HK1240301B - Energy-saving equilibrium mechanism, rotating machine and method of implementation - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a mechanism (1) comprising a support (2) and two toothed wheels (12; 22) that can rotate (R1; R2) about the respective axes (A1; A2) thereof. The aforementioned axes (A1; A2) are parallel in a horizontal or vertical reference plane (PO). The toothed wheels (12; 22) mesh with one another with a unit transmission ratio and are rotatable (R1; R2) in opposite directions. The mechanism (1) is characterised in that: it comprises eccentric elements (14; 24) that rotate as one (R1; R2) with the toothed wheels (12; 22), generating moments (M1; M2) of gravitational force (P1; P2) about the respective axes (A1; A2); the moments (M1; M2) have the same value and direction, which can vary depending on the angular position thereof about the axes (A1; A2); and, for each angular position of the toothed wheels (12; 22) and the eccentric elements (14; 24) about the axes (A1; A2), the mechanism (1) has an equilibrium configuration at rest. The invention also relates to a rotating machine comprising at least one such mechanism (1). The invention further relates to a method implementing such a mechanism (1).

Description

Energy-saving balance mechanism, rotary machine and implementation method

Technical Field

The present invention relates to an energy efficient balancing mechanism in any feasible application and in particular to a rotary machine. The invention relates in particular to a mechanism with pendulum and elliptical motion.

The invention also relates to a rotary machine, such as a motor, generator or mixer, comprising at least one such mechanism. The invention relates in particular to a motor comprising several mechanisms arranged in series and/or in parallel.

The invention finally relates to a method for implementing such a mechanism.

Background

In the mechanical field, there are many motion transmission mechanisms suitable for equipping rotating machines, such as planetary gear trains or crank shafts. However, the yields obtained using the known mechanisms are not entirely satisfactory.

Disclosure of Invention

The aim of the invention is to propose a mechanism that allows to save energy and to improve the productivity of a rotating machine.

For said purpose, the invention is directed to a mechanism comprising a support; a first cog wheel moving in rotation with respect to the support about a first axis; a second cog wheel moving in rotation about a second axis with respect to the support; wherein: the axes are parallel in a horizontal or vertical reference plane; and the cogwheels engage each other using a single gear ratio and move in rotation in opposite directions.

The mechanism is characterized in that it comprises a first eccentric element rotating integrally with the first cogwheel about the first axis and generating a first moment of gravity; and a second eccentric element rotating integrally with the second cog about the second axis and generating a second moment of gravity; characterized in that the moments of gravity of the eccentric elements have the same value and the same direction, both varying according to their angular position about the axis; and in that for each angular position of the cogwheel and of the eccentric element about said axis, the mechanism assumes a balanced configuration in static state.

The invention thus makes it possible to reduce the energy required to drive the cogwheels in rotation by virtue of the balance of the eccentric elements and the centrifugal force they generate. The invention makes it possible to generate energy even in a rotating machine by coupling several synchronizing mechanisms. The mechanism thus allows energy savings, as described in the following description.

According to other advantageous characteristics of the mechanism according to the invention, presented individually or in combination:

-the eccentric elements have the same mass and the same dimensions.

The cogwheels comprise a first wheel with a cog longer than the other cogs and a second wheel with a groove formed between two cogs, and when the cogwheels are engaged, the longer cog and the groove coincide, allowing alignment of the eccentric elements.

The axes of the cogwheels are horizontal.

The reference plane is horizontal.

The reference plane is vertical.

Preferably, the support comprises a base and a pendulum suspended from the base and supporting the axes of the cogwheels. The axis moves with the pendulum. These eccentric elements take an elliptical motion.

According to a first embodiment, the pendulum is suspended from the base by a hinged lever. This embodiment is advantageous when the reference plane comprising the cogwheel axis is horizontal.

Preferably, the mechanism comprises a drive shaft having an axis aligned with the upper hinge of the connecting link. A first distance is defined between the distal end of each eccentric element and the corresponding axis of rotation. A second distance is defined which is equal to the center-to-center distance of the connecting hanger bar. The first distance is less than the second distance so that the eccentric elements pass below the drive shaft.

According to a second embodiment, the pendulum is directly suspended from the base. This embodiment is advantageous when the reference plane comprising the cogwheel axis is vertical.

Preferably, the mechanism comprises a transmission shaft having an axis aligned with the upper articulation of the pendulum. A first distance is defined between the distal end of each eccentric element and the corresponding axis of rotation. A second distance is defined which is equal to the center-to-center distance of the connecting hanger bar. The first distance is less than the second distance so that the eccentric elements pass below the drive shaft.

The invention also relates to a rotary machine comprising at least one mechanism such as the one described above.

The rotary machine is preferably an energy generating or converting machine, which exhibits improved productivity. Advantageously, the machine has no crankshaft.

As a non-exhaustive example, the rotating machine may be a motor, generator, mixer, centrifuge, compressor, pump, or turbine.

When the machine is an internal combustion motor, the eccentric elements that assemble the mechanism are connected in two positions of maximum eccentricity, each corresponding to the combustion of the gases inside the motor.

According to a preferred embodiment, the machine comprises at least one pendulum mechanism, wherein the eccentric elements adopt an elliptical motion.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the machine comprises at least one pair of pendulum mechanisms arranged in succession and synchronized. These mechanisms are aligned and move in opposite phases.

Each mechanism includes its own drive shaft. When the pendulum is suspended from the base by the articulated connecting rod, the transmission shaft has an axis aligned with the upper articulation of the articulated rod. When the pendulum is directly suspended from the base, the drive shaft has an axis aligned with the upper hinge of the pendulum.

Advantageously, the machine comprises a connecting link coupled to a mechanism arranged in series. During the movement of these mechanisms, the connecting rod is stationary in the horizontal direction and movable in the vertical direction.

According to another advantageous embodiment, the machine comprises several pendulum mechanisms arranged in parallel and synchronized. Preferably, the number of mechanisms arranged in parallel is even, so as to facilitate their synchronization.

The machine includes a single drive shaft coupled to various mechanisms arranged in parallel in a row.

According to another advantageous embodiment, the machine comprises several pairs of pendulum mechanisms. The pairs are arranged in parallel and synchronized between them. Within each pair, these mechanisms are arranged and synchronized in succession.

The machine comprises two transmission shafts, each coupled with a different mechanism arranged in parallel in a line.

According to another advantageous embodiment, the machine is a two-stroke motor comprising two pendulum mechanisms. The first set of two eccentric elements is arranged at a half-turn interval and the second set of two eccentric elements is arranged at a half-turn interval.

According to another advantageous embodiment, the machine is a four-stroke motor comprising four pendulum mechanisms. The first set of four eccentric elements is arranged at quarter-turn intervals and likewise the second set of four eccentric elements is arranged at quarter-turn intervals.

Preferably, when the machine comprises several pendulum mechanisms, the base is common to all pendulums. In other words, all pendulums are suspended on the same base.

It is also preferred that the mechanism comprises an activation device of the one or more mechanisms designed to drive one of the cogwheels into rotation, the one or more mechanisms comprising, for example, a chain or gear transmission system.

Furthermore, the activation means may comprise a motor for auxiliary activation of the mechanism, or a crank for mechanical activation of the mechanism.

According to a particular embodiment, the machine is devoid of dedicated actuation means of the mechanism or of the pendulum mechanism. In this case, the activation of the one or more mechanisms can be performed by a simple push on one or more pendulums or on one of the eccentric elements.

Advantageously, when the mechanism is in operation, the machine includes an energy harvesting device, for example in the form of a generator. In this case, the machine preferably comprises means for activating the mechanism, including a motor. This enables the resistance associated with the presence of the generator at start-up to be overcome.

The object of the present invention also relates to a method for implementing a mechanism such as the one described above, comprising the following successive steps:

-a positioning step of the eccentric elements with respect to each other and with respect to the cogwheel, so that the gravitational moment of the eccentric elements has the same value and the same direction, both varying according to their angular position about the axis, and for each angular position of the cogwheel and of the eccentric element about the axis, the mechanism assumes, in a static state, a balanced configuration;

-a step of activation of the rotation of the cogwheel and the eccentric element around said axis, wherein the mechanism is released from the balanced configuration and starts moving; and

-an operating step, in which the rotation of the eccentric element around said axis generates centrifugal forces within said mechanism.

Drawings

The invention will be better understood on reading the following description, given as a non exhaustive example, with reference to the attached schematic drawings in which:

figure 1 is a side view of a mechanism according to a first embodiment of the invention, comprising a support with a pendulum, two cogwheels and two eccentric elements;

FIG. 2 is a larger-scale partial top view of a pendulum assembling the mechanism in FIG. 1;

figures 3 to 10 show a schematic view of a mechanism similar to that of figure 1, showing the movement of the cogwheels and of the eccentric element;

figures 11 to 14 show a schematic view similar to figures 3 to 6 of a mechanism according to a second embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 15 is a view similar to FIG. 2, showing an example of a machine according to the invention equipped with four pendulum mechanisms in parallel;

FIG. 16 is a complementary view to FIG. 15, showing the axes common to the various mechanisms;

figure 17 is a view similar to figure 15, showing another example of a machine according to the invention equipped with two pendulum mechanisms in parallel; and

figure 18 is a partial detail view of the engagement between two cogwheels of the mechanism in a particular embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 19 is a view similar to FIG. 1, showing another example of a machine according to the invention equipped in succession with two pendulum mechanisms;

FIG. 20 is a view similar to FIG. 2, showing the machine of FIG. 19;

figure 21 is a side view of a connecting link of the machine of figures 19 and 20 assembled;

figures 22 and 23 are views similar to figures 20 and 21, respectively, in another configuration of the machine;

figure 24 is a larger scale view of one end of the connecting link of figures 21 and 23, showing different positions during operation of the machine;

FIG. 25 is a view similar to FIG. 19, showing another example of a machine according to the invention equipped with two pendulum mechanisms in succession; and

figure 26 is a top view showing a variant of the coupling between the connecting link and the mechanism.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 to 10 show an energy saving balance mechanism 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

The mechanism 1 comprises a support 2, a first unit 10 moving in such a way as to rotate R1 about a first axis a1, a second unit 20 moving in such a way as to rotate R2 about a second axis a2, and an activation device 40 of the mechanism 1. The axes a1 and a2 are horizontally parallel to each other and are disposed within a horizontal reference plane P0. The units 10 and 20 are counter-rotating.

The support 2 comprises a fixed base 3 and a moving pendulum 4, which is positioned horizontally and is suspended from the base 3 by four connecting rods 5 at the corners. Each connecting rod 5 is hinged on both the base 3 and the pendulum 4 via an axis pivoting link parallel to the axes a1 and a 2. The pendulum 4 moves in a circular translational manner with respect to the base 3.

The support 2 comprises two vertical supports 6 and an upper horizontal upright 7. The connecting rod 5 is hinged on the upright post 7.

The pendulum 4 comprises three longitudinal plates 8 and a transverse bar 9 fixed to the tips of the longitudinal plates 8. The connecting rod 5 is hinged on the outer plate 8. Plate 8 of pendulum 4 supports units 10 and 20. More precisely, the unit 10 is supported by the intermediate plate 8 and the front plate 8 via bearings 15, and the unit 20 is supported by the intermediate plate 8 and the rear plate 8 via bearings 25. Axes a1 and a2 are fixed with respect to pendulum 4.

The unit 10 comprises a shaft 11, a cogwheel 12 fitted with cogs 13, an arm 14 and a bearing 15. The shaft 11, wheel 12 and bearing 15 are centred on axis a1, while the arm 14 constitutes an eccentric element having a centre of gravity G1 offset from the centre by a distance d1 with respect to axis a 1. The wheel 12 and the arm 14 are mounted on a shaft 11 supported by a bearing 15 mounted inside the plate 8 of the pendulum 4. The wheel 12 moves in such a way as to rotate R1 about the axis a1 with respect to the pendulum 4.

The arm 14 rotates R1 integrally with the wheel 12 about the axis a1 and generates a moment M1 of gravity P1. The force P1 is relatively constant. However, the moment M1 has a value and a direction (clockwise or counterclockwise) that vary according to the angular position of the arm 14 about the axis a 1.

The unit 20 comprises a shaft 21, a cogwheel 22 fitted with cogs 23, an arm 24 and a bearing 25. The shaft 21, wheel 22 and bearing 25 are centred on axis a2, while the arm 24 constitutes an eccentric element having a centre of gravity G2 offset from the centre by a distance d2 with respect to axis a 2. The wheel 22 and the arm 24 are mounted on the shaft 21, which is supported by a bearing 25 mounted inside the plate 8 of the pendulum 4. The wheel 22 moves in such a manner as to rotate R2 about the axis a2 relative to the pendulum 4.

The arm 24 rotates R2 integrally with the wheel 14 about axis a2 and generates a moment M2 of gravity P2. The force P2 is substantially constant. However, the moment M2 has a value and a direction (clockwise or counterclockwise) that vary according to the angular position of the arm 24 about the axis a 2.

The wheels 12 and 22 engage each other using a single gear ratio. The wheels 12 and 22 have the same size and the same number of cogs 13 and 23. The wheels 12 and 22 move in such a way as to rotate R1 and R2 in opposite directions. In other words, the wheels 12 and 22 are counter-rotating.

In the context of the present invention, the arms 14 and 24 are positioned precisely with respect to each other and to the wheels 12 and 14, so that the moments M1 and M2 always have the same value and the same direction (clockwise or counterclockwise), irrespective of the respective angular positions of the arms 14 and 24 about the axes a1 and a 2.

The mass and dimensions of the arms 14 and 24 are precisely determined because they influence the position of the centers of gravity G1 and G2 and thus the values of the moments M1 and M2. Since the volumetric mass is constant, the mass of each arm 14 and 24 is proportional to its size. Preferably, the arms 14 and 24 have the same mass and the same dimensions. Alternatively, the arms 14 and 24 may have different masses and sizes, as long as the moments M1 and M2 have the same value and the same direction (clockwise or counterclockwise), regardless of their respective angular positions.

The actuating means 40 of the mechanism 1 are designed to cause the rotations R1 and R2 of the units 10 and 20 from the time of equilibrium of the mechanism 1. The device 40 may assume any configuration suitable for the application in question.

In the example of fig. 1 and 2, the device 40 comprises a motor 41, a belt 42, a transmission shaft 43, a cogwheel 44, a toothed chain 45 and a cogwheel 46. The motor 41 is arranged on the upright 7 of the base 3. The shaft 43 is supported by the base 3 at its tip and moves in rotation about an axis a3 which is vertically aligned with the upper hinge of the connecting rod 5. The axis A3 is horizontally arranged parallel to the axes a1 and a 2. A belt 42 connects the motor 41 to a shaft 43. Wheel 44 is mounted to rotate integrally with shaft 43, while wheel 46 is mounted to rotate integrally with shaft 21. Alternatively, the wheel 46 may be mounted to rotate integrally with the shaft 11. A chain 45 connects the wheels 44 and 46 with a center-to-center distance equal to the center-to-center distance of the connecting rod 5. According to another alternative, the cogwheels 44 and 46 and the chain 45 can be replaced by a system of universal joints or any other kinematic transmission system suitable for the application in question. Thus, activation of the motor 41 can drive the units 10 and 20 in such a manner as to rotate R1 and R2.

In practice, the movement of the mechanism 1 enables energy to be collected in the region of the shaft 43, for example by coupling said shaft 43 with a generator. The shaft 43 thus constitutes an energy harvesting shaft.

Alternatively, the shaft 43 may be driven directly by a crank in order to start the mechanism 1.

According to another variant, the mechanism 1 is devoid of any motor 41 and belt 42 means constituting the starting means. In this case, the activation of the mechanism 1 can be carried out by simply pressing on the side of the pendulum 4 or on one of the arms 14 and 24. The energy required to start the mechanism 1 is very small. Preferably, the mechanism 1 comprises all the same elements 43,44,45 and 46. The shaft 43 may be coupled to a generator to harvest energy.

To achieve correct operation of the mechanism 1, the distance between the distal tip of each arm 14 and 24 and its axis of rotation a1 or a2 is less than the centre-to-centre distance between the articulations of the connecting rods 5, so that the arms 14 and 24 can pass under the drive shaft 43.

Figures 3 to 10 show the operation of the mechanism 1 in a single revolution. In particular, fig. 3 to 6 show half a turn during which the arms 14 and 24 move on the right-hand side of the pendulum 4, while fig. 7 to 10 show half a turn during which the arms 14 and 24 move on the left-hand side of the pendulum 4.

Fig. 3 shows the arm 14 positioned upwardly and the arm 24 positioned downwardly. The mechanism 1 is in equilibrium. The wheels 12 and 22 are stationary. Moments M1 and M2 are not present.

At this stage, the device 40 is able to initiate the movement of the mechanism 1 with the wheels 12 and 22 engaged, so that both the arms 14 and 24 are offset to the right. The tilting of the arm 14 facilitates the wheel 12 turning in the direction of rotation R1, which can drive the wheel 22 in the direction of rotation R2, thereby lifting the arm 24.

Fig. 4 shows arms 14 and 24, each rotated one-eighth of a turn on the right hand side. Fig. 5 shows arms 14 and 24, each rotated a quarter turn on the right hand side. Fig. 6 shows the arms 14 and 24, each of which has been turned three-quarters of a turn on the right-hand side. At each moment, the moments M1 and M2 have the same value and the same direction (clockwise). The pendulum 4 is driven from the right upwards by the action of the arms 14 and 24.

Fig. 7 shows arms 14 and 24, each rotated a half turn relative to its initial position in fig. 3. Arm 14 is positioned downwardly and arm 24 is positioned upwardly. Moments M1 and M2 are not present. The wheels 12 and 22 are in motion so that both arms 14 and 24 are offset to the right. The tilting of the arm 24 facilitates the turning of the wheel 22 in the direction of rotation R2, which can facilitate the turning of the wheel 22 in the direction of rotation R1, thereby lifting the arm 14.

Fig. 8 shows arms 14 and 24, each rotated one-eighth of a turn on the left hand side. Fig. 9 shows arms 14 and 24, each rotated a quarter turn on the left hand side. Fig. 10 shows the arms 14 and 24, each rotated three quarters of a turn on the left hand side. At each time, moments M1 and M2 have the same value and the same direction (clockwise). Under the action of the arms 14 and 24, the pendulum 4 is driven to the left.

The arms 14 and 24 are therefore sometimes located on the right and sometimes on the left when the units 10 and 20 are pivoted about the axes a1 and a 2. In operation, the rotations R1 and R2 of the arms 14 and 24 generate centrifugal forces within the mechanism 1. The pendulum 4 is sometimes shifted to the right and sometimes to the left. Thus, the arms 14 and 24 adopt an elliptical motion, rather than a circular motion.

The mechanism 1 adopts a two-phase oscillating movement. In fig. 5 and 9, the centrifugal force is greatest when the arms 14 and 24 pass each other. Each phase corresponds to a half turn (180 °) of the arms 14 and 24 between their maximum centrifugation positions.

In view of the above explanation, it is worth noting that for each angular position of the cogwheels 12 and 22 and of the arms 14 and 24 about the axes a1 and a2, the mechanism 1 assumes a balanced configuration in the rest state. In other words, when considering a mechanism 1 that is stationary, the mechanism 1 will assume its own static configuration, regardless of the angular position of the units 10 and 20. The mechanism 1 remains balanced, which significantly reduces the energy required to turn the units 10 and 20.

Fig. 11 to 14 show the operation of the mechanism 1 according to the second embodiment. The axes a1 and a2 are parallel to each other and horizontal. However, axes a1 and a2 are disposed within a vertical reference plane P0.

Also in this embodiment, the arms 14 and 24 are precisely positioned relative to each other and to the wheels 12 and 14 so that the moments M1 and M2 always have the same value and the same direction (clockwise or counterclockwise) regardless of the respective angular positions of the arms 14 and 24 about the axes a1 and a 2.

For reasons of simplicity, only the position of the arms 14 and 24 on the right-hand side is shown in fig. 11 to 14, while the position of the arms 14 and 24 on the left-hand side is not shown.

In practice, the single mechanism 1 cannot constitute a motor, taking into account the energy losses. However, the motor may be manufactured by coupling several synchronized mechanisms 1, as explained in detail below.

Fig. 15 and 16 show an example of a rotary machine according to the invention of the four-stroke motor type. The motor comprises four mechanisms 1, each equipped with its own pendulum 4. The mechanism 1 and its pendulum 4 are arranged parallel to each other, i.e. side by side.

The base 3 is common to all mechanisms 1. In other words, the base 3 supports each of the pendulums 4 suspended parallel to each other. For reasons of simplicity, the base 3 is only partially shown.

The transmission shaft 43 is common to all the mechanisms 1. The movement of the mechanism 1 is thus able to collect energy in the region of the shaft 43, for example by coupling said shaft 43 with the generator 58. The shaft 43 then constitutes an energy harvesting shaft. For the sake of simplicity, the shaft 43 is only partially shown at the bottom of fig. 15, and is fully shown in fig. 16, with four cogwheels 45.

In practice, the four arms 14 are staggered by a quarter turn with respect to each other. Likewise, the four arms 24 are staggered by a quarter turn relative to each other. Thus, the motor always has the same number of arms 14 or 24 on the left-hand side or the right-hand side, thereby improving the productivity thereof. Each phase corresponds to a quarter turn (90 °) of the mechanism 1.

When both mechanisms 1 are at dead centre (the moments M1 and M2 are not present), the other two mechanisms 1 are at maximum centrifugal position on the left and right hand side respectively, with a deviation e0 on each side. The generated energy is greatest in the maximum centrifugal or thrust position. Since the four mechanisms 1 never come to dead centers at the same time, the motor has no dead center. Advantageously, each maximum centrifugal position corresponds to a gas combustion inside the motor.

Fig. 17 shows another example of a rotary machine according to the invention, of the two-stroke motor type, according to the variant of fig. 15. In this case, the motor comprises two mechanisms 1, each equipped with its own pendulum 4.

As shown in fig. 15, the base 3 is common to the two mechanisms 1, and supports each of the pendulums 4 arranged in parallel with each other. The transmission shaft 43 is common to both mechanisms 1, so that the movement of both mechanisms can recover energy at the shaft. For reasons of simplicity, the base 3 and the shaft 43 are only partially shown in fig. 17.

In this embodiment, the two arms 14 are staggered by a half turn relative to each other. Likewise, the two arms 24 are staggered by a half turn with respect to each other. As described above, the motor always has the same number of arms 14 or 24 on the left-hand side or the right-hand side, thereby improving the yield thereof. Each phase corresponds to a half turn (180 °) of the mechanism 1.

During a 360 ° rotation, the two mechanisms 1 are simultaneously at dead point (moments M1 and M2 are not present) and simultaneously in thrust position, each corresponding to the combustion of gases in the engine.

According to another variant, not represented, the rotary machine comprises eight mechanisms 1 with pendulums 4 arranged in parallel. During one revolution, the machine generates a thrust at every eighth of a revolution (45 °) of the mechanism 1.

Other variations may be implemented without departing from the scope of the invention. The dimensions of the constituent elements of the machine, such as the base 3 and the transmission shaft 43, vary according to the number of mechanisms 1.

For best results and yield it is important to position each pendulum 4 in a strictly horizontal plane. This also applies to the axes a1 and a2 of the cogwheels 12 and 22, which must lie in a strictly horizontal or vertical plane P0, depending on the configuration of the mechanism 1.

Fig. 18 shows a particular and preferred embodiment of the invention, in which the wheel 12 has a cog 13a that is longer than the other cogs 13, while the wheel 22 has a groove 23a formed between two cogs 23. The cogs 13a and the grooves 23a may assume different shapes without departing from the scope of the invention.

In practice, when the cogwheels 12 and 22 are engaged, the cogs 13a and the grooves 23a coincide, which allows the alignment of the eccentric elements 14 and 24, thus achieving a precise balance of the mechanism 1.

For example, the cogwheels 12 and 22 and the eccentric elements 14 and 24 can be fitted with fixing holes arranged opposite each other, which are not shown in the different figures for the sake of simplicity. Thus, the cogs 13a and the grooves 23a facilitate the alignment of the fixing holes.

Fig. 19 to 24 show another example of a rotary machine according to the invention, of the two-stroke motor type, according to the variant of fig. 17. The motor comprises two mechanisms 1 according to the invention, each equipped with its own pendulum 4. The mechanism 1 and its pendulum 4 are arranged in succession, i.e. aligned in continuation of each other.

The base 3 is common to both mechanisms 1. In other words, the base 3 supports each of the continuously suspended pendulums 4.

Each mechanism 1 comprises its own transmission shaft 43 having an axis a3 aligned with the upper articulation of the connecting rod 5. However, only one motor 41 is required for the activation of the mechanism 1. Alternatively, the motor 41 may be replaced by a crank, or the machine may have no means for actuating the mechanism 1.

The machine comprises intermediate means 50 between the means 40 of the two mechanisms 1. The device 50 can be used for motion transmission between the two devices 40 and for energy harvesting. In the example of fig. 19, the device 50 comprises two cogwheels 51, two toothed chains 52, one shaft 53 and two cogwheels 54. The shaft 53 moves in rotation about an axis a4, which is arranged horizontally parallel to the axes a1, a2 and A3. The shaft 53 is supported at its tip by the base 3, for example by two supports 6 of the base 3. Alternatively, the shaft 53 may be supported by the upright 7 so that its axis a4 is aligned with the axis A3 of the mechanism 1. The wheel 51 is mounted to rotate integrally with the shaft 43 of the two mechanisms 1, while the wheel 54 is mounted to rotate integrally with the shaft 53. A chain 52 connects the wheel 51 and the wheel 54. Thus, the movement of the various mechanisms 1 makes it possible to recover energy at the shaft 53, for example by coupling this shaft 53 to a generator. The shaft 53 then constitutes the shaft for recovering energy.

The machine also comprises a connecting link 60, which is coupled with the two mechanisms 1, ensuring their synchronization and a significant reduction of oscillations. The connecting link 60 comprises a central body 61 which connects two heads 62 at its longitudinal ends. Each head 61 comprises an annular portion 63 in which a ball bearing 64 is housed. Alternatively, the annular portion 63 may include any type of bearing suitable for the intended application. Each ball bearing 64 includes an outer ring 65, an inner ring 66, and a row of balls 67. A sleeve 68 is accommodated in the inner ring 66, said sleeve comprising an eccentric opening 69 for receiving the shaft 21 of the mechanism 1. The sleeve 68 is integral with the shaft 21 and is movable in a rotational manner in the ball bearing 64. Thus, the shaft 21 of each mechanism 1 moves in a rotary manner in one of the heads 61 of the connecting link 60.

In fig. 20 and 21, the mechanisms 1 are closer together. The elements 14 and 24 are oriented towards the centre of the machine. The shafts 21 coupled to the connecting links 60 are closer together.

In fig. 22 and 23, the mechanisms 1 are far apart. The elements 14 and 24 are oriented towards the side of the machine. The shafts 21 coupled to the connecting links 60 are far apart.

During the movement of the mechanism 1, and more specifically of its units 10 and 20, the connecting rod 60 is fixed horizontally and is movable vertically. Although theoretically the connecting link 60 can move freely in space, it cannot be driven in a horizontal movement, since it is positioned between the two mechanisms 1 in equilibrium. The connecting link 60 is made of one or more materials having a good compromise between resistance and flexibility, since the connecting link 60 is subjected to large stresses.

In fig. 24, the connecting link 60 is partially shown in different positions during operation of the machine. More specifically, fig. 24 shows the left head 62 of the connecting link 60 coupled with the left side mechanism 1 in fig. 19 to 23. The elements 21, a2,61 and 62 shown in the right position are labeled 21', a2',61 'and 62' in the upper position, 21 ", a 2", 61 and 62 in the left position and 21 "', a 2"', 61 "'and 62"' in the lower position. Defining a central axis a0 of head 62, ball bearing 64, and sleeve 68. This axis a0 constitutes the axis of rotation of the axis a2 during movement of the mechanism 1. A constant radius r60 is also defined between axes a0 and a 2. Finally, an upward and downward vertical deviation d60 of the connecting link 60 is defined. The deviation d60 is equal to the radius r 60. By way of non-limiting example, the diameter of shaft 21 is equal to 30 millimeters, the outer diameter of outer ring 65 is equal to 140 millimeters, the inner diameter of inner ring 66 is equal to 110 millimeters, and radius r60 is equal to 20 millimeters. Thus, the upward vertical offset d60 of the connecting link 60 is equal to 20 millimeters, and the downward vertical offset d60 is equal to 20 millimeters.

The two arms 14 are arranged staggered by half a turn with respect to each other. Similarly, the two arms 24 are arranged staggered by a half turn with respect to each other. The motor always has the same number of arms 14 or 24 on the left or right side. Each phase corresponds to a half revolution (180 °) of the mechanism 1.

During a 360 ° rotation, the two mechanisms 1 are simultaneously at dead point (moments M1 and M2 are not present) and simultaneously in thrust position, each corresponding to the combustion of gases in the engine.

Fig. 25 shows another example of a rotary machine according to the invention of the two-stroke engine type, according to the variant of fig. 19. The engine comprises two mechanisms 1 according to the invention, each equipped with its own pendulum 4. The pendulum 4 is directly suspended on the base 3 and arranged in series. During the movement of the mechanism 1, and more specifically of its units 10 and 20, the connecting link 60 is horizontally fixed and vertically movable.

Figure 26 shows another way of connecting the connecting link 60 to the mechanism 1. Opening 69 is formed in the center of sleeve 68 and is centered on axis a 0. The eccentric member 70 is interposed between the shaft 21 and the connecting link 60. The member 70 comprises an elongate body 71 and a cylindrical crank pin 72 integral with the body 71. An opening 73 is formed in the body 71. The shaft 21 is disposed in the aperture 73 and is fixed to the body 71, for example by means of a key 74 or by any other means. The shaft 21 and opening 73 are centered on axis a 2. Crank pin 72 is disposed in opening 69 of bushing 68, centered about axis A0. This axis a0 constitutes the axis of rotation of the axis a2 during movement of the mechanism 1.

According to another variant, not shown, the rotary machine comprises four pendulum mechanisms 1 arranged both in parallel and in succession. The two pairs of mechanisms 1 are arranged in parallel and synchronized with each other. Within each pair, the two mechanisms are arranged in succession and synchronized with each other. During one revolution, the machine generates a thrust at every quarter revolution (90 °) of the mechanism 1.

According to another variant, not represented, the rotary machine comprises eight mechanisms 1 with pendulums 4 arranged in parallel and in succession. During one revolution, the machine generates a thrust at every eighth of a revolution (45 °) of the mechanism 1.

In fig. 1 to 26, certain movements and distances are exaggerated for reasons of simplicity, due to, for example, lateral deviations of the pendulum 4.

In practice, the mechanism 1 and the machine described may not coincide with fig. 1 to 26, without departing from the scope of the invention.

For example, the transmission system in the form of a chain and cogwheels may be replaced by a system of universal joints or any other motion transmission system suitable for the application in question.

Furthermore, the technical characteristics of the different embodiments and variants described above may be combined together in their entirety or some of them may be combined together. The mechanism 1 and the machine can therefore be adjusted in terms of cost, function and performance.

Claims (12)

1. Energy-conserving balanced mechanism (1) includes:

-a support (2);

-a first cogwheel (12) moving in rotation (R1) about a first axis (a1) with respect to the support (2);

-a second cogwheel (22) moving in rotation (R2) about a second axis (a2) with respect to the support (2);

wherein:

-said axes (A1; A2) are parallel in a horizontal or vertical reference plane (P0); and is

-the cogwheels (12; 22) are engaged with each other using a single transmission ratio and move in rotation (R1; R2) in opposite directions;

the energy-saving balance mechanism is characterized by comprising:

-a first eccentric element (14) rotating (R1) integrally with the first cogwheel (12) about the first axis (a1) and generating a first moment (M1) of gravity (P1);

-a second eccentric element (24) rotating (R2) integrally with the second cogwheel (22) about the second axis (a2) and generating a second moment (M2) of gravity (P2);

characterized in that the moments (M1; M2) of the weight (P1; P2) of the eccentric element (14; 24) have the same value and the same direction, both varying according to their angular position about the axis (A1; A2);

and in that for each angular position of the cogwheel (12; 22) and of the eccentric element (14; 24) about the axis (A1; A2), the energy-saving balancing mechanism (1) assumes a balanced configuration in a static state.

2. Energy-saving balancing mechanism (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the eccentric elements (14; 24) have the same mass and the same dimensions.

3. Energy saving balancing mechanism (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the cogwheel (12; 22) comprises a first wheel (12) with longer cogs (13a) than the other cogs (13) and a second wheel (22) with a groove (23a) formed between two cogs (23), and in that the longer cogs (13a) and the groove (23a) coincide when the cogwheels (12; 22) are engaged, allowing the alignment of the eccentric elements (14, 24).

4. Energy-saving balancing mechanism (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the support (2) comprises a base (3) and a pendulum (4) which is suspended on the base and supports the cogwheel (12; 22) at the axis (A1; A2) of the cogwheel (12; 22), in that the axis (A1, A2) moves with the pendulum (4), and in that the eccentric element (14; 24) describes an elliptical motion.

5. A rotating machine, characterized in that it comprises at least one energy-saving balancing mechanism (1) according to claim 1.

6. A rotary machine according to claim 5, characterized in that it is an internal combustion engine and in that the eccentric elements (14; 24) which assemble the energy-saving balancing mechanism (1) are connected in two maximum centrifugal positions, each corresponding to the combustion of the gases inside the internal combustion engine.

7. Rotating machine according to claim 5, characterized in that the support (2) comprises a base (3) and a pendulum (4) which is suspended on the base and supports the cogwheel (12; 22) at the axis (A1; A2) of the cogwheel (12; 22), wherein the axis (A1, A2) moves with the pendulum (4), and wherein the eccentric element (14; 24) describes an elliptical motion.

8. Rotating machine according to claim 5, characterized in that it comprises activation means (40) of one or more of said energy-saving balancing mechanisms (1) designed to drive one of said cogwheels (12; 22) into rotation (R1; R2).

9. The rotary machine of claim 8, wherein the one or more energy efficient counterbalance mechanisms comprises a chain or gear drive system.

10. The rotary machine of claim 5, wherein the rotary machine includes an energy harvesting device when the energy efficient counterbalance mechanism is in motion.

11. A rotary machine according to claim 10, wherein the energy harvesting device is in the form of a generator.

12. A method for implementing an energy-saving balancing mechanism (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises the following successive steps:

-a positioning step of the eccentric elements (14; 24) with respect to each other and with respect to the cogwheels (12; 22) so that the moments (M1; M2) of the weight (P1; P2) of the eccentric elements (14; 24) have the same value and the same direction, both varying according to their angular position about the axis (a 1; a2), and the energy-saving balancing mechanism (1) assumes a balanced configuration at rest for each angular position of the cogwheels (12; 22) and of the eccentric elements (14; 24) about the axis (a 1; a 2);

-a step of activation of the rotation (R1; R2) of the cogwheel (12; 22) and of the eccentric element (14; 24) about the axis (A1; A2), wherein the energy-saving balancing mechanism (1) releases the balancing configuration and starts moving; and

-an operating step, in which the rotation (R1; R2) of the eccentric element (14; 24) about the axis (A1; A2) generates a centrifugal force within the energy-saving balancing mechanism (1).