Achieving a high pulse power system through engineering the battery-capacitor combination

The advancing technology of thin, lightweight, and high power ultracapacitors has been one of the most exciting and important developments in electronic components. The technology provides a new dimension for engineers and designers to manage the power and energy used in electronic products. The batteries will not have to be oversized to accommodate a peak power demand. A combination of battery and ultracapacitor (hybrid power system) can improve the battery capability for power peaks and also extend battery lifetime. This paper discusses results of an ultra-thin hydro-amorphous ruthenium oxide ultracapacitor. The unique electrochemical characteristics of this ultracapacitor allows it to provide a much higher pulse current capability over the battery-only system. The ultracapacitor is 0.1 cm thick, 14 cm/sup 2/ in area, and weighing 2.6 g has the capability to deliver over 30 W pulse peaks. By combination of an ultracapacitor with the battery, the pulse performance of traditional alkaline primary battery can be significantly improved.