US 2012/0234005 A1 · METHODS AND SYSTEMS TO HARVEST ENERGY FROM THE EARTH

Abstract

The present disclosure provides an engine assembly that is installed below the surface of the earth to harvest the thermal energy of the earth, using a working fluid in a closed loop system, and convert it into electricity, which can be commercialized at the surface. The subterranean engine comprises a hot region and a cold region, and a working fluid that moves between the two regions. The movement and efficiency of the working fluid operates the pistons that drive a generator coupled to the pistons, thereby generating electricity. The hot region of the engine is primarily powered by the geothermal energy. The engine can further incorporate renewable energy to improve the movement of the working fluid between the hot and cold regions. The system can further be used to store renewable energy below ground.

Claims30

Dependent claims

A method for extracting geothermal energy comprising the steps of:

providing a heat intake region below the earth's surface;
providing a heat exhaust region located at a distance away from said heat intake region,
providing fluid communication between said heat intake region and heat exhaust region;
moving a working fluid between said heat intake region and said heat exhaust region, wherein said movement is at least in response to a temperature difference between said heat intake region and said heat exhaust region;
moving a piston system coupled to a generator in response to at least said movement of the working fluid to generate electricity.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Methods and systems to harvest energy from the earth

Life of this patent

Methods and systems to harvest energy from the earth

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims30