Heat And Power Plants Patents (Class 237/12.1)
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Patent number: 11698207Abstract: Thermal energy systems for managing, distribution and recovery of thermal energy. A single-pipe loop circulating a two-phase refrigerant is provided. The single-pipe loop is spread through the entire system and interconnects a plurality of local heat exchange stations, each having different thermal energy loads. A central circulation mechanism (CCM) is also provided for circulating the refrigerant for distribution of thermal energy within the system.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2019Date of Patent: July 11, 2023Assignee: HIS MAJESTY THE KING IN RIGHT OF CANADA, AS REPRESENTED BY THE MINISTER OF NATURAL RESOURCESInventors: Parham Eslami-Nejad, Arash Bastani, Daniel Giguere
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Patent number: 11465754Abstract: A pressurized air supply unit (1; 1?) for an aircraft, comprising: a load compressor (30; 30?) configured to supply pressurized air (3), the load compressor (30; 30?) having a compressor shaft (23; 23?); and a drive portion (10) configured to supply power via an output shaft (20); the pressurized air supply unit (1; 1) being characterized in that it comprises: a gearbox (50); an electric motor (40), the electric motor (40) being coupled to said compressor shaft (23; 23?) via the gearbox (50); and a coupling system (25) configured to enable the output shaft (20) to drive the compressor shaft (23; 23?) and to prevent the compressor shaft (23; 23?) from driving the output shaft (20), and in that the output shaft (20) and the compressor shaft (23) lie on the same axis.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2017Date of Patent: October 11, 2022Assignee: SAFRAN POWER UNITSInventors: Fabien Silet, Laurent Batailler
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Patent number: 11448159Abstract: The present invention relates to a low temperature, low frequency Stirling engine. Its special geometry allows for large heat exchanger surfaces and great regenerators in order to reach good “Carnoization” efficiency factors. Displacer and power piston may be connected with circular polymer based membrane sealings to the cylinder walls. The cold space of the Stirling Engine may cylindrically Surround the outer periphery of the working cylinder, making thermal isolation obsolete. The engine is for instance suited to operate as base power prime mover using thermal solar collectors and may be coupled with hot oil or pressurized water heat storages. In the reverse mode, the Engine works as effective Heat-Pump/Cooling Engine.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2020Date of Patent: September 20, 2022Assignee: SUN ORBIT GMBHInventors: Olivier Paccoud, Jurgen Kleinwachter, Patrick Genkinger
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Patent number: 11215355Abstract: The present invention discloses an air energy boiler and belongs to the technical field of energy conversion. A crankshaft of the boiler is fixed at the output end of a rotating unit. The crankshaft is provided with at least one bulge. A driving piston of each conversion assembly is arranged in an air cavity in a reciprocating motion. The driving piston divides the air cavity into a first cavity and a second cavity. A wrist pin is arranged in the second cavity, and the wrist pin is fixed and connected with the driving piston. Both ends of a piston rod is rotatably connected with the wrist pin and the corresponding bulge respectively. The first cavity is provided with an air intake. Multiple heating pipes are in communication with the first cavity at one end and stretch into the boiler body at the other end. The boiler body is sealed and stores water, and the boiler body is provided with a steam outlet, wherein the steam outlet of the boiler body is connected to various terminals through the use of pipelines.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2018Date of Patent: January 4, 2022Inventor: Jin Zhang
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Patent number: 10907848Abstract: Controlling heating and cooling in a conditioned space utilizes a fluid circulating in a thermally conductive structure in fluid connection with a hydronic-to-air heat exchanger and a ground heat exchanger. Air is moved past the hydronic-to-air heat exchanger, the air having fresh air supply and stale air exhaust. Sensors located throughout the conditioned space send data to a controller. User input to the controller sets the desired set point temperature and humidity. Based upon the set point temperature and humidity and sensor data, the controller sends signals to various devices to manipulate the flow of the fluid and the air in order to achieve the desired set point temperature and humidity in the conditioned space. The temperature of the fluid is kept less than the dew point at the hydronic-to-air heat exchanger and the temperature of the fluid is kept greater than the dew point at the thermally conductive structure.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2019Date of Patent: February 2, 2021Assignee: ENERGY ENVIRONMENTAL CORPORATIONInventor: Albert Reid Wallace
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Patent number: 10781771Abstract: The present invention discloses an automatic cooling system based on stirling engine for combustion engine. The system is configured to utilize thermal energy from the temperature difference between the engine and a radiator to feed the stirling engine. The stirling engine drives a coolant pump to circulate a coolant between the engine and the radiator. If the temperature difference between the combustion engine and the radiator is high, the stirling engine automatically drives the coolant pump and circulates the coolant at high speed. If the temperature difference between the combustion engine and the radiator is low, the stirling engine automatically drives the coolant pump and circulates the coolant at low speed, until the temperature difference between the engine and radiator within a threshold point. Therefore, there is no need for a thermostat and a water pump coupled with the engine.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2019Date of Patent: September 22, 2020Inventor: Ghasem Kahe
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Patent number: 10668412Abstract: A supercritical fluid power generation system includes an automatic filter cleaning apparatus, which is used in an automatic filter cleaning method. The system includes a cooler configured to cause a phase change of a working fluid from a gaseous state to a liquid state or to cool the working fluid to a low temperature; a fluid pump configured to receive and compress the working fluid from the cooler; a heat exchanger configured to heat the working fluid via a heat exchange with the working fluid which has passed through the fluid pump; at least one turbine configured to expand the heated working fluid and connected to a generator to produce electric power; a plurality of transport pipes in which the working fluid flows; and plural filter lines configured to remove, via back-flushing, a foreign substance included in the working fluid present in at least one of the transport pipes.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: Doosan Heavy Industries Construction Co., LtdInventor: Songhun Cha
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Patent number: 10578307Abstract: A gas turbine assembly and method for operating the gas turbine assembly are provided. The method for operating the gas turbine assembly may include compressing a process fluid containing inlet air through a compressor to produce compressed inlet air, combining fuel from a main fuel source with the process fluid, and preheating the process fluid containing the inlet air and the fuel in a warmer disposed downstream from the compressor. The method may also include heating an oxidizer by flowing the preheated process fluid from the warmer to the oxidizer, and oxidizing the process fluid containing the compressed inlet air and the fuel in the oxidizer to produce an oxidation product. The method may further include expanding the oxidation product in a turbine to generate rotational energy, and preventing the process fluid from flowing upstream to the compressor with a check valve.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2016Date of Patent: March 3, 2020Assignee: DRESSER-RAND COMPANYInventors: Andrew J. Olsen, George C. Talabisco, Scott David Wisler, Silvano R. Saretto
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Patent number: 10291100Abstract: A package has its internal space divided into a top compartment and a bottom compartment. The bottom compartment contains the engine. The top compartment is further divided by a partition wall into a first top compartment (e.g., a radiator chamber) and a second top compartment (e.g., a device installation chamber). The partition wall has a spatial connection port. The second top compartment has an external wall panel (e.g., the rear, upper panel) located facing the spatial connection port, the external wall panel having a vent (e.g., a gallery) formed therethrough. There is provided a duct-shaped heatsink to deliver outside air introduced through the vent to the spatial connection port. Electric components, such as an inverter, are disposed directly on an external surface of the heatsink (on the top face).Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2015Date of Patent: May 14, 2019Assignee: YANMAR CO., LTD.Inventors: Tomoyuki Ikeda, Satoshi Abe, Yosuke Tahara
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Patent number: 10247339Abstract: An electrical and hydraulic coupling device for a system for supplying or distributing liquid to be sprayed onto a window of a vehicle. The device includes at least one tube and at least one first electrically conductive cable. The tube is delimited by a wall in which at least two liquid circulation ducts are formed and in which a heating element is embedded. The wall includes at least one recess that opens towards the outside of the tube and in which is housed all or part of the cable.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2012Date of Patent: April 2, 2019Assignee: Valeo Systèmes d'EssuyageInventor: Jean-Michel Jarasson
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Patent number: 10075115Abstract: At least one embodiment relates to a cogeneration system configured to be coupled to an electrical input of a building and configured to be coupled to a heating or cooling system of a building. The cogeneration system can comprise a generator configured to generate electrical energy. There can be also a fluid output and a fluid input that passes through the generator and configured to absorb heat from the generator. There can also be an electrical output coupled to the electrical input of the building wherein when the generator is operational, the engine creates both heat and electricity. There can also be a processor in communication with the generator, wherein the processor controls when the generator turns on and off based upon the amount of heat or cooling needed, the cost of fuel and the existing electrical rates. These costs can be obtained using communication with real time rates over the internet.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2016Date of Patent: September 11, 2018Assignee: PAC, LLCInventor: Christopher Mark Pepe
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Patent number: 9732982Abstract: A boiler unit (100) housed in an enclosure, the boiler unit (100) configured to receive a solid state combined heat and power generating device (130). The boiler unit (100) comprises a heating device (110) to produce heat; and a control unit (120) to independently control each of the heating device (110) and the solid state combined heat and power generating device (130). The boiler unit (100) is operable without the solid state combined heat and power generating device (130) being present.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2009Date of Patent: August 15, 2017Assignee: Ceres Intellectual Property Company LimitedInventors: James Devriendt, Christopher John Evans, Robert Morgan, Paul Barnard, Bruce Girvan
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Patent number: 9726432Abstract: An air cooling unit is an air cooling unit used in a Rankine cycle system and includes an expander and a condenser. The expander recovers energy from a working fluid by expanding the working fluid. The condenser cools the working fluid using air. The air cooling unit includes a heat-transfer reducer that reduces heat transfer between the expander and an air path.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2014Date of Patent: August 8, 2017Assignee: PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO., LTD.Inventors: Osamu Kosuda, Osao Kido, Atsuo Okaichi, Takumi Hikichi, Masaaki Konoto, Noriyoshi Nishiyama, Yoshio Tomigashi, Tetsuya Matsuyama
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Patent number: 9624793Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a cascaded recompression closed Brayton cycle (CRCBC) system and method of operation thereof, where the CRCBC system includes a compressor for compressing the system fluid, a separator for generating fluid feed streams for each of the system's turbines, and separate segments of a heater that heat the fluid feed streams to different feed temperatures for the system's turbines. Fluid exiting each turbine is used to preheat the fluid to the turbine. In an embodiment, the amount of heat extracted is determined by operational costs.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2014Date of Patent: April 18, 2017Assignee: Sandia CorporationInventor: James Jay Pasch
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Patent number: 9366182Abstract: An electrical power and thermal management system may include a power plant operable to provide power to an electrical generation device. The system may include at least one conversion/distribution assembly configured to provide electrical power to a first electrical bus. The system may also include a thermal management system configured to circulate coolant to at least one heat source. A controller may be in communication with the power plant, the electrical generation device, the conversion/distribution assembly, the electrical power bus, and the thermal management system. The controller may be configured to integrally manage electrical and thermal steady and transient demands, wherein the controller is operable to selectively distribute power to the electrical power bus and regulate produced thermal energy in response to electrical and thermal demands, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2014Date of Patent: June 14, 2016Assignee: Rolls-Royce CorporationInventors: Rigoberto J. Rodriguez, William L. Siegel
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Patent number: 9297278Abstract: A structure, system, and method for controlling a power output and flue gas temperature of a power plant by adjusting final feedwater temperature are disclosed herein. In an embodiment, a turbine having a plurality of valved steam extraction ports is provided. Each steam extraction port is fluidly connected with a feedwater heater. Each of the plurality of valves in the valved steam extraction ports may be opened and closed to the passage of steam therethrough, in order to vary a final feedwater temperature.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2011Date of Patent: March 29, 2016Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Nestor Hernandez Sanchez, Richard Eugene Kehl, Kamlesh Mundra, James Michael Stagnitti
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Patent number: 9222360Abstract: A combined heat and power plant has at least one primary heat source thermally connected to a heat distribution network for heat energy via one or more primary heat exchangers. At least one secondary heat source is thermally connected to one or more energy converters arranged to, when an amount of heat energy is supplied from the at least one secondary heat source, generate an amount of electrical energy for an internal electricity distribution network in the combined heat and power plant. A method is for operating a combined heat and power plant.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2013Date of Patent: December 29, 2015Assignee: Viking Heat Engines ASInventors: Trond Aas Bjerkan, Harald Nes Risla, Kjetil Sorvig
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Patent number: 8910471Abstract: An exhaust pipe heats coolant with heat of exhaust gas. The structure of the exhaust pipe can increase heat exchange efficiency because a flow direction of the coolant is arranged to be opposite to a flow direction of the exhaust gas. The coolant can smoothly flow inside the housing, because density of the coolant decreases as the coolant is heated while flowing in a lower side of the housing and flowing out of an upper side of the housing. In addition, the heat transfer pipe of which one surface is in contact with the exhaust gas and the other side is in contact with the coolant has wrinkle portions which are formed on a surface of the heat transfer pipe, where heat exchange is performed, and thereby, a heat exchange area can be increased and the coolant can be more rapidly heated without increasing a size of the housing.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2012Date of Patent: December 16, 2014Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventor: Ki Chul Park
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Patent number: 8847130Abstract: A heating unit can reduce the rate of power consumption for heating a vehicle, so that the running distance of the vehicle is increased and hence the battery charging cycle of the vehicle is prolonged. A heating unit of a vehicle heating system includes a casing made of a metal material capable of electromagnetically shielding microwaves, a support arranged in the hollow section of the casing, a plurality of microwave absorbing/heat emitting members arranged at the support and a microwave outputting unit arranged in the casing to output microwaves toward respective microwave absorbing/heat emitting members, blown air being heated by heat generated as a result of absorption of microwaves by the microwave absorbing/heat emitting members at the time for blown air to flow from the upstream side to the downstream side in the hollow sections of the microwave absorbing/heat emitting members.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2011Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignees: Kabushiki-Kaisha TAKUMI, Kabushiki-Kaisha Lead IndustryInventors: Norio Niwa, Ryousei Noda, Hiroki Anzai
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Publication number: 20140263681Abstract: A dual heating process is performed in the absence of an open flame. Heat is created by a rotating prime mover(s) driving a fluid shear heater. Heat is also collected from a cooling system of the prime mover, and from any exhaust heat generated by the prime mover. The heat energy collected from all of these sources is transmitted through heat exchangers to a fluid where heat energy is desired. The fluid being heated may be glycol or air, depending on the type of heat desired.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2013Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: ConleyMax Inc.Inventors: Patrick G. Bell, William N. Beckie
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Patent number: 8636226Abstract: The invention relates to a method for estimating the fuel supply of a boiler, for a building (2) having a boiler (4) and energy accumulation means (4?), in order to ensure a desired indoor temperature during an autonomy period P, this method including the following steps: a) making an estimation of the average outdoor temperature during the autonomy period P, b) determining the consumption of the building (2) in order to ensure said desired indoor temperature, depending on the previous estimation of the average outdoor temperature, c) determining the amount of energy to be provided depending on the previous consumption, and the amount of fuel required for providing this energy.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2009Date of Patent: January 28, 2014Assignee: Commissariat a l'Energie AtomiqueInventors: Cedric Paulus, Phillipe Papillon
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Patent number: 8631657Abstract: Thermodynamic cycles with diluent that produce mechanical power, electrical power, and/or fluid streams for heating and/or cooling are described. Systems contain a combustion system producing an energetic fluid by combusting fuel with oxidant. Thermal diluent is preferably used in the cycle to improve performance, including one or more of power, efficiency, economics, emissions, dynamic and off-peak load performance, temperature regulation, and/or cooling heated components. Cycles include a heat recovery system and preferably recover and recycle thermal diluent from expanded energetic fluid to improve cycle thermodynamic efficiency and reduce energy conversion costs. Cycles preferably include controls for temperatures, pressures, and flow rates within a combined heat and power (CHP) system, and controls for power, thermal output, efficiency, and/or emissions.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2006Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Assignee: Vast Power Portfolio, LLCInventors: David L. Hagen, Gary Ginter, Alberto Traverso, Bill Goheen, Allan McGuire, Janet Rankin, Aristide Massardo, Ronald L. Klaus
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Patent number: 8628025Abstract: A vehicle waste heat recovery system may include a first pump, an internal combustion engine, a waste heat recovery device and a condenser. The first pump may be in fluid communication with a fluid. The internal combustion engine may be operable to power rotation of a drive axle of a vehicle and may define an engine coolant passage having an inlet in fluid communication with an outlet of the first pump. The waste heat recovery device may have an inlet in fluid communication with an outlet of the engine coolant passage. The condenser may have an inlet in fluid communication with an outlet of the waste heat recovery device and an outlet in fluid communication with an inlet of the first pump.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2010Date of Patent: January 14, 2014Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventor: John R. Bucknell
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Patent number: 8602316Abstract: In a system wherein a fossil fuel fired burner heats incoming well or municipally supplied water to a temperature required for industrial concrete production, the exhaust gases produced by the burner are utilized to preheat the incoming water to an increased temperature before the water is put into an insulated tank where the burner subsequently raises the water temperature to the required level, to thereby reduce the load on the burner and increase the efficiency of directly fired water heating systems.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2008Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Inventors: Robert G. Giannetti, Robert G. Giannetti, Jr.
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Patent number: 8581148Abstract: An apparatus (10) provides flame-less heat utilizing electric heaters (90) receiving electricity from a generator (22) powered by an engine (20) of a self-contained trailer including a base (12) in the form of a fuel tank. An exhaust heat reclaimer (56) is located in an elevated portion (32) of a manifold (30) further including a vertical portion (42) in front of the engine (20). A centrifugal impeller (80) in a T interconnection draws air from the vertical portion (42) through a radiator (50) of the engine (20) and into first and second pressure blowers (76) which force air through the heaters (90) and transitions (92, 94) to exit ducts (96).Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2011Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Thawzall, LLC.Inventor: Harold James Kilts
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Publication number: 20130284817Abstract: A mobile heating system is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system includes an enclosure defining a plenum that houses a fan and an internal combustion engine. The heating system also includes a hydraulic circuit including a hydraulic pump operably coupled to the internal combustion engine and a first heat exchanger located in the plenum and in fluid communication with the hydraulic pump. The hydraulic circuit also includes a hydraulic motor operably coupled to the fan wherein the hydraulic motor is in fluid communication with and driven by the hydraulic pump. A first valve is disposed between the hydraulic pump and the heat exchanger and is configured to restrict fluid flow and to increase a fluid pumping pressure of the hydraulic pump. A second valve is located upstream of the first valve and is configured to selectively direct hydraulic fluid between the first valve and the hydraulic motor.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 27, 2012Publication date: October 31, 2013Inventors: Travis G. Welle, Mark R. Leingang
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Patent number: 8496472Abstract: The present invention is directed to a process for the clean and convenient combustion of high viscosity liquid fuels, such as glycerol, as well as an apparatus useful for carrying such processes. In certain embodiments, the invention provides a process for glycerol combustion comprising providing a combustion apparatus with a glycerol combustion chamber that facilitates reflective heating, pre-heating the glycerol combustion chamber, atomizing the reduced viscosity glycerol, and combining the atomized glycerol with air in the glycerol combustion chamber to thereby completely combust the glycerol. In one embodiment, such as when using a pressure-atomizing nozzle, the inventive method may further comprise treating the glycerol to reduce the glycerol viscosity.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2008Date of Patent: July 30, 2013Assignee: North Carolina State UniversityInventors: William L. Roberts, Brian Metzger, Timothy L. Turner
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Patent number: 8403234Abstract: A compact hydronic space and water heating apparatus and system is disclosed for use in a recreational vehicle. A liquid heating medium, stored within a low pressure tank, is recirculated through a gas fired heater thereby maintaining a desired set point temperature. The liquid heating medium is further circulated through the vehicles hydronic space heaters to heat the interior of the vehicle. Further fresh domestic water is passed through a heat transfer coil within the tank whereby hot domestic water may be provided. An auxiliary heating device is attached to the tank whereby hot combustion engine coolant may assist in maintaining the temperature of the liquid heating medium within the tank and/or reversed to pre heat the combustion engine if and when needed.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2011Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Inventor: Gerry Wolter
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Patent number: 8371512Abstract: A motor vehicle has a low exhaust heat engine (ME) for driving the driven wheels and a system for conditioning the air temperature of the passenger compartment (CAB). The conditioning system includes a reversible heat pump (PAC) which conditions in temperature respectively a distribution loop (DI) and an exhaust loop (RE) through which flows a coolant. The distribution loop (DI) is connected to an exchanger (H2) with the air entering the space compartment (CAB) and is connectable via an electromagnetic valve (EV1) to another exchanger (H1) with the air entering the passenger compartment (CAB). The exhaust loop (RE) is connected to an exchanger (F1) with the outside air. The exhaust loop being further connected to the engine (ME) for exchanging heat with the engine.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2007Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Assignee: Dow Kokam France SASInventor: Alain Douarre
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Patent number: 8333330Abstract: Systems and methods for using a dual-path fluid routing system that uses a flow restriction device to enhance temperature and pressure control of fluid are provided. Systems and methods for using a setpoint pressure control system to accurately control the setpoint pressure of a regulator are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2004Date of Patent: December 18, 2012Assignee: Active Power, Inc.Inventors: Karl T. Schuetze, Robert S. Hudson
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Patent number: 8286423Abstract: A cogeneration system includes a first cooling device disposed in a cooling water circulation path extending between an engine and a waste-heat heat exchanger, and a second cooling device disposed in a hot water circulation pipe extending between a hot water storage tank and a hot air heater. The first cooling device is activated to cool cooling water when the temperature of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank exceeds a first predetermined value, and the second cooling device is activated to cool the hot water when the temperature of hot air inside the hot air heater exceeds a second predetermined value.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2008Date of Patent: October 16, 2012Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Nobuyuki Yuri, Masahiro Yamamoto
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Publication number: 20120256419Abstract: The invention is directed to a combination heater and electrical generator designed to allow continual use of the heating system in the absence of an external source of electricity. The system shares fuel and electrical inputs and also shares exhaust outputs so to facilitate ease of use installation as well as affording a small installation footprint.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2012Publication date: October 11, 2012Inventor: Stewart Kaiser
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Patent number: 8245948Abstract: A co-generation system is provided that includes a heat exchanger that heats water; a heat transfer path connected with the water heat exchanger that transfers heat; a hot water storage tank connected with the water heat exchanger and the water circulation path; a hot water storage water supply apparatus that supplies water in the hot water storage tank to the water circulation path; a water supply path connected with the water circulation path; a water supply apparatus that supplies water to the water supply path; and a hot water supply heat exchanger bypassing apparatus that bypasses the water supplied to the water circulation path from the hot water storage tank through the hot water supply heat exchanger.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2007Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Eun Jun Cho, Sim Bok Ha, Cheol Min Kim, Se Dong Chang
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Patent number: 8172157Abstract: A thermal demand priority type cogeneration system, is made operative for obtaining power output without thermal demand. When the temperature in a hot water tank 17 is low, a heat request is output from a heat request generator 42 and thereby an engine 11 is driven. When the temperature T higher than a predetermined temperature T1, a first water supply instructing unit 44 opens a valve 39 and supplies water to the tank 17 to decrease the water temperature T. When the water temperature goes down, thermal demand is generated, the engine 11 is driven according to the heat request. So as to generate thermal demand, a discharge valve 41 may be opened when the water temperature T is at the predetermined temperature or higher. A second water supply instructing unit 46 opens the valve 39 when reserved water level in the tank 17 goes down. When the valve 39 is opened, water is supplied and the water temperature goes down and thermal demand is generated.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2005Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yoshinori Nakagawa, Akihito Kasai, Tsutomu Wakitani
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Patent number: 8154138Abstract: An electrical generating assembly 10 which may be selectively used in combination with and/or as part of a municipal wastewater treatment facility 12 and which allows the wastewater treatment facility 12 to generate electrical energy 48, 62, 13 as received wastewater 14 is cleaned according to a plurality of diverse energy generating strategies.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2010Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Inventors: Subramaniam Ganesan, Christopher J. Kobus, John Gerard Chupa
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Patent number: 8136740Abstract: A thermodynamic system that produces mechanical, electrical power, and/or fluid streams for heating or cooling. The cycle contains a combustion system that produces an energetic fluid by combustion of a fuel with an oxidant. A thermal diluent may be used in the cycle to improve performance, including but not limited to power, efficiency, economics, emissions, dynamic and off-peak load performance, and/or turbine inlet temperature (TIT) regulation and cooling heated components. The cycle preferably includes a heat recovery system and a condenser or other means to recover and recycle heat and the thermal diluent from the energetic fluid to improve the cycle thermodynamic efficiency and reduce energy conversion costs. The cycle may also include controls for temperatures, pressures, and flow rates throughout the cycle, and controls power output, efficiency, and energetic fluid composition.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2008Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: Vast Power Portfolio, LLCInventors: David L. Hagen, Gary Ginter, Alberto Traverso, Bill Goheen, Allan McGuire, Janet Rankin, Aristide Massardo, Ronald L. Klaus
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Patent number: 8132738Abstract: A device for heating, generating electric power and cooling enclosed spaces, which is connected to at least one closed-circuit pipe which acts by thermal radiation and comprises at least one turbine or microturbine of the axial or tangential type or of the type that merges into the closed-circuit pipe, placed in partial vacuum by means of a first fan. An alternator for generating electric power and elements for feeding the power to the grid or to user devices, and an absorber for generating cool air or refrigerated water, are connected to the turbine or microturbine.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2006Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: Officine Termotecniche Fraccaro -O.T.F. S.R.L.Inventor: Gimmi Fraccaro
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Patent number: 8026824Abstract: A method and apparatus for powering one or more remotely-situated devices. In accordance with some embodiments of the invention, energy is added (at a convenient location) to a medium that the remotely-situated devices are associated with (e.g., a medium that the remotely-situated devices are sensing, controlling, alarming, etc). The energy is removed from the medium near to the remotely-situated devices. If required, the energy is converted to a form that is useable by the remotely-situated device. The removed energy is delivered to the remotely-situated devices and is used by them to perform an action that is associated with the medium (e.g., sensing a characteristic of the medium, controlling a characteristic of the medium, providing an alarm responsive to a value of a characteristic of the medium, etc.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2009Date of Patent: September 27, 2011Inventor: Steven Phillip Gologorsky
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Patent number: 8016206Abstract: An air conditioning system for automobile having a heater core capable of heating the interior in good efficiency is to be provided. Such a heater core is supplied with the coolant having bubbles removed, and thereby the efficiency of heat exchange is enhanced and the noise is reduced. On the internal combustion engine is mounted a water outlet (bubble separating means) 3 having a receiving chamber 8 that the coolant after cooling the engine flows in. In the downstream position of the chamber 8 is formed a communicating portion 9 of narrowed sectional area and a feeding chamber 10 of increased sectional area in turn. The flowing velocity of the coolant is increased in the communicating portion 9 and decreased in the feeding chamber 10 and thereby it is possible to make bubbles in the coolant float up and separate out. As a result, the coolant without bubbles may be fed to the heater core 7 through a feeding portion 11.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2005Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignees: Aichi Machine Industry Co., Ltd., Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Norio Ito, Takayoshi Ichihara
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Patent number: 8011598Abstract: An improved CHP system combining a VCCHP system with an SOFC system for application as a combined CHP system wherein the compressor motor of a heat pump is powered by a portion of the electricity generated by the SOFC, and wherein the thermal output of the heat pump is increased by abstraction of heat from the SOFC exhaust. This integration allows for complementary operation of each type of system, with the benefits of improved overall fuel efficiency for the improved CHP system. The heat pump is further provided with a plurality of flow-reversing valves and an additional heat exchanger, allowing the heat pump system to be reversed and thus to operate as an air conditioning system.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2009Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Sean Michael Kelly, Gary Blake
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Patent number: 7992322Abstract: Disclosed herein is a dryer having a heater-integrated intake duct capable of reducing thermal loss and preventing overheating of the dryer. The dryer includes a support panel having a through-hole, an intake duct communicating with the through-hole, a drum into which air flows via the through-hole, a heater disposed inside the intake duct to heat the air flowing into the drum, and a heat exchanging part transferring heat of the heated air into the drum.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2008Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Assignee: Daewoo Electronics CorporationInventor: Chang Hoo Kim
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Publication number: 20110101119Abstract: A heating system for a property has a thermal interconnection (5) between a thermal heat generator (1), in particular a conventional heating system (2), and a plurality of heat consumers (7) for simultaneous production of heat and electricity, the thermal interconnection (5) being controlled by a control unit (12). One of the heat consumers (7) includes a conversion system (11) based on a thermodynamic cycle (10), in particular a water vapor or an ORC or Kalina process, and provided for the conversion of thermodynamic energy into electrical energy. The condensation heat occurring in the thermodynamic cycle (10) is transferred to further heat consumers (7).Type: ApplicationFiled: February 13, 2009Publication date: May 5, 2011Applicant: DYNATRONIC GMBHInventor: Gerhard Schilling
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Patent number: 7930882Abstract: A cogeneration system that allows an engine to be continuously operated even when there is no demand for hot feedwater. The system comprises a hot water tank for storing hot water heated from cold water by heat released by an engine that drives a generator. When the heat of the water in the hot water tank exceeds a predetermined temperature, a control is performed so that a drain valve is opened and the hot water in the tank is released.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2008Date of Patent: April 26, 2011Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Nobuyuki Yuri
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Publication number: 20100224689Abstract: The present invention relates to a modular communal heating and power station, in particular for single-family dwellings and multiple-family dwellings. The communal heating and power station is characterized by a module design according to the invention.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2010Publication date: September 9, 2010Inventors: Henrik Waninger, Harald Roth, Christian Appel
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Patent number: 7789318Abstract: A wall mounted domestic combined heat and power appliance comprising housing (1) containing a prime mover to generate electrical power and heat output. At least one bracket (2) at each side of the housing mounts the housing to a wall (W). Each bracket comprises a main body which is elongate in a vertical direction and has a L-shape cross section. Each extremity of the L-shape cross section has an enlarged portion (22, 23), a first (23) of which provides a spacer between the main body and the housing, and a second (22) of which provides a spacer between the main body and the wall.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2003Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: Microgen Engine Corporation Holding B.V.Inventors: David Anthony Tokell, John Antony Stephenson, Adam Richard Gregory, David Anthony Clark
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Publication number: 20100194111Abstract: A combined heat power system comprises a Rankine cycle, optionally an organic Rankine cycle, using a fluid both in gaseous phase and liquid phase. The Rankine cycle comprises —an evaporator for evaporating the fluid from liquid phase to gaseous phase, an expander for expanding the fluid in gaseous phase provided by the evaporator. The expander is suitable to transform energy from the expansion of the fluid in gaseous phase into mechanical energy, —a condenser for condensing the fluid from gaseous phase from the expander to liquid phase and —a liquid pump for pumping the fluid in liquid phase provided by the condenser to the evaporator. The system comprises a heat source providing exhaust gas. The exhaust gas provides thermal energy for evaporating the fluid from liquid phase to gaseous phase by the evaporator. The system further comprises a generator unit for converting mechanical energy from expander to electrical energy. The expander is a volumetric expander.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2008Publication date: August 5, 2010Inventors: Alex Van Den Bossche, Bart Meersman
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Publication number: 20100012740Abstract: The invention relates to a method for estimating the fuel supply of a boiler, for a building (2) having a boiler (4) and energy accumulation means (4?), in order to ensure a desired indoor temperature during an autonomy period P, this method including the following steps: a) making an estimation of the average outdoor temperature during the autonomy period P, b) determining the consumption of the building (2) in order to ensure said desired indoor temperature, depending on the previous estimation of the average outdoor temperature, c) determining the amount of energy to be provided depending on the previous consumption, and the amount of fuel required for providing this energy.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 14, 2009Publication date: January 21, 2010Applicant: COMMISSARIAT A L'ENERGIE ATOMIQUEInventors: Cedric Paulus, Phillipe Papillon
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Patent number: 7600695Abstract: A cogeneration system and a method for controlling the cogeneration system in which waste heat of an engine is mainly used to prevent an outdoor heat exchanger from being frosted, or is used not only to prevent the outdoor heat exchanger from being frosted, but also to enhance the heating performance of an indoor heat exchanger, in accordance with ambient temperature conditions, so that the cogeneration system can positively cope with ambient temperature conditions, and can exhibit a high energy efficiency.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2005Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Seung Tak Kang, Chang Min Choi, Won Jae Choi, Hyung Soo Lim, Yoon Jei Hwang
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Publication number: 20090152367Abstract: A device for heating, generating electric power and cooling enclosed spaces, which is connected to at least one closed-circuit pipe which acts by thermal radiation and comprises at least one turbine or microturbine of the axial or tangential type or of the type that merges into the closed-circuit pipe, placed in partial vacuum by means of a first fan. An alternator for generating electric power and elements for feeding the power to the grid or to user devices, and an absorber for generating cool air or refrigerated water, are connected to the turbine or microturbine.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 8, 2006Publication date: June 18, 2009Inventor: Gimmi Fraccaro
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Publication number: 20080302879Abstract: The present invention relates to a heating device for generating heat and electricity, and it comprises a compressor, at least one heat exchanger for heating air of a working flow leaving the compressor, a turbine where the heated air of the working flow is expanded, and a generator. The device further comprises a fluidly separate burner circuit with a burner for providing hot combustion gases which circuit is connected with the at least one heat exchanger, and which parts are arranged in a way known per se and where the turbine during operation powers the compressor and the generator. The generator supplies electrical energy to a domestic or local electrical system and/or powers auxiliary devices of the heating device, and at least a part of the air of the working flow leaving the turbine and/or at least a part of the combustion gases of the burner flow are/is used for heating a building or a process.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 27, 2006Publication date: December 11, 2008Applicant: Compower ABInventor: Lars Malmrup