Abstract: A portable electricity generation device comprises a plurality of fuel cells, each fuel cell having an anode end with a catalyst facilitating the separation of hydrogen atoms into electrons and protons, a cathode end facilitating the combination of the electrons and protons into water molecules in the presence of oxygen, and a current bearing portion providing a current path for the electrons to traverse. The electricity generation device also includes a fuel storage container for storing a supply of hydrogen and delivering the supply of hydrogen to an anode end of the plurality of fuel cells so as to initiate a flow of the electrons through the current bearing portion. In addition, the portable electricity generation device includes an air moving device configured to direct atmospheric air toward a cathode end of the plurality of fuel cells, wherein the air moving device is positioned to convectively cool the plurality of fuel cells as it supplies atmospheric air to the cathode end.

Abstract: The present invention concerns improvements in fuel cell fabrication. Arrays of independent acting compliant electrical contacts are incorporated within a fuel cell which improve fuel cell operation by creating uniform and intimate electrical contact with the adjacent membrane electrode assembly (MEA). These compliant electrical contacts provide substantial uniform internal pressure distribution and substantially uniform electrical contact. In one embodiment, the array of compliant electrical contacts are in the form of a plurality of metal springs of various configurations which are electrically and mechanical contacted to a conducting base plate. In another embodiment the array of compliant electrical contacts are in the form of a plurality of small metal pins or rods which are electrically and mechanically contacted to a conducting base plate.