Energy conversion apparatus

Abstract

An energy conversion apparatus is closed. The apparatus includes a tank accommodating a fluid, an ascending conduit at least partially filled with the fluid, a descending conduit, and an upper connecting conduit and a lower connecting conduit that connect the ascending conduit and the descending conduit to form a closed circulation path. A plurality of buoyant bodies are arranged along the path. The buoyant bodies ascend through the ascending conduit by buoyancy of the fluid and descend through the descending conduit by gravity so as to drive a generator assembly disposed along the descending conduit to generate electric power. A driving module is provided between the lower connecting conduit and the ascending conduit. The driving module includes an electric actuator and a push rod supplied with electric power from an external renewable energy source. When actuated, the push rod pushes the buoyant bodies into the ascending conduit against a hydrostatic pressure in the ascending conduit. A sealing member having an elastically deformable central opening may be provided so as to allow passage of the buoyant bodies while reducing fluid leakage, thereby improving energy conversion efficiency and output stability of the system.

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