Gel formed battery

A gel battery may be fabricated from a gel anode material and a gel cathode material. The battery may further comprise a gel electrolyte material. The gel materials may be in the form of thin films. A gel battery may be formed by contacting at least a portion of a gel anode with at least a portion of a gel electrolyte, and at least a portion of a gel cathode may also be in contact with at least a portion of the gel electrolyte. A battery formed by gel films may also be coated with a material. The gel battery, its anode, cathode, and electrolyte materials may all be non-toxic for an application to an animal.

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Claim of Priority

This application is a U.S. national stage filing under 35 U.S.C. §371 of International Application No. PCT/US2012/032731 filed Apr. 9, 2012 entitled “Gel Formed Battery,” the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. International Application No. PCT/US2012/032731 filed Apr. 9, 2012 entitled “Gel Formed Battery” further claims benefit of and priority to International Application No. PCT/US2011/031780 entitled “Gel Formed Battery” filed Apr. 8, 2011 and International Application No. PCT/US2011/039281 entitled “Liquid Battery Formed From Encapsulated Components” filed Jun. 6, 2011, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

A battery is an electro-chemical device that converts chemical energy into electrical energy. A battery generally includes an anode and a cathode, which are connected by an electrolyte. The electrolyte can be a wet electrolyte or a dry electrolyte that is activated by moisture. When the battery is in operation, a redox reaction occurs. During the redox reaction, reduction occurs to cations at the cathode and oxidization occurs to anions at the anode. The battery has a terminal voltage, which is measured as the difference of voltage between the anode and cathode.

SUMMARY

In an embodiment, an electrochemical cell comprises a gel anode, a gel cathode, and a gel electrolyte, in which at least a portion of the gel anode contacts at least a portion of the gel electrolyte, at least a portion of the gel cathode contacts at least a portion of the gel electrolyte, and the electrochemical cell, the gel anode, the gel cathode, and the gel electrolyte may be non-toxic for an application to an animal.

In an embodiment, an electrochemical cell comprises a gel anode film, a gel cathode film, and a gel electrolyte film, in which at least a portion of the gel anode film contacts at least a portion of the gel electrolyte film, at least a portion of the gel cathode film contacts at least a portion of the gel electrolyte film, and the electrochemical cell, the gel anode film, the gel cathode film, and the gel electrolyte film may be non-toxic for an application to an animal.

In an embodiment, an electrochemical device comprises multiple electrochemical cells, in which each electrochemical cell comprises, a gel anode film, a gel cathode film, and a gel electrolyte film, where, further, at least a portion of the gel anode film contacts at least a portion of the gel electrolyte film, at least a portion of the gel cathode film contacts at least a portion of the gel electrolyte film, each of the multiple electrochemical cells, the gel anode films, the gel cathode films, and the gel electrolyte films may be non-toxic for an application to an animal, and further, in which the gel anode film of a first electrochemical cell is in electrical communication with the gel cathode film of a second electrochemical cell.

In an embodiment, a method of fabricating an electrochemical cell comprises providing at least one gel anode film, providing at least one gel cathode film, contacting at least a portion of a gel electrolyte film with at least a portion of the gel anode film, and contacting at least a portion of the gel electrolyte film with at least a portion of the gel cathode film, in which the electrochemical cell, the gel anode film, the gel cathode film, and the gel electrolyte film may be non-toxic for an application to an animal.

In an embodiment, a method of fabricating a electrochemical cell comprises fabricating at least one wet gel anode film, drying the wet gel anode film to form a gel anode film, fabricating at least one wet gel electrolyte film, in which at least a portion of the wet gel electrolyte film contacts at least a portion of the gel anode film, drying the wet gel electrolyte film to form a gel electrolyte film, fabricating at least one wet gel cathode film, in which at least a portion of the wet gel cathode film contacts at least a portion of the gel electrolyte film, and drying the wet cathode layer, to form a gel cathode layer, in which the electrochemical cell, the gel anode film, the gel cathode film, and the gel electrolyte film may be non-toxic for an application to an animal.

In an embodiment, a consumable product comprises an electrochemical device and a carrier medium in contact with the electrochemical device, in which both the electrochemical device and the carrier medium may be non-toxic for consumption by an animal.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Described herein are illustrative methods and apparatuses relating to a gel battery that is configured to deliver an electrical current. Non-limiting uses of the battery may include incorporation of the battery into an edible product, using the battery topically on humans, animals, plants, etc., to treat a condition, stimulate a muscle, reduce sweat, provide sexual pleasure, etc., using the battery to increase saliva production, using the battery to treat dry mouth or canker sores, using the battery as a breath freshener, using the battery as an antiseptic, using the battery to help deliver a vitamin or drug, using the battery to enhance a cleaning agent, using the battery as a lotion, etc. In one illustrative embodiment, components of the battery can include gel anodes, gel cathodes, and gel electrolytes. The components may be composed of food grade materials that are safe for human consumption. Non-limiting examples of food-grade anodes include copper, carbon, manganese dioxide, and iron. The food-grade cathode may be, but is not limited to, zinc or nickel. Non-limiting examples of a food-grade electrolyte include phosphoric acid, ascorbic acid, and salt. A gel battery can be activated by connecting the gel anode and the gel cathode in the presence of a gel electrolyte. In one embodiment, the gel electrolyte may be incorporated into one or both of the gel anode and the gel cathode. Upon activation, an electrical current can produce a noticeable sensation. For example, an edible gel battery can generate a current that may be felt, for example, in a mouth, gums, lips, stomach, etc.

The voltage of an illustrative battery may be increased or decreased in various ways. One such example is by using multiple batteries combined in series. For example, a second gel battery may be configured to be in series with a first gel battery. One or more additional batteries may similarly be connected in series with the first and second batteries to generate additional electrical voltage. Alternatively, multiple batteries can be combined in parallel with one another to increase current in a circuit.

It will be understood that the above embodiments and configurations are given as illustrative examples only and that other configurations of the battery will be apparent to those of skill in the art in light of the present disclosure. Additional details and embodiments are described with reference to the figures.FIG. 1illustrates a cathode chamber135and an anode chamber115for forming a gel battery100in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In one embodiment, the anode chamber115and the cathode chamber135can be incorporated into a dispenser for dispensing products such as, but not limited to, deodorants, toothpaste, shampoo, liquid soap, lotions, cleaners, etc. In other embodiments, the chambers115and135can be incorporated into a pill or into food products such as, but not limited to, gum, a jelly bean, candy, etc.

The cathode chamber135can store a gel cathode130. Likewise, the anode chamber115can store a gel anode110. The gel cathode130and/or the gel anode110can be made of various types of gels such as, but not limited to, aquagel, colloidal gel, hydrogel, etc. In one embodiment, the gel cathode130can be made by adding a cathode such as, but not limited to, zinc or nickel, to a gel. Similarly, a gel anode can be made by adding to a gel an anode such as, but not limited to, copper, carbon, manganese dioxide, or iron. The anode or cathode can be incorporated in the gel by stirring or using a homogenizer. In one embodiment, the volume concentration of the anode and cathode is about 0.25. Other concentrations can also be used such as, but not limited to, 0.1, 0.5, 0.75, etc. In some embodiments, the gel can be heated prior to the adding of the anode or cathode. In an illustrative embodiment, the anode chamber115and the cathode chamber135are made of a non-conductive material such as, but not limited to, e.g., a plastic, glass, wood, etc. When the gel anode110and the gel cathode130come into contact with one another and a gel electrolyte, the gel battery100is formed. Paths170and175illustrate physical paths that may be traversed by a portion of the gel anode110and a portion of the gel cathode130, respectively, to create the gel battery100. As discussed in further detail below, the paths170and175may be implemented as an anode dispensing channel mounted to the anode chamber115and a cathode dispensing channel mounted to the cathode chamber135, respectively. In an illustrative embodiment, the gel electrolyte may be integrated into at least one of the gel anode110or the gel cathode130such that the gel battery can be formed.

As discussed in further detail below, a gel battery may be incorporated into or may form various types of food products, such as, but not limited to, snack foods, prepared foods, candies, and condiments. Specific examples of food products that the gel battery100may form include, but are not limited to, gel candy, a preserve, spreadable cheese, etc. Various food-grade products can be used for the gel anode110, the gel cathode130, and the gel electrolyte. For example, food-grade products that may make up the gel anode110include, but are not limited to, copper, carbon, manganese dioxide, or iron. The gel cathode130may be made of, but is not limited to, zinc or nickel. The gel electrolyte may be made of, but not limited to, phosphoric acid, ascorbic acid, and salt.

In one embodiment, the gel anode110and gel cathode130may be made of food-grade products such as vitamins and/or minerals. In some embodiments, the gel anode110and/or the gel cathode130can include an electrolyte. In another embodiment, a gel electrolyte can connect the gel anode110and the gel cathode130. Upon ingestion of the gel battery by a subject, the vitamins and/or minerals can be delivered to the subject. The gel anode110, the gel electrolyte and/or the gel cathode130may also be incorporated into a pill such as, but not limited to, a vitamin, a mineral, or a drug. In one such embodiment, the cathode chamber135and the anode chamber115may be formed by the pill or a digestible substance inserted into the pill and an electrolyte can be included in the gel anode110and/or the gel cathode130.

FIG. 2illustrates an electrical circuit200that includes a gel battery100and a mouth210in which the gel battery100is activated in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. For example, a tongue in the mouth210of a subject may connect the gel anode110and gel cathode130to form the circuit200. The circuit200, however, is not limited to being formed by a tongue. Rather, the circuit200may be formed with one or more other parts of the mouth, including, but not limited to, teeth, gums, the walls of the mouth, and/or any fluid that is associated with the mouth210. Additionally, the circuit200is not limited to being formed in the mouth and can be formed on, but not limited to, skin or a scalp. Any conductive surface, such as, but not limited to, a counter top, a floor, a wall, etc. can also be used to connect the gel anode110and the gel cathode130to create the circuit200. Once the circuit200is formed, the gel battery100generates a direct current that flows through the circuit200. In an illustrative embodiment, the current is detectable by a user as a tingling of the parts of the mouth210or other body part that forms the circuit200.

FIG. 3is a flow diagram that depicts operations performed in creating a gel battery100. Additional, fewer, and/or different operations may be performed depending on the particular implementation. In addition, one or more of the operations may be performed in a different order depending on the particular implementation. In an operation310, a portion of the gel cathode130, stored in a cathode chamber135, is released. In an operation320, a portion of the gel anode110, stored in an anode chamber115, is released. In an embodiment in which the cathode chamber135and the anode chamber115are part of a dispenser, the gel cathode130and the gel anode115may be released simultaneously as a user pushes a button (or other actuator) to activate the dispenser. The portion of the gel cathode130contacts the portion of the gel anode110to form a gel battery100that can generate an electrical current in an operation330. In some embodiments, the gel anode110and/or the gel cathode130can include an electrolyte. In another embodiment, a gel electrolyte120is stored in a gel electrolyte chamber125(as shown inFIG. 4). In this embodiment, a portion of the gel electrolyte120can be released to connect the gel anode110and the gel cathode130to form a gel battery100. In an operation340, a circuit, such as, but not limited to, circuit200(ofFIG. 2), is formed and electrical current flows through the circuit200powered by the gel battery100.

FIG. 4illustrates a cathode chamber115, an electrolyte chamber125, and an anode chamber135for forming the gel battery100in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In one embodiment, the anode chamber115, the electrolyte chamber125, and the cathode chamber135can be incorporated into a dispenser for dispensing products such as, but not limited to, liquid soaps, deodorants, toothpastes, lotions, shampoos, cleaners, etc. In other embodiments, the chambers115,125, and135can be incorporated into a pill or into food products such as, but not limited to, gum, a jelly bean, candy, etc. The electrolyte chamber125can store a gel electrolyte120. The gel anode110and/or the gel cathode130can also include an electrolyte, which may be different or the same as the electrolyte within the gel electrolyte120. The gel electrolyte120can be made of various types of gels such as, but not limited to, aquagel, colloidal gel, hydrogel, etc. In one embodiment, the gel electrolyte120can be made by adding an electrolyte such as, but not limited to, phosphoric acid, ascorbic acid, citric acid, or salt, to a gel. The electrolyte can be incorporated in the gel by stirring or using a homogenizer. In one embodiment, the volume concentration of the electrolyte is about 0.25. Other concentrations can also be used such as, but not limited to, 0.1, 0.5, 0.75, etc. In some embodiments, the gel can be heated prior to the adding of the electrolyte. An electrolyte can be added to the gel anode110and/or the gel cathode130. In one embodiment, citric acid can be used as an electrolyte and can be added to the gel anode110and/or the gel cathode130in volume concentrations of, but not limited to, 0.01, 0.05, 0.1, 0.015, 0.25, etc.

In an alternative embodiment, the electrolyte chamber125can be a separator chamber that includes a separator such as, but not limited to, potato, starch, etc. The separator can be dispensed in between the gel anode110and the gel cathode130to separate the gel anode110from the gel cathode130. In this embodiment, the gel anode110and/or the gel cathode130can include the gel electrolyte120. In an illustrative embodiment, the separator can be porous to allow the flow of ions between the gel anode110and the gel cathode130. In another embodiment, an electrolyte or the gel electrolyte120can be incorporated into the separator.

Path172illustrates a physical path that may be traversed by a portion of the gel electrolyte120such that the gel battery100can be formed. As discussed in further detail below, the path172may be implemented as an electrolyte dispensing channel mounted to the electrolyte chamber125. In an illustrative embodiment, the gel battery100can be formed when at least a portion of the gel anode110comes into contact with at least a portion of the gel cathode130, and when the gel electrolyte120comes into contact with at least the portion of the gel cathode130and/or at least the portion of the gel anode110. As discussed in further detail below, the gel anode110, the gel electrolyte120, and gel cathode130can come into contact after being dispensed through an anode dispensing channel, an electrolyte dispensing channel, and a cathode dispensing channel, respectively.

FIG. 5Aillustrates a cathode chamber135and an anode chamber115in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In one embodiment, the anode chamber115and the cathode chamber135can be incorporated into a dispenser for dispensing products such as, but not limited to, deodorants, toothpastes, shampoos, liquid soaps, lotions, cleaners, antibacterial compositions, antiviral compositions, etc. In other embodiments, the chambers115and135can be incorporated into a pill or into food products such as, but not limited to, gum, a jelly bean, candy, etc. In these embodiments, the gel anode and/or the gel cathode can include an electrolyte. The anode chamber115and the cathode chamber135store a gel anode and gel cathode, respectively. The gel anode exits the anode chamber115through an anode dispensing channel510. The gel cathode exits the cathode chamber135through a cathode dispensing channel530.FIG. 5Billustrates a front plan view of the anode dispensing channel510and the cathode dispensing channel530. The anode dispensing channel510is separated from the cathode dispensing chamber by a separator540. As the gel anode110and gel cathode130exit their respective dispensing channels510and530, the gel anode110and the gel cathode130come into contact with one another. A gel battery100is created when the gel anode and the gel cathode come into contact with one another.

An anode valve545can separate the anode chamber115from the anode dispensing channel510. A cathode valve550can separate the cathode chamber135from the cathode dispensing channel530. An actuator or button can cause the valves545and550to open or move such that the chambers115and135are placed in fluid communication with their respective channels510and520. Open valves545and550can allow the gel anode and the gel cathode to be released from the chambers115and135into the chambers510and530, respectively. In one embodiment, the gel anode contacts the gel cathode once dispensed from a dispenser. In this embodiment, the gel battery100is formed external to the dispenser.

In another embodiment, a combination channel is connected to the anode dispensing chamber115and the cathode dispensing chamber135. The combination channel can allow the gel anode and the gel cathode to come into contact with one another prior to exiting the combination channel into an external environment. In these embodiments, the gel anode and/or the gel cathode can include an electrolyte.

FIG. 6Aillustrates a cathode chamber135, an electrolyte chamber125, and an anode chamber115in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The anode chamber115and the cathode chamber135store a gel anode and gel cathode, respectively. The electrolyte chamber125stores a gel electrolyte120. The gel anode exits the anode chamber115through an anode dispensing channel510. The gel electrolyte exits the electrolyte chamber125through an electrolyte dispensing chamber520, and the gel cathode exits the cathode chamber135through a cathode dispensing channel530.FIG. 6Billustrates a frontal plan view of the anode dispensing channel510, electrolyte dispensing channel520, and the cathode dispensing channel530. As the gel anode, gel electrolyte, and gel cathode exit their respective dispensing channels510,520, and530, the gel electrolyte comes into contact with both the gel anode and the gel cathode. A gel battery100is formed when the gel electrolyte comes into contact with the gel anode and the gel cathode.

An electrolyte valve555can separate the electrolyte chamber125from the electrolyte dispensing channel520. An actuator or button can cause the valves545,555, and550to open or move such that the chambers115,125, and135are placed in fluid communication with their respective channels510,520, and520. The gel electrolyte120can released from chamber125when valve555is open.

FIG. 7illustrates a gel battery dispenser700for forming a gel battery in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The gel battery dispenser700includes the anode chamber115and the cathode chamber135.FIG. 7illustrates the dispensed gel cathode130being horizontally aligned with the dispensed gel anode110. Any alignment, however, can be used, such as a vertical alignment. The gel battery dispenser700can include an actuator that when actuated causes a portion of the gel anode110to enter the anode dispensing chamber510and a portion of the gel cathode130to enter the cathode dispensing chamber530. In one embodiment, a movable bottom of the dispenser or the anode chamber115and the cathode chamber135can cause the gel anode110and/or the gel cathode130to be dispensed. In another embodiment, the gel battery dispenser700also includes the electrolyte chamber120, and the actuator allows a portion of the gel electrolyte120to enter the electrolyte dispensing chamber520. In another embodiment, the gel battery dispenser700does not include an actuator, but instead the gel battery dispenser700can be a collapsible tube. Pressure applied to the gel battery dispenser700can cause an amount of the gel anode110, gel cathode130, and/or gel electrolyte120to exit the gel battery dispenser700and thereby form a gel battery100. In another illustrative embodiment, the gel battery dispenser700can be disposable. For example, the gel battery dispenser700can be used to store a limited amount of the gel anode110and gel cathode130, which in turn, can be used to create a limited number of gel batteries100. The gel battery dispenser700can be opened, such as by tearing open a portion of the gel battery dispenser700, and pressure applied to the gel battery dispenser700can be used to create the gel batteries100.

In another embodiment, a pill can be used to store the gel anode110, the gel cathode130, and/or the gel electrolyte120. The pill can include an anode chamber that is separated from a cathode chamber. A coating can surround the pill and encapsulate the anode chamber and the cathode chamber. The coating can be made of, but not limited to, e.g., gelatin, wax, hypromellose, methyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, etc. In one embodiment, the pill can be swallowed by a subject and the coating can dissolve during digestion. Eventually, the gel anode and the gel cathode can be released from the pill and come into contact with one another to create a gel battery100. In another embodiment, the pill can be chewed, which can release the gel anode110and the gel cathode130. In some embodiments, an electrolyte can be included with the gel anode and/or the gel cathode. In other embodiments, the pill can include a separate electrolyte chamber. In another embodiment, the pill can also include a drug or vitamin, whose delivery is affected by the current generated by the gel formed battery100. In another embodiment, one or more pills can be integrated into a component, such as, but not limited to, a preserve, a cheese product, a shampoo, or a cleaning agent. Pressure applied to the component, such as through spreading the component or massaging the component, can cause the coating to rupture and allow a portion of the gel anode can come into contact with a portion of the gel cathode to create a gel battery100. In some embodiments, the gel anode and/or the gel cathode can include an electrolyte. In other embodiments, the pills can include an electrolyte chamber for storing a gel electrolyte. In yet another embodiment, a pill can contain only a portion of gel battery100, such as the gel anode110, the gel cathode130, or the gel electrolyte120. As the various pills rupture, components from different pills can be combined to form gel batteries. In one embodiment, spherical pills can be formed using sodium alginate fixed in a calcium chloride bath that can contain the gel anode110, the gel electrolyte120, or the gel cathode130.

The current created by a gel battery100can be used in numerous ways. In one example, the current of a gel battery100can be used to effect delivery/absorption of a drug, to combat bacteria such as the bacteria that causes acne, to combat a virus such as the herpes virus, to stimulate muscles, etc. In addition, the current can also have an anti-bacterial effect and/or an anti-viral effect. In another embodiment, the gel anode110, the gel electrolyte120, or the gel cathode130can include an antibacterial agent. In an illustrative embodiment, the gel battery100can be a facial mask. The current from the gel battery100of the facial mask can be used as an acne treatment. The current from a gel battery100can also have an anti-viral effect and can be used in the treatment of skin sores or sores of the mouth, such as, but not limited to, canker sores. In another embodiment, the current from a gel battery100can be used to treat various skin conditions. In one illustrative embodiment, a gel battery100can be applied to a rash, an area of dry skin, and/or an area of irritated skin. The gel battery100can generate a current that flows through portions of the skin, which can be used to diminish itching in skin by providing a competing stimulus.

In another embodiment, the gel anode110and the gel cathode130can be made of cosmetic grade materials, such as, but not limited to, aluminum and carbon. In some embodiments, the gel electrolyte120can also be made of cosmetic grade materials. One or more gel batteries100, using cosmetic grade materials, can be used as an antiperspirant and/or deodorant. For example, the gel anode110can include an aluminum complex and the gel cathode130can include carbon. In another embodiment, the gel battery100can include a cosmetic grade gel electrolyte120that contains salt. Illustrative aluminum complexes include, but are not limited to, aluminum chloride, aluminum chlorohydrate, and aluminum-zirconium compounds. The current produced by the gel battery100through a subject's skin can aid in the iontophoretic delivery of the aluminum-based complexes. Although not intending to be limited by theory, the aluminum-based complexes may aid in the formation of plugs in sweat glands, and thus, can help prevent perspiration. The aluminum-based complexes may also interact with keratin fibrils in sweat ducts and form a physical plug that prevents sweat from reaching the surface of skin. Accordingly, a gel battery100can be used to combat excessive sweating in an area of skin that is covered by the gel battery100. One or more of the gel anode110, the gel electrolyte120, and the gel cathode130can also include fragrant materials.

In another illustrative embodiment, a gel battery100can be used to treat wounds or burns. The gel battery100can be applied to an affected portion of a subject's skin to provide a current through the subject's skin tissue. The current can be used to affect the healing of the wound through, but not limited to, increasing blood flow, enhancing tissue oxygenation, preventing an infection, stimulating epidermal cell reproduction, etc. In some embodiments, the electrical current can reduce the amount of scar tissue of a healed wound, resulting in a smoother and thinner scar.

In another illustrative embodiment, a gel battery100can include other components such that the gel battery100can be used as a mouthwash, as toothpaste, as shampoo, as an enhancement to hair dye, as a facial mask, as a teeth whitener, to deliver medicine such as, but not limited to, antacid medicine, cold medicine, nicotine, or anti-gas medicine, as an energy supplement, or for sexual stimulation. In each of these embodiments, a gel battery100can provide an electrical current that enhances the performance of the component for its intended purpose. For instance, the electrical current may facilitate the delivery of a drug contained within the gel anode110, gel electrolyte120, or gel cathode130, or a drug that is taken simultaneously with the gel battery100. In another embodiment, the current from the gel battery100may impede the flora of the mouth, and therefore, helps protect against cavities and/or gum disease. In addition, the gel battery100may also increase the production and secretion of saliva, which also helps protect against cavities and/or gum disease. In another embodiment, the gel battery100is a toothpaste that can include flavoring, such as, but not limited to, mint, bubble gum, berry, etc.

Another illustrative embodiment includes a gel battery100that includes a hair dye. As the hair dye is applied, the gel battery100can create an electrical current that flows through a person's scalp and hair. This electrical current can enhance the application of the hair dye, for example by reducing the application time and/or by increasing the absorption of the hair dye into hair. In another illustrative embodiment, a gel battery100includes a cleaner. Current from the gel battery100can help loosen dirt, grease, and/or enhance the cleaning ability of the cleaner.

The gel battery100can also be used for sexual stimulation. In an illustrative embodiment, one or more gel batteries100can be placed upon or within sex organs. The gel battery100can produce an electrical current that flows through a subject's genitals to provide sexual stimulation. In another embodiment, the gel anode110can be placed one subject's body and the gel cathode130can be placed on a second subject's body. When the gel anode110and the gel cathode130come into contact a gel battery100is created, and an electrical current will flow between the subjects. In these embodiments, the gel anode110and/or the gel cathode130can include an electrolyte. In addition, the effects of the gel battery100are transferable from one person to another. For instance, portions of a gel battery100can be transferred between two individuals through kissing, fellatio, cunnilingus, sexual intercourse, etc. The electrical current can result in heightened sexual stimulation.

A number of parameters may influence the properties of the gel battery100. For example, the terminal voltage of the gel battery100, the amperage of the circuit200(FIG. 2), and the lifespan of the gel battery100may be configured based upon the properties of the gel battery100. The materials that make up the gel anode110and gel cathode130provide properties that affect the voltage of the gel battery100. In one embodiment, the amperage of the circuit200can be increased by increasing the molar concentration of the electrolyte in the gel cathode130and/or gel anode110. Increasing the surface area between the gel anode110, gel cathode130, and/or the gel electrolyte120can also increase the amperage of the circuit200. In one embodiment, the surface area is increased based upon the shapes of the gel anode110and the gel cathode130prior to coming into contact with one another. The shapes can be formed based on the shape of the apertures through which the gel anode110and gel cathode130are dispensed (or extruded). The placement of the apertures relative to one another can also be used to increase amount of surface area of the connection between the gel anode110and the gel cathode130.

In one embodiment, the gel anode110can be, but is not limited to, a hexagon, a pentagon, a triangle, etc. Any corresponding shape that increases the surface area of the connection of the gel anode110and gel cathode130can be used. The gel cathode130can be a shape that comes into contact with multiple sides of the gel anode110. As an example, the gel anode110may be dispensed in the shape of a triangle and the gel cathode130may be dispensed in a “V” shape that corresponds to an apex and two sides of the triangle. The aperture that dispenses the gel cathode130can be positioned relative to the aperture that dispenses the gel anode110such that the “V” shaped gel cathode130comes into contact with two sides of the triangular shaped gel anode110. Alternatively, the gel cathode130can be shaped as, but not limited to, a hexagon, a triangle, a pentagon, a rectangle, an octagon, etc, and the aperture that dispenses the gel anode110can be shaped and positioned such that the gel anode110comes into contact with multiple sides of the gel cathode130. For example, an aperture that dispenses the gel cathode130can be a hexagon, and an aperture that dispenses the gel anode110can be shaped and positioned such that gel anode110comes into contact with two, three, four, etc. sides of the hexagonally shaped gel cathode130.

The size of the gel battery100is another property that may be used to configure the gel battery100. Specifically, the size of the gel battery100may be used to configure how long the gel battery100is operable. Generally, the more gel anode110and gel cathode130used to create the gel battery100the longer the battery will remain active. The concentration of the anode, cathode, and electrolyte also impacts the longevity of the gel battery100. For example, higher concentrations of the anode, cathode, and electrolyte within a gel results in a longer lasting gel battery100. A gel battery100may remain active between 5 and 60 seconds. In alternative embodiments, the gel battery100can be configured to remain active for less than 5 seconds or greater than 60 seconds. The time the gel battery100is active may be increased by using a greater amount and/or concentration of gel anodes110and gel cathodes130. The amount and/or concentration of the gel electrolyte120or the concentration of an electrolyte in the gel anode110and/or gel cathode130also impacts the activation length of the gel battery100. Larger amounts or larger concentrations of the gel electrolyte120and higher concentrations of an electrolyte in the gel anode110and/or the gel cathode130can increase the time the gel battery100remains active.

The terminal voltage of the battery100, the current of the circuit200, and lifespan of the battery100may be also be controlled by using multiple batteries.FIG. 8illustrates multiple gel batteries in series in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. A manifold dispensing nozzle805can be used to create multiple gel batteries in series with one another. In one embodiment, the manifold dispensing nozzle can be created using three dimensional printing. An anode manifold can be connected to the anode storage chamber115. The anode manifold can dispense any number of portions810of the gel anode110. A cathode manifold can connect to the cathode chamber135and dispense a number of portions830of the gel cathode130. Similarly in another embodiment, an electrolyte manifold can connect to electrolyte chamber125and dispense numerous portions820of the gel electrolyte120. The portions810of the gel anode110and the portions830of the gel cathode130can be interleaved with one another to create a number of gel batteries that are in series with one another. In another embodiment, the multiple gel batteries can be connected in parallel with one another. For ease of illustration, the various illustrated portions810,820, and830have space between them. These portions, however, can be connected to form the multiple gel batteries in series with one another. A payload840can be included along with the batteries. The payload can be, but is not limited to, a food, a lotion, a toothpaste, a cleaner, a shampoo, a hair dye, a facial mask, a medicine, a pharmaceutical composition, or a teeth whitener.

Numerous embodiments of the gel battery100can be incorporated into various foods. In addition to producing a current, a gel battery100can increase the amount of saliva generated in the mouth of a user. Saliva can be produced by the stimulation of either or both the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system. For example, stimulation of the trigeminal nerve can result in an increase in the secretion and production of saliva. While not intending to be limited by theory, a gel battery100may stimulate the trigeminal nerve and/or other nerves of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. Accordingly, a gel battery100can result in an increase in both saliva production and saliva secretion. In an illustrative embodiment, a gel battery can be a gel mouth rinse or toothpaste. The gel battery100can increase the saliva production and saliva secretion of the user by stimulating the sympathetic nervous system and/or parasympathetic nervous system. Accordingly, a gel battery100can be used to treat such conditions as Xerostomia (e.g., dry mouth) by increasing saliva production and secretion. The current generated by the gel battery100can enhance the absorption of a drug contained within the gel anode110, gel electrolyte120, and/or gel cathode130through stimulation of tissues in the mouth, stomach, and/or small intestines.

FIG. 9illustrates one embodiment of an electrochemical cell comprising gel materials900. In one embodiment, the cell comprises a gel anode910, a gel cathode930, and a gel electrolyte920. As illustrated inFIG. 9, the gel anode910and gel cathode930are at least in partial contact with the gel electrolyte920. Thus, portions of the gel anode might not be in contact with the electrolyte, and portions of the gel cathode also might not be in contact with the electrolyte. Additionally, portions of the electrolyte might not be in contact with either one of the cathode or anode. The materials comprising the electrochemical cell900, including the gel anode910, gel cathode930, and gel electrolyte920, can be compositions that may be non-toxic to an animal to which the electrode is applied. While it is understood that such an electrochemical cell may be applied to any animal, disclosures of the use of the electrochemical cell below may, for illustrative purposes only, refer to the use by humans.

In one embodiment, the gel anode910may comprise an anode compound, including, without limitation, any one or more of, finely divided powders of zinc metal, aluminum metal, and magnesium metal. The gel anode may also comprise a gelling compound, such as a food-grade polymer. Examples of such food-grade polymers may include without limitation an alginate, a carrageenan, a pectin, gellan gum, and a dextrin. The gel anode may also comprise other components, including, without limitation, odorants, colorants, flavorants, stabilizers, fillers, binders, and preservatives. Some examples may include lemon oil, menthol, sweet almond oil, and food colorings. The anode material in the gel anode may be present at an amount of about 0.5% by weight to the gel material to about 6% by weight to the gel material. In one embodiment, the amount of anode material may be about 1.5% by weight to the gel material. Examples of the amount of anode material that may be present includes 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%, 2.5%, 3%, 3.5%, 4%, 4.5%, 5%, 5.5% and 6% by weight and ranges between any two of these values.

In one embodiment, the gel cathode930may comprise a cathode compound, including, without limitation, copper gluconate or other cupric salt. The gel cathode may also comprise a gelling compound, such as a food-grade polymer. Examples of such food-grade polymers may include without limitation an alginate, a carrageenan, a pectin, gellan gum, and a dextrin. The gel cathode may also comprise other components, including, without limitation, odorants, colorants, flavorants, stabilizers, fillers, binders, and preservatives. Some examples may include lemon oil, menthol, sweet almond oil, and food colorings. The cathode material in the gel cathode may be present at an amount of about 0.5% by weight to the gel material to about 6% by weight to the gel material. In one embodiment, the amount of cathode material may be about 1.5% by weight to the gel material. Examples of the amount of cathode material that may be present includes 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%, 2.5%, 3%, 3.5%, 4%, 4.5%, 5%, 5.5% and 6% by weight and ranges between any two of these values.

In one embodiment, the gel electrolyte920may comprise an electrolyte compound, including, without limitation, any one or more of ascorbic acid, phosphoric acid, and a salt. The gel electrolyte may also comprise a gelling compound, such as a food-grade polymer. Examples of such food-grade polymers may include without limitation an alginate, a carrageenan, a pectin, gellan gum, and a dextrin. The gel electrolyte may also comprise other components, including, without limitation, odorants, colorants, flavorants, stabilizers, fillers, binders, and preservatives. Some examples may include lemon oil, menthol, sweet almond oil, and food colorings. The electrolyte material in the gel anode may be present at an amount about 0.5% by weight of the gel material to about 6% by weight of the gel material. In one embodiment, the amount of electrolyte material may be about 1.5% by weight of the gel material. Examples of the amount of electrolyte material that may be present includes 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%, 2.5%, 3%, 3.5%, 4%, 4.5%, 5%, 5.5%, 6% by weight and ranges between any two of these values.

AlthoughFIG. 9illustrates an embodiment in which three gel components form the electrochemical cell, in another embodiment, the electrolyte material may also be incorporated into the gel anode910. In such an embodiment, a separate gel electrolyte,920, may not be needed. In another embodiment, the electrolyte material may also be incorporated into the gel cathode930. In such an embodiment, a separate gel electrolyte920may not be needed. In a further embodiment, the electrolyte material may be incorporated into a non-gel liquid that at least partially contacts both the gel anode910and the gel cathode930. In this further embodiment, a separate gel electrolyte920may not be needed.

It may be appreciated that the electrochemical cell900may be configured to produce an electrical current when the cell is hydrated. Alternatively, the electrochemical cell may be configured to produce an electrical current when the gel components contact each other. Such contact may include, without limitation, being mixed together, being macerated, being wiped on or anointed on the animal, or if the material is spread on a surface or an animal. Other forms of contacting or combining the gel anode, gel cathode, and electrolyte may also be anticipated by this disclosure.

It may be understood that the voltage potential between the gel anode and the gel cathode may be determined, at least in part, on the anode material and the cathode material, together forming an electrochemical cell pair. For example, a Zinc/Copper pair may have a voltage of about 1.10 V, a Magnesium/Carbon pair may have a voltage of about 1.20 V, a Nickel/Iron pair may have a voltage of about 1.20 V, a Zinc/Carbon pair may have a voltage of about 1.50 V, a Zinc/Manganese dioxide pair may have a voltage of about 1.50 V, and an Aluminum/Manganese dioxide pair may have a voltage of about 1.90 V.

FIG. 10illustrates another embodiment of an electrochemical cell1000. In this embodiment, the cell may comprise a gel anode film1010, a gel cathode film1030, and a gel electrolyte film1020, in which at least a portion of the gel anode film may contact a portion of the electrolyte film, and at least a portion of the gel cathode film may contact the gel electrolyte film. In addition, the electrochemical cell may further comprise a coating1040that encloses the gel films. It may be understood that the electrochemical cell illustrated inFIG. 10, including its components and optional coating, may all be non-toxic for an application to or ingestion by an animal such as a human.

In one embodiment, the gel anode film1010may comprise an anode compound, including, without limitation, any one or more of finely divided zinc metal, aluminum metal, and magnesium metal. The gel anode film may also comprise a gelling compound, such as a food-grade polymer as disclosed above. The gel anode film may also comprise other components as disclosed above. The anode material in the gel anode film may be present in amounts as disclosed above with respect to the gel anode. The gel anode film may comprise dimensions of length, width, and thickness. The length of the gel anode film may be about 0.1 inch (0.25 cm) to about 10 inches (25 cm). In one embodiment, the length may be about 5.4 inches (about 13.7 cm.) In another embodiment, the length may be about 1 inch (2.5 cm). Examples of the length of the gel anode film may include 0.5 cm, 1 cm, 2 cm, 2.5 cm, 3 cm, 4 cm, 5 cm, 10 cm, 12 cm, 15 cm, 17 cm, 20 cm, 22 cm, 25 cm and ranges between any two of these values. The width of the gel anode film may be about 0.1 inch (0.25 cm) to about 10 inches (25 cm). In one embodiment, the width may be about 5.4 inches (about 13.7 cm.) In another embodiment, the width may be about 1 inch (2.5 cm). Examples of the width of the gel anode film may include 0.5 cm, 1 cm, 2 cm, 2.5 cm, 3 cm, 4 cm, 5 cm, 10 cm, 12 cm, 15 cm, 17 cm, 20 cm, 22 cm, 25 cm and ranges between any two of these values. The thickness of the gel anode film may be about 0.025 cm to about 0.062 cm. Examples of the thickness of the gel anode film may include about 0.020 cm, 0.025 cm, 0.03 cm, 0.035 cm, 0.04 cm, 0.045 cm, 0.05 cm, 0.055 cm, 0.06 cm, 0.065 cm and ranges between any two of these values.

In one embodiment, the gel cathode film1030may comprise a cathode compound, including, without limitation, copper gluconate. The gel cathode film may also comprise a gelling compound, as disclosed above. The gel cathode film may also comprise other components, including, without limitation, odorants, colorants, flavorants, stabilizers, fillers, binders, and preservatives, with examples as disclosed above. The cathode material in the gel cathode film may be present at an amount as disclosed above with respect to the gel cathode. The gel cathode film may comprise dimensions of length, width, and thickness. The length, width, and thickness of the gel cathode film may be substantially the same as the respective dimensions of the gel anode film, as disclosed above.

In one embodiment, the gel electrolyte film920may comprise an electrolyte compound, including, without limitation, any one or more of ascorbic acid, phosphoric acid, and a salt. The gel electrolyte film may also comprise a gelling compound, such as a food-grade polymer, essentially the same as the material disclosed above with respect to the gel electrolyte. The electrolyte material in the gel anode film may be present at an amount essentially the same as disclosed above with respect to the gel electrolyte. The gel electrolyte film may comprise dimensions of length, width, and thickness. The dimensions of the gel electrolyte films may be essentially the same as the respective dimension of the gel anode film or the gel cathode film. In some embodiments, each of the cathode, anode, and electrolyte films have similar dimensions and are substantially co-extensive with one another such that there is minimal overlap.

The electrochemical cell may further comprise an optional coating1040. In one embodiment, the coating1040may comprise one or more of a sugar or a gelatin. The coating may also comprise other components, including, without limitation, odorants, colorants, flavorants, stabilizers, fillers, binders, and preservatives. In one embodiment, the thickness may be about 0.01 inches (0.025 cm).

AlthoughFIG. 10illustrates an embodiment in which three gel film components form the electrochemical cell, in another embodiment, the electrolyte material may also be incorporated into the gel anode film1010. In such an embodiment, a separate gel electrolyte film,1020, may not be needed. In another embodiment, the electrolyte material may also be incorporated into the gel cathode film1030. In such an embodiment, a separate gel electrolyte film1020may not be needed.

It may be appreciated that the electrochemical cell1000may be configured to produce an electrical current when the cell is hydrated. Alternatively, if the electrochemical cell comprises a coating, the gel electrochemical cell may require being macerated in addition to being hydrated to produce an electrical current. In another embodiment, the electrochemical cell may merely require maceration to produce an electrical current. In some embodiments, the gel material may simply dissolve upon exposure to moisture e.g. from saliva or may melt or dissolve upon heating from e.g. body heat. When melted or dissolved, the various components come into operative contact with one another.

FIG. 11illustrates an embodiment of an electrochemical device comprising a number of individual electrochemical cells,1100a-c, such as illustrated inFIG. 10, and as disclosed above. Each electrochemical cell may comprise a gel anode film1110, a gel cathode film1130, and a gel electrolyte film1120, in which at least a portion of each gel anode film may contact a portion of an electrolyte film within an electrochemical cell, and at least a portion of each gel cathode film may contact the gel electrolyte film within the same electrochemical cell. In addition, the entire electrochemical device may further comprise a coating1140that encloses the device and its component electrochemical cells. In one embodiment, the coating1140may comprise the materials disclosed above with respect to coating1040ofFIG. 10. The thickness of coating1140may be about 0.01 inches (0.025 cm). It may be understood that the electrochemical cell illustrated inFIG. 11, including its components and optional coating, may all be non-toxic for an application to an animal such as a human. It may be appreciated that an electrical potential generated by such an electrochemical device illustrated inFIG. 11may depend on the number of electrochemical cells that comprise it. In one embodiment, the number of electrochemical cells may be about 1 to about 3. Examples of the number of electrochemical cells may include 1, 2, and 3. Thus, for example, if the electrical potential between the gel anode film and the gel cathode film in a gel film electrochemical cell is about 1V, then the voltage across an electrochemical device comprising three such cell in series, would have about three times the potential, or about 3V. It may be apparent that the total voltage potential across an electrochemical device may be adjusted according to the number of cells placed in series in the device.

FIG. 12is a flow chart of an embodiment of a method of fabricating an electrochemical cell. A gel anode film may be provided12010in one fabrication step. The gel anode film may be provided by contacting an anode material, a first gel, and water to form a wet anode mixture. The mixture may be vacuum sealed and refrigerated until a wet anode film is produced. Once the wet anode film is produced, it may be dried, cut, and stored for further use. The wet anode film may be fabricated by any means, including without limitation, casting, spreading, rolling out, molding, spray coating, and printing through the use of an ink jet printer with liquid electrode or electrolyte in the place of ink The anode material may comprise an anode compound, and additional materials such as odorants, colorants, and similar as disclosed above. The first gel may comprise gel materials such as food-grade polymers also as disclosed above.

In an alternative embodiment, the wet gel anode film may be contacted with a calcium solution, such as calcium chloride or calcium lactate. The calcium salt solution may have a calcium concentration of about 30 mM to about 300 mM. In one embodiment, the solution may be about 45 mM calcium chloride. In another embodiment, the solution may be about 230 mM calcium lactate. Examples of the concentration of the calcium salt solution may include 35 mM, 40 mM, 50 mM, 75 mM, 100 mM, 125 mM, 150 mM, 175 mM, 200 mM, 225 mM, 250 mM, 275 mM, 300 mM, and ranges between any two of these values. In one embodiment, contacting comprises coating with. In another embodiment, contacting comprises spraying. The gel material with the calcium infusion may then be allowed to fix for about 1 to 2 minutes to form a firmer film. The fixed film may be briefly heated to dry, or air dried.

In similar manner to the production of the gel anode film, a gel cathode film may also be provided12020. The gel cathode film may be provided by contacting a cathode material, a second gel, and water to form a wet cathode mixture. The mixture may be vacuum sealed and refrigerated until a wet cathode film is produced. Once the wet cathode film is produced, it may be dried, cut, and stored for further use. The wet cathode film may be fabricated by any means, including without limitation, casting, spreading, rolling out, molding, spray coating, and printing through the use of an ink jet printer. The cathode material may comprise a cathode compound, and additional materials such as odorants, colorants, and similar as disclosed above. The second gel may comprise gel materials such as food-grade polymers also as disclosed above. As disclosed above with respect to the anode film, the cathode film may also be contacted with a calcium solution and heated or allowed to dry.

At least a portion of the gel anode film may then be placed in contact with a gel electrolyte film12030. The gel electrolyte film may be provided by contacting an electrolyte material, a third gel, and water to form a wet electrolyte mixture. The mixture may be vacuum sealed and refrigerated until a wet electrolyte film is produced. Once the wet electrolyte film is produced, it may be dried, cut, and stored for further use. The wet electrolyte film may be fabricated by any means, including without limitation, casting, spreading, rolling out, molding, spray coating, and printing through the use of an ink jet printer. The electrolyte material may comprise an electrolyte compound, and additional materials such as odorants, colorants, and similar as disclosed above. The third gel may comprise gel materials such as food-grade polymers also as disclosed above. As disclosed above with respect to the anode film, the electrolyte film may also be contacted with a calcium solution and heated or allowed to dry.

At least a portion of the gel cathode film may then be placed in contact with the gel electrolyte film12040, thereby forming an electrochemical cell similar to1000inFIG. 10. Alternatively, the electrochemical cell fabricated in this manner may be further coated12050using a coating material as disclosed above.

It may be understood that the order in which the individual films—anode films, cathode films, and electrolyte films—are fabricated inFIG. 12is arbitrary, and thatFIG. 12does not imply any restriction on the order of their fabrication.

It is further understood, that the method as illustrated inFIG. 12is not restricted to a single three-layer electrochemical cell. For example, multiple anode films may contact each other, multiple electrolyte films may contact each other, and multiple cathode films may contact each other. Alternatively, steps12010through12040may be repeated. Thus, a three-layer cell comprising an anode film an electrolyte film, and a cathode film, may serve as a base on which another three-layer cell may be constructed. A second three-layer cell may contact a first three-layer cell in which the anode of a first cell may be in contact with a cathode of a second cell. In this manner, an electrochemical device comprising multiple three-layer electrochemical cells similar to that disclosed inFIG. 11may be fabricated.

FIG. 13is a flow chart of another embodiment of a method of fabricating an electrochemical cell. A gel anode film may be provided13010in one fabrication step. The gel anode film may be provided by contacting an anode material, a first gel, and water to form a wet anode mixture. The mixture may be vacuum sealed and refrigerated until a wet anode film is produced. Once the wet anode film is produced, it may be dried13020. The wet anode film may be fabricated by any means, including without limitation, casting, spreading, rolling out, molding, spray coating, and printing through the use of an ink jet printer. The anode material may comprise an anode compound, and additional materials such as odorants, colorants, and similar as disclosed above. The first gel may comprise gel materials such as food-grade polymers also as disclosed above. As disclosed above the anode film may also be contacted with a calcium solution and heated or allowed to dry.

At least a portion of a wet gel electrolyte film may then be placed in at least in partial contact with the dried gel anode film13030. The gel electrolyte film may be provided by contacting an electrolyte material, a second gel, and water to form a wet electrolyte mixture. The mixture may be vacuum sealed and refrigerated until a wet electrolyte film is produced. The wet electrolyte film may be fabricated so that it at least partially contacts the dried anode film, for example by fabricating the wet electrolyte film on top of the dried anode film. The wet electrolyte film may be fabricated by any means, including without limitation, casting, spreading, rolling out, spray coating, and printing through the use of a ink jet printer. The electrolyte material may comprise an electrolyte compound, and additional materials such as odorants, colorants, and similar as disclosed above. The second gel may comprise gel materials such as food-grade polymers also as disclosed above. The wet electrolyte film may then be dried13040. As disclosed above with respect to the anode film, the electrolyte film may also be contacted with a calcium solution before drying.

In similar manner to the production of the gel electrolyte film, a gel cathode film may also be provided13050. The gel cathode film may be provided by contacting a cathode material, a third gel, and water to form a wet cathode mixture. The mixture may be vacuum sealed and refrigerated until a wet cathode film is produced. The wet cathode film may be fabricated so that it at least partially contacts the dried electrolyte film, for example by fabricating the wet cathode film on top of the dried electrolyte film. The wet cathode film may be fabricated by any means, including without limitation, casting, spreading, rolling out, spray coating, and printing through the use of an ink jet printer. The cathode material may comprise a cathode compound, and additional materials such as odorants, colorants, and similar as disclosed above. The second gel may comprise gel materials such as food-grade polymers also as disclosed above. The wet cathode film may then be dried13060. As disclosed above with respect to the anode film, the cathode film may also be contacted with a calcium solution before drying.

According to this embodiment, an electrochemical cell similar to1000inFIG. 10may be fabricated. Alternatively, the electrochemical cell fabricated in this manner may be further coated12070using a coating material as disclosed above.

It may be understood that the order in which the individual films—anode films, cathode films, and electrolyte films—are fabricated inFIG. 13is not restrictive. For example, the gel cathode film may be fabricated first, followed by the fabrication of the gel electrolyte film and then the gel anode film.

It is further understood, that the method as illustrated inFIG. 13is not restricted to a single three-layer electrochemical cell. For example, multiple anode films may contact each other, multiple electrolyte films may contact each other, and multiple cathode films may contact each other. Alternatively, steps13010through13060may be repeated. Thus, a three-layer cell comprising an anode film an electrolyte film, and a cathode film, may serve as a base on which another three-layer cell may be constructed. A second three-layer cell may contact a first three-layer cell in which the anode of a second cell may be in contact with the cathode of a first cell. In this manner, an electrochemical device comprising multiple three-layer electrochemical cells similar to that disclosed inFIG. 11may be fabricated.

It may be appreciated that the gel electrochemical devices as disclosed above may be combined with any number or type of possibly non-toxic carrier medium to compose a consumable product for an animal. While types of consumable products are disclosed below with reference to consumption by humans, it is understood that these consumable products are not limited to humans, but may be, by extension, used by other animals.

In one embodiment, a consumable product may comprise at least one gel anode and at least one gel cathode. In another embodiment, the consumable product may also comprise at least one gel electrolyte. Any one or more of the electrochemical cell components may be present as a gel film, including the gel anode, the gel cathode, and/or the gel electrolyte. Further, any one or more of the electrochemical cell components may have a coating. The coating may be applied independently to any one of the gel electrolyte components, such as the anode, the cathode, and/or the electrolyte. Alternatively, a coating may be provided to any combination of cell components, including, without limitation, to a combination of the gel anode plus gel electrolyte, the gel cathode and the gel electrolyte, or to the gel anode plus electrolyte plus cathode. If multiple components have a coating, they may each be coated with the same material. Alternatively, a coating for one component, as for example a gel electrolyte film, may have a different composition than a coating for another component, as for example a gel cathode film.

The carrier material may comprise a liquid, a gel, or a solid. Depending on the carrier material, the electrochemical cell or cells may be mixed in (such as a gel carrier), placed or affixed on (such as a solid carrier), or incorporated into (such as a liquid, a gel, or a solid carrier). Non-limiting embodiments of the carrier may include a paste, a lotion, an ointment, and/or a food-stuff. Examples of such carriers may include a dentifrice, a dermal moisturizing lotion, a dermal anti-abrasion lotion, a dermal wound-care ointment, a shampoo, and a snack food. Depending on the type of carrier, the consumption of the product may include eating, drinking, and/or applying the product to a tissue. Non-limiting examples of such consumption may further include applying or rubbing the product into the skin or scalp, coating the hair with the product, and brushing teeth with the product.

In one embodiment, a gel electrochemical device comprising small coated strips comprising a gel anode film, a gel electrolyte film, and a gel cathode film together, may be incorporated into a mouth wash. In one embodiment, a dentifrice may comprise individual amounts of a gel anode, a gel cathode, and a gel electrolyte. The electrochemical cell may then become activated when a human brushes his or her teeth with the dentifrice, thereby combining the electrochemical cell components to form the electrochemical device. In one embodiment, a solid carrier, such as a potato chip, may have a gel anode film and a gel cathode film placed on opposite sides of the chip. In such an embodiment, the chip itself may act as an electrolyte to complete an electrochemical device; additionally, either one or both of the anode film and cathode film may be coated with a material.

EXAMPLES

The present compositions and methods will be understood more readily by reference to the following examples, which are provided by way of illustration and are not intended to be limiting in any way.

Treatment of Dry Mouth

A gel battery can be used as a treatment of dry mouth. A housing can include a gel anode chamber, a gel cathode chamber, and a gel electrolyte chamber. Alternatively, the electrolyte may be incorporated into one or both of the gel anode or the gel cathode. Pressing on an actuator of the housing can release a portion of the gel anode, a portion of the gel cathode, and a portion of the gel electrolyte that come into contact with one another upon exiting the housing to create the gel battery. The gel battery can be administered orally to increase saliva production and secretion levels compared to the levels prior to the creation and administration of the gel battery. The gel battery, therefore, will be useful in treating dry mouth. In one embodiment, the gel battery may be incorporated into a food product such as a candy, a preserve, a cheese, etc. and used to treat dry mouth upon ingestion of the food product.

A gel anode includes cosmetic grade aluminum and a gel cathode includes cosmetic grade carbon. The gel anode also includes sodium chloride that acts as an electrolyte. The gel anode and the gel cathode or stored in an anode chamber and a cathode chamber, respectively. Both of the chambers are housed in a gel antiperspirant container. The container includes an actuator that forces a portion of the gel anode and the gel cathode through a top of the container. Applying the gel anode and the gel cathode to an underarm causes a portion of the gel anode and the gel cathode to come into contact to create a gel battery. The gel battery results in current flowing through the underarm and results in a reduction in the amount of sweat produced by a subject compared to the amount of sweat produced prior to the application of the gel battery. The aluminum-based complexes may aid in the formation of plugs in sweat glands, and thus, can help prevent perspiration. The aluminum-based complexes may also interact with keratin fibrils in sweat ducts and form a physical plug that prevents sweat from reaching the surface of skin.

Lotion

A collapsible tube includes a manifold dispensing nozzle that creates multiple gel batteries in series with one another. The manifold dispensing nozzle is created using three dimensional printing. The manifold dispensing nozzle can include an anode manifold that is in fluid communication with the anode chamber. The manifold dispensing nozzle can also include a cathode manifold and an electrolyte manifold that are in fluid communication with the cathode chamber and the electrolyte chamber, respectively. The anode, electrolyte, and the cathode manifolds can interleave portions of the gel anode, the gel electrolyte, and the gel cathode together to form two or more gel batteries in series with one another. In another embodiment, the manifold dispensing nozzle can include an anode dispensing channel and a cathode dispensing channel. In this embodiment, the gel anode and/or the gel cathode can include an electrolyte. In another embodiment, the manifold dispensing nozzle can include an anode dispensing channel, an electrolyte dispensing channel, and a cathode dispensing channel.

The manifold dispensing channel can also dispense a payload, such as a lotion. In one embodiment, the payload is between a gel anode and a gel cathode that contacts a subject's skin. In this embodiment, one or more batteries may be dispensed between the gel anode and the gel cathode that contacts the subject's skin In another embodiment, the one or more batteries between the gel anode and the gel cathode that contact the skin of a subject are sandwiched between two layers of the payload. This allows the subject to apply the payload without concern regarding the orientation of the payload and the gel batteries.

Shampoo

A dispenser can include an anode chamber and a cathode chamber. The gel anode and/or the gel cathode includes an electrolyte. Additionally, the gel anode and/or the gel cathode includes a shampoo. The gel anode and the gel cathode are dispensed from the dispenser and combined upon being dispensed. Portions of the gel anode and gel cathode continue to be connected as the shampoo is massaged into a subject's hair to form one or more gel batteries. Electrical current from the gel batteries flow through the subject's hair and scalp and help the shampoo remove oil, dirt, dandruff, contaminants, etc from the subject's hair. Such stimulation will also have the beneficial effective of providing stimulation and a pleasant sensation to a subject's scalp and other body areas.

A Gel Film Electrochemical Cell and Method for Making Same

About 1.5 w:w % compared to water of copper gluconate was blended together with about 1.7 w:w % of glycerin, about 1.1 w:w % of lemon essential oil to form a wet cathode mixture. About 3.5 w:w % of maltodextrin DE8 was dry blended into the wet cathode mixture. Additionally, about 3.8 w:w % of sodium alginate, and 1.4 w:w % of carageenan were combined with the wet cathode mixture by slow whisking. The final wet cathode gel material was vacuum sealed and refrigerated for about 8 hours. A wet anode material was fabricated using about 1.5% w:w versus water of finely divided zinc metal in a similar mixture. A wet electrolyte material was fabricated using about 1.5% w:w versus water of citric acid in a similar mixture. Thereafter, each wet gel film material, anode, cathode, and electrolyte, were rolled out on a flat surface of glass to about a 0.01 inch (0.025 cm) thickness. The wet gel films were allowed to dry at ambient temperature for about 24 hours. The resulting films were sliced with a razor blade to form squares about 0.1 inch (0.25 cm) by 0.1 inch (0.25 cm) and removed by scraping the films off the flat surface. The gel anode, gel cathode, and gel electrolyte films were combined using a single layer of a gel anode film placed on top of a gel electrolyte film, with a gel cathode film placed underneath the gel electrolyte film. The complete structures were packaged in individual sealed pouches to prevent moisture from contacting the gel film battery.

A Method for Making a Film Electrochemical Cell

A wet anode material comprising about 1.5% by weight of finely divided zinc powder was mixed with a carrying vehicle. A wet cathode material comprising about 1.5% by weight of copper gluconate was mixed with a carrying vehicle. About 1.5% by weight of citric acid was also mixed with a carrying vehicle. Each of the electrochemical cell materials—anode, cathode, and electrolyte—was loaded into a separate cartridge used for an ink jet printer. About 34.7 μl of the material was loaded into each cartridge. The printer was programmed to fabricate a strip about 5.4 in (13.7 cm.) long and about 1 in. (2.54 cm.) wide on a piece of photo glossy paper. The individual strips were estimated to be about 0.07 μm thick. Each type of wet film, anode, cathode, an electrolyte, was permitted to dry under ambient conditions for about 24 hours to form the equivalent dry film.

A Method for Making a Film Electrochemical Cell

A wet gel anode material, wet gel cathode material, and wet gel electrolyte material may be fabricated as disclosed above in Example 5. Each of the wet gel materials may then be loaded into a separate ink jet cartridge used for an ink jet printer. In one embodiment, the volume of wet gel material in a cartridge may be about 34.7 μl. The printer may then be programmed to fabricate a strip about 5.4 in (13.7 cm.) long and about 1 in. (2.54 cm.) wide on a piece of photo glossy paper. The strip may be about 0.07 μm thick. Each type of wet film, anode, cathode, an electrolyte, may be permitted to dry under ambient conditions for about 24 hours to form the dry film. If a thicker film is desired, the printer may be programmed to apply a second strip of material on top of the first. Gel films of a variety of thicknesses may thus be fabricated depending on the number of iterations of printing provided. The dried gel films, comprising separate anode films, electrolyte films, and cathode films, may then be assemble to form an electrochemical cell or device.

It may be understood that a wet anode gel film may be laid down using an ink jet printer as disclosed above, and that a film of a gel electrolyte material may be printed over the gel anode film once the anode film has dried. Similarly, a gel cathode film may be printed over the electrolyte film after the electrolyte film has dried. If multiple cells are required, the process may be repeated by sequentially printing gel anode layers, gel electrolyte layers, and gel cathode layers.

Gel Battery Components and Methods of Making Same

In use, at least the gel anode and gel cathode may be kept separate until the desired voltaic activity is desired. When desired, the gel anode and gel cathode—along with the separate gel electrolyte if required—may be brought into contact with each other to induce an organoleptic effect when in contact with one or more body tissues.

A Method of Using a Gel Film Electrochemical Cell

A gel anode film and a gel cathode film may be fabricated essentially the same way as disclosed in Example 5, above. Each film may be separately coated with a glycerin-containing coating. A number of cathode films may be fixed on one side of a potato-chip, and a number of anode films may be fixed on the opposite side of the potato-chip. When the chip is macerated, the salt in the potato chip may act as an electrolyte and the saliva may hydrate the anode film and the cathode film to produce the appropriate effect.

A Gel Film Electrochemical Cell and Method for Using Same

A gel anode film, a gel cathode film, and a gel electrolyte film were fabricated essentially the same way as disclosed in Example 5, above. The films were assembled into at least a three-layer electrochemical cell structure of anode film/electrolyte film/cathode film. In one example, a crisped rice and marshmallow treat was sliced open with a small knife and an amount of electrochemical cells equivalent to about 0.1 mg copper compound and about 0.1 mg zinc compound was introduced. The treat was then reassembled and compressed to seal. In another example, a caramel candy was similarly sliced open and an amount of electrochemical cells equivalent to about 0.2 mg copper compound and about 0.2 mg zinc compound was introduced. In yet another example, an amount of electrochemical cells equivalent to about 0.1 mg copper compound and about 0.1 mg zinc compound was incorporated into a breath freshening strip.

Methods of Using a Gel Electrochemical Cell

In other examples, gel anode and gel cathode components were fabricated in essentially as disclosed above. Amounts of the gel anode and gel cathode components were introduced into a variety of food-stuffs. For jelly, an amount of cathode material equivalent to about 0.1 mg copper compound and an amount of anode material equivalent to about 0.1 mg zinc compound were added to about a tablespoon (15 ml) of the jelly. For yoghurt, an amount of cathode material equivalent to about 0.1 mg copper compound and an amount of anode material equivalent to about 0.1 mg zinc compound were added to about a tablespoon (15 ml) of the yoghurt. For peanut butter, an amount of cathode material equivalent to about 0.1 mg copper compound and an amount of anode material equivalent to about 0.1 mg zinc compound were added to about a tablespoon (15 ml) of the peanut butter. For mustard, an amount of cathode material equivalent to about 0.1 mg copper compound and an amount of anode material equivalent to about 0.1 mg zinc compound were added to about a tablespoon (15 ml) of the mustard. In another example, an amount of cathode material equivalent to about 0.75 mg copper compound and an amount of anode material equivalent to about 0.78 mg zinc compound were added to about a stick of chewing gum.

Methods of Using a Gel Electrochemical Cell

In another example, gel anode and gel cathode components were fabricated as essentially disclosed above. An amount of cathode material equivalent to about 0.75 mg copper compound and an amount of anode material equivalent to about 0.75 mg zinc compound were added to about a teaspoon (5 ml) of a commercially available toothpaste.

With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms in this disclosure, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth in this disclosure for sake of clarity. It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used in this disclosure, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). While various compositions, methods, and devices are described in terms of “comprising” various components or steps (interpreted as meaning “including, but not limited to”), the compositions, methods, and devices can also “consist essentially of” or “consist of” the various components and steps, and such terminology should be interpreted as defining essentially closed-member groups.

From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described for purposes of illustration, and that various modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the various embodiments disclosed are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.