Heat exchange apparatus and method with helical air conduits

Abstract

An apparatus for improving the performance of an internal combustion engine (300) is provided, the apparatus comprising: an input conduit (220) configured to connect to an air intake (301) of the internal combustion engine (300); and, an output conduit (240) configured to connect to an exhaust (302) of the internal combustion engine; and, wherein the input conduit comprises an input conduit helical portion (222) configured to direct air along a helical path; wherein the input conduit is arranged to permit heat exchange between the exhaust gases in the output conduit and the air in the input conduit.

Description

[0001] HEAT EXCHANGE APPARATUS AND METHOD WITH HELICAL AIR CONDUITS

[0002] 1

[0003] FIELD OF INVENTION

[0004] The present invention relates to the field of improving the performance of an exothermic chemical process, in particular, an apparatus and method are provided for improving the performance of an exothermic processes, for example, provided herein is an apparatus connectable to an internal combustion engine, wherein the apparatus improves the performance of the internal combustion engine.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] Internal combustion engines provide mechanical power by combusting air (e.g. oxygen in said air) with fuel. The combustion of the fuel generates exhaust gases (including carbon monoxide) and solid particulates. Both the exhaust gases and the solid particulates are considered pollutants. A need exists to reduce pollutants exhausted from internal combustion engines. In particular, a need exists to reduce the amount of carbon monoxide exhausted from internal combustion engines. A need exists to reduce the amount of particulates exhausted from internal combustion engines.

[0007] SUMMARY

[0008] Aspects of the disclosure are set out in the independent claims and optional features are set out in the dependent claims. Aspects of the disclosure may be provided in conjunction with each other, and features of one aspect may be applied to other aspects.

[0009] An aspect provides an apparatus for improving the performance of an internal combustion engine, the apparatus comprising: an input conduit configured to connect to an air intake of the internal combustion engine; and, an output conduit configured to connect to an exhaust of the internal combustion engine; and, wherein the input conduit comprises a input conduit helical portion configured to direct air along a helical path; wherein the input conduit output conduit is arranged to permit heat exchange between the exhaust gases in the output conduit and the air in the input conduit.

[0010] Advantageously, air entering an internal combustion engine via the input conduit is heated by exhaust gases in the output conduit. As a result of heating the air provided to an air intake of an internal combustion engine, comparatively (i.e. to examples, wherein an apparatus described herein is not provided on an internal combustion engine), the internal combustion engine operates at a higher temperature i.e. the air and fuel mixture in the engine is comparatively at a higher mean temperature. As a result the combustion is comparatively cleaner and there is a reduction in carbon particulates and carbon monoxide in the exhaust gases. Additionally the mechanical power generated by the combustion may be comparatively higher owing to the higher average temperature of the combustion reactants. Accordingly, the apparatus comparatively improves the performance of the internal combustion engine.

[0011] A portion of the output conduit may be disposed around a portion of the input conduit. Therefore, heat exchange between fluids in the output conduit and the input conduit may take place. Furthermore, a more compact apparatus may be provided.

[0012] The input conduit helical portion may comprise a plurality of input conduit helical conduits. Inducing helical fluid flows in the input conduit may increase the distance air in the input conduit travels in thermal contact with the exhaust gases which may thereby lead to a corresponding increase in time for heat exchange and correspondingly a comparatively greater degree of heat exchange between the fluids (e.g. compared to if no helical fluid flow were induced).

[0013] The input conduit helical may be concentric. Accordingly, a more compact apparatus may be provided.

[0014] The output conduit may comprise an output conduit tortuous portion comprising a plurality of cylinders. The cylinders of the output conduit may be configured to induce a helical flow of fluid within the output conduit. The cylinders may be configured to direct the fluid in the output conduit along a tortuous path (e.g. along a path back and forth between a first axial end and a second axial end of the arrangement). Inducing helical fluid flows in the output conduit and / or directing the fluid flows along a tortuous path may increase the distance exhaust gases in the output conduit travel in thermal contact with air in the input conduit which may thereby lead to a corresponding increase in time for heat exchange and correspondingly a comparatively greater degree of heat exchange between the fluids (e.g. compared to if no helical / tortuous fluid flow were provided).

[0015] The plurality of cylinders may be concentric. Accordingly, a more compact apparatus may be provided. The concentric cylinders may provide a flow cross-section in each cylinder which is symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis of the output conduit which may provide an even radial distribution of fluid in each cylinder which in turn may provide more efficient and / or uniform transfer of heat from fluid in the output conduit and the fluid in the inlet conduit.

[0016] Each of the input conduit helical conduits may be disposed between a pair of cylinders of the plurality of cylinders thereby to provide arrangement wherein fluid traveling in the cylinders is directed along a helical path by an outer surface of the input conduit helical conduits. The outer surface of the input conduit is arranged between a pair of cylinders which may thereby induce a helical flow of fluid within the output conduit e.g. in the region between two cylinders. Inducing helical fluid flows in the output conduit may increase the distance exhaust gases in the output conduit travel in thermal contact with air in the input conduit which may thereby lead to a corresponding increase in time for heat exchange and correspondingly a comparatively greater degree of heat exchange between the fluids (e.g. compared to if no helical / tortuous fluid flow were provided).

[0017] The input conduit helical conduits may be provided in fluid communication with: an input conduit inlet configured to receive air from the environment; and, an input conduit outlet configured to provide air to the air intake of the internal combustion engine. Accordingly, the volume of air heated within the outlet conduit may be increased. Air in each helical conduit may be heated in parallel to the same temperature to provide a uniform temperature of air to the air intake of the internal combustion engine.

[0018] The apparatus may further comprise: a first axial end cap; and, a second axial end cap; wherein: the plurality of cylinders may comprise at least: a first cylinder; a second cylinder; and, a final cylinder; and, the first cylinder: may be configured to receive a fluid flow from the output conduit inlet; may have a first axial end connected to the first axial end cap; and, may be arranged to provide a gap between a second axial end of the first cylinder and the second axial end cap thereby to provide fluid communication between the first cylinder and the second cylinder; the second cylinder: may be configured to receive a fluid flow from the first cylinder via the gap between the second axial end of the first cylinder and the second axial end cap; may have a second axial end of the second cylinder connected to the second axial end cap; and, may be arranged to provide a gap between a first axial end of the second cylinder and the first axial end cap thereby to provide fluid communication between the second cylinder and the final cylinder; the final cylinder: may be configured to receive fluid flow from the gap between the first axial end of the second cylinder and the first axial end cap second cylinder; may have a first axial end connected to the first axial end cap; may have a second axial end connected to the second axial end cap; and, may be configured to provide a fluid flow to the output conduit outlet. The cylinders may be configured to direct the fluid in the output conduit along a tortuous path (e.g. along a path back and forth between a first axial end and a second axial end of the arrangement). Directing the fluid flows along a tortuous path may increase the distance exhaust gases in the output conduit travel in thermal contact with air in the input conduit which may thereby lead to a corresponding increase in time for heat exchange and correspondingly a comparatively greater degree of heat exchange between the fluids (e.g. compared to if no tortuous fluid flow were provided).

[0019] The apparatus may further comprise: one or more cylinders disposed around the second cylinder and within the final cylinder wherein the one or more cylinders have an axial end connected to either the first axial end cap or the second axial end cap and wherein the end cap a given cylinder is connected to is a different end cap to: the adjacent cylinder inside the given cylinder; and, the adjacent cylinder outside the given cylinder. For example, the number of cylinders may be chosen to increase the distance exhaust gases travel in the output conduit to increase the amount of heat extracted therefrom by the air in the input conduit. Herein for a given cylinder, the adjacent cylinder inside the given cylinder is the cylinder directly inside the given cylinder e.g. if the given cylinder is the third cylinder then the adjacent cylinder inside the given cylinder is the second cylinder. Herein for a given cylinder, the adjacent cylinder outside the given cylinder is the cylinder directly outside the given cylinder e.g. if the given cylinder is the third cylinder then the adjacent cylinder outside the given cylinder is the fourth cylinder.

[0020] An aspect provides a method for improving the performance of an internal combustion engine, the method comprising: directing a first fluid flow along a first fluid flow helical path to an air intake of the internal combustion engine, wherein the first fluid flow comprises air; and, directing a second fluid flow from an exhaust of an internal combustion engine, along a path to permit heat exchange between the second fluid flow and the first fluid flow, wherein the second fluid flow comprises exhaust gases.

[0021] Advantageously, air entering an internal combustion engine in the first fluid flow is heated by exhaust gases in the second fluid flow. As a result of heating the air provided to an air intake of an internal combustion engine, comparatively (i.e. to examples, wherein an apparatus described herein is not provided on an internal combustion engine), the internal combustion engine operates at a higher temperature i.e. the air and fuel mixture in the engine is comparatively at a higher mean temperature. As a result the combustion is comparatively cleaner and there is a reduction in carbon particulates and carbon monoxide in the exhaust gases. Additionally the mechanical power generated by the combustion may be comparatively higher owing to the higher average temperature of the combustion reactants. Accordingly, the method comparatively improves the performance of the internal combustion engine.

[0022] The method may comprise: directing the first fluid flow along a plurality of first fluid flow helical paths to an air intake of the internal combustion engine. Inducing helical fluid flows may increase the distance air in the first fluid flow travels in thermal contact with the exhaust gases in the second fluid flow which may thereby lead to a corresponding increase in time for heat exchange and correspondingly a comparatively greater degree of heat exchange between the fluids (e.g. compared to if no helical fluid flow were induced). The plurality of first fluid flow helical paths may be concentric.

[0023] The method may comprise: directing the second fluid flow along a plurality of second fluid flow helical paths. Inducing helical fluid flows may increase the distance exhaust gases in the second fluid flow travel in thermal contact with air in the first fluid flow which may thereby lead to a corresponding increase in time for heat exchange and correspondingly a comparatively greater degree of heat exchange between the fluids (e.g. compared to if no helical flow were provided). The plurality of second fluid flow helical paths may be concentric.

[0024] Each of the plurality of first fluid flow helical paths is paired with one of the plurality of second fluid flow helical paths. Accordingly, a greater amount of heat exchange between the first fluid flow and the second fluid flow may be provided.

[0025] Each of the plurality of first fluid flow helical paths may be a parallel fluid flow. Accordingly, the volume of air heated within the first fluid flow may be increased thereby to provide a uniform temperature of air to the air intake of the internal combustion engine.

[0026] The plurality of second fluid flow helical paths may be provided as a series of fluid flows. Accordingly, the distance exhaust gases in the second fluid flow travel in thermal contact with air in the first fluid flow may thereby lead to a corresponding increase in time for heat exchange and correspondingly a comparatively greater degree of heat exchange between the fluids.

[0027] The apparatus and method are described herein with reference to use with an internal combustion engine, however, it will be appreciated that said apparatus and method may be applied to the improvement of a general exothermic chemical reaction between one or more reactant fluids to produce one or more product fluids. Said exothermic chemical reaction may be performed in an exothermic chemical reaction vessel having a fluid intake for providing the one or more reactant fluids to the interior of the exothermic chemical reaction vessel and a fluid outtake for removing the one or more product fluids from the interior of the exothermic chemical reaction chamber.

[0028] An aspect provides apparatus for improving the performance of an exothermic chemical process performed in an exothermic chemical process vessel, the apparatus comprising: an input conduit configured to connect to a fluid intake of the exothermic chemical process vessel; an output conduit configured to connect to a fluid outtake of the exothermic chemical process vessel; wherein the input conduit comprises an input conduit helical portion configured to direct one or more reactant fluids along a helical path; wherein the input conduit is arranged to permit heat exchange between one or more product fluids in the output conduit and the one or more reactant fluids in the input conduit.

[0029] An aspect provides a method for improving the performance of an exothermic chemical process performed in an exothermic chemical process vessel, the method comprising: directing a first fluid flow along a first fluid flow helical path to an air intake of the internal combustion engine, wherein the first fluid flow comprises one or more reactant fluids; and, directing a second fluid flow from an exhaust of an internal combustion engine, along a path to permit heat exchange between the second fluid flow and the first fluid flow, wherein the second fluid flow comprises one or more product fluids.

[0030] Methods described herein may be performed by any of the apparatus described herein.

[0031] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] Some embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the figures, in which: Figure 1 illustrates a schematic view of an apparatus 100 connected to an internal combustion engine 300;

[0033] Figure 2 illustrates an enlarged lateral cross-sectional view of the device 200 which forms part of the apparatus 100 shown in Figure 1 ;

[0034] Figure 3 illustrates a flowchart depicting a method 400 for improving the performance of an internal combustion engine;

[0035] In the drawings like reference numerals are used to indicate like elements.

[0036] Figure 4 illustrates an enlarged lateral cross-sectional view of the device 200’; and

[0037] Figure 5 illustrates a simplified scale lateral cross-sectional view of an example of the devices 200 & 200’.

[0038] SPECIFIC DESCRIPTION

[0039] A brief overview of the technology is provided here before a more rigorous description of the figures and examples described herein. In sum, the technology relates to the manipulation of a cold fluid flow and a hot fluid flow (i.e. the cold fluid flow has a lower mean temperature than the hot fluid flow). This parallels the manner in which Nature generates thunderstorms and as such the apparatus described herein may be referred to as a ‘Thunderstorm Generator’. Moreover, in examples, the conduit for the cold fluid flow and the hot fluid flow may be oppositely charged to alter the chemical structure of matter in the cold fluid flow and / or the hot fluid flow. In examples, the charge on the respective conduits may be sufficient to generate plasmoids (e.g. toroidal or spherical plasma) which may contribute to altering the chemical structure of matter in the cold fluid flow and / or the hot fluid flow.

[0040] In general terms the technology described herein can be used with exothermic chemical processes that give off heat and emissions. One such chemical process is a combustion process is the easiest and one of the most relevant applications that we can use the technology on whether it be the internal combustion engine, gas turbine, coal, wood or gas fired power generation. Other chemical processes that have high waste heat and emissions that the technology can be applied to include steelmaking (BF- BOS, Open Hearth), concrete manufacture, semi-conductor manufacturing, oil and gas production and refining, metals refining and recovery, alumina and aluminium production.

[0041] Furthermore Huang, BJ., Pan, YH., Wu, PH. et al. Water can trigger nuclear reaction to produce energy and isotope gases. Sci Rep 14, 214 (2024) sets out the discovery that water can trigger a peculiar nuclear reaction and produce energy. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the applicants note that the processes set out therein, for example that cavitation may induce unusual reactions through implosion of water vapor bubbles, may contribute to the technical effect provided by embodiments described herein, namely, the improvement of the performance of an internal combustion engine (or more generally the improvement of the performance of any exothermic chemical reaction) and / or the reduction or removal of undesirable products of said reactions, such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, toxins (e.g. cyanide) and nitrous oxides.

[0042] The Figures are described in more detail below. Figure 1 illustrates a lateral cross-sectional view of an apparatus 100 connected to an internal combustion engine 300 (the latter is shown schematically). Figure 2 illustrates an enlarged lateral cross-sectional view of the apparatus 100.

[0043] The apparatus 100 comprises: a UV chamber 10; a bubble chamber 110; and a device 200 comprising an input conduit 220; and, an output conduit 240.

[0044] The UV chamber 10 comprises an inlet 11 connected to a chamber 12. The UV chamber 10 comprises an outlet 15 connected to the chamber 12. The inlet 11 is configured to permit fluid communication between the inlet 11 and the chamber 12 e.g. air can flow via the inlet 11 into the chamber 12. The outlet 15 is configured to permit fluid communication between the outlet 15 and the chamber 12 e.g. air can flow out of the chamber 12 via the outlet 15.

[0045] In examples, the UV source may ionise the air in (or entering) the chamber. In examples, the UV source may cancel out other frequencies before the air is drawn into the chamber. The UV source may emit UV in the range of 180 nm to 300 nm. In examples, the UV source may emit UV light which is ionising with a wavelength of less than 124 nm. In examples, the UV source may emit UV light which is non-ionising with a wavelength of greater than 124 nm.

[0046] The UV chamber 10 further comprises a UV source 14. The UV source 14 is arranged adjacent to the chamber 12. The UV source 14 is configured to emit UV radiation (e.g. UV source emits UV radiation, for example, UV light). The UV source 14 is arranged so that at least some of the UV radiation emitted from the UV source 14 is incident on the interior of the chamber 12 (e.g. in use, the UV light is incident on water in the chamber 12). The UV source 14 may be disposed on the interior of the chamber 12. At least one of the functions of the UV source 14 is to sterilise the water in the chamber 12 to thereby prevent contamination of other parts of the apparatus and / or the internal combustion engine. In examples, the chamber 12 may be formed (at least in part) by a material which transmits (i.e. is transparent to) UV light which may permit the UV source to be disposed outside of the chamber 12.

[0047] The bubble chamber 110 comprises an inlet 111 connected to a chamber 112. The bubble chamber 110 comprises an outlet 115 connected to the chamber 112. The inlet 111 is configured to permit fluid communication between the inlet 111 and the chamber 112 e.g. air can flow via the inlet 111 into the chamber 112. The outlet 115 is configured to permit fluid communication between the outlet 115 and the chamber 112 e.g. air can flow out of the chamber 112 via the outlet 115. In examples, water may be provided to the bubble chamber 110 via the chamber within which the UV source 114 is disposed. In such examples, a small amount of water might remain in the UV chamber due to a low raise of the outlet pipe 115.

[0048] The inlet 111 may comprise a valve to permit egress of air into the chamber 112 therethrough and prevent egress of water out of the chamber 112 via the inlet 111. The outlet 115 may comprise a valve to permit egress of air out of the chamber 112 therethrough and prevent egress of water out of the chamber 112 via the outlet 111. In examples, when configured for use, one of the inlet or outlet may be disposed under the water level and this element may comprise a valve. Similarly, one of the inlet or outlet will be disposed above the water level and this element may not comprise a valve It will be appreciated that arrangements described herein may be provided without water in tank 110 and water will be added by the end user thereby to configure the arrangement for use.

[0049] The chamber 112 is configured to hold water. In use air is drawn through the bubble chamber 110 via the inlet 111 , into the chamber 112, and out of the chamber 112 via the outlet 115.

[0050] The bubble chamber 110 comprises a nucleation member 113 disposed in the chamber 112. The nucleation member 113 comprises nucleation points. The nucleation points are configured to permit air bubbles and / or air cavitations to form thereon when air is drawn through the chamber (i.e. from the inlet 111 , via the chamber 112, out via the outlet 115).

[0051] The input conduit 220 comprises: an input conduit (IC) inlet 221 ; an input conduit (IC) helical portion 222; and, an input conduit (IC) outlet 223.

[0052] The input conduit 220 is configured to induce a helical flow of fluid within the input conduit 220. The input conduit 220 is arranged to permit heat exchange between exhaust gases in the output conduit 240 and fluid (e.g. air) in the input conduit 220. As is described in more detail herein, the input conduit 220 is arranged nested around at least part of the output conduit 240 thereby to permit said heat exchange.

[0053] The IC inlet 221 is connected to the water tank outlet 115. The IC inlet 221 is connected to the IC helical portion 222. The IC inlet 221 is configured to permit fluid to enter the IC helical portion 222. The IC helical portion 222 is connected to the IC outlet 223.

[0054] The IC helical portion 222 comprises a plurality of IC helical conduits, namely: a first IC helical conduit 231 ; a second IC helical conduit 232; a third IC helical conduit 233; a fourth IC helical conduit 234; a fifth IC helical conduit 235; and, an optional sixth IC helical conduit 236 (not shown in Figure 2 and shown in Figure 4).

[0055] Each IC helical conduit is arranged in fluid communication with the IC inlet 221 e.g. air can flow from the IC inlet 221 to each of the IC helical conduits. Each IC helical conduit is arranged in fluid communication with the IC outlet 223 e.g. air can flow from each of the IC helical conduits to the IC outlet 223.

[0056] Each of the IC helical conduits are arranged around the central longitudinal axis X of the device 200. The plurality of IC helical conduits are concentric. The second IC helical conduit 232 is arranged around the first IC helical conduit 231. The third IC helical conduit 233 is arranged around the second IC helical conduit 232. The fourth IC helical conduit 234 is arranged around the third IC helical conduit 233. The fifth IC helical conduit 235 is arranged around the fourth IC helical conduit 234. If provided, the optional sixth IC helical conduit 236 is arranged around the fifth IC helical conduit 235. Each of the plurality of IC helical conduits causes fluid therein (e.g. air) to flow along a helical path. Accordingly, the distance the fluid must travel is increased (e.g. compared to if there was no helical portion in the cylinders) which may increase the time and / or amount of heat exchange between fluid in the outlet conduit (e.g. exhaust gas) and the inlet conduit (e.g. air).

[0057] The output conduit 240 is arranged to permit heat exchange between exhaust gases in the output conduit 240 and fluid (e.g. air) in the input conduit 220. As is described in more detail herein, a portion of the input conduit 220 (e.g. the IC helical portion 222) is arranged within the output conduit 240 thereby to permit said heat exchange.

[0058] The OC inlet 241 is configured to be connected to an exhaust 302 of the internal combustion engine 300. The OC inlet 241 is connected to the OC tortuous portion 242. The OC inlet 241 is configured to permit fluid (e.g. exhaust fumes) to enter the OC tortuous portion 242.

[0059] The OC tortuous portion 242 is connected to the OC outlet 243. The OC tortuous portion 242 is configured to channel fluid from the OC inlet 241 to the OC outlet 243 wherein fluid (e.g. exhaust fumes) exit the apparatus 100 and enter the environment (e.g. atmosphere).

[0060] Additionally, in examples such as those shown in Figures 1 , 2, & 4, a relief valve 244 may be provided. The relief valve 244 is disposed in the output conduit. The relief valve 244 is disposed in the first axial end cap 261. The relief valve is disposed in fluid communication with the seventh cylinder 257. The relief valve 244 is provided in fluid communication with the OC tortuous portion 242. The relief valve 244 is configured to vent fluid in the event that the pressure inside the output conduit 240 exceeds a predetermined value.

[0061] The OC tortuous portion 242 comprises: a first cylinder 251 ; a second cylinder 252; a third cylinder 253; a fourth cylinder 254; a fifth cylinder 255; a sixth cylinder 256; a seventh cylinder 257.

[0062] Each cylinder is a hollow conduit with two open axial ends. Each of the cylinders comprises: a first axial end, a second axial end, and a central longitudinal axis. Each of the cylinders are arranged around the central longitudinal axis X of the device 200. The cylinders are arranged concentrically e.g. they are nested one within the other. The second cylinder 252 is arranged around the third cylinder 251. The third cylinder 253 is arranged around the cylinder 252. The fourth cylinder 254 is arranged around the third cylinder 253. The fifth cylinder 255 is arranged around the fourth cylinder 254. The sixth cylinder 256 is arranged around the fifth cylinder 255. The seventh cylinder 257 is arranged around the sixth cylinder 256.

[0063] The device 200 comprises a first axial end cap 261 at a first axial end 271 and a second axial end cap 262 at a second axial end 272.

[0064] The OC inlet 241 is disposed within the first axial end cap 261. The first axial end of the first cylinder 251 is arranged in fluid communication with the OC inlet 241 e.g. air can flow from the OC inlet 241 into the first cylinder 251 .

[0065] The first axial end of the first cylinder 251 is connected to the first axial end cap 261. A gap is provided between the second axial end of the first cylinder 251 and the second axial end cap 262.

[0066] The first cylinder 251 may have a length of 28 inches (71.12 cm) or 27 inches (68.58 cm). The distance between the first axial end cap 261 and the second axial end cap 262 may be 32 inches (81 .28 cm). In such examples, the gap provided between the second axial end of the first cylinder 251 and the second axial end cap 262 is 6 inches (15.24 cm) or 5 inches (12.7 cm) accordingly.

[0067] The gap between the second axial end of the first cylinder 251 and the second axial end cap 262 permits fluid communication between the first cylinder 251 and the second cylinder 252 e.g. fluid can flow via the gap from the first cylinder 251 to the second cylinder 252.

[0068] The second axial end of the second cylinder 252 is connected to the second axial end cap 262. A gap is provided between the first axial end of the second cylinder 252 and the first axial end cap 261.

[0069] The second cylinder 252 may have a length of 26 inches (66.04 cm). The distance between the first axial end cap 261 and the second axial end cap 262 may be 32 inches (81.28 cm). In such examples, the gap provided between the first axial end of the second cylinder 252 and the first axial end cap 261 is 8 inches (20.32 cm).

[0070] The gap between the first axial end of the second cylinder 252 and the first axial end cap 261 permits fluid communication between the second cylinder 252 and the third cylinder 253 e.g. fluid can flow via the gap from the second cylinder 252 to the third cylinder 253.

[0071] The first axial end of the third cylinder 253 is connected to the first axial end cap 261. A gap is provided between the second axial end of the third cylinder 253 and the second axial end cap 262.

[0072] The third cylinder 253 may have a length of 26 inches (66.04 cm). The distance between the first axial end cap 261 and the second axial end cap 262 may be 32 inches (81.28 cm). In such examples, the gap provided between the second axial end of the third cylinder 253 and the second axial end cap 261 is 8 inches (20.32 cm).

[0073] The gap between the second axial end of the third cylinder 253 and the second axial end cap 262 permits fluid communication between the third cylinder 253 and the fourth cylinder 254 e.g. fluid can flow via the gap from the third cylinder 253 to the fourth cylinder 254.

[0074] The second axial end of the fourth cylinder 254 is connected to the second axial end cap 262. A gap is provided between the first axial end of the fourth cylinder 254 and the first axial end cap

[0075] 261.

[0076] The fourth cylinder 254 may have a length of 26 inches (66.04 cm). The distance between the first axial end cap 261 and the second axial end cap 262 may be 32 inches (81.28 cm). In such examples, the gap provided between the first axial end of the fourth cylinder 254 and the first axial end cap 261 is 8 inches (20.32 cm).

[0077] The gap between the first axial end of the fourth cylinder 254 and the first axial end cap 261 permits fluid communication between the fourth cylinder 254 and the fifth cylinder 255 e.g. fluid can flow via the gap from the fourth cylinder 254 to the fifth cylinder 255.

[0078] The first axial end of the fifth cylinder 255 is connected to the first axial end cap 261. A gap is provided between the second axial end of the fifth cylinder 255 and the second axial end cap

[0079] 262.

[0080] The fifth cylinder 255 may have a length of 26 inches (66.04 cm). The distance between the first axial end cap 261 and the second axial end cap 262 may be 32 inches (81.28 cm). In such examples, the gap provided between the second axial end of the fifth cylinder 255 and the second axial end cap 261 is 8 inches (20.32 cm).

[0081] The gap between the second axial end of the fifth cylinder 255 and the second axial end cap 262 permits fluid communication between the fifth cylinder 255 and the sixth cylinder 256 e.g. fluid can flow via the gap from the fifth cylinder 255 to the sixth cylinder 256.

[0082] The second axial end of the sixth cylinder 256 is connected to the second axial end cap 262. A gap is provided between the first axial end of the sixth cylinder 256 and the first axial end cap 261.

[0083] The sixth cylinder 256 may have a length of 26 inches (66.04 cm). The distance between the first axial end cap 261 and the second axial end cap 262 may be 32 inches (81.28 cm). In such examples, the gap provided between the first axial end of the sixth cylinder 256 and the first axial end cap 261 is 8 inches (20.32 cm).

[0084] The gap between the first axial end of the sixth cylinder 256 and the first axial end cap 261 permits fluid communication between the sixth cylinder 256 and the seventh cylinder 257 e.g. fluid can flow via the gap from the sixth cylinder 256 to the seventh cylinder 257. The first axial end of the seventh cylinder 257 is connected to the first axial end cap 261 and the second axial end of the seventh cylinder 257 is connected to the second axial end cap 262. The OC outlet 243 is disposed within the first axial end cap 261 . The first axial end of the seventh cylinder 257 is arranged in fluid communication with the OC outlet 243 e.g. fluid can flow from the seventh cylinder 257 out of the device 200 via the OC outlet 243.

[0085] The seventh cylinder 257 may be configured to hold fluid (e.g. water) therein. Device 200 may be provided with a fluid level monitoring device 245. The fluid level monitoring device 245 is configured to provide an indication of the fluid level (e.g. water) in the device 200. An example fluid level 246 is shown in Figure 2. An example fluid level monitoring device 245 may comprise a vessel disposed in fluid communication with the outlet conduit 240. The fluid level monitoring device 245 may comprise a transparent portion through which a user may asses the level of the fluid therein. In examples, the fluid level monitoring device may comprise a pump (e.g. a solenoid pump) configured to provide fluid in the seventh cylinder into the fluid level monitoring device 245.

[0086] The seventh cylinder 257 may have a length of 32 inches (60.96 cm). The distance between the first axial end cap 261 and the second axial end cap 262 may be 32 inches (81.28 cm). In such examples, the seventh cylinder 257 connects the first axial end cap 261 and the second axial end cap 262.

[0087] The IC helical conduits are all concentric with the cylinders of the OC tortuous portion. Each of the IC helical conduits is arranged between a pair of cylinders. By disposing each IC helical conduit between a pair of cylinders of the OC tortuous portion, the IC helical conduits and the OC tortuous portion are arranged for heat exchange therebetween. For example, a fluid, such as air, in the IC helical conduit may be heated by fluid, such as exhaust gases in the OC tortuous portion.

[0088] Furthermore, the IC helical portions may comprise a pipe of circular cross-section wherein the diameter of said cross-section is similar to the gap (e.g. shortest distance) between the pair of cylinders. For example, the gap between adjacent cylinders may be a similar length to the diameter of the pipe of the IC helical portions e.g. the gap between adjacent cylinders may be 1 inch (2.54 centimetres) and the diameter of the pipe forming the IC helical portions may be 7 / 8 inches (2.2225 centimetres) to leave a 1 / 16 inches (0.15875 centimetres) gap between the IC helical portion pipe and a first cylinder and a 1 / 16 inches (0.15875 centimetres) gap between the IC helical portion pipe and a second cylinder. The helical portion in the gap between two cylinders may encourage fluid (e.g. exhaust gases) in the OC tortuous portion to take a helical path from one axial end of a cylinder to the other axial end of the cylinder. Accordingly, the distance the fluid must travel is increased (e.g. compared to if there was no helical portion in the cylinders) which may increase the time and / or amount of heat exchange between fluid in the output conduit (e.g. exhaust gas) and the input conduit (e.g. air). Specifically, the first IC helical conduit 231 surrounds a portion of the first cylinder 251 and the first IC helical conduit 231 is disposed between the first cylinder 251 and the second cylinder 252. The second IC helical conduit 232 surrounds a portion of the second cylinder 252 and the second IC helical conduit 232 is disposed between the second cylinder 252 and the third cylinder 253. The third IC helical conduit 233 surrounds a portion of the third cylinder 253 and the third IC helical conduit 233 is disposed between the third cylinder 253 and the fourth cylinder 254. The fourth IC helical conduit 234 surrounds a portion of the fourth cylinder 254 and the fourth IC helical conduit 234 is disposed between the fourth 254 and the fifth cylinder 255. The fifth IC helical conduit 235 surrounds a portion of the fifth cylinder 255 and the fifth IC helical conduit 235 is disposed between the fifth cylinder 255 and the sixth cylinder 256. An optional sixth IC helical conduit 236 surrounds a portion of the sixth cylinder 256 and the sixth IC helical conduit 236 is disposed between the sixth cylinder 256 and the seventh cylinder 257. The optional sixth IC helical conduit 236 is not shown in the preferred embodiment of device 200 of Figure 2 and is shown in device 200’ of Figure 4.

[0089] To configure the apparatus 100 for use with an internal combustion engine 300 (comprising an air intake 301 and an exhaust 302) the apparatus 100 is connected to the internal combustion engine. Specifically, the input conduit outlet 223 is connected to the air intake 301 and the output conduit inlet 241 is connected to the exhaust 302.

[0090] In use, the internal combustion engine 300 is ignited and it operates by drawing air (e.g. from the atmosphere) from the air intake 301 (first drawing the air via the input conduit 120 of the apparatus 100), combusting said air with fuel to provide mechanical power (e.g. via a drive shaft), and exhausting combustion products (referred to herein as exhaust gases) via the exhaust 302 (and subsequently via the output conduit 240 of the apparatus 100).

[0091] In more detail, air is drawn through the IC inlet 221 of the IC helical portion 222. The IC helical portion 222 comprises a plurality of IC helical conduits: a first IC helical conduit 231 ; a second IC helical conduit 232; a third IC helical conduit 233; a fourth IC helical conduit 234; a fifth IC helical conduit 235; and, an optional sixth IC helical conduit 236 (not shown in Figure 2 but shown in Figure 4).

[0092] The air is drawn through each of the plurality of IC helical conduits of the IC helical portion 222 to the IC outlet 223. As the air is drawn through each of the plurality of IC helical conduits of the IC helical portion 222, the air interacts with the walls of IC helical conduits and is caused to rotate about, and move along, a central longitudinal axis of the IC helical portion 222. As shown in Figure 2, air is drawn through the IC helical portion 222 from the second axial end 272 towards the first axial end cap 261.

[0093] The air is finally drawn from the IC helical portion 222 via the IC outlet 223 into the air intake 301 of the internal combustion engine 300. Oxygen in the air combusts with fuel in the internal combustion engine to generate exhaust gases. The exhaust gases are expelled from the engine 300 via the exhaust 302.

[0094] Exhaust gases are expelled from the exhaust into the OC inlet 241 of the OC tortuous portion 232. As the exhaust gases move through the output conduit 240, the exhaust gases sequentially pass through the cylinders which form the OC tortuous portion 232.

[0095] As the exhaust gases pass through the OC inlet 241 they enter the first cylinder 251 at the first axial end 271 . The exhaust gases move through the first cylinder 251 from the first axial end 271 to the second axial end 272. There is a gap between the axial end of the first cylinder 251 closest to the second axial end 272 and the second axial end cap 262 of the device 200 which permits fluid communication between the first cylinder 251 and the second cylinder 252 (e.g. exhaust gases pass from the first cylinder 251 to the second cylinder 252).

[0096] The exhaust gases enter the second cylinder 252 at the second axial end 272. The exhaust gases move through the second cylinder 252 from the second axial end 272 to the first axial end 271 . As the exhaust gases move through the second cylinder 252 from the second axial end 272 to the first axial end 271 at least a portion of the exhaust gases are guided along a helical path around the first cylinder by the outside of first IC helical conduit 231 . Heat exchange occurs between the exhaust gases in the second cylinder 252 (e.g. the exhaust gases in the gap between the first cylinder 251 and the second cylinder 252) and the air in the first IC helical conduit 231. There is a gap between the axial end of the second cylinder 252 closest to the first axial end 271 and the first axial end cap 261 of the device 200 which permits fluid communication between the second cylinder 252 and the third cylinder 253 (e.g. exhaust gases pass from the second cylinder 252 to the third cylinder 253).

[0097] The exhaust gases enter the third cylinder 253 at the first axial end 271 . The exhaust gases move through the third cylinder 253 from the first axial end 271 to the second axial end 272. As the exhaust gases move through the third cylinder 253 from the first axial end 271 to the second axial end 272 at least a portion of the exhaust gases are guided along a helical path around the second cylinder by the outside of second IC helical conduit 232. Heat exchange occurs between the exhaust gases in the third cylinder 253 (e.g. the exhaust gases in the gap between the second cylinder 252 and the third cylinder 253) and the air in the second IC helical conduit 232. There is a gap between the axial end of the third cylinder 253 closest to the second axial end 272 and the second axial end cap 262 of the device 200 which permits fluid communication between the third cylinder 253 and the fourth cylinder 254 (e.g. exhaust gases pass from the third cylinder 253 to the fourth cylinder 254).

[0098] The exhaust gases enter the fourth cylinder 254 at the second axial end 272. The exhaust gases move through the fourth cylinder 254 from the second axial end 272 to the first axial end 271. As the exhaust gases move through the fourth cylinder 254 from the second axial end 272 to the first axial end 271 at least a portion of the exhaust gases are guided along a helical path around the third cylinder 253 by the outside of third IC helical conduit 233. Heat exchange occurs between the exhaust gases in the fourth cylinder 254 (e.g. the exhaust gases in the gap between the third cylinder 253 and the fourth cylinder 254) and the air in the third IC helical conduit 233. There is a gap between the axial end of the fourth cylinder 254 closest to the first axial end 271 and the first axial end cap 261 of the device 200 which permits fluid communication between the fourth cylinder 254 and the fifth cylinder 255 (e.g. exhaust gases pass from the fourth cylinder 254 to the fifth cylinder 255).

[0099] The exhaust gases enter the fifth cylinder 255 at the first axial end 271 . The exhaust gases move through the fifth cylinder 255 from the first axial end 271 to the second axial end 272. As the exhaust gases move through the fifth cylinder 255 from the first axial end 271 to the second axial end 272 at least a portion of the exhaust gases are guided along a helical path around the fourth cylinder 254 by the outside of fourth IC helical conduit 234. Heat exchange occurs between the exhaust gases in the fifth cylinder 255 (e.g. the exhaust gases in the gap between the fourth cylinder 254 and the fifth cylinder 255) and the air in the fourth IC helical conduit 234. There is a gap between the axial end of the fifth cylinder 255 closest to the second axial end 272 and the second axial end cap 262 of the device 200 which permits fluid communication between the fifth cylinder 255 and the sixth cylinder 256 (e.g. exhaust gases pass from the fifth cylinder 255 to the sixth cylinder 256).

[0100] The exhaust gases enter the sixth cylinder 256 at the second axial end 272. The exhaust gases move through the sixth cylinder 256 from the second axial end 272 to the first axial end 271 . As the exhaust gases move through the sixth cylinder 256 from the second axial end 272 to the first axial end 271 at least a portion of the exhaust gases are guided along a helical path around the fifth cylinder 225 by the outside of fifth IC helical conduit 235. Heat exchange occurs between the exhaust gases in the sixth cylinder 256 (e.g. the exhaust gases in the gap between the fifth cylinder 255 and the sixth cylinder 256) and the air in the fifth IC helical conduit 235. There is a gap between the axial end of the sixth cylinder 256 closest to the first axial end 271 and the first axial end cap 261 of the device 200 which permits fluid communication between the sixth cylinder 256 and the seventh cylinder 257 (e.g. exhaust gases pass from the sixth cylinder 256 to the seventh cylinder 257).

[0101] The exhaust gases enter the seventh cylinder 257 at the first axial end 271 . The exhaust gases may exit the output conduit via the OC outlet 243. The exhaust gases (and / or other fluids, such as water) may move through the seventh cylinder 257 from the first axial end 271 to the second axial end 272. In examples with a sixth IC helical conduit as the exhaust gases move through the seventh cylinder 257 from the first axial end 271 to the second axial end 272 at least a portion of the exhaust gases are guided along a helical path around the sixth cylinder 256 by the outside of sixth IC helical conduit 236. Heat exchange occurs between the exhaust gases in the seventh cylinder 257 (e.g. the exhaust gases in the gap between the sixth cylinder 256 and the seventh cylinder 257) and the air in the sixth IC helical conduit 236. In examples with or without the sixth IC helical conduit 236, the OC outlet 243 may be disposed in the second axial end cap 262 as opposed to the first axial end cap 261 .

[0102] In examples, the first cylinder 251 may have a diameter of 1 inch (2.54 cm), the second cylinder 252 may have a diameter of 2 inches (5.08), the third cylinder 253 may have a diameter of 3 inches (7.62 cm), the fourth cylinder 254 may have a diameter of 4 inches (10.16 cm), the fifth cylinder 255 may have a diameter of 5 inches (12.7 cm), the sixth cylinder 256 may have a diameter of 6 inches (15.24 cm), the seventh cylinder 257 may have a diameter of 7 inches.

[0103] In examples, the first cylinder 251 may have a length of 28 inches (71.12cm), the second cylinder 252 may have a length of 26 inches (66.04 cm), the third cylinder 253 may have a length of 26 inches (66.04 cm), the fourth cylinder 254 may have a length of 26 inches (66.04 cm), the fifth cylinder 255 may have a length of 26 inches (66.04 cm), the sixth cylinder 256 may have a length of 26 inches (66.04 cm), the seventh cylinder 257 may have a length of 32 inches (81.25 cm).

[0104] It will be appreciated that the aforementioned diameters and lengths may be provided in conjunction i.e. so that in examples, the first cylinder 251 has a diameter of 1 inch and a length of 24 inches.

[0105] Figure 5 illustrates a simplified scale lateral cross-sectional view of an example of the devices 200 & 200’ showing the relative lengths and diameters of the cylinders 251 to 257 which are set out above.

[0106] The inventor has found that the performance of the device is improved if the ratio of the diameter W of the first cylinder 251 is 1 / 32 of the length L of the device i.e. L:W is 32:1. The inventor has also found that providing seven cylinders with the relative dimensions set out herein (e.g. the ratios of the length of a given cylinder to the diameter of the given cylinder). For example, having a first cylinder with diameter W and a seventh cylinder with a diameter D such that the ratio of D:W is 7:1. In other words, having a first cylinder with a relative diameter of 1 (e.g. 1 inch), a second cylinder with a relative diameter of 2 (e.g. 2 inches), a third cylinder with a relative diameter of 3 (e.g. 3 inches), a fourth cylinder with a relative diameter of 4 (e.g. 4 inches), a fifth cylinder with a relative diameter of 5 (e.g. 5 inches), a sixth cylinder with a relative diameter of 6 (e.g. 6 inches), and a seventh cylinder with a relative diameter of 7 (e.g. 7 inches) to thereby provide a diameter ratio of 1 :2:3:4:5:6:7.

[0107] When viewing a lateral cross-sectional view of the device 200 during use, the exhaust gases move through the output conduit 240 alternatively: axially between the first axial end and the second axial end of the apparatus; then radially outward from the central longitudinal axis of the apparatus (e.g. shared by the cylinders of the OC tortuous portion and the IC helical conduits) toward the interior wall of the seventh cylinder 257.

[0108] In more detail, a first cylinder is configured to direct exhaust gases in a first axial direction followed by a radially outward direction into a second cylinder. The second cylinder is configured to direct exhaust gases in a second axial direction (e.g. opposite the first axial direction) followed by a radially outward direction into a third cylinder and so on. Accordingly, the distance the exhaust gases have to travel is increased by directing the exhaust gases in this manner which may advantageously increase the amount of heat transferred between the exhaust gases in the output conduit 240 and the air in the input conduit 220.

[0109] Exhaust gases of internal combustion engines typically have a significantly higher temperature (e.g. anywhere between 200 °C to 600 °C depending on the engine and application) than air in the atmosphere (e.g. in the range of 100 °C centred around 0 °C for example, from -50 °C to 50 °C). By arranging the input conduit 220 and the output conduit 240 in the manner described herein (i.e. the IC helical portion 222 of the input conduit 220 is nested within the OC tortuous portion 242 of the output conduit 240), heat exchange occurs between the exhaust gases in the output conduit 240 and the fluid in the input conduit. In other words, the apparatus 100 uses the exhaust gases to heat the fluid which is provided to the air intake 301 of the internal combustion engine 300.

[0110] As a result of heating the fluid provided to the air intake of the internal combustion engine, comparatively (i.e. to examples, wherein an apparatus described herein is not provided on an internal combustion engine), the internal combustion engine operates at a higher temperature i.e. the air and fuel mixture in the engine is comparatively at a higher mean temperature. As a result the combustion is comparatively cleaner and there is a reduction in carbon particulates and carbon monoxide in the exhaust gases. Additionally the mechanical power generated by the combustion may be comparatively higher owing to the higher average temperature of the combustion reactants. Accordingly, the apparatus comparatively improves the performance of the internal combustion engine. In examples, the exhaust gases in the output conduit may be cooled by the air in the input conduit.

[0111] The operation of the apparatus 100 (and the alternative examples shown in Figure 4) can be simplified and expressed as a method. Figure 3 illustrates a flowchart depicting a method 400 for improving the performance of an internal combustion engine. The method comprises the following steps (it will be appreciated that said steps may be implemented as discrete steps or concurrently and continuously). The method comprises a step of directing, 401 , a first fluid flow along a first fluid flow helical path to an air intake of the internal combustion engine, wherein the first fluid flow comprises air. Practically, this step may be implemented by using the input conduit 220 of the device 200 shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0112] This step may comprise directing the first fluid flow along a plurality of first fluid flow helical paths to an air intake of the internal combustion engine. The first fluid flow helical paths may be provided as concentric flows.

[0113] The method comprises a step of directing, 402, a second fluid flow from an exhaust of an internal combustion engine, along a path to permit heat exchange between the second fluid flow and the first fluid flow, wherein the second fluid flow comprises exhaust gases. Practically, this step may be implemented by using the output conduit 240 of the device 200 shown in Figures 1 and 2. The helical flows may increase the distance travelled by the first fluid flow and second fluid flow in thermal contact with one another which may thereby increase the amount of heat exchange between the two flows.

[0114] This step may comprise directing the second fluid flow along a plurality of second fluid flow helical paths. Each of the plurality of first fluid flow helical paths is paired with one of the plurality of second fluid flow helical paths e.g. to permit heat transfer therebetween. The plurality of second fluid flow helical paths may be provided as concentric flows.

[0115] It will be appreciated that the number of cylinders of the OC tortuous portion may be varied from, for example, three cylinders to any higher number of cylinders arranged in the alternating manner described herein (e.g. a first cylinder connected to the first axial end cap, a second cylinder connected to the second axial end cap; a third cylinder connected to the first axial end cap and so on).

[0116] It will be appreciated by one of notional skill in the art that the method depicted in Figure 3 and the apparatus and device shown in Figures 1 and 2 could be applied to a more general exothermic chemical process, for example, to an exothermic chemical process being performed in an exothermic reaction vessel. Said vessel comprising: a fluid intake for inputting one or more reactant fluids to the reaction vessel; and, a fluid outtake for outputting one or more product fluids from the reaction vessel. The input conduit (or first fluid flow) would provide the one or one or more reactant fluids to the reaction vessel

[0117] In such examples, the second step may comprise providing a second fluid flow comprising one or more product fluids from an outlet of the vessel, wherein the second fluid flow is arranged to permit heat exchange between the one or more product fluids in the second fluid flow and the one or more reactant fluids in the first fluid flow. The method comprises the optional step of inducing helical motion of the second fluid flow. Cylinders described herein are pipes (e.g. conduits) which define an internal volume through which fluid can move. Cylinder heights described herein may refer to the length of the cylinder along its own central longitudinal axis.

[0118] The device described herein (e.g. such as device 200 shown in Figure 2 and device 200’ shown in Figure 4) is shown with right angles between surfaces (e.g. a right-angle is shown between the axial end caps and the cylinders), however, in examples, no such right angles may be provided, instead continuous curves may be provided between said surfaces.

[0119] Figure 4 illustrates an enlarged lateral cross-sectional view of the device 200’. The device 200’ can be used in apparatus 100 in place of device 200. The device 200’ is identical to the device 200 save for the fact that a sixth IC helical conduit 236 is included in device 200’. Therefore, instead of the space between the sixth cylinder 256 and the seventh cylinder 257 act as a water reservoir, this space includes a sixth IC helical conduit 236 for additional heat exchange. In Figure 2, the water reservoir provided by the space between the sixth and seventh cylinder is configured to hold water. In Figure 4, the OC outlet 243 is disposed in the second axial end cap 262 but it will be appreciated that it could also be provided in the first axial end cap 261 . Similarly, the relief valve 244 may be provided in either the first axial end cap 261 or the second axial end cap 262 in any apparatus provided for herein.

[0120] In use water in the water reservoir may be heated by exhaust gases in the output conduit to form steam. One or more steam valves (such as 244 shown in the drawings) may be provided to permit the steam to exit the output conduit e.g. to prevent an explosion of the steam from the output conduit 240.

[0121] In examples, apparatuses described herein may comprise a water reservoir 247 separate from the devices (e.g. devices 200 and 200’). In such examples, the water reservoir 247 may be configured to provide water to the output conduit 240 (e.g. via pipe connecting the water reservoir to a portion of the output conduit 240, for example, to the seventh cylinder 257). The water reservoir 247 may be configured to provide water to the output conduit either under the force of gravity (e.g. it is ‘gravity-fed’) or by a pump (e.g. a solenoid pump). In examples, the water reservoir 247 may be configured to provide water to the output conduit in the event that the water level in the output conduit falls below a predetermined level. In such examples, the fluid level monitoring device 245 may be configured to send a signal to the water reservoir 247 (e.g. to a valve or pump which controls flow of water to the output conduit). In response to the received signal, the water reservoir 247 may be configured to provide water to the output conduit 240.

[0122] In examples, an energy recovery device may be provided wherein the energy recovery device is configured to extract energy from steam exiting the one or more steam valves. The energy recovery device may comprise an extractor wherein in the event that fluid (e.g. steam) does work on the extractor, the extractor converts that work into another form of energy.

[0123] For example, the energy recovery device may be configured to extract energy in the form of kinetic energy e.g. the extractor comprises one or more pistons which are configured to operate in the manner of a steam engine.

[0124] For example, the energy recovery device may be configured to extract energy in the form of electrical energy e.g. the extract comprises one or more turbines coupled to an electrical generator.

[0125] The energy recovery device may comprise: an entry conduit configured to guide fluid (e.g. steam) to the extractor; and an exit conduit configured to guide fluid (e.g. steam or water) back to the water reservoir.

[0126] It will be appreciated that water may be disposed in the output conduit 240 of the device shown in Figure 2.

[0127] As is described in more detail herein, the input conduit is arranged nested within the output conduit to thereby permit said heat exchange. However, it will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art that instead, the output conduit may be arranged nested within the input conduit. For example, in said alternative configuration, a comparatively higher portion of the heat radiating from the exhaust gases may be absorbed by the air (i.e. because the input conduit and, therefore the air, radially surround the output conduit and exhaust gases). In some examples, the water tank may be dispensed with.

[0128] In examples, the input conduit and output conduit are formed of a conductive material (e.g. metal). The input conduit may be positively charged and the output conduit may be negatively charged (or vice versa). In such examples, a charging means may be provided (e.g. a voltage source connected to at least one of the input conduit and the output conduit).

[0129] In the devices provided herein (e.g. the device 200 and / or device 200’) one or more valves may be provided in any of: the first cylinder 251 ; the second cylinder 252; the third cylinder 253; the fourth cylinder 254; the fifth cylinder 255; and, the sixth cylinder 256. The one or more valves may be configured to permit fluid exchange (e.g. movement of water) between the cylinders e.g. a valve in the first cylinder 251 wall may permit fluid exchange between the first cylinder 251 and the second cylinder 252 etc..

[0130] One or more valves may be provided by flaps in the walls of the cylinders e.g. panels which have a hinged side which can be opened or closed in response to pressure changes of fluids in the output conduit 240.

[0131] One or more valves may be provided by a ball valve located in the wall of a cylinder.

[0132] In examples, a ball valve may be provided at the opening at the second axial end of the first cylinder. The ball valve may be in an open position when exhaust gases flow through the first cylinder and be biased to a closed position (e.g. using a biasing means or by arranging the device so that gravity forces the ball to close the opening in the absence of the exhaust gases) when exhaust gases do not flow. Advantageously, any fluids which would be undesirable to flow into the exhaust (e.g. water in the output conduit) will prevented from doing so by the ball valve.

[0133] The apparatus described herein permit fluid to move therethrough (as described herein). Said fluid may be air or air with water entrained therein. For example, an input conduit may be configured to permit a fluid comprising air or air with water entrained therein to pass therethrough to the air intake of an internal combustion engine.

[0134] Any water entrained in said fluid may be in any phase, for example, gas or liquid phase.

[0135] Any apparatus described herein may be provided separately to (e.g. suitable for retrofit) or in combination with an internal combustion engine (e.g. as a combined internal combustion engine and apparatus unit or as a kit of parts comprising the apparatus and the internal combustion engine).

[0136] Any apparatus described herein may be provided separately to (e.g. suitable for retrofit) or in combination with an exothermic chemical reaction vessel (e.g. as a reaction vessel and apparatus unit or as a kit of parts comprising the apparatus and the reaction vessel).

[0137] It will be appreciated from the discussion above that the embodiments shown in the figures are merely exemplary, and include features which may be generalised, removed or replaced as described herein and as set out in the claims. With reference to the drawings in general, it will be appreciated that schematic functional block diagrams are used to indicate functionality of systems and apparatus described herein. In addition the processing functionality may also be provided by devices which are supported by an electronic device. It will be appreciated however that the functionality need not be divided in this way, and should not be taken to imply any particular structure of hardware other than that described and claimed below. The function of one or more of the elements shown in the drawings may be further subdivided, and / or distributed throughout apparatus of the disclosure. In some embodiments the function of one or more elements shown in the drawings may be integrated into a single functional unit.

[0138] As will be appreciated by the skilled reader in the context of the present disclosure, each of the examples described herein may be implemented in a variety of different ways. Any feature of any aspects of the disclosure may be combined with any of the other aspects of the disclosure. For example method aspects may be combined with apparatus aspects, and features described with reference to the operation of particular elements of apparatus may be provided in methods which do not use those particular types of apparatus. In addition, each of the features of each of the embodiments is intended to be separable from the features which it is described in combination with, unless it is expressly stated that some other feature is essential to its operation. Each of these separable features may of course be combined with any of the other features of the embodiment in which it is described, or with any of the other features or combination of features of any of the other embodiments described herein. Furthermore, equivalents and modifications not described above may also be employed without departing from the invention.

[0139] Other examples and variations of the disclosure will be apparent to the skilled addressee in the context of the present disclosure.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An apparatus for improving the performance of an internal combustion engine, the apparatus comprising: an input conduit configured to connect to an air intake of the internal combustion engine; and, an output conduit configured to connect to an exhaust of the internal combustion engine; and, wherein the input conduit comprises an input conduit helical portion configured to direct air along a helical path; wherein the input conduit is arranged to permit heat exchange between the exhaust gases in the output conduit and the air in the input conduit.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein: the input conduit helical portion comprises a plurality of input conduit helical conduits.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein: the input conduit helical conduits are concentric.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein: the output conduit comprises an output conduit tortuous portion comprising a plurality of cylinders.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein: the plurality of cylinders are concentric.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein: each of the input conduit helical conduits is disposed between a pair of cylinders of the plurality of cylinders thereby to provide arrangement wherein fluid traveling in the cylinders is directed along a helical path by an outer surface of the input conduit helical conduits.

7. The apparatus of any of claims 2 to 6, wherein: the input conduit helical conduits are in fluid communication with: an input conduit inlet configured to receive air from the environment; and, an input conduit outlet configured to provide air to the air intake of the internal combustion engine.

8. The apparatus of any of claims 5 to 7, the apparatus further comprising: a first axial end cap; and, a second axial end cap; wherein: the plurality of cylinders comprises at least: a first cylinder; a second cylinder; and, a final cylinder; and, the first cylinder: is configured to receive a fluid flow from the output conduit inlet; has a first axial end connected to the first axial end cap; and, is arranged to provide a gap between a second axial end of the first cylinder and the second axial end cap thereby to provide fluid communication between the first cylinder and the second cylinder; the second cylinder: is configured to receive a fluid flow from the first cylinder via the gap between the second axial end of the first cylinder and the second axial end cap; has a second axial end of the second cylinder connected to the second axial end cap; and, is arranged to provide a gap between a first axial end of the second cylinder and the first axial end cap thereby to provide fluid communication between the second cylinder and the final cylinder; the final cylinder: is configured to receive fluid flow from the gap between the first axial end of the second cylinder and the first axial end cap; has a first axial end connected to the first axial end cap; has a second axial end connected to the second axial end cap; and, is configured to provide a fluid flow to the output conduit outlet.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, comprising: one or more cylinders disposed around the second cylinder and within the final cylinder wherein the one or more cylinders have an axial end connected to either the first axial end cap or the second axial end cap and wherein the end cap a given cylinder is connected to is a different end cap to: the adjacent cylinder inside the given cylinder; and, the adjacent cylinder outside the given cylinder.

10. The apparatus of any of claims 8 to 9, the apparatus comprising: one or more valves disposed in a wall of one or more of the cylinders, wherein for a given cylinder with one or more valves disposed in its wall, the one or more valves are configured to permit fluid to move therethrough between the cylinders.11 . The apparatus of any of claims 1 to 10, the apparatus comprising: one or more relief valves disposed in the output conduit.

12. The apparatus of claim 11 , the apparatus comprising: an energy recovery device comprising: an entry conduit configured to guide fluid from the one or more relief valves to the extractor; the extractor, wherein in the event that fluid does work on the extractor, the extractor converts that work into another form of energy; and, an exit conduit configured to guide the fluid from the extractor to the output conduit.

13. An internal combustion engine comprising: an air intake; an exhaust; and, the apparatus of any of claims 1 to 9, wherein: the input conduit outlet is connected to the air intake; and, the output conduit inlet is connected to the exhaust.

14. A method for improving the performance of an internal combustion engine, the method comprising: directing a first fluid flow along a first fluid flow helical path to an air intake of the internal combustion engine, wherein the first fluid flow comprises air; and, directing a second fluid flow from an exhaust of an internal combustion engine, along a path to permit heat exchange between the second fluid flow and the first fluid flow, wherein the second fluid flow comprises exhaust gases.

15. The method of claim 14, comprising directing the first fluid flow along a plurality of first fluid flow helical paths to an air intake of the internal combustion engine.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein: the plurality of first fluid flow helical paths are concentric.

17. The method of claim 16, comprising: directing the second fluid flow along a plurality of second fluid flow helical paths.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein: the plurality of second fluid flow helical paths are concentric.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein: each of the plurality of first fluid flow helical paths is paired with one of the plurality of second fluid flow helical paths.

20. The method of any of claims 15 to 19, wherein: each of the plurality of first fluid flow helical paths is a parallel fluid flow.21 . The method of any of claims 17 to 20, wherein: the plurality of second fluid flow helical paths are provided as a series of fluid flows.

22. The method of any of claims 14 to 21 using the apparatus of any of claims 1 to 13.

23. An apparatus for improving the performance of an exothermic chemical process performed in an exothermic chemical process vessel, the apparatus comprising: an input conduit configured to connect to a fluid intake of the exothermic chemical process vessel; an output conduit configured to connect to a fluid outtake of the exothermic chemical process vessel; wherein the input conduit comprises an input conduit helical portion configured to direct one or more reactant fluids along a helical path; wherein the input conduit is arranged to permit heat exchange between one or more product fluids in the output conduit and the one or more reactant fluids in the input conduit.

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