U.S. patent application number 12/256903 was filed with the patent office on 2009-02-19 for hydrogen-oxygen gas generator and hydrogen-oxygen gas generating method thereof.
Invention is credited to Ryushin OMASA.
Application Number | 20090045049 12/256903 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 18983056 |
Filed Date | 2009-02-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090045049 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
OMASA; Ryushin |
February 19, 2009 |
HYDROGEN-OXYGEN GAS GENERATOR AND HYDROGEN-OXYGEN GAS GENERATING
METHOD THEREOF
Abstract
A hydrogen-oxygen gas generator comprising an electrolytic cell,
an electrode group formed from an anode and a cathode mutually
installed in that electrolytic cell, a power supply for applying a
voltage across the anode and cathode, a gas trapping means for
collecting the hydrogen-oxygen gas generated by electrolyzing the
electrolyte fluid and a vibration-stirring means. The gas trapping
means is comprised of a lid member installed on the electrolytic
cell, a hydrogen-gas extraction tube connecting to the
hydrogen-oxygen gas extraction outlet of that lid member. A
vibration-stirring means for stirring and agitating the
electrolytic fluid is supported by support tables. The distance
between the adjacent positive electrode and negative electrode
within the electrode group is set within a range of 1 to 20
millimeters. The vibration-stirring means is comprised of vibrating
motors vibrating at 10 to 200 Hertz, and vibrating blades vibrating
within the electrolytic cell and unable to rotate are attached to a
vibrating rod linked to the vibrating motors.
Inventors: |
OMASA; Ryushin;
(Fujisawa-shi, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FROMMER LAWRENCE & HAUG
745 FIFTH AVENUE- 10TH FL.
NEW YORK
NY
10151
US
|
Family ID: |
18983056 |
Appl. No.: |
12/256903 |
Filed: |
October 23, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10476195 |
Oct 28, 2003 |
7459071 |
|
|
PCT/JP02/04400 |
May 2, 2002 |
|
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12256903 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
204/273 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y02E 60/36 20130101;
C25B 15/00 20130101; C25B 9/00 20130101; C25B 11/00 20130101; C25B
1/04 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
204/273 |
International
Class: |
C25D 17/00 20060101
C25D017/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 2, 2001 |
JP |
2001-135627 |
Claims
1. A hydrogen-oxygen gas generator comprising an electrolytic cell,
an electrode group formed from a first electrode and a second
electrode mutually installed in said electrolytic cell, a power
supply for applying a voltage across said first electrode and said
second electrode, and a gas trapping means for collecting the
hydrogen-oxygen gas generated by electrolyzing the electrolyte
fluid stored within said electrolytic cell, wherein said generator
further contains a vibration-stirring means for stirring and
agitating said electrolytic fluid stored within aid electrolytic
cell, and the distance between adjacent said first electrode and
said second electrode adjacently installed within said electrode
group is set within a range of 1 to 20 millimeters.
2. A hydrogen-oxygen gas generator according to claim 1, wherein
said gas trapping means is comprised of a lid member installed on
said electrolytic cell, and a hydrogen-gas extraction tube
connecting to the hydrogen-oxygen gas extraction outlet formed on
said lid member.
3. A hydrogen-oxygen gas generator according to claim 1, wherein
said vibration-stirring means is comprised of a vibration
generating means containing vibrating motors, and a vibrating rod
is linked to the vibration generating means for vibrating within
the electrolytic cell, and blades unable to rotate are installed on
at least one level of said vibrating rod, and the vibrating motors
vibrate at 10 to 200 Hertz.
4. A hydrogen-oxygen gas generator according to claim 3, wherein
said vibration generating means is installed with a vibration
absorbing material on the upper side of said electrolytic cell.
5. A hydrogen-oxygen gas generator according to claim 3, wherein
said vibration generating means is supported by support tables
separate from said electrolytic cell.
6. A hydrogen-oxygen gas generator according to claim 3, wherein
said gas trapping means is comprised of a lid member installed on
said electrolytic cell and a hydrogen-gas extraction tube
connecting to a hydrogen-oxygen gas extraction outlet formed on
said lid member, and said vibrating rod extends through said lid
member, and a sealing means between said lid member and said
vibrating rod allows vibration of the vibrating rod and also
prevents the passage of hydrogen-oxygen gas.
7. A hydrogen-oxygen gas generator according to claim 1, wherein at
least one of either said first electrode or said second electrode
contain multiple holes. In the first aspect of the invention, the
power source is a direct current pulse power source
8. A hydrogen-oxygen gas generator according to claim 1, wherein
said power supply is a direct current pulse power supply.
Description
[0001] This application is a division of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 10/476,195 filed Oct. 28, 2003 entitled "Hydrogen-Oxygen
Gas Generator and Method of Generating Hydrogen-Oxygen Gas Using
the Generator" which is a 371 of PCT/JP02/04400 filed on May 2,
2002, published on Nov. 14, 2002 under publication number WO
02/090621 A1 and claims priority benefits of Japanese Patent
Application No. 2001-135627 filed May 2, 2001, the disclosures of
which are hereby incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for
generating hydrogen-oxygen gas, and relates in particular to a
hydrogen-oxygen gas generator and hydrogen-oxygen gas generating
method for highly efficient generation of hydrogen-oxygen gas.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] Electrolysis or electrolytic technology was pioneered by
Faraday. The electrolysis of water is known to produce a
hydrogen-oxygen gas in a ratio of two parts hydrogen to one part
oxygen. Research on hydrogen-oxygen gas has continued up to the
present time. One example of a practical technology is a gas
generating apparatus developed by Dr. Yull Brown of Brown Energy
System Technology PTY. LTD. of Australia. Patent document relating
to this technology is disclosed in Japanese Utility Model
Registration 3037633.
[0006] In this technology, the structure of the electrolytic cell
for generating the hydrogen-oxygen gas is comprised of multiple
electrode plates formed with mutually perpendicular electrolytic
fluid flow holes and gas flow holes at the top and bottom in the
center, and formed with bolt holes on four sides; multiple
alternately coupled spacers formed with bolt housing holes
protruding outwards between the electrode plates, and O-rings
inserted on the spacer inner circumferential surface for sealing of
the filled electrolytic fluid; and electrolytic cell cover plates
holding electrical current conducting bolts and gas coupling
nipples and electrolytic fluid coupling nipples are mounted on both
sides of the electrode plates, and an electrode plate tightened by
nuts to a stay bolt enclosed by bolt holes of the electrolytic cell
cover plates and spacer bolt housing holes, electrode plate bolt
holes, with the spacer and electrolytic cell cover plates mutually
joined together.
[0007] However, in the method of the related art, the shortest
possible distance between the adjacent electrode plates within this
kind of electrolytic cell was a gap of 50 millimeters just
sufficient to prevent electrical shorts. An even shorter distance
between electrode plates tended to cause accidents due to excessive
current flow. The efficiency of the apparatus and method of the
related art was therefore limited when producing hydrogen-oxygen
gas by increasing the electrical current density. The related art
therefore had the problem that adequate efficiency could not be
provided.
[0008] On the other hand, since the size of each electrolytic cell
was limited, the amount of hydrogen-oxygen gas produced by one
hydrogen-oxygen gas generator was also limited. In view of
practical needs, preferably a device with as small a size as
possible, preferably produces as much hydrogen-oxygen gas as
possible per unit of time. However, the apparatus of the related
art could not satisfy the dual needs of both a compact size and
generation of larger amounts of hydrogen-oxygen gas.
[0009] In view of the problems with the related art, the present
invention provides increased amounts of hydrogen-oxygen gas per
electrode unit surface area per unit of time by improving
electrolyzing conditions and boosting hydrogen-oxygen gas
generating efficiency, to enable production of larger
hydrogen-oxygen gas quantities from each generator apparatus and a
more compact apparatus.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] To achieve the objects of the invention the present
invention provides a hydrogen-oxygen gas generator comprising an
electrolytic cell, an electrode group formed from a first electrode
and a second electrode mutually installed in that electrolytic
cell, a power supply for applying a voltage across the first
electrode and a second electrode, a gas trapping means for
collecting the hydrogen-oxygen gas generated by electrolyzing the
electrolyte fluid stored within the electrolytic cell wherein
said generator further contains a vibration-stirring means for
stirring and agitating the electrolytic fluid stored within the
electrolytic cell, and the distance between the adjacent first
electrode and a second electrode adjacently installed within the
electrode group is set within a range of 1 to 20 millimeters.
[0011] In a first aspect of the invention, a gas trapping means is
comprised of a lid member installed on the electrolytic cell, and a
hydrogen-oxygen gas extraction tube connecting to the
hydrogen-oxygen gas extraction outlet formed on that lid
member.
[0012] In a first aspect of the invention, the vibration-stirring
means is comprised of a vibration generating means containing
vibrating motors, a vibrating rod is linked to the vibration
generating means for vibrating within the electrolytic cell, and
vibrating blades unable to rotate, are installed on at least one
level of the vibrating rod, and the vibrating motors vibrate at 10
to 200 Hertz. In the first aspect of the invention, the vibration
generating means is installed with a vibration absorbing material
on the upper side of the electrolytic cell. In the first aspect of
the invention, the vibration generating means is supported by
support tables separate from the electrolytic cell. In the first
aspect of the invention, the gas trapping means is comprised of a
lid member installed on the electrolytic cell, and a
hydrogen-oxygen gas extraction tube connecting to the
hydrogen-oxygen gas extraction outlet formed on that lid member,
and the vibrating rod extends through the lid member, and a sealing
means between the lid member and the vibrating rod allows vibration
of the vibrating rod and also prevents the passage of
hydrogen-oxygen gas.
[0013] In the first aspect of the invention, at least one of either
the first electrode or the second electrode contain multiple holes.
In the first aspect of the invention, the power source is a direct
current pulse power source.
[0014] To achieve the objects of the invention the present
invention provides a hydrogen-oxygen gas generating method wherein
said method utilizes a hydrogen-oxygen gas generator as described
above, and utilizes electrolyte fluid consisting of 5 to 10 percent
weight by volume of electrolytic material at pH7 to 10 at 20 to 70
degrees centigrade, to perform electrolysis of the electrolyte
fluid to reach an electrical current density of 5 A/dm.sup.2 to 20
A/dm.sup.2.
[0015] In the first aspect of the invention, the electrolysis is
performed in an electrolytic cell sealed by a lid member. In the
first aspect of the invention, the electrolytic material is a
water-soluble alkali metal hydroxide or an alkali rare-earth metal
hydroxide. In the first aspect of the invention, the power source
is a direct current pulse power source.
[0016] In the first aspect of the invention, the vibrating blades
of the vibration-stirring means cause a powerful vibrating flow
movement in the electrolytic fluid so that the electrolytic fluid
can make contact with the electrodes with ample, satisfactory
uniformity and also an adequate supply quantity. Therefore even if
the gap between the anode and the cathode is drastically reduced to
a distance even smaller than in the related art, ions can still be
supplied in an adequate quantity required for electrolysis, and the
electrolytic heat generated in the electrodes can be quickly
dissipated. Electrolysis can therefore be performed at a high
electrical current density so that hydrogen-oxygen gas can be
collected with high efficiency. Further, by reducing the distance
between the cathode and anode as described above, the effective
surface area of the electrodes can be sufficiently increased per
volumetric unit so that ample quantities of hydrogen-oxygen gas can
be generated even if the electrolytic cells are made more
compact.
[0017] In particular, when performing electrolysis by vibrating and
agitating the electrolyte fluid using the vibration-stirring means,
the hydrogen and oxygen generated in the vicinity of the electrodes
is carried to the electrolyte fluid surface and transitions to a
gaseous state before forming gas bubbles. Therefore, there is no
problem with the hydrogen and oxygen generated in the electrolyte
fluid adhering to the surface of the electrodes and increasing the
electrical resistance. Therefore electrolysis with a high
electrical current density as described above can easily be
achieved.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] FIG. 1 is a cross sectional drawing showing the
hydrogen-oxygen gas generator of the present invention:
[0019] FIG. 2 is a flat view of the hydrogen-oxygen gas generator
of FIG. 1;
[0020] FIG. 3 is a side view of the apparatus of FIG. 1;
[0021] FIG. 4. is an enlarged fragmentary view of the apparatus of
FIG. 1;
[0022] FIG. 5A is a perspective view showing the structure of the
electrode group;
[0023] FIG. 5B is a front view showing the structure of the
electrode group;
[0024] FIG. 6A is a front view showing the insulation frame
comprising the electrode group;
[0025] FIG. 6B is a front view showing the electrodes comprising
the electrode group;
[0026] FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross sectional view showing the
attachment of the vibrating rod onto the vibrating member of the
apparatus of FIG. 1;
[0027] FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross sectional view showing a
variation of the attachment of the vibrating rod onto the vibrating
member;
[0028] FIG. 9 is an enlarged cross sectional view of the vibrating
blade attachment onto the vibrating rod of the apparatus of FIG.
1;
[0029] FIG. 10 is a flat view showing a variation of the vibrating
blade and the clamping member;
[0030] FIG. 11 is a flat view showing a variation of the vibrating
blade and the clamping member;
[0031] FIG. 12 is a flat view showing a variation of the vibrating
blade and the clamping member;
[0032] FIG. 13 is a flat view showing a variation of the vibrating
blade and the clamping member;
[0033] FIG. 14 is a graph showing the relation between vibrating
blade length and flutter;
[0034] FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view showing a variation of the
vibration stirring means;
[0035] FIG. 16 is a cross sectional view showing a variation of the
vibration stirring means;
[0036] FIG. 17 is a cross sectional view showing a variation of the
vibration stirring means;
[0037] FIG. 18 is a cross sectional view showing a variation of the
vibration stirring means;
[0038] FIG. 19 is a cross sectional view showing a variation of the
vibration stirring means;
[0039] FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view showing another
installation state of the vibration stirring means onto the
electrolytic cell of the present invention;
[0040] FIG. 21 is a cross sectional view of the apparatus shown in
FIG. 20;
[0041] FIG. 22 is a flat view of the apparatus shown in FIG.
20;
[0042] FIG. 23A through FIG. 23C are flat views of the laminated
piece;
[0043] FIG. 24A and FIG. 24B are cross sectional views showing the
state of the sealed electrolytic cell by the laminated piece;
[0044] FIG. 25A through FIG. 25E are cross sectional view of the
laminated piece;
[0045] FIG. 26 is a fragmentary view of the gas trapping means of
the hydrogen-oxygen gas generator of the present invention;
[0046] FIG. 27 is a concept view showing one example of the gas
combustion device utilizing the hydrogen-oxygen gas collected by
the hydrogen-oxygen gas generator;
[0047] FIG. 28 is a cross sectional view showing a variation of the
vibration stirring means;
[0048] FIG. 29 is a perspective view showing a variation of the lid
member.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0049] The preferred embodiments of the present invention are
described next while referring to the drawings. In the drawings,
members or sections having identical functions are assigned the
same reference numerals.
[0050] FIG. 1 through FIG. 3 are drawings showing the structure of
the embodiment of the hydrogen-oxygen gas generator for
implementing the hydrogen-oxygen gas generating method of the
present invention. Of these figures, FIG. 1 is a cross sectional
view, FIG. 2 is a flat view, and FIG. 3 is a side view.
[0051] In these figures, reference numeral 10A denotes the
electrolytic cell. The electrolytic cell contains electrolytic
fluid 14. Reference numeral 16 is the vibration-stirring means. The
vibration-stirring means 16 is comprised of a base 16a installed
via anti-vibration rubber onto a support bed 100 separate from the
electrolytic cell 10a, a coil spring 16b as a vibration absorbing
material installed with the bottom edge clamped to the base (16a),
a vibration member 16c clamped to the top edge of that coil spring,
vibration motor 16d installed on that vibration member, a vibrating
rod (vibration transmission rod) 16e installed on the top edge of
the vibration member 16c, and a vibrating blade 16f unable to
rotate, and installed at multiple levels at a position immersed in
the electrolytic fluid 14 at the lower half of the vibrating rod
16. A vibration generating means contains a vibration motor 16d and
a vibration member 16c. That vibration generating means is linked
to the vibrating rod 16e. A rod-shaped guide member can be
installed within the coil spring 16b as described later on in FIG.
16 and elsewhere.
[0052] The vibration motors 16d vibrate at 10 to 200 Hertz under
control for example of an inverter and preferably vibrate at 20 to
60 Hertz. The vibration generated by the vibration motors 16d is
transmitted to the vibrating blade 16f by way of the vibrating
member 16c and the vibrating rod 16e. The tips of the vibrating
blades 16f vibrate at the required frequency inside the
electrolytic fluid 14. The vibrating blades 16f generate a
"rippling" oscillation to the tips, from the section where
installed onto the vibrating rod 16e. The amplitude and frequency
of this vibration are different from that of the vibrating motors
16d, and are determined by the mechanical characteristics of the
vibration transmission path and the mutual interaction with the
electrolytic fluid 14. In the present invention, the amplitude is
preferably 0.1 to 15.0 millimeters and the frequency is 200 to
1,000 times per minute.
[0053] FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross sectional view showing the
installation of the vibrating rod 16e attachment piece 111 onto the
vibrating member 16c. The nuts 16i1, 16i2 are fit from the top side
of vibration member 16c, by way of the vibration strain dispersion
member 16g1 and washer 16h, onto the male screw section formed at
the top end of vibrating rod 16e. The nuts 16i3, 16i4 are fit by
way of the vibration strain dispersion member 16g2 from the bottom
side (onto the screw section) of the vibration member 16c. The
vibration strain dispersion member 16g1, 16g2 are utilized as a
vibration stress dispersion means made for example from rubber. The
vibration strain dispersion member 16g1, 16g2 can be made from a
hard resilient piece for example of natural rubber, hard synthetic
rubber, or plastic with a Shore A hardness of 80 to 120 and
preferably 90 to 100. Hard urethane rubber with a Shore A hardness
of 90 to 100 is particularly preferably in view of its durability
and resistance to chemicals. Utilizing the vibration stress
dispersion means prevents vibration stress from concentrating on
the near side of the junction of vibrating member c and the
vibrating rode 16e, and makes the vibrating rod 16e more difficult
to break. Raising the vibration frequency of the vibrating motors
16d to 100 Hertz or higher is particularly effective in preventing
breakage of the vibrating rod 16e.
[0054] FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross sectional view showing a
variation of the vibrating rod 16e attachment piece 111 onto the
vibrating member 16c. This variation differs from the attachment
piece of FIG. 7, only in that the vibration strain dispersion
member 16g1 is not installed on the top side of the vibration
member 16c and in that there is a spherical spacer 16x between the
vibration member 16c and the vibration strain dispersion member
16g. In all other respects the variation is identical to FIG.
7.
[0055] FIG. 9 is an enlarged cross sectional view of the vibrating
blade. 16f attachment onto the vibrating rod 16e. A vibrating blade
clamp member 16j is installed on both the top and bottom sides of
each vibrating blade 16f Spacer rings 16k are installed for setting
the spacing between the vibrating blades 16f by means of clamp
members 16j. A nut 16m is screwed on to the vibrating rod 16e
formed as a male screw with or without spacer rings 16k as shown in
FIG. 1, on the upper side of the topmost section of vibrating blade
16t and the lower side of the bottom-most section of the vibrating
blade 16f. As shown in FIG. 9, the breakage of the vibrating blade
16f can be prevented by installing a resilient member sheet 16p as
the vibration dispersion means made from fluorine plastic or
fluorine rubber between each vibrating blade 16f and clamping
member 16j. The resilient member sheet 16p is preferably installed
to protrude outwards somewhat from the clamping member 16j in order
to further enhance the breakage prevention effect of the vibrating
blade 16f. As shown in the figure, the lower surface (press-contact
surface) of the upper side of clamping member 16j is formed with a
protruding surface, and the upper surface (press contact surface)
of the lower side clamping member 16j is formed with a recessed
surface. The section of the vibrating blade 16f compressed from
above and below by the clamping member 16j is in this way forced in
a curved shape, and the tip of the vibrating blade 16f forms an
angle .alpha. versus the horizontal surface. This .alpha. angle can
be set to -30 degrees or more and 30 degrees or less, and
preferably is -20 degrees or more and 20 degrees or less. The
.alpha. angle in particular is -30 degrees or more and -5 degrees
or less, or is 5 degrees or more and 30 degrees or less, and
preferably is -20 degrees or more and -10 degrees or less, or is 10
degrees or more and 20 degrees or less. The .alpha.. angle is 0 if
the clamping member 16j (press contact) surface is flat. The
.alpha. angle need not be the same for all the vibrating blades
16f. For example, the lower 1 to 2 blades of vibrating blade 16f
may be set to a minus value (in other words, facing downwards:
facing as shown in FIG. 9) and all other blades of vibrating blade
16f set to a plus value (in other words facing upwards: the reverse
of the value shown in FIG. 9).
[0056] FIG. 10 through FIG. 13 are flat views showing variations of
the vibrating blade 16f and the clamping member 16j. In the
variations in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11, the vibrating blade 16f may be
comprised of two short overlapping strips crossing each other and,
or may cut out in a cross shape from one sheet as shown in the
drawing.
[0057] Resilient metal plate, plastic plate or rubber plate may be
utilized as the vibrating blade 16f. A satisfactory thickness range
for the vibrating blade 16f differs according to the vibration
conditions and viscosity of the electrolytic fluid 14. However,
during operation of the vibration-stirring means 16, the vibrating
blades should be set so the tips of the vibrating blades 16f
provide an oscillation (flutter phenomenon) for increasing the
stirring (or agitating) efficiency, without breaking the vibrating
blade. If the vibrating blade 16f is made from metal plate such as
stainless steel plate, then the thickness can be set from 0.2 to 2
millimeters. If the vibrating blade 16f is made from plastic plate
or rubber plate then the thickness can be set from 0.5 to 10
millimeters. The vibrating blade 16f and clamping member 16j can be
integrated into one piece. Integrating them into one piece avoids
the problem of having to wash away electrolytic fluid 14 that
penetrates into the junction of the vibrating blade 16f and clamp
member 16j and hardens and adheres there.
[0058] The material for the metallic vibrating blade 16f may be
titanium, aluminum, copper, steel, stainless steel, a ferromagnetic
metal such as ferromagnetic steel, or an alloy of these metals. The
material for the plastic vibrating blade 16f may be polycarbonate,
vinyl chloride resin, polyprophylene.
[0059] The extent of the "flutter phenomenon" generated by the
vibrating blade that accompanies the vibration of vibrating blade
16f within the electrolytic fluid 14 will vary depending on the
vibration frequency of the vibration motors 16d, the length of the
vibrating blade 16f (dimension from the tip of clamping member 16j
to the tip of vibrating blade 16f), and thickness, and viscosity
and specific gravity of the electrolytic fluid 14, etc. The length
and thickness of the "fluttering" vibrating blade 16f can be well
selected based on the applied frequency. By making the vibration
frequency of vibrating motor 16d and thickness of vibrating blade
16f fixed values, and then varying the length of vibrating blade
16f, the extent of vibrating blade flutter will be as shown in FIG.
14. In other words, the flutter will increase up to a certain stage
as the length of vibrating blade 16f is increased, but when that
point is exceeded, the extent F of the flutter will become smaller.
As shown in this graph, at a certain length the flutter will be
almost zero and if the blade is further lengthened the flutter
increase and this process continuously repeats itself.
[0060] Preferably a length L.sub.1 shown as the No. 1 peak or a
length L.sub.2 shown as the No. 2 peak is selected for the
vibrating blade length. L.sub.1 or L.sub.3 can be selected
according to whether one wants to boost the path vibration or the
flow. When L3 shown as the No. 3 peak was selected, the amplitude
will tend to diminish.
[0061] The above described vibration-stirring means 16 can be used
in the vibration-stirring machines (stirrer apparatus) as described
in the following documents (These are patent applications relating
to the invention of the present inventors.), as well as in JP-B
135628/2001, JP-B 338422/2001 patent applications of the present
inventors.
TABLE-US-00001 JP-A 275130/1991 (U.S. Pat. No. 1941498) JP-A
220697/1994 (U.S. Pat. No. 2707530) JP-A 312124/1994 (U.S. Pat. No.
2762388) JP-A 281272/1996 (U.S. Pat. No. 2767771) JP-A 173785/1996
(U.S. Pat. No. 2852878) JP-A 126896/1995 (U.S. Pat. No. 2911350)
JP-A 40482/1997 (U.S. Pat. No. 2911393) JP-A 189880/1999 (U.S. Pat.
No. 2988624) JP-A 54192/1995 (U.S. Pat. No. 2989440) JP-A
33035/1994 (U.S. Pat. No. 2992177) JP-A 287799/1994 (U.S. Pat. No.
3035114) JP-A 280035/1994 (U.S. Pat. No. 3244334) JP-A 304461/1994
(U.S. Pat. No. 3142417) JP-A 43569/1998 JP-A 369453/1998 JP-A
253782/1999
[0062] In this invention, the vibrating-stirring means 16 as shown
in FIG. 1, may be installed in the electrolytic cells on both ends
or may installed in only one electrolytic cell. If using the
vibrating blades to extend symmetrically to both sides, then the
vibration-stirring means 16 may be installed in the center of the
electrolytic cell, and an electrode group may be installed on both
sides as described later on.
[0063] Using a vibration-stirring means with the vibrating blades
in the bottom of the electrolytic cells as described in JP-A
304461/1994, allows a wider installation space for the electrode
group within the electrolytic cell. Other advantages are that a
larger quantity of gas is emitted from the electrolytic cell
(volume) and if the electrodes are installed in the upward and
downward directions, then there is no need to use multiple holes as
described later on.
[0064] The description now returns to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. In the
present embodiment, a vibration-stirring means 16 as described
above is installed on both ends of the electrolytic cell 10A. Two
identical electrode groups 2x, 2y are installed inside the
electrolytic cell 10A. The electrode groups 2x and 2y have a
structure as shown in FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B. In other words, an anode
71a as a first electrode, and a cathode 71b as a second electrode
are mutually installed in the insulation frame 70. One each anode
71a and one cathode 71b each are shown in FIG. 5A however, the
necessary number of anodes 71a and cathodes 71b required for actual
use (for example, 25 to 50) are installed. FIG. 6A is a drawing
showing the insulation frame 70. FIG. 6B is a drawing showing the
anode 71a.
[0065] The usual material utilized for hydroelectrolyis may be
utilized as the electrode material. Materials such as lead dioxide
(lead peroxide), magnetite, ferrite, graphite, platinum, Pt--Ir
alloy, titanium alloy, titanium with rare-earth sheath (for example
platinum-sheathed titanium) may be used as the anode 71a. Rare
earth metals such as rhodium, nickel, nickel alloy, (Ni--Mo.sub.2,
Ni--Co, Ni--Fe, Ni--Mo--Cd, Ni--Se, Raney nickel, etc.), titanium
alloy may be used as the cathode 71b. Natural rubber, synthetic
rubber, and plastic may be utilized as materials for the insulation
frame 70. A distance is set between the anode 71a and cathode 71b
by the thickness of the insulation frame 70. The thickness of
insulation frame 70 is within a range of 1 to 20 millimeters, and
preferably is 1 to 20 millimeters, and more preferably is 1 to 5
millimeters.
[0066] Since the electrode is shaped as a plate as shown in FIG. 1,
when the electrode is installed at nearly a right angle to the
direction the vibrating blades 16f are facing to cut off the flow
of electrolytic fluid 14 generated by the vibration (or agitation)
of the vibrating blade 16f of the vibration-stirring means; then
multiple small holes 74 must be formed in the electrodes (anode 71a
and cathode 71b) as shown in FIG. 5B and FIG. 6B. The electrolytic
fluid 14 passing through the small holes 74 can in this way flow
smoothly. The holes can be a circular shape or a polygonal shape
and there are no particular restrictions on the shape. The size and
number of small holes 74 are preferably set to achieve a balance
between both the basic purpose of the electrode and the purpose of
the porosity. The small holes 74 on the electrode preferably have a
surface area of 50 percent or more of the electrode surface in
terms of effective surface area (in other words, surface area
contacting the electrolytic fluid 14). The porous (multi-hole)
electrode may have a net shape.
[0067] If the electrode is installed nearly parallel to the
direction of current flow of the electrolytic fluid 14, then there
is no need to make the electrode porous. However in that case,
rather than a ring shape, the insulation frame 70 may be installed
at several separate points on the electrode periphery or installed
at separate points along the top and bottom edges.
[0068] The anode 71a and cathode 71b are respectively connected to
an anode main bus-bar 71a' and cathode main bus bar 71b' as shown
in FIG. 2. This anode main bus-bar 71a' and cathode main bus bar
71b' are connected to the power supply 34 as shown in FIG. 1.
[0069] The power supply 34 may supply direct current and preferably
supplies normal low-ripple direct current. However, other power
supplies with different waveforms may also be utilized. These types
of electrolysis current waveforms are described for example, in the
"Electrochemistry" (Society of Japan) Vol. 24, P. 398-403, and
pages 449-456 of same volume, the "Electroplating Guide" by the
Federation of Electro Plating Industry Association, Japan" Apr. 15,
1996, P. 378-385, the "Surface Technology Compilation" issued by
Koshinsha (Corp.) Jun. 15, 1983, P. 301-302, same volume P.
517-527, same volume P. 1050-1053, the Nikkan Kogyo Shinbun
"Electroplating Technology Compilation" P 365-369 Jul. 25, 1971,
same volume P. 618-622, etc.
[0070] In the present invention, among the various pulse waveforms,
a rectangular waveform pulse is preferable, particularly in view of
the improved energy efficiency. This type of power supply (power
supply apparatus) can create voltages with rectangular waveforms
from an AC (alternating current) voltage. This type of power supply
further has a rectifier circuit utilizing for example transistors
and is known as a pulse power supply. The rectifier for these type
of power supplies may be a transistor regulated power supply, a
dropper type power supply, a switching power supply, a silicon
rectifier, an SCR type rectifier, a high-frequency rectifier, an
inverter digital-controller rectifier, (for example, the Power
Master made by Chuo Seisakusho (Corp.)), the KAS Series made by
Sansha Denki (Corp.), the RCV power supply made by Shikoku Denki
Co., a means for supplying rectangular pulses by switching
transistors on and off and comprised of a switching regulator power
supply and transistor switch, a high frequency switching power
supply (for using diodes to change the alternating current into
direct current, add a 20 to 30 KHz high frequency waveform, and
with power transistors apply transforming, once again rectify the
voltage, and extract a smooth (low-ripple) output), a PR type
rectifier, a high-frequency control type high-speed pulse PR power
supply (for example, a HiPR Series (Chiyoda Corp.), etc.
[0071] The voltage supplied to each electrode is preferably as
uniform as possible. Condensers should preferably be installed at
each electrode to ensure this uniform voltage. The voltage applied
between the anode 71a and the cathode 71b should be the same as
during normal electrolysis of the water.
[0072] The electrolytic fluid 14 is water containing electrolytic
material. Here, a soluble alkali metal hydroxide (KOH, NaOH, etc.)
or an alkali rare-earth metal hydroxide (for example, Ba(OH).sub.2,
Mg(OH).sub.2, Ca(OH).sub.2, etc.) or a ammonium alkyl 4
(tetra-alkylammonium), and materials of the known related art may
be used as the electrolytic material. Among these KOH is
preferable. The content of electrolytic material in the
electrolytic fluid is preferably 5 to 10 percent. The pH of the
electrolytic fluid is preferably 7 to 10 percent.
[0073] The lid member 10b is installed on the upper section of the
electrolytic cell 10A as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. A
hydrogen-oxygen gas extraction outlet 10B' is formed for collecting
the hydrogen-oxygen gas generated by that lid member. A
hydrogen-oxygen gas extraction tube 10B'' is connected to that
extraction outlet 10B'. The hydrogen-oxygen gas trapping means is
comprised of this lid member 10B and hydrogen-oxygen gas extraction
tube 10B''.
[0074] The material for the electrolytic cell 10A and lid member
10B may for example be stainless steel, copper, another metal, or
plastic (synthetic resin) such as polycarbonate.
[0075] The vibrating rod 16e of the vibration-stirring means 16
extends upwards and downwards through the lid member 10B. As shown
in FIG. 4, the opening formed in the lid member 10B section for the
vibrating rod 16e can be an airtight seal. This airtight seal
comprises a flexible member 10C made for example of rubber plate
and installed between the clamp member attached to the inner edge
of the opening formed in the lid member 10B, and the clamp member
attached to the outer surface of the vibrating rod 16e. The means
for forming an airtight seal may also be an inner ring of a support
bearing attached to vibrating rod 16e, an outer ring of said
support bearing attached to the inner edge of the opening in lid
member 10B, and the inner ring is movable up and down along the
(rod) stroke versus the outer ring. A stroke unit of this type may
for example be the NS-A model (product name) and NS model (product
name) made by THK (Corp.). The airtight sealing means may be a
rubber plate installed only in the opening in the lid member 10B
that the vibrating rod 16e passes through, or may be a laminated
piece, etc. Rubber, and in particular soft rubber with good shape
forming capability may for example be utilized as this sealing
means. The vibration width of the vertically oscillating vibrating
rod is usually 20 millimeters or less, preferably is 10 millimeters
or less, and a width of 5 millimeters is particularly preferable.
That (vibration width) lower limit is 0.1 millimeter or more and
preferably is about 0.5 millimeters or more. By using a suitable
material such as rubber as the sealing member, follow-up motion can
be achieved, a satisfactory airtight state obtained with little
friction heat.
[0076] The electrolysis is preferably performed at a fluid
temperature of 20 to 70.degree. C. and an electrical current
density of 5 to 20 A/dm.sup.2. As shown by FIG. 26, the
hydrogen-oxygen gas generated by electrolysis is extracted by way
of a seal port 10B''' connected to the gas extraction tube 10B''.
The seal port 10B''' also comprises the gas trapping means. FIG. 27
shows a typical gas combustion device utilizing the hydrogen-oxygen
gas recovered from this gas generator. The hydrogen-oxygen gas is
collected in the required quantity in the accumulator and passed
through a moisture remover and fire preventer before being supplied
to the combustion nozzle. This combustion device can be utilized in
boilers, gas cutoff equipment, generators, and power sources for
aircraft, automobiles, and ships, etc.
[0077] The hydrogen-oxygen gas generated by this invention is also
known as the so-called brown gas. This gas does not require air for
combustion and therefore does not generate environmental pollutants
such as nitrous oxides during combustion.
[0078] FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view showing a variation of the
vibrating-stirring means. In this example, the base 16a is clamped
to the installation bed 40 on the upper part of the electrolytic
cell 10A by way of the vibration absorbing member 41. A rod-shaped
guide member 43 is clamped to the installation bed 40 to extend
perpendicularly upwards. This guide member 43 is installed
(positioned) within the coil spring 16b. A transistor inverter 35
for controlling the frequency of the vibration motor 16d is
installed between the vibration motor 16d and the power supply 136
for driving that motor 16d. The power supply 136 is for example 200
volts. The drive means for this vibration motor 16d can also be
used in the other embodiments of the present invention.
[0079] FIG. 16 is a cross sectional view showing a variation of the
vibrating-stirring means. In this example, a rod-shaped upper guide
member 144 clamped to a vibrating member 16c, extends downwards in
a direction perpendicular to the vibrating member 16c. A rod-shaped
lower guide member 145 clamped to the installation bed 40 extends
upwards in a direction perpendicular to the installation bed 40.
These guide members 144, 145 are installed (positioned) within the
coil spring 16b. A suitable space is formed between the bottom edge
of the upper side guide member 144, and the upper edge of the lower
side guide member 145 to allow vibration of the vibrating member
16c.
[0080] FIG. 17 is a cross sectional view showing a variation of the
vibrating-stirring means. In this example, the vibration motor 16d
is installed on the lower side of a vibration member 16c' attached
to the upper side of the vibration member 16. The vibration rod 16e
branches into two sections 134 inside the electrolytic cell 10A.
The vibrating blades 16f are installed across these two rod
sections 134.
[0081] FIG. 18 and FIG. 19 are cross sectional views showing a
variation of the vibrating-stirring means. In this example (FIG.
18), the lowest vibrating blade 16f is facing obliquely downwards.
The other vibrating blades 16f are facing obliquely upwards. The
electrolytic fluid 14 nearest the bottom of the electrolytic cell
10A can in this way be adequately vibrated and stirred and
accumulation of fluid in the bottom of the electrolytic cell can be
prevented. The vibrating blades 16f may also all be set facing
obliquely downwards.
[0082] FIG. 20 and FIG. 21 are cross sectional views showing
another installation state of the vibration-sting means onto the
electrolytic cell of the present invention. FIG. 22 is a flat view
of that installation state. FIG. 20 and FIG. 21 are views taken
respectively along lines X-X' and lines Y-Y' of a cross section of
FIG. 22.
[0083] In this state, a laminated piece 3 comprised of a rubber
plate 2 and the metal plates 1, 1' is utilized as the vibration
absorbing member instead of the coil spring 16b. In other words,
the laminated piece 3 is clamped by way of an anti-vibration rubber
112 to a bracket members 118 affixed to an upper edge of
electrolytic cell 10A by using the metal plate 1' and bolt 131. The
rubber plate 2 is installed on the that metal plate 1', the metal
plate 1 installed on top of that rubber plate 2. This assembly is
then integrated into one piece by the bolts 116 and 117.
[0084] The vibration motor 16d is clamped by a bolt 132 and a
vibration support member 115 to a metal plate 1. The upper edge of
the vibrating rod 16e is installed by way of a rubber ring 119 to
the laminated piece 3 with the metal plate 1 and rubber plate 2. In
other words, the upper metal plate 1 renders the functions of the
vibration member 16c described in FIG. 1 and other embodiments. The
lower metal plate 1' renders the functions of the base 16a
described in FIG. 1 and other embodiments. The laminated piece 3
(mainly the rubber plate 2) containing the metal plates 1, 1'
renders the vibration absorbing functions identical to the coil
spring 16b described in FIG. 1 and other embodiments.
[0085] FIG. 23A through 23C are flat views of the laminated piece
3. In the example in FIG. 23A corresponding to the states in FIG.
20 through FIG. 22, a (through) hole 5 is formed in the laminated
piece 3 to allow passage of the vibrating rod 16e. In the example
in FIG. 23B, the holes 5 on the laminated piece 3 are separated by
a dividing line into two sections 3a and 3b to allow easy passage
of the vibrating rod 16e when assembling the device. In the example
in FIG. 23C, the laminated piece 3 forms a ring-shape corresponding
to the upper edge of the electrolytic cell 10A and an opening 6 is
formed in the center section.
[0086] In the examples in FIG. 23A and FIG. 23B, the upper edge of
the electrolytic cell 10A is sealed by the laminated piece 3. The
laminated piece 3 in this way functions the same as the lid member
10B.
[0087] FIG. 24A and FIG. 24B are cross sectional views showing the
state of the electrolytic cell sealed by the laminated piece 3. In
FIG. 24A, the rubber plate 2 makes direct contact with the
vibrating rod 16e in (through) holes 5 forming a seal. In FIG. 24B,
a flexible seal member 136 is installed between the vibrating rod
16e and laminated piece 3 to seal the opening 6.
[0088] In FIG. 25A through FIG. 25E, a laminated piece 3 serves as
the vibration absorbing material. In the example in FIG. 25A, the
laminated piece is made up of the metal plate 1 and the rubber
plate 2. In the example in FIG. 25A, the laminated piece 3 is made
up of an upper metal plate 1 and upper rubber plate 2 and lower
metal plate 1' and lower rubber plate 2'. In the example in FIG.
25D, the laminated piece 3 is made up of an upper metal plate 1, an
upper rubber plate 2, an intermediate metal plate 1'', a lower
rubber plate 2' and a lower metal plate 1'. The number of metal
plates and rubber plates in the laminated piece 3 can for example
be from 1 to 5 pieces. In the present invention, the vibration
absorbing member can also be comprised of only the rubber
plate.
[0089] Stainless steel, steel, copper, aluminum and other suitable
alloys may be used as the metal plates 1, 1' and 1''. The thickness
of the metal plate may for example be from 10 to 40 millimeters.
However, metal plate (for example, the intermediate metal plate 1')
not directly clamped to members other than the laminated piece can
be thin with a dimension from 0.3 to 10 millimeters.
[0090] Synthetic rubber or vulcanized natural rubber may be used as
the material for the rubber plates 2 and 2'. The rubber plate 2 and
2' are preferably anti-vibration rubber as specified in JISK6386.
The rubber plate in particular has a static shearing resilience of
4 to 22 kgf/cm.sup.2 and preferably of 5 to 10 kgf/cm.sup.2 and
preferably has an elongation of 250 percent or more. Rubber
specified for use as synthetic rubber includes: chlorophene rubber,
nitrile rubber, nitrile-chlorophene rubber, styrene-chlorophene
rubber, acrylonitrile butadiene rubber, isophrene rubber, ethylene
propylene diene copolymer rubber, epichlorylhydrine rubber,
alkylene oxide rubber, fluorine rubber, silicon rubber, urethane
rubber, polysulfide rubber, phosphorbine rubber. The rubber
thickness is for example 5 to 60 millimeters.
[0091] In the example in FIG. 25E, the laminated piece 3 is made up
an upper metal plate 1, a rubber plate 2 and a lower metal plate 1'
The rubber plate 2 is made up of an upper solid rubber layer 2a and
sponge rubber layer 2b and lower solid rubber layer 2c. One of
either the lower solid rubber layer 2a and 2c may be eliminated. A
stack or lamination comprised of multiple solid rubber layer and
multiple sponge rubber layers may also be used.
[0092] FIG. 28 is a cross sectional view showing a variation of the
vibration stirring means. In this example, the vibration motor 16d
is installed on the side of the electrolytic cell 10A. The
vibration member 16c extends horizontally above the electrolytic
cell 10A, The vibration member 16c is installed onto the vibrating
rod 16e. A structure of this type allows the lid member 10B to be
easily attached or detached from the electrolytic cell 10A.
[0093] FIG. 29 shows a variation of the lid member 10B. In this
example, the lid member 10B is attached to the electrolytic cell
10A only at the upper section of the electrode groups 2x, 2y shown
in FIG. 1. An enclosure member 63 is attached extending downwards
on both ends of the lid member 10B. An opening 65 is formed in this
enclosure member 63 to allow electrolytic fluid to flow into the
lower section immersed in electrolytic fluid. A cover plate 64 can
be installed to be upward or downward adjustable to cover a section
of the upper area of that opening 65. To make the cover plate 64
adjustable, slots 66 oriented upwards and downwards can be formed
on the cover plate 64, and bolts 67 fit into the screw holes 68
formed in the enclosure member 63 for adjustment by means of the
slots 66. Adjusting the vertical position of the cover plates 64
allows adjusting the fluid level above the electrode groups 2x, 2y
and therefore adjusting the gas pressure.
[0094] The vibrating rod 16e does not pass through the lid member
of the vibration-stirring means when using this type of 11d member.
A sealed structure is preferable in this case, in order to improve
hydrogen-oxygen gas recovery efficiency and prevent the
electrolytic fluid from scattering (into the air).
[0095] The present invention can also be applied to gas generator
device to separate and recover the hydrogen and oxygen by
electrolysis by installing a film between the anode and cathode at
intervals to separate the hydrogen and oxygen. This type of
separation and recovery gas generator is described for example, in
a report entitled, "Development of 2500 cm.sup.2 Solid Polymer
Electrolyte Water Electrolyzer in WE-NET" by M. Yamaguchi, et
al.
[0096] The embodiment of the present invention is described next.
The present invention however is not limited to these
embodiments.
First Embodiment
[0097] Utilizing the device as described in FIG. 1 through FIG. 3,
but with the lid member 10B described in FIG. 29, hydrogen-oxygen
gas was generated and collected under the following conditions.
Electrolytic Cell and Lid Member:
[0098] Manufactured from stainless steel
[0099] 270 mm.times.1660 mm.times.390 mm (H)
Vibration Generating Means:
[0100] Vibration motor; Uras Vibrator manufactured by Murakami
Seild Seisakusho (Corp.) (product name), 250
W.times.3-phase.times.200 V, 2-axis type,
[0101] Vibrating blades: Manufactured from stainless steel
(SUS304), 6 blades
[0102] Vibrating rod: Manufactured from titanium, 12 mm
diameter
[0103] Spacers: 12 pieces, manufactured from titanium
[0104] Clamp members for vibrating blades; 12 pieces
[0105] Packing for vibrating blades: 12 sheets, manufactured by
Teflon (registered trademark)
Electrode Group:
[0106] Anodes: 50 sheets, made from platinum plated titanium alloy
capable of long-term use without film oxidation
[0107] Cathodes: 50 sheets, made from titanium alloy
[0108] Insulation frame: Synthetic rubber, thickness 5 mm
[0109] Electrolytic fluid: KOH added as electrolytic material at 8
percent by weight to distilled water, temperature 55.degree. C.,
pH10
[0110] Voltage applied across cathode and anode: 2.0 volts (direct
current)
[0111] Electrical current density: 5 A/dm.sup.2
[0112] Hydrogen-oxygen gas collection rate was 1,000 liters per
hour.
Second Embodiment
[0113] Other than utilizing an AC multiplex current as described in
"Electrochemistry" (Society of Japan) Vol. 24, P. 398-403, and
pages 449-456 of same volume, the same structure as in the first
embodiment was utilized.
[0114] Hydrogen-oxygen gas collection rate was 1,200 liters per
hour.
[0115] After continuous operation over a period of one month,
stable collection of hydrogen-oxygen gas was achieved at a power
consumption lower than the first embodiment.
Third Embodiment
[0116] Other than using a 270 mm.times.850 mm.times.340 mm (H)
structure as the electrolytic cell, and using one Hifrerrous
KHE-2-2T [100 to 120 Hz] unit manufactured by Murakami Seiki
Seisakusho (Corp.) (product name) as the vibration motor, the same
structure as in the first embodiment was utilized.
[0117] Hydrogen-oxygen gas collection rate was 800 liters per
hour.
Fourth and Fifth Embodiments
[0118] Other than using the seal described in FIG. 20 through FIG.
24B at the position for the vibration-stirring means not attached
to the lid member 10B, the same structures as in the first and
second embodiments were utilized.
[0119] The fourth embodiment implemented the same as the first
embodiment, has a hydrogen-oxygen gas collection rate of 2,000
liters per hour. The fifth embodiment implemented the same as the
second embodiment, has a hydrogen-oxygen gas collection rate of
2,500 liters per hour. Both of these embodiments represent a large
improvement.
Sixth Embodiment
[0120] Other than using a power supply such as the SCR type 6-phase
half-wave rectifier pulse power supply as described in P. 367-368
of "Electroplating Technology Compilation" issued by the Nikkan
Kogyo Shinbun in Jul. 25, 1971, the same structure as in the first
embodiment was utilized.
[0121] The hydrogen-oxygen gas collection rate of 2,200 liters per
hour in spite of the fact that energy consumption was less than in
the first embodiment.
Seventh Embodiment
[0122] Other than using the components described in FIG. 1 through
FIG. 3 as the lid member 10B, the same structure as in the first
embodiment was utilized.
[0123] The hydrogen-oxygen gas collection rate of 3,000 liters per
hour. This rate is a large improvement compared to the first
embodiment.
Eighth Embodiment
[0124] Other than using the Power Master PND-1 model multi-function
rectifier using the inverter digital control method and made by
Chuo Seisakusho (Corp.) as the power supply 34, and using a
rectangular waveform pulse power supply (power-on 0.08 seconds,
power-off 0.02 seconds), the structure is identical to the seventh
embodiment. The hydrogen-oxygen gas collection rate of 3,500 liters
per hour in spite of the fact that energy consumption was less than
in the first embodiment.
[0125] The present invention configured as described above rendered
the following effects.
(1) Using with the vibration-stirring means revealed the startling
fact that electrolysis was satisfactory even with a gap between
electrodes of 20 millimeters or less. Consequently, the generation
of hydrogen-oxygen gas was tremendously improved. (2) Along with
reducing the gap between electrodes, the amount of hydrogen-oxygen
gas generated by one gas generator was enormously improved. (3)
Using the vibration-stirring means ensures that large bubbles do
not occur in the oxygen-hydrogen gas generated in the electrolytic
fluid, and that electrical resistance remains small. (4) The
present invention allows a flexible response to large power demands
by utilizing inexpensive electrical power at night, and generating
and storing oxygen-hydrogen gas for use when needed. Utilizing a
direct current pulse waveform power supply for electrolysis allows
even further savings in electrical power. (5) The apparatus of the
present invention allows utilizing cassette fuel tanks as a safe,
non-hazardous fuel supply source for cooking stoves. (6) Using the
gas obtained from the present invention provides an air
conditioning apparatus superior to conventional accumulator (heat
storage) air conditioning. (7) Using the gas generated by the
present invention allows combusting small, intermediate and large
municipal trash and industrial wastes in an incinerator. Trash can
in this way be incinerated without pollution in a highly economical
method. (8) The apparatus of the present invention can be utilized
to supply fuel to boilers and gas turbines, etc. (9) The present
invention can serve effectively as a clean, non-polluting gas
generator device for cities. (10) The present invention can serve
effectively as a fuel production apparatus for ships. (11) The
present invention provides satisfactory, uniform gas generation
even without implementing a special means such as gas propeller
agitation.
* * * * *