Electric-steam propulsion system

Abstract

The invention is an improved method of propelling land, water, and air vehicles by utilizing an electrical source of initial energy ( 10 ), a “flash”-type boiler ( 14 ), and a steam engine ( 16 ). The system employs the usual devices, such as an alternator ( 22 ), voltage regulator ( 24 ), and other appurtenances of modern vehicles. This invention claims the benefit of U.S. Pat. No. 7,104,348 allowed the Applicant on Sep. 12, 2006.

1 . An electric-steam propulsion system comprising a steam engine connecting to wheels, a propeller, or other device for providing mechanical energy to drive a vehicle without requiring an electric motor or other device for starting or driving said vehicle; means for controllably coupling said mechanical energy from said steam engine, whereby said vehicle will be self-propelled; and a flash boiler tube system for rapidly heating fluid derived from a container of said fluid; and non-combustion heating element means for rapidly heating fluid to create steam to supply said steam engine; and direct-current electric supply means for providing initial energy in said system and to supply said non-combustion heating means; and means selected from the group including electrical inverters for converting said direct current electricity into alternating current electricity to supply said non-combustion heating means; and means selected from the group including voltage regulators for controlling the amount and flow of electricity in said system; and means selected from the group including alternators for continuing to provide electricity for recharging said initial direct current means of energy, whereby said system will continue to operate as long as is desired; means for condensing said steam back into said fluid; and means for returning said fluid to said container and thence to said tube-type flash boiler. 
     
     
         2 . The system of  claim 1  utilized in a stationary configuration, including and substituting mechanical devices for vehicles; whereby said mechanical energy produced by steam engines is used to drive said mechanical devices to perform work. 
     
     
         3 . The system of  claim 1  utilized in a stationary configuration, including and substituting electrical generators for vehicles; whereby said mechanical energy produced by steam engines is used to drive said generators to produce electricity.