METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ENERGY RECOVERY FROM FLUID FLOWS

Abstract

An energy recovery apparatus includes a fixed frame, a shaft, an impeller vane, and an energy transfer unit. A fluid stream exits the host device along a flow axis. The fixed frame defining a longitudinal axis mounts the host device. The shaft is rotatably mounted to the fixed frame parallel to the longitudinal axis. The impeller vane is connected to the shaft to cause rotation when the fluid stream of the host device strikes the impeller vane. The energy transfer unit is linked to the shaft to transfer energy from the energy recovery apparatus when the shaft rotates thereby recovering energy from the fluid stream. A geologic heat exchange system includes at least one conduit in thermal contact with the geologic environment. A coolant distribution system is in fluid communication with the conduit such that heat exchange with the geologic environment occurs.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to energy recovery. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to energy recovery from a fluid flow. The disclosure relates as well to combustion engine and HVAC-R waste energy recovery and efficiency improvement devices. This disclosure relates furthermore to air-conditioner efficiency improvement and to energy-recovery configurations for the improvement of energy efficiency in commercial and residential HVAC-R units and combustion engines utilized in the production of electrical power.

BACKGROUND

Energy is the subject of an ever-growing body of research worldwide with increasing urgency over the past decade Innovation and development of new technologies has gained significant attention and support as a result of these ongoing efforts. Frequently overlooked in this arena is the combination of as yet disparate and non-analogous existing, commercially demonstrated technologies to be re-tasked to provide a lower cost, lower risk, bridge to a future populated by these now nascent technologies currently under development. Applying existing technologies into novel and non-obvious configurations in new ways may reduce research costs while reducing development costs to levels far below those of other technologies.

Energy is used in all human endeavors with significant energy waste intrinsic to each endeavor. Most of this waste is fundamental and described in the laws of thermodynamics. While some of this waste may be recovered and converted into additional useful work through innovation and development of new technologies, even greater levels of energy recovery are already available through the application and interconnection of existing but disparate and non-analogous technologies at far lower costs. District Energy (DE) systems, sometimes referred to as Distributed Generation (DG) systems as well as combined cycle power plants have long demonstrated the value of increased process efficiency through the beneficial application of waste energy. Even thermal output following power production in a combined cycle system could still see beneficial application in the heating or preheating of water for a DE system to reduce or eliminate the need for fuel to produce this heat.

SUMMARY

An object is to provide an energy recovery system for the conversion of kinetic energy contained within exhaust and or intake airflows associated with combustion engine power generation systems to electrical power for use in the operation of system components.

An object is to provide an increase in energy conversion efficiencies of combustion engine power generation systems through the decoupling of any or all of a coolant pump utilized in the maintenance of proper operating temperatures of such a combustion engine, a lubricant fluid, a generator/alternator, an air compression system similar in function to that of a turbocharger or supercharger integrated into such a system for system operation.

Another object is to provide an Air-conditioner efficiency improvement configuration that will decrease the workload of an HVAC-R compressor through the increase in temperature differential between refrigerant and ambient temperatures as currently experienced in an HVAC-R condenser unit or cooling tower.

Another object is to provide an Air-conditioner efficiency improvement configuration that will utilize waste energy from the operation of an HVAC-R unit to operate a secondary device to provide greater HVAC-R energy efficiency.

Another object is to provide an air-conditioner efficiency improvement configuration that will capture energy from airflows of opportunity in HVAC-R.

Another object is to provide a system wherein thermal energy captured from a facility experiencing high volume hot water usage may be used in the preheating of such water to reduce energy usage and expenditures for the heating of water for facility use.

Yet another object is provide an efficiency improvement configuration that will capture energy from airflows of opportunity in systems in which such airflows exist as either intake or exhaust or intake and exhaust such as those associated with the operation of combustion engines for the production of electrical power or other systems where such airflows are integral to system operation.

Other objects and advantages will become obvious to the reader and it is intended that these objects and advantages are within the scope of these descriptions. To the accomplishment of the above and related objects, embodiments may be understood in the form illustrated in the accompanying drawings, attention being called to the fact, however, that the drawings are illustrative only, and that changes may be made in the specific construction illustrated and described within the scope of these descriptions.

In at least one embodiment, an energy recovery apparatus for placement in a fluid stream of a host device includes a fixed frame, a shaft, an impeller vane, and an energy transfer unit. A fluid stream exits the host device along a flow axis. The fixed frame has a proximal end for mounting the host device and a distal end opposite the proximal end. The fixed frame defines a longitudinal axis for placement parallel to the flow axis of the host device when the proximal end of the fixed frame is mounted to the host device. Alternatively, the host device could be anchored to a proximal ground surface. The shaft is rotatably mounted to the fixed frame parallel to the longitudinal axis. The impeller vane is connected to the shaft to cause rotation of the shaft relative to the fixed frame when the fluid stream of the host device strikes the impeller vane. The energy transfer unit is linked to the shaft to transfer energy from the energy recovery apparatus when the shaft rotates thereby recovering energy from the fluid stream.

In at least one example, the energy transfer unit includes an electrical generator that generates an electrical voltage when the shaft rotates.

In at least one example, the energy transfer unit includes a heat pump that transfers heat from a heat source to a heat destination when the shaft rotates.

In at least one example, the energy transfer unit includes a pump or conveyor that transfers material from a source to a destination when the shaft rotates.

In at least one example, the impeller vane is a helical vane having a uniform radial width defined between an interior margin spaced from the longitudinal axis by a first uniform radius and an exterior margin spaced from the longitudinal axis by a second uniform radius.

In at least one example, exactly four impeller vanes are connected to the shaft, each impeller vane extending circumferentially around the longitudinal axis through a circumferential angle having a magnitude between 170 degrees and 190 degrees circumferentially relative to the longitudinal axis.

In at least one example, the fixed frame includes a cage defined at least in part by two longitudinal beams extending parallel to the longitudinal axis on opposing sides of the longitudinal axis, and support struts connected to the longitudinal beams, the support struts extending diagonally relative to the longitudinal axis.

In one or more examples, the fixed frame includes a plenum circumferentially surrounding the shaft and at the least one impeller vane. The plenum in at least one such example is spaced from the host device to limit backpressure to the host device caused by the energy recovery apparatus.

In one or more examples, the host device includes a fan that propels the fluid stream, and wherein the fan of the host device turns around the flow axis. In at least one such example, the longitudinal axis is aligned with the flow axis. In at least one such example, the fan of the host device has a first diameter, the shaft and the at least one impeller vane define an impeller having a second diameter, and the second diameter is less than the first diameter to limit backpressure to the host device caused by the impeller.

In at least one embodiment, an energy recovery system includes a host device, a fixed frame, a shaft, at least one impeller vane, and an energy transfer unit. The host device is configured to produce a fluid stream along a flow axis. The fixed frame has a proximal end mounted on the host device and a distal end opposite the proximal end, the fixed frame defining a longitudinal axis parallel to the flow axis of the host device. The shaft is rotatably mounted to the fixed frame parallel to the longitudinal axis. At least one impeller vane is connected to the shaft to cause rotation of the shaft relative to the fixed frame when the fluid stream of the host device strikes the impeller vane. The energy transfer unit is linked to the shaft to transfer energy from the energy recovery system when the shaft rotates thereby recovering energy from the fluid stream.

In at least one example, the host device could be anchored to a proximal ground surface.

In at least one example, the energy transfer unit includes an electrical generator, a heat pump, a material pump, or a conveyor.

In at least one example, the host device includes a heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, or refrigeration (HVAC-R) device.

In at least one example, the fixed frame includes a plenum circumferentially surrounding the shaft and the at least one impeller vane, and the plenum is spaced from the host device to limit backpressure to the host device caused by the energy recovery apparatus.

In at least one example, the fixed frame includes a plenum circumferentially surrounding the shaft and the at least one impeller vane; and the plenum engages the host device to prevent the fluid stream from escaping the energy recovery system between the host device and the at least one impeller.

In one or more examples, the host device includes a fan that propels the fluid stream, and wherein the fan of the host device turns around the flow axis. In at least one such example, the longitudinal axis is aligned with the flow axis. In at least one such example, the fan of the host device has a first diameter, the shaft and the at least one impeller vane define an impeller having a second diameter, and the second diameter is less than the first diameter to limit backpressure to the host device caused by the impeller.

Descriptions herein relate to HVAC-R and combustion engine efficiency improvement devices which may include any of a number of elements, including any one of an impeller, a heat exchanger, a generator, a pump, a reservoir consisting of a vessel, a shut-off valve, an inlet connected to a shut-off valve, an evaporator condensate inlet, an overflow outlet, a power interruption circuit, and one or more ancillary equipment that may include wiring, tubing frame, and support structures.

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Further, the claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any or all disadvantages noted in any part of this disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of various embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purposes of illustration, there is shown in the drawings exemplary embodiments; however, the presently disclosed subject matter is not limited to the specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed.

FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of an embodiment of an energy recovery apparatus mounted on a host device.

FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the energy recovery apparatus of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the energy recovery apparatus of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a side view of an embodiment of an energy recovery apparatus and a plenum, the energy recovery apparatus placed proximal a host device.

FIG. 5 is a longitudinal view of the energy recovery apparatus of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a side view of an embodiment of an energy recovery apparatus.

FIG. 7 is a side view of an embodiment of an energy recovery apparatus.

FIG. 8 is a diagrammatic representation of a cistern in which a conduit is at least partially submerged.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart representing an embodiment of an energy recovery process.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart representing an embodiment of an energy recovery process.

DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS

The presently disclosed subject matter now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments are shown. Indeed, this invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

An embodiment of one or more embodiments described herein of an energy recovery apparatus 100 for placement proximal to or in engagement with a host device 10 is illustrated in FIGS. 1-3. In FIG. 1, a fluid stream 12 exits the host device 10 along a flow axis 14. The energy recovery apparatus 100 is placed in the fluid stream 12 of the host device 10 to recover energy from the fluid stream.

The energy recovery apparatus 100 includes a fixed frame 110 having a proximal end 112 for mounting the host device 10 and a distal end 114 opposite the proximal end 112. The fixed frame 110 defines a longitudinal axis 116 for placement parallel to the flow axis 14 of the host device 10 when the proximal end 112 of the fixed frame is mounted on the host device.

The energy recovery apparatus 100 further includes an impeller 130 defined by a shaft 132 (FIG. 1,3) and at least one impeller vane (140a, 140b, 140c, 140d). The shaft 132 is rotatably mounted to the fixed frame 110 parallel to the longitudinal axis 116. At least one impeller vane (140a, 140b, 140c, 140d) is connected to the shaft 132 to cause rotation of the shaft relative to the fixed frame 110 when the fluid stream 12 of the host device 10 strikes the impeller vane. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, exactly four impeller vanes (140a, 140b, 140c, 140d) are connected to the shaft 132. In other embodiments, a number of impeller vanes less or greater than four impeller vanes are connected to the shaft.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-3, each impeller vane (140a, 140b, 140c, 140d) extends longitudinally from a proximal end (142a, 142b, 142c, 142d) to a distal end (144a, 144b, 144c, 144d) and extends circumferentially around the longitudinal axis 116 through a circumferential angle defined between the proximal and distal ends. For example, the impeller vane 140d (FIG. 3) extends from a proximal end 142d to a distal end 144d. The proximal end 142d terminates at a radial axis 143. The distal end 144d terminates at a radial axis 145. As shown in FIGS. 1-3, each impeller vane (140a, 140b, 140c, 140d) is connected at least at the proximal and distal ends thereof to the shaft 132 by radial members. In the illustrated embodiment, the radial axes 143 and 145 extend in approximately opposite directions such that the impeller vane 140d extends circumferentially around the longitudinal axis 116 through a circumferential angle having a magnitude of approximately 180 degrees. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, each impeller vane (140a, 140b, 140c, 140d) extends circumferentially around the longitudinal axis 116 through a circumferential angle having a magnitude between 170 degrees and 190 degrees. In other embodiments, at least one impeller vane extends circumferentially around the longitudinal axis 116 through a circumferential angle having a magnitude less than 170 degrees or greater than 190 degrees.

Furthermore, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, each impeller vane (140a, 140b, 140c, 140d) has a uniform radial width (150a, 150b, 150c, 150d) (FIGS. 1-2) defined between a helical interior margin (152a, 152b, 152c, 152d) spaced from the longitudinal axis 116 by a first uniform radius (154a, 154b, 154c, 154d) and a helical exterior margin (156a, 156b, 156c, 156d) spaced from the longitudinal axis by a second uniform radius (158a, 158b, 158c, 158d). As such, the illustrated impeller vanes (140a, 140b, 140c, 140d) define helical impeller vanes. In the illustrated embodiment, the shaft 132 is a cylindrical shaft having a uniform diameter and radius, and the first uniform radius (154a, 154b, 154c, 154d) is greater than the radius of the shaft such that the interior margins (152a, 152b, 152c, 152d) of the impeller vanes (140a, 140b, 140c, 140d) are spaced from the shaft 132 and a space is defined between the shaft 132 and impeller vanes. In other embodiments, for example as shown in FIG. 4, impeller vanes are mounted to a shaft in contact with the shaft without any spacing between the impeller vanes and the shaft.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, the fixed frame 110 includes a rectangular base 118 that defines the proximal end 112 of the fixed frame. The base 118 is formed of linear members 120 that are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 116. At least two longitudinal beams 122 are connected to the base 118 and extend toward the distal end 114 on opposing sides of the longitudinal axis 116. The longitudinal beams 122 are illustrated as parallel to the longitudinal axis 116. The illustrated fixed frame 110 further includes support struts 124 each connected at opposing ends thereof to the base 118 and to a longitudinal beam 122. The support struts 124 are illustrated as extending diagonally relative to the longitudinal axis 116. In the illustrated embodiment, a cage is defined at least in part by the longitudinal beams 122 and the support struts 124.

The illustrated fixed frame 110 further includes a proximal transverse beam 125 connected at opposing ends thereof to the longitudinal beams 122. The illustrated fixed frame 110 further includes a distal transverse beam 126 that defines the distal end 114 of the fixed frame. The distal transverse beam 126 is connected at opposing ends thereof to the longitudinal beams 122 and is maintained a fixed distance from the base 120 by the longitudinal beams. The illustrated fixed frame 110 further includes stiffeners 128, each connected at opposing ends thereof to a longitudinal beam 122 and to the distal transverse beam 126. The stiffeners 128 are illustrated as extending diagonally relative to the longitudinal axis 116. In the illustrated embodiment, the shaft 132 is rotatably mounted at opposing ends thereof to the proximal transverse beam 125 and distal transverse beam 126

The energy recovery apparatus 100 further includes an energy transfer unit 180 linked to the shaft 132 to transfer energy from the energy recovery apparatus when the shaft rotates thereby recovering energy from the fluid stream 12 of the host device 10. In at least one embodiment, the energy transfer unit includes an electrical generator that generates an electrical voltage when the shaft 132 rotates. In at least one embodiment, the energy transfer unit includes a heat pump that transfers heat from a heat source to a heat destination when the shaft 132 rotates. In at least one embodiment, the energy transfer unit includes a pump or conveyor that transfers material from a source to a destination when the shaft 132 rotates. In at least one embodiment, the host device 10 is a heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, or refrigeration (HVAC-R). The host device may, for example, be a cooling tower. Furthermore, the host device may be a combustion engine with an exhaust or other fluid port.

In the embodiment illustrated in at least FIG. 1, the host device 10 includes a fan 16 turns around the flow axis 14 and propels the fluid stream 12. As illustrated, in the embodiment of FIG. 1, the longitudinal axis 116 is aligned with the flow axis. Thus, in the illustrated example, the impeller 130 turns around an axis that is parallel to the flow axis 14 of the fluid stream. In particular, the impeller 130 turns around an axis that is aligned with the turning axis 14 of the fan 16.

Furthermore, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the fan 16 of the host device 10 has an outer diameter 18, and the impeller 130 has an outer diameter 138. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer diameter 138 of the impeller 130 is less than the outer diameter 18 of the fan 16 to limit imposition such as backpressure to the host device 10 caused by the impeller 130.

In at least one embodiment, the fixed frame 110 includes a plenum that shrouds the impeller 130 to prevent the fluid stream 12 from escaping the energy recovery system and to promote maximum energy transfer from the fluid stream to the impeller. In at least one such embodiment, a plenum circumferentially surrounds the shaft 132 and impeller vanes (140a, 140b, 140c, 140d). In at least one example, the plenum engages the host device 10, defining a fluid seal, to prevent the fluid stream 12 from escaping the energy recovery system between the host device and the impeller 130. In at least one other example, the plenum is spaced from the host device to limit imposition such as backpressure to the host device caused by the energy recovery apparatus 100.

In FIG. 3, the fluid stream 12 is illustrated as an output fluid stream exiting the host device 10. It should be understood that the drawings and these descriptions thereof relate as well to input fluid streams that enter host devices.

An embodiment of an energy recovery apparatus 300 that includes a plenum 360 is illustrated in FIG. 4. In the illustrated embodiment, the plenum 360 is tubular, constructed in particular as a circular cylindrical wall. The energy recovery apparatus 300 includes a fixed frame 310 that includes or is defined by the plenum 360. The plenum 360 has a proximal end 312 for mounting the host device 210 and a distal end 314 opposite the proximal end 312. A longitudinal axis 316 is defined between the proximal end 312 and distal end 314. The plenum 360 shrouds an impeller 330 to prevent a fluid stream 212 of the host device 210 from escaping the energy recovery system 300 and to promote maximum energy transfer from the fluid stream of the host device to the impeller 330. In FIG. 4, the fluid stream 212 is illustrated as bi-directional to represent that the illustrated example relates to both input fluid streams entering the host device 210 and output fluid streams exiting the host device 210.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the impeller 330 includes a hub or shaft 332 and at least one impeller vane (340a, 340b). In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, exactly two impeller vanes (340a, 340b) are connected to the shaft 332. In other embodiments, a number of impeller vanes less or greater than two impeller vanes are connected to the shaft. The shaft 332 is rotatably mounted to the fixed frame 310 parallel to and in alignment with the longitudinal axis 316. The impeller vanes (340a, 340b) are connected to the shaft 332 to cause rotation of the impeller 330 when the fluid stream 212 of the host device 210 strikes the impeller vanes. In FIG. 4, impeller vanes (340a, 340b) are mounted to the shaft 332 in contact with the shaft without any spacing between the impeller vanes and the shaft.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the plenum 360 circumferentially surrounds the shaft 332 and impeller vanes (340a, 340b). A variable or optional spacing 334 is illustrated between the proximal end 312 of the plenum 360 and the host device 210. In some embodiments, the variable spacing 334 is selected such that the proximal end 312 of the plenum 360 is spaced from the host device 210 to permit some escape or entry of fluid from or into the fluid stream 212 of the host device 210 limit imposition to the host device caused by the energy recovery apparatus 300. In other embodiments, the optional spacing 334 is minimized or eliminated such that the plenum 360 engages the host device 210 to form a fluid seal and prevent any escape or entry of fluid from or into the fluid stream 212 between the host device and the impeller 330.

Furthermore, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, a propeller or fan 216 of the host device 210 has an outer diameter, and the impeller 330 of the energy recovery apparatus 300 has an outer diameter. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer diameter of the impeller is less than the outer diameter of the fan 216 to limit imposition to the host device 210 caused by the impeller 330. Furthermore, the plenum 360 of the energy recovery apparatus 300 has an inner and outer diameters, which may be optionally selected as less than or greater than the outer diameter of the fan 216 to select the imposition to the host device 210 caused by the energy recovery apparatus 300. The impeller 330, including the shaft 332 and impeller vanes (340a, 340b), and the propeller or fan 216 are shown in FIG. 5 as viewed along the longitudinal axis 316. The host device 210 may be, for example, a combustion engine with an exhaust or other fluid port.

FIG. 6 illustrates another embodiment of an energy recovery apparatus 400 in which an impeller 430 includes a shaft 432 and impeller vanes (440a, 440b). In the illustrated embodiment, the shaft 432 is rotatably mounted at opposing ends thereof to transverse beams 425. The transverse beams 425 are connected to the circular cylindrical interior wall of a tubular plenum 460 and diametrically span the interior of the plenum. The plenum 460 circumferentially surrounds the shaft 432 and impeller vanes (440a, 440b) along the entire longitudinal lengths of the shaft and impeller vanes. As such, the plenum 460 circumferentially surrounds and shrouds the impeller 430 along the entire length of the impeller.

FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of an energy recovery apparatus 500 in which an impeller 530 includes a shaft 532 and impeller vanes (540a, 540b). In the illustrated embodiment, the shaft 532 is rotatably mounted at no less than one end thereof to a transverse beam 525. The transverse beam 525 is connected to the circular cylindrical interior wall of a tubular plenum 560 that circumferentially surrounds the shaft 532 and impeller vanes (540a, 540b) along only a terminal portion of the entire longitudinal lengths of the shaft and impeller vanes. As such, the plenum 560 circumferentially surrounds and shrouds the impeller 530 along only a limited portion of the entire length of the impeller.

In FIG. 8, a cistern 600 contains a fluid 610 in which a conduit 620 having an inlet 630 and an outlet 640 is at least partially submerged. In the example illustrated in FIG. 8, the inlet 630 and outlet 640 are illustrated as above the upper surface 650 of the fluid 610 of the cistern 600 and a fluid 660 is illustrated as present in a lower portion of the conduit 620. It should be understood that the ends of the conduit 620 are nominally described here as the inlet 630 and the outlet 640 although fluid may enter and exit either end of the conduit without ambiguity. An elbow 650 is illustrated as formed by a bend in the conduit proximal the inlet 630 to represent a trap, sink, hood, seal or fluid lock or valve. In FIG. 8, the fluid 610 in the cistern 600 may act as a heat sink or heat source for the fluid 660. In another example, an impeller or other energy recovery device is placed in the conduit 620 or in fluid communication with the conduit to recovery energy from the flow of fluid through the conduit. For example, ambient flows such as tidal or natural waterway flows may provide for the flow of fluid through the conduit 620. In another example, forced flows such as cooling or heating fluids or other industrial or natural process fluids may provide for the flow of fluid through the conduit 620.

In a process 900 illustrated in FIG. 9, power is generated by a combustion engine in step 910. At least a portion of the power generated in step 910 is conveyed to a heat exchanger in step 912. In step 914, an impeller recovers at least a portion of the power conveyed to the heat exchanger. In step 916, a generator is driven directly or indirectly by the impeller. In step 918, a pump is driven by the generator. In step 920, fluid in a combustion engine coolant system is pumped by the pump driven in step 918. In step 924, a pump is driven by the generator. In step 926, fluid in a combustion engine lubricating fluid system is pumped by the pump driven in step 924. In step 928, an engine ignition power source is powered by the generator. In step 930, an engine intake air compression system is powered by the generator. In one particular example represented in FIG. 9, the engine referenced in steps 920, 926, 928 and 930 is the power generation combustion engine referenced in step 910 such that at least a portion of the power generated by the engine is recovered by the impeller referenced in step 914 and is utilized in the coolant, ignition, lubricating, and air compression systems of the power-generating engine.

In a process 1000 illustrated in FIG. 10, a HVAC-R system generates a fluid flow in step 1010. In step 1012, an impeller is turned by at least a portion of the fluid flow. In step 1014, a generator is driven directly or indirectly by the impeller. In step 1016, a pump, fan, or compressor is driven by the generator. In step 1018, fluid is provided to or from a reservoir, cistern, or geologic air cooling system by the pump.

While specific embodiments have been described in the foregoing, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications, omissions, and additions thereto can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of these descriptions, especially in view of the following additional descriptions.

One or more products of power generation and other processes are described herein. Numerous processes across myriad industrial sectors produce, as a function of operation, waste pressurized flow streams. Integration of a power generation device into these streams may provide an opportunity to convert the kinetic energy within these streams to useful work. Pressurized fluid streams, whether liquid or gaseous, produced by any number of operational iterations present an opportunity to increase overall efficiencies.

Impellers utilizing pressurized fluid streams as a motive force may be used in the production of electrical power to supplement that of a prime mover or to increase efficiencies in other processes. Electrical power produced through such an impeller could allow a reduction in parasitic load of a combustion engine through the decoupling of a coolant and or lubricant pump as well as a generator or alternator used in the charging of energy storage devices from such an engine. Such a decoupling may also reduce work load and engine wear leading to a reduction in maintenance requirements that may then result in savings in both fuel and maintenance costs simultaneously. In other applications, such as HVAC-R for example, there is an opportunity to capture airflow for the production of electrical power to operate a system capable of displacing a portion of power input to such a system with energy recovered from operation of a condenser or cooling tower fan or electrical power to operate a system capable of increasing the temperature differential between that of the HVAC-R refrigerant and the environment external to its cooling system thereby increasing heat transfer efficiency and reducing operation and maintenance costs in such a unit.

A. Additional Overview

The figures and these descriptions relate to impellers of various types including a modified vertical axis wind turbine functioning as an impeller, a generator, a pump, a reservoir consisting of a vessel, a shut-off valve, an inlet connected to a shut-off valve, an evaporator condensate inlet, an overflow outlet, a power interruption circuit and ancillary equipment including, but not limited to, wiring, tubing frame and support structures.

B. Plenum

A plenum of lightweight material is provided in at least one example for the purpose of directing airflow from a condenser fan.

A plenum of lightweight material may be situated downstream of a condenser fan for the purpose of directing condenser fan airflow in such a manner as to permit optimal operation of an impeller. A plenum could be mounted directly to or immediately adjacent a HVAC-R unit to assure positioning downstream of a condenser fan for such a purpose. A plenum could be mounted adjacent to a HVAC-R unit with a separation between a plenum and such a unit to reduce potential back pressure from the directional control exercised over condenser fan airflow. Alternatively a plenum could be manufactured with backflow venting to permit excursion of back pressure air external to the direction of airflow to reduce or eliminate back pressure obstruction of condenser fan air flow. A combination of both elevated installation creating an open space between the lowest portion of a plenum and the uppermost point of a HVAC-R unit as well as backflow venting of the plenum structure could be employed to further protect from back pressure buildup.

C. Windscreen

A windscreen may be employed in an alternative to a plenum to permit lower restriction of HVAC-R condenser or cooling tower Condenser air flow.

A windscreen may be configured to be attached to or adjacent an impeller unit for the purpose of directing ambient wind airflow at the perimeter of such an impeller unit in such a manner as to permit an impeller unit to recover and convert energy available in such ambient wind.

A windscreen may be configured to shield an impeller from ambient wind through the placement of such windscreen attached or adjacent to such impeller and designed to prevent ambient wind from transiting a portion of the perimeter of an impeller. The portion of the perimeter of an impeller obstructed by such windscreen may be as little as 5 percent or as great as 80 percent. Obstruction of 25 percent of the perimeter of an impeller configured to operate in conjunction with a HVAC-R condenser or cooling tower that is quadrangle in configuration can be accomplished through a windscreen positioned in such manner as to obstruct ambient airflow across one half of two contiguous side of a quadrangle transiting the shared corner of such sides.

In a HVAC-R condenser or cooling tower configured in a non-angular shape such as circular, a windscreen may be positioned in such manner as to obstruct ambient wind airflow transiting a portion of its perimeter equivalent to as little as 5 percent or as great as 80 percent of the perimeter.

Placement of such a windscreen in a position to obstruct ambient-wind airflow approaching an impeller from the area of an impeller experiencing the least such ambient wind such that there is no obstruction of ambient wind over the area experiencing the most frequent of such winds by selection of placement of such windscreen outside the arc of prevailing and predominant wind source directions may lead to the greatest energy capture.

D. Impeller

An impeller constructed lightweight materials is provided in at least one example.

An impeller situated in the downstream airflow or fluid flow of a condenser or cooling tower fan motor or exhaust outlet of a combustion engine or upstream of such a combustion engine situated within the airflow of such an engine's intake and constructed and manufactured of lightweight materials capable of withstanding long duration exposure to the forces of such airflow as well as the heat of a combustion engine exhaust stream and or installation in an out of doors environment with its attendant exposure to the elements. An impeller may employ the airflow of a condenser or cooling tower fan or a combustion engine intake or exhaust as its motive force to convert this kinetic energy to electrical energy through the implementation of a generator driven by such an impeller. While the embodiments herein may refer to airflow, flow of fluids other than air may be utilized. Shrouded by a plenum as elsewhere herein described such an impeller may be configured in such a manner as to limit its cross-sectional imposition of resistance to airflow to less than that of a condenser fan motor hub or such as to render such impedance of combustion engine intake or exhaust airflow to levels within the tolerances required for operation of such engine. Such configuration will appreciably reduce or eliminate potential airflow limitation and back pressure creation. A windscreen may also be employed for partial restricting ambient airflow to permit the impeller to make use of wind.

Protection of a condenser in a HVAC-R system from airflow impedance is significant in that such impedance can have a significant negative impact on performance and energy consumption. An impeller as described herein through positioning as described and materials dimensions limited as noted may reduce such airflow impedance further by having its blades configured in such a manner as to direct its outflow air toward the dead space existing over the center of a motor hub/condenser or cooling tower fan blade unit to reduce airflow resistance in line of fan outflow. Alternatively, an impeller as described herein through positioning as described and materials dimensions limited as noted may reduce such airflow impedance further by having its blades configured in such a manner as to direct its outflow air outward from its center directing such airflow out of the area downstream of such a fan reducing impedance potential. An impeller as described herein through positioning as described and materials dimensions limited as noted may reduce such airflow impedance further by, through the alternating orientation of its blades, directing its outflow air medially or radially or both medially and radially to militate any potential airflow impedance through directing such airflow out of the flow path.

An impeller may additionally be configured in such a manner as to have its blades connected to a central axis by means of alternating length connectors such that its blades are arranged with both an internal and external element each directing flow along the axis of an impeller with outflow being directed alternately inward by such internally situated blades and outward by such externally situated blades to further reduce flow impedance.

An impeller configured with blades attached at alternating lengths could be configured with the lengths alternating in a 1:1 inward offload to outward offload or in other ratios as may be beneficial in the reduction of flow impedance such as 1:2 or 1:3 or more to utilize the advantage inherent in greater availability of offload potential to outward flow.

Impeller airfoils or blades may further be configured as a flat, convex or concave surface as is appropriate for the reduction of airflow impedance in specific iterations to reduce the potential for increased power requirements to operate a condenser or cooling tower fan motor used to operate a HVAC-R condenser or cooling tower system thereby permitting greater energy savings through the implementation of such a system as herein described.

Such concavity or convexity of an impeller airfoil or blade may permit such an impeller to additionally be driven by available ambient wind obviating the need for a windscreen to enhance the capacity of such an impeller to capture energy from such ambient wind.

E. Heat Exchanger

A heat exchanger of a type known to those of skill in the art may be implemented preceding or following an impeller situated as elsewhere herein described for the purpose of recovery of thermal energy produced in a combustion engine or other power production system.

In the case of combustion or gas turbine exhaust streams, such exhaust streams may be directed to a manifold in which may be situated one or more heat exchangers for the purpose of recovery of thermal energy from process exhaust with such exhaust then directed through a directional mechanism or pipe system in which may be situated an impeller for the conversion of remaining kinetic energy to useful work in the production of electrical energy for application as elsewhere herein described. Such flows exiting a manifold may enjoy the benefit of reducing potential backpressure on a combustion engine or gas turbine while permitting laminar flow of exhaust gases over an impeller mitigating variability in pressures and flow rates through the application of such laminar flow exhaust streams as well as a reduction in thermal degradation of impeller materials.

While it is recognized that extraction of this thermal energy will of necessity reduce volume airflow in such a configuration there may be an opportunity to capture the remaining kinetic energy from such exhaust stream while permitting the application of such thermal energy to other beneficial use as in space/water heating, power generation, space cooling through the implementation of a thermally driven chiller or other such beneficial purpose.

F. Generator

A direct or alternating current generator included in at least one example for the provision of electrical power to operate system components or other equipment as desired is disclosed herein.

A generator may be configured to utilize the mechanical energy transferred from an impeller as its motive force in the production of electrical power. Alternatively, an impeller may be configured to function as the rotor component of an induction generator system with its housing constructed in such a manner as to provide support for and proximity of induction coils.

A generator may be configured to operate utilizing electrical power produced through the implementation of an impeller as described above for the provision of such electrical power to other system processes or integrated storage media as may prove beneficial.

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G. Power Interruption Circuit

A power interruption circuit in at least one example is configured to interrupt power to a HVAC-R unit to prevent operation of such a unit in the event of failure of certain components to prevent operation outside design parameters.

A power interruption circuit can be configured to sense operation of both a HVAC-R compressor and condenser or cooling tower fan motor interrupting power to the unit should a compressor begin operation as designed with a failure of a condenser or cooling tower fan motor to operate during operation of such compressor. Such a circuit can prevent operational refrigerant temperatures from exceeding design limits and causing compressor failure secondary to such operation outside design parameters.

H. Intake Air Compression System

A system for the introduction of pressurized air to a combustion engine intake powered by such electrical energy produced through the implementation of an impeller as elsewhere herein described may be operated in such systems where compatible for the increase in air volume intake in a combustion engine to increase pressures within the combustion chamber(s) of such engine thereby increasing power output capacity of such an engine, thus causing an increase in efficiency.

It should be noted that the addition of such pressurized air to the intake of a combustion engine, while increasing efficiencies of such engines, increases exhaust airflows from which power to operate an air compression system will be drawn thereby reducing the power burden of such a system throughout its operational context.

I. Reservoir

A reservoir for the collection of water that may include rainwater runoff, condensate recovered from an evaporator, wastewater collected in a cistern following clarification in a primary cistern and prior to disposal and or water drawn from a supply line providing water service to a structure served by a HVAC-R unit implemented as a heat sink is disclosed herein.

A reservoir may be positioned downstream of a water collection system for the gathering of rainwater runoff, wastewater and or condensate from a HVAC-R system and have an inlet situated in such a manner as to permit unobstructed inflow of water from such collection systems. A reservoir may additionally be configured to draw water through a control valve from a supply line providing water service to a structure. Such a control valve could be configured to permit water to be drawn from such a supply line should reservoir levels reach a predetermined low point and to stop the inflow of water from such a supply at such a point as to prevent a reservoir's water level reaching an overflow outlet. A high point level in a reservoir at which shut off of water inflow from a supply line could occur could be positioned at a point lower than that of a rainwater, wastewater or evaporator condensate inlet to prevent backflow or obstruction of such flows from their respective sources.

Such a reservoir may take the form of a specifically constructed cistern for the collection of waters as elsewhere herein described or as a secondary cistern following a septic system to take advantage of wastewater outflow from a primary septic system which would have had its solids settled in the primary system. Such water as a cooling medium would present the advantage of geologic cooling coupled with routine flow through a septic system prior to outflow to either a drain field or municipal wastewater system.

J. Geologic Cooling System

A system of conduits such as piping or tubing placed in-ground or situated within a reservoir or cistern as elsewhere herein described for the purpose of cooling air for application to a condenser coil or cooling tower heat exchange component to increase the heat transfer capability of such a condenser coil or cooling tower heat exchange component thereby increasing the efficiency of the condenser or cooling tower heat exchange component cooling of HVAC-R refrigerant and improving overall system efficiencies is disclosed herein. Such tubing or piping may be situated within subsurface ground as in a Ground Source Heat Pumping system (GSHP) or within a reservoir or cistern to permit heat exchange to the fluids contained therein permitting heat removal through the transfer of heat to such waters as occupy such a reservoir or cistern as well as the exchange of fluids with fresh wastewater, rainwater, and or evaporator condensate and the contact of such a reservoir with sub-surface ground at stable temperatures. Such a geologic air cooling system may be configured to draw air or other fluids through a system of subsurface piping or tubing where heat exchange occurs. The subsurface portions of the system may be surrounded by subsurface fluid such as an underground water reservoir, or may be surrounded in geologic matter such as dirt and rock with or without groundwater content.

Geologically cooled fluids may be applied as described to a condenser coil for the purpose of facilitating transfer of refrigerant heat to the external environment thereby enhancing overall process efficiency. Geologically cooled air or other fluids may alternatively be applied to the cooling system of a combustion engine power generation system to facilitate adequate cooling of such a system.

K. Hot Water Pre-Heater

A heat exchange system for the utilization of thermal energy recovered from a facility through the implementation of a HVAC-R system may be configured to accept condenser airflow downstream of such a condenser for the purpose of transfer of the thermal energy contained in such an airflow to water prior to its entry into a heating system designed to elevate water temperature to that required by such a facility.

Such a heat exchange system configured in a manner known to those of skill in the art may accept condenser airflow output transiting such airflow through an exchanger capable of permitting the transfer of thermal energy from such airflow to water within a heat exchanger for the purpose of increasing the temperature of water reaching a facility water heating system thereby reducing the usage of external energy for such purpose as well as the attendant costs of such usage of externally supplied energy.

It will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art that a Reservoir/Geologic Air Cooling System and Heat Exchanger are variations of or may function as components of a Hot Water Pre-Heater system as described to permit the recovery of the greatest level thermal energy possible.

L. Pump

A pump configured to transfer water from a reservoir or a pump or fan configured to transfer air through a cooling system as elsewhere herein described for application to a distribution system is disclosed herein.

A pump powered by a generator may be implemented to draw water from a reservoir or a pump or fan may be implemented to draw or direct air through a geologic cooling system of piping or tubing for application to a coolant distribution system. Such a coolant distribution system configured of pipes, tubes or other such transfer mechanism or device terminating in nozzles, misters or, outlets permitting free flow of water or other such mechanism for transfer of coolant and its application to a HVAC-R condenser coil system.

M. Coolant Distribution Unit

A coolant distribution system may be implemented to apply water spray, mist, free flowing water or geologically cooled air or other fluids to a condenser unit or cooling tower.

A coolant distribution system may draw geologically cooled water, air or other fluids by means of piping, tubing or other mechanisms for the purpose of applying such coolant to a condenser coil such as that of a HVAC-R system. Such a coolant distribution system may be configured to apply a water spray or mist, free flowing water or geologically cooled air or other fluids to a condenser coil to facilitate the transfer of heat from the condenser coil to an external or subsurface environment through the process of evaporative or conductive heat transfer. For purposes of application of a spray or mist or combination of both spray and mist a coolant distribution system may have nozzles, misters or other such mechanisms for the application of sprayed or misted water or a combination of both sprayed and misted water or geologically cooled air or other fluids to a condenser coil. For the application of flowing water, a water distribution system may be configured in such a manner as to release flowing water from piping or tubing or other such mechanisms at an upper exterior portion of a condenser coil permitting gravitational downward flow of the water along the coil to facilitate heat transfer.

Thermal efficiency of the condenser can increase as much as one percent for degree Celsius of temperature differential. An integrated system having geologically cooled fluid applied to a condenser unit or cooling tower is thus beneficial over non-integrated systems.

N. Connections of Main Elements and Sub-Elements of One or More Embodiments

A plenum that may be positioned in such a way as to direct and control airflow downstream of a condenser fan or combustion engine exhaust outlet or upstream of a combustion engine intake is (VAWT) to accept airflow along, rather than perpendicular to, its axis positioned with its shaft centered over the condenser fan of a HVAC-R unit and its blade diameter less than that of the condenser fan and or such that its footprint will not unduly impede airflow of a HVAC-R condenser fan or a combustion engine exhaust outlet or upstream of a combustion engine intake will use the airflow as its motive force.

An impeller configuration could have a total cross-sectional footprint less than that of the diameter of the hub of a condenser fan motor and blade configuration or such that its footprint will not unduly impede airflow of a combustion engine exhaust outlet or upstream of a combustion engine intake will use the such airflow as its motive force to limit airflow impedance. The operation of an impeller may drive a generator supplying power to a pump or system of pumps that may draw water from a reservoir or draw or force air through a geologic cooling system for application to a condenser coil or used in the transfer of cooling or lubricating fluids in a combustion engine or other cooling application as noted elsewhere herein.

A reservoir may be situated downstream of a rainwater collection system and or an evaporator to capture rainwater runoff or evaporator condensate and may also have an inlet that may draw water from a building's supply line should evaporator condensate not be sufficient to supply the system. A reservoir may have an overflow lower than the inlet for evaporator condensate and a valve of a style well known to those of skill in the art to control flow from the building's supply line.

A reservoir may additionally be situated downstream of a primary solids settling vessel used in wastewater disposal.

Water drawn from a reservoir may be applied to the condenser coil as a spray, a mist, a combination of spray and mist or, less likely as free-flowing water applied at the top of the coil and allowed to flow downward. A mist or spray through nozzles or misters should cover as near to 100 percent of the condenser coil as may be possible to maximize heat transfer. Geologically or water-cooled air may be applied to a condenser coil through the implementation of a substantially similar distribution system to provide for application of such cooled air to the greatest possible condenser surface area.

O. Alternative Embodiments of Invention

As may be realized from the operation of one or more exemplary embodiments of such a process as described, herein the implementation of impeller driven electrical power generation has myriad other potential configurations.

An impeller may be situated in such a manner as to be enclosed within the condenser portion of a HVAC-R unit upstream of a fan and motor unit purposed to generate airflow across the coil element of such a condenser unit to permit the operation of such impeller within the fluid stream between such condenser coil unit and operative fan/motor assembly.

An impeller may be placed within the stream of airflows of opportunity in existing processes for the purpose of conversion of kinetic to electrical energy through the capture of such kinetic energy from airflows of opportunity.

An impeller could be situated such that airflow of the intake and or exhaust of a combustion turbine, gas turbine or other such device for the purpose of conversion of the kinetic energy within such an airflow to electrical energy through the implementation of a generator driven by such an impeller.

By means of example, the intake airflow for a General Electric Jenbacher J620GS engine has a displacement of 124.8 liters (0.1248 m3) and operating at the GE specified 1500 rpm has a per second intake volume of ((1500*.1248)/60) or 3.12 m3/minute with exhaust flow volumes of 1.2-1.7 times this volume owing to the expansion of the intake air related to temperature increase and addition of fuel mass. These volumes and pressures are amenable to situation of an impeller within the airflow for the conversion of kinetic energy to electrical energy through the operation of an electrical power generator driven by such an impeller.

P. Operation of An Embodiment

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a plenum may be positioned in such a way as to direct and control airflow downstream of a condenser fan adjacent to or securely attached to a HVAC-R condenser unit. Within such a plenum an impeller may be positioned with its shaft centered over the hub of a condenser fan of a HVAC-R unit and its blade diameter equal to or less than that of the condenser fan. So positioned an impeller may use the condenser fan airflow as its motive force. An impeller total material cross-sectional footprint may be designed to be less than that of the diameter of the hub of a condenser fan motor and blade configuration to limit airflow impedance through the limitation of its obstruction of airflow to less than that of the “dead space” created within such an airflow by the hub of a condenser fan configuration. The operation of an impeller may convert airflow kinetic energy to electrical power through the operation of a generator driven by such an impeller configuration. Such a generator may supply power to a pump for the purpose of operating such a pump to transfer water from a reservoir or geologically cooled air or water through a system of piping for application to a condenser coil. Water or cooled air so applied may increase the heat loss of the HVAC-R refrigerant contained within a condenser unit through an increase in evaporative and or conductive heat transfer to such water or air. To supply water to a water application system a reservoir may be situated downstream of HVAC-R evaporator to capture condensate, and or of a rainwater collection system of piping or tubing, and or a secondary cistern, vessel or reservoir following a primary septic tank collection system for the utilization of such clarified water for use in a heat exchange application and or may also have an inlet that may draw water from a building's supply line should evaporator condensate not be sufficient to supply the system. The reservoir may have an overflow lower than the inlet for evaporator condensate and a valve of a style well known to those of skill in the art to control flow from the building's supply line. Water collected in a rainwater recycling system may also be made available to such a reservoir if adequate filtration is applied prior to its delivery to such a reservoir. Water drawn from a reservoir may be applied to a condenser coil as a spray, a mist, a combination of spray and mist or, less likely as free-flowing water applied at the top of the coil and allowed to flow downward. A mist or spray through nozzles or misters or free flowing water through outlets should contact as near to 100 percent of the condenser coil as is possible to maximize heat transfer. The use of geologically cooled air in place of water would result in no increase in water usage and powered in a manner consistent with that of a water distribution system a geologically cooled air process could use a pump to force or draw air through a system of piping with or without a fluid occupying its lowermost segments for the purpose of enhanced air cooling prior to application to a condenser through a distribution system substantially similar to that which might be used for the application of water. For purposes of cooling air for application to a condenser coil, air may be forced or drawn through a system of piping or tubing occupying space within a reservoir to facilitate heat exchange.

What has been described and illustrated herein are one or more embodiments of the invention along with some of its variations. The terms, descriptions and figures used herein are set forth by way of illustration only and are not meant as limitations. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many variations are possible within the spirit and scope of the invention in which all terms are meant in their broadest, reasonable sense unless otherwise indicated. Any headings utilized within the description are for convenience only and have no legal or limiting effect.

While the embodiments have been described in connection with the various embodiments of the various figures, it is to be understood that other similar embodiments may be used or modifications and additions may be made to the described embodiment for performing the same function without deviating therefrom. Therefore, the disclosed embodiments should not be limited to any single embodiment, but rather should be construed in breadth and scope in accordance with the appended claims.

Claims

1. An energy recovery apparatus for placement in a fluid stream of a host device, the fluid stream entering or exiting the host device along a flow axis, the energy recovery apparatus comprising:

a fixed frame having a proximal end for mounting the host device and a distal end opposite the proximal end, the fixed frame defining a longitudinal axis for placement parallel to the flow axis of the host device when the proximal end of the fixed frame is mounted to the host device;

a shaft rotatably mounted to the fixed frame parallel to the longitudinal axis; and

at least one impeller vane connected to the shaft to cause rotation of the shaft relative to the fixed frame when the fluid stream of the host device strikes the impeller vane;

an energy transfer unit linked to the shaft to transfer energy from the energy recovery apparatus when the shaft rotates thereby recovering energy from the fluid stream.

2. An energy recovery apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the energy transfer unit comprises an electrical generator that generates an electrical voltage when the shaft rotates.

3. An energy recovery apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the energy transfer unit comprises a heat pump that transfers heat from a heat source to a heat destination when the shaft rotates.

4. An energy recovery apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the energy transfer unit comprises a pump or conveyor that transfers material from a source to a destination when the shaft rotates.

5. An energy recovery apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the impeller vane is a helical vane having a uniform radial width defined between an interior margin spaced from the longitudinal axis by a first uniform radius and an exterior margin spaced from the longitudinal axis by a second uniform radius.

6. An energy recovery apparatus according to claim 1, wherein exactly four impeller vanes are connected to the shaft, each impeller vane extending circumferentially around the longitudinal axis through a circumferential angle having a magnitude between 170 degrees and 190 degrees circumferentially relative to the longitudinal axis.

7. An energy recovery apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the fixed frame comprises a cage defined at least in part by:

two longitudinal beams extending parallel to the longitudinal axis on opposing sides of the longitudinal axis;

support struts connected to the longitudinal beams, the support struts extending diagonally relative to the longitudinal axis.

8. An energy recovery apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the fixed frame comprises a plenum circumferentially surrounding the shaft and at the least one impeller vane.

9. An energy recovery apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the plenum is spaced from the host device to limit imposition to the host device caused by the energy recovery apparatus.

10. An energy recovery apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the host device includes a fan that propels the fluid stream, and wherein the fan of the host device turns around the flow axis.

11. An energy recovery apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the longitudinal axis is aligned with the flow axis.

12. An energy recovery apparatus according to claim 10, wherein:

the fan of the host device has a first diameter;

the shaft and the at least one impeller vane define an impeller having a second diameter; and

the second diameter is less than the first diameter to limit imposition to the host device caused by the impeller.

13. An energy recovery system comprising:

a host device configured to produce a fluid stream along a flow axis;

a fixed frame having a proximal end mounted on the host device and a distal end opposite the proximal end, the fixed frame defining a longitudinal axis parallel to the flow axis of the host device;

a shaft rotatably mounted to the fixed frame parallel to the longitudinal axis;

at least one impeller vane connected to the shaft to cause rotation of the shaft relative to the fixed frame when the fluid stream of the host device strikes the impeller vane; and

an energy transfer unit linked to the shaft to transfer energy from the energy recovery system when the shaft rotates thereby recovering energy from the fluid stream.

14. An energy recovery system according to claim 13, wherein the energy transfer unit comprises an electrical generator, a heat pump, a material pump, or a conveyor.

15. An energy recovery system according to claim 13, wherein the host device comprises a heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, or refrigeration (HVAC-R) device.

16. An energy recovery system according to claim 13, wherein:

the fixed frame comprises a plenum circumferentially surrounding the shaft and the at least one impeller vane; and

the plenum is spaced from the host device to limit imposition to the host device caused by the energy recovery apparatus.

17. An energy recovery system according to claim 13, wherein:

the fixed frame comprises a plenum circumferentially surrounding the shaft and the at least one impeller vane; and

the plenum engages the host device to prevent the fluid stream from escaping the energy recovery system between the host device and the at least one impeller.

18. An energy recovery system according to claim 13, wherein the host device includes a fan that propels the fluid stream, and wherein the fan of the host devices turns around the flow axis.

19. An energy recovery system according to claim 18, wherein the longitudinal axis is aligned with the flow axis.

20. An energy recovery system according to claim 18, wherein:

the fan of the host device has a first diameter;

the shaft and the at least one impeller vane define an impeller having a second diameter; and

the second diameter is less than the first diameter to limit imposition to the host device caused by the impeller.

21. A geologic heat exchange system comprising:

at least one conduit in a geologic environment in thermal contact with the geologic environment; and

a coolant distribution system in fluid communication with the at least one conduit configured to supply a fluid at a first temperature to the at least one conduit and to receive the fluid at a second temperature from the at least one conduit such that heat is exchanged between the fluid and the geologic environment through the at least one conduit.

22. The geologic heat exchange system of claim 21, further comprising a condenser coil in thermal contact with the fluid of the coolant distribution system such that heat is exchanged between the condenser coil and the geologic environment by the coolant distribution system and the at least one conduit.

23. The geologic heat exchange system of claim 21, further comprising a cooling tower configured to provide the fluid at the first temperature to the coolant distribution system and to receive the fluid at the second temperature from the coolant distribution system such that heat is exchanged between the cooling tower and the geologic environment by the coolant distribution system and the at least one conduit.