Patent · US Expired

Method of converting low-grade heat energy to useful mechanical power

US3950949A · kind A · utility

52Cited by
1References
10Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateMar 26, 1974
Grant dateApr 20, 1976
Priority date
Expiry dateMar 26, 1994

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
  • CPC primaryF03G7/04
  • WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

Specifically disclosed is a method of operating a vapor cycle engine wherein a vaporizable fluid is circulated in a closed loop serially through a first heat source, a second heat source, an expansion vapor engine, a condenser, and back to the first heat source. The method of operation specifically comprises the steps of heating the fluid in the first heat source to a relatively low temperature t, super-heating the fluid in the second heat source to a temperature T, passing the fluid through the expansion vapor engine and then exhausting the fluid from the engine at a temperature T.sub.2 which is greater than the temperature t. Also disclosed is apparatus for specifically accomplishing the method as disclosed.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.