Abstract: A fuel cell apparatus includes tandem storage tanks containing activation devices that release the oxidant gas and fuel gas to the fuel cell membrane when needed. The membrane assemblies surround the storage tanks, overlapping one another in a configuration more suited to use in environments with limited space than the traditional, stacked membrane assemblies. The activation devices are triggered by inertia to puncture membrane valves so that the oxidant gas and fuel gas is kept from the fuel cell membrane prior to inertial triggering and is supplied to the membrane after inertial triggering. The activation devices include spring loaded pivoting arms on supports that swing downward and outward upon subjecting the device to inertial forces.

Abstract: A fuel cell includes a stack of electrolyte membranes joined to one another to form an interior space and an exterior space. Fuel, such as hydrogen, is provided to the interior space. The electrolyte membranes are circular and joined to adjacent membranes at the outer perimeters to enclose the interior space. A stack of such membrane assemblies is provided on a shaft and is rotated within a housing to drive off byproduct water. The water is collected and recirculated by spraying over the fuel cell stack for cooling and hydration.

Abstract: A fuel cell device includes at least one and preferably two gas storage chambers, the gas storage chambers being connected via gas flow channels to a fuel cell membrane, such as a proton exchange membrane. A piston in each gas storage chamber moves to compress the gas upon being subject to an acceleration force. A flow control opens upon a predetermined condition being achieved to provide the compressed gases to a fuel cell membrane.