Cartridge-Based Engine for On-Demand Power Generation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current portable generators waste fuel when no load is present, produce toxic byproducts, and rely on fossil fuels that are subject to degradation and geopolitical shortages, making them unsuitable for reliable, on-demand power generation, especially in emergency situations.
Innovation Solution
A portable on-demand (POD) generator system that harnesses the energy from the rapid decomposition of energetic materials to power a flywheel, which stores kinetic energy for use as needed, using a modular, cartridge-based system with computerized power management to optimize energy output and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If continuous operation generators are used to ensure power availability, then power supply reliability is improved, but fuel consumption increases and energy is wasted when no load is present
Solution Approach 1:
The generator operates periodically rather than continuously, activating only when power is needed. The system uses a control mechanism that detects load conditions and initiates generation only during periods when electrical power is required, eliminating continuous operation waste while ensuring power availability when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback control through load sensing mechanisms that monitor power demand conditions. When the load switches indicate power is needed, the system activates; when no load is present, it shuts down. This feedback loop ensures reliable power supply during demand while preventing energy waste during idle periods.
2Power
If combustion-based generators are used to provide portable power, then power generation capability is improved, but toxic carbon monoxide is produced making indoor use dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the chemical combustion process with a mechanical energy storage and conversion system. Energy is stored mechanically in a flywheel through kinetic energy accumulation, and electrical power is generated through electromagnetic induction from flywheel rotation, eliminating combustion and its toxic byproducts entirely.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the fundamental energy conversion parameters from chemical combustion to mechanical kinetic energy storage and electromagnetic conversion. This parameter change transforms the energy pathway from one that produces toxic emissions to one that is clean and safe for indoor use.
3Speed
If fossil fuel generators are used for portable power, then immediate power availability is improved, but fuel degradation and geopolitical shortages reduce long-term reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary energy storage by accumulating kinetic energy in the flywheel before power is needed. The mechanical energy is stored in advance in a stable, non-degradable form, allowing immediate power availability when required while eliminating the long-term fuel degradation and supply chain issues associated with fossil fuels.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces long-term fuel storage with short-term kinetic energy storage in a flywheel. The mechanical energy carrier (flywheel) is durable and reusable, eliminating the need for consumable fossil fuels that degrade over time and are subject to geopolitical supply constraints.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides a reliable, non-fossil fuel-based, stable, and safe source of power that can be used indoors, with minimal ventilation requirements, optimizing energy production and storage while avoiding waste, and maintaining power availability on demand.
Implementation Method 1
The explosive force produced by the rapid decomposition of an energetic material contained in the explosive charge
Implementation Method 2
ignition of the explosive charge contained within the breech
Implementation Method 3
The piston is integral with, or permanently attached to, an annular gear. A pinion gear is in mesh with the annular gear and is fixed to a drive shaft
Implementation Method 4
A one-way clutch is fixed to the drive shaft and is engaged with a flywheel
Implementation Method 5
A one-way clutch is fixed to the drive shaft and is engaged with a flywheel
Implementation Method 6
The kinetic energy of the flywheel is drawn off as needed to power a generator
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides an engine for obtaining kinetic rotational energy from the explosive decomposition of individual cartridges of an energetic material. The cartridges are individually ignited as needed, producing a bolus of hot, expanding gas, the energy of which is captured by a piston moving in a circular track. Each cartridge ignition produces a single circuit of the piston around the track. A gearing mechanism transfers the angular momentum of the piston to a flywheel. The engine may be coupled to an electrical generator to form a portable, on-demand electric generator system.