Gas and liquid accumulator mixer

Abstract

A system for generating energy is disclosed. The system includes a container for storing a working fluid with a first inlet and an outlet. The system includes a condenser positioned vertically above the container with an inlet coupled to the outlet of the container and an outlet coupled to the inlet of the container. The system includes a pump fluidly coupled to the outlet of the container. The system further includes an evaporator to create a vapor of at least a portion of the working fluid. The system further includes a mechanical energy generator adapted to receive the working vapor from the evaporator. An exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator is fluidly coupled to a second inlet of the container positioned below a level of working fluid within the container. The system includes an electrical energy generator operatively coupled to an output of the mechanical energy generator.

Description

[0001] GAS AND LIQUID ACCUMULATOR MIXER

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 542,623 titled “GAS AND LIQUID ACCUMULATOR MIXER” filed on October 5, 2023, the contents of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] For various reasons (e.g., financial and / or environmental concerns), energy providers and consumers often seek to improve energy efficiency. As the costs of energy increase, residential customers of traditional utility providers are seeking ways to decrease dependence on the traditional utility sources, such as the electrical grid, natural gas pipeline systems, and delivered heating oil. This indicated a strong push to have in-home utility generation, such as one or both of electric generation and heat generation. To date, most in-home systems operate on solar collection to charge battery packs or capacitors. Solar power is time of day and seasonal dependent, limiting its overall use. Further, solar cells are predominantly silicon based, which have a limited photon conversion efficiency, which has translated into large surface area solar farms to make up the difference in power generation efficiency. Solar power further requires specialized equipment that is expensive to install and maintain, thus limiting its availability to a broad segment of homeowners. Generators that run on fossil fuels are noisy and generate unwanted emissions, some of which can be highly toxic. Fossil fuel-based power generators are therefore poorly suited to certain applications and venues.

[0006] Approaches described in this section have not necessarily been conceived and / or pursued prior to the filing of this application. Accordingly, unless otherwise indicated, approaches described in this section should not be construed as prior art.

[0007] SUMMARY

[0008] In accordance with an aspect, there is provided a system for generating energy. The system may include a container for storing a working fluid comprising a first inlet and an outlet. The system may include a condenser for condensing a working fluid vapor. The condenser may include an inlet coupled to the outlet of the container and an outlet coupled to the inlet of the container. The condenser may be positioned vertically above the container. The system may include a pump fluidly coupled to the outlet of the container. The system further may include an evaporator adapted to receive working fluid from the pump and create a vapor of at least a portion of the working fluid. The system further may include a mechanical energy generator adapted to receive the working vapor from the evaporator and produce mechanical energy. An exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator may be fluidly coupled to a second inlet of the container positioned below a level of working fluid within the container. The system additionally may include an electrical energy generator operatively coupled to an output of the mechanical energy generator and adapted to produce electrical energy from the produced mechanical energy.

[0009] In some embodiments, an output of the electrical energy generator may be coupled to an energy storage device, e.g., a battery, e.g., a plurality of batteries, or storage capacitor. In some embodiments, the working fluid may be water, one or more glycols, a refrigerant, or CO2.

[0010] In some embodiments, the evaporator may include a tube adapted to receive heat from a source of heat energy. The source of heat energy can include a carbon-fuel heat source, an electrical heat source, or a solar heat source. When the source of heat energy is a solar heat source, the solar heat source may include at least one of a focusing lens arrangement, a plurality of reflective panels, or a movable shade.

[0011] In some embodiments, the condenser may include a fan constructed and arranged to provide cooling when an internal pressure within the condenser exceeds a predetermined threshold. The fan can be controlled by a pressure switch operatively connected to the fluidic coupling between the inlet of the container and outlet of the condenser. positioned vertically above the container.

[0012] In further embodiments, the system may include a pressure relief valve operatively coupled to the condenser.

[0013] In some embodiments, the electrical energy generator may include an alternator or generator.

[0014] In certain embodiments, the pump and the mechanical energy generator may be operatively coupled to a common drive system, e.g., a belt drive. In some embodiments, the pump and the electrical energy generator may be operatively coupled to a common drive system, e.g., a belt drive. In some embodiments, the pump, the mechanical energy generator, and the electrical energy generator may be operatively coupled to a common drive system, e.g., a belt drive.

[0015] In further embodiments, the system may include a controller configured to collect data pertaining to at least one of temperature, pressure, and / or flow at one or more predetermined locations in the system. The controller may be configured to operate one or more valves, switches, and fans of the system responsive to the collected data, e.g., the fan coupled to the condenser to exhaust thermal energy. The controller further may be configured to an output of at least one of the pump, mechanical energy generator, and electrical energy generator.

[0016] In some embodiments, an exhaust vapor from the mechanical energy generator is directed to the inlet of the container, e.g., to heat the working fluid.

[0017] In some embodiments, the condenser returns condensed working fluid vapor to the container, e.g., to refill the container with working fluid.

[0018] In accordance with an aspect, there is provided a system for generating energy. The system may include a container for storing a working fluid having a first inlet and an outlet. The system may include a condenser for condensing a working fluid vapor. The condenser may include an inlet and an outlet coupled to the first inlet of the container. The condenser may be positioned vertically above the container. The system may include a pump fluidly coupled to the outlet of the container. The system further may include an evaporator adapted to receive working fluid from the pump and create a vapor of at least a portion of the working fluid. The system further may include a mechanical energy generator adapted to receive the working vapor from the evaporator and produce mechanical energy. The system may include an electrical energy generator operatively coupled to an output of the mechanical energy generator and adapted to produce electrical energy from the produced mechanical energy. The system additionally may include a valve disposed at an exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator. The valve may permit selection of a fluidic path for the exhaust vapor of the mechanical energy generator. For example, the valve may direct a fluid connection between the exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator and one of a second inlet of the container or the inlet of the condenser.

[0019] In accordance with an aspect, there is provided a system for generating energy. The system may include a container for storing a working fluid having an inlet and an outlet. The system may include a condenser for condensing a working fluid vapor. The condenser may include an inlet coupled to the outlet of the container and an outlet coupled to the inlet of the container. The condenser may be positioned vertically above the container. The system may include a pump adapted to receive working fluid from the container. The system further may include an evaporator adapted to receive the working fluid from the pump and create a vapor of at least a portion of the working fluid. The system further may include a mechanical energy generator adapted to receive the working vapor from the evaporator and produce mechanical energy. The system may include an electrical energy generator operatively coupled to an output of the mechanical energy generator and adapted to produce electrical energy from the produced mechanical energy. The system further may include a mixing tube fluidly connected to the outlet of the container and an exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator. The mixing tube may be constructed and arranged to preheat the working fluid upstream of the pump, e.g., permit mixing of heated working fluid vapor and liquid working fluid. The system additionally may include a tube fluidly coupling the mixing tube and an inlet of the pump. The tube may be adapted to draw preheated working fluid from the mixing tube, e.g., permit the pump to deliver preheated working fluid to the evaporator.

[0020] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Various aspects of at least one embodiment are discussed below with reference to the accompanying Figures, which are not intended to be drawn to scale. The Figures are included to provide illustration and a further understanding of the various aspects and embodiments, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, but are not intended to define the limits of the disclosure. In the Figures, each identical or nearly identical component that is illustrated in various Figures is represented by a like numeral. For the purposes of clarity, some components may not be labeled in every figure. In the Figures:

[0022] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a gas and liquid accumulator system for energy generation;

[0023] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of another embodiment of a gas and liquid accumulator system for energy generation;

[0024] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of another embodiment of a gas and liquid accumulator system for energy generation;

[0025] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of another embodiment of a gas and liquid accumulator system for energy generation;

[0026] FIGS. 5-7 are photographs of an embodiment of a gas and liquid accumulator system for energy generation; and

[0027] FIGS. 8-11 are photographs of another embodiment of a gas and liquid accumulator system for energy generation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] One or more embodiments described herein provide a system and operational method for generating energy, e.g., electricity and / or thermal energy, from solar radiation which is also portable and relatively quiet during operation. The system is relatively low-cost, using readily available materials and components, so as to reduce the cost-per-Watt over its operational lifetime. As one example, the system may be mounted at a convenient location near a structure and / or dwelling, to power the grid directly and / or charge a structure- connected energy storage device. One or more such energy storge devices may be part of a voltage / current inverter system that provides, for example, 110 or 220 volts of alternating current (VAC) to the structure. Direct current (DC) voltage may also be provided to provide charging to a plurality of energy storage devices, such as a scalable battery bank or capacitor array.

[0029] It is to be appreciated that specific embodiments and examples of systems for generating energy, e.g., thermal energy and / or electrical energy, are intended to describe the invention and may vary from implementation to implementation. Accordingly, the specification and drawings provided with this disclosure are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense and in no way limit the scope or spirit of the invention.

[0030] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an example of a system 100 according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, system 100 may include more or fewer components than the components illustrated in FIG. 1. The components illustrated in FIG. 1 may be local to or remote from each other. Multiple components may be combined into one apparatus. Operations described with respect to one component may instead be performed by another component.

[0031] As illustrated in FIG. 1, system 100 includes container 101 having and inlet and an outlet that is constructed and arranged to hold a volume of a working fluid. The inlet of the container 101 is fluidically coupled to an output of a condenser 102 via first conduit 104a that allows liquids to pass between the container 101 and condenser 102. An inlet of the condenser 102 is coupled to an outlet of the container 101 via second conduit 104b. As disclosed herein, the condenser 102 is positioned vertically higher in elevation than container 101 to such that the working fluid vapors introduced into the condenser 102 are returned to the container 101 via gravity; similarly, any working fluid vapor present within container 101 can be directed to the condenser 102 as the vapors rise above the volume of working fluid present in the container 101. Condenser 102 includes a fan 103 to provide for air movement through the condenser 102. The drop in condenser temperature from air passing through condenser 102 causes dissipates heat from the condenser 102, resulting in condensation of the working fluid vapors. The heated air from fan 103 may be used as part of a domestic or institutional HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. For example, the heated air may be used to heat a structure or dwelling during cold months and rejected to the external environment during warm months using suitable air handling systems. In an alternate configuration, system 100 further may include a second evaporator that is heated by the heated air coming off of the condenser 102 that can be used to drive the working fluid of a second, parallel system. For example, a first system can be as disclosed herein, e.g., using water or liquid CO2 as a working fluid and a second system can be a system as disclosed herein that uses a working fluid with a lower evaporation temperature, such as a fluorocarbon, e.g., R-134a. In this configuration, the heated air coming off of the condenser 102 in the first system is directed to a functionally equivalent evaporator to evaporator 110 in the second system to drive its mechanical energy generator and electrical energy generator to produce electrical energy. The heated air from fan 103 may additionally be used in any productive application requiring low pressure warm air, such as solvent activation, curing, melting, shrinking, drying, and other related processes. The operation of the fan 103 can be manual, e.g., performed by a user or operator during operation of system 100. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the system includes a pressure switch 115 disposed on conduit 104a that fluidically connects the container 101 and condenser 102. This pressure switch 115 will actuate once a pressure threshold is exceeded, turning on the fan 103 to begin cooling the condenser 102 and cause condensation of the working fluid vapors. Pressure switch 115 can be a mechanical switch that is controlled by a user or operator. Alternatively, pressure switch 115 can be an electrical switch whose state and actuation are monitored and controlled by a controller. In some embodiments, the condenser 102 may include a temperature sensor constructed and arranged to measure the temperature of the working fluid and / or working fluid vapor entering the condenser. The temperature sensor may be used to control actuation of the fan 103. For example, the temperature sensor can have a threshold temperature set by an end user or operator such that when exceeded, the fan 103 can be turned on to direct air through the condenser 102. This type of operation can be used as disclosed herein to provide heated air for one or more productive uses, e.g., HVAC control of a dwelling.

[0032] In some embodiments, the condenser 102 may not include a fan or a pressure switch as illustrated. For example, condenser 102 may be sized such that condensation of working fluid vapor occurs without additional cooling provided. The condenser 102 may include one or more structural elements that increase the surface area of the condenser 102, such as fins, tubes, corrugations, and the like, to effectuate condensation without additional air movement. Condenser 102 also includes a pressure relief valve 116 that will relieve pressure within the condenser 102 should it exceed a predetermined threshold. The pressure relief valve 116 can include a sensor that permits monitoring of the pressure before the valve actuates to relieve pressure within the condenser 102. The pressure relief valve 116 can further be used to actuate additional fans in system 100 to vent the working fluid vapor in the event of the fan 103 failing to actuate and / or the working fluid is of environmental or toxicity concerns.

[0033] The working fluid for system 100 can be any suitable working fluid that can absorb and transfer heat, e.g., has a sufficiently low boiling point to readily become a vapor and a condensation point which results in efficient fluid generation. The working fluids can be, but are not limited to, water, one or more glycols, CO2, or a refrigerant, e.g., a fluorocarbon, e.g., R-134a or R-403a, or NH3. The working fluid generally has an operating temperature of about 0-100 °C. In some embodiments, the working fluid is water. In some embodiments, the working fluid is CO2. Components of the system 100 may be adapted to be used with different working fluids and / or adapted from equipment used in different industries, such as components used in hydraulic applications and / or high-pressure steam applications, given the range of operating temperatures and pressures the system 100 can operate within, e.g., up to 4,000 pounds per square inch and temperatures of 0-100 °C or more for working fluid vapors. The choice of working fluid is a function of environmental concerns, toxicity concerns, and local climate where the system is to be implemented. As a non-limiting example, liquid CO2 can be a working fluid. CO2 has a critical point of about 31 °C and thus has high pressure at this temperature, which can be useful in cold weather, e.g., winter, home heating applications where heat generation is a priority. During warmer, e.g., summer, temperatures, the useful pressure range would be slightly above or below the 31°C critical point, e.g., subcritical or supercritical, depending upon the ambient air temperature as the heat is exhausted outside during warm months. Since heat for heating the evaporator disclosed herein can be derived from a solar heating source, efficiency is less concerning in this mode of operation, and thus a less-efficient outside exchange may be acceptable, e.g., when electric generation is desired.

[0034] As further illustrated in FIG. 1, system 100 includes a mechanical energy generator 105 that is fluidly coupled to the outlet of the evaporator 110 and container 101. The output of the mechanical energy generator 105 is operatively coupled to an electrical energy generator 107 using connection 108. For example, the mechanical energy generator 105 can be a motor, e.g., a piston-based motor, a gear motor, a rotary motor, and / or a fluid-drive motor, a turbine, or another suitable mechanical energy generator that can be driven by the vapors of the working fluid coming from the evaporator 110. The mechanical energy produced by the mechanical energy generator 105 is used to operate a component of the electrical energy generator 107 to produce a current. In some embodiments, the electrical energy generator 107 can be an alternator or a generator. For example, the output of the mechanical energy generator 105 may be used to drive the rotor magnet of an alternator, whose rotation within the stator magnet of the alternator generates alternating current which can be used directly or passed through a rectifier, and optionally a transformer for voltage regulation, to create direct current. The electrical energy generator 107 can also produce direct current from applied mechanical energy, which can be used directly, subject to appropriate adjustments for voltage and current, or can be directed into an inverter to produce alternating current. The connection between the mechanical energy generator 105 and the electrical energy generator 107 can be through any suitable connection, such as belts and flywheels, pulleys, chain drive, cranks and shafts, or an electrical connection. In some embodiments, the mechanical energy generator 105, pump 106, and electrical energy generator 107 share a common mechanical or electrical connection, e.g., each is connected together using belts and flywheels, pulleys, chain drive, cranks and shafts, or a wired connection. In some embodiments, two of the mechanical energy generator 105, pump 106, and electrical energy generator 107 share a common mechanical or electrical connection. This disclosure is in no way limited by the connection between the mechanical energy generator 105 and the electrical energy generator 107.

[0035] Systems disclosed herein can be used in a co-generation mode of operation, e.g., concurrent production of thermal energy or electrical energy. In some embodiments, systems disclosed herein can be operated in a single mode, e.g., production of thermal energy or production of electrical energy. For example, systems disclosed herein can be constructed and arranged to produce thermal energy via the in-line consumption of any generated electrical energy by an electric heating element, such as a resistive heater. In this configuration, a system includes a battery and a thermostat to provide a call for heat to permit operation of the system, which produces thermal energy through the condenser as disclosed herein and electrical energy that is consumed by an electric heating element.

[0036] The output of the electrical energy generator 107 is connected to energy storage device 117. Energy storage device 117 can be one or more batteries or capacitors for longterm storage. Alternatively, the output of the electrical energy generator 107 can be connected to a power distribution circuit which includes the energy storage device 117 and may include external outlets, e.g., 120 VAC and / or 240 VAC) (not shown), to accommodate power cords. These can be directed to plug-in tools, appliances, lights, etc., or to a changeover switch on a structure electrical service panel. In some embodiments, electricity generated using system 100 can back feed an electrical grid, e.g., using an inverter or other similar device.

[0037] With continued reference to FIG. 1, system 100 includes a pump 106 disposed between an outlet of container 101 (through conduit 113) and an evaporator 110 (through conduit 114). Though only one evaporator 110 is illustrated, system 100 can include a plurality of evaporators, connected in series or in parallel. The pump 106 is constructed and arranged to direct working fluid from the container 101 into the evaporator 110 to be made into working fluid vapor. Though only one pump 106 is illustrated, system 100 can include a plurality of pumps, connected in series or in parallel. The pump 106 can any suitable pump for moving liquids, such as hydraulic pumps, pneumatic pumps, magnetic shaft pumps, and the like. The pump may be driven using a belt, chain, shaft, or any other suitable drive source. The choice of pump 106 is dependent, in part, on the choice of working fluid, maintenance requirements, and the operational conditions of the installation location. The mechanical energy generator 105 and pump 106 can be separate, discrete units as illustrated in FIGS. 1-3. Alternatively, the mechanical energy generator 105 and pump 106 may be located integrally within the same / common housing.

[0038] In operation, the pump 106 and evaporator 110 are operationally connected to harness the increased pressure of a fluid due to increased temperature. The working fluid is delivered to and expanded in the evaporator 110 using the pump 106. The resultant working fluid vapor is used to drive the mechanical energy generator 105, e.g., system 100 operates under the Rankine cycle. The exhausted working fluid vapors from the mechanical energy generator 105 are sent to container 101 via conduit 118 to act as a heat source for heating the working fluid within container 101. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, using heated working fluid, e.g., a working fluid close to its boiling point, will require less energy to become working fluid vapor in an evaporator, reducing the overall energy input into the system for producing heat and / or electricity thus improving efficiency and lowering costs. The heated working fluid then passes through the pump 106 to be evaporated into working fluid vapor in the evaporator 110, and the cycle repeats. In the illustrated configuration, the conduit 118 provides the working fluid vapors at a point that is below the top level of the working fluid in container 101, e.g., the working fluid vapor is directed into the working fluid itself and not into the empty volume of the container above the working fluid. When the hot working fluid vapor contacts the working fluid in the container 101, the working fluid vapors condense. If the working fluid within the container 101 is at or beyond its boiling point, e.g., boiling temperature and pressure, the working fluid vapor entering the container 101 rises through the working fluid in the container 101 and enters the condenser 102 through one of the available conduits fluidly connecting the container 101 and condenser 102.

[0039] The evaporator 110 may be any suitable structure that can have its temperature increased and cause a working fluid within to boil and create a working vapor fluid. For example, the evaporator 110 can be one or more metallic tubes, one or more metallic coils, tube-and- shell evaporators, pressure-driven evaporators, or plate-based evaporators. The choice of evaporator will be determined, in part, by the choice of working fluid, e.g., its boiling point, efficiency, heating requirements, and dimensions. As illustrated, system 100 may include one or both of a source of heat 109 or a solar collector 111 positioned to heat the evaporator 110.

[0040] The source of heat 109 may be fueled by a combustible carbon-based fuel source, e.g., gasoline, fuel oil, kerosene, alcohol, propane, natural gas, wood pellets, firewood, or biomass. The fuel source may reside directly in the source of heat 109 or may be remote as illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 and connected by a feed line or other delivery mechanism. Alternatively, the source of heat 109 can include electric heat sources, e.g., heat lamps, resistive heaters, heat pumps, or infrared heaters. The source of heat 109 may be sized and arranged to apply sufficient heat to allow the evaporator 110 to experience the needed temperature differential to operate a Rankine-type thermodynamic cycle to drive the mechanical energy generator 105 as disclosed herein. In this manner, the source of heat 109 may be configured to supplement a primary heat source, e.g., the sun 112, when the primary heat source is diminished or unavailable such as on cloudy days or at night. System 100 may thus provide continuous power and heat, outputting at least a minimal level of electrical energy and / or thermal energy.

[0041] In an embodiment, a solar collector 111 is used to heat the evaporator 110. In some cases, the solar collector 111 includes a Fresnel lens and a shade that controls how much solar heat from sun 112 is applied to the evaporator 110. A solar collector may include a solar flap assembly to enhance collection of solar radiation and focus the radiation through the Fresnel lens or onto the evaporator 110 directly. The flaps and / or shade may be motorized and communicatively coupled with a controller 122. The controller 122 is configured to monitor power output, temperature, and / or sun intensity, e.g., via sensors and / or a current / voltage meter, to control the operation of the system 100. In operation, one or more of the flaps may be fully or partially opened / closed to selectively shade to evaporator surface area. Additionally, one or more of the flaps may have a reflective and / or specular inner surface that, at one or more particular angle(s), increases the degree of solar radiation incident upon the evaporator 110. Components of the flap assembly may be controlled, at least in part, based on data from a sun tracking mechanism. One or more components of system 100, e.g., the entire unit and / or the evaporator 110, may be mounted on a gimbal system that is powered to allow tracking of the sun as it moves through the sky during the day. In general, system 100 may include wheels or casters, handles, and the like to allow for ease of movement and increased portability and to better align the solar collector with the Sun’s orientation.

[0042] The controller 122 can be used to direct operation(s) or monitor output performance of one or more system components, including pressures within the condenser 102, fan 103, mechanical energy generator 105, pump 106, electrical energy generator 107, pressure switch 115, pressure relief valve 116, and any other component of system 100. For example, one or more components of system 100 may be operatively connected to actuators, sensors, and / or other telemetry-generating elements that report status information to the controller 122. In some embodiments, controller 122 can be used to control the output of the electrical energy generator 107 to provide for a usable and / or regulated output for common electrical devices and appliances. In some embodiments, the controller collects data on temperature, valve actuations, pressure readings, solar intensity / flux, and absolute valve positions using appropriate sensing hardware and stores this data for later access, e.g., as indicators of necessary system maintenance and overall system performance. The controller 122 can include a power handling module generally configured to balance power input and output and adjust the pump 106 and mechanical energy generator 105 accordingly.

[0043] The controller 122 includes a processor for executing instructions, non-transitory computer readable media for storing instructions to be executed by the processor and for storing collected data on, e.g., temperature, valve actuations, pressure readings, solar intensity / flux, and absolute positions of components such as valves. In some embodiments, the controller 122 includes a communications module to provide connectivity to the Internet for data transfers and communications with the controller using a second device, e.g., tablet, cellular telephone, or a computer, e.g., a desktop or laptop computer. The controller 122 may be implemented using one or more computer systems. The computer system may be, for example, a general-purpose computer such as those based on an Intel CORE®-type processor, an Intel XEON®-type processor, an Intel CELERON®- type processor, an AMD FX-type processor, an AMD RYZEN®-type processor, an AMD EPYC®-type processor, and AMD R-series or G-series processor, or any other type of processor or combinations thereof. Alternatively, the computer system may include programmable logic controllers (PLCs), specially programmed, special-purpose hardware, for example, an application- specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or controllers intended for analytical systems. In some embodiments, the controller C may be operably connected to or connectable to a user interface constructed and arranged to permit a user or operator to view relevant operational parameters of a system as disclosed herein, adjust said operational parameters, and / or stop operation of a system as needed. The user interface may include a graphical user interface (GUI) that includes a display configured to be interacted with by a user or service provider and output status information of the system.

[0044] The controller 122 can include one or more processors typically connected to one or more memory devices, which can comprise, for example, any one or more of a disk drive memory, a flash memory device, a RAM memory device, or other device for storing data. The one or more memory devices can be used for storing programs and data during operation of the system. For example, the memory device may be used for storing historical data or operating data. Software, including programming code that implements embodiments of the invention, adjustment of flow of exhausted working fluid vapor from the source of electrical energy, can be stored on a computer readable and / or writeable nonvolatile recording medium, and then typically copied into the one or more memory devices wherein it can then be executed by the one or more processors. Such programming code may be written in any of a plurality of programming languages, for example, ladder logic, Python, Java, Visual Basic, C, C#, or C++, Fortran, Pascal, Eiffel, Basic, COBOL, or any of a variety of combinations thereof.

[0045] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an example of a system 100 according to another embodiment. In an embodiment, system 100 may include more or fewer components than the components illustrated in FIG. 2. The components illustrated in FIG. 2 may be local to or remote from each other. Multiple components may be combined into one apparatus. Operations described with respect to one component may instead be performed by another component.

[0046] As illustrated in FIG. 2, system 100 includes many of those illustrated in FIG. 1 and follows the same part numbering scheme. In addition to the components illustrated in FIG. 1, system 100 in FIG. 2 includes a valve 119, depicted as a three-way valve, disposed at the exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator 105 to control where the exhausted working fluid vapor is directed. One terminal of valve 119 is fluidically coupled to first conduit 104a that connects the outlet of the condenser 102 to the container 101 and the other terminal of valve 119 is fluidically coupled to second conduit 104b that is connected to the inlet of the container 101.

[0047] The choice of the direction for the exhausted working fluid vapor presents options for a user or operator about an operation mode of the system 100 and which utility is needed at a particular time. As disclosed herein, such as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the exhausted working fluid vapor can be directed into container 101 holding the working fluid via conduit 18 using the valve 119, e.g., valve 119 is open to the container 101 and closed to the condenser 102. In this configuration, conduit 118 provides the working fluid vapors at a point that is below the top level of the working fluid in container 101. When the hot working fluid vapor contacts the working fluid in container 101, the working fluid vapors condense. The condensation of the significantly warmer working fluid vapor acts to increase the temperature of the working fluid within the container 101. As a result, the working fluid is heated close to its boiling point when pumped to the evaporator 110, decreasing the energy needed to evaporate the working fluid. This operational mode is preferential if electrical energy generation is the desired operational mode of the system 100 as it will have reduced costs of production. If the working fluid within the container 101 is at or beyond its boiling point, e.g., boiling temperature and pressure, the working fluid vapor entering the container

[0048] 101 rises through the working fluid in the container 101 and enters the condenser 102 through one of the available conduits fluidly connecting the container 101 and condenser 102.

[0049] In an alternate arrangement, the exhausted working fluid vapor can be directed into the condenser 102 using the valve 119, e.g., valve 119 is open to the condenser 102 and closed to the container 101. This will increase the pressure within the condenser 102, and when the pressure exceeds the threshold of pressure switch 115, the fan 103 of the condenser

[0050] 102 will spin up and direct air over the condenser structure. This air will have increased temperature and thus can be used as a source of heat for any suitable end use, such as heating a residential or commercial space, or any use where hot air can be put to productive use. Valve 119 can be manually controlled or controlled by the controller 122 according to a programmed control schedule or a user- selectable operational mode.

[0051] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an example of a system 100 according to another embodiment. In an embodiment, system 100 may include more or fewer components than the components illustrated in FIG. 3. The components illustrated in FIG. 3 may be local to or remote from each other. Multiple components may be combined into one apparatus. Operations described with respect to one component may instead be performed by another component. In FIG. 3, system 100 includes many of those illustrated in FIG. 1 and follows the same part numbering scheme. In addition to the components illustrated in FIG. 1, system 100 in FIG. 3 includes an alternative piping scheme where there is no fluidic connection between the exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator 105 and either the condenser 102 or container 101. As illustrated, system 100 includes a mixing tube 122 having a first inlet fluidically coupled to the fluid outlet of the container 101 and a second inlet fluidically coupled to the exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator 105 via conduit 114. The second conduit 104b can be connected to the fluid outlet of the container 101 as illustrated in FIG. 1 or can be coupled directly to the container 101 via a separate or dedication port. Disposed at a point along the length of the mixing tube 122 is tube 123 that fluidically connects the mixing tube 122 and the inlet of the pump 106. Tube 123 is positioned below the level of the working fluid within the mixing tube 122 such that any working fluid vapors within mixing tube 122 do not impact the extraction of working fluid by the pump 106. The working fluid vapor from the exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator 105 is positioned in close proximity to the inlet of the pump 106. In operation, low pressure working fluid vapor from the exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator 105 is directed into the mixing tube 122 where it meets working fluid from the container 101 with the flow shown as the arrows in FIG. 3. The working fluid vapor travels along the top of the mixing tube 122 and eventually mixes with the working fluid, increasing its temperature.

[0052] The extent of mixing of the working fluid from container 101 and exhausted working fluid vapor from the mechanical energy generator 105 is, in part, controlled by the positioning of the end of conduit 114 delivering working fluid vapor from the exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator 105 and the tube 123 connected to the inlet of pump 106. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, the close positioning of the end of conduit 114 delivering working fluid vapor from the exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator 105 and the tube 123 connected to the inlet of pump 106 along mixing tube 122 provides for a sharp increase in the temperature of the working fluid being pumped from container 101. While a particular embodiment of the positioning of the end of conduit 114 delivering working fluid vapor from the exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator 105 and the tube 123 connected to the inlet of pump 106 is illustrated, this disclosure is not limited to this embodiment. The positioning of the end of conduit 114 delivering working fluid vapor from the exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator 105 and the tube 123 connected to the inlet of pump 106 can be determined based on the chosen mixing tube dimensions, measured temperatures of the working fluid and working fluid vapor, type of pump, and other physical factors of the system 100.

[0053] The extent of mixing of the working fluid from container 101 and exhausted working fluid vapor from the mechanical energy generator 105 can be controlled by regulating the flow velocity of one or both of the working fluid vapor and working fluid within mixing tube 122. Alternatively, or in addition, the mixing tube 122 can have one or more physical parameters adjusted, e.g., length or diameter, to increase the residence time of one or both of the working fluid vapor and working fluid within mixing tube 122. Further, the mixing tube 122 may include internal structures that modulate the mixing of the working fluid from container 101 and exhausted working fluid vapor from the mechanical energy generator 105, such as baffles, fins, curves, twists, and other similar internal features, to create regions of turbulent flow within mixing tube 122. In some embodiments, the mixing tube 122 may be a heat exchanger that passively removes heat from the mixed working fluid and working fluid vapor to the surrounding environment. In further embodiments, the mixing tube 122 may be a heat exchanger that permits two different working fluids to not contact one another or mix. In an alternate layout, the mixing tube 122 may be a heat exchanger that permits the exhausted working fluid vapor from the mechanical energy generator 105 to enter and heat liquid working fluid within the heat exchanger. In this configuration, the liquid working fluid will increase in temperature via mixing and when a portion of the liquid working fluid is at its operating temperature, any working fluid vapor in the heat exchanger, e.g., entering from the mechanical energy generator 105 or being vaporized within the heat exchanger, will pass through the liquid working fluid and onto the condenser 102.

[0054] Once the working fluid reaches its operating temperature, excess pressure is relieved from the system 100 through the condenser 102, e.g., as disclosed herein, e.g., using fan 103 to cause remove heat from the condenser structure when pressure switch 115 is actuated to effectuate condensation of the working fluid vapor to refill container 101. In this configuration, the working fluid in the container is pre-heated using the exhausted working fluid vapor from the mechanical energy generator 105 before it is pumped into the evaporator 110 with pump 106. As a result, the working fluid is heated close to its boiling point when pumped to the evaporator 110, decreasing the energy needed to evaporate the working fluid. This operational configuration is preferential if electrical energy generation is the desired operational mode of the system 100 as it will have reduced costs of production.

[0055] The inclusion of the mixing tube 122 in the system 100 illustrated in FIG. 3 can provide for a system where the thermal energy generation (produced from condenser 102 exhausting heat when fan 103 actuates when the pressure within the condenser 102 or container 101 exceeds a predetermined threshold) and the electrical energy generation (produced when the pump 106 delivers working fluid to evaporator 110 where it is vaporized and the working fluid vapor actuates mechanical energy generator 105 to actuate electrical energy generator 107) operate substantially independently. This is a result of the continual evaporation and condensation of the working fluid within both “sides” of system 100. In this configuration, the relative size and positioning of each components in system 100 is less of a concern as the overall processes occurring within system 100 is pressure and temperature driven with liquid working fluid and working fluid vapor being stored within the container

[0056] 101 and condenser 102. For example, the generation of electrical energy in system 100 will largely proceed without interruption as the vaporized working fluid continues to fill and heat the working fluid in container 101, with the fan 103 to exhaust heat from the condenser 102 turning on only when a pressure threshold is exceeded. The generation of electrical energy continues while the fan 103 exhausts heat from the condenser 102 to reduce the condenser’s

[0057] 102 internal temperature and pressure and produce usable heated air. Alternatively, or in addition, the portion of system 100 for electrical energy generation, e.g., where pump 106 delivers working fluid to evaporator 110 where it is vaporized and the working fluid vapor actuates mechanical energy generator 105 to actuate electrical energy generator 107, may include a separate, second container (not illustrated) disposed between the mixing tube 122 and pump 106 to provide for additional liquid working fluid and working fluid vapor storage. In this configuration, the liquid working fluid and the working fluid vapor in mixing tube 122 have minimal contact and thus the working fluid vapor is directed to the second container to provide heat to the working fluid prior to pumping to the evaporator 110.

[0058] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an example of a system 200 according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, system 200 may include more or fewer components than the components illustrated in FIG. 4. The components illustrated in FIG. 4 may be local to or remote from each other. Multiple components may be combined into one apparatus. Operations described with respect to one component may instead be performed by another component.

[0059] As illustrated in FIG. 4, system 200 includes boiler 201 having an inlet and an outlet that is constructed and arranged to hold a volume of a working fluid. Boiler 201 includes a heating element 202 disposed to heat the working fluid held within boiler 201. In operation, heating element 202 causes the working fluid in the boiler 201 to boil and create vapors that are directed to a first outlet of the boiler 201. The working fluid vapors are directed from the first outlet of the boiler 201 into expander 203 that applies additional heat to the working fluid vapors to further expand and / or pressurize the working fluid vapors.

[0060] System 200 includes a mechanical energy generator 205 that is fluidly coupled to the expander 203. The output of the mechanical energy generator 205 is operatively coupled to an electrical energy generator 209 using connection 213. For example, the mechanical energy generator 205 can be a motor, e.g., a piston-based motor, a gear motor, a rotary motor, and / or a fluid-drive motor, a turbine, or another suitable mechanical energy generator that can be driven by the vapors of the working fluid coming from the expander 203. The mechanical energy produced by the mechanical energy generator 205 is used to operate a component of the electrical energy generator 209 to produce a current. In some embodiments, the electrical energy generator 209 can be an alternator or a generator. For example, the output of the mechanical energy generator 205 may be used to drive the rotor magnet of an alternator, whose rotation within the stator magnet of the alternator generates alternating current which can be used directly or passed through a rectifier, and optionally a transformer for voltage regulation, to create direct current. The electrical energy generator 209 can also produce direct current from applied mechanical energy, which can be used directly, subject to appropriate adjustments for voltage and current, or can be directed into an inverter to produce alternating current. The connection between the mechanical energy generator 205 and the electrical energy generator 209 can be through any suitable connection, such as belts and flywheels, pulleys, chain drive, cranks and shafts, or an electrical connection. In some embodiments, the mechanical energy generator 205 and electrical energy generator 209 share a common mechanical or electrical connection, e.g., each is connected together using belts and flywheels, pulleys, chain drive, cranks and shafts, or a wired connection. This disclosure is in no way limited by the connection between the mechanical energy generator 105 and the electrical energy generator 107.

[0061] Exhausted working fluid vapor from the mechanical energy generator 205 is directed to an inlet of a condenser 206 through conduit 211. As illustrated, working fluid in different states of matter is directed though conduits 211 throughout the system 200. As disclosed herein, the condenser 206 is positioned vertically higher in elevation than boiler 201 to such that the working fluid vapors introduced into the condenser 206 are returned to the boiler 201 via gravity. The condenser 206 may include additional components, such as a fan, pressure relief valves, pressure-actuated switches, e.g., a mechanical switch that is controlled by a user or operator or an electrical switch whose state and actuation are monitored and controlled by a controller. In some embodiments, the condenser 206 may include a temperature sensor constructed and arranged to measure the temperature of the working fluid and / or working fluid vapor entering the condenser 206. The measured temperature may be used to control one or more operations of the system 200. The condenser 206 may include one or more structural elements that increase the surface area of the condenser 206, such as fins, tubes, corrugations, and the like, to effectuate condensation without additional air movement. Within the condenser 206, the exhausted working fluid vapors are condensed and exit an outlet of the condenser 206 into a first inlet of an accumulator tank 207. In some embodiments, exhausted working fluid vapors from the mechanical energy generator 205 can be directed to the accumulator tank 207 to increase the temperature of the working fluid from the condenser 206. In this configuration, accumulator tank 207 includes additional fluid conduits to provide for sufficient flow of working fluid into the accumulator tank 207. The accumulator tank 207 has an outlet fluidly coupled to the boiler 201 using valve arrangement 204. Valve arrangement 204 further includes fluid connections to a second outlet of boiler 201. In operation, working fluid vapors from the boiler 201 exit the second outlet of the boiler 201 and enter the second inlet of the accumulator tank 207. The working fluid vapors displace the condensed working fluid within the accumulator tank 207, allowing it to re-enter the boiler 201 through its inlet.

[0062] With continued reference to FIG. 4, the output of the electrical energy generator 209 is connected to energy storage device 208 using electrical connections 212. Energy storage device 208 can be one or more batteries or capacitors for long-term storage. Alternatively, the output of the electrical energy generator 209 can be connected to a power distribution circuit which includes the energy storage device 208 and may include external outlets, e.g., 120 VAC and / or 240 VAC) (not shown), to accommodate power cords. These can be directed to plug-in tools, appliances, lights, etc., or to a changeover switch on a structure electrical service panel. In some embodiments, electricity generated using system 200 can back feed an electrical grid, e.g., using an inverter or other similar device. In addition to acting as a sink for the output of the electrical energy generator 209, energy storage device 208 can also be electrically coupled to one or more components of system 200 that require electrical power. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 4, energy storage device 208 provides electrical power to the heating elements of the expander 203 and the heating element 202 attached to boiler 201. As further illustrated in FIG. 4, energy storage device 208 is electrically connected to a charge maintainer system 210 that maintains the charge state of the energy storage device 208. Charge maintainer system 210 is designed to detect and counteract the loss of available charge in the energy storage device 208 by providing a small amount of amperage to the energy storage device 208 without providing excess power. In addition, charge maintainer system 210 can be used to supplement output power from the energy storage device 208 in situations where the output from the energy storage device 208 is insufficient for one or more operations.

[0063] The controller 222 can be used to direct operation(s) or monitor output performance of one or more system components, including pressures within the condenser 206, mechanical energy generator 205, electrical energy generator 209, and any other component of system 200. For example, one or more components of system 200 may be operatively connected to actuators, sensors, and / or other telemetry-generating elements that report status information to the controller 222. In some embodiments, controller 222 can be used to control the output of the electrical energy generator 209 to provide for a usable and / or regulated output for common electrical devices and appliances. In some embodiments, the controller collects data on temperature, valve actuations, pressure readings, and absolute valve positions using appropriate sensing hardware and stores this data for later access, e.g., as indicators of necessary system maintenance and overall system performance. The controller 222 can include a power handling module generally configured to balance power input and output and adjust the mechanical energy generator 205 accordingly.

[0064] The controller 222 includes a processor for executing instructions, non-transitory computer readable media for storing instructions to be executed by the processor and for storing collected data on, e.g., temperature, valve actuations, pressure readings, solar intensity / flux, and absolute positions of components such as valves. In some embodiments, the controller 222 includes a communications module to provide connectivity to the Internet for data transfers and communications with the controller using a second device, e.g., tablet, cellular telephone, or a computer, e.g., a desktop or laptop computer. The controller 222 may be implemented using one or more computer systems. The computer system may be, for example, a general-purpose computer such as those based on an Intel CORE®-type processor, an Intel XEON®-type processor, an Intel CELERON®- type processor, an AMD FX-type processor, an AMD RYZEN®-type processor, an AMD EPYC®-type processor, and AMD R-series or G-series processor, or any other type of processor or combinations thereof. Alternatively, the computer system may include programmable logic controllers (PLCs), specially programmed, special-purpose hardware, for example, an application- specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or controllers intended for analytical systems. In some embodiments, the controller C may be operably connected to or connectable to a user interface constructed and arranged to permit a user or operator to view relevant operational parameters of a system as disclosed herein, adjust said operational parameters, and / or stop operation of a system as needed. The user interface may include a graphical user interface (GUI) that includes a display configured to be interacted with by a user or service provider and output status information of the system.

[0065] The controller 222 can include one or more processors typically connected to one or more memory devices, which can comprise, for example, any one or more of a disk drive memory, a flash memory device, a RAM memory device, or other device for storing data. The one or more memory devices can be used for storing programs and data during operation of the system. For example, the memory device may be used for storing historical data or operating data. Software, including programming code that implements embodiments of the invention, adjustment of flow of exhausted working fluid vapor from the source of electrical energy, can be stored on a computer readable and / or writeable nonvolatile recording medium, and then typically copied into the one or more memory devices wherein it can then be executed by the one or more processors. Such programming code may be written in any of a plurality of programming languages, for example, ladder logic, Python, Java, Visual Basic, C, C#, or C++, Fortran, Pascal, Eiffel, Basic, COBOL, or any of a variety of combinations thereof.

[0066] The working fluid for system 200 can be any suitable working fluid that can absorb and transfer heat, e.g., has a sufficiently low boiling point to readily become a vapor and a condensation point which results in efficient fluid generation. The working fluids can be, but are not limited to, water, one or more glycols, CO2, or a refrigerant, e.g., a fluorocarbon, e.g., R-134a or R-403a, or NH3. The working fluid generally has an operating temperature of about 0-100 °C. In some embodiments, the working fluid is water. In some embodiments, the working fluid is CO2. Components of the system 100 may be adapted to be used with different working fluids and / or adapted from equipment used in different industries, such as components used in hydraulic applications and / or high-pressure steam applications, given the range of operating temperatures and pressures the system 200 can operate within, e.g., up to 4,000 pounds per square inch and temperatures of 0-100 °C or more for working fluid vapors. The choice of working fluid is a function of environmental concerns, toxicity concerns, and local climate where the system is to be implemented. As a non-limiting example, liquid CO2 can be a working fluid. CO2 has a critical point of about 31 °C and thus has high pressure at this temperature, which can be useful in cold weather, e.g., winter, home heating applications where heat generation is a priority. During warmer, e.g., summer, temperatures, the useful pressure range would be slightly above or below the 31°C critical point, e.g., subcritical or supercritical, depending upon the ambient air temperature as the heat is exhausted outside during warm months. Since heat for heating the evaporator disclosed herein can be derived from a solar heating source, efficiency is less concerning in this mode of operation, and thus a less-efficient outside exchange may be acceptable, e.g., when electric generation is desired.

[0067] Embodiments of the system described above are scalable, based upon the size of building serviced. In some cases, the system may be configured to satisfy all or nearly all anticipated power requirements and / or heating requirements. The system may also be supplemented with grid power or other forms of local power generation to operate active components such as the pump 106 and / or source of heat 109 for evaporator 110. Changeover switches and load balancing circuits may be used to integrate multiple power delivery systems in a single structure. These alternate generation systems may provide extra power when needed, or failover if and when the system experiences a failure.

[0068] EXAMPLES

[0069] The function and advantages of these and other embodiments can be better understood from the following examples. These examples are intended to be illustrative in nature and are not considered to be in any way limiting the scope of the invention.

[0070] Example 1. Water-Based Gas and Liquid Accumulator Mixer

[0071] FIGS. 5-7 illustrate a prototype of a gas and liquid accumulator mixer system using water as the working fluid for producing energy. As shown in FIGS. 5-7, and using the numbering scheme of FIGS. 1-3, the gas and liquid accumulator mixer system included a frame supporting a container 101 and a condenser 102 having an inlet conduit 104a and outlet conduit 104b made from a series of tubes connected in parallel disposed vertically above the container 101. The container 101 included a pressure relief valve 116, adapted from a water heater, to regulate the pressure within the container 101 should it exceed a certain threshold. Connected to the outlet of condenser was an outlet conduit 104b back to the container to refill the container as the water vapor condenses. Positioned at the front of the gas and liquid accumulator mixer system was a copper pipe evaporator tube 110 connected using conduit 114 at one end to the output of the pump 106 and the other end connected to the inlet of a belt drive 108 motor 105. The evaporator tube 110 was heated using a Fresnel lens solar concentrator 111, positioned with the focal point of the lens directed at the midpoint of the evaporator tube 110. One of the flywheels of the motor 105 was connected to the both the pump 106 to move water from the container 101 to the evaporator tube 110 and the drive shaft of an automotive alternator 107 to covert the mechanical energy of the turning of the pump 106 by the pressurized steam generated from the evaporator tube 110 into direct current. The exhaust of the pump 106 was delivered back to the inlet of the container 101 by conduit 118. Preliminary thermal tests indicated that the condenser 102 was producing heat with an air temperature of about 39-40 °C when the condenser’s 102 cooling fan was operating, indicating that the steam entering the condenser 102 was being cooled back into a liquid and refilling the container 101. The output of the alternator 107 was used to energize household electrical devices.

[0072] Example 2. Water-Based Gas and Liquid Accumulator Mixer

[0073] FIGS. 8-11 illustrate another prototype of a gas and liquid accumulator mixer system using water as the working fluid for producing energy. As shown in FIGS. 8-11, and using the numbering scheme of FIG. 4, the gas and liquid accumulator mixer system included a frame supporting a boiler 201, heating element 202, expander 203, and valve arrangement 204 on the lower portion of the frame and a mechanical energy generator 205, condenser 206, accumulator tank 207, energy storage device 208, electric generation device 209, and power inverter system 213 on the upper portion of the frame. The condenser 206 is made from a series of tubes connected in parallel disposed vertically above the accumulator 207. The expander 203 is connected to the mechanical energy generator 205.

[0074] In operation, the boiler 201 produces steam that is further heated by the expander 203. The boiler 201 includes a heating element 202 that receives power from power inverter 213 connected to the energy storage device 208. The generated steam is used to drive the mechanical energy generator 205 that is connected by a belt to the rotating shaft of an electric generation device 209, here an automotive alternator. The energy storage device 208, here a 12 VDC car battery, is connected to the output of the electric generation device 209. The energy storage device 208 can also be connected to a charge maintainer system. The exhausted steam from the mechanical energy generator 205 is directed to the condenser 206 through conduit 211 where it cools and becomes liquid water. The liquid water is collected in the accumulator tank 207. Some of the steam generated by the boiler 201 is directed into the accumulator tank 207, causing displacement of the water which is directed to the inlet of the boiler 201 to repeat the cycle. The foregoing has been a detailed description of illustrative embodiments. Various modifications and additions can be made without departing from the spirit and scope disclosed herein. Features of each of the various embodiments described above may be combined with features of other described embodiments as appropriate in order to provide a multiplicity of feature combinations in associated new embodiments. Furthermore, while the foregoing describes a number of separate embodiments and methods, what has been described herein is merely illustrative of the application of the principles of the present disclosure. For example, as used herein, the terms “process” and / or “processor” should be taken broadly to include a variety of electronic hardware and / or software-based functions and components (and can alternatively be termed functional “modules” or “elements”).

[0075] Moreover, a depicted process or processor can be combined with other processes and / or processors or divided into various sub-processes or processors. Such sub-processes and / or sub-processors can be variously combined according to embodiments herein. Likewise, it is expressly contemplated that any function, process and / or processor herein can be implemented using electronic hardware, software consisting of a non-transitory computer- readable medium of program instructions, or a combination of hardware and software. Additionally, as used herein, various directional and dispositional terms such as “vertical,” “horizontal,” “up,” “down,” “bottom,” “top,” “side,” “front,” “rear,” “left,” “right,” and the like are used only as relative conventions and not as absolute directions / dispositions with respect to a fixed coordinate space, such as the acting direction of gravity. Additionally, where the term “substantially,” “approximately,” “about,” or another similar term, is employed with respect to a given measurement, value or characteristic, it refers to a quantity that is within a normal operating range to achieve desired results, but that includes some variability due to inherent inaccuracy and error within the allowed tolerances of the system, e.g., 1-5 percent. Accordingly, this description is meant to be taken only by way of example, and not to otherwise limit the scope of one or more embodiments.

[0076] In an embodiment, a system includes one or more devices, including one or more hardware processors, that are configured to perform any of the operations described herein and / or recited in any of the claims.

[0077] In an embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium stores instructions that, when executed by one or more hardware processors, cause performance of any of the operations described herein and / or recited in any of the claims.

[0078] Any combination of the features and functionalities described herein may be used in accordance with an embodiment. In the foregoing specification, embodiments have been described with reference to numerous specific details that may vary from implementation to implementation. Accordingly, the specification and figures are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. The sole and exclusive indicator of scope, and what is intended by the Applicant to be the scope, is the literal and equivalent scope of the set of claims that issue from this application, in the specific form in which such claims issue, including any subsequent correction.

[0079] What is claimed is:

Claims

CLAIMS1. A system for generating energy, comprising: a container for storing a working fluid comprising a first inlet and an outlet; a condenser for condensing a working fluid vapor comprising an inlet coupled to the outlet of the container and an outlet coupled to the inlet of the container, the condenser positioned vertically above the container; a pump fluidly coupled to the outlet of the container; an evaporator adapted to receive working fluid from the pump and create a vapor of at least a portion of the working fluid; a mechanical energy generator adapted to receive the working vapor from the evaporator and produce mechanical energy, an exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator fluidly coupled to a second inlet of the container positioned below a level of working fluid within the container; and an electrical energy generator operatively coupled to an output of the mechanical energy generator and adapted to produce electrical energy from the produced mechanical energy.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein an output of the electrical energy generator is coupled to an energy storage device.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the working fluid comprises water, one or more glycols, a refrigerant, or CO2.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the evaporator comprises a tube adapted to receive heat from a source of heat energy.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the source of heat energy comprises a carbon-fuel heat source, an electrical heat source, or a solar heat source.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the solar heat source comprises at least one of a focusing lens arrangement, a plurality of reflective panels, or a movable shade.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the condenser comprises a fan constructed and arranged to provide cooling when an internal pressure within the condenser exceeds a predetermined threshold.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the fan is controlled by a pressure switch operatively connected to the fluidic coupling between the inlet of the container and outlet of the condenser.

9. The system of claim 1, further comprising a valve disposed at an exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the valve permits selection of a fluidic path between: a) the exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator and the second inlet of the container; or b) the exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator and the inlet of the condenser.

11. The system of claim 1, further comprising a pressure relief valve operatively coupled to the condenser.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the electrical energy generator comprises an alternator or generator.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein the pump and the mechanical energy generator are operatively coupled to a common drive system.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the pump and the electrical energy generator are operatively coupled to a common drive system.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein the pump, the mechanical energy generator, and the electrical energy generator are operatively coupled to a common drive system.

16. The system of claim 1, further comprising a controller configured to collect data pertaining to at least one of temperature, pressure, and / or flow at one or more predetermined locations in the system.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the controller is configured to operate one or more valves, switches, and fans of the system responsive to the collected data.

18. The system of claim 16, wherein the controller is configured to regulate an output of at least one of the pump, mechanical energy generator, and electrical energy generator.

19. The system of claim 1, wherein an exhaust vapor from the mechanical energy generator is directed to the inlet of the container.

20. The system of claim 1, wherein the condenser returns condensed working fluid vapor to the container.

21. A system for generating energy, comprising: a container for storing a working fluid having a first inlet and an outlet; a condenser for condensing a working fluid vapor comprising an inlet and an outlet coupled to the first inlet of the container, the condenser positioned vertically above the container; a pump fluidly coupled to the outlet of the container; an evaporator adapted to receive working fluid from the pump and create a vapor of at least a portion of the working fluid; a mechanical energy generator adapted to receive the working vapor from the evaporator and produce mechanical energy; an electrical energy generator operatively coupled to an output of the mechanical energy generator and adapted to produce electrical energy from the produced mechanical energy; and a valve disposed at an exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator permitting selection of a fluidic path between the exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator and one of a second inlet of the container or the inlet of the condenser.

22. A system for generating energy, comprising: a container for storing a working fluid comprising an inlet and an outlet; a condenser for condensing a working fluid vapor comprising an inlet coupled to the outlet of the container and an outlet coupled to the inlet of the container, the condenser positioned vertically above the container; a pump adapted to receive working fluid from the container; an evaporator adapted to receive the working fluid from the pump and create a vapor of at least a portion of the working fluid; a mechanical energy generator adapted to receive the working vapor from the evaporator and produce mechanical energy; an electrical energy generator operatively coupled to an output of the mechanical energy generator and adapted to produce electrical energy from the produced mechanical energy; a mixing tube fluidly connected to the outlet of the container and an exhaust outlet of the mechanical energy generator, the mixing tube constructed and arranged to preheat the working fluid upstream of the pump; and a tube fluidly coupling the mixing tube and an inlet of the pump, the tube adapted to draw preheated working fluid from the mixing tube.

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