In newly published patent applications on Thursday, Apple described a way for fuel cell power sources to be designed into electronics, such as a laptop, and controlled to optimise their performance without adding a lot of extra weight.
In one patent application titled simply a 'Fuel Cell System to Power a Portable Computing Device', Apple said there is "increasing awareness and desire" among consumers to use renewable-energy sources. Fuel cells are compelling technically because of their energy density, or ability to pack a lot of energy into a relatively small package compared to a battery.
"Fuel cells and associated fuels can potentially achieve high volumetric and gravimetric energy densities, which can potentially enable continued operation of portable electronic devices for days or even weeks without refueling," according to the patent application. The challenge has always been keeping electronics portable and cost effective, Apple said in the application.
For more on this ZDNet UK-selected story, see Apple fuel cell patent applications envision 'weeks without refueling' on CNET News.
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Apple is enjoying a very nice winning streak from all of their hard work! This is yet another example of how to jump right over your competitors! Will they perhaps even catch up to Google some day