High Efficiency Combustion and Electric Generation in Vehicles Using Exhaust Heat
- Summary
- Researchers at Purdue University have developed the Stirlocharger, a quadruple functionality design for automotive internal combustion engines composed of a thermal energy harvester from engine exhaust heat, an intake air compressor pump for high efficiency thermodynamic cycle, a speed amplifier, and power split for electric energy storage. The Stirlocharger upholds the intake pressure greater than the exhaust pressure to generate a positive pump work for high efficiency of internal combustion engines. Without the turbine blocking the exhaust manifold, the exhaust gases can flow unrestricted without extra back pressure that is typically caused by the forced induction turbocharger and less residual will remain in the combustion chamber. These effects maximize the mechanical and combustion efficiency while reducing NOx emissions. In addition, the key differentiator that makes the Stirlocharger unique is its capability to convert excess heat energy into electrical energy while the vehicle is in a low power state without affecting high demand performance. The Stirlocharger could be equipped in vehicle powertrains and be produced to improve the efficiency and make the vehicle powertrain greener.
- Technology Benefits
- Split power functionality Reduced NOx Converts excess heat energy into electric energy
- Technology Application
- Automobile industryAutomobile accessories
- Detailed Technology Description
- Henry ZhangPurdue Mechanical Engineering TechnologyCenter for Technology Development
- Countries
- United States
- Application No.
- None
- *Abstract
-
- *Background
- When looking to boost the performance vehicle, some car owners will look toward installing a supercharger or turbocharger. They both have their own nuances, but overall, both work by increasing the air intake of the engine, allowing it to burn more fuel per cycle, and increasing the power output. However, turbochargers utilize exhaust pressure and cause backpressure with engine exhaust, preventing the system from operating at maximum efficiency. The supercharger utilizes the crankshaft torque, an extra parasitic loss to the engine, and reduces the brake torque. The underlying deficiencies create the demand for a system that can increase the power output of the engine without suffering consequences elsewhere.
- *IP Issue Date
- None
- *IP Type
- Provisional
- *Stage of Development
- Process Validation in Lab
- *Web Links
- Purdue Office of Technology CommercializationPurdueInnovation and EntrepreneurshipHenry ZhangPurdue Mechanical Engineering TechnologyCenter for Technology Development
- Country/Region
- USA
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