Abstract: An isolated switching dc-to-dc converter is provided with a novel open-loop input voltage regulation on the primary side and the full regulation and independent protection of each of multiple outputs on the secondary side using an auxiliary circuit comprising a current bidirectional switch Q.sub.a and a capacitor C.sub.a on the primary side in a series circuit connected in parallel with a main current bidirectional switch Q to assure a continuous conduction mode for operation of the primary boost-like converter, and consequently preserves the simplicity of open-loop input voltage regulation for all loads from no load to full load. The auxiliary switch Q.sub.a is very efficient with only a fraction (5% or less) of the losses of the main active switch Q. The ideal dynamic response approaching theoretical limits is achieved for both line and load transients together with a high efficiency (85%) and record power density (20 W per cubic inch) for multiple output converters.

Abstract: A high density cell stack is provided utilizing strips of flexible cathode material and flexible anode materials folded over each other at right angles. A suitable anode material is lithium and a suitable cathode material is manganese dioxide. The disclosed cell stacks are rapidly manufactured to provide high density cells with good mechanical stability and good stability against shorting.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring the condition of a plurality of electrochemical cells and controlling the output of said cells upon detection of a cell having a lower capacity than the others.

Abstract: A self-limiting electrochemical cell such as a lithium-sulfur dioxide cell having a non-porous, non-ion-permeable separator between the anode and cathode so as to control the passage of electrolyte and ion-transfer between the working electrodes thereby controlling the current drain based on the controlled amount of electrolyte. The invention provides a convenient method of controlling the drain rates of an electrochemical cell and permits utilization of conventional cells such as the lithium-sulfur dioxide, lithium-thionyl chloride, or lithium-sulfuryl chloride cells in applications not previously possible.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a venting device for a sealed container, and more particularly to a safety venting device for a Lithium cell. The venting device is located on one of the two ends of a sealed container. The vent is comprised of a circular member which is recessed in the container end whereby it is concave with respect to the exterior of the container. Extending between the circular member and the container end are scored lines of weakness. As pressure increases in the container, the circular member deflects so as to develop stresses which become concentrated on the scored lines causing them to rupture at a predetermined pressure.

Abstract: A lithium anode comprising in contact therewith a copper strip extending the substantial length of said anode for utilization in a lithium-sulfur dioxide cell. The copper strip provides a convenient means for fabrication of a lithium-sulfur dioxide coulombically balanced cell as herein defined, and prevents detrimental effects such as bulging, venting, or explosion of the cell when the cell is subjected to forced discharge.

Abstract: A circuit for detecting the discharge level of a long life battery, such as a lithium battery, in which the battery is periodically subjected to an increased load for short durations of time. The periodic increases in load allows the end of battery life to be predicted and detected prior to the time the battery is fully depleted. Forecasting the end of battery life ensures that the battery will have sufficient energy to reliably operate the discharge level detection circuitry before the battery is fully depleted.

Abstract: A sealed electrical energy storage container is provided which is cylindrical in shape and has upstanding sidewalls of generally uniform thickness. The upstanding sidewalls of the container include at least one area of reduced sidewall thickness and the reduced sidewall thickness area is designed to rupture in response to predetermined circumferential stresses occurring within the cylindrical container. The circumferential stresses occurring within the cylindrical container can be concisely calculated, allowing the thickness of the reduced thickness area to also be calculated, such that container venting will occur in response to a concise and predetermined internal pressure within the container.