ENERGY RECOVERY SYSTEM FOR MACHINE WITH CYLINDER ACTIVATION AND DEACTIVATION SYSTEM

Abstract

An energy recovery system for a machine with a cylinder activation and deactivation system is disclosed. The energy recovery system can include a first cylinder group circuit including a first pump, a first condenser, a first turbine, and a first flow path. The first flow path can be connected in fluid communication with the first pump, the first condenser, and the first turbine. The energy recovery system can additionally include a second cylinder group circuit including a second pump, a second condenser, a second turbine, and a second flow path. The second flow path can be connected in fluid communication with the second pump, the second condenser, and the second turbine. The first flow path can be in thermal communication with a first group of cylinders of the machine, and the second flow path can be in thermal communication with a second group of cylinders of the machine. The machine can include a cylinder activation and deactivation system configured to deactivate at least one of the first group of cylinders and the second group of cylinders.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure is directed to an energy recovery system, and more particularly, to an energy recovery system for a machine having a cylinder activation and deactivation system.

BACKGROUND

A wide variety of machines may include and utilize an internal combustion engine as a source of energy. Some of such machines, and the engines thereof, may include a system which may be configured to deactivate some of the cylinders within the engine while maintaining others as active in order to reduce the amount of fuel consumed by the engine. Although such a system may be effective in improving fuel economy and reducing the consumption of fuel to a degree, such a system may nonetheless be characterized by energy losses and/or may be incapable of providing the power required for some applications while achieving a desired fuel efficiency.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,235,077 (the '077 patent) to Bryant, discloses a combination engine with an internal combustion engine section and a vapor engine section. The heat generated by the internal combustion section is transferred to a coolant (which is also a working fluid), such as water or an organic fluid, circulating around the engine block of the internal combustion section. This working fluid is converted to vapor and transported to a boiler through which exhaust gases pass. The exhaust gases superheat the vapor which is used to run the Rankine cycle of the combination engine. In order to increase fuel economy, the engine may have a solenoid or manually actuated device to shut down one or more of the internal combustions cylinders in order to maintain an optimum temperature for Rankine cycle operation. While this can be accomplished by manual controls, it is preferable to do this automatically. In the preferred automatic mechanism, an electronic control module will monitor engine temperatures and shut down part or all of the internal combustion cylinders when the engine temperature is at the maximum desired.

The present disclosure is directed to mitigating or eliminating one or more of the drawbacks discussed above.

SUMMARY

One aspect of the present disclosure is directed to an energy recovery system for a machine. The energy recovery system can include a first cylinder group circuit including a first pump, a first condenser, a first turbine, and a first flow path. The first flow path can be connected in fluid communication with the first pump, the first condenser, and the first turbine. The energy recovery system can additionally include a second cylinder group circuit including a second pump, a second condenser, a second turbine, and a second flow path. The second flow path can be connected in fluid communication with the second pump, the second condenser, and the second turbine. The first flow path can be in thermal communication with a first group of cylinders of the machine, and the second flow path can be in thermal communication with a second group of cylinders of the machine. The machine can include a cylinder activation and deactivation system configured to deactivate at least one of the first group of cylinders and the second group of cylinders.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to an energy recovery system for a machine. The energy recovery system can include a first cylinder group circuit configured to direct a first working fluid along a first flow path in fluid communication with a first pump, a first condenser and a first turbine. The first cylinder group circuit can additionally be configured to direct the first working fluid along the first flow path in thermal communication with a first group of cylinders of the machine downstream of the first pump and upstream of the first turbine. The energy recovery system can also include a second cylinder group circuit configured to direct a second working fluid along a second flow path in fluid communication with a second pump, a second condenser and a second turbine. The second cylinder group circuit can additionally be configured to direct the second working fluid along the second flow path in thermal communication with a second group of cylinders of the machine downstream of the second pump and upstream of the second turbine. The machine can include a cylinder activation and deactivation system configured to activate and deactivate at least one of the first group of cylinders and the second group of cylinders.

Yet another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a method of generating energy from a machine. The method can include the step of directing a first working fluid in thermal communication with a first group of cylinders of the machine via a first pump along a first flow path in response to the activation of the first group of cylinders. The method can also include the steps of employing the first working fluid to power a first turbine operably connected with the first working fluid downstream of the first group of cylinders and condensing the first working fluid along the first flow path for reuse. The method can additionally include the step of directing a second working fluid in thermal communication with a second group of cylinders of the machine via a second pump along a second flow path in response to the activation of the first group of cylinders. The method can further include the steps of employing the second working fluid to power a second turbine operably connected with the second working fluid downstream of the second group of cylinders and condensing the second working fluid along the second flow path for reuse.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic and diagrammatic illustration of an exemplary machine with a cylinder activation and deactivation system including an energy recovery system according to an exemplary disclosed embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a schematic and diagrammatic illustration of an exemplary machine with a cylinder activation and deactivation system including an energy recovery system according to an exemplary disclosed embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic plan view of an exemplary engine illustrating a portion of the first cylinder group flow path and the second cylinder group flow path of the energy recovery system according to an exemplary disclosed embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic plan view of an exemplary engine illustrating a portion of the first cylinder group flow path and the second cylinder group flow path of the energy recovery system according to an exemplary disclosed embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a schematic and diagrammatic illustration of the exemplary disclosed energy recovery system for a machine with a cylinder activation and deactivation system according to an exemplary disclosed embodiment; and

FIG. 6 is a schematic and diagrammatic illustration of an alternate embodiment of the exemplary disclosed energy recovery system illustrated in FIG. 5.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure is directed to an energy recovery system 10 which can be implemented and utilized with any of a variety of machines which may utilize a cylinder activation and deactivation system. Reference will now be made in detail to specific embodiments or features, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Generally, corresponding or similar reference numbers will be used, when possible, throughout the drawings to refer to the same or corresponding parts. Elements in schematics, included in the drawings, and described herein, may not be drawn with dimensions or to any realistic scale, but may rather be drawn to illustrate different aspects of the disclosure.

FIGS. 1 & 2 each provide an illustrative context of an operational application and implementation of the present disclosure, showing a schematic illustration of an exemplary machine 12 which can include an internal combustion power system 14 which can include two or more groups of cylinders 16, a cylinder activation and deactivation system 18, and the energy recovery system 10. However, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, any of the one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed energy recovery system 10 may be implemented and utilized with any of a variety of machines which can incorporate and utilize a cylinder activation and deactivation system 18 and may perform one or more of types of operations associated with one or more industries and/or applications, such as, and without limitation, mining, construction, farming, transportation, power generation, power conversion, and the like, including but not limited to automobiles, heavy trucks, busses, and other heavy highway vehicles, construction, forestry, mining, agricultural, and industrial machines including but not limited to heavy off-highway construction trucks, mining trucks, articulated trucks, dozers, compactors, drag lines, excavators, tractors, loaders, scrapers, graders, and the like, railway locomotives, or marine vessels as well as stationary machines including but not limited to electric power generators or pumping stations for oil or gas.

As provided above, each exemplary machine 12 schematically illustrated in FIGS. 1 & 2 can include the internal combustion power system 14 which can include at least one exhaust manifold 19 associated with the two or more groups of cylinders 16, each of which may generate heat and/or thermal energy. Each of the two or more groups of cylinders 16 of the internal combustion power system 14 can be included in at least one of one or more engines of the internal combustion power system 14, and can be disposed and/or formed in an engine block or engine block thereof. Each of the one or more engines, such as engine 31 shown in the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 and engines 56, 60 as shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2, can be embodied in any configuration, including but not limited to a v-configuration, a w-configuration, an in-line configuration, as well as a radial or horizontally opposed configuration and can utilize any fuel such as gasoline, natural gas, diesel, and alcohol, or otherwise can be any other type of engine which can produce mechanical energy from the combustion of a combustible medium. Furthermore, the two or more groups of cylinders 16, illustrated generally and schematically in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 as first group of cylinders (hereinafter referred to as “first group of cylinders 20” or “first cylinder group 20”) and second group of cylinders (hereinafter referred to as “second group of cylinders 22” or “second cylinder group 22”), can each include one or more, or a plurality of individual cylinders, such as cylinders 133 and cylinders 233 illustrated in FIGS. 3 & 4. Each individual cylinder, which can be included as a constituent member of one of the two or more groups of cylinders 16, can include a piston (not shown) which may be disposed within each individual cylinder and conventionally connected and/or operable to transmit reciprocating motion into rotational motion to turn propulsion elements (such as propulsion elements 40, as provided herein), an generator, or the like. In particular, in the exemplary embodiments shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, each of the one or more engines, such as engine 31 and engines 56, 60, as well as the two or more groups of cylinders 16 and the additional components thereof, can be operable to produce power and mechanical energy (as well as heat and/or thermal energy as a byproduct thereof in a known manner) supplied through the drivetrain 36 of each machine 12, and in one example, through a differential 38 to propulsion elements 40 (which can be wheels, tracks, propellers, turbines, or any other known means of propulsion) and axles 42 thereof via a drive shaft 44. Furthermore, although the two or more groups of cylinders 16 are illustrated and depicted as including a first group of cylinders 20 and a second group of cylinders 22, additional groups of cylinders are contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure, wherein the internal combustion power system 14 can include a third group of cylinders, a fourth group of cylinders, and additional groups of cylinders, each of which can be disposed in an engine block.

Each exemplary machine 12 schematically illustrated in FIGS. 1 & 2 can also include a cylinder activation and deactivation system 18 which is configured to selectively activate and/or deactivate one or more of the two or more groups of cylinders 16. In one embodiment, each exemplary machine 12 schematically illustrated in FIGS. 1 & 2 can include a master controller 26 and may additionally include a cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24. In one example, the cylinder activation and deactivation system 18 may include the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24 which may be operatively and controllably connected and configured to selectively activate and/or deactivate one or more of the two or more groups of cylinders 16 which, in one embodiment, can be in response to one or more electronically monitored readings or transmitted signals from the master controller 26, as further provided herein. In particular, in the illustrated exemplary embodiments shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the cylinder activation and deactivation system 18, and in one example, the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24 thereof, can be operably, and in one example, electronically and controllably connected, in part, to selectively connect and/or disconnect the fluid communication of a combustible medium or fuel to the group of individual cylinders included in the first group of cylinders 20 as well as the group of individual cylinders included in the second group of cylinders 22. In one example, the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24 can be connected in electronic communication to transmit one or more activation or deactivation signals to one or more electronically controllable valves (not shown) or other fluid control devices which, which, in response, can be actuated to selectively and fluidly connect or disconnect, respectively, the supply of fuel to the first and/or the second group of cylinders 22 as provided herein. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the cylinder activation and deactivation system 18 may additionally include one or more mechanical components (not shown) which can be connected in electronically controllable communication with the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24 and actuated to mechanically connect or disconnect the first and/or second group of cylinders, 20, 22 in response to one or more activation or deactivation signals therefrom. Alternatively, the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24 and/or the functionality thereof consistent with any one or more of the foregoing examples and embodiments may be included in and/or performed by the master controller 26.

Each exemplary machine 12 schematically illustrated in FIGS. 1 & 2 can additionally include the energy recovery system 10 as well as an associated energy recovery system controller 28. The energy recovery system 10 can be operatively, fluidly and controllably connected and actuated to selectively exchange thermal energy with and generate energy from one or more of each of the two or more groups of cylinders 16 which, in one embodiment, can be in response to one or more electronically monitored readings or transmitted signals from the master controller 26 and/or the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24, as further provided herein. Additionally, each of the two or more groups of cylinders 16, illustrated and depicted as first group of cylinders 20 and second group of cylinders 22, as well as the exhaust manifold 19, can include a heat exchanger 30a, 30b, and 30c, respectively, which can include and/or be embodied as any suitable heat exchange and/or recovery unit, jacket or other similar device or component attached, connected, or otherwise positioned in thermal proximity and communication and configured facilitate thermal communication between the working fluid of the energy recovery system 10 and each of the two or more groups of cylinders 16 as well as the exhaust manifold 19. Furthermore, the master controller 26 can be electronically and controllably connected to a plurality of sensors, illustrated as sensors 46′ and sensors 46″ in the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 & 2, which can include any one or more or a combination of speed, torque, load, position, acceleration, pressure, temperature and/or control sensors and/or any drivers and/or electronic controllers operatively associated with associated with the various components of each exemplary machine 12 schematically illustrated in FIGS. 1 & 2, as further provided herein. Additionally, each exemplary machine 12 schematically illustrated in FIGS. 1 & 2 can include one or more or a plurality of operator controls 48, which can include one or more or a plurality of manual drive controls 50, drive mode controls 52, and component controls 54, as further provided herein.

Referring specifically to the schematic illustration of the exemplary machine 12′ shown in FIG. 1, the internal combustion power system 14 includes a single engine 31, and each of the first group of cylinders 20′ as well as the second group of cylinders 22′ is disposed and/or formed within a single, common engine block 32 thereof. As further shown in the example of an operational application of the present disclosure illustrated in FIG. 1, in one embodiment the engine 31 can be mechanically linked to a transmission 34 to rotatably transmit, and in some embodiments absorb or receive, mechanical energy through a drivetrain 36′ which can be operable and mechanically connected to transmit mechanical energy from the engine 31 through a differential 38′ to propulsion elements 40′ (which can be wheels, tracks, propellers, turbines, or any other known means of propulsion) and axles 42′ thereof via a drive shaft 44′. Without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, the machine 12′ can include any of a plurality of suitable powertrain and/or drivetrain 36′ configurations, including but not limited to a single, a two, or a four (or more) propulsion element 40′ drivetrain 36′ configuration.

As further illustrated by the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the machine 12′ can also include the master controller 26, illustrated in FIG. 1 as master controller 26′ which can be configured to electronically monitor and control the operation of the machine 12′ as well as the individual components and systems thereof. In particular, the master controller 26′ can be electronically and controllably connected to the engine 31, as well as the first and second group of cylinders 20′, 22′ thereof, as well as the transmission 34, drive shaft 44′, differential 38′, and axles 42′ of the machine 12′, in addition to the plurality of sensors 46′ associated with the foregoing machine 12′ components, which can include any one or more or a combination of speed, torque, load, position, acceleration, pressure, temperature and/or control sensors 46′ and/or any drivers and/or electronic controllers operatively associated with the foregoing components. The master controller 26′ can also be connected in electronic communication with a plurality of operator controls 48′. The plurality of operator controls 48′ can include one or more or a plurality of manual drive controls 50′, drive mode controls 52′, and component controls 54′. The manual drive controls 48′ can include one or more or a plurality of controls utilized by the operator to manually control the operational state, speed, and/or direction of the machine 12′, and can include any one or more of one or more steering wheels, pedals, levers, joysticks, buttons, and the like (not shown) and may be mounted in and/or proximate to a operators station, cab, or driver's seat of the machine 12′. The drive mode controls 52′ can include one or more or a plurality controls, settings, selections or inputs which can be entered or set by the operator via one or more manual buttons or a user interface (not shown), which can be a graphical, digital, or other type of user interface such as a touchscreen, to set or otherwise establish a drive mode of the machine 12′ which can include a low speed drive mode, a low speed implement actuation drive mode, a low speed/high torque drive mode, a low speed/low torque mode, an engine idle/standby mode, a high speed drive mode, a high speed/high torque mode, a high speed/low torque mode, a high performance drive mode, a fuel economy or cruise drive mode, a retarding drive mode, and engine braking drive mode, and the like. The operator controls 48′ can additionally include one or more component controls 54′, which can include one or more or a plurality of controls such as any one or more of one or more steering wheels, pedals, levers, joysticks, buttons, and the like (not shown) utilized by the operator to manually control components associated with the machine 12′ such as work implements and actuators and the hydraulic systems associated therewith. The one or more component controls 54′ can additionally be controllably and operatively associated with ancillary and/or other machine 12′ components and/or systems including but not limited to cooling systems, navigation systems and devices, communication systems and devices, HVAC systems, and/or any other ancillary machine 12′ systems and components including but not limited to electrical, hydraulic and/or pneumatic systems and associated components, which may be controlled by the user via one or more manual buttons, pedals, levers, joysticks, or a user interface (not shown), which can be a graphical, digital, or other type of user interface such as a touchscreen.

The master controller 26′ can also be connected in electronic and controllable communication with, or alternatively, can include, the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24′, wherein in response to one or more and/or a combination of sensed or monitored machine 12′ signals from the engine 31, as well as the first and second group of cylinders 20′, 22′ thereof, the transmission 34, drive shaft 44′, differential 38′ and/or axles 42′, and in one embodiment, from each of the sensors 46′ operatively associated therewith, as well as one or more and/or a plurality of operator control signals from one or more of the operator controls 48′ as provided above, the master controller 26′ can send one or more activation and/or deactivation command signals to the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24′ to generate one or more activation or deactivation signals to selectively activate and/or deactivate one or more of the two or more groups of cylinders 16 in response thereto as provided herein. Additionally, as provided above and as further provided herein, the master controller 26 can also be connected in electronic and controllable communication with the energy recovery system controller 28. In particular, and as provided above and further discussed below, the energy recovery system controller 28 can be connected in electronic communication to monitor and/or receive signals from the master controller 26, illustrated in FIG. 1 as master controller 26′, and in one embodiment, can additionally be connected in electronic communication to monitor and/or receive signals from the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24′. With this configuration, and as provided herein, the energy recovery system controller 28 can actuate the energy recovery system 10 to selectively and controllably exchange thermal energy with and generate energy from one or more of the two or more groups of cylinders 16, which can be via associated heat exchangers 30a and 30b, illustrated in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 as heat exchangers 30a′ and 30b′, in response to one or more and/or a combination of the foregoing machine 12′ signals, operator control signals, and/or in response to the one or more cylinder activation and/or deactivation command signals monitored by and/or transmitted to the energy recovery system controller 28 from the master controller 26′ and/or the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24′.

Referring to the embodiment of the exemplary machine 12″ schematically illustrated in FIG. 2, the internal combustion power system 14 of the machine 12″ shown in FIG. 2 can include a first engine 56 including a first engine block 58 and a separate second engine 60 and second engine block 62, wherein the first group of cylinders 20″ is disposed and/or formed within the first engine block 58 of the first engine 56 and the second group of cylinders 22″ is disposed and/or formed within the second engine block 62 of the second engine 60. The first engine 56 can be rotatably and mechanically coupled to a first generator 64 via a first output shaft 66 and the second engine 60 can be rotatably and mechanically coupled to a second generator 68 via a second output shaft 70. The first generator 64 can be connected to transmit electrical energy to, and additionally, in one embodiment, receive electrical energy from an electric motor 72 via first power electronics 74, and the second generator 68 can be connected to transmit, and additionally, in one embodiment, receive electrical energy from the electric motor 72 via second power electronics 76. One or more energy storage devices 78, such as one or more batteries or battery packs, may be connected to transmit/supply and/or receive electrical energy between the second generator 68 and the electric motor 72. Although shown as connected to the second power electronics 76, in other embodiments, the energy storage devices 78 shown in FIG. 2, or one or more additional energy storage devices 78 may also be provided and connected to transmit/supply and/or receive electrical energy between the first generator 64 and the electric motor 72. The first generator 64, first power electronics 74, as well as the second generator 68, second power electronics 76, energy storage devices 78, and electric motor 72 can be connected to transmit electrical energy therebetween as provided above via a plurality of electrical connection elements 80, which can include any one or more or a combination of terminals, harnesses, wiring, busses and the like. Each of first power electronics 74 and the second power electronics 76 can include one or more or a combination of electronics modules, devices and components, including but not limited to power converters, power inverters, rectifiers, resistors/resistor grids, and each of which can include one or more or a combination of electrical circuits/printed circuit boards, capacitors, drivers, controllers (such as electric motor 72 and first and/or second generator 64, 68 drivers & controllers), choppers, and/or semiconductors/switching elements, and the like. As such, in the schematic depiction shown in FIG. 2, each of first power electronics 74 and the second power electronics 76 can represent more than one power electronics module such as, for example, two or more power electronics modules and any of the foregoing modules, devices and components thereof and can be electrically connected via terminals, harnesses, busses and/or any other necessary internal and external electrical wiring and connections. The electric motor 72 can be connected to rotatably transmit, and in some embodiments absorb or receive, mechanical energy through a differential 38″ to propulsion elements 40″ (which can be wheels, tracks, propellers, turbines, or any other known means of propulsion) and axles 42″ thereof via a drive shaft 44″. Without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, the machine 12″ can include any of a plurality of suitable powertrain and/or drivetrain 36″ configurations, including but not limited to a single, a two, or a four (or more) propulsion element drivetrain 36″ configuration.

In a manner substantially consistent with FIG. 1, the master controller 26, illustrated as master controller 26″ in the exemplary embodiment of the machine 12″ shown in FIG. 2 can be configured to electronically monitor and control the operation of the machine 12″ as well as the individual components and systems thereof. In particular, the master controller 26″ can be electronically and controllably connected to the first engine 56 and the second engine 60, as well as the first and second group of cylinders 20″, 22″ thereof, the first and second generators 64, 66, the first and second output shafts 66, 70, the first and second power electronics 74, 76, the one or more energy storage devices 78, the electric motor 72, the differential 38″, axles 42″ and drive shaft 44″ of the machine 12″, in addition to plurality of sensors 46″ associated with the foregoing machine 12 components, which can include any one or more or a combination of speed, torque, load, position, acceleration, pressure, temperature and/or control sensors 46″ and/or any drivers and/or electronic controllers operatively associated with the foregoing components.

In a manner substantially consistent with the foregoing discussion of FIG. 1, the master controller 26″ can also be connected in electronic communication with a plurality of operator controls 48″. The plurality of operator controls 48″ can include one or more or a plurality of manual drive controls 50″, which can include one or more or a plurality controls utilized by the operator to manually control the operational state, speed, and/or direction of the machine 12″, and can include any one or more of one or more steering wheels, pedals, levers, joysticks, buttons, and the like (not shown) and may be mounted in and/or proximate to a operators station, cab, or driver's seat of the machine 12. In addition, the plurality of operator controls 48″ can include one or more or a plurality of drive mode controls 52″ which can include one or more or a plurality controls, settings, selections or inputs which can be entered or set by the operator via one or more manual buttons or a user interface (not shown), which can be a graphical, digital, or other type of user interface such as a touchscreen, to set or otherwise establish a drive mode of the machine 12″ which can include a low speed implement actuation drive mode, a low speed/high torque drive mode, a low speed/low torque mode, an engine idle/standby mode, a high speed drive mode, a high speed/high torque mode, a high speed/low torque mode, a high performance drive mode, a fuel economy or cruise drive mode, a retarding drive mode, and engine braking drive mode, and the like. The operator controls 48″ can additionally include one or more component controls 54″, which can include one or more or a plurality of controls such as any one or more of one or more steering wheels, pedals, levers, joysticks, buttons, and the like (not shown) utilized by the operator to manually control components associated with the machine 12″ such as work implements and actuators and the hydraulic systems associated therewith. The one or more component controls 54″ can additionally be controllably and operatively associated with ancillary and/or other machine 12″ components and/or systems including but not limited to cooling systems, navigation systems and devices, communication systems and devices, HVAC systems, and/or any other ancillary machine 12″ systems and components including but not limited to electrical, hydraulic and/or pneumatic systems and associated components, which may be controlled by the user via one or more manual buttons, pedals, levers, joysticks, or a user interface (not shown), which can be a graphical, digital, or other type of user interface such as a touchscreen.

The master controller 26″ can also be connected in electronic and controllable communication with, or alternatively, can include, the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24″, wherein in response to one or more and/or a combination of sensed or monitored machine 12″ signals from the first engine 56 and the second engine 60, the first and second generators 64, 68, the first and second output shafts 66, 70, the first and second power electronics 74, 76, the one or more energy storage devices 78, the electric motor 72, the differential 38″, axles 42″ and/or drive shafts 44″, and in one embodiment, from each of the sensors 46′ operatively associated therewith, as well as one or more and/or a plurality of operator control signals from one or more of the operator controls 48″ as provided above, the master controller 26″ can send one or more activation and/or deactivation command signals to the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24″ to generate one or more activation or deactivation signals to selectively activate and/or deactivate one or more of the two or more groups of cylinders 16 in response thereto as provided herein. Additionally, as provided above and as further provided herein, the energy recovery system controller 28 can be connected in electronic communication to monitor and/or receive signals from the master controller 26, illustrated in FIG. 2 as master controller 26″, and in one embodiment, can additionally be connected in electronic communication to monitor and/or receive signals from the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24″. With this configuration, and as provided herein, the energy recovery system controller 28 can actuate the energy recovery system 10 to selectively and controllably exchange thermal energy with and generate energy from one or more of the two or more groups of cylinders 16, which can be via associated heat exchangers 30a and 30b, illustrated in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2 as heat exchangers 30a″ and 30b″, in response to one or more and/or a combination of the foregoing machine 12″ signals, operator control signals, and/or in response to the one or more cylinder activation and/or deactivation command signals monitored by and/or transmitted to the energy recovery system controller 28 from the master controller 26″ and/or the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24″.

FIG. 3 illustrates, in part, additional detail of an exemplary embodiment of the engine 31 of FIG. 1. In particular, the engine 131, and the engine block 132 as well as the first group of cylinders 120′ and the second group of cylinders 122′ thereof shown in FIG. 3 illustrate additional detail of one embodiment of the engine 31, engine block 32, the first group of cylinders 20′ as well as the second group of cylinders 22′ shown in FIG. 1. As provided above the engine block 132 of the engine 131 can include a plurality of cylinders 133 disposed and/or formed therein, and as shown in FIG. 3, the cylinders 133 can be arranged in two substantially linear, parallel and offset rows, namely, a substantially linear first row of cylinders 135 which can be parallel to a second row of cylinders 137 and can include a plurality of cylinders 133 which can be aligned with each of the cylinders 133 of the second row of cylinders 137. In particular, the first row of cylinders 135 can include one or more or a plurality of evenly spaced, linearly aligned cylinders 133 disposed and/or formed within the engine block 132 between a first end 139 and a second end 141 of the engine block 132 and positioned adjacent and/or proximate to a first side 143 of the engine block 132. For the purposes of illustration and as shown in FIG. 4, the first row of cylinders 135 can include a linearly aligned first cylinder 145, second cylinder 147, third cylinder 149 and fourth cylinder 151. The second row of cylinders 137 can include one or more or a plurality of evenly spaced, linearly aligned cylinders 133 disposed and/or formed within the engine block 32 between the first end 139 and the second end 141 and positioned adjacent and/or proximate to a second side 153 of the engine block 132. For the purposes of illustration and as shown in FIG. 4, the second row of cylinders 137 can include a linearly aligned fifth cylinder 155, sixth cylinder 157, seventh cylinder 159, and eighth cylinder 161, wherein the first, second, third and fourth cylinder 145, 147, 149, 151, of the first row of cylinders 135 can be aligned and in parallel offset relation with the fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth cylinder 155, 157, 159, 161, respectively, of the second row of cylinders 137.

As provided above and further provided herein, each cylinder 133 of the first row of cylinders 135 and the second row of cylinders 137 can be operatively included in one of the group of individual cylinders included in the first group of cylinders 120′ and the group of individual cylinders included in the second group of cylinders 122′, wherein the cylinder activation and deactivation system 18 can be configured to selectively activate and/or deactivate, and in one embodiment, can be configured to selectively connect and/or disconnect the group of individual cylinders included in the first group of cylinders 120′ as well as the group of individual cylinders included in the second group of cylinders 122′, as provided herein, which can be via the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24, such as the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24′. In particular, each of the first group of cylinders 120′ and the second group of cylinders 122′ can include a balanced, symmetrical, alternating and/or offset array of one or more cylinders 133 of the first row of cylinders 135 and one or more cylinders 133 of second row of cylinders 137 such that the dynamic forces within the engine 131 and the engine block 132 thereof can be equally and/or symmetrically balanced and distributed between the active or activated one (or both) of the first group of cylinders 120′ and the second group of cylinders 122′ and the inactive or deactivated one of the first group of cylinders 120′ and the second group of cylinders 122′ within the engine block 132 of the engine 131. In one embodiment, each of the first group of cylinders 120′ and the second group of cylinders 122′ can include one, or more than one cylinders 133 from the first row of cylinders 135 and one, or more than one cylinders 133 from the second row of cylinders 137, wherein each of the cylinders 133 of the first group of cylinders 120′ can be directly adjacent and/or proximate to at least one parallel or linearly aligned cylinder 133 of the second group of cylinders 122′, and each of the cylinders 133 of the second group of cylinders 122′ can be directly adjacent and/or proximate to at least one parallel or linearly aligned cylinder 133 of the first group of cylinders 120′.

In one example, and as shown in the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, the first group of cylinders 120′ can include the first, sixth, seventh, and fourth cylinder, 145, 157, 159, 151, respectively, and the second group of cylinders 122′ can include a balanced, symmetrical, alternating and/or offset array of cylinders 133 including the fifth, second, third, and eighth cylinder 155, 147, 149, 161, respectively. However, alternative arrangements and designations of balanced, symmetrical, alternating and/or offset array of cylinders 133 are contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure, as in another embodiment, the first group of cylinders 120′ can include the first, sixth, third, and eighth cylinder 145, 157, 149, 161, respectively, and the second group of cylinders 122′ can include the fifth, second, seventh, and fourth cylinder 155, 147, 159, 151, respectively. Furthermore, for the purposes of illustration, the exemplary engine block 132 is depicted as including two parallel rows 135, 137 of four cylinders 133. However, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, in other embodiments, the engine block 132 can have two parallel rows of two or three cylinders 133, or alternatively can have two parallel rows of five, six, or more cylinders 133 each arranged, oriented, and grouped within the first group of cylinders 120′ or the second group of cylinders 122′ in an alternating, balanced pattern in a manner consistent with any of the foregoing arrangements.

Additionally, and as provided above and further provided herein, the energy recovery system 10 can be operatively, fluidly and controllably connected and actuated to selectively exchange thermal energy with and generate energy from the first group of cylinders 20 and/or the second group of cylinders 22 along separate, independent flow paths which can conform to and/or align with the grouping and arrangement of and/or between the first group of cylinders 20 and the second group of cylinders 22. In particular, and as further shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3, and as further provided herein, the energy recovery system 10 can be configured to direct separate working fluids along and throughout separate flow paths to independently and selectively generate exchange thermal energy with and generate energy from the first group of cylinders 120′ and the second group of cylinders 122′, wherein the fluidly separate, independent flow paths, and in one embodiment, the fluidly separate, independent heat exchangers 130a′, 130b′, respectively, which can each be embodied as a heat exchange unit, jacket or other similar component, which can be configured to direct each fluidly separate working fluid along a separate flow path which can conform to and/or align with the balanced, symmetrical, alternating and/or offset array of cylinders 133 of the first group of cylinders 120′ and the second group of cylinders 122′, consistent with any of the foregoing embodiments.

The engine 231, and the engine block 232 as well as the first group of cylinders 220′ and the second group of cylinders 222′ thereof shown in FIG. 4 illustrate another embodiment of the engine 31, engine block 32, the first group of cylinders 20′ as well as the second group of cylinders 22′ shown in FIG. 1. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the engine block 232 can have a plurality of cylinders 233 arranged therein in a single linear row 237, or in an “in-line” style arrangement. As further shown in the embodiment of FIG. 4, the first group of cylinders 220′ and the second group of cylinders 222′, respectively, can include an equal number of linearly grouped, balanced cylinders, such as the first, second and third cylinders 239, 241, 243 proximate to the first end 245 and the fourth, fifth, and sixth cylinders 247, 249, 251, proximate to the second end 253 of the engine block 232, respectively. Additionally, and in a manner substantially consistent with the foregoing, the energy recovery system 10 can be configured to direct separate working fluids along and throughout separate flow paths to independently and selectively generate exchange thermal energy with and generate energy from the linearly arranged first group of cylinders 220′ and the linearly arranged second group of cylinders 222′, which can be via fluidly separate, independent heat exchangers 230a′, 230b′, respectively, as further shown in FIG. 4. Furthermore, for the purposes of illustration, the exemplary engine block 232 is depicted in FIG. 4 as including a single row of six cylinders 233 in a linearly aligned or “inline” configuration. However, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, in other embodiments, the engine block 232 can have as few as two or as many as twelve or more linearly aligned cylinders 233 which can be grouped within the first group of cylinders 220′ and the second group of cylinders 222′ in a balanced pattern in a manner consistent with the foregoing disclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the energy recovery system 10 of the present disclosure implemented and utilized as an energy recovery system 10 for the exemplary machines 12, 12′, 12″ schematically illustrated in FIGS. 1 & 2, and illustrates additional detail of the energy recovery system 10 over what is shown in FIGS. 1 & 2. As shown in FIG. 5, the energy recovery system 10 can include a first cylinder group circuit 162 as well as a second cylinder group circuit 164 which can each be fluidly separate individual closed loop circuits and can each include and be configured to direct separate working fluid along and through separate conduits and flow paths. In particular, the first cylinder group circuit 162 can include a first conduit 166 as well as a first cylinder group flow path 168, wherein the first conduit 166 can be any suitable hose, pipe or other fluid communication device and can be configured to fluidly direct a first working fluid 170 of the first cylinder group circuit 162 along and throughout the first cylinder group flow path 168. The first cylinder group circuit 162 can additionally include a first turbine 172, a first condenser 174 and a first pump 176, each operably connected in fluid communication and fluidly integrated into the first cylinder group circuit 162 as well as the first cylinder group flow path 168 thereof to operatively interact with the first working fluid 170 contained therein. The second cylinder group circuit 164 can include a second conduit 178 as well as a second cylinder group flow path 180, wherein the second conduit 178 can be any suitable hose, pipe or other fluid communication device and can be configured to fluidly direct a second working fluid 182 of the second cylinder group circuit 164 along and throughout the second cylinder group flow path 180. The second cylinder group circuit 164 can additionally include a second turbine 184, a second condenser 186 and a second pump 188, each operably connected in fluid communication and fluidly integrated into the second cylinder group circuit 164 as well as the second cylinder group flow path 180 thereof to operatively interact with the second working fluid 182 contained therein.

Each of first working fluid 170 and second working fluid 182 can be any type of fluid suitable for powering a turbine, such as water/steam, air, or common fluids. Furthermore, the first turbine 172 included and fluidly integrated into the first cylinder group circuit 162 can be rotatably mounted to a first turbine output shaft 190, and the second turbine 184 included and fluidly integrated into the second cylinder group circuit 164 can be rotatably mounted to a second turbine output shaft 191. The first turbine 172 as well as the second turbine 184 can be any rotary mechanical device that can be configured to extract energy from the first and second working fluid 170, 182 within the first cylinder group circuit 162 and second cylinder group circuit 164, respectively. As shown in the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the first turbine 172 of the first cylinder group circuit 162 can be attached or otherwise connected to transmit mechanical energy to a first power component 192, which can be via the first turbine output shaft 190, and the second turbine 184 of the second cylinder group circuit 164 can be attached or otherwise connected to transmit mechanical energy to a second power component 193, which can be via the second turbine output shaft 191. Alternatively, and as further provided herein, the mechanical energy generated via the rotation of the first turbine 172 and that generated via the rotation of the second turbine 184 can be mechanically transmitted to a common power component 194 via a common turbine output shaft 196, as shown in FIG. 6. In particular, FIG. 6 illustrates an alternative embodiment or variant of the energy recovery system 10 shown in FIG. 5, wherein the first turbine 172 and first turbine output shaft 190, as well as the second turbine 184 and second turbine output shaft 191, can each be selectively and mechanically coupled to and de-coupled from the common turbine output shaft 196 and engaged and disengaged from transmitting rotational mechanical energy therethrough to the common power component 194 via a first turbine output shaft clutch 197 and a second turbine output shaft clutch 198, respectively. The first power component 192 and the second power component 193 of the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 5, and additionally, the common power component 194 of the alternative embodiment of the present energy recovery system 10 shown in FIG. 6, can each be configured to convert the mechanical energy created by the rotation of the first turbine 172 and the second turbine 184, or the first turbine 172 and/or the second turbine 184, respectively, into electrical energy, and can be an electric generator, which, in one example, can be electrically connected to one or more batteries for charging, or alternatively, can be a driveshaft, a condenser fan, or any other component or device configured to convert mechanical energy to electrical energy, generate electrical energy from a mechanical input, and/or drive other machine components directly.

The energy recovery system 10, and the first cylinder group circuit 162 thereof, can be configured, in part, to exchange thermal energy with and generate energy from each of the individual cylinders included in the first group of cylinders 20, such as first group of cylinders 20′, first group of cylinders 20″, first group of cylinders 120′, and first group of cylinders 220′ according to any embodiment as disclosed herein. In particular, the first conduit 166 of the first cylinder group circuit 162 can be configured to fluidly direct the first working fluid 170 along and throughout the first cylinder group flow path 168 and can be connected in fluid communication to direct the first working fluid 170 sequentially and successively through the first turbine 172, the first condenser 174, the first pump 176, and additionally can be operably positioned and/or connected in thermal communication and/or proximity adjacent to, along and/or through or otherwise in thermal proximity with each of the individual cylinders included in the first group of cylinders 20 as well as the exhaust manifold 19, according to any embodiment as disclosed herein, as provided above. The first turbine 172 can be connected in fluid communication with the first group of cylinders 20, the exhaust manifold 19, the first condenser 174, and the first pump 176 via the first conduit 166 and can be fluidly and operably integrated into the first cylinder group flow path 168 and positioned therein in fluid communication with the first working fluid 170 downstream of the first group of cylinders 20 and exhaust manifold 19. The first condenser 174 can be connected in fluid communication with the first conduit 166 and fluidly and operably integrated into the first cylinder group flow path 168 and positioned downstream of the first turbine 172 and upstream of the first pump 176. The first pump 176, which can be connected in fluid communication with the first conduit 166 and fluidly and operably integrated and positioned downstream of the first condenser 174 and upstream of the first group of cylinders 20 and exhaust manifold 19 and can be operable to pressurize and propel the first working fluid 170 through the first conduit 166 and first cylinder group flow path 168 of the first cylinder group circuit 162.

As provided above, the first conduit 166 can also be fluidly connected and/or positioned to direct the first working fluid 170 fluidly directed along the first cylinder group flow path 168 from the first pump 176 adjacent to, along and/or through or otherwise in thermal proximity with each of the individual cylinders included in the first group of cylinders 20, such as 20′, 20″, 120′, 220′, which can be via the associated heat exchangers 30a, such as heat exchanger(s) 30′, 30a″, 130a′, 1130a′, 230a′, 2230a′, as well as the exhaust manifold 19, which can be via the associated heat exchangers 30c, such as 30c′, 30c″ according to any embodiment as disclosed herein, such that the first working fluid 170 gains thermal energy. Subsequently, the first conduit 166 and the first cylinder group flow path 168 can fluidly direct the first working fluid 170 from the first group of cylinders 20 and the exhaust manifold 19, and in one embodiment the associated heat exchangers 30 consistent with any one or more of the foregoing embodiments, into and through the first turbine 172.

The energy recovery system 10, and the second cylinder group circuit 164 thereof, can be configured, in part, to exchange thermal energy with and generate energy from each of the individual cylinders included in the second group of cylinders 22, such as second group of cylinders 22′, second group of cylinders 22″, second group of cylinders 122′, and second group of cylinders 222′ according to any embodiment as disclosed herein. In particular, the second conduit 178 of the second cylinder group circuit 164 can be connected in fluid communication and configured to fluidly direct the second working fluid 182 along and throughout the second cylinder group flow path 180 and can be fluidly connected to direct the second working fluid 182 sequentially and successively through the second turbine 184, the second condenser 186, the second pump 188, and additionally can be operably positioned and/or connected in thermal communication and/or proximity adjacent to, along and/or through or otherwise in thermal proximity with each of the individual cylinders included in the second group of cylinders 22 as well as the exhaust manifold 19, according to any embodiment as disclosed herein, as provided above. In particular, the second turbine 184 can be connected in fluid communication with the second group of cylinders 22, the exhaust manifold 19, the second condenser 186, and the second pump 188 via the second conduit 178 and can be fluidly and operably integrated into the second cylinder group flow path 180 and positioned therein in fluid communication with the second working fluid 182 downstream of the second group of cylinders 22 and exhaust manifold 19. The second condenser 186 can be connected in fluid communication with the second conduit 178 and fluidly and operably integrated into the second cylinder group flow path 180 and positioned downstream of the second turbine 184 and upstream of the second pump 188. The second pump 188, which can be connected in fluid communication with the second conduit 178 and fluidly and operably integrated and positioned downstream of the second condenser 186 and upstream of the second group of cylinders 22 and exhaust manifold 19 and can be operable to pressurize and propel the second working fluid 182 through the second conduit 178 and second cylinder group flow path 180 of the second cylinder group circuit 164.

As provided above, the second conduit 178 can also be fluidly connected and/or positioned to direct the second working fluid 182 fluidly directed along the second cylinder group flow path 180 from the second pump 188 adjacent to, along and/or through or otherwise in thermal proximity with each of the individual cylinders included in the second group of cylinders 22, such as 22′, 22″, 122′, 222′, which can be via the associated heat exchangers 30b, such as heat exchanger(s) 30b′, 30b″, 130b′, 1130b′, 230b′, 2230b′, as well as the exhaust manifold 19, which can be via the associated heat exchangers 30c, such as 30c′, 30c″ according to any embodiment as disclosed herein, such that the second working fluid 182 gains thermal energy. Subsequently, the second conduit 178 and the second cylinder group flow path 180 can fluidly direct the second working fluid 182 from the second group of cylinders 22 and the exhaust manifold 19, and in one embodiment the associated heat exchangers 30 consistent with any one or more of the foregoing embodiments, into and through the second turbine 184.

In one embodiment, the energy recovery system 10, and the first cylinder group circuit 162 and second cylinder group circuit 164 thereof, can be configured to direct the first working fluid 170 and the second working fluid 182, respectively, along and throughout separate flow paths to independently exchange thermal energy with and generate energy from the first group of cylinders 20 and the second group of cylinders 22, respectively, wherein the fluidly separate, independent flow paths, and in one embodiment, the fluidly separate, independent heat exchangers 30, can be configured to direct each fluidly separate first working fluid 170 and the second working fluid 182 along a separate flow path which can conform to and/or align with the cylinders of the first cylinder group 20 and the second cylinder group 22. Specifically, in one embodiment consistent with and as illustrated by the exemplary embodiment as shown in FIG. 3 above, a portion of the first cylinder group flow path 168 illustrated in FIG. 3 as first cylinder flow path portion 268, and additionally, in one example, the heat exchanger 1130a′, can be shaped or otherwise configured to direct the first working fluid 170 along the first cylinder flow path portion 268 which can be symmetrical and/or consistent with, can conform to and/or can align with the balanced, symmetrical, alternating and/or offset array of cylinders 133, such as, for example, that of the first, sixth, seventh, and fourth cylinders 145, 157, 159, 151 included in the first cylinder group 120′ to exchange thermal energy therewith. Additionally, a portion of the second cylinder group flow path 180 illustrated in FIG. 3 as second cylinder flow path portion 280, and additionally, in one example, the heat exchanger 1130b′, can be shaped or otherwise configured to direct the second working fluid 182 along the second cylinder flow path portion 280 which can be symmetrical and/or consistent with, can conform to and/or can align with the balanced, symmetrical, alternating and/or offset array of cylinders 133, such as, for example, that of the fifth, second, third, and eighth cylinders 155, 147, 149, 161 included in the second cylinder group 122′ to exchange thermal energy therewith.

In another embodiment, consistent with and as illustrated by the exemplary embodiment as shown in FIG. 4 above, a portion of the first cylinder group flow path 168 illustrated in FIG. 4 as first cylinder flow path portion 368, and additionally, in one example, the heat exchanger 2230a′, can be shaped or otherwise configured to direct the first working fluid 170 along the first cylinder flow path portion 368 which can be symmetrical and/or consistent with, can conform to and/or can align with the balanced, linearly aligned and adjacent array of cylinders 233, such as, for example, that of the first, second and third cylinders 239, 241, 243 proximate to the first end 245 of the engine block 232 included in the first cylinder group 220′. Additionally, a portion of the second cylinder group flow path 180 illustrated in FIG. 4 as second cylinder flow path portion 380, and additionally, in one example, the heat exchanger 2230b′, can be shaped or otherwise configured to direct the second working fluid 182 along the second cylinder flow path portion 380 which can be symmetrical and/or consistent with, can conform to and/or can align with the balanced, linearly aligned and adjacent array of cylinders 233, such as, for example, that of the fourth, fifth, and sixth cylinders 247, 249, 251 proximate to the second end 253 of the engine block 232 included in the second cylinder group 222′.

In addition, the fluidly separate, closed loop first cylinder group circuit 162 as well as the fluidly separate, closed loop second cylinder group circuit 164 of the energy recovery system 10 can be selectively activated, which in one embodiment can be via the energy recovery system controller 28, to route and direct the first working fluid 170 and the second working fluid 182, respectively, to exchange thermal energy, extract heat, and generate mechanical energy from the first group of cylinders 20 and the second group of cylinders 22, respectively, according to any embodiment as disclosed herein. In particular, the energy recovery system controller 28 can be electronically connected to actuate, and/or control one or more or a plurality of the components, fluid connections and the flow and fluid communication of first working fluid 170 and second working fluid 182 through the first cylinder group circuit 162 and the second cylinder group circuit 164, respectively, and the exchange of thermal energy, extraction of heat, and generation of energy of, by and within each of the first and second cylinder group circuits 162, 164 of the energy recovery system 10, respectively, which can be in response to and/or consistent with the selective activation and/or deactivation of one or more of the two or more groups of cylinders 16 and additionally may be responsive to the operation modes, activation, and/or the control of the machine 12 as well as one or more, or a plurality of operating conditions and/or environments within which the machine 12 may be utilized. In particular, in one embodiment, the energy recovery system controller 28 can be electronically and controllably connected to each of the first pump 176 and the second pump 188, wherein the first pump 176 and the second pump 188 can each be an electronically controllable pump, and in one example, can additionally be an electronically controllable variable displacement pump. As such, each of the first pump 176 and the second pump 188 can be selectively actuated to activate and deactivate the flow and fluid communication of first working fluid 170 and second working fluid 182 through the first cylinder group circuit 162 and the second cylinder group circuit 164, respectively, in response to one or more signals from the energy recovery system controller 28. Additionally, in the alternative embodiment or variant of the energy recovery system 10 of FIG. 5 as shown in FIG. 6, each of the first turbine output shaft clutch 197 and second turbine output shaft clutch 198 can be electronically actuatable and electronically and controllably connected to the energy recovery system controller 28 to selectively engage and disengage the connection and transmission of mechanical energy from the first turbine 172 and the first turbine output shaft 190 thereof, and the second turbine 184 and second turbine output shaft 191 thereof, respectively, to the common turbine output shaft 196 and the resultant generation of energy via the common power component 194 in response to one or more signals from the energy recovery system controller 28.

With this operable configuration, the energy recovery system controller 28 can be configured, in part, to selectively activate the first cylinder group circuit 162 as well as the fluidly separate, closed loop second cylinder group circuit 164 of the energy recovery system 10 as well as the flow and fluid communication of first working fluid 170 and second working fluid 182 therethrough, respectively, to selectively, controllably and responsively exchange thermal energy with and generate energy from the one or more or each of the active, activated and/or thermally active group of individual cylinders included in the first group of cylinders 20, and the group of individual cylinders included in the second group of cylinders 22, respectively. Additionally, the energy recovery system controller 28 can be configured, in part, to selectively, controllably and responsively deactivate the first cylinder group circuit 162 as well as the fluidly separate, closed loop second cylinder group circuit 164 of the energy recovery system 10 as well as the flow and fluid communication of first working fluid 170 and second working fluid 182 adjacent to, along and/or through or otherwise in thermal proximity with the inactive, de-activated and/or thermally inactive group of individual cylinders included in the first group of cylinders 20 and the group of individual cylinders included in the second group of cylinders 22, respectively.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The energy recovery system of the present disclosure may be implemented and utilized with any of a variety of powertrains or similar power systems of any of a variety of hybrid machines in which an energy recovery system consistent with any one or more of the embodiments disclosed herein can be employed. In addition to further advantages both as stated herein as well as those as understood by one of ordinary skill of the art upon being provided with the benefit of the teachings of the present disclosure, the presently disclosed energy recovery system may provide increased energy recovery, as well as increased fuel efficiency and lower fuel consumption for a machine having a cylinder activation and deactivation system. In addition, the energy recovery system of the present disclosure may provide a substantially net gain in energy recovery and fuel efficiency in addition to a reduction of fuel consumption which may be additive to and independent of other energy savings technologies and implementations without requiring significant energy demands or parasitic losses on a machine having a cylinder activation and deactivation system. Furthermore, the energy recovery system of the present disclosure may also provide more flexibility and responsiveness in generating and providing additional energy for a machine having a cylinder activation and deactivation system.

In particular, the master controller 26 may electronically monitor and/or receive one or more or a plurality of signals indicative of the operating conditions of the machine 12 which may be indicative of the power needs and/or capacity of the internal combustion energy system 14 in relation to the environment, operating conditions and/or forces experienced by the machine 12. For example, the master controller 26 may receive one or more or a plurality of signals from the sensors 46 which can be attached or otherwise positioned to sense and provide and/or transmit signals indicative of the speed, position, torque, load, acceleration, pressure, temperature and/or control of any one or more machine powertrain and/or drivetrain 36 components according to any one or more of the embodiments as provided herein. The master controller 26 may also receive one or more or a plurality of signals from the manual drive controls 48, drive mode controls 52, and/or component controls 54, as provided according to any one or more of the embodiments as disclosed herein. In response to any one or more or a plurality of the foregoing signals, the master controller 26 may activate and/or engage the operation of the machine 12 in any one of a plurality of operating modes, including but not limited to a low speed implement actuation drive mode, a low speed/high torque drive mode, a low speed/low torque mode, an engine idle/standby mode, a high speed drive mode, a high speed/high torque mode, a high speed/low torque mode, a high performance drive mode, a fuel economy or cruise drive mode, a retarding drive mode, and engine braking drive mode. The master controller 26 may additionally electronically transmit one or more activation and/or deactivation command signals to the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24 to generate one or more activation or deactivation signals to selectively activate and/or deactivate one or more of the two or more groups of cylinders 16 in response thereto such that the internal combustion energy system 14 consumes an amount of combustible medium in the form of fuel necessary to produce the power and mechanical energy demanded by the machine 12 and consistent with and/or established by any one of the one or more operating modes implemented by the master controller 26.

In one example, the master controller 26 may engage the machine 12 to operate in a low speed/high torque drive mode, a high speed drive mode, a high speed/high torque mode, or a high performance drive mode, and in response, may additionally electronically transmit one or more activation command signals to the cylinder activation and deactivation system 18 and the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24 thereof. In response, the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24 may generate and electronically transmit one or more activation signals to activate and/or engage one or more or each of the two or more groups of cylinders 16, and in one example, may activate any inactive or de-activated group of individual cylinders included in the first group of cylinders 20 and/or the group of individual cylinders included in the second group of cylinders 22. Additionally, the one or more activation command signals and/or activation signals may be electronically monitored, transmitted to, and/or received by the energy recovery system controller 28 from the master controller 26 and/or the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24.

In response, the energy recovery system 10 may be actuated by the energy recovery system controller 28 which may electronically transmit one or more activation signals such that each cylinder group circuit, such as cylinder group circuit 162 and 164 is activated and the respective first and second working fluid 170, 182 is fluidly routed and directed to exchange thermal energy with and generate energy from the one or more or each of the active, activated and/or thermally active group of individual cylinders included in the first group of cylinders 20, and the group of individual cylinders included in the second group of cylinders 22, respectively. In particular, and in response to any one or more or a combination of the signals as discussed above, the energy recovery system controller 28 may transmit one or more electronic first cylinder group and/or second cylinder group activation signals to any inactive or de-activated one of the first pump 176 and/or the second pump 188, or both of the first pump 176 and/or the second pump 188 included in the first cylinder group circuit 162 and second cylinder group circuit 164, respectively, such that the first working fluid 170 and the second working fluid 182 is fluidly communicated through each fluidly separate, closed loop first cylinder group circuit 162 and second cylinder group circuit 164, respectively, to exchange thermal energy with and generate energy from the one or more or each of the active, activated and/or thermally active group of individual cylinders included in the first group of cylinders 20, and the group of individual cylinders included in the second group of cylinders 22, respectively. Additionally, in the exemplary embodiment as shown in FIG. 6, the energy recovery system controller 28 may transmit one or more electronic first cylinder group and/or second cylinder group activation signals to activate and engage the first turbine output shaft clutch 197 and the second turbine output shaft clutch 198. As such, the first working fluid 170 and the second working fluid 182 may be heated to a vapor phase via the thermal exchange with the activated, thermally active first group of cylinders 20 and second group of cylinders 22, respectively, and directed into each respective first and second turbine 172, 184, wherein expansion of the vapor phase first and second working fluids 170, 182 therethrough may generate mechanical energy via the resultant rotation thereof, which may be mechanically transmitted via the respective first and second turbine output shafts 190, 191 to the respective first and second power components 192, 193, or alternatively the common power component 194, and converted to electrical energy.

Alternatively, the master controller 26 may engage the machine 12 to operate in a low speed implement actuation drive mode, an engine idle/standby mode, a low speed/low torque mode, a high speed/low torque mode, a fuel economy or cruise drive mode, a retarding drive mode, or an engine braking drive mode, and in response, may additionally electronically transmit one or more deactivation command signals to the cylinder activation and deactivation system 18 and the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24 thereof. In response, the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24 may generate and electronically transmit one or more deactivation signals to deactivate and/or disengage one or more or each of the two or more groups of cylinders 16, and in one example, may deactivate any one of any active or activated group of individual cylinders included in the first group of cylinders 20 and/or the group of individual cylinders included in the second group of cylinders 22. Additionally, the one or more deactivation command signals and/or deactivation signals may be electronically monitored, transmitted to, and/or received by the energy recovery system controller 28 from the master controller 26 and/or the cylinder activation and deactivation controller 24.

In response, the energy recovery system 10 may be actuated by the energy recovery system controller 28 which may transmit one or more electronic first cylinder group and/or second cylinder group deactivation signals to the first pump 176 to deactivate the first cylinder group circuit 162 or the second pump 188 to deactivate the second cylinder group circuit 164 of the energy recovery system 10 as well as the flow and fluid communication of the respective first working fluid 170 or second working fluid 182 adjacent to, along and/or through or otherwise in thermal proximity with the inactive, de-activated and/or thermally inactive group of individual cylinders included in the first group of cylinders 20 or the group of individual cylinders included in the second group of cylinders 22, respectively. Additionally, in the exemplary embodiment as shown in FIG. 6, the energy recovery system controller 28 may electronically transmit one or more electronic first cylinder group or second cylinder group deactivation signals to deactivate and disengage the first turbine output shaft clutch 197 or the second turbine output shaft clutch 198.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the system of the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the system disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope of the disclosure being indicated by the following claims and their equivalent.

Claims

1. An energy recovery system for a machine, comprising:

a first cylinder group circuit including a first pump, a first condenser, a first turbine, and a first flow path, the first flow path connected in fluid communication with the first pump, the first condenser, and the first turbine;

a second cylinder group circuit including a second pump, a second condenser, a second turbine, and a second flow path, the second flow path connected in fluid communication with the second pump, the second condenser, and the second turbine;

the first flow path in thermal communication with a first group of cylinders of the machine;

the second flow path in thermal communication with a second group of cylinders of the machine; and

wherein the machine includes a cylinder activation and deactivation system configured to deactivate at least one of the first group of cylinders and the second group of cylinders.

2. The energy recovery system of claim 1 wherein the first cylinder group circuit is a closed loop circuit and the second cylinder group circuit is a closed loop circuit, wherein the first cylinder group circuit is fluidly separate from the second cylinder group circuit.

3. The energy recovery system of claim 2 wherein the first turbine is fluidly integrated in the first flow path downstream of the first group of cylinders, the first condenser is fluidly integrated in the first flow path downstream of the first turbine, and the first pump is fluidly integrated in the first flow path downstream of the first condenser and upstream of the first group of cylinders.

4. The energy recovery system of claim 3 wherein the second turbine is fluidly integrated in the second flow path downstream of the second group of cylinders, the second condenser is fluidly integrated in the second flow path downstream of the second turbine, and the second pump is fluidly integrated in the second flow path downstream of the second condenser and upstream of the second group of cylinders.

5. The energy recovery system of claim 4 wherein the first cylinder group circuit is configured to be deactivated in response to the deactivation of the first group of cylinders.

6. The energy recovery system of claim 5 wherein the second cylinder group circuit is configured to be deactivated in response to the deactivation of the second group of cylinders.

7. The energy recovery system of claim 6 wherein the first turbine is connected to transmit mechanical energy to a first power component and the second turbine is connected to transmit mechanical energy to a second power component.

8. The energy recovery system of claim 6 wherein the first turbine and the second turbine are each selectively connected to transmit mechanical energy to a common power component.

9. The energy recovery system of claim 6 wherein the first group of cylinders and the second group of cylinders are included in an engine manifold of an engine of the machine.

10. The energy recovery system of claim 9 wherein the first flow path includes a first cylinder flow path portion, wherein the first cylinder flow path portion is aligned with an array of cylinders included in the first group of cylinders.

11. The energy recovery system of claim 10 wherein the second flow path includes a second cylinder flow path portion, wherein the second cylinder flow path portion is aligned with an array of cylinders included in the second group of cylinders.

12. The energy recovery system of claim 6 wherein the first group of cylinders is included in an engine block of a first engine of the machine and the second group of cylinders is included in an engine block of a second engine of the machine.

13. An energy recovery system for a machine, comprising:

a first cylinder group circuit configured to direct a first working fluid along a first flow path in fluid communication with a first pump, a first condenser and a first turbine;

the first cylinder group circuit configured to direct the first working fluid along the first flow path in thermal communication with a first group of cylinders of the machine downstream of the first pump and upstream of the first turbine;

a second cylinder group circuit configured to direct a second working fluid along a second flow path in fluid communication with a second pump, a second condenser and a second turbine;

the second cylinder group circuit configured to direct the second working fluid along the second flow path in thermal communication with a second group of cylinders of the machine downstream of the second pump and upstream of the second turbine; and

the machine including a cylinder activation and deactivation system configured to activate and deactivate at least one of the first group of cylinders and the second group of cylinders.

14. The energy recovery system of claim 13 wherein the first cylinder group circuit is configured to be selectively activated and deactivated in response to the activation and deactivation of the first group of cylinders.

15. The energy recovery system of claim 14 wherein the first cylinder group circuit is configured to be selectively activated and deactivated in response to one or more operating modes of the machine.

16. The energy recovery system of claim 15 wherein the one or more modes of the machine include at least one of a low speed drive mode, a low speed implement actuation drive mode, a low speed/high torque drive mode, a low speed/low torque mode, an engine idle/standby mode, a high speed drive mode, a high speed/high torque mode, a high speed/low torque mode, a high performance drive mode, a fuel economy drive mode, a retarding drive mode, and an engine braking drive mode.

17. The energy recovery system of claim 13 wherein the second cylinder group circuit is configured to be selectively activated and deactivated in response to the activation and deactivation of the second group of cylinders.

18. The energy recovery system of claim 17 wherein the second cylinder group circuit is configured to be selectively activated and deactivated in response to one or more operating modes of the machine.

19. The energy recovery system of claim 18 wherein the one or more modes of the machine include at least one of a low speed drive mode, a low speed implement actuation drive mode, a low speed/high torque drive mode, a low speed/low torque mode, an engine idle/standby mode, a high speed drive mode, a high speed/high torque mode, a high speed/low torque mode, a high performance drive mode, a fuel economy drive mode, a retarding drive mode, and an engine braking drive mode.

20. A method of generating energy from a machine comprising the steps of:

directing a first working fluid in thermal communication with a first group of cylinders of the machine via a first pump along a first flow path in response to the activation of the first group of cylinders;

employing the first working fluid to power a first turbine operably connected with the first working fluid downstream of the first group of cylinders;

condensing the first working fluid along the first flow path for reuse;

directing a second working fluid in thermal communication with a second group of cylinders of the machine via a second pump along a second flow path in response to the activation of the first group of cylinders; and

employing the second working fluid to power a second turbine operably connected with the second working fluid downstream of the second group of cylinders; and

condensing the second working fluid along the second flow path for reuse.