Apple files patent for MacBook fuel cell that could last weeks
04 September 15 by James Temperton
Apple has filed a patent application for a fuel cell system that could power a MacBook "for days or even weeks without refuelling".
In the patent application Apple describes a small internal power source that would add very little extra weight to a laptop. The patent refers specifically to Apple's MagSafe charger for MacBooks, suggesting the technology wouldn't be used in iPhones or iPads.
The patent, first spotted by 9to5Mac, includes a number of potential fuel sources, all of which would be mixed with water. Fuel cells work by mixing a fuel, such a hydrogen, with an oxidising agent, such as water or oxygen. Apple's patent lists borohydride, sodium silicate, lithium hydride, magnesium hydride, a hydrocarbon and compressed or liquid hydrogen and others as potential fuels.
Unlike batteries that have to be recharged regularly, fuel cell systems require refuelling once they run out -- and can last for weeks. Apple's patent references a removable cartridge that could be slotted in and it is likely the fuel cell would operate alongside a normal battery.
News of Apple's latest patent comes after a British company successfully developed a built-in hydrogen fuel cell capable of powering an iPhone for an entire week.
http://www.wired.co.uk/news/archive/2015-09/04/apple-macbook-fuel-cell-patent
04 September 15 by James Temperton
Apple has filed a patent application for a fuel cell system that could power a MacBook "for days or even weeks without refuelling".
In the patent application Apple describes a small internal power source that would add very little extra weight to a laptop. The patent refers specifically to Apple's MagSafe charger for MacBooks, suggesting the technology wouldn't be used in iPhones or iPads.
The patent, first spotted by 9to5Mac, includes a number of potential fuel sources, all of which would be mixed with water. Fuel cells work by mixing a fuel, such a hydrogen, with an oxidising agent, such as water or oxygen. Apple's patent lists borohydride, sodium silicate, lithium hydride, magnesium hydride, a hydrocarbon and compressed or liquid hydrogen and others as potential fuels.
Unlike batteries that have to be recharged regularly, fuel cell systems require refuelling once they run out -- and can last for weeks. Apple's patent references a removable cartridge that could be slotted in and it is likely the fuel cell would operate alongside a normal battery.
News of Apple's latest patent comes after a British company successfully developed a built-in hydrogen fuel cell capable of powering an iPhone for an entire week.
http://www.wired.co.uk/news/archive/2015-09/04/apple-macbook-fuel-cell-patent
