Patent ID: 7713653
Filing Date: 2010-05-11
Classification: C01B,H01M,Y02E

Abstract:
1. A power generator comprising: a fuel gas generator comprising a solid fuel, the fuel gas generator having an open volume substantially free of solid fuel, a reaction front being disposed between the solid fuel and the open volume; a fuel cell in fluid communication with the fuel gas generator; and a capacity detection mechanism having a first portion disposed at least partially within the solid fuel, and a second portion disposed at least partially within the open volume, with the reaction front situated between the first portion and the second portion; wherein the capacity detection mechanism provides an indication of remaining fuel capacity of the fuel gas generator based upon a current position of the reaction front relative to the capacity detection mechanism, and wherein the capacity detection mechanism includes a member coated with a conductive reactive material, the member forming at least part of the second portion of the capacity detection mechanism disposed at least partially within the open volume.