ENERGY-SAVING BALANCED MECHANISM, ROTATING MACHINE AND IMPLEMENTATION METHOD

Abstract

The present invention relates to a mechanism (1) comprising a support (2) and two gears (12; 22) rotatably free to rotate (r1; r2) about their respective axes (a1; a2). The axes (a1; a2) are parallel in a horizontal or vertical reference plane (po). The gears (12; 22) mesh with each other with a unit transmission ratio and are rotatably free to rotate (r1; r2) in opposite directions.The mechanism (1) is characterized in that it comprises eccentric elements (14; 24) fixed in rotation (r1; r2) to the gears (12; 22) and generating moments (m1; m2) of gravitational force (p1; p2) about the respective axes (a1; a2); in that the moments (m1; m2) have the same magnitude and direction, varying according to their angular position about the axes (a1; a2); and in that for each angular position of the gears (12; 22) and the eccentric elements (14; 24) about the axes (a1; a2), the mechanism (1) exhibits a rest equilibrium configuration. The invention also relates to a rotating machine comprising at least one such mechanism (1). The invention also relates to a method for implementing such a mechanism (1).<!--endfragment-->

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a balanced mechanism for energy saving, applicable to any conceivable application, and in particular to rotating machines. The invention specifically relates to a mechanism with a pendulum and elliptical motion.

[0002] The invention also relates to a rotating machine, for example a motor, generator, or mixer, comprising at least one such mechanism. The invention particularly relates to a motor comprising several mechanisms arranged in series and / or in parallel.

[0003] The invention also relates to a method for implementing such a mechanism.

[0004] In the field of mechanics, numerous motion transmission mechanisms exist, such as epicyclic gear trains or crankshafts, suitable for equipping rotating machines. However, the efficiencies obtained with known mechanisms are not entirely satisfactory. EP 2 781 790 A1 is considered the document describing the closest prior art.

[0005] The aim of the present invention is to propose a mechanism to save energy and improve the efficiency of a rotating machine.

[0006] To this end, the invention relates to a mechanism, comprising a support; a first toothed wheel movable in rotation relative to the support around a first axis; a second toothed wheel movable in rotation relative to the support around a second axis; in which: the axes are parallel in a horizontal or vertical reference plane; and the toothed wheels mesh with each other with a unitary transmission ratio and are movable in rotation in opposite directions.

[0007] The mechanism is characterized in that it comprises a first eccentric element fixed in rotation to the first toothed wheel and generating a first moment of gravitational force around the first axis; and a second eccentric element fixed in rotation to the second toothed wheel and generating a second moment of gravitational force around the second axis; in that the moments of gravitational force of the eccentric elements have the same value and the same direction, varying according to their angular position around the axes; and in that for each angular position of the toothed wheels and the eccentric elements around the axes, the mechanism presents a rest equilibrium configuration.

[0008] Thus, the invention reduces the energy required to drive rotating gears by balancing the eccentric elements and the centrifugal forces they generate. The invention even allows for energy production within a rotating machine by combining several synchronized mechanisms. The mechanism therefore saves energy, as described below.

[0009] According to other advantageous features of the mechanism according to the invention, taken individually or in combination: The eccentric elements have the same mass and dimensions. The gears comprise a first gear with one tooth longer than the other teeth and a second gear with a groove formed between two teeth. The longer tooth and the groove coincide when the gears mesh, allowing the eccentric elements to align. The axes of the gears are horizontal. The reference plane is horizontal. The reference plane is vertical.

[0010] Preferably, the support comprises a base and a pendulum suspended from the base, which supports the axles of the gears. The axles move with the pendulum. The eccentric elements describe an elliptical motion.

[0011] According to a first embodiment, the balance wheel is suspended from the base by articulated connecting rods. This embodiment is advantageous when the reference plane including the axes of the gears is horizontal.

[0012] Preferably, the mechanism includes a drive shaft with an axis aligned with the upper joints of the connecting rods. A first distance is defined between the distal end of each eccentric element and the corresponding axis of rotation. A second distance is defined, equal to the center-to-center distance of the connecting rods. The first distance is less than the second distance, so that the eccentric elements pass under the drive shaft.

[0013] According to a second embodiment, the pendulum is suspended directly from the base. This embodiment is advantageous when the reference plane including the axes of the gears is vertical.

[0014] Preferably, the mechanism includes a drive shaft with an axis aligned with the upper pivot of the rocker arm. A first distance is defined between the distal end of each eccentric element and the corresponding axis of rotation. A second distance is defined, equal to the center-to-center distance of the connecting rods. The first distance is less than the second distance, so that the eccentric elements pass under the drive shaft.

[0015] The invention also relates to a rotating machine, comprising at least one mechanism as mentioned above.

[0016] Preferably, the rotating machine is an energy production or transformation machine with improved efficiency. Advantageously, this machine is crankshaftless.

[0017] By way of non-limiting examples, the rotating machine can be a motor, a generator, a mixer, a centrifuge, a compressor, a pump or a turbine.

[0018] When the machine is an internal combustion engine, the eccentric elements equipping the mechanism meet in two positions of maximum centrifugation, each corresponding to a combustion of gas in the engine.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment, the machine includes at least one pendulum mechanism, in which the eccentric elements describe an elliptical motion.

[0020] According to an advantageous embodiment, the machine comprises at least one pair of swing mechanisms arranged in series and synchronized. The mechanisms are aligned and move in opposite phase.

[0021] Each mechanism has its own drive shaft. When the balance wheel is suspended from the base by connecting rods, the drive shaft has an axis aligned with the upper joints of the connecting rods. When the balance wheel is suspended directly from the base, the drive shaft has an axis aligned with the upper joint of the balance wheel.

[0022] Advantageously, the machine includes a connecting rod coupled to the mechanisms arranged in series. The connecting rod is stationary in a horizontal direction and movable in a vertical direction during the movement of the mechanisms.

[0023] According to another advantageous embodiment, the machine comprises several parallel and synchronized rocker mechanisms. Preferably, the number of parallel mechanisms is even, which facilitates their synchronization.

[0024] The machine comprises a single transmission shaft coupled to the various mechanisms arranged in parallel in a row.

[0025] According to another advantageous embodiment, the machine comprises several pairs of pendulum mechanisms. The pairs are arranged in parallel and synchronized with each other. Within each pair, the mechanisms are arranged in series and synchronized.

[0026] The machine comprises two drive shafts, each coupled to the various mechanisms arranged in parallel in a row.

[0027] According to another advantageous embodiment, the machine is a two-stroke engine comprising two rocker arm mechanisms. The first two eccentric elements are arranged offset by half a turn, and the second two eccentric elements are arranged offset by half a turn.

[0028] According to another advantageous embodiment, the machine is a four-stroke engine comprising four rocker arm mechanisms. The first four eccentric elements are arranged in quarter-turn offsets, and similarly the second four eccentric elements are arranged in quarter-turn offsets.

[0029] Preferably, when the machine includes several pendulum mechanisms, the base is common to all the pendulums. In other words, all the pendulums are suspended from the same base.

[0030] Preferably, the machine also includes means for starting the mechanism(s), including for example a chain or a gear system, intended to drive one of the gear wheels in rotation.

[0031] In addition, the starting means may include a motor for assisted starting or a crank for manual starting of the mechanism.

[0032] In one particular embodiment, the machine lacks dedicated starting means for the rocker arm mechanism(s). In this case, the mechanism(s) can be started by simply pushing on the rocker arm(s) or on one of the eccentric elements.

[0033] Advantageously, the machine includes means for recovering energy when the mechanism is in motion, for example in the form of a generator. In this case, the machine preferably includes means for starting the mechanism, including a motor. This makes it possible to overcome the starting resistance caused by the presence of the generator.

[0034] The invention also relates to a method for implementing a mechanism as described above, comprising the following successive steps: a positioning step of the eccentric elements relative to each other and to the gears, so that the gravitational moments of the eccentric elements have the same value and direction, varying according to their angular position around the axes, and that for each angular position of the gears and eccentric elements around the axes, the mechanism has a rest equilibrium configuration; a starting step of the rotation of the gears and eccentric elements around the axes, in which the mechanism leaves the equilibrium configuration and starts moving; and an operating step, in which the rotation of the eccentric elements around the axes generates centrifugal forces within the mechanism.

[0035] The invention will be better understood upon reading the following description, given solely by way of non-limiting example and made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: there figure 1 is a side view of a mechanism according to a first embodiment of the invention, comprising a balance support, two gears and two eccentric elements; the figure 2 is a partial, larger-scale, top view of the pendulum equipping the mechanism of the figure 1 ; THE figures 3 to 10 are schematic representations of the mechanism of the figure 1 illustrating the movements of the gears and eccentric elements; the figures 11 to 14 are schematic representations analogous to figures 3 to 6 , for a mechanism conforming to a second embodiment of the invention; the figure 15 is a view analogous to the figure 2 showing an example of a machine according to the invention, equipped with four parallel rocker mechanisms; the figure 16 is a complementary view of the figure 15 showing the common tree of the different mechanisms; the figure 17 is a view analogous to the figure 15 showing another example of a machine according to the invention, equipped with two parallel rocker mechanisms; and the figure 18 is a partial detail view of the meshing between the two gears of the mechanism, in a particular embodiment of the invention; the figure 19 is a view analogous to the figure 1 showing another example of a machine conforming to the invention, equipped with two rocker mechanisms in series; the Figure 20 is a view analogous to the figure 2 showing the machine of the figure 19 ; there figure 21 is a side view of the connecting rod equipping the machine of figures 19 And 20 ; THE Figures 22 and 23 are views analogous respectively to Figures 20 and 21 , in another machine configuration; the figure 24 is a larger-scale view of one end of the connecting rod of the Figures 21 And 23 showing different positions during the machine's operation; the figure 25 is a view analogous to the figure 19 showing another example of a machine according to the invention, equipped with two rocker mechanisms in series; and the figure 26 is a top view showing a coupling variant between the connecting rod and the mechanism.

[0036] On the figures 1 to 10 is represented a balanced mechanism 1 for energy saving, conforming to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0037] The mechanism 1 comprises a support 2, a first assembly 10 rotatable R1 about a first axis A1, a second assembly 20 rotatable R2 about a second axis A2, and a starting device 40 for mechanism 1. The axes A1 and A2 are parallel to each other, horizontal, and arranged in a horizontal reference plane P0. The assemblies 10 and 20 rotate in opposite directions.

[0038] The support 2 comprises a fixed base 3 and a movable pendulum 4, which is positioned horizontally and suspended from the base 3 by four connecting rods 5. Each connecting rod 5 is articulated both on the base 3 and on the pendulum 4, by pivot joints with axes parallel to axes A1 and A2. The pendulum 4 is movable in circular translation relative to the support 3.

[0039] The support 2 comprises two vertical feet 6 and a horizontal upright 7. The connecting rods 5 are articulated on the upright 7.

[0040] The balance beam 4 comprises three longitudinal plates 8 and transverse bars 9 attached to the ends of the longitudinal plates 8. The connecting rods 5 are articulated on the outer plates 8. The plates 8 of the balance beam 4 support the assemblies 10 and 20. More specifically, assembly 10 is supported by the intermediate plate 8 and the front plate 8 via the bearings 15, and assembly 20 is supported by the intermediate plate 8 and the rear plate 8 via the bearings 25. The axes A1 and A2 are fixed relative to the balance beam 4.

[0041] The assembly 10 comprises a shaft 11, a gear 12 with teeth 13, an arm 14, and bearings 15. The shaft 11, gear 12, and bearings 15 are centered on the axis A1, while the arm 14 is an eccentric element, having a center of gravity G1 offset by a distance d1 from the axis A1. The gear 12 and the arm 14 are mounted on the shaft 11, which is supported by the bearings 15 mounted in the plates 8 of the balance wheel 4. The gear 12 is free to rotate R1 relative to the balance wheel 4 around the axis A1.

[0042] The arm 14 is rotationally fixed to the wheel 12 (R1) and generates a moment M1 of gravitational force P1 about the axis A1. The force P1 is approximately constant. However, the moment M1 has a magnitude and direction (clockwise or counterclockwise) that vary depending on the angular position of the arm 12 about the axis A1.

[0043] The assembly 20 comprises a shaft 21, a gear 22 with teeth 23, an arm 24, and bearings 25. The shaft 21, gear 22, and bearings 25 are centered on the axis A2, while the arm 24 is an eccentric element, having a center of gravity G2 offset by a distance d2 from the axis A2. The gear 22 and the arm 24 are mounted on the shaft 21, which is supported by the bearings 25 mounted in the plates 8 of the balance wheel 4. The gear 22 is free to rotate R2 relative to the balance wheel 4 around the axis A2.

[0044] The arm 24 is rotationally fixed to the wheel 14 (R2) and generates a moment M2 of gravitational force P2 about the axis A2. The force P2 is approximately constant. However, the moment M2 has a magnitude and direction (clockwise or counterclockwise) that vary depending on the angular position of the arm 22 about the axis A2.

[0045] Wheels 12 and 22 mesh with each other at a 1:1 transmission ratio. Wheels 12 and 22 have the same dimensions and the same number of teeth (13 and 23). Wheels 12 and 22 rotate in opposite directions (R1 and R2). In other words, wheels 12 and 22 rotate counter-clockwise.

[0046] In the context of the invention, the arms 14 and 24 are positioned precisely relative to each other and to the wheels 12 and 14, so that the moments M1 and M2 always have the same value and the same direction (clockwise or counterclockwise), regardless of the respective angular positions of the arms 14 and 24 around the axes A1 and A2.

[0047] The mass and dimensions of arms 14 and 24 are precisely determined, as they influence the position of the centers of gravity G1 and G2, and therefore the values ​​of the moments M1 and M2. The mass of each arm 14 and 24 is proportional to its dimensions, assuming constant density. Preferably, arms 14 and 24 have the same mass and dimensions. Alternatively, arms 14 and 24 may have different masses and dimensions, as long as the moments M1 and M2 have the same value and the same direction (clockwise or counterclockwise) regardless of their respective angular positions.

[0048] The starting device 40 of mechanism 1 is designed to initiate the rotation R1 and R2 of assemblies 10 and 20, from an equilibrium state of mechanism 1. The device 40 can have any configuration adapted to the intended application.

[0049] For example figures 1 and 2The device 40 comprises a motor 41, a belt 42, a transmission shaft 43, a toothed wheel 44, a toothed chain 45 and a toothed wheel 46. The motor 41 is located on the upright 7 of the base 3. The shaft 43 is supported at its ends by the base 3 and is free to rotate about an axis A3, which is vertically aligned with the upper joints of the connecting rods 5. The axis A3 is arranged horizontally, parallel to the axes A1 and A2. The belt 42 connects the motor 41 to the shaft 43. The wheel 44 is fixed to the rotation of the shaft 43, while the wheel 46 is fixed to the rotation of the shaft 21. Alternatively, the wheel 46 can be fixed to the rotation of the shaft 11. The chain 45 connects the wheels 44 and 46, the center distance of which is equal to the center distance of the connecting rods 5.Alternatively, the gears 44 and 46 and the chain 45 can be replaced by a cardan shaft system, or any other motion transmission system suitable for the intended application. In this way, starting the motor 41 drives the assemblies 10 and 20 into rotation (R1 and R2).

[0050] In practice, the movement of mechanism 1 allows energy to be recovered at the level of shaft 43, for example by coupling this shaft 43 to a generator. Shaft 43 thus constitutes an energy recovery shaft.

[0051] Alternatively, to start mechanism 1, shaft 43 can be driven directly by a crank.

[0052] According to another alternative, mechanism 1 may be without the motor 41 and belt 42 that constitute starting means. In this case, the mechanism 1 can be started by simply pushing on one side of the rocker arm 4, or on one of the arms 14 and 24. The energy required to start mechanism 1 is very low. Preferably, mechanism 1 still includes elements 43, 44, 45, and 46. The shaft 43 can be coupled to a generator to recover energy.

[0053] To allow the correct operation of the mechanism 1, the distance between the distal end of each arm 14 and 24 and its axis of rotation A1 or A2 is less than the center distance between the joints of the connecting rods 5, so that the arms 14 and 24 can pass under the transmission shaft 43.

[0054] THE figures 3 to 10 illustrate the operation of mechanism 1 on a revolution. In particular, the figures 3 to 6illustrate a half-turn during which arms 14 and 24 are mobile on the right side of the balance wheel 4, while the figures 7 to 10 illustrate a half-turn during which arms 14 and 24 are mobile on the left side of the balance wheel 4.

[0055] There figure 3 The diagram shows arm 14 positioned upwards and arm 24 positioned downwards. Mechanism 1 is in equilibrium. Wheels 12 and 22 are stationary. Moments M1 and M2 are zero.

[0056] At this stage, device 40 initiates the movement of mechanism 1, engaging wheels 12 and 22, so that arms 14 and 24 are both moved to the right. The tilting of arm 14 helps wheel 12 rotate in the direction of rotation R1, which in turn drives wheel 22 in the direction of rotation R2, thus raising arm 24.

[0057] There figure 4 shows arms 14 and 24, each having completed one-eighth of a turn on the right side. figure 5shows arms 14 and 24, each having completed a quarter turn to the right. figure 6 This shows arms 14 and 24, each having completed three-quarters of a turn to the right. At every instant, moments M1 and M2 have the same value and the same direction (clockwise). Under the action of arms 14 and 24, the pendulum 4 is driven to the right.

[0058] There figure 7 shows arms 14 and 24 having each completed a half-turn relative to their initial position of the figure 3 Arm 14 is positioned downwards, while arm 24 is positioned upwards. Moments M1 and M2 are zero. Wheels 12 and 22 are in motion, so arms 14 and 24 will both be moved to the right. The tilting of arm 24 helps wheel 22 to rotate in the direction of rotation R2, which in turn helps wheel 22 to rotate in the direction of rotation R1, thus raising arm 14.

[0059] There figure 8shows arms 14 and 24, each having completed an eighth of a turn on the left side. figure 9 shows arms 14 and 24, each having completed a quarter turn to the left. Figure 10 This shows arms 14 and 24, each having completed three-quarters of a turn to the left. At every instant, moments M1 and M2 have the same value and the same direction (counterclockwise). Under the action of arms 14 and 24, the pendulum 4 is driven to the left.

[0060] As assemblies 10 and 20 rotate around axes A1 and A2, arms 14 and 24 are thus positioned alternately on the right and left sides. In practice, the rotation R1 and R2 of arms 14 and 24 generates centrifugal forces within mechanism 1. The pendulum 4 moves alternately on the right and left sides. Consequently, arms 14 and 24 describe an elliptical motion instead of a circular one.

[0061] Mechanism 1 follows a two-stage oscillatory motion. Centrifugal forces are at their maximum when arms 14 and 24 cross, on the Figures 5 And 9 Each time corresponds to a half turn (180°) of arms 14 and 24, between their positions of maximum centrifugation.

[0062] In light of the explanations above, it is noteworthy that for each angular position of the gears 12 and 22 and the arms 14 and 24 around the axes A1 and A2, the mechanism 1 exhibits a rest equilibrium configuration. In other words, considering the mechanism 1 at rest in any angular position of the assemblies 10 and 20, the mechanism 1 is in a rest configuration. The mechanism 1 is balanced, which significantly reduces the energy required to rotate the assemblies 10 and 20.

[0063] THE figures 11 to 14illustrate the operation of a mechanism 1 conforming to a second embodiment. Axes A1 and A2 are parallel to each other and horizontal. In contrast, axes A1 and A2 are arranged in a reference plane P0 which is vertical.

[0064] In this embodiment also, the arms 14 and 24 are positioned precisely relative to each other and to the wheels 12 and 14, so that the moments M1 and M2 always have the same value and the same direction (clockwise or counterclockwise), regardless of the respective angular positions of the arms 14 and 24 around the axes A1 and A2.

[0065] Only the positioning of arms 14 and 24 on the right side is illustrated in figures 11 to 14 , while the positioning of arms 14 and 24 on the left side is not illustrated, for the sake of simplification.

[0066] In practice, a single mechanism 1 is not sufficient to constitute a motor, due to the energy lost. However, it is possible to build a motor by combining several synchronized mechanisms 1, as detailed below.

[0067] THE Figures 15 and 16 illustrate an example of a rotary machine according to the invention, of the four-stroke engine type. The engine comprises four mechanisms 1 according to the invention, each equipped with its own rocker arm 4. The mechanisms 1 and their rocker arms 4 are arranged in parallel with each other, that is to say side by side.

[0068] The base 3 is common to all mechanisms 1. In other words, the base 3 supports each of the pendulums 4, suspended in parallel with each other. The base 3 is only partially shown, on the side of the figure 15 , for the sake of simplification.

[0069] Similarly, the transmission shaft 43 is common to all the mechanisms 1. Thus, the movement of the different mechanisms 1 allows energy to be recovered at the shaft 43, for example by coupling this shaft 43 to a generator. The shaft 43 therefore constitutes an energy recovery shaft. The shaft 43 is only partially shown at the bottom of the figure 15 for the sake of simplification, and fully represented with its four 45 toothed wheels at the figure 16 .

[0070] In practice, the four arms 14 are arranged with a quarter-turn offset from each other. Similarly, the four arms 24 are arranged with a quarter-turn offset from each other. Thus, the motor always has the same number of arms 14 or 24 on the left or right side, which improves its efficiency. Each stroke corresponds to a quarter-turn (90°) rotation of the mechanisms 1.

[0071] When two mechanisms 1 are simultaneously at their neutral positions (moments M1 and M2 are zero), the other two mechanisms 1 are in positions of maximum centrifugal force, respectively on the left and right sides, with a gap e0 on each side. The energy generated is maximum in these positions of maximum centrifugal force, or thrust positions. Since the four mechanisms 1 are never at their neutral positions at the same time, the engine itself has no neutral position. Advantageously, each thrust position corresponds to a gas combustion in the engine.

[0072] There figure 17 illustrates another example of a rotating machine according to the invention, of the two-stroke engine type, according to a variant of the figure 15 . In this case the engine comprises two mechanisms 1, each equipped with its own rocker arm 4.

[0073] As indicated for the figure 15The base 3 is common to all the mechanisms 1 and supports each of the pendulums 4, suspended in parallel with each other. Similarly, the transmission shaft 43 is common to all the mechanisms 1, so that the movement of the two mechanisms 1 allows energy to be recovered at the shaft 43. For the sake of simplicity, the base 3 and the shaft 43 are only partially represented in the diagram. figure 17 .

[0074] In this embodiment, the two arms 14 are arranged offset by half a turn from each other. Similarly, the two arms 24 are arranged offset by half a turn from each other. As previously mentioned, the motor always has the same number of arms 14 or 24 on the left or right side, which improves its efficiency. Each stroke corresponds to a half-turn (180°) rotation of the mechanisms 1.

[0075] During a 360° turn, the two mechanisms 1 are simultaneously at dead points (moments M1 and M2 zero), and simultaneously in thrust positions, each corresponding to a combustion of gas in the engine.

[0076] According to another variant not shown, the rotating machine comprises eight parallel-mounted rocker arm mechanisms 1 and 4. During one revolution, the machine produces a thrust every eighth of a revolution (45°) of the mechanisms 1.

[0077] Other variants can be implemented without departing from the scope of the invention. The dimensions of the constituent elements of the machine, for example the base 3 and the transmission shaft 43, vary according to the number of mechanisms 1.

[0078] To obtain the best results and efficiency, it is important that each rocker arm 4 be positioned in a strictly horizontal plane. The same applies to the axes A1 and A2 of the gear wheels 12 and 22, which must be located in a strictly horizontal or vertical plane P0, depending on the configuration of the mechanism 1.

[0079] There figure 18 represents a particular and preferred embodiment of the invention, in which the wheel 12 has a tooth 13a longer than the other teeth 13, while the wheel 22 has a groove 23a formed between two teeth 23. The tooth 13a and the positioning groove 23a can have different shapes without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0080] In practice, the tooth 13a and the groove 23a coincide when the gear wheels 12 and 22 mesh, which allows the alignment of the eccentric elements 14 and 24, and therefore the precise balancing of the mechanism 1.

[0081] For example, the gears 12 and 22 and the eccentric elements 14 and 24 can be fitted with mounting holes arranged opposite each other, not shown in the various figures for the sake of simplicity. Thus, the tooth 13a and the groove 23a facilitate the alignment of these mounting holes.

[0082] THE figures 19 to 24 illustrate another example of a rotating machine according to the invention, of the two-stroke engine type, according to a variant of the figure 17 The motor comprises two mechanisms 1 according to the invention, each equipped with its own balance wheel 4. The mechanisms 1 and their balance wheels 4 are arranged in series with each other, that is to say aligned in line with each other.

[0083] The base 3 is common to both mechanisms 1. In other words, the base 3 supports each of the pendulums 4, suspended in series from each other.

[0084] Each mechanism comprises its own transmission shaft 43, having an axis aligned A3 with the upper joints of the articulated connecting rods 5. In contrast, only one motor 41 is required to start the mechanisms 1. Alternatively, the motor 41 can be replaced by a hand crank, or the machine can be without any means of starting the mechanisms 1.

[0085] The machine includes an intermediate device 50 between the devices 40 of the two mechanisms 1. This device 50 can be used for transmitting motion between the two devices 40, as well as for energy recovery. For example, figure 19The device 50 comprises two toothed wheels 51, two toothed chains 52, a shaft 53 and a toothed wheel 54. The shaft 53 is movable in rotation around an axis A4, which is arranged horizontally, parallel to the axes A1, A2 and A3. The shaft 53 is supported at its ends by the base 3, for example by two feet 6 of the base 3. Alternatively, the shaft 53 can be supported by the upright 7, so that its axis A4 is aligned with the axes A3 of the mechanisms 1. The wheels 51 are mounted rotationally fixed to the shafts 43 of the two mechanisms 1, while the wheel 54 is mounted rotationally fixed to the shaft 53. The chains 52 connect the wheels 51 and the wheel 54. Thus, the movement of the various mechanisms 1 allows energy to be recovered at the shaft 53, for example by coupling this shaft 53 to a generator. The shaft 53 then constitutes an energy recovery shaft.

[0086] The machine also includes a connecting rod 60 coupled to the two mechanisms 1, thus ensuring their synchronization and a significant reduction in vibration. The connecting rod 60 comprises a central body 61 connecting two heads 62 located at its longitudinal ends. Each head 61 includes an annular portion 63 in which a bearing 64 is housed. Alternatively, this annular portion 63 can include any type of bearing suitable for the intended application. Each bearing 64 comprises an outer ring 65, an inner ring 66, and a row of balls 67. A sleeve 68, having an eccentric bore 69 for receiving the shaft 21 of the mechanism 1, is housed in the inner ring 66. The sleeve 68 is fixed to the shaft 21 and free to rotate within the bearing 64. Thus, the shaft 21 of each mechanism 1 is free to rotate within one of the heads 61 of the connecting rod 60.

[0087] On the Figures 20 and 21The mechanisms 1 are brought closer together. Elements 14 and 24 are oriented towards the center of the machine. The shafts 21 coupled to the connecting rod 60 are brought closer together.

[0088] On the Figures 22 and 23 The mechanisms 1 are spaced apart. Elements 14 and 24 are oriented towards the sides of the machine. The shafts 21 coupled to the connecting rod 60 are spaced apart.

[0089] During the movement of the mechanisms 1, and more specifically of their assemblies 10 and 20, the connecting rod 60 is horizontally stationary and vertically mobile. Although the connecting rod 60 is theoretically free to move in space, it does not undergo horizontal movement due to its equilibrium position between the two mechanisms 1. The connecting rod 60 is made of material(s) offering a good compromise between strength and flexibility, due to the significant stresses to which it is subjected.

[0090] On the figure 24The connecting rod 60 is partially shown in different positions during the machine's operation. More specifically, the figure 24 shows the left head 62 of the connecting rod 60, coupled to the left mechanism 1 on the figures 19 to 23Elements 21, A2, 61, and 62 shown in the right position are referenced as 21', A2', 61', and 62' in the upper position, 21", A2", 61, and 62 in the left position, and 21''', A2''', 61''', and 62''' in the lower position. A central axis A0 is defined for the head 62, the bearing 64, and the sleeve 68. This axis A0 constitutes the axis of rotation for axis A2 during the movement of mechanism 1. A constant radius r60 is also defined between axes A0 and A2. Finally, a vertical stroke d60 of the connecting rod 60 is defined, both upwards and downwards. The stroke d60 is equal to the radius r60. By way of non-limiting examples, the diameter of the shaft 21 is 30 millimeters, the outer diameter of the outer ring 65 is 140 millimeters, the inner diameter of the inner ring 66 is 110 millimeters, and the radius r60 is 20 millimeters. Thus, the vertical stroke d60 of the connecting rod 60 is 20 millimeters upwards and 20 millimeters downwards.

[0091] The two arms 14 are arranged offset by half a turn from each other. Similarly, the two arms 24 are arranged offset by half a turn from each other. The motor always has the same number of arms 14 or 24 on the left or right side. Each stroke corresponds to a half-turn (180°) rotation of the mechanisms 1.

[0092] During a 360° turn, the two mechanisms 1 are simultaneously at dead points (moments M1 and M2 zero), and simultaneously in thrust positions, each corresponding to a combustion of gas in the engine.

[0093] There figure 25 illustrates another example of a rotating machine according to the invention, of the two-stroke engine type, according to a variant of the figure 19The motor comprises two mechanisms 1 according to the invention, each equipped with its own rocker arm 4. The rocker arms 4 are suspended directly from the base 3 and arranged in series. During the movement of the mechanisms 1, and more particularly of their assemblies 10 and 20, the connecting rod 60 is horizontally stationary and vertically mobile.

[0094] There figure 26This illustrates another method of connecting the connecting rod 60 to the mechanism 1. The orifice 69 is formed in the center of the sleeve 68 and centered on the axis A0. An eccentric part 70 is interposed between the shaft 21 and the connecting rod 60. The part 70 comprises an elongated body 71 and a cylindrical crankpin 72 integral with the body 71. An orifice 73 is formed in the body 71. The shaft 21 is positioned in the orifice 73 and secured to the body 71, for example, by means of a key 74 or by any other means. The shaft 21 and the orifice 73 are centered on the axis A2. The crankpin 72 is positioned in the orifice 69 of the sleeve 68, centered on the axis A0. This axis A0 constitutes the axis of rotation of the axis A2 during the movement of the mechanism 1.

[0095] According to another variant not shown, the rotating machine comprises four rocker arm mechanisms 1, arranged both in parallel and in series. Two pairs of mechanisms 1 are arranged in parallel and synchronized with each other. Within each pair, two mechanisms are arranged in series and synchronized with each other. During one revolution, the machine produces a thrust every quarter turn (90°) of the mechanisms 1.

[0096] According to another variant not shown, the rotating machine comprises eight rocker arm mechanisms 1 4, arranged both in parallel and in series. During one revolution, the machine produces a thrust every eighth of a revolution (45°) of the mechanisms 1.

[0097] On the figures 1 to 26 , some displacements and distances are exaggerated for the purpose of simplification, such as the lateral movement of the 4 pendulums.

[0098] In practice, mechanism 1 and the machine can be configured differently from figures 1 to 26 without going outside the scope of the invention.

[0099] For example, the chain and gear transmission system can be replaced by a cardan shaft system, or any other motion transmission system suitable for the intended application.

[0100] Furthermore, the technical characteristics of the various embodiments and variants mentioned above can be combined, in whole or in part. Thus, mechanism 1 and the machine can be adapted in terms of cost, functionality, and performance.

Claims

1. Mechanism (1), comprising: - a support (2); - a first cog wheel (12) mobile in rotation (R1) in relation to the support (2) around a first axis (A1); - a second cog wheel (22) mobile in rotation (R2) in relation to the support (2) around a second axis (A2); wherein: - the axes (A1; A2) are parallel within a horizontal or vertical reference plane (P0); and - the cog wheels (12; 22) engage one with the other using a unitary transmission ratio and are mobile in rotation (R1; R2) in opposing directions; the mechanism being characterised in that it comprises: - a first eccentric element (14) integral with the first cog wheel (12) in rotation (R1) and generating a first moment (M1) of gravity force (P1) around the first axis (A1); and - a second eccentric element (24) integral with the second cog wheel (22) in rotation (R2) and generating a second moment (M2) of gravity force (P2) around the second axis (A2); in that the moments (M1; M2) of gravity force (P1; P2) of the eccentric elements (14; 24) have a same value and a same direction, both being variable depending on their angular position around the axes (A1; A2); and in that for each angular position of the cog wheels (12; 22) and of the eccentric elements (14; 24) around the axes (A1; A2), the mechanism (1) presents an equilibrium configuration at rest.

2. The mechanism (1) according to one of the previous claims, characterised in that the eccentric elements (14; 24) have a same mass and same dimensions.

3. The mechanism (1) according to one of the previous claims, characterised in that the cog wheels (12; 22) comprise a first wheel (12) having a cog (13a) longer than the other cogs (13) and a second wheel (22) having a groove (23a) formed between two cogs (23), and in that the longer cog (13a) and the groove (23a) coincide when the cog wheels (12; 22) engage, thereby enabling alignment of the eccentric elements (14, 24).

4. The mechanism (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the axes (A1; A2) of the cog wheels (12; 22) are horizontal, and the reference plane (P0) is horizontal.

5. The mechanism (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the axes (A1; A2) of the cog wheels (12; 22) are horizontal, and the reference plane (P0) is vertical.

6. The mechanism according to one of the claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the support (2) comprises a base (3) and a pendulum (4) which is suspended on the base and which supports the axes (A1; A2) of the cog wheels (12; 22), in that the axes (A1, A2) are movable with the pendulum (4), and in that the eccentric elements (14; 24) follow an elliptical motion.

7. A rotary machine, characterised in that the machine comprises at least one mechanism (1) according to anyone of claims 1 to 6.

8. The rotary machine according to claim 7, characterised in that the machine is an internal combustion engine, and in that the eccentric elements (14; 24) equipping the mechanism (1) join up in two maximal centrifugation positions, each one corresponding to a combustion of gas inside the engine.

9. The rotary machine according to claim 7 or 8, characterised in that the machine comprises at least one mechanism (1) with a pendulum (4) according to claim 6, wherein the eccentric elements (14; 24) follow an elliptical movement.

10. The rotary machine according to claim 9, characterised in that the machine comprises at least one pair of mechanisms (1) with a pendulum (4) placed in series and synchronised.

11. The rotary machine according to claim 10, characterised in that the machine comprises a connecting link rod (60) coupled to the mechanisms (1) arranged in series, the connecting link rod (60) being stationary in a horizontal direction and movable in a vertical direction during the movement of the mechanisms (1).

12. The rotary machine according to claim 9, characterised in that the machine comprises at least two mechanisms (1) with a pendulum (4) placed in parallel and synchronised.

13. The rotary machine according to claim 9, characterised in that the machine comprises several pairs of mechanisms (1) with a pendulum (4), the mechanisms (1) being placed in series and synchronised within each pair, the pairs being placed in parallel and synchronized among themselves.

14. The rotary machine according to one of claims 10 to 12, characterised in that the machine is a two-stroke engine comprising two mechanisms (1) with pendulums, in that the first two eccentric elements (14) are placed at half-turn intervals, and in that the second two eccentric elements (24) are placed at half-turn intervals.

15. The rotary machine according to one of claims 10 to 13, characterised in that the machine is a four-stroke engine comprising four mechanisms (1) with a pendulum (4), in that the first four eccentric elements (14) are placed at quarter-turn intervals, and in that the second four eccentric elements (24) are placed at quarter-turn intervals.

16. The rotating machine according to one of the claims 7 to 15, characterised in that the base (3) is common to all the pendulums (4).

17. The rotating machine according to one of the claims 7 to 16, characterised in that it comprises start-up means (40) for the mechanism or mechanisms (1), including for example a chain or a gearing system, designed to drive one of the cog wheels (12; 22) into rotation (R1; R2).

18. The rotary machine according to claim 17, characterised in that the start-up means (40) comprise a motor (41).

19. The rotary machine according to claim 17, characterised in that the start-up means (40) comprise a crank.

20. The rotary machine according to one of the claims 9 to 16, characterised in that the machine is devoid of dedicated start-up means for the mechanism or mechanisms (1), and in that the start-up of the mechanism or mechanisms (1) is doable by a simple push on the pendulum or pendulums (4) or on one of the eccentric elements (14; 24).

21. The rotary machine according to one of the claims 7 to 20, characterised in that it comprises energy-collection means while the mechanism is in motion, for example in the form of a generator.

22. An implementation method of a mechanism (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 6, characterised in that it comprises the following successive steps: - a positioning step of the eccentric elements (14; 24) one in relation to the other and in relation to the cog wheels (12; 22), in order that the moments (M1; M2) of gravity force (P1; P2) of the eccentric elements (14; 24) have a same value and a same direction, both being variable according to their angular position around the axes (A1; A2), and that for each angular position of the cog wheels (12; 22) and of the eccentric elements (14; 24) around the axes (A1; A2), the mechanism (1) presents an equilibrium configuration at rest; - a rotation (R1; R2) start-up step of the cog wheels (12; 22) and of the eccentric elements (14; 24) around the axes (A1; A2), wherein the mechanism (1) quits the equilibrium configuration and sets in motion; and - an operating step, wherein the rotation (R1; R2) of the eccentric elements (14; 24) around the axes (A1; A2) generates centrifugal force within the mechanism (1).