WO2022160038A1

WO2022160038A1 - Method and system for automatic monitoring of the level of electrolyte solution inside of an electrolytic reactor

Info

Publication number: WO2022160038A1
Application number: PCT/CA2022/050098
Authority: WO
Inventors: Gurpreet Singh Bhullar; Gurjant SINGH; Bheepinderpreet SINGH
Original assignee: Dynacert Inc.
Priority date: 2021-01-28
Filing date: 2022-01-25
Publication date: 2022-08-04

Abstract

The various embodiments disclosed herein relate to a system and a method for automatic monitoring of level of electrolyte solution inside of an electrolytic reactor. In at least one embodiment, the system comprises an electrolytic reactor assembly including a plurality of electrolytic cells, the plurality of electrolytic cells being configured to perform electrolysis on the electrolyte solution; and a control system coupled to the electrolytic reactor assembly, the control system having a processor configured to: identify an input current and an input voltage applied to the reactor cell assembly; determine a quantity of consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution; determine a current consumption threshold for consuming the consumable solvent; monitor a total current consumption of the electrolytic reactor assembly during operation of the electrolytic reactor assembly; and determine if the total current consumption exceeds the current consumption threshold.

Description

TITLE: METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATIC MONITORING OF THE LEVEL OF ELECTROLYTE SOLUTION INSIDE OF AN ELECTROLYTIC REACTOR

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/142,545 filed on January 28, 2021 , which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

FIELD

[0002] The described embodiments relate to an electrolytic reactor system, and in particular, to a method and system for automatic monitoring of the level of electrolyte solution inside of an electrolytic reactor.

INTRODUCTION

[0003] The fuel economy of an internal combustion engine may be improved by injecting hydrogen and oxygen gases into the engine’s air-intake stream. In some cases, hydrogen and oxygen gases may be supplied to the internal combustion engine by an “on-demand” electrolytic reactor system, which electrolytically disassociates an electrolyte solution to generate hydrogen gas and oxygen gas. In various cases, it may be necessary to monitor the level of electrolyte solution, in real-time or near real-time, inside the electrolytic reactor in order to determine when it is required to re-fill or replenish the reactor.

SUMMARY

[0004] In accordance with at least one broad aspect of the subject matter described herein, there is provided an electrolytic reactor system comprising: a reactor and tank assembly, comprising: a tank system for retaining a volume of electrolyte solution comprising a mixture of the electrolyte and a solvent; a reactor cell assembly in fluid communication with the tank assembly, the reactor cell assembly comprising one or more electrolytic cells, the one or more electrolytic cells being configured to perform electrolysis on the electrolyte solution; a controller, the controller having at least one processor configured to: identify an input current and an input voltage applied to the reactor cell assembly; determine a quantity of consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution based on the volume of electrolyte solution in the tank system; determine, based on the input current and input voltage, a threshold amount of input current to be applied to the reactor cell assembly to deplete the quantity of consumable solvent; monitor, over time, a total input current consumption of the reactor cell assembly during operation; determine if the total input current consumption is greater than the threshold amount of input current; and if the total input current consumption is greater than the threshold amount of input current, then generate an output indication, otherwise continue monitoring the total current consumption.

[0005] In at least some embodiments, the controller further comprises a memory coupled to the at least one processor.

[0006] In at least some embodiments, the system further comprises a power source coupled to the reactor cell assembly and the controller.

[0007] In at least some embodiments, identifying the input current and input voltage is based on a known voltage and current configuration settings of the power source, which is stored in the memory.

[0008] In at least some embodiments, the system further comprises a monitoring system coupled to the reactor and tank assembly, the monitoring system comprising one or more of: (i) a current sensor for monitoring current consumption of the reactor and tank system; and (ii) a voltage sensor for monitoring voltage consumption of the reactor and tank system.

[0009] In at least some embodiments, determining the quantity of consumable solvent is based on: (i) the volume of electrolyte solution inside the tank system, (ii) a concentration of electrolyte in the electrolyte solution based on the volume, and (iii) a desired threshold electrolyte concentration. [0010] In at least some embodiments, the electrolyte comprises potassium hydroxide (KOH) and the solvent comprises water.

[0011] In at least some embodiments, the threshold electrolyte concentration is approximately 40%.

[0012] In at least some embodiments, determining the threshold amount of input current comprises the at least one processor being further configured to: determine a gas flow rate generated by the reactor cell assembly, wherein the gas flow rate is determined based on the identified input current and input voltage; determine a maximum volume of output gas generatable, by the reactor cell assembly, by depleting the quantity of consumable solvent; based on the gas flow rate and the maximum volume of output gas, determine the time required to consume the consumable solvent; and determine the threshold amount of input current based on the identified input current and the time required to consume the consumable solvent.

[0013] In at least some embodiments, the at least one processor is further configured to determine a cell configuration for the reactor cell assembly, wherein the cell configuration corresponds to a number of active cells of the one or more electrolytic cells in the reactor cell assembly.

[0014] In at least some embodiments, the system further comprises a reactor relay system coupled to the reactor cell assembly, the reactor relay system being configurable to vary the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly, and wherein determining the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly is based on monitoring a latest command signal transmitted to the reactor relay system.

[0015] In at least some embodiments, the memory stores pre-determined gas flow rate correlation data relating the identified input voltage and input current to corresponding gas flow rate, and the gas flow rate is determined based on the predetermined gas flow rate correlation data.

[0016] In at least some embodiments, the memory stores different pre-determined gas flow rate correlation data for different cell configurations, and the gas flow rate is determined based on the respective pre-determined gas flow rate correlation data for that cell configuration.

[0017] In at least some embodiments, the system further comprises a display device coupled to the at least one processor, and generating an output indication comprises displaying the indication on the display device.

[0018] In at least some embodiments, in response to determining that the total input current consumption is greater than the threshold amount of input current, the at least one processor is further configured to deactivate the power source.

[0019] In at least some embodiments, during the monitoring of the total input current consumption, the at least one processor is further configured to: determine if there is a change in the input current applied to the reactor cell assembly; if a change is determined, determine: (i) a remaining quantity of consumable solvent inside of the reactor and tank assembly based on the total input current consumption, and (ii) a new threshold amount of input current required to deplete the remaining quantity of consumable solvent; and continue monitoring the total input current consumption to determine if the total input current consumption is greater than the new threshold amount of input current.

[0020] In at least some embodiments, determining if there is a change in the input current is based on the current consumption signal received from the current sensor.

[0021] In at least some embodiments, during the monitoring of the total current consumption, the at least one processor is further configured to: determine if there is a change in the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly; if a change is determined, determine: (i) the remaining quantity of consumable solvent inside of the reactor and tank assembly based on the total input current consumption, and (ii) a new threshold amount of input current required to deplete the remaining quantity of consumable solvent; and continue monitoring the total input current consumption to determine if the total input current consumption is greater than the new threshold amount of input current. [0022] In at least some embodiments, determining if there is a change in the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly is based on monitoring the latest command signal transmitted to the reactor relay system.

[0023] In at least some embodiments, the system further comprises a solvent pump fluidically coupled to an external solvent tank, wherein the solvent pump is in communication with the controller, and further fluidically couplable to the tank system, and the at least one processor is further configured to: identify the total input current consumption by the reactor cell assembly; based on the identified total input current consumption, determine a quantity of consumable solvent which has been depleted; based on a known flow rate for the solvent pump, determine a period of fill time to activate the solvent pump to re-fill the tank system; activate the solvent the pump for the period of fill time; and subsequently, de-activate the solvent pump.

[0024] In at least some embodiments, the total current consumption is a value stored in the memory, and the value is updated during the monitoring of the total current consumption, and the at least one processor is further configured to: identify the total input current consumption by reading the value from the memory; and reset the value after the period of fill time has elapsed.

[0025] In at least some embodiments, a level sensor is positioned inside the tank at a sensor position, the level sensor being coupled to the control system, and the processor is further configured to: initially, determine if the level sensor is activated; if the level sensor is not activated: activate the solvent pump until the level sensor is activated; subsequently, activate the solvent pump for a pre-defined time; and if the level sensor is activated, then activate the solvent pump for the period of fill time.

[0026] In at least some embodiments, the pre-defined time corresponds to a known time period for filling the tank assembly from the sensor position to the maximum fill volume.

[0027] In accordance with another broad aspect of the subject matter described herein, there is disclosed a method for automatically monitoring the level of electrolyte in an electrolytic reactor system, the electrolytic reactor system comprising a tank system for retaining a volume of electrolyte solution comprising a mixture of the electrolyte and a solvent, the method comprising: identifying an input current and an input voltage being applied to a reactor cell assembly, the reactor cell assembly being in fluid communication with the tank assembly, the reactor cell assembly comprising one or more electrolytic cells, the one or more electrolytic cells being configured to perform electrolysis on the electrolyte solution; determining a quantity of consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution based on the volume of electrolyte solution in the tank system; determining, based on the input current and input voltage, a threshold amount of input current to be applied to the reactor cell assembly to deplete the quantity of consumable solvent; monitoring, over time, a total input current consumption of the reactor cell assembly during operation; determining if the total input current consumption is greater than the threshold amount of input current; and if the total current consumption is greater than the threshold amount of input current, then generating an output indication, otherwise continue monitoring the total current consumption.

[0028] In at least some embodiments, the method is performed by at least one processor of a controller.

[0029] In at least some embodiments, identifying the input current and input voltage is based on a known voltage and current configuration settings of a power source coupled to the reactor cell assembly.

[0030] In at least some embodiments, determining the quantity of consumable solvent is based on: (i) the volume of electrolyte solution inside the tank system, (ii) a concentration of electrolyte in the electrolyte solution based on the volume, and (iii) a desired threshold electrolyte concentration.

[0031] In at least some embodiments, the electrolyte comprises potassium hydroxide (KOH) and the solvent comprises water.

[0032] In at least some embodiments, the threshold electrolyte concentration is approximately 40%. [0033] In at least some embodiments, determining the threshold amount of input current comprises: determining a gas flow rate generated by the reactor cell assembly, wherein the gas flow rate is determined based on the identified input current and input voltage being applied to the reactor cell assembly; determining a maximum volume of output gas generatable, by the reactor cell assembly, by depleting the quantity of consumable solvent; based on the gas flow rate and the maximum volume of output gas, determining the time required to consume the consumable solvent; and determining the threshold amount of input current based on the identified input current and the time required to consume the consumable solvent.

[0034] In at least some embodiments, the method further comprises determining a cell configuration for the reactor cell assembly, wherein the cell configuration corresponds to a number of active cells of the one or more electrolytic cells in the reactor cell assembly.

[0035] In at least some embodiments, determining the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly is based on monitoring a latest command signal transmitted to a reactor relay system, the reactor relay system being coupled to the reactor cell assembly, the reactor relay system being configurable to vary the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly.

[0036] In at least some embodiments, the gas flow rate is determined based on the pre-determined gas flow rate correlation data relating the identified input voltage and input current to corresponding gas flow rate.

[0037] In at least some embodiments, the pre-determined gas flow rate correlation data exists for different cell configurations, and the gas flow rate is determined based on the respective pre-determined gas flow rate correlation data for that cell configuration.

[0038] In at least some embodiments, generating an output indication comprises displaying the indication on a display device coupled to the controller.

[0039] In at least some embodiments, in response to determining that the total input current consumption is greater than the threshold amount of input current, the method further comprises deactivating a power source coupled to the reactor cell assembly.

[0040] In at least some embodiments, during the monitoring of the total input current consumption, the method further comprises: determining if there is a change in the input current applied to the reactor cell assembly; if a change is determined, determining: (i) a remaining quantity of consumable solvent inside of the reactor and tank assembly based on the total input current consumption, and (ii) a new threshold amount of input current required to deplete the remaining quantity of consumable solvent; and continuing monitoring the total input current consumption to determine if the total input current consumption is greater than the new threshold amount of input current.

[0041] In at least some embodiments, determining if there is a change in the input current is based on the current consumption signal received from a current sensor monitoring the reactor cell assembly.

[0042] In at least some embodiments, during the monitoring of the total current consumption, the method further comprises: determining if there is a change in the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly; if a change is determined, determining: (i) the remaining quantity of consumable solvent inside of the reactor and tank assembly based on the total input current consumption, and (ii) a new threshold amount of input current required to deplete the remaining quantity of consumable solvent; and continuing monitoring the total input current consumption to determine if the total input current consumption is greater than the new threshold amount of input current.

[0043] In at least some embodiments, determining if there is a change in the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly is based on monitoring the latest command signal transmitted to the reactor relay system.

[0044] In at least some embodiments, the method further comprises: fluidically coupling a solvent pump to the tank assembly, where the solvent pump is also fluidically coupled to an external solvent tank; identifying the total input current consumption by the reactor cell assembly; based on the identified total input current consumption, determining a quantity of consumable solvent which has been depleted; based on a known flow rate for the solvent pump, determining a period of fill time to activate the solvent pump to refill the tank system; activating the solvent the pump for the period of fill time; and subsequently, de-activating the solvent pump.

[0045] In at least some embodiments, the method further comprises: identifying the total input current consumption by reading the value from a memory; and resetting the value after the period of fill time has elapsed.

[0046] In at least some embodiments, a level sensor is positioned inside the tank at a sensor position, and the method further comprises: initially, determining if the level sensor is activated; if the level sensor is not activated: activating the solvent pump until the level sensor is activated; subsequently, activating the solvent pump for a pre-defined time; and if the level sensor is activated, then activating the solvent pump for the period of fill time.

[0047] In at least some embodiments, the pre-defined time corresponds to a known time period for filling the tank assembly from the sensor position to the maximum fill volume.

[0048] Other features and advantages of the present application will become apparent from the following detailed description taken together with the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and the specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the application, are given by way of illustration only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the application will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049] For a better understanding of the various embodiments described herein, and to show more clearly how these various embodiments may be carried into effect, reference will be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings which show at least one example embodiment and the figures will now be briefly described. [0050] FIG. 1 A is an example of a block diagram of a fuel management system;

[0051] FIG. 1 B is another example of a block diagram of the fuel management system;

[0052] FIG. 2 is an example block diagram of a reactor and tank system, according to some embodiments;

[0053] FIG. 3A is an example perspective view of a float switch in a first state;

[0054] FIG. 3B is an example perspective view of the float switch in a second state;

[0055] FIG. 4 is an example block diagram of a reactor and tank system, according to another embodiment;

[0056] FIG. 5 is an example block diagram of an electrolytic reactor platform;

[0057] FIG. 6A is an example block diagram of a portion of the electrolytic reactor platform of FIG. 5;

[0058] FIG. 6B is another example block diagram of a portion of the electrolytic reactor platform of FIG. 5;

[0059] FIG. 7A is an example method for automatic monitoring of the level of electrolyte solution inside of a reactor and tank system, according to some embodiments;

[0060] FIG. 7B is an example method for automatic monitoring of the level of electrolyte solution inside of a reactor and tank system, according to some other embodiments;

[0061] FIG. 70 is an example method for automatic monitoring of the level of electrolyte solution inside of a reactor and tank system, according to still some other embodiments;

[0062] FIG. 7D is an example method for automatic monitoring of the level of electrolyte solution inside of a reactor and tank system, according to still yet some other embodiments; [0063] FIG. 7E is an example method for automatic monitoring of the level of electrolyte solution inside of a reactor and tank system, according to some other embodiments;

[0064] FIG. 7F is an example plot illustrating a correlation between gas flow rate and input current into a reactor and tank system;

[0065] FIG. 8A is an image of a front end of an example external casing for an electrolytic reactor;

[0066] FIG. 8B is an image of a first lateral view of an example external casing for an electrolytic reactor;

[0067] FIG. 80 is a close-up image of a portion of the first lateral view of the example external casing for an electrolytic reactor;

[0068] FIG. 8D an image of a second lateral view of an example external casing for an electrolytic reactor;

[0069] FIG. 8E is an image of an interior of an example external casing for an electrolytic reactor;

[0070] FIG. 9A is an example block diagram showing a fluid coupling between an electrolytic reactor and a solvent reservoir tank, according to some embodiments;

[0071] FIG. 9B is an example block diagram showing a fluid coupling between an electrolytic reactor and a solvent reservoir tank, according to some other embodiments;

[0072] FIG. 10 is an image of an example solvent reservoir tank;

[0073] FIG. 11 is an example embodiment for a method for automatically filling an electrolytic reactor with solvent, according to some embodiments;

[0074] FIG. 12 is an example block diagram of a reactor and tank system, according to some other embodiments;

[0075] FIG. 13 is an example of a method for automatically filling an electrolytic reactor with solvent, according to some other embodiments; [0076] FIG. 14A is a plot showing the freezing points of electrolyte KOH solutions; and

[0077] FIG. 14B is a plot showing the freezing points of electrolyte NaOH solutions.

[0078] The skilled person in the art will understand that the drawings, described below, are for illustration purposes only. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the applicants’ teachings in anyway. In addition, it will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity. Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.

DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS

[0079] Various apparatuses or processes will be described below to provide an example of at least one embodiment of the claimed subject matter. No embodiment described below limits any claimed subject matter and any claimed subject matter may cover processes, apparatuses, devices or systems that differ from those described below. The claimed subject matter is not limited to apparatuses, devices, systems or processes having all of the features of any one apparatus, device, system or process described below or to features common to multiple or all of the apparatuses, devices, systems or processes described below. It is possible that an apparatus, device, system or process described below is not an embodiment of any claimed subject matter. Any subject matter that is disclosed in an apparatus, device, system or process described below that is not claimed in this document may be the subject matter of another protective instrument, for example, a continuing patent application, and the applicants, inventors or owners do not intend to abandon, disclaim or dedicate to the public any such subject matter by its disclosure in this document.

[0080] Furthermore, it will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. In addition, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the example embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the example embodiments described herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the example embodiments described herein. In addition, the description is not to be considered as limiting the scope of the example embodiments described herein.

[0081] It should also be noted that the terms “coupled” or “coupling” as used herein can have several different meanings depending in the context in which the term is used. For example, the term coupling can have a mechanical or electrical connotation. For example, as used herein, the terms “coupled” or “coupling” can indicate that two elements or devices can be directly connected to one another or connected to one another through one or more intermediate elements or devices via an electrical element, electrical signal or a mechanical element such as but not limited to, a wire or a cable, for example, depending on the particular context.

[0082] It should be noted that terms of degree such as "substantially", "about" and "approximately" as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed. These terms of degree should be construed as including a deviation of the modified term if this deviation would not negate the meaning of the term it modifies.

[0083] Furthermore, the recitation of any numerical ranges by endpoints herein includes all numbers and fractions subsumed within that range (e.g. 1 to 5 includes 1 , 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.90, 4, and 5). It is also to be understood that all numbers and fractions thereof are presumed to be modified by the term "about" which means a variation up to a certain amount of the number to which reference is being made if the end result is not significantly changed (e.g., ±5%, ±10% ±15%, etc.).

[0084] The various embodiments of the devices, systems and methods described herein may be implemented using a combination of hardware and software. These embodiments may be implemented in part using computer programs executing on programmable devices, each programmable device including at least one processor, an operating system, one or more data stores (including volatile memory or non-volatile memory or other data storage elements or a combination thereof), at least one communication interface and any other associated hardware and software that is necessary to implement the functionality of at least one of the embodiments described herein. For example, and without limitation, the computing device may be a server, a network appliance, an embedded device, a computer expansion module, a personal computer, a laptop, a personal data assistant, a cellular telephone, a smart-phone device, a tablet computer, a wireless device or any other computing device capable of being configured to carry out the methods described herein. The particular embodiment depends on the application of the computing device.

[0085] In some embodiments, the communication interface may be a network communication interface, a USB connection or another suitable connection as is known by those skilled in the art. In other embodiments, the communication interface may be a software communication interface, such as those for inter-process communication (IPC). In still other embodiments, there may be a combination of communication interfaces implemented as hardware, software, and a combination thereof.

[0086] In at least some of the embodiments described herein, program code may be applied to input data to perform at least some of the functions described herein and to generate output information. The output information may be applied to one or more output devices, for display or for further processing.

[0087] At least some of the embodiments described herein that use programs may be implemented in a high level procedural or object oriented programming and/or scripting language or both. Accordingly, the program code may be written in C, Java, SQL or any other suitable programming language and may comprise modules or classes, as is known to those skilled in object-oriented programming. However, other programs may be implemented in assembly, machine language or firmware as needed. In either case, the language may be a compiled or interpreted language. [0088] The computer programs may be stored on a storage media (e.g. a computer readable medium such as, but not limited to, ROM, magnetic disk, optical disc) or a device that is readable by a general or special purpose computing device. The program code, when read by the computing device, configures the computing device to operate in a new, specific and predefined manner in order to perform at least one of the methods described herein.

[0089] Furthermore, some of the programs associated with the system, processes and methods of the embodiments described herein are capable of being distributed in a computer program product comprising a computer readable medium that bears computer usable instructions for one or more processors. The medium may be provided in various forms, including non-transitory forms such as, but not limited to, one or more diskettes, compact disks, tapes, chips, and magnetic and electronic storage. In alternative embodiments the medium may be transitory in nature such as, but not limited to, wire-line transmissions, satellite transmissions, internet transmissions (e.g. downloads), media, digital and analog signals, and the like. The computer useable instructions may also be in various formats, including compiled and non-compiled code.

[0090] The fuel economy of an internal combustion engine may be improved by injecting hydrogen and oxygen gases into the engine’s air-intake stream. In some cases, hydrogen and oxygen gases may be supplied to the internal combustion engine by an “on-demand” electrolytic reactor system, to generate hydrogen gas and oxygen gas. In various cases, it may be necessary to monitor the level of electrolyte solution, in real-time or near real-time, inside the electrolytic reactor in order to determine when it is required to re-fill or replenish the electrolytic reactor.

[0091] Reference is now briefly made to both FIGS. 1A and 1 B, each of which illustrate an example application of a reactor system disclosed herein. In particular, FIG. 1A illustrates a block diagram of a fuel management system 100a according to one example. FIG. 1 B illustrates a block diagram of a fuel management system 100b according to another example. [0092] The fuel management system 100a of FIG. 1A and 100b of FIG. 1 B illustrate an electrolytic reactor platform 500 which includes a reactor system 506 that is used to improve the fuel economy of an internal combustion engine (ICE) 102. In particular, the reactor system 506 includes a reactor and tank assembly 400 that is configured to carry out the process of electrolysis in which it supplies an air-intake stream of the internal combustion engine 102 with hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O2) gases. The ICE 102 is a combustion engine receiving the air-intake stream, and is configured to carry out the process of combustion of a carbon-based fuel. In other words, the ICE 102 carries out the process of combustion for a mixture of carbon-based fuel with hydrogen and oxygen gases received from the reactor system 506. In some embodiments, an engine control module (“ECM”) 106 may be coupled to the ICE 102 in order to monitor the ICE’s operating conditions. The operating conditions monitored by the ECM 106 may be communicated to the control system 502 via an engine data signal 522.

[0093] A control system 502 (also known as a controller 502) is also provided in the systems 100a and 100b to control the operations of the reactor system 506. For example, the control system 502 can transmit command signals 530 to the reactor system 506 to control the operation of the reactor system 506. In various cases, the control system 502 can determine how to control the operation of the reactor system 506 based on information contained in the engine data signal 522, as well as sensor data received from a monitoring system 504 connected to the reactor system 506.

[0094] In some cases, the control system 502, the reactor system 506 and the electrolytic reactor platform 500 can be referred to herein as an electrolytic reactor system.

[0095] Reference is now made to FIG. 2, which illustrates a reactor and tank system 200 of an electrolytic reactor system, according to an example embodiment. The reactor and tank system 200 generally includes a reactor cell assembly 202, a tank system 204, an solvent reservoir tank 206 and a solvent pump 208.

[0096] Reactor cell assembly 202 includes a number of electrolytic reactor cells 210 connected to each other in parallel and configured to carry out the process of electrolysis using an electrolyte solution. In various embodiments, the electrolyte solution comprises a mixed combination of a solvent and an electrolyte. The solvent may be, for example, distilled water while the electrolyte may be, for example, potassium hydroxide (KOH) (also known as caustic potash) or sodium hydroxide (NaOH). In particular, the electrolyte is used in the electrolyte solution as it provides the solvent with free ions in order to enhance the conductivity of the solvent, and by extension, facilitate the process of electrolysis. For example, when the solvent is distilled water and the electrolyte is a KOH salt, the KOH salt is dissolved in the distilled water and dissociates into potassium (K+) and hydroxide (OH-) ions which make the distilled water conductive thereby allowing electrolysis to occur. Similarly, when the solvent is distilled water and the electrolyte is NaOH salt, the NaOH salt dissolves and dissociates into sodium (Na+) and hydroxide (OH-) ions which also act as carriers thereby making the distilled water more conductive. In general, any electrolyte that is soluble and does not react to electricity (i.e. , oxidize or reduce) may be mixed with a solvent (i.e., distilled water) to produce the electrolyte solution. To this end, and in various cases, adding the electrolyte to the solvent does not significantly increase the volume of the solvent, but rather dissolves and increases the density (e.g., weight per metric unit) of the combined electrolyte solution. In the illustrated example, the reactor cell assembly 202 receives the solvent and the electrolyte separately before combining them into a mixed electrolyte solution.

[0097] While carrying out electrolysis, the reactor cell assembly 202 generates byproducts in gaseous form corresponding to the electrolyte solution. For example, where the solvent is water, the reactor cell assembly 202 generates hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O2) gas byproducts. During electrolysis, only the solvent is consumed to generate the gaseous byproduct, while the electrolyte is continuously recycled. In some embodiments, however, where the electrolyte is KOH, the electrolyte may also gradually deplete where, for example, the electrolyte evaporates due to high operating temperatures.

[0098] As shown, a tank system 204 is in fluid communication with the reactor cell assembly 202. Tank system 204 includes one or more containers 212, 214 and 216 containing solvent or electrolyte that is being fed into the reactor cell assembly 202 during electrolysis. In the illustrated embodiment, tank system 202 includes containers 212 and 214 which contain a supply of solvent (e.g., distilled water), while container 216 contains a supply of electrolyte (i.e. , KOH).

[0099] In the process of electrolysis, the gaseous byproduct generated by the reactor cell assembly 202 is channeled back into the solvent containers 212 and 214. For example, one or more gas conduits (not shown) fluidly couple the reactor cell assembly 202 to an upper portion of the solvent containers 212 and 214. Gas byproduct accumulating inside the upper portions of the containers 212 and 214 is channeled into the electrolyte container 216 via one or more additional gas conduits 218. In particular, each of the solvent containers 212, 214 includes a gas exit port 212b, 214b through which gas can exit the respective container, flow through the gas conduit 218, and enter into the electrolyte container 216. The electrolyte container 216 itself includes a gas inlet port 216a at an upper portion of the container, which receives gas flow from the gas conduit 218. Once gas has collected inside the electrolyte container 216, the gas can exit the electrolyte container 216 through a gas exit port 220, and is transported through the gas feed line 222. In applications where the reactor and tank system 200 is used with an internal combustion engine (ICE), the gas feed line 222 connects to an air-intake of the ICE.

[00100] In order to compensate for depleting solvent inside the reactor and tank system 200 during electrolysis, each of the solvent containers 212, 214 are in fluid communication with an “on-board” solvent reservoir tank 206. In particular, the solvent tank 206 provides a reservoir of solvent for re-filling each of the solvent containers 212, 214 as needed. Where the reactor and tank system 200 is used with an internal combustion engine (ICE), the solvent tank 206 may be located on-board a vehicle operated by the ICE in order to provide a convenient or ready supply of solvent.

[00101] More particularly, the solvent tank 206 is in fluid communication with each of the solvent containers 212, 214 via a respective solvent inlet port 212a, 214a located on each of the solvent containers 212, 214. Interposed between the solvent tank 206 and the solvent containers 212, 214 is a solvent pump 208, which is used for pumping solvent out of the solvent tank 206 and into each of the solvent containers 212, 214. In various cases, the solvent pump 208 is controlled by a control system (not shown), analogous to control system 502 of FIGS. 1 A and 1 B.

[00102] To determine when to activate the solvent pump 208 in order to re-fill the solvent containers 212, 214, a level sensor 224 is disposed inside at least one of the solvent containers 212, 214. The level sensor 224 may be positioned at a height level where it can detect if the level of solvent - inside the reactor and tank system 200 - is sufficiently depleted that it requires re-filling. When the level of solvent falls below the level position of the level sensor 224, the level sensor 224 is triggered, which in turn prompts a control system to activate the solvent pump 208 and re-fill the solvent containers 212, 214. To prevent the solvent pump 208 from overfilling the containers 212, 214, at least one solvent container may include a second level sensor 226. The second level sensor 226 may be positioned at a height above the first level sensor 224, and proximal a maximum fill-line. When the second level sensor 226 is triggered, the control system may in-turn de-activate the solvent pump 208 to prevent overfilling.

[00103] FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate an example level sensor 300 which can be used in place of one or more of the level sensors 224, 226 inside the tank assembly 204.

[00104] As shown, the level sensor 300 comprises a mechanical float switch having a main body portion 302, and a bulb portion 304. The bulb portion 304 is pivotally mounted to the main body portion 302. FIG. 3A shows the float switch 300 in a first state where the bulb 304 is hanging below the main body portion 302, along a horizontal axis. FIG. 3B shows the float switch 300 in a second state where the bulb 304 is pivoted upwards such that it is now horizontally aligned with the main body portion 302. The bulb portion 304 pivots upwards to the FIG. 3B position when the solvent level inside the solvent container is at least at the horizontal level of the level sensor.

[00105] In various cases, the level sensor 300 includes a micro-switch that is activated when the level sensor is triggered. The level sensor 300 can be configured to trigger either when the bulb 304 is below the main body portion 302 (FIG. 3A), or otherwise, when the bulb is aligned with the main body portion 302 (FIG. 3B). For example, in the reactor and tank system 200, the level sensor 224 is triggered when the bulb portion 304 pivots below the main body portion 302, indicating that the solvent level is too low (FIG. 3A). Conversely, the level sensor 226 is triggered when the bulb 304 is pivoted to become aligned with the main body portion 302, indicating that the solvent level is at least at the height of the level sensor 226 (FIG. 3B) Upon triggering the level sensor, the micro-switch is activated, and the activated micro-switch transmits a sensor signal to a control system in order to activate or de-activate the solvent pump 208.

[00106] Referring back to FIG. 2, while the reactor and tank system 200 is generally suitable for performing electrolysis as described above, it has been recognized that the reactor and tank system 200 has a number of significant drawbacks.

[00107] For example, where the solvent comprises distilled water, the distilled water is susceptible to freezing-over during colder weather temperatures, thereby rendering the reactor and tank system 200 inoperative. To prevent the distilled water from freezing- over, external heat sources are often deployed inside or around the solvent tank 206 and/or solvent containers 212, 214 to maintain the distilled water at an operable temperature. Examples of external heat sources include - by way of example - electric wrap heaters placed around the solvent tank 206 and/or the solvent containers 212, 214, as well as filament heaters inserted inside the tank 206 and/or containers 212, 214. In some embodiments, the external heat sources are activated by a control system, which activates the external heat sources when the ambient temperature is detected to have fallen below a pre-determined temperature threshold. For example, the control system may couple to one or more temperature sensors, which allow the control system to monitor the ambient temperature.

[00108] A problem, however, with the use of external heat sources is that the heat sources often demand excessive input power to generate heat. This, in turn, depletes the power source also powering the electrolytic reactor. In addition, the external heat sources can take a while to heat-up the solvent after being activated, and thereby do not always offer an immediate solution in colder weather climates. The use of external heat sources also presents a number of potential safety hazards when deployed in proximity of liquid solutions. [00109] A further drawback of the reactor and tank system 200 is the potential for the mechanical level sensors 224, 226 to malfunction. In particular, owing to colder weather temperatures, the mechanical joints in the float switch 300 can often “stick”, thereby preventing the bulb portion 304 from pivoting with respect to the main body portion 302. For example, in colder temperatures, water residue on the float switch can freeze causing the switch’s mechanical joints to stick. This, in turn, results in the float switch 300 being unable to trigger at the appropriate times to activate or de-activate the solvent pump 208. In particular, the float switch 300 is unable to detect when the solvent level has fallen below the sensor position (e.g., level sensor 224), or otherwise when the solvent level is exceeding the sensor position (e.g., level sensor 226). In other cases, the mechanical level sensors 224, 226 can also malfunction owing to regular wear and tear.

[00110] Moreover, it has also been recognized that the level sensors 224, 226 can only provide a general (e.g., relative) indication of the solvent level inside of the solvent containers 212, 214. In other words, the level sensors 224, 226 can only indicate whether the solvent level is higher or lower than the level sensor position. The level sensors 224, 226 are, however, otherwise unable to provide an accurate estimate of the exact solvent level inside the containers, if required.

[00111] Still a further drawback of the reactor and tank system 200 is the challenge of accommodating all of the components inside of confined installation spaces. For example, it is often challenging to accommodate, in small spaces, multiple containers 212, 216 and 218, the gas plumbing 218, a solvent pump 208 as well as a large solvent tank 206. In particular, to overcome this challenge, the design of the reactor and tank system 200 often tends towards smaller and more compact solvent containers 212, 214, which are only capable of holding limited volumes of solvent. As a result, the level sensor 224 is often frequently activated, causing continuous re-filling of the solvent containers 212, 214. This, in turn, results in the solvent pump 208 being activated continuously, which further increases the power draw from the power source supplying the reactor system. Still further, owing to the necessity of a large “on-board” solvent tank 206 to refill the containers 212, 214, the reactor and tank system 200 can often be quite heavy in weight. In applications where the reactor and tank system 200 is used in conjunction with a vehicle’s internal combustion engine (ICE), the added weight of the reactor and tank system 200 adds increased stress and demand on the engine operating the vehicle.

[00112] In view of the foregoing, there is a desire for an electrolytic reactor which overcomes at least some of the challenges presented by the reactor and tank system 200 of FIG. 2.

[00113] Reference is now made to FIG. 4, which shows an example reactor and tank system 400, according to some other embodiments.

[00114] Similar to the reactor and tank system 200 of FIG. 2, the reactor and tank system 400 of FIG. 4 includes a reactor cell assembly 402 comprising numerous electrolytic reactor cells 414 for performing electrolysis. As well, the reactor and tank assembly 400 includes a tank system 404 in fluid communication with the reactor cell assembly 402.

[00115] However, in contrast to the reactor and tank system 200 of FIG. 2, the tank assembly 404 of system 400 does not include separate containers for holding each of the solvent and the electrolyte (e.g., containers 212, 214 and 216 and solvent tank 206 of FIG. 2). Rather, the tank assembly 404 includes one or more containers which store a combined an electrolyte solution 410 comprising the mixture of the solvent and the electrolyte. In the illustrated example embodiment, the tank assembly 404 includes two mixed electrolyte solution containers 406 and 408; although in other embodiments, any number of mixed solution containers may be provided inside the tank system 404. In some embodiments, the mixed electrolyte solution containers 406, 408 may be adjoined together, in fluid communication, by a connecting passage 407 located, for example, on a lower portion of each container.

[00116] In particular, the use of electrolyte solution containers 406, 408 in the reactor and tank system 400 helps to overcome a number of the drawbacks of the system 200 pertaining to the freezing of the solvent (i.e., distilled water) in colder temperature weather. More specifically, where the solvent comprises distilled water, in various cases, a mix of the electrolyte and the distilled water produces an electrolyte solution having a lower freezing point relative to the typical freezing point of distilled water (e.g., 0°C). [00117] Referring now briefly to FIG. 14A, there is shown a plot 1400a illustrating the various freezing points of KOH electrolyte solutions (e.g., a combined water and KOH electrolyte solution). As shown, the lowest freezing point for a KOH electrolyte solution is achieved at a 30.8% KOH concentration. In particular, at this point, the freezing point of the mixed KOH electrolyte solution is approximately -85.4°F (-65.2°C) (i.e., point 1404a on plot 1400a). Further, as is also illustrated by the plot 1400a, the freezing point is - 27.4°F (-33°C) at a concentration of 44.3% KOH (i.e., point 1406a on plot 1400a), and the freezing point increases to as high as +90.5°F (32.5°C) when the concentration of KOH is approximately 56.82% (i.e., point 1408a on plot 1400a). Accordingly, in an electrolyte solution where the electrolyte is KOH and the solvent is distilled water, to maintain a low temperature freezing point for the mixed solution, it is preferrable that the mixed solution have a concentration of KOH within a range of approximately 30% and 45% (i.e., region 1402a in plot 1400a). In particular, a mixed electrolyte solution have a concentration of “X%” KOH (e.g., 30.8% KOH) is a solution whereby “X%” of the total mass of the solution comprises KOH. For example, in a 30.8% mixed KOH and water solution, each liter of water includes approximately 300 grams of dissolved KOH salt such that one liter of the mixed solution now has a density of 1.2895 kilogram per liter rather than 1 kilogram per liter (i.e., the normal density of a distilled water solution with no added KOH). As stated previously, the addition of the KOH electrolyte salt to the distilled water does not substantially increase the volume of the distilled water, but rather dissolves and increases the density of the mixed electrolyte solution. In other words, adding KOH to one liter of distilled water results in an approximately one liter mixed solution having an increased density based on the concentration of dissolved KOH. Therefore, the volume of the mixed electrolyte solution is often substantially equal to the volume of the original solvent.

[00118] Referring now briefly to FIG. 14B, there is shown a plot 1400b illustrating the various freezing points of NaOH electrolyte solutions (e.g., a combined water and NaOH solution). As shown, from the plot 1400b, the lowest freezing point occurs around 19% to 20% NaOH concentration (i.e., point 1402b). Accordingly, where the electrolyte used is NaOH, it may be preferably to maintain the NaOH concentration in the electrolyte solution around this range.

[00119] Referring now back to FIG. 4, where the solvent is distilled water and the electrolyte is KOH (or NaOH), the use of a mixed electrolyte solution allows the reactor system 400 to operate in low temperatures without the requirement for external heat sources to warm-up the electrolyte solution. In turn, the electrolytic reactor is able to save heat power, as well as eliminate power circuitry and control system logic otherwise used for the external heat sources. The removal of external heat sources also avoids a number of potential safety hazards associated with operating electrical heating instruments in proximity to liquid solutions.

[00120] As also shown in FIG. 4, the reactor and tank system 400 does not include the solvent tank 206. This may have the advantage of reducing the overall weight of the reactor and tank system 400, while also allowing for the dimension or size of the mixed solution containers 406, 408 to be larger than the containers 212, 214, 216 in FIG. 2. In this manner, the mixed electrolyte solution containers 406, 408 can hold a greater volume of solvent prior to requiring re- filling. For instance, in some example embodiments, each of the containers 212, 214 in FIG. 2 are configured to hold a maximum volume capacity of one liter per container such that both solution containers hold a total combined volume of two liters of solvent. In contrast, each of the mixed electrolyte solution containers 406, 408 in FIG. 4 are configured to hold a maximum volume of 3 liters of electrolyte solution, or otherwise, six liters of combined electrolyte solution as between the two containers. Accordingly, the containers 406, 408 hold an additional four liters of solvent as compared to the containers 212, 214 in FIG. 2. In applications where the reactor and tanks system 400 is supplying gas to a vehicle engine, the configuration of FIG. 4 allows the engine to operate for a longer time, as compared to the reactor and tank system 200 of FIG. 2, before the vehicle operator is required to stop and re-fill the reactor and tank system 400.

[00121] As further illustrated in FIG. 4 - each of the electrolyte solution containers 406, 408 is in fluid communication with the reactor cell assembly 402 via one or more fluid conduits 412. In the illustrated example, fluid conduits 412 draw mixed solution from a lower portion of the containers 406, 408, and channel the solution into a lower portion of the reactor cell assembly 402. Upon receiving the electrolyte solution, the reactor cell assembly 402 performs electrolysis to generate gas byproducts (e.g., H2 and O2 gasses) as output. The output gas byproducts are fed back into the electrolyte solution containers 406, 408 via one or more gas output conduits 416a, 416b. In particular, as illustrated, one or more first gas output conduits 416a connect to a cathode-side 413a of the reactor cell assembly 402, and channel hydrogen gas byproduct 417a from the cathode-side 413a to the container 406. In particular, during the process of electrolysis, hydrogen gas particles are generally attracted to the cathode-side 413a of the reactor cell assembly 402. Further, one or more second gas output conduits 416b connect to an anode-side 413b of the reactor cell assembly 402, and channel oxygen gas byproduct 416b from the anode-side 413b to the container 408. This is because oxygen gas particles are generally attracted to the anode-side 413b of the reactor cell assembly 402 during electrolysis.

[00122] In at least some embodiments, each gas conduits 416a, 416b extends between an upper portion of the reactor cell assembly 402 - i.e. , where the rising gas aggregates - to an upper portion of the solution containers 406, 408. The gas conduits 416a, 416b connect to the solution containers 406, 408 at a height level 411 a located above the maximum fill-line 411 b for each solution container 406, 408. In this manner, the output gasses are prevented from mixing with the solutions 410, thereby preventing a potential hazardous situation. In some embodiments, each gas conduit 416a, 416b connects to a respective mixed solution container 406, 408 at a height that is located approximately 2 to 5 inches above the maximum fill-line 411 b.

[00123] As shown, hydrogen gas (H2) 417a can be channeled out of the first container 406 via a hydrogen gas exit pipe 420 having a gas outlet 422. Similarly, oxygen gas (O2) can be channeled out of the second container 408 via an oxygen gas exit pipe 424 having a gas outlet 426. In applications where the reactor and tank system 400 is connected to an internal combustion engine (ICE), each of the gas outlets 422, 426 may be fluidically coupled to an air-intake of the ICE. In some embodiments, rather than ejecting the hydrogen and oxygen gasses separately, the gasses may be mixed together before being ejected-out as a combined output. [00124] As explained in further detail herein, in order to replenish the tank assembly 404 with solvent (e.g., distilled water), the electrolyte solution containers 406, 408 connect to a solvent pump 428 (e.g., via a solvent conduit 430). As provided herein, the solvent pump 428 is controlled by a control system, and is used to pump solvent from an external solvent tank into the tank assembly 404. In some embodiments, the tank assembly 404 may also connect to an electrolyte feed tube 432 having a feed inlet 434. The electrolyte feed tube 432 is used to occasionally re-supply, for example, depleting KOH inside the reactor and tank system 400.

[00125] As shown, as compared to the reactor and tank system 200 of FIG. 2, the reactor and tank system 400 has eliminated the gas conduits 218 used for transporting gas output from the solvent containers 212, 214 into the electrolyte container 216. This is because in the reactor and tank system 400, the output gas is directly fed into the mixed electrolyte solution containers. The removal of the gas conduits 218 simplifies the reactor and tank system design by eliminating plumbing connections, and in turn, minimizing the weight and size of the overall system 400.

[00126] Additionally - in contrast to the reactor and tank system 200 - the reactor and tank assembly system 400 also eliminates the mechanical level sensors 224, 226 (e.g., float switches) which monitor the level of solution inside the tank assembly 404. Rather, as explained in greater detail herein, the solution level is automatically monitored, in real-time or near real-time, based on the gas production rate of the reactor and tank system 400. In particular, as provided herein, this may allow the reactor and tank system 400 to overcome a number of the previously noted drawbacks associated with using mechanical float switches.

[00127] Reference is now made to FIG. 5, which illustrates an electrolytic reactor platform 500 according to an example embodiment. The electrolytic reactor platform 500 is used for operating, monitoring and controlling the reactor and tank system 400 of FIG. 4.

[00128] The electrolytic reactor platform 500 includes a control system 502 coupled to a reactor system 506. In some embodiments, control system 502 is also connected to a monitoring system 504, and one or more of a reactor power switch 508, a solvent pump switch 510, a display device 512 and a communication interface 514.

[00129] Control system 502 includes at least a processor 502a and a memory 502b. Processor 502a is a computer processor, such as a general purpose microprocessor. In some other cases, processor 502a may be a field programmable gate array, application specific integrated circuit, microcontroller, or other suitable computer processor.

[00130] Processor 502a is coupled, via a computer data bus, to memory 502b. Memory 502b may include both volatile and non-volatile memory. Non-volatile memory stores computer programs consisting of computer-executable instructions, which may be loaded into volatile memory for execution by processor 502a as needed. It will be understood by those of skill in the art that references herein to the control system 502 as carrying out a function or acting in a particular way imply that processor 502a is executing instructions (e.g., a software program) stored in memory 502b, and possibly transmitting or receiving inputs and outputs via one or more interface. Memory 502b may also store data input to, or output from, processor 502a in the course of executing the computerexecutable instructions. Memory 502b also stores instructions to carry out one or more of the methods provided herein. For example, memory 502b may store instructions for monitoring, in real-time or near real-time, the level of electrolyte solution inside of the reactor and tank assembly 400, as well as instructions for automatic re-filling the solvent inside the reactor and tank assembly 400.

[00131] In applications where the reactor and tank assembly system 400 supplies hydrogen and oxygen gases to an internal combustion engine (ICE), the operating conditions of the engine may be communicated to the control system 502 via an engine data signal 522 (e.g., received from an internal combustion engine (ICE) 102, or an engine control module (ECM) 106 coupled to the ICE 102). The control system 502 may use information contained in the engine data signal 522 to make determinations with respect to the operation of the reactor and tank system 400. For example, the control system 502 may determine from the engine data signal 522 that the ICE requires a higher, or lower, input of hydrogen and oxygen gases. As explained herein, the control system 502 may accordingly transmit a control signal 530 instructing an electronic control unit (ECU) 516, of the reactor system 506, to vary the output power supplied by a power source 518, or otherwise vary a configuration of the reactor cell assembly 402 with a view to increasing or decreasing the production rate of hydrogen and oxygen gases to the ICE. In some cases, the controller 502 and the ECU 530 may be one of the same. In some other cases, there may be bidirectional communication between the controller 502 and the ECU 530.

[00132] Reactor power switch 508 can be an input device (e.g., a button, switch or the like) which can be used to operate the reactor system 506. In some cases, as explained herein, activating the power switch 508 causes an activation signal 508a to be transmitted to the control system 502. In response, the control system 502 can, in turn, transmit a command signal 530 to the ECU 516 to activate the power source 518 and supply power to the reactor and tank system 400. The reactor power switch 508 can also transmit a de-activation signal 508b to the control system 502, instructing the control system 502 to de-activate the power source 518 (i.e., power down the reactor system 506). In some embodiments, the control system 502 can also automatically operate the reactor system 506 without receiving activation or de-activation signals from the power switch 508. For example, in applications where the reactor system 506 supplies gas to an internal combustion engine, the control system 502 can automatically activate or deactivate the reactor system 506 upon receiving an indication from the engine data signal 522 that the ICE has been turned-on, or otherwise turned-off.

[00133] Solvent pump switch 510 is another input device (e.g., a button, switch or the like) which can also be used to operate the solvent pump 428. For example, the solvent pump switch 510 may be activated when it is desired to re-fill the tank system 404. Upon activation, an activation signal 510a is transmitted from the pump switch 510 to the control system 502, which in turn, prompts the control system 502 to generate a command signal 530 instructing the ECU 516 to activate the solvent pump 428. In some cases, the solvent pump 428 may receive power directly from the power source 518, and accordingly upon activation, the ECU 516 may direct power from the power source 518 to the solvent pump 428 in order to activate the solvent pump 428. In other cases, the solvent pump 428 may receive power from an external or secondary power source as the case may be, for example, where the solvent pump 428 is not located “on board” the electrolytic reactor platform 500. The solvent pump switch 510 can also transmit a deactivation signal 510b to cause the control system 502 to de-activate the solvent pump 428. In other cases, as provided herein, the control system 502 may automatically activate and de-activate the solvent pump 428 without relying on signals from the pump switch 510.

[00134] Display device(s) 512 can be any suitable device for displaying status indicators in relation to the operation of the electrolytic reactor platform 500. For example, the display device(s) 512 can include one or more LED status indicator lights and/or a display screen (e.g., an LED screen). In various cases, the display device(s) 512 respond to display signals 512’ received from the control system 502.

[00135] Communication interface 514 is one or more data network interface, such as an IEEE 802.3 or IEEE 802.11 interface, for communication over a network. In some cases, the communication interface can allow the control system 502 to transmit data 514a and/or receive data 514b from external computing devices, including personal computing devices (e.g., user device 104 of FIG. 1A). For example, in some embodiments, the control system 502 may transmit data via the communication interface 514 to an external user device in respect of the status of the reactor system 506 including, for example, the level of solution inside the tank system 404, whether the tanks system 404 requires re-filling and/or whether maintenance is required for the reactor system 506. Control system 502 can also receive data via the communication interface 512 from external computing devices including, for example, instructions for powering-on or powering-down the reactor system 506 and/or the solvent pump 428, or otherwise varying a cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly 402.

[00136] Control system 502 may also receive data from the monitoring system 504. The monitoring system 504 may include one or more units, devices and/or systems that are capable of monitoring one or more parameters associated with one or more components of the reactor system 506. [00137] For example, monitoring system 504 may include one or more temperature sensors 524. The temperature sensors 524 can measure the ambient temperature of the reactor system 506. Even though the temperature sensors 524 are shown to be located remotely from the reactor system 506, the temperature sensors 524 can be located anywhere in association with the reactor system 506 so that they can measure the ambient temperature of the reactor system 506. For example, the temperature sensors 524 can be located proximal the reactor system 506, such as adjacent to the tank system 404. In other example cases, the temperature sensors 524 can be located inside the reactor cell assembly 402. As can be appreciated, the various locations of the temperature sensors 524 disclosed herein are intended to be non-limiting examples only. As shown, the temperature sensors 524 are configured to transmit temperature measurements to the control system 502 through temperature signals 524a. As explained herein, in some cases, the temperature measurements can be used by the control system 502 to vary a cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly 402.

[00138] Monitoring system 504 can also include current sensors 526 that are configured to monitor the current consumption of the reactor and tank system 400. For example, the current sensors 526 may include ammeters or other suitable current sensing devices. Similar to the temperature sensors 524, the current sensors 526 are configured to transmit current measurements to the control system 502 through current signals 526a. As provided herein, the control system 502 may use information contained in the current signal 526a to monitor the rate of solvent consumption inside the reactor and tank system 400. In other cases, control system 502 can use current consumption information in current signal 526a to vary a cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly 402. In still other embodiments, the monitoring system 504 can also include voltage sensors that are configured to monitor the voltage consumption of the reactor and tank system 400.

[00139] In some embodiments, each of the temperature sensors 524 and current sensors 526 may be pre-configured to transmit temperature and current consumption measurements to the control system 502 at predetermined time intervals, or at predetermined frequencies. In other embodiments, the sensors 524, 526 may transmit sensor measurements to the control system 502 in response to a temperature request signal 524b sent by the control system 502 to the temperature sensors 524, or a current consumption request signal 526b sent by the control system 502 to the current sensor 526.

[00140] Monitoring system 504 may also include one or more level sensors 528 (e.g., mechanical float switches 300) configured to measure the level of electrolyte solution inside the reactor and tank system 400. For example, as provided in further detail herein, in some embodiments, level sensors 528 can be provided inside the reactor and tank system 404. In some other cases, the level sensors 528 can be located within the reactor cell assembly 402 directly. In some cases, where the level sensors 528 are positioned inside the tank system 404, the sensors 528 are configured to transmit sensor signals 528a to the control system 502, where the sensor signals 528a identifies the amount of solution inside the reactor cell assembly 402.

[00141] Control system 502 also connects to the reactor system 506. The reactor system 506 includes the ECU 516 and the reactor and tank system 400. The ECU 516 is coupled to the control system 502, the solvent pump 428 and the power source 518. In some embodiments, the ECU 516 is also coupled to a reactor relay system 520 interposed between the power source 518 and reactor and tank assembly 400.

[00142] The ECU 516 may include, for example, an electronic circuit board. In various cases, the ECU 516 is a microprocessor that includes a plurality of digital output pins electrically coupled to various components of the electrolytic reactor platform 500, and electrical signal pulses (e.g., control or command signals) can be generated by the ECU 516 and transmitted over the digital output pins to the electrically coupled components.

[00143] While the ECU 516 has been illustrated as a separate component from the control system 502, in other embodiments, the ECU 506 may be housed inside of the control system 502 (or vice-versa). In other words, a single control component may be provided which provides the dual functions of the both the ECU 516 and the control system 502. In various cases, such a component may be referred to herein as a “smart ECU”. [00144] In the illustrated example case where the ECU 516 is a separate component from the control system 502, the ECU 516 is electrically coupled to the control system 502 and receives control signals 530 therefrom which control the operation of the ECU 516. For example, in various embodiments provided herein, the control signals 530 may instruct the ECU 516 to activate or de-activate the power source 508, control the reactor relay system 520 or activate or de-activate the solvent pump 428.

[00145] Power source 518 is configured to provide input power to the reactor cell assembly 402 in order to activate the electrolytic reactor cells 414. The power source 518 may be, for example, a 12-volt direct current (DC) voltage source, or a 13.8-volt DC source. In other cases, the power source 518 is an alternating current (AC) voltage source. Where the power source 518 is an AC voltage source, a step-up or step down AC-DC power converter may be coupled to the power source in order to generate a 12- volt DC output or a 13.8-volt DC output.

[00146] In some cases, the power source 518 may be a power circuit provided separately from the ECU 516, and electrically coupled to the ECU 516. As illustrated, the ECU 516 can generate one or more power control signals 526 for controlling the operation of the power source 518. In various cases, the ECU 516 can generate the power control signals 526 in response to receiving command instructions 530 from the control system 502. For example, the control system 502 can command the ECU 516 to generate a power control signal 526 to activate, or de-activate the power source 518. In other cases, the control system 502 can command the ECU 516 to generate a power control signal 526 to vary the amount of power (e.g., output current) generated by the power source 518. In particular, by varying the power generated by the power source 518, the control system 502 can vary the amount of gas produced by the reactor and tank system 400. For example, a greater amount of power applied to the reactor and tank system 400 can increase gas production, while a lower amount of power can decrease gas production. In some cases, where the reactor system 506 is coupled to an internal combustion engine (ICE), gas production is increased or decreased to meet the demands of the ICE. [00147] In some embodiments, the power source 518 is directly coupled to the reactor cell assembly 402 and supplies electrical input power 536 to one or more of the electrolytic cells 414 of the reactor cell assembly 402. In other embodiments, as shown, a reactor relay system 520 is interposed between the power system 518 and reactor cell assembly 402. In particular, as explained herein with respect to FIGS. 6A and 6B, the reactor relay system 520 can control the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly 402. In particular, the reactor relay system 520 can vary the number of electrolytic reactor cells 414 activated inside of the reactor cell assembly 402. As explained herein, this is achieved by controlling the number of electrolytic reactor cells receiving power 536 from the power source 518. In particular, by varying the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly 402, the reactor relay system 520 can adjust the amount of gas produced by the reactor and tank system 400.

[00148] In the illustrated embodiment, the ECU 516 is connected to the reactor relay system 520 and transmits command signals 532 to the reactor relay system 520. The command signals 532 instruct the reactor relay system 520 as to how to vary the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly 402. In various cases, the ECU 516 transmits command signals 532 to the reactor relay system 520 in response to receiving corresponding control signals 530 from the control system 520 to control the reactor relay system 520.

[00149] ECU 516 is also connected to the solvent pump 428. In particular, the ECU 516 can control (e.g., activate or de-activate) the solvent pump 428 by transmitting a control signal 534 to the solvent pump 428. In some cases, the ECU 516 can also control the flow rate of the solvent pump 428. For example, in combination with a stepper motor drive associated with the solvent pump 428, the ECU 516 can vary a stepper motor of the solvent pump 428 to increase or decrease the pumping rate of the solvent pump 428. In some cases, the ECU 516 transmits the control signal 534 in response to receiving a corresponding command signal 530 from the control system 502 to activate or de-activate the solvent pump 428, or otherwise to vary the solvent pump flow rate. [00150] Reference is now made to FIGS. 6A and 6B, which illustrate operation of the reactor relay system 520 inside the electrolytic reactor platform 500.

[00151] Referring first to FIG. 6A, which illustrates a portion of the electrolytic reactor platform 500 of FIG. 5 which includes the monitoring system 504, control system 502, ECU 516, power source 508, reactor relay system 520 and reactor and tank system 400.

[00152] As shown, the reactor relay system 520 includes one or more reactor relays. In the illustrated example embodiment, the reactor relay system 520 includes reactor relays 604, 606, 608 and 610. The reactor relays 604, 606, 608 and 610 are coupled to the ECU 516, as well as to one or more reactor electrolytic cells 414 of the reactor cell assembly 402.

[00153] In various embodiments, the reactor relays 604, 606, 608 and 610 may be electrical switches that are switchable between an active state and an inactive state. In at least one embodiment disclosed herein, each of the reactor relays is a 12 VDC 4-pin, single pole, single throw relay. In some other embodiments, each reactor relay is a 5-pin relay. In various cases, the reactor relays 604, 606, 608 and 610 are activated by providing to the electromagnetic coils of the corresponding relays.

[00154] The operating state of each reactor relay 604, 606, 608 and 610 may be determined by the control system 502. For example, in some embodiments, the control system 502 may make a determination as to which reactor relay to activate based on information contained in the temperature signals 524a, current signals 526a or the engine data signal 522. The control system 502 may then transmit a control signal 530 instructing the ECU 516 to activate the relevant reactor relay 604, 606, 608 and 610. The ECU 516, in turn, may activate the relevant reactor relay 604, 606, 608 and 610 by transmitting a corresponding activation signal 532a, 532b, 532c or 532d, respectively, to the relevant reactor relay. In various embodiments described herein, activating each reactor relay 604, 606, 608 and 610 results in a modified configuration of the reactor cell assembly 402.

[00155] As shown, the power source 518 is connected, at the positive voltage terminal, to the reactor relays 604, 606, 608 and 610. The power source 518 provides a continuous positive voltage signal 601 a, 601 b, 601 c and 601 d to the reactor relays 604, 606, 608 and 610, respectively. When a reactor relay is activated by the ECU 516 via a suitable activation signal, a positive voltage is provided across the electrolytic cells connected to that reactor relay, thereby activating them. Depending on which reactor relay, and accordingly which electrolytic cells are activated, the cell assembly 402 operates in a unique cell configuration.

[00156] A reactor control board (RCB) 602, which may be housed within the ECU 516, is coupled to a negative voltage terminal 603b of the power source 518. The RCB 602 is configured to provide a negative voltage 602’ to the reactor cell assembly 402 from the power source 518. The RCB 602 is also configured to control the current in the reactor cell assembly 402 by providing a negative voltage to the assembly 402.

[00157] In various embodiments, the RCB 602 is configured to turn the reactor cell assembly 402 on and off based on the prescribed current limit of the reactor and tank system 400. For example, if the reactor cell assembly 402 is set to an operational current of 10A (amperes), but is being provided 20A, the RCB 602 operates to keep the reactor cell assembly 402 on for one second and turns it off the next second. As a result, the reactor cell assembly 402 averages 10A over two seconds, making the average current consumption of the reactor cell assembly 402 to be within the prescribed limits. In various cases, the RCB 602 consists of metal-oxide-sem iconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs).

[00158] Referring now to FIG. 6B, which illustrates, in further detail, the connection between the ECU 516, power source 518, reactor relay system 520 and reactor and tank system 400.

[00159] As illustrated, the reactor cell assembly 402 contains an array of electrolytic cells 414a - 4141. In particular - in the illustrated embodiment - the array of electrolytic cells contains a first electrolytic cell 414a, a second electrolytic cell 414b, a third electrolytic cell 414c, a fourth electrolytic cell 414d, a fifth electrolytic cell 414e, a sixth electrolytic cell 414f, a seventh electrolytic cell 414g, an eighth electrolytic cell 414h, a ninth electrolytic cell 414i, a tenth electrolytic cell 414j, an eleventh electrolytic cell 414k, and a twelfth electrolytic cell 4141. Each electrolytic cell may be formed from a parallel arrangement of two laterally spaced electrode plates. While the reactor cell assembly 402 has been illustrated with twelve electrolytic cells, the reactor cell assembly 402 may, in other cases, include a different number of electrolytic cells.

[00160] In the illustrated embodiment, the electrolytic cells 414a - 4141 of the reactor cell assembly 402 are divided between a first cell unit 411 a and a second cell unit 411 b, arranged in parallel configuration with respect to each other. Each of the first cell unit 414a and second cell unit 414b contains six electrolytic cells stacked in series. In some other embodiments, a different arrangement of the electrolytic cells 414a - 4141 may be provided.

[00161] The first and second cell units 411 a, 411 b share a common negative voltage applied by the RCB 602 via the negative voltage signal 602’. For example, the RCB 602 may be connected to a central electrode plate interposed between cells 414f and 414g of the first and second cell units 411 a, 411 b, respectively.

[00162] As previously mentioned, the reactor relays 604, 606, 608, 610 are connected to the ECU 516, as well as to the positive terminal of the power supply 518. When in operation, the first reactor relay 604 provides a positive voltage to the outermost electrode plates of the electrolytic cells 414a and 4141. Similarly, when the second reactor relay 606 is in operation, it is configured to provide positive voltage to an outer electrode plate of cell 414b, and an outer electrode plate of cell 414k. The third reactor relay 608, when in operation, provides positive voltage to an outer electrode plate of cell 414c, and an outer electrode plate of cell 414j. Operating the fourth reactor relay 610 provides positive voltage to an outer electrode plate of cell 414d, and an outer electrode plate of cell 414i. The various cells to which the relays are connected to are provided here as examples only. In some other embodiments, the relays may be connected to different combination of cells in the reactor cell assembly 402.

[00163] In the various embodiments illustrated herein, the ECU 516 is configured to activate only one of the four reactor relays 604, 606, 608 and 610 at any given time. If a reactor relay is already activated, and if it is desired to activate a different reactor relay, the ECU 516 is configured to first de-activate the activated relay, before activating the desired relay.

[00164] In various cases, the control system 510 may instruct the ECU 516 to trigger a certain reactor relay to activate or deactivate. For instance, in some example embodiments provided herein, the control system 502 may instruct the ECU 516 to activate or de-activate certain reactor relays based on the detected ambient temperature in proximity of the reactor and tank system 400. For example, the control system 502 may instruct the ECU 516 to activate a reactor relay which activates fewer reactor cells when the ambient temperature is low. In particular, this is because activating a reactor relay which supplies power to a fewer number of electrolytic reactor cells results in more current being delivered to each reactor cell, which in turn, increases gas production per cell and warms-up the reactor. In other cases, the control system 502 can instruct the ECU 516 to activate a reactor relay which activates a larger number of reactor cells when the ambient temperature is high. This is because activating a larger number of cells results in less current being delivered to each cell, which decreases gas production per cell and reduces the temperature of the reactor system. In various cases, the control system 520 can determine the ambient temperature based on a temperature signal 524a received from a temperature sensor 524 of the monitoring system 506.

[00165] In other example cases, the control system 502 may trigger the ECU 516 to alter the configuration of the reactor cell assembly 402 based on the current consumption of the reactor and tank system 400. For example, the control system 502 may determine the temperature and/or gas production rate of the reactor and tank system 400 based on the detected current consumption. In such cases, the control system 502 may determine the suitable configuration of the reactor cell assembly 402 that increases or decreases the current consumption in order to vary the gas production rate and/or the reactor system temperature. The control system 502 may then instruct the ECU 516 to activate the suitable reactor relay. [00166] In at least some cases, the reactor and tank system 400 may also include electrical fuses to provide electrical protection when the system is switching between different relays.

[00167] To activate a given reactor relay, the ECU 516 may transmit an activation signal to that relay. For example, the ECU 516 may transmit a first activation relay signal 532a to activate the first relay 604, a second activation relay signal 532b to activate the second reactor relay 606, a third activation relay signal 532c to activate the third relay 608 and a fourth activation signal 532d to activate the fourth reactor relay 610. The activated relay, in turn, provides a positive voltage across the electrode plates of the cells 414 which the relay is connected to. The applied positive voltage, in turn, generates a potential difference between the outermost electrode plate of the cells connected to the reactor relay, and the innermost electrode plate of cell 414f, 414g receiving the negative voltage signal 602’ from the RCB 602.

[00168] For example, activating the first reactor relay 604 applies a voltage from the power source 518 across electrolytic cells 414a and 414f, as well as across electrolytic cells 4141 and 414g of the reactor cell assembly 402, thereby activating all twelve (12) reactor cells. Activating the second reactor relay 606 causes a voltage to be applied from the power source 518 across electrolytic cells 414b and 414f, as well as across electrolytic cells 414k and 414g of the reactor cell assembly 402, thereby activating ten (10) reactor cells. Activating the third reactor relay 610 causes a voltage to be applied from the power source 518 across electrolytic cells 414c and 414f, as well as across electrolytic cells 414j and 414g of the reactor cell assembly 402, thereby activating eight (8) reactor cells. Activating the fourth reactor relay 610 causes a voltage to be applied from the power source 518 across electrolytic cells 414d and 414f, as well as across electrolytic cells 414i and 414g of the reactor cell assembly 402, thereby activating ten (6) reactor cells.

[00169] While four separate reactor relays 604, 606, 608 and 610 have been illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, in some cases, the reactor relays may be integrated into a single reactor relay unit. The single reactor relay unit may be configured to be switchable between at least four active modes of operation that correspond in function to the first, second, third and fourth reactor relays. As well, while four reactor relays have been shown, more or less than four reactor relay units may be employed to connect the power system 518 to various electrolytic cells in the reactor cell assembly 402.

[00170] In various cases, the reactor relays 604, 606, 608 and 610 are activated to increase or decrease the gas production rate of the reactor cell assembly 402. In particular, as previously stated, activating a fewer number of electrolytic reactor cells 414 increases the gas produced by the reactor cell assembly 402. This is because the voltage from the power source 518 is distributed across a fewer number of electrolytic reactor cells 414. In turn, each reactor cell 414 receive a greater amount of voltage from power source 518, and thereby applies greater power to the electrolyte solution during electrolysis to generate a greater volume of gas byproduct.

[00171] For example, if the power source 518 provides 12 V or 13.8 V of voltage, then each of the first cell unit 411a and second cell unit 411 b, arranged in parallel, receives 12 V or 13.8 V of voltage from the power source 518. Accordingly, each reactor cell in each cell unit 411 a, 411a receives approximately 2 volts or 2.3 volts (e.g., 12 volts divided by 6 cells per cell unit, or otherwise 13.8 volts divided by 6 cells per cell unit). Similarly, activating the second reactor relay 606 results in each of the ten activated reactor cells 414 receiving 2.4 volts or 2.76 volts (e.g., 12 volts divided by 5 cells per cell unit, or otherwise 13.8 volts divided by 5 cells per cell unit). Activating the third reactor relay 608 results in each of the eight activated reactor cells 414 receiving 3 volts or 3.45 volts (e.g., 12 volts divided by 4 cells per cell unit, or otherwise 13.8 volts divided by 4 cells per cell unit). Activating the fourth reactor relay 610 results in each of six activated reactor cells 414 receiving 4 volts or 4.4 volts (e.g., 12 volts divided by 3 cells per cell unit, or otherwise 13.8 volts divided by 3 cells per cell unit).

[00172] In view of the foregoing, in some embodiments, when it is desired to increase gas production by the reactor and tanks system 400, a reactor relay which activates a fewer number of reactor cells is activated. Conversely, when it is desired to decrease gas production, a reactor relay which activates a greater number of reactor cells is activated. [00173] In an application where the reactor cell assembly 402 provides hydrogen and oxygen gases to an internal combustion engine (ICE) to increase fuel efficiency, as discussed in in the context of FIGS. 1A and 1 B, the control system 502 may direct the ECU 516 to activate reactor relays in response to the demands of the ICE. For example, in response to determining the ICE requires a greater intake of gas, control system 502 can command the ECU 516 to reduce the number of active reactor cells 414 so as to increase the rate of electrolysis and gas production. On the other hand, in response to determining the ICE requires a lower intake of gas, control system 502 can command the ECU 516 to increase the number of active reactor cells 414 so as to decrease the rate of electrolysis and gas production. In various cases, the control system 502 can determine the demand of the ICE based on information received in the engine data signal 522.

[00174] In other embodiments, as explained previously, control system 502 can command the ECU 516 to increase or decrease the number of active reactor cells 414 based on the ambient temperature. For example, in colder climates, the control system 502 can command the ECU 516 to decrease the number of active cells 414. This is because by decreasing the number of active cells 414, each cell 414 receive a greater power input, thereby allowing the reactor system 506 to warm-up more rapidly. Conversely, in warmer temperature climates, the control system 502 can command the ECU 516 to increase the number of active cells 414. This is because by increasing the number of active cells 414, each cells 414 receive a lower power input, thereby allowing the reactor system 506 to cool-down. In various cases, the control system 502 can determine the ambient temperature around the reactor system 506 based on information contained in a temperature data signal 524a received from the monitoring system 506.

[00175] In still other embodiments, the control system 502 can command the ECU 516 to vary the cell configuration in the reactor cell assembly 402 to increase or decrease the current consumption of the reactor and tank assembly 400. For example, the control system 502 may determine the temperature and/or gas production rate of the reactor system 506 based on the detected current consumption. In such cases, the control system 502 may determine the suitable configuration of the reactor cell assembly 402 that increases or decreases the current consumption in order to vary the gas production rate and/or the reactor system temperature. The control system 502 may then instruct the ECU 516 to activate the suitable reactor relay. In various cases, the control system 502 can determine current consumption based on information contained in a current consumption data signal 526a received from the monitoring system 506.

[00176] Reference is now made to FIG. 7A, there is shown an example embodiment for a method 700a for automatically monitoring the level of electrolyte solution inside of the reactor and tank system 400, according to some embodiments. In particular, the method 700a provides an alternative to using level sensors (e.g., float switches) for monitoring solution level inside the reactor and tank system 400, as otherwise shown in the reactor and tank system 200 of FIG. 2. Method 700a may be performed, for example, by the control system 502 of the electrolytic reactor platform 500.

[00177] At 702a, the control system 502 can identify the cell configuration for the reactor and cell assembly 402. For example, the control system 502 can determine which of reactor relays 604, 606, 608 and 610 - of reactor relay system 520 - is activated. In some cases, this is determined by identifying the latest command signal 530 transmitted from the control system 402 to the ECU 516 in respect of varying the reactor relay system 520.

[00178] In particular, it has been recognized that the rate of consumption of solvent inside the reactor and tank assembly 400 can vary based on the number of active electrolytic reactor cells. For example, a lower number of active cells can increase the rate of solvent consumption, while a greater number of active cells can decrease the rate of solvent consumption. More particularly, this is because, as explained previously, reducing the number of active cells increases the input power to each cell, while increasing the number of active cells decreases the input power to each cell.

[00179] In some embodiments, the electrolyte reactor platform 500 may not include a reactor relay system 520, in which case act 702a may not be necessary. For example, in some cases, the reactor cell assembly 402 may only have one possible cell configuration, rather than a number of possible cell configurations. [00180] At 704a, the control system 502 can identify the level of input current and input voltage applied to the reactor and tank system 400 (i.e. , the level of input power). In some embodiments, to determine the input current and voltage, the control system 502 can identify that the power source 518 is operable to provide a pre-set amount of current and voltage to the reactor cell assembly 402 based on the known power source settings (or the known input and voltage configuration settings of the power source). In various cases, information about the power source settings can be stored, for example, in the memory 502b of control system 502.

[00181] In other cases, the power source 518 may be operable to provide a constant output voltage, but a variable output current. For example, the power source 518 may be a 12-volt or 13.8-volt power source that is operable to generate variable levels of output current. Accordingly, at 704a, the control system 502 can identify the known voltage output settings of the power source 518 (e.g., 12-volt or 13.8-volt), and further, can detect the output current from the power source 518. For example, the control system 502 can detect the output current based on information contained in a current consumption signal 526a generated by a current sensor 526 of the monitoring system 504.

[00182] In still other example cases - where the power source 518 is operable to generate a constant output voltage but a variable output current - at 704a, the control system 502 can simply assume a “default” (or pre-set) level of output current for the purposes of monitoring consumption of solvent in the electrolyte solution. For example, in some cases, the control system 502 can assume that the power source 518 generates a constant or default output of 12 amps per second despite the fact that, during operation, the actual output current may fluctuate. In particular, relying on a default or pre-set level of output current (e.g., 12 amps per second) can simplify the monitoring process, as the control system 502 is not required to re-adjust its calculations for each small variation in the amount of current output by the power source and consumed by the reactor system.

[00183] As provided herein, by identifying the level of input current and voltage at 704a, the control system 502 is able to more accurately determine the rate of consumption of the solvent in the electrolyte solution inside the reactor system 506. This, in turn, allows the control system 502 to monitor the level of electrolyte solution inside the reactor and tank system 400. For example, a larger input voltage and current increases solvent consumption and gas production, while a lower input voltage and current decreases the rate of solvent consumption and gas production.

[00184] At 706a, the control system 502 determines a quantity (e.g., volume) of mixed electrolyte solution (e.g., KOH and electrolyte solution) inside the reactor and tank system 400. In various cases, the volume of electrolyte solution - inside the reactor and tank system 400 - may be substantially equal to the volume of the solvent inside the electrolyte solution. This is because, as explained previously, adding the electrolyte to the solvent generally only increases the weight density of the mixed solution rather than the total volume.

[00185] In various cases, where the reactor and tank system 400 has been filled to its maximum volume capacity (e.g., fill-line 414b of FIG. 4), at 706a, the quantity of mixed electrolyte solution inside the reactor and tank system 400 may correspond to a known and pre-determined value corresponding to the maximum volume of solution containable inside the reactor and tank system 400.

[00186] In some embodiment - at the maximum fill volume - where the solvent is distilled water and the electrolyte is KOH, the concentration of the mixed electrolyte solution may comprise approximately 30% KOH. As explained previously with respect to plot 1400 of FIG. 14, a concentration of about 30% KOH can ensure that the water sustains low freezing temperatures (e.g., -65.2°C or -85.4°F). In other embodiments, depending on the nature of the solvent, any other percent of KOH may be included to preventing freezing of the solvent at colder temperatures. In still other cases, the electrolyte may be any other suitable electrolyte (e.g., NaOH), and a suitable concentration of that electrolyte may be selected having regards to that electrolyte solution’s freezing properties (e.g., plots 1400a, 1400b).

[00187] In still other embodiments, the reactor and tank system 400 may not be filled to its maximum volume capacity. For example, this may be the case where the system 400 has been previously operated, and therefore the solvent in the electrolyte solution has been consumed. In these cases, the quantity of mixed solution inside the system 400 may be determined, at 706a, from the previous iterations of method 700a. In particular - in each new iteration of method 700a, as explained herein, the control system 502 can determine a new level of remaining electrolyte solution inside the reactor and tank system 400.

[00188] At 708a, the control system 502 determines the quantity of consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution inside the reactor and tank system 400.

[00189] In particular, the quantity of consumable solvent refers to the portion of the solvent in the electrolyte solution which is permitted to be consumed during operation of the reactor system 506.

[00190] For example, in some embodiments, where the solvent is distilled water and the electrolyte is KOH, the distilled water in the mixed KOH solution may be consumed up to a point where the KOH concentration in the electrolyte solution reaches approximately 40% to 45%. In particular, as explained previously with respect to plot 1400 of FIG. 14, at about 40% KOH concentration, the mixed electrolyte solution is able to withstand temperatures of up to approximately -30°C (-22°F) without freezing-over. Otherwise, above a 40% to 45% KOH concentration, the freezing point of the mixed solution increases to undesirable temperatures.

[00191] To better illustrate the concept, in at least one example case where the reactor and tank system 400 retains a maximum volume of 7.5 liters of mixed solution at 30% KOH, it can be determined that there is approximately 2 liters of “consumable” water before the concentration of KOH increases to 40%. In particular, this determination is made by first identifying that the known weight (i.e. , density) of one liter of mixed solution at 30% KOH is approximately 1.29 kilograms per liter, and the known weight of mixed solution at 40% KOH is approximately 1.39 kilograms per liter. Accordingly, when the mixed electrolyte solution is at 30% KOH, the weight of 7.5 liters of mixed solution is approximately 9.675 kilograms (i.e., 1 .29 Kg/L x 7.5 L = 9.675 Kg). It may also be known that one liter of distilled water has a weight of approximately 1 kilogram, and therefore, 2 liters of distilled water has a weight of approximately 2 kilograms. In view of the foregoing, the amount of consumable water required to increase the density of the mixed solution from 1.29 Kg/L (i.e., 30% KOH) to 1.39 Kg/L (i.e., 40% KOH) is determined by the following equation: (9.675 Kg - [Quantity of Consumable Portion of Water (Liters) * 1 Kg/L])/(7.5 L - [Quantity of Consumable Portion of Water (Liters)])=1 .39. Solving this equation yields approximately 2 liters of consumable water before the KOH concentration increases to 40%.

[00192] In other embodiments, any other maximum percent of KOH concentration may be selected to define the consumable portion of the solvent in the electrolyte solution (e.g., 45%, 50%, 55%, etc. of KOH concentration).

[00193] In still other embodiments, the consumable portion of the solvent in the electrolyte solution may simply refer to the entire quantity of the solvent in the electrolyte solution available inside of the reactor and tank system 400, or any other proportion thereof.

[00194] At 710a, the control system 502 can determine the maximum amount input current (also referred to herein as threshold input current, or threshold amount of current) - into the reactor and tank system 400 - required in order to consume (e.g., deplete) the consumable portion of the solvent in the electrolyte solution as determined at 708a. In other words - at 710a - the control system 502 determines the amount of aggregate (i.e., total) input current required, over time, to be applied to the reactor cell assembly 402 in order to convert the entire consumable portion of the solvent, in the electrolyte solution, into output gas byproduct. In particular, as more input current is applied over time to the reactor cell assembly 402, a larger volume of the solvent in the electrolyte solution is consumed to generate output gas byproduct.

[00195] To determine the maximum amount of input current required to deplete the consumable portion of the solvent in the electrolyte solution, the control system 502 may perform a multi-step calculation as provided herein.

[00196] First, based on equation (1 ), the control system 502 can determine how much current the reactor and tank system 400 is consuming per hour based on the input current identified at 704a.

60 minutes x 60 seconds (1)

[00197] By way of example, if it is assumed that the power source 518 is a 13.8-volt power source that generates 12 amperes per second of output current, then the reactor and tank system 400 consumes 43,200 amperes per hour of current (e.g., 12 amperes per second x 60 minutes x 60 seconds = 43,200 amperes per hour). In this example, it is also assumed that the reactor cell assembly 402 has a 12 cell configuration, and that the initial quantity of mixed solution inside the system is 7.5 liters at 30% KOH, and further, that the quantity of consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution is 2 liters before the concentration of KOH increases to 40% in the mixed electrolyte solution.

[00198] Second, the control system 502 identifies the gas flow rate corresponding to the input current and input voltage determined at 704a. In other words, the control system 502 identifies the rate of gas flow (e.g., combined hydrogen and oxygen gas) generated by the reactor and tank system 400 as a consequence of the applied input current and input voltage.

[00199] In some embodiments, the control system 502 accesses pre-determined gas flow rate correlation data which may have been previously determined (e.g., experimentally determined). In particular, the gas flow rate correlation data relates the input voltage and input current to corresponding gas flow rates for different cell configurations. In various cases, the gas flow rate correlation data is stored in the memory 502b of control system 502. The correlation data may be stored as a look-up table in memory 502b.

[00200] Tables 1 to 3, below, provide example gas flow rate correlation data for 12 cell, 10 cell and 8 cell reactor cell configurations, assuming a 13.8-volt power source 518.

Table 1 - Example Correlation Data Relating Input Voltage and Input Current to Corresponding Gas Flow Rate for a 12 Cell Configuration for the Reactor Cell Assembly

Table 2 - Example Correlation Data Relating Input Voltage and Input Current to Corresponding Gas Flow Rate for a 10 Cell Configuration for the Reactor Cell Assembly

Table 3 - Example Correlation Data Relating Input Voltage and Input Current to Corresponding Gas Flow Rate for a 8 Cell Configuration for the Reactor Cell Assembly

[00201] FIG. 7F provides an example plot 700f in respect of the gas flow rate correlation data for a 12 cell reactor assembly correlation.

[00202] In the above-noted example where the reactor cell assembly 402 has a 12 cell configuration and consumes 12 amperes per second, the gas flow rate is determined from Table 1 to be 0.76 liters per minute.

[00203] Third, based on equation (2), the control system 502 determines the quantity of gas generated per hour by the reactor and tank system 400 based on the determined gas flow rate.

60 minutes (2)

[00204] For instance, in the above-noted example, the rate of output gas generated per house is 45.6 liters per hour (i.e. , 0.76 liters per minute x 60 minutes = 45.6 liters per hour).

[00205] Fourth, in accordance with equation (3), the control system 502 determines the maximum volume of output gas which is generatable by the quantity of consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution determined at 708a.

Maximum Volume of Generatable Gas Liters) = Consumable Portion of Electrolyte Solution Liters) x

[00206] In particular, in equation (3), the volume of gas generated per unit of consumed solvent in the electrolyte solution may be a pre-determined value. For example, where the solvent is distilled water, each liter of water may be pre-determined to generate 1 ,857 liters of combined gas output (e.g., oxygen and hydrogen). In some cases, this pre-determined value is stored in the memory 502b of control system 502. [00207] In the above example, where the reactor and tank system 400 includes 2 liters of consumable water, the maximum volume of generatable gas is calculated to be 3,714 liters (e.g., 2 liters of consumable water x 1 ,875 liters of output gas per liter of water = 3,714 liters of gas).

[00208] Fifth, based on equation (4), the control system 502 determines the time required to consume the consumable portion of solvent in the electrolyte solution inside the reactor and tank system 400. In particular, in equation (4), the maximum volume of generatable gas determined by equation (3) is divided by the rate of output gas generated per hour as determined by equation (2).

Time to Consume Consumable Portion of Solvent in Electrolyte Solution Hours) =

Maximum Volume of Generatable Gas (Liters') . .. - Liters (⁴) Rate of Output of Gas Generated Per Hour (._Hour)

[00209] In the above example, the time required to consume 2 liters of water in the reactor and tank system 400 is calculated to be 81.4 hours (i.e., 3,714 liters/(45.6 liters/hour) = 81.4 hours).

[00210] Finally, the control system 502 determines the maximum amount of input current required to deplete the consumable portion of solvent in the electrolyte solution based on the time required to consume the consumable portion of solvent in the electrolyte solution (equation (4)) and the input current consumed per hour (equation (1 )), in accordance with equation (5).

Maximum Input Current Amperes) =

[00211] In the above-noted example, the maximum amount of input current required to consume 2 liters of water at an input current rate of 12 amps per second and an input voltage of 13.8-volt for a reactor having a 12 cell configuration is approximately 3,516,480 amps (i.e., 81.4 Hours x 43,200 Amps/Hour = 3,516,480 amps). Accordingly, the maximum input current at 710a is determined to be 3,516,480 amps. [00212] It will be appreciated that while equations (1 ) to (5) assume units of liters, hours and amperes, in other embodiments, any other unit of measurement (e.g., units of time, volume and current) can be used to determine the maximum amount of input current at 710a.

[00213] Continuing with reference to FIG. 7A, at 712a, during operation of the reactor system 506, the control system 502 monitors the total amount of current consumed by the reactor system 506 over time.

[00214] For example, where the control system 502 determines that the reactor and tank system 400 has been consuming 12 ampere per second over a duration of five hour, the control system 502 can determine the total current consumption as being 216,000 amps (e.g., 5 hours x 60 minutes/hour x 60 seconds/m inute x 12 amps/second = 216,000 amps). In another example, where the reactor and tank system 400 has been consuming 12 amps per seconds for a duration of three hours, and 7 amps per second for a duration of two hours, the control system 502 can determine that the total current consumed over the duration of five hours is 180,000 amps (i.e., [12 amps/second x 3 hours x 60 minutes/hour x 60 seconds/hour] + [7 amps/second x 2 hours x 60 minutes/hour x 60 seconds/hour] = 180,000 amps). In various cases, the amount of current consumed by the reactor and tank system 400 is based on information contained within a current consumption signal 526a generated by a current sensor 526 of the monitoring system 504.

[00215] In particular, by monitoring the total (e.g., aggregate) current consumption of the reactor system 506 over time, the control system 506 is able, in turn, to monitor gas production and total levels of consumption of the solvent in the electrolyte solution. In various cases, the total current consumption is stored as a value in the control memory 502b, and is updated continuously, or at any pre-defined frequency or time interval.

[00216] At 714a, in some embodiments, during the monitoring of the total current consumed by the electrolytic reactor at 712a, the control system 502 can output an indication of the current level of electrolyte solution inside of the reactor and tank system 400. The output indication can be generated continuously in real-time or near real-time - or otherwise at pre-determined time or frequency intervals. In this manner, an operator can monitor the reactor system 506 to determine how much electrolyte solution is remaining before the system requires re-filling.

[00217] For example, using the communication interface 514, the control system 502 can transmit updates to an external user device (e.g., user device 104 in FIG. 1A) regarding the remaining quantity of consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution. In other examples, the display device 512 can include a display screen (e.g., an LED screen), and the control system 502 can transmit a display signal 512’ for the display device 512 to display the remaining level of consumable electrolyte solution.

[00218] In some embodiments, the control system 502 can determine the remaining level of consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution based on equation (6).

Remaining Level of Consumable Solvent in Electrolyte Solution Liters) =

[00219] In at least some example cases - to simplify the calculation in equation (6) - the control system 502 can assume a “default” or pre-set value of input current consumed per hour (e.g., 12 amperes per second x 60 seconds per minute x 60 minutes per hour = 43,200 amperes per hour), and in turn, assume a default corresponding rate of output gas generated per hour (e.g., 45.6 liters/hour as determined from equation (2)). In this manner, the control system 502 is not required to re-adjust the values in the calculation of Equation (6) for each small variation in current consumed by the reactor system 506. Further, as explained previously, where the electrolyte solution is water, the volume of gas generated per unit of electrolyte solution in equation (6) can be predetermined as 1 liter of water = 1 ,857 liters of gas output (e.g., hydrogen and oxygen).

[00220] At 716a, the control system 502 determines whether the total current consumption is greater than the maximum input current determined at 710a. [00221] Where the total current consumption is determined to be greater than the maximum input current, then the control system 502 can determine at 712a that the consumable portion of the solvent in the electrolyte solution - inside of the reactor and tank system 400 - has been consumed and the system requires replenishing. This is because - as previously discussed - the maximum input current, determined at 710a, defines the total amount of input current required to deplete the consumable portion of the solved in the electrolyte solution.

[00222] If the total input current consumption is determined to be greater than the maximum input current (or threshold input current), at 718a, the control system 502 can generate an output indication that the reactor and tank system 400 requires replenishing of solvent in the electrolyte solution. For example, the control system 502 can transmit a display signal 512’ to one or more display devices 512 (FIG. 5) to indicate that the reactor and tank system 400 requires replenishing. For instance, this can include the control system 502 activating an LED indicator on the reactor casing as explained here. In other embodiments, the control system 502 can also transmit, in real time or near-real time, a notification to a user device (e.g., user device 104 of FIG. 1A) indicating that the reactor and tank system 400 requires refilling.

[00223] In various cases, at 718a, the control system 502 can also de-activate the reactor system 506 to prevent further operation. For example, control system 502 can transmit a command signal 530 to the ECU 516 to de-activate the power source 518. In response, the ECU 516 can transmit a power control signal 526 to the power source 518 to cut-off power to the reactor cell assembly 402.

[00224] At 716a, if the total current consumption is determined not to exceed the maximum input current, then the method 700a can return to act 712a and can re-iterate until the total current consumption exceeds the maximum input. In some cases, acts 712a and 716a can iterate continuously or at pre-defined time or frequency intervals (e.g., one second intervals) until the condition at 716a is satisfied.

[00225] In view of the foregoing, method 700a allows for automatic monitoring of electrolyte solution without relying on level sensors (e.g., float switches). As such, the method 700a may avoid a number of the shortcomings previously described in relation to reactor and tank system 200. For example, rather than determining the electrolyte solution level relative to the sensor position (e.g., higher or lower than the sensor position), the method 700a generates accurate measurements based on current consumption data from the reactor system 506. Additionally, using the method 700a, monitoring the solution level is not subject to erroneous readings from faulty level sensors as may otherwise be the case in the reactor and tank system 200.

[00226] Reference is now made to FIG. 7B, which shows an example method 700b for monitoring the level of mixed electrolyte solution inside of the reactor and tank system 400, according to some other embodiments. Method 700b may be performed, for example, by control system 502 of the electrolytic reactor platform 500.

[00227] Method 700b is analogous to method 700a, but adjusts the monitoring of the consumed solvent in the electrolyte solution based on variations in the input current voltage applied to the reactor and tank system 400.

[00228] In particular, at 716b, if it is determined that the total current consumption does not exceed the maximum input current, at 720b, the control system 502 may determine whether the input current has changed from the input current identified at 704b. In some cases, the control system 502 can determine whether the input current has changed based on information contained in a current consumption signal 526a received by the control system 502 from a current sensor 526 of the monitoring system 504.

[00229] If there has been no change in the input current, the method 700b can return to monitoring the total current consumption at 712b. Otherwise, if a change has been detected at 720b, the method 700b can return to act 704b. At 704b, the control system 502 can identify the new input current (e.g., based on the current consumption signal 526a). At 706b and 708b, the control system 502 can determine the remaining quantity of mixed solution inside the reactor and tank system 400, as well as the remaining quantity of consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution. In particular, at 708b, the control system 502 can use equation (6) to determine the remaining quantity of consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution. At 710b, the control system 502 can determine a new maximum (i.e., threshold) input current for depleting the remaining quantity of consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution based on the new input current level. At 712b, the control system 502 can return to monitoring the total current consumption over time.

[00230] Referring now to FIG. 7C, there is shown an example embodiment for a method 700c for monitoring the level of mixed electrolyte solution inside of the reactor and tank system 400, according to some other embodiments. Method 700c may be performed, for example, by control system 502 of the electrolytic reactor platform 500.

[00231] Method 700c is analogous to method 700a, but adjusts the monitoring of consumed solvent in the electrolyte solution based on variations in the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly 402. In particular, as discussed previously, varying the cell configuration in the reactor cell assembly 402 can increase or decrease the rate of gas production, and in turn, the rate of consumption of solvent in the electrolytic solution.

[00232] In particular, at 716c, if it is determined that the total current consumption does not exceed the maximum input current, at 720c, the control system 502 may determine whether the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly 402 has changed. For example - as discussed previously - the control system 502 may monitor a latest command signal 530 transmitted to the ECU 516 in respect of varying the reactor relay system 520.

[00233] If there has been no change, the method 700c can return to monitoring the total current consumption at act 712c. Otherwise, if a change has been determined at 720c, the method 700c can return to act 702c. At 702c, the control system 502 can determine the new cell configuration applied to the reactor cell assembly 402.

[00234] At 704c, the control system 502 can identify an input current and input voltage applied to the reactor and tank system 400 having the new cell configuration. In some cases, as previously discussed, the input voltage and input current may be based on the known power settings of the power source 518. In other cases, where the current output from the power source 518 is variable, a default input current can be assumed by the control system 502 (e.g., 12 amperes per second) to simplify calculations, at least for the purposes of determining the maximum input current at 710c. In still other cases, the control system 502 can determine the current output from the power source 518 based on information contained in a current consumption signal 526a of a current sensor 526 of the monitoring system 504.

[00235] At 706c and 708c, the control system 502 can determine the remaining quantity of mixed solution, as well as the remaining quantity of consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution in the reactor and tank system 400. For example, using equation (6), the control system 502 can determine at least the remaining quantity of consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution in the reactor and tank system 400. At 710c, the control system 502 can determine a new maximum input current for depleting the remaining quantity of consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution based on the new cell configuration, and in accordance with equations (1 ) to (5). At 712c, the control system 502 can return to monitoring total current consumption over time.

[00236] Reference is now made to FIG. 7D, which shows an example embodiment for a method 700d for monitoring the level of mixed electrolyte solution inside of the reactor and tank system 400, according to some other embodiments. Method 700d may be performed, for example, by control system 502 of the electrolytic reactor platform 500.

[00237] Method 700d is a combination of methods 700b and 700c, and adjusts the monitoring of the mixed solution level based variations in both the input current and the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly 402.

[00238] In particular, at 716d, if it is determined that the total current consumption does not exceed the maximum input current, at 720d, the control system 502 may determine whether the input current to the reactor and tank system 400 has changed from the input current identified at 704d. If so, at 722d, the control system 502 may further determine whether the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly 402 has changed. If the cell configuration has changed, the method 700d can return to act 702d and proceed in a manner analogous as previously explained with reference to method 700c. Conversely, if there has been no change in the cell configuration at 722d, then the method 700d can return to act 712d to continue monitoring the total current consumption. [00239] On the other hand, at 720d, if it is determined that there has been a change in the input current, then at 724d, the control system 502 may further determine whether the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly 402 has changed. If the cell configuration has changed, then the method 700d can return to act 702d and proceed in a manner analogous as previously explained with reference to method 700c while accounting for the change in input current at 704d (i.e., as explained method 700b). Otherwise, if there has been no change in the cell configuration at 722d, then the method 700d can return to act 704d and proceed in a manner analogous to method 700b.

[00240] Referring now to FIG. 7E, there is shown an example embodiment for a method 700e for monitoring the level of mixed electrolyte solution inside of the reactor and tank system 400, according to some other embodiments. Method 700d may be performed, for example, by control system 502 of the electrolytic reactor platform 500.

[00241] Method 700e is generally analogous to the method 700a, but allows for generating a warning notification before the consumable portion of the solvent of the electrolyte solution is completely depleted. In this manner, an operator of the reactor system is provided a buffer period to replenish the reactor and tank system 400 before the consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution is entirely depleted.

[00242] As shown, in the method 700e, after determining the maximum amount of input current at 71 Oe, the control system 502 can additionally determine, at 720e, a threshold amount of input current for triggering an output warning indication. The threshold amount of input current at 720e may define an amount of input current that is less (e.g., marginally or significantly less) than the maximum amount of input current determined at 71 Oe. For instance, in the example described in method 700a, where the maximum input current is determined to be 3,516,480 amps, the threshold input current at 720e may be determined to be, for example, 2,500,000 amps. Accordingly, when the total current consumed reaches at least 2,500,000 amps, a warning notification is generated to warn the operator that the consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution is close to being depleted. In other cases, any other threshold value can be selected to trigger a warning notification. [00243] At 712e, the control system 502 can monitor the total current consumption of the reactor and tank system 400 over time. At 722e, the control system 502 can determine whether the total current consumption exceeds the threshold input current determined at 720e. If this is not the case, the method 700e can return to monitoring the current consumption at 712e. Otherwise, at 724e, the control system 502 can generate a first output indication which can alert the operator that the consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution is close to depletion. In some cases, the first output notification comprises transmitting, by the control system 502, a display signal 512’ to one or more display devices 512 (FIG. 5) to indicate that the reactor and tank system 400 requires replenishing. For instance, the control system 502 can activate one or more LED lights on a reactor casing. In other embodiments, the control system 502 can transmit, in real time or near-real time, a notification to a user device (e.g., user device 104 of FIG. 1A) indicating that the reactor and tank system 400 requires replenishing.

[00244] At 726e, if the tank and reactor system 400 has not been re-filled, the control system 502 can resume monitoring the total current consumption of the reactor and tank system 400 in a similar manner as previously described at act 712e. At 716e, the control system 502 can determine whether the total current consumption exceeds the maximum input current determined at 71 Oe. If not, the method 700e can return to act 726e. Otherwise, at 718e the control system 502 can generate a second output notification indicating that the consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution has been depleted. At 718e, the control system 502 can also de-activate the reactor system to prevents its further operation.

[00245] Reference is now made to FIGS. 8A to 8E, which show various images of an exterior casing for housing the electrolytic reactor platform 500 of FIG. 5, according some example embodiments.

[00246] Referring to FIG. 8A, which shows a front view 800a of an exterior casing 802 for housing the electrolytic reactor platform 500. As shown, in the illustrated example, the front side of the reactor casing 802 includes the reactor power switch 508, as well as LED status indicators 512a, 512b and 512c. For example, the indicator 512a is a green LED that is activated to indicate that the reactor system is operating normally. The indicator 512b is a blue LED that is activated to indicate that the electrolyte solution is depleted and requires replenishing. The indicator 512c is a red LED which is activated to indicate that servicing is required to repair the reactor system. In the method 700e, the green LED 512a and blue LED 512b can be concurrently activated by the control system 502 when the total current consumption is determined to exceed the warning threshold but is otherwise less than the maximum input current (i.e. , act 724e of method 700e).

[00247] Referring to FIG. 8B, which shows a first lateral view 800b of the exterior casing 802 for housing the electrolytic reactor platform 500. As shown, the lateral side 800b can include a gas outlet 812, which may be an outlet for ejecting a combined gas mixture (e.g., hydrogen and oxygen). For example, in FIG. 4, hydrogen gas 417a and oxygen gas 417b may be mixed together before being ejected from gas outlet 812. In other cases, separate outlets may be provided for separately ejecting the oxygen and hydrogen gases. The lateral side 800b may also include a switch box 804, which contains various switches and plug-ins for using a solution pump 428.

[00248] Referring to FIG. 80, which shows an close-up image 800c of the switch box 804. In particular, as shown, the switch box 804 can include the pump switch 510, a power plug-in 814 for electrically coupling an external solvent pump 428 to the reactor platform (e.g., connecting an electrical connector 904 as shown in FIG. 9B). The switch box 804 also includes a solvent fill port 808 for receiving a re-fill of solvent (e.g., distilled water) from a solvent reservoir. For example, as explained herein, a conduit may be connected between a solvent reservoir and the fill port 808 to transport solvent into the reactor system.

[00249] Referring to FIG. 8D, which shows a second lateral view 800d of the exterior casing 802 for housing the electrolytic reactor platform 500. The lateral side 800d may be opposite to the lateral view 800b of FIG. 8B. As shown, the lateral side 800c can include the an electrolyte fill port 434 which is in fluid communication with the tank assembly 404 (e.g., via an electrolyte conduit 432). Lateral side 800d may also include a power plug-in 806 for coupling a power source 518 to the electrolytic reactor platform 500. [00250] Referring to FIG. 8E, which shows an expanded view 800e of the casing 802 for housing the electrolytic reactor platform 500. As shown, the casing 802 houses the reactor and tank system 400 which includes the reactor cell assembly 402 and the tank assembly 404. The reactor cell assembly 402 includes one or more electrolytic reactor cells 414. Further, the tank assembly 404 includes the mixed solution containers 406 and 408, which are in fluid communication with the reactor cell assembly 402 via one or more conduits 412, 416. Additionally, the casing 802 houses the control system 502 and the ECU 516.

[00251] Reference is now made to FIGS. 9A and 9B, which show example block diagrams illustrating different methods for fluidically connecting the electrolytic platform 500 of FIG. 5 to an external solvent tank (e.g., a tank of distilled water) in order to re-fill the reactor and tank system 400.

[00252] FIG. 9A illustrates an example embodiment 900a where the solvent pump 428 is located inside or on the reactor casing 802, and is directly electrically coupled to the ECU 516 (i.e., inside the reactor platform 500a). In this embodiment, the conduit 810 - which is used to re-fill the reactor and tank system 400 - is connected at one end 810a to the solvent pump 428, and is insertable at the opposing end 810b inside the solvent tank 902. In this configuration, the solution pump 428 may be activated, via a control signal 534 from the ECU 516, to “suction” (or “draw”) solvent from the solvent tank 902, and pump solvent into the tank assembly 404.

[00253] FIG. 9B illustrates another example embodiment 900b where the solvent pump 428 is located external to the reactor casing 802. For example, in this embodiment, the solvent pump 420 may be attached, or otherwise in proximity, to the solvent tank 902. In particular, in this case, the conduit 810 is connected at a first end 824a to the tank assembly 404 inside of the reactor platform 500b, and is connected at a second end 810b to the solution pump 428. Further, an external electrical connector 904 is provided to connect the ECU 516 to the solution pump 428. In this configuration, the solution pump 428 is activated by a control signal 534 transmitted from ECU 516 to the solvent pump 428 via the electrical connector 904, to “suction” (or “draw”) solvent from the electrolyte solution tank 902 and pump solvent into the tank assembly 404.

[00254] Reference is now made to FIG. 10, which shows an image 1000 of an example solvent tank 902. As shown, the tank 902 may include the solvent pump 428 and an electrical connector 904, which is used to electrically connect the solvent pump 428 to the electrolytic reactor platform 500 (FIG. 9B) via an electrical connection head 1002 that is fitted into the pump power plug-in 814 of FIG. 8C. Further, a conduit 810 is provided to fluidly connect to the reactor casing 802, via the solvent fill port 808 (FIG. 8C). To this end, one end of the conduit 810 can include a connector 810a for connecting to the solvent fill port 808.

[00255] Reference is now made to FIG. 11 , which shows an example embodiment of a method 1100 for automatically re-filling the tank and reactor system 400 with solvent, in accordance with some embodiments. Method 1100 can be performed, for example, by the control system 502 of the electrolytic reactor platform 500. In at least some embodiments, method 1100 is performed in response to connecting the solvent tank 902 to the electrolyte reactor platform 500, and the control system 502 receiving an activation signal 510a from an activated solvent pump activation switch 510.

[00256] At 1102, the control system 502 determines the total current consumed by the reactor and tank system 400 at the point when the system is being re-filled with solvent. For instance, this may be determined in a manner analogous to act 712a of method 700a. In some cases, the total current consumed is a value that is stored and updated in the control system memory 502b, and at 1102, the value can be read.

[00257] At 1104, based on the determined total current consumed by the system 400, the control system 502 can identify the quantity of consumable solvent depleted by operation of the reactor and tank system 400. In particular, this can be determined by calculating the remaining quantity of consumable solvent in electrolyte solution inside the reactor and tank system 400 based on equation (6), and subtracting this value from the maximum amount of consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution that can be contained inside the system when the system is filled to the maximum fill volume. [00258] In at least some embodiments, at 1104, the control system 502 may initially determine if the total current consumed by the reactor and tank system 400 is greater than a pre-determined threshold. For example, this can include determining whether the total current consumed is greater than the pre-determined threshold determined at 720e in the method 700e. If not, the control system 502 can determine that the solvent in the electrolyte solution inside the system 400 is not sufficiently depleted to allow for re-filling. In these cases, the control system 502 may simply terminate the method 1100 to prevent re-filling. Otherwise, if the total current consumed is greater than the pre-determined threshold, then at 1104, the control system 502 can resume to identify the quantity of consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution depleted by operation of the reactor and tank system 400 as explained above.

[00259] At 1106, the control system 502 can determine a pre-set period of time for activating the solvent pump 428 in order to re-fill the tank assembly 404 with solvent.

[00260] In some embodiments, the determination at 1104 is based on a known flow rate for the solvent pump 428. For example, the control system memory 502b may store a known, pre-set value corresponding to the flow rate of the solvent pump 428. Based on the solvent pump flow rate, the control system 502 can determine the period of time required to activate the solvent pump 428 by dividing the depleted quantity of consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution determined at 1104, with the known solvent pump flow rate (i.e., Depleted Quantity of Consumable Solvent in Electrolyte Solution (Liters)ZSolvent Pump Flow Rate (Liters Per Hour)). In various cases, the control system 502 can also vary the flow rate of the solvent pump 428, and may determine the period of time required based on the known adjusted flow rate for the solvent pump 428.

[00261] At 1108, the control system 502 can activate the solvent pump 428 for the pre-determined period of time. In particular, the control system 502 can transmit a control signal 530 to the ECU 516 to activate the solvent pump 428. The ECU 516 may, in turn, transmit a control signal 534 to activate the solvent pump 428.

[00262] At 1110, the control system 502 may determine whether not the predetermined period of time has lapsed. If the pre-determined time period has not lapsed, the method may return to 1108 to continue operating the solvent pump 428. Otherwise, at 1112, the control system 502 may de-activate the solvent pump 428. For example, control system 502 may transmit a control signal 526 to the ECU 516 to de-activate the solvent pump 428. In turn, the ECU 506 may transmit a control signal 534 for de-activating solvent pump 428. At 1112, the control system 502 can also reset the total current consumed to zero amperes to indicate that the reactor and tank system 400 has been refilled. For example, this may involve updating a total current consumed value, that is stored in the control memory 502b.

[00263] Reference is now made to FIG. 12, which illustrates another example embodiment of a reactor and tank system 1200.

[00264] The reactor system 1200 is generally analogous to the reactor and tank system 400 of FIG. 4, with the exception that at least one level sensor 1202 is present inside the tank assembly 404 and is positioned below the maximum fill-line 1204.

[00265] In particular, similar to the reactor and tank system 400, during operation of the system 1200, the level of electrolyte solution can be automatically monitored as previously provided herein with reference to methods 700a to 700e. However, as provided herein, when it is subsequently desired to re-fill the reactor and tank system 1200 with solvent, the inclusion of the level sensor 1202 can assists the control system 502 with the re-filling process.

[00266] More particularly - and in contrast to the reactor and tank system 200 of FIG. 2 which requires two level sensors to detect if the electrolyte solution level is too low (e.g., level sensor 224) or too high (e.g., level sensor 226) - the reactor and tank system 1200 of FIG. 12 provides only a single level sensor which, in various cases, is used during the re-filling process. The reactor and tank system 1200 does not, however, require an additional second level sensor, as provided in the reactor and tank system 200, to monitor when the electrolyte solution level is too low (e.g., level sensor 224), as this may be determined using the methods 700a to 700e. In this manner, while the reactor and tank system 1200 contains a level sensor, the system 1200 uses one less level sensor than the system 200, thereby minimizing at least some of the associated risks of using too many level sensors.

[00267] In particular, during the re-filling process, the presence of the level sensor 1202 mitigates for discrepancies during the monitoring of consumption of solvent in the electrolyte solution by the control system 502 during operation of the reactor system 506. For example, in various cases, discrepancies in monitoring electrolyte solution level using methods 700a - 700e can result from temperature conditions which cause the control system 502 to overestimate or underestimate the amount of solvent consumed inside the reactor and tank assembly 400. For example, during hot weather temperatures, solvent in the electrolyte solution (e.g., distilled water) may evaporate, and is therefore consumed at higher rates than expected. As a result, the control system 502 may underestimate the volume of solvent consumed during operation of the reactor system. Similarly, in colder weather temperatures, solvent may be consumed less quickly than expected, thereby causing the control system 502 to underestimate the volume of consumed solvent in the electrolyte solution during operation of the reactor system. Accordingly, as a result of miscalculating the amount of solvent in the electrolyte solution consumed, the control system 502 may, in turn, improperly control the solvent pump, in method 1100, to underfill or overfill the reactor and tank assembly 400. Accordingly, as explained with reference to FIG. 13, the provision of a level sensor accordingly assists in preventing improper filling of the reactor and tank system 400.

[00268] In various embodiments, the distance between the level sensor position 1206 and the maximum fill-line 1204 may be known to the control system 502 (e.g., a predetermined distance). The level sensor 1202 may be any sensor that is operable to determine the level of mixed electrolyte solution inside the tank assembly 404. In at least some embodiments, the level sensor 1202 may be a float switch, such as float switch 300 of FIG. 3. It will be appreciated that while the level sensor 1202 is illustrated as being located inside of the container 406, in other cases, the level sensor 1202 may also be provided inside of the container 408 or anywhere else relative to the reactor and tank system 1200. In at least some embodiments, the level sensor 1202 is analogous to the level sensor 528 in the monitoring system 504 for the electrolytic reactor platform 500 (FIG. 5). Upon triggering the level sensor 1202, the level sensor 1202 is able to transmit a sensor signal 528a to the control system 502.

[00269] Reference is now made to FIG. 13, which shows an example embodiment for a method 1300 for automatic filling of the reactor and tank system 1200 using at least one level sensor positioned inside the tank assembly 404. Method 1300 may be performed, for example, by the control system 502.

[00270] In at least some embodiments, method 1300 may be performed in response to connecting the solvent tank 902 to the electrolyte reactor platform 500 (via a conduit 810), and the control system 502 receiving an activation signal 510a from an activated solvent pump activation switch 510.

[00271] In various cases, the method 1300 may only be performed if the total current consumption by the reactor system 506 is greater than a pre-determined threshold, such as the threshold determined at 720e of method 700e (e.g., 2,500,00 amperes in the example provided in method 700e at act 720e). In other words, prior to initiating the method 1300, the control system 502 may initially determine whether the total current consumed by the reactor system is greater than the pre-determined threshold, which indicates that the solvent in the electrolyte solution is sufficiently depleted. If not, the control system 502 may prevent the re-filling of the system 1200 in accordance with the method 1300. Otherwise, the control system 502 may allow the method 1300 to proceed to act 1302. In various cases, the total current consumed by the reactor and tank system 1200 may be recorded and stored in the memory 502b during operation of the system.

[00272] At 1302, the control system 502 determines whether the level sensor 1202 is activated. In some embodiments, this determined based on receiving a sensor signal 528a from the triggered level sensor 1202.

[00273] If it is determined that the level sensor 1202 is activated at 1302, then the control system 502 may in turn determine that the electrolyte solution level inside of the tank assembly 404 is at least as high as the sensor position 1206. Accordingly, at 1304, the control system 502 activates the solvent pump 428 for a pre-determined period of time corresponding to a known time required to fill the tank assembly 404 from the known sensor position 1206 to the maximum fill-line 1204 (e.g., quantity 1210 in FIG. 12). In particular, as in various embodiments the method 1300 may not be initiated unless the total current consumption by the reactor system 506 is first determined to be greater than the threshold determined at 720e of method 700e, there will not typically be a case where the electrolyte solution level is initially higher than the level sensor position 1202, thereby resulting in overfilling of the system.

[00274] At 1306, the control system 502 may de-activate the solution pump 428 after operating it for the pre-determined period of time, and can reset the total current consumption to zero amperes to indicate that that the reactor and tank system 400 has been re-filled.

[00275] If it is determined that the level sensor 1202 is not activated at 1302, at 1308 the control system 502 can activate the solvent pump 428 for a period of time until the level sensor 1202 is activated (e.g., quantity volume 1208 in FIG. 12). The process of pumping solution until the level sensor is activated may be referred to herein as “type one pumping”.

[00276] At 1310, the control system 502 can monitor to determine whether the level sensor 1202 has been activated. For example, the control system 502 can monitor whether a sensor signal 528a has been received from the level sensor 1202.

[00277] If the level sensor has not been activated, then the method 1300 can return to act 1308 until a sensor signal 528a is received by the control system 502, indicating that the level sensor 1202 is activated. In some cases, it may take between 20 and 30 seconds to fill-up the reactor tank 404 until the level sensor is activated.

[00278] At 1312, once it is determined that the level sensor 1202 is activated, the control system 502 may perform what is referred to herein as “type two pumping”. In “type two pumping”, the control system 502 can activate the solvent pump 428 for a predetermined period of time corresponding to a known amount of time required to fill the tank assembly 404 from the level sensor position 1206 to the maximum fill-line 1204 (i.e. , a volume 1210 in FIG. 12) as explained previously with respect to act 1304. At 1314, the control system 502 can de-activate the solution pump 428 and can reset the current consumption level to zero amperes.

[00279] Reference is now made again to both FIGS. 1 A and 1 B, which illustrate the example applications of the electrolytic reactor platform 500 of FIG. 5. In particular, as previously discussed, FIG. 1A illustrates a block diagram of a fuel management system 100a according to one example. FIG. 1 B illustrates a block diagram of a fuel management system 100b according to another example.

[00280] The fuel management system 100a of FIG. 1A includes the internal combustion engine (“ICE”) 102, the electrolytic reactor platform 500, and the control system 502. The various components of fuel management system 100a are connected over a network 105. In some embodiments, the fuel management system 100a can also include a user device 104 connected to the network 105.

[00281] Network 105 may be any network(s) capable of carrying data including the Internet, Ethernet, plain old telephone service (POTS) line, public switch telephone network (PSTN), integrated services digital network (ISDN), digital subscriber line (DSL), coaxial cable, fiber optics, satellite, mobile, wireless (e.g., Wi-Fi, WiMAX), SS7 signaling network, fixed line, local area network, wide area network, and others, including any combination of these. Network 105 may also include a storage medium, such as, for example, a CD ROM, a DVD, an SD card, an external hard drive, a USB drive, etc. Network 105 may also include a storage medium, such as, for example, a CD ROM, a DVD, an SD card, an external hard drive, a USB drive, etc.

[00282] Electrolytic reactor platform 500 is any reactor platform configured to carry out the process of electrolysis, and is analogous to the reactor platform 500 of FIG. 5 in structure and functionality. ICE 102 is a combustion engine configured to carry out the process of combustion of a carbon-based fuel. In the illustrated embodiment, the ICE 102 is configured to carry out the process of combustion for a mixture of carbon-based fuel with hydrogen and oxygen gases received from the electrolytic reactor platform 500.

[00283] User device 104 is generally a mobile computer such as a smartphone or tablet or other “smart” device that may be networked through the “Internet of Things”. However, user devices 104 may also be a non-mobile computer device, such as desktop computer. While not shown, user device 104 can include a processor, a communication interface for data communication, a display for displaying a GUI, and a memory that may include both volatile and non-volatile elements. As with control system 502, references to acts or functions by mobile device 104 imply that the device processor is executing computer-executable instructions (e.g., a software program) stored in the user device memory. In various cases, the user device 104 can receive notifications transmitted, over network 105, by the control system 502 of the reactor platform 500. For the example, the notifications may concern alerts that the solvent in the electrolyte solution in the reactor system 506 is depleted or near depletion. In other cases, the user device 104 can also transmit instructions, via network 105, to the control system 502 in respect of activating or de-activating the power source 518, solution pump 428 or otherwise varying the reactor relay system 520.

[00284] FIG. 1 B illustrates the fuel management system 100b according to a further example embodiment. As shown, the reactor system 506 may include the reactor and tank system 400 which is configured to supply an air-intake stream of the ICE 102 with hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O2) gases. The hydrogen and oxygen gases supplied to the ICE 102 are generated by the reactor and tank system 400.

[00285] An engine control module (“ECM”) 106 may be connected to the ICE 102 in order to monitor operating conditions. The operating conditions of the ICE 102 which are monitored by the ECM 106 include, but are not limited to, odometer information, engine speed, fuel consumption, fuel rate, mass air pressure, mass air flow, mileage, distance, fuel rate, exhaust temperature, NOx levels, CO2 levels, 02 levels, engine instantaneous fuel economy, engine average fuel economy, engine inlet air mass flow rate, engine demand percent torque, engine percent load at current speed, transmission actual gear ratio, transmission current gear, engine cylinder combustion status, engine cylinder knock level, after treatment intake NOx level preliminary failure mode identifier (FMI), drivetrain information, vehicle speed and GPS location, etc. [00286] In at least some embodiments, the operating conditions monitored by the ECM 106 may be communicated to the control system 502 via the engine data signal 522. The control system 502 may use the information contained in the engine data signal 522 to make one or more determinations in respect of the operation of various components of the fuel management system 100b. For example, the control system 502 may determine from the information in the engine data signal 522 that the ICE 102 requires a higher or lower input of hydrogen and oxygen gases. The control system 502 may then transmit a control signal 530 instructing the reactor system 506 to vary a configuration of the reactor system in order to increase or decrease the production rate of the hydrogen and oxygen gases.

[00287] In cases where the ICE 102 does not include an ECM 106, or the ECM 106 does not provide the necessary data, other sensors or devices may connect to the ICE 102 or other parts of the vehicle in order to monitor engine parameters. Engineparameters received from these sensors or devices can be used by the control system 502 to determine the performance of the ICE 102.

[00288] The control system 502 may also receive data from the monitoring system 504 connected to the reactor system 506. For example, the monitoring system 506 may include one or more temperature sensors 524, which may be externally located around, or near, the reactor system 506 in order to measure an ambient temperature of the reactor system 506. The temperature sensors 524 may also be disposed internally within the reactor and tank system 400. The temperature sensors 524 may be configured to transmit temperature measurements to the control system 502 through temperature signals 524a.

[00289] In other cases, the control system 502 may receive current consumption data via current signals 526a generated by current sensors 526. The control system 502 may similarly use the information contained in the current signals 526a to make determinations with respect to the operation of various components of the fuel management system 100b.

[00290] Control system 502 may also receive level sensor data via sensor signals 528a generated by current sensors 528. The control system 502 may similarly use the information contained in the current signals 528a to make determinations with respect to the operation of various components of the fuel management system 100b.

[00291] In some cases, the control system 502 may be located remotely from the ICE 102 and reactor system 506, and operated by an operator. The operator may be able to control the various components of the fuel management systems 100b by interacting with a user interface of the control system 502. For example, the control system 502 may include a user interface which informs the operator of the ambient temperature around or within the reactor system 506 (i.e. using information from the temperature signals 524a). The operator may then select an appropriate configuration for the reactor system 506 through the user interface. The control system 502 may apply the selected configuration to the reactor system 506 through the control signal 530.

[00292] Other sensors may be located around, or within, the reactor system 506. These sensors may relay to the control system 502 data in respect of water tank level, electrolyte level, supplied electrical voltage, supplied electrical current, water tank temperature, reactor temperature, reactor leakage, water pump, gas flow, relative humidity, conductivity of electrolyte, resistance of electrolyte, and concentration of electrolyte.

[00293] Numerous specific details are set forth herein in order to provide a thorough understanding of the exemplary embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that these embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the description of the embodiments. Furthermore, this description is not to be considered as limiting the scope of these embodiments in any way, but rather as merely describing the implementation of these various embodiments

Claims

CLAIMS:

1 . An electrolytic reactor system comprising:

- a reactor and tank assembly, comprising:

- a tank system for retaining a volume of electrolyte solution comprising a mixture of the electrolyte and a solvent;

- a reactor cell assembly in fluid communication with the tank assembly, the reactor cell assembly comprising one or more electrolytic cells, the one or more electrolytic cells being configured to perform electrolysis on the electrolyte solution;

- a controller, the controller having at least one processor configured to:

- identify an input current and an input voltage applied to the reactor cell assembly;

- determine a quantity of consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution based on the volume of electrolyte solution in the tank system;

- determine, based on the input current and input voltage, a threshold amount of input current to be applied to the reactor cell assembly to deplete the quantity of consumable solvent;

- monitor, over time, a total input current consumption of the reactor cell assembly during operation;

- determine if the total input current consumption is greater than the threshold amount of input current; and

- if the total input current consumption is greater than the threshold amount of input current, then generate an output indication, otherwise continue monitoring the total current consumption.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the controller further comprises a memory coupled to the at least one processor. The system of claim 2, wherein the system further comprises a power source coupled to the reactor cell assembly and the controller. The system of claim 3, wherein identifying the input current and input voltage is based on a known voltage and current configuration settings of the power source, which is stored in the memory. The system of any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a monitoring system coupled to the reactor and tank assembly, the monitoring system comprising one or more of: (i) a current sensor for monitoring current consumption of the reactor and tank system; and (ii) a voltage sensor for monitoring voltage consumption of the reactor and tank system. The system of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein determining the quantity of consumable solvent is based on: (i) the volume of electrolyte solution inside the tank system, (ii) a concentration of electrolyte in the electrolyte solution based on the volume, and (iii) a desired threshold electrolyte concentration. The system of claim 6, wherein the electrolyte comprises potassium hydroxide (KOH) and the solvent comprises water. The system of any one of claims 6 or 7, wherein the threshold electrolyte concentration is approximately 40%. The system of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein determining the threshold amount of input current comprises the at least one processor being further configured to:

- determine a gas flow rate generated by the reactor cell assembly, wherein the gas flow rate is determined based on the identified input current and input voltage; - determine a maximum volume of output gas generatable, by the reactor cell assembly, by depleting the quantity of consumable solvent;

- based on the gas flow rate and the maximum volume of output gas, determine the time required to consume the consumable solvent; and

- determine the threshold amount of input current based on the identified input current and the time required to consume the consumable solvent. The system of claim 9, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to determine a cell configuration for the reactor cell assembly, wherein the cell configuration corresponds to a number of active cells of the one or more electrolytic cells in the reactor cell assembly. The system of any one of claim 10, wherein the system further comprises a reactor relay system coupled to the reactor cell assembly, the reactor relay system being configurable to vary the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly, and wherein determining the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly is based on monitoring a latest command signal transmitted to the reactor relay system. The system of any one of claims 9 to 11 when depending from claim 2, wherein memory stores pre-determined gas flow rate correlation data relating the identified input voltage and input current to corresponding gas flow rate, and the gas flow rate is determined based on the pre-determined gas flow rate correlation data. The system of claim 12 when depending from any one of claims 10 or 11 , wherein the memory stores different pre-determined gas flow rate correlation data for different cell configurations, and the gas flow rate is determined based on the respective pre-determined gas flow rate correlation data for that cell configuration. The system of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the system further comprises a display device coupled to the at least one processor, and generating an output indication comprises displaying the indication on the display device. The system of any one of claims 1 to 14 when depending from claim 3, wherein in response to determining that the total input current consumption is greater than the threshold amount of input current, the at least one processor is further configured to deactivate the power source. The system of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein during the monitoring of the total input current consumption, the at least one processor is further configured to: determine if there is a change in the input current applied to the reactor cell assembly; if a change is determined, determine: (i) a remaining quantity of consumable solvent inside of the reactor and tank assembly based on the total input current consumption, and (ii) a new threshold amount of input current required to deplete the remaining quantity of consumable solvent; and continue monitoring the total input current consumption to determine if the total input current consumption is greater than the new threshold amount of input current. The system of claim 16 when depending from claim 5, wherein determining if there is a change in the input current is based on the current consumption signal received from the current sensor. The system of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein during the monitoring of the total current consumption, the at least one processor is further configured to: determine if there is a change in the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly; if a change is determined, determine: (i) the remaining quantity of consumable solvent inside of the reactor and tank assembly based on the total input current consumption, and (ii) a new threshold amount of input current required to deplete the remaining quantity of consumable solvent; and continue monitoring the total input current consumption to determine if the total input current consumption is greater than the new threshold amount of input current.

The system of claim 18 when depending from claim 11 , wherein determining if there is a change in the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly is based on monitoring the latest command signal transmitted to the reactor relay system.

The system of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the system further comprises a solvent pump fluidically coupled to an external solvent tank, wherein the solvent pump is in communication with the controller, and further fluidically couplable to the tank system, and the at least one processor is further configured to:

- identify the total input current consumption by the reactor cell assembly;

- based on the identified total input current consumption, determine a quantity of consumable solvent which has been depleted;

- based on a known flow rate for the solvent pump, determine a period of fill time to activate the solvent pump to re-fill the tank system;

- activate the solvent the pump for the period of fill time; and

- subsequently, de-activate the solvent pump.

The system of claim 20 when depending from claim 2, wherein the total current consumption is a value stored in the memory, and the value is updated during the monitoring of the total current consumption, and the at least one processor is further configured to:

- identify the total input current consumption by reading the value from the memory; and

- reset the value after the period of fill time has elapsed. The system of any one of claims 20 or 21 , wherein a level sensor is positioned inside the tank at a sensor position, the level sensor being coupled to the control system, and the processor is further configured to:

- initially, determine if the level sensor is activated;

- if the level sensor is not activated: activate the solvent pump until the level sensor is activated; subsequently, activate the solvent pump for a pre-defined time; and if the level sensor is activated, then activate the solvent pump for the period of fill time. The system of claim 22, wherein the pre-defined time corresponds to a known time period for filling the tank assembly from the sensor position to the maximum fill volume. A method for automatically monitoring the level of electrolyte in an electrolytic reactor system, the electrolytic reactor system comprising a tank system for retaining a volume of electrolyte solution comprising a mixture of the electrolyte and a solvent, the method comprising:

- identifying an input current and an input voltage being applied to a reactor cell assembly, the reactor cell assembly being in fluid communication with the tank assembly, the reactor cell assembly comprising one or more electrolytic cells, the one or more electrolytic cells being configured to perform electrolysis on the electrolyte solution;

- determining a quantity of consumable solvent in the electrolyte solution based on the volume of electrolyte solution in the tank system;

- determining, based on the input current and input voltage, a threshold amount of input current to be applied to the reactor cell assembly to deplete the quantity of consumable solvent; - monitoring, over time, a total input current consumption of the reactor cell assembly during operation;

- determining if the total input current consumption is greater than the threshold amount of input current; and

- if the total current consumption is greater than the threshold amount of input current, then generating an output indication, otherwise continue monitoring the total current consumption. The method of claim 24, wherein the method is performed by at least one processor of a controller. The method of any one of claims 24 or 25, wherein identifying the input current and input voltage is based on a known voltage and current configuration settings of a power source coupled to the reactor cell assembly. The method of any one of claims 24 to 26, wherein determining the quantity of consumable solvent is based on: (i) the volume of electrolyte solution inside the tank system, (ii) a concentration of electrolyte in the electrolyte solution based on the volume, and (iii) a desired threshold electrolyte concentration. The method of claim 27, wherein the electrolyte comprises potassium hydroxide (KOH) and the solvent comprises water. The method of any one of claims 27 or 28, wherein the threshold electrolyte concentration is approximately 40%. The method of any one of claims 24 to 29, wherein determining the threshold amount of input current comprises: - determining a gas flow rate generated by the reactor cell assembly, wherein the gas flow rate is determined based on the identified input current and input voltage being applied to the reactor cell assembly;

- determining a maximum volume of output gas generatable, by the reactor cell assembly, by depleting the quantity of consumable solvent;

- based on the gas flow rate and the maximum volume of output gas, determining the time required to consume the consumable solvent; and

- determining the threshold amount of input current based on the identified input current and the time required to consume the consumable solvent. The method of claim 30, further comprising: determining a cell configuration for the reactor cell assembly, wherein the cell configuration corresponds to a number of active cells of the one or more electrolytic cells in the reactor cell assembly. The method of any one of claim 31 , wherein determining the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly is based on monitoring a latest command signal transmitted to a reactor relay system, the reactor relay system being coupled to the reactor cell assembly, the reactor relay system being configurable to vary the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly. The method of any one of claims 30 to 32, wherein the gas flow rate is determined based on the pre-determined gas flow rate correlation data relating the identified input voltage and input current to corresponding gas flow rate. The method of claim 33 wherein the pre-determined gas flow rate correlation data exists for different cell configurations, and the gas flow rate is determined based on the respective pre-determined gas flow rate correlation data for that cell configuration. The method of any one of claims 23 to 34, wherein generating an output indication comprises displaying the indication on a display device coupled to the controller. The method of any one of claims 23 to 35, wherein in response to determining that the total input current consumption is greater than the threshold amount of input current, the method further comprises deactivating a power source coupled to the reactor cell assembly. The method of any one of claims 23 to 36, wherein during the monitoring of the total input current consumption, the method further comprises: determining if there is a change in the input current applied to the reactor cell assembly; if a change is determined, determining: (i) a remaining quantity of consumable solvent inside of the reactor and tank assembly based on the total input current consumption, and (ii) a new threshold amount of input current required to deplete the remaining quantity of consumable solvent; and continuing monitoring the total input current consumption to determine if the total input current consumption is greater than the new threshold amount of input current. The method of claim 37, wherein determining if there is a change in the input current is based on the current consumption signal received from a current sensor monitoring the reactor cell assembly. The method of any one of claims 23 to 38, wherein during the monitoring of the total current consumption, the method further comprises: determining if there is a change in the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly; if a change is determined, determining: (i) the remaining quantity of consumable solvent inside of the reactor and tank assembly based on the total input current consumption, and (ii) a new threshold amount of input current required to deplete the remaining quantity of consumable solvent; and continuing monitoring the total input current consumption to determine if the total input current consumption is greater than the new threshold amount of input current. The method of claim 39, wherein determining if there is a change in the cell configuration of the reactor cell assembly is based on monitoring the latest command signal transmitted to the reactor relay system. The method of any one of claims 23 to 40, wherein the method further comprises:

- fluidically coupling a solvent pump to the tank assembly, where the solvent pump is also fluidically coupled to an external solvent tank;

- identifying the total input current consumption by the reactor cell assembly;

- based on the identified total input current consumption, determining a quantity of consumable solvent which has been depleted;

- based on a known flow rate for the solvent pump, determining a period of fill time to activate the solvent pump to re-fill the tank system;

- activating the solvent the pump for the period of fill time; and

- subsequently, de-activating the solvent pump. The method of claim 41 , wherein the method further comprises:

- identifying the total input current consumption by reading the value from a memory; and

- resetting the value after the period of fill time has elapsed. The method of any one of claims 40 or 41 , wherein a level sensor is positioned inside the tank at a sensor position, and the method further comprises

- initially, determining if the level sensor is activated;

- if the level sensor is not activated: - activating the solvent pump until the level sensor is activated; subsequently, activating the solvent pump for a pre-defined time; and if the level sensor is activated, then activating the solvent pump for the period of fill time. The method of claim 43, wherein the pre-defined time corresponds to a known time period for filling the tank assembly from the sensor position to the maximum fill volume.

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