DMFCC requests patent for tamper-resistant fuel cell cartridges

Direct Methanol Fuel Cell Corporation (DMFCC), a subsidiary of Viaspace, has applied for a patent for its tamper-resistant fuel cartridges that provide fuel for micro fuel cells.

The cartridges, which are used primarily to power small electronic products such as mobile phones, music players and external chargers, are also compatible with applications which require delivery of a liquid fuel such as catalytic heaters.

"With this patent application, we are adding to our existing large intellectual property portfolio on direct methanol fuel cells and cartridges to power them," commented Dr Karl Kukkonen, chief executive officer of both DMFCC and Viaspace.

"Fuel cell cartridges containing methanol or other liquids used in fuel cells have to be safe to handle and resistant to unwanted access, especially by children. This patent application included work performed by students from the Centre for Design Education and the School of Engineering at Harvey Mudd College in Claremont, California.

"The students teamed with our own internal engineers to create multiple design approaches to tamper resistance for fuel cell cartridges. We are extremely pleased with the efforts of the students, who made significant contribution to this critical safety requirement."

Dr Kukkonen added that the market for fuel cell applications requiring cartridges which hold small amounts of fuel is growing rapidly.

Source: Adfero