HYDROGEN AND OXYGEN GENERATOR

Abstract

A hydrogen and oxygen generator has two end plates, at least two electrode assemblies defining an electrolysis chamber therebetween and being disposed between the two end plates, and at least one fastener connecting the two end plates together. Each electrode assembly has a plate defining an electrode portion having a perimeter and defining inlet and outlet apertures, an inlet insulating grommet disposed in the inlet aperture and covering an edge thereof, an outlet insulating grommet disposed in the outlet aperture and covering an edge thereof, and an insulating band disposed around the electrode portion and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining the perimeter. The insulating bands of the at least two electrode assemblies abut each other. The inlet and outlet apertures of the at least two electrode assemblies fluidly communicate with the electrolysis chamber. An electrode assembly and a hydrogen and oxygen generation system are also disclosed.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE

The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/042,397, filed Aug. 27, 2014, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

The present technology relates to hydrogen and oxygen generators.

BACKGROUND

One known method of generating hydrogen and oxygen is through electrolysis. In its most basic form, two electrodes are placed in water and electrical power is applied to the electrodes. As a result, hydrogen forms at the cathode and oxygen forms at the anode. However, the electrolysis of pure water requires a lot of energy. To facilitate the electrolysis process, and reduce the amount of energy required, a water-soluble electrolyte is typically added to the water to form an electrolyte solution.

To increase the production of hydrogen and oxygen, a generator consisting of a stack of spaced electrodes can be used. In some implementations, the stack of electrodes is submerged in electrolyte solution. However, this design is impractical for applications where the generator may need to be moved.

In other implementations, each electrode has an inlet aperture and an outlet aperture defined therein and each adjacent pair of electrodes is separated by a gasket sandwiched between the electrodes. Multiple fasteners hold and compress the stack of electrodes and gaskets together. As a result, an electrolysis chamber is formed between each pair of adjacent electrodes and their associated gasket. The electrolyte solution flows through the inlet apertures of each electrode to fill the electrolysis chambers. Electrical power is applied to the electrodes as a result of which hydrogen and oxygen form on the electrodes. The hydrogen and oxygen flow out of the electrolysis chambers via the outlet apertures.

One of the inconveniences of the above implementation resides in its complicated and lengthy assembly. The formation of the stack by alternatingly placing an electrode then a gasket is time consuming. Also, all of the elements of the stack must be perfectly aligned for maximum efficiency which can be difficult to achieve. Finally, to insure that the generator does not leak, multiple fasteners have to be used to hold and compress the stack together.

Therefore, it would be desirable to have a hydrogen and oxygen generator that is easier and faster to assemble.

Another one of the inconveniences of the above implementation results from the presence of exposed sharp edges on the electrode. The outer perimeter of the electrode and the edges forming the perimeter of the apertures in the electrode are sharp edges causing electrical fields of higher intensity to form at these locations. This results in more heat being generated at the sharp edges thereby heating the electrolyte solution, faster corrosion of the electrodes at these location and decreased efficiency of the generator. One solution consists in adding a cooling system to cool the electrolyte solution, but this decreases the efficiency of the generator due to the power required to operate the cooling system.

In addition to the above inconveniences associated with the sharp edges on the electrode, another inconvenience due to the sharp edges appears when the electrodes are connected in series. In many implementations, all the inlet apertures are aligned with each other and all the outlet apertures are aligned with each other to facilitate the flow of fluid therethrough. The exposed edges of the apertures form a preferred electrical path. As such, the electrical current will jump from aperture to aperture, effectively bypassing the electrodes where no electrical power is directly applied. This is sometimes referred to as leakage current. One solution consists in misaligning the apertures, thereby reducing the amount of leakage current by breaking the straight electrical path. However, this makes fluid flow through the generator difficult. Also, each misaligned aperture forms a region where the two electrodes disposed on either side of the electrode having the misaligned aperture face each other. Thus, in this region, the voltage difference is twice the voltage difference that exists between two adjacent electrodes, thus increasing corrosion in this region.

Therefore, it would be desirable to have a generator that addresses at least some of the inconveniences associated with the presence of sharp edges on the electrodes.

SUMMARY

It is an object of the present technology to ameliorate at least some of the inconveniences present in the prior art.

According to one aspect of the present technology, there is provided an electrode assembly for a hydrogen and oxygen generator having a plate defining an electrode portion, the electrode portion having a perimeter, the electrode portion defining an inlet aperture and an outlet aperture, an inlet insulating grommet disposed in the inlet aperture and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining the inlet aperture, an outlet insulating grommet disposed in the outlet aperture and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining the outlet aperture, and an insulating band disposed around the electrode portion and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining the perimeter.

In some implementations of the present technology, the inlet insulating grommet, the outlet insulating grommet and the insulating band are integral.

In some implementations of the present technology, the outlet aperture is disposed closer to an upper end of the electrode portion than the inlet aperture.

In some implementations of the present technology, the electrode portion is generally rectangular. The inlet and outlet apertures are disposed at diagonally opposite corners of the electrode portion.

In some implementations of the present technology, the plate has a connector portion. The connector portion extending from the electrode portion. The connector portion extending through the insulating band.

In some implementations of the present technology, a thickness of the insulating band is greater than a thickness of at least a portion of the inlet insulating grommet. The thickness of the insulating band is greater than a thickness of at least a portion the outlet insulating grommet.

In some implementations of the present technology, the plate has a first face and a second face. The insulating band has a first face disposed a first distance from the first face of the plate and a second face disposed a second distance from the second face of the plate. The inlet insulating grommet has a first face disposed a third distance from the first face of the plate and a second face disposed a fourth distance from the second face of the plate. The outlet insulating grommet has a first face disposed a fifth distance from the first face of the plate and a second face disposed a sixth distance from the second face of the plate. The first distance is greater than the third and fifth distances. The second distance is greater than the fourth and sixth distances.

In some implementations of the present technology, the insulating band has at least one first rib extending away from a first face of the plate and at least one second rib extending away from a second face of the plate.

In some implementations of the present technology, the electrode portion defines at least one fastener aperture configured to receive a fastener therethrough. The electrode assembly also has at least one fastener aperture insulating grommet disposed in the at least one fastener aperture. Each of the at least one fastener aperture insulating grommet covers an edge of the electrode portion defining a corresponding one of the at least one fastener aperture.

In some implementations of the present technology, the at least one fastener aperture is a single fastener aperture and the at least one fastener aperture insulating grommet is a single fastener aperture insulating grommet.

In some implementations of the present technology, the single fastener aperture is defined at a center of the electrode portion.

In some implementations of the present technology, a thickness of the insulating band and a thickness of the at least one fastener aperture insulating grommet are equal.

In some implementations of the present technology, the outlet aperture is a first outlet aperture. The electrode portion defines a second outlet aperture. The outlet insulating grommet is a first outlet insulating grommet. The electrode assembly also has a second outlet insulating grommet disposed in the second outlet aperture and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining the second outlet aperture.

In some implementations of the present technology, the inlet aperture is a first inlet aperture. The electrode portion defines a second inlet aperture. The inlet insulating grommet is a first inlet insulating grommet. The electrode assembly also has a second inlet insulating grommet disposed in the second inlet aperture and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining the second inlet aperture.

According to another aspect of the present technology, there is provided a hydrogen and oxygen generator having first and second endplates, at least two electrode assemblies, the at least two electrode assemblies defining an electrolysis chamber therebetween, the at least two electrodes assemblies being disposed between the first and second endplates, and at least one fastener connecting the first endplate to the second endplate. Each of the at least two electrode assemblies has a plate defining an electrode portion, the electrode portion having a perimeter, the electrode portion defining an inlet aperture and an outlet aperture, an inlet insulating grommet disposed in the inlet aperture and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining the inlet aperture, an outlet insulating grommet disposed in the outlet aperture and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining the outlet aperture, and an insulating band disposed around the electrode portion and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining the perimeter. The insulating bands of the at least two electrode assemblies abut each other. The inlet and outlet apertures of the at least two electrode assemblies fluidly communicate with the electrolysis chamber.

In some implementations of the present technology, the at least two electrode assemblies is at least three electrode assemblies disposed adjacent to each other in a pile. Each pair of adjacent electrode assemblies of the at least three electrode assemblies defines an electrolysis chamber therebetween. The insulating bands of each pair of adjacent electrode assemblies of the at least three electrode assemblies abut each other.

In some implementations of the present technology, a first insulating plate is disposed between the first endplate and the at least two electrode assemblies. A second insulating plate is disposed between the second endplate and the at least two electrode assemblies. The first and second insulating plates are made of a dielectric material.

In some implementations of the present technology, for each of the at least two electrode assemblies, the inlet insulating grommet, the outlet insulating grommet and the insulating band are integral.

In some implementations of the present technology, for each of the at least two electrode assemblies: the electrode portion is generally rectangular, and the inlet and outlet apertures are disposed at diagonally opposite corners of the electrode portion.

In some implementations of the present technology, for at least two of the at least two electrode assemblies: the plate has a connector portion, the connector portion extends from the electrode portion, and the connector portion extends through the insulating band.

In some implementations of the present technology, for each of the at least two electrode assemblies: a thickness of the insulating band is greater than a thickness of at least a portion of the inlet insulating grommet, and the thickness of the insulating band is greater than a thickness of at least a portion the outlet insulating grommet.

In some implementations of the present technology, the first and second endplates each define a single fastener aperture. For each of the at least two electrode assemblies: the electrode portion defines a single fastener aperture, and a fastener aperture insulating grommet is disposed in the fastener aperture and covers an edge of the electrode portion defining the fastener aperture. The fastener apertures of the first and second endplates and of the at least two electrode assemblies are coaxial. The at least one fastener is a single fastener passing through the fastener apertures of the first and second endplates and of the at least two electrode assemblies for connecting the first endplate, the second endplate and the at least two electrode assemblies together.

In some implementations of the present technology, the fastener aperture insulating grommets of the at least two electrode assemblies abut each other.

According to another aspect of the present technology, there is provided a hydrogen and oxygen generation system having the above generator and optionally one or more of its above implementations, a reservoir for storing an electrolyte solution; a pump for supplying electrolyte solution from the reservoir to the electrolysis chamber via at least one inlet aperture, at least one outlet aperture being fluidly connected to the reservoir for supplying hydrogen, oxygen and electrolyte solution to the reservoir from the electrolysis chamber, the reservoir having an outlet for supplying at least one of hydrogen and oxygen to a device, and a power source electrically connected to at least two of the at least two electrode assemblies.

In some implementations of the present technology, the generator further also has a housing disposed between the first and second endplates. The at least two electrode assemblies are housed in the housing. The housing defines an air inlet and an air outlet. The plate of each of the at least two electrode assemblies also has a cooling fin portion. For each of the at least two electrode assemblies the insulating band is disposed between the electrode portion and the cooling fin portion. The hydrogen and oxygen generation system also has an air blower fluidly connected to the air inlet for blowing air inside the housing. The air flowing over the cooling fins and exiting the housing via the air outlet.

In some implementations of the present technology, the plate of each of the at least two electrodes defines at least one coolant aperture. The coolant apertures fluidly communicate with each other to define a coolant passage. The coolant passage is fluidly separate from the electrolysis chamber. The hydrogen and oxygen generation system also has a coolant pump for supplying coolant to the coolant passage.

According to another aspect of the present technology, there is provided a hydrogen and oxygen generator having a first endplate defining a single fastener aperture, a second endplate defining a single fastener aperture, and at least two electrodes. The at least two electrode define an electrolysis chamber therebetween. The at least two electrodes are disposed between the first and second endplates. Each of the at least two electrodes defines: an inlet aperture, an outlet aperture, and a single fastener aperture. The inlet and outlet apertures of the at least two electrodes fluidly communicate with the electrolysis chamber. The fastener apertures of the first and second endplates and of the at least two electrodes are coaxial. The generator also has at least one sealing element disposed between each a pair of adjacent electrodes of the at least two electrodes, and a single fastener passing through the fastener apertures of the first and second endplates and of the at least two electrodes for connecting the first endplate, the second endplate and the at least two electrodes together.

In some implementations of the present technology, the single fastener is a sole means for connecting the first endplate, the second endplate and the at least two electrodes together.

In some implementations of the present technology, the fastener apertures of the first and second endplates and of the at least two electrodes are disposed in a center of the first and second endplates and of the at least two electrodes.

In some implementations of the present technology, each electrode has a fastener aperture insulating grommet disposed in the single fastener aperture.

In some implementations of the present technology, the fastener aperture insulating grommets of the at least two electrode abut each other.

Embodiments of the present technology each have at least one of the above-mentioned object and/or aspects, but do not necessarily have all of them. It should be understood that some aspects of the present technology that have resulted from attempting to attain the above-mentioned object may not satisfy this object and/or may satisfy other objects not specifically recited herein.

Additional and/or alternative features, aspects and advantages of embodiments of the present technology will become apparent from the following description, the accompanying drawings and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the present technology, as well as other aspects and further features thereof, reference is made to the following description which is to be used in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, where:

FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a hydrogen and oxygen generation system including electronic and electrical components associated therewith;

FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of a hydrogen and oxygen generator;

FIG. 3 is an end view of the generator of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the generator of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the generator of FIG. 2, taken through line 5-5 of FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is an end view of an endplate of the generator of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is an end view of an insulating plate of the generator of FIG. 2;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an electrode assembly of the generator of FIG. 2;

FIG. 9 is an end view of a stack of electrode assemblies of an alternative implementation of the generator of FIG. 2;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the stack of electrode assemblies of FIG. 9 taken through line 10-10 of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the stack of electrode assemblies of FIG. 9 taken through line 11-11 of FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 is an end view of a plate of one of the electrode assemblies of FIG. 9;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of an outer edge of a stack of electrode assemblies of an alternative implementation of the generator of FIG. 2;

FIG. 14 is an end view of an alternative embodiment of an electrode assembly;

FIG. 15 is a side view of the electrode assembly of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a close-up view of portion 16-16 of the electrode assembly of FIG. 14;

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the electrode assembly of FIG. 14 taken through line 17-17 of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a side view of a stack of electrode assemblies of FIG. 14;

FIG. 19 is an end view of the stack of electrode assemblies of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the stack of electrode assemblies of FIG. 18 taken through line 20-20 of FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is an end view of an alternative implementation of an electrode assembly;

FIG. 22 is an end view of a stack of electrode assemblies using an alternative implementation of electrode assemblies;

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the stack of electrode assemblies of FIG. 22 taken through line 23-23 of FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is a schematic representation of an alternative implementation of a hydrogen and oxygen generation system;

FIG. 25 is an exploded view of a hydrogen and oxygen generator suitable for use with the generation system of FIG. 24;

FIG. 26 is a side view of an endplate of the generator of FIG. 25;

FIG. 27 is an end view of an endplate of FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is a side view of an insulating plate of the generator of FIG. 25;

FIG. 29 is an end view of the insulating plate of FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is an end view of a stack of electrode assemblies of the generator of FIG. 25;

FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of the stack of electrode assemblies of FIG. 30 taken through line 31-31 of FIG. 30;

FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of the stack of electrode assemblies of FIG. 30 taken through line 32-32 of FIG. 30;

FIG. 33A is a view of an end of an electrode assembly of the generator of FIG. 34;

FIG. 33B is a view of another end of the electrode assembly of FIG. 33A;

FIG. 34 is an end view of an alternative implementation of a hydrogen and oxygen generator suitable for use with the generation system of FIG. 24;

FIG. 35A is a cross-sectional view of the generator of FIG. 34 taken through line 35A-35A of FIG. 34;

FIG. 35B is a cross-sectional view of the generator of FIG. 34 taken through line 35B-35B of FIG. 34;

FIG. 36 is a schematic representation of an alternative implementation of a hydrogen and oxygen generation system;

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of an air cooled hydrogen and oxygen generator;

FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view of the generator of FIG. 37 taken through line 38-38 of FIG. 37;

FIG. 39 is an end view of an electrode assembly of the generator of FIG. 37;

FIG. 40 is a schematic representation of an alternative implementation of a hydrogen and oxygen generation system;

FIG. 41 is an end view of a water cooled hydrogen and oxygen generator;

FIG. 42 is a side view of the generator of FIG. 41;

FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view of the generator of FIG. 41 taken through line 43-43 of FIG. 42;

FIG. 44 is an end view of an electrode assembly of the generator of FIG. 41; and

FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional view of the electrode assembly of FIG. 44 taken through line 45-45 of FIG. 44.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to FIG. 1, a hydrogen and oxygen generation system 10 including electronic and electrical components associated therewith will be described. The system has a reservoir 12. The reservoir 12 stores an electrolyte solution. The electrolyte solution is a mixture of water and electrolyte. The electrolyte can be a salt, a base or an acid. The type of electrolyte used depends on material used for the components in contact with the electrolyte, as well as the gas to be evolved from the generator 24. The reservoir 12 can be filled via a filler neck 14. In one implementation, the reservoir 12 is filled manually. In alternative implementation, the reservoir 12 can be filled automatically using a pump 16 as will be discussed below. The reservoir 12 has an outlet 18 at a bottom thereof. A pump 20 pumps the electrolyte solution from the reservoir 12 via the outlet 18 and supplies, via a filtering device (not shown), the solution to an inlet 22 of a hydrogen and oxygen generator 24. The inlet 22 of the generator 24 is disposed near a bottom thereof. Various implementations of the generator 24 will be described in greater detail below.

The generator 24 is powered by a direct current power drive 26 such as one or more batteries. It is contemplated that the direct current power drive 26 could be replaced by an alternating current power drive connected to a rectifier which is then connected to the generator 24. It is also contemplated that the power drive 26 could include a waveform generator targeted for specific effect and/or better overall efficiency of the reaction. The generator 24, through electrolysis, forms hydrogen gas and oxygen gas. Some water vapor is also formed. The hydrogen and oxygen gases, the water vapor, and electrolyte solution leave the generator 24 via an outlet 28 and are returned to the reservoir 12 via an inlet 30 of the reservoir 12. The liquid electrolyte solution falls into the electrolyte solution contained in the reservoir 12. The hydrogen gas, the oxygen gas and water vapor remain in the top portion of the reservoir 12 above the electrolyte solution. Any hydrogen gas, oxygen gas that might have been entrained into the electrolyte solution bubbles to the surface and flows to the top portion of the reservoir 12.

The hydrogen gas, oxygen gas and water vapor in the top portion of the reservoir 12 flows out of the reservoir 12 via a gas outlet 32 in the top of the reservoir 12. From the gas outlet the hydrogen gas, oxygen gas and water vapor flow to a water condensation unit 34. It is contemplate that the water condensation unit 34 could be an active condensation unit or a passive condensation unit. The condensation unit 34 causes the water vapor to return to liquid form. A valve 36 allows the liquid water to be removed from the condensation unit 34. The hydrogen and oxygen gases flow out of the condensation unit 34 and pass through a pressure regulator 38 and a flame arrestor 40. It is contemplated that a PID controller and a pressure transducer could be used to control the amount of current supplied to the generator 24 in order to maintain a targeted pre-set gas pressure in the system. The hydrogen and oxygen gases can then be used for various purposes. For example, the hydrogen and oxygen gases can be supplied to an oxyhydrogen welding torch.

To control the operation of the generation system 10, a control unit 42 receives inputs from various sensors. The control unit 42 is connected to the power drive 26 to modulate and control the current sent to the generator 24 from the power source 44, such as the power grid, a generator or a battery pack for example. The control unit 42 receives signals from a current sensor 46 sensing a current being supplied by the power drive 26 to the generator 24. It is contemplated that the current sensor 46 could be integrated in the power drive 26. The control unit 42 is connected to the pump 20 to control its operation. The control unit 42 receives signals from a pressure sensor 48 sensing a pressure of the gases exiting the reservoir 12. Based on this signal, the control unit 42 can send a signal to the power drive 26 to adjust, stop or start the current supply to the generator 24 or send a signal to a valve 50 to open to release pressure should it be too high. The valve 50 can also be opened to purge the gases from the system 10 when it is no longer being used. Note that the valve 50 has been shown away from the line extending from the reservoir 12 to the condensation unit 34 for convenience, but the valve 50 fluidly communicates with this line. It is contemplated that the pressure sensor 48 could be replaced by a pressure switch. The control unit 42 receives signals from a temperature sensor 52 sensing a temperature of the electrolyte solution in the reservoir 12. Based on this signal, the control unit 42 can control the operation of a cooling system 54 for cooling the electrolyte solution, some implementations of which will be described below. It is contemplated that the control unit 42 could also control an active gas cooling/water condensing unit to capture and remove water vapor present in the generated gas. The control unit 42 can also control the operation of a cooling device 56, such as a fan, for cooling the electronic components. In a system 10 where the reservoir 12 can be automatically refilled, the control unit 42 receives signals from a fluid level sensor 58 sensing a level of the electrolyte solution in the reservoir 12. Based on this signal, the control unit 42 can control the operation of a pump 16, which when turned on, pumps electrolyte solution into the reservoir 12 via the filler neck 14. In order for a user to view data received by the control unit 42 and to adjust how the control unit 42 should control the system 10, the control unit 42 is connected to a user interface 60.

Turning now to FIGS. 2 to 8, a hydrogen and oxygen generator 100 will be described. The generator 100 is an implementation of the generator 24 of the system 10 described above. The generator 100 has five electrode assemblies 102 disposed side-by-side, which are disposed between two insulating plates 104, which are disposed between two endplates 106. It is contemplated that there could be two, three, four or more than five electrode assemblies 102. It is also contemplated that the insulating plates 104 could be omitted and that their function could by performed by modified implementations of the endplates 106. The electrode assemblies 102, the insulating plates 104 and the endplates 106 are all generally square with rounded corners, but other shapes such as rectangular and circular are contemplated.

As can be seen in FIG. 6, each endplate 106 defines an aperture 108 in a lower corner thereof and an aperture 110 in an upper corner thereof. The apertures 108, 110 are disposed in diagonally opposite corners of the endplate 106. However it is contemplated that the apertures 108, 110 could be disposed elsewhere along the lower and upper portions of the endplate 106. The apertures 108, 110 are surrounded by flanges 112. Each endplate 106 also defines a central aperture 114 surrounded by a flange 116. Each endplate 106 also has a flange 118 following its periphery. Each endplate 106 also has ribs 120 extending radially from the flange 116 to the flange 118 or one of the flanges 112, as the case may be. The flanges 108, 110, 112 and 118 and the ribs 120 are disposed on the outwardly facing side of each endplate 106. The inwardly facing side of the endplate 106 is flat. The flanges 108, 110, 112 and 118 and the ribs 120 increase the strength and rigidity of the endplates 106. It is contemplate that one or more of the flanges 108, 110, 112 and 118 and the ribs 120 could be omitted. The endplates 106 are made of a rigid material such as aluminum or steel. It is also contemplated that the endplates 106 could be made of plastic or composite material.

As can be seen in FIG. 7, each insulating plate 104 defines an aperture 122 in a lower corner thereof and an aperture 124 in an upper corner thereof. The apertures 122, 124 are disposed in diagonally opposite corners of the insulating plate 104. The apertures 122, 124 are coaxial with the apertures 108, 110 of the endplates 106. Each insulating plate 104 also defines a central aperture 126 that is coaxial with the central apertures 114 of the endplates 106. Both the inwardly and outwardly facing sides of the insulating plates 104 are flat. The insulating plates 104 are made of dielectric material. Most plastics are dielectric materials. As such, the insulating plates 104 prevent the electrical current applied to the electrode assemblies to flow to the endplates 106. It is contemplated that the insulating plates 104 could also be made of a non-dielectric, but electrically insulating material. It is contemplated that the endplates 106 could be made of a dielectric or electrically insulating material, in which case the insulating plates 104 could be omitted.

As can be seen in FIG. 8, each electrode assembly 102 has a plate 128. The plate 128 has an electrode portion 130 and a connector portion 132. The electrode portion 130 defines an inlet aperture 134 in a lower corner thereof and an outlet aperture 136 in an upper corner thereof. The apertures 134, 136 are disposed in diagonally opposite corners of the electrode portion 130. The apertures 134, 136 are coaxial with 122, 124 of the insulating plates 104. The electrode portion 130 also defines a central fastener aperture 138. Each electrode assembly 102 also has an inlet insulating grommet 140 disposed in the inlet aperture 134, an outlet insulating grommet 142 disposed in the outlet aperture 136 and a fastener aperture insulating grommet 144 disposed in the fastener aperture 138. The grommets 140, 142, 144 cover the edge of the electrode portion 130 that defines their corresponding apertures 134, 136 and 138. Each electrode assembly 102 also has a insulating band 146 disposed around the electrode portion 130. The insulating band 146 covers the edge of the electrode portion 130 that defines its perimeter. The connector portion 132 extends from the perimeter of the electrode portion 130 through the insulating band 146.

The plate 128 can be made of any suitable electrode material. Examples of electrode material include, but are not limited to, carbon or nano-carbon doped plastic, platinum, rubidium, nickel, and titanium substrates. It is also contemplated that the plate 128 could be made of a material coated with an electrode material, such as, but not limited to, mixed metal oxide. In the present implementation, the plate 128 is made from stainless steel via a stamping or sintering process. The plate 128 has a rough surface finish in order to increase the surface area for the electrolysis process. It is contemplated the plate 128 could have a smooth surface finish.

The grommets 140, 142, 144 and the band 146 are made of a dielectric material such as an elastomer and most plastics. In the present implementation, the grommets 140, 142 are integral with the band 146, but it is contemplated that they could be separate. In the present implementation, the grommets 140, 142, 144 and the band 146 are all formed on the plate 128 during an overmolding process. It is contemplated that the grommet 144 could be formed separately from the grommets 140, 142 and the band 146 and then be manually or mechanically inserted in the fastener aperture 138. It is also contemplated that the grommets 140, 142 and the band 146 could be molded and then be manually or mechanically attached to the plate 128. It is also contemplated that the grommets 140, 142, 144 and the band 146 could be bonded or welded to the plate 128. As they are made from dielectric material, the grommets 140, 142, 144 and the band 146, which cover the edges of the plate 128, help reduce the previously mentioned problem of leakage current.

The thickness of the inlet and outlet insulating grommets 140, 142 is smaller than the thickness of the insulating band 146. As a result, when the electrode assemblies 102 are stacked, as can be seen in FIG. 5, the insulating bands 146 of adjacent electrode assemblies 102 abut each other but adjacent grommets 140 are space apart and adjacent grommets 142 are spaced apart. The thickness of the fastener aperture insulating grommet 144 is the same as the thickness of the insulating band 146. As a result, when the electrode assemblies 102 are stacked, as can be seen in FIG. 5, the fastener aperture insulating grommets 144 of adjacent electrode assemblies 102 abut each other. The fastener aperture insulating grommets 144 located at both ends of the stack of electrode assemblies 102 also abut the insulating plates 104. As a result, the fastener aperture insulating grommets 144 increase the rigidity of the stack of electrode assemblies 102 allowing thinner plates 128 to be used, thereby allowing for a more compact generator 100.

The electrode assemblies 102 are stacked such that the inlet apertures 134 are coaxial with each other, the outlet apertures 136 are coaxial with each other, and the fastener apertures 138 are coaxial with each other. Also, the electrode assemblies 102 are stacked such that the connector portions 132 of adjacent electrode assemblies 102 are located along different sides of the stack of electrode assemblies 102. In the present implementation, the connector portions 132 of the electrode assemblies 102 disposed at the ends and the center of the stack are disposed along a lateral side of the stack of electrode assemblies 102 and the two connector portions 132 of the other two electrode assemblies 102 are disposed along a top of the stack of electrode assemblies 102. The three side connector portions 132 are connected to one pole of the power drive 26 and the three top connector portions 132 are connected to the other pole of the power drive 26. It is contemplated that the connector portions 132 could be disposed on opposite sides (see the implementation of FIG. 9), on a same side, or on more than two sides (see the implementation of FIG. 22) of the stack of electrode assemblies 102. It is also contemplated that each plate 128 could have more than one connector portion 132 (see the implementation of FIG. 22). It is also contemplated that only the two electrode assemblies 102 at the end of the stack of electrode assemblies 102 could have connector portions 132 should the generator 100 be connected in series to the power drive 26.

Once the electrode assemblies 102 are stacked, they are disposed between the plates 104, and then between the endplates 106. A single fastener, in the form of a bolt 148, is inserted through the apertures 114, 126 and 138. As can be seen in FIG. 4, at one end, a washer 150 is placed between the head of the bolt 148 and the flange 116 of the corresponding endplate 106. At the other end, a washer 152 is placed between a nut 154 fastened onto the bolt 148 and the flange 116 of the corresponding endplate 106. Tightening the nut 154 squeezes the electrode assemblies 102, the insulating plates 104 and the endplates 106 together. No other fastener is required to hold the electrode assemblies 102, the insulating plates 104 and the endplates 106 together.

It is contemplated that prior art generators using electrodes with gaskets between each pair of electrodes could be modified to have a single fastener aperture in each electrode and gaskets between the electrodes around each fastener aperture, thus allowing a single fastener to be used to hold the stack of electrodes together. Endplates and insulating plates could be modified accordingly to also be connected via the single fastener.

As a result, the insulating bands 146 are compressed against each other and act as sealing members preventing electrolyte solution inside the generator 100 to leak out of the generator 100 via the sides of the stack of electrode assemblies 102. Similarly, the fastener aperture insulating grommets 144 are compressed against each other and act as sealing members preventing electrolyte solution inside the generator 100 to leak out of the generator 100 via the fastener apertures 138 of the stack of electrode assemblies 102. The fastener aperture insulating grommets 144 also prevent current applied to the plates 128 to flow to the bolt 148.

As can be seen in FIG. 5, an electrolysis chamber 156 is formed between each adjacent pair of electrode portions 130, insulating bands 146 and fastener aperture insulating grommets 144. In the illustrated implementation, as there are five electrode assemblies, four electrolysis chambers 156 as formed. The electrolysis chambers 156 are filled with electrolyte solution and when current is applied to the connector portion 132, the generator 100 generates hydrogen and oxygen inside each electrolysis chamber 156.

As can be seen in FIGS. 3 to 5, at one end of the generator 100, a hose connector 158 is inserted into the aperture 108 of the endplate 106 and threaded into the aperture 122 of the insulating plate 104 which are aligned with the inlet apertures 134 of the electrode assemblies 102. At the other end of the generator 100, a plug 160 is inserted into the aperture 108 of the endplate 106 and threaded into the aperture 122 of the insulating plate 104 which are aligned with the inlet apertures 134 of the electrode assemblies 102. The hose connector 158 is connected to the pump 20 via a hose (not shown) to supply electrolyte solution inside the generator 100. From the hose connector 158, the electrolyte solution flows through the various inlet apertures 134 and into the various electrolysis chambers 156 via the spaces between the inlet aperture grommets 140.

At the end of the generator 100 where the plug 160 is located, a hose connector 162 is inserted into the aperture 110 of the endplate 106 and threaded into the aperture 124 of the insulating plate 104 which are aligned with the outlet apertures 136 of the electrode assemblies 102. At the other end of the generator 100, a plug 164 is inserted into the aperture 110 of the endplate 106 and threaded into the aperture 124 of the insulating plate 104 which are aligned with the outlet apertures 136 of the electrode assemblies 102. From the electrolysis chambers 156, the electrolyte solution, the hydrogen gas, the oxygen gas and the water vapor flow via the spaces between the outlet aperture grommets 142 through the various outlet apertures 134 to the hose connector 162. From the hose connector 162, the electrolyte solution, the hydrogen gas, the oxygen gas and the water vapor flow via a hose (not shown) back to the reservoir 12.

It is contemplated that both hose connectors 158, 162 could be disposed at the same end of the generator 100 and that both plugs 160, 164 could be disposed at the other end of the generator 100. It is also contemplated that instead of providing plugs 160, 164, the corresponding holes 122, 124 in the insulating plates 104 could be omitted, in which case the corresponding holes 108, 110 in the endplates 106 could be omitted.

Turning now to FIGS. 9 to 45, alternative implementations of the system 10, the generator 100 and the electrode assembly 102 will be described. For simplicity, elements of the alternative implementations of the system 10, the generator 100 and the electrode assembly 102 described below and shown in these figures which are similar to those of the system 10, the generator 100 and the electrode assembly 102 described above and shown in FIGS. 1 to 8 have been labeled with the same reference numerals and will not be described again in detail. Also for simplicity, elements of the various implementations described below have been labeled with the same reference numerals.

Turning now to FIGS. 9 to 11, a stack of electrode assemblies 200 will be described. The stack of electrode assemblies 200 could be used in the generator 100 instead of the stack of electrode assemblies 102. In the electrode assemblies 200, the fastener aperture insulating grommets 144 and the insulating bands 146 have been replaced with fastener aperture insulating grommets 202 and insulating bands 204 respectively.

As best seen in FIG. 10, each fastener aperture insulating grommet 202 has two ribs 206 extending from one side thereof and two ribs 208 extending from another side thereof which are offset from the ribs 206. As a result, as can be seen in FIG. 10, the ribs 206, 208 of adjacent fastener insulating grommets 202 interlock when the electrode assemblies 200 are stacked. It is contemplated that only one rib 208 to be received between two ribs 206 could be provided. It is contemplated that only one rib 206 and only one rib 208 or that more than two ribs 206 and more than two ribs 208 could be provided. It is also contemplated that the ribs 206, 208 could not be offset from each other such that when the electrode assemblies 200 are stacked the ribs 206, 208 of adjacent fastener insulating grommets 202 abut each other.

As best seen in FIG. 11, each insulating band 204 has four ribs 210 extending from one side thereof and four ribs 212 extending from another side thereof which are offset from the ribs 210. As a result, as can be seen in FIG. 11, the ribs 210, 212 of adjacent insulating bands 204 interlock when the electrode assemblies 200 are stacked. It is contemplated that only three ribs 212 to be received between four ribs 210 could be provided. It is contemplated that less than four ribs 210 and less than four ribs 212 or that more than four ribs 210 and more than four ribs 210 could be provided.

As shown in the implementation shown in FIG. 13, the ribs 210, 212 could not be offset from each other such that when the electrode assemblies 200 are stacked the ribs 210, 212 of adjacent insulating bands 204 abut each other.

As can be seen in FIGS. 10 to 12, the plate 128 of each electrode assembly 200 has a plurality of apertures 214 defined along a perimeter of the electrode portion 130 and along the perimeter of each aperture 134, 136, 138. The apertures 214 are provided such that during the overmolding process used to form the grommets 140, 142 and 202 and the band 204, the dielectric material flows into the apertures 214 as can be seen in FIGS. 10 and 11, thereby permanently connecting the grommets 140, 142 and 202 and the band 204 to the plate 128.

Turning now to FIGS. 14 to 20, an electrode assembly 300 and a stack thereof will be described. The stack of electrode assemblies 300 could be used in the generator 100 instead of the stack of electrode assemblies 102. In the electrode assembly 300, the grommets 140 and 142 are provided with protrusions 302 of both sides thereof. Should the stack of electrode assemblies 300 be over compressed, the protrusions of adjacent grommets 140 and adjacent grommets 142 will abut each other, thus ensuring that passages will still be provided between adjacent grommets 140 for the passage of electrolyte solution into the electrolysis chambers 156 and between adjacent grommets 142 for the passage of electrolyte solution, hydrogen gas, oxygen gas and water vapor from the electrolysis chambers 156.

The electrode assembly 300 also has an insulating band 304. As can be seen, the insulating band 300 has four lips 210, 212 on each side thereof. On each side of the insulating band 304, apertures 306 are provided between the innermost three ribs 210, 212 and the outermost ribs 210, 212. The apertures 306 result from the clamps used during the overmolding process used to form the band 304 and the grommets 140, 142 and 202. It is contemplated that all or some of the apertures 306 could be filled with a hard dielectric insert insuring proper spacing of the electrode assemblies. As can be seen in FIG. 20, the innermost three ribs 210, 212 are offset from each other so as to interlock with the innermost three ribs 210, 212 of the adjacent electrode assemblies 300 and the outermost ribs 210, 212 are aligned with each other so as to abut the outermost ribs 210, 212 of the adjacent electrode assemblies 300.

FIG. 21 illustrates an electrode assembly 400 having four fastener apertures 138. Accordingly, the electrode assembly 400 has four fastener aperture grommets 144. Although not shown, a generator having a stack of electrode assemblies 400 has four apertures 114 in each endplate 106, four apertures 126 in each insulating plate 104, four bolts 148 and four nuts 154.

FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate a stack of electrode assemblies 500. The electrode portion 130 of each plate 128 is circular and each plate 128 has two connector portions 132 disposed at 90 degrees from each other. Each electrode assembly 500 has six fastener apertures 138, two inlet apertures 134 and two outlet apertures 136. Accordingly, each electrode assembly 500 has six fastener aperture grommets 144, two inlet insulating grommets 140 and two outlet insulating grommets. Although not shown, a generator having the stack of electrode assemblies 500 has six apertures 114 in each endplate 106, six apertures 126 in each insulating plate 104, six bolts 148 and six nuts 154. Such a generator also has two apertures 108 and two apertures 110 in each endplate 106, two apertures 122 and two apertures 124 in each insulating plates 104, two hose connectors 158, two plugs 160, two hose connectors 162 and two plugs 164.

FIG. 24 illustrates a hydrogen and oxygen generation system 600. The system 600 has a generator 602 having two inlets 22 and two outlets 28. The generator 602 separates the generated hydrogen gas from the generated oxygen gas. The hydrogen gas exits the generator 602 via one outlet 28 and the oxygen gas exits the generator 602 via the other outlet 28.

The system 600 has a reservoir 604 defining two volumes 606. One of the volumes 606 receives the hydrogen gas and the other volume 606 receives the oxygen gas. Keeping the level of electrolyte solution in the reservoir 604 above common portion 608 of the two volumes 606 ensures that the hydrogen and oxygen gases do not mix in the reservoir 604. The hydrogen and oxygen gases each flow out of their corresponding volumes 606 via a corresponding gas outlet 32. The hydrogen and oxygen gases then flow through their own set of components 34, 38 and 40.

FIGS. 25 to 32 illustrate a generator 700 suitable for use with the system 600 instead of the generator 602. The generator 700 has a stack of electrode assemblies 702 to be connected in parallel to the power drive 26 (i.e. the connector portions 132 are alternately connected to the positive and the negative poles of the power drive 26). The generator 700 has two apertures 108 and two apertures 110 in each endplate 106, two apertures 122 and two apertures 124 in each insulating plates 104 (not shown in FIG. 25), two hose connectors 158, two plugs 160 (not shown), two hose connectors 162 and two plugs 164 (not shown).

Each electrode assembly 702 two inlet apertures 134 and two outlet apertures 136. Each electrode assembly 702 has an inlet insulating grommet 704 disposed one inlet aperture 134, an inlet insulating grommet 706 disposed in the other inlet aperture 134, an outlet insulating grommet 708 disposed one outlet aperture 136 and an outlet insulating grommet 710 disposed in the other outlet aperture 136. The grommets 704 and 708 are disposed diagonally across from each other and are identical. The grommets 706 and 710 are disposed diagonally across from each other and are identical. The grommets 704 and 708 have the same thickness as the insulating band 146. The grommets 706 and 710 are thinner than the insulating band 146 and define grooves to permit the passage of electrolyte solution (grommets 706) or electrolyte solution and hydrogen gas or oxygen gas, as the case may be (grommets 710).

As can be seen in FIGS. 25, 31 and 32, each electrode assembly 702 is flipped front-to-back from the electrode assembly 702 that is next to it in the stack of electrode assemblies 702. As a result, the grommets 704, 706 alternate along the stack at the bottom of the stack and the grommets 708, 710 alternate along the stack at the top of the stack.

A membrane 712 is disposed between each pair of adjacent electrode assemblies 702. Each membrane 712 has five apertures 714, each one of which is coaxial with one of the apertures 134, 136 and 138. The grommets 704 and 708 and the insulating bands 146 have notches to receive the membranes 712. The membranes 712 separate each electrolysis chamber 156 into two portions A, B. The membranes 712 are pure polymer or composite proton exchange membranes. One example of membrane 712 is the DuPont™ Nafion® PFSA membrane. Due to the parallel connection of the electrode assemblies 702, one of hydrogen gas and oxygen gas will form in the portions A of the electrolysis chambers 156 and the other of the hydrogen gas and oxygen gas will form in the portions B of the electrolysis chamber 156. The membranes 712 prevent the hydrogen and oxygen gases from mixing in the electrolysis chambers 156. Due to the arrangement of the grommets 708, 710 described above, the flow of hydrogen and oxygen gases out of the generator 700 remain fluidly separate from each other and the hydrogen gas flows out of one of the hose connectors 162 and the oxygen gas flows out of the other hose connector 162.

FIGS. 33A to 35B illustrate a generator 800 suitable for use with the system 600 instead of the generator 602. The generator 800 has a stack of electrode assemblies 802 to be connected in series to the power drive 26 (i.e. the connector portion 132 of the electrode assembly 802 at one end of the stack is connected to the positive pole of the power drive 26, the connector portion 132 of the electrode assembly 802 at the other end of the stack is connected to the negative pole of the power drive 26 and the other electrode assemblies 802 have no connection to the power drive 26). The generator 800 has two apertures 108 and two apertures 110 in each endplate 106, two apertures 122 and two apertures 124 in each insulating plates 104, two hose connectors 158, two plugs 160, two hose connectors 162 and two plugs 164.

Each electrode assembly 802 two inlet apertures 134 and two outlet apertures 136. Each electrode assembly 802 has an inlet insulating grommet 804 disposed one inlet aperture 134, an inlet insulating grommet 806 disposed in the other inlet aperture 134, an outlet insulating grommet 808 disposed one outlet aperture 136 and an outlet insulating grommet 810 disposed in the other outlet aperture 136. The grommets 804 and 808 are disposed diagonally across from each other and are identical. The grommets 806 and 810 are disposed diagonally across from each other and are identical. The grommets 804 and 808 have the define grooves on one side (FIG. 33B) to permit the passage of electrolyte solution (grommets 804) or electrolyte solution and hydrogen gas or oxygen gas, as the case may be (grommets 808) and have no groove on the other side (FIG. 33A) to prevent the passage of fluid. The grommets 806 and 810 define grooves (FIG. 33A) on the side opposite to the grooves of the grommets 804, 808 to permit the passage of electrolyte solution (grommets 806) or electrolyte solution and hydrogen gas or oxygen gas, as the case may be (grommets 810) and have no groove on the other side (FIG. 33B) to prevent the passage of fluid.

A membrane 712 is disposed between each pair of adjacent electrode assemblies 802. Due to the series connection of the electrode assemblies 802, one of hydrogen gas and oxygen gas will form in the portions A of the electrolysis chambers 156 and the other of the hydrogen gas and oxygen gas will form in the portions B of the electrolysis chamber 156. The membranes 712 prevent the hydrogen and oxygen gases from mixing in the electrolysis chambers 156. Due to the arrangement of the grommets 808, 810 described above, the flow of hydrogen and oxygen gases out of the generator 800 remain fluidly separate from each other and the hydrogen gas flows out of one of the hose connectors 162 and the oxygen gas flows out of the other hose connector 162.

FIG. 36 illustrates a hydrogen and oxygen generation system 900. The system 900 has a generator 902 having two inlets 22 and two outlets 28. The generator 902 separates the generated hydrogen gas from the generated oxygen gas. The generator 902 is air cooled. To cool the electrolyte solution flowing through the generator 902, an air blower 904 blows air into the generator 902 via an air inlet 906. The air flows over cooling fins similar to those of the electrode assemblies 1006 described below. The cooling fins are extensions of the electrode portions and pass through the insulating bands of the electrode assemblies. The electrode portions of the electrode assemblies draw heat from the electrolyte solution; this heat is transferred to the cooling fins and the air flowing over the cooling fins draw heat therefrom, thereby cooling the electrolyte solution. The heated air then flows out of the generator 902 via an air outlet 908.

FIGS. 37 to 39 illustrate an air cooled generator 1000 having a single inlet for the electrolyte solution and a single outlet for the electrolyte solution, the hydrogen gas, the oxygen gas and the water vapor. The generator 1000 has two endplates 1002 made of dielectric material, therefore insulating plates are not required. A housing 1004 is disposed between the two endplates 1002. A stack of electrode assemblies 1006 is disposed between the endplates 1002 and is housed inside the housing 1004. The housing 1004 defines an air inlet 1008 to be connected to an air blower and an air outlet 1010. Each electrode assembly 1006 has a cooling fin portion 1012 disposed around the electrode portion 130 and connected thereto. The insulating band 146 is disposed between the electrode portion 130 and the cooling fin portion 1012. The cooling fin portions 1012 are used to connect the electrode assemblies 1006 to the power drive 26. Air enters the housing 1004 via the air inlet 1008, flows over the fin portions 1012 and leaves the housing via the air outlet 1010.

FIG. 40 illustrates a hydrogen and oxygen generation system 1100. The system 1100 has a generator 1102 having two inlets 22 and two outlets 28. The generator 1102 separates the generated hydrogen gas from the generated oxygen gas. The generator 1102 is water cooled. To cool the electrolyte solution flowing through the generator 1102, a pump 1104 draws coolant from a radiator 1106 through the generator 1102 to cool the electrolyte solution and pumps the coolant back to the radiator 1106 to cool the coolant. The coolant flows through a coolant passage defined by the electrode assemblies of the generator 1102 that is fluidly separate from the electrolysis chambers 156 so as not to mix with the electrolyte solution.

FIGS. 41 to 45 illustrate a water cooled generator 1200 having a single inlet for the electrolyte solution and a single outlet for the electrolyte solution, the hydrogen gas, the oxygen gas and the water vapor. The generator 1200 has two endplates 1202 made of dielectric material, therefore insulating plates are not required. Each endplate 1202 has an aperture below the fastener 148 to receive a hose connector 1204. One of the hose connector 1204 is connected to a pump (like pump 1104) and the other hose connector 1204 is connected to a radiator (like radiator 1106). The generator 1200 has a stack of electrode assemblies 1206 disposed between the endplates 1202. Each electrode assembly 1206 has a sealing grommet 1208 made of dielectric material disposed around the grommet 144. A plurality of apertures 1210 are formed in the annular portion of the electrode portion 130 disposed between the grommets 144 and 1208. As can be seen in FIG. 43, the sealing grommets 1208 abut each other and, as previously explained, the grommets 144 also abut each other. As a result, an annular coolant passage 1212 is formed between the grommets 144 and 1208 which allows coolant to flow through the generator 1200 from one connector 1204 to the other connector 1204 and that is fluidly separate from the electrolysis chambers 156. The coolant absorbs heat from the annular portion of the electrode portion 130 disposed between the grommets 144 and 1208 as it flows though the coolant passage 1212.

Modifications and improvements to the above-described implementations of the present technology may become apparent to those skilled in the art. The foregoing description is intended to be exemplary rather than limiting. The scope of the present technology is therefore intended to be limited solely by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An electrode assembly for a hydrogen and oxygen generator comprising:

a plate defining an electrode portion, the electrode portion having a perimeter, the electrode portion defining an inlet aperture and an outlet aperture;

an inlet insulating grommet disposed in the inlet aperture and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining the inlet aperture;

an outlet insulating grommet disposed in the outlet aperture and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining the outlet aperture; and

an insulating band disposed around the electrode portion and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining the perimeter.

2. The electrode assembly of claim 1, wherein the inlet insulating grommet, the outlet insulating grommet and the insulating band are integral.

3. The electrode assembly of claim 1, wherein the outlet aperture is disposed closer to an upper end of the electrode portion than the inlet aperture.

4. The electrode assembly of claim 3, wherein:

the electrode portion is generally rectangular; and

the inlet and outlet apertures are disposed at diagonally opposite corners of the electrode portion.

5. The electrode assembly of claim 1, wherein the plate has a connector portion, the connector portion extending from the electrode portion, the connector portion extending through the insulating band.

6. The electrode assembly of claim 1, wherein:

a thickness of the insulating band is greater than a thickness of at least a portion of the inlet insulating grommet; and

the thickness of the insulating band is greater than a thickness of at least a portion the outlet insulating grommet.

7. The electrode assembly of claim 1, wherein:

the plate has a first face and a second face;

the insulating band has a first face disposed a first distance from the first face of the plate and a second face disposed a second distance from the second face of the plate;

the inlet insulating grommet has a first face disposed a third distance from the first face of the plate and a second face disposed a fourth distance from the second face of the plate;

the outlet insulating grommet has a first face disposed a fifth distance from the first face of the plate and a second face disposed a sixth distance from the second face of the plate;

the first distance is greater than the third and fifth distances; and

the second distance is greater than the fourth and sixth distances.

8. The electrode assembly of claim 1, wherein the insulating band has at least one first rib extending away from a first face of the plate and at least one second rib extending away from a second face of the plate.

9. The electrode assembly of claim 1, wherein the electrode portion defines at least one fastener aperture configured to receive a fastener therethrough; and

the electrode assembly further comprises at least one fastener aperture insulating grommet disposed in the at least one fastener aperture, each of the at least one fastener aperture insulating grommet covering an edge of the electrode portion defining a corresponding one of the at least one fastener aperture.

10. The electrode assembly of claim 9, wherein the at least one fastener aperture is a single fastener aperture and the at least one fastener aperture insulating grommet is a single fastener aperture insulating grommet.

11. The electrode assembly of claim 10, wherein the single fastener aperture is defined at a center of the electrode portion.

12. The electrode assembly of claim 9, wherein a thickness of the insulating band and a thickness of the at least one fastener aperture insulating grommet are equal.

13. The electrode assembly of claim 1, wherein:

the outlet aperture is a first outlet aperture;

the electrode portion defines a second outlet aperture; and

the outlet insulating grommet is a first outlet insulating grommet;

the electrode assembly further comprising a second outlet insulating grommet disposed in the second outlet aperture and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining the second outlet aperture.

14. The electrode assembly of claim 13, wherein:

the inlet aperture is a first inlet aperture;

the electrode portion defines a second inlet aperture; and

the inlet insulating grommet is a first inlet insulating grommet;

the electrode assembly further comprising a second inlet insulating grommet disposed in the second inlet aperture and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining the second inlet aperture.

15. A hydrogen and oxygen generator comprising:

first and second endplates;

at least two electrode assemblies, the at least two electrode assemblies defining an electrolysis chamber therebetween, the at least two electrodes assemblies being disposed between the first and second endplates; and

at least one fastener connecting the first endplate to the second endplate,

each of the at least two electrode assemblies comprising: a plate defining an electrode portion, the electrode portion having a perimeter, the electrode portion defining an inlet aperture and an outlet aperture; an inlet insulating grommet disposed in the inlet aperture and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining the inlet aperture; an outlet insulating grommet disposed in the outlet aperture and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining the outlet aperture; and an insulating band disposed around the electrode portion and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining the perimeter,

the insulating bands of the at least two electrode assemblies abutting each other;

the inlet and outlet apertures of the at least two electrode assemblies fluidly communicating with the electrolysis chamber.

16. The generator of claim 15, wherein the at least two electrode assemblies is at least three electrode assemblies disposed adjacent to each other in a pile;

wherein each pair of adjacent electrode assemblies of the at least three electrode assemblies defines an electrolysis chamber therebetween; and

wherein the insulating bands of each pair of adjacent electrode assemblies of the at least three electrode assemblies abut each other.

17. The generator of claim 15, further comprising:

a first insulating plate disposed between the first endplate and the at least two electrode assemblies; and

a second insulating plate disposed between the second endplate and the at least two electrode assemblies,

the first and second insulating plates being made of a dielectric material.

18. The generator of claim 15, wherein, for each of the at least two electrode assemblies, the inlet insulating grommet, the outlet insulating grommet and the insulating band are integral.

19. The generator of claim 15, wherein for each of the at least two electrode assemblies:

the electrode portion is generally rectangular; and

the inlet and outlet apertures are disposed at diagonally opposite corners of the electrode portion.

20. The generator of claim 15, wherein for at least two of the at least two electrode assemblies:

the plate has a connector portion;

the connector portion extends from the electrode portion; and

the connector portion extends through the insulating band.

21. The generator of claim 15, wherein for each of the at least two electrode assemblies:

a thickness of the insulating band is greater than a thickness of at least a portion of the inlet insulating grommet; and

the thickness of the insulating band is greater than a thickness of at least a portion the outlet insulating grommet.

22. The generator of claim 15, wherein the first and second endplates each define a single fastener aperture;

wherein for each of the at least two electrode assemblies: the electrode portion defines a single fastener aperture; and a fastener aperture insulating grommet is disposed in the fastener aperture and covers an edge of the electrode portion defining the fastener aperture;

wherein the fastener apertures of the first and second endplates and of the at least two electrode assemblies are coaxial; and

wherein the at least one fastener is a single fastener passing through the fastener apertures of the first and second endplates and of the at least two electrode assemblies for connecting the first endplate, the second endplate and the at least two electrode assemblies together.

23. The generator of claim 22, wherein the fastener aperture insulating grommets of the at least two electrode assemblies abut each other.

24. A hydrogen and oxygen generation system comprising:

the generator according to any one of claims 15 to 23;

a reservoir for storing an electrolyte solution;

a pump for supplying electrolyte solution from the reservoir to the electrolysis chamber via at least one inlet aperture;

at least one outlet aperture being fluidly connected to the reservoir for supplying hydrogen, oxygen and electrolyte solution to the reservoir from the electrolysis chamber, the reservoir having an outlet for supplying at least one of hydrogen and oxygen to a device; and

a power source electrically connected to at least two of the at least two electrode assemblies.

25. The hydrogen and oxygen generation system of claim 24, wherein the generator further comprises a housing disposed between the first and second endplates, the at least two electrode assemblies being housed in the housing, the housing defining an air inlet and an air outlet;

wherein the plate of each of the at least two electrode assemblies further comprises a cooling fin portion;

wherein for each of the at least two electrode assemblies the insulating band is disposed between the electrode portion and the cooling fin portion; and

the hydrogen and oxygen generation system further comprises an air blower fluidly connected to the air inlet for blowing air inside the housing, the air flowing over the cooling fins and exiting the housing via the air outlet.

26. The hydrogen and oxygen generation system of claim 24, wherein the plate of each of the at least two electrodes defines at least one coolant aperture;

wherein the coolant apertures fluidly communicate with each other to define a coolant passage, the coolant passage being fluidly separate from the electrolysis chamber; and

the hydrogen and oxygen generation system further comprises a coolant pump for supplying coolant to the coolant passage.

27. A hydrogen and oxygen generator comprising:

a first endplate defining a single fastener aperture;

a second endplate defining a single fastener aperture;

at least two electrodes, the at least two electrode defining an electrolysis chamber therebetween, the at least two electrodes being disposed between the first and second endplates,

each of the at least two electrodes defining: an inlet aperture; an outlet aperture; and a single fastener aperture,

the inlet and outlet apertures of the at least two electrodes fluidly communicating with the electrolysis chamber,

the fastener apertures of the first and second endplates and of the at least two electrodes being coaxial;

at least one sealing element disposed between each a pair of adjacent electrodes of the at least two electrodes; and

a single fastener passing through the fastener apertures of the first and second endplates and of the at least two electrodes for connecting the first endplate, the second endplate and the at least two electrodes together.

28. The generator of claim 27, wherein the single fastener is a sole means for connecting the first endplate, the second endplate and the at least two electrodes together.

29. The generator of claim 27, wherein the fastener apertures of the first and second endplates and of the at least two electrodes are disposed in a center of the first and second endplates and of the at least two electrodes.

30. The generator of claim 27, wherein each electrode has a fastener aperture insulating grommet disposed in the single fastener aperture.

31. The generator of claim 30, wherein the fastener aperture insulating grommets of the at least two electrode abut each other.