Power generation and space conditioning using a thermodynamic engine driven through environmental heating and cooling
US7877999B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 13, 2007 |
| Grant date | Feb 1, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 25, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T10/7072
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A thermodynamic engine is configured to convert heat provided in the form of a temperature difference to a nonheat form of energy. Heat is directed through a heating loop in thermal contact with a first side of the thermodynamic engine. A second side of the thermodynamic engine is coupled to an environmental cooling loop in thermal contact with an environmental cooling device. The thermodynamic engine is operated to dispense heat from the second side of the thermodynamic engine through the environmental cooling loop into the environmental cooling device. Operation of the thermodynamic engine thereby generates the nonheat form of energy from the temperature difference established between the first side and the second side of the thermodynamic engine.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.