EP0877862A1

EP0877862A1 - Asymmetrical hydrodynamic energy converter

Info

Publication number: EP0877862A1
Application number: EP97901113A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Daniel Charles Henri Masse
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 1996-01-22
Filing date: 1997-01-17
Publication date: 1998-11-18
Also published as: AU3522897A; FR2757904A1; WO1997027401A1; FR2757905A1; FR2757897B1; FR2757897A1

Abstract

A set of devices that may consist of an arm, a wheel or a chain rotatable about an axis (22) is disclosed. The devices convert a pressure force into storable potential energy or into driving energy convertible into electrical energy. A heat transfer fluid (4) is vaporised by applying heat so that it helps to drive out a ballast fluid (1) contained in a tank located, at a given time, at the bottom of the arm, the wheel or the chain, and feed the fluid upwards into a tank located, at that time, at the top of said arm, wheel or chain, the latter tank containing a partial vacuum (5). As a result, the weight of the tanks makes the chain turn and thus generates driving energy that may be used, e.g., to raise an amount of water constituting a store of potential energy. Alternatively, it may be converted into electricity by an alternator.

Description

HYDRODYNAMIC ASYMMETRIC POWER CONVERTERS.

DESCRIPTION

the present invention relates to a set of devices making it possible to convert, - I would therefore call them "converters ^* - one or more sources of thermal energy, and in particular solar energy either alone or in combination with a fuel, into motive energy and, or, electric. 5 ~ Depending on the embodiment used, this set of converters can reserve, in the form of potential energy, before transformation into electrical energy; all or part of the useful thermal solar energy; for a unlimited duration, economically and without loss over time.

Traditionally heat, thermal energy, is transformed into energy

-f § electricity in thermal power plants whose mode of operation results in significant discharges of water, in the form of steam, in such quantities that it is not uncommon for the climate of an area, which can exceeded several tens of kilometers in radius is affected; very often unpleasantly (cold, humidity) for the surrounding populations. Associated with industrial, domestic or gas fumes

Λ'j of exhausts this water vapor can also constitute a factor aggravating local pollution, as well as the greenhouse effect.

In all cases, the operation of such thermal power plants consume enormous quantities of water; severely limiting the possibility of installing power plants of this type in arid areas, often associated with strong sunlight: source

2.0 free, inexhaustible and non-polluting thermal energy; the abundance of sun and the climate which results from it often being the cause of a great poverty; make the possibility of transforming this solar energy into usable energy such as, for example, electrical energy all the more essential and interesting; thus transforming the source of poverty into a source of wealth. , 5 ^" On the other hand solar energy is, by nature, only available during the day; and sometimes irregularly; it is therefore advantageous to be able to have a means of storing, possibly over long periods, this energy , without loss, and being able to use it at the right time, for example at night, or at any other time as needed, and this in an economical way.

^ έ »The set of converters, objects of this invention, makes it possible to transform a source of heat, of thermal energy, into motive and, (or), electrical energy, without having the drawbacks associated with conventional power plants.

It can operate in a closed circuit without external discharges (with regard to the cooling system ).

It is particularly suitable for the use of solar energy, which can, depending on the embodiment used, be stored economically without loss and without time limit. ^t y It can be installed where strong sunlight is often synonymous with a lack of water, because if this fluid is used, it is fully recycled in a closed circuit.

It can operate with several associated energy sources, for example sun and gas (hydrogen, bio-methane or other); the irregularity of sunshine is therefore no longer an obstacle to the use of solar energy. -id According to the embodiment used, it can store, without time limit or energy loss, in the form of potential energy, solar energy, stored in period of sunshine, to restore it, for example at night, or in the absence of sun.

Its operation does not generate any pollution (in the case of solar energy ~ J * JΓ OR of a non-polluting fuel) authorizes its installation, without nuisance, even near inhabited areas.

Its simplicity of design, linked to a particularly low cost and reduced maintenance, makes it a very efficient and particularly economical energy production system that can offer developing countries a way to reverse the process of impoverishment; by constituting the core of an economic development pole.

According to the embodiment of the present invention, the converters can operate continuously; they will then be of the "wheel" or "chain" type, somewhat reminiscent of the appearance of a noria, they can operate during the day with solar energy and at night

£ LÇ with another source of energy (hydrogen produced by day electricity or another gas; but also fuel or other).

A particularly simple "pendulum" embodiment with alternating operation: Phases where the pendulum is loaded with potential energy, alternating with phases where it restores this usable energy; either immediately, at the end of storage; * _} 0 either later, with no time limit, depending on the motor and / or electrical energy needs; is particularly suited to a developing country with low technological resources.

The "pendulum" type can be used without the "chain ^* or" wheel "type by having low storage pendulums operating during the day; associated with more storage pendulums

^ $ ~ ιmportant, able to operate, on demand, at night or according to energy needs.

The pendulum type, however, has the disadvantage of an alternative operation and not continuous like the chain or the wheel, hey at a ratio, output-size, less favorable than that of the chain and the wheel, but compensated by a simpler design, and therefore a lower cost; its simplicity of design could very well; although it is not the aim, to transform a simple wood fire into electrical energy ^ 7

The types' chain ^* or "wheel" are rather intended for realizations producing a significant amount of energy, constant and continuous, the type "balance" can be used discontinuously, more punctually, to meet more demand modest.

The three types of converters are therefore perfectly complementary. Although ή Q can operate only on solar energy, all three can be supplied by several energy sources, either simultaneously, one energy in addition to another, or alternately; which is particularly interesting in the case of solar energy.

In the three "chain or balance chain" converters the sun can be focused ή * y by orientable mirrors or heliostats or by paraboloid mirrors, within a hearth, which can also be heated; either in addition to solar energy, or exclusively, by another source of energy, gas, fuel or other.

The three types of converters can also, in association for example with a hydraulic power station, a water tower; or by supplying a 9-0 electrolyser producing hydrogen; put transformed solar energy, in reserve for an indefinite period.

Whether for the "chain, wheel or balance" type, the basic principle is the same.

In contact with the hearth a fluid is heated (I would call it for this reason "thermal fluid") so as to be vaporized, so that the vapor pressure thus created,

2, 'there contributes to drive out a fluid (which can be, either the same, or of different nature and which I would call here "fluid weight"). This weight fluid is raised, by the vapor pressure thus created, to a height such that it acquires potential energy. The condensing vapor contributes, combined with the pressure created by the vaporization of the thermal fluid, to create the pressure difference proper to cause this weight fluid to rise. The

3o fluid weight, once reassembled, descends with the balance wheel, wheel or chain, releasing its potential energy and can actuate for example an electric alternator.

The simplest type "pendulum" consists of a pendulum, consisting of a tube connecting two tanks located in opposition at each end of the tube, and therefore of the pendulum; one of the tanks located at one end is higher than the other which is, for example, placed on the ground. In the middle, the pendulum rests, by a point of rotation, a horizontal axis, around which it can tilt in a vertical plane; on a frame anchored to

Z ^ sol; the general appearance of the whole can evoke the mental image of a children's seesaw, or a seesaw of circus acrobats, with a much greater difference in height between the two ends of the pendulum.

In the initial position, the bottom balance tank is full of weight fluid; the high tank is empty, but in depression, because the vapor which was there it is condensed; the

^• iθ pendulum is thus in stable equilibrium; the full and heavy tank is placed on the ground, the empty and lighter tank, at the other end of the pendulum, is at a certain height, essentially a function of the length of the pendulum and the height of the point of rotation; the pendulum is locked in this position.

The weight fluid, contained in the low reservoir, is separated, by a piston, from a fluid

"thermal ff, which is heated and thus partially vaporized so as to create a pressure, which, combined with the depression, due to the condensation of the vapor, prevailing in the high tank, is sufficient to push the piston and thus expel the liquid weight; from the low tank to the high tank. Closing a valve prevents the weight liquid from going back down; it then suffices to unlock the balance wheel - either immediately or several

% û hours or several days later - for it to switch over and to use the potential energy thus released to run an electric alternator. During the tilting the low tank rises, the vapor it contains is condensed; so that once this tank arrived at the top, its internal pressure gave way to a depression.

The balance position is then reversed, but it is ready to start a new

2, ^ T new cycle.

This pendulum system, of very simple design, is particularly intended for occasional use; it is particularly aimed at countries with low technological resources for which it can provide an introduction to the production and use of electricity, without the cost of photovoltaic sensors and with better

3> 0 yield; without consumption, supply or pollution from an electricity generator; in industrialized countries it can also interest isolated habitats.

In the case of chain and wheel, the basic principle is the same; but the mode of operation is a little more complex; while remaining simple to build and maintain.

^ 5 ~ In the case of the wheel, one can, to facilitate visualization of the overall shape, imagine a cart wheel with spokes, of large diameter; each radius, or more precisely each diameter, would, in the case of this invention, be replaced by a pendulum of the type described above; it is in fact a set of pendulums associated within a wheel, the pivot point of the corresponding pendulum

L \ 0 at the center of rotation of the wheel. Each radius of the wheel, or more exactly each diameter, is therefore composed of a tube connecting two reservoirs, each located at one end of the tube, the middle of which merges with the axis of rotation of the wheel; the axis of rotation is horizontal and rests on a frame anchored to the ground, each radius (diameter) of the wheel being able, together with all the others

ZT diameters, depending on the rotation of the wheel, occupy a vertical, horizontal, and all intermediate positions.

The operation of each of the diameters is identical to that of a balance described above. If we consider a diameter of the wheel, which arrives, by rotation around its axis, in the vertical position, its low reservoir corresponds to the lowest point

~ iζ) of the wheel. At this level the weight liquid contained in the low tank is expelled by the pressure exerted by the pressure due to the vaporization of the thermal fluid; towards the opposite tank which arrives simultaneously at the top of the wheel, and which ia the condensation of the vapor which it contained put in depression. Thus, each time a tank arrives at the bottom of the wheel it is emptied; and simultaneously that which arrives at the top of the wheel is filled; so that all the tanks located on one side of the wheel, ascending side, are kept empty, while simultaneously, all those located on the other side, descending side, are kept full; the wheel is thus thus permanently kept in imbalance, being kept always heavier on one side than on the other; which forces it to turn.

To make this possible, during the downward phase, the thermal fluid is heated, the pressure inside the tanks increases, but the closing of the valve connecting the two opposite tanks together, forbids the liquid weight contained in a descending tank , to join the opposite reservoir; this is located simultaneously on the ascending side of the wheel; after its passage at the lowest point thereof; it has therefore been emptied of its fluid weight; the vapor released by the thermal fluid having .2Ç ^"" completely filled the volume, this vapor is, throughout the ascending phase of the wheel, condensed, so that once this tank arrived at the top, a sufficient depression - there is an emptiness there so that; in combination with the overpressure prevailing within the low tank, the opening of the valve connecting the two tanks, allows the liquid weight to pass from the low tank to the high tank. The rotation of your wheel being continuous,

^ 0 this phenomenon is uninterrupted, and allows the wheel to be kept in constant imbalance, which precisely ensures its rotation.

A particular adaptation to the wheel, which will also allow the chain to be produced; consists in replacing the tubes (diameters) connecting the opposite tanks, by a peripheral pipe connecting all the tanks together, which will be connected to

35 "this pipe by means of a valve, opened at the appropriate time to allow the fluid weight of the reservoir arriving at the lowest point, to pour into the reservoir arriving at the highest point. To use the image of the wheel cart, instead of putting the tanks, located on the periphery of the wheel, in communication by the two opposite spokes constituting the diameter, connecting two tanks together; these are

4 o linked together, no longer by the spokes, but by what can be compared to the bandage of wheel; replaced, here, by a pipe, connected to each of the tanks by means of a valve, and which, going around the wheel, just as the tire would do, connects all the tanks together.

This set of means makes it possible to produce a thermal power station, the energy of which transformed into mechanical energy can be either used directly, for example for pumping, or directly transformed into electrical energy.

Compared to a conventional thermal power station, in addition to the fact that this process - here it is the wheel - is particularly designed for solar energy, another advantage is to have a duration, a space time, between the pressurization phase and phase -

^" to delayed in time - where the vacuum due to condensation is actually used; space time which is precisely used, to ensure the condensation of the vapor, which is done directly inside the tanks, in closed cycle without external discharges, unlike a conventional thermal power plant whose condensation must be "immediately simultaneous" during the pressurization phase to allow rotation of

^• f? ₎ ia turbine, and whose condensate towers discharge large quantities of water vapor into the atmosphere, which in addition to undesirable effects at the local level, aggravates the greenhouse effect.

The following “chain” type embodiment will make it possible to further increase the duration of the time space between the pressurization phase and the useful phase of the vacuum; % D time space used to condense the vapor.

The chain, which functions like the wheel, has the general appearance of a noria, of the type that we see, for example, in the south of Spain, which are generally actuated by a draft animal and which are used to raise the water from a well. The resemblance must be reinterpreted, because in the case of these norias it is the full cups 1 ^ which go up, filled with water from the well, and the empty cups which go down. In the case of the "chain" which interests us here, it will be the opposite - the full buckets go down, and the voids go up -, but the image of the noria is interesting to facilitate the understanding of the functioning of the chain.

The buckets of the noria (Spanish) are replaced, on the chain object of this iyO invention, by reservoirs, of the type of those which equip the balance wheel or the wheel, which is discussed above. The vapor pressure, inside the full tank arriving at the bottom of the chain, will drive the weight fluid contained in this tank, towards an empty tank and in depression arriving simultaneously at the top of the chain; these two tanks being connected by a peripheral pipe, having the same function as that of the wheel, are brought into communication by the appropriate opening of valves, which is provided with each tank-peripheral pipe connection.

The descending tanks are thus always kept full, while the rising tanks are simultaneously kept empty; so that the chain is always heavier on one side than the other, which forces it to turn; this rotation can be used to set an alternator in motion and thus produce electric current.

The chain, even more than the wheel; or a set of chains, operating in parallel cr, are really quite indicated to constitute true thermal power stations, and quite particularly solar.

If this type of power plant is installed near a hydraulic reservoir, or a kind of water tower, we can very well use daytime solar energy to raise the water in the reservoir, allow it time that we want, and use this water as we want

- \ Q would do with a conventional hydraulic power station, to manufacture electric current according to demand.

In arid zones, with no significant hydraulic reserves, a water tower can replace it with the advantage of being able to operate in a closed circuit, without loss; we can also transform the electric current thus produced into

- \ CT hydrogen by electrolysis of water; ideal fuel, because it does not pollute, for automobile traffic.

The chain is particularly well suited to be used directly as a thermal water pump, including solar, and to store in hydraulic form, for example, solar energy, reusable at will, as needed.

Jlc The wheel and especially the chain can also function, partially to produce energy, for example by running an alternator, and at the same time put a certain amount of energy in reserve by functioning as a pump. This is possible, for example in the case of the chain, by letting down certain full tanks, arriving at the top of the chain; (for example two tanks on

, 25 three); the weight of these tanks makes the chain rotate, which can then power an alternator; and simultaneously by dumping the contents of the other reservoirs, which will have been previously taken from the bottom of a water reserve, in this same water reserve, for example a water tower, therefore located at a certain height; representing a certain amount of potential energy that can be used for example at night.

5θ We can thus both, with the same chain, feed an electric network, and put in reserve, a quantity of energy which we will use later.

For larger embodiments, it is possible to associate a set of chains with a hydraulic dam whose chains can compensate, at least partially, for the turbinated water, by raising it in the water reserve; solar energy can thus be stored easily, inexpensively, without loss and without time limit; the irregularity of sunshine is therefore no longer an obstacle to the use of solar energy. For each converter, balance, wheel or chain, it is necessary to simultaneously ensure the condensation of the steam; it can be done; essentially in the case of the pendulum, simply by direct heat exchange, through the wall of the pendulum tanks. It is also possible; and this is almost essential in the case of the

Ç chain and wheel, to add a circuit containing a coolant, comprising a phase where the coolant cools the tanks, to condense the vapor they contain, phase during which the coolant heats up ; and a cooling phase of the same liquid during which it can, at first, transfer part of its heat to the cylinders ~ \ 0 (tanks fitted with a piston) during their heating period; to then be completely cooled, either by direct heat exchange with the ambient medium, or by means of a secondary cooling liquid which will then be cooled by heat exchange with the ambient medium. In any case, as far as cooling operations are concerned, no amount of water, whether liquid or in the form of

75 ^" steam or any other fluid is neither consumed nor rejected outside; everything takes place in a closed circuit.

In the three types of converter, balance wheel, wheel and chain, the tanks can be pressurized directly, by heating the fluid weight they contain; which in this case also plays the role of thermal fluid, and is partially X 'o vaporized; this is of a particularly simple construction and maintenance, which has, in itself, an advantage, but however requires that the tanks rotate in such a way, that at the time of the expulsion of the weight fluid, the latter is on the side of the tank valve; since it is heavier than the vapor which overcomes it, which must therefore always occupy the top of the tank. % £ T It is also possible to split each tank in two by a piston, on one side of which is the weight fluid, on the side of the outlet valve; and on the other side of the piston, the thermal fluid, on the side of the hearth. In this case the tanks become cylinders each provided with a piston, which technologically implies a perfect seal between the piston and the walls of the cylinder; inconvenience that can be overcome in

\ Q replacing the piston with a flexible structure, a sealing membrane, enveloping the weight fluid. These two solutions, piston or sealing membrane, have the advantage of making it possible to choose a weight fluid as a function of its density, and a thermal fluid as a function of its thermal qualities, particularly its specific heat and its boiling point, linked to its ability to quickly condense at temperature

35 ~ available taking into account the ambient temperature.

the tanks can be of different shapes, adapted to the type of operation chosen, balance, wheel, chain, with or without piston, with piston or flexible membrane. The boiler and the hearth can be integrated in different ways to the tanks, or separated according to whether one chooses solar energy, a solid fuel or liquid, a solar-fuel association etc.

As an example, one can choose the type of pendulum tank described below which is quite versatile.

The attached drawings illustrate the different types of energy converters; 5 ^~ and some details.

FIG. 1 illustrates the operating mode, of the pendulum type.

Figure 2 illustrates the mode of operation of the chain type.

Figure 3 is a close-up of a section taken in a vertical plane, perpendicular to the representation of Figure 2, at the level where a tank arrives - \ Q exactly vertical to the pulley supporting the chain.

Figure 4 is a simplified embodiment of the chain, in this particular case, thermal fluid and weight fluid are combined; in this drawing the cooling system is not shown, any more than the boiler and the hearth.

FIG. 5 is a close-up of a particular type of tank, known as a pendulum, and within which the piston has been replaced by a double sealing membrane enclosing an insulator.

Figure β is a close-up circled in Figure 2.

The operation of the wheel is not shown or detailed; but it is identical to that of the chain; it suffices to imagine a chain whose pulley would occupy all the space% £> included inside the chain, giving it a circular shape.

According to these drawings, Figure 1 illustrates the operation of the pendulum.

The balance consists of a tube (33) closed by a valve (20) connecting together two tanks (2) forming a cylinder because enclosing a piston (8); the starting position of the balance corresponds to position A; it is supported on its horizontal axis (22) placed on J2..J- the frame (31) integral with the ground (32); the pendulum is locked in this position, so that it cannot tilt; the low reservoir, corresponding to this position, is named A 1b; (position A, state 1, situation b, for low). The upper tank (h) is, for the same reasons, named A1h. At this stage, the reservoir Alb is full of the weight fluid (1); the thermal fluid (4) is largely vaporized (3), (the heat source -solar, 3C »combustible, etc.- as well as the hearth are not represented), the vapor pressure (3) is very strong . At the other end of the balance tank Alh is empty, the vapor it contained has been condensed, it has returned to the iιquιde state (4), a vacuum, a vacuum (5) prevails within the tank. The valve (20) is still closed; as soon as this valve is opened, under the effect of the strong thrust of the vapor pressure (3) within the reservoir Alb, and Ç simultaneously, of the vacuum (5) prevailing within the reservoir Alh, the piston (8) will drive the weight fluid (1) from the reservoir Alb; which will go back into the Alh tank and fill it; as soon as this operation is completed, the valve (20) is closed. The balance can remain in this position as long as it remains locked, but the content of the tanks is no longer the same, neither is the position of the pistons; The tank A1b has gone to state 2,

1 Q and becomes A2b, the fluid weight (1) which it contained has given way to ia vapor (3), this tank is now much lighter.

On the other hand, the reservoir A1h, which during this time has passed to the state A2h, is much heavier, since the vacuum (5) which it contained has been replaced by the fluid weight (1); the thermal fluid (4) has been pushed back to the end of the tank. i ^ The pendulum is now in unstable equilibrium; the heaviest tank being at the top, the lightest at the bottom, it is charged with potential energy, it can remain thus until we need this energy, it is enough to unlock it so that it rocks and releases this potential energy, we can then use this rotation around the axis (22) to, for example, rotate an alternator. The balance then moves to position B; the

S ± O tank A2b rises, once the vapor it contains is condensed, it becomes Blh; the A2h tank descends and becomes Blb. Here, in this reservoir Alb, the thermal fluid (4) is represented in the liquid state; in this detail, the state of the reservoir B1b is the same as that of the reservoir Alb, the position of the pendulum is reversed but we return to the starting state, and the cycle can start again.

Q_f By associating several pendulums, either in parallel, one beside the other, or in senna, one above the other; or by combining these two processes, we can by this very simple system, build real thermal power plants.

In the case of using solar energy, energy can be stored to use it as needed; we can then build large pendulums, which can take a whole 2 ₎ 0 day to accumulate the vapor pressure necessary to ensure the ascent of the weight fluid, even if it means supplementing this pressure with the heat given off by the combustion of a conventional fuel, end of the day; and thus accumulate a potential energy, which can be released at night, or at any other convenient time.

However for important achievements; the "chain" type described below, or the ^* *> £ ^" wheel ^" type will be more interesting; especially the chain type, especially by associating it with a water reserve to store potential energy; the wheel is the chain can either be used as a pump (water, for example), or to run an alternator, or do both simultaneously, with the same wheel, or the same chain. part of the useful energy can be converted in electricity, the other part can be stored, for example in a water reserve, to be used later; which makes large solar power plants quite achievable, without suffering the hazards due to the irregularity of the sunshine.

FIG. 2 illustrates the operation of the chain, FIG. 3 illustrates a 5 ^"section made along a vertical plane, perpendicular to the sheet of paper representing FIG. 2, at the level where a tank is located exactly vertically above the pulley (23); in this figure 3, the weight fluid is not shown, the primary coolant (12) is shown, as regards the cooling circuit around the cylinder, only in the tube (11 ) bearing this reference 12.

~ lθ Figure (β) illustrates a detail of Figure 1, and makes the operation of the cooling circuit more understandable.

With reference to these drawings (fιg.2, 3 and 6); the chain consists of a supporting structure (24) suspended from a pulley (23) which can rotate about a horizontal axis (22) placed on a frame (not shown) integral with the self; the axis (22) of the pulley (23) rests

$ 7 - on the frame thanks to bearings; on the axis can be fixed secondary pulleys to drive, for example, an alternator. The frame, the main pulley (23) and its axis (22) supports the entire weight of the chain, the rotation of which will allow the pulley to rotate.

To do this, on the supporting structure (24) of the chain, which is articulated (25), o are hung tanks (2) which will always be kept full on one side, and simultaneously empty on the other; which makes the chain always heavier on one side than on the other, which forces the full tanks to descend, as soon as they arrive at the bottom, they are emptied; and the voids to go up, as soon as they reach the top, they are filled. The chain is thus forced to rotate, causing the pulley (23) to rotate, and possibly / _j - that of an alternator. All this is done in the following way.

the fluid weight (1) filling the tanks, which I would call HERE cylinders (2) because they are equipped with a piston (8), is; when a cylinder arrives at the bottom of the chain (2 down), raised, by a pressure difference; passing through a peripheral pipe (6), opened by means of a valve (7); in the cylinder (2 above) arriving at the top of the i _j O channel, the corresponding valve (7) is simultaneously opened; all the other valves in this circuit are closed (example 20); only the cylinders (2 low) and (2 high) are connected by the pipe (β), the content of the other cylinders is isolated.

The weight fluid (1) is raised from the reservoir (2 bottom), by a pressure exerted, here, by the vapor (3) of a thermal fluid (4) heated in a boiler (9) contiguous to

35 ^{^} a hearth (10); this pressure pushing a piston (8), driving out the weight fluid (1), contained in the bottom cylinder (2 bottom), is combined with a depression resulting from the condensation of the steam (3), creating a partial vacuum (5) in the cylinder (2 top) arriving at the top of the chain; this depression sucks the piston (8) of the cylinder (2 high) allowing this cylinder to fill with the weight fluid (1) arriving via the pipe (6) and

HO valves open (7) from the cylinder (2 bottom). The chain being in rotation, each cylinder (2bas) is replaced by the following one, and it is the same for the cylinder (2haut); and each time a cylinder occupies the respective positions (2 low) and (2 high); the operation described above, namely, the filling of the cylinder (2 high) with the weight fluid (1) from which the cylinder (2 bottom) is emptied, is repeated. In this way the cylinders (2) on the 5 ^" side descending from the chain are always kept full of the weight fluid (1), while those on the ascending side being emptied of the weight liquid and filled with steam (3) are much lighter. The chain, thus kept permanently always heavier on one side than on the other, is forced to turn.

On the descending side of the chain, the thermal fluid (4) is heated, so that

"70 that the vapor pressure (3) which it gives off is sufficient, so that combined with the partial vacuum (5); the pressure difference between the cylinder (2 high) and the cylinder (2 low) is sufficient to ensure the rising of the weight fluid (1). In effect simultaneously on the ascending side of the chain, while the cylinders are filled with steam (3), this is condensed within the cylinder, the latter being cooled by a liquid of cooling

15 primary (12) circulating around the cylinders whose walls are traversed by a cooling circuit (11). This primary coolant (12) is itself cooled by a secondary coolant (13) by means of a spiral (14) in which the primary coolant (12) circulates, this spiral (14) rotating at the same As the chain passes through the secondary coolant (13), the

% <> spiral (14) in flexible tube is coated with an absorbent surface (15) which is charged with each passage within the secondary coolant (13) of this liquid, the evaporation of which ensures the cooling of the liquid primary cooling (12) contained in the spiral.

The spiral (14) (see Figure 3 and 6) and the secondary coolant (13)

2f are enclosed in a sealed containment enclosure (16) whose wall is héπssé of condensation fins (17). The secondary coolant (13) condenses on the walls of these condensation fins (17), in heat exchange with the ambient medium

If a spiral is not sufficient (depending on the size of the chain), to ensure cooling, it is possible to install a second or more, in parallel with the first, in another containment enclosure, containing a secondary coolant can be different from the first, depending on the temperature of the primary coolant at the entrance of the spiral entering this second enclosure. $ 5 ^" Junction pipes (18) (see fig.3 and 6) fitted with valves (19) connect, at each cylinder, the primary cooling circuit (11) to the spiral (14). The opening of these valves (19) ensures a double circulation of the primary coolant (12): A first circulation in the pipes (11) of the walls of the cylinders (2) which goes in the opposite direction to the rotation of the chain; the objective of this first circulation is to cool the walls of the ascending cylinders, the circulation of the primary coolant (12) is then descending, and to heat the walls of the descending cylinders, the circulation of the primary coolant is then ^ ascending . During this first circulation, while cooling the cylinders, the primary coolant heats up. It cools during the second circulation in the spiral (14) which is in the opposite direction to the first circulation, that is to say in the same direction as the rotation of the chain, the circulation of this primary coolant will be provided by a pump or circulator.

'iû As soon as the first cylinder (2 high, fιg.2), arriving at the top of the chain, is filled with the fluid weight (1), thus becoming 2 prem.haut; the primary coolant (12) leaves; by the pipe (18 fιg.2, 3 and 6) and thanks to the opening, at this precise moment, of the valve (19 fιg.3 and 6); the first circulation (11) around the cylinders, it is then hot, to join the spiral (14) - second circulation - during which it "7 ^ cools by traversing the entire length of the spiral, which hardens; by turning at the same time as the chain, in the secondary coolant (13); the primary coolant (12) thus thus makes the complete turn of the chain, within the spiral (14), to return almost to its point at the start, it is then cold, and join the first circulation around the cylinders; by the pipe (18) and the valve (19) open io simultaneously; at the level of the last cylinder (2 top), arriving at the top of the chain just before its still closed main valve (20) opens, and it begins to fill with weight fluid.

The secondary valves (19) are only opened twice: when they occupy the respective positions corresponding to the tank (2 top) and the tank * T (2 top, Figure 2); outside the respective positions of these two tanks they are closed.

In order to prevent the primary coolant from short-circuiting the circulation of the spiral by joining these two reservoirs by the shortest route, and in order to force it to take the longest route; a valve, or a simple valve (91, fιg.6) is located on the

3θ spiral, upstream of the junction between the pipe (18) and the spiral (14). There are therefore as many valves (91) as such junctions. All of its valves will be permanently open except one; that corresponding to the junction of the tank (2 first, top, figure 2). Each time a valve (91) arrives in the position relative to this tank; it closes, to open again, at the moment when the next reservoir arrives in the position

35 ~ respective 2 prem.haut and that its corresponding valve (91) closes in turn; when, on the other hand, the valve (19) opens.

All these valves can be of electromagnetic types with centralized electronic controls, with the exception of the balance valve which can, 1 t * possibly, be manual.

In the first phase of the first circulation, the primary coolant (12) is cold, it cools the steam-filled cylinders on the rising side of the chain in order to allow the condensation of the steam (3) and thus allow the drop in

5 ~ the pressure within the ascending cylinders, thereby making this primary coolant heats up and it descends while the empty cylinders rise; arrived at the bottom of the chain it goes up around the descending full cylinders, whose walls it heats while losing some of its heat; arrived at the top of the chain, at the level of the first cylinder (2 prem.high) full of the fluid weight (1) this liquid of primary cooling (12) leaves the first circulation around the cylinders, to join in without reverse the spiral ( 14) or it will cool down, and the cycle begins again.

As for the secondary coolant (13); due to the force of gravity it is simply kept at the bottom of its confinement enclosure (16); by passing within it the absorbent surface (15) of the spiral (14) is impregnated therewith; its all evaporating

"75 ~ along the spiral, cools the primary coolant (12) flowing in the spiral. The secondary coolant (13) gives up its heat by condensing on the condensation fins (17) which is provided the wall of the containment (16) and returns to the liquid state. To allow faster evaporation of the secondary coolant (13) permeating the absorbent surface

% D (15) with which the spiral is provided; the pressure within the containment (16) can be lowered and adjusted depending on the nature of the secondary coolant (13); itself chosen as a function of the outside temperature at the level of the condensation fins (17); these different choices conditioning that of the primary coolant (12).

j? ^ ~ According to the embodiment shown in Figure 2 the fluid weight (1) and the thermal fluid (4) are separate; and separated by a piston (8); this can make it possible to choose a particularly dense weight fluid; which allows, for equal performance, to make shorter chains; and to choose a different thermal fluid according to its thermal qualities.

^" bθ According to the embodiment presented in FIG. 4, the weight fluid (1) and the thermal fluid (4) are combined; in this case it is not necessary to have a piston; construction and maintenance are found to be simplified; but with equivalent production with the previous embodiment; the energy consumption can be greater because it is necessary to HERE all the liquid weight HERE. In this figure 4 the 3f cooling circuit is not represented; it can be designed according to the same principle as that described above and concerning the embodiment of FIG. 2. In the case of using cylinders (tanks fitted with pistons), in order to avoid a heating of the weight liquid (1) and therefore an energy loss, an insulating and flexible structure (21, fig. 3) according to the movements of the piston , can be added to the inside of the cylinders so as to cover the walls, without adhering to it so that r ~ the walls of the cylinders are covered with it, when they are full of the liquid weight; descending side of the chain, thus isolating the liquid weight from the wall of the cylinder being heated and that the raising of the piston (8) simultaneously raising this insulating structure (21) uncovers these same walls thus allowing heat exchanges between the primary coolant (12) and the interior of the rising cylinders filled with

7θ steam to condense.

Figure (5) illustrates the principle of a particular embodiment of one of the reservoirs (2), which can be used in the case of the pendulum, wheel or chain; this is indeed pendulum, it is suspended from a bracket (26) by an axis (27) around which it can oscillate in a controlled manner, which can be locked in the position

15 ^" desired; the advantage of this particular configuration is to allow the boiler (9) to be, by pivoting the tank (2) around the axis (27) always at the lowest point of the tank ; as the thermal fluid (4) is; due to gravity, also always at the lowest point of the tank, this allows the thermal fluid to be at the heart of the boiler (9) located above the hearth (10). Here the boiler, moreover, has a heat exchanger lo (28) in the shape of a fir tree in order to increase the surface of exchange between the heat of the hearth (10) and the thermal fluid (4).

The detail of the hearth is not represented, but one can very well imagine, that the solar radiation is focused there, or that a gas burner, in addition, comes to heat this hearth (10); an additional advantage of the pendulum tank is to be able to orient

Itf the hearth, optimally, compared to solar radiation, the tank can then be tilted and locked in the best position.

Another feature of the reservoir shown in Figure 5 is that the piston has been replaced by a double flexible sealing membrane (29), between the two walls of which has been placed an insulator (21). Besides that this waterproofing membrane (29) replaces

~ ^ ù the piston (8 fig.3), and removes, the problems of forces due to the friction of the piston against the walls of the cylinder (2), as well as the inevitable wear at this level, linked to possible problems sealing; an additional advantage offered by this sealing membrane, is to increase the exchange surface between the walls of the tank and the steam (3) under pressure which it contains, this makes it possible to bring the walls and steam to the same temperature , and

2f to avoid a problem of premature condensation, which could occur in the case of the piston, at the moment when the latter drives out the weight fluid (1), and or the vapor, comes into contact with the walls of the cylinder. The insulator (21) between the two walls of the membrane (29) is there, to limit the heat exchanges between the vapor (3) and the weight fluid (1)

In the case of the pendulum tank, a junction tube (30) connects the tank (2) to the peripheral pipe (6) not shown in this figure 5.

The proportions of the drawings depend on the size of the sheets of paper and the

^ regulatory framework; and not calculated according to the real dimensions that the balance, the chain or a particular detail of the assembly may have, in particular the number of tanks represented on the chains (fιg.2 and 4) could be, in reality a lot more important.

The height of the chains, and the size of the tanks are essentially a function of the 7θ pressure available, depending on the heat source used, and the desired energy production. Since the size of the tanks also determines their cooling time and the intensity of the vacuum available in the tanks arriving at the top of the chains; it is preferable, at equal volume, to have several small tanks, rather than a single large one.

This set of energy converters, balance wheel, wheel and chain, is essentially intended to produce electric current, by eliminating the nuisances associated with conventional thermal power stations; it was more particularly imagined for the rational use of solar energy; can thus be done without any pollution. Sets of chains 100 meters high can operate with <2Ό only 10 times atmospheric pressure, which can be achieved with a thermal fluid as common as water, with temperatures fully compatible with mirrors parabolic solar panels.

Such achievements on an industrial scale would all be as effective if not more, than conventional thermal power plants; without having the disadvantages,

% ^ since the water, (if it is the thermal fluid used), is not consumed, but entirely recycled in a closed circuit. This is a considerable advantage for many countries whose water resources are as precious as they are scarce.

On the other hand, when these same countries have rivers, they are often the only source of population concentration, making all the more problematic the construction of a hydroelectric dam, which in this case would mean displacing the populations and drown fertile land. In this case the converters which are the subject of this invention, and in particular the chains, represent an efficient and ecological means, which can be installed in a desert location without creating social problems, while preserving the cultivable land and even increasing it by using the energy produced to irrigate ^ 5 ~ new land; these converters can even be used directly as a solar water pump.

These converters are mainly intended for developing countries; but may be of interest to industrialized countries in the context of reducing air pollution.

Claims

1) Set of devices intended to convert a pressure force into motive energy which can be used directly or transformed into electrical energy, characterized in that this pressure force makes it possible to raise a fluid thus charged with potential energy thanks to

5 ^~ a set of means located inside a pendulum (Figure 1) comprising a tube (33), closed by a valve (20); connecting together, two tanks (2), forming cylinders, each divided into two volumes by a piston (8); these tanks or cylinders, located at each end of the tube (33) which can tilt about a horizontal axis iθ (22) placed on a frame (31) integral with the ground (32); the balance being inclined, the low reservoir (Alb) being able to be placed on the ground, enclosing on the side of the piston located towards the tube (33) a fluid weight (1) chosen according to its density and on the other side of the piston a thermal fluid (4) chosen according to its qualities

I ^e ) thermal; the weight fluid (1) occupying most of the volume of the reservoir (Alb) and the thermal fluid (4) the other part; the latter being heated by an external heat source the vaporizer (3) creating on this side of the piston (8) a pressure much greater than that prevailing in the opposite upper tank (Alh);

% p containing a certain quantity of condensed vapor returned to the liquid state (4), creating a vacuum (5); this pressure difference between the two tanks being such, once the valve (20) open, to ensure the ascent of the weight fluid (1) from the low tank (Alb) to the high tank (Alh) pushing the piston (8) thus filling this i5 ^~ reservoir, (passing to state A2h), with fluid weight (1) and thereby emptying of this same fluid the low reservoir (Alb), passing to state A2b, being then filled with steam (3); the valve (20) being closed as soon as this operation is completed, preventing the weight fluid (1) from coming back down, thus keeping the balance locked, -i _j ) in unstable equilibrium, the empty and light tank at the bottom, the full and heavy tank at high, charged with a potential energy that can be released on demand, by unlocking the pendulum, causing it to tilt, providing driving energy that can be; either used as it is, or transformed into electrical energy by a generator or an alternator; the balance then having tilted, the tanks being found inverted, compared to the starting position, and thus ready for a new cycle. 2) Device according to claim 1 characterized in that this set of means is located inside a chain (Fig.2) rotating in a closed loop on itself, vertically, passing over a pulley (23 ) rotating around a horizontal axis fj ^" (22) supported by a fixed frame, integral with the ground, supporting the weight of this chain, consisting of a support structure (24) which can be flexible or rigid and articulated (25), or a combination of these two possibilities; supporting over its entire length an alignment of sealed tanks (2) fixed to the θ supporting structure (24) and communicating by a valve (20 closed, or 7 open) through an orifice of this structure , with a flexible pipe (6) circulating all around the chain, interconnecting the various reservoirs (2); containing a fluid weight (1) separated within the reservoir, by a sealed piston (8), of a

75 ^" thermal fluid (4); the weight fluid (1) weighs down the chain on one side, forcing it to turn, thus bringing the full tanks (example 2 down) at the bottom of the chain, these undergoing the vapor pressure (3) of the partially evaporated thermal fluid (4) (3) under the effect of a heat source (10);

1θ steam pressure (3) then pushing the piston (8) and filling the tank (2 bottom) with steam; thus chasing the weight fluid (1) pouring out thanks to the opening of the valve (7) in the pipe (6) and rising, under the effect of this high vapor pressure (3), to the top of the chain at tank level (2 high); this one is

9- ¹⁾ being simultaneously depressed, due to the vapor condensation (3) reverting liquid (4) leaving a gap (5), suction through the piston (8) the weight of fluid (1) entering through the valve (7) simultaneously open, but closing, as soon as the filling is completed; keeping the 3o tanks full, with the valves closed (20), on the descending side of the chain, in opposition to the ascending side, with the empty tanks, provided with valves (20) immediately closed, immediately the tanks (2) emptied at the bottom of the chain; keeping the chain always heavier on the down side than on the up side; thus creating a

35 ~ rotary movement, source of motive energy.

3) Device according to the preceding claims characterized in that this set of means is located 1 inside a wheel can consist of either: the same elements as the chain, the pulley (23) then occupying all the space between the ascending side and the descending side of the chain, giving the latter a circular shape; this wheel operating in the same way as the chain;

5 "or of a set of pendulums arranged within a wheel, the circumference of the latter then being occupied by a set of reservoirs, communicating with one another by the tubes (33) of the pendulums; occupying the respective positions of the diameters of the wheel; each of the pendulums then operating in the proper mode îo the pendulum (as described in claim 2); the tanks being emptied arriving at the bottom of the wheel, and simultaneously filled arriving at the top thereof; thus giving the wheel a rotary movement, a source of motive energy.

4) Device according to the preceding claims can ^• 15 ^" apply to the balance wheel or wheel or chain; characterized in that the piston (8) separating the tanks (2) into two distinct volumes is eliminated, the operation of the balance, wheel or chain remains identical, except for the weight fluid (1) then also playing the role of thermal fluid (4) (see, £> example, Figure 4); valve (7) of the tank arriving at the bottom opening, allowing the expulsion of the fluid (1 and 4) located on the side of this valve, immediately closing all of this fluid in the liquid phase (4) flowing, thus enclosing the vapor (3) at the origin of the pressure in the tank (2bas).

25 ~ 5) Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the piston (8) of the reservoirs (2) is replaced by a flexible and sealed structure, (29 fig.5) separating the fluid weight (1) thermal fluid (4) and steam (3); flexible and waterproof structure which can be a double membrane, ^ 0 enclosing, between these two walls, a thermal insulator (21).

6) Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tanks are of the pendulum type (figure

5) can be oriented at will around the axis (27) of a bracket (26) secured to the support structure (24).

*? 5 ~ ⁷ ) Device according to any one of claims previous, characterized in that the tanks can be equipped with a cooling circuit (11, fig. 2, 3 and 6), traversed by a primary coolant (12), cooling within another circuit cooling, here a spiral (14) Ç can be coated with an absorbent surface (15) imbibed with a secondary cooling liquid (13) vaporizing, contained in a sealed containment (16), which can be vacuum and fitted with condensation fins (17).

8) Device according to claims 2 and 3 characterized in that a wheel, or a chain has a certain number of tanks (2), a little more than half of them; and this in an interposed fashion steam mode, thus providing a driving energy and that the other tanks function as a pump (for example water) filling in the bottom of the wheel or the chain 75 ^ of a liquid, rising this liquid by virtue of the rotation of the wheel or of the chain at the top of the latter then discharging this same liquid into a reservoir or a pipe, which can thus serve as a reserve of potential energy, or supply, for example, an irrigation network , instead of producing electric current.

-έ> 9) Device according to claims 2, 3 and 8 characterized in that a larger number of reservoirs, than those necessary for pumping water, operate in the steam mode, producing motive energy but thus allowing pumping less water, but thereby generating excess energy which can

% * _j supply, in addition to pumping, an alternator or generator.