Alternative motor with conical-cavity telescopic cylinders

Abstract

The invention belongs to the technical field of propulsion and mechanical energy generation systems. It solves the problem of high use of hydraulic fluid in conventional cylinders, using a design that combines three saving methods: 1) frustoconical-conical geometry formed by telescopic segments with sloped edges, which reduces the cavity volume; 2) permanent retention of remaining fluid in perimeter spaces between segments; and 3) a fixed plunger that occupies a constant volume within the system. This combination reduces the new fluid required per cycle to approximately 8.4% with respect to an equivalent conventional cylinder, reducing pumping power proportionally and allowing use in electric vehicles, stationary generation and submarine environments where autonomy and efficiency are critical.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] RECIPROCATING ENGINE WITH TELESCOPIC CYLINDERS OF CONICAL CAVITY

[0003] TECHNICAL SECTOR

[0004] The present invention falls within the sector of industrial machinery and power generation, with very diverse applications that encompass both motor systems and various hydraulic industries.

[0005] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006] This invention offers innovations and features that make it unique, with no references found for any other product, either the same or similar, that offers such unique properties as this invention offers, including: fuel-free operation, anaerobic operation, economy of use, high performance, and scalability to large / small scale.

[0007] EXPLANATION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Previous technical problem

[0009] The current situation regarding the growing concern for the environment demands ever-increasing effectiveness in its protection. Internal combustion engines require fuels, which release pollutants into the atmosphere, while hydraulic cylinders need mineral oils or similar substances for their operation, which are also generally pollutants. However, the fact that a single hydraulic fluid pack can be reused indefinitely reduces pollution from spills to levels that are easily remedied through safe disposal once the fluid has reached the end of its useful life. This invention solves these problems.

[0010] Solution provided by the invention to overcome the above problem

[0011] This invention does not use any type of fuel; it uses hydraulic fluid as a driving ram in a scenario where economy of use is the reason for its existence, offering such efficiency that it uses very small quantities of the fluid that powers it.

[0012] 2which avoids large deposits of the same liquid with the beneficial implications that this entails.

[0013] Detailed presentation

[0014] Based on the above, this system is characterized by reusing most of the propellant fluid that drives it, something an internal combustion engine cannot do, since the fuel mixture changes state after combustion. However, the hydraulic fluid in a cylinder does not change state, and the same fluid pack can be reused indefinitely until its lifespan is exhausted. Thus, by designing a system that prevents most of the hydraulic fluid from leaving the chamber where it operates, it is possible to avoid evacuating all of the aforementioned hydraulic fluid once its propulsion cycle is complete (Figures 7 and 11). Consequently, only approximately 8.4% new propellant fluid is needed in each cycle compared to a standard cylinder, based on the non-limiting model shown here as an example.This makes it possible for the pump that drives it to be 9.16 times less powerful than that needed to drive an equivalent hydraulic cylinder in diameter, height and stroke of its piston and therefore feedback is physically possible, since in practical terms a complete filling of the chamber intended for the drive is obtained, although only a portion of it is actually injected in each cycle.

[0015] Hydraulic fluid saving methods

[0016] Pascal's Principle states that a fluid confined and under pressure in a sealed, non-deformable enclosure maintains the same pressure at all points within it. Therefore, a conical container (FIGURE 9) can develop a buoyant force proportional to the area of ​​its larger base (20). Thus, since a right cone has one-third the volume of a cylinder of equivalent height and base, one-third of that volume is sufficient to achieve the same buoyant force. This characteristic of the cone represents the first method of saving energy, to which two more can be added.

[0017] This means that it is possible to construct an alternative system based on a connecting rod-crank mechanism that, instead of fuel, uses hydraulic fluid as a ram to push a movable cylinder head (12) from which, by means of other interposed mechanisms, a crankshaft is driven (FIGURE 2). This system allows the construction of an engine that can be configured from an indeterminate number of modules, each module being a group of parts (FIGURE 1) in which all invariably contain a set of conical cavity cylinders (9-a, 9-b), which are composed of movable, concentric, independent, and interconnected cylindrical segments, also with a conical cavity.These segments have inclined upper inner portions of their walls (24) in such a way that this area resembles the shape of a truncated cone, and together they form a nesting system that constitutes an interlocking group of parts designed to fit together precisely and robustly (FIGURE 9). This assembly acts telescopically and, together with other parts, rotates a crankshaft (FIGURE 2), and from this point forward it will be referred to as the "conical cavity cylinder assembly".

[0018] The conical enclosure obtained by unfolding the cylindrical segments with a conical cavity (FIGURE 9) offers advantages over one with a cylindrical cavity that make the entire system much more efficient in terms of the volume of hydraulic fluid used: on the one hand, since a straight cone has a volume equivalent to one-third of a cylinder of the same height, and on the other hand, since the cylindrical segments with a conical cavity that form it have inclined internal walls in their upper area (24) and fold concentrically inside each other, when extended, peripheral gaps are created (FIGURE 10) between segments (18), which means that when the entire set of cylinders with a conical cavity (9-a, 9-b) retracts and the hydraulic fluid is discharged at a higher level, these peripheral gaps keep a volume of hydraulic fluid (FIGURE 11) that will be added to the filling volume during the unfolding phase.This feature represents the second method of saving.

[0019] Therefore, if a hollow cone is broken down into several segments (18) and these move independently, concentrically, and telescopically relative to each other, an engine can be configured using sets of conical cavity cylinders (FIGURE 9) that can retract in the absence of fluid or lengthen when receiving it (9b - 9a).

[0020] For filling and deploying the set of conical cavity cylinders, at the cost of losing some thrust surface area, it is possible to reduce the volume of hydraulic fluid required by a third by filling its interior with a rigid element that occupies space; in this case, a cylindrical element called a 'piston' has been chosen. This piston (13) has grooves for sealing gaskets that seal its movement and the chamber beneath it. It is located inside the so-called piston housing cylinder (8), within which it slides when the piston moves (FIGURES 6 and 7). It is a fixed and immobile part that does not exert any driving force.The cylinder head (12), which seals the larger base of the conical cylinder assembly (9-a, 9-b), has the same function as a conventional piston in that its ultimate purpose is to push a connecting rod (2) to rotate a crankshaft (1), while the interior of the conical cylinder assembly functions similarly to a standard hydraulic cylinder. To achieve movement, the conical cylinder assembly (FIGURE 9) receives hydraulic fluid during its retraction phase (9-b) and extends as it fills (9-a), causing the connecting rod to move accordingly.

[0021] The set of conical cavity cylinders (FIGURE 9) can be made up of an indeterminate number of concentric cylindrical segments with a conical cavity (17), depending on the design and the required performance. All the segments that make up the set of conical cavity cylinders are linked to each other, such that when one of them moves in the extension direction, it pulls the one following it inside by means of a thrust projection (25), which in turn pushes a thrust recess (27) of the next segment. This segment does the same with respect to the next, and so on, until the entire assembly moves sequentially in the same direction according to the stroke assigned to each segment, which can vary depending on the design.

[0022] As stated, each segment of the set of conical cavity cylinders has its upper inner wall inclined (24), which causes a conical container to be produced inside the set when some segments are raised above others (FIGURE 9).

[0023] All the segments also have cylindrical parts and cavities that act as rolling or sliding surfaces (26, 29, 30) through which gaskets and guides located in the respective grooves (28) of each segment circulate, and all receive appropriate lubrication. Likewise, all the concentric cylindrical segments with a conical cavity have a slightly flattened upper edge (23) to strengthen that area. The design of these segments and their interfit allows them to operate under a wide range of pressures, which will require an appropriate wall thickness to withstand them, thus providing the entire engine assembly with the required power.

[0024] The upper base (6) has an inlet / outlet hole (22) passing through it, and the piston (13) has another longitudinal hole called the internal piston channel (5) that also passes through it. Hydraulic fluid circulates through both holes, activating the set of conical cavity cylinders during both the filling and evacuation phases. Crucially for the purposes of this invention, the piston (13) and the residual fluid associated with the piston (14) exist solely to occupy space and prevent it from being invaded by new hydraulic fluid from the outside.Thus, the aforementioned piston does not need to physically occupy all the available free space inside the set of conical segments, since, given the very low compressibility of the hydraulic fluid, when the discharge is carried out from a higher level, all the hydraulic fluid contained below that level remains inside; that is, it is not discharged by gravity. This represents the third method of saving.

[0025] Therefore, the piston (13) is elongated by means of a liquid column (14) that performs the same function as if it were a solid elongation. To enable this function of the piston (13), it is rigidly attached to the upper base (6), so that it remains stationary at all times. However, as the assembly of conical cavity cylinders extends and retracts, and with it the piston-containing cylinder (8) attached to the upper cylinder head (12), the piston moves within it.

[0026] The movable cylinder head (12) seals the conical cavity cylinder assembly (FIGURE 9) but communicates its interior with the piston container cylinder (8) and consequently with the internal piston channel (5) and with the outlet / inlet hole (22), allowing the entry or exit of hydraulic fluid depending on the moment of action.

[0027] The cylinder containing the piston (8) is crowned and rigidly attached to the lower flange that forms part of the thrust frame (4), so in addition to allowing the circulation of the piston (13) inside it, as a moving column, it also has the function of being part of the vehicle that transmits movement to the connecting rod (2) in conjunction with the rest of the parts involved (FIGURES 1 and 3).

[0028] The thrust assembly (4) consists of two flanges, an upper and a lower one, joined by an indeterminate number of columns. The lower flange is rigidly attached to the piston-retaining cylinder (8) and open internally to allow free movement of the piston (13). Both the upper and lower flanges are recessed within a container cylinder (31), which, together with the columns (also acting as guides), ensures straight-line movement under reactive forces. The columns of the thrust assembly (4) pass through the upper base (6) and slide along it by means of linear bearings. The entire thrust assembly (4) is an integral part of the mechanism that provides the upward and downward movements in each module, which are transmitted to the connecting rod and from there to the crankshaft (FIGURE 1).

[0029] Since it is a device in which its parts move by means of the pressure exerted by a liquid inside, it follows that everything is hermetically sealed, which means that any positive variation of liquid that occurs inside will cause movement in such parts.

[0030] The loading and unloading of hydraulic fluid is carried out through the upper base (6, 22) by means of an appropriate valve (not visible in the drawings) capable of alternating the moments of filling and emptying the hydraulic fluid used.

[0031] Although the piston (13) occupies a surface that reduces driving capacity, there is a gain in terms of reducing the volume of hydraulic fluid needed to complete the stroke of each set of conical cavity cylinders, making this exchange very advantageous.

[0032] In accordance with the above regarding the conical shape and the residual hydraulic fluid that remains constant inside the conical cavity cylinder assembly during the extended phases (FIGURE 11), the space-occupying function of the piston (13), along with the residual fluids (14, 19), and the loading and unloading from a higher level, which prevents these residual hydraulic fluids from leaving the chamber by gravity or by assistance, results in valuable savings in recharging requirements. At this point, if, in the extended position (9-b) of the concentric cylindrical segments with cavity, pressurized fluid is injected through the upper port (22) and via the internal piston conduit (5), adding to the residual fluids (14, 19), any amount of this fluid will cause movement of the movable cylinder head (12), inducing a chain reaction.Since the elevation of the piston will cause the other concentric cylindrical segments with conical cavities (FIGURE 9) associated with it to move sequentially, and consequently both remaining fluid packs (14, 19) will be progressively relocated together with the amount of incoming hydraulic fluid as these other conical segments move, this will cause the piston (13) to circulate from a stationary position inside the same container cylinder (8), as well as its associated remaining piston fluid (14), which will be released to the outside of the piston container cylinder (8), thus adding to the remaining fluid in the hollows of the concentric cylindrical segments with conical cavities (19) and to the new incoming fluid.which will occupy space within the designated enclosure and will displace the movable cylinder head (12) by means of the progressive thrust of liquid according to the available space that appears as the conical segments extend and so on until reaching the limit of its stroke.

[0033] Since it is an alternative system, in a two-module configuration, when one moving cylinder head reaches its zenith, extended phase (9-a), the other module begins a new cycle from its extended phase (9-b) and so on until a crankshaft is continuously rotated.

[0034] The result is a cyclical propulsion process that, by means of a hydraulic pump, uses a smaller amount of hydraulic fluid in each filling phase than if it were standardized telescopic concentric cylinders.

[0035] 8. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] Figure 1 shows a perspective where various parts of the

[0037] exterior of a module of the ALTERNATIVE ENGINE WITH TELESCOPIC CYLINDERS OF CONICAL CAVITY.

[0038] Figure 2.- Elevation showing a schematic view of an engine with two modules.

[0039] Figure 3.- Two elevation and perspective views showing the parts that generate and transmit the driving force.

[0040] Figure 4.- Shows the piston (13), one of the fundamental parts to promote the saving of the driving fluid, where there are threaded holes to join it rigidly to the base (6); the internal channel of the piston (5) through which the same hydraulic driving fluid circulates and the sealing gaskets and guides.

[0041] Figure 5.- Perspective showing the central cylindrical segment, which acts as a lubricant distributor, shaft, stem, anchor point and lower cylinder head.

[0042] Figure 6.- Elevation showing the position of the piston (13) with respect to the extended concentric cylindrical segments with conical cavity (9-a).

[0043] Figure 7.- Elevation showing the position of the piston (13) and the liquid it contains under it (14) in relation to the folded concentric cylindrical segments (9-b).

[0044] Figure 8.- Profile of the conical geometric shape adopted by the hydraulic fluid inside the concentric cylindrical segments in the deployed moment.

[0045] Figure 9.- View illustrating the cavity formed by the set of concentric cylindrical segments with a conical cavity at the moment of maximum extension.

[0046] Figure 10.- View showing the cavities between the concentric cylindrical segments in folded moment (18).

[0047] Figure 11.- View showing the cavities between the concentric cylindrical segments in

[0048] 9folding moment, always flooded with hydraulic fluid while in an operational state.

[0049] Figure 12.- Shows two perspective views of one of the concentric cylindrical segments that make up the set of conical cavity cylinders, where the perimeter grooves for joints and guides (28) can be seen, as well as the protrusions and indentations (25, 27) that allow pushing and being pushed.

[0050] Figure 13.- Elevation showing the profile of the segment (15) that follows in order the outer segment (16).

[0051] Figure 14.- Elevation showing the concentric segment of the outer conical cavity (16) in its association with the previous segment (15) in folded moment.

[0052] Figure 15.- Perspective of the upper guide cylinder of the temple (31).

[0053] COMPOSITION AND ENUMERATION

[0054] — Crankshaft (1)

[0055] — Connecting rod (2)

[0056] — Connecting rod fork (3)

[0057] — Thrust platform (4)

[0058] — Internal piston channel (5)

[0059] — Upper base (6)

[0060] — Lower base (7)

[0061] — Piston container cylinder (8)

[0062] — Set of conical cavity cylinders, extended and distended phases (9-a / 9-b)

[0063] — Linear bearings and supports (10)

[0064] — Guides (11)

[0065] — Movable cylinder head (12)

[0066] — Piston (13)

[0067] — Virtual liquid piston, residual fluid associated with the piston (14)

[0068] — Geometric figure of the internal liquid in unfolded phase (17-b)

[0069] — Outer concentric conical segment (16) — Interior of the unfolded concentric cylindrical segments (17) — Gaps between the folded concentric cylindrical segments (18)

[0070] — Simulation of the remaining fluid between the folded concentric segments (19) — Perimeter of the larger base and level of the remaining fluid of the unfolded / folded conical segments (20)

[0071] — Central cylindrical segment (21)

[0072] — Outlet / Inlet Hole (22)

[0073] — Flattened upper edge (23)

[0074] — Sloping inner wall (24)

[0075] — Internal thrust projection (25

[0076] — Internal slip zone (26)

[0077] — External thrust projection (27

[0078] — Grooves for gaskets and guides (28)

[0079] — External slip zone (29)

[0080] — Wall of the conical segment (30)

[0081] — Guide cylinder of the temple (31)

[0082] — Anchorage thread to bed (32)

[0083] — Lubricant intake (33)

[0084] — Lubricant connection (34)

[0085] — Feed pump (60) (not visible in the drawings)

[0086] — Hydraulic accumulator (70) (not visible in the drawings)

[0087] — Control valve (71) (not visible in the drawings)

[0088] Crankshaft (1)

[0089] It receives a rectilinear motion and converts it into a rotary motion.

[0090] Connecting rod (2)

[0091] Piece with the functions typical of this type of element.

[0092] Crank arm fork (3)

[0093] Attach the connecting rod to the template.

[0094] Thrust template (4)

[0095] It moves back and forth and transmits its movement to the connecting rod. Internal piston channel (5)

[0096] It allows access of hydraulic fluid to the interior of the conical cavity cylinder assembly.

[0097] Upper base (6)

[0098] Primary frame and support for the entire assembly.

[0099] Lower base (7)

[0100] Primary frame and anchoring of the entire assembly to another secondary frame.

[0101] Piston container cylinder (8)

[0102] It allows the circulation of the piston and its associated residual fluid inside while also being a vehicle for transmitting movement to the columns of the temple.

[0103] Concentric cylindrical segments with cavity (9a and 9b)

[0104] They fold and expand depending on the filling of the cavity they form inside with pressurized hydraulic fluid.

[0105] Linear bearings and supports (10)

[0106] They allow the reciprocating movement of concentric cylindrical segments with a cavity, reducing friction.

[0107] Guides (11)

[0108] Robust pillars that prevent deviations in the movement vector.

[0109] Movable cylinder head (12)

[0110] A fundamental part that moves by the action of a driving fluid that creates similar chain effects.

[0111] Piston (13)

[0112] Stationary part which, in conjunction with an associated hydraulic fluid, favorably limits the filling of the cavity created by the expanding concentric cylindrical segments. Fluid remaining under the piston (14)

[0113] Detail of the remaining fluid under the piston at the extended moment.

[0114] Inner concentric conical segment (15)

[0115] It shows its fit inside the outer concentric conical segment, which also represents all the other inner segments of varying sizes.

[0116] Outer concentric conical segment (16)

[0117] Container of all internal conical segments; its larger base fits the cylinder head, which is the precursor to the movement of all concentric cylindrical segments.

[0118] Figure formed by the hydraulic fluid (17)

[0119] Detail of the shape that the hydraulic fluid adopts inside the set of conical cavity cylinders.

[0120] Gaps between concentric cylindrical segments with folded cavity (18) Designed to permanently contain hydraulic fluid, saving its use.

[0121] Simulation of the residual fluid in the folded conical segments (19)

[0122] To illustrate what happens inside.

[0123] Level of the remaining fluid in the folded conical segments

[0124] (20) To illustrate what happens inside.

[0125] Central cylindrical segment (21)

[0126] It is simultaneously a lubricant distributor, shaft, piston, anchor point, and cylinder head; a stationary part around which all the concentric cylindrical segments with a conical cavity circulate in back-and-forth movements, while also acting as an anchor to the lower base.

[0127] Outlet / inlet hole (22)

[0128] While allowing the entire circuit of which it is a part to be filled, being located above the conical assembly and the piston, it prevents the fluids from draining by gravity.

[0129] Flattened upper edge (23)

[0130] To strengthen the area

[0131] 13Inclined internal wall (24)

[0132] The overlapping of the concentric cylindrical segments with cavity of this invention generates a conical enclosure.

[0133] Internal thrust projection (25)

[0134] As it moves, this inlet pulls on the protrusion of the next internal segment to displace it.

[0135] Internal slip zone (26)

[0136] The joints and guides of the immediate conical segment that runs inside it slide along it.

[0137] External thrust projection (27)

[0138] Associated with the push input for the same purpose.

[0139] Grooves for gaskets and guides (28)

[0140] Where the sealing elements and guides for rectilinear movement are housed.

[0141] External slip zone (29)

[0142] Contrary and analogous to internal sliding.

[0143] Flattened upper edge (30)

[0144] Segment wall with the function of resisting the pressure inside.

[0145] Guide cylinder of the temple (31)

[0146] It ensures the linear movement of the temple against the reactive forces of the connecting rod.

[0147] Bench anchor point (32)

[0148] Thread that allows a solid anchor to another element such as a bench.

[0149] Lubricant inlet (33)

[0150] Entrance through which one accesses an internal duct that connects to the exits (34).

[0151] Lubricant outlets (34)

[0152] Conduits through which lubricant is delivered to the parts subject to friction of all the concentric segments of the conical cavity. Start-up and running

[0153] The motor's operation is based on the activation of a hydraulic supply system that sequentially injects pressurized fluid into each motor module through the inlet / outlet port (22). The system's control valve is positioned appropriately for each phase, ensuring that injection occurs when the concentric cylindrical segments with a conical cavity (9-a, 9-b) are in their folded phase.

[0154] The adjustment of the inlet and outlet valves determines the filling and emptying speeds, allowing the operating regime to be adjusted. Because the system requires a very low flow rate thanks to fluid-saving methods, it can operate efficiently at both low and high speeds without compromising performance. However, starting from a standstill requires an initial power surge, which is managed by a hydraulic energy storage system, described in the following section.

[0155] Pressurized Liquid Supply System

[0156] The pressurised fluid supply system comprises a main feed pump and a control valve (not shown in the drawings), conventional off-the-shelf components, configured to inject and evacuate hydraulic fluid into the conical cavity cylinder assembly (9-a, 9-b) and the piston-containing cylinder (8) through the network of pipes connecting to the intake (22) at the upper base (6).

[0157] For starting, the system incorporates a hydraulic energy storage device, such as a hydraulic accumulator (not shown in the drawings), connected in parallel to the circuit. This device is always maintained at its optimal charge by the action of the main pump. During the starting phase, a control valve allows the high-pressure fluid stored in the accumulator to be injected massively into the circuit, providing the power surge necessary to overcome the initial inertia and set the set of conical-bore cylinders in motion. Once this phase is over, the main feed pump is sufficient to maintain continuous operation of the motor. PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0158] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, and by way of non-limiting example, the combination of the conical geometry, the fluid retention in the peripheral cavities, and the volume occupied by the fixed piston results in the volume of new fluid required per cycle being approximately 8.4% of the total volume that a traditional hydraulic cylinder with equivalent characteristics would require. It is understood that this percentage may vary depending on the specific design, the number of segments, or the desired performance, while maintaining the essence of the invention, which is the retention of a substantial residual volume.

[0159] As a non-limiting example, a preferred embodiment of the reciprocating engine with telescopic cylinders of conical cavity, according to claim 1, is described below.

[0160] The invention is embodied in an individual motor module connected to a common crankshaft (1) by means of a connecting rod (2). The module is structured on a fixed base composed of a lower base (7), an upper base (6), and a set of vertical guides (11) that join them and ensure structural rigidity.

[0161] Inside this frame, and moving vertically guided by the guides (11), is the movable cylinder head (12), which acts as the analog of the piston in a traditional engine. The driving force is generated by the assembly of conical-bore cylinders (9-a, 9-b). This assembly consists of a series of concentric cylindrical segments (for example, five segments, although this number is not limiting), arranged telescopically. The essential characteristic of these segments is that their upper inner edges are inclined (24), so that, when the assembly is fully extended, it defines an internal cavity with a truncated conical shape (Figure 9). The assembly is housed between the lower base (7) and the underside of the movable cylinder head (12), so that its extension pushes the cylinder head upwards.

[0162] To achieve the considerable hydraulic fluid savings that characterizes this invention, a piston-cylinder assembly (13, 8) is incorporated. The piston-containing cylinder (8) is rigidly attached to the upper face of the movable cylinder head (12) and communicates with its interior. Inside this cylinder is housed the piston (13), which is fixed and rigidly attached to the upper base (6) of the frame. When the cylinder head (12) rises, the cylinder (8) moves upwards.

[0163] 16, making the fixed piston (13) appear to "slide" further into it. The primary function of this piston is not to exert force, but to occupy a permanent volume within the system, thus reducing the amount of new fluid needed to fill the cavity in each cycle.

[0164] The transmission of force from the movable cylinder head (12) to the connecting rod (2) is carried out through the thrust bearing (4). The lower flange of this bearing is rigidly attached to the upper part of the housing cylinder (8). The columns of the bearing (4) pass through the upper base (6) via linear bearings, ensuring perfectly vertical movement and transmitting the thrust to the upper flange, to which the connecting rod (2) is connected.

[0165] The pressurized fluid supply system operates via a valve (not shown) that alternates between filling and draining. The fluid is injected and drained through a port (22) in the upper base (6). This port connects to an internal longitudinal channel (5) that runs through the entire fixed piston (13). In this way, the fresh fluid is directed directly into the piston-containing cylinder (8) and, from there, passes into the assembly of conical segments (9-a, 9-b).

[0166] Operating Cycle and Savings Mechanisms

[0167] Retraction Phase (Figure 11 - 9-b): The set of segments (9-b) is retracted. In this position, thanks to the inclined walls (24) and the telescopic design, perimeter gaps (18) remain between segments, permanently retaining a volume of residual fluid (19). This is the second method of saving.

[0168] Filling and Extension Phase: Pressurized fluid is injected through the intake (22) and the piston channel (5). This new fluid is added to the remaining fluid (19) and the remaining fluid associated with the piston (14). The resulting pressure pushes the cylinder head (12) upwards, sequentially deploying the piston rings (which are pushed against each other by means of the pusher lugs (25) and inlets (27)).

[0169] The volume required to achieve the full stroke is much smaller than that of a traditional cylinder thanks to:

[0170] a) The conical geometry of the cavity, which in itself reduces the volume required to approximately one third for the same force (first saving method). b) The permanent occupation of the perimeter gaps between the segments (18) by driving fluid (second saving method)

[0171] c) The presence of the fixed piston (13), which occupies a constant volume within the system, preventing that space (14) from having to be filled with new fluid in each cycle (third saving method).

[0172] Download Phase

[0173] The fluid is discharged by gravity and / or residual pressure through the same conduit, but critically, the discharge is carried out from a higher level or electronically assisted. This, combined with the incompressible nature of the fluid and the system design, means that the remaining volumes (14, 19) are not evacuated, remaining inside for the next cycle.

[0174] In the practical embodiment described, the combination of these three saving methods (conical geometry, fluid retention in perimeter gaps and volume occupied by the piston) allows that in each cycle it is only necessary to supply approximately 8.4% of new hydraulic fluid compared to an equivalent standard cylindrical system, proportionally reducing the power required by the feed pump and consequently enabling its feedback.

[0175] In a preferred embodiment of the starting system, the hydraulic energy storage medium is a hydraulic accumulator (70), ideally pre-charged with nitrogen at a pressure calculated to provide the specific energy required for starting. This accumulator (70) is connected in parallel to the outlet of the main feed pump (60)—which in this example is a pressure-compensated, variable-displacement axial piston pump with a continuous power of 60 kW—and to the main line that feeds the intake (22).

[0176] The discharge of fluid from the accumulator (70) to the motor is controlled by a quick-acting, preferably solenoid-type, control valve (71) installed downstream of the accumulator (70). In the idle state, this valve (71) is closed, allowing the pump (60) to progressively fill the accumulator (70) and simultaneously fill the spaces intended for the remaining fluid within the conical cavity cylinder assembly (9-a, 9-b) and the piston housing cylinder (8). This process ensures that, before starting, the remaining volumes (14, 19) are completely filled, thus reducing the initial fluid demand.

[0177] Upon receiving a start signal, the valve (71) opens, injecting the volume stored in the accumulator (70) into the circuit with a precise and controlled flow rate, exactly the amount needed to overcome static inertia and ensure the initial deployment of the concentric cylindrical segments (9-a, 9-b), without requiring an excessive flow rate. This approach allows the use of a compact and lightweight accumulator, optimizing the space and overall weight of the system.

[0178] INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION

[0179] The present invention finds its industrial application in the field of propulsion systems and mechanical power generation. Its high performance, energy efficiency, and minimal propellant consumption make it particularly suitable for use in environments where reliability, low maintenance, and autonomy are critical.

[0180] Without limitation, its applications include:

[0181] Auxiliary generation systems and range extenders in electric vehicles: where it can act to recharge batteries both while the vehicle is in motion and when it is stopped, providing energy for auxiliary systems or even functioning as a generator for a home or facility (V2H), taking advantage of its high efficiency and compactness.

[0182] Stationary power generation: Its ability to operate with a virtually closed and long-lasting hydraulic fluid circuit makes it ideal for microgrids, emergency power, or as a primary power source in isolated homes or remote industrial applications.

[0183] Remote or hard-to-reach environments: Such as monitoring stations, offshore platforms or isolated installations, where long service life and reduced need for fluid replacement are decisive advantages.

[0184] Aerospace applications: Including spacecraft or communication satellites, where reliability, closed-loop operation, and independence from fossil fuels are essential requirements.

[0185] 19. Marine and Submarine Applications: Thanks to its anaerobic operation, which allows it to function independently of atmospheric oxygen and without the need for air, this engine is the ideal solution for airtight and isolated marine environments. By not depending on external oxygen sources and generating no gaseous emissions, it guarantees a constant, reliable, and continuous supply of full power. This combination of characteristics makes it indispensable for the propulsion and auxiliary systems of submarines and specialized underwater vehicles, where autonomy, discretion (as it produces no detectable bubbles or gases), and reliability are critical requirements.

[0186] The ability to function in multiple orientations, thanks to the precise control systems described, further expands its field of industrial application.

[0187] 20

Claims

CLAIMS 1.– RECIPROCATING ENGINE WITH TELESCOPIC CYLINDERS OF CONICAL CAVITY, characterized in that it is a modular system in which each module is connected to a connecting rod-crank or crankshaft system (1), where each module comprises: — a fixed bench consisting of a lower base (7), an upper base (6) and vertical guides (11) that join them; — a movable buttstock (12) that moves vertically between the bases (6, 7) of the bed guided by the guides (11) of the bed; — a set (9a, 9b) of concentric cylindrical segments, with inclined upper inner edges and arranged telescopically so that when unfolded they form a conical inner cavity, said set (9a, 9b) being arranged between the lower base (7) of the bed and the lower face of the movable cylinder head (12) so that when unfolded, said set displaces the cylinder head (12); — a piston assembly (13) and piston-retaining cylinder (8) disposed between the upper face of the cylinder head (12) and the upper base (6) of the bed, wherein the piston-retaining cylinder (8) is rigidly attached to the cylinder head (12) and is connected through the cylinder head (12) to the interior of the piston ring assembly (9a, 9b), and the piston (13) is rigidly attached to the upper base (6) of the bed, said piston (13) moving inside the cylinder (8), entering and exiting it as the cylinder (8) is pushed up and down by the cylinder head (12); — a thrust frame (4) consisting of a lower flange, an upper flange and columns or guides joining them, wherein the lower flange of the frame is rigidly attached to the upper face of the piston-containing cylinder (8) and is traversed by the piston (13), the upper flange of the frame is arranged above the upper base (6) of the bed and the guides of the frame pass through said upper base (6) of the bed; — a connecting rod (2) joined at one end to the upper flange of the thrust bearing (4) and at the other to the crankshaft (1), to which it transmits the motion; and — a pressurised fluid supply system to the assembly (9a, 9b) of cylindrical segments so that they unfold and fold and produce the movement of the motor module, supplying fluid to the assembly (9a, 9b) and to the piston-retaining cylinder (8) through a port (22) made in the upper base (6) of the bed, the port (22) being connected to an internal conduit (5) that passes through the piston (13) and carries the fluid to the interior of the piston-retaining cylinder (8) and the inner cavity of the assembly (9a, 9b) of concentric cylindrical segments. 2.– ALTERNATIVE ENGINE WITH TELESCOPIC CYLINDERS OF CONICAL CAVITY, according to claim 1, characterized in that the concentric cylindrical segments (18) of the assembly (9a, 9b) have on their upper inner edge an inclined surface (24) configured to form, in the unfolded assembly, an inner cavity of conical or truncated conical profile. 3.– ALTERNATIVE ENGINE WITH TELESCOPIC CYLINDERS OF CONICAL CAVITY, according to claim 2, characterized in that said concentric cylindrical segments (18) have sequential coupling means between them, such that the displacement of one segment drags the adjacent inner segment. 4.– ALTERNATIVE ENGINE WITH TELESCOPIC CYLINDERS OF CONICAL CAVITY, according to claim 3, characterized in that the sequential coupling means comprise at least one thrust projection (25) on a segment, configured to engage with a thrust recess (27) of the adjacent segment. 5.– ALTERNATIVE ENGINE WITH TELESCOPIC CYLINDERS OF CONICAL CAVITY, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the piston (13) is a fixed element attached to the upper base (6) and is arranged to occupy a constant internal volume within the container cylinder (8), with the function of reducing the volume of hydraulic fluid required for the deployment of the set of segments. 6.- ALTERNATIVE ENGINE WITH TELESCOPIC CYLINDERS OF CONICAL CAVITY, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pressurized liquid supply system is configured to, in each operating cycle, selectively evacuate a volume of fluid substantially less than the total volume of fluid required for the complete deployment of the set of segments, permanently retaining inside the module a remaining volume of hydraulic fluid (19) housed in the peripheral hollows (18) formed between the concentric cylindrical segments in their retracted state. 7.– ALTERNATIVE ENGINE WITH TELESCOPIC CYLINDERS OF CONICAL CAVITY, according to claim 6, characterized in that the discharge of the fluid is carried out from a higher level, so that the remaining volume (19) is retained inside by gravity. 8.– RECIPROCATING ENGINE WITH TELESCOPIC CYLINDERS OF CONICAL CAVITY, according to claim 6, characterized in that the supply system comprises an electronic control means and a metering pump, configured to precisely inject and evacuate a determined volume of fluid, substantially equal to the volume of new fluid required for each cycle, thus maintaining the remaining volume (19) inside regardless of the orientation of the engine. 9.– ALTERNATIVE ENGINE WITH TELESCOPIC CYLINDERS OF CONICAL CAVITY, according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises at least two operating modules connected to the same crankshaft (1) and configured to operate out of phase with each other, so that when one module is in its maximum extension phase, another begins its extension phase. 10.– A METHOD FOR OPERATING A RECIPROCATING ENGINE according to any of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: a) injecting a volume of new hydraulic fluid under pressure through the internal conduit of the plunger (5) into a retracted module (9b), where said fluid is added to a pre-existing residual volume of fluid (14, 19); b) displacing a movable cylinder head (12) and sequentially deploying a set of cylindrical segments with a conical cavity (9a, 9b) in response to fluid pressure; c) transmitting the movement of the movable cylinder head (12) to a crankshaft (1) through a thrust bearing (4) and a connecting rod (2); d) selectively evacuating a volume of fluid substantially equal to the volume of new fluid injected, while permanently retaining the remaining volume (14, 19) inside the module; e) repeat steps (a) to (d) cyclically. 11.– RECIPROCATING ENGINE WITH TELESCOPIC CYLINDERS OF CONICAL CAVITY, according to claim 6, characterized in that the pressurized fluid supply system further comprises a hydraulic energy accumulation means, connected in parallel to the circuit and configured to be charged by the feed pump and to release an additional volume of pressurized fluid during an engine start-up phase.

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