company. In
addition, the power interface 710 can condition the generated
electricity to meet the requirements needed for sending electricity
to the regional grid.
[0091] A fourth embodiment of the power management system in
accordance with the subject invention is illustrated in FIG. 4 in
which, compared to FIG. 2, like elements are referenced with like
identifying numerals. The power management system of FIG. 4,
includes, as before, a regenerative fuel cell 100, a communication
device 102, an interface 202, at least one powered device 200, and
further includes a user interface 400.
[0092] The user interface 400 comprises a second communication
device 402 and an input device 404. The second communication device
402 can be any communication device that allows for data to be sent
and received over the communication interface 712. In an
implementation, the second communication device 402 can be at least
one selected from the group comprising a computer, networked
computers, server system, mainframe, laptop, handheld computer, PDA
(personal digital assistant), mobile phone, facsimile machine,
telephone, video phone, pager, or any other device containing a
processor and memory.
[0093] The second communication device 402 is in communication with
the input device 404 for inputting data by a user 406. The input
device 404 can be any device or combination of device that allows
for a user 406 to input data to the second communication device
402. The input device 404 is at least one selected from the group
comprising manual entry system, voice communication system, thought
process system, or any other related system. In one implementation,
the input device 404 is a manual manipulation system that can be
accomplished by the user 406 using a touch screen, keyboard,
keypad, pointing device, mouse, light pen, remote control, or
shortcut buttons. In another implementation, the input device 404
is a voice communication system that includes a voice recognition
system incorporated into the second communication device, whereby
the user speaks into a microphone and the second communication
device translates the voice data so that the second communication
device will automatically select the user's selection or the input
of data. In another implementation, the input device 404 is a
thought process system incorporated into the second communication
device to allow hands free entry. Neural attachments could be
secured to the user's head so that brain waves or brain electrical
signals could be translated by the second communication device
providing for the second communication device to automatically
select the user's selection or input of data. Selection and
incorporation of such a second communication device and user
interface will be apparent to those of skill in the art.
[0094] FIG. 6 is a detailed block diagram of an exemplary
implementation of a second communication device 402. The second
communication device 402 is a computer with the hardware
architecture including display 600, input device 404 (keyboard 602,
pointing device 604), CPU (Central Processing Unit) 606, memory
608, I/O controller 610, disk controller 612, hard drive 614,
floppy drive 616, optical drive 618, modem 620, and network card
622. Each of the devices intercommunicate over bus 624 either
directly or over their respective interfaces or controllers. The
computer is not limited to these generally common devices as the
computer can and does include any other computer related
devices.
[0095] The second communication device 402 can include a software
system in any of the above implementations. The software system can
comprise of any of the following an operating system (OS),
communication software, graphical user interface (GUI), and
software applications. The operating system manages all the
programs in the second communication device 402 referred to as
software applications. The operating system can be any standard
operating system for use on the second communication device 402.
For example, the operating system can be Microsoft Windows.TM.,
Microsoft Windows 95.TM., Microsoft Windows 98.TM., Microsoft
Windows 2000.TM., Microsoft Windows NT.TM., Microsoft Windows
CE.TM., any Microsoft Windows based operating system, the Palm.TM.
OS, Mac OS.TM., IBM OS/2.TM., Unix, Linux, PLC based, proprietary
based, or any other similar based operating system.
[0096] The operating system will allow the second communication
device 402 to communicate with a communication device 102 and run
related applications. The communication software allows the second
communication device 402 to send and receive information to
external devices over the communication interface 712. The
graphical user interface (GUI) can be any program that allows
information to be displayed on the second communication device 402.
For example, a proprietary software program or an Internet web
browser (web browser) can be used. The Internet web browser can be
any software that will communicate with an Internet server over the
communication interface such as Netscape Navigator.TM., Netscape
Communicator.TM., Microsoft Internet Explorer.TM., HotJava.TM.,
Mosaic.TM., Opera.TM., or similar related web browser software.
[0097] A web browser is an application program that provides a
mechanism to view and interact with information on the WWW, which
is generally in the form of web pages. A web browser is a type of
"HTTP client", which allows a user to send HTTP (Hypertext Transfer
Protocol) requests to an HTTP server (web server) and receive back
an HTTP response that is viewable on the web browser in the form of
a web page or other similar related format.
[0098] In an implementation example as illustrated in FIGS. 4, 6,
and 11, the second communication device 402 is configured as a
computer providing for connection with the communication interface
712 which could, for example, be the Internet. The computer can
connect to the Internet by a modem 620, network card 622, or any
other communication interface that will allow interface between the
computer and the Internet. The network card 622 allows the computer
to be connected to a LAN (local area network) and/or WAN (wide area
network) which communicate with a HUB and router in making a
connection to the Internet. The implementations of the present
invention is not dependent on any particular device and can be
implemented in various configurations and architectures.
[0099] A fifth embodiment of the power management system in
accordance with the subject invention is illustrated in FIG. 5 in
which, compared to FIGS. 1-4, like elements are referenced with
like identifying numerals. The power management system of FIG. 5,
includes a regenerative fuel cell 100, a communication device 102,
an interface 202, at least one powered device 200, at least one
energy source 300, and a user interface 400. This embodiment
incorporates and includes all implementations as discussed above in
the previous embodiments.
[0100] In this embodiment, the entire power management system
provides for monitoring and controlling of the regenerative fuel
cell 100 and at least one powered device 200. The power management
system may also monitor and control at least one energy source 300.
The monitoring and controlling includes communicating with the
regenerative fuel cell 100, at least one powered device 200, at
least one energy source 300, and a user interface 400. Further, the
system can deliver power either from the regenerative fuel cell 100
or from the at least one energy source 300 responsive to data
received by the communication device 102 from the at least one
powered device 200 or from the user interface 400. The at least one
energy source 300 provides power to the power management system and
all components when needed and available. A user 406 can utilize
the input device 404 for inputting data to the second communication
device 402 and then transfer that data or request to the
communication device 102 over the communication interface 712. The
communication device 102 can process that data and communicate with
external devices or adjust the operation of the regenerative fuel
cell 100.
[0101] In one implementation, the communication interface 712 can
comprise different physical components and different communication
methods for sending and receiving data between the communication
device 102, the at least one powered device 200, and the user
interface 400. In one example implementation, the communication
interface 712 between the communication device 102 and the at least
one powered device is electrical power wiring within a building. In
addition, the communication interface 712 between the communication
device 102 and the user interface 400 is the Internet.
[0102] The implementations of the present invention is not
dependent on any particular device and can be implemented in
various configurations and architectures.
[0103] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method of the
present invention for remotely monitoring and controlling the
regenerative fuel cell 100. In step 800, user 406 inputs data over
the input device 404 as illustrated in FIG. 4. The data input by
the user 406 can be any information that will be used for
monitoring and controlling the power management system. For
example, the data can comprise control parameters for the
regenerative fuel cell 100, control parameters for at least one
powered device 200, control parameters for the at least one energy
source 300, power usage parameters, or any other information for
controlling the power management system.
[0104] In step 802, the data is received at the second
communication device 402. In one implementation, the data can
appear on the display of the second communication device 402. The
data can be stored on the second communication device 402 for later
retrieval. In step 804, the second communication device 402
establishes a connection over the communication interface 712 to
the first communication device 102 as illustrated in FIG. 4.
[0105] In step 806, the second communication device 402 transmits
the data to the first communication device 102 over the
communication interface 712. In one implementation, the second
communication device 402 will use an Internet web browser to
transmit the data over the communication interface 712, which will
be the Internet, to the first communication device 102.
[0106] In step 808, the first communication device 102 receives the
data. In step 810, the first communication device 102 updates and
stores the data. In one implementation, the first communication
device 102 can update and store control parameters for the
regenerative fuel cell 100, the at least one energy source 300,
and/or the at least one powered device 200. The first communication
device 102 can then use the stored control parameters to adjust
power usage of the regenerative fuel cell 100 and/or at least one
powered device 200. The first communication device 102 can also
communicate the updated control parameters to the at least one
powered device 200 and at least one source 300, which will be
discussed further below.
[0107] In step 812, the first communication device 102 can use the
data to configure the regenerative fuel cell 100 to deliver or
receive power responsive to the data. In one implementation, the
data can be control parameters instructing the regenerative fuel
cell 100 to deliver power to at least one powered device 200 or at
least one energy source 300 based on a certain criteria. For
example, the criteria could be a cost range for the price of
electricity. The cost range could be set so when the cost of
electricity reaches a certain cost, the first communication device
102 will configure the regenerative fuel cell 100 to deliver power
to at least one powered device 200 and/or at least one energy
source 300 at a lower cost, rather than continuing to use
electricity supplied by the Utility company 1100 at a higher cost.
As illustrated in FIG. 12, the first communication device 102 can
provide for the ability to communicate over the communication
interface 712 with the Utility company 1100 to request the price of
electricity or to retrieve power usage information. The first
communication device 102 can then analyze that information and
based on that information activate the regenerative fuel cell 100
to deliver power to the at least one powered device 200.
[0108] In another implementation, the data could be control
parameters instructing the regenerative fuel cell 100 to deliver
power to at least one energy source 300 based on a criteria. The at
least one energy source 300 could be the regional electric grid,
otherwise known as the "Utility company 1100." For example, the
criteria could be a power usage range where the first communication
device 102 detects that the Utility company 1100 has requested
power delivery. The first communication device 102 could then
supply excess generated power from the regenerative fuel cell 100
to the Utility company 1100 for a profit. Alternatively, the
Utility company 1100 could communicate over the communication
interface 712 with the first communication device 102 to request
power delivery to the grid. The first communication device 102
could activate the regenerative fuel cell 100 and deliver power to
the Utility company 1100 based on their request.
[0109] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method of the
present invention for a communication device 102 to monitor and
control at least one powered device 200.
[0110] In step 900, the communication device 102 is initialized for
sending and receiving data over the communication interface 712. In
step 902, the communication device 102 establishes a connection to
at least one powered device 200 over the communication interface
712 as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 11. In one implementation, the
communication device 102 will use an Internet web browser to
transmit the data over the communication interface 712, which will
be the Internet, to the at least one powered device 200. In another
implementation, the communication device 102 will send and receive
data through the electrical power wiring of a building. In another
implementation, the communication device 102 will send and receive
data via electromagnetic waves using a wireless system.
[0111] In step 904, the communication device 102 will gather data
from at least one powered device 200. The data can be any
information pertaining to the operation and control of the at least
one powered device 200. For example, the data can comprise power
usage information, environmental information, operating parameters,
control parameters, or any other operational information.
[0112] In one implementation, the communication device 102 will
send a request to the at least one powered device 200 over the
communication interface 712 to receive data. Alternatively, the
communication device 102 will send data to be stored on the at
least one powered device 200 over the communication interface 712.
In this implementation, the powered device 200 will have processing
capability for sending, receiving, and storing data over the
communication interface 712.
[0113] In another implementation, the at least one powered device
200 will have no processing capability. A smart adapter can be
plugged into an electrical outlet and then the at least one powered
device 200 plugged into the smart adapter. The smart adapter will
have processing capability for sending, receiving, and storing data
over the communication interface 712. The smart adapter can receive
and store updated control parameters from the communication device
102 to adjust and monitor the power consumption of the at least one
powered device 200. Therefore, the smart adapter becomes the
processor for the at least one powered device 200.
[0114] In another implementation, the at least one powered device
200 will be a switch and have no processing capability. The switch
can turn power on and off to other powered devices. The position of
the switch (open or closed) will be controlled by the communication
device 102 via the power interface 710 or communication interface
712.
[0115] In one implementation, the at least one powered device 200
can request and gather information from other powered devices. For
example, the communication device 102 can request information from
a environmental control system located in a building. Once the
environmental control system receives that request, the
environmental control system can then request information from
other powered devices 200 within the system such as an air
conditioner, heater, ventilation system, and other similar powered
devices. This implementation will be discussed in further detail
below.
[0116] In step 906, the at least one powered device 200 will
process the data request from the communication device 102 by
transmitting the data from at least one powered device 200 to the
communication device 102 over a communication interface 712. In
step 908, the communication device 102 in control of the
regenerative fuel cell 100 will receive the data and store the data
on the communication device 102. The communication device 102 can
be integrated with the regenerative fuel cell 100 by physical
incorporation or a direct connection.
[0117] In step 910, the data can optionally be transmitted through
at least one other communication device to a user. In one
implementation, the other communication devices can be the same as
the second communication device 402 as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and
11. All implementations and embodiments for the second
communication device 402 can be considered the same as for the at
least one other communication device. The at least one other
communication device can display and store the data for later
retrieval. A user 406 can utilize software on the other
communication device to process the data for cost analysis and
savings or operational improvement.
[0118] In step 912, the communication device 102 can compare the
data received in step 906 from the at least one powered device 200
against preset control parameters supplied by a user. The preset
control parameters could be supplied to the communication device
102 in the method set forth above in the FIG. 8 flow diagram
process. The communication device 102 can use any form of
comparison method that will result in an analysis of the data. The
preset control parameters can help the communication device 102
determine if the at least one powered device 200 is operating
within the proper operating range. For example, if the preset
control parameters were the temperature for at least one powered
device 200, then the communication device 102 can use the data sent
from the powered device 200 to determine if the powered device is
operating at the proper temperature.
[0119] In one implementation example, the at least one powered
device 200 could be a commercial meat freezer with processing
capability that the communication device 102 can monitor and
control. The communication device 102 could request the freezer's
power usage, temperature, light usage, and other related operating
information. The communication device 102 could also periodically
request the current price of electricity from the Utility company
1100 under a time-of-day pricing agreement wherein the price of
electricity varies each hour. In response to that information and
the preset control parameters received from the user 406, the
communication device 102 could then adjust all of those parameters
each independently by sending instructions to the freezer to make
changes in the operation of the freezer.
[0120] For example, the user 406 may input the following preset
control parameters for the freezer temperature: maintain at
0.degree. F. unless the cost of electricity exceeds $0.15/kWh, in
which case allow the temperature to rise to 5.degree. F., except on
Mondays from 5 AM to noon, when the temperature should be held at
minus 5.degree. F. regardless of cost, because new meat shipments
arrive every Monday at 5 AM. The lights in the freezer should be
kept on from midnight to 4 PM Monday through Friday and turned off
at other times. The communication device 102 would then control the
operation of the freezer accordingly.
[0121] In one implementation example, the communication device 102
can act as the main control for a security system. Sensors, locking
mechanisms, and surveillance equipment could be connected to the
communication device 102 for direct monitoring and control.
Alternatively, the communication device 102 could monitor and
control an existing main control for a security system.
[0122] In step 914, the communication device 102 will have
completed the comparison performed in step 912. If the
communication device 102 determines that it is needed, the
communication device 102 can activate the regenerative fuel cell
100 to supply power to at least one powered device 200. For
example, if power to the at least one powered device 200 stops, the
communication device 102 can activate the regenerative fuel cell
100 to supply power to the powered device 200. The communication
device 102 can also supply power to at least one powered device 200
when the communication device determines that the electricity being
delivered by from the regional grid system is not reliable or is
too expensive.
[0123] For example, in the commercial meat freezer implementation
above, the user 406 may preset an additional parameter telling the
communication device 102 to activate the regenerative fuel cell to
supply power to the freezer when the cost of electricity exceeds
$0.20/kWh from the Utility company 1100 and to receive power for
fuel regeneration when the cost of electricity is less than
$0.10/kWh.
[0124] In one implementation, the method further comprises the
steps of receiving the updated control parameters by at least one
powered device 200, sending the updated control parameters from the
powered device 200 to other powered devices, and adjusting
operation to perform within the updated control parameter. In an
implementation example, the at least one powered device 200 could
be the main control for a security system within a building. The
main control can receive updated control parameters from the
communication device 102 over the communication interface 712. The
main control can then send the updated control parameters to other
sub-components of the security system for adjusting operation to
perform within the updated control parameters. For example, the
main control can receive a command to turn the lights off at a
certain time and to activate the motion detectors, the main control
can then turn the lights off at that time and activate the motion
detectors or instruct controllers to turn the lights off and
activate the motion detectors at a certain time.
[0125] In another implementation, a user 406 could have the ability
to remotely monitor and control at least one powered device 200 by
communicating over the communication interface 712 with the
communication device 102. The user 406 could input parameters for
controlling all aspects of at least one powered device 200
including power usage, communication, or other related items.
[0126] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method of the
present invention for monitoring and controlling a regenerative
fuel cell 100 and at least one powered device 200 through the use
of a communication device 102, the communication device monitors
for power delivery requests. The implementations and implementation
examples along with the detailed discuss above for the first
embodiment is hereby incorporated into the description of this
method.
[0127] In step 1000, the communication device 102 detects a power
need or receives power delivery requests as illustrated in FIG. 13.
The power need or power delivery requests can be received over the
communication interface 712. The communication device 102 can
detect a power need from the control parameter comparison or by
sensors or components that will notify the communication device 102
of power need or loss. A power delivery request will notify the
communication device 102 to activate the regenerative fuel cell 100
to deliver power to the requesting device. The power delivery
request can come from any device connected to the power management
system. For example, at least one powered device 200 or at least
one energy source 300 can make power delivery requests.
Alternatively, a user 406 could make a power delivery request
directly to the communication device 102 as illustrated in FIG. 4.
The user 406 could instruct the communication device 102 to
initiate the regenerative fuel cell 100 to deliver power. The user
406 could be the Utility company 1100 making a direct request for
power delivery to at least one powered device 200 or to the
regional utility grid.
[0128] In step 1002, the communication device 102 activates the
regenerative fuel cell 100 by commands. In step 1004, the fuel is
combined with a second reactant for electrochemically reacting. In
step 1006, electricity is generated and a reaction product is
produced from the reaction. In step 1008, the generated electricity
is delivered.
[0129] In one implementation, the regenerative fuel cell 100
provides reliable electricity to auxiliary electric devices such as
a radio, TV, mobile phone, facsimile machine, air conditioner,
microwave, or other related electrical devices onboard a vehicle
such as a truck, recreational vehicle, boat, or car. In this
configuration, the regenerative fuel cell 100 could be connected to
the vehicle's alternator or to a solar panel on the roof or deck of
the vehicle to accept DC current. The regenerative fuel cell 100
would use the supplied DC current to power the processes for
electricity generation and fuel regeneration. Alternatively, the
regenerative fuel cell 100 could be configured to completely power
the vehicle without the need for DC current from a vehicle's
alternator. The regenerative fuel cell 100 could propel the vehicle
with zero--emissions and when parked be refueled or plugged in to
at least one energy source 300 to regenerate the fuel.
[0130] In one implementation example, the regenerative fuel cell
100 could be used to power auxiliary devices onboard a sleeper cab
on a long-haul Class 8 truck when the truck is parked for loading,
unloading, and driver rest periods. The fuel could be regenerated
while the truck is moving using DC electricity generated by the
truck's alternator. In another implementation example, the
regenerative fuel cell 100 could be used to power auxiliary devices
onboard a sailboat or yacht when the boat is anchored away from
port at night. The fuel could be regenerated during the day using a
solar panel on the deck of the boat or by DC electricity generated
by an alternator when the yacht's main engines are running.
[0131] In another implementation, the power management system may
incorporate an electricity meter, thereby making it a useful
replacement for present electricity meters. The electric meter can
be in communication with the communication device 102 included with
the regenerative fuel cell 100 and at least one powered device 200.
The electric meter in this configuration can be used to determine
an electric bill along with other useful information.
[0132] In another implementation, the power management system may
incorporate a system for recovering waste heat from the
regenerative fuel cell 100 and using the waste heat to heat air or
water.
[0133] FIG. 14A is a block diagram of an embodiment of a power
management system according to the invention. In this embodiment,
communication device 1406 manages providing power to one or more
loads 1408(1), 1408(2), . . . , 1408(n) responsive to data received
from a source. The communication device 1406 may operatively
engage, responsive to the data, one or the other of the energy
source 1402 and the regenerative fuel cell 1404 to provide power to
the one or more loads 1408(1), 1408(2), . . . , 1408(n). The
communication device 1406 may operatively disengage, responsive to
the data, one or the other of the energy source 1402 and the
regenerative fuel cell 1404 from providing power to the one or more
loads 1408(1), 1408(2), . . . , 1408(n). The communication device
1406 may also adjust, responsive to the data, the power
requirements of the one or more loads 1408(1), 1408(2), . . . ,
1408(n).
[0134] In one implementation, the energy source 1402 and a
regenerative fuel cell 1404 may alternate between providing power
to one or more loads 1408(1), 1408(2), . . . , 1408(n). Upon the
occurrence of a first specified condition, the communication device
1406 may operatively engage a selected one of the regenerative fuel
cell 1404 and the energy source 1402 to provide power to the one or
more loads 1408(1), 1408(2), . . . , 1408(n). Upon the occurrence
of a second specified condition, which may be different from the
first, the communication device 1406 may operatively disengage the
selected one of the energy source 1402 and the regenerative fuel
cell 1404 from providing power to the one or more loads, and
operatively engage the other of the energy source 1402 and
regenerative fuel cell 1404 to provide power to the one or more
loads 1408(1), 1408(2), . . . , 1408(n).
[0135] The energy source 1402 may be any source of electrical
power, including without limitation, a source of solar or wind
power, an internal combustion engine or other device which converts
fossil fuel into electrical energy, a public utility, regional
electric grid, a diesel generator, a nickel cadmium battery, a
reciprocating engine, rotating engine, solar energy collector,
battery, generator, turbine, water wheel, flywheel, capacitor, or
wind energy collector. For purposes of this disclosure, the phrase
"energy source" includes within its scope a power source.
[0136] The regenerative fuel cell 1404 may include a fuel storage
unit, a regeneration unit, and a device which undergoes an
electrochemical reaction which releases energy, in the process
consuming fuel which has been supplied to the device source. The
fuel storage unit stores additional fuel which may be provided to
the device after the latter has been depleted. The regeneration
unit may process back into fuel one or more reaction products which
may be produced through the electrochemical reaction which occurs
in the device. Additional detail regarding the structure and
operation of the regenerative fuel cell 1404 will be provided
further on in this disclosure.
[0137] Communication device 1406 may be configured to manage,
responsive to data received from a source, providing power to the
one or more loads 1408(1), 1408(2), 1408(n) from one or the other
of the energy source 1402 and the regenerative fuel cell 1404. In
one implementation, communication device 1406, upon the occurrence
of a first specified condition, operatively engages regenerative
fuel cell 1404 to provide power to the one or more loads 1408(1),
1408(2), 1408(n), and operatively disengages energy source 1402
from providing power to the one or more loads 1408(1), 1408(2), . .
. , 1408(n). In this implementation, upon the occurrence of a
second specified condition, communication device 1406 may further
be configured to operatively re-engage energy source 1402 to
provide power to the one or more loads 1408(1), 1408(2), 1408(n),
and operatively disengage regenerative fuel cell 1404 from
providing power to the one or more loads 1408(1), 1408(2), 1408(n).
For purposes of this disclosure, the phrase "communication device"
includes within its scope a controller which may be implemented in
hardware, software or a combination of hardware and software.
[0138] The one or more loads 1408(1), 1408(2), 1408(n) may each be
any system or device which consumes electrical power including
without limitation an air conditioning or heating system for a
building, vehicle, or home; a consumer device, such as a
refrigerator; or computing equipment, such as a computer, server,
workstation, docking station, printer, etc.
[0139] In addition, each of the one or more loads 1408(1), 1408(2),
. . . , 1408(n) may each be an energy usage system, security
system, environmental system, commercial device, consumer device,
industrial device, manufacturing device, vehicle, automobile,
truck, trailer, recreational vehicle, motorcycle, smart appliance,
household appliance, engine, computer, telecommunication equipment,
cellular base station, distributed terminal, sensor, electrical
device located onboard a vehicle, or any electric powered
device.
[0140] Each of the links 1410a, 1410b, 1410c, 1410d, 1410e may be
any communication medium or media capable of transmitting
electrical power, including one or more wireless links such as
Bluetooth, or one or more wireline links, such as a link comprised
of one or more computer networks, such the Internet, etc. In one
embodiment, one or more of the links 1410a, 1410b, 1410c, 1410d,
1410e is also capable of transmitting data, unidirectionally or
bidirectionally.
[0141] For example, one or more of the links may each be a wireless
link selected from the group comprising a cellular based link,
digital cellular link, GSM (Global System for Mobile communication)
link, PCS (personal communications services) link, PDC (personal
digital cellular) link, radio communications link, or satellite
communications link. One or more of the wireless links may each
employ a WAP (wireless application protocol) or a Bluetooth
wireless technology standard for sending and receiving data.
[0142] One or more of the links may each be a wireline link
selected from the group comprising a local area network link, wide
area network link, ISDN (integrated services digital network) link,
DSL (digital subscriber line) link, xDSL (ADSL, HDSL, RADSL) link,
Internet Cable link, cable modem link, PPP (point-to-point
protocol) link, modem, telephone link, or electrical wiring.
[0143] Each of the first and second specified conditions may each
be any condition, including without limitation conditions based on
time of day, the price of power from energy source 1402, the price
of power from regenerative fuel cell 1404, the relative price
between power from energy source 1402 and regenerative fuel cell
1404, scheduled load usage periods, etc.
[0144] In one implementation, link 1410a is operative to
communicate data to communication device 1406 regarding time of day
pricing of the power from energy source 1402. Communication device
1406 may be configured, responsive to this information, to
operatively engage, during peak usage periods when power from
energy source 1402 is expensive, regenerative fuel cell 1404 to
provide power to the one or more loads 1408(1), 1408(1), 1408(n)
and/or operatively disengage energy source 1402 from providing
power to the one or more loads. Communication device 1406 may also
be configured, during off peak usage periods, when power from
energy source 1402 is inexpensive, to operatively engage energy
source 1402 to provide power to the one or more loads 1408(1),
1408(2), . . . , 1408(n), and/or operatively disengage the
regenerative fuel cell 1404 from providing power to the one or more
loads 1408(1), 1408(2), . . . , 1408(n). During these off-peak
usage periods, the regeneration unit within regenerative fuel cell
1404 may also be powered by energy source 1402 to process one or
more reaction products back into fuel for use by the regenerative
fuel cell 1404 during the peak usage periods.
[0145] An advantage of the foregoing is that cost savings may be
realized in that power from energy source 1402 may be utilized (to
produce fuel for regenerative fuel cell 1404) during off-peak usage
periods when this power is less expensive, and then power from the
regenerative fuel cell 1404 may be used to power the one or more
loads during the peak usage periods when power from energy source
1402 is more expensive.
[0146] FIG. 14B is a block diagram of another embodiment of a power
management system according to the invention in which, compared to
FIG. 14A, like elements are referenced with like identifying
numerals. In this embodiment, energy source 1402 provides power to
the regeneration unit (not shown) within regenerative fuel cell
1404. In one implementation, the energy source 1402 provides power
to the regeneration unit within regenerative fuel cell 1404 during
those time periods in which regenerative fuel cell 1404 is
operatively disengaged from providing power to the one or more
loads 1408(1), 1408(2), . . . , 1408(n). In another implementation,
the energy source 1402 provides power to the regeneration unit
within regenerative fuel cell 1404 during those time periods in
which energy source 1402 is operatively engaged to provide power to
the one or more loads 1408(1), 1408(2), . . . , 1408(n). In one
implementation example, the energy source 1402 provides power to
the regeneration unit within regenerative fuel cell 1404 during
off-peak usage periods when energy source 1402 is operatively
engaged to provide power to the one or more loads 1408(1), 1408(2),
. . . , 1408(n).
[0147] FIG. 14C is a block diagram of another embodiment of a power
management system according to the invention in which, compared to
FIGS. 14A-14B, like elements are referenced with like identifying
numerals. In this embodiment, a memory 1414 is provided which is
accessible by communication device 1406 through link 1416. Data
representative of one or more parameters or rules may be stored
within the memory 1414. The communication device 1406 may be
configured, responsive to these one or more parameters or rules, to
operatively engage one or the other of energy source 1402 and
regenerative fuel cell 1404 to provide power to the one or more
loads 1408(1), 1408(2), . . . , 1408(n). Alternatively, or in
addition, the communication device 1406 may also be configured,
responsive to these one or more parameters or rules, to operatively
disengage one or the other of energy source 1402 and regenerative
fuel cell 1404 from providing power to the one or more loads
1408(1), 1408(2), . . . , 1408(n).
[0148] The communication device 1406 may be configured to retrieve
the one or more rules or parameters from energy source 1402 and
store the same in memory 1414. In this case, the link 1410a should
be capable of carrying digital data in addition to power from
energy source 1402. Alternatively, the communication device 1406
may retrieve this information from an external source (not shown)
and store it in memory 1414. In one implementation, this
information is available from a selected site on the Internet. The
communication device 1406 in this implementation may be configured
to log onto the Internet, retrieve the information from the
selected site, and store the information in memory 1414. Again, the
link for accessing the selected site may be a wireless, wireline,
or other link, which is capable of carrying digital data.
[0149] The communication device 1406 may also be configured to
retrieve the one or more rules or parameters from one or more of
the loads 1408(1), 1408(2), . . . , 1408(n). In this case, one or
more of the links 1410c, 1410d, 1410e, should be capable of
carrying digital data in addition to power from one or the other of
energy source 1402 and regenerative fuel cell 1404.
[0150] In addition, the communication device 1406 may also be
configured to adjust the power requirements of one or more of the
loads 1408(1), 1408(2), . . . , 1408(n) through the links 1410c,
1410d, and 1410e.
[0151] In one implementation, one or more of the loads 1408(1),
1408(2), . . . , 1408(n) are intelligent devices, and the one or
more rules or parameters are retrieved from one or more of these
intelligent devices and stored in the memory 1414.
[0152] The one or more rules or parameters may originate from
multiple sources. For example, time of day pricing information
regarding power from energy source 1402 may be obtained from energy
source 1402, and information regarding scheduled periods of usage
for a load may be obtained from that load. This information may all
be stored in the memory 1414 and used to determine when and how
power is delivered to the load. In one configuration, the
communication device 1406 is configured to operatively engage
regenerative fuel cell 1404 to provide power to the load when (1)
the time of day pricing information indicates an off-peak usage
period when power from energy source 1402 is expensive; and (2) the
scheduling information from the load indicates a usage period for
the load. In this configuration, the communication device 1406 may
also be configured to operatively engage energy source 1402 to
provide power to the load when (1) the time of day pricing
information indicates a peak usage period when power from energy
source 1402 is less expensive; and (2) the scheduling information
from the load indicates a usage period for the load. In this
configuration, both the energy source 1402 and the regenerative
fuel cell 1404 are operatively disengaged from providing power to
the load when the scheduling information indicates a non-usage
period for the load.
[0153] FIG. 14D is a block diagram of another embodiment of a power
management system according to the invention in which, compared to
FIGS. 14A-14C, like elements are referenced with like identifying
numerals. In this embodiment, user input device 1418 is also
provided for inputting one or more of the rules or parameters.
These one or more rules or parameters may be received by
communication device 1406 and stored in memory 1414 for use, either
alone or in combination with one or more rules or parameters from
other sources, in managing providing power from one or the other of
energy source 1402 and regenerative fuel cell 1404 in the manner
previously described.
[0154] In one example, one or more rules may be input to
communication device 1406 from a personal computer. The one or more
rules may, for example, specify that a certain consumer device such
as a refrigerator is to run at 34.degree. F. unless the price of
power from energy source 1402 (which is assumed to provide primary
power to the refrigerator) exceeds 18.cent./kilowatt hour, in which
case, the refrigerator is to run at 36.degree. F. except for
Mondays, when a family member typically visits, in which case, the
refrigerator is to run at 32.degree. F. The one or more rules may
also specify, for example, that the regenerative fuel cell 1404
should be switched to provide power to the refrigerator if the
price of primary power from energy source 1402 exceeds
22.cent./kilowatt hour. Responsive to these one or more rules,
communication device 1406 may switch between providing power to the
refrigerator from the energy source 1402 and the regenerative fuel
cell 1404, and may also adjust the temperature at which the
refrigerator is operating (which determines the power requirements
for the refrigerator). This example is provided solely to
illustrate an application of a power management system according to
the invention, and should not be construed as limiting.
[0155] The input device may be any device capable of allowing a
user to input data including without limitation a keyboard,
touch-activated screen, keypad, pointing device, input device,
mouse, light pen, remote control device, device employing shortcut
buttons or any other related entry device.
[0156] The input device may further be a voice-activated computer,
RF transmitter, mobile phone or handset, personal digital
assistant, a processor coupled to memory, mainframe, server system,
computer, mainframe, laptop, handheld computer, facsimile machine,
telephone, video phone, or similar device.
[0157] The input device may further include a graphical user
interface which, in one implementation, is an Internet web browser.
The device may further include a voice recognition system for
receiving voice information from a user speaking into a microphone,
and translating the voice information into digital information.
[0158] In one embodiment, the communication device 1406 is
configured to track power usage information for one or the other or
both of the energy source 1402 or the regenerative fuel cell
1404.
[0159] An implementation of communication device 1406 is
illustrated in FIG. 15A in which, compared to FIGS. 14A-14D, like
elements are referenced with like identifying numerals. In this
implementation, logic 1422 is coupled to memory 1414 over link
1416. The logic 1422 may be hardware, software, or a combination of
hardware and software. In one example, the logic 1422 is a
microprocessor configured to execute a series of instructions
stored in a memory, which may be memory 1414 or another memory. In
another, the logic 1422 comprises one or more asynchronous
integrated circuits (ASIC) embodying a finite state machine. In
another, the logic 1422 is a digital signal processor (DSP)
configured to execute instructions stored in a memory, which may be
memory 1414 or some other memory. The memory 1414 may be any device
capable of storing digital data, including, without limitation,
RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory, PROM, disk, floppy disk,
hard disk, CD-ROM, DVD, etc.
[0160] In this implementation, the logic 1422 may be configured to
retrieve one or more rules or parameters from energy source 1402
over link 1410a(2), which is capable of carrying digital data, and
storing the same in memory 1414. Alternatively, or in addition, the
logic 1422 may be configured to retrieve one or more parameters
from load 1408(i) over link 1410z(1), which is capable of carrying
digital data, and storing the same in memory 1414. Alternatively,
or in addition, the logic 1422 may be configured to retrieve one or
more rules or parameters from external source 1428 over link 1426,
which is capable of carrying digital data, and storing the same in
memory 1414. External source 1428 may be but is not limited to a
site on the Internet. Alternatively, or in addition, logic 1422 may
be configured to control, over link 1410z(1), the power
requirements of load 1408(i).
[0161] Logic 1422 is configured, responsive to one or more of these
rules or parameters, to operatively engage or disengage one or the
other of energy source 1402 or regenerative fuel cell 1404 in
relation to load 1408(i) or adjust the power requirements of load
1408(i). If energy source 1402 is operatively engaged in relation
to load 1408(i), power from energy source 1402 is provided over
link 1410a(1) to logic 1422, and from logic 1422 to load 1408(i)
over link 1410z(2). If regenerative fuel cell 1404 is operatively
engaged in relation to load 1408(i), power from the regenerative
fuel cell 1404, which may be DC power, is provided to logic 1422,
and then to DC-AC converter 1424, which converts the DC power from
regenerative fuel cell 1404 into AC power. The AC power from the
DC-AC converter 1424 is then provided to load 1408(i) over link
1410z(3).
[0162] A second implementation of communication device 1406 is
illustrated in FIG. 15A in which, compared to FIG. 15B, like
elements are referenced with like identifying numerals. In this
implementation, communication device 1406, in lieu of or in
addition to link 1426 to external source 1428, includes user input
device 1418, which is configured to allow a user to input one or
more rules or parameters, and provide the same to logic 1422 over
link 1420. Once received by logic 1422, the one or more rules or
parameters may be provided to memory 1414 over link 1416. These one
or more parameters may then be used, singly or in combination with
one or more rules or parameters from other sources, for operatively
engaging or disengaging one or the other of energy source 1402 and
regenerative fuel cell 1404 in relation to load 1408(i), and/or
adjusting the power requirements of load 1408(i).
[0163] Implementations of communication device 1406 are also
possible which are combinations or variants of the foregoing. For
example, the regenerative fuel cell 1404 may output AC power, in
which case the DC-AC converter 1424 may be omitted and the AC power
from regenerative fuel cell 1404 provided directly to load 1408(i)
when the same is operatively engaged. Or the load 1408(i) may only
require DC power, and again, the DC power from regenerative fuel
cell 1404 provided directly to load 1408(i) when the same is
operatively engaged. Furthermore, implementations are possible
where the logic 1422 receives one or more of the rules or
parameters from one, more than one, or any combination of, the
sources which have been indicated: energy source 1402, load
1408(i), external source 1428, or input device 1418. In addition,
implementations are possible where the logic 1422 may receive one
or more of the rules or parameters from regenerative fuel cell
1404.
[0164] Moreover, implementations of communication device 1406 are
possible wherein power to the one or more loads 1408(1), 1408(2), .
. . , 1408(n) is controlled separately. In such an implementation,
rules or procedures may be maintained by communication 1406 for
each of the loads separately, and separate ones of the energy
source 1402 and regenerative fuel cell 1404 may be provided for
each of the loads. The rules or procedures may be used to
separately drive the process of operatively engaging or disengaging
one or more of the energy source 1402 or regenerative fuel 1404 in
relation to the loads, and/or adjusting the power requirements of
the loads.
[0165] A block diagram of one embodiment of regenerative fuel cell
1404 is illustrated in FIG. 16. As illustrated, the fuel cell
comprises a device 1620, an optional reaction product storage unit
1622, a regeneration unit 1624, a fuel storage unit 1626, and an
optional second reactant storage unit 1628. The device 1620 in turn
comprises one or more cells each having a cell body defining a cell
cavity, with an anode and cathode situated in each cell cavity. The
cells may be coupled in parallel or series. In one implementation,
they are coupled in series to form a cell stack.
[0166] The anodes within the cell cavities are composed of the fuel
stored in fuel storage unit 1626. Within the cell cavities of
device 1620, an electrochemical reaction takes place whereby the
anode releases electrons, and forms one or more reaction products.
Through this process, the anodes are gradually consumed. The
released electrons flow through a load to the cathode, where they
react with the second reactant from optional second reactant
storage unit 1628 or from some other source. The flow of electrons
through the load gives rise to a voltage for the cells. When the
cells are combined in series, the sum of the voltages for the cells
forms the output of the device 1620.
[0167] The one or more reaction products may then be provided to
optional reaction product storage unit 1622 or to some other
destination. The one or more reaction products, from unit 1622 or
some other source, may then be provided to regeneration unit 1624,
which regenerates fuel and the second reactant from the one or more
reaction products. The fuel may then be provided to fuel storage
unit 1626, and the second reactant may then be provided to optional
second reactant storage unit 1628 or to some other destination.
[0168] In one embodiment, the fuel cell is a zinc/air fuel cell
where the anodes are formed of zinc (Zn) particles, and the fuel
stored in fuel storage unit 1626 consists of liquid born zinc
particles immersed in a potassium hydroxide (KOH) electrolyte. The
second reactant in this embodiment is oxygen from the ambient air.
Since the second reactant is from the ambient air, the optional
second reactant storage unit 1628 may be excluded in this
embodiment. A recirculating flow of the fuel borne zinc particles
may be maintained through the cell cavities in order to deliver KOH
to the particulate anodes and to replenish these anodes. As the
potassium hydroxide contacts the zinc anodes, the following
reaction may take place at the anodes: 1 Zn + 4 OH - -> Zn ( OH
) 4 2 - + 2 e - ( 1 )
[0169] The two released electrons flow through a load to the
cathode where the following reaction may take place: 2 1 2 O 2 + 2
e - + H 2 O -> 2 OH - ( 2 )
[0170] The reaction product is the zincate ion,
Zn(OH).sub.4.sup.2-, which is soluble in the reaction solution KOH.
The overall reaction which occurs in the cell cavities is the
combination of the two reactions (1) and (2). This combined
reaction can be expressed as follows: 3 Zn + 2 OH - + 1 2 O 2 + H 2
O -> Zn ( OH ) 4 2 - ( 3 )
[0171] Alternatively, the zincate ion, Zn(OH).sub.4.sup.2-, may be
allowed to precipitate to zinc oxide, ZnO, a second reaction
product, in accordance with the following reaction: 4 Zn ( OH ) 4 2
- -> ZnO + H 2 O + 2 OH - ( 4 )
[0172] In this case, the overall reaction which occurs in the cell
cavities is the combination of the three reactions (1), (2), and
(4). This overall reaction can be expressed as follows: 5 Zn + 1 2
O 2 -> ZnO ( 5 )
[0173] Under real world conditions, the reactions (4) or (5) yield
a voltage potential of about 1.4V. For additional information on
this embodiment of a zinc/air battery, the reader is referred to
U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,952,117; 6,153,329; and 6,162,555, which are
hereby incorporated by reference herein as though set forth in
full.
[0174] The reaction product 6 Zn ( OH ) 4 2 - ,
[0175] and also possibly ZnO, may be provided to reaction product
storage unit 1622. Regeneration unit 1624 may then reprocess these
reaction products to yield oxygen, which is released to the ambient
air, and zinc particles, which provided to fuel storage unit 1626.
The regeneration of the zincate ion, 7 Zn ( OH ) 4 2 - ,
[0176] into zinc, may occur according to the following overall
reaction: 8 Zn ( OH ) 4 2 - -> Zn + 2 OH - + H 2 O + 1 2 O 2 ( 6
)
[0177] The regeneration of zinc oxide, ZnO, into zinc may occur
according to the following overall reaction: 9 ZnO -> Zn + 1 2 O
2 ( 7 )
[0178] In a second embodiment of a fuel cell, the fuel used in the
electrochemical reaction which occurs within the cells is hydrogen,
the second reactant is oxygen, and the reaction product is water.
In this embodiment, the hydrogen fuel is maintained in the fuel
storage unit 1626, but the second reactant storage unit 1628 may be
omitted and the oxygen used in the electrochemical reaction within
the cells may be taken from the ambient air. In addition, the
reaction product storage unit 1622 may be omitted and the water
resulting from discharge of the unit simply discarded. Later, the
regeneration unit 1624 may regenerate water from another source,
such as tap water, into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen may then
be stored in fuel storage unit 1622, and the oxygen simply released
into the ambient air.
[0179] An advantage of fuel cells relative to traditional energy or
power sources such as lead acid batteries is that they can provide
longer term backup power more efficiently and compactly. This
advantage stems from the ability to continuously refuel the fuel
cells using fuel stored with the fuel cell and regenerated from
reaction products by the regeneration unit. In the case of the
zinc/air fuel cell, for example, the duration of time over which
energy can be provided is limited only by the amount of fuel which
is initially provided in the fuel storage unit, and which can be
regenerated from the reaction products which are produced.
[0180] FIG. 17 is a flowchart of one embodiment of a method of
operation according to the invention. As illustrated, in step 1702,
data is received from a source which may be an energy source, a
regenerative fuel cell, one or more loads, a user input device, or
an external source such as an Internet site. The data may be
representative of one or more rules or procedures. Step 1704
follows step 1702. In step 1702, power from one or the other of an
energy source and a regenerative fuel cell to one or more loads is
managed responsive to the data. This step may comprises operatively
engaging, responsive to the data, one or the other of the energy
source and the regenerative fuel cell to provide power to the one
or more loads. It may comprise operatively disengaging, responsive
to the data, one or the other of the energy source and the
regenerative fuel cell from providing power to the one or more
loads. It may also comprises adjusting, responsive to the data, the
power requirements of the one or more loads. It may also comprises
any combination of the foregoing.
[0181] In one implementation, the regenerative fuel cell is
operatively engaged to provide power to the one or more loads
during peak usage periods, when power from the energy source is
expensive. During off-peak usage periods, when power from the
energy source is less expensive, the energy source is operatively
engaged to provide power to the one or more loads. During these
off-peak usage periods, the energy source may also be used to drive
a regeneration unit within the regenerative fuel cell.
[0182] In this implementation, the data used to drive the process
may be time of day pricing information received from the energy
source, the regenerative fuel cell, a user input device, or an
external source such as an Internet site.
[0183] While embodiments, implementations, and implementation
examples have been shown and described, it should be apparent that
there are many more embodiments, implementations, and
implementation examples that are within the scope of the subject
invention. Accordingly, the invention is not to be restricted,
except in light of the appended claims and their equivalents.
* * * * *