Geographical Patents (Class 165/45)
  • Patent number: 8616000
    Abstract: A closed-loop, solid-state system generates electricity from geothermal heat from a well by flow of heat, without needing large quantities of water to conduct heat from the ground. The present invention contemplates uses for depleted oil or gas wells and newly drilled wells to generate electricity in an environmentally-friendly method. Geothermal heat is conducted from the Earth to a heat exchanging element to heat the contents of pipes. The pipes are insulated between the bottom of the well and the surface to minimize heat dissipation as the heated contents of the pipes travel to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Inventor: Michael J. Parrella
  • Publication number: 20130333860
    Abstract: Structural element (3;13) for a civil engineering structure, arranged for transitorily storing and using in a deferred manner thermal energy. The structural element is provided with: a first set (1;11) of at least one heat exchanger extending between a heat or coolness source (S) and the structural element so as to transfer thermal energy from the heat or coolness source to the structural element where it is transitorily stored; and a second set (2a;2b;12a;12b) of at least one heat exchanger extending between the structural element and at least one entity (5;15;17) external to the structural element, the second set of at least one heat exchanger being arranged for, when activated, transferring at least part of the thermal energy transitorily stored in the structural element to said entity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: SOLETANCHE FREYSSINET
    Inventor: Jerome Maurice Stubler
  • Publication number: 20130333859
    Abstract: An improved heat transfer column for geothermal heating and cooling in which refrigerant lines are wound in a spiral fashion about a vertically oriented support. The spiral tubing is surrounded by a flexible, semi-flexible, or rigid liner which is filled with water, the liner being positioned within a cavity in an earth mass. During operation, water within the tube rises and/or by convection and transfers heat evenly to the water within the liner for subsequent transfer to the earth mass. This heat is subsequently extracted from or rejected into the earth mass during a heat transfer cycle, and means is provided for transfer of a portion of the heat in the water to the ambient atmosphere.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2011
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: GEOENERGY ENTERPRISES, LLC
    Inventors: Shawn Genung, Tony Penachio
  • Publication number: 20130333383
    Abstract: A closed-loop heat exchange system and related methods for harnessing subterranean heat energy from a subterranean zone having a passive heat transfer device with multiple operational modes for targeting hotspots within the subterranean zone and adjusting the rate of energy harnessed according to consumption demands. The system can also have at least one enhanced surface section for increasing the heat exchange efficiency and/or a variable pump for controlling the rate at which the working fluid travels through the passive heat transfer device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: GLOBAL CARBON SOLUTIONS, INC.
    Inventor: Matthew N. Schwarck
  • Publication number: 20130327498
    Abstract: This disclosure provides equipment and processes for ground heat exchange. Embodiments of the ground heat exchange system may comprise a geothermal well that includes an inner tube positioned coaxially inside a borehole in geologic units, a substantially-liquid impermeable outer liner sealed at the bottom, and a liquid supply system. The outer liner may include one or more layers of a substantially-liquid impermeable fabric or coating. A fluid such as water is supplied by the liquid supply system and flows co-axially through the inner tube. The fluid pressure in the annulus between the inner tube and the outer liner presses the outer liner against the borehole wall, providing sealing contact and preventing interconnection of aquifers of the geologic units.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2013
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Inventors: Scott Freitag, Kelton Douglas Leighton Barr, David Michael Beecroft
  • Publication number: 20130327497
    Abstract: A method for installing a geothermal system, comprising boring at least one hole in an earth mass to accept a geothermal column; inserting a geothermal column into each of said at least one hole; excavating trench lines to accommodate connections between said geothermal column in each of said at least one hole and a Heating/Ventilation/Air Conditioning (HVAC) system; filling said hollow tube with a non-antifreeze fluid; connecting said geothermal column to said HVAC system; and backfilling said at least one hole and said trench lines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2011
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: GEOENERGY ENTERPRISES, LLC
    Inventors: Shawn Genung, Tony Penachio
  • Publication number: 20130319631
    Abstract: An integrated cooling and climate control system for an offshore wind turbine featuring a reservoir having first and second chambers located in an upper region of the tower. Upper and lower cooling circuits distribute coolant fluid through heat generating structures in the nacelle to a lower portion of the wind turbine where the heated coolant fluid is thermally connected to a sea water heat sink. The cooled coolant fluid is then distributed back to the reservoir. The reservoir has a hollow center and is positioned on a platform having a hollow center. The inlet and outlet pipes of the upper cooling circuit freely hang inside the reservoir chambers so that they may be displaced as the nacelle yaws in order to maintain sufficient circulation of the coolant fluid in the upper cooling circuit. In jacket foundation configurations, the tubular support structures may serve as the lower cooling circuit pipes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventors: Peri Sabhapathy, Eduardo Moreno Benito, Dag Jorstad
  • Patent number: 8595998
    Abstract: A structure and method of controlling building temperature are provided utilizing both solar and geo-exchange means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: GE Research LLC
    Inventor: Mark Isaacs
  • Publication number: 20130306267
    Abstract: The proposed advanced multi-level protective system comprises two types of barriers, harmoniously complementing to each other: a portable barrier for the protection of individual houses at the height of the floods up to 0.8-0.9 meters, and more powerful protective quick-installable barriers, suitable for mechanized installation and resistant to higher water flows up to 1.2-2 meters. The proposed advanced protective system comprises a number of additional means capable of weakening against dangerous natural processes that give rise strong water flows, and these means can weaken these flows and increase the efficiency of proposed protective barriers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2012
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Inventors: Boris Feldman, Michael Feldman
  • Publication number: 20130299123
    Abstract: A geothermal system includes a first circuit including a first heat exchanger exchanging heat with a controlled space, a second circuit including a second heat exchanger exchanging heat with an outdoor temperature sink that varies seasonally, a geothermal heat exchanging assembly arranged to exchange heat between a geothermal source and the fluid in both the first and second circuits and a pumping device allowing the first circuit to function as a heat pump. The flow in both the first and second circuits is seasonally reversible to alternately heat or cool the controlled space. An expansion motor connected in series with the second circuit in communication between the second heat exchanger and the geothermal heat exchanging assembly is driven by expansion of fluid in the second circuit to function as a Rankine cycle in either seasonal direction of the flow to power the pumping device in both seasonal directions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2011
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventor: Joseph John Matula
  • Publication number: 20130284396
    Abstract: A container data center includes a container and an air collecting device. The air collecting device includes a collecting member, a first duct connected to the collecting member, and a second duct connected to the container. One end of the first duct opposite to the collecting member is pivotably connected to the second duct. The collecting member is rotatable to collect the airflow. The airflow flows through the first duct and the second duct to go into the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2012
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: FENG-CHI YANG
  • Publication number: 20130284397
    Abstract: A system and associated method is disclosed for manipulation and control of air temperature in sport field and associated environments, wherein geothermally and/or mechanically cooled source air is distributed, via one or more air handling unit or air handling component, to the requisite environment through one or more pipes and a plurality of associated, uniquely configured, supply air nozzles. Such system and associated method of use and application solves, or dramatically reduces, the problem of elevated playing surface and/or elevated player envelope environmental temperatures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2013
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventor: Brian F. Storm
  • Patent number: 8567482
    Abstract: An energy storage device that stores hot and/or cold energy includes an evaporating part and a condensing part. According to one aspect, the evaporating part includes a heat tube in a U shape or a thimble shape and further includes one or more power cycle tubes. A working substance within the evaporating part evaporates after absorbing heat and condenses in the condensing part after releasing heat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Inventors: Xuejun Yin, Jisheng Song
  • Patent number: 8555666
    Abstract: Heating and cooling system that uses basement air as a thermal supply for efficient operation of a single-package heat pump, providing means to: (a) channel heat pump exhaust as to promote thermal transfer between said exhaust and the basement slab, using the slab as a geothermal source for sustained heat pump operation, and, (b) enable reconfiguration between heating and air-conditioning modes by modification of air ducting or air routing, with no alteration of the refrigerant cycle internal to the heat pump. The system also provides means allowing the heat pump function to be provided by a low-cost, mass-produced, window air conditioner. The window air conditioner technology leveraged by this invention has, in recent decades, become more efficient and reliable, with more convenient controls, but otherwise, has not substantially changed in form, function, or basic operating technology.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Inventor: Norman Enrique Pettus
  • Publication number: 20130248142
    Abstract: A system designed to harness the natural energy of the sun and earth, by creating an energy exchange between the soil, using air as the medium. The medium, air, is also the desired product in its conditioned form. The energy exchanged in the system is in a harmonious relationship with season soil variation so as to produce constant air temperature regardless of season, or ambient air temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Inventor: Jeffrey Marc Mason
  • Publication number: 20130232973
    Abstract: This invention provides a method of extracting geothermal energy, generally comprising the steps of: insertion of a thermal mass into a Heat Absorption Zone, absorbing heat in thermal mass, raising the thermal mass to a Heat Transfer Zone, and transferring the heat from the thermal mass. The acquired heat can be used to generate electricity or to drive an industrial process. The thermal mass can have internal chambers containing a liquid such as molten salt, and can also have structures facilitating heat exchange using a thermal exchange fluid, such as a gas or a glycol-based fluid. In some embodiments, two thermal masses are used as counterweights, reducing the energy consumed in bringing the heat in the thermal masses to the surface. In other embodiments, solid or molten salt can be directly supplied to a well shaft to acquire geothermal heat and returned to the surface in a closed loop system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Inventor: David Alan McBay
  • Publication number: 20130234444
    Abstract: A system and method to extract heat energy from underground heat sources, then transport that heat to the surface in the form of a high temperature liquid or gas, and deliver the contaminant-free heat energy to a surface user of heat. The heat captured in the working fluid of the system is gained by heat transfers and can be extracted from the in situ combustion of any oil sands, heavy oil, conventional or unconventional oil, bitumen, coal, conventional or unconventional natural gas, methane or oil shales, or from various other sources. The invention creates a closed circulation system, in which the working fluid and steam circulating in the system are protected from any direct contact with the hydrocarbon reservoir, and gases produced by the in situ combustion are sequestered in the reservoir by the overlying overburden.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: 7238703 CANADA INC.
    Inventors: William H. Rogers, Michael J. Smith
  • Publication number: 20130233509
    Abstract: A portable, open-loop, water source geothermal heat pump unit adapted to be connected with non-permanent, non-plumbed connections to convenient water supply/discharge points such as multi-use faucets and drains in a home supplied with well water. The unit is further adapted to be supplied with power from an electrical outlet using a simple plug-in cord. The heat pump unit may be installed independently of any existing furnace system, for direct or ā€œspaceā€ heating of a room from which it draws intake air and directly vents heated air. The heat pump unit may also be ducted to heat another room from the one in which it is installed, and may further be ducted in parallel to an existing furnace ductwork for a duct-connected heating combination with the furnace.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Inventors: Dennis A. Schultz, Michael G. Dilling
  • Patent number: 8529156
    Abstract: A drill rod combination for creating a closed loop geothermal hole in the ground. The heat exchange tube is positioned in the hole simultaneously with the creation of the hole and is mounted to the drill rod. A rudder on the heat exchange tube limits twisting of the tube. An adaptor mounted to the outer end of the sonde housing has the drill bit mounted on its distal end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: True.Home Heating/Cooling, Inc.
    Inventors: Terry R. Biggs, Joseph A. Huck, Blake E. Edwards
  • Patent number: 8511368
    Abstract: A pipe for use in a geothermal heat exchange system is disclosed that is insertable into a bore hole having a proximal end and a distal end. The pipe has a proximal end, a distal end and an outer wall member. The outer wall member includes an external surface, and an interior surface defining an interior passageway through which a heat exchange fluid can flow. The pipe also includes a divider extending between opposed points of the interior surface for dividing the interior passageway into an inflow passageway for conducting water from the proximal end to the distal end of the pipe, and an outflow passageway for conducting water from the distal end to the proximal end of the pipe. The divider segregates the water in the outflow passageway from the water in the inflow passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventors: James Hardin, Changchun Zhang
  • Publication number: 20130205691
    Abstract: It is provided an underground structure, usable at least as a shelter, having a light weight substantially cylindrical portion, of a cylindrical casing having a weight to area ratio in the range of 8 to 30 kg/m2. The casing has a strength level and an impermeability level high enough for serving as part a sealable underground liquid storage tank and at least one sealable opening connecting it to external spaces. The cylindrical portion includes openings for entering and exiting the interior of the portion, and passageways communicate the structure with outside spaces. The surrounding ground provides a geo-thermal reservoir which is used to regulate by a flowing fluid the temperature of the shelter space, modules inside the shelter or above ground structures. The structure includes provisions for receiving of variety of auxiliary systems like an air-treatment system, communication system water and power supply.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2011
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Inventors: Shaul Shalev, Yoram Sofrin
  • Publication number: 20130199615
    Abstract: An underwater assembly includes a flow control device and an actuator coupled to the flow control device, where the actuator is configured to actuate the flow control device. The underwater assembly further includes an insulated housing surrounding the flow control device and the actuator, where the insulated housing is configured to retain heat. The underwater assembly also includes a thermal control system comprising a heat exchanger configured to control a temperature of the actuator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Edmund Peter McHugh, Kevin Peter Minnock, David Francis Anthony Quin
  • Publication number: 20130175002
    Abstract: A pair of top and bottom caps associated with a geothermal pipe. The top cap has a body with a first end face matching an open end configuration of the pipe, the top cap including first and second conduit portions. A bottom cap likewise includes a body with a first end face matching an opposite facing open end configuration of the pipe and an enclosed bottom portion for redirection of downward fluid flow through a first passageway communicating with the first conduit portion to upward fluid flow through a second passageway communicating with the second conduit portion. Additional features include each of the top and bottom caps having first and second arcuate shaped lobes around a cylindrical shaped central sleeve. Each of the top and bottom caps can further be constructed from an injection molding process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2012
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Applicant: U.S. Farathane Corporation
    Inventor: U.S. Farathane Corporation
  • Publication number: 20130133349
    Abstract: A ground source heat pump device and system includes a supply line for removing groundwater from an underground water source, a return line for returning the groundwater to the underground water source, and a heat pump that is able to utilize the supplied groundwater as a medium for transferring thermal energy between the groundwater and a refrigerant. In one embodiment, the heat pump can further include a circulation pump for circulating the groundwater through the system, and a vacuum unit for removing air from the system and filling the supply line, return line, heat exchanger and circulation pump with the groundwater.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventor: MARK RYAN
  • Patent number: 8448876
    Abstract: The primary purpose of the present invention is to provide an fluid circulating installation adapted with a temperature equalization system and fluid transmission duct disposed in a heat carrier existing in solid or liquid state in the nature where presents comparatively larger and more reliable heat carrying capacity. The fluid passes through the solid or gas state semiconductor application installation to regulate the semiconductor application installation for temperature equalization, and flows back to the heat equalization installation disposed in the natural heat carrier of heat for the heat equalization installation providing good heat conduction in the natural heat carrier to provide the operation of temperature equalization regulating function on the backflow of the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Inventor: Tai-Her Yang
  • Publication number: 20130112368
    Abstract: The present invention provides a continuous loop associated with a geothermal heat exchange system which, at once increases the heat transfer between the circulating water and the well bore by virtue of its larger surface area in contact with the bore (occupying a full 70% of the bore area), and yet at the same time is suitable for insertion into a bore in the earth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: American Refining Group, Inc.
    Inventor: American Refining Group, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130099491
    Abstract: Methods for stimulating at least one fracture within a subterranean formation by pressurizing an injection subterranean well drilled in the subterranean formation with injected waste water are herein disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2012
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Applicant: AltaRock Energy, Inc.
    Inventor: AltaRock Energy, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8424590
    Abstract: A geothermal sleeve for a building structure keeps air at a moderate temperature by passing through a geothermal heat exchanger (e.g., pipes) located underground. The moderate air is drawn up from the underground pipes and pumped into existing spaces between the interior and exterior walls (or surfaces) of a dwelling. The moderate air fills in the spaces between the interior and exterior walls to create a geothermal sleeve to supplement climate control inside the building structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Inventor: Raymond Stuart Calamaro
  • Publication number: 20130094909
    Abstract: Systems and methods for collecting and processing permafrost gases and for cooling permafrost are disclosed herein. A method in accordance with a particular embodiment for processing gas in a permafrost region includes obtaining a gas from a sacrificial area of a thawing permafrost region, dissociating the gas in a non-combustive chemical process, and circulating a constituent of the gas through a savable area of the thawing permafrost region to cool the savable area. In particular embodiments, this process can be used to cool selected areas of permafrost and/or create clean-burning fuels and/or other products from permafrost gases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: McAlister Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Roy Edward McAlister
  • Publication number: 20130087306
    Abstract: This invention consists of a novel heat exchanger design and a novel means of its installation for Ground-Source Heat Pump Systems' ground heat gain/rejection loops. This improvement reduces the installation cost of such systems by method of placement and exchanger design. The Heat exchanger is a metal pipe, 20 to 40 feet long, approximately 1.25 to 2 inch diameter, containing an internal polymeric tube, installed in the pipe concentrically to carry the heat exchange medium from or to the bottom of the pipe; the pipe being inserted into the ground by means of a ballistic launcher or direct-push machine or by manual means. This system reduces the installation costs. The current art calls for extensive trenching or drilling, and yields high costs and detrimental impacts on property. This invention reduces surface impact areas. The only trenching connects the building to the tops of the Heat exchangers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Inventor: Bernard Meredith Winn, JR.
  • Publication number: 20130081781
    Abstract: A data center cooling system is operated in a first mode, and has an indoor portion wherein heat is absorbed from components in the data center by a heat transfer fluid, and an outdoor heat exchanger portion and a geothermal heat exchanger portion. The first mode includes ambient air cooling of the heat transfer fluid in the outdoor heat exchanger portion and/or geothermal cooling of the heat transfer fluid in the geothermal heat exchanger portion. Based on an appropriate metric, a determination is made that a switch should be made from the first mode to a second mode; and, in response, the data center cooling system is switched to the second mode. The second mode is different than the first mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2011
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Timothy J. Chainer, Pritish R. Parida
  • Publication number: 20130081782
    Abstract: The geothermal heat exchange system for a water supply is an open system, i.e., water flows into the system for consumption and use and is then drained from the system, as opposed to a closed system where the water is recycled through the system. The present system receives water from an elevated source, e.g., a hilltop tank or an elevated community water supply tank, through a relatively large diameter pipe. The water is then delivered to a subsurface pipe system of one or more relatively small diameter pipes for more efficient thermal exchange. The subsurface pipes are preferably manufactured of material having relatively high thermal conductivity. The subsurface pipe system is preferably buried at an intermediate depth between the surface and the depth where constant temperature occurs in order to provide most of the benefits of a subsurface system while reducing the labor required to bury the pipe system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2012
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Inventor: THAMER B. ALRASHIDI
  • Publication number: 20130081780
    Abstract: The geothermal heat exchange system for a water supply is an open system, i.e., water flows into the system for consumption and use and is then drained from the system, as opposed to a closed system where the water is recycled through the system. The present system receives water from an elevated source, e.g., a hilltop tank or an elevated community water supply tank, through a relatively large diameter pipe. The water is then delivered to a subsurface pipe system of one or more relatively small diameter pipes for more efficient thermal exchange. The subsurface pipes are preferably manufactured of material having relatively high thermal conductivity. The subsurface pipe system is preferably buried at an intermediate depth between the surface and the depth where constant temperature occurs in order to provide most of the benefits of a subsurface system while reducing the labor required to bury the pipe system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2011
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Inventor: THAMER B. ALRASHIDI
  • Publication number: 20130075057
    Abstract: A geothermal system with earth grounding component for providing electrical grounding is introduced. The geothermal system includes: a geothermal component configured to perform heat exchange; wherein the geothermal component comprises at least one heat exchange tube configured to extend into an underground environment; and an earth grounding component configured to provide earth grounding for electronic equipment; wherein the earth grounding component includes at least one conductive rod coupled to and extended along the at least one heat exchange tube, and the at least one conductive rod is configured to electrically couple to a grounding interface of the electronic equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2012
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Applicant: FUTUREWEI TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: FUTUREWEI TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130075056
    Abstract: A structure for storing and cooling electronics comprising a frame support, an internal equipment chamber mounted to the frame support, wherein the internal equipment chamber comprises a tubelike structure defining openings in a front and a back of the internal equipment chamber, and wherein the internal equipment chamber is configured to support electronic equipment such that the weight of the electronic equipment is born by the frame support and not the internal equipment chamber, and a plurality of removable panels disposed around the frame such that a gap is formed between the exterior of the internal equipment chamber and the plurality of removable panels, wherein air may circulate in the gap between the internal equipment chamber and the plurality of removable panels to help regulate a temperature within the internal equipment chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Applicant: FUTUREWEI TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Pedro Fernandez
  • Publication number: 20130068418
    Abstract: One embodiment of the invention is a thermosiphon vessel for storing seasonal environment energy in the ground. The thermosiphon includes: a fluid vessel comprising a heat exchange tube, configured to contain a working fluid, and further configured to receive a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a wicking material arranged within the fluid vessel and configured to retain liquid-state working fluid substantially adjacent an inner wall of the heat exchange tube; a fluid level sensor arranged within the fluid vessel and configured to determine the level of liquid-state working fluid therein; and a pump arranged within the fluid vessel and configured to maintain the level of liquid-state working fluid below a threshold level within the fluid vessel. The pump is operable between an energy capture mode to absorb thermal energy from an above-ground heat source and an energy release mode to release thermal energy to an above-ground heat sink.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2012
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Inventors: Eric Joseph Gotland, Kent Stewart Udell
  • Patent number: 8398034
    Abstract: A pipe spacer is provided for spacing at least one pipe in a piping system. The spacer includes a handle with at least one pipe-engaging support member for maintaining an engaged pipe close to a surface in a piping system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Supranergie Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick Lambert, AndrƩ D. Rotondo, Nicolas Cotta, Jacques Rotondo, Justin Carbonneau, Alexandre St-Pierre
  • Publication number: 20130062034
    Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for preparing frozen ground for construction-type work includes using arrays of heat sources placed over the surface to be heated. The apparatus can warm the surface in preparation for the construction activity with energy penetrating into the ground affording efficient thawing of materials below 20 centimeters of depth. Heat sources used in the array can include emitted infrared radiation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Dale Befus
  • Publication number: 20130062890
    Abstract: Novel carbon dioxide-based geothermal energy generation systems, i.e., carbon plume geothermal (CPG) systems, and methods are provided. With the novel systems and methods described herein, geothermal energy can now be provided at lower temperatures and at locations other than hot, dry rock formations, without negatively impacting the surrounding area through use of large-scale hydrofracturing. Use of a carbon dioxide-based geothermal system further provides a means for sequestering and storing excess carbon dioxide, rather than having it released to the atmosphere.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: Regents of the University of Minnesota
    Inventor: Regents of the University of Minnesota
  • Publication number: 20130055714
    Abstract: A method of harnessing geothermal energy to produce electricity by lowering a geothermal generator deep into a pre-drilled well bore below the Earth's surface. The Self Contained In-Ground Geothermal Generator (SCI-GGG) includes a boiler, a turbine compartment, an electricity generator, a condenser and produces electricity down at the heat sources and transports it up to the ground surface by cable. The Self Contained Heat Exchanger (SCHE) is integral part of (SCI-GGG) system and can function independently. It consists of a closed loop system with two heat exchangers. No pollution is emitted during production process. There is no need for hydro-thermal reservoirs although not limited to hot rocks. It can be implemented in many different applications. The SCHE also includes an in-line water pump operatively coupled to the closed loop system and can be used in many different applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Inventor: Nikola Lakic
  • Publication number: 20130056171
    Abstract: Methods are described for using heated fluids from enhanced geothermal systems projects that recover geothermal heat from hot dry rock resources, and then injecting the heated pressurized fluids into a suitable rock formation to create an artificial geothermal energy reservoir. The artificial geothermal reservoir can then be used to store thermal energy by boosting the enthalpy of injected fluids by exchanging against heated fluids from other sources including a solar thermal power plant. Recovered heated fluids are utilized in a geothermal power plant and the spent geothermal fluids can be injected to recover additional thermal energy from hot dry rock resources. One embodiment is a geosolar electric power generation project to provide a steady and flexible source of renewable energy from a hot dry rock geothermal source integrated with a concentrating solar power project.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: Skibo Systems LLC
    Inventor: Paul M. Klemencic
  • Publication number: 20130047654
    Abstract: According to a heat pump hot water apparatus of the invention, the hot water tank 7 is disposed on one side of the casing 50, the antifreeze liquid circulating means 41 and the heat pump circuit are disposed on the other side of the casing 50, and the water/refrigerant heat exchanger 2 is disposed at a location higher than the compressor 1. According to this configuration, the heat pump circuit and the hot water tank circuit are accommodated in one casing 50, stability and noise-reduction effect can be realized when the heat pump hot water apparatus is installed, and the casing 50 can be made smaller in size by enhancing layout balance of functional parts in the casing 50.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: PANASONIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Toshikatsu Fukunaga, Shigeo Aoyama, Yasuhiko Isayama
  • Publication number: 20130042996
    Abstract: Heat exchangers can include heat exchange plates with: front and back exterior surfaces exposed to a non-working fluid; an interior working fluid flow channel between the front and back exterior surfaces, comprising a first plurality of parallel flow paths in a first direction and a second plurality of parallel flow paths in a second direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2011
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventors: Yunho Hwang, Jan Muehlbaurer, Hoseong Lee, Laurence Jay Shapiro, Barry R. Cole
  • Publication number: 20130042995
    Abstract: The ACEnergySaver is a system that consisting of a low-voltage water-controlling solenoid, tubing, fittings, wire-harness and spray-nozzles to easily, properly and effectively: a) attached to an air conditioner; b) control and regulate specific quantity, angle and size of water particles (spray) to the cooling fins/coil; c) connect to a water supply. It extends equipment longevity and saves electricity by causing: a) evaporative cooling, b) rapid coolant conversion from liquid to gas, c) reduced pressure resistance the compressor to cool faster and optimize efficiency. Pressurized supply-water enters a solenoid valve, connected to the low-voltage terminal(s) of the joined air conditioner's relay to open simultaneously with the compressor to pass 4water onto the cooling fins through the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2011
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventor: Richard D. Townsend
  • Publication number: 20130042997
    Abstract: An open-loop type heat equalization device utilizing the heat exchange fluid to transmit the thermal energy of a natural thermal energy storage body to an external temperature differentiation body, and including one or more than one of following structural devices, including: 1) installing the space limiting and flow direction guiding structure (201) for allowing the thermal energy fluid to be released from the fluid inlet/outlet port (4011), and a part thereof is returned to the fluid inlet/outlet port (3012) then flowing back to the heat gaining device (101); 2) installing an outward-expanding arc-shaped fluid chamber (108) at turning locations of the flowpath; 3) installing an auxiliary heating/cooling device (115); 4) installing an auxiliary fluid pump (107); 5) installing a heat exchange fluid temperature sensing device (TS201); 6) installing an environment temperature sensing device (TS202); and 7): installing an electric power control unit (ECU200).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventor: Tai-Her YANG
  • Publication number: 20130043678
    Abstract: A system comprises an injection well for accessing a reservoir containing a native fluid comprising a hydrocarbon. The reservoir is located below one or more caprocks, is at a first temperature, and is accessible without using large-scale hydrofracturing. The system further includes a production well in fluid communication with the reservoir, a supply apparatus configured to feed a non-water based working fluid at a second temperature that is lower than the first temperature through the injection well to the reservoir. The working fluid mixes with the native fluid to form a production fluid comprising at least a portion of the working fluid and at least a portion of the hydrocarbon at a third temperature that is higher than the second temperature. An energy recovery apparatus in fluid communication with the productions well converts energy contained in the production fluid to electricity, heat, or combinations thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Applicant: Regents of the University of Minnesota
    Inventors: Martin O. Saar, Jimmy Bryan Randolph, Thomas H. Kuehn, Kenneth Carpenter
  • Patent number: 8376030
    Abstract: A system for heating includes a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger receives hot exhaust from combustion. The heat exchanger uses the heat from the hot exhaust to heat a fluid. A method for heating uses a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger receives hot exhaust and a fluid. The heat exchanger heats the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Jayant Jatkar
  • Publication number: 20130037236
    Abstract: Disclosed is a facility for transferring thermal energy of geothermal origin, for example to contribute to the heating of premises, this facility having the feature of including a heat exchanger placed in a water pipe (31). The principle of the facility is to extract the heat contained in the soil (1) in order to transfer it towards the required place (premises, offices, industrial processes, various equipment, etc.) and to recharge the soil (1) with heat extracted from a liquid used in public service, namely wastewater or drinking water, and/or used in industry.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Applicant: BSR TECHNOLOGIES
    Inventors: Bernard Saunier, Romain Genet, Raphaƫl Berdugo
  • Publication number: 20130025821
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a close-loop temperature equalization device with multiple flowpath utilizing the heat exchange fluid for transmitting thermal energy of a natural thermal energy storage body to an external temperature differentiation body, and is provided with one or more than one of following structural devices, including: 1) installing an operation port (111) and a sealing plug (110) at the upper end of the top corner of a close-loop flowpath at a higher location of the heat releasing device (201); 2) forming an outward-expanding arc-shaped flowpath structure at turning locations of the close-type flowpath; 3) installing an auxiliary heating/cooling device (115); 4) installing an auxiliary fluid pump (107); 5) installing a heat exchange fluid temperature sensing device (TS201); 6) installing an environment temperature sensing device (TS202); and 7) installing an electric energy control unit (ECU200).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Tai-Her Yang
  • Publication number: 20130025819
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a close-loop temperature equalization device with single flowpath utilizing the heat exchange fluid for transmitting thermal energy of a natural thermal energy storage body to an external temperature differentiation body, and is provided with one or more than one of following structural devices, including: 1) installing an operation port (111) and a sealing plug (110) at the upper end of the top corner of a close-loop flowpath at a higher location of the heat releasing device (201); 2) forming an outward-expanding arc-shaped flowpath structure turning locations of the close-type flowpath; 3) installing an auxiliary heating/cooling device (115); 4) installing an auxiliary fluid pump (107); 5) installing a heat exchange fluid temperature sensing device (TS201); 6) installing an environment temperature sensing device (TS202); and 7) installing an electric energy control unit (ECU200).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Tai-Her YANG