US Patent 7833653 - Reserve cell array nanostructured battery

http://www.freepatentsonline.com/7833653.html

Conventional electrolytic batteries are designed to provide a fixed operational voltage during the battery lifespan. However, this patent from Alcatel-Lucent teaches an electrolytic battery structure having segmented nanostructured electodes which allow for a controlled selection in the voltage or current provided and which can help extend battery life. Claim 1 reads:  

1. A method for generating a current from a battery, said battery comprising an electrode divided into a plurality of cells, each of said cells in said plurality having a plurality of nanostructures disposed thereon, said method comprising:

selectively contacting an electrolyte fluid with the electrode in a number of cells in said plurality of cells, wherein said number is a function of a desired current to be generated by said battery.