Hydrogen generation system with a controllable reactive circuit and associated methods

Page 1 — bibliographic record

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US 10 ,Page

Related U .S . Application Data 2014 /0367269 A1 * 12/ 2014 Inskeep ............. ..... CO1B 3 /042

of application No. 14 /616 ,851 , filed on Feb . 9, 2015 , 2016 /0068976 A1 3/2016 Yoshida et al. now Pat. No . 9 ,816 ,190 . 2017 /0044677 AL 2 /2017 Kurokawa

FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS

(60 ) Provisional application No. 62 /091 ,702 , filed on Dec. DE 2713533 9 / 1978 15 , 2014 . EP 0 975 822 B1 2 / 2004

(51) Int. Ci. JP 2006037214 A2 2 /2006 C25B 9 /04 ( 2006 . 01) JP 2013231213 A 11/2013 C25B 9 /06 (2006 .01) KR 20130112204 A 10 / 2013 C25B 11 /02 ( 2006 .01 ) Wo 2004097072 A1 11/2004 C25B 15 /02 wo 2007131254 A2 11 /2007 ( 2006 .01) WO 20100024965 A1 3 /2010

(56 ) References Cited WO 2011139893 AL 11/2011

4 ,936 , 961 A 6 / 1990 Meyer WO 2015098058 A1 7 /2015 5 ,037,518 A 8 / 1991 Young et al. WO 2015137889 A 9 /2015 6 ,332 ,434 B1 12 / 2001 DeSouza et al. WO 2016054371 A 4 /2016 6 ,790 ,324 B2 9 / 2004 Chambers WO 2016068842 Al 5 / 2016 7 ,240 ,641 B2 7 /2007 Balan et al. WO 2017004732 Al 1 / 2017

7 ,604,728 B2 10 /2009 Schlager OTHER PUBLICATIONS

8 ,709 ,221 B1 4 /2014 Smith “ Economical Hydrogen Production by Electrolysis Using Nano

8 ,940, 151 B1 1 /2015 Hartvigsen et al. Pulsed DC ” , Dharmaraj, C . H . and Adish Kumar, S .; International 8 ,940 ,243 B11 /2015 Fahimi Journal of Energy and Environment, vol. 3 , Issue 1, pp . 129 - 136 , 9 ,034, 167 B2 5 / 2015 Finfrock et al. 2012.

9 ,347, 142 B1 * 5 / 2016 Koeneman ..... C25B 15/02 “ Review of Pulsed Power for Efficient Hydrogen Production ” , 9 , 353, 451 B2 5 /2016 Haywood Monk , N . and Watson, S . J.; International Journal of Hydrogen 9 ,816 ,190 B2 11/ 2017 Koeneman Energy, 41 ( 19 ), pp . 7782 -7791, 2016 . 2006 /0060464 Al 3 /2006 Chang “ Effects of Geometry of Electrodes and Pulsating DC Input on 2007/ 0080071 A1 4 /2007 Perry, Jr. Water Splitting for Production of Hydrogen ” , Mandal, Biswajit , 2007 /0216165 Al 9 / 2007 Oohara Sirkar, A ., Shau , Abhra , De, P . and Ray, P.; International Journal of 2007/ 0272546 AL 11/ 2007 Matthews Renewable Energy Research , vol. 2 , No. 1, 2012 . 2008/0186004 AL 8 /2008 Williams “ Influence of Electrical Conductivity and pH on Hydrogen Produc 2008/0277273 AL 11/ 2008 Logan tion Using Pulsed Discharge Over the Water Surface” , Ihara , 2008/0302670 Al 12/ 2008 Boyle Takeshi, Ide , Yusuke, Nagata , Hideo , Yagyu , Yoshihito , Ohshima, 2009 /0045073 A1 2 /2009 Stone et al. Tamiko , Kawasaki, Hiroharu , Suda, Yoshiaki; Plasma Science (ICOPS ), 2009 /0266706 A1 10 /2009 Fukui et al. 2016 — Abstract.

2009 /0283402 A1 * 11/2009 Osman . . C25B 1 /04 “ DC Electrical Breakdown of Water in a Sub -Micron Planar Gap ” , 204 /230 .8 Song , Chunrong and Wang, Pingshan ; IEEE 2009 .

2010 /0089746 Al 4 / 2010 Chang International Search Report (ISR ) — PCT/US2015 /065854 _ dated 2010 /0175941 Al 7 / 2010 Khodabakhsh Mar. 10 , 2016 — 6 pages ( including notification of transmittal of the 2010 /0183931 A1 7 / 2010 Hedman ISR and WO of the ISA ).

2011/0146599 A1 6 / 2011 Sciban et al. Written Opinion (WO ) of International Search Authority (ISA ) 2011/0259757 Al 10 / 2011 Vancina PCT/US2015 /065854 _ dated Mar. 10 , 2016 — 7 pages . 2012 / 0012456 A11 / 2012 Darrel International Search Report ( ISR ) - PCT/US2015 /065785 — dated 2012 /0058405 Al 3/ 2012 Kirchoff Mar. 4 , 2016 — 6 pages ( including notification of transmittal of the 2012 /0104766 AL 5 / 2012 Davidson ISR and WO of the ISA ).

2012 /0111734 AL 5/ 2012 Kramer Written Opinion (WO ) of International Search Authority ( ISA ) 2012 /0152197 A1 * 6 /2012 Inskeep C01B 3 /042 123 / 1 A PCT/US2015 /065785 — dated Mar. 4, 2016 — 8 pages.

2012/0175247 Al 7 / 2012 Darrel http ://web .archive. org /web / 20130130100756 /https://en .wikipedia . 2012 /0199472 AL 8 / 2012 Curfew org /wiki/Band - stop _ filter — Jan . 20 , 2013 . 2012 /0222954 AL 9/ 2012 Lothring “ Water Electrolysis with Voltage Inductive Pulses” , Vanags, Martins 2013 /0118908 A1 5 / 2013 Radu et al., Electrolysis , Chapter 2, 2012 .

2014 /0363806 Al 12/ 2014 Fillipone * cited by examiner

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U . S . Patent Feb . 26 , 2019 Sheet 11 of 11 US 10 ,214 ,820 B2 -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - -- - - -

YLLYTYKKTTTTTTTTTTTTTIIISHDI I . . . HTTTT TTTTTTTTT Providing a pulsed drive signal to a hydrogen

KWR Y

generation chamber

Generating hydrogen from a feedstock material 1006 contained within the hydrogen generation chamber based on the pulsed drive signal

Detecting the hydrogen generated by the 1008 hydrogen generation chamber

Controlling a load reactance of a controllable reactive circuit coupled to the hydrogen L - 1010 generation chamber based on detection of the generated hydrogen

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HYDROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM WITH produce, compress , cryogenically cool,maintain (at pressure A CONTROLLABLE REACTIVE CIRCUIT and temperature ), contain (due to its very small molecule AND ASSOCIATED METHODS structure ) and transport. Accordingly, pressure , temperature , flammability, explosiveness and low ignition energy require

RELATED APPLICATIONS ment are all significant safety issues concerning the wide spread use of hydrogen .

This application is a continuation - in -part of U . S . patent application Ser. No. 14 /852 ,695 filed Sep . 14 , 2015 , which SUMMARY is continuation -in - part of U . S . patent application Ser. No .

14 /616 , 851 filed Feb . 9 , 2015 , which claims the benefit of 10 A hydrogen generation systems comprises : a pulsed drive U .S . Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/ 091, 702 filed Dec . signal generator to generate a pulsed drive signal ; a hydro 15 , 2014 , the entire contents of which are incorporated gen generation chamber to receive the pulsed drive signal herein by reference . and generate hydrogen from a feedstock material contained therein based on the pulsed drive signal; and a controllable

TECHNICAL FIELD 15 reactive circuit coupled between the pulsed drive signal generator and the hydrogen generation chamber. A hydrogen

The present disclosure relates to the field of hydrogen detection device may be coupled to the hydrogen generation generation systems, and more particularly , to a hydrogen chamber to detect the generated hydrogen. A controller may generation system with a controllable reactive circuit to control the controllable reactive circuit based on detection of generate hydrogen from feedstock , and associated methods. 20 the generated hydrogen .

Purity and production rate of the generated hydrogen as

BACKGROUND determined by the hydrogen detection device may be used to measure performance of the hydrogen generation chamber .

Currently , the majority of the energy consumed by the The controllable reactive circuit is advantageously used to developed world has its origins in fossil fuels . Unfortu - 25 improve performance of the hydrogen generation system by nately, there are many well- documented problems associ- presenting a varying reactive load to damped sine waves ated with over -reliance upon energy generated from fossil generated within the hydrogen generation chamber. fuels . These problems include pollution and climate change The hydrogen detection device may comprise a mass caused by the emission of greenhouse gases , the finite nature spectrometer to determine the purity of the generated hydro of fossil fuels and the dwindling reserves of such carbon - 30 gen and wherein the controller may be configured to control based energy sources and the concentration of control of the controllable reactive circuit based on the purity of the petroleum -based energy supplies by various volatile coun - generated hydrogen men .

tries and OPEC . The hydrogen detection device may comprise a hydrogen Accordingly, there is a need for alternative sources of flow meter to determine the production rate of the generated energy. One such alternative energy source includes hydro - 35 hydrogen and wherein the controller may be configured to gen generation systems that produce hydrogen via hydroly control the controllable reactive circuit based on the pro sis . Ideally, such hydrogen generation systems would be duction rate of the generated hydrogen . capable of producing hydrogen gas without the presence of The damped sine waves are generated within the hydro oxygen , wherein such hydrogen may be used for industrial, gen generation chamber based on interaction between the commercial and residential purposes . 40 pulsed drive signal and the feedstock material and wherein For example , when greater than 99 % pure , hydrogen may the controller may control the controllable reactive circuit so be used in generator cooling, steel production , glass pro - as to present a varying load reactance to the damped sine duction , and semiconductor and photovoltaic cell produc - waves.

tion . When less than 99 % pure , hydrogen may be used in The controller may be configured to control the control various industries, such as the aerospace industry , the animal 45 lable reactive circuit based on detection of the generated feed industry , the automotive industry, the baking industry , hydrogen and the damped sine waves . The damped sine the chemical industry , the ethanol industry , the food pro - waves may include a DC signal with a plurality of embedded cessing industry , the dairy industry, the meat industry, the interactive chamber signals with at least one of the embed manufacturing industry , themedical industry , the hospitality ded interactive chamber signals corresponding to the hydro industry , the laundry /uniform industry , the marine and off- 50 gen being generated . The controller may be further config shore industry , the military and defense industry , the mining ured to analyze the at least one embedded interactive industry , the oil and gas industry , the paper/ corrugating chamber signal corresponding to the hydrogen being gen industry, the pharmaceutical industry , the rubber industry, erated .

the steel and metals industry, the tobacco industry, the The controllable reactive circuit may comprise : a first transportation industry , the wire and cable industry and the 55 variable load reactance circuit coupled between a first ter education industry . minal of the pulsed drive signal generator and a first terminal Unfortunately, there are a number of significant hurdles of the hydrogen generation chamber , and a second variable that prevent the widespread use of hydrogen in commercial, load reactance circuit coupled between a second terminal of industrial, and residential applications. These hurdles the pulsed drive signal generator and a second terminal of include cost, efficiency , and safety . First and foremost , 60 the hydrogen generation chamber. The variable load reac creating hydrogen gas in a traditional manner is inefficient tance circuits may be cross -coupled to one another. and costly , or even environmentally harmful when produced Another aspect is directed to a hydrogen generation via reformation i.e ., the primary commercial method ). system comprising a pulsed drive signal generator config Secondly, hydrogen 's very low mass and energy density ured to generate a pulsed drive signal and a hydrogen makes it challenging to get enough mass of hydrogen gas 65 generation chamber configured to receive the pulsed drive safely in one place to be of practical value to a user. The signal and generate hydrogen from a feedstock material result is that hydrogen has been prohibitively expensive to contained therein , with damped sine waves being generated

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within the hydrogen generation chamber based on interac - a driver signal 104 . An example driver signal 104 may tion between the pulsed drive signal and the feedstock include but is not limited to a pulsed DC signal. Driver material. A controllable reactive circuit having a controllable signal 104 may be provided to signal processing system 106 , load reactance may be coupled between the pulsed drive wherein signal processing system 106 may be configured to signal generator and the hydrogen generation chamber. A 5 process driver signal 104 and generate a chamber excitation hydrogen detection device may be coupled to the hydrogen signal 108 .

generation chamber and configured to detect the generated Hydrogen generation system 100 may include hydrogen hydrogen . A controller may be configured to control the load generation chamber 110 that may be configured to receive reactance in the controllable reactive circuit based on detec chamber excitation signal 108 and generate hydrogen 112 tion of the generated hydrogen and the damped sine waves. 10 (e . g ., gaseous hydrogen ) from feedstock 114 contained Yet another aspect is directed to a method for operating within hydrogen generation chamber 110 . the hydrogen generation system as described above. The As discussed above , hydrogen 112 produced by hydrogen method comprises detecting the hydrogen generated by the generation system 100 may be used with various industries , hydrogen generation chamber, and controlling a load reac such as the aerospace industry , the animal feed industry, the tance of the controllable reactive circuit based on detection 15 automotive industry, the baking industry, the chemical of the generated hydrogen . industry, the ethanol industry , the food processing industry , the dairy industry , the meat industry , the manufacturing

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS industry , the medical industry , the hospitality industry , the laundry / uniform industry , the marine and offshore industry ,

FIG . 1 is a diagrammatic view of a hydrogen generation 20 the military, the mining industry , the oil and gas industry , the system in accordance with the disclosure ; paper/ corrugating industry , the pharmaceutical industry, the FIG . 2 is a diagrammatic view of a signal generation rubber industry , the steel and metals industry , the tobacco system included within the hydrogen generation system of industry , the transportation industry, the wire and cable FIG . 1 ; industry and the education industry . FIG . 3 is a diagrammatic view of a positive reactive 25 As discussed above, hydrogen generation system 100 may circuit included within the hydrogen generation system of generate hydrogen 112 ( e. g., gaseous hydrogen ) from feed FIG . 1 ; stock 114 contained within hydrogen generation chamber FIG . 4 is a diagrammatic view of a negative reactive 110 . One example of feedstock 114 may include but is not circuit included within the hydrogen generation system of limited to sea water . Accordingly and in certain implemen FIG . 1 ; 30 tations, hydrogen generation system 100 may be positioned FIG . 5 is a diagrammatic view of a feedback circuit proximate a source of feedstock 114. Alternatively, feed included within the hydrogen generation system of FIG . 1; stock 114 may be provided to hydrogen generation system FIG . 6 is a diagrammatic view of a hydrogen generation 100 via a delivery network , not shown. chamber included within the hydrogen generation system of Hydrogen generation chamber 110 , when filled with an FIG . 1 ; 35 electrolytic fluid (e .g ., feedstock 114 ), may react like a FIG . 7 is a diagrammatic view of a hydrogen generation variable capacitive load with corresponding variable imped system with a controllable reactive circuit in accordance ance values . When a Pulsed DC signal (e .g ., chamber with the disclosure ; excitation signal 108 ) is applied to hydrogen generation FIG . 8 is a graph illustrating damped sine waves gener chamber 110 , the result may be a reactive load . Hydrogen ated as a negative latch between pulses of the pulsed drive 40 generation chamber 110 may complete the closed circuit signal in accordance with the disclosure ; path that forms the load factor during the ON Cycle Pulse FIG . 9 is a graph illustrating one of the embedded (OCP ) of chamber excitation signal 108 . interactive chamber signals included within the damped sine The electrolytic fluid ( e . g ., feedstock 114 ) may change waves illustrated in FIG . 8 ; state both chemically and electronically during the OCP of FIG . 10 is a more detailed diagrammatic view of the 45 chamber excitation signal 108 . These changes may affect the signal processing system with the controllable reactive cir - charge state of feedstock 114 , changing the above - described cuit in accordance with the disclosure ; and capacitive and impedance values, which may be monitored FIG . 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method for operating via a differential potential voltage measurement across the the hydrogen generation system with a controllable reactive anode and cathode of hydrogen generation chamber 110 . circuit as illustrated in FIG . 7 . 50 Signal processing system 106 may provide impedance matching and capacitive balancing during the OCP of cham

DETAILED DESCRIPTION ber excitation signal 108 . Balancing of signal processing system 106 may accomplish multiple functions, including

Exemplary embodiments will be described more fully but not limited to lowering reactive circuit current demand hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings . 55 while directing chamber excitation signal 108 with a given These embodiments should not be construed as limited to base frequency across the electrodes of hydrogen generation those illustrated and described herein as other forms and are chamber 110 .

provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and com - During the OFF Cycle Pulse (OFCP) of chamber excita plete and convey the scope to those skilled in the art. Like tion signal 108, the inductive and capacitive sections of numbers refer to like elements throughout, and prime nota - 60 signal processing system 106 may receive energy from tions are used to indicate alternate embodiments. hydrogen generation chamber 110 as hydrogen generation chamber 110 discharges .

Hydrogen Generation System Overview

SignalGeneration System Configuration

Referring to FIG . 1, there is shown hydrogenation gen - 65 eration system 100 . Hydrogen generation system 100 may Referring to FIG . 2 , there is shown one implementation of include signal generation system 102 configured to generate signal generation system 102 . Signal generation system 102

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may include pulsed DC source 200 configured to generate nents 208 , 210 ) may provide transient voltage suppression pulsed DC source signal 202 . Signal generation system 102 during initial charging of hydrogen generation chamber 110. may include mono -directional blocking circuit 204 config - This may allow hydrogen generation chamber 110 to reach ured to receive pulsed DC source signal 202 and generate full voltage amplitude in the least amount time. driver signal 104 . Signal generation system 102 may also 5 The two diodes ( e. g., asymmetrically conductive compo include filter circuit 206 configured to filter driver signal 104 nents 208, 210 ) may also prevent voltage returned from and remove AC components. hydrogen generation chamber 110 from interfering with Mono - directional blocking circuit 204 may include at pulsed DC source signal 202 , thus isolating the downstream least one asymmetrically conductive component, an circuit ( e . g ., signal processing system 106 ) during the off example ofwhich includes but is not limited to a diode (e .g ., 10 cycle while the reactive part of this circuit is in the recovery a Schottky diode ), such as a 1N4003G diode available from phase and exposed to a return voltage in the range of 0 .90 ON Semiconductor configured to function as blocking VDC to 4 .5 VDC .

diodes . In a typical configuration , mono - directional block ing circuit 204 may include two asymmetrically conductive Positive Reactive Circuit Configuration components 208, 210 . Filter circuit 206 may include capaci - 15 tor 212 coupled to ground 214 that is sized to remove any Referring to FIG . 3 , there is shown one implementation of undesirable AC signal components . An example of capacitor signal processing system 106 , wherein signal processing 212 may include a 470 microfarad capacitor available from

Mouser Electronics. system 106 is shown to include positive reactive circuit 300 . One implementation of driver signal 104 generated by 2020 hydrogen

Positive

Pos reactive circuit 300 may be coupled to anode 302 of generation chamber 110 .

signal generation system 102 may be a driver signal that has a duty cycle of less than 25 % . Specifically and in a preferred In one implementation , positive reactive circuit 300 may embodiment, driver signal 104 may have a duty cycle include inductive component 304 and capacitive component between 6 .5 % and 13 % , wherein during 6 .5 % - 13 % of the 306 . One example of inductive component 304 may include waveform of driver signal 104 , driver signal 104 has an 25 a 10 microhenry inductor available from Mouser Electron amplitude of 4 .5 to 10 VDC and during 87 % - 93.5 % of the ics. Inductive component 304 may be in parallel with waveform of driver signal 104 , driver signal 104 has an capacitive component 306 . Capacitive component 306 may amplitude of O VDC . The above-described implementations be sized based , at least in part , upon one or more physical of driver signal 104 are intended to be illustrative and not all characteristics of hydrogen generation chamber 110 ( e. g ., inclusive . Accordingly , these are intended to be merely 30 size , shape , electrode type , configuration and dimensions) examples of the various driver signals that be utilized by and /or one ormore physical characteristics of feedstock 114 signal generation system 102 . (e.g., feedstock type and contents included therein ) con Operation of the Signal Generation System tained within hydrogen generation chamber 110 . 35 Inductive component 304 may be constructed of/formed

Concerning driver signal 104 generated by signal genera from several individual inductors that may be arranged (in a parallel and /or series configuration ) to achieve the desired tion system 102, the rise time of driver signal 104 may be inductance value. Additionally (and as will be discussed critical to the overall function and performance of hydrogen generation chamber 110 . Accordingly, a rise time as close to below ), capacitive component 306 may be constructed instantaneous as possible (e . g ., as close to a truly vertical 40 of/ formed from several individual capacitors that are sweep ) may result in the most efficient operation of hydro arranged in a parallel and /or series configuration ) to achieve gen generation chamber 110 . Further, the amplitude of driver the desired capacitive value .

signal 104 may be increased /decreased to vary the perfor - In one implementation , capacitive component 306 may mance ofhydrogen generation chamber 110 and the quantity include a plurality of discrete capacitors . For example , of hydrogen 112 produced . 45 capacitive component 306 may include three discrete Signal generation system 102 may be configured to pro - capacitors (e .g., capacitors 308, 310 , 312 ) arranged in par vide for adjustments in the pulse width and /or duty cycle of allel to form a parallel capacitor circuit. In one particular driver signal 104 . Any pulse width and/ or duty cycle adjust- implementation , capacitor 308 may be a 45 microfarad ments may be based on the desired chamber performance . capacitor available from Mouser Electronics , capacitor 310 The timing of the duty cycle of driver signal 104 may 50 may be a 1 picofarad capacitor available from Mouser establish a base frequency for driver signal 104 . In a Electronics, and capacitor 312 may be a 5 nanofarads preferred embodiment, the pulse base frequency of driver capacitor available from Mouser Electronics. This parallel signal 104 may range from 100 hertz to 10 kilohertz (how capacitor circuit (e.g ., the parallel combination of capacitors ever, frequencies outside of this range may also be utilized ). 308 , 310 , 312 ) may be coupled in parallel with inductive The diodes ( e .g ., asymmetrically conductive components 55 component 304 , wherein the output of the parallel capacitor 208 , 210 ) utilized in mono -directional blocking circuit 204 circuit (e . g ., the parallel combination of capacitors 308 , 310 , may perform several functions . Typically , Schottky diodes 312 ) and inductive component 304 may be provided to have forward biases of approximately 1 mA in the range 0 . 15 to 0 .46 volts. This lower forward voltage may provide anode 302 of hydrogen generation chamber 110. for higher switching speeds and better system efficiency, 60 In this particular implementation, positive reactive circuit wherein Schottky diodes are considered to have essentially 300 may be configured as a band -stop filter. As is known in instant reverse recovery time. the art and in signal processing, a band -stop filter (or The two diodes (e. g., asymmetrically conductive compo - band-rejection filter) is a filter that passes most frequencies nents 208 , 210 ) may provide a first stage voltage clamp that unaltered (i.e ., unattenuated ), while attenuating those fre may enhance rise time and forward current build up , which 65 quencies that are within a defined range. As with any other may be important during each startup of the OCP. The LC filter, the particular range of frequencies that are attenu blocking diodes (e.g., asymmetrically conductive compo - ated may be defined based upon the value of the capacitors

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(e.g., capacitors 308 , 310 , 312) and inductors (e.g., inductive In one implementation , feedback circuit 500 may include component 304) included within positive reactive circuit capacitive component 502 . Capacitive component 502 may 300 . be sized based , at least in part , upon one or more physical characteristics of hydrogen generation chamber 110 ( e. g .,

Negative Reactive Circuit Configuration 5 size , shape , electrode type , configuration and dimensions ) and/or one or more physical characteristics of feedstock 114

Referring to FIG . 4 , there is shown one implementation of (e .g., feedstock type and contents included therein ) con signal processing system 106 , wherein signal processing tained within hydrogen generation chamber 110 . system 106 is shown to include negative reactive circuit 400 . Capacitive component 502 may include two discrete Negative reactive circuit 400 may be coupled to cathode 402 10 capacitors ( e . g ., capacitors 504 , 506 ) . In one particular of hydrogen generation chamber 110 . implementation , capacitor 504 may be a 1 microfarad In one implementation , negative reactive circuit 400 may capacitor available from Mouser Electronics and capacitor include inductive component 404 and capacitive component 506 may be a 1 microfarad capacitor available from Mouser 406 . One example of inductive component 404 may include Electronics . A first of the discrete capacitors ( e. g ., capacitor a 100 microhenry inductor available from Mouser Electron - 15 504 ) may be coupled to anode 302 of hydrogen generation ics. Inductive component 404 may be in parallel with chamber 110 . A second of the discrete capacitors ( e . g ., capacitive component 406 . Capacitive component 406 may discrete capacitor 506 ) may be coupled to cathode 402 of be sized based , at least in part, upon one or more physical hydrogen generation chamber 110. characteristics of hydrogen generation chamber 110 ( e . g ., Feedback circuit 500 may include asymmetrically con size, shape , electrode type, configuration and dimensions) 20 ductive component 508 , wherein asymmetrically conductive and/ or one or more physical characteristics of feedstock 114 component 508 may be positioned between the two discrete ( e. g., feedstock type and contents included therein ) con - capacitors (e .g ., capacitors 504 , 506 ). One example of tained within hydrogen generation chamber 110 . asymmetrically conductive component 508 may include ,but Inductive component 404 may be constructed of/ formed is not limited to , a diode ( e. g ., a light emitting diode ), such from several individual inductors that may be arranged (in a 25 as a RED /diffused T - 1 ( 3 mm ) 696 - SSL -LX30441D avail parallel and /or series configuration ) to achieve the desired able from Mouser Electronics .

inductance value . Additionally and as will be discussed below ), capacitive component 406 may be constructed Operation of the Signal Processing System of/ formed from several individual capacitors that are arranged (in a parallel and /or series configuration ) to achieve 30 Concerning the reactive circuits (e. g., positive reactive the desired capacitive value . circuit 300 and negative reactive circuit 400 ), these circuits In one implementation, capacitive component 406 may may incorporate an inductor in parallel with a plurality of include a plurality of discrete capacitors. For example , capacitors ( as discussed above ). Upon the initiation of the capacitive component 406 may include three discrete OCP, these inductors may oppose any rise in current. This capacitors (e . g ., capacitors 408 , 410 , 412 ) arranged in par - 35 opposition may be part of the electronic clamp during the allel to form a parallel capacitor circuit. In one particular rise time of the OCP. The capacitors in parallel with the implementation , capacitor 408 may be a 1 microfarad inductormay start to charge during the rise time of the OCP capacitor available from Mouser Electronics, capacitor 410 and provide a path for electron flow in the direction of the may be a 1 picofarad capacitor available from Mouser hydrogen generation chamber 110 . Electronics and capacitor 412 may be a 5 nanofarads capaci- 40 These capacitors may not be able to overcome the voltage tor available from Mouser Electronics . This parallel capaci- amplitude of hydrogen generation chamber 110 and, there tor circuit (e. g., the parallel combination of capacitors 408 , fore, may not be able to discharge during the OCP time. As 410 , 412 ) may be coupled in parallel with inductive com - these capacitors may be relatively small and may reach full ponent 404 , wherein the output of the parallel capacitor charge status during the rise time of OCP and may remain circuit ( e. g ., the parallel combination of capacitors 408 , 410 , 45 charged during the duration of the OCP. 412) and inductive component 304 may be provided to The slight opposition to current change (by the inductor ) cathode 402 of hydrogen generation chamber 110 . during the OCP rise time may quickly dissipate , wherein the In this particular implementation , negative reactive circuit inductor opposes current change based upon magnetically 400 may be configured as a band - stop filter. As is known in induced resistance to the current flow . the art and in signal processing, a band -stop filter (or 50 Hydrogen generation chamber 110 may function as a load band -rejection filter ) is a filter that passes most frequencies for signal processing system 106 , wherein hydrogen gen unaltered (i.e ., unattenuated ), while attenuating those fre - eration chamber 110 may have a varying internal resistance quencies that are within a defined range . As with any other and a varying voltage amplitude. Hydrogen generation LC filter, the particular range of frequencies that are attenu - chamber 110 may behave similarly to an inductive /capaci ated may be defined based upon the value of the capacitors 55 tive electronic component, wherein variations may occur ( e. g., capacitors 408 , 410 , 412 ) and inductors (e .g ., inductive based upon varying electrolytic conditions that can vary component 404 ) included within negative reactive circuit dramatically during the rise time of the OCP. These varying 400 . conditions may continue during the length of the duty cycle and may be in the form of a charge ion state triggering

Feedback Circuit Configuration 60 charging of hydrogen generation chamber 110 . The electron density within hydrogen generation chamber 110 may

Referring to FIG . 5 , there is shown one implementation of increase dramatically within hydrogen generation chamber signal processing system 106 , wherein signal processing 110 . This electron density may be at its greatest at a system 106 is shown to include feedback circuit 500 . Feed circumference slightly larger than the outer diameter of back circuit 500 may be configured to couple anode 302 of 65 cathode 402 .

hydrogen generation chamber 110 to cathode 402 of hydro - The ON cycle rise time and duration of the duty cycle may gen generation chamber 110 . cause a molecular polarity shift within the electrolytic fluid

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( e.g., feedstock 114 ). This molecular polarity shift may have discharge cycle at these given frequencies . This sequence a corresponding electromagnetic / electrostatic component. may continue until the molecular polarity rotation of hydro Due to the shape and geometry of hydrogen generation gen generation chamber 110 is stabilized or the charge chamber 110 and without a defined electron flow pathway, imbalance of the reactive circuit (e.g ., positive reaction the electromagnetic component will have a chaotic charac - 5 circuit 300 and/ or negative reaction circuit 400 is dimin teristic , wherein this chaotic characteristic may assist in the ished .

molecular splitting of gas atoms from the water molecules Feedback circuit 500 may be configured in reverse polar within the electrolytic fluid ( e. g ., feedstock 114 ) due to a ity to signal generation system 102 and signal processing constant molecular charge imbalance. system 106 . Feedback circuit 500 may function as a sec The OFF cycle of signal processing system 106 may start 10 ondary load to the reset reaction of hydrogen generation at the beginning of the OFCP. The blocking diodes ( e . g ., chamber 110. The capacitors ( e . g ., capacitors 504 , 506 ) of asymmetrically conductive components 208 , 210) are in the feedback circuit 500 may collect electrons during the elec cutoff state which may isolate signal generation system 102 trostatic discharge cycle , which may then be discharged from signal processing system 106 . A pulsed DC input base through the light emitting diode (i.e., asymmetrically con signal set to one kilohertz may reach the cutoff state one - 15 ductive component 508 ).

thousand times per second. During the OFF cycle , the Feedback circuit 500 may assist in minimizing the elec electrolytic fluid (e. g ., feedstock 114 ) in hydrogen genera trostatic discharge impact on other portions of the reactive tion chamber 110 may change from a charge state to a reset circuit (e . g ., positive reaction circuit 300 and/ or negative discharge cycle . During this OFF cycle , all electronic inter - reaction circuit 400 ) , which may result in the regulation of actions may be energized from energy recovered (or har - 20 the timing of ON , OFF and Cutoff sequences . The light vested ) from hydrogen generation chamber 110 . emitting diode ( i. e ., asymmetrically conductive component The charge amplitude of hydrogen generation chamber 508 ) may minimize electrostatic interference, thus assisting 110 may have a characteristic fast decline from greater than in maintaining peak charge amplitudes during the reset 3 . 5 VDC to less than 1. 4 VDC . The decline curve sweep sequence of hydrogen generation chamber 110 . angle may be dependent on the pulsed DC input frequency 25 Specifically , the electrostatic chargemay find a secondary and the configuration of the reaction circuits (e .g ., positive pathway through the light emitting diode (i.e ., asymmetri reaction circuit 300 and negative reaction circuit 400 ). cally conductive component 508 ). The light emitting diode During the cutoff initiation , the first decline sequence to ( e. g., asymmetrically conductive component 508 ) may have occur is the collapse of the electron density column sur - a characteristic that allows static electricity to pass through rounding cathode 402 . This high density electron column 30 while minimizing resistive load characteristics . This path may be held in place by the induced magnetic field that is a way may help regulate the discharge timing sequence while result of the OCP. This collapse may cause an electronic dissipating the accumulated charge on the capacitors ( e.g ., flashback ( or rapid energy release ) from hydrogen genera capacitors 504 , 506 ) . The switching or blocking character tion chamber 110 to the reactive circuit (e. g., positive istics of the light emitting diode (i.e., asymmetrically con reaction circuit 300 and/ or negative reaction circuit 400 ), 35 ductive component 508 ) may also minimize current loss which is similar to an electrostatic discharge and may during the OCP.

provide the electrolytic fluid ( e.g., feedstock 114 ) with a Due to the reverse polarity of feedback circuit 500, a pathway to start a change in state of polarity releasing portion of the recovered energy may be applied to the riding additional stored energy. frequency during the cut off discharge sequence to assist in Once the electron column proximate cathode 402 starts to 40 increasing the frequency amplitude . Further, the secondary collapse , there is a fast rise in potential on negative reactive electrostatic charge release may assist in the percentage of circuit 402 . At this point, there may be an imbalance with the desired gas output of hydrogen 112. The electrostatic positive reactive circuit 302 . The inductor within negative charge energy may only be recoverable during a given time reactive circuit 402 may have a rise in potential imposing an interval, wherein if the time interval is too long, the elec impedance value that may allow the parallel capacitors to 45 trostatic charge may interfere with the proper sequencing of discharge in the opposite direction to the charge state during the OCP and OFCP. Accordingly , the values of capacitors the OCP. This situation may create a latching circuit poten - 504, 506 may be adjusted to optimize the timing sequence . tial through hydrogen generation chamber 110 as the path way for electron flow . Hydrogen Generation Chamber Configuration The return energy from hydrogen generation chamber 110 50 may be a DC signal with embedded AC components, Referring to FIG . 6 , there is shown one implementation of wherein these AC components may be relatively small in hydrogen generation chamber 110 . Hydrogen generation amplitude. The AC components may be driven by the chamber 110 may include at least one hollow cylindrical molecular polarity shift after the cutoff sequence is initiated anode 302 configured to contain feedstock 114 . At least one and the imbalance of the charge state ofhydrogen generation 55 cathode 402 may be positioned within hollow cylindrical chamber 110 . The DC component produced by hydrogen anode 302 . Cathode 402 may be positioned along a longi generation chamber 110 may be clamped to swing the AC tudinal centerline (i.e ., longitudinal centerline 600 ) of hol wave into the positive range. low cylindrical anode 302 . Accordingly , hydrogen genera The capacitors in the reactive circuits (e .g ., positive tion chamber 110 may be configured as a coaxial hydrogen reaction circuit 300 and/ or negative reaction circuit 400 ) 60 generation chamber, as cathode 402 and hollow cylindrical may stabilize after the electrostatic release from the DC anode 302 share a common centerline (namely longitudinal component. The inductors may provide timing sequences centerline 600 ) .

and preload for capacitor charge /discharge sequence while Cathode 402 may be constructed , at least in part, of minimizing circuit resistance at peak input values . The tungsten . For example , cathode 402 may be a tungsten rod . capacitors may subsequently discharge under the influence 65 Hollow cylindrical anode 302 may be constructed , at least in of the AC components . The result may be an amplification part , of graphite . For example , hollow cylindrical anode 302 of the embedded frequency waves providing a charge may be machined from a block of graphite.

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Hollow cylindrical anode 302 may have an outer surface pulsed drive signal and generate hydrogen 112' from a 602 and an inner surface 604 , wherein the inside diameter feedstock material 114 ' contained therein based on the ( e. g., inside diameter 606 ) of hollow cylindrical anode 302 pulsed drive signal 202'.

is 2,400 % to 2 ,600 % of (i.e ., 24 -26 times larger than ) an The controllable reactive circuit 700 ' is coupled between outside diameter (e.g., outside diameter 608 ) of cathode 402 5 the pulsed drive signal generator 200 ' and the hydrogen positioned within hollow cylindrical anode 302 . For generation chamber 110'. A hydrogen detection device 800 example and in a preferred embodiment, hollow cylindrical is coupled to the hydrogen generation chamber 110 ' to detect anode 302 may have an inside diameter (i.e ., inside diameter the generated hydrogen 112'. A controller 900 ' is coupled 606 ) of 25 .0 millimeters and cathode 402 positioned within between the hydrogen detection device 800' and the con hollow cylindrical anode 302 may have an outside diameter 1 trollable reactive circuit 700 ' to control the controllable ( e.g., outside diameter 608 ) of 1.0 millimeter . reactive circuit 700' based on detection of the generated Cathode 402 positioned within hollow cylindrical anode hydrogen 112'.

302 may have a longitudinal length (i.e ., longitudinal length Hydrogen generated by the hydrogen generation chamber 610) that is 190 % to 210 % of (i.e ., 1. 9 - 2 . 1 times longer than ) 16 110 ' may be detected in terms of purity and production rate , inside diameter 606 of hollow cylindrical anode 302 . For for example . The hydrogen detection device 800 ' may be a example and in a preferred embodiment, cathode 402 posi- mass spectrometer 820 ' to determine the purity of the tioned within hollow cylindrical anode 302 may have a generated hydrogen 112'. Alternatively or in addition , the longitudinal length of 50 .0 millimeters (when hollow cylin - hydrogen detection device 800' may be a hydrogen flow drical anode 302 has an inside diameter (i.e., inside diameter 20 meter 634 ' to determine the production rate of the generated 606 ) of 25.0 millimeters ). hydrogen 112'.

Hydrogen generation chamber 110 may include feedstock Purity and production rate of the generated hydrogen as recirculation system 612 . For example and in this particular determined by the hydrogen detection device 800' may be illustrative embodiment, feedstock 114 may be drawn used to measure performance of the hydrogen generation through first conduit 614 and gas contractor 616 and into 25 chamber 110 '. The controllable reactive circuit 700 ' is fuel reservoir 618. Fuel reservoir 618 may serve as a advantageously used to adjust performance of the hydrogen preconditioning zone to maintain feedstock and catalyst generation system 100 ' by presenting a varying load reac concentrations at desired levels. Feedstock 114 may be tance to damped sine waves 720' (as illustrated in FIG . 8 ) pulled through circulation pump 620 and then through heat generated within the hydrogen generation chamber 110 '. As or 30 the name implies , a damped sine wave 720' is a sinusoidal exchanger 622 (to e.g., maintain a desired temperature for feedstock 114 ) and returned to hydrogen generation chamber function increases .

whose amplitude approaches zero as time 110 via conduit 624 . The damped sine waves 720 ' generated within the hydro Gas collection system 626 may be coupled to hydrogen gen generation chamber 110 ' are based on interactions generation chamber 110 and may be configured to collect hydrogen 112 generated by hydrogen generation tochamber comel 35 between the pulsed drive signal 202' and the feedstock material 114'. The damped sine waves 720 ' are received by 110 from feedstock 114 . In this particular illustrative the controllable reactive circuit 700 ' as well as by the example , hydrogen 112 may be drawn through conduit 628 controller 900 '. By the controller 900 ' selectively varying the by vacuum pump 630 , which then may pass through cold load reactance within the controllable reactive circuit 700 ' trap 632 and flow meter 634 and into e .g., storage container 40 subsequently formed damped sine waves 720' are re -ener 636 . gized which in turn can be used to improve performance of In certain implementations, hydrogen generation chamber the hydrogen generation system 100'.Re-energized waves or 110 may include a plurality of discrete chambers . Accord signals in the general sense refer to electrical characteristic ingly, hollow cylindrical anode 600 may include a plurality values , such as voltage , current, frequency, and / or waveform of hollow cylindrical anodes 606 configured to contain 45 shapes being altered so as to have an enhanced effect within feedstock 114 and cathode 602 may include plurality of the hydrogen generation system 100'. cathodes 608 that may be positioned within plurality of With the addition of the controllable reactive circuit 700 ' hollow cylindrical anodes 606 . Specifically , hydrogen gen - performance of the hydrogen generation system 100 ' is eration chamber 110 may be configured so as to include improved over that of a typical electrolytic cell . As an multiple anode/cathode pair , thus increasing the production 50 example, the purity of the generated hydrogen 112' may of hydrogen 112 . increase from a 0 .7 range to a mid /upper 0 .9 range when a varying load reactance is selectively presented to the

Controllable Reactive Circuit Configuration damped sine waves 720 ' generated within the hydrogen generation chamber 110'. Similarly , the production rate of

Referring now to FIG . 7 , another aspect of the disclosure 55 the generated hydrogen 112' increases significantly from a is directed to a hydrogen generation system 100' with a 0 . 7 /0 . 8 Coefficient of Performance (COP ) to greater than controllable reactive circuit 700 '. As will be discussed in four times the COP ( > 400 % ). greater detail below , the reactive circuit 700 ' includes induc - The COP measurement used herein is defined as follows: tive and capacitive values that may be selectively varied . a ratio of power consumption of the circuitry (measured in When the inductive and capacitive values are selectively 60 electrical watts ) to the hydrogen gas production (measured varied , this causes the load reactance on the hydrogen in thermal watts ). The power analysis is based on using a generation system 100 ' to vary . Varying the load reactance is low heating value for hydrogen (i. e., 120 MJ/kg ) to assess its advantageously used to adjust performance of the hydrogen energy content. Support for this value may be found in generation system 100 '. http ://www .h2data .de, for example . Power analysis results The hydrogen generation system 100 ' includes a pulsed 65 are calculated using the following relationship: thermal drive signal generator 200 ' to generate a pulsed drive signal watts (Wt) of hydrogen produced divided by electrical watts 202', and a hydrogen generation chamber 110 ' to receive the (We) consumed .

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Since the controllable reactive circuit 700' is used to tune carried by the damped sine waves 720'. In one embodiment, or adjust the damped sine waves 720 ' generated within the an oscilloscope may be one such signal analyzer . hydrogen generation chamber 110 ' to improve performance An example interactive chamber signal 724 'may be found of the hydrogen generation system 100', the hydrogen gen - around 1420 MHz. Another example interactive chamber eration chamber 110 ' may be considered to function as an 5 signal 724 ' may be found around 24 . 5 MHz. Yet another antenna . In this case, the cathode 402'may be characterized MHz interactive chamber signal 724 may be found around 33.3 as an emitter and the anode 302' may be characterized as a . These example frequencies are not to be limiting. The controller 900 ' may include a reactive load adjust reflector. For discussion purposes, the cathode 402' may also ment algorithm be referred to as a first terminal and the anode 302 'may also 10 from the hydrogen940detection ' that compares or correlates the output device 800 ' to characteristics of be referred to as a second terminal. one or more of the embedded interactive chamber signals The hydrogen generation system 100'may further include 724' as determined by the interactive chamber signal ana a passive receive antenna 850' adjacent the hydrogen gen lyzer 920 '. Waveform shapes of the embedded interactive eration chamber 110 ' that is configured to receive transmis chamber signal 724 being analyzed is one of the character sions from the chamber. The transmissions are in response ponse toto 15 istics used by the reactive load adjustment algorithm 940' the hydrogen generation chamber 110 ' receiving the pulse when determining how to vary the reactive load within the drive signal 202'. The received transmissions are providedtheto controllable reactive circuit 700 '. The reactive load adjust the controller 900 ' for analysis so as to confirm that the ment algorithm 940 ' may operate as a lookup table when hydrogen generation system 100 ' is operating correctly . determining the reactive load by comparing the analyzed The pulsed drive signal 202' generated by the pulsed drive 20 waveform characteristics with the purity or production rate signal generator 200' is a pulsed DC drive signal. As an of the generated hydrogen 112 '. example , the pulsed DC drive signal entering the hydrogen Referring now to FIG . 9 , a waveform shape of the 1420 generation chamber 110 ' may be set to one kilohertz and may MHz embedded interactive chamber signal 724 ( 1 )' will be have a peak voltage of 24 VDC with a 2 % duty cycle . discussed as an example . When the waveform shape of the However, the voltage within the hydrogen generation cham - 25 1420 MHz embedded interactive chamber signal 724 ( 1 ) ber 110 ' is maintained at a lower level as discussed above, being analyzed by the interactive chamber signal analyzer such as 3 . 4 VDC , for example . 920 ' has a stair -stepped shape , as indicated by reference The damped sinewaves 720' occur between the DC pulses 732', then the purity or flow rate of the generated hydrogen 204', as illustrated in FIG . 8 . More particularly , the damped 112' has begun to decrease , then the load reactance of the sine waves 720 ' occur as a negative latch between the DC 30 controllable reactive circuit 700 ' is adjusted so that the pulses 204'. Each damped sine wave 720' includes a DC waveform shape of subsequent 1420 MHz embedded inter signal 722 ' with a plurality of low -level embedded interac - active chamber signals 724 ( 1 )' has a more rounded or tive chamber signals 724 '. The low - level embedded inter - non -stair - stepped shape , as indicated by the more rounded active chamber signals 724' are only shown within section stair 732 " .

730 ' of the DC signal 722 ' so as to simplify the illustration . 35 Adjustment of the reactive load in the controllable reac Certain ones of these low - level embedded interactive cham - tive circuit 700 ' is made in terms of re -energizing generation ber signals 724 may correlate with chemical reactions that of subsequent damped sine waves 720 '. The above noted occur within the hydrogen generation chamber 110'. embedded interactive chamber signals 724 'may be consid Interactions between the pulsed DC drive signal 202' and ered as event characteristics, and when these event charac the feedstock material 114 ' may be attributed to an electro - 40 teristics are triggered by changing the load reactance of the magnetic pulse (EMP ) occurring within the hydrogen gen - controllable reactive load circuit 700 ', then the purity and /or eration chamber 110 '. As readily understood by those skilled production rate of the hydrogen 112' generated by the in the art ,an EMP is a shortburst of electromagnetic energy, hydrogen generation chamber 110 may be adjusted . and orientation of a pulse may occur as an electromagnetic More particularly , the controllable reactive circuit 700 ' is field , for example . The EMP may be partially absorbed by 45 used to adjust the timing of subsequent embedded interac the chamber materials , and may be partially reflected so that tive chamber signals 724'. Adjusting the timing increases the interfering patterns of EMP constructive and destructive slope or slant range of a sinusoidal stair- stepped waveform nodes are created within the chamber. The interaction of the shape of subsequent embedded interactive chamber signals chamber and the EMP is reflected in the damped sine waves 724 '. By varying the load reactance , the electronic speed is 720' detected from the chamber 110 ' between the DC pulses 50 decreased to slow electron speed to form a retarded stair 204'. stepped waveform shape 732" . As the electron speed is An underlying theory of one embodiment of the present decreased , the frequency of the embedded interactive cham disclosure is that the generated electromagnetic field has an ber signals 724 ' being analyzed may be adjusted . This in turn influence on the electrons within the hydrogen generation provides more energy within the hydrogen generation cham chamber 110'. This influence leads to the damped sine waves 55 ber 110 ' which results in an improvement of the hydrogen 720' having the embedded interactive chamber signals 724 generation system 100'.

which are low -level and chaotic in nature but may be Referring now to FIG . 10 , Controllable Reactive Circuit correlated with the chemical reactions that occur within the 700 ' includes the positive reactive circuit 300', the negative hydrogen generation chamber 110 '. The chemical reactions reactive circuit 400 ', and the feedback circuit 500 '. that are of interest are those that have an impact on the purity 60 In one implementation , the controllable reactive circuit or production rate of the hydrogen 112 ' generated within the 700' includes a first variable load reactance circuit 760' hydrogen generation chamber 110 '. between the positive reactive circuit 400 ' and the feedback In addition to the controllable reactive circuit 700 ' receiv - circuit 500 ' and a second variable load reactance circuit 780 ' ing the damped sine waves 720 ', the controller 900 ' also between the negative reactive circuit 400 ' and the feedback receives the damped sine waves 720'. The controller 900 65 circuit 500 '.

includes an interactive chamber signal analyzer 920 ' to The first variable load reactance circuit 760' includes a analyze the embedded interactive chamber signals 724 variable inductive component 762' and a variable capacitive

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component 764 ' coupled to the variable inductive compo a controllable reactive circuit coupled between said nent 762'. Similarly , the second variable load reactance pulsed drive signal generator and said hydrogen gen circuit 780 ' includes a variable inductive component 782' eration chamber;

and a variable capacitive component 784 ' coupled to the a hydrogen detection device coupled to said hydrogen variable inductive component 782'. The variable capacitive 5 generation chamber and configured to detect the gen components 764 ', 784 ' are cross -coupled to one another erated hydrogen ; and between the first and second variable load reactance circuits a controller configured to control said controllable reac 760', 780 '. tive circuit based on detection of the generated hydro In operation , the controller 900' is configured to adjust the gen .

variable inductive and capacitive components 762', 764' in 10 2. The hydrogen generation system according to claim 1 the first variable load reactance circuit 760' via signal path wherein said hydrogen detection device comprises a mass 942( 1 )' and to adjust the variable inductive and capacitive spectrometer to determine a purity of the generated hydro components 782', 784 ' in the second variable load reactance gen ; and wherein said controller is configured to control said circuit 780' via signal path 942( 2 )'.

The damped sine waves 720' as received by the control - 1515 con controllable reactive circuit based on the purity of the lable reactive circuit 700' are also received by the controller generated hydrogen .

900' via signal paths 921( 1 ) , 921( 2 )'. By the controller 900 3 . The hydrogen generation system according to claim 1 selectively varying the load reactance within the controllable wherein said hydrogen detection device comprises a hydro reactive circuit 700 ' via the signal paths 942( 1 ) , 942( 2 ) gen flow meter to determine a production rate of the gen subsequently formed damped sine waves 720' are re - ener - 20 erated hydrogen ; and wherein said controller is configured to gized which in turn can be used to improve performance of control said controllable reactive circuit based on the pro the hydrogen generation system 100 '. duction rate of the generated hydrogen . Referring now to the flowchart 1000 in FIG . 11 , another 4 . The hydrogen generation system according to claim 1 aspect of the disclosure is directed to a method for operating wherein damped sine waves are generated within said the above-described hydrogen generation system 100'. From 25 hydrogen generation chamber based on interaction between the start (Block 1002) , the method includes providing a the pulsed drive signal and the feedstock material; and pulsed drive signal 202 ' to a hydrogen generation chamber wherein said controller controls said controllable reactive 110 ' at Block 1004. Hydrogen 112 ' is generated from a circuit so as to present a varving load reactance to the feedstock material 114 ' contained within the hydrogen gen damped sine waves .

eration chamber 110' based on the pulsed drive signal 202 ' 30 5 . The hydrogen generation system according to claim 4 at Block 1006 . Hydrogen 112' generated by the hydrogen generation chamber 110 ' is detected at Block 1008 . The wherein said controller is configured to control said con trollable reactive circuit based on detection of the generated method further includes controlling a load reactance of a controllable reactive circuit 700 ' coupled to the hydrogen hydrogen and the damped sine waves .

generation chamber 110 ' based on detection of the generated 35 6 . The hydrogen generation system according to claim 5 hydrogen 112 ' at Block 1010 . The method ends at Block wherein the damped sine waves include a DC signal with a 1012 . plurality of embedded interactive chamber signals, with at least one of the embedded interactive chamber signals

GENERAL corresponding to the hydrogen being generated ; and wherein 40 said controller is further configured to analyze the at least

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describ - one embedded interactive chamber signal corresponding to ing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be the hydrogen being generated . limiting of the disclosure . As used herein , the singular forms 7 . The hydrogen generation system according to claim 6 “ a ” , “ an ” and “ the” are intended to include the plural forms wherein said controller analyzes a waveform shape of the at aswell ,unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will 45 least one embedded interactive chamber signal correspond be further understood that the terms “ comprises ” and/ or ing to the hydrogen being generated , and varies the load " comprising,” when used in this specification , specify the reactance in said controllable reactive circuit based on the presence of stated features, integers, steps , operations, ele - waveform shape .

ments, and /or components , but do not preclude the presence 8 . The hydrogen generation system according to claim 4 or addition of one or more other features, integers , steps, 50 wherein said pulsed drive signal generator generates a DC operations , elements , components and/ or groups thereof. pulsed drive signal; and wherein the damped sine waves are The corresponding structures ,materials , acts , and equiva - generated between pulses of the DC pulsed drive signal. lents of all means or step plus function elements in the 9 . The hydrogen generation system according to claim 1 claimsbelow are intended to include any structure, material, wherein said controllable reactive circuit comprises : or act for performing the function in combination with other 55 a first variable load reactance circuit coupled between a claimed elements as specifically claimed . The description of first terminal of said pulsed drive signal generator and the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of a first terminal of said hydrogen generation chamber ; illustration and description , but is not intended to be exhaus and tive or limited to the disclosure in the form disclosed . a second variable load reactance circuit coupled between What is claimed is: 60 a second terminal of said pulsed drive signal generator 1. A hydrogen generation system comprising : and a second terminal of said hydrogen generation a pulsed drive signal generator configured to generate a chamber, wherein said first and second variable load pulsed drive signal; reactance circuits are cross - coupled to one another. a hydrogen generation chamber configured to receive the 10 . The hydrogen generation system according to claim 9 pulsed drive signal and generate hydrogen from a 65 wherein said first variable load reactance circuit comprises feedstock material contained therein based on the at least one variable inductive component, and at least one pulsed drive signal; variable capacitive component; and wherein said second

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variable load reactance circuit comprises at least one vari chamber, wherein said first and second variable load able inductive component, and at least one variable capaci reactance circuits are cross - coupled to one another . tive component. 18 . A method for operating a hydrogen generation system 11 . A hydrogen generation system comprising: comprising a pulsed drive signal generator to generate a a pulsed drive signal generator configured to generate a 5 pulsed drive signal, a hydrogen generation chamber to pulsed drive signal; receive the pulsed drive signal and generate hydrogen from a hydrogen generation chamber configured to receive the a feedstock material contained therein based on the pulsed pulsed drive signal and generate hydrogen from a drive signal, and a controllable reactive circuit coupled feedstock material contained therein , with damped sine between waves being generated within said hydrogen generation 10 generationthechamber pulsed drive signal generator and the hydrogen , the method comprising :

chamber based on interaction between the pulsed drive detecting the hydrogen generated by the hydrogen gen signal and the feedstock material;

a controllable reactive circuit having a controllable load eration chamber ; and reactance coupled between said pulsed drive signal controlling a load reactance of the controllable reactive generator and said hydrogen generation chamber; 15 circuit based on detection of the generated hydrogen . a hydrogen detection device coupled to said hydrogen 19 . The method according to claim 18 wherein the hydro generation chamber and configured to detect the gen gen detection device comprises a mass spectrometer so that

detection of the generated hydrogen corresponds to a purity erated hydrogen ; and of the generated hydrogen .

a controller configured to control the load reactance in said controllable reactive circuit based on detection of 20 gen20detection . The method according to claim 18 wherein the hydro device comprises a hydrogen flow meter so the generated hydrogen and the damped sine waves . that detection of the generated hydrogen corresponds to a 12 . The hydrogen generation system according to claim 11 wherein said hydrogen detection device comprises a mass production rate of the generated hydrogen . 21 . The method according to claim 18 wherein damped spectrometer so that detection of the generated hydrogen sine waves are generated within the hydrogen generation corresponds to a purity of the generated hydrogen .

13 . The hydrogen generation system according to claim chamber based on interaction between the pulsed drive 11 wherein said hydrogen detection device comprises a signal and the feedstock material; and wherein the load hydrogen flow meter so that detection of the generated reactance of the controllable reactive circuit is controlled to hydrogen corresponds to a production rate of the generated present a varying load reactance to the damped sine waves. hydrogen . 30 22 . The method according to claim 21 wherein the 14 . The hydrogen generation system according to claim damped sine waves include a DC signal with a plurality of 11 wherein the damped sine waves include a DC signal with embedded interactive chamber signals , with at least one of the embedded interactive chamber signals corresponding to a plurality of embedded interactive chamber signals , with at the hydrogen being generated ; and wherein controlling the least one of the embedded interactive chamber signals 10load reactance corresponding to the hydrogen being generated ; and wherein 35 based of the controllable reactive circuit is further on analyzing the at least one embedded interactive said controller is further configured to analyze the at least chamber signal corresponding to the hydrogen being gen one embedded interactive chamber signal corresponding to the hydrogen being generated . erated .

23. The method according to claim 22 wherein the ana 15 . The hydrogen generation system according to claim in lyzing 14 wherein said controller analyzes a waveform shape of the 40 one comprises analyzing a waveform shape of the at least lyzingembedded interactive chamber signal corresponding to at least one embedded interactive chamber signal corre the hydrogen being generated . sponding to the hydrogen being generated , and varies the load reactance in said controllable reactive circuit based on drive 24 . The method according to claim 21 wherein the pulsed the waveform shape . signal generator generates a DC pulsed drive signal; 16 . The hydrogen generation system according to claim 45 45 and an wherein the damped sine waves are generated between 11 wherein said pulsed drive signal generator generates a pulses of the DC pulsed drive signal. 25 . The method according to claim 18 wherein the con

DC pulsed drive signal; and wherein the damped sine waves trollable are generated between pulses of the DC pulsed drive signal. reactance reactive circuit comprises a first variable load circuit coupled between a first terminal of the 17 . The hydrogen generation system according to claim pulsed drive signal generator and a first terminal of the 11 wherein said controllable reactive circuit comprises: 50 hydrogen a first variable load reactance circuit coupled between a reactance circuit generation chamber, and a second variable load first terminal of said pulsed drive signal generator and coupled between a second terminal of the a first terminal of said hydrogen generation chamber ; pulsed drive signal generator and a second terminal of the and hydrogen generation chamber, with the first and second a second variable load reactance circuit coupled between 555 another variable load reactance circuits being cross-coupled to one

a second terminal of said pulsed drive signal generator and a second terminal of said hydrogen generation * * * * *