JP2015526638A - Energy conversion engine - Google Patents

Abstract

An engine 3010 that converts thermal energy into kinetic energy is provided. Engine 3010 includes movable loops 3055 and 3057 extending between first zone 3045 and second zone 3043 and between first zone 3045 and second zone 3043. A cylinder 3011 is attached to the loops 3055 and 3057 so that the loops 3055 and 3057 and the cylinder 3011 can move together between the first zone 3045 and the second zone 3043. Each cylinder 3011 is configured to receive a varying amount of working fluid therein, a first state containing a first amount of working fluid, and a second state containing a second amount of working fluid. It is comprised so that it may exist in several states including. The first amount is greater than the second amount. Each cylinder 3011 is placed in the first state when it travels through the first zone 3045 and is placed in the second state when it travels through the second zone 3043 to impart motion to the loops 3055 and 3057. [Selection] Figure 6

Description

[Reference to related applications]
This application claims the priority of US Patent Application No. 13 / 841,137 filed on March 15, 2013 and US Provisional Application No. 61 / 684,206 filed on August 17, 2012 ( PCT) application. This application is also related to US patent application Ser. No. 12 / 909,114 filed Oct. 21, 2010 (currently US Pat. No. 8,453,443), which was filed in 2009. U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 533,031 filed July 31, US Patent Application No. 61 / 253,656 filed October 21, 2009 (currently abandoned), and 2008/8 Claims the priority of US patent application Ser. No. 61 / 085,978 (currently abandoned) filed Apr. 4. The entire disclosure of all the above-mentioned patent applications and patents are hereby incorporated by reference.

  The present invention relates to an engine that converts thermal energy into kinetic energy.

  Converting thermal energy into kinetic energy has long been done in the manufacturing industry. Many of the conversions use non-renewable thermal energy sources such as oil, coal, and / or natural gas, thus polluting the environment with unwanted by-products (eg, carbon dioxide) from combustion. Accordingly, it is desirable to produce kinetic energy using a regenerative thermal energy source such as geothermal.

  An engine is provided that converts thermal energy into kinetic energy. The engine includes a first zone, a second zone, and a movable loop that extends between the first zone and the second zone. A plurality of containers are attached to the loop such that the loop and the container are conjointly movable between the first zone and the second zone. Each container is configured to receive a variable amount of working fluid therein and has a first state that contains a first amount of working fluid and a second state that contains a second amount of working fluid. And a plurality of states including states. The first amount is less than the second amount. Each container is made to be in the first state as it goes through the first zone, and is made to be in the second state as it goes through the second zone, giving the loop movement.

  For a more complete understanding of the present invention, reference is made to the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an engine constructed according to the first embodiment of the present invention. An engine having a plurality of fluid-tight containers is clearly represented in the cross-sectional view. FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of one of the hermetic containers shown in FIG. The container is shown in its expanded position. FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of one of the containers shown in FIG. The container is shown in its retracted position. FIG. 4 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of an engine configured according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a schematic partial side sectional view of an engine constructed according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an engine configured according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view of the moving container mechanism of the engine shown in FIG. 8A and 8B are enlarged cross-sectional views of one of the containers shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. The container is shown in its retracted position and inflated position, respectively. 9A and 9B are enlarged cross-sectional views of one of the containers of the engine configured according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an engine constructed according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an engine configured according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

  FIG. 1 illustrates an engine 10 that converts thermal energy into kinetic energy, constructed in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The engine 10 includes a housing 12 that has an upper region 14 and a lower region 16. The upper shaft 18 and the lower shaft 20 are rotatably supported by the housing 12 in the upper region 14 and the lower region 16, respectively, and include an upper sprocket 22 and a lower sprocket 24, respectively. Upper sprocket 22 and lower sprocket 24 are fixedly mounted on upper shaft 18 and lower shaft 20, respectively, and each is equipped with teeth 26. A loop of a chain 28 having a plurality of links 30 (eg, a loop of a roller chain, a belt, a cable, etc.) is provided to rotate over the upper sprocket 22 and the lower sprocket 24. More particularly, the link 30 of the chain 28 is configured to engage the teeth 26 of the upper sprocket 22 and the lower sprocket 24, and longitudinal movement of the chain 28 causes the sprockets 22, 24 and hence the upper shaft to move. Rotational movement of 18 and lower shaft 20 occurs, respectively.

  A liquid 32 (eg, water or any other suitable fluid) is contained within the housing 12 and has a hot liquid zone 34 and a cold liquid zone 36. A thermal energy source 38 and a thermal energy sink 40 are connected to the hot liquid zone 34 and the cold liquid zone 36, respectively, and are held by liquid tight seals 42,44. The thermal energy source 38 includes pipes or tubes 46 a, 46 b and a heat exchanger 46 c, which is connected to the pipes 46 a, 46 b and provides thermal energy to the hot liquid zone 34. . More particularly, a hot liquid or gas (not shown) heated by a renewable energy source 106 (eg, solar, geothermal, ocean temperature differential, etc.) (as indicated by arrow H1 in FIG. 1). ) Flows into the hot liquid zone 34 through the pipe 46a. The hot liquid or gas then flows through the heat exchanger 46c. Thermal energy is then transferred to the hot liquid zone 34 and the liquid or gas flows out of the hot liquid zone 34 through the pipe 46b (as indicated by arrow H2 in FIG. 1). Similarly, the thermal energy sink 40 includes pipes or tubes 48a, 48b and a heat exchanger 48c, which is coupled to the pipes 48a, 48b to extract thermal energy from the cryogenic liquid zone 36. . More particularly, a cold liquid or gas (not shown) cooled by a renewable energy sink 108 (eg, geothermal, ocean temperature differential, etc.) is tube (as indicated by arrow C1 in FIG. 1). It flows into the cryogenic liquid zone 36 through 48a. The cold liquid or gas then flows through the heat exchanger 48c. Thermal energy is then removed from the cryogenic liquid zone 36 and the liquid or gas flows out of the cryogenic liquid zone 36 through the pipe 48b (as indicated by arrow C2 in FIG. 1). The heat exchanger 46c and the heat exchanger 48c may each be provided with a conventional heat transfer mechanism (eg, fins) that transfers heat into the hot liquid zone 34 and heat from the cold liquid zone 36. It promotes communication. Furthermore, to facilitate heat exchange, the energy source 38 is located near the lower region 16 of the housing 12 and the energy sink 40 is located near the upper region 14 of the housing 12 (eg, the upper sprocket 22). Placed near).

  A baffle 50 is disposed within the housing 12 (eg, within the boundaries of the inner loop formed by the chain 28) to directly intermix heat energy between the hot liquid zone 34 and the cold liquid zone 36. Is weakened. A water pump 52 is also provided that produces a circulating water flow 54 that may be located near the lower region 16 of the housing 12 (eg, below the baffle 50 and outside the boundary of the chain 28). The circulating water stream 54 forms a water curtain that further inhibits the mixing of thermal energy between the hot liquid zone 34 and the cold liquid zone 36 in the lower region 16.

  With continued reference to FIG. 1, gas or liquid sealed containers 56, 58, 60, 62 are attached to the chain 28 by brackets 64 and immersed in the liquid 32. Containers 56, 58, 60, 62 are configured to continue through high temperature zone 34 and low temperature zone 36 to rotate chain 28 and sprockets 22, 24. To cause such rotation, each container 56, 58, 60, 62 is provided with a working fluid 66, which may be air, carbon dioxide, a coolant, or others known in the art. Any fluid may be used. The working fluid 66 is suitable for expanding and contracting to increase or decrease the volume of the containers 56, 58, 60, 62. The structure and operation of containers 56, 58, 60, 62 are described in more detail below.

  2 and 3, the container 58 includes an inner cylinder 76 that has an open end 78 and a closed end 80, and an inner surface 82 and an outer surface 84. The container 58 also includes an outer cylinder 88 that has an open end 90 and a closed end 92, and an inner surface 94 and an outer surface 96. The outer cylinder 88 is slidably attached to the inner cylinder 76, and the outer cylinder 88 is in a collapsed position (with respect to the inner cylinder 76 where the inner cylinder 76 is disposed inside the outer cylinder 88). 3) and an extended position (see FIG. 2) in which the inner cylinder 76 extends outwardly from the outer cylinder 88. A seal ring 86 is disposed between the outer surface 84 of the inner cylinder 76 and the inner surface 94 of the outer cylinder 88 near the open end 78 to fluidly seal the container 58. At least one retaining ring 98 is attached to the outer cylinder 88 near the open end 90 to prevent the outer cylinder 88 from sliding off the inner cylinder 76. In addition, a coil spring 100 or other suitable elastic biasing element is attached to the closed end 80 of the inner cylinder 76 and the closed end 92 of the outer cylinder 88 so as to move toward the retracted position. The outer cylinder 88 is energized. A valve 102 is provided for filling the container 58 with the working fluid 66. Fins 104 are disposed on the respective outer surfaces 84, 96 of the inner cylinder 76 and the outer cylinder 88 to facilitate heat transfer into and out of the working fluid 66 contained therein. . Inner cylinder 76 and outer cylinder 88 may be made of any suitable material (eg, plastic or metal) that is corrosion resistant and thermally conductive.

  The structure and operation of each container 56, 60, 62 are the same as the container 58 shown in FIGS. For this reason, the specific structure of the containers 56, 60, 62 will not be discussed herein.

  Next, the operation of the engine 10 will be discussed with reference to FIG. In FIG. 1, containers 56, 58 are located in the hot liquid zone 34, and containers 60, 62 are located in the cold liquid zone 36. The working fluid 66 of each container 56, 58 absorbs thermal energy from the hot liquid zone 34 and expands to move the outer cylinder 88 from the retracted position (see FIG. 3) to the expanded position (see FIG. 2). . This increases the volume of the containers 56, 58 (ie, the containers 56, 48 expand to an enlarged volume). Since the working fluid 66 of the containers 56 and 58 has an increased volume but the same mass, the buoyancy forces 68 and 70 acting on the containers 56 and 58 respectively increase. On the other hand, the working fluid 66 of each container 60, 62 releases its thermal energy to the cryogenic liquid zone 36 and contracts, moving the outer cylinder 88 from the expanded position (see, eg, FIG. 2) to the retracted position (eg, FIG. 2). , See FIG. 3). This reduces the volume of the containers 60, 62 (ie, the containers 60, 62 contract and decrease in volume). Since the working fluid 66 of the containers 60 and 62 has a reduced volume but the same mass, the buoyancy 72 and 74 acting on the containers 60 and 62 are reduced. As a result, the sum of the buoyancy 68, 70 acting on the containers 56, 58 is greater than the sum of the buoyancy 72, 74 acting on the containers 60, 62, thereby causing the chain 28 to move in a clockwise direction (see FIG. A resultant force F that is rotated in the direction indicated by arrow R). As a result of the continuous flow of thermal energy entering and exiting the hot liquid zone 34, the containers 56, 58, 60, 62 move continuously between the hot liquid zone 34 and the cold liquid zone 36, This provides continuous motion to the chain 28. The movement of the chain 28 imparts rotational kinetic energy to the upper sprocket 22 and the lower sprocket 24 and thus to the shafts 18,20. Any suitable mechanism for storing and / or utilizing the rotational kinetic energy of the shafts 18, 20 may be used. For example, a generator G (shown in dashed lines in FIG. 1) may be driven by the shaft 18 via the belt B to convert kinetic energy into electrical energy.

  The present invention provides several benefits and advantages. For example, the conversion of renewable thermal energy into kinetic energy is performed in an environmentally friendly and cost effective manner. The generation of kinetic energy is realized in a mechanically simple manner (i.e. the force F results in the movement of the chain 28, which gives rotational kinetic energy to the sprockets 22, 24 and thus to the shafts 18, 20). .

  Many modifications and variations may be made to the present invention. For example, the containers 56, 58, 60 and 62 may be manufactured from various sized and shaped inflatable parts such as a balloon-like bladder made from a single piece of elastic material. Engines that combine containers of various sizes and shapes may be manufactured separately. The retaining ring 98 may also be sized and shaped to function as a backup seal ring (i.e., the retaining ring 98 is a secondary that contains the working fluid 66 in the containers 56, 58, 60, 62). As a seal, it can function when the seal ring 86 leaks). The level of the liquid 32 is within the housing 12 with the upper sprocket 22 submerged in the liquid 32 and the containers 56, 58, 60, 62 moving between the hot liquid zone 34 and the cold liquid zone 36. , It may be set to a height (not shown) that is submerged in the liquid.

  FIGS. 4, 5, 6 to 8A, 9A and 9B, 10 and 11 show second to eighth embodiments of the present invention, respectively. The elements shown in FIGS. 4, 5, 6 to 8A, 9A and 9B, 10 and 11 are the same as those previously described for the embodiment shown in FIGS. Or substantially corresponding, indicated by corresponding reference numbers increased by 1000 to 7000 respectively. New elements are indicated by odd reference numbers in the 1000 to 7000 range, respectively. It should be noted that the use of corresponding reference numbers or odd numbers in connection with these embodiments is for illustrative purposes only and is not meant to limit the scope of the invention.

  Referring to FIG. 4, an engine 1010 is shown with gas or liquid sealed containers 1007 and 1009 attached to a chain 1028 by brackets 1064. Note that FIG. 4 shows only a portion of the engine 1010, and additional containers (not shown) that are the same in structure and operation as the containers 1007 and 1009 may be provided. The engine 1010 is the same as the engine 10 in all respects except that the containers 56, 58, 60, and 62 have different structures. The structure of containers 1007, 1009 will be discussed below.

  Containers 1007 and 1009 each have a pair of rigid caps 1011, 1013 which are attached to bellows 1015 by a seal 1017. The bellows 1015 is manufactured from a flexible material such as rubber. The bellows 1015 facilitates the movement of the containers 1007, 1009 from the contracted position (see the container 1009 in FIG. 4) to the expanded position (see the container 1007 in FIG. 4) and vice versa. Each container 1007 and 1009 is provided with a valve 1019, through which gas or liquid is first supplied to the containers 1007 and 1009.

  Referring now to FIG. 5, the engine 2010 is equipped with a plurality of gas or liquid filled containers 2011, 2013, which are attached to the chain 2028 via brackets 2015a, 2015b, respectively. 5 shows only a part of the engine 2010, the engine 2010 may be provided with a further container (not shown) that is the same as the containers 2011 and 2013 in structure and operation. Also, the structure and operation of the engine 2010 are basically the same as the engine 10 shown in FIG. 1 and / or the engine 1010 shown in FIG. 4 except as discussed below.

  Referring to FIG. 5, the container 2011 includes end portions or caps 2017 and 2019, and a bellows portion 2021 that joins the end portions 2017 and 2019 to each other in a fluid-tight manner. Ends 2017, 2019 and bellows 2021 are constructed and combined in the same manner as rigid caps 1011 and 1013 and bellows 1015 shown in FIG. The bellows portion 2021 facilitates the movement of the container 2011 from the expanded position (see the container 2011 in FIG. 5) to the compressed position (see, for example, the container 2013 in FIG. 5) and vice versa. The end 2017 is equipped with a valve 2041 through which a gas or liquid is initially supplied to the container 2011.

  The bracket 2015a includes a pair of braces 2023 and 2025, and a container 2011 is placed between them. Support rods 2027 and 2029 are fixed to the end portions 2017 and 2019 of the container 2011, and are slidably supported by the braces 2023 and 2025 so that they can move in the vertical direction with respect to the braces 2023 and 2025, respectively. Yes. More specifically, the support bars 2027 and 2029 movably support the container 2011 on the bracket 2015a so that the container 2011 can expand and contract during operation of the engine 2010.

  Temperature sensitive springs 2031 and 2033 are disposed on the support rods 2027 and 2029, respectively. More specifically, the spring 2031 is disposed between and attached to the brace 2023 and the end portion 2017 of the container 2011, and the spring 2033 is disposed between the brace 2025 and the end portion 2019 of the container 2011. Attached to these. Each spring 2031, 2033 may be manufactured from a conventional shape memory alloy and moves between a hot and cold shape using heating and cooling. More specifically, each spring 2031, 2033 expands and contracts based on the temperature of the surrounding liquid or fluid to which they are exposed to move the container 2011 between its expanded and compressed positions.

  The structure and operation of the container 2013 are basically the same as those of the container 2011. Under such circumstances, the specific structure of the container 2013 will not be discussed in this specification.

  A fluid hose 2035 is connected to the containers 2011 and 2013 via discharge hoses 2037a and 2037b, respectively. The fluid hose 2035 is fixed to the chain 2028 via a plurality of hose brackets 2039, and the fluid hose 2035 is movable with the chain 2028 and thus with the containers 2011 and 2013. The fluid hose 2035 forms a loop around the chain 2028 and functions as a conduit. Through this, gas or liquid may flow from container 2011 to container 2013 and vice versa. Thus, the expansion and contraction of the containers 2011, 2013 is promoted as further discussed below. Fluid hose 2035, discharge hoses 2037a, 2037b and containers 2011, 2013 are closed (ie, fluid tight) systems such that the amount of fluid contained in the system remains substantially constant (ie, fluid does not flow out of the system). Form.

  In operation, the engine 2010 is immersed in a liquid having a cryogenic liquid zone 2043 connected to a thermal energy sink (not shown) and a hot liquid zone 2045 connected to a thermal energy source (not shown). Containers 2011 and 2013 and fluid hose 2035 are filled with working fluid 2066 (eg, gas) via valve 2041. The density of the working fluid 2066 is lower than the liquid surrounding the containers 2011 and 2013.

  When the container 2011 is in the cryogenic liquid zone 2043, the springs 2031 and 2033 contract to their respective cold shapes. Since the low-temperature shape of each spring 2031 and 2033 is shorter than the high-temperature shape, the springs 2031 and 2033 are respectively separated from the ends 2017 and 2019 of the container 2011 (that is, braces 2023 and 2025, respectively). Pulling the container 2011 to the expanded position (see container 2011 in FIG. 5). As previously discussed, the container 2011 is in fluid communication with a fluid hose 2035, which in turn is in fluid communication with the container 2013. In such a situation, as the container 2011 expands, the working fluid 2066 flows from the fluid hose 2035, the container 2013 and / or other containers of the engine 2010 into the container 2011, thereby causing the working fluid present in the container 2011. The volume or amount of 2066 increases. Due to the increase in volume / volume, the working fluid 2066 in the container 2011 results in an increase in buoyancy 2070 acting on the container 2011.

  In contrast, when the container 2013 is in the hot liquid zone 2045, its temperature sensitive springs extend into their respective hot shapes (see FIG. 5) and are longer in length than the cold shapes. As a result, the spring pushes the ends (i.e., end caps) of the container 2013 toward each other, thereby causing the container 2013 to contract to its compressed position (see container 2013 in FIG. 5). Since the container 2013 is in fluid communication with the fluid hose 2035, at least a portion of the working fluid 2066 flows out of the container 2013 and into the fluid hose 2035, the container 2011 and / or other containers of the engine 2010, thereby causing the container to The volume or amount of working fluid 2066 in 2013 is reduced. Due to the volume / volume reduction, the working fluid 2066 remaining in the container 2013 results in a reduction in buoyancy 2072 acting on the container 2013. The reduced buoyancy 2072 acting on the container 2013 is smaller than the buoyancy 2070 acting on the container 2011. As a result, the resultant force F acts on the chain 2028 and moves it in the clockwise direction. Due to the continuous flow of thermal energy entering and exiting the hot liquid zone 2045, the containers 2011, 2013 continuously move between the cold liquid zone 2043 and the hot liquid zone 2045, thereby being continuous. Motion is imparted to the chain 2028.

  6 and 7 illustrate an engine 3010 that converts thermal energy into kinetic energy, constructed in accordance with a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The structure and operation of the engine 3010 is similar to the previously discussed embodiment (particularly the embodiment shown in FIG. 5) unless otherwise specified. The engine 3010 includes a housing 3012 that includes a region of air 3032 (or other suitable fluid or gas) and includes an upper hot zone 3045, a central zone 3051, and a lower cold zone 3043. Insulating glass panels 3053 are installed on top and top of the housing 3012 for purposes that will be discussed below. The upper shaft 3018 and the lower shaft 3020 are rotatably supported by the housing 3012 in the upper high temperature zone 3045 and the lower low temperature zone 3043, respectively. The upper shaft 3018 and the lower shaft 3020 are respectively provided with an upper sprocket 3022 and a lower sprocket 3024, which are fixedly mounted on the upper shaft 3018 and the lower shaft 3020, respectively. Equipped. Loops of chains 3055, 3057 having a plurality of links 3030 (eg, roller-chain, belt, cable, etc. loops) are provided and rotate over a corresponding pair of upper sprocket 3022 and lower sprocket 3024. More specifically, the link 3030 of each chain 3055, 3057 is configured to mesh with the teeth 3026 of the corresponding pair of upper sprocket 3022 and lower sprocket 3024, so that the chain 3055, 3057 is moved in the longitudinal direction. , Rotational movement of the sprockets 3022, 3024 and thus the upper shaft 3018 and the lower shaft 3020 occurs.

  A renewable energy source is used to provide high thermal energy to the upper hot zone 3045 of the engine 3010. For example, solar energy (indicated by arrow S in FIG. 6) heats air 3032 contained in housing 3012 through insulated glass panel 3053 (translucent or transparent). In this regard, the glass panel 3053 is configured to retain heat in the upper high temperature zone 3045. In certain embodiments, the glass panel 3053 may be replaced with other suitable panels (such as metal panels) or mechanisms that can provide solar energy or other renewable thermal energy to the upper hot zone 3045.

  As shown in FIG. 6, a solar storage tank 3059 may be provided to store excess thermal energy, and such energy is provided to the upper hot zone 3045 as needed. Also, a heat pump 3061 is provided to draw out unnecessary heat energy from the central zone 3051. The heat pump 3061 may be configured to collect external thermal energy of any type (eg, solar, geothermal, ocean temperature difference, etc.). Excessive hot or cold energy extracted by the heat pump 3061 may be stored in the high temperature storage tank 3063 or the low temperature storage tank 3065, respectively, and selectively supplied to the upper high temperature zone 3045 or the lower low temperature zone 3043, respectively. May be.

  The lower cold zone 3043 may be located underground, and the lower cold zone 3043 is insulated and protected from the supplied solar energy S. Also, a cold energy source 3067 is provided near the bottom of the housing 3012 so that cold energy is supplied to the lower cold zone 3043. The cold energy source 3067 may utilize cold water, geothermal energy or any other suitable thermal energy supply. Due to the convection and the high and cold energy supply, a temperature gradient occurs in the housing 3012 where the upper hot zone 3045 is hotter than the lower cold zone 3043.

  An L-shaped upper partition 3069 is provided between the upper hot zone 3045 and the central zone 3051 to inhibit hot and cold fluid mixing between the upper hot zone 3045 and the lower cold zone 3043. One of the L-shaped upper partitions 3069 is attached to one side of the housing 3012 and the other L-shaped upper partition 3069 is attached to the opposite side of the housing 3012. An upper curtain fan 3071 is mounted on one of the L-shaped upper partitions 3069 to create an air curtain to further inhibit the transfer of thermal energy between the upper hot zone 3045 and the central zone 3051.

  Similarly, an L-shaped lower partition 3073 is provided between the lower cold zone 3043 and the central zone 3051 to inhibit mixing of hot and cold fluids between the upper hot zone 3045 and the lower cold zone 3043. Is done. One of the L-shaped lower partitions 3073 is attached to one side of the housing 3012 and the other L-shaped lower partition 3073 is attached to the opposite side of the housing 3012. A lower curtain fan 3075 is placed in one of the L-shaped lower partitions 3073 to create an air curtain to further impede the transfer of thermal energy between the lower cold zone 3043 and the central zone 3051. Let

  Still referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, containers 3011, 3013, 3077, 3079 are attached to chains 3055, 3057 by brackets 3081, 3083 (see also FIG. 8A). The containers 3011, 3013, 3077, and 3079 are configured to sequentially advance through the high temperature zone 3045, the central zone 3051, and the low temperature zone 3043 to rotate the chains 3055 and 3057 and the sprockets 3022 and 3024. In order to cause such rotation, each container 3011, 3013, 3077, 3079 has a substantially incompressible working fluid 3085 (ie, a fluid (water or other suitable fluid whose volume is not significantly affected by changes in pressure). Liquid))). The working fluid 3085 may contain an antifreeze, salt, or any other substance known in the art to inhibit freezing of the fluid 3085. A fluid hose 3035 is connected to each container 3011, 3013, 3077, 3079 by a communication hose 3037 and functions as a conduit. Through this, working fluid 3085 can flow between containers 3011, 3013, 3077, 3079. Thus, the expansion and contraction of the containers 3011, 3013, 3077, 3079 is possible as discussed further below. The lateral movement of the fluid hose 3035 is limited by wheels 3087, 3089 or other guide protrusions mounted on the shafts 3018, 3020, respectively, and the fluid hose 3035 is connected to the containers 3011, 3013, 3077, 3079 and the chain. Move with 3055, 3057. A valve 3091 (shown only in FIGS. 8A and 8B) is provided in each communication hose 3037 to control the flow of working fluid 3085 between the fluid hose 3035 and each container 3011, 3013, 3077, 3079. Is done. As containers 3011, 3013, 3077, 3079 advance through upper hot zone 3045 and lower cold zone 3043, valve 3091 may be touched, weighted, actuatored, magnetic, or any other suitable method known in the art. May be opened and closed. Fluid hose 3035 and containers 3011, 3013, 3077, 3079 form a closed (ie, fluid tight) system so that working fluid 3085 can move between fluid hose 3035 and containers 3011, 3013, 3077, 3079. , Fluid 3085 does not flow out of the system.

  8A and 8B, the container 3011 includes a cylinder 3093 having opposed end plates 3095, 3097. The end plate 3095 is attached to the chain 3055 via a bracket 3081. Further, the end plate 3095 is fluid-tightly connected to the fluid hose 3035 and the flow of the working fluid 3085 to and from the cylinder 3093 is controlled, but the working fluid 3085 does not flow out of the closed fluid system. The spring holding frame 3099 has a closed end portion 3101 and an open end portion 3103, and is connected to the chain 3057 via the bracket 3083 at the closed end portion 3101, and connected to the cylinder 3093 at the open end portion 3103. The Mounted movably inside the cylinder 3093 is a cylinder piston 3105, which opposes piston members 3107, 3109 connected by a stem member 3111 for purposes that will be discussed below. I have.

  The container 3011 also includes a shape memory spring 3113 or other suitable temperature sensitive elastic biasing element (see FIGS. 8A and 8B) that uses heating and cooling to move between the hot and cold shapes. . More specifically, each shape memory spring 3113 takes an elongated shape (see FIG. 8A) under a cold or cold temperature condition and takes a contracted shape (see FIG. 8B) under a warm or hot temperature condition. It is configured. Each shape memory spring 3113 is fixedly attached to the closed end 3101 of the spring holding frame 3099 and fixed to the piston member 3109, and the piston 3105 changes to “up” according to the change in the shape of the shape memory spring 3113. "Movable" between "" and "down" positions. That is, when the shape memory spring 3113 is in its extended shape, the piston 3105 moves to the “up” position (see FIG. 8A) to flush the working fluid 3085 out of the cylinder 3093 and the fluid hose 3035 and one or more Pour into other containers 3013, 3077, 3079. As the amount of working fluid 3085 in container 3011 decreases, its overall weight decreases (ie, is light) when piston 3105 is in its “up” position. Conversely, when the shape memory spring 3113 is in its retracted shape, the piston 3105 moves to the “down” position (see FIG. 8B) and the fluid hose 3035 and one or more other containers 3013, 3077. , 3079 to the cylinder 3093. As the amount of working fluid 3085 in container 3011 increases, its overall weight increases (ie, is heavy) when piston 3105 is in its “down” position.

  In order to increase the sensitivity of the shape memory spring 3113 to the temperature of the air surrounding the container 3011, the cylinder 3093 and the spring retaining frame 3099 may be composed of any suitable thermally conductive material (eg, plastic or metal). . Further, the spring retaining frame 3099 may be equipped with an opening or other mechanism to easily convey the ambient air temperature to the shape memory spring 3113.

  In operation, when the container 3011 enters the upper hot zone 3045, the valve 3091 is opened accordingly, allowing the working fluid 3085 to enter and exit the piston cylinder 3093. When the shape memory spring 3113 begins to absorb heat energy from the upper high temperature zone 3045, it begins to move to a contracted shape (see FIG. 8B) and moves the cylinder piston 3111 from the “up” position (see FIG. 8A) to the “down” position (see FIG. 8B). 8B). Because the fluid hose 3035 and the containers 3011, 3013, 3077, 3079 form a closed fluid system, this movement of the cylinder piston 3105 creates a suction force that draws the working fluid 3085 into the container 3011. Due to the inflow of the working fluid 3085, the weight when the container 3011 enters the upper high temperature zone 3045 is considerably heavy compared to the weight of the container 3011. When the container 3011 reaches the expanded state depicted in FIG. 8B and / or as it moves from the upper hot zone 3045, the valve 3091 operates to close so that the working fluid 3085 is removed from the container 3011. It is blocked from flowing out.

  As soon as the lower cold zone 3043 is entered, the valve 3091 of the container 3011 is actuated to open, allowing the working fluid 3085 to enter and exit the container 3011. When the shape memory spring 3113 begins to lose heat energy to the surrounding cold zone 3043, it takes an elongated shape and moves the piston 3105 from its “down” position (see FIG. 8B) to the “up” position (see FIG. 8A). Move. As a result, the working fluid 3085 present in the cylinder 3093 is discharged therefrom to the fluid hose 3035 and one or more containers 3013, 3077, 3079. The suction force generated by one or more containers 3013, 3077, 3079 (similar to the suction force previously discussed in connection with container 3011 in the previous paragraph) also causes piston 3093 working fluid 3085 to move from container 3011. Can be released. Because the amount of working fluid 3085 in the container 3011 is reduced, the weight of the container 3011 is much lighter than the weight of the container 3011 when leaving the upper hot zone 3035. When the container 3011 reaches the contracted state represented in FIG. 8A and / or when moving from the lower cold zone 3043, the valve 3091 is actuated to close and the working fluid 3085 flows out of the container 3011. Is blocked.

  The structure and operation of the other containers 3013, 3077, and 3079 are the same as those of the container 3011 shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B. Under such circumstances, the specific structure of the containers 3013, 3077, 3079 will not be discussed herein. The engine 3010 may be equipped with further containers.

  Referring again to FIGS. 6 and 7, the containers 3011 and 3079 have passed through the central zone 3051 and the lower cold zone 3042, respectively, and are therefore in a state similar to the container state shown in FIG. 8A. On the other hand, the containers 3013 and 3077 have passed through the upper high temperature zone 3045 and the central zone 3051, respectively, and thus are in a state similar to the container state shown in FIG. 8B. As a result, the weight of each container (i.e., containers 3011 and 3079) disposed on the left side of the chains 3055 and 3057 in FIG. 6 is the same as that of each container (i.e., container 3013) disposed on the right side of the chains 3055 and 3057 in FIG. , 3077). As a result, the sum of gravity 3115 and 3117 acting on the containers 3013 and 3077, respectively, is greater than the sum of gravity 3119 and 3201 acting on the containers 3011 and 3079, respectively, thereby causing the chains 3055 and 3057 to move in the clockwise direction ( A resultant force F is generated that is rotated in the direction indicated by the arrow R in FIGS. As a result of the continuous flow of thermal energy that enters the upper hot zone 3045 and exits the lower cold zone 3043, the containers 3011, 3013, 3077, 3079 move continuously between the upper hot zone 3045 and the lower cold zone 3043, This provides continuous motion to the chains 3055, 3057. Movement of the chains 3055, 3057 imparts rotational kinetic energy to the sprockets 3022, 3024 and thus to the shafts 3018, 3020. Any suitable mechanism for storing and / or utilizing the rotational kinetic energy of the shafts 3018, 3020 may be used. For example, a generator G (shown in phantom in FIG. 7) may be driven by a shaft 3020 via belt B to convert kinetic energy into electrical energy.

  In an embodiment, the valve 3091 of the containers 3011, 3013, 3077, 3079 may be removed. In another embodiment, at least two valves 3091 of containers 3011, 3013, 3077, 3079 are open simultaneously. In yet another embodiment, one or both of the shafts 3018, 3020 may be coupled to a drive mechanism (eg, manual crank, electric motor, etc.) when the containers 3011, 3013, 3077 and 3079 are stationary. When driven, containers 3011, 3013, 3077 and 3079 can be given initial motion.

  In another embodiment of the present invention, the engine 3010 may be equipped with a container similar to the container 4011 (see FIGS. 9A and 9B). The structure and operation of the container 4011 are the same as the container 3011 shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B unless otherwise specified below. The container 4011 includes a cylinder frame 4123, and the container 4011 is connected to the chains 4055 and 4057 by brackets 4081 and 4083 at opposite ends 4125 and 4127 thereof. The cylinder frame 4123 includes a cylinder frame hook 4129 that is fixedly mounted on the side adjacent to the end 4125. The container 4011 also includes a bellows type fluid cylinder 4131 connected to a fluid hose 4035. The fluid cylinder 4131 may be manufactured from a flexible material (eg, rubber) and the container 4011 may move from a contracted shape (see FIG. 9A) to an inflated shape (see FIG. 9B) and vice versa. Side plates 4133 and 4135 are attached to opposite ends of the fluid cylinder 4131. The side plate 4133 is fixedly attached to the end portion 4125, and the side plate 4135 is fixedly attached to the sliding bracket 4137. The sliding bracket 4137 is movably attached to the cylinder frame 4123 so that the fluid cylinder 4131 can be contracted and expanded. A sliding bracket hook 4139 is fixedly attached to the sliding bracket 4137, and a shape memory spring 4113 is attached to the sliding bracket hook 4139 and the cylinder frame hook 4129. Unlike the shape memory spring 3113 shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the shape memory spring 4113 extends when heat energy is absorbed thereby (eg, when placed in a high temperature zone), where When the thermal energy is taken out from (for example, arranged in a low temperature zone), it is configured to contract. FIG. 9A shows the fluid cylinder 4131 in its “up” position (corresponding to being compressed and light weight), and FIG. 9B shows the fluid cylinder 4131 in its “down” position. (Corresponding to expansion and heavy weight). Since the shape memory spring 4113 is completely disposed outside the container 4011, it can easily react to a temperature change in the surrounding environment.

  Referring to FIG. 10, there is shown an engine 5010 configured according to a sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The structure and operation of engine 5010 is basically the same as the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6-8B unless otherwise specified. The engine 5010 has containers 5011, 5013, 5077, and 5079 coupled to a fluid hose 5035 and attached to chains 5055 and 5057. The chains 5055 and 5057 are configured to engage with sprockets 5020 and 5022 attached to the shafts 5018 and 5020.

  The engine 5010 also includes a housing 5012 that includes an area of air 5032, with an upper cold zone 5043, a central zone 5051, and a lower hot zone 5045. A grille 5141, or other suitable opening structure, is provided on the top side of the housing 5012 to allow airflow. Within the housing 5012, a fan 5143 is disposed near the grill 5141 to facilitate air movement through the upper cold zone 5043.

  A renewable energy source is used to provide cold energy to the upper cold zone 5043 of the engine 5010. For example, cold air from the outside environment passes through the grill 5141 and maintains the low temperature conditions in the upper low temperature zone 5043. A solar panel 5145 that absorbs solar energy is provided above the housing 5012. Solar energy may be stored in a solar storage tank 5059 and / or used to provide additional thermal energy to the lower hot zone 5045 as needed. In addition, a heat pump 5061 is provided for extracting heat energy that is not required from the central zone 5051. The heat pump 5061 may be configured to collect external thermal energy of any type (eg, solar, geothermal, ocean temperature difference, etc.). Excessive hot or cold energy withdrawn by heat pump 5061 may be stored in hot storage tank 5063 and cold storage tank 5065, respectively, and thermal energy may be used as needed to lower hot zone 5045 or upper hot zone 5045. A low temperature zone 5043 may be provided. An L-shaped partition 5069 is disposed between the central zone 5051 and the lower hot zone 5045 to partially inhibit air mixing. Also, a curtain fan 5071 is disposed in one of the L-shaped partitions 5069 and an insulated air curtain is formed between the central zone 5051 and the lower high temperature zone 5045.

  The lower high temperature zone 5045 is located underground and is insulated and protected from the outside environment. The high thermal energy source provides high thermal energy to the lower hot zone 5045. This high thermal energy source may include geothermal energy, solar energy, hot fluid, or any other suitable renewable energy supply. Due to the high thermal energy source and the cold energy source, a temperature gradient occurs in the housing 5012 where the lower hot zone 5045 is hotter than the upper cold zone 5043.

  Except that the positions of the high temperature zone 5045 and the low temperature zone 5043 are reversed, the engine 5010 operates similarly to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6-8B. That is, unlike the high temperature zone 3045 and the low temperature zone 3043 shown in FIG. 6, the high temperature zone 5045 and the low temperature zone 5043 in FIG. 10 are located at the lower end and the upper end of the housing 5012, respectively. Therefore, the shape memory spring used in the engine 5010 is configured to contract in the lower high temperature zone 5045 and to extend in the upper low temperature zone 5043. The engine 5010 may also operate with or without any valves controlling the flow of working fluid to and from the containers 5011, 5013, 5077, 5079.

  FIG. 11 schematically illustrates an engine 6010 configured in accordance with the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The structure and operation of the engine 6010 is basically the same as the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6 to 10 unless otherwise specified below. The engine 6010 includes a plurality of containers 6011, 6013, 6077, 6079, which are shown in the schematic side view of FIG. 11 for illustration. Each container 6011, 6013, 6077, 6079 includes an inflatable cylinder 6131 and a plurality of shape memory springs 6113 that actuate a corresponding one of the cylinders 6131. Engine 6010 utilizes magnetic force to actuate shape memory spring 6113 and thus cylinder 6131 so that it does not require hot and cold zones similar to those listed in the embodiment of FIGS. May be included). More specifically, the engine 6010 includes a lower power source 6147 that is adjacent to a lower portion of the engine 6010 to generate a lower magnetic field 6149, and has a magnetic property different from that of the lower magnetic field 6149 (eg, the magnetic field is stronger, Or a weaker) upper power source 6151 that produces an upper magnetic field 6153. The power supplies 6147, 6151 may be any type of device that produces magnetic fields 6149, 6153, including wireless power supplies or similar devices known in the art. The magnetic field 6149 is configured to contract the shape memory spring 6113 of the container passing therethrough, and the magnetic field 6153 is configured to extend such a shape memory spring. Magnetic fields 6149, 6153 also actuate any valve utilized in containers 6011, 6013, 6077, 6079 (similar to valve 3091 shown in FIG. 8A) to provide working fluid to containers 6011, 6013, 6077, 6079. It may flow in or out of them.

  In some embodiments, the power source 6151 of the engine 6010 may be removed. In other embodiments, other mechanisms that operate the cylinders 6011, 6013, 6077, 6079 between an expanded state and a contracted state may be used.

  The present invention provides several benefits and advantages. For example, the conversion of renewable thermal energy into kinetic energy is performed in an environmentally friendly and cost effective manner. The production of kinetic energy is realized in a mechanically simple manner (eg force F gives rotational kinetic energy to sprockets 3022, 3024 or 5022, 5024, respectively, and thus to shafts 3018, 3020 or 5018, 5020, respectively. Resulting in movement of the chains 3055, 3057 or 5055, 5057). If solar, geothermal or electrical energy is not sufficient to run the engine of the present invention, other thermal energy sources (city waste heat, hot waste fluids, fuel cells, and any other known in the art) Suitable thermal energy sources, etc.) may be used.

  The embodiments described herein are exemplary only and those skilled in the art will recognize that many variations and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. All such variations and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims (30)

A housing having an upper end located at a first height and a lower end located at a second height lower than the first height, the first zone located adjacent to the upper end And a housing having a second zone located adjacent to the lower end,
Stretched between the lower end and the upper end, a movable loop passing through the first zone and the second zone;
A plurality of cylinders attached to the loop;
With
Each of the plurality of cylinders is movable with the loop through the first zone and the second zone;
Each of the plurality of cylinders is adapted to receive a variable amount of working fluid, and a corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders assumes an expanded shape when passing through the first zone, and contracts when passing through the second zone. It is sized and shaped to take shape,
Each of the plurality of cylinders has a first weight when receiving the working fluid therein and taking the expanded position, and releasing the working fluid therefrom to take the working position when the retracted position is taken. The first weight of each of the plurality of cylinders is heavier than the second weight;
At least one of the plurality of cylinders is disposed in the expanded configuration on one side of the loop after passing through the first zone, and at least another one of the plurality of cylinders is disposed in the second zone. The plurality of cylinders are arranged in the loop, such that the cylinders are arranged in the contracted shape on the opposite side of the loop after passing through a zone;
The weight of at least one of the plurality of cylinders on one side of the loop is heavier than the weight of at least another one of the plurality of cylinders on the opposite side of the loop, and due to gravity, at least one of the plurality of cylinders Moves downward toward the lower end of the housing, and at least another one of the cylinders moves upward toward the upper end of the housing to impart motion to the loop.
Energy conversion device.   The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the working fluid comprises a liquid.   The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the liquid includes an antifreeze material to inhibit the liquid from freezing.   A hose connected to all of the plurality of cylinders, wherein the plurality of cylinders are in fluid communication with each other by the hose, and the plurality of cylinders travels through the first zone and the second zone; The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the working fluid flows from one of the plurality of cylinders to another one of the plurality of cylinders.   The hose and the plurality of cylinders constitute a closed fluid system that includes the working fluid, and each of the plurality of cylinders moves from the at least another one of the plurality of cylinders as it proceeds through the first zone. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the working fluid is received through the second zone, and the working fluid is discharged through the hose to at least another one of the plurality of cylinders upon advancement of the second zone.   The hose includes a plurality of valves, each of the plurality of valves being connected to a corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders, and opening when the corresponding one of the cylinders enters the first zone. Allowing the working fluid to flow into a corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders, the corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders being closed when exiting the first zone, and the corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders Preventing the release of the working fluid from one of the plurality of cylinders and opening when the corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders enters the second zone to prevent the release of the working fluid from the corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders. And the corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders is closed upon exiting the second zone to prevent the working fluid from flowing into the corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders. To Apparatus according to claim 5.   Each of the plurality of cylinders includes an actuating member attached thereto, the actuating member having a corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders and a corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders defining the first zone. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the device is configured to assume the expanded shape when passed, and to cause the corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders to adopt the contracted shape when passed through the second zone.   Each actuating member of the plurality of cylinders includes a shape memory spring coupled to a corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders, and each shape memory spring of the plurality of cylinders includes a corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders. A corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders assumes an elongated shape when passing through the other of the first zone and the second zone, such that the corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders takes a contracted shape when passing through one of the first zone and the second zone. The apparatus of claim 7, configured as follows.   Each shape memory spring of each of the plurality of cylinders has a corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders that has the second zone such that the corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders assumes the contracted shape when passing through the first zone. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the apparatus is configured to assume the elongated shape upon passage.   The shape memory spring of each of the plurality of cylinders takes the contracted shape to create a suction force at a corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders to draw the working fluid therein, and the elongated shape 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the apparatus is capable of discharging the working fluid from a corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders.   Each of the plurality of cylinders has a shape memory spring such that a corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders assumes the elongated shape when passing through the first zone, and a corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders is the second The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the apparatus is configured to assume the contracted shape as it passes through a zone.   Each shape memory spring of each of the plurality of cylinders takes the contracted shape to release the working fluid from the cylinder, and takes the elongated shape to allow the working fluid to flow into the cylinder. The apparatus of claim 11.   Each of the plurality of cylinders includes a piston, the piston being stored in an extended position extending from a corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders and a corresponding one of the cylinders. Each of the plurality of cylinders is in the expanded shape when the piston is in the extended position and is in the contracted shape when the piston is in the retracted position. The shape memory spring of each of the plurality of cylinders is coupled to a corresponding one piston of the plurality of cylinders to move the piston between the extended position and the retracted position. 9. The apparatus according to 8.   Each of the plurality of cylinders includes a bellows container, a movable bracket coupled to one end of the bellows container, and a plate coupled to the opposite end of the bellows container. The shape memory spring is attached to the movable bracket and the plate to cause a corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders to take one of the expanded shape and the contracted shape. The device described in 1.   The housing includes a region of air defining the first zone and the second zone, the air of the first zone having a first temperature, and the air of the second zone is the first zone. A plurality of cylinders each having one of the expanded shape and the contracted shape as it passes through the first zone and the second zone. The apparatus according to 1.   The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the first temperature of the first zone is higher than the second temperature of the second zone due at least in part to air convection inside the housing.   The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the upper end of the housing is configured such that the air in the first zone is heated by solar energy to provide thermal energy to the first zone.   The apparatus of claim 17, wherein an upper end of the housing comprises a glass panel that transmits solar energy to the first zone and insulates air in the first zone.   The apparatus of claim 18, further comprising a cold energy source coupled to the housing and adjacent to the second zone, wherein the cold energy source maintains a low temperature condition in the second zone.   The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the cold source comprises one of a cold water supply and a geothermal energy supply.   18. The housing of claim 17, wherein the housing comprises at least one partition disposed between the first zone and the second zone to inhibit mixing of the air of the first zone and the air of the second zone. Equipment.   The housing is disposed between the first zone and the second zone and cooperates with the at least one partition to inhibit mixing of the air in the first zone and the air in the second zone. The apparatus of claim 21, comprising an air curtain.   The second temperature of the second zone is higher than the first temperature of the first zone, and the housing is heated to provide cooling means for providing a low temperature condition for the first zone and a high temperature condition for the second zone. 16. The device of claim 15, comprising means.   The cooling means includes a plurality of grills provided at an upper end portion of the housing to allow external cold air to pass through the first zone, and the heating means includes geothermal energy supply, solar energy supply, 24. The apparatus of claim 23, comprising one of a hot fluid supply and a renewable energy supply.   The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a heat pump coupled to the housing for storing excess thermal energy in at least one storage tank.   The at least one storage tank includes a first tank for storing high heat energy and a second tank for storing cold energy, and is stored in the high heat energy stored in the first tank and the second storage. 26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein cold energy is selectively supplied to the first zone and the second zone, respectively.   The loop includes a first movable loop and a second movable loop, and each of the plurality of cylinders is connected to the first loop at one end thereof and to the first loop at the opposite end thereof. The apparatus of claim 1, secured to the second loop.   A pair of upper sprockets and a pair of lower sprockets, wherein one of the pair of upper sprockets is coupled to the first loop, and the other one of the pair of upper sprockets is the Is coupled to the second loop, one of the pair of lower sprockets is coupled to the first loop, and the other of the pair of lower sprockets is coupled to the second loop. 28. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein the pair of upper sprockets and the pair of lower sprockets are capable of rotational movement of the first loop and the second loop.   The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a lower end portion of the housing is disposed underground and the lower end portion is thermally insulated.   2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of cylinders assumes the expansion posture and the contraction posture by a magnetic field applied to the first zone and the second zone, respectively.