Device and Method for Converting Heat, Chemical Energy or Electrical Energy into Kinetic Energy and Use of the Device

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention describes a device and method for converting heat, chemical, or electrical energy into kinetic (movement) energy. The core design uses a channel filled with liquid, where specific temperature or concentration gradients are established between two opposite channel walls. Inside the channel, obstacles with a particular shape are included to enhance the efficiency of this energy conversion process.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Generating mechanical movement in microfluidic or lab-on-chip devices using external energy sources (heat, chemical gradients, or electricity)
• Harvesting waste heat or chemical energy and converting it into useful motion for powering small machines or sensors
• Driving pumps or actuators in environments where conventional motors are impractical
• Developing new types of environmentally friendly energy conversion devices for low-power applications

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables efficient conversion of various forms of energy (thermal, chemical, electrical) directly into motion
• Suitable for miniaturized applications, especially in microfluidic or biomedical systems
• Potentially increases energy harvesting from low-grade or waste energy sources
• May reduce the need for complex electrical or mechanical components in small devices
• Versatile applicability to different kinds of fluids and energies

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a device for converting heat, chemical or electrical energy into kinetic energy, comprising a channel for receiving a liquid with a width H and with means for establishing a temperature gradient or a concentration gradient between two opposite walls in the channel, characterized by at least one obstacle arranged in the channel with an elongated cross-section and a short side d as well as a long side W, where d