Thermally Enhanced Cascade Cooling System

A cascade cooling system that uses low-grade thermal and other energy input sources to provide refrigeration and air conditioning in stationary and mobile applications. A two-loop embodiment includes a heat-powered first loop incorporating a vapor-jet compressor and a second loop based on a mechanical compressor powered by an electric motor or other source of rotational torque. The system uses waste heat, solar thermal or a fuel-fired heat source to partially or fully offset mechanical/electrical energy input. The system can also operate entirely on thermal, electrical or mechanical input. The ability to use multiple energy sources in any combination maximizes energy efficiency, performance and reliability. The system is well suited to making beneficial use of waste heat in vehicle applications. In stationary applications, solar thermal and/or waste heat from industrial processes can be used to improve the efficiency of conventional cooling systems.