Introduction to research theme:
Ubiquitous Energy
1. Outline of research and background
In future, a variety of battery-powered electronic
devices that can be carried, worn or embedded will be part of our everyday
life and contribute to improved quality of life. Society will be transformed
into one where people's actions and lives will be supported by information
obtained by these electronic devices. In other words, electronic devices
will serve as a second lifeline for people.
We approach research in the field of ubiquitous energy by first undertaking projects on fuel cell batteries and optimal use of power sources available for electronic devices, with the goal of delivering ubiquitous energy solutions which allow energy to be supplied to any electronic devices anywhere and anytime.
We approach research in the field of ubiquitous energy by first undertaking projects on fuel cell batteries and optimal use of power sources available for electronic devices, with the goal of delivering ubiquitous energy solutions which allow energy to be supplied to any electronic devices anywhere and anytime.
2. Proposed future value
The future value that we aim to offer is a convenient
living environment where people can lead active lives with peace of mind
through the use of electronic devices essential to living anytime, anywhere
and for any length of time.
Without having to worry about batteries running out, life will be more convenient and people can gain peace of mind and less stress, thus encouraging people to lead more active, dynamic lives.
Another possible consequence is the creation of a totally new lifestyle.
Without having to worry about batteries running out, life will be more convenient and people can gain peace of mind and less stress, thus encouraging people to lead more active, dynamic lives.
Another possible consequence is the creation of a totally new lifestyle.
3. Details of research and formation
Our research focuses on two areas: fuel cell batteries
and optimal use technologies for power sources for electronic devices.
(1) Research on fuel cell batteries
(This research program has been finished as we got expected results.)
Fossil fuels will surely run out in the near future. The most promising alternative to fossil fuels will be fuel cell batteries, and research projects for a variety of fuel cell batteries are underway. In particular, the direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) has attracted most research but this too has its limitations. For instance, the use of DMFCs in devices with large load fluctuations and operation at low temperatures need to be addressed.
In order to solve the problems faced by DMFC, we contract QinetiQ(UK) to research on hydrogen energy technology, which will lead to the development of hydrogen fuel cells using a fuel called ammonia borane*1
First, we will conduct research on a compact hydrogen generator for portable use, which allows hydrogen to be released from ammonia borane. This will be followed by research for practical applications where the compact hydrogen generator, combined with hydrogen fuel cells, will be developed into a suitable power source for portable devices.
*1 Composed of hydrogen, nitrogen and boron, ammonia borane is a white stable solid at normal temperatures. High in hydrogen content (about 20% in weight), it releases hydrogen when heated. It is an environment-friendly, recyclable substance with no toxicity.
News Release
QinetiQ
News Release
(2) Research on optimal use technology for a variety of power sources for portable devices
It is essential to supply the type of power most appropriate to the characteristics of each portable device. A variety of power sources are available for portable devices including lithium batteries, fuel cells, solar batteries and large-capacity capacitors. In our research, we aim to select, from among such alternatives, the most appropriate power source for each device to ensure long hours of continuous operation as well as to research the optimal use. For some devices, hybrid power, which combines more than one power source, may be investigated.
We expect to conduct research in this area in collaboration with domestic research institutes.
(1) Research on fuel cell batteries
(This research program has been finished as we got expected results.)
Fossil fuels will surely run out in the near future. The most promising alternative to fossil fuels will be fuel cell batteries, and research projects for a variety of fuel cell batteries are underway. In particular, the direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) has attracted most research but this too has its limitations. For instance, the use of DMFCs in devices with large load fluctuations and operation at low temperatures need to be addressed.
In order to solve the problems faced by DMFC, we contract QinetiQ(UK) to research on hydrogen energy technology, which will lead to the development of hydrogen fuel cells using a fuel called ammonia borane*1
First, we will conduct research on a compact hydrogen generator for portable use, which allows hydrogen to be released from ammonia borane. This will be followed by research for practical applications where the compact hydrogen generator, combined with hydrogen fuel cells, will be developed into a suitable power source for portable devices.
*1 Composed of hydrogen, nitrogen and boron, ammonia borane is a white stable solid at normal temperatures. High in hydrogen content (about 20% in weight), it releases hydrogen when heated. It is an environment-friendly, recyclable substance with no toxicity.
News Release QinetiQ
News Release (2) Research on optimal use technology for a variety of power sources for portable devices
It is essential to supply the type of power most appropriate to the characteristics of each portable device. A variety of power sources are available for portable devices including lithium batteries, fuel cells, solar batteries and large-capacity capacitors. In our research, we aim to select, from among such alternatives, the most appropriate power source for each device to ensure long hours of continuous operation as well as to research the optimal use. For some devices, hybrid power, which combines more than one power source, may be investigated.
We expect to conduct research in this area in collaboration with domestic research institutes.
4. Research Roadmap
5. Third-party research institute
QinetiQ is Europe's biggest science and technology
research organization. It employs nearly 10,000 staff, including some
of Britain's leading scientists and internationally acclaimed experts.
Its wide-ranging research and development activities encompass fields
as diverse as energy, telecommunications, automotive technology, rail
technology, electrical and electronic technology, aerospace, health, oil
and gas, information technology and defense.
QinetiQ's heritage includes pioneering research and development in key areas of technology, such as liquid crystal displays (LCDs), carbon fiber, flat panel speaker technology, infra-red sensors, ultrasonic radar, and a fetal heart monitoring system. Its contributions to the well-being of people throughout the world include numerous advances in the fields of healthcare and passenger safety and transportation technology.
QinetiQ Limited
QinetiQ's heritage includes pioneering research and development in key areas of technology, such as liquid crystal displays (LCDs), carbon fiber, flat panel speaker technology, infra-red sensors, ultrasonic radar, and a fetal heart monitoring system. Its contributions to the well-being of people throughout the world include numerous advances in the fields of healthcare and passenger safety and transportation technology.
QinetiQ Limited 6. Researcher
Toshio Horiguchi, Research Coordinator and Chief Scientist,
Future Creation Laboratory
Please use this click to send us question or comments on this domain.
Please use this click to send us question or comments on this domain.
