Generation of electricity from exhaust gas
US9732681B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 23, 2014 |
| Grant date | Aug 15, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 4, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T10/12
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A turbo-generator system generates electricity from the exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine 1. The electric current generated by the generator 11 (e.g. a switched reluctance machine) is controlled so as to maintain the turbine 3 at a first pre-set rotational speed. The amount of electric current demanded from the generator 11 is limited or reduced if the electrical system 17 cannot accept a greater electric current or if the exhaust gas pressure upstream of the turbine 3 is too great. In such cases, the proportion of the exhaust gas permitted to bypass the turbine 3 is controlled so as to maintain the turbine 3 at a second pre-set rotational speed that is slightly greater than the first. The turbine's preset speeds are chosen to maximize electrical generating efficiency and for turbine safety. The system maximizes the amount of electricity generated, avoids excessive exhaust gas back-pressure on the engine 1, and avoids overloading the electrical system 17.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.