U.S. patent application number 12/082681 was filed with the patent office on 2008-10-23 for enhanced device for generating hydrogen for use in internal combustion engines.
Invention is credited to Frank Schubert, Matthew M. Smola.
Application Number | 20080257751 12/082681 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38606875 |
Filed Date | 2008-10-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080257751 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Smola; Matthew M. ; et
al. |
October 23, 2008 |
Enhanced device for generating hydrogen for use in internal
combustion engines
Abstract
An electrolysis conversion system for converting water into
hydrogen and oxygen, includes a housing in which are housed
electrodes. The electrodes are immersed in an electrolyte and are
connected to a positive and negative sides of an energy source. The
housing is a non conductive material that has chambers to separate
the hydrogen and the oxygen. The present invention further
discloses a method of utilizing the electrolyzer in conjunction
with the fuel system of an internal combustion engine to improve
the efficiency of said internal combustion engines.
Inventors: |
Smola; Matthew M.;
(Centennial, CO) ; Schubert; Frank; (Pacific Gove,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
LADAS & PARRY LLP
26 WEST 61ST STREET
NEW YORK
NY
10023
US
|
Family ID: |
38606875 |
Appl. No.: |
12/082681 |
Filed: |
April 11, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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PCT/US07/09591 |
Apr 20, 2007 |
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12082681 |
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11409917 |
Apr 25, 2006 |
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PCT/US07/09591 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
205/628 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C25B 1/02 20130101; Y02T
10/32 20130101; F02B 2043/106 20130101; F02B 43/10 20130101; F02M
25/12 20130101; Y02T 10/121 20130101; C25B 9/00 20130101; Y02T
10/12 20130101; Y02T 10/30 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
205/628 |
International
Class: |
C25B 1/06 20060101
C25B001/06 |
Claims
1. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine, comprising means for providing a positive
electric current to power the device, means for providing a
negative electric current to ground the device, means for housing
in a chamber a positive electrode (anode), a negative electrode
(cathode), and an electrolyte fluid to enable electrolysis within
said means for housing, means for separating the positive electrode
(anode) from the negative electrode (cathode), said separating
means extending down into the electrolyte fluid to a point spaced
from the chamber bottom and being perforated within said
electrolyte fluid so that the electrolyte fluid can flow freely
between the electrodes but impervious to the passage of gases above
the level of said electrolyte fluid, means for separately venting
the generated hydrogen from other gas or gases produced by the
electrolysis, and means for replenishing the electrolyte fluid.
2. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 1, comprising additional
means for sensing the level of electrolyte fluid in said means for
housing.
3. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means
for separating comprises a chamber divider.
4. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 3, wherein said means
for separately venting comprises separate vents emanating from each
side of the chamber formed by the chamber divider.
5. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means
for replenishing comprises a fill cap.
6. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 1, wherein oxygen is
produced by the electrolysis in addition to the generated
hydrogen.
7. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 1, wherein a plurality
of positive electrodes (anodes) and a plurality of negative
electrodes (cathodes) are accommodated in the housing, and wherein
the housing separating means separates the positive electrodes
(anodes) from the negative electrodes (cathodes).
8. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means
for housing accommodates an enlarged positive electrode (anode) and
an enlarged negative electrode (cathode).
9. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 1, further comprising a
radiator/reservoir for storing electrolyte fluid, said
radiator/reservoir being connected with said means for housing to
allow a flow of electrolyte fluid between said radiator/reservoir
and said means for housing.
10. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 9, wherein a gate valve
is operable to increase, decrease, stop, and start the flow of
electrolyte fluid between said radiator/reservoir and said means
for housing.
11. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 9, wherein a pump is
operable to facilitate the flow of electrolyte fluid between said
radiator/reservoir and said means for housing.
12. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 9, wherein a heater is
operable to heat the electrolyte fluid in said
radiator/reservoir.
13. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 9, wherein a heater is
operable to heat the electrolyte fluid in the connection between
the radiator/reservoir and said means for housing.
14. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 9, wherein a sensor is
operable to determine the amount of electrolyte fluid in said
radiator/reservoir.
15. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine, in accordance with claim 9, wherein a plurality
of chambers are formed by multiple housings, chambers wherein each
chamber contains one of a plurality of a positive electrodes
(anodes), and one of a plurality of negative electrodes (cathodes),
and an electrolyte fluid that enables electrolysis within each
chamber, and wherein each chamber has a divider, separating the
positive electrode (anode) from the negative electrode (cathode)
but allowing the free flow of electrolyte fluid between said
electrodes, vents for separately venting hydrogen and other gas or
gases produced by the electrolysis, and a filler cap facilitating
the replenishment of electrolyte fluid.
16. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine, in accordance with claim 9, wherein the housing
forms a chamber containing a plurality of positive electrodes
(anodes), and a plurality of the negative electrodes (cathodes),
and an electrolyte fluid that enables electrolysis within the
chamber, said chamber divider separating the positive electrodes
(anodes) from the negative electrodes (cathodes) but allowing the
free flow of electrolyte fluid between and among said
electrodes.
17. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 1, further comprising an
auxiliary reservoir for storing electrolyte fluid, said auxiliary
reservoir being connected with the housing means so as to
facilitate and allow the flow of electrolyte fluid from said
auxiliary reservoir to the positive electrode (anode) portion of
said housing means.
18. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 9, further comprising an
auxiliary reservoir for storing electrolyte fluid, said auxiliary
reservoir being connected with the housing means so as to
facilitate and allow the flow of electrolyte fluid from said
auxiliary reservoir to the positive electrode (anode) portion of
said housing means.
19. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine, comprising a positive electrode (anode) powered
by electric current, a negative electrode (cathode) connected to an
electrical ground of the internal combustion engine, a housing
forming a chamber containing the positive electrode (anode), the
negative electrode (cathode), and an electrolyte fluid that enables
electrolysis within said chamber, a chamber divider extending
downwardly into said chamber to separate the positive electrode
(anode) from the negative electrode (cathode), said divider
terminating short of the bottom of the chamber and being perforated
below the level of electrolyte fluid to allow the free flow of
electrolyte fluid between said electrodes but being impervious to
gaseous flow above the level of said electrolyte fluid, a
radiator/reservoir for containing electrolyte fluid, a hot
electrolyte fluid cooling line connecting the radiator/reservoir
with the chamber of the housing, facilitating the flow of
electrolyte fluid from the chamber of the housing to the
radiator/reservoir, and a cool electrolyte fluid return line
connecting the radiator/reservoir with the chamber of the housing,
facilitating the flow of electrolyte fluid from the
radiator/reservoir to the chamber of the housing, vents for
separately venting hydrogen and other gas or gases produced by the
electrolysis, and a filler cap facilitating the replenishment of
electrolyte fluid.
20. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 19, comprising a window
on or in said housing to detect the level of electrolyte fluid in
said chamber.
21. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 19, wherein oxygen is
produced by the electrolysis along with the vented hydrogen.
22. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 19, further comprising a
gate to increase, decrease, stop, and start the flow of electrolyte
fluid from the chamber of the housing to the
radiator/reservoir.
23. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 19, further comprising a
recirculating pump for facilitating the flow of electrolyte fluid
between said radiator/reservoir and said chamber of the
housing.
24. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 19, further comprising a
heating element for heating the electrolyte fluid in said
radiator/reservoir.
25. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 19, further comprising a
heating element for heating the electrolyte fluid.
26. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 19, further comprising a
sensor to detect the amount of electrolyte fluid in said
radiator/reservoir.
27. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine in accordance with claim 19, further comprising
an auxiliary reservoir for storing electrolyte fluid, said
auxiliary reservoir being connected with the housing means so as to
facilitate and allow the flow of electrolyte fluid from said
auxiliary reservoir to the positive electrode (anode) portion of
said housing means.
28. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine, comprising a positive electrode (anode) powered
by electric current, a negative electrode (cathode) connected to an
electrical ground of the internal combustion engine, a housing
forming a chamber containing the positive electrode (anode), the
negative electrode (cathode), and an electrolyte fluid that enables
electrolysis within said chamber, a chamber divider extending
downwardly into said chamber to separate the positive electrode
(anode) from the negative electrode (cathode), said divider
terminating short of the bottom of the chamber and being perforated
below the level of the electrolyte fluid to allow the free flow of
electrolyte fluid between said electrodes but being impervious to
gaseous flow above the level of said electrolyte fluid, an
auxiliary reservoir being connected with the housing so as to
facilitate and allow the flow of electrolyte fluid from said
auxiliary reservoir means to the positive electrode (anode) portion
of said housing, a hot electrolyte fluid cooling line connecting
the auxiliary reservoir with the chamber of the housing,
facilitating the flow of electrolyte fluid from the chamber of the
housing to the auxiliary reservoir, and a cool electrolyte fluid
return line connecting the auxiliary reservoir with the chamber of
the housing, facilitating the flow of electrolyte fluid from the
auxiliary reservoir to the chamber of the housing vents for
separately venting hydrogen and other gas or gases produced by the
electrolysis, and a filler cap facilitating the replenishment of
electrolyte fluid.
29. A device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal
combustion engine, said device including a positive electrode
(anode), powered by electric current, a negative electrode
(cathode) connectable to an electrical ground of the internal
combustion engine, a housing forming a chamber containing the
positive electrode (anode), the negative electrode (cathode), and
an electrolyte fluid that enables electrolysis within said chamber,
a chamber divider separating the positive electrode (anode) from
the negative electrode (cathode), vents for separately venting
hydrogen and other gas or gases produced by the electrolysis, and a
filler cap facilitating the replenishment of electrolyte fluid,
wherein said positive electrode (anode), negative electrode
(cathode), and chamber divider are three concentric cylinders, the
innermost and outermost concentric cylinders being the electrodes
and the intermediate concentric cylinder being the chamber divider,
and wherein the bottom of the intermediate concentric cylinder is
spaced from the bottom of the housing forming the chamber and a
portion of the intermediate cylinder between the bottom and the
level of the electrolyte fluid is perforated to allow the free flow
of electrolyte fluid between said electrodes.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This is a continuation-in-part of co-pending International
Application PCT/US2007/009591, filed on Apr. 20, 2007, which
designated the U.S., claims the benefit thereof and incorporates
the same by reference. The International Application
PCT/US2007/009591 is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/409,917, filed Apr. 25, 2006, and claims
the benefit thereof, and this continuation-in-part application
incorporates the same by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to internal combustion engines and to
an apparatus for producing and separating water into hydrogen and
oxygen.
[0003] The oxygen and hydrogen are provided by electrolysis, and
the hydrogen is used to enhance the burn of fossil fuel in the
internal combustion engine. The oxygen may be used either to
supplement passenger compartment oxygen or to supplement fuel to
operate an auxiliary engine or an engine specifically designed to
burn hydrogen and oxygen. If not so required, the oxygen may be
vented to the atmosphere.
[0004] Through the electrolysis of water the separation of hydrogen
gas is achieved at an amount sufficient to enhance the burn of fuel
when introduced into the combustion zone of the engine cylinders
where the hydrogen gas mixes with the ambient air.
[0005] An internal combustion engine may be provided with a
computer, engine controller, or electronic control module
(hereinafter "Controller") with a mass air flow sensor and at least
one oxygen sensor to govern the combustion chamber for proper
combustion of fuel and air and to regulate emissions.
[0006] If a constant amount of hydrogen gas is provided for use by
the Controller, fuel savings and lower emissions can be achieved by
leaning out the fuel and enhancing the burning of fuel in the
combustion chambers.
[0007] The burning of fossil fuels in an internal combustion engine
has one inherent problem: it produces emissions, specifically
hydrocarbons, oxides of nitrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon
dioxide. These emissions are released into the atmosphere, having
adverse effects thereon.
[0008] The device described herein, which generates hydrogen and
oxygen, produces hydrogen to enhance the burn of the fossil fuels.
When hydrogen produced by the device is introduced in the correct
amounts to the combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine,
the result is a more complete burn of the fossil fuels, reducing
the harmful emissions released into the atmosphere. In addition,
the amount of harmful emissions released into the atmosphere is
reduced because the Controller will lean out the fuel to air
mixture through information it receives from an oxygen sensor.
Then, in turn, the amount of fossil fuels consumed is less, thereby
further reducing the amount of emissions released into the
atmosphere.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] According to the present invention, there is provided a
device for generating hydrogen for use with an internal combustion
engine, comprising means for providing a positive electric current
to power the device, means for providing a negative electric
current to ground the device, means for housing in a chamber a
positive electrode (anode), a negative electrode (cathode), and an
electrolyte fluid to enable electrolysis within said means for
housing, means for separating the positive electrode (anode) from
the negative electrode (cathode), said separating means extending
down into the electrolyte fluid to a point spaced from the chamber
bottom and being perforated within said electrolyte fluid so that
the electrolyte fluid can flow freely between the electrodes but
impervious to the passage of gases above the level of said
electrolyte fluid, means for separately venting the generated
hydrogen from other gas or gases produced by the electrolysis, and
means for replenishing the electrolyte fluid.
[0010] According to a further aspect of the present invention,
there is provided a device for generating hydrogen for use with an
internal combustion engine, comprising a positive electrode (anode)
powered by electric current, a negative electrode (cathode)
connected to an electrical ground of the internal combustion
engine, a housing forming a chamber containing the positive
electrode (anode), the negative electrode (cathode), and an
electrolyte fluid that enables electrolysis within said chamber, a
chamber divider extending downwardly into said chamber to separate
the positive electrode (anode) from the negative electrode
(cathode), said divider terminating short of the bottom of the
chamber and being perforated below the level of electrolyte fluid
to allow the free flow of electrolyte fluid between said electrodes
but being impervious to gaseous flow above the level of said
electrolyte fluid, a radiator/reservoir for containing electrolyte
fluid, a hot electrolyte fluid cooling line connecting the
radiator/reservoir with the chamber of the housing, facilitating
the flow of electrolyte fluid from the chamber of the housing to
the radiator/reservoir, and a cool electrolyte fluid return line
connecting the radiator/reservoir with the chamber of the housing,
facilitating the flow of electrolyte fluid from the
radiator/reservoir to the chamber of the housing, vents for
separately venting hydrogen and other gas or gases produced by the
electrolysis, and a filler cap facilitating the replenishment of
electrolyte fluid.
According to a still further aspect of the present invention, there
is provided a device for generating hydrogen for use with an
internal combustion engine, comprising a positive electrode (anode)
powered by electric current, a negative electrode (cathode)
connected to an electrical ground of the internal combustion
engine, a housing forming a chamber containing the positive
electrode (anode), the negative electrode (cathode), and an
electrolyte fluid that enables electrolysis within said chamber, a
chamber divider extending downwardly into said chamber to separate
the positive electrode (anode) from the negative electrode
(cathode), said divider terminating short of the bottom of the
chamber and being perforated below the level of the electrolyte
fluid to allow the free flow of electrolyte fluid between said
electrodes but being impervious to gaseous flow above the level of
said electrolyte fluid, an auxiliary reservoir being connected with
the housing so as to facilitate and allow the flow of electrolyte
fluid from said auxiliary reservoir means to the positive electrode
(anode) portion of said housing, a hot electrolyte fluid cooling
line connecting the auxiliary reservoir with the chamber of the
housing, facilitating the flow of electrolyte fluid from the
chamber of the housing to the auxiliary reservoir, and a cool
electrolyte fluid return line connecting the auxiliary reservoir
with the chamber of the housing, facilitating the flow of
electrolyte fluid from the auxiliary reservoir to the chamber of
the housing vents for separately venting hydrogen and other gas or
gases produced by the electrolysis, and a filler cap facilitating
the replenishment of electrolyte fluid.
[0011] According to a still further aspect of the invention, there
is provided a device for generating hydrogen for use with an
internal combustion engine, said device including a positive
electrode (anode), powered by electric current, a negative
electrode (cathode) connectable to an electrical ground of the
internal combustion engine, a housing forming a chamber containing
the positive electrode (anode), the negative electrode (cathode),
and an electrolyte fluid that enables electrolysis within said
chamber, a chamber divider separating the positive electrode
(anode) from the negative electrode (cathode), vents for separately
venting hydrogen and other gas or gases produced by the
electrolysis, and a filler cap facilitating the replenishment of
electrolyte fluid, wherein said positive electrode (anode),
negative electrode (cathode), and chamber divider are three
concentric cylinders, the innermost and outermost concentric
cylinders being the electrodes and the intermediate concentric
cylinder being the chamber divider, and wherein the bottom of the
intermediate concentric cylinder is spaced from the bottom of the
housing forming the chamber and a portion of the intermediate
cylinder between the bottom and the level of the electrolyte fluid
is perforated to allow the free flow of electrolyte fluid between
said electrodes.
[0012] The hydrogen gas may be isolated in single or multiple
devices for use in an internal combustion engine, and hydrogen and
oxygen produced may be separated without the expense and
maintenance requirement of filters and without the expense, weight,
and energy requirements of magnets.
[0013] Individual units of the invention may be "stacked" together
in order to boost the amount of hydrogen and oxygen gases produced
as required, for example, with use in larger internal combustion
engines.
[0014] Different electrolytes may be used to manipulate the output
of hydrogen and oxygen gases in order to enhance safety and
minimize any environmental impact.
[0015] Also, the operating temperature of the electrolyte fluid may
be maintained by using engine coolant heat.
[0016] Additionally, a temperature control valve can regulate the
amount of engine coolant heat used to regulate the temperature of
the electrolyte fluid.
[0017] A sensor may be used to indicate a low level of electrolyte
fluid and an indicator in the passenger compartment will alert a
motor vehicle driver that the electrolyte fluid must be
replenished.
[0018] A radiator/reservoir may be provided to keep electrolyte
fluid in the electrolyte chamber at a constant level and
temperature. A thermostat, heating element, and recirculating pump
may all be used to regulate the electrolyte fluid temperature and
to ensure that electrolyte fluid is circulated between the
radiator/reservoir and the chamber for production of hydrogen and
oxygen gases.
[0019] The device is powered by electrical connection with the
electrical circuitry of the internal combustion engine. It may be
connected with the ignition or it may have a separate, toggle-type
switch for activation. The device has a positive (anode) and
negative (cathode) electrode. The positive (anode) electrode is
connected with a positive current connection of the ignition
electrical circuit. The negative (cathode) is connected with an
electrical ground, e.g., the frame of the motor vehicle. The
electrodes are immersed in a chamber containing an electrolyte
fluid.
[0020] The electrolyte fluid is comprised of water and a catalyst.
The chamber is divided by a perforated chamber divider that does
not quite extend to the bottom of the chamber, thereby allowing the
free flow of ions. The chamber divider is perforated in order to
allow the free flow of ions through the electrolyte fluid to said
anode and cathode. An electrical current flows through the
electrolyte fluid, causing ions in the electrolyte fluid through
electrolysis to release hydrogen and oxygen from the electrolyte
fluid. The released hydrogen and oxygen are isolated from each
other so that they may be separately captured. The oxygen and
hydrogen are used as described above.
[0021] The device operating temperature must be maintained at the
optimum in order to ensure that it operates within the correct
parameters. In addition, water in the electrolyte fluid is depleted
during electrolysis, although the amount of depletion is directly
affected by the operating temperature. In order to maintain the
optimum temperature and the optimum amount of electrolyte fluid,
one embodiment of the device uses a radiator/reservoir. The
radiator/reservoir is connected with the chamber in such a fashion
so as to allow the flow of electrolyte fluid from the chamber to
the radiator/reservoir.
[0022] The radiator/reservoir may be supplemented or replaced by an
auxiliary reservoir. The auxiliary reservoir may, for example, be
comprised of a chamber without an anode or cathode and without a
perforated divider. This auxiliary reservoir chamber is connected
with the chamber of the anode, allowing the flow of electrolyte
fluid from the auxiliary reservoir chamber to the anode chamber of
the device.
[0023] The radiator/reservoir may contain a heating element to help
regulate the electrolyte fluid temperature, or the heating element
may be placed on one or both of two lines that allow the flow of
electrolyte fluid from or to the radiator/reservoir. The device may
use a thermostat to help regulate the temperature of the
electrolyte fluid in the chamber. It also may employ a sensor to
determine the level of electrolyte fluid. This sensor may be
located on or in the radiator/reservoir, on or in the chamber, or
on or in the auxiliary reservoir.
[0024] The device may employ a recirculating pump that enables the
circulation of electrolyte fluid from the chamber to the
radiator/reservoir and the auxiliary reservoir, if applicable.
[0025] An alternative embodiment of the present invention employs
one large chamber in which multiple anodes share the same side of
the chamber and multiple cathodes share the other side of the
chamber, separated from each other by the perforated divider.
[0026] Another alternative embodiment of the present invention
employs a single enlarged anode and a single enlarged cathode,
separated from each other in the chamber by the perforated
divider.
[0027] Still another embodiment of the present invention uses three
concentric cylinders, the innermost being the anode, the
intermediate being a perforated divider, and the outermost being
the cathode, with electrolyte fluid flowing between the innermost
anode and the outermost cathode through the perforated divider.
[0028] The capacity of the device to produce hydrogen and oxygen
can be increased by increasing the size of the chamber and the
anode and cathode contained therein and by manipulating the pH
content of the electrolyte fluid. Another way of increasing the
capacity of the device to produce hydrogen and oxygen is to "stack"
the units, that is, any embodiment of the device may be "stacked"
to increase the amount of hydrogen and oxygen produced. This is
accomplished by connecting additional chambers together so that the
anode chambers of the additional chambers share electrolyte fluid,
and the cathode chambers of the additional chambers share
electrolyte fluid. Separation of the produced hydrogen and oxygen
gases is maintained.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] Specific embodiments of the invention will now be described
with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
[0030] FIG. 1 is a section through one embodiment of the
invention;
[0031] FIG. 2 is a part sectional side elevation of a second
embodiment of the invention;
[0032] FIG. 3 is a sectional side view of a modification of part of
the embodiment shown in FIG. 2;
[0033] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of a further modification of part
of the embodiment shown in FIG. 2; and
[0034] FIGS. 5A through 5E schematically show alternative
configurations of a device of the invention.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0035] Turning now to the drawings, in the embodiment shown in FIG.
1, a housing 1 defines a chamber 9 to contain electrolyte fluid 2
introduced through an opening closeable by a fill cap 5. Electrodes
in the form of an anode 3 and a cathode 6 are carried by the
housing and extend downwardly into the chamber for partial
immersion in the electrolyte fluid.
[0036] The positive electrode or anode 3 provides a way for the
positive current to come in contact with the electrolyte fluid and
the negative electrode 6 provides a place for the negative current
to come in contact with the fluid.
[0037] The electrical connectors to the anode and cathode will be
described in greater detail and the electrolytes generated by the
electrodes in the electrolyte fluid produce oxygen and hydrogen
which gases respectively exit through vents 4 and 7. Within the
chamber, the oxygen and hydrogen are kept separate by a chamber
divider 8.
[0038] The electrolyte fluid 2 is produced by mixing a catalyst
with distilled water, which increases the electrical conductivity
of the distilled water. The catalyst may be a number of different
elements: for example, sodium citrate, sodium hydroxide, potassium
hydroxide, or other sodium mixtures or compounds suffice. As the
distilled water is used from the electrolyte fluid, it must be
replenished. The electrolyte fluid as well may be replaced as
required.
[0039] The anode or positive electrode 3 which provides a way for
the positive current to come in contact with the electrolyte fluid,
is powered by the alternator through, for example, an ignition
source of the motor vehicle. Additional power may be provided by
generating electricity through braking of the motor vehicle, by
solar cells, or other means.
[0040] The cathode or negative electrode 6 which provides a place
for the negative current to come in contact with the electrolyte
fluid, is connected to an electrical ground on the motor vehicle,
for example, the motor vehicle frame.
[0041] Four factors affecting electrolysis are the temperature and
pH of the electrolyte fluid, the electrical voltage provided, and
the surface area of the anode and cathode. Increasing the surface
area of the anode and cathode, increasing the electrical current
provided, stabilizing the temperature, and increasing the pH of the
electrolyte fluid increase, in turn, the rate of electrolysis.
[0042] The divider 8 extends downwardly into the electrolyte fluid
and provides a barrier impervious to gas passage above the surface
of the electrolyte fluid. A portion of the divider 8 below the
surface of the electrolyte fluid is perforated and thus separates
the produced hydrogen gas from the produced oxygen gas while
allowing free flowing of ions through the chamber divider.
[0043] The perforated chamber divider 8 does not extend to the
bottom of the chamber 9 in order to allow free flow of ions to and
from the anode and cathode. The perforations of the chamber divider
do not start until about one-third of the way down from the top
(vented end) of the chamber divider to ensure the separation of
gases produced by the anode and the cathode.
[0044] In order to increase the capacity of the system, FIG. 2
shows an embodiment in which a radiator/reservoir 13 houses
electrolyte fluid at a temperature for the production of hydrogen
and oxygen gases at constant output. The size of the
radiator/reservoir varies with the amount of electrolyte fluid that
must be cooled. In addition, the radiator/reservoir has a heating
element 15 to heat the electrolyte fluid and a recirculating pump
16 to keep the electrolyte fluid flowing from the
radiator/reservoir to the chamber. The heating element does not
necessarily have to be in the radiator and may, alternatively, for
example, be located in the cool electrolyte fluid return line
17.
[0045] A window 10 allows the operator visually to check the
electrolyte level. Preferably, the perforations start at a level
just below the bottom of the window, and extend to the bottom of
the chamber divider.
[0046] The electrolyte fluid in the radiator/reservoir may be
replenished through a filler cap 18 or indirectly through the fill
cap 5.
[0047] Instead of providing a separate radiator/reservoir 13, any
one of the extant vehicle radiators may be used for heat exchange
purposes. For example, the engine coolant radiator, the power
transmission fluid radiator (if independent from the engine coolant
radiator), or the engine oil coolant radiator may be used to cool
the electrolyte fluid.
[0048] Instead of, or in addition to, the viewing window 10, a
sensor 14 monitors the electrolyte fluid level in the
radiator/reservoir and alerts by indicator in the passenger
compartment or elsewhere when said level is low. In a different
embodiment, the sensor may be housed on or in the housing 1, in
addition to or in lieu of being located on or in the
radiator/reservoir 13 or in addition to or in lieu of the window
10.
[0049] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the
radiator/reservoir is sealed and therefore will lack a filler cap
18.
[0050] In operation, the temperature of the electrolyte fluid is
maintained between about 135.degree. to about 155.degree..
preferably at about 145.degree..
[0051] A thermostat 11 controls a gate valve which opens at a
pre-determined temperature, for example 145.degree., thereby
allowing electrolyte fluid to flow through the hot electrolyte
fluid cooling line 12 from the chamber 9 to the radiator/reservoir.
In a different embodiment, there is no thermostat or re-circulating
pump and electrolyte fluid flows freely between the chamber and the
radiator/reservoir.
[0052] The cool electrolyte fluid return line 17 allows the flow of
the cooled electrolyte fluid through the recirculating pump 16 from
the radiator reservoir 13 into the chamber 9. The recirculating
pump 16 may be located at the radiator/reservoir, the housing, or
somewhere on the cool electrolyte fluid return line 17.
[0053] Controlled temperature of the electrolyte fluid is required
for the efficient production of hydrogen. In a cold or freezing
environment, the heating element 15 heats the electrolyte fluid
entering the chamber 9. During this process the thermostat
controlled gate valve is closed. When electrolyte fluid reaches
optimum temperature the thermostat opens the gate valve and the
electrolyte fluid flows through the hot electrolyte fluid cooling
line 12 into the radiator/reservoir 13, cooling the electrolyte
fluid and thereby allowing temperature regulation.
[0054] The electrolyte fluid may be heated to desired operating
temperature by a heat exchanger working in conjunction with the hot
electrolyte fluid cooling line or the cool electrolyte fluid return
line. A temperature control valve or thermostat may be used to
govern the electrolyte fluid temperature by regulating the gate
valve to the heat exchanger.
[0055] In the preferred embodiment, electrolyte fluid extracted
from the chamber and flowing to the radiator reservoir is extracted
from the anode or positive electrode side of housing 1. This
minimizes the amount of hydrogen extracted from the chamber.
Extracting the electrolyte fluid from the cathode or negative
electrode side of housing 1 will draw amounts of oxygen with the
flow of the hot electrolyte fluid, thereby adversely affecting the
ability of the Controller to lean out the fuel mixture.
[0056] The amount of nickel present in the stainless steel of the
cathode is a factor determining the amount of hydrogen produced.
The amount of nickel present in the stainless steel of the anode
and cathode affects resistance to corrosion.
[0057] FIG. 3 is a side elevation, in section, which shows in
greater detail one form of electrodes in a device of the invention.
The anode 103 and cathode 107 are similarly constructed, and depend
from a top surface of the housing 101. Each electrode comprises a
circular or spiral tubular member 133, 136, securely held in
position by fasteners 134, 135 attached to the housing top. As will
be explained, in particular with reference to the embodiment of
FIG. 4, the larger the exposed area of the electrode, the greater
the efficiency of the device. With this in mind, the tubular
members 133, 136 are advantageously corrugated along their length
and by having crests and valleys (corrugations) along the length of
the tubular members, rather than a plain external surface, the area
of the active surface is increased.
[0058] Oxygen and hydrogen generated by electrolysis respectively
exit the housing through oxygen outlet 104 and hydrogen outlet 107.
Also, line 112 leads from the housing to a radiator/reservoir (not
shown) and a return line 117 from the radiator/reservoir enters the
housing 101.
[0059] A thermostat 111 senses the temperature of the electrolyte
fluid and, for example, by means of a gate valve, controls flow of
the electrolyte fluid from the chamber within the housing to the
line 112.
[0060] Replenishment of electrolyte fluid can be effected through
an opening closeable by a fill cup 105.
[0061] A divider 109 extends down into the housing 101 between the
electrodes (anode and cathode) and, as explained in the foregoing
paragraphs with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the divider provides a
barrier which is impervious to gaseous flow above the level of the
electrolyte fluid within the chamber, is perforated at locations
below the level of the fluid but is spaced from the bottom of the
housing.
[0062] FIG. 3 also shows hookups 140,141 for coupling to adjacent
units whereby such units can be "stacked" and coupled anode to
anode: cathode to cathode to provide a composite "powerpack" for
increasing the amount of hydrogen and oxygen generated.
[0063] It has already been explained how the efficiency of the
device of the invention will be increase if the anode and cathode
present enlarged exposed working surfaces. FIG. 4 of the drawings
shows an embodiment in which composite electrodes (anode 403 and
cathode 406) extend lengthwise in a housing 401. Each electrode
comprises a plurality of plates 403', 406', stacked side by side
and securely held together by elongated metal sheets 434, 435. The
sheets can be welded, clamped or otherwise secured to the stacked
plates to present two elongated electrodes (anode 403 and cathode
406) having rectangular upper, lower, and side surfaces and thereby
presenting an enlarged exposed area for contact by the electrolyte
fluid.
[0064] Oxygen outlet 404, hydrogen outlet 407, and fill cap 405
correspond to the components 104, 107, and 105 of the embodiment
described with reference to FIG. 3. Similarly, thermostat 411, line
412, and return line 417 correspond to the components 111, 412, and
117 of the embodiment of FIG. 3; and hookups 440 and 441 serve to
couple to adjacent units whereby the units can be stacked for
increasing the amount of hydrogen and oxygen generated.
[0065] FIGS. 5A through 5E schematically show alternative
configurations for the device housing.
[0066] In FIG. 5A, three separate housings 201, 201', 201'' are
coupled or "stacked" together with each housing having an anode and
a cathode separated by a divider 209, 209', and 209''. This
essentially is a schematic showing of three of the devices of the
embodiment in FIG. 1 coupled or stacked together.
[0067] FIG. 5B shows a single elongated housing 301 having three
separate pairs of anodes and cathodes coupled in series (anode to
anode to anode; and cathode to cathode to cathode) separated by a
divider 309 as described.
[0068] The embodiment shown in FIG. 5C is similar to that shown in
FIG. 5B but includes an enlarged single elongated anode and an
enlarged single elongated cathode separated by a divider 409 within
a housing 401. This essentially is the embodiment shown in FIG. 4
of the drawings.
[0069] FIG. 5D shows the embodiment of FIG. 2 of the drawings in
which a housing 501 accommodates an anode and a cathode separated
by a divider 509 within the housing 501 coupled to a
radiator/reservoir 513 in the manner described with reference to
FIG. 2 of the drawings.
[0070] Finally, FIG. 5E shows a device made up of three concentric
cylinders. The innermost cylinder constitutes and anode 603 and the
outermost cylinder constitutes a cathode 606. The concentric
cylinder between the anode and the cathode provides a divider 609
which is perforated at locations below the level of an electrolyte
fluid and which terminates short of the bottom of the housing in
which the device of FIG. 5E is accommodated.
[0071] The internal combustion engine may run off hydrogen only. In
other words, the on-board production of hydrogen by this invention
may be the sole source of fuel, in lieu of fossil fuels. In this
instance, a sufficient amount of hydrogen produced by the invention
must be stored in a pressurized container for starting the motor
vehicle and production of hydrogen. The internal combustion engine
must be engineered for burning only hydrogen.
* * * * *