Patent Publication Number: US-2018038318-A1

Title: Water capture system, electrolysis cell and internal combustion engine kit

Description:
FIELD 
     The present matter relates generally to improving efficiencies of combustion engines and more particularly to a water capture system, an electrolysis cell and an internal combustion engine kit as well as components therefor. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Four stroke internal combustion engines release pollution and suffer inefficiencies in fuel combustion, particularly at idle. Some engine applications, particularly for motorized vehicles, can spend 40% or more of their active live in the idle state. It is desired to improve engine efficiency and reduce the emission of pollution. 
     SUMMARY 
     An electrolysis cell and internal combustion engine kit are provided in which water for the cell may be captured such as from engine exhaust. Water feeding from a water condenser to a water tank and from the water tank to the cell is pump free. Thermocouples (e.g. Peltier) are configured to provide cooling or heating for enhanced operations. Conductive level detectors detect fluid levels in various vessels of the electrolysis system. Additional components are also described. 
     There is provided an engine exhaust water recovery system comprising: an exhaust receiving and cooling segment configured for fluid coupling to an exhaust manifold to receive exhaust gas from an engine; an exhaust water condensing unit in selective fluid coupling with the exhaust receiving and cooling segment to selectively receive exhaust gas; an exhaust discharging segment in selective fluid coupling with the exhaust receiving and cooling segment and the exhaust condensing unit to selectively receive exhaust gas for discharge from the engine exhaust water recovery system; and a control unit to control the selective receiving of exhaust gas to produce water in the exhaust condensing unit. 
     The exhaust discharging segment may be configured for fluid coupling with an intake of the engine to discharge the exhaust gas back to the engine. The exhaust water condensing unit may comprise a water feed passage to discharge water condensed by the exhaust condensing unit. The exhaust water condensing unit may comprise a fluid inlet configured for fluid coupling to a evolving gas outlet of an electrolysis cell generating combustion enhancing gas the combustion enhancing gas pressurizing the exhaust condensing unit to discharge water through the water feed passage under control of the control unit. 
     The water feed passage may be in fluid coupling with a water tank to store water to feed the electrolysis system. The water feed passage may discharge the water to a filtration system to filter the water for the water tank. 
     The engine exhaust water recovery system of claim  1  may have a first solenoid to selectively control, via the control unit, a delivery of exhaust gas from the exhaust receiving and cooling segment to the exhaust water condensing unit. And may have a second solenoid to selectively control, via the control unit, a delivery of exhaust gas from the exhaust water condensing unit to the exhaust discharging segment. 
     The engine exhaust water recovery system may have a drain in selective fluid communication with the water feed passage of the exhaust water condenser unit and a third solenoid to selectively control, via the control unit, a discharge of water from the exhaust water condensing unit through the drain. The exhaust condensing unit may have a level detector, in communication with the control unit, to detect a level of water in the exhaust water condensing unit. The exhaust receiving and cooling segment may comprise a stainless steel pipe having a coiled portion. The exhaust receiving and cooling segment may have a stainless steel pipe with an engine mounting end for fluid coupling to the exhaust manifold using a brass fitting. 
     There is provided a system for producing one or more gases for enhancing combustion in an internal combustion engine, said engine having an intake, the system comprising: an electrolysis cell, to generate one or more combustion enhancing gases from an electrolytic solution; a gas conduit, to connect the electrolysis cell to the intake of the internal combustion engine; a water tank, having a tank discharge port in fluid coupling with the electrolysis cell, to hold water to replenish the electrolysis cell; a water recovery system, in fluid coupling with the water tank, to generate water to replenish the water in the water tank; and a control unit to control power to the electrolysis cell to control the generating of the one or more combustion enhancing gases, and to control the respective replenishment of water by water tank and the water recovery system. 
     The water recovery system may be an engine exhaust water recovery system in fluid coupling with an exhaust manifold of the internal combustion engine. The system may comprise a pressure connection between the electrolysis cell and the engine exhaust water recovery system wherein a positive pressure from the one or more combustion enhancing gases selectively drives water from the engine exhaust water recovery system to replenish the water tank under control of the control unit. The engine exhaust water recovery system may be in fluid coupling with the gas conduit to provide exhaust gas with the combustion enhancing gases to the intake. 
     The electrolysis cell may have a level detection system in communication with the control unit to control an operation of the electrolysis cell, including to replenish water. The level detection system may comprise a plurality of level detectors extending into the electrolysis cell, through a top of the cell, and to respective lengths below the top, the plurality of level detectors each electrically detecting a respective amount of the electrolytic solution in the electrolysis cell using electrical current. At least one of the level detectors may comprise a wire having a diode and a terminal. The wire may be over moulded with a plug in sealing engagement with the wire, the, plug configured to fasten the level detector to the top of the cell. The level detectors may be electrically coupled to automotive relays to provide respective level signals to the control unit. 
     The system may further comprise a cell condenser, in fluid communication with the electrolysis cell and the gas conduit, to condense electrolytic fluid from the combustion enhancing gases and return the electrolytic fluid to the electrolysis cell. 
     The electrolysis cell may comprise: a first electrode comprising a cylindrical body; a second electrode comprising a cylindrical body within the first electrode; and a first electrode extension electrically coupled to the first electrode and coiled about and spaced from the second electrode. The electrode extension and second electrode may comprise mesh bodies of expanded metal. The electrolysis cell may further comprise a top cap and a bottom cap in sealing engagement about ends of the first electrode to define a containment body for the electrolytic solution. The electrolysis cell may further comprising insulating spacers separating the coils of the first electrode extension and separating the first electrode extension from the second electrode. 
     In the system, the water tank may comprise a filter system to filter the water received from the water recover system. The filter system may comprise a series of filters defining a replaceable cartridge. The water tank may be positioned vertically above the electrolysis cell to replenish the cell via a gravity feed line. The system may comprise at least one Peltier-type thermocoupling adjacent the water tank to heat the discharge port and/or the gravity feed line. A plurality of Peltier-type thermocouplings may be mounted about the electrolysis cell to generate power from heat generated by the electrolysis cell. The plurality of Peltier-type thermocouplings mounted about the electrolysis cell may be electrically coupled to provide power to the at least one Peltier-type thermocoupling adjacent the water tank for heating. 
     There is provided an electrolysis cell, to generate gases from an electrolytic solution, comprising: a first electrode comprising a cylindrical body; a second electrode comprising a cylindrical body within the first electrode; and a first electrode extension electrically coupled to the first electrode and coiled about and spaced from the second electrode. 
     The electrolysis cell may further comprise a top cap and a bottom cap in sealing engagement about ends of the first electrode to define a containment body for the electrolytic solution. The electrolysis cell may further comprise a plurality of level detectors extending into the electrolysis cell and to respective lengths below the top cap, the plurality of level detectors each electrically detecting a respective amount of the electrolytic solution in the electrolysis cell using electrical current. The electrolysis cell may comprise a water fill tube extending into the containment body and configured for coupling to a feed line to selective receive water to replenish the electrolytic solution. The electrolysis cell may comprise a primary outlet and a vent outlet to a cell condenser, wherein the primary outlet is selectively open and the vent outlet selectively closed under normal operation of the electrolysis cell to provide gases to the cell condenser and wherein the primary outlet is selectively closed and the vent outlet selectively open to receive water to replenish the electrolytic solution. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The present matter may be further understood by reference to following description in conjunction with the appended drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a diagram illustrating components of a self-contained electrolysis system, in accordance with an example; 
         FIG. 2  is a side elevation of selected components of  FIG. 1  including an electrolysis cell and a cell condenser, in accordance with an example, where a side of the electrolysis cell is cut away to show an interior thereof; 
         FIG. 3  is a top view of the electrolysis cell of  FIG. 3  along the lines  4 - 4 , accordingly to an example; 
         FIG. 4  is a top view of a portion of an electrolysis cell mounted with a plurality of heating devices on a support plate, in accordance with an example; 
         FIG. 5  is a side elevation of a filter system, water tank and Peltier liquid gas control (PLGC), in accordance with an example, where a side is cut away to show an interior thereof; and 
         FIG. 6  is a sectional view of a PLGC, in accordance with an example. 
     
    
    
     In the following description like numerals refer to like structures and process in the diagrams. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Electrolysis cells and systems comprising electrolysis cells for combustion engines include U.S. Pat. No. 7,143,722 issued Dec. 5, 2006 and entitled “Electrolysis cell and internal combustion engine kit” and U.S. Pat. No. 6,896,789 issued May 24, 2005 and entitled “Electrolysis cell and internal combustion engine kit”. Both of these US patents are incorporated herein by reference. 
     In brief, electrolysis systems and cells use an electrolysis process to break down hydrogen and oxygen from water. An electrolysis cell has three main components, namely, an electrolytic solution of water and ions (e.g. Na or K ions), an anode and a cathode. An external electrical potential (i.e. voltage) of correct polarity and sufficient magnitude is applied to the anode and cathode which are in contact with the electrolyte solution such that the normally stable solution decomposes. That is, the H 2 O molecule in particular breaks down. The extracted hydrogen and oxygen atoms are provided to the intake of a combustion engine to improve its efficiency. 
     Water from the electrolytic solution is consumed during the process and may be replaced such as from a water tank of the electrolysis system. However, over time, a water tank may deplete and require re-filling. Users of such systems may forget to fill the tank or not have water available when it is needed. A self-sufficient water supply is desirable. 
     Further, a many electrolysis systems are installed on vehicles or used in other environments subject to low temperatures, water in the water tank may freeze, particularly when the engine is not in use. For example, vehicles are often parked over night and shut off and cold ambient temperatures may freeze water. Though electrolyte solutions often have a lower freezing point than water, such solutions may also partially freeze in a cell in severe weather conditions at −60 to 80° Celsius. With these extreme temperature differentials, a busman fusible link may be used to pulse amperage to control the power supply until enthalpy increases or gas production begins evolving through any ice crystals. 
     The “Electrolysis cell and internal combustion engine kit” of U.S. Pat. No. 7,143,722 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,896,789 show an electrolysis cell, a cell condenser, electrolysis cell fill floats and a user fillable water tank in certain configurations. Disclosed herein are improvements thereto including: an electrolysis cell configuration; a cell heater which also generates power when the cell is operating, electrical cell fill detectors; a self-sufficient water system to capture water such as from engine exhaust to a water tank; a tank heater; among other features described herein below. 
       FIG. 1  is a diagram illustrating components of a modular electrolysis system  100 , in accordance with an example. Modular electrolysis system  100  may be provided as a kit for installation such as on a vehicle (bus, truck, etc.) System  100  includes a water capture system to obtain distilled water from engine exhaust to fill a water tank, thus avoiding a user having to fill the tank. 
     System  100  comprises a stainless steel coiled pipe  101  for coupling to an exhaust manifold of a vehicle (both not shown). The pipe  101  may comprise ½ inch (12.7 mm) stainless steel pipe with 4-5 coils approximately 5 feet (1.524 m) in total length. The pipe may be connected to the manifold at pipe end  102  via a brass to cast iron fitting  103 . In a retrofit installation, for example, a hole may be drilled in a side of the exhaust manifold and the pipe  101  coupled using the fitting  103 . The fitting  103  accounts for temperature differentials and expansion and contraction rates for the stainless steel pipe and cast iron manifold. By extracting exhaust gas at its hottest exit point, obtaining condensation is easier. The drilling may be performed to lessen impact on any downstream catalytic converters, for example, capturing drilled iron waste using a magnet. 
     Corrugated thin wall standard gas stainless steel pipe  101  feeds exhaust gas to exhaust condenser  106 . From exhaust condenser  106  output is feed through a 3-way exhaust solenoid  108  (a selective or switchable valve having three positions) for delivery back via an exhaust gas intake feed  112  (one or more hoses, etc. forming a gas conduit) or to a water condenser  116 . Water condenser  116  operates to condense water from the exhaust gases that have been cooled via coil  101  and (partially) condensed in gas condenser  106 . Solenoid  108  feeds water condenser  116  selectively, such as when water is needed to top up water tank  132  as described further. Gases from water condenser  116  are returned via output line  114  to 2-way solenoid  110  (a selective or switchable valve having two positions), which is normally open when water condenser  116  is receiving gases from solenoid  108 . Solenoids  108  and  110  are closed when water condenser  116  is activated to output water to fill the tank  132 . To assist with this output, water condenser  116  is coupled to line  144  (a pressure connection) to receive a positive pressure (e.g. 3-5 pounds) from electrolytic cell  140  to drive the water with the evolving gas pressure from the water condenser  116  to a water tank  132 . 
     Water condenser  116  has a pressure sensor  118  operable to detect pressure in the tank (e.g. sufficient pressure from electrolytic cell  140 ) which when achieved and water is required by the tank  132 , the sensor output may be used to open the flow as described below. 
     Water condenser  116  further has a level system  121  to detect an amount of water in water condenser  116 , for example to assist with control of water condenser signaling when solenoids  108  and  110  may be closed and when sufficient water is present to output toward the water tank  132 . Water from water condenser  116  is output under control of a 3 way drain solenoid  122  and 3 way water feed solenoid  124 . Pressure sensor  118  may be used to determine when to open the solenoids  122  and  124  to fill the water tank  132 . When both solenoids  122  and  124  are open water may be output toward water tank  132  via a filter system such as cation filter  126 , anion filter  128  and charcoal filter  130  to filter the distilled water. The cation and anion filters provide grease removing media and a polishing charcoal filter is provided at the end. The 3 filter system may be configured as a user replaceable component such as a cartridge for example. When solenoid  124  is closed and solenoid  122  is open, water condenser  116  may be drained. Both of these solenoids may open to drain the system for shut down in freezing applications 
     Water tank  132  has a level system  134  similar to level system  120 . Level system  134  detects when water in tank  132  needs a top up and when it is full as described further below such that further filling is not required. 
     Water is output from tank  132  via line  136  to electrolysis cell  140 . Water tank line  136  may be heated (e.g. selectively) by a Peltier Liquid Gas Control (PLGC)  138  having a Peltier-type thermocouple with hot side in as described further below. 
     Electrolysis cell  140  receives water from tank  132  as the electrolytic solution is depleted, which depletion is detected by a level system  141  (see too,  224  and  226  of  FIG. 2 ). Cell  140  is coupled to output combustion enhancing gases (e.g. hydrogen and oxygen) to a cell condenser  148  via pipe  142  and 3-way gas feed solenoid  146 , when solenoid  146  is open. When solenoid  146  is closed, pressure connection  144  coupled to pipe  142  is pressured from the gases output from cell  140 . This positive pressure may be directed to water condenser  116  when water is needed to top up tank  132 . 
     Water tank  132  may be configured to provide water via gravity and cell  140  configured to receive water via gravity such as by mounting the water tank vertically above the cell  140 . In this way, no pumps are necessary within system  100  to move water from condenser  116  through to cell  140 . Alternatively, the tank reservoir can be mounted in a different configuration and operated with a gas pressure. 
     Gases from cell  140  may have entrained water and/or electrolyte solution vapour. Cell condenser  148  operates to condense the vapour in the gases received via line  142  and remove same before the gases are provided to the engine. Any condensate is returned to cell  140  such as by gravitational flow back though line  142 . Cell condenser  148  has a level system  150  for detecting a level of water/liquid condensed from the gases received from cell  140 . Further, cell  140  and cell condenser  148  are coupled via vent line  152 , which may be open during a water fill operation to fill cell  140  to top up with water from tank  132 . Cell condenser  148  provides output gases via pipe  154  to combine with exhaust gases from pipe  112  to feed the engine via its intake (not shown). Operation of cell condenser  148  is described further herein below. 
     Though not shown, the various solenoids, level systems, electrolytic cell anode and cathode (see  FIG. 2 ), and heater(s) may be coupled to a processor e.g. CPU, PLC, PGA, etc.) for controlling operation of system  100 . System  100  may be coupled for power such as from the engine system to which system  100  is also coupled to provide the gases. In the present example, a programmed CPU starts the system when engine rpm and voltage are detected. When level system  141  contact or voltage is removed a certain number of times using a detector indicating a low solution level or no voltage, applicable solenoids turn on to fill and vent the cell  140 . Before the water from exhaust system initiates, the CPU checks for component compliance, fill system off or on, pressure, power supplies off or on, etc. 
       FIG. 2  is a side elevation of selected components of  FIG. 1  including an electrolysis cell  140  and a cell condenser  148 , in accordance with an example. A side of the electrolysis cell  140  is cut away to show an interior thereof. Reference may also be made to  FIG. 3  which shows a cross section of  FIG. 2  along lines  3 - 3 . Cell  140  comprises a first or top end cap  202 , a second or bottom end cap  204  and a first electrode  206 . The components  202 ,  204  and  206  provide a containment body. The top and bottom end caps  202  and  204  may be formed from ultra-high molecular weight (UHMW) polyethylene or other suitable plastic or other material which is not reactive to the electrolytic solution and is sufficiently electrically non-conductive with no water absorption. In the present example, electrode  206  comprises a stainless steel or nickel, generally cylindrical pipe (e.g. a seemless schedule 10, 304L or 316L pipe). As described further, this pipe is configured as a component of an anode of the cell  140 . Other materials such as impregnated ceramics (e.g. with nickel or stainless steel) or thermo-compounds may be employed. The cylindrical shape of the electrode  206  assists to straighten the travel of evolving electrons providing some production efficiencies. 
     Within the end caps  202  and  204  are cylindrical grooves  203  and  205  (shown in dotted lines) with EPDM o-rings to receive the cylindrical segment in sealing engagement. End cap  204  may have a drain passage  228  (in dotted lines) providing a channel through a top surface of cap  204  with a port  229  through a side surface (as shown) or a bottom surface (not shown). 
     An electrode extension  208  is electrically coupled to containment body electrode  206 . In the present instance it is coupled by spot welding  302  (see  FIG. 3 ). Electrode extension  208  is coiled within the first electrode  208 . It may be an expanded metal, preferably made from an unalloyed metal (pure) and one that does not react with the electrolytic solution to plate or corrode the various electrodes in the solution. Nickel is preferred, such as nickel  200 . Nobel metal may be used. Electrode extension  208  preferably is the same material as electrode  206 . Electrode extension  208  may comprise perforations (not shown), such as slits cut in the metal prior to a stretching/expansion from opposite ends, creating diamond shaped holes from the slits. The electrode extension  208  may appear as a mesh. 
     A second electrode  210  (e.g. a cathode) is also provided in the body in the form of a cylinder. The cylindrical form may be an expanded metal. The body may have perforations (not shown), preferably cut in the body as described for the electrode extension  208 . Electrode  210  is preferable made from an unalloyed metal (pure) and one that does not react with the electrolytic solution to plate or corrode the various electrodes in the solution. Nickel is preferred, such as nickel  200 . Nobel metals may be used. 
     The degree to which the expanded metal for the electrode extension  208  or electrode  210  is stretched or expanded is expressed as a percentage of open surface area relative to total surface area. Therefore, a metal designated as 50% expanded has openings or holes over 50% of the surface and metal over the other 50% of the surface. There is usually a tradeoff in that a higher degree of expansion creates more edges, which is desirable, but also results in thinner metal which is weaker and generates more heat. In the preferred embodiment it has been found that nickel expanded to a maximum of 50% produces adequate results. However it can be appreciated that as newer metallurgical techniques are developed, adequate results may also be available from nickel or other metals that are expanded by more than 50%. 
     The electrode extension is spaced from itself and electrode  210  with insulation such as Teflon shown as spacers  212 A and  212 B and also seen in  FIG. 3 . The insulation (spacer) is over approximately ½ inches (12.7 mm) of the extension electrode  208  with one spacer band at the top end and one spacer band at the bottom end of the extension  208 . The insulations spaces the coils by about 3 mm from one another and the electrode  210 . The second electrode  210  and electrode extension  208  are sized to extend short of end cap  204  to permit an electrolytic solution to flow into the interior of the second electrode  210  as well as about the electrode extension  208  via the gaps. It is understood that the position of the anode and cathode may be reversed such that the cathode is the external or first electrode and the anode is the internal or second electrode pipe, with polarities reversed. 
     The first electrode  206  is coupled to positive or anode power such as via a gear clamp (not shown). The pipe is insulated from the clamping assembly, which is grounded. Second electrode  210  is coupled for power via coupling  214  that is attached to a negative or cathode terminal  216 . The terminal may be a nickel threaded rod with a ¼ inch (6.35 mm) nylon plug ( 216 A) to fit into a bottom side of top end cap  202 . A pair of nickel nuts ( 216 B) may also be used to attach the threaded body of the terminal  216  to coupling  214 . 
     Water fill pipe  136  fills containment body  206  via a solenoid  218  and interior fill, pipe  220  to add to electrolyte solution therein. The electrolyte solution is represented by line  222 . Cell  140  has a level system  141  including full level detector  224  and fill or low stop level detector  226  that extend though cap  202  to respective lengths within the containment body to electrically detect respective amounts of electrolytic solution within the cell. 
     The relative length between the full level detector and fill or low stop level detector determines how much water is to be added. The length of the fill level detector determines when water should be added. If insufficient solution is in cell  140  and it cannot be topped up from water tank  132  detectors  224 / 226  act as a stop detector, providing input to a processor to stop operation of the electrolysis cell by power off (e.g. removing power to the electrode  206 / 208 ). 
     Detector  150  of cell condenser  148  is a full stop detector. If a sufficient signal is received from detector  150  then too much electrolytic solution is present in condenser  148  and operation of cell  140  should be stopped. 
     In one example, first electrode  206  is approximately 4.5×10 inches (114.3 mm×254 mm) in size holding approximately 1700 ml of electrolyte solution comprising 33% by weight KOH and distilled water. This volume is sufficient to produce evolved gases for an engine of 7-14 liters (L) engine displacement. Detectors  224  and  226  may be configured to trigger a top up of water of approximately 20 ml when the solution is partially depleted by such an amount. Though only a single cell  140  is shown, additional cells may be used for larger engines. 
     The level detectors  224  and  226  may comprise a wire (e.g. nickel) of sufficient length to extend through top cap  202  into the containment body to the required position. The outside end of the wire may have a 3 mA diode and a ¼ inch (6.2 mm) male spade terminal (both not shown). The wire may fit into an under surface of top cap  202  using a ⅛ inch (3.175 mm) over moulded nylon or other plug (respectively  224 A,  225 A and  226 A) in sealing engagement with the wire. After installation, the upper surface of cap  202  may be topped off with a J-B weld as an extra seal (e.g.  224 B and  226 B). Level detection and additional construction is described further below. The level systems in other vessels herein (e.g. cell condenser, water tank, water condenser) may comprise detectors of similar construction. As the electrode terminal  216  is a threaded body, a stainless steel, flat washer with a ⅜×¼ EPDM o-ring and nut  216 B may complete installation on the topside of cap  202 . 
       FIG. 4  is a top view of first electrode  206  of electrolysis cell  240  mounted with a plurality of Peltier devices  406  (e.g. TEC1-12706, available from a variety of manufacturers) on a support plate  402 , in accordance with an example. Support plate may comprise a stainless steel material, ¼ inch (6.3 mm) thick and have mounting holes  404  through which fasteners may be secured to mount support plate  402  to bottom end cap  204 . Peltier devices  406  are mounted cold side to the pipe of electrode  206 . In the top view of  FIG. 4 , four heating devices  406  are shown; however, three additional heating devices  406  may be stacked vertically and in series with each of the four shown, for example, to comprise 16 in total. The Peltier devices  406  may be mounted to the pipe using a thermo compound and be controlled via hermitically sealed thermocouple (e.g. temperature reactive switch configured to operate at a temperature threshold) to start Peltier liquid gas control. 
     With the cell up and running, the amps and voltage produced by these Peltier devices can be directed to power a Peltier liquid gas control connecting the cell  140  to the water tank  132  to heat same in freezing environments. In warm environments, the Peltier liquid gas control need not be used or installed. A HDPE hose (line) could be employed without a heater. The Peltier liquid gas control does not require a ground with media electrical insulation from the conductive material used for the body of the device to prevent any possibility of an event from static electricity. 
     Any (distilled) water supply or tank connected in this manner could have a drop in filter system (e.g. filter cartridge having three filters  126 ,  128  and  130  as described). While the figures herein show a water system obtaining distilled water from exhaust, a user tillable tank could be employed. A water tank such as  132  need only store a small volume of water (e.g. 100 ml) if it is receiving water from a capture system but may be larger (e.g. 3-4 L). A small water tank holding a low volume of water is more easily heated in cold temperatures. A capture system such as shown can easily capture sufficient water to fill the water tank during 5 hours of engine running for example. 
     Further with respect to  FIG. 2 , cell condenser  148  provides the evolved gases to the engine though a check valve  230 . Cell condenser  148  may be temperature modulated by a fan  232  passing ambient air to assist to bring the gases to a dew point temperature. Though not shown herein but shown in U.S. Pat. No. 7,143,722, for example, a modular system  100  may be configured to have many of its components housed in a cabinet (e.g. each or most of each of components  140 - 150  of  FIG. 1 ). 
     For pressure containment and safety purposes, though not shown, cell  140  may be reinforced and constructed to pressure vessel standards (e.g., ASME B31.1) such as by various containment rods and other hardware as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 7,143,722. 
     Filter System, Water Tank and PLGC 
       FIG. 5  is a side elevation of a filter system  500 , water tank  132  and PLGC  138 , in accordance with an example, where a side is cut away to show an interior thereof. It is understood that other configurations are possible within system  100  or other uses. 
     Water tank  132  and filter system  500  are configured as a combined unit such that the filter system  500  outputs directly into the tank  132 . Filter system  500  has an input  502  (which may be threaded to receive a line (pipe or hose, etc.) and filters  126 ,  128  and  130  as previously described. Input  502  may receive water such as from a line from condenser  116 . The top end of the filter system  500  has a screw cap  504  topped opening  504 A for access to replace filters  130 ,  128  and  126 , which may be configured as a cartridge for example. 
     At a bottom of tank  132  (or otherwise adjacent to it), about a discharge port  132 A for a gravity feed line (e.g.  136 ) to cell  140 , there is shown a PLGC  138  in which a body  506  defines a chamber  506 A passing through the body having Peltier thermocouples  508  and  510  lining the chamber (e.g. surrounding at least a segment thereof), hot side in. The body may be formed of any conductive ceramic or any conductive metal with an insulation. The thermocouples may be mounted using a thermo compound adhesive. The thermocouples may be mounted about the port  132 A or the gravity feed line  136  or both. Above the PLGC  138  is a heating pad  512 , which pad may be used in extreme cold. 
     On the application of power to a Peltier device, the device operates to provide a hot side and a cold side. Also, such devices may generate power when there is a substantial ambient temperature differential across the two sides Peltier devices  406  around cell  140  may be externally powered to heat the cell  140 . However, when cell  140  is operating and evolving gases, it releases significant heat which generates a sufficient temperature differential to cause Peltier devices  406  to generate power. The power therefrom may be directed to PLGC  138  to activate same and heat water tank  132  such as when the ambient temperature is below a threshold (e.g. −10° C.) 
     Level system  134  may also provide temperature information for example to operate a draining on shutdown or to operate PLGC. 
       FIG. 6  is a sectional view of a PLGC  600 , in accordance with an example. There is a body  602  having a passage  602 A with an input opening  604  and output  606 . Within and along at least most of the passage are Peltier-type thermal couples ( 608 ,  610 ) placed cold side in. The thermocouples may be mounted using a thereto compound adhesive. The body may be conductive ceramic or metal to define a cooling chamber. The input  604  and output  606  may be threaded (e.g. ¼ NPT). A 0.500 inch (12.7 mm) hole or 0.062 inch (1.5748 mm) grooved profile  612  is provided to conduct temperature for the water or gas across the Peltiers. 
     A PLGC like  600  may be connected between the 3-way exhaust solenoid  108  and water condenser  116  on the exhaust water recovery system. PLGC  600  may be coupled electrically to Peltier devices  406  about cell  140  to receive power. The cooling chamber can be conductive ceramic (no ground required) or a metal (ground required) that does not contaminate the water. PLGC  600  may be used to help bring the exhaust gas to the dew point in installations where space does not allow for the condensing coil of pipe  102  or where the system  100  is to operate in high temperature climates. 
     Filling Process for Alkaline or Acid Electrolyte Electrolysis Cell 
     Electrolyte level and consistency are maintained with a hose or pipe  136  connected to the water input on the cell&#39;s top cap  202  or similar location. Interior fill pipe  220  is sized to extend down and through the electrolyte to about to the middle of the containment body. If the water just dropped on top of the electrolyte, the level detectors  224   226  would not sense a signal because the water would tend to float on top of the denser electrolyte for a time, giving it a false, low specific gravity or PH # and very little current carrying capacity for level detection 
     Evolving gas creates a conductive froth or foam of bubbles about 1-2 inches (22.5-45 mm) high depending on the electrolyte level, temperature, contamination, pressure and density. This foam/froth will always create false level detection readings especially in stationary applications. The distance between the level detectors take these false readings within this about 1-2.5 inch (22.5-63.5 mm) space into account for filling and stopping the cell before the electrolyte solution, density level goes below a critical point. 
     When the density of the electrolyte solution is too low, the KOH (or other salt used in the solution) starts to solidify and form a salt bridge which will cause a short between the electrodes of the anode and cathode. In the interior water fill tube  220 , a small amount of hydrogen and oxygen gas may become trapped by the closed solenoid ( 218 ), the trapped gas will push up through the water feed tube  220  on fill start when solenoid  218  opens. This serves two purposes, clearing the path for filling, and leaving trace amounts of electrolyte solution in the water tank  132  to slow freezing. Alternatively, this gas can be vented back into the cell  140  by allowing the solenoid  218  to equalize pressure through a feed (not shown) into the cell  140 . 
     Level Detection and Detector Construction 
     Through extensive testing including millions of on road miles at various temperature extremes, floats, witches and optical sensors, are subject to failure. 
     Hydrogen being one of the smallest atoms will migrate along with some moisture into any plastic or metal type float. It has been found after one year or less with North American temperature extremes that these type of floats will gain weight and fail. This happens because the electrolysis cell has a hot hostile strong alkaline or acidic electrically charged process chamber, where a very large number of excited hydrogen and oxygen atoms are evolving. 
     Optical sensors have problems with the changing density and clouding inside their protective tube giving false readings 
     Level detectors using rods and square waves also become contaminated and bridged over time and temperature extremes, which can cause catastrophic failure. 
     The level detectors described herein are simple, economical, long lasting, maintenance free nickel level devices. They are reliable and can be made with thick nickel wire for high pressure applications. 
     As noted previously, nickel wire is used with an over-moulded plug. The second electrode terminal  216  may comprise a nickel rod body with over moulded nylon plug. The plugs preferably have a National Pipe Thread Taper (NPT). Level detectors may have ⅛ inch (3.175 mm) size and the terminal a ¼ inch (6.3 mm) size for the plugs. 
     Three moulded level detectors are required for each generator (electrolysis cell and cell condenser) along with one moulded electrode terminal. 
     The diameter of the nickel wire for each detector  224   226  and  150  can be no smaller than 0.047 inches (1.1938 mm) but can increase to a popular size or bigger for stability in a pressured electrolysis cell. The wire may be nickel  200 . The nickel  200  threaded rod for the electrode terminal  216  can be any popular size above 0.187 inches (4.7498 mm) and two nickel  200  nuts ( 216 B) may be used for each rod (to attach to the electrode (e.g. cathode  210 ). 
     The nylon is moulded to the nickel because the hydrogen atom and will leak through any opening not bubble tight. The ¼ inch (3 mm) spade terminal on the wire of a level detector is crimped and soldered or spot welded to the nickel wire to maintain the crucial small electrical flow for level sense. A diode connected to each level detector to prevent the level detectors from acting as anodes and being contaminated. In cell  140 , the level detectors  224 ,  226  are separated and insulated through the top cap  202 . The level detectors may be electrically coupled to standard automotive relays (not shown), which in turn may be used to signal the CPU. Electrically coupling the detectors to optoisolators (inputs) in the CPU may be insufficient to provide proper signaling due to fluctuations (transient polarity and voltage) in the cell  140  environment experienced by the detectors. The signals from the detectors are sufficient to trigger standard automotive relays. 
     The level detectors  224 ,  226  in the cell pick up a negative charge from the electrolyte solution in the cell  140  when they are operational. The tip of the nickel rod contacts the electrolyte sending a voltage to the terminal  86  on standard automotive relays, which power up. The signal tells the CPU what state of level the cell is in (low, full, too full (from detector  150 )) and it reacts accordingly. A high level stop (from detector  150 ) will activate anytime the electrolyte contacts the rod because it is constantly grounded. Preferably, only trained personnel can restart the unit in such a case. 
     During the electrolysis reaction, the detection signal must pass through the foam or fog in the electrolyte to achieve ground, which, will cause transient signals. Any engine movement will cause sloshing which will cause intermittent detection, which will end once maximum full is reached. 
     False readings will not excessively stop and start the electrolysis cell  140 , because the CPU registers a number of start fill signals before activating and will stay on a set length of time. Without this program, if the cell  140  is mounted on any mobile application, sloshing would stop and start the cell numerous times before it is full, reducing the gas output and efficiency of the cell. 
     Low level or stop detector  226 , when contacting the fog, foam or electrolyte will provide a ground to C 1 - 86  powering C 1 - 87  and signaling the CPU this is one of the conditions to start and operate the cell  140 . The full detector  224  when contacting the fog, foam or electrolyte will provide a ground to C 1 - 86  powering C 1 - 87  and signaling the CPU this is one of the conditions to start and operate cell  140 . 
     When the electrolyte level along with foam or fog are reduced through gas production and contact is lost with the full level, this stops the ground to C 1 - 86  losing power to C 1 - 87 , signaling the CPU to turn off the power supply to the anode  206 . 
     The CPU will activate the vent solenoid  210  and fill solenoid  218  to cause a fill from the water source (e.g.  132 ). Once the cell  140  is venting via  152 , with the water solenoid  218  open, gravity will cause the water to fill until electrolyte solution contacts the full level detector  224 . Should the water supply be empty then the cell  140  will not restart until it is refilled, causing the engine to return to normal operation. Once the added water brings the electrolyte solution level up to contact the full level, a ground to C 2 - 86  powering C 2 - 87  and signaling the CPU occurs start cell  140  if all other conditions are in compliance. 
     At the same time the CPU will turn off both solenoids  218  and  210 , stopping the fill process and turn on the power supply to e.g. to anode  206 . When cell  140  has been running two hours or more it can take about two hours for the evolved gases to leave and lower the electrolyte solution level. 
     Two hours after shutdown, low and full level detectors  226  and  224  are connected to ground. This causes the nickel rods to be cleaned and brings the cell into a neutral state. 
     Cell Condenser Operation 
     The evolved gas vented during the fill cycle for cell  140  is passed through cell condenser  148  which forces some trapped moisture back to cell  140  through pressure equalization such as via hose  152 . No evolved gas is wasted. It is routed to the engine through the check valve  230 . Other trapped moisture in the condenser cell  148  will return to the cell  140  through gravity and shutdown 
     Should the condenser cell  148  fill with electrolyte solution for any reason, the solution will come into contact with level detector  150  that will stop the electrolysis cell  140 . The CPU stops power to the cell  140 . For safety purposes, cell  140  in this situation can only be restarted by trained personnel as solution should not collect in the cell condenser. 
     It has been observed that even when attached to the cell  140  with a non-conductive means (e.g. nylon fittings, plastic hose) the evolving gas gives cell condenser  148  an electric charge. Cell condenser  148  is therefore grounded, preventing accidental static ignition of the evolved gas and providing a ground for the level detector  150 . As noted previously herein fan  158  is mounted across from the cell condenser to pass outside (ambient) air to bring the evolving gas to a dew point in any environment. 
     Exhaust Water Process 
     When running, if the level system  134  on the water tank  132  detects low water during a fill cycle for cell  140  or after start up, the water from the exhaust capture system initiates a water tank fill/top up. This water tank fill process will not start unless level system  120  detects water in the water condenser  116 . 
     When level system  134  on the water tank  132  registers low level, 3-way solenoid  108  between the exhaust gas condenser  108  and the water condenser  116  powers on, closing off the condenser  116  and sending exhaust gas to the engine intake through the hydrogen and oxygen gas output hose  154  via  112 . Alternatively, solenoid  108  could just close and stop the exhaust gas from moving through to line  112  and back to the intake via line  154   
     Gas water tank 2-way solenoid  110  is closed to permit the water condenser  116  to be pressurized (via pressure connection  144 ). In unison, the gas feed solenoid  146  feeding cell condenser  148  closes (powers on), allowing pressure to build up in the water condenser  116  as detected by sensor  118 . Pressure may also build in cell  140 . 
     When the pressure in the water condenser  116  reaches a turn on state the 3-way solenoid  124  on the filter assembly  126 , 128 , 130  opens (powers on), allowing distilled water in condenser  116  to be pushed through the filter system into the water tank  132 . It is understood that solenoid  122  is normally open in a position to pass water toward solenoid  124 . Once the water tank  132  fill is achieved (detected by level system  134 ) or pressure driving water from condenser  116  drops below a certain point, the filter system solenoid  124  turns off along with the gas feed solenoid  146  opening cell  140  to the cell condenser  148 . 
     If the cell  140  can be filled, then normal operation resumes. If not then operations may be repeated, for example once pressure is sufficient, or water is made and available in water condenser  116 . 
     To capture water, the 3-way solenoid  108  between the exhaust condenser  106  and water condenser  116  collection opens (powers off) to direct the exhaust into water condenser  116 , while solenoid  110  opens to output the exhaust from hose  114   112  and on to  154  to mix with the evolved gases. 
     Should the water tank  116  get too full, the level system  120  in the water condenser  116  will (power on) the 3-way drain solenoid  122  between the water condenser  116  and the filter system solenoid  124 , bringing it to the correct level. When freezing temperatures are detected, the filter system ( 126 - 132 ) and water condenser  116  will drain on shutdown to prevent filter damage. As the filter system like system  500  may also be coupled to water tank  132  in a manner which permits backflow, water from tank  132  may also be drained on shut. 
     In an alternative water capture system, engines with air conditioning condensate can be configured to capture and direct condensate to water tank  132 . In this way only a charcoal filter may be used. 
     It will be apparent those of skill in the art that various systems, apparatus methods, etc are disclosed herein including the following examples. 
     There is provided an apparatus to change the temperature of a fluid comprising: a body (e.g. metal or conductive ceramic) forming a passage to receive a fluid through the body; and at least one Peltier-type thermocouple mounted to the body in the passage, the Peltier-type thermocouple having a hot side and a cold side over which the fluid passes. Each of the at least one Peltier-type thermocouple may be a) mounted hot side in against the body and the fluid passes over the cold side or b) mounted code side in against the body and the fluid passes over the hot side. The at least one Peltier-type thermocouple may be mounted using a thermo compound adhesive. The at least one Peltier-type thermocouple may be mounted to surround at least a segment of the passage. The apparatus may be provided within or adjacent a water tank such that there is provided a water tank comprising a water feed passage to supply water from the tank and an apparatus to change the temperature of a fluid as described where, the apparatus is in fluid communication with the water feed passage. Similarly an apparatus as described may be provided with a gas condenser unit having a vessel with a gas feed passage to supply gas from the vessel. The apparatus may be in fluid communication with the gas feed passage. In one example, apparatus is configured with the cold side in to heat the water from the water tank. In one example, the apparatus is configured with the hot side in to cool the gas from the gas condenser. 
     In one example, there is a method for heating water in the water tank or feed line comprising providing power to at least one Peltier type thermocouple mounted cold side in to a body providing a passage through which the water passes such that the water passes over a hot side of the Peltier type thermocouple. The power may be obtained from a plurality of Peltier type thermocouples mounted about the electrolysis cell, utilizing heat generated by the operations of the cell to produce a sufficient temperature differential across the Peltier devices when the cell is generating gases from the electrolytic solution. The water may be selectively heated when the ambient temperature is below a certain threshold (e.g. −10° C.). 
     In one example there is a method to cool engine gases comprising providing power to at least one Peltier type thermocouple mounted hot side in to a body providing a passage through which the gases pass such that the gases pass over a cold side of the Peltier type thermocouple. The power may be obtained from a plurality of Peltier type thermocouples mounted about the electrolysis cell, utilizing heat generated by the operations of the cell to produce a sufficient temperature differential across the Peltier devices when the cell is generating gases from the electrolytic solution. 
     There is provided a method for generating combustion enhancing gases for an internal combustion engine comprising: generating the combustion enhancing gases using an electrolysis cell having an electrolytic solution, the cell in fluid communication with a gas conduit to provide the combustion enhancing gases to an intake of the engine; capturing water using a water capturing system; storing the water from the water capturing system; and selectively providing the water to the electrolysis cell to replenish the electrolytic solution. Selectively providing the water may comprise dosing an output of combustion enhancing gases from the cell and opening a water fill tube for the cell. 
     The method may comprise detecting using a plurality of electrical detectors an amount of electrolytic solution in the cell and providing the water in response to the amount detected. The method may comprise not generating the combustion enhancing gases in response to the amount detected (by not providing power to an electrode of the). The method may comprise detecting an amount of water in a water tank storing water from the water capture system and selectively activating the water capture system to provide additional water to replenish the water tank. To provide additional water may comprise feeding a positive pressure from the electrolysis cell to the water capture system to drive water to the water tank. The method may comprise filtering the water from the water capture system. The method may comprise selectively capturing water from the exhaust. The method may comprise receiving exhaust gases from an engine manifold of the engine, cooling and condensing the exhaust gases to obtain water and returning the exhaust gases to the intake. 
     The method may comprise, before providing the combustion enhancing gases to the intake, condensing the combustion enhancing gases received from the cell in a cell condenser to obtain water and/or electrolytic fluid therefrom and returning such water and/or electrolytic fluid to the cell. 
     It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the matter can be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit of essential character thereon.