WO1988005607A1

WO1988005607A1 - Liquid activated battery

Info

Publication number: WO1988005607A1
Application number: PCT/US1987/000058
Authority: WO
Inventors: Patrick Cham Wong Chau; Roger L. Hummel
Original assignee: Patrick Cham Wong Chau; Hummel Roger L
Priority date: 1987-01-20
Filing date: 1987-01-20
Publication date: 1988-07-28

Abstract

A battery includes a dielectric body (20) having a plurality of cavities (27, 28, 29) formed therein. Within each cavity is a first electrode (63, 65, 68) and a second electrode (64, 67, 69) the first and second electrodes are of dissimilar metal. The electrodes in adjacent cavities are connected in series. The first electrode (63) in the first cavity (27) is connected to a terminal (24) exterior of the body. The second electrode (69) in the last cavity (29) is connected to an exterior terminal (25). A sponge (77, 78, 79) resides in each cavity between the respective electrodes. As liquid is introduced into each cavity through an aperture (50, 53, 55) air is discharged through another aperture (52, 54, 57).

Description

DESCRIPTION LIQUID ACTIVATED BATTERY

Technical Field

This invention relates to electrical apparatus. More particularly, the present invention relates to devices for the production or storage of electrical energy commonly referred to as batteries. In a further and more specific aspect, the instant invention concerns an improved battery which is activated upon the addition of a randomly selected liquid which functions as an electrolyte.

Background Art

Batteries are a commonly used means of producing and/or storing electrical energy. Wide variance in type, size and electrical capacity are known. Of the sort normally used by the individual consumer, batteries range in size from small lightweight items to large heavy units. The smaller batteries, generally characterized as being of the dry cell type and having a capacity of only a few volts, are commonly employed to energize portable devices such as wrist watches, calculators and flashlights. . Exemplary of the larger batteries, typically of the wet cell type and having a capacity in the range of 12 volts, are those used in connection with vehicles for land, water and air travel.

In recent years, there has been a substantial increase in the consumer use of portable electronic devices. Electronic wrist watches and pocket calculators, for example, have become commonplace. Miniaturization of components and drastically reduced costs, resulting from advanced technology, are primarily responsible. The devices are also exceedingly reliable, having an extended service life.

Technology in the area of batteries for energizing such devices, however, has not kept pace. The typical electronic watch utilizes a battery of relatively small dimensions, in the order of 8 mm diameter and 4 mm thickness and having a capacity of approximately 1.5 volts dc. Since such batteries are generally of the dry cell type and not rechargeable, the battery is charged or electrical energy stored therein during the manufacturing process. Deterioration of the charge begins immediately thereafter. Shelf life and potential loss of inventory are, therefore, of considerable concern to those responsible for distribution and sales. The battery is also a source of aggravation, and inconvenience for the consumer. Generally, even for a fully charged battery under light use, maximum service life is considered approximately one year. The time can be substantially abbreviated under varying conditions of application. Accordingly, periodic replacement involving time and expense is necessary. Also, the electronic device is rendered inoperative until replacement is accomplished. For those with urgent need of the device and not in proximity of a supplier of replacement batteries, the loss of use of the device can be extended and inconvenient to the extent of being critical. Further, it is possible that the chemicals within the battery may escape, such as by eroding the case, and cause damage to the device or to the surrounding environment.

It would highly advantageous, therefore, to remedy the foregoing and other deficiencies inherent in the prior art.

Disclosure of the Invention

The present invention provides a battery especially adapted for use in connection with portable electronic devices. In accordance with a preferred embodiment thereof, the battery includes a dielectric body having at least one cavity therein. A^' first electrode of a first metal displaying a tendency to be a reducing agent and thus give up electrons in the presence of a second electrode of a second metal displaying a tendency to be an oxidizing agent and thus gain electrons in the presence of the first metal are positioned in spaced apart relationship within the cavity. First and second terminals extend exteriorally of the body and are coupled to respective electrodes. Means are provided for permitting the introduction of a liquid electrolyte into the cavity when activation of the battery is desired and for permitting air to be discharged from the cavity during introduction of the liquid.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the invention, the body contains a plurality of cavities, each having a first electrode and a second electrode residing therein. The first electrode and the second electrode of adjacent cavities are electrically connected. The first electrode in the first cavity is electrically connected to the first terminal while the second electrode in the last cavity is electrically connected with the second terminal. A body of liquid pervious and absorptive cellular material resides within each of the plurality of cavities. In a more specific embodiment, the body is generally cylindrical and carries a rotatably mounted cup-shaped cover. The means for permitting introduction of liquid and for discharge of air are in the form of apertures extending from each cavity through the sidewall of the body. The peripherally depending annular skirt of the cover carries corresponding apertures whereby the cover may be rotated between positions for opening and closing the apertures within the body. In accordance with yet a further embodiment of the invention, liquid treatment means reside the electrodes and the means for permitting introduction of the electrolyte. Preferably, the liquid treatment means includes means for withdrawing oxygen and for removing particulate matter from the electrolyte. The means for withdrawing oxygen is chosen from the oxygen attracting group including activated carbon granules, silica gel and sintered ferrites. The means for removing particulate matter is in the form of a filter fabricated of a suitable foraminous material. The liquid treatment means may reside within a reservoir for holding a reserved supply of electrolyte and which is in liquid communication with the cavity containing the electrodes. It is, therefore, an object of this invention to provide an improved battery.

Another object of the invention is the provision of a battery which is activated in response to the introduction of a selected liquid. And another object of the instant invention is to provide a battery which is quickly and conveniently activated.

Still another object of the invention is the provision of a battery which does not require chemicals which are corrosive or reactive with the ambient environment.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide a battery having an infinite shelf life.

Yet still another object of the immediate invention is the provision of a battery which virtually eliminates the need for periodic replacement.

And a further object of the invention is to provide a battery which can be recharged without using an auxiliary device. Still a further object of the present invention is the provision of a battery which is substantially inert and noncorrosive to the ambient environment. Yet a further object of the invention is to provide a battery having integral means for treating the selected liquid in a manner conducive to extending the service life of the battery. And yet a further object of the invention is the provision of a battery which will materially abbreviate the periods during which a device powered thereby is out of service.

And yet still a further object of the invention is to provide of a battery of the foregoing character which is relatively simple and inexpensive to manufacture.

Brief Description of Drawings

The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the invention will be readily apparent from the following description of certain preferred embodiments thereof, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, although variations and modifications may be affected without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the disclosure, and in which:

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a liquid activated battery embodying the principals of the instant invention;

Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the embodiment of Fig. 1;

Fig. 3 is a vertical sectional view taken along the line 3-3 of Fig. 1, and especially illustrating the assembled components seen in Fig. 2;

Fig. 4 is a vertical sectional view taken along the line 4-4 of Fig. 3, and further illustrating the assembled components;

Fig. 5 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a battery constructed in accordance with the teachings of the instant invention;

Fig. 6 is a partially exploded perspective view of the embodiment of Fig. 5;

Fig. 7 is an offset vertical sectional view taken along the line 7-7 of Fig. 5, and particularly illustrating the elements seen in Fig. 6 in the assembled configuration;

Fig. 8 is an enlarged vertical sectional view taken along the line 8-8 of Fig. 7; and Fig. 9 is an enlarged fragmentary front elevation view of the device shown in Fig. 5.

Fig. 10 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the embodiment of Fig. 10;

Fig. 12 is a vertical sectional view on an enlarged scale taken along the line 12 of Fig. 10, and specifically illustrating the internal details thereof;

Fig. 13 is a vertical sectional view taken along the line 13-13 of Fig. 12, and showing the cover member in the open position;

Fig. 14 is a fragmentary sectional view generally corresponding to the view of Fig. 13, and showing the cover member in the closed position; Fig. 15 is a view generally corresponding to the illustration of Fig. 4 and showing yet another embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 16 is a fragmentary plan view of a wrist watch incorporating an integral battery constructed in accordance with the teachings of the instant invention, portions thereof being broken away for purposes of illustration;

Fig. 17 is a vertical sectional view taken along the line 17-17 of Fig. 16; and Fig. 18 is a perspective illustration of the electrodes utilized of the embodiment in Fig. 16.

Best Modes For Carrying Out The Invention

Turning now to the drawings in which like reference characters indicate corresponding elements throughout the several views, attention is first directed to Fig. 1 which illustrates an embodiment of a liquid activated battery of the instant invention including a substantially cylindrical body, generally designated by the referenced character 20, having outer cylindrical surface 22 and generally planar front surface 23. Terminals 24 and 25 are carried by front surface 23. Terminal 24 is the negative connector, while terminal 25 is the positive connector as will be subsequentially described in detail.

With further reference to Fig. 2, it is seen that first, second and third cavities 27, 28 and 29, respectively, are formed into body 20 from face 23. Cavities 27 and 28 are divided by first partition 30. Second partition 32 resides intermediate cavities 28 and 29. Cavity 27, which is open at front surface 23, is defined by a continuous sidewall 33 and end wall 34. Similarly, cavity 28 includes continuous sidewall 35 and end wall 37 while cavity 29 is bounded by continuous sidewall 38 and end wall 39. As seen more clearly in Figs. 3 and 4, continuous sidewall 33 includes spaced apart substantially parallel sections 40 and 42. Similar sections 43 and 44 are carried by sidewall 35, while sections 45 and 47 are part of sidewall 38.

An aperture 48 extends through partition 30 between sidewall sections 42 and 43. A like aperture 49 communicates between sidewall sections 44 and 45 through partition 32. A pair of axially aligned apertures extend from each cavity through body 20. First and second apertures 50 and 52, respectively, communicate between respective ends of sidewall 33 of first cavity 27 and outer cylindrical surface 22 of body 20. Similarly arranged first and second apertures 53 and 54, respectively, are associated with cavity 28 while additional first and second apertures 55 and 57, respectively, project from respective ends of cavity 29. Semicylindrical trough 58 is formed in section 40 of continuous sidewall 33 to extend between front surface 23 and end wall 34 of cavity 27. Trough 59, formed in section 47 of sidewall 38, extends between end wall 39 of cavity 29 and front surface 23 of body 20. Semicircular recesses 60 and 62 are formed into front surface 23 in axial alignment with the troughs 58 and 59, respectively. A pair of spaced apart, substantially parallel, opposed plates are, carried within each cavity. A first plate 63 and a second plate 64 are carried within cavity 27 to reside against sections 40 and 42 of continuous sidewall 33. Preferably, one longitudinal edge of each plate abuts end wall 34. The other longitudinal edge of each plate resides at a location intermediate end wall 34 and surface 23. Similarly arranged within cavity 28 are a first plate 65 and a second plate 67. A first plate 68 and a second plate 69 are carried within cavity 29. Each plate is provided with an intermediate inwardly directed indentation 70. A metallic pin 72, extending through aperture 48, has respective ends thereof received in electrical contact with the indentations 70 of plates 64 and 65. Pin 73 extends through aperture 49 such that the ends are received in electrical contact within the indentations 70 of the respective plates 67 and 68. The indentation 70 of plate 63 cooperates with semicylindrical trough 58 to provide an aperture for receiving pin 74. Similarly, pin 75 resides partly within the recess 70 of plate 69 and partly within semicircular trough 59. The pins 74 and 75 are in electrical contact with plates 63 and 69, respectively. A disk, previously noted terminal 24, is carried at the end of pin 74 to reside within recess 60. A second disk, previously noted terminal 25, resides within recess 62 and is electrically connected with pin 75.

A cellular element having properties of being liquid pervious and absorptive, such as a piece of sponge, is sized and shaped to be carried within each cavity. The elements 77, 78 and 79 are carried within cavities 27, 28 and 29, respectively. Preferably, each cellular element is sized to substantially fill the respective cavity to a height substantially commensurate with that of the plates. It is also preferred that each cellular element is in compression between the respective plates.

Closure elements in the form of plugs 80, 82 and 83 seal the cavities 27, 28 and 29, respectively. Each plug has a thickness such that when seated against the plates within the cavity, a substantially flush face 23 is presented. Semicylindrical trough 84 carried in plug 80 cooperates with semicircular trough 58 to provide an aperture for pin 74. Semicircular recess 85 cooperates with recess 60 for receiving disc 24. Similarly, semicylindrical^' trough 87 and semicylindrical recess 88 carried by plug 83 cooperate with semicylindrical trough 59 and semicylindrical recess 62, respectively, for accommodating pin 75 and disc 25, respectively. Preferably, each plug is hermetically sealed in place.

The several plates and pins may be joined by conventional electromechanical bonding methods, such as soldering or spot welding. Alternately, the elements can be maintained in contact in response to pressure exerted by the compressed cellular elements.

The immediate embodiment of the instant invention, herein chosen for purposes of illustration, is in the form of a three cell battery. Each cell 27, 28 and 29, and the elements immediately associated therewith, function as a cell of the battery. Accordingly, body 20 is fabricated of a dielectric material such as the plastic produced from acrylic, polycarbonate, or acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene resins. The plates within each cavity, which function as anode and cathode, are of dissimilar metals as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. For purposes of orientation and consistent with electrode designations as conventionally applied to batteries, each first plate 63, 65 and 68 is considered the respective anode, that is, the electrode where oxidation takes place. Each second plate 64, 67 and 69 is considered the respective cathode, that is, the electrode where reduction takes place. The anodes are fabricated from a first metal displaying a tendency to act as a reducing ^"agent; that is, a tendency to give up electrons in the presence of a second metal. The cathodes are fabricated from a second metal displaying a tendency to act as an oxidizing agent; that is, a tendency to gain electrons in the presence of the first metal. Metal pairs displaying these characteristics, known to one skilled in the art as oxidizing-reducing pairs, might be Copper and Zinc, Iron and Magnesium, or Mercury and Cobalt. An electrolyte, that is, a liquid which will dissociate sufficiently to provide ion transport between the respective anodes and cathodes, must be provided to activate the battery. Suitable electrolytes might be tap water, sea water, fruit juice, beer, wine, carbonated soft drinks, and human perspiration.

Pin 72, fabricated of a conductive material such as copper, functions as a connector between the cathode carried in cavity 27 and the anode carried in cavity 28. A similar pin 73 functions as the connector between the plates 67 and 68 carried in the cavities 28 and 29, respectively. Pin 74, also preferably fabricated of copper, functions as a connector between the extreme anode, represented by plate 63 and the exterior terminal 24. In general analogy, pin 75 functions as a connector between the extreme cathode, plate 69, and the exterior terminal 25.

Each first aperture 50, 53 and 55 functions as an inlet duct for introduction of an electrolyte into the respective cell. Each respective second aperture 52, 54 and 57 functions as a vent duct for discharge of air during introduction of the electrolyte. Within the respective cells, members 77, 78 and 79 function as electrolyte retention means. Preferred electrolytes are fresh water or saltwater. However, it has been determined that substantially any water-based liquid will serve the intended function. A prototype of the embodiment hereinbefore described was constructed for purposes of testing. Chosen for the purpose was a body having an outside diameter of approximately 30 mm and a thickness of approximately 4 mm. Each anode, which measured approximately 0.1 mm by 1.9 mm by 15.0 mm, was fabricated of zinc. The cathodes were fabricated of copper in a corresponding size. Conventional commercially available synthetic sponge material, for example polyester, was used as the liquid-absorbing medium. Each inlet duct had a diameter of approximately 1 mm while each vent duct had a diameter of approximately 0.5 mm. Each outboard cell, exemplified by cavities 27 and 29, had a volume of approximately 250 mm³. The intermediate cell, cavity 28, had a slightly larger volume of approximately 300 mm³.

The electrolyte chosen for purposes of experimentation was ordinary tap water. Upon introduction of the electrolyte, each cell was activated to produce an electric current. Subsequent testing indicated that each cell produced approximately 0.6 volts dc under no load condition or approximately 0.5 volts dc under load. The three cell battery, therefore, produced an output of approximately 1.5 volts dc under load of approximately 50 microamps.

It is noted that the output voltage is consistent with the power requirements of certain compact electronic devices such as wrist watches and hand held calculators. It is also noted that the overall dimensions of the test model were chosen to correspond to the dimensions of currently commercially available wrist watches. Particularly pointed out is the fact that the battery is self-activating upon the introduction of an electrolyte.

With reference to Fig. 5 there is seen an alternate liquid activated battery embodying the teachings of the instant invention including a body, generally designated by the referenced character 90 and a cover, generally designated by the referenced character 92. In general similarity to the previously described body 20, the immediate body 90 includes generally cylindrical outer surface 93 and substantially planar front surface 94. Two terminals, positive 95 and negative connector 97, are recessed into surface 94 to be substantially planar therewith.

As seen with additional reference to Fig. 6, body 90, for purposes of orientation and explanation, is considered to have an axis of rotation as represented by the broken line A. Rear surface 98 is spaced from front surface 94 such that body 90 is generally in the shape of a right cylinder having outer surface 93 coaxial with the axis represented by the broken line A. First, second and third cavities 99, 100 and 102, respectively, are formed into body 90 from rear face 98. The several cavities are separated by radial partitions 103, 104 and 105. As viewed from surface 98, each cavity is generally rectangular in cross-section as defined by continuous sidewalls 107, 108 and 109 associated with the cavities 99, 100 and 102, respectively. With particular reference to cavity 102, it is seen that each cavity further includes an end wall 120. Although not specifically illustrated in connection with cavities 99 and 100, end wall 120 is considered to be continuous throughout the several cavities. A duct 122 communicates between each cavity and the outer surface of body 90. For ease of manufacture, each duct 122 is in the form of a radially extending indentation formed into surface 98. A hub 123, as will be described in further detail presently, extends axially from surface 98 at the confluence of the partitions 103, 104 and 105.

A first post and a second post are carried in each cavity. A first post 124 and a second post 125 reside within cavity 99. First and second posts 127 and 128 are carried within cavity 100. First and second post 129 and 130 reside within cavity 102. As seen with further reference to Figs. 7 and 8, each post is generally cylindrical having a terminal portion thereof embedded into body 90 from end wall 120 to extend along an axis which is substantially parallel to the axis A. At the free end, each post terminates substantially in the plane of surface 98.

Analogous to the plates described in connection with the previously set forth embodiment, each first post functions as an anode while each second post functions as a cathode. In further similarity, the several posts are fabricated of metal of a character as hereinbefore noted. Body 90 is fabricated, such as by injection molding, of a dielectric material. Posts 124 and 127 are electrically coupled with terminals 95 and 97, respectively. Connector 131, a strip of suitably selected metal residing within an appropriately-sized recess within surface 94, is in electrical engagement with post 125 and 130. Similarly, connector 133 electrically unites post 128 and 129. A liquid absorbing and retaining element 134, again as previously described, substantially fills the void within each cavity.

A relatively thin disk, generally designated by the reference character 137 and having inner and outer generally planar surfaces 138 and 139, respectively and outer cylindrical surface 140, resides in juxtaposition with body 90. Preferably being fabricated of the same material, surface 138 of disk 137 is sealed to surface 98 of body 90 by any technique conventional in the art. Opening 142 coaxially extending through disk 137 accommodates hub 123. A plurality of apertures 143, arranged in pairs, extend through disk 137. Each pair of apertures 143 are located to communicate at an intermediate location with a respective cavity. Surface 138 of disk 137 further functions to close the open side of each duct 122.

Cover 92 is generally cup-shaped, including disk¬ like member 144 with generally planar inner and outer surfaces 145 and 147, respectively, and peripherally depending annular skirt 148 with inner and outer cylindrical surfaces 149 and 150, respectively. Inner cylindrical surface 149 is sized to closely receive outer cylindrical surface 140 of disk 137 and a terminal portion of the outer cylindrical surface 93 of body 90. Planar inner surface 145 is received in juxtaposition with surface 139 of disk 137. Axial bore 152 receives hub 123 of body 90 therethrough. Counterbore 153 is formed into cover 92 from surface 147 coaxial with bore 152. In accordance with a preferred method of assembly, the terminal portion of hub 123 is heated and upset to form an enlargement 154 which is received within counterbore 153. Other methods of assembly will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

A plurality of spaced apart openings 155 extend through disk-like member 144. A plurality of indentations 157 are formed in the terminus of skirt 148. From the foregoing description it is apparent that cover 92 is rotatable about axis A relative to the assembly of body 90 and disk-like member 137. For purposes of illustration, it can be assumed that cover 92 is rotatable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, as especially viewed in Figs. 7 and 8, each indentation 157 is aligned with a corresponding duct 122. Also, each opening 155 is aligned with a pair of openings 143. The open position accommodates the introduction of a selected electrolyte through the openings 155 and 143 into the respective cavities and the expulsion of air through ducts 122. In the closed position, openings 143 are substantially sealed by the surface 145 of disk-like member 144 and the ducts 122 are substantially sealed by the inner cylindrical surface 149 of skirt 148. The closed position retards evaporation of the electrolyte and prevents contamination of the several cells. It will be appreciated that only slight relative movement is required between the open position and the closed position. Except for the modifications noted above, the general function and operation of the immediate embodiment is analogous to the extended explanation set forth in connection with the embodiment of Figs. 1-4. It is within the scope of the instant invention that a cover, generally similar to the above described cover 92, can be used in combination with a body generally analogous to the previously described body 20. An exemplary embodiment of the invention including a body generally designated by the reference character 160 and a cover generally designated by the reference character 162 is illustrated in Fig. 10.

Body 160, in general analogy to the previously described body 20, and as additionally viewed in Fig. 11,- includes cylindrical outer surface 163 which is concentric about the longitudinal axis represented by the broken line B and generally planar front and rear surfaces 164 and 165, respectively. Positive terminal 167 and negative terminal 168 are carried at spaced locations in surface 164.

First, second and third cavities 169, 170 and 172, respectively, are formed into body 160 from rear surface 165. Each cavity, which is open at surface 165 is defined by a continuous sidewall and an end wall. Cavity 169 is defined by continuous sidewall 173 and end wall 174, the latter being better seen in Fig. 12. Continuous sidewall 175 and end wall 177 are associated with cavity 170, while sidewall 178 and end wall 179 define the boundaries of cavity 172. A pair of apertures communicate between each cavity and outer cylindrical surface 163. Preferably, each pair of apertures are aligned along a common axis and the several axes lie in a plane which is substantially parallel to the planes defined by front surface 164 and rear surface 165. As seen in greater detail in Fig. 13, first aperture 180 and second aperture 182 project from opposite ends of cavity 169 through body 160. Similarly, first aperture 183 and second aperture 184 are associated with cavity 170 while first and second apertures 185 and 187, respectively, communicate with cavity 172.

A pair of metallic plates, as hereinbefore described in detail are carried within the cavity. Plates 63 and 64 are carried in cavity 169. Cavity 170 contains plates

65 and 67. Associated with cavity 172 are plates 68 and 69. Pin 188, carrying terminal 167 at one end thereof, is carried within body 160 to be in electrical contact with plate 63. A second pin 189 carrying terminal 168 at one end thereof is in electrical contact with the plate 69. Bore 190 extending through body 160 and counterbore 192 formed into surface 164 matingly receive pin 188 and disk-like terminal 167, respectively. Similarly, bore 193 and counterbore 194 accommodate pin 189 and terminal 168, respectively. The pins are received in the intermediate indentations of the respective plates.

A groove 195 formed into surface 165 communicates between cavity 169 and cavity 170. Similarly, groove 197 extends between cavities 170 and 172. Connector pins 198 and 199 reside within the grooves 195 and 197, respectively. Opposite ends of each pin are received within the intermediate indentations of the respective plates. Fluid absorbing and retaining elements 77, 78 and 79, previously described, reside within the respective cavities 169, 170 and 172. Each of the liquid absorbing and retaining elements is under sufficient compression to positionally locate the respective plates and hold the plates in electrical contact with the respective pins. In details not specifically illustrated nor described, body 160 and the elements carried thereby are analogous to the previously described body 20 and the corresponding components carried thereby.

A disk, generally designated by the reference character 200 and generally similar to the previously described disk 137, resides in juxtaposition with body 160. Disk 200 includes inner planar surface 202, outer planar surface 203, and outer cylindrical surface 204, the latter having a diameter generally corresponding to the diameter of cylindrical surface 163. Surface 202 is bonded to surface 165, whereby disk 200 functions as a seal and separator for the several cells defined by the several cavities and the elements immediately associated therewith. A generally cylindrical hub 205 projects coaxially from surface 203.

Being generally cup-shaped, cover 162 includes a disk-like member 207 and a peripherally depending annular skirt 208. Disk-like member 207 includes an inner surface 209 which resides in juxtaposition with the- surface 203 of disk 200 and an outer surface 210. Skirt 208 includes inner cylindrical surface 212 which is sized to closely receive cylindrical surface 204 of disk 200 and a portion of the surface 163 of body 160 and an outer cylindrical surface 213. Axial bore 214 extending through disk-like member 207 of cover 162, is sized and shaped to rotatably receive hub 205. In accordance with a preferred method of assembly, the terminal portion of hub 205 projecting through bore 214 is enlarged by conventional techniques of the art to provide a retention element 217 which is received within counterbore 215. Accordingly, cover 162 is rotatable in opposite directions about the axis B as indicated by the double arrowed line C about the assembly of body 160 and disk 200.

A plurality of first apertures 218, 219 and 220 and a plurality of second apertures 222, 223 and 224 extend through skirt 208. Cover 162 is rotatable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, as especially viewed in Fig. 13, the first apertures carried by cover 162 are aligned with respective first apertures carried by body 160. Concurrently, each second aperture carried by cover 162 is aligned with a respective second aperture carried by body 160. In this position, the cell defined within each cavity is in communication with the ambient atmosphere for introduction of the chosen electrolyte and discharge of air. Upon rotation of cover 162, in either direction, the apertures carried by the cover are displaced from the apertures carried by the body whereby the cells are closed by skirt 208. In all details not specifically described and illustrated, the operation and function of disk 200 and of cover 162 are analogous to the corresponding components described in clear and concise detail with the embodiment of Fig. 5.

Referring now to Fig. 15 there is seen yet another embodiment of the invention including generally rectangular body 230 having spaced apart sides 232 and 233. First, second and third cavities 234, 235, 237, respectively, are formed within body 230. First partition 238 is defined between first cavity 234 and 235 while second partition 239 resides intermediate second cavity 235 and third cavity 237. Although differing by virtue of being generally rectangular when viewed in plan, the cavities 234, 235 and 237 are generally analogous to the cavities 27, 28 and 29, respectively, illustrated and described in connection with Figs. 2, 3 and 4.

In direct analogy to the embodiments of Figs. 2-4 previously described, first and second plates 314 and 316, respectively, reside within first cavity 234.

Similarly, first and second plates 318 and 320, respectively, reside within second cavity 235 while first plate 322 and second plate 324 are contained within third cavity 237.

The several cells of the immediate embodiment, similar to the cells of the previously described embodiments, are connected in series. As a manufacturing expediency, the several plates are formed with perpendicularly projecting prolongations to facilitate the electrical and mechanical connections. Plate 316 is formed with rectangular prolongation 326 while plate 318 is formed with rectangular prolongation 328. The respective prolongations are fabricated such that they project 90o from the respective surfaces of each plate. In an analogous manner, plate 320 is formed with a perpendicularly projecting prolongation 330 while plate 322 is formed with a perpendicularly projecting prolongation 332. Prolongations 326 and 328 are of such size to overlap each other and to permit them to be mechanically and electrically joined together using any one of a number of the techniques known to one skilled in the art such as soldering, spot welding, or staking.

In a similar manner, prolongations 330 and 332 extend and overlap and are mechanically and electrically connected using similar techniques.

Prolongation 334 is formed as part of plate 314 and extends perpendicularly therefrom. Prolongation 336 is formed as a part of plate 324 and, in an analogous manner, extends perpendicularly therefrom. Prolongations 334 and 336 are provided to allow a convenient means to mechanically and electrically attach an external device to the battery by soldering, riveting, spot welding, or such other techniques as are well known to those skilled in the art.

In all details not specifically described and illustrated, the function and operation of the several elements are analogous to the corresponding elements described in clear and concise detail in connection with the embodiment of Figs. 1 through 4.

A plurality of first apertures 240, 242 and 243 are axially aligned with ducts 350, 352 and 354, respectively. Apertures 240, 242 and 243 and ducts 350, 352 and 354 communicate between side 232 of body 230 and the respective chambers 248, 249 and 250. A plurality of second apertures 244, 245 and 247 are axially aligned with ducts 356, 358 and 360, respectively. Apertures 244, 245 and 247 and ducts 356, 358 and 360 communicate between side 233 of body 230 and the respective chambers 252, 253 and 254.

The several first and second apertures and the communicating ducts function as inlet means for the introduction of an electrolyte from an external source and as vent means to the surrounding environment for the discharge of air during the introduction of the electrolyte. A plurality of third ducts and axially aligned apertures 338, 340 and 342 communicate between chambers 248, 249 and 250 and cavities 234, 235 and 237 respectively. A plurality of fourth ducts and axially aligned apertures 344, 346 and 348 communicate between chambers 252, 253 and 254 and cavities 234, 235 and 237 respectively. In a manner analogous to first apertures 240, 242 and 243 and first ducts 350, 352 and 354, and to second apertures 244, 245 and 247 and second ducts 356, 358 and 360, respectively, the third and fourth apertures and ducts function as inlet means for the introduction of electrolyte to cavities 234, 235 and 237 and as vent means to the surrounding environment for the discharge of air during the introduction of electrolyte. Experimentation has shown that the service life of the battery can be substantially extended if certain contaminants and impurities are removed from the liquid electrolyte. Especially noted in this regard are oxygen, chlorine, fluorine, dissolved gases, and suspended particulate matter. Accordingly, liquid treatment means reside within each of the several chambers 248, 249, 250, 252, 253 and 254. Preferably, each liquid treatment means includes means for withdrawing oxygen and other dissolved gases from the chosen liquid and filter means for removing particulate matter.

With particular reference to chamber 248, it is seen that the chamber is bounded by first and second end walls 255 and 257, respectively. First end wall 255 resides adjacent the liquid receiving portion of inlet duct 350 while second end wall 257 resides adjacent the liquid discharge portion of duct 338. A filter 258 is in juxtaposition with each end wall 255 and 257. Preferably, each filter 258 is fabricated of a fluid- pervious material selected to provide the desired filtration qualities. Exemplary materials are conventional filter paper, raw cotton, nonwoven fabrics, hydraulically interlaced fibers, synthetic sponges and woven fabrics, each of which may be fabricated from one or more materials such as polyester, polyurethane foam, polyester-rayon blends, woodpulp-polyester blends, aramids, and rayon. A quantity of granular material 259, chosen to have gas absorbing characteristics, resides intermediate the filters 258. The oxygen and dissolved gas scavenging function is satisfactorily achieved by activated carbon granules, silica gel and sintered ferrites. In addition to the removal of particulate matter from the electrolyte, filters 258 function to retain the granular material within the chamber.

The arrangement of apertures, ducts, chambers, and cavities described and illustrated in Figure 15 allows for the introduction of the electrolyte from an external source from side 233 with the concurrent discharge of air to the surrounding environment from side 232 and, alternatively, the introduction of the electrolyte from side 232 and the discharge of air from side 233. It can be seen that either method is equally effective as a means for introducing electrolyte to cavities 234, 235 and 237. It can also be seen that particulate matter trapped by the filter material on the outermost walls of chambers 248, 249, 250, 252, 253 and 254 can be flushed away and discharged through apertures 240, 242, 243, 244, 245 and 247, respectively, simply by reversing the direction of introduction of the electrolyte.

Cover 260, for purposes previously described, extends continuously over body 230 and is affixed thereto by any conventional means such as permanently affixed by bonding agents or removeably affixed by fastening devices.

Fig. 16 illustrates yet another embodiment of the invention as it would appear when integrally incorporated into an exemplary electronic device herein illustrated as a wrist watch. Provided is a case, generally designated by the reference character 270, which concurrently functions as a housing for the timepiece and a body for the battery. Preferably fabricated of a dielectric material, case 270 includes spaced apart sides 272 and 273 and an end 274. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, another end, not specifically illustrated, resides in spaced opposition to end 274. It will also be appreciated that means for attachment of a wrist strap or other accessory may be provided at either or both of the ends.

The timepiece held by case 270 is represented by face 275 indicating the time by means of digital display 277. The foregoing is intended to be representative of typical commercially available timepieces. The mechanism and alternate configurations thereof not herein specifically illustrated or described will be readily understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art.

The battery herein chosen for purposes of illustration in connection with the immediate embodiment is of the two cell configuration. Experimentation has shown that the output voltage is subject to various design parameters including the space between the electrodes, the material from which the electrodes are fabricated and the selected electrolyte. The battery of the immediate embodiment may be fabricated in any desired size or configuration consistent with the intended use. For the immediate purpose, a battery having the illustrated relative size is sufficient to energize the associated timepiece.

Formed into case 270, as further seen with reference to Fig. 17, are first and second cavities 278 and 279, respectively, defining partition 280 therebetween. A first electrode 282 and a second electrode 283 reside within cavity 278. Similarly, first and second electrodes 284 and 285 are carried within cavity 279. Each pair of electrodes is fabricated of selected dissimilar metals as hereinbefore described.

As illustrated with greater clarity in Figure 18, each first electrode 282 and 284 is preferably in the form of an elongated cylindrical rod. For purposes of orientation, it may be assumed that each first electrode

282 and 284 extends along an axis represented by the broken line D. Each second electrode 283 and 285 is preferably fabricated of sheet stock and also elongated to extend along an axis which may be considered to be parallel or coincidental to the axis represented by the broken line D. As viewed in cross section i.e. in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis D, each second electrode is generally arciform to at least partially enclose the respective first electrode.

As a manufacturing expediency and for locational positioning, each first electrode 282 and 284 may be fabricated of such length as to reside within communicating indentations within end blocks 287 and 288. Each second electrode 283 and 285 may be fabricated with suitably sized prolongations 362, 364, 366 and 368 which reside within communicating indentations within end blocks 287 and 288. Appropriately sized and shaped indentations, apertures or grooves may be provided in the end blocks 287 and 288 for receiving the respective ends of the electrodes. The several cells of the immediate embodiment, similar to the cells of previously described embodiments, are connected in series. Prolongation 366 of electrode 285 is of such size and shape that when inserted in end block 287, an electrical path is formed between the two cells; that is, between electrode 285 and electrode 282. Electrical connections from electrodes 283 and 284 to the external timepiece are accomplished by any one of a number of techniques such as direct wiring, conductive paths on a printed-wiring board, or spring terminals. Further details, not specifically illustrated and described, concerning the connection between the battery and the timepiece will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

First and second cavities 278 and 279, formed into case 270, include first chamber 298 which is associated with first cavity 278 and second chamber 299 which is associated with second cavity 279. Each chamber is in fluid communication with the respective cavity as will be further clarified presently.

Each chamber is provided with a first and second aperture. First aperture 300 communicates between side 272 and chamber 298. Second aperture 302 extends between chamber 298 and side 273. Similarly, a second first aperture 303 communicates between side 272 and chamber 299. A second second aperture 304 communicates between chamber 299 and side 273. While the first apertures 300 0 and 303 function as liquid inlets for introduction of the selected electrolyte into the respective chambers, the second apertures 302 and 304 function as vents for discharge of air during introduction of the electrolyte. Alternatively, while second apertures 302 and 304 5 function as liquid inlets for the introduction of the selected electrolyte into the respective chambers, the second apertures 300 and 303 function as vents for discharge of air to the environment.

Each aperture is provided with a counterbore 305 o extending inwardly from the respective side of case 270. A filter 307, such as may be fabricated from synthetic sponge material, is carried within each counterbore 305. The several filters 307 prevent the migration of environmental contaminants into the respective chambers. A quantity of granular material, such as previously described granular material 259, resides within each chamber 298 and 299. A liquid pervious filter element 309, similar to previously described filter material 258, also resides within each chamber 298 and 299. Filter _Q element 309 at least partially encases granular material 259. To prevent migration of the granular material into the cavities 278 and 279, it is important that the filter element function as a partition between chambers 298 and 299 and the respective cavities. 5 Each chamber 298 and 299 functions as a reservoir for holding a reserve supply of the liquid electrolyte. Each of the chambers also functions as means for holding the liquid treatment means for removal of oxygen and particulate matter. Being in liquid communication with the respective cavity, each chamber provides a reserve supply of electrolyte which is immediately available to the respective cell of the battery. Flow of the electrolyte into the area between the electrodes is facilitated by openings 301 in electrodes 283 and 285.

Cover 312 extends continuously over the battery portion as affixed to case 270 by conventional bonding techniques. Preferably, cover 312 is transparent for visual inspection of the battery, especially to determine the electrolyte supply and to permit viewing of the timepiece display. That is, if cover 312 were opaque, you couldn't tell what time it was.

Industrial Applicability

The instant invention provides an alternative to conventional batteries for supplying electrical energy to certain electronic devices. The inventive battery can, for example, can be manufactured in a physical size and electrical capacity to be utilized as an ameliorated replacement in such consumer devices as wrist watches, calculators and other portable electronic devices. The battery is readily fabricated of known materials using tools and equipment of the trade as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

Various modifications and changes to the embodiments herein chosen for purposes of illustration will readily occur to those skilled in the art. To the extent that such modifications and variations do not depart from the spirit of the invention, they are intended to be included within the scope thereof which is assessed only by a fair interpretation of the following claims.

Having fully described and disclosed the present invention in such clear and concise terms as to enable those skilled in the art to understand and practice the same, that which is claimed as the invention is set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A liquid activated battery, comprising: a body having at least one cavity therein; first and second terminals extending exteriorly of said body; a first electrode of a first metal having a tendency to act as an oxidizing agent in the presence of a selected second metal and positioned within said at least one cavity and electrically coupled to said first terminal; a second electrode of a second metal having a tendency to act as a reducing agent in the presence of said first metal and positioned within said at least one cavity and electrically coupled to said second terminal; first means for permitting the introduction of a liquid into said at least one cavity when activation of said battery is desired; and second means for permitting air to be discharged from at least one cavity when said liquid is being introduced into said at least one cavity.

A battery according,to Claim 1, further comprising a body of liquid pervious and absorptive cellular material within said at least one cavity.

3. A battery according to Claim 1, wherein said body contains a plurality of cavities including a first, a last, and at least one intermediate cavity, each being provided with one of said first and second electrodes, the first electrode in said first of said plurality of cavities being electrically coupled to said first terminal, and the second electrode in the last of said plurality of cavities being electrically coupled to said second terminal and further comprising:third means for electrically coupling the second electrode of said first cavity to the first electrode of said at least one intermediate cavity, and for electrically coupling the second electrode of said at least one intermediate cavity to the first electrode of said last cavity.

4. A battery according to Claim 3, wherein each of said plurality of cavities is provided with said first and second means.

A battery according to Claim 4, further comprising a body of liquid pervious and absorptive cellular material within each of said plurality of cavities.

6. A battery according to Claim 2, wherein said body of liquid pervious and absorptive cellular material is in compression within said at least one cavity.

7. A battery according to Claim 2, wherein said first and second electrodes comprise a pair of spaced apart substantially parallel opposed plates.

8. A battery according to Claim 2, wherein said first and second electrodes comprise a pair of spaced apart posts.

9. A battery according to Claim 2, wherein said body is generally cylindrical having front and rear generally planar surfaces and a generally continuous sidewall and wherein said at least one cavity is open at said front surface.

10. A battery according to Claim 9, wherein said first and second means comprises respectively first and second axially aligned apertures extending from said at least one cavity through said body.

11. A battery according to Claim 10, further comprising closure means for sealing said at least one cavity.

12. A battery according to Claim 11, wherein said closure means comprises at least one plug for insertion partially into said at least one cavity.

13. A battery according to Claim 11, wherein said closure means comprises a disk sealed to said front surface.

14. A battery according to Claim 11, further comprising cover means coupled to said body.

15. A battery according to Claim 14, wherein said cover means is cupped shaped and comprises a disk-like member and a peripherally depending annular skirt which is closely received over said continuous sidewall.

16. A battery according to Claim 15, wherein said cover is rotatably mounted on said body.

17. A battery according to Claim 16, wherein said skirt has at least first and second apertures therethrough rotatably coupled between an open position wherein said first and second apertures through said skirt are aligned with said first and second axially aligned apertures in said body, and a closed position where said first and second apertures in said skirt are not aligned with said first and second axially aligned apertures in said body.

18. A battery according to Claim 5, wherein each of said plurality of cavities has a substantially continuous sidewall including spaced apart substantially parallel sections.

19. A battery according to Claim 18, wherein each of said plurality of cavities is separated by substantially parallel partitions.

20. A battery according to Claim 5, wherein each of said plurality of cavities is generally triangular and is separated by substantially radially partitions.

21. A battery according to Claim 1, further including liquid treatment means intermediate said electrodes and said first means.

22. A battery according to Claim 21, wherein said liquid treatment means includes means for withdrawing oxygen and other dissolved gases from said liquid.

23. A battery according to Claim 22, wherein said means for withdrawing oxygen and other dissolved gases is chosen from the oxygen attracting group including activated carbon granules, silica gel and sintered ferrites.

24. A battery according to Claim 22, wherein said liquid treatment means further includes filter means for removing particulate matter from said liquid.

25. A battery according to Claim 21, further including a reservoir in liquid communication with said at least one cavity for holding a reserve supply of said liquid and having said liquid treatment means contained therein.

26. A battery according to Claim 1, wherein said electrodes are elongated along substantially parallel respective axes and one of said electrodes is arciform in a direction generally perpendicular to said axes to at least partially encompass the other of said electrodes.

27. A watch comprising: a case; a timepiece carried by said case; a battery carried by said case including

a first electrode of a first metal having a tendency to act as an oxidizing agent in the presence of a selected second metal positioned within at least one cavity and electrically coupled to a first terminal;

a second electrode of a second metal having a tendency to act as a reducing agent in the presence of said first metal and positioned within said at least one cavity and electrically coupled to a second terminal;

first means for permitting the introduction of a liquid into said at least one cavity when activation of said battery is desired; and

second means for permitting air to be discharged from at least one cavity when said liquid is being introduced into said at least one cavity; and

electrical conductor means communicating between said terminals and said timepiece.

28. A battery treatment according to Claim 27, further including liquid treatment means intermediate said electrodes and said first means.

29. A battery according to Claim 27, wherein said liquid treatment means includes means for withdrawing oxygen and other dissolved gases from said liquid.

30. A battery according to Claim 29, wherein said means for withdrawing oxygen and other dissolved gases is chosen from the oxygen attracting group including activated carbon granules, silica gel and sintered ferrites.

31. A battery according to Claim 29, wherein said liquid treatment means further includes filter means for removing particulate matter from said liquid.

32. A battery according to Claim 27, further including a reservoir in liquid communication with said at least one cavity for holding a reserve supply of said liquid and having said liquid treatment means contained therein.

33. A battery according to Claim 27, wherein said electrodes are elongated along substantially parallel respective axes and one of said electrodes is arciform in a direction generally perpendicular to said axes to at least partially encompass the other of said electrodes.