Mechanical Power Generation Through Passive Radiative Cooling

Abstract

Researchers at the University of California, Davis have developed an approach to generating mechanical power from the earth's ambient thermal radiation using a Stirling engine.

Full Description

This technology introduces a novel method for power generation by exploiting the temperature difference between the earth's surface and the cold night sky through radiative cooling. Utilizing a modified low-temperature differential (LTD) Stirling Engine, it converts thermal energy into mechanical work, offering a sustainable solution to augment renewable energy sources, especially during nighttime.

Applications

• Renewable energy generation complementing solar power.
• Passive cooling and air circulation in agricultural greenhouses and residential buildings.
• Space exploration and terraforming missions.

Features/Benefits

• Cost-effective and scalable design suitable for widespread deployment. 
• Optimized radiative surface area through infrared emissive paint coating. 
• Efficient thermal coupling with the ground enhances performance. 
• Achieves sufficient temperature differentials for operation under various sky conditions. 
• Versatile applications, including air circulation in greenhouses. 
• Competitive power output at significantly lower manufacturing costs compared to solid-state devices. 
• Potential for future performance enhancements and global impact. Allows energy generation during nighttime or in regions with limited sunlight. 
• Decrease dependence on semiconductor devices or thermoelectric generators that are not easily scalable. 
• Lowers high manufacturing costs and scarcity of materials required for existing power generation methods.

Patent Status

Patent Pending