Patent ID: 8484974
Filing Date: 2013-07-16
Classification: F01K,F02C

Abstract:
1. A system configured to convert thermal energy into kinetic energy, comprising: an enclosed volume having a sealed space with an inside surface, a first end and a second end, the first end defining an evaporation region and the second end defining a condensation region, the enclosed volume being, oriented so that the condensation region is positioned vertically above the evaporation region; a dual-phase fluid within the sealed space; a turbine disposed within the enclosed volume between the first and second ends, the turbine is rotatable about a rotation axis; and a condensate drain passageway disposed within the enclosed volume and extending through the turbine to direct the dual-phase fluid in its liquid state to the evaporation region, the drain passageway having an axis that is coaxial to the rotation axis.