Miscellaneous Patents (Class 290/1R)
  • Patent number: 6166335
    Abstract: A bathroom scale has a measurement value sensor which generates a measurement signal when a person wishing to be weighed stands on the scale. The measurement signal is transmitted to an evaluation circuit which reduces therefrom the weight and displays it on a display device. The evaluation circuit and the display device are supplied with electric energy by a generator upon which the weight of the person wishing to be weighed is applied. The actuation element for the generator is designed as a plunger which drives the generator by means of a toothed rack and pinion and projects over the plate in such a way that it can be actuated independently of the same. The restoring spring acts between the plate and the toothed rack and pinion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: Soehnle AG
    Inventor: Armin Soehnle
  • Patent number: 6163077
    Abstract: An energy conversion device comprises an acoustic resonator, a pulse combustion device for creating a standing wave within said resonator, and an electric alternator. The alternate is coupled to the resonator to convert acoustically driven mechanical vibrations into electrical power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Assignee: Macrosonix Corporation
    Inventor: Timothy S. Lucas
  • Patent number: 6160318
    Abstract: Energy supplying system in which effective use of waste heat from a solar power generator and an engine power generator. Electric power generated by an SLCS (sunlight cogeneration system) 1 and an EGCS (engine cogeneration system) 2 is supplied to a power consuming apparatus while its relevant waste or exhausted heat is transferred to a heat consuming apparatus 3. The power generated by the SLCS 1 varies depending on the local climate and is monitored with a power meter 6 or a power monitor apparatus 7. When the power from the SLCS 1 is declined, it is compensated by increasing the power output of the EGCS 2. Since the total power generated by the SLCS 1 and the EGCS 2 is maintained constant and the total waste heat released from the SLCS1 and the EGCS 2 is relatively stable, the heat consuming apparatus 3 as well as an power consuming apparatus 5 are steadily energized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Norio Komura
  • Patent number: 6124644
    Abstract: A system has an engine (24), a generator (28) driven by the engine (24) to generate a DC voltage, and an inverter (30) electrically coupled to the generator (28) to convert the DC voltage to an AC signal. The system also has a first heat exchange circuit (44) in heat exchange relationship with the engine (24) to remove heat from the engine (24), and a second heat exchange circuit (46) in heat exchange relationship with the inverter (30) to remove heat from the inverter (30). The system further has a single radiator (38) divided into first and second sections (40, 42), the first section (40) being substantially hydraulically isolated from fluid communication with the second section (42). The first section (40) of the radiator (38) is in fluid communication with the first heat exchange circuit (44), and the second section (42) is in fluid communication with the second heat exchange circuit (46).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: Modine Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Gregg Olson, Benjamin Gover
  • Patent number: 6107927
    Abstract: A generator set controller verifies the status of a synchroscope mode selector to determine whether the generator set controller is operating in a synchroscope mode. When operating in a synchroscope mode, the generator set controller uses an existing display panel to create an indication of the difference between the phase of the power on a power bus and the phase of the power output of the generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Dvorsky, Darren L. Krahn, Sekar Srinivasan, Siva Subramaniam
  • Patent number: 6107691
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for generating electrical power from multiple vehicles powered by fuel cells while the vehicles are parked in a parking lot. A plurality of spaced-apart electrical receptacles are provided for receiving an electric cable for connection to a parked vehicle for electrically connecting the fuel cell in each of the parked vehicles to the plurality of electrical receptacles. An electric power grid is electrically connected to the plurality of electrical receptacles for transferring D.C. electrical power from the fuel cells in the parked vehicles to the electric power grid. At least one electric power collection station is electrically connected to the electric power grid for collecting at a common point the D.C. electric power in the electric power grid. In addition, at least one inverter is electrically connected to the electric power collection station for converting the D.C. electric power to A.C. electric power. Apparatus is provided for supplying the A.C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: GRoW International Corp.
    Inventors: Gerald E. Gore, Wayne K. Wittman, Harry T. Roman, Robert A. Gore, Michael D. Gore
  • Patent number: 6104096
    Abstract: A generator mounted within the tread portion of a pedal of a bicycle or the like is driven via pulleys of unequal diameter and a gear box so that the speed of rotation of the rotor of the generator is a multiple of the speed of relative rotation between the spindle of the pedal and the tread portion when the latter is held horizontal by a foot resting on it and the crank from which the spindle extends is rotated to propel the bicycle. The gearing up of the generator enables sufficient output voltage to illuminate an array of LEDs and charge a capacitor which will keep them illuminated while the pedal is temporarily stationary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Pedalite Limited
    Inventor: Richard Banfield Hicks
  • Patent number: 6097104
    Abstract: A system for recovering energy from the natural and man made sources of wind, water and sunshine provides within a given local area wind, water and solar apparatuses for converting all three wind, water and solar energies to electrical power to provide a reasonably steady supply of electrical power at all times. The wind and water apparatuses may be double speed Savonius rotor electrical generating apparatuses each of which includes two Savonius type rotors mounted adjacent to one another for rotation about a common axis with the blades of the rotor units being arranged so that the rotor units rotate in opposite directions relative to one another under the influence of a given wind or flow of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Inventor: Thomas H. Russell
  • Patent number: 6091159
    Abstract: An electrical energy producing platform system to generate electrical energy from the wasted existing motion and weight of vehicles and trains. In the first embodiment of the present invention, the system comprises a deformable bladder containing a volume of hydraulic fluid and compressible from the weight of a moving vehicle. As a vehicle is driven over the bladder, the bladder compresses and forces the hydraulic fluid into a circulation assembly in fluid communication with the bladder. The circulation assembly converts the energy of the hydraulic fluid into mechanical energy which in turn is used to power a generator to thereby generate electrical energy. In the second embodiment of the present invention, the deformable bladder is compressed by a beam driven thereover by a moving vehicle. It is contemplated in a third embodiment of the present invention that a plurality of beams are depressed toward the road by a vehicle driven thereover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Inventor: Thomas P. Galich
  • Patent number: 6054775
    Abstract: An electrical power generating apparatus is developed as an internal combustion acoustically resonant engine. It has left and right acoustic formations (39), which are formed into the apparatus closure and constitute a multiple degree of freedom vibratory system. A shuttle (12) is suspended inside and between these acoustic formations and reciprocating when two fuel injectors (35), which are positioned symmetrically at each end of said shuttle in the body of said closure, do their alternate operation and create oscillations of said shuttle. A linear generator rotor (30) is attached to said shuttle with magnetic elements producing a magnetic field when rotor reciprocates together with the shuttle. A linear generator stator with windings is attached to said closure. The fuel injectors create mechanical oscillations of the shuttle, the shuttle creates oscillations of the rotor, and magnetic field of said rotor crosses the windings of the stator for generating of an electrical energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Inventor: Joseph M. Vocaturo
  • Patent number: 6051891
    Abstract: an electric power generating station characterised by a solar array (1) source of electrical power connected to drive a compressor/condenser liquifier (9, 18) to condense compressed gas to liquid state and cryogenic temperature. The liquified gas is then evaporated in a finned heat exchanger (22) and the gas vapor is then conveyed to cool the compressor motor (9), a generator (55), and thereafter directed to the bottom of a liquid tower (41), subjacent a set of inverted buckets (49) spaced on an endless belt (50) engaged on pulleys (48, 52), all submerged in the tower liquid and one of which is engaged to drive the generator. As the buckets are turned around the upper pulley (52), the gas trapped therein is released and conveyed by a return line (45) back to the condensing-evaporation cycle. The use of a gas cycle liquified at cryogenic temperatures exposes the cooled motors (9, 32) and the cooled generator (55) to temperature at which superconductivity may be achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Inventor: Eduard G. Surodin
  • Patent number: 6034492
    Abstract: A D.C. motor-generator and an electric double layer capacitor are fixedly connected directly to each other and a rotary shaft of the motor-generator is rotated in one direction by an external force to generate D.C. electric energy which is stored in the electric double layer capacitor. By supplying the electric energy from the electric double layer capacitor to the D.C. motor-generator, the stored electric energy can be discharged as mechanical rotation energy. By deriving the stored energy as electric energy, an emergency power source can be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventors: Takashi Saito, Yukari Kibi
  • Patent number: 6016022
    Abstract: An electricity generating system for driving one dynamo or several dynamos on a bicycle, the electricity generating system comprising: a driving wheel, concentric with one of the bicycle wheels, surrounding the hub thereof and performing a rotating movement along with the bicycle wheel; a support, mounted on the frame and carrying the dynamos, with a holding plate holding the dynamos; and a conveyor belt for driving drive wheels on the dynamos by the rotating movement of the driving wheel, so as to generate electricity. The driving mechanism reduces the mechanical force necessary to drive the dynamos and allows to install additional lamps or devices, thus increasing safety and making cycling more convenient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Inventor: Kunlin Cho
  • Patent number: 5977644
    Abstract: Backup power systems and methods of operation thereof. In one embodiment, a backup power system constructed according to the present invention includes: (1) an enclosure, (2) an engine, having an air inlet, located within the enclosure, (3) an alternator, coupled to and driven by the engine, that converts mechanical power derived from the engine into AC electrical power and (4) a baffle, located within the enclosure and about a portion of the engine to block direct fluid communication from within the alternator to within the engine, that guides cooling air received into the enclosure sequentially through the alternator to cool the alternator, around the baffle and the engine, through the air inlet and into the engine to cool the engine and through an outlet port of the baffle, the baffle thereby establishing a serial path within the enclosure for the cooling air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: William C. Smith
  • Patent number: 5970712
    Abstract: A combined material conveyor and electrical generation system is disclosed. The invention may be used to provide electrical energy to a remote location through which the material conveyor passes and/or harness energy which would normally be dissipated in braking a material conveyor. One or more electrical generators is driven by the motion of a belt in a material conveyor. Electrical power generated by the generator is delivered to an external power output. The invention can capture the potential energy of particulate matter which is transported on a material conveyor, particularly through a net elevation drop. Electricity produced may be used immediately or stored in a battery system for future use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Inventor: Allan Patrick Stein
  • Patent number: 5969429
    Abstract: An electrical power supply arrangement incorporates a turbine-generator ambly providing a self-contained non-battery electrical power source for supplying power to a breathing apparatus. The turbine-generator assembly is interposed in an air hose extending between first and second stage pressure regulators respectively connected to a pressurized air cylinder and to a cooling device of the breathing apparatus. The assembly includes an air turbine and an electrical generator disposed and coupled in tandem relationship to one another and enclosed in an elongated hollow housing. Pressurized air introduced into the turbine end of the housing expands across turbine blades and rotatably drives a central shaft of the turbine which, in turn, rotates a central rotor of the generator causing generation of electrical power in a stationary stator of the generator which surrounds the rotor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Joseph Rudolph, Robert Hughes, Kenneth Price
  • Patent number: 5942806
    Abstract: A method and device for generating an electric current and power from the earth's electric field. The electric current is generated by providing a thermoemissive material at some distance above the earth's surface, connecting the thermoemissive material to the earth's surface with a conductor (e.g., wire) such that a conductive path is established between the thermoemissive material and the earth's surface through the conductor, and heating the thermoemissive material to cause it to emit electrons into the surrounding air, thereby drawing replacement electrons from the earth's surface through the conductor to the thermoemissive material. One way to produce power in the above setting is by installing a D.C. electric motor or other electrical device along the said conductive pathway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Inventor: Konstantinos D. Veliadis
  • Patent number: 5929530
    Abstract: A solar tracker which has a pneumatic motor that moves a reflective surface. The pneumatic motor is power by pressurized air stored in a pedestal of the tracker. The pressurized air is replenished by a compressor that draws in air from the atmosphere. The pneumatic motor and compressor are controlled by a microcontroller. The controller, compressor and pneumatic motor are all powered by an energy system that converts solar energy into electric power, thereby providing a self-contained tracker. The output shaft of the pneumatic motor is coupled to a reflective surface support structure by a drive system which has intermediate gears and an incremental encoder. The incremental encoder provides a reference point for the position of the reflective surface. The gear is much smaller than the gimbal so that the reference point can be found with a relatively small incremental movement of the reflective surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Assignee: McDonnell Douglas Corporation
    Inventor: Kenneth W. Stone
  • Patent number: 5892293
    Abstract: An energy conversion device comprises an acoustic resonator, a pulse combustion device for creating a standing wave within said resonator, and an electric alternator. The alternator is coupled to the resonator to convert acoustically driven mechanical vibrations into electrical power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Assignee: Macrosonix Corporation
    Inventor: Timothy S. Lucas
  • Patent number: 5852353
    Abstract: A multiblock robot system for the economical energy generation from sun and wind power, the energy storage and for the energy disposition and delivery, composed of plug connected and optional combinations of multiblock standard parts, having socket flange booster chambers with integrated units as, solar, wind rotor, control computer, checkcard reader, remote control antenna, illuminator and battery units. Rotation flange plug connections rotate the integrated units with solar surfaces and the wind rotor blades always to the optimal, perpendicular position of the sun and wind directions. The battery units are plug connected one behind the other to battery lines for the energy storage, composing checkcard controlled battery dispensers and battery changers for the self operating battery exchange and fully automatic delivery to multiblock robots, electro cars and to the public mains.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1998
    Assignee: Uwe Kochanneck
    Inventor: Uwe Kochanneck
  • Patent number: 5828135
    Abstract: An electrical generator for mounting on a railroad car axle end which utilizes the rotation of the axle to generate electricity. The generator includes a housing assembly bolted to the end of a railroad car axle, preferably using the bolt holes that are present on conventional axle ends. The housing includes a tubular rim along which is mounted a plurality of spaced permanent magnets. A stator fastened to a stationary part of the car, typically the outer race of the axle bearing, mounts a plurality of coils in a circular array, closely spaced to the magnets. Electricity is generated whenever the car axle is rotating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Inventor: John Barrett
  • Patent number: 5818132
    Abstract: A linear motion electric power generator for generating electric current from work done by an intermittent force. A moving magnet is confined so that it can move with bi-directional linear, or approximately linear, motion through each of at least two coils. The coils are spaced apart from each other and connected electrically so that current produced in a first coil as a result of movement of the moving magnet is substantially in phase with current produced in said second coil. Preferred embodiments are described for providing electric power generation from extremely lower power mechanical forces. Embodiments of the invention are useful for providing power for long life flashlights, for alarm systems and for communication devices located at places where conventional electric power sources are unavailable. Another preferred embodiment is a low profile unit which derives its mechanical from repetitive forces such as the forces on the heel of a shoe during walking or running.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: John A. Konotchick
  • Patent number: 5767584
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for generating electrical power from multiple vehicles powered by fuel cells while the vehicles are parked in a parking lot. A plurality of spaced-apart electrical receptacles are provided for receiving an electric cable for connection to a parked vehicle for electrically connecting the fuel cell in each of the parked vehicles to the plurality of electrical receptacles. An electric power grid is electrically connected to the plurality of electrical receptacles for transferring D.C. electrical power from the fuel cells in the parked vehicles to the electric power grid. At least one electric power collection station is electrically connected to the electric power grid for collecting at a common point the D.C. electric power in the electric power grid. In addition, at least one inverter is electrically connected to the electric power collection station for converting the D.C. electric power to A.C. electric power. Apparatus is provided for supplying the A.C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: GRoW International Corp.
    Inventors: Gerald E. Gore, Harry T. Roman, Wayne K. Wittman, Robert A. Gore, Michael D. Gore
  • Patent number: 5734202
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus for generating electricity, which includes a plurality of components which cooperate together. A housing is provided which defines a substantially enclosed and continuous, closed-loop airflow pathway. At least one power consuming air propeller is provided within the closed-loop airflow pathway for propelling air within the substantially enclosed and continuous closed-loop airflow pathway. A means is provided for energizing the at least one power consuming air propeller. Preferably, this means is an array of solar panels for generating electricity, but could alternatively comprise or include internal combustion engines, coal powered combustion engines, water powered turbines, or any conventional equivalent prime mover. Additionally, the apparatus includes a plurality of wind turbines located in the substantially enclosed and continuous closed-loop airflow pathway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1998
    Inventor: Melvin B. Shuler
  • Patent number: 5731687
    Abstract: In a generator assembly, outside air, taken from a suction hole into a fixed soundproof housing, is sucked into a portable engine generator covered by a soundproof case to operate an engine and cool the interior of the fixed soundproof housing. The exhaust gas of the engine and the cooling air of the soundproof case are exhausted outside through the exhaust air hole of the soundproof case and the external exhaust hole of the fixed soundproof housing without leaking into the fixed soundproof housing. Therefore, the portable engine generator can be operated while it remains housed within the fixed soundproof housing. The exhaust air duct of the portable engine generator and the communicating duct of the fixed soundproof housing are communicated in a state of close contact, at the time that the portable engine generator has been positioned by a positioning member provided in the fixed soundproof housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tutomu Hirano, Shigeru Fujii, Masashi Nakamura
  • Patent number: 5713427
    Abstract: In a motor vehicle, a modular unit including an internal combustion engine with an engine housing and a crankshaft for power take-off, and an electric generator/motor, the generator housing of which is permanently connected to the engine housing, and the rotor of which is coaxially and non-rotationally connected to the crankshaft. According to at least one preferred embodiment of the present invention, the modular unit is characterized by the fact that there is an elastically deformable torque transmission plate which is permanently connected by means of a flange to the driven end of the crankshaft, and is permanently connected on the circumferential side to the rotor, and that the rotor is rotationally mounted in the generator housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 3, 1998
    Assignee: Fichtel & Sachs AG
    Inventors: Dieter Lutz, Franz Nagler
  • Patent number: 5689141
    Abstract: In a compressor drive system for a natural gas liquefaction plant including a plurality of gas turbines each provided in an individual refrigeration cycle for pressurizing a different refrigerant, an electric motor is provided for each of the gas turbines so as to serve both as an auxiliary electric motor for generating a startup torque and as an AC generator, and the excess output power of the gas turbine is converted into electric power by this electric motor when the power requirement of the associated compressor is less than the power output of the gas turbine. Additionally, at least two of the gas turbines are of an identical make which is suitable for driving the compressor of one of the associated refrigeration cycles requiring a larger driving power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Assignee: Chiyoda Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshitsugi Kikkawa, Osamu Yamamoto, Yasuhiro Naito, Junichi Sakaguchi
  • Patent number: 5592028
    Abstract: Novel means for smoothing electrical power output from wind powered electrical generators is provided. The means utilizes at least some of the power output to convert water into hydrogen, store and burn the hydrogen to produce energy, and use the energy from the burning for the generation of electricity. The means includes a plurality of electrolysis modules consisting of electrolytic cells connected in series, with at least two modules connected in parallel by a switch means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1997
    Inventor: Declan N. Pritchard
  • Patent number: 5578877
    Abstract: An apparatus for convening vibratory motion along a predetermined vibration axis to electrical energy comprises an enclosure having first and second opposite walls substantially parallel to one another. A magnet carrier structure in the enclosure also has first and second opposite walls substantially parallel to one another. A pair of springs suspend the carrier structure in the enclosure so that corresponding first walls and corresponding second walls, respectively, face one another with a predetermined spacing therebetween. The springs allow reciprocating movement of the carrier structure relative to the enclosure only along the vibration axis in response to the vibratory motion. Separate magnet sets, each comprising a row of permanent magnets, are attached to a respective outer surface of the first and second walls of the carrier structure for producing a respective magnet flux.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Jerome J. Tiemann
  • Patent number: 5563802
    Abstract: An integrated power system includes an engine/generator power supply integrated with storage batteries to provide household-like AC power. For a small load demand, the storage batteries are used to provide electricity. For a large load demand, the engine/generator starts to supply electricity. The engine/generator also recharges the storage batteries if the load demand is smaller than the engine/generator maximum load capacity. For a larger load demand, both the engine/generator and the storage batteries supply electricity in parallel. The engine speed is variable for various loads. The bigger the load, the higher the engine speed is required to produce the necessary power and keep a constant high DC voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Assignee: Onan Corporation
    Inventors: Paul H. Plahn, David J. Koenig, Mike C. Miller
  • Patent number: 5559379
    Abstract: An alternator assembly for use with a port fuel injected internal combustion engine including a battery charging system is driven by a turbine assembly mounted in a variable air intake or throttle valve assembly and converts the change in kinetic energy provided by the inlet combustion air movement across the turbine assembly into rotational movement which drives an electrical generating assembly or alternator to generate current which can be used to supplement a conventional vehicle battery charging system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Assignee: Nartron Corporation
    Inventor: Mark G. Voss
  • Patent number: 5559704
    Abstract: A method for determining gross engine horsepower of an internal combustion engine coupled in driving relationship to an alternating current electric alternator, the alternator supplying electric power to variable loads, comprises measuring the field current and average per phase armature current supplied by the alternator; computing the magnitude of electric power supplied by the alternator from the measured values of field current and armature phase current; determining the engine efficiency at the computed magnitude of electric power; and converting the computed electric power to engine horsepower at the determined efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Laurence D. Vanek, Myron L. Smith, Ojekunle Aboyade
  • Patent number: 5550410
    Abstract: A remote electrical energy generating and distribution system is provided wherein a plurality of combustion turbine generators are located at respective remote sites having deposits of fossil fuel. The fossil fuel is thereby converted into electrical energy for transmission to an energy utilization center or to a power grid. Electrical energy is preferably converted to DC energy at the remote sites, and is supplemented by thermoelectric energy recovered from the exhaust of the combustion turbines. Each such source of DC energy is coupled to a main transmission line by a diode coupling device for providing isolation of each source in the event of a reduction in output voltage. Local power for cooling the diode coupling device is provided by a forward conduction voltage drop within the coupling device. The DC transmission system allows each generator to be operated at any independent optional speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1996
    Inventor: Charles H. Titus
  • Patent number: 5541497
    Abstract: A power storing apparatus utilizes rotating flywheels. The casing of each flywheel is supported on the ground by an elastic member without fear of being rocked due to the rotation of a rotor. At least one pair of rotors, the rotors of which rotate in opposite directions to each other while producing the same rotation torque, is rotatably supported by a support supported on the ground through a suspending device which is capable of absorbing the vibration of an earthquake. Each rotor includes flywheels for maintaining the rotation of the corresponding rotor by an inertia force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1996
    Assignees: Shikoku Denryoku Kabushiki Kaisha, Kabushiki Kaisha Shikoku Sogo Kenkyujo
    Inventor: Motoaki Shibayama
  • Patent number: 5512145
    Abstract: This invention relates to a method and apparatus for converting energy to hydrogen gas using an electrolyzer and a metal alloy hydride tank for hydrogen storage, wherein a passive load matching device between the energy source and the electrolyzer maximizes hydrogen output, and the electrolyzer and the metal alloy hydride tank operate at mutually low pressure, near ambient, such that pressurization of the system is not required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Assignee: The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art
    Inventor: Joel W. Hollenberg
  • Patent number: 5446319
    Abstract: An energy storage apparatus is disclosed in which a plurality of permanent magnets are used to store kinetic energy. The apparatus includes first and second fixed magnets which are positioned a guide rod. A third moveable magnet is mounted on a guide rod which allows movement of the third magnet between a charged position in which the magnet's like pole is proximal the one fixed magnet and an uncharged position in which the opposite pole is adjacent the other fixed magnet. A locking mechanism is provided for locking the third magnet in the charged position and allowing selective release. A power transmission mechanism is provided for receiving the energy to be stored and to move the third magnet from the uncharged position to the charged position. To increase the storage capability of the apparatus, a plurality of power-enhancing magnets are positioned on the axis between the movable magnet and the fixed magnet having an opposite pole facing the movable magnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Inventor: Mark Pawlowski
  • Patent number: 5434454
    Abstract: Proximity switches and circumferentially movable stator windings allow a motor-generator to simultaneously sense and switch from a synchronous motor position to a synchronous generator position. This mechanism replaces the conventional separate sensing and switching of motor-generator functions. Automatic rotational repositioning of the stator maintains constant voltage and prevents the generation of transient voltages or harmonics. The stator flux leads the rotor magnetic flux slightly in an import power or motor position, creating a torque on the rotor and a counter torque on the stator reacted by the fixed casing of the apparatus. As the stator field weakens due to a failure of the normal power supply, the counter torque also weakens and the stator windings are biased to begin to turn with the rotor until the rotor and stator fields are in step, i.e., when virtually no current is generated or consumed or until a full export power or generator position is reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Inventor: Otto Farkas
  • Patent number: 5432382
    Abstract: An energy storage apparatus is disclosed in which a plurality of permanent magnets are used to store kinetic energy. The apparatus includes first and second fixed magnets which are positioned a distance apart along a longitudinal axis with both magnets having a like magnetic pole facing the distance between the magnets. A third moveable magnet is mounted on a guide rod which allows movement of the third magnet between a charged position in which the magnet's like pole is proximal the one fixed magnet and an uncharged position in which the opposite pole is adjacent the other fixed magnet. In the charged position, the magnetic fields of the adjacent like poles of the moveable magnet and the fixed magnet create a strong repelling force which urges the third magnet towards the uncharged position and the attraction forces created by the opposite poles of a moveable magnet and the other fixed magnet also draws the moveable magnet towards the uncharged position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1995
    Inventor: Mark Pawlowski
  • Patent number: 5428961
    Abstract: The body of a micromachine has a plurality of energy-power converting means for receiving different forms of energy including rays, microwaves and sound waves and converting the different forms of energy to electric power, i.e., photoelectromotive devices, a microwave-power converter and an acousto-electromotive device. The electric power obtained by these means is supplied to a drive system and an operation system incorporated in the machine body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 4, 1995
    Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takahisa Sakakibara, Hiroaki Izu, Seiichi Kiyama, Hitoshi Hirano, Keiichi Kuramoto, Yoichi Domoto, Hiroshi Hosokawa, Takashi Kuwahara, Yasuaki Yamamoto, Akira Terakawa, Keiichi Sano, Satoshi Ishida, Ikuro Nakane, Koji Nishio
  • Patent number: 5418399
    Abstract: An engine/generator set, especially for use in driving a hybrid motor vehicle, in which an internal combustion engine is equipped with free flying pistons. The internal combustion engine operates in a two-stroke cycle with asymmetrical electrically controlled gas exchange with an exhaust gas turbine driving a turbocompressor. The power excess is fed back via a synchronous alternating current machine to the generator so that the vehicle is driven with high efficiency with an apparatus of reduced volume and weight per unit output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1995
    Inventor: Hermann Klaue
  • Patent number: 5397922
    Abstract: An internal combustion unit having a cylinder with at least one power piston with thermal means for reciprocating the power piston in the cylinder, the power piston and cylinder defining a combustion chamber, and a generator unit having a linear inductor piston coupled to the power piston for reciprocation together with the power piston and a stationary coil stator constructed in the configuration of an annulus, wherein the inductor piston reciprocates in the annulus of the coil stator and electrical current is generated in the stator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 14, 1995
    Inventors: Marius A. Paul, Ana Paul
  • Patent number: 5394016
    Abstract: A solar and wind energy generating system for mounting to a building comprises a wind generator system including at least an auger shaped air engaging member. A plurality of wind generators having air engaging vanes may also be provided. The wind generating system intercepts the flow of air currents to produce mechanical energy which is transformed into electrical energy by an electric generator. The air engaging surface of the wind generator vanes or the auger include a plurality of surface deviations. The surface deviations are arranged in at least one predetermined pattern such as a plurality of radially extending deviation sets. The solar generator includes a plurality of solar energy collectors. The wind generators may further include air engaging vanes with at least one transparent surface, and a plurality of solar energy collectors within a cavity formed in the vane, thus forming a combined solar and wind energy generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1995
    Inventor: John J. Hickey
  • Patent number: 5391925
    Abstract: A method of driving a large cooling system having a compressor operating as a chiller driven by a prime mover, such as a gas turbine, reciprocating engine or steam turbine, in conjunction with an electric motor/generator coaxially arranged on a common shaft with the other units, so that as the ambient temperature rises and the power needed to produce the cooling output increases, and as there is a corresponding drop in power output if the prime mover is a gas turbine or condensing steam turbine, the required additional driving power is supplied by the motor. Conversely, as the ambient temperature drops and required cooling power lessens, the electric motor operates as a generator to convert the excess prime mover power to electrical power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1995
    Assignee: Trigen Energy Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas Casten, Goran Mornhed, Leif Bergquist, John M. Malahieude
  • Patent number: 5389821
    Abstract: A drainwater/sewage treatment installation for producing electrical power and for regulating waterflow in a drainage network is provided. The installation comprises at least a first reservoir, at least a second reservoir below the first reservoir and conduits connecting the reservoirs. The invention combines a drainage network having a pumped energy storage hydroelectric station and at least a two reservoir system wherein the second reservoir is connected to the drainage network in order to be able to serve as a temporary storage facility for the purpose of spreading out peaks in the flow rate of rain water in the drainage network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1995
    Assignee: GTM Batiment et Travaux Publics, Societe Anonyme
    Inventor: Claude Moulliet
  • Patent number: 5387818
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for flexibly and elastically creating a nonbinding downhill effect is disclosed. The downhill effect physically translates the center-of-mass of rotating apparatus in a forward direction circumferential to the direction of motion which aids in the rotational motion. The downhill effect method and apparatus may be applied to electrical generating apparatus, rotational power takeoff apparatus, belt driven apparatus and even a wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 7, 1995
    Inventor: Martin N. Leibowitz
  • Patent number: 5386146
    Abstract: An in-line fluid medium driven charging system includes a fluid medium driven generator disposed in a fluid medium directing tube. The fluid medium driven generator includes an auger shaped, fluid medium engaging member and is coupled to an electrical generator. Rotation of the auger shaped, fluid medium engaging member by intercepting a flow of a fluid medium causes rotation of the electrical generator, thereby generating electrical energy which recharges and assists in maintaining the life of a battery in a moving vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1995
    Inventor: John J. Hickey
  • Patent number: 5382833
    Abstract: A current generator, particularly for vehicles, has a shaft, a liquid cooled generator, a liquid cooled internal combustion engine forming a drive motor for the generator, and a pump for supplying a liquid coolant. The generator, the internal combustion engine and the pump are arranged coaxially on the shaft. The pump for a liquid coolant is located on the shaft between the generator and the drive motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1995
    Assignees: Kaethe Hagemeier, Chandrakanthi Wirges
    Inventor: Gerhard O. Wirges
  • Patent number: 5376827
    Abstract: An integrated turbine and generator includes a power turbine having counter-rotating outer and inner rotor blades extending from respective outer and inner rotors. The outer and inner rotors are supported by stationary front and rear frames. At least one electrical generator includes a field core for creating magnetic poles which is disposed coaxially with an armature for generating electrical power upon relative rotation therebetween. The field core and the armature are disposed coaxially with the outer rotor and radially outwardly therefrom, with one of the field core or armature being fixedly joined to the outer rotor for rotation therewith, and the other one thereof being fixedly joined to the front and rear frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1994
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: William R. Hines
  • Patent number: 5371412
    Abstract: A control method and apparatus of an engine for driving a generator. When a weight W of a charcoal canister is greater than a predetermined value W.sub.1 ` and a vehicle runs, the engine is actuated. As the result of the actuation of the engine, when a gasoline vapor within a fuel tank is purged and the weight W of the charcoal canister is lower than a second predetermined value W.sub.2, a vacuum switching valve for purging the canister is turned off and the engine is stopped. Even when the vehicle runs while a battery is frequently charged by an external charger, the occurrence of a certain amount of the fuel vapor which can not be caught and collected by the charcoal canister can be prevented and a low pollution vehicle can be obtained. In place of the vehicle running state, a vehicle running distance, or a vehicle running time can be used. In place of the predetermined value W.sub.2, a fuel purge amount can be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1994
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Iwashita, Hirohumi Kubota, Shouji Katsumata, Takeshi Kotani
  • Patent number: 5358461
    Abstract: Generators attached to bright lights on exercise clothing are turned by recoiling pull-cords attached to hand grips pulled during the normal arm movement of the exercise to light the path of the exerciser. Bright white front lights may pivot to adjust for the body angle of the exerciser. Colored back lights may also be lighted to make the exerciser more visible from the rear. A vest or belt and shoulder straps both attached adjustably by VELCRO (hooks and loops fastener) are used to support the generators and lights on the body of the exerciser. Wires run under the material of the belt or vest to the lights. Alternately, a single generator in the center of the back with two separate cord reels, on at each side, may be used to turn the generator. The generators and reels are covered by water-proof material. A one-way drive in the cord reel turns the generator only in one direction to create power. Weights may be added to the hand grips to enhance the exercise effect of moving the arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1994
    Inventor: Russell M. Bailey, Jr.