Fuel Cell W -“Patent Page” Page June0…09-Fuel cell system and operation method having a condensed water tank open to atmosphere – Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.,

Fuel Cell Works-“Patent Page” Volume 03, Issue 22 June 04, 2006

I N S I D E T H I S I S S U E - N E W P A T E N T S I S S U E D M A Y 2 9 – J U N E 0 4 , 2 0 0 6

Sponsored By

01-Polymer electrolyte having acidic, basic and elastomeric subunits – SRI International (U)

02-Sealing structure of fuel cell and process for molding rubber packing– Tigers Polymers Corp(U)

03-Externally manifolded membrane based electrochemical cell stacks – Protonex Technology Corporation (U)

04-Compact chemical reactor – Angstrom Power (U)

05-Fuel cell separator, manufacturing method thereof and fuel cell –Toyota (U)

06-Composite solid polymer electrolyte membranes – Foster-Miller, Inc. (U)

07-Proton conducting polymer membrane for electrochemical cell – Johnson Matthey Public Limited Company (U)

08-Apparatus for humidification and temperature control of incoming fuel cell process gas – Hydrogenics (U)

09-Fuel cell system and operation method having a condensed water tank open to atmosphere – Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd., (U)

10-Control device for fuel cell system and control method – Nissan (U)

11-Regulator and method of regulating fuel flow to a fuel cell by adsorption – Hewlett-Packard (U)

12-Solid high polymer type fuel cell power generating device – Sanyo (U)

13-Storage, generation, and use of hydrogen – Safe Hydrogen, LLC

14-Hydrogen generation cartridge and portable hydrogen generator – Hewlett-Packard (U)

15-Hydrogen purification membranes, components and fuel processing systems containing the same – IdaTech, LLC (U)

16-Fuel Cell – Honda (E)

17-Electrode for fuel cell, fuel cell system comprising the same, and method for preparing the same– Samsung SDI (E)

18-Reformer of fuel cell system – Samsung SDI (E)

19-Fuel electrode material, a fuel electrode, and a solid oxide fuel cell – Toho Gas/Sumitomo Metal (E)

20-Seal arrangement for a high temperature fuel cell stack and process to manufacture – BMW (E)

21-Solid polymer fuel cell – Toyota (E)

22-Fuel cell system – Nissan (E)

23-Hydrogen storage-based rechargeable fuel cell system – General Electric (E)

24-Fuel cell system – Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd., (E)

25-Method and apparatus for treating reformed gas and fuel cell electric power generation– Ebara Ballard (E)

* New Feature-World Patents Issued This Week(25 Issued)

**Update on Patents Issued Table - Page 24

FuelCellWorks Patent Page © 1999 - 2005 FuelCellWorks.com

1) Polymer electrolyte having acidic, basic and elastomeric subunits May 30, 2006 U.S. Patent Patent Number US7052805

Assignee SRI International

Inventor(s) Narang, Subhash; Palo Alto, CA, United States of America Ventura, Susanna C.; Los Altos, CA, United States of America Olmeijer, David L.; San Francisco, CA, United States of America Title Polymer electrolyte having acidic, basic and elastomeric subunits Abstract The invention includes compositions comprising at least first and second polymers and optionally a third polymer wherein acid subunits, basic subunits and elastomeric subunits are contained in the polymers. In one aspect, the composition comprises a ternary polymer blend comprising an acidic polymer comprising acidic subunits, a basic polymer comprising basic subunits and an elastomeric polymer comprising elastomeric subunits. In an alternate aspect, the composition comprises a binary polymer blend which comprises acidic or basic subunits in one polymer and a copolymer comprising the other of the acidic or basic subunit and an elastomeric subunit. Such polymer compositions may be formed into a membrane having electrochemical properties which permit the use of such a membrane in an electrochemical device.

2) Sealing structure of fuel cell and process for molding rubber packing May 30, 2006 U.S. Patent Patent Number US7052797 Applicant Tigers Polymers Corporation Inventor(s) Nakamura, Yuzo; Kobe, Japan Takao, Haruhito; Kobe, Japan Title Sealing structure of fuel cell and process for molding rubber packing Abstract A fuel cell separator unit having a crosslinked rubber layer is fabricated by coating a rubber-containing coating agent on the periphery of the surface of a separator to form a thin, unvulacanized rubber layer, and then vulcanizing or crosslinking the thin rubber layer. A tightly sealed fuel cell is constituted by providing both sides of the main body of the fuel cell with separator units fabricated in the manner described above. When a fuel cell separator fabricated through a crosslinking by radioactive ray irradiation, the performance of the fuel cell is not hindered by the ingredient(s) of a rubber packing. The present invention provides a fuel cell sealing structure which ensures a perfect sealing. According to the present invention, a step of attaching a thin rubber packing is no longer necessary.

2 All Rights Reserved


3) Externally manifolded membrane based electrochemical cell stacks May 30, 2006 U.S. Patent Patent Number US7052796 Applicant Protonex Technology Corporation Inventor(s) Sabin, Paul; Westford, MA, United States of America Osenar, Paul; Needham, MA, United States of America Rezac, Peter; Marlborough, MA, United States of America Title Externally manifolded membrane based electrochemical cell stacks Abstract The present invention provides membrane cassettes and stacks thereof which are suitable for a use in a variety of electrochemical applications. The invention further provides membrane cassettes which comprise one or more external manifolds which deliver reagents and/or coolant to one or more reactant or coolant flow fields of the membrane cassettes. In certain preferred embodiments, the invention provides cassettes and stacks which are suitable for use in fuel cell applications.

4) Compact chemical reactor May 30, 2006 U.S. Patent Patent Number US7052795 Applicant Angstrom Power Inventor(s) McLean, Gerard Francis; West Vancouver, Canada Lam, Duhane; Vancouver, Canada Vanderleeden, Olen; Coquitlam, Canada Title Compact chemical reactor Abstract The compact chemical reactor includes one or more unit reactors, a front reactant plenum, and a back reactant plenum. Each unit reactor is made of a front and back process layer, a front and back cavity, and a front and back perimeter barrier. The resulting assemblage is configured so the front cavity is in communication with the front side of the compact chemical reactor and the back cavity is in communication with the back side of the compact chemical reactor. The process layers facilitate an exchange of reactants between the reactant plenums.

All Rights Reserved

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5) Fuel cell separator, manufacturing method thereof and fuel cell May 30, 2006 U.S. Patent Patent Number US7052794 Applicant Toyota Inventor(s) Nakata, Hiromichi; Toyota, Japan Yokoi, Masayoshi; Okazaki, Japan Yoshimura, Joji; Toyota, Japan Suzuki, Kenichi; Aichi-gun, Japan Nonoyama, Fumio; Aichi-gun, Japan Title Fuel cell separator, manufacturing method thereof and fuel cell

Abstract A separator is provided with a substrate portion having a predetermined concave-convex shape, an underlying coating layer formed on the substrate portion, a first coating layer coating the substrate portion and the underlying coating layer, and a second coating layer formed thereon. The second coating layer, which is formed from carbon materials, is sufficiently electrically conductive and protects the underlying layers. The first coating layer is formed from a low-melting-point metal subjected to a melting process. The melting process is a process of first conducting heating at such a temperature that melts the low-melting-point metal but does not melt the substrate portion and the underlying coating layer and then conducting cooling. Thus, in the first coating layer, the crystal grain size of the metal is increased and thus the grain boundary density is reduced.

6) Composite solid polymer electrolyte membranes May 30, 2006 U.S. Patent Patent Number US7052793 Applicant Foster-Miller, Inc. Title Composite solid polymer electrolyte membranes Inventor(s) Formato, Richard M.; Grafton, MA, United States of America Kovar, Robert F.; Wrentham, MA, United States of America Osenar, Paul; Watertown, MA, United States of America Landrau, Nelson; Marlborough, MA, United States of America Rubin, Leslie S.; Newton, MA, United States of America Abstract The present invention relates to composite solid polymer electrolyte membranes (SPEMs) which include a porous polymer substrate interpenetrated with an ion-conducting material. SPEMs of the present invention are useful in electrochemical applications, including fuel cells and electrodialysis.



7) Proton conducting polymer membrane for electrochemical cell May 30, 2006 U.S. Patent Patent Number US7052792 Applicant Johnson Matthey Public Limited Company Inventor(s) Gascoyne, John Malcolm; High Wycombe, United Kingdom Ralph, Thomas Robinson; Reading, United Kingdom Hards, Graham Alan; Reading, United Kingdom Title Proton conducting polymer membrane for electrochemical cell Abstract A novel proton conducting polymer membrane comprising a series of channels and/or capillaries (2) for use in MEAs and fuel cells is provided. Such a membrane allows a supply of water from an external source to be supplied to said membrane allowing water electrolysis to be maintained during incidences of cell reversal in an MEA or fuel cell comprising said membrane. Methods for the construction of such a membrane are also provided.

8) Apparatus for humidification and temperature control of incoming fuel cell process gas May 30, 2006 U.S. Patent Patent Number US7052791 Applicant Hydrogenics Corporation

IInventor(s) Cargnelli, Joe; Toronto, Canada Gopal, Ravi B.; Toronto, Canada

Title Apparatus for humidification and temperature control of incoming fuel cell process gas Abstract An apparatus for humidifying and controlling the temperature of a process gas stream; has a first humidification unit for super-saturating and heating the process gas stream at a first pre-set temperature; and a first heat exchanger for cooling the process gas stream until it reaches a second pre-set temperature, and for removing excess condensed water from the process gas stream. The apparatus can include a heater for heating the process gas stream until it reaches a third pre-set temperature.

9) Fuel cell system and operation method having a condensed water tank open to atmosphere May 30, 2006 U.S. Patent Patent Number US7052790 Applicant Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.,

Inventor(s) Nakamura, Akinari; Katano, Japan Nakayama, Tatsuo; Kyoto, Japan Ueda, Tetsuya; Kasugai, Japan


Ozeki, Masataka; Izumi, Japan


Title Fuel cell system and operation method having a condensed water tank open to atmosphere Abstract To avoid pressure variation in a cooling water channel, extend a life of an ion exchange resin used to maintain quality of cooling water and reduce power consumption by auxiliary machinery at low cost. There is provided a polymer electrolyte fuel cell, a cooling water tank, a cooling water channel, a cooling water pump, a heat exchanger, a fuel-side condenser and an oxidizer-side condenser that cool exhaust fuel gas and exhaust oxidizer gas discharged from the fuel cell to condense content water vapor, a condensed water tank that stores the water condensed in the fuel-side condenser and the oxidizer-side condenser, a water supply channel having a water supply pump for feeding the condensed water to the cooling water tank, and a water discharge channel for the cooling water tank.

10) Control device for fuel cell system and control method May 30, 2006 U.S. Patent Patent Number US7052789 Applicant Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.. Inventor(s) Okamoto, Masaru; Yokosuka, Japan Title Control device for fuel cell system and control method Abstract A control device for a fuel cell system has a fuel cell body, a fuel gas supply system supplying fuel gas to the fuel cell body in dependence on a demanded power output of the fuel cell body; an air supply system supplying air to the fuel cell body in dependence on the demanded power output, a combustor combusting exhaust gases exhausted from the fuel cell body, a temperature sensor sensing a temperature of the combustor, a discriminator section discriminating whether an increase in the temperature as sensed is equal to or above a predetermined threshold value when the demanded power output increases, and a permitting section permitting the power output available from the fuel cell body to be increased when the discriminator section discriminates that the increase in the temperature as sensed is equal to or above the predetermined

11.) Regulator and method of regulating fuel flow to a fuel cell by adsorption May 30, 2006 U.S. Patent Patent Number US7052788 Applicant Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Inventor(s) McClelland, Paul H.; Corvallis, OR, United States of America Harding, Philip; Albany, OR, United States of America Title Regulator and method of regulating fuel flow to a fuel cell by adsorption Abstract A fuel cell flow regulator includes a fuel cell fuel flow path, the fuel flow path including a solid-state material for regulating a flow of fuel along the fuel flow path by adsorption.



12.) Solid high polymer type fuel cell power generating device May 30, 2006 U.S. Patent Patent Number US7052787 Applicant Sanyo Inventor(s) Tajima, Osamu; Osaka, Japan Oda, Katsuya; Osaka, Japan Hatayama, Tatsuji; Osaka, Japan Yukawa, Ryuji; Osaka, Japan Ouki, Taketoshi; Osaka, Japan Fuju, Akira; Osaka, Japan Shindo, Koji; Osaka, Japan Tajima, Kazuhiro; Osaka, Japan Yamamoto, Satoshi; Osaka, Japan Makihara, Katsuyuki; Osaka, Japan Miyai, Keigo; Osaka, Japan Kadowaki, Masataka; Osaka, Japan Ueda, Masatoshi; Osaka, Japan Title Solid high polymer type fuel cell power generating device Abstract Proton-exchange membrane fuel-cell power generating equipment includes a heat exchanger coupled to a process burner and, therethrough, to a fan. When water needs to be heated, such as during startup, the water is circulated through the heat exchanger and the process burner is operated (ignited) to heat the water. When the water needs to be cooled, such as when a hot water reserving tank is full, the water is circulated through the heat exchanger and the fan is operated, but the process burner is not operated, to cool the water. Water is circulated through part or all of a water system to prevent freezing while the system is stopped. Optionally, the process burner is operated to heat the circulated water. The heat exchanger and other heat exchangers in the system are arranged to efficiently recover heat from burners, a fuel-cell cooling system and exothermic processes.

13.) Storage, generation, and use of hydrogen May 30, 2006 U.S. Patent Patent Number US7052671 Applicant Safe Hydrogen, LLC, Inventor(s) McClaine, Andrew W.; Lexington, MA, United States of America Rolfe, Jonathan L.; N. Easton, MA, United States of America Larsen, Christopher A.; Dorchester, MA, United States of America Konduri, Ravi K.; Canton, MA, United States of America Title Storage, generation, and use of hydrogen Abstract A composition comprising a carrier liquid; a dispersant; and a chemical hydride. The composition can be used in a hydrogen generator to generate hydrogen for use, e.g., as a fuel. A regenerator recovers elemental metal from byproducts of the hydrogen generation process.



14.) Hydrogen generation cartridge and portable hydrogen generator May 30, 2006 U.S Patent Patent Number US7052658 Applicant Hewlett-Packard Development Company, LP. Inventor(s) Arthur, Alan R.; Salem, OR, United States of America Harding, Phil; Albany, OR, United States of America Title Hydrogen generation cartridge and portable hydrogen generator Abstract A hydrogen generation cartridge preferably includes a munitions casing, a hydrogen producing chemical reactant within the casing, and an outlet for releasing hydrogen produced in the casing. A portable hydrogen generator preferably includes a chamber for receiving a plurality of hydrogen generation cartridges, and control electronics for selectively operating the hydrogen generation cartridges in the chamber. The cartridges individually produce hydrogen under control of the control electronics.

15.) Hydrogen purification membranes, components and fuel processing systems containing the same May 30, 2006 U.S. Patent Patent Number US7052530 Applicant IdaTech, LLC Inventor(s) Edlund, David J.; Bend, OR, United States of America Pledger, William A.; Bend, OR, United States of America Studebaker, R. Todd; Bend, OR, United States of America Title Hydrogen purification membranes, components and fuel processing systems containing the same Abstract Hydrogen purification membranes, hydrogen purification devices, and fuel processing and fuel cell systems that include hydrogen purification devices. The hydrogen purification membranes include a metal membrane, which is at least substantially comprised of palladium or a palladium alloy. In some embodiments, the membrane contains trace amounts of carbon, silicon, and/or oxygen. In some embodiments, the membranes form part of a hydrogen purification device that includes an enclosure containing a separation assembly, which is adapted to receive a mixed gas stream containing hydrogen gas and to produce a stream that contains pure or at least substantially pure hydrogen gas therefrom. In some embodiments, the membrane(s) and/or purification device forms a portion of a fuel processor, and in some embodiments, the membrane(s) and/or purification device forms a portion of a fuel processing or fuel cell system.



16.) Fuel Cell May 31, 2006 European Patent Patent Number GB2420661 Applicant Honda Inventor(s) TOSHIYA WAKAHOI; Japan HIROYUKI TANAKA; Japan YOSUKE FUJII; Japan Title Fuel Cell Abstract N/A

17.) Electrode for fuel cell, fuel cell system comprising the same, and method for preparing the same May 31, 2006 European Patent Patent Number EP1662597 Applicant Samsung SDI Co., Ltd. Inventor(s) Kim, Hee-Tak Legal & IP Team; Kiheung-Eup, yongin-City Kyeonggi-Do, Republic of Korea Kim, Jan-Dee Legal & IP Team; Kiheung-Eup, Yongin-City Kyeonggi-Do, Republic of Korea Kweon, Ho-Jin Legal & IP Team; Kiheung-Eup, Yongin-City Kyeonggi-Do, Republic of Korea Title Electrode for fuel cell, fuel cell system comprising the same, and method for preparing the same Abstract N/A

18) Reformer of fuel cell system May 31, 2006 European Patent Patent Number EP1661854 Applicant Samsung SDI Co., Ltd., Inventor(s) An, Seong-Jin Legal & IP Team; Kiheung-Eup, Yongin-City Kyeonggi-Do, Republic of Korea Kim, Ju-Yong Legal & IP Team; Kiheung-Eup, Yongin-City Kyeonggi-Do, Republic of Korea Kweon, Ho-Jin Legal & IP Team; Kiheung-Eup, Yongin-City Kyeonggi-Do, Republic of Korea Title Reformer of fuel cell system Abstract N/A



19) Fuel electrode material, a fuel electrode, and a solid oxide fuel cell May 31, 2006 European Patent Patent Number EP1662599

Assignee Toho Gas Co., Ltd. / SUMITOMO METAL MINING COMPANY LIMITED

Inventor(s) Ukai, Kenji c/o Toho Gas Co.,Ltd.; Tokai-shi Aichi 476-0005, Japan Mizutani, Yasunobu c/o Toho Gas Co.,Ltd.; Tokai-shi Aichi 476-0005, Japan Hisada, Kouji c/o Toho Gas Co.,Ltd.; Tokai-shi Aichi 476-0005, Japan Yokoyama, Misuzu c/o Toho Gas Co.,Ltd.; Tokai-shi Aichi 476-0005, Japan Futaki, Shoji c/o Sumitomo Metal Mining Co.,Ltd.; Niihama-shi Ehime 792-0002, Japan Toya, Hiroyuki c/o Sumitomo Metal Mining Co.,Ltd.; Niihama-shi Ehime 792-0002, Japan Title Fuel electrode material, a fuel electrode, and a solid oxide fuel cell Abstract A material for a fuel electrode of a solid oxide fuel cell with which volume change of the fuel electrode during performance of oxidation-reduction cycles is reduced as compared to conventional materials. The fuel electrode material includes a powder containing: (a) at least one of nickel and nickel oxide, (b) at least one of titanium oxide (IV) and a titanium source capable of changing into titanium oxide (IV) by heat treatment in air, (c) a solid electrolyte exhibiting oxide ion-conductivity. The fuel electrode material is sintered to prepare the fuel electrode, which is provided for the solid oxide fuel cell. The resulting fuel cell shows a stable power generation even after exposure of the fuel electrode to oxidation-reduction cycles.

20) Seal arrangement for a high temperature fuel cell stack and process to manufacture such a stack May 31, 2006 European Patent Patent Number EP1662596 Applicant BMW Inventor(s) ZerfaÃŸ, Hans-Rainer, Dr.; 65232 Taunusstein, Germany Diez, Armin; 73252 Lenningen, Germany Schenk, Peter; 72531 Hohenstein, Germany Fritz, Wolfgang; 72555 Metzingen, Germany Lamp, Peter, Dr.; 86916 Kaufering, Germany Wier, Manfred, Dr.; 80992 MÃ¼nchen, Germany Tachtler, Joachim; 85737 Ismaning, Germany Title Seal arrangement for a high temperature fuel cell stack and process to manufacture such a stack Abstract N/A



21) Solid polymer fuel cell May 31, 2006 European Patent Patent Number EP1662595 Applicant Toyota Inventor(s) MIURA, Fusayoshi, c/o K. K. TOYOTA CHUO KENKYUSHO; Aichi-gun, Aichi 4801192, Japan TAKESHITA, T., c/o K. K. TOYOTA CHUO KENKYUSHO; Aichi-gun, Aichi 4801192, Japan HATANAKA, Tatsuya, c/o K. K. TOYOTA CHUO KENKYUSHO; Aichi-gun, Aichi 4801192, Japan MORIMOTO, Yu, c/o K. K. TOYOTA CHUO KENKYUSHO; Aichi-gun, Aichi 4801192, Japan KOBAYASHI, Masafumi, c/o TOYOTA JIDOSHA K. K.; Toyota-shi, Aichi 4718571, Japan KATO, Manabu, c/o TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA; Toyota-shi, Aichi 4718571, Japan TAKEUCHI, Norimitsu, c/o TOYOTA JIDOSHA K. K.; Toyota-shi, Aichi 4718571, Japan Title Solid polymer fuel cell Abstract To improve oxidation resistance of an electrolyte membrane and durability thereof by a low-cost method, thereby improving durability of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell. According to the present invention, in the polymer electrolyte fuel cell having a membrane-electrode assembly including a polymer electrolyte membrane and electrodes bonded to both sides of the polymer electrolyte membrane, phosphate containing at least one metallic element selected from a rare earth element, Ti, Fe, Al and Bi is fixed to at least one of the polymer electrolyte membrane and the electrodes.

22) Fuel cell system May 31, 2006 European Patent Patent Number EP1661197 Applicant Nissan Motor Co. Inventor(s) HASHIGAYA, HIROAKI; Japan SUZUKI, KEISUKE; Japan KAMIHARA, TETSUYA; Japan Title Fuel cell system Abstract A fuel cell stack (1) comprises a reactive gas passage (115, 1c, 116, 1a) and a water passage (117, 1b) substantially parallel thereto, and a reactive gas is humidified by water permeating from the water passage (117, 1b) through a porous member (112a, 112c). The pressure reduction amounts in the reactive gas passage (115, 1c, 116, 1a) and the water passage (117, 1b) are respectively calculated based on the power generation load of the stack (1). From the pressure reduction amounts in the water passage (117, 1b) and the reactive gas passage (115, 1c, 116, 1a), the pressure of the reactive gas supplied to the reactive gas passage (115, 1c, 116, 1a) is controlled such that the difference in pressure between the reactive gas passage (115, 1c, 116, 1a) and the water passage (117, 1b) is within a predetermined range, whereby the reactive gas is humidified in a desirable state.



23) Hydrogen storage-based rechargeable fuel cell system May 31, 2006 European Patent Patent Number EP1661199 Applicant General Electric Company Inventor(s) WEI, CHANG; United States of America HART, RICHARD; United States of America WANG, SHENGXIAN; China Title Hydrogen storage-based rechargeable fuel cell system Abstract An electrochemical system for converting electrical energy into chemical energy and chemical energy into electrical energy. The electrochemical system comprises a means for converting electrical energy into chemical energy, and a means for converting chemical energy into electrical energy, wherein the means for converting electrical energy into chemical energy and the means for converting chemical energy into electrical energy share a common electrode. In various embodiments, the present invention provides a hydrogen generator/fuel cell hybrid system. In various embodiments, the common electrode functions as a hydrogen source for the fuel cell, an active electrode for the hydrogen generator, and a portion or all of the common electrode is an anode of the fuel cell. Hydrogen, oxygen, and water may be recycled in the system.

24) Fuel cell system May 31, 2006 European Patent Patent Number EP1662593 Applicant MATSUSHITA ELECTRIC INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD. Inventor(s) TANAKA, Yoshikazuc/oMatsushita Electic IndustrialC; Osaka 540-6319, Japan NISHIKAWA, Takashic/o Matsushita Electric Industri; Osaka 540-6319, Japan OZEKI, Masatakac/o Matsushita Electric Industrial; Osaka 540-6319, Japan NAKAMURA, Akinaric/o Matsushita Electric Industria; Osaka 540-6319, Japan

Title Fuel cell system

Abstract A fuel cell system of the present invention comprises a fuel cell (13), a load value detecting means (16) configured to detect a load value of a load of electric power or heat which is generated by equipment (14) supplied with the electric power or the heat from the fuel cell system, a load value storage means (17) configured to store a history of the load value which is detected by the load value detecting means (16), a load value predicting means (18) configured to predict a load value which is going to be generated, based on the history of the load value, and to store the predicted load value as load value data, and scheduled start-up time of a fuel cell (13) is decided based on the load value data.



25) Method and apparatus for treating reformed gas and fuel cell electric power generation May 31, 2006 European Patent Patent Number EP1661853 Applicant EBARA BALLARD CORPORATION Title Method and apparatus for treating reformed gas and fuel cell electric power generation Inventor(s) TAKAGI, Yuto Abstract To provide a method for treating a reformate in which carbon monoxide in the reformate can be removed in a stable and reliable manner for a long period of time. A method for treating a reformate according comprises a temperature elevating step of heating a selective oxidation catalyst 19 to elevate temperature thereof, the selective oxidation catalyst 19 being for selectively oxidizing carbon monoxide in the reformate 44 with air 34 for selective oxidation; a selective oxidation catalyst 19 activating step of, after the temperature of the selective oxidation catalyst 19 has been elevated in the above temperature elevating step, supplying the reformate 44, formed in a reforming step of forming the reformate 44 from a hydrocarbon fuel 42 by steam reforming reaction, to the selective oxidation catalyst 19 for a predetermined time, without supplying the air 34 for selective oxidation, to activate the selective oxidation catalyst 19; and a carbon monoxide removing step of removing carbon monoxide in the reformate 44, formed in the reforming step, by the selective oxidation thereof with the air 34 for selective oxidation using the activated selective oxidation catalyst 19.

World Patents Issued for This Week (Included in Updated Table)

VEHICLE AND FUEL STORAGE SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE June 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06057765 Applicant FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC Inventor(s) IJAZ, Mujeeb [US/US]; 5541 Scott Court, Ypsilanti, MI 48197 (US). LEANHARDT, Dale [US/US]; 46633 Arboretum Circle, Plymouth, MI 48170 (US). VEENSTRA, Mike [US/US]; 15594 Hickory Lane, Southgate, MI 48195 (US). Title VEHICLE AND FUEL STORAGE SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE Abstract A vehicle and a fuel storage system for a vehicle are provided. A frame defining a perimeter structure and having first and second ends, and a generally open central interior portion, is configured to receive any one of a plurality of vehicle bodies in a body-on-frame vehicle architecture. A fuel cell arrangement is disposed adjacent one end of the frame, and a fuel storage tank is disposed in the central interior portion of the frame, along a length of the frame. The fuel storage tank provides a source of fuel for the fuel cell, and also acts as a fuel delivery conduit from one end of the frame to the other. The fuel storage system can include a non-rigid mounting structure for the fuel tank, thereby substantially isolating the fuel tank from movements of the vehicle frame.



MEMBRANE TREATMENT METHOD

May 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06057782

Applicant GENERAL MOTORS Inventor(s) FULLER, Timothy, J.; United States of America 14534 DOBULIS, Beba, T.; United States of America 14620 Title MEMBRANE TREATMENT METHOD Abstract A method of enhancing electrical performance of a membrane for a fuel cell is disclosed. The method includes providing a perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) ionomer in an aqueous hydroxylated hydrocarbon aqueous solution. The PFSA dispersion or solution has an acid number the same or higher than an acid number of the membrane. The membrane is immersed in the solution such that the high acid number PFSA dispersion diffuses into the membrane. After immersion, the removed membrane is then dried under tension.

ELECTRORHEOLOGICAL DESIGN AND MANUFACTURING METHOD FOR PROTON TRANSPORT MEMBRANES AND BIPOLAR PLATES May 25, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06057704 Applicant THE ARIZONA BOARD OF REGENTS, A BODY CORPORATE ACTING ON BEHALF OF ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY Inventor(s) POST, Alvin; United States of America 85236 ROGERS, Bradley; United States of America 85226 TAMIZHMANI, Govindasami; United States of America 85234

Title ELECTRORHEOLOGICAL DESIGN AND MANUFACTURING METHOD FOR PROTON TRANSPORT MEMBRANES AND BIPOLAR PLATES Abstract Proton transport membranes and bipolar plates for use in fuel cell stacks are generally discussed herein with particular discussions extended to proton transport membranes and bipolar plates made from electrorheological (ER) fluids. By combining electrically polarizable aggregates, such as carbon particles, with a phase changing medium to form an electroset composition and exposing the same to an electric field, the composition behave as an ER fluid and the polarizable aggregates form long chains in the direction of the field gradient. The composition is permanently cured in this condition and resultant product may be used as membranes, if catalysts are added, or bipolar plates in a fuel cell stack



FUEL CELL June 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06057283 Applicant TOSHIBA Inventor(s) NEGISHI, Nobuyasu; TAKAHASHI, Kenichi; KAN, Hirofumi; Title FUEL CELL Abstract A fuel cell includes: a film electrode junction body (1) having a proton conductive film (6) between a cathode catalyst layer (2) and an anode catalyst layer (3); a cathode conductive layer (7a) arranged at the side of the cathode catalysis layer of the film electrode junction body (1); an external case (15) having an air introduction opening (14) for supplying air to the cathode catalyst layer (2); an anode conductive layer (7b) arranged at the side of the anode catalyst layer of the film electrode junction body (1); and a liquid fuel tank (9) for containing liquid fuel to be supplied to the anode catalyst layer (3).The cathode conductive layer (7a) and the anode conductive layer (7b) are arranged on an insulating film (16) to form a single body which is twice-folded. The film electrode junction body (1) is contained in a inner space obtained by the twice-folding.

PROTON CONDUCTING MEMBRANE, FUEL CELL USING SAME AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING PROTON CONDUCTING MEMBRANE June 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06057239

Applicant NIPPON SHEET GLASS COMPANY, LIMITED Inventor(s) ASADA, Atsushi; Japan 1058552 INO, Juichi; Japan 1058552 SATO, Noriaki; Japan 1058552 Title PROTON CONDUCTING MEMBRANE, FUEL CELL USING SAME AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING PROTON CONDUCTING MEMBRANE Abstract Disclosed is a proton conducting membrane (10) comprising a solid electrolyte (11) and glass fibers (12) dispersed in the solid electrolyte. The mass of the glass fibers (12) is reduced by 8 mass% or less when the glass fibers (12) are immersed in 10 % hydrochloric acid at 96˚C for 24 hours. The average fiber diameter of the glass fibers (12) is within a range from 0.1 µm to 10 µm, and the average fiber diameter and the average fiber length of the glass fibers satisfy the following relationship: 50 ≤ (average fiber length)/(average fiber diameter) ≤ 5000.



FUEL CELL SYSTEM June 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06057223 Applicant TOYOTA

Inventor(s) OHKAWARA, Hiroki; Japan 4488650 Title FUEL CELL SYSTEM Abstract A fuel cell system in which hot water can be supplied from a high-pressure water source without involving a rise in costs and an increase in size. In a fuel cell system, an FC cooling water circulation circuit (73) is provided independent of a stored hot water circulation circuit (72), and heat exchange is performed between stored hot water and a first heat medium through a first heat exchanger (74). Further, a condensed refrigerant circulation circuit (75) is provided also independent of the stored hot water circulation circuit (72), and heat exchange is performed between the stored hot water and a second heat medium through a second heat exchanger (76). That is, the stored hot water is not subjected to direct heat exchange with anode off gas, cathode off gas, combustion discharge gas, and reformed gas, but heat exchange of the stored hot water is indirectly made through the second heat exchanger (76).

THERMAL INSULATING CONTAINER FOR A HEAT GENERATING UNIT OF A FUEL CELL June 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06057158 Applicant NISSAN

Inventor(s) NAKAJIMA, Yasushi; KUSHIBIKI, Keiko; IBUKA, Shigeo Title THERMAL INSULATING CONTAINER FOR A HEAT GENERATING UNIT OF A FUEL CELL Abstract A thermal insulating container (1) of the present invention includes a container body (9) formed of an inner container shell (2) for housing a heat generation unit (H), and of an outer container shell (3) for covering the inner container shell (2), and a vacuum layer (4) located between the inner container shell (2) and the outer container shell (3). Further, the thermal insulating container (1) is characterized in that the heat generation unit-side surface of the inner container shell (2) is covered with a thermal insulator (5). In the thermal insulating container (1), the thermal insulator (5) is provided between the inner container shell (2) and the heat generation unit (5), and the temperature rise of the inner container shell (2) is thus restricted. As a result, the gas permeation through the inner container shell (2) is restricted.




World Patent Patent Number WO06057155 Applicant Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Inventor(s) UNOKI, Shigeyuki; TAKEGUCHI, Shinsuke; TAKEBE, Yasuo Title FUEL CELL Abstract The temperature of cooling fluid in an entrance side manifold is raised, in power generation, by influence of the temperature of a heat generation section of a cell. This causes variation in the temperature of each single cell in a fuel cell stack, causing flooding and variation in an output voltage. The invention provides a fuel cell in which a rise in temperature of cooling fluid in an entrance side manifold is suppressed, that has high durability, and that provides a stable output voltage. The fuel cell has cooling fluid flow paths in a cathode side separator plate and an anode side separator plate, the flow paths connecting an entrance side manifold and exit side manifold for the cooling fluid. The cooling fluid flow paths are composed of first cooling sections for cooling heat generation sections that are regions corresponding to a cathode and an anode and of second cooling sections each positioned between a first cooling section and an entrance side manifold for the cooling fluid.

SOLID POLYMER TYPE FUEL CELL June 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06057139 Applicant NISSAN MOTOR CO. LTD. Inventor(s) OHMA, Atsushi; YAMAMOTO, Shinji Title SOLID POLYMER TYPE FUEL CELL Abstract A solid polymer type fuel cell, which has a solid polymer electrolyte membrane (107), catalyst layers (111, 113) arranged on both sides of the solid polymer electrolyte membrane (107), gas diffusion layers (112, 114) arranged on the outside of the catalyst layers (111, 113), separators (103,104)arranged on the outside of the gas diffusion layers (112, 114), wherein the cathode side catalyst layer (113) comprises a carbon carrier (117) comprising a carbon having an average lattice interplanar spacing [d002] of the plane [002] of 0.343 nm to 0.358 nm, as calculated from the X-ray analysis, a size (Lc) of a crystallite of 3 to 10 nm and a specific surface area of 200 to 300 m2/g, catalyst particles (115) comprising platinum carried on the carbon carrier (117), and an electrolyte (116). The above solid polymer type fuel cell is free from the corrosion or deterioration of the carbon carrier of the cathode catalyst layer in the time of the start or stop of a fuel cell, which results in a stable high output for a long period of time.



FUEL CELL SYSTEM June 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06057134 Applicant NISSAN MOTOR CO. LTD. Inventor(s) IKEZOE, Keigo Title FUEL CELL SYSTEM Abstract When a stop trigger of a fuel cell system (100) is turned on, air humidified by a humidifier (3) with an air humidification amount lower than during a normal operation is supplied to a fuel cell stack (1) so as to increase the water bring-out amount Qm generated in the fuel cell stack (1) when continuing a predetermined time Pg of power generation of the fuel cell stack (1). After this, power generation is stopped and the cathode side of the fuel cell stack (1) is Pp-purged by the air for a predetermined time.

CONTROLLER OF FUEL CELL SYSTEM June 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06057124 Applicant NISSAN MOTOR CO. LTD. Inventor(s) MATSUMOTO, Michihiko; OBATA, Takeaki; TANIGUCHI, Ikuhiro Title CONTROLLER OF FUEL CELL SYSTEM Abstract A fuel cell system capable of learning its current-voltage characteristics precisely in a short time even when the current-voltage characteristics of a fuel cell are varies due to reduction of a catalyst of an oxidizing agent electrode during the stop of operation of the fuel cell system. A controller (13) learns current-voltage characteristics of a fuel cell stack (2), detects the amount of variation in voltage of current-voltage characteristics before a stop of power generation and those after restart of power generation, and corrects the learnt value of the current-voltage characteristics by the amount of variation in voltage.



VENTILATION DEVICE FOR FUEL CELL June 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06057123 Applicant NISSAN MOTOR CO. LTD. Inventor(s) IRITSUKI, Keita Title VENTILATION DEVICE FOR FUEL CELL Abstract A ventilation device for a fuel cell has a fuel cell stack (5), a fuel cell box (16), and a ventilation flow path (61). The fuel cell stack (5) is constructed by layering single cells (3) of which each being formed by holding an electrolyte film (37), having electrodes on both sides, by a cathode separator (41) and an anode separator (39), and the fuel cell stack (5) has an air manifold penetrating in a layering direction of the single cells (3) and communicating with an airflow path formed in a surface that faces the electrolyte film (37) of the cathode separator (41). The fuel cell box (16) receives the fuel cell stack. The ventilation flow path (61) is provided in at least one of the electrolyte film (37), the cathode separator (41), and the anode separator (39) and causes a part of air flowing in the air manifold to flow out into space in the fuel cell box (16).

ELECTRODE CATALYST, METHOD FOR PREPARATION THEREOF, DIRECT ALCOHOL FUEL CELL June 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06054218 Applicant RICOH COMPANY, LTD. Inventor(s) TANAKA, Shohji; Japan 2510042 KIMURA, Okitoshi; Japan 2220011 HASEGAWA, Aino; Japan 2240014 USUI, Yuuma; Japan 2240065 Title ELECTRODE CATALYST, METHOD FOR PREPARATION THEREOF, DIRECT ALCOHOL FUEL CELL Abstract It has been found that the use of a metal electrode catalyst which comprises an element mixture comprising platinum and at least one element selected from ruthenium and molybdenum as an effective component and has been prepared by the vapor phase synthesis, as an anode, markedly improves the rate of the electrode oxidation reaction of an alcohol such as methanol, ethanol or isopropyl alcohol. Further, the use of the above metal electrode catalyst as an anode allows the manufacture of a direct alcohol fuel cell exhibiting a high output, while using an alcohol as an fuel without reforming.



GAS LEAK DETECTION DEVICE AND FUEL CELL SYSTEM June 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06056878 Applicant TOYOTA Inventor(s) SUEMATSU, Keigo; Japan 471-8571 YOKOYAMA, Tatsuaki; Japan 471-8571 UMAYAHARA, Kenji; Japan 471-8571 TOMOSADA, Nobuhiro; Japan 471-8571 Title GAS LEAK DETECTION DEVICE AND FUEL CELL SYSTEM Abstract In a fuel cell system (100), the amount of fuel gas supplied through an fuel gas supply passage (24) and the amount of fuel gas consumed by a fuel cell (10) are detected. A difference between the amount of supplied fuel gas and the amount of consumed fuel gas is calculated by subtracting the amount of consumed fuel gas from the amount of supplied fuel gas. The pressure of the fuel gas in a leak detection passage (Cx), the change in the pressure of the detected fuel gas can be detected, and the change in the amount of fuel gas in the gas leak detection passage (Cx) due to the change in the pressure of the fuel gas can thus be detected. The difference is corrected by subtracting the change in the amount of fuel gas in the gas leak detection passage from the difference. When the corrected difference is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, a fuel gas leak is detected in the leak detection passage (Cx).

PROCESS FOR OPERATING A FUEL CELL STACK June 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06056319 Applicant DAIMLERCHRYSLER AG Inventor(s) MAASS, Sebastian FINSTERWALDER, Florian Title PROCESS FOR OPERATING A FUEL CELL STACK Abstract A process is disclosed for operating a fuel cell stack having at least one individual cell, in particular a PEM fuel cell, as well as the use of a structure which is known per se for carrying out a preferred embodiment of this process. In this process, hydrogen or a hydrogen-containing gas is supplied as fuel to an anode chamber of the fuel cell stack, and oxygen or air is supplied as oxidising agent to a cathode chamber of the fuel cell stack. According to the invention, the oxidising agent is at least partially diluted. This makes it possible to adjust such a partial oxygen pressure in the oxidising agent that the voltage supplied by each of the individual cells remains under a critical voltage value. The oxidising agent is preferably diluted with recycled waste cathode gas.



FUEL CELL SYSTEM WITH A LIQUID SEPARATOR June 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06056276 Applicant NUCELLSYS GMBH Inventor(s) BARLEBEN, Roger-Marcelo; Germany LIMBECK, Uwe; Germany MAZZOTTA, Cosimo, S.; Germany PFLUGFELDER, Hans-Jörg; Germany STROHMAIER, Manfred; Germany Title FUEL CELL SYSTEM WITH A LIQUID SEPARATOR Abstract A fuel cell system (10) comprising at least one fuel cell (12) provided with an anode area (14) and a cathode area (18) which is separated from the anode area (14) by an electrolyte (16) and a first liquid separator (42). A liquid out (60) of the first liquid separator (42) is connected to a second liquid separator (44) or cathode gas discharge line (24) via a first bypass line (78).

ACTIVE TEST FUEL CELL FOR CHARACTERIZING AND QUALIFYING CELL-INTERNAL FUEL CELL COMPONENTS June 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06056195 Applicant H.I.A.T. GGMBH Inventor(s) MÖLLER, Stephan; Germany HÄRTE, Christian; Germany RUFFMANN, Bastian; Germany Title ACTIVE TEST FUEL CELL FOR CHARACTERIZING AND QUALIFYING CELL-INTERNAL FUEL CELL COMPONENTS Abstract The aim of the invention is to provide an active test fuel cell for characterizing and qualifying cell-internal components which allows to establish technical data on the cell-internal components to be tested at low assembly costs, at a low error rate and with a high degree of reproducibility of the measuring results. For this purpose, one of the housing plates is coupled to a piston/cylinder unit whose piston extends through the housing plate and impinges a pressure piston which in turn acts upon the cell-internal components. The inventive active test fuel cells are used for characterizing and qualifying cell-internal fuel cell components.



CATHODE DIFFUSION LAYER FOR A FUEL CELL June 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06056165 Applicant FORSCHUNGSZENTRUM JÜLICH GMBH Inventor(s) NÖLKE, Marcus; Germany MÜLLER, Martin; Germany Title CATHODE DIFFUSION LAYER FOR A FUEL CELL Abstract The invention relates to a direct methanol fuel cell, comprising an anode, an electrolyte and a cathode, whereby the cathode comprises a flow field with at least one cathode channel and the cathode channel borders the electrolyte through a cathode diffusion layer. Said fuel cell is characterised in that the cathode diffusion layer has varying water transport parameters along the cathode channel, in particular, varying porosity. An optimal water management for the total active surface of the diffusion layer is hence possible.

SOLID OXIDE FUEL CELL WITH EXTERNAL MANIFOLD June 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06056044 Applicant VERSA POWER SYSTEMS, LTD. Inventor(s) SHERMAN, Scott; Canada TANG, Zheng; Canada Title SOLID OXIDE FUEL CELL WITH EXTERNAL MANIFOLD Abstract A solid oxide fuel cell stack may include repeating fuel cell units each having a planar fuel cell, an interconnect, a cathode contact layer disposed between sealing strips, and an anode contact layer disposed between sealing strips. The sealing strips have end extensions which overlap with corner extensions on the interconnect. The extensions stack to form vertical columns which enclose the external manifolds, along with a manifold plate.

SOLUTION BASED ENHANCEMENTS OF FUEL CELL COMPONENTS AND OTHER ELECTROCHEMICAL SYSTEMS AND DEVICES June 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06055652 Applicant BATTELLE MEMORIAL INSTITUTE Inventor(s) SAYRE, Jay, R.; United States of America 43230 SESSLAR, Megan, E.; United States of America 43230 WHITE, James, L.; United States of America 43211 STICKEL, John, R.; United States of America 43140 STASIK, Mark, C.; United States of America 43214 VIJAYENDRAN, Bhima, R.; United States of America 43017



Title SOLUTION BASED ENHANCEMENTS OF FUEL CELL COMPONENTS AND OTHER ELECTROCHEMICAL SYSTEMS AND DEVICES Abstract This invention relates in general to components of electrochemical devices, and to methods of preparing the components. The components and methods include the use of a composition comprising an ionically conductive polymer and at least one solvent, where the polymer and the solvent are selected based on the thermodynamics of the combination. In one embodiment, the invention relates to a component for an electrochemical device which is prepared from a composition comprising a true solution of an ionically conductive polymer and at least one solvent, the polymer and the at least one solvent being selected such that (δ solvent- δ solute) < 1 , where δ solvent is the Hildebrand solubility parameter of the at least one solvent and where δ solute is the Hildebrand solubility parameter of the polymer. In another embodiment, the invention relates to a method of improving at least one property of a component for an electrochemical device or at least one property of the electrochemical device, the method comprising preparing the component from a composition comprising a true solution of an ionically conductive polymer and at least one solvent, the polymer and the at least one solvent being selected such that (δ solvent - δ solute) < 1 , where δ solvent is the Hildebrand solubility parameter of the at least one solvent and where δ solute is the Hildebrand solubility parameter of the polymer

HYDROPHILIC SURFACE MODIFICATION OF BIPOLAR PLATE June 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06055146 Applicant TOYOTA Inventor(s) ABD ELHAMID, Mahmoud, H.; United States of America 48236 VYAS, Gayatri; United States of America 48307 CHENG, Yang-Tse; United States of America 48306 BLUNK, Richard, H.; United States of America 48040 Title HYDROPHILIC SURFACE MODIFICATION OF BIPOLAR PLATE Abstract A bipolar plate having hydrophilic surfaces is disclosed. The bipolar plate includes multiple surfaces including channels having channel surfaces. A hydrophilic coating is provided on the surfaces to enhance the water management capabilities of a fuel cell.

PRECONDITIONING FUEL CELL MEMBRANE ELECTRODE ASSEMBLIES June 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06055124 Applicant 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY Inventor(s) ANDERSON, Bradley, P.; United States of America 55133-3427 Title PRECONDITIONING FUEL CELL MEMBRANE ELECTRODE ASSEMBLIES


Abstract A method is presented for preconditioning fuel cell membrane electrode assemblies for use in fuel cell systems which includes exposure to saturated steam at superatmospheric pressures, typically for at least 10 minutes and more typically at least 25 minutes. Typically, the preconditioning method according to the present invention results in reduction of the start up or conditioning time required when the MEA's are first installed in a fuel cell system and improvement of overall performance, as reflected in the achievement of high current density at relatively high voltage. The method may additionally include the step of enclosing the fuel cell membrane electrode assembly in a container which is substantially impervious to water before the fuel cell membrane electrode assembly returns to ambient temperature.


FUEL CELL COMPONENT STORAGE OR SHIPMENT June 01, 2006

World Patent Patent Number WO06055101 Applicant 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY Inventor(s) ANDERSON, Robert, D. Title FUEL CELL COMPONENT STORAGE OR SHIPMENT Abstract An article is provided comprising: a) a fuel cell stack comprising at least one port, and b) a humidifying element in communication with the port. The humidifying element may be comprised in a humidifying device, which may form a seal with the port. In another aspect, an article is provided comprising a container, a humidifying element contained within the container, and a fuel cell membrane electrode assembly (MEA) contained within the container. In another aspect, an article is provided comprising a container, a humidifying element contained within the container, and a fuel cell unit cell assembly (UCA) contained within the container. The humidifying element may or may not be contained in a subpocket of the container, which may or may not be impervious to water or substantially impervious to water.


World Patent Patent Number WO06054756 Applicant TOYOTA Inventor(s) NISHIDA, Tsunemasa; Japan 4718571 SUZUKI, Toshiyuki; Japan 4718571 OCHI, Tsutomu; Japan 4718571 TAKESHITA, Naohiro; Japan 4718571 YOSHIKAWA, Hiroo; Japan 4718571 Title FUEL CELL Abstract A fuel cell (10) having separators (1, 2) facing each other with a power generation reaction section (5) in between, in which each of the separators (1, 2) has a gas flow path (3, 4), a gas flow path partition rib (6), and a projection (7) in the gas flow path. A first separator (1, 2) that is at least either of the separators (1, 2) facing each other with the power generation reaction section (5) in between has a holding rib (8) instead of the projection (7), the holding rib (8) being provided in that region (S) of the first separator (1, 2) which faces the gas flow path partition rib (6) of the second separator (2, 1), which is the separator facing the first separator (1, 2), the holding rib (8) holding, in cooperation with the gas flow path partition rib (6) of the second separator (2, 1), the power generation reaction section (5). In the region (S) of the first separator (1, 2), the area (S1) of contact of the holding rib (8) with the power generation reaction section (5) is set greater than the area (S2) of contact of the power generation reaction section (5) with the projection (7) provided without forming the holding rib (8) in the region (S) of the first separator (1, 2).


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Name of Company(Major) and Patents Issued Y/T/D(Year To Date)-*Starting Dec. 12, 2005


COMPANY PATENTS ISSUED

THIS WEEK

*YEAR TO DATE 2005

(Dec/12/2004 to Dec/12/2005)

2004

(Dec/01/2003 to Dec/12/2004)

Nissan Motor Co. Ltd 7 55 70 43

Toyota 6 54 21 34

Matsushita Electric 3 40 43 38

Honda 1 38 86 71

General Motors 1 36 54 57

Ballard Power 0 26 54 51

UTC Fuel Cells 0 23 29 48

Hewlett-Packard 2 18 25 36

Samsung 2 14 7 2

Asahi Glass 0 14 4

Siemens 0 13 15 15

Delphi Technologies 0 13 16 28

Renault 0 12 6

3M Innovative 2 11 9 4

Plug Power Inc. 0 10 6 17

Sony Corporation 0 10 6 12

Idatech 1 10 17 3

Gillette 0 9

Pemeas GmbH 0 8 12

General Electric 1 9 13 17

Hydrogenics 1 9 15 15

BMW 1 8 7 3

Canon 0 7

Texaco-Ovonics 0 6 8 2

Proton Energy 0 6 11 10

Versa Power 1 6

Fuel Cell Energy 0 5 14 7

ITM Fuel Cells 0 5

Asia Pacific Fuel Cell 0 5 7 11

Toshiba 1 5 8 5

DaimlerChrysler 1 5 17 20

Umicore AG & Co. KG 0 4

Yamaha 0 4 1

Forschungszentrum 0 4 4

Dupont 0 4 13 8

LG Eectronics 0 4 0

UltraCell 0 4 1

Ovonics Fuel Cell Co. 0 4

Mitsubishi 0 4

Antig 0 4



Motorola 0 4 9 15

Johnson Matthey 1 4 5

Ford 1 3 4 6

NuCell 1 3

Hyundai 0 3 3

MTI Micro Fuel Cells 0 3 6 12

L’Air Liquide 0 3 7 4

Voller 0 3 1 1

Ion America 0 3 3 2

Casio 0 3 1

Nuvera 0 3 2 3

Relion 0 3 3 6

Angstrom Power 1 2 1

Apollo Energy 0 2 1

Shinano Kenshi 0 2 0

Acta 0 2

Jadoo Power 0 2

NEC Corporation 0 2 2 9

Medis(More Energy) 0 2(From More) 2(1 from More ) 4(2 from More Energy)

Volkswagen 0 2 1

Saint-GobainCeramics 0 2 0

Hitachi, Ltd 0 2 3 5

Modine Manufacturing 0 2 4

Webasto 0 2

QuestAir Technologies 0 2 3

WÄRTSILÄ 0 2

Sanyo Electric Co., 1 2 3 4

Toho Gas Co., Ltd. 1 2 2

Ebara Ballard 1 2 1

Protonex 1 2 1

Peugeot 0 1

De Nora Elettrodi 0 1 1

MicroCell 0 1 3 6

GenCell Corporation 0 1 3 4

Proton Motor Fuel Cell 0 1 3

Direct Methanol Fuel 0 1

Lynntech, Inc. 0 1 4

Battelle Memorial 0 1 2 5

Ceramic Fuel Cells 0 1 1

Intelligent Energy 0 1 3 2

Tokyo Gas 0 1 1

Gore 0 1 2

Polyfuel 0 1 2 1

Hoku Scientific 0 1 1

Entegris 0 1 2



SFC Smart Fuel Cell 0 1 3 5

Ceramic Fuel Cell 0 1 2 5

H-Power 0 1 2 3

Ceres Power Ltd. 0 1 2

Osaka Gas Company 1 1 1

Sulzer 0 0 5 4

BASF 0 0 3

Nippon Electric Co. 0 0 3

ExxonMobil Research 0 0 2

FuelSell Technologies 0 0

Renault 0 0 2 6

Millennium Cell, Inc. 0 0 2 3

Annuvu 0 0 2 2

P 21-Power for the 0 0 2 0

MTU CFC Solutions 0 0 2

Rolls Royce 0 0 2 1

GrafTech 0 0 2

Energy Conversion 0 0 2 10

Energy Conversion 0 0 2

Ball Corporation 0 0 1

Powercell Svenska AB 0 0 1

Neah Power 0 0 1 4

Giner Electrochemical 0 0 1 2

Helion 0 0 1

Victrex 0 0 1 1

Acumentrics 0 0 1

Manhattan Scientifics 0 0 1 3

Celanese 0 0 1

Air Products 0 0 1 1

Texaco 0 0 1

Fuel Cell Technologies 0 0 1

Cellex Power 0 0 1

Palcan 0 0 1 1

Stuart Energy 0 0 1 1

Porvair 0 0 1

Masterflex 0 0 1

Global Thermoelectric 0 0 6

Avista 0 0 3

Dow 0 0 3

Valiant 0 0 1

Energy Visions 0 0 1

Cerres 0 0 1

Quantum 0 0 1

General Hydrogen 0 0 1

Osaka Gas Company 1 1 1


*Includes World/European and U.S. Patents issued(Not Japanese)

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