Vapor cycle energy system for implantable circulatory assist devices. Final summary May--Oct 1976
The report describes the development status of a heart assist system driven by a nuclear-fueled, electronically controlled vapor cycle engine termed the tidal regenerator engine (TRE). The TRE pressurization is controlled by a torque motor coupled to a displacer. The electrical power for the sensor, electronic logic and actuator is provided by thermoelectric modules interposed between the engine superheater and boiler. The TRE is direct-coupled to an assist blood pump which also acts as a blood-cooled heat exchanger, pressure-volume trasformer and sensor for the electronic logic. Engine cycle efficiency in excess of 14% has been demonstrated routinely. Overall system efficiency on 33 watts of over 9% has been demonstrated (implied 13% engine cycle efficiency). A binary version of this engine in the annular configuration is now being tested. The preliminary tests demonstrated 10% cycle efficiency on the first buildup which ran well and started easily.
- Research Organization:
- Thermo Electron Corp., Waltham, Mass. (USA)
- DOE Contract Number:
- N01-HV-4-2909
- OSTI ID:
- 7293361
- Report Number(s):
- PB-268221; TRN: 78-000070
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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