Dome for a thermodynamic apparatus
US10352272B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 15, 2016 |
| Grant date | Jul 16, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 15, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF02G2254/50
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A thermodynamic apparatus, such as a Stirling engine or a Vuilleumier heat pump, has a heat exchanger in which energy is exchanged between a working fluid and an exhaust gas stream. On top of the cylinder of the thermodynamic apparatus is a dome-shaped section. By incorporating the heat exchanger within the dome, the flow paths can be simplified, the number of separate components reduced, and overall weight reduced. Flow passages for the working fluid are embedded in the dome. Channels for the exhaust gases are formed in an outer surface. The passages and the channels are helically arranged, one clockwise and one counter clockwise. The dome can be cast with a core for the casting fabricated via three-dimensional printing. In some embodiments, the dome is made of fiber-reinforced material.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.