WO2009144656A1

WO2009144656A1 - Process and installation for extracting and converting thermal energy from the environment

Info

Publication number: WO2009144656A1
Application number: PCT/IB2009/052177
Authority: WO
Inventors: Yoav Cohen
Original assignee: Yoav Cohen
Priority date: 2008-05-27
Filing date: 2009-05-25
Publication date: 2009-12-03

Abstract

The object of the invention is an Installation for extracting and converting thermal energy from the environment comprising a upper hollow tubular section (1 ), said hollow tubular section (1 ) having an open end (8) to the environment at one of its extremity and being connected thanks to a connector (10) having an inlet valve (16) and an outlet valve (17) to a substantially vertical hollow tubular section (2), said hollow tubular section (2) being connected thanks to a connector (12) comprising a removable seal (20) to a lower hollow tubular section (3), said hollow tubular section (3) having and open end (15) The upper tubular section (1 ) comprises an array (4) of propellers (11 ) each connected to the rotor of an electromagnetic generator (7) coupled to a resistive load (18). The invention relates also to a process of extracting useful thermal energy from the environment.

Description

Process and installation for extracting and converting thermal energy from the environment.

The present invention relates to a process and installation for, after an initiation phase, extract and convert useful energy from thermal energy of a fluid like gas (air) and its surrounding environment. And, consequently, obtaining useable energy, cooling, dehumidification, water, air flow, and other advantages, deriving from thermal and gravitational potential energy which also sustains the process. Continuous, increasing, and often crucial needs for cheap, clean, readily available, renewable sources of energy exist nowadays for amongst other cooling of environments, small or big, confined, or in open air. dehumidification of air/environment. sources of direct physical motion and circulation of air. as well for processes which directly and/or indirectly derive from and/or include the above processes.

The earth is kept in relatively stable ongoing energetic equilibrium, as a result of the energy it receives from space (mainly the sun), and the energy it returns to space. As a consequence, the temperature of the earth's mass in all its states, is maintained around levels which are much higher than absolute zero.

This means that the earth's mass retains significant thermal energy, being in fact, kinetic energy of its matter atoms and molecules.

Because of various phenomena, some of which are: rotation of the earth on its axis, and around the sun, evaporation, condensation, radiation, gravity, friction, etc., there are variations in the level of energy from place to place on earth.

These variations cause natural phenomena which are regularly observed such as clouds, rain, sea currents, waterfalls, wind, and others. More specifically, variations in molecules' kinetic energy within different volumes in the air, combined with molecules' gravitational potential energy variations cause wind. Increasingly, wind has been harnessed and converted into useable energy such as electricity. The same applies to other such natural manifestations of flow from high to low energy volume, as for example, waterfalls, sea currents, and others.

These endeavours of harnessing such energetic "opportunities" presented by nature have repeatedly proven their viability, but have had their success and propagation limited by several factors. Some of these factors are: - the occurrence of the conditions necessary for such flows are independent of human's control

- not fully predictable

- of magnitudes which are not always economically viable or quantitatively sufficient. The installation setups and equipments necessary to tap into these opportunities are very often very expensive, and carry environmental, as well as aesthetic negative consequences.

It is therefore a goal of the present invention to overcome the drawbacks of the current installations and processes for extracting and converting energy from environmental sources. The proposed process and installation originate in the need to reach the required results while attenuating and/or eliminating as many negative consequences as possible by creating controlled conditions giving rise to similar flow occurrence.

This goal is achieved thanks to an installation encompassing the characteristics recited in claims 1 and 11 and a process for extracting and converting energy as recited in claims 7 and 14

Other characteristics of the installation and of the process object of the present invention are recited in the other dependant claims. The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed description and drawings in which: Fig 1. is a schematic view of an installation for extracting and converting thermal energy from the environment according to the invention.

Fig. 2 is a schematic view of an alternate embodiment of the installation for extracting and converting energy according to the invention.

Fig 3. is a schematic perspective view of a tubular section of the installation depicted at figure 2.

Fig 4. is a schematic representation of the standardized configuration of the installation and process depicted at figures 1 , 2.

Open structure description With reference to figure 1 , the installation for extracting and converting thermal energy from the environment will now be described. Three hollow open- ended tubular sections. Preferably of circular section, hereafter referenced as tubes 1 ,2 ,3 are attached to each other end to end. For clarity and simplicity, the first tube 1 at the top is considered to be horizontal, the second tube 2 vertical and the third tube 3 located at the bottom horizontal. The non-attached ends of the two horizontal tubes are open to the environment.

In the present specification, all references to air should be interpreted as reference to a fluid, which at least during the thermal energy extraction process in tube 1 , is in gas state. In the continuation of this gas through the remainder of its path it may be in gas or liquid states.

In each of the tubes a propeller array 4,5,6 is arranged and set up in such a way that when air is flowing through the tubes it will actuate the propellers. These propeller arrays 4, 5, 6 are attached to electromagnetic alternators' 7 rotors 14 situated outside the tubes. Hereunder follows a more detailed description of the components on the installation.

Tube 1 is a hollow, preferably cylindrical structure of length U, with one end 8 ( A_1n) open to the environment, and is of a given diameter D_AIN- The other end 9 (A_0Ut) of diameter D_Aouτ is attached through a connector element (10) to tube 2. The connection between tube 1 and the connector 10 is typically airtight.

The dimensions of tube 1 may be of a large range and depend on several factors. The length and diameters are established to accommodate the propeller array, and as per the required overall fluid mass flow per unit of time. This is to ensure that the percentage of fluid flow kinetic energy which is converted back to heat through turbulences and friction during its flow through tube 1 remains negligible or small enough, typically under 20 percent.

The main axis of tube 1 forms an angle α with the horizontal axis which may vary from 0, tube 1 being horizontal in this case, to ninety degrees tube 1 being vertical the latter case and is dependent on the propeller array 4's energy conversion capacity, environment temperature, and the installation's dimensions.

Inside tube 1 an array 4 of individual propellers 11 is arranged. The number of propellers 11 in the array 4 is from a minimum of 1 propeller to a maximum of n1 propellers which while ideally is not limited, is practically limited by the ratio between the additional electric energy generated by each incremental propeller (and consequent cooling) to the additional heat it generates due to turbulences and friction, disrupting the cooling.

Each propeller 11 is connected to a rotor rod attached to the rotor of an electromagnetic generator 7. Tube 2 is a hollow, tubular structure preferably circular of length L₂ with one end (B_1n) attached through connector element 10 to tube 1 , and is of a given diameter D₂. The other end (B_out) of diameter D_Bouτ is attached through a second connector element 12 to tube 3. The dimensions of tube 2 may be of a large range and depend on several factors. As tube 2 provides to the process a substantial portion of the cold fluid column sustaining the flow, its length and diameters depend on the designed energy throughput per unit of time, tubes and propeller array's configurations and environmental temperatures and pressures. The connection between tube 2 and the two connectors 10, 12 is typically air tight.

The main axis of tube 2 forms an angle β which typically may vary from 0 to less than 90 degrees relative to the vertical axis. Inside tube 2 an array 5 of individual propellers 13 is arranged. The number of propellers 13 in the array 5 is from a minimum of 0 propellers to a maximum of n₂ propellers 13 which depends on the chosen configuration as per the considerations made by the detailed process description.

Each propeller 13 is connected to a rotor rod 14 which is attached to the rotor of an electromagnetic generator 7. Tube 3 is a hollow, tubular structure preferably circular of length Ic with one end (C_1n) attached through connector 12 to tube 2, and is of a given diameter D_CIN- The other end (C_out) of diameter D_Couτ is open to the environment or connected to an optional exit unit 15. The connection between tube 3 and connector 12 and the exit unit 15, if used, is typically air tight. The dimensions of tube 3 depend on the chosen configuration. The main axis of tube 3 forms an angle δ between 0 an 90 degrees with the horizontal axis.

Inside tube 3 an array 6 of individual propellers 11 is arranged. The number of propellers 11 in the array 6 is from a minimum of 0 propellers to a maximum of n3 propellers n3 which depends on the chosen configuration as per the considerations made in the detailed process description.

Each propeller 11 is connected to a rotor rod 14 which is attached to the rotor of an electromagnetic generator 7.

The material from which tubes 1 , 2, 3 are built may vary greatly from one configuration to another, and would typically be a good thermal insulator which is rigid or of rigid skeleton covered by airtight sheeting. The insulation may be realized by using glass/rock wool or through double-skinned sheeting, using trapped air for insulation.

Connector 10 is a curved hollow tubular structure to provide typically airtight, thermally insulated connection between tube 1 and tube 2. Its diameters on both ends are those of the connecting tubes 1 and 2 respectively. The connector 10 is typically made from the same materials as tube 1.

Connector 10 has two external connections/valves. An input valve 16 and an output valve 17 that are normally closed and thermally insulated, except in the initiation phase when they are open and connected to an external air cooling unit (not illustrated) as it will be described later in relation to the operating process. The external refrigeration unit pulls not sufficiently cooled air from valve 17 and pushes this same air, once cooled, through valve 16 in order to fill the tube 2 before launch of the regular process. In some configurations, as will be described later- on, the refrigeration unit is kept active throughout the process and is therefore left in also after the initiation phase.

Connector 12 is a curved hollow tubular structure to provide typically airtight, thermally insulated connection between tube 2 and tube 3. Its diameters on both ends are corresponding to those of the connecting tubes 2 and 3, respectively. The connector 12 is typically made from the same materials as tube 3.

The propeller array 4, in tubes 1 is an array of minimum 1 and maximum n1 independent propellers 11 arranged inside tube 1 , one behind the other. These individual propellers 11 are fixed in tubes 1 by a bar structure (not represented) allowing them to rotate freely. The outer diameter of each of the propellers 11 is typically slightly smaller than the inner diameter of tube 1 at the considered point. The propellers 11 are set in a manner that enables each of them to rotate freely and independently from the others when air flows through them along tubes 1. The curvatures, blade widths, and angles of each propeller 11 are adjusted to fit the air flow's velocity and density around them as well as the generator's rotor's counterforce for optimal efficiency in converting the kinetic energy received from the flow into electric energy. In the array 4, each propeller 11 has its wings' screw direction as opposite to the one immediately before it. This allows the recuperation of kinetic energy from air molecules which come out of the preceding propeller with angular velocity relative to the tube's axis.

Each propeller 11 is attached through a rod, shaft, and another rod to the rotor of an electromagnetic generator 7 (such as an alternator or dynamo). Each of the generators' electric output circuits is connected to a load 18.

The load 18 is designed to have real electric resistance to, primarily, extract maximal electric energy, and therefore maximal thermal/kinetic energy from the flow of air molecules, hitting its propeller's blades as they flow through it. Each of the loads 18 are adjustable individually. The blades of the propellers 11 are made typically from stiff material or stiff skeleton on which airtight sheeting (possibly elastic sheeting) is placed. The material could typically be a good thermal insulator.

The propeller arrays 5,6 in tubes 2,3 are an array of minimum 0 and maximum n2,n3 of independent propellers 13 arranged inside tube 2,3 one behind the other. These individual propellers 13 are fixed to tubes 2,3 by a bar structure (not represented) allowing them to rotate freely. The outer diameter of each of the propellers 13 is typically slightly smaller than the inner diameter of tube 2 at that point. The propellers 13 are set in a manner that enables each of them to rotate freely and independently from the others when air flows through it along tubes 2,3. The curvatures, blade widths, and angles of each propeller are adjusted to fit the air flow's velocity and density around them as well as the generator's rotor's counterforce for optimal efficiency in converting the kinetic energy received from the flow into electric energy. In the array 5, 6 each propeller 13 has its wings' screw direction as opposite to the one immediately before it. This allows the recuperation of kinetic energy from air molecules which come out of the preceding propeller with angular velocity relative to the tube's axis. Each propeller is attached through a rod, shaft, and another rod 14 to the rotor of an electromagnetic generator 7 (such as an alternator or dynamo).

Each of the generators' electric output circuits is connected to a load 18. The load 18 is designed to have real electric resistance to, primarily, extract maximal useful electric energy as made available by the process (see detailed process description). Each of the loads 18 are adjustable individually.

The blades are made typically from stiff material or stiff skeleton on which airtight sheeting (possibly elastic sheeting) is placed. The material could typically be a good thermal insulator.

Along tubes 1 , 2, 3 is arranged a water collecting pipe 19. This pipe 19 runs through, parallel to tubes 1 ,2 and 3. Its diameter is such that it is able to receive and to collect condensed water at the rate in which it is generated within the installation's tubes.

This pipe's attached portion to the tubes has repetitive holes running through it and through the attached tubes 1 , 2 and 3 in such a way that allows the condensed water to run down and drip from the installation's tubes 1 , 2, 3 into this water collection pipe. This, without losing any dripping water from the pipe.

This pipe 19 runs under the non-vertical tubes 1 , 3 and continues along the vertical tubes 2 so as to constitute a continuous down pouring path for the condensed water from the top of the installation down through its bottom where the water may be collected.

Between the output of tube 2 and the input of tube 3, there is a controlled seal or valve 20 which may be constituted by way of example of an elastic, airtight sheet designed to prevent the cold air column in tube 2 and connector 12 accumulating during the initiation phase from flowing outward until it is time. This seal may be opened by mean of an attached cable (not shown) or other suitable means which leaves a portion of it fixed to tube 3, avoiding its interference with the propeller array 6.

The installation on all its parts may have supporting structures to the ground (or to a carrying vessel) which differ greatly from one configuration to another. In this respect, it is possible to detail it only by way of example: In configurations where it is a standalone tower, the structure itself may serve to hold it together. In another configuration tube 1 may be horizontal at the top of a mountain, tube 2 may be running through the side of the mountain and tube 3 fixed at its bottom. The exit unit 15 is designed to fulfil two requirements: a) reduce the resistance of the environment air molecules to the flow of the molecules of the air exiting the installation. b) collect further water condensates generated by the cooling of the environment by this exiting cooled air. The exit unit 15 is attached to tube 3 and has, at the connection point, the same diameter as tube 3. This unit has its height flattened and its width widened as it extends away from tube 3 (so as to create a low profile for the advancing cooled air).

Its lower part extends further than its higher part so as to create a low tray allowing the cooled air to continue the last portion of its advance into the warmer environment in low, open profile. This tray form also allows the condensated water to be collected.

The basic version of the process and installation is based on an open structure by which air molecules are input at the top, at a certain temperature, and output at the bottom with lowered temperature.

This drop in thermal and potential gravitational energy of these random air molecules which happen to be near A_1n is the source of the thermal energy which is extracted. The molecules, which transit in the installation are rarely the same as those that have previously passed through it.

Closed structure description A second embodiment of the installation will now be described.

In certain conditions, the requirement is that the gas within the circuit does not mix with the environment, for a wide variety of reasons, such as for example:

- The process and installation use a different gas from the environment. - The environment is not a gas, but rather solid or liquid (or even vacuum).

- The requirement of the process and installation is to keep the circulating gas (which could also be air) from mixing with the environment so as to prevent inter contamination or pollution. - The gas in the circuit is in different pressure than the environment.

- Etc.

In such conditions, it can be added to the existing process and installation a return unit which has for its purpose to absorb and transfer heat (thermal energy) from the environment back to the flowing gas, by conduction, without any transfer of substance in between the process's gas and the environment.

The return unit in this configuration ensures therefore, that the process and installation reuse always the same specific gas molecules confined within its volume.

With reference to figure 2, at the open end of tube 3, instead of the exit unit, a return unit is attached. The return unit is made of two hollow tubular elements: tubes 21 and 22, connected between them by a connector 23. The other ends of these two tubes are connected through two connectors, 24 and 25 to tube 3 and tube 1 , at exit 15 and open end 8 (A_1n), respectively. Through the return unit's tubes 21 , 22 heat exchange occurs thanks to means shown by way of example as thermally conductive sheets or heat exchange plates 28 arranged on the periphery of the tubes 21 , 22 and projecting inside said tubes, as illustrated at figure 3 Both ends of upper tube 1 are provided with two controlled seals or valves 41 , 42.

The tubes, connectors, and heat exchange plates 28 are made from materials which are good heat conductors such as steel.

Connectors, 23, 24, 25 are made as connectors 10, 12 previously described, with one difference, the material of which they are made must be a good heat conductor.

Tube 21 and tube 22 may vary in angle and diameters.

Tube 21 is typically at a small, positive slope, as it extends away from connector 24 and its diameter is typically gradually increasing in the same direction. Tube 22 is typically close to vertical or vertical.

At the bottom of tube 21 (near the connection through connector 24 to C_out) is fixed on its side an adjustable exit valve 26. At the top of tube 22 (near connector 25 connecting it to A_1n) is fixed an adjustable inlet valve 27. The outer surface of tube 2 and 3 is also equipped with a collection channel 29 that communicated in its upper part with the inside of tube 2 and, which in its lower part comprises a stop valve 30.

Open structure summery process description

Now the process of extracting and converting thermal energy from the environment in the open and closed structures (as per fig. 1 , fig.2) will be described in more details. For clarity, the description will start by a summary of the process of each (open and closed) followed by the more detailed description which will be joint for both open and closed structure variations through the analysis of a standardized version (fig. 4).

Now the process summery for the open structure will be provided:

To start up the process, necessary conditions, allowing it to be launched and maintained, need to be met.

The main prerequisite condition is that tube 2 and connector 12 are filled with air which is cooler and denser than the air in the environment, thus allowing the initial outpouring through tube 3 of this cold air column, launching a flow.

To do so in the simplest way, as an initiation phase, an external air refrigerator is attached to the installation through two valves 16, 17 located on connector 10. In addition, the seal 20 at bottom of tube 2 is closed to prevent air from flowing outward through the bottom.

The refrigerator, externally and independently powered, is a separate, commercial unit, and has the function of introducing cooled air through valve 16, and extracting air which is still not fully cooled to target temperature from valve 17

Because the cooled air is denser it has a tendency to sink lower, pushing up the less cool air, which is collected by the external refrigerator so as to lower its temperature, returning it into the installation through valve 16.

This operation continues until target temperature is reached and corresponding target air density (being of value in accordance with the considerations presented later on) are reached.

The colder, denser air, has a tendency to pour out through the tube's bottom end 2, through the bottom horizontal tube 3, back into the environment because of gravity and its density relative to the environment. In doing so, the air molecules in the whole vertical column, flow downward, creating sub-pressure (relative to outside environment air) at its top. This allows the environment air to push the air molecules in the top horizontal tube 1 from its open end toward the top of the vertical tube 2, creating flow. This flow of air molecules inside the top horizontal tube 1 is the result of inter-molecular kinetic energy. This is the consequence of the fact that neighbouring environment air has thermal (inter-molecular kinetic) energy (manifested as pressure) which flows, when allowed, from higher to lower pressure volumes seeking equilibrium.

The propeller array 4, which is in the way of this flow, is rotated by it, actuating the rotors of the alternators 7, and doing so, generating output electric energy which derives from the outside air's thermal energy causing the flow.

By extracting electric (or any other) energy from this inter-molecular kinetic energy in the top horizontal tube 1 , the air's thermal energy is in fact reduced, making its temperature fall. (The minimum requirement of the process is to have, as mean of output, propeller array 4 with a minimum of one propeller. Propeller arrays 5 and 6 are optional.)

If enough of the energy of this flow is extracted, so as to reach sufficiently low temperature, maintaining the original density and downward flow of the air in the vertical tube 2 as was imposed by the initiation phase the consequence would be, a stable and sustained flow of fluid and energy extraction occur in the horizontal column 1.

In tubes 2, 3, additional energy may be extracted and output (optional). The energy extracted at these tubes 2, 3 is the portion of the available energy which is over and above the level necessary for the evacuation work of air molecules from the top of the vertical tube downwards, and which is necessary for the air flow and cooling of the top horizontal tube 1.

The process and installation therefore create downward air flow conditions due to the fact that the tubes are filled with colder, denser air, which in turn causes the rotation of the propellers at the top and extract energy away from the air, and doing so cooling the entering air at the top of tube 2. The process is maintained in flow conditions as long as sufficient energy is output from the air flowing in the top horizontal tubei to cool it to the target temperature of the air in the vertical tube 2.

Closed structure summery process description

Now the process summery for the closed structure will be provided:

In continuation of the description of the open process and installation, tube 21 receives from the exit of tube 3 the flow of the cooled gas. As the gas flows through tube 21 and tube 22, its molecules are in ongoing contact and heat exchange conditions with the plates and outer perimeters of the tubes 21 , 22 occurs.

Since the environment temperature is higher than the gas exiting from tube 3, heat will flow from the environment by conduction to reheat the internal gas. As it flows gradually away from tube 3, the gas becomes warmer (and has a tendency to rise). The widening diameter, and upward slope (both optional), that it finds on its path until the point of re-entry into the originally described open installation A_1n, facilitates the circulation.

The gas inside the process and installation circulates between two vertical columns: one with cooled gas (tube 2 as described in the original process) and the other, with the same cooled gas after it has been reheated gradually by the environment within tubes 21 , 22.

The difference in temperatures between these two columns carries a difference in the density of the gas in them and by consequence a difference in pressure at their top (due to the resistance to flow of propeller array 4) causing the gas to flow through tube 1 into tube 2 thus causing the gas to flow from the exit of tube 3 to A_1n as the completion of the circulation cycle in the process and installation. The gas will therefore, provided conditions are met (as will be described in the detailed process), have a tendency to continue its circulation in a sustained process of energy extraction, reheating and again energy extraction, alimented by the outside environmental thermal energy. In this configuration, the gas's directional kinetic energy is not lost to the environment as it transits through the tubes but rather is retained through its return back to A_1n

The inlet/outlet valves 26, 27 in the return unit are used to allow the process and installation to have partial exchange of air with the environment performing as a semi closed circuit, if so desired.

Standardized configuration detailed process description for both open and closed

Since the process, object of this patent application may be embodied as installations of vast variations of dimensions, parameters, forms, and configurations; it shall hereafter be described within a standardized, simplified form and arrangement of its closed embodiment. This is done to allow the applicable principal physical principles to be expressed in their most straight-forward form. To do so, the process is described in schematic standardized form as per figure 4. Cavities 37, 36, 34 and 35 represent the free space inside tubes 1 , 2, 3 (and 21 ), 22 respectively. Reheating is done through cavity 34 alone (reheating from environment is done for simplicity only in the lower tube 21 ,). seals or valves 41 and 42 have been added. These valves are same or similar to valve 20 and, as valve 20 may be closed, open or partially open. In the initiation (start-up) phase the seal 42 is closed and seals 41 and 20 are almost completely closed, allowing only small passage of flow of fluid to equalize pressures. Fluid is pressurized into the cavities 34, 35, 36, 37. Once this stage is completed, cavities 37, 36 are very significantly cooled (by external means) relative to the normal working environment temperature (note: in practical conditions, target temperature is such that would make the fluid reach temperature which is just above phase change).

Cavity 36 containing the colder fluid shall be referred to also as the "Cold Column." The fluid in the Cold Column at this point in time has relevant energy

Cold column fluid energy = enthalpy + potential (due to gravity) energy

Since the gravitational potential energy is relative to a chosen surface of reference, the overall energy, at zero fluid flow velocity can be presented as follows: Relative to the center of mass of fluid inside cavity 37:

1 ) Ec = (Y /( Y -1 ) ) Pc Vc - m_cgh_c

Relative to the center of mass of fluid inside Cavity 34:

2) E_c = (γ /( γ -1 ) ) Pc Vc + m_cg(r-hc)

Note:

3) γ = Cp/Cv

4) γ = H/U

5) H=U+PV 6) R=Cp - Cv

Where

Ec Relevant energy of the fluid in the cold column

Y : Ratio of Specific heats

Cp Specific heat of the gas under constant pressure Cy Specific heat of the gas under constant volume

H: Enthalpy

U: System's fluid's Internal Energy

P: Pressure

V: Volume R: Universal gas constant p_c: Pressure of the fluid in the cold column(at fluid's center of mass) v_c: Volume of the cold column m_c: Mass of the fluid in the cold column g: acceleration due to gravity r: The distance between the center of mass of the fluid inside cavity 37 and the center of mass of the fluid which is inside Cavity 34 h_c: distance between the center of mass of the fluid inside cavity 37 and the center of mass (m_C) of the fluid inside the cold column Cavity 35 containing the warmer fluid would be referred to also as the "hot column." The fluid in the hot column has relevant energy of:

Hot column fluid energy = Enthalpy + potential (due to gravity) energy

The overall relevant energy for the fluid in the hot column, at zero fluid flow velocity can be presented as follows: Relative to the center of mass of fluid inside cavity 37:

7) E_H = (Y /( Y -I ) ) PH v_H - m_Hgh_H

Relative to the center of mass of fluid inside Cavity 34:

8) E_H = (Y /( Y -1 ) ) PH V_H + m_Hg(r-h_H)

Where

E_H Relevant energy of the fluid in the hot column

Y : Ratio of Specific heats p_H: Pressure of the fluid in the hot column(at fluid's center of mass) v_H: Volume of the hot column m_H: Mass of the fluid in the hot column g: acceleration due to gravity r: The distance between center of mass of the fluid inside cavity 37 and the center of mass of the fluid which is inside Cavity 34 h_H: distance between the center of mass of the fluid inside cavity 37 and the center of mass (m_H) of the fluid inside the hot column 35 Since at the preparation phase seal 42 is closed and seals 20, 41 are slightly open the fluid in the cold column and in the hot column, once rest (or insignificant flow) conditions are reached, are of practically equal pressure at their bottom (cavity 34). In the standardized installation conditions assume equal volumes for both columns and similar mass distribution with insignificant difference of the center of mass of the fluids relative to the overall height (r).and therefore, in good approximation:

9) Vc = VH = v 10) h_H = h_c = h

The fluid behaves as ideal gas, for example-monatomic, remaining in gas state throughout the process (with no phase change and at temperature significantly higher than that of phase change, ignoring therefore, latent heat related energy variations). Therefore:

Since there is no flow:

b and so,

12) [(Y /( γ -1 ) ) P_HV + m_H g(r-h)] /v = [(Y /( Y -1 ) ) p_cv + m_cg(r-h)]/v Note:

13) m_H = p_HV

14) m_c = P_cV Where,

P_{H b} Static pressure at the bottom of the hot column (at end of Cavity 34).

Pc b: Static pressure at the bottom of the cold column (at other end of Cavity 34). P_H: Hot column fluid average density P_c Cold column fluid average density Therefore, 15) (γ/(γ-1 ))p_c=(γ/(γ-1 )) PH- g(r-h)(p_c _ p_H)

Note: Since p_c, being the density of colder gas than p_H, P_H <P_C- This implies, based on equation 15 that: p_c < P_H- At the top of the hot column, (on the center of mass of fluid inside cavity 37), the static pressure is:

16) PHt= (Y /( Y -I ) ) PH - PH g h

At the top of the cold column, the static pressure is:

=

(Y /( Y -1 )) PH - g(r-h)(p_c _ p_H) - Pc g h

The initial static pressure differential at the top is therefore: 18) Δpt=pHt-Pct=g(r-h)(pc-p_H)⁺gh(pc-PH)=(Pc-PH)gr

Where,

P_{H t} Static pressure at the top of the hot column (at end of cavity 37, on the center of mass of fluid inside cavity 37).

Pc t: Static pressure at the top of the cold column (at other end of cavity 37).

Δp_t: Static pressure differential between both ends of cavity 37 (also, on both sides of closed seal 42).

The consequence of this is that initially, after the preparation phase is completed, at the top of the hot and cold columns on both ends of cavity 37 there is pressure differential. This pressure differential, upon opening of the seals or valves 20, 41 , 42, would generate fluid flow through cavity 37 from the hot column toward the cold column.

Upon the complete opening of the seals 20, 41 , 42, so that the flow can occur within the cavities, the pressure at the top of the hot column is of higher pressure than the pressure at the top of the cold column. It therefore forces the fluid to flow through cavity 37 to the cold column.

The propeller array (which is of minimum one propeller) is therefore actuated by the fluid flow, doing work outside the cavity (thus outside of the fluid's closed system (hereafter "the system"), through the shafts to the electric generator/s (turning their rotors). (Note: the output work may be of any kind but the process is described herein in details for electrical output, being a convenient form of energy.)

Each of these generators (such as alternator or dynamo) develops electric voltage as electric output in consequence of the rotor actuation. In simplified terms, this voltage, by Lenz's Law, can be represented as

19) E= NBuI

Where,

E: electromotive force

B: density of the magnetic field u: velocity of the conductor in the magnetic field

Uength of the conductor in the magnetic field

N: number of conductor turns

This electromotive force, once applied to an electric load (which is outside the tubes) (For simplicity assume load to be of only real resistance under direct current conditions) generates electric current.

This electric current can be represented as follows:

20) I = E/Z = NBul/Z

Where, Z: electric resistance of the load

I: electric current passing through each generator's electric output circuit and through its corresponding external load (see schematic Electric Connections drawing).

This current, in turn, causes a counter force which resists the motion of the conductor (relative to the magnetic field) and therefore, the rotation of the rotor in the generator and by consequence applies through the shafts a force resisting the turning of the corresponding propeller. By consequence this force resists the fluid flow through the propeller array in Cavity 37. The force on the conductor moving within the magnetic field in each generator can be represented, in simplified terms, as follows: 21 ) F= NBII = N²B²I² u/Z

Where,

F : counter force (between the conductor and the magnetic field in which it is) generated by the current through the conductor (and the corresponding adjustable load) and which is of direction opposite the force which originally caused the motion. The resistive force (which - through the shaft - resists the turning of the propellers and therefore the flow of the fluid), can be modulated by adjusting the electric resistance.

Through this interaction, the fluid flowing through the propeller array, outputs a portion of its energy, outside the system, through the generators to the loads (as well as to other losses in the generators and shaft friction outside the system). The fluid, being in gas form, transfers a portion of its molecules' intermolecular (non directional) and directional (flow) kinetic energy outside the cavity (the system) by doing this work. Each of the molecules of the gas state fluid contributing to the rotation of each propeller, through its collision with one of its blades, bounces back from it at a slower velocity than the velocity in which it arrived at the blade. Each such molecule, bouncing back from the blade, collides thereafter with other molecules, propagating the lowering of the root-mean -square speed of the molecules of the fluid interacting with the propellers (or, in other words, cools the fluid).

This work, done by the system's fluid outside it (output to the generators' electric power and losses) causes the cooling of the gas-state fluid as it advances towards the exit of cavity 37, towards the cold column. The propellers are of profiles which, combined with their respective electric load, resistance value and fluid velocity around them are adjusted to optimize the energy absorption and transfer as electric current and losses outside the cavity. In practical cases, the electric resistances may be adjusted individually so as to witness the maximization of this energy extraction by the propeller array as a whole. The total energy which is output over a period of time, t, outside (including losses which are outside the system) shall hereafter be referred to as Ee(t) and/or "Electric Energy".

Note: In a propeller array of more than one propeller the rotation screw direction of each propeller shall be opposite to that of the propeller before it, to allow for the recuperation of the angular velocity of the fluid's molecules which are caused by the resisting force of the propellers before it.

In consequence, of the output energy, the fluid exiting cavity 37 is colder than the fluid entering it. In stable steady conditions the temperature and mass of the fluid entering the top of the cold column 36 from cavity 37 over each period of time t would be equal to the mass and temperature of the fluid which has been evacuated from the top of the cold column 36 downward.

In such steady conditions the requirement is that the net thermal energy received from the environment (as well as from all other sources considered outside the system such as recuperated heat loss received from the generators) be equal to the output electric energy over the same period of time.

In the standardized version consider that net heat transits through to the fluid in cavity 34 over a period of time, t, and shall be referred to as "heat" or Q_T(t) this is due to the fact that its temperature is lower than the environment as will be shown. This heat is received from the outside environment by means of conduction through the walls of cavity 34 and convection of the fluid.

The fluid flowing from the bottom of the cold column into cavity 34 is significantly colder than the temperature of the environment. As it flows through cavity 34, towards the bottom of the hot column, it absorbs a portion of the net thermal energy received from the environment (environment being outside of the system).

The thermal energy absorbed by the fluid is impacted by several factors such as the heat exchange surface with the fluid (hence fins, 28, of tube 21 ), the conductivity of the cavity walls materials, the capacity of the cavity walls to efficiently absorb a maximal spectrum of electromagnetic waves, the velocity of the fluid in cavity 34 (which determines its exposure time note: flows relatively slowly in the standardized version, this allows also for flow to be as laminar as possible), its temperature differential relative to the environment, the length of cavity 34 and the turbulence level of the fluid inside Cavity 34 (more turbulent flow increases convection and therefore promotes more homogenous distribution of temperature inside the fluid).

The fluid at the exit of cavity 34 in steady work process is at temperature which is higher than its temperature at the moment of entry to Cavity 34, but is still significantly lower than the temperature of the outside environment. It is of the same temperature and mass as the fluid which has been evacuated from the bottom of the hot column 35 toward its top over the same period of time. The immediate environment around the system loses temperature in consequence of the heat which is transferred (by a combination of conduction, radiation, and convection) into the fluid. This received energy is at a level which will, thereafter, be output for various uses through the propellers, generators, and electric output circuits. (Note: in the open installation the energy comes from the new molecules of gas which are continually pushed into tube 1 from the environment) In intermediate summary, the steady, regular work process is as follows: the warmer fluid in the top of the hot column is of higher pressure than the colder fluid in the top of the cold column, causing fluid flow in Cavity 37, thus actuating the propellers, producing as output Electric Energy, E_e(t) Having lost the equivalent of E_e(t) energy, through the work which the fluid does generating electric power and losses, the fluid cools down and to the top of the cold column is added mass (m_(t)) of colder fluid. This added cooled fluid mass increases the cold column's density and therefore, the pressure in the cold column. This, by consequence, destabilizes the pressure equilibrium at the bottom and makes the same mass (m_(t)) flow from the bottom of the cold column towards cavity 34. In Cavity 34, the fluid gets gradually warmed by the environment around cavity 34, as it flows from the bottom of the cold column towards the bottom of the hot column, thus replenishing the hot column with fluid of temperature and mass (m_(t)), allowing its pressure, temperature and mass not to drop despite its loss of mass (m_(t)) from its top towards Cavity 37. This process is continuous as long as the required hereinafter established conditions, applicable to the various parameters are fulfilled.

Further considerations pertaining to the steady process in its standardized form: In normal steady working conditions, the fluid inside the hot column may be represented as being of relevant energy, Relative to the center of mass of fluid inside cavity 37 as follows:

22) E_H = (Y /( Y -I ) ) P_HV - m_H gh + m_Hu_H ²/2

In the same steady working conditions, the fluid inside the cold column may be represented as being of relevant energy Relative to the center of mass of fluid inside cavity 37, as follows:

23) Ec = (Y /( Y -1 ) ) PcV - m_c gh + m_cu_c ²/2

Where,

E_H Relevant energy of fluid in the hot column Relative to the center of mass of fluid inside cavity 37 consisting of Enthalpy, potential energy, and directional kinetic energy.

Ec Relevant energy of fluid in the cold column Relative to the center of mass of fluid inside cavity 37, consisting of Enthalpy, potential energy, and directional kinetic energy.

Y : Ratio of Specific heats

P_H: Pressure of the fluid in the hot column(at fluid's center of mass) p_c: Pressure of the fluid in the cold column(at fluid's center of mass)

v: Volume of the hot column and also of the cold column m_H: Mass of the fluid in the hot column m_c: Mass of the fluid in the cold column g: Acceleration due to gravity r: The distance between the center of mass of the fluid inside cavity 37 and the center of mass of the fluid which is inside Cavity 34 h: The distance between the center of mass of the fluid inside cavity 37 and the center of mass (m_H) and (m_c) of the fluid inside the hot and cold columns, respectively

U_H: The average velocity of the fluid in the hot column Uc: The average velocity of the fluid in the cold column

Since in steady conditions the fluid in the hot column flows into Cavity 37, and the fluid in the cold column is received from Cavity 37, and,

Since in steady conditions the mass m_(t) received over a period of time (t), in Cavity 37 is the same as the mass passed forward into the cold column from Cavity 37 over the same period of time and,

Since in steady conditions the system's overall energy levels, including those of E_H and E_c remain unchanged over time:

The following is in consequence:

The Electric Energy E_e(t) which is work output over a period of time (t) is quantified as equal to the energy of the fluid received from the hot column over that time less the energy of the fluid of same mass, which exits to the cold column over the same time. (note: energy forms which are not influenced by the standardized process such as nuclear or chemical energy are ignored) 24. Ee(t) = E|H(t) - Ec(t)

Where,

Ee_(t) : the electric energy as well as all other lost energy (outside of the system- due to friction, etc.) received over a period of time (t) by consequence of the work done by the system.

E_H(t) the energy Relative to the center of mass of fluid inside cavity 37 of the warmer fluid entering the propeller array over a period of time (t) from the hot column

Ec(t) the energy Relative to the center of mass of fluid inside cavity 37 of the colder fluid exiting the propeller array over the same period of time (t) towards the cold column Also in consequence, the ratio between the energy of the fluid entering the propeller array from the hot column over a period of time (t), E_H(t) and the overall energy of the fluid in the hot column, E_H, is equal to the ratio between the mass m_(t) passing through it over that time (t) and the overall mass (m_H)of the fluid in the hot column.

25. (E_H(t)/ E_H) = (m_(t)/ m _H)

And, in the same way: the ratio between the energy of the entering fluid, arriving from the propeller array into the cold column over a period of time (t) E_C(t) and the overall energy of the fluid in the cold column E_c is equal to the ratio between the mass m_(t) entering the cold column over that time (t) and the overall mass of the fluid in the cold column m_c. Therefore,

26. (Ec(t/ Ec) = (m_(t)/ m_c)

Combining the above equations:

27. Eβ(t) = (m_(t)/m_H)[( (Y /( Y -1 ) ) PHV - m_Hgh+ m_Hu_H ²/2] - (m₍t/m_c)[( (Y /( Y -1 )

) pcv - m_cgh + m_cuc²/2]

Since the mass exiting the hot column and the mass entering the cold column over the same time, in steady work conditions are the same:

28. m_(t)(in) = m_(t)(out)

Therefore:

29. p_HU_HtA = pcUctA

Therefore:

31. E_β(t) = U_HtA {(Y /( Y -1 ))PH + PHU_H ²/2 } - U_HtA(p_H/pc){(Y /( Y -1 )) Pc +(PH/PC)

P_HU_H ²/2}

32. Eβ(t) = U_HtA{(γ /( Y -1 )) PH - (p_H/p_c) (Y /( Y -1 ))Pc ₊ (PHU_H ²/2)(1 - p_H ² / Pc² )} On the other side, analyzing the net thermal energy received over a period of time (t), Qτ(t) in energetic equilibrium: the net heat received over a period of time Qτ_(t) which increases the system's overall enthalpy less the output work E_e(t) leaves the system with unchanged energy levels:

33. E₄+E₇₊ EC+EH +Q_T(t)-Ee(t)= E₄+E₇ +E_C+E_H

Where;

E₄ Relevant energy of fluid in cavity 34 Relative to the center of mass of fluid inside cavity 37 consisting of enthalpy, potential energy, and directional kinetic energy.

E₇ Relevant energy of fluid in cavity 37 relative to its own center of mass consisting of Enthalpy, potential energy, and directional kinetic energy.

And therefore:

To express the relationship between P_H and Pc in steady working conditions, the following is considered:

In steady working conditions, E_H remains unchanged over time, and the same applies to E_c. This means that the fluid in the hot column and the fluid in the cold column are in equilibrium by which they flow through cavities 37 and 34, circulating through the columns, continuously receiving over every period of time (t), net thermal energy, Q_T(t) and doing work, E_e(t), which is equal to the thermal energy. The ratio between the energy values E_H and Ec, remains unchanged. It is important to note, in addition, that Q_T(t) being heat, increases the system's disordered molecular kinetic energy. E_e(t), on the other hand is essentially output work which is related to the force applied on the propeller array (by the pressure differential) from the top of the hot column to the top of the cold column, the fluid velocity through it and the time (t). In these dynamic conditions the ratio between E_H and E_c is maintained constant by the fact that the pressure on Cavity 34 from the hot column is in substance equal to the pressure on its other end from the cold column. This is true in good approximation when the fluid flow through cavity 34 is sufficiently slow and laminar and cavity 34 is sufficiently short. (Otherwise, the pressure differential between both ends of cavity 34 needs to be factored in)

In consideration of the above the following expression is implied:

35. {(Y /( Y -I ))PcV + m_cg(r-h) + m_cU_c ²/2}(1/V) =

= {(Y /( Y -1 ))PHV + m_Hg(r-h) + m_HU_H ²/2}(1/V)

Therefore:

36. (Y /( Y -1 )) pc = (Y /( Y -1 )) PH - g(r-h)(p_c - PH) + (PHU_H ²/2)(1 - p_H/ Pc)

Combining this with the expression (32) representing E _e(t) ;

37. E e(t) = U_HtA[(γ /( Y -1 )) PH - (p_H/pc) { (Y /( Y -1 ))PH - 9 (r-h) (p_c - PH) +

(PHU_H ²/2)(1 - p_H/ PC) } + (PHU_H ²/2)(1 - p_H ² / Pc² ) ]

Note:

Where

T_H: is the absolute average temperature of the fluid in the hot column.

M: is the molar mass of the fluid in the system

And therefore 29,37, 38:

39. E e(t) = m_(t) (1 - p_H/pc) UY /( Y -1 )) RT_H/M+ g(r-h) + U_H ²/2 }

Or, with 6,3

40. E β(t) = m₍t) (1 - p_H/pc) {(C_P /M) T_N +g(r-h) + U_H ²/2 } This expression, 39, quantifies in the context of the simplified standardized installation version, the value of electric energy (which includes the losses occurring outside of the system) which is output by the system as work done on the outside, in steady state. Note that for low flow velocities the kinetic component becomes secondary (or even negligible) in its proportional contribution to the electric energy relative to the other energy components. In the above expressions the mass m^ can be transferred into within the parentheses to be :

41. E e(t) = (1 - PH/PC) { m₍t) (Cp /M) T_H + m_(t)g(r-h) + m_(t) U_H ²/2 }

By changing the focal point of expression 41 , the ratio between the hot column's density and the cold column's density imposed in consequence of the system's parameters and the output electric energy can be calculated:

42. (p_H/pc) =

[m_(t) {(Cp /M) T_H +g(r-h) + U_H ²/2 } - E _β(t)] / [ m_(t) {(c_p /M) T_H +g(r-h) + U_H ²/2 }]

In consequence of this expression, 42, it is implied that any ongoing electric energy which is output by the system towards the outside environment will necessarily impose the following:

44. Tc < T H

Where, T_c: absolute average temperature of the fluid in the cold column.

The System's Efficiency in Producing Output Work, E _e(t) To calculate the efficiency of the system in producing work output through the propeller array, this efficiency needs to first be defined. Over every period of time, t, the system makes available the equivalent of: 45. { m_(t) (Cp /M) T_H + m_(t) g(r-h) + m_(t) U_H ²/2 } And by the same process recuperates:

46. -(p_H/pc) { m_(t) (Cp /M) TH + m_(t) g(r-h) + m_(t) U_H ²/2 }

On the basis of the definition of this efficiency as being the ratio between the output energy E _e(t) and the total energy made available as per expression 45, the efficiency can be expressed as follows:

47. η = E e(t) / { m₍t) (c_p /M) T_H + m_(t) g (r-h) + m_(t) U_H ²/2 }

Therefore ; 48. η = 1 - p_H/pc

This establishes the criteria for the system's steady state and implies that in regular working process, the system will not be stable unless there is equilibrium between its work output efficiency η and its densities ratio (taking in consideration its various working parameters such as dimensions, fluid pressure, hot/cold columns' fluids temperature differential, height, etc. ).ln addition, this continuity of the regular work process requires the heat transfer rate capacity from the environment into the system to be at least equal to the output energy, stabilizing at

Compression, decompression and their treatment (additional considerations):

The fluid in each of the columns, in steady process is subjected to different pressures at different distances from the top. These pressures influence the density of the gas state fluid at each height. For every portion of mass, the internal distribution of the fluid energy between kinetic, potential and enthalpy shifts as it flows. Since the fluid in the cold column is continuously flowing down, the molecules of the entire column are subjected to compression.

And, in the hot column: Since the fluid in the hot column is continuously flowing up, the molecules of the entire column are subjected to decompression. The compression, heating up the cold column's fluid (in well insulated, adiabatic process ) and decompression, which is cooling the hot column's fluid, act against the system's design requirement of entering cavity 34 for reheating at the lowest possible temperature and having maximal temperature differential between the hot and cold columns' fluid.

The compression/decompression effects may be minimized by low fluid flow velocity and also as follows:

The decompression cooling effect may be minimized by exposing the fluid in the hot column to additional heating from the environment also along the column including in sections which are closer to the top (reheating the progressively decompressing fluid). The reheating makes this portion of the process behave more like an isothermal decompression rather than adiabatic.

The compression heating effect may be minimized by setting the fluid temperature at entry point at the top of the cold column(after exiting the propeller array) to be very close to phase change (condensation) temperature, after the latent heat has in part been absorbed by the propeller array and output from the system. This allows the downward flow reheating to be attenuated as the fluid recuperates latent heat. In such context, the latent heat participating in the process is added to the other relevant fluid energy components and may be represented as follows:

49.Q_L=m_(t)L

Where:

Q_L: amount of energy released or absorbed during the change of phase of the fluid. L: specific latent heat of the fluid.

In addition, a mixture of fluids of different phase change temperatures may be used in the cavities so as to maintain gas behavior (in the portion of energy output through the propeller array) of one or more of the fluids in the mixture while benefiting of this phase change principle (condensation) in one or more of the other fluids. The process as an energy efficient refrigeration system

In configurations by which the fluid in the cavities is not sufficiently cooled to reach independently sustained steady state of flow based only on the environmental thermal energy and the conversion of part of it to outside work by the propeller array 4, as described, the installation and process may be adjusted to perform as an energy efficient refrigeration system as follows:

The independent, commercially available refrigeration unit which is used to bring the temperature of the cold column (tube 2 in the open system) to its initial required low temperature launching the process, is kept active also during the regular work (after the initial phase).

Its purpose in this configuration is to bring the temperature of the fluid in the cold column (tube 2) which is not sufficiently cooled by the output work through the propeller array 4, back to its original temperature at the end of the initiation phase, thus allowing the fluid flow to be maintained at a steady state as the same original temperature differential conditions which caused the flow are kept by the additional cooling provided by the external refrigeration unit.

The external refrigeration unit is activated automatically to renew refrigeration upon return fluid flow to it reaching a predetermined high temperature and refrigeration is deactivated upon temperature reaching a level bellow a low predetermined value. Fluid Circulation through it is continuously activated throughout the process.

The advantages of this configuration are that on one hand- the total cooling achieved is provided in part by the propeller array 4 and, on the other hand, the energy required to aliment the external refrigeration unit can be provided in part by the output work of the propeller array. The combination of these two factors enables the combination of an external commercially available refrigeration unit with the installation to require less energy to achieve a given cooling result than the refrigeration unit when used alone. Additional uses of functionality of installation and process

Different uses of the installation and process disclosed may be foreseen. This process and installation, as per the preceding details, outputs cooled air relative to the temperature of input air.

This drop in temperature, by-product of the process, when sustained, can be used for a very wide variety of needs. This process is also applicable to the separation of any two fluids in gas state which have different condensation requirements (pressure/temperature) by establishing the cooling level to reach the condensation conditions of only one of the fluids and allowing it to flow outward.

Some other uses may be the recuperation of loss heat energy, refrigeration, air conditioning, and for large installations serving as power stations- punctual climate changes which can render naturally very hot climates into moderate and comfortable living conditions. It can also make agriculture possible in previously difficult climates.

In addition to cooling the air, as by-product, the air is also made to flow/circulate.

The process and installation can therefore be used for any application requiring air circulation, air driven motion, and, when combined with adapted filtering installation, air filtering and cleaning, using A_1n as input and the exit 15 as output.

In many geographical locations, in which the air contains substantial humidity, the process shall have as a consequence, condensation of the embedded air vapours on all the parts designed by the process and installation to be sufficiently cooler than the environmental temperature.

The condensate water shall be, once accumulated to above critical mass, dragged downward by gravity to the lowest parts of the tubes and through the repetitive holes in the water channel 19, situated at the bottom (or collected underneath the closed configuration installation embodiment). The water in the channel 19 then, flows downward and outward toward the exit, where it can be collected and used.

Since the open configuration process and installation are designated to always receive new air from the outside, this production of water is sustained and is of a magnitude dependent on environmental humidity, air flow volume per unit of time, the physical dimensions of the installation, and cooling temperatures.

In consequence of this water condensate separation, the air exiting the process and installation is of reduced humidity level relative to the entering air, a result that is in itself also useful for a variety of needs. all practical processes and installations in use have levels of energy efficiency of less than 100% and In practically all cases, the energy which is wasted takes the form of thermal energy.

By incorporating such loss heat emission as a source of thermal energy for the gas flowing in the described process/installation or for its surroundings, it in fact receives energy recuperated from what was previously considered lost and wasted as non useable.

In addition, consider that such emitted loss heat very often causes negative side effects which require the choice of specific substances (such as for example heat resistant materials), as well as designated cooling installations (sometimes energy consuming such as fans and refrigeration), limitation of component density, and many other such challenges.

The benefits of the process and installation are clear in attenuating part or all such side effects while making the derived energy useful. While the invention has been described with reference to two specific embodiments, the description is illustrative of the invention and is not to be construed as limiting the invention. Various modifications and applications may occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention as described by the appended claims.

Claims

Claims:

1. An Installation for extracting and converting thermal energy from the environment, characterised in that it comprises an upper hollow tubular section (1 ), said upper hollow tubular section (1 ) having an open end (8) to the environment at one of its extremity and being connected thanks to a first connector (10), to a substantially vertical hollow tubular section (2), said substantially vertical hollow tubular section (2) being connected thanks to a second connector (12) comprising a controlled seal or valve (20) to a lower hollow tubular section (3), said lower hollow tubular section (3) having and open end (15); in that hollow tubular sections (1 , 2, 3) and connectors (10, 12) are thermally insulated, in that he upper part of the hollow tubular section (2) is provided with cooling means, in that the installation is provided with an inlet valve (16) and an outlet valve (17) and in that the upper tubular section (1 ) comprises an array (4) of propellers (11 ).

2. Installation according to claim 1 , characterised in that each propellers (11 ) in the array (4) is connected to the rotor of an electromagnetic generator (7) coupled to a resistive load (18) and in that said inlet valve (16) and an outlet valve (17) are provided on the first connector (10).

3. Installation according to claim 1 , characterized in that the upper hollow tubular section (1 ) is forming an angle α with the horizontal axis comprised between 0 and 90 degrees, and in that the substantially vertical hollow tubular section (2) is forming an angle β with the vertical axis comprised between 0 and less than 90 degrees, and in that the lower hollow tubular section (3) is forming an angle δ with the horizontal axis comprised between 0 and 90 degrees.

4. Installation according to one of preceding claims, characterised in that the substantially hollow tubular section (2) comprises a second array

(5) of propellers (13) each connected to the rotor of an electromagnetic generator (7) coupled to a resistive load (18) and in that the lower hollow tubular section (3) comprises a third array (6) of propellers (13) each connected to the rotor of an electromagnetic generator (7) coupled to a resistive load (18).

5. Installation according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the resistive load (18) and the electromagnetic generators (7) are located inside upper hollow tubular section (1 ) at the inlet (8).

6. Installation according to one of preceding claims, characterised in that it further comprises a collecting channel (19) running parallel to three hollow tubular sections (1 , 2, 3) from the upper open end (8) to the lower open end (15), the channel's (19) attached portion to the three hollow tubular sections (1 ,2,3) having repetitive holes communicating with the inside of the three hollow tubular sections (1 ,2,3).

7. A Process of extracting and converting thermal energy from the environment within an installation according to one of the preceding claims comprising the steps of

- an initial cooling of the gas contained in the upper part of the upper hollow tubular section (2) while the seal (20) is closed, thus inducing a differential of pressure between the open end (8) of the upper hollow tubular section (1 ) and the upper portion of the substantially vertical hollow tubular section (2)

- opening the seal (20) at the bottom of the substantially vertical hollow tubular section (2) thus inducing a flow of gas from the open end (8) toward the exit open end (15) of lower hollow tubular section (3),

- inducing a sustained flow of gas from the open end (8) to the open exit (15) of lower hollow tubular section (3) by extracting thermal energy from the flow of gas and thus cooling the gas at the entry of substantially vertical hollow tubular section (2) by mean of converting the mechanical energy produced by the rotation of the propellers (11 ) in array (4).

8. Process according to claim 7, characterized in that it further comprise the steps of

- extracting and converting potential and thermal energy from the flow of gas by actuation of the second array (5) of propellers (13) in substantially vertical hollow tubular section (2) and the third array (6) of propellers (13) in the lower hollow tubular section (3).

9. Process according to claims 7 or 8, characterized in that mechanical energy produced by the arrays (4,5,6) of propellers (11 ,13) is converted into electric energy by coupling the propellers (11 ,13) to electromagnetic generators (7) coupled to resistive loads (8).

10. Process according to one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that cooling means are activated when the temperature of the fluid in the substantially vertical hollow column (2) exceeds a predetermined value.

11.An Installation according to claim 1 for extracting and converting thermal energy from the environment characterised in that the upper hollow tubular section (1 ) is substantially horizontal and provided at its ends with two controlled seals or valves (41 , 42) , in that said substantially vertical hollow tubular section (2) connected thanks to a connector (24) to the lower hollow tubular section (3) which is substantially horizontal, said lower hollow tubular section (3) being connected to a substantially horizontal tubular section (21 ) connected to a second substantially vertical hollow section (22) thanks to a connector (23), the end of said substantially vertical section (22) being connected to the upper hollow tubular section (1 ) open end thanks to a connector (25); and in that the lower and second substantially vertical tubular sections (21 ,22) comprises means (28) for transmitting heat from the external environment into said installation.

12.An installation according to claim 11 , characterized in that lower and second substantially vertical hollow tubular sections (21 , 22) and corresponding connectors (23, 24, 25) are made of a heat conductive material.

13.An installation according to one of the claims 11 , 12 characterised in that an inlet valve (27) is arranged in the vicinity of second substantially vertical hollow tubular sections (22) and an outlet valve (26) is arranged in the vicinity of lower hollow tubular section (21 ).

14.A process of extracting and converting thermal energy from the environment within an installation according to one of the claims 11 to 13 comprising

- an initial step of cooling the gas contained in the upper part of the substantially vertical hollow tubular section (2), thus inducing a differential of pressure between the upper part of substantially vertical hollow tubular section (2) and the bottom of substantially vertical hollow tubular section(2)

- opening three valves or seals (20, 41 ,42) inducing a flow of gas actuating the propellers (11 ) of propeller's array (4)

- extracting energy from the flow of gas by actuating the array (4) of propellers (11 ) in the upper hollow tubular section (1 ) and thus cooling the fluid at the entry of substantially vertical hollow tubular section (2). - heating the gas within lower hollow tubular section (21 ) and second substantially vertical tubular section (22) by extracting thermal energy by conduction from the environment so as to provide a sustained flow of gas within the installation.

15. Process according to claim 14, characterized in that the gas contained in the installation is a mixture of fluids of different phase change temperatures.

16. Process according to one of the claims 14 or 15, characterized in that cooling means are activated when the temperature of the fluid in the substantially vertical hollow column (2) exceeds a predetermined value.

17. Use of an installation according to claim 1 to 6 or 11 to 13 for extracting humidity from the environment and providing water at the outlet of water collecting pipe (19).

18. Use of an installation according to claims 11 to 13 for the separation of at least two fluids in gas state having different condensation requirements and providing the condensate fluid at the outlet of the collecting channel (29).