Abstract: A system for charging batteries by applying a high voltage finish charge to a battery with an electronic charging device connected in series between a state-of-the-art charging system or alternator and the to-be-charged battery, without the use of any other external power source.

Abstract: An ultracapacitor is manufactured from a woven carbon fiber material that is partially saturated with structural resin. The portion of the carbon fiber material that contains the resin may be used as a structural element in spacecraft or other applications. The carbon fibers of the woven material are used both as the current collector and the electrode. Activated carbon fiber material may be used or only the electrode portion of the carbon fibers may be activated.

Abstract: A capacitor assembled in the form of a lightweight structural panel and including isolated capacitor cells. Each of the cells includes a honeycomb structure wherein each film-like layer in the honeycomb structure is an electrode stack. Each of the electrode stacks includes an elongated cathode, an elongated separator, and an elongated anode. The separator is wetted with an electrolyte solution to enhance the dielectric properties of the separator. Alternatively, the capacitor cell could be composed of a foam-like cathode, foam-like separator, and a foam-like anode. With either embodiment, the invention achieves the storage of electrostatic energy in a structure with a multitude of voids defined therein so that the structure is relatively stiff, yet light weight.

Abstract: A battery assembled in the form of a lightweight structural panel and including isolated battery cells. Each of the cells includes a honeycomb structure wherein each film-like layer in the honeycomb structure is an electrode stack. Each of the electrode stacks includes an elongated cathode, an elongated separator, and an elongated anode. The separator is wetted with an electrolyte solution to facilitate the electrochemical reaction. The electrochemical reaction may be that of an NiMH2 battery, an NiH battery, an Li.sup.+ battery, an NiCd battery, a Lead-acid battery, or any other suitable electrochemical reaction. Alternatively, the battery cell could be composed of a foam-like cathode, foam-like separator, and a foam-like anode. With either embodiment, the invention achieves the storage of electrochemical energy in a structure with a multitude of voids defined therein so that the structure is relatively stiff, yet light weight.

Abstract: A thermal container for insertion into a backpack having separate attachment means for securing an integral flap and sealing means for further sealing an opening of said insert container. The container has an open position for receiving carried items and a closed position for sealing the carried items therein. The closure flap is integrally formed with a body of the container. Closure of the flap deforms the body along deformation lines, closing and opening. Selectively positionable stops drawn tightly against the closure flap seals the opening and the items carried therein. The container is insertable into any one of a number of backpacks, and the drawstring can be used as a carrying handle.