U.S. patent application number 13/098553 was filed with the patent office on 2011-08-25 for system for the electrolytic production of hydrogen as a fuel for an internal combustion engine.
Invention is credited to Doron Shmueli, Eitan Shmueli, Yehuda Shmueli.
Application Number | 20110203917 13/098553 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44475577 |
Filed Date | 2011-08-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110203917 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Shmueli; Yehuda ; et
al. |
August 25, 2011 |
SYSTEM FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION OF HYDROGEN AS A FUEL FOR AN
INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE
Abstract
A system for producing hydrogen gas fuel used in powering an
internal combustion engine of a vehicle comprising a hydrogen
reactor which includes at least one set of electrode plates
comprising a plurality of neutral, positively charged and
negatively charged plates disposed in a predetermined sequence or
position relative to one another to define a predetermined stacked
array submerged within water maintained in the hydrogen reactor.
Metal particles disbursed within the water are forced through the
plurality of electrode plates and structured to define an
additional collection surface area, along with said plurality of
electrode plates, on which hydrogen gas may be collected to
facilitate increased production
Inventors: |
Shmueli; Yehuda; (Davie,
FL) ; Shmueli; Eitan; (Davie, FL) ; Shmueli;
Doron; (Hollywood, FL) |
Family ID: |
44475577 |
Appl. No.: |
13/098553 |
Filed: |
May 2, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12616229 |
Nov 11, 2009 |
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13098553 |
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61199300 |
Nov 14, 2008 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
204/237 ;
204/232; 204/241; 204/278.5 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C25B 11/00 20130101;
C25B 15/08 20130101; F02M 25/12 20130101; C25B 1/04 20130101; Y02T
10/12 20130101; Y02E 60/36 20130101; C25B 9/17 20210101 |
Class at
Publication: |
204/237 ;
204/278.5; 204/232; 204/241 |
International
Class: |
C25B 1/06 20060101
C25B001/06; C25B 15/00 20060101 C25B015/00; C25B 15/02 20060101
C25B015/02; C25B 15/08 20060101 C25B015/08 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 13, 2010 |
US |
PCT/US10/34633 |
Claims
1. A system for producing hydrogen gas used in powering an internal
combustion engine of a vehicle, said system comprising: a hydrogen
reactor having a chamber and a set of electrode plates arranged in
a predetermined stacked array within said chamber, said electrode
plates including a plurality of positively charged and negatively
charged plates disposed in a predetermined spaced position relative
to one another to define said predetermined stacked array, an
electrolyte source directing a jet of electrolyte between said set
of electrode plates, said electrolyte including water and metallic
particles suspended in said water, whereby said hydrogen reactor
produces hydrogen gas through electrolytic decomposition of the
water.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein said water includes potassium
hydroxide.
3. The system of claim 1 wherein said hydrogen reactor comprises a
plurality of sets of plates, each of said sets of plates comprising
a plurality of positively charged and negatively charged plates
disposed in spaced and predetermined position relative to one
another to define said predetermined stacked array.
4. The system of claim 3 further comprising a plurality of nozzles,
each of which is disposed and structured to direct respective jets
of electrolyte between said plurality of plates.
5. The system of claim 1 further comprising a DC power supply
connected to at least some of said plates to charge to them to one
of a positive and negative polarity.
6. The system of claim 5 wherein at least one plate of said set has
a neutral polarity.
7. The system of claim 1 further a nozzle directing said
electrolyte wherein said electrolyte is under sufficient pressure
to sweep gas bubbles formed on said plurality of electrode plates
of each of said set of electrode plates.
8. The system of claim 1 wherein said reactor is configured to
generate oxygen and hydrogen, said reactor further including a
separator that separates said gases from said electrolyte.
9. The system of claim 1 further comprising an electrolyte
circulator circulating said electrolyte through said hydrogen
reactor.
10. The system of claim 1 further comprising a temperature
controller maintaining a temperature of said electrolyte at a
predetermined level.
11. The system of claim 1 wherein said temperature is maintained at
about 125 degrees F.
12. The system of claim 1 wherein said electrolyte is a mixture of
distilled water and hydrogen peroxide at a concentration in the
range of 0.5-3 g/gal.
13. The system of claim 1 wherein said metallic particles are made
of one of stainless steel, gold and silver.
14. The system of claim 1 wherein said metallic particles have a
diameter in the range of 50 nm-0.5 mm.
15. A system for generating a mixture of oxygen and hydrogen for
enriching the fuel in an internal combustion engine by injecting
said mixture into an intake manifold of said engine while said
engine is running, said system comprising: A reactor formed of a
closed chamber, a plurality of parallel plates secured within said
chamber, an electrolyte inlet, electrolyte outlet and a gas mixture
outlet; a circulator connected to said electrolyte inlet and
electrolyte outlet and circulating therebetween an eletrcolyte
formed of a water, hydrogen peroxide and a plurality metallic
particles sized and shaped to promote the formation of gas bubbles
as said electrolyte flows between said plates; and an electric
power source connected to some of said plates to charge said plates
to one of a positive and negative polarity; wherein a gas mixture
of hydrogen and oxygen is collected at said outlet, said gas
mixture resulting from the electrolysis of said electrolyte between
said plates.
16. The system of claim 15 wherein some of said plate remain
neutral.
17. The system of claim 15 wherein said reactor, circulator and
power source are sized and shaped for mounting on said engine.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority to application
PCT/US10/34633 filed May 13, 2010 which is a continuation in part
of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/616.229 filed on Nov. 11, 2009
which in turn claims priority to provisional application Ser. No.
61/199.300 filed Nov. 14, 2008, all incorporated herein by
reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] This invention is directed to a system for generating
hydrogen gas, for use as a fuel or fuel supplement in an internal
combustion engine by the electrolytic decomposition of water
utilizing a hydrogen reactor structured to be mounted on and
adapted to the operation of a variety of different sizes and styles
of motor vehicles. Electrolysis is performed using water mixed with
a sufficient quantity of metal particles, wherein the water and
metal particles are concurrently directed under pressure between
and along the length of one or more sets of electrode plates, each
set of electrode plates comprising a plurality of neutral,
positively charged and negatively charged plates disposed in a
predetermined stacked array.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] The vast majority of motor vehicles utilized throughout the
world are powered by multi-cylinder internal combustion engines
which operate on conventional fossil fuel. Accordingly, the
excessive world wide demand for gasoline, diesel fuel, etc. has
placed an enormous burden on oil supplies and refining and other
processing facilities. In turn, the enormous consumption of fossil
fuel has threatened economic stability due to a consistently
increasing demand for such fuel categories and a decreasing supply
of natural oil reserves.
[0006] As a result, numerous attempts have been made to develop
alternative energy sources which may be effectively, efficiently
and economically used to fulfill the power demands of both
commercially advanced societies and emerging countries, throughout
the world. Such alternative energy sources include nuclear energy,
solar energy, bio-fuels, etc. However, it is generally recognized
that most, if not all of the contemplated alternative energy
sources are subject to long term developmental periods and
generally speaking would not result in a short term solution to
current energy demands. In addition, many of the above noted
alternative energy sources are objected to based on potential
hazards to the natural environment as well as humans.
[0007] In addition to the above, there are existing energy sources
which may be more specifically directed to the powering of
passenger, commercial and cargo vehicles including fuel categories
such as hydrogen, ethanol, bio-diesel, electrical power, etc. While
potentially feasible, a very small percentage of vehicles in use
today are designed and/or mechanically adaptable to be powered by
such fuels. In addition, there has generally been a question of
expense in converting conventional I.C. engines initially designed
to run on fossil fuels such that the above noted fuels can be used
on either an exclusive or hybrid basis. Further, the use of such
alternative fuel sources also presents significant distribution
problems in terms of making such fuels available to the millions of
vehicles, currently in operation.
[0008] However, perhaps some of the most promising attempts to
reduce the consumption of fossil fuel while maintaining the
operational efficiency is the use of hydrogen in conventionally
designed and structured internal combustion engines. More
specifically, in the area of internal combustion engines
significant research has been done to incorporate hydrogen and
oxygen gases as a supplement to conventional fuels including both
gasoline and diesel. However, many of such known or conventional
attempts to perfect the use of hydrogen has resulted in generally
inefficient systems which require unacceptable levels of energy to
produce a sufficient yield in terms of operating performance
whether used independently or as a conventional fuel supplement.
Other significant disadvantages involved with the use of hydrogen
as a fuel in an internal combustion engine for a vehicle are
related to its extreme volatility resulting in the danger of an
accidental ignition or explosion.
[0009] Further the storage of hydrogen on a vehicle rather than its
generation based on demand would require that the stored hydrogen
be maintained at very high pressures and accordingly requiring
excessively heavy storage containers. In order to overcome the
disadvantages and problems associated with the storage of hydrogen
on the vehicle platform it has been proposed to generate hydrogen
through electrolysis resulting in the electrolytic decomposition of
the water and the generation of both hydrogen and oxygen. While
such proposals have certain theoretical advantages, such as when
hydrogen is used as a supplement for conventional fossil fuels, the
facilities to accomplish hydrogen generation through electrolytic
decomposition have generally been unsuccessful from an economic or
efficiency stand point. Other disadvantages associated with
electrolysis facilities include the tendency of the hydrogen and
oxygen gases to accumulate on the surfaces of the electrode plates
used in the electrolysis procedure. Such accumulation reduces the
effectiveness of known or conventional electrolysis facilities by
at least temporarily preventing large portions of the surfaces of
the electrode plates from interacting with the electrolyte further
resulting in an inconsistent generation of both hydrogen and
oxygen.
[0010] Accordingly there is a need in the industry for an
electrolysis system physically structured and dimensioned to be
efficiently mounted on a vehicle platform which is capable of
generating sufficient hydrogen and oxygen gases to interact, as a
supplement, with conventional fossil fuels. As such, a preferred
and proposed system would significantly reduce the consumption of
conventional fuels while increasing fuel efficiency under
acceptable operating conditions of the vehicles I.C. engine.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The system of the present invention is structured to
efficiently and effectively generate sufficient quantities of
hydrogen gas for use as a fuel or fuel supplement in a
multi-cylinder internal combustion engine typically of the type
used to power a variety of different motor vehicles. As such, the
system may be installed as original equipment during the production
of various types of vehicles. Alternatively, the system including
the various operative components associated therewith may be
installed in various type of vehicles as an after market product.
In either situation, experimentation has indicated a significant
increase in fuel efficiency during operation of the vehicle under
various driving conditions based on a significant reduction in the
consumption of the fossil fuel intended for use in powering the
motor vehicle.
[0012] As set forth in greater detail hereinafter, the various
preferred embodiments of the system of the present invention
incorporate a hydrogen reactor mounted on the vehicle and
structured to generate hydrogen through the electrolytic
decomposition of water. The hydrogen reactor includes a casing
structured to hold and maintain a sufficient quantity of water to
submerge the electrode plates. Moreover, the electrode plates are
arranged in at least one set, but more practically a plurality of
sets of electrode plates disposed on the interior of the reactor
casing. Further, each of the one or more sets of electrode plates
comprises a plurality and/or predetermined number of neutral
plates, positively charged plates and negatively charged plates
disposed in a predetermined sequence or position relative to one
another to define a "predetermined stacked array". A comprehensive
investigation has been conducted directed to a variance in the
numbers and relative positions of the neutral, positively charged
and negatively charged plates. This investigation included varying
the number and sequential arrangement or relative positions of the
electrode plates, while maintaining a space between the plates when
submerged within the chamber of the hydrogen reactor during the
electrolysis procedure.
[0013] In addition, at least one but more practically a plurality
of jets or nozzle structures, are attached to the hydrogen reactor
and disposed and structured to direct water under pressure into the
interior of the chamber. The jets or nozzle structures are
preferably equal in number to the number of sets of electrode
plates and are disposed beneath different ones of the plurality of
sets of electrode plates. As such, the water is forced from each
jet, under pressure, between and along the length of the electrode
plates of each set towards the surface of the water maintained in
the casing of the hydrogen reactor. The force of the water issuing
from the individual jets is sufficient to facilitate an effective
"sweeping" of hydrogen collected on the electrode plates due to the
electrolytic decomposition of the water during the electrolysis
procedure. In the various preferred embodiments of the system of
the present invention, the number of jets or nozzle structures may
vary but is preferably equal in number to the plurality of sets of
electrode plates. As such, the water is forced between and along
the length of all of the plurality of plates defining a given set
of electrode plates.
[0014] Another structural and operative feature of the present
invention is the dispersion and/or mixing of a quantity of metal
particles with the water in a manner which allows the issuance
under pressure of the metal particles along with the water from
each of the jets or nozzle structures. As such, the metal particles
along with the water are forced from each of the nozzles or jets
and pass between correspondingly disposed ones of the sets of
electrode plates and accordingly, between the neutral, positively
charged and negatively charged plates of each set. The charging of
the electrode plates of each set will result in the metal particles
being charged thereby providing additional surface area on which
the hydrogen may be collected. It is also recognized that the
hydrogen will collect on the various electrode plates. Moreover,
due to the issuance of the metal particles combined with the water,
under a predetermined or sufficient degree of pressure, the gases
collected on the plates as well as the metal particles themselves
will be swept to the upper surface of the water maintained within
the chamber of the hydrogen reactor. Once the particles, with the
hydrogen collected thereon, reaches the surface of the water, the
hydrogen will disengage from the particles and the particles will
remain, at least for the most part, within the water. The generated
oxygen and hydrogen gases will then pass to a gas delivery assembly
disposed in interconnecting, fluid communicating relation between
the interior of the chamber of the hydrogen reactor and the intake
manifold of the vehicle's internal combustion engine. In the
meantime, the metal particles mixed with the water will
re-circulate along with the water back into the reactor
chamber.
[0015] The gas delivery assembly includes additional structural
features comprising a plurality of gas outlets each of which
deliver a stream of the generated hydrogen and oxygen gases to the
intake manifold at different, spaced apart locations. This dual or
multi-point delivery of the generated gases to the intake manifold
is done for purposes of safety and is associated both upstream and
downstream of an air flow inlet valve associated with the intake
manifold. Eventually, the generated oxygen hydrogen gases are mixed
with the air intake as well as the conventional fossil fuel for
delivery to the combustion chambers of the vehicle's internal
combustion chamber.
[0016] The preferred embodiments of the system of the present
invention includes a main control assembly comprising appropriate
control circuitry utilized to operate and/or regulate various
sensors and parameter regulating components disposed and structured
to facilitate efficient operation of the present system. Such
sensors and regulating components include, but are not limited to
temperature sensors, pressure sensors, vacuum sensors, float
structures, etc. which are operatively associated with the various
components of the internal combustion engine of the vehicle as well
as the operative components of the hydrogen generating system. The
main control assembly is also electrically connected to an
appropriate electrical energy source, such as the conventional
storage battery normally associated with motor vehicles. The main
control assembly is further structured to regulate electrical
current flow to the various operative components of the system of
the present invention including, but not limited to, the plurality
of electrode plates associated with each of the one or more sets of
plates.
[0017] Further operation of the system is depended upon specific
operative conditions which facilitate the efficient operation of
the system of the present invention as well as safety and intended
operation of the vehicle itself. Such conditions include the
ignition and continued operation of the vehicle; vacuum associated
with the intake manifold reaching a predetermined level; pressure
within the casing of the hydrogen reactor being maintained at or
below a predetermined level and the level of water maintained
within the casing of the hydrogen reactor being sufficient to
completely submerge of the plurality of plates of each of the one
or more sets of electrode plates.
[0018] Thus, more specifically, according to the present invention
there is now provided a system for producing hydrogen gas used in
powering an internal combustion engine of a vehicle, said system
comprising: [0019] a hydrogen reactor comprising a chamber and at
least one set of electrode plates arranged in a predetermined
stacked array within said chamber, [0020] said one set of electrode
plates comprising a plurality of neutral, positively charged and
negatively charged plates disposed in a predetermined spaced
position relative to one another to define said predetermined
stacked array, [0021] at least one jet disposed and structured to
direct a flow of water, under pressure, between and along a length
of said electrode plates within said chamber, [0022] a quantity of
metal particles mixed with said water for increasing a collection
surface area of generated gases, said metal particles and said
water concurrently directed by said at least one jet between and
along the length of said one set of electrode plates, [0023] said
hydrogen reactor structured to produce hydrogen gas through
electrolytic decomposition of the water electrolyte, and [0024]
said plurality of neutral, positively and negatively charged plates
cooperatively disposed and structured with said plurality of metal
particles to facilitate increased production of hydrogen gas.
[0025] The invention also provides a system as described above,
wherein said water includes potassium hydroxide.
[0026] In preferred embodiments of the present invention said
hydrogen reactor comprises a plurality of sets of plates, each of
said sets of plates comprising a plurality of neutral, positively
charged and negatively charged plates disposed in spaced and
predetermined position relative to one another to define said
predetermined stacked array.
[0027] Preferably said system further comprises a plurality of jets
each disposed and structured to direct a mixture of the water
electrolyte and metal particles between and along a length of said
plurality of neutral, positively charged and negatively charged
plates of a different one of said plurality of sets of plates.
[0028] In a preferred embodiment said system comprises a quantity
of water maintained within said chamber being of sufficient
quantity to totally submerge said plurality of sets of electrode
plates.
[0029] In a most preferred embodiment said mixture of water issuing
from each of said jets is under sufficient pressure to sweep gas
bubbles formed on said plurality of electrode plates of each of
said set of electrode plates.
[0030] Also provided by the present invention is a system wherein
gas formed on said metal particles is substantially separated there
from upon exiting the water maintained within said chamber.
[0031] In another embodiment of the present invention the system
further comprises a gas delivery assembly disposed in
interconnecting, fluid communication between said chamber of said
hydrogen reactor and an intake manifold of the internal combustion
engine.
[0032] In a preferred embodiment, said gas delivery assembly
includes a first gas outlet and a second gas outlet both disposed
in gas delivering relation with the intake manifold.
[0033] In another preferred embodiment said first gas outlet is
disposed to delivery gas from said hydrogen reactor to said intake
manifold downstream of an intake valve associated with said intake
manifold.
[0034] In a further preferred embodiment said second gas outlet is
disposed to deliver gas from said hydrogen reactor to said intake
manifold upstream of the intake valve associated with the intake
manifold.
[0035] In an especially preferred embodiment said gas delivery
assembly further comprises a particle separation assembly disposed
along a path of travel between the chamber of the hydrogen reactor
and the intake manifold, said particle separation assembly
structured to remove water from gases entering the intake
manifold.
[0036] In a most preferred embodiment said gas delivery assembly is
disposed along said path of travel of said gases and structured to
regulate gas flow into the intake manifold dependent, at least in
part, upon vacuum levels within the intake manifold.
[0037] The present invention also provides a system comprising a
main control assembly and the source of electrical energy, said
main control assembly structured to regulate electrical current
flow to said electrode plates arranged in a predetermined stacked
array within said chamber of said hydrogen reactor.
[0038] Also provided by the present invention is a system as
defined above in combination with an internal combustion engine and
positioned to generate and delivery hydrogen and oxygen gases to an
intake manifold of said internal combustion engine.
[0039] These and other objects, features and advantages of the
present invention will become clearer when the drawings as well as
the detailed description are taken into consideration.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0040] For a fuller understanding of the nature of the present
invention, reference should be had to the following detailed
description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in
which:
[0041] FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of one preferred
embodiment of the system of the present invention.
[0042] FIG. 2 is a detailed view in partial cutaway of the portion
of the structural and operative features of the system of the
embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0043] FIG. 2A is a detailed breakout view of a portion of the
embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0044] FIG. 3 is yet another preferred embodiment of the system of
the present invention incorporating the structural and operative
features of the embodiments of
[0045] FIGS. 1 and 2 with the inclusion of an interconnection to an
exhaust system of a vehicle on which the system of the embodiments
of FIGS. 1, 2 and 2A is operatively installed.
[0046] Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the
several views of the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0047] As schematically represented in the accompanying drawings
and with primary reference to the preferred embodiment of FIGS. 1,
2, and 2A, the system of the present invention is generally
indicated as 10 and is operative to generate hydrogen gas through
electrolytic decomposition of water using an electrolysis structure
and procedure. The versatility of system 10 is evident by its
ability to be used as an original equipment installation during the
construction and/or assembly of a motor vehicle. Alternatively, the
system 10 can be incorporated as an after market installation in
existing motor vehicles. Further, as structured, the system 10 is
capable of generating both hydrogen and oxygen gases through the
electrolytic decomposition of water, wherein hydrogen gas is
generated in increased quantities in an efficient and safe manner.
As such, the hydrogen and oxygen gases generated will be delivered
to the intake manifold of the engine associated with the vehicle in
a predetermined manner which emphasizes both safety and efficiency
as it is mixed with the intake of air and conventional fossil fuel
on which motor vehicle may normally run.
[0048] Accordingly the system 10 includes a hydrogen reactor
generally indicated as 12 including a casing 14 structured to hold
a predetermined quantity of water electrolyte. The water 17 is
maintained in sufficient quantity on the interior of the chamber 14
to submerge at least one but more practically a plurality of sets
of electrode plates 16 represented in greater detail in FIG. 2. As
represented in these Figures, the sets of electrode plates 16 are
four in number wherein each set includes a predetermined plurality
of charged and neutral plates arranged in a "predetermined stacked
array". As explained in greater detail herein, the predetermined
stacked array of each of the sets of electrode plates 16 is more
specifically defined by a predetermined sequence or position of
neutral plates, positively charged plates and negatively charged
plates relative to one another and further disposed in spaced
relation to one another so as to facilitate the generation of an
increased quantity of hydrogen and the flow of the water
therebetween and along the length thereof.
[0049] In addition the hydrogen reactor 12 includes at least one
but more practically a plurality of jets or nozzle structures 18
equal in number to the number of sets of electrode plates 16.
Further, each of the nozzles 18 are connected to or otherwise
disposed to deliver a flow of water beneath different one of the
plurality of sets of electrode plates 16 under pressure. The
pressurized flow of water will therefore serve to force the water
electrolyte between and along the plurality of individual electrode
plates which define each of the plurality of electrode plate sets
16 as clearly represented in FIGS. 2 and 2A.
[0050] Another feature of the present invention is the inclusion of
metal particles 20 schematically represented in FIG. 1 and in
greater detail in FIG. 2A. Further, the metal particles 20 are
disbursed throughout the water and are cooperatively dimensioned so
as to be capable of being delivered, concurrently with the water,
into the interior chamber 14 by the plurality of jets or nozzle
structures 18. When delivered under a predetermined amount of
pressure, the mixture of water and metal particles 20 issuing from
respective ones of the jets or nozzle structures 18 pass upwardly
through, between and along the length of each of the plurality of
electrode plates defining each of the plurality of sets of
electrode plates 16. As a result, the metal particles 20 become
charged and serve to define additional surface area on which
hydrogen gas may be collected. In addition, the hydrogen will also
be collected on the various electrode plates. However, the
provision of the metal particles 20 further increases the surface
area on which the hydrogen gas may be collected once electrolytic
decomposition of the water has been accomplished. As further
represented, the number of jets or nozzles structure 18 is equal to
that of the plurality of sets of electrode plates 16 and each of
the nozzles or jet structures 18 are disposed to direct the mixture
of water and metal particles 20 under pressure to a different one
of the sets of electrode plates 16, as represented throughout the
Figures.
[0051] As set forth in greater detail hereinafter, the plurality of
electrode plates defining each set of electrode plates 16 comprises
both neutral plates (N), positively charged plates (+) and
negatively charged plates (-) in predetermined numbers and in a
predetermined sequence or position relative to one another. As such
all of the positive (+), negative (-) and neutral plates (N) are
disposed in spaced relation to one another. As set forth above,
this spaced relation facilitates the forced flow of combined water
and metal particles 20 between and along the entire length of the
electrode plates of each of the plurality of sets of electrode
plates 16 and the resulting "sweeping" of collected gases from the
surfaces thereof.
[0052] The number and preferred sequenced positioning of the
charged and neutral plates will be discussed in greater detail
hereinafter with reference to specific examples utilized by the
inventors herein. Upon the formation of the oxygen and hydrogen
gases due to the electrolytic decomposition, the gases will pass
upwardly to the upper most surface 17' of the water 17 in which the
plurality of electrode plate sets 16 are submerged. At this
location, the generated hydrogen/oxygen gas will pass into and
along a path of travel defined by a gas delivery assembly generally
indicated as 22. In order to reduce the possibility of water
entering the conduit(s) or passages at least partially defining the
gas delivery assembly 22, a splash guard 23 may be provided.
Further, upon separation of the hydrogen gas from the metal
particles 20, the mixture of metal particles 20 and water 17 will
be re-circulated through an appropriately structured and disposed
conduit or pathway 25 where it will pass to a circulation pump 27.
The re-circulated mixture of water and metal particles will then
pass through a cooling radiator generally indicated as 29 which
serves to regulate the temperature of the mixture. From the cooling
radiator 29, the re-circulated water and metal particles 20 will
then pass through the individual jets or nozzle structures 18 for
forced flow between and along the various sets of electrode plates
16, as set forth above. Accordingly, it is noted that the metal
particles are dimensioned and configured to facilitate passage of
the metal particles through and issuance from any of the jets
18.
[0053] Again with reference to the gas delivery system 22, a one
way valve 30 is disposed along the path of travel and will prevent
any back flow of oxygen and hydrogen gases from passing into the
chamber 14. A safety factor is thereby added in order to prevent
any damage to the hydrogen reactor 12 in the event of explosion,
etc. Additional features associated with the gas delivery assembly
22 include the provision of a particle removal assembly 32 which
may be in the form of a "bubbler". The generated oxygen and
hydrogen gas will pass through a body of water maintained within
the bubbler 32 in order to facilitate the removal of any particles
20 remaining in collected association with the hydrogen bubbles.
Accordingly, the bubbler 32 will assure that all particles 20 are
removed from the hydrogen which will eventually pass into the
intake manifold 34 as explained hereinafter. In addition, the
particle removal assembly or "bubbler" 32 provides an additional
safety feature by preventing any backflow or "back fire" from the
engine and/or manifold 34 to the hydrogen reactor 12 due at least
in part to the body of water maintained within the bubbler 32.
Additional structural and operative features associated with the
gas delivery assembly 22 is the provision of a water removal filter
36 which will assure that all water is removed from the oxygen and
hydrogen gas generated by the hydrogen reactor 12 prior to passage
thereof into the intake manifold 34.
[0054] Additional features associated with the gas delivery
assembly 22 include the provision of a first gas outlet 40 and a
second gas outlet 42 both comprising a gas nozzle or other
appropriate gas delivery device. As represented throughout FIG. 1,
the first gas outlet 40 serves to deliver generated gases into the
intake manifold 34 downstream of an intake valve generally
indicated as 44. In contrast, the second gas outlet 42 is disposed
to deliver the generated gases to the intake manifold upstream of
the intake valve 44 and in spaced relation to the first gas outlet
40. As a result, the generated oxygen and hydrogen gases will be
fed both upstream and downstream of the intake valve 44 in order to
avoid any extra build up of pressure of the generated gases within
the intake manifold 34 or immediately prior to being delivered
thereto. To this end a vacuum sensor 45 is electrically connected
in operative relation to the main control facility generally
indicated as 100 to assure that a proper degree of vacuum is
present in the intake manifold 34 to accommodate the intake of the
generated gases from either the first gas outlet 40 or the second
gas outlet 42 and to avoid an accumulation or collection of the
generated gases in the area of the intake manifold 34. Moreover,
safety valves in the form of solenoid valves 46 and 46' associated
with and located downstream of the first and second gas outlets 40
and 42. The flow of generated gas may be restricted prior to
entering the manifold valve 34 depended upon the proper operating
conditions, such as an adequate amount of vacuum being maintained
within the intake manifold as determined by the vacuum sensor 45.
As also shown, proper adjustment valves 47 and 47' may be utilized
to preprogram and/or establish an appropriate flow of generated
gases to each of the first and second gas outlets 40 and 42.
[0055] Additional features associated with the preferred
embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2 include a reservoir of water 48 which
holds a predetermined amount of water, preferably in the form of
distilled water mixed with potassium hydroxide, as an additional
catalyst. The reservoir 48 is connected by appropriate conduits or
delivery channels 49 to the water circulation pump 27 wherein the
flow from the reservoir 48 to the water circulation pump 27 and
eventually into the interior of the casing 14 of the hydrogen
reactor 12. The delivery of water from the reservoir 48 will be
automatically controlled due to the provision of one or more safety
valves, such as solenoid 51. As with the other valve and sensor
structures the solenoid valve 51, the vacuum sensor 45, the water
level sensor 52, the pressure sensor 53, etc. are all automatically
regulated by and/or operatively associated with the main control
facility 100.
[0056] As further represented, the main control facility 100 is
electrically connected to an appropriate electrical energy source
such as a storage battery 102 typically associated with motor
vehicles. Therefore, the supply of electric current flow to each of
the positively and negatively charged plates of each of the
plurality of plate sets 16 is originated from the storage battery
102 or other source of electrical energy and current flow is
regulated to these charged electrode plates by the main control
facility 100. Associated therewith, the main control facility 100
is also operatively associated with the engine accelerator or gas
pedal 104 which may include a micro switch assembly or other
appropriate switching structure.
[0057] As set forth above, another operative and structural feature
of the present invention and in particular, the hydrogen regulator
12 is the predetermined stacking of the plurality of neutral (N),
positively (+) and negatively (-) charged electrode plates in each
of the one or more sets of electrode plates 16. In order to
determine a most efficient operative mode of the system 10, various
examples were tested by the inventors herein to determine the most
efficient production of generated gases caused by the electrolytic
decomposition of the water, especially when mixed with the metal
particles 20, as set forth above.
[0058] A typical system as described in FIGS. 1-3 may have
components or ingredients with the following characteristics:
[0059] Concentration of potassium hydroxide in the reactor: 0.5-3
g/gallon of distilled water;
[0060] Metal particles in water: stainless steel (silver, copper or
other materials that does not dissolve during the electrolysis
process may be used as well) having a diameter in the range of 50
nm-0.5 mm. In the examples described below 44 micron stainless
steel particles where used. Generally these particles must be small
enough so they can flow freely between the plates and through the
nozzles, but large enough to promote the formation of hydrogen or
oxygen bubbles.
[0061] Pump 27 may be operating at about 100-1000 gal/hour.
Typically it is set to operate at 550 gal/hour. The aqueous liquid
in the reactor 14 is preferably maintained at a constant
temperature of 32-212 degrees F. Preferably this temperature is
about 120 degrees F. The heat exchanger 29 is selected to cool the
circulating liquid at preferably at or below this temperature.
[0062] The plates 16 can be made of any suitable metallic material,
such as stainless steel. For the examples given below, 3''33 9''33
1/16'' plates were used that were about 1/16'' spaced, however this
distance may be changed as needed depending on the conductivity of
the liquid in the reactor, the voltage applied to the plates, etc.
The plates are supported inside the reactor by two stainless steel
shaft (or screws that has been omitted from the drawings for the
sake of clarity) that passes through the plates and is connected
electrically to the negative and positive plates and insulated from
the neutral plates. The plates are separated on the shaft by
spacers made of plastic or other non-conductive materials. The
shaft is supported within the reactor by non-conducting rings to
position the plates as shown.
[0063] The reactor is sized and shaped to hold the plates and
generally can be made of a non-conductive material such as plastic,
PMMA, etc.
[0064] The bubblers 32, 110 may be filled water. The controller 100
receives information from the automobile computer indicating the
fuel mixture demand (e.g., lean/rich) corresponding to the
instantaneous load on the automobile engine. For example, when the
automobile is accelerating or the going uphill, the engine requires
a richer air/gasoline mixture then when the automobile is coasting,
breaking, or going downhill. In response to this demand, the
manifold receives an appropriate mixture of fresh air, gasoline,
hydrogen and oxygen, as described. In addition, the processor 100
sends signals to the engine computer to change the position of the
ignition to optimize the performance of the engine to the mixture.
The presence of hydrogen and oxygen renders the engine much more
efficient and the timing can be advanced to take advantage of this
feature. Typically, for a 4 liter engine, the valves 47, 47' are
adjusted and the reactor and the plates are sized to generate and
feed an H2, O2 mixture of about 3.8 liters when the engine is
cruising at 2500 rpm. The invention has been tested on automobiles
using regular 87 octane gas however it can be used with engines
using other types of gas as well.
Examples
[0065] The following examples are given as particular embodiments
of the system of the present invention to illustrate the efficient
properties and operational modes as well as the practical
advantages thereof.
Example 1
[0066] A hydrogen reactor was utilized which incorporated six
plates arranged in the following sequence or relative position to
define the aforementioned stacked array: Positive, Negative,
Positive, Negative, Positive, Negative. The plates were subjected
to a potassium hydroxide and water solution, wherein a 15 amp
current was applied to the electrode plates from an electric
storage battery. The result was the production of 150 ml of gases
per minute.
Example 2
[0067] A hydrogen reactor was utilized which incorporated three
plates arranged in the following sequence or relative position to
define the aforementioned stacked array: Positive. Neutral,
Negative. The plates were subjected to a potassium hydroxide and
water solution wherein a 15 amp current was applied to the
electrode plates from a 12 volt electric storage battery. The
result was the production of approximately 250 ml of gases per
minute.
Example 3
[0068] A hydrogen reactor was utilized which incorporated four
plates arranged in the following sequence or relative position to
define the aforementioned stacked array: Positive, Neutral,
Neutral, Negative. The plates were subjected to a potassium
hydroxide and water solution wherein a 15 amp current was applied
to the electrode plates from a 12 volt electric storage battery.
The result was the production of approximately 350 ml of gases per
minute.
Example 4
[0069] A hydrogen reactor was utilized which incorporated six
plates arranged in the following sequence or relative position to
define the aforementioned stacked array: Positive, Positive,
Neutral, Neutral, Negative, Negative. The plates were subjected to
a potassium hydroxide and water solution, wherein a 15 amp current
was applied to the electrode plates from a 12 volt electric storage
battery. The result was the production of approximately 500 ml of
gases per minute.
Example 5
[0070] A hydrogen reactor was utilized which incorporated six
plates arranged in the following sequence or relative position to
define the aforementioned stacked array: Positive, Positive,
Neutral, Neutral, Negative, Negative. The plates were subjected to
a potassium hydroxide and water solution and a pressurized
circulation of this solution was established in an upward direction
through and between the plates. A 15 amp current was applied to the
electrode plates from a 12 volt electric storage battery. The
result was the production of approximately 700 ml of gases per
minute.
Example 6
[0071] A hydrogen reactor was utilized which incorporated six
plates arranged in the following sequence or relative position to
define the aforementioned stacked array: Positive, Positive,
Neutral, Neutral, Negative, Negative. The plates were subjected to
a potassium hydroxide and water solution mixed with metal particles
which was directed between the plates under pressure. A 15 amp
current was applied to the electrode plates from a 12 volt electric
storage battery. The result was the production of approximately
1200 ml of gases per minute.
Example 7
[0072] A hydrogen reactor was utilized which incorporated six
plates arranged in the following sequence or relative position to
define the aforementioned stacked array: Positive, Positive,
Neutral, Neutral, Negative, Negative. The plates were subjected to
a potassium hydroxide and water solution mixed with metal particles
which was directed between the plates under pressure. A 15 amp
current was applied to the electrode plates from a 12 volt electric
storage battery. The result was the production of approximately
1200 ml of gases per minute. This embodiment of the reactor of the
hydrogen reactor was incorporated in the total system 10 and
installed on 4.0 liter vehicle, resulting in approximately 50% of
fuel savings and 200% more miles of operation for the same amount
of fossil fuel.
[0073] Yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention is
represented in FIG. 3 wherein the system is generally indicated in
its entirety as 10'. More specifically, the system 10' includes
substantially all of the features of the embodiment of the system
10 as disclosed in FIGS. 1, 2 and 2A as well as additional
structural and operative modifications. More specifically, system
10' includes a connection an at least partial interaction of the
hydrogen reactor 12 with the exhaust system of the engine,
generally indicated as 106. As such, exhaust gases from the exhaust
system 106 pass through an appropriate conduit(s) or pathway 108
into a cooling zone 110 in the form of a "bubbler" 110. The bubbler
110 is similar in operation and structure to the bubbler 32 serving
as a particle removal assembly, as described with reference to the
embodiment of FIG. 1. However, the bubbler 110 at least partially
differs in operation in that it is structured to regulate or reduce
the temperature of the exhaust gases to an appropriate level as
well as possibly providing a scrubbing action on the exhaust action
prior to it reaching the hydrogen reactor. In addition the bubbler
110 may also provide an additional factor by preventing backflow
along the pathway 108.
[0074] A temperature sensor assembly 112 is disposed as represented
in FIG. 3 and connected to and operated by the main control
assembly 100. As with the embodiment of FIG. 1, the main control
assembly is preferably connected so as to operate in conjunction
with the computer of the vehicle as at 120 schematically
represented in FIG. 3. Continuing on with the exhaust system 106,
collected exhaust gases are channeled through the conduit 108
through the cooling zone 110. An appropriate splash guard 23 or
other structure is disposed along the path of travel of the exhaust
gases in order to eliminate the passage of water therewith,
[0075] Similarly, a water removal filter or like structure 36' is
further provided in order to eliminate excess water passing along
the exhaust gas. Appropriate control valves in the form of solenoid
valves 122 is provided along the path of travel and serves to
regulate passage of exhaust gases along the conduit or path of
travel 108 into the casing 14 of the hydrogen reactor 12. A one-way
valve 30' is also provided along the path of travel defined by
conduit 108 in order to prevent the back flow of exhaust gases
through the originating portions of the conduit 108 and path of
travel defined thereby. As further represented in FIG. 3, the
conduit and/or path of travel 108 serve to deliver the exhaust gas
under pressure into the interior of the casing 114 of the hydrogen
generator 12. As such, the circulation or flow of both water and
particles issuing from the jets or nozzle structures 18 through,
between and along the plurality of sets of plates 16 is
facilitated. This in turn aids in the sweeping of the plates, as
set forth above, and the travel of the particles 20 with the
hydrogen collected thereon above the surface 17' of the water 17
into the open hollow interior. As also set forth above, this
location is where the oxygen and hydrogen gases are released into
the gas delivery system 22.
[0076] Yet additional features of the system 10' as represented in
FIG. 3 is the inclusion of a venturi assembly 42' which serves to
deliver generated gas from the gas delivery assembly 22 to the
intake manifold 34. As should be apparent, the venturi assembly 42'
may be used instead of the second gas outlet 42. Moreover, the
venturi assembly 42' serves to draw generated gas into the air
intake up stream of the intake valve 44, due to the flow of intake
air passing in fluid communication therewith, into the intake
manifold. Accordingly, in the embodiment of the system of FIG. 3,
the venturi assembly 42 will be considered as the second gas outlet
and is disposed and structured to deliver the generated gases to
the intake manifold 34 upstream of the intake valve 44 and in
spaced relation to the first gas outlet 40. As a result, the
generated oxygen and hydrogen gases will be fed both upstream and
downstream of the intake valve 44 in order to avoid any excessive
build up of pressure of the generated gases within the intake
manifold 34 or immediately prior to being delivered thereto.
[0077] Since many modifications, variations and changes in detail
can be made to the described preferred embodiment of the invention,
it is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and
shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative
and not in a limiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention
should be determined by the appended claims and their legal
equivalents. Now that the invention has been described,
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