Galvanic System with Increased Output Voltage
Field: Electronics | Medical devices
Challenge:
Applications requiring higher voltages than thermodynamic necessitate multiple cells to be connected at the same time (a set of galvanic cells with independent electrolytes). However, in some applications, it is not possible to couple cells with separate electrolytes because only one electrolyte volume is available (e.g. blood circulation). Our novel architecture of power supply does not require separated electrolytes and therefore enables its miniaturization e.g. as implantable electronic devices. It can also be used as a source for single-time assays (e.g. glucose, coagulation, or cholesterol tests) or other disposable uses (e.g. flood detectors or emergency lights).
Tech overview:
The enhancement of the output voltage is usually achieved by serial stacking of primary cells. The output voltage of our improved galvanic cell is enhanced by a simple change in the internal architecture. The whole design is realized in one volume of an electrolyte, in a single container. The multiplied value of the voltage of the original primary cell is thus obtained for the improved single cell. Our approach simplifies the issues of energy supply potentially leading, for example, to the usage of a lower number of accumulators and cells.
Benefits:
- for all types of chemical energy sources: galvanic cells (batteries) and biofuel cells (enzymatic and microbial)
- power source for simple, single-purpose, and specialized applications, where it will be integrated into the electronics
- suitable for implantable analytical devices powered by biofuel cells using substances available in the living system, e.g. glucose
- single-time use tests e.g. glucose, coagulation, or cholesterol tests
- other one-time use e.g. flood detectors or emergency lights
Applications:
This concept is generally applicable for all types of chemical energy sources (employing an electrolyte) – galvanic cells (batteries) and for fuel, enzyme, and microbial-based biofuel cells. It could serve as an energy source for simple, one-purpose, and specialized applications where it will be integrated into the body of the electronics. Moreover, it seems optimal also as a solution for implantable analytical devices powered by biofuel cells using substances available in the living system, e. g. glucose, and electrolytes.
Commercial opportunity (seeking):
- development partner
- licensing
- investment
IP protection status:
Patents in force: CZ, DE, FR, GB and IT