Pneumatic Motor With Gas Supply Or Removal Device Patents (Class 60/407)
  • Publication number: 20120227392
    Abstract: Thermo-dynamic battery is an energy storage unit for converting compressed gas energy into consumable electrical power for application uses with any device that requires electrical power to function. A method for storing electrical energy in the form of compressed gas and converting the same energy to electric power includes compressing gas and storing the compressed gas for release to drive a generator. A system and method for storing, disseminating, and utilizing energy in the form of gas compression and expansion comprises a method for expanding compressed gas in at least two stages and further provides for storing energy in the form of compressed gas through compression in at least two stages. Apparatus is provided to operate in accordance with the described procedure to contribute at or about 90% efficiency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2012
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Inventor: Daniel Ashikian
  • Patent number: 8245508
    Abstract: In various embodiments, efficiency of energy storage and recovery systems employing compressed air and liquid heat exchange is improved via control of the system operation and/or the properties of the heat-exchange liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: SustainX, Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin Bollinger, Patrick Magari, Troy O. McBride
  • Patent number: 8245724
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a Pneumatic System that can be employed within the residential environment. The system includes both a section mode and a pressure mode. Both of these modes, in turn, have both a low and a high pressure range. A variety of applications are disclosed for use in conjunction with the various modes of the system. These various applications are described in greater detail hereinafter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: WFK & Associates, LLC
    Inventor: Waldemar F. Kissel, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120180468
    Abstract: A system and associated devices that can be used to transform vibrational energy absorbed by the wheels of an automobile into captured energy for use by the automobile. A method to charge an automobile's electric battery without burning fuel and in a shorter time period than prior approaches. A method to assure a smooth drive for an automobile by reducing vibrations associated with the automobile. An apparatus that provides for the vector superposition of the magnetic fields from a plurality of adjacent permanent magnets and maximizes radial magnetic flux density within coil windings for optimal power generation and energy conversion efficiency of an automobile. A system, method, and apparatus for compressing air resulting from the passage of a automobile over a roadway, thereby providing generation of power for the automobile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2012
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Inventor: Travis Knapp
  • Publication number: 20120180469
    Abstract: A heavy door open and close system is provided using a pneumatic cylinder utilizing on board vehicle air. The system includes a hydraulic cylinder which is adapted to lock the door in either an open or closed position. A manual activation system uses a hydraulic valve to unlock the hydraulic cylinder and a pneumatic valve to actuate the pneumatic cylinder to open or close the door. An emergency pneumatic actuation system is also provided for use when the system loses the use of on board air of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2010
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Applicant: PARKER HANNIFIN CORPORATION
    Inventors: Robert Knepple, Andrew Bishop, David Lego, Dominic Number, Paxton Augustine
  • Publication number: 20120159940
    Abstract: A pressure regulating device, a compressed air supply system and a motor vehicle are provided. The pressure regulating device comprises a first valve seat (301), a first valve plug (302), a second elastic body (314) and a first gas pipeline (307). A sliding sealing fit is provided between the first valve plug (302) and the first valve seat (301), and the first valve plug (302) divides the first valve seat (301) into a first chamber (305) and a second chamber (306). The second elastic body (314) is arranged in the second chamber (306) and supports the first valve plug (302). The first chamber (305) is connected with the first gas pipeline (307). The first valve plug (302) has at least two branch airways (323), each of which having a gas outlet (325). The first valve plug (302) has at least two third positions in which at least one gas outlet (325) is closed by the inner wall (321) and at least one of other gas outlets (325) leaves the inner wall (321).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2010
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventor: Yang Cong
  • Patent number: 8191359
    Abstract: Systems, apparatus and methods that use a hidden Markov model to estimate motion of a sample under measurement and to reduce a motion-induced effect in the measurement. MRI systems and other sample measurement systems can be implemented based on motion sensing using the hidden Markov model. Recursive and non-recursive estimation processes are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Nathan White, Anders Dale
  • Patent number: 8181456
    Abstract: A compressed-air energy storage system according to embodiments of the present invention comprises a reversible mechanism to compress and expand air, one or more compressed air storage tanks, a control system, one or more heat exchangers, and, in certain embodiments of the invention, a motor-generator. The reversible air compressor-expander uses mechanical power to compress air (when it is acting as a compressor) and converts the energy stored in compressed air to mechanical power (when it is acting as an expander). In certain embodiments, the compressor-expander comprises one or more stages, each stage consisting of pressure vessel (the “pressure cell”) partially filled with water or other liquid. In some embodiments, the pressure vessel communicates with one or more cylinder devices to exchange air and liquid with the cylinder chamber(s) thereof. Suitable valving allows air to enter and leave the pressure cell and cylinder device, if present, under electronic control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Lightsail Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: Danielle A. Fong, Stephen E. Crane, Edwin P. Berlin, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120073280
    Abstract: An engine comprises a tank of compressed air and a piston. The tank of compressed air is connected to a conduit and the conduit is connected to a cylinder comprising a first valve and an inlet to a chamber. The chamber comprises the piston, which reciprocates. The chamber also has a second outlet connected to a second valve. The air traverses from the tank of compressed into the chamber by opening the first valve. Both the first valve and second valve are closed and the compressed air moves the piston in the chamber to produce work. The second valve opens and the air escapes from the chamber and the piston.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventors: Frank W. McCuin, Shapour Bakhtian, Clinton Johnson, Charles C. McCuin, Eric Morton, Lily Lu
  • Publication number: 20110308248
    Abstract: The present invention provides a compressor powered by a pressurized gas, whether steam or another working fluid, and a system for extracting work using such as compressor. The pressurized gas may comprise a heated working fluid in a gaseous state, to displace a piston in an input circuit, which in turn displaces a piston in an output circuit, thereby compressing a compressible fluid or displacing an incompressible fluid. A purpose of the compressor is to convert waste heat, heat generated by the combustion of biomass or other fuels, or heat resulting from the concentration of solar energy into useful power, whether configured to produce compressed air or pump water, which can displace the electricity otherwise used for this purpose, or to produce electricity or motive force directly, through a hydraulic circuit. The system for extracting work does so by an output fluid which is compressed or pumped by a pressurized gas powered compressor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2010
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Applicant: NOVOPOWER LTD.
    Inventors: Valeri Stroganov, Philip Raphals
  • Publication number: 20110296823
    Abstract: In various embodiments, energy-storage systems are based upon an open-air arrangement in which pressurized gas is expanded in small batches from a high pressure of, e.g., several hundred atmospheres to atmospheric pressure. The systems may be sized and operated at a rate that allows for near isothermal expansion and compression of the gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2011
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Inventors: Troy O. McBride, Benjamin R. Bollinger, Michael Schaefer, Dax Kepshire
  • Patent number: 8065873
    Abstract: A compressed-air energy storage system according to embodiments of the present invention comprises a reversible mechanism to compress and expand air, one or more compressed air storage tanks, a control system, one or more heat exchangers, and, in certain embodiments of the invention, a motor-generator. The reversible air compressor-expander uses mechanical power to compress air (when it is acting as a compressor) and converts the energy stored in compressed air to mechanical power (when it is acting as an expander). In certain embodiments, the compressor-expander comprises one or more stages, each stage consisting of pressure vessel (the “pressure cell”) partially filled with water or other liquid. In some embodiments, the pressure vessel communicates with one or more cylinder devices to exchange air and liquid with the cylinder chamber(s) thereof. Suitable valving allows air to enter and leave the pressure cell and cylinder device, if present, under electronic control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Lightsail Energy, Inc
    Inventors: Danielle A. Fong, Stephen E. Crane, Edwin P. Berlin, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8065874
    Abstract: A compressed-air energy storage system according to embodiments of the present invention comprises a reversible mechanism to compress and expand air, one or more compressed air storage tanks, a control system, one or more heat exchangers, and, in certain embodiments of the invention, a motor-generator. The reversible air compressor-expander uses mechanical power to compress air (when it is acting as a compressor) and converts the energy stored in compressed air to mechanical power (when it is acting as an expander). In certain embodiments, the compressor-expander comprises one or more stages, each stage consisting of pressure vessel (the “pressure cell”) partially filled with water or other liquid. In some embodiments, the pressure vessel communicates with one or more cylinder devices to exchange air and liquid with the cylinder chamber(s) thereof. Suitable valving allows air to enter and leave the pressure cell and cylinder device, if present, under electronic control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Lightsale Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: Danielle A. Fong, Stephen E. Crane, Edwin P. Berlin, Jr., AmirHossein Pourmousa Abkenar, Kartikeya Mahalatkar, Yongxi Hou, Todd Bowers, Karl E. Stahlkopf
  • Patent number: 8061132
    Abstract: A compressed-air energy storage system according to embodiments of the present invention comprises a reversible mechanism to compress and expand air, one or more compressed air storage tanks, a control system, one or more heat exchangers, and, in certain embodiments of the invention, a motor-generator. The reversible air compressor-expander uses mechanical power to compress air (when it is acting as a compressor) and converts the energy stored in compressed air to mechanical power (when it is acting as an expander). In certain embodiments, the compressor-expander comprises one or more stages, each stage consisting of pressure vessel (the “pressure cell”) partially filled with water or other liquid. In some embodiments, the pressure vessel communicates with one or more cylinder devices to exchange air and liquid with the cylinder chamber(s) thereof. Suitable valving allows air to enter and leave the pressure cell and cylinder device, if present, under electronic control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Lightsail Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: Danielle A. Fong, Stephen E. Crane, Edwin P. Berlin, Jr., AmirHossein Pourmousa Abkenar, Kartikeya Mahalatkar, Yongxi Hou, Todd Bowers, Karl E. Stahlkopf
  • Patent number: 8024923
    Abstract: An electromagnetic valve, a circuit board on which a control circuit for controlling the electromagnetic valve is mounted, and a cover for covering the electromagnetic valve and the circuit board are installed on a device-attaching surface of an adapter plate disposed at one end in a direction of an axial line of an air cylinder, in a manner so as to be housed within a surface area of the device-attaching surface, and an output port of the electromagnetic valve and a pressure chamber of the air cylinder are allowed to communicate with each other through an air through-hole provided in the adapter plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventor: Takumi Matsumoto
  • Publication number: 20110154814
    Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of a pneumatic actuator assembly includes a hollow body member, and a transverse nipple member including a flange portion, and a hollow passageway leading to a hollow nipple portion. A bellows member is positioned in the body member and is configured to receive the flange portion of the nipple member at an open end. A button member disposed at the closed end of the bellows member and arranged to slide within a range of movement within the body member to compress the bellows and actuate the assembly. The nipple portion of the nipple member is arranged transversely with respect to the longitudinal axis of the body member and configured for connection to a hollow tubing end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventor: Graham J. Campbell
  • Publication number: 20110139512
    Abstract: The present invention recites a method and apparatus, wherein said methods and apparatus comprises an actuator comprising a first plate, a pocket extending through the first plate, the pocket in fluid communication with a pressurized fluid source and a second plate coupled to a component that is to be actuated, wherein the first plate, the second plate, and the pocket are dimensioned such that when a pressurized fluid is discharged through the pocket, the velocity of the fluid through a gap between the first plate and the second plate creates a pressure drop sufficient to pull the second plate toward the first plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventors: Kjell Haugvaldstad, Ashley Johnson, Geoffrey C. Downton, Walter David Aldred, Frank F. Espinosa, Benjamin Jeffryes, Riadh Boualleg, Michael Paul Barrett
  • Patent number: 7926321
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a hydraulic tool user interface. The hydraulic tool user interface includes a rocker section, a drain trigger section, and an activation trigger section. The rocker section includes a first end, a second end, and a first contact portion. The first contact portion is between the first end and the second end. The first contact portion is configured to contact a drain pin. The drain trigger section is at the first end. The activation trigger section is between the first end and the second end. The activation trigger section is configured to contact the second end. The activation trigger section is configured to contact an electrical switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Nathan Rollins, Samuel Millen, David Carpenter
  • Publication number: 20110068585
    Abstract: A system and process for utilizing energy generated within a flue gas processing system (100). The process includes subjecting a carbon dioxide loaded solution (142) to pressure in a regeneration system (136), thereby removing carbon dioxide from the carbon dioxide loaded solution (142) and generating a high pressure carbon dioxide stream (138). At least a portion of the high pressure carbon dioxide stream (138) is introduced to an expansion turbine (160), thereby generating energy (164). The energy (164) is utilized to generate power (168).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Applicant: ALSTOM TECHNOLOGY LTD
    Inventors: Sanjay K. Dube, Stephen H. Gleitz, Frederic Z. Kozak, David J. Muraskin, Thomas B. Raines
  • Publication number: 20110030362
    Abstract: Energy is stored by injecting fluid into a hydraulic fracture in the earth and producing the fluid hack while recovering power. The method is particularly adapted to storage of large amounts of energy such as in grid-scale electric energy systems. The hydraulic fracture may be formed and treated with resin so as to limit fluid loss and to increase propagation pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2010
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Inventor: Howard K. Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20110023476
    Abstract: In an embodiment of the present disclosure, an energy storage device is presented. The energy storage device includes a porous material that adsorbs air and a compressor. The compressor converts mechanical energy into pressurized air and heat, and the pressurized air is cooled and adsorbed by the porous material. The energy storage device also includes a tank used to store the pressurized and adsorbed air and a motor. The motor is driven to recover the energy stored as compressed and adsorbed air by allowing the air to desorb and expand while driving the motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2010
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Inventor: Timothy F. Havel
  • Publication number: 20110023498
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for production of electric energy and CO2 from a hydrocarbon feedstock comprising steam reforming of the feedstock, separation and combustion of hydrogen and separation of CO2. Further the invention relates to a power plant for performing the process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Applicant: STATOIL ASA
    Inventors: Gelein De Koeijer, Erling Rytter, Børge Rygh Sivertsen, Henrik Kobro
  • Publication number: 20100313578
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for vaporising a cryogenic fluid, in particular liquefied natural gas that comprises the following steps: supplying heat from ambient air to a heat-transfer intermediate fluid in a first heat exchanger (3); supplying heat from said intermediate fluid to the cryogenic fluid in a second heat exchanger (5) in order to vaporise the cryogenic fluid. The intermediate fluid is fed into the second heat exchanger (5) after being compressed, and is fed into the first heat exchanger (3) after the expansion thereof in order to prevent rime formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: GEA Batignolles Technologies Thermiques
    Inventors: Herveline Robidou, Nicolas Bariteau
  • Publication number: 20100307847
    Abstract: This disclosure describes an electric drive ground transportation vehicle, comprising a first energy storage subsystem and at least one other energy storage subsystem, at least one energy regeneration subsystem, at least one energy management controller, wherein said controller controls the routing of energy between the vehicle's subsystems based on the status, capabilities, and demands of the various subsystems, and the requirements imposed on the vehicle, and said at least one energy regeneration subsystem can regenerate energy in said first energy storage subsystem and/or said at least one other energy storage subsystem while the vehicle is in operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2009
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Inventors: Justine Lungu, John V. Zambrzycki
  • Patent number: 7841223
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a hydraulic tool user interface. The hydraulic tool user interface includes a rocker section, a drain trigger section, and an activation trigger section. The rocker section includes a first end, a second end, and a first contact portion. The first contact portion is between the first end and the second end. The first contact portion is configured to contact a drain pin. The drain trigger section is at the first end. The activation trigger section is between the first end and the second end. The activation trigger section is configured to contact the second end. The activation trigger section is configured to contact an electrical switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Burndy Technology LLC
    Inventors: Nathan Rollins, Samuel Millen, David Carpenter
  • Publication number: 20100296949
    Abstract: A fluid driven motor system including a source of pressurized drive fluid and at least one cylinder having a piston therein for reciprocating motion. The cylinder receives the pressurized drive fluid from the source, and a compressor receives drive fluid exhausted from the at least one cylinder. The pressurized drive fluid circulates in a closed loop from the compressor to the cylinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2010
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Applicant: ADVANCED AIR INNOVATIONS LLC
    Inventor: Clifford CORLEY
  • Patent number: 7836690
    Abstract: Between an air source and a first pressure chamber of a double-acting main cylinder having a length measurement sensor for measuring an acting position of a piston, a supply solenoid valve is connected; between the first pressure chamber and the atmosphere, an exhaust solenoid valve is connected; and between a second pressure chamber and the air source, a stop solenoid valve is connected. When a target acting position of the piston is inputted into a controller, the controller moves the piston to the target acting position so that a position measured by the length measurement sensor agrees with the target position by on-off controlling the solenoid valves. Upon reaching the target position, the piston is stopped and held in the stopped state by confining air within the pressure chambers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Takumi Matsumoto, Kazuhiro Noguchi
  • Patent number: 7814750
    Abstract: A device for supplying pressure from an energy storage device to a piston gear shifting actuator by way of a valve device is provided. A pressure regulating and/or control device is used to regulate and/or control the pressure applied to the piston actuator. The pressure regulating and/or control device regulates and/or controls the pressure according to at least one following quantity: temperature, in particular a transmission operating temperature, the load state of the motor vehicle provided with the transmission, and the slope of a surface along which the motor vehicle provided with the transmission runs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignees: KNORR-BREMSE Systeme fuer Nutzfahzeuge GmbH, ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Markus Deeg, Friedbert Roether, Mario Steinborn, Rainer Petzold
  • Publication number: 20100199652
    Abstract: Multistage hydraulic systems and methods for converting the potential energy of a pressurized gas, particularly air, into mechanical work when operating in motor, and for producing compressed gas from the mechanical work of the rotating shaft when rotating when operating in compressor mode, by performing a successive expansion/compression of the said gas. Each of the systems comprises: a multistage Compression-Expansion Unit made of several hydraulic Compression-Expansion Modules having different capacity and integrating a gas/liquid separating heat exchanger, designed to convert pressure power into a hydraulic power and vice-versa, by performing an essentially isothermal compression/expansion of the gas; a single stage or multistage, direct or indirect, external forced-air Heat Exchanger for maintaining the active liquid at ambient temperature; and a multi-circuit, multi-displacement Hydraulic Motor/Pump for converting hydraulic power into mechanical power and vice-versa.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventors: Sylvain Lemofouet, Alfred Rufer
  • Publication number: 20100199654
    Abstract: Disclosed is a gas pressure actuator whose actuator body has a cylinder, a piston and a gas generator in which a powder is loaded, and the gas generator is positioned at an end portion of the cylinder. The gas generator injects a high pressure gas into the cylinder by the combustion of the powder, thereby moving the piston. The actuator body is provided with a coating which covers the entire actuator body from outside. The coating is a resin coating having electrically insulating, waterproof, and dustproof characteristics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventors: Tetsuya Ukon, Teruaki Tsuchiya, Futoshi Okugawa
  • Patent number: 7765803
    Abstract: We present a high-efficiency crankless reciprocating steam engine that loses only a small amount of energy when the rectilinear motion of its piston is changed into the rotary motion of its driveshaft. The present invention continuously rotates a valve in one direction while alternately introducing steam into two piston housing chambers to generate the rotary force of the driveshaft. Therefore, engine efficiency is greatly increased because the inertial force losses in the valve are much smaller compared to the case when the valve rotation stops or changes direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Inje University Industy-Academic Cooperation Foundation
    Inventors: Dae-Hee Lee, Yeong-Saeng Kim
  • Publication number: 20100162681
    Abstract: A mechanical device efficiently converts energy stored in a highly compressed gas, such as air in a pipeline or SCUBA tank, to mechanical energy, such as might be used to drive an electrical generator or to propel a water craft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Inventor: Henry M. Gerard
  • Patent number: 7698890
    Abstract: A propulsion system. An illustrative embodiment of the propulsion system includes a drive shaft, a flywheel drivingly engaged by the drive shaft, a turbine unit having a plurality of turbine blades drivingly engaging the drive shaft and an air manifold having a plurality of air manifold nozzles directed toward the plurality of turbine blades, and an air tank reservoir pneumatically connected to the air manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Inventor: Louis R. Cecchini, III
  • Publication number: 20100089048
    Abstract: A pneumatic actuator includes, but is not limited to a pressurized gas source, a cylinder, and a piston which is moveable between a rest position and an extended position. Together with the cylinder, the piston borders a first working chamber which is connected with the pressurized gas source via a first inlet opening and which can be pressurized with a first portion of the pressurized gas of the pressurized gas source for moving the piston out of the rest position, and a second working chamber which is connected with the pressurized gas source via a second inlet opening for moving the piston into the rest position and which can be pressurized in a delayed manner with a second portion of the pressurized gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2006
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventor: Joachim Schaefer
  • Publication number: 20090266069
    Abstract: An mechanical power system is provided for providing torque without using a heat engine in virtually any non-aviation application where fossil-fuel engines have conventionally been used, by simply replacing the fossil-fuel burning engine with a rotary pneumatic motor of appropriate size for the application and feeding pressure-regulated compressed gas to the rotary pneumatic motor. The rotary pneumatic motor can be used virtually anywhere, and requires merely a supply of compressed gas to run it, preferably compressed nitrogen. Automotive, marine and electrical generating applications are easily adaptable, and auxiliary fossil-fuel engines can be added for emergencies where a supply of compressed gas has been exhausted. A screw-type compressor can be electrically powered to supply compressed gas to the pneumatic motor where tanks of compressed gas have been exhausted. Tanks of compressed gas are to be conveniently user replaceable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Timothy J. Domes
  • Patent number: 7526917
    Abstract: A gas diffusion vacuum device includes a supply of gas, a nonpermeable enclosure, a supply of liquid, an open liquid reservoir and a gas permeable cover. A first end of the nonpermeable enclosure is retained in the open liquid reservoir. The volume of gas is supplied through a side wall of the nonpermeable enclosure. The gas is preferably carbon dioxide. The gas permeable cover preferably includes a diffusion barrier and a porous diffusion barrier support. The diffusion barrier is wrapped over the porous diffusion barrier support and secured to a side wall of the nonpermeable enclosure. As the gas diffuses through the gas permeable cover, a vacuum is created to raise a column of liquid. A second embodiment of the gas diffusion vacuum device includes a supply of gas, a nonpermeable enclosure and a gas permeable cover. A vacuum created is used to perform work with an air driven device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Inventor: John C. Hoffman
  • Publication number: 20090107111
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus for reducing or eliminating airborne pollutants and generating a measure of usable energy from the same are provided. The Implo-Dynamics™ Treatment System includes several embodiments for mixing steam and emissions and injecting said mixture into a process fluid transmission network. The vacuum induced flow of the Working Fluid provides a means of propelling a Hydro Turbine unit for energy recovery purposes. The process includes reactant injection, gas transfer, filtration, remediation of pollutants, and delivers a novel means for carbon dioxide capture and sequestration. Furthermore, the detoxified process by-product solids represent a beneficial reutilization and/or recycling resource. The methods and systems of the present invention include a comprehensive arrangement of process configurations and components as well as a means of operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventor: Troy Lee Oliver
  • Publication number: 20090084101
    Abstract: Apparatuses for converting pressure differences of gaseous or liquid media into rotary motion are provided. In some embodiments, apparatuses for utilizing the pressure differences of gaseous, vaporous or liquid media by pressure expansion of the media are provided, the apparatuses comprising: a housing having an inner wall with a length; a plurality of hose pieces positioned in the housing on the inner wall with a length corresponding at least to the length of housing wall; inlet valves and outlet valves coupled to the hose pieces that substantially synchronously regulate a sequence of filling and emptying of the hose pieces by the media; a roller that is positioned between the hose pieces, that rotates on an eccentric, and that rotates in connection with the tilling and emptying of the hose pieces; and a shaft coupled to the roller at the eccentric that rotates as the roller rotates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Inventor: Christian Erker
  • Publication number: 20080289324
    Abstract: An affordable system for the production of clean energy comprises a plurality of tubular columns, each sealed at the bottom, to contain water in most of its inner volume. A buoy having an opening at the very bottom and a mechanical valve at its top thereby becomes inflatable and deflatable at preset times in a cycle. Once made buoyant by letting air in the bottom opening—forcing most of the water out of the buoy—it thereby elevates to the very top of the column until it reached the top of the column where the column lid depresses the valve stem deflating the buoy thus lowering the buoy to the bottom to begin the cycle again. A chain and gears engage with a rotary alternator for the generation of electricity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2007
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventors: Robert Marion, Richard Woloshyn
  • Patent number: 7454903
    Abstract: In an air servo cylinder formed by integrally combining an air cylinder, servo valves, and a controller via a manifold block, there are provided, in the manifold block, air discharge flow paths for releasing, to the outside, compressed air discharged associated with operations of the servo valves. In each of the air discharge flow paths, a silencer for reducing exhaust noise is incorporated so as not to protrude from the manifold block to the outside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Daisuke Matsumoto, Nobuhiro Fujiwara, Hiroshi Miyachi
  • Publication number: 20080264052
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and associated methods for generating energy by capturing and taking benefit of the energy generated by any quantity of air surfacing inside water. In exemplary embodiments, the apparatus comprises compressing a lower density gas in a liquid medium, allowing the gas to naturally rise to the surface of the liquid medium and then capturing the energy generated by the surfacing gas. An apparatus and method is disclosed to provide a low energy technique to compress air into water. In exemplary embodiments, air is introduced into water by simultaneously providing a low pressure area in the liquid medium and compressing the air into the low pressure area. By compressing the air into water in low pressure areas, the energy required to compress the air is greatly reduced. The amount of energy generated by the rising air is less than the amount of energy required to compress air underneath the water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2008
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventor: Renato Bastos Ribeiro
  • Patent number: 7406910
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a device for the controlling the position of a pneumatic actuator comprising: a pneumatically adjustable actuating element (5); a pneumatic actuating drive (6) for adjusting the actuating element (5); an electro-pneumatic position controller (1) for pneumatically driving the actuating drive (6) as a function of a position controller set point and a controlled variable; and at least one main pneumatic power amplifier (10) with bypass throttle for amplifying the power output of the position controller (1) and for pneumatically driving the actuating drive (6). In addition, a pilot control pneumatic power amplifier (9) with a bypass throttle for preamplifying the pneumatic power output of the position controller (1) is installed between the position controller (1) and the main power amplifier (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Samson AG
    Inventors: Ulrich Schulz, Joerg Kiesbauer
  • Publication number: 20080163618
    Abstract: An apparatus for driving a turbine connected to a generator for generating power to supply to a grid the power derived from a rotating shaft includes a transmission for selectably driving either of a compressor or a direct current motor generator. The compressor compresses ambient air changing phase to liquid air. The direct current motor generator generates a current at a constant voltage for water electrolysis. A first bell containing a cathode collects elemental hydrogen; a second bell containing an anode collects elemental oxygen. The elemental hydrogen burns in the presence of the elemental oxygen to produce a highly energetic exhaust. A valve selectably admits either of the highly compressed air or the highly energetic exhaust into the turbine to drive the turbine thereby energizing the generator to supply the grid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2007
    Publication date: July 10, 2008
    Inventor: Marius Angelo Paul
  • Publication number: 20080129051
    Abstract: A turbine generator utilizing a passive high pressure fluid source such as a natural gas well head. The generator includes a core and lead wires encapsulated in a dielectric medium to isolate current-bearing components from the motivating fluid, thereby preventing carbon bridging and reducing the explosion hazard when the motivating fluid is a hydrocarbon. The turbine generator includes a rotor that utilizes the full length as an impingement surface for imparting momentum to the rotor, thereby maintaining a compact design that reduces the overall footprint of the turbine generator. Fluid exits the generator via horizontal passages that penetrate the lower extremities of the turbine generator, preventing the buildup of condensation in the unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventor: Neil C. Saucier
  • Patent number: 7328575
    Abstract: A device for the pneumatic operation of a tool includes a generally closed pressure fluid circuit (2), at least one compressor (5), for increasing the pressure of the pressure fluid in the circuit, the compressor (5) having an inlet and an outlet, and a tool driven by the pressure fluid in the circuit, and through which the pressure fluid is transported in the circuit from the outlet to the inlet of the compressor (5). The pressure that is generated by the compressor and the load adopted by the tool (8) are adapted such that the pressure of the returning pressure fluid downstream the tool (8) is higher than the pressure of the surrounding atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: Cargine Engineering AB
    Inventor: Mats Hedman
  • Patent number: 7322188
    Abstract: An anti-condensation control system for devices driven by or utilizing decompressing air is provided. The system includes a supply of compressed air connected to a compressed air-utilizing device. A source of heated fluid is provided and is connected to a heat exchanger that transfers heat from the heated fluid to the compressed air. The compressed air is heated in the heat exchanger sufficiently that upon decompression the temperature of the device is not lowered to the ambient dew point. The system is particularly applicable to devices utilizing compressed air for the spraying of liquid materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Inventors: William A. Cline, Michael R. Bonner
  • Patent number: 7246491
    Abstract: An actuator includes a hollow cylinder which has a first portion and a second portion. The inner diameter of the first portion is larger than that of the second portion. A piston is inserted in the cylinder. The actuator has a gas generator which supplies a gas into the cylinder to move the piston toward the first portion. The seal member keeps airtightness between the piston and the cylinder when the piston stays in the second portion and flows the gas when the piston stays in the first portion. A hollow stopper is arranged in the first portion and stops the piston. The stopper has a vent groove which is provided on the inner surface and connects the interior of the cylinder to the open end. A piston rod is jointed to the piston and housed in the cylinder. The piston rod moves along the axis with the piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: NHK Spring Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroyoshi Yamaguchi, Minoru Takakura
  • Patent number: 7028482
    Abstract: A pneumatic hybrid electric engine includes an electric source, an air supply part for compressing air and storing the compressed air, a pneumatic engine part for generating power using air supplied from the air supply part, an electric engine part for generating power using electric power applied from the electric source, a power transmission part for transmitting the power generated by the pneumatic engine part and the electric engine part, and a control part for selectively operating the pneumatic engine part and the electric engine part so that the pneumatic and electric engines parts can be switched on the basis of a predetermined torque range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Energine Corporation
    Inventors: Chol-Seung Cho, Dae-Sik Ko
  • Patent number: 6871493
    Abstract: A braking device, particularly for a motor vehicle, comprising a master cylinder (10) associated with a pneumatic booster (12), and a vacuum pump (36) to create a vacuum in the vacuum chamber (16) of the booster, characterized in that the vacuum pump (36) is fixed to the envelope (14) of the booster on the inside of the latter within the vacuum chamber (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Juan Simon Bacardit
  • Patent number: 6834499
    Abstract: Flow way structure of pneumatic tool, including: a main body; a connector rotatably disposed on the main body; an air inlet, a water inlet and at least one air outlet concentrically arranged on the connector, inner end of each air outlet communicating with an air chamber of the main body; an air inlet switch and a water inlet switch mounted in the main body for controlling the flow of the fluid; an air way for conducting the air into the main body and communicating with a pneumatic cylinder disposed in the main body; and a water way for conducting the water into the main body. Two ends of the air way and water way are concentrically respectively connected with the air inlet and water inlet. When the connector rotates on the main body, the air inlet and the water inlet respectively still keep communicating with the air way and water way. In use, the air and water are respectively conducted from the air way and water way into the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Gison Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Freddy Lin