Heating system and method

Abstract

A heating system comprising: a liquid supply system; a unit configured to receive liquid from the liquid supply system to provide heating of the liquid and to output heated fluid; and a work extraction system configured to extract useful work from the heated fluid output by the unit; wherein the unit comprises: (i) a container arranged to define an internal portion for receiving liquid to be heated, and (ii) a plurality of electrodes configured to apply electrical energy to the fluid in the internal portion; and wherein the electrodes are configured to apply electrical energy to the fluid in the internal portion to generate one or more plasma bubbles for releasing energy to the fluid in the internal portion and the container to provide heating of the fluid in the internal portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of systems and methods for generating heat. In particular, this disclosure relates to systems and methods that use cells to provide heated fluids. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, power generation and / or heating may involve the combustion of some kind of fuel. For example, fossil fuels can be used in combustion processes to heat water to produce steam and / or hot water. Steam can be generated to drive turbines, which in turn can be used to generate electricity. Hot water can be generated for use in heating systems where hot water is circulated throughout a building to provide heat to that building. Electricity can also be used to generate hot water, such as in electric boilers. Increased efficiency is desired for this type of power generation and / or heating. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The aspects of this disclosure are set forth in the independent claims, and optional features are set forth in the dependent claims. The aspects of this disclosure may be provided in combination with each other, and features of one aspect may be applied to the other aspects.

[0004] In one aspect, a heating system is provided, comprising: a liquid supply system; a cell configured to: receive liquid from the liquid supply system, heat the liquid, and output heated fluid; and a work extraction system configured to extract usable work from the heated fluid output by the cell. The cell includes: (i) a container arranged to define an internal portion for receiving liquid to be heated; and (ii) a plurality of electrodes configured to apply electrical energy to the fluid in the internal portion. The electrodes are configured to apply electrical energy to the fluid in the internal portion to generate one or more plasma bubbles for releasing energy to the fluid in the internal portion and the container to provide heating of the fluid in the internal portion.

[0005] The embodiments may enable the extraction of work from a fluid capable of providing high-energy heating. Work can be extracted from the high-energy heated fluid to provide heating and / or power generation. The embodiments may provide an efficient system for generating heat and / or electricity. The unit may include a plasma unit (e.g., a fuel unit that generates plasma).

[0006] The system may also include a controller configured to: (i) receive a signal indicating at least one operating parameter of the unit, and (ii) control the operation of the heating system based on said operating parameter. The controller may be configured to control the operation of the heating system such that heat and / or plasma generation in the unit exceeds a threshold level. Controlling the operation of the heating system may include controlling at least one of: (i) the supply of liquid to the unit via a liquid supply system, and (ii) electrical energy applied by electrodes. The controller may be configured to control operation to maintain at least one operating parameter of the unit within a selected range (e.g., to provide a selected performance level for the unit).

[0007] The controller can be configured to control the supply of liquid to the unit and / or the electrical energy applied by the electrodes based on an indication of the demand for heating to be provided by the unit. If the indication of demand indicates an increased demand for heating to be provided by the unit, the controller can be configured to increase at least one of the following: (i) the temperature of the liquid supplied to the unit, (ii) the pressure of the liquid supplied to the unit, (iii) the amount of liquid supplied to the unit, and (iv) the amount of electrical energy applied by the electrodes. For example, controlling such operation can facilitate an increase in unit output (e.g., providing more heated fluid and / or plasma generation within the unit).

[0008] The signal indicating at least one operating parameter may include an indication of the mass and / or quantity of plasma generated within the unit. The controller may be configured to control the operation of the heating system such that the mass and / or quantity of plasma generated is maintained within a selected range. For example, the controller may be configured to provide at least a threshold amount of plasma generation. This threshold amount / selected range of plasma generation may be selected such that sufficient plasma generation occurs to provide selected heating characteristics to the heating system (e.g., such that the amount of heated fluid generated is within a selected range).

[0009] Signals indicating the quality and / or quantity of plasma generation may include indications of at least one of the following: (i) the pressure and / or temperature of the fluid output from the unit, (ii) the amount and / or type of electromagnetic energy present within the unit, (iii) flutter associated with the power supply to one or more electrodes, (iv) current flow and / or voltage associated with one or more electrodes, and (v) fluid flow dynamics within the unit. For example, higher pressure and / or temperature (e.g., for the fluid output from the unit) may indicate increased plasma generation. Similarly, a higher rate of increase in pressure / temperature may indicate greater plasma generation. For example, an increase in any of the electromagnetic activity within the unit and / or flutter associated with the power supply may provide an indication of increased plasma generation. For example, a sudden change in current or voltage may provide an indication of any change in plasma generation. When the current begins to increase, this may provide an indication that an arc is about to occur. For example, a controller may be configured to reduce or stop applying voltage to the first electrode if the current change exceeds a threshold (or the rate of change of the current exceeds a threshold, e.g., if the current increases too much). For example, voltage can be monitored to identify any drop in voltage, such as an electric arc that provides reduced resistance to current flow. Similarly, an indication of increased turbulence in fluid flow within a cell can provide an indication of increased plasma production.

[0010] The controller can be configured to control at least one of the following: (i) the supply of liquid to the unit based on electrical energy to be applied by a plurality of electrodes, and (ii) the supply of liquid to the unit based on the electrical energy to be applied by a plurality of electrodes. For example, when the supply of liquid and / or electrical energy is increased, the controller can control the supply of electrical energy / liquid based on a change in another supply (respectively). A change in one supply can be selected based on a change in the other supply (e.g., an increase / decrease in one can be selected proportionally to an increase / decrease in the other supply). The signal indicating at least one operating parameter may include an indication of temperature associated with at least one of the unit, the fluid in the unit, and the fluid output from the unit. The controller can be configured to control at least one of the following: (i) the electrical energy applied by the electrodes, (ii) the supply of liquid to the unit, and (iii) an external heater to increase the temperature of the unit, the fluid in the unit, and / or the fluid output from the unit when the temperature indication is below a threshold level. The controller can be configured to increase the electrical energy applied by the electrodes to provide increased heating and / or decrease the flow rate of liquid through the unit when the temperature indication is below a threshold level.

[0011] The internal surface of the housing of the unit may include an electromagnetic energy absorbing material arranged to convert incident photons into heat. At least a portion of the housing may be conductive. For example, the internal surface of the housing may be configured to generate heat in response to photons incident on the surface. The housing (e.g., the internal surface of the housing) may be configured to heat fluid within the internal portion in response to heat generated by incident photons (e.g., and / or other particles such as electrons). The housing may be configured to provide conductive heating of the fluid within the internal portion. The housing may be made of metal, for example, the housing may be made of steel. The housing may be formed of a variety of different materials. The housing may be provided with one or more layers or sleeves. For example, the unit may include a sleeve located in an internal portion within the housing. The sleeve may be arranged to be mounted within the internal portion (e.g., the sleeve may be located near the internal portion of the housing). Multiple such sleeves may be provided. Each sleeve may be arranged to provide different absorption / conduction characteristics to other areas of the housing / unit. For example, the receiving portion may be made of a first material (e.g., steel), and a sleeve made of a second material (e.g., aluminum) may be inserted into the receiving portion. The receiving portion and / or the sleeve may include a coating to further promote absorption and / or conduction. For example, a gold coating may be applied.

[0012] A liquid supply system can be configured to supply liquid to a cell under pressure. The cell can be arranged to hold fluid within a container under pressure. For example, the container may include one or more compression devices configured to hold an internal portion of the container under pressure, and / or the container may be sufficiently rigid to resist expansion under pressure applied from within its internal portion. The liquid supply system can be configured to heat the liquid before supplying it to the cell. The liquid supply system can be configured to further heat the liquid before supplying it to the cell if the cell's heat and / or plasma generation are below a threshold level. The system can be arranged to provide a variable, continuous liquid supply to the cell.

[0013] The multiple electrodes may include: (i) an anode arranged to provide a conductive path for a current to be applied to a fluid in the internal portion, and (ii) a cathode arranged to provide a conductive path away from the internal portion for a current received from the anode through the fluid in the internal portion. The multiple electrodes may also include a balancing electrode arranged to provide an additional conductive path toward or away from the fluid in the internal portion. The anode and cathode (and, for example, the balancing electrode) may be arranged concentrically with each other. The anode, cathode, and balancing electrode may have the same coefficient of thermal expansion. The balancing electrode may be arranged away from the conductive path between the anode and cathode. For example, the conductive path from the anode to the cathode may be radially outward. The balancing electrode may be offset from the anode / cathode along different directions (e.g., along a longitudinal axis). The balancing electrode may be closer to the anode than the cathode. For example, the balancing electrode may extend substantially perpendicular (e.g., perpendicular to) the current path from the anode to the cathode (e.g., the balancing electrode may be parallel to the anode).

[0014] The unit may include a resistive element disposed between the anode and cathode. For example, the resistive element may comprise a quartz or borosilicate glass material (e.g., a high-resistivity material capable of withstanding high temperatures and / or high pressures). The resistive element may have sufficient resistivity to act as an electrical insulator. The resistive element may be disposed on the conductive path between the anode and cathode, for example, to provide increased resistance between the anode and cathode. For example, the resistive element may be positioned radially outward from the anode and radially inward from the cathode (e.g., at a location where the conductive path from the anode to the cathode extends radially outward).

[0015] The system can be configured to provide additional heating to one or more components of the unit (e.g., during startup mode). The unit may include heating elements to provide this heating. For example, a heater may be located near the unit, and / or the heating element may be integrated within a portion of the unit. The heater may be included in an end cover of the unit (e.g., a cylindrical heater may be disposed within an end cover of the unit). In some examples, this heating may be provided by a resistance heating element. The resistance heating element may be part of the unit (e.g., voltage may be applied to a component such as an anode or resistance element to provide resistance heating, or voltage may be applied to an additional resistance heating element or region of the unit). This heating can be provided to increase the temperature associated with at least one of the following: the unit, the fluid within the unit, and the fluid from the unit output to the point where the plasma is excited. For example, heating may be provided until bubbles (e.g., gas bubbles) appear.

[0016] The liquid supply system can be configured to supply a fluid (e.g., water) to the unit, which exhibits at least partially non-Newtonian properties under intended conditions within the unit. For example, the liquid is configured to resist rapid expansion of plasma within the unit. The system may also include a filtration device configured to filter the fluid output from the unit. The power extraction system may include at least one of: (i) a regulator for mass transfer of heated and / or pressurized fluids, (ii) a heat exchanger for transferring heat to the working fluid, and (iii) a power generation system, such as a steam-based power generation system. The heated fluid generated by the unit may itself be used for subsequent applications, or alternatively, may be used to heat one or more other fluids for subsequent applications. For example, the heated fluid generated by the unit may be used as a working fluid, or the heated fluid generated by the unit may be used to heat a separate fluid that can then be used as a working fluid. The system may include a DC voltage source operable to apply a DC voltage to each of the electrodes.

[0017] In one aspect, a system is provided comprising: a unit configured to heat a liquid supplied to the unit, the unit including: an inlet for receiving the liquid to be heated, and an outlet for discharging heated fluid; a power management system configured to control the application of electrical energy to the unit to control the heating of the fluid in the unit; a power extraction system coupled to the outlet and configured to extract usable power from the heated fluid discharged from the unit; and a fluid management system coupled to the inlet of the unit and configured to: (i) supply the liquid to be heated to the unit, and (ii) process the heated fluid that has been discharged from the unit and used by the power extraction system.

[0018] The unit may include the units disclosed herein. The power extraction system may include the power extraction system disclosed herein. The fluid management system may include the liquid supply system disclosed herein, for example, for supplying liquid to be heated to the unit.

[0019] The fluid management system may include: (i) a liquid supply connector for connecting the system to a supply of liquid to be heated, and (ii) a drain connector for draining heated fluid that has been output by the unit and used by the power extraction system. The fluid management system may include a pump connected to the liquid supply connector and the unit's inlet, wherein the pump is operable to supply liquid to the unit under pressure. The power extraction system may include a thermal engine. The unit's outlet may be connected to a first engine inlet such that heated fluid output from the unit can drive the engine. The thermal engine may be connected to a generator configured to generate electricity in response to the engine's drive. The unit's outlet may also be connected to a first heat exchanger. The first engine outlet may be connected to the first heat exchanger such that heated fluid from the unit that has passed through the engine is directed to the first heat exchanger for heating. The first heat exchanger may be connected to a second engine inlet such that reheated fluid from the heat exchanger can further drive the engine. The engine may be arranged to drive fluid entering through the first and second engine inlets at different ratios. At least one of the engine and the first heat exchanger may be connected to a second heat exchanger configured to further extract heat from the heated fluid output from the unit.

[0020] The fluid management system may include a filter for filtering heated fluid output from the unit. The power extraction system may include at least one of the following: a thermal management system configured to receive heated fluid already output from the unit and use the heated fluid as a heat source or in a heat exchanger; and a power generation system configured to receive heated fluid already output from the unit and use the heated fluid to generate electricity. The power generation system may be coupled to a power management system to provide the generated electricity to the power management system. The power management system may include an external connector for connecting to an external power source. The power management system may be configured to receive electricity from an external source and / or provide electricity generated by the power generation system to an external source.

[0021] In one aspect, a method is provided for providing a heated fluid to extract usable work from the heated fluid, the method comprising: supplying a liquid to be heated to a unit, wherein the unit includes: (i) a receiving portion arranged to define an internal portion for receiving the liquid to be heated, and (ii) a plurality of electrodes configured to apply electrical energy to the fluid in the internal portion; controlling the operation of the plurality of electrodes to apply electrical energy to the fluid in the internal portion to generate one or more plasma bubbles; generating heat in the receiving portion near the internal portion in response to the receiving portion receiving incident photons (e.g., including electrons) associated with the plasma bubbles in the internal portion; and using the receiving portion to conduct heat to the fluid in the internal portion.

[0022] In one aspect, a method for controlling the operation of a heating system is provided. The heating system includes a unit comprising: (i) a container arranged to define an internal portion for receiving a liquid to be heated; and (ii) a plurality of electrodes configured to apply electrical energy to a fluid in the internal portion. The method includes: controlling the operation of the electrodes to apply electrical energy to the fluid in the internal portion to generate one or more plasma bubbles for releasing energy from the plasma to the fluid in the internal portion and the container to provide heating of the fluid in the internal portion, wherein controlling the operation of the electrodes includes: receiving instructions from the unit and / or the container. The signal of at least one operating parameter associated with the fluid associated with the unit; operating in a “cold start” mode when the operating parameter indicates that heating and / or plasma generation is below a threshold level; and operating in a “normal” mode when the operating parameter indicates that heating and / or plasma generation is above a threshold level; wherein operating in the cold start mode includes controlling at least one of the following: (i) electrical energy applied by electrodes, (ii) the supply of liquid to the unit, and (iii) the operation of an external heater to increase the temperature of the unit and / or the fluid associated with the unit when the operating parameter indicates that heating and / or plasma generation is below a threshold level.

[0023] Various aspects of this disclosure may also provide one or more computer program products, the one or more computer program products including computer program instructions configured to control a processor to perform any of the methods disclosed herein. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Some examples of this disclosure will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0025] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an exemplary heating system is shown.

[0026] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an exemplary heating system is shown.

[0027] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an exemplary unit is shown.

[0028] Figure 4 A block diagram of an exemplary heating and power generation system is shown.

[0029] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of an exemplary heating and power generation system is shown.

[0030] In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same elements. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to systems for generating heat and / or electricity. Such systems can provide heating of a liquid to generate a heated fluid. The heated fluid can then be used for heating purposes and / or for power generation purposes. To generate the heated fluid, a liquid can be supplied to a unit. Electrical energy can be applied to the liquid held in the unit via one or more electrodes of the unit. Applying this electrical energy to the fluid within the unit causes bubbles within the unit to form plasma bubbles. Each plasma bubble will be a localized region with a higher pressure / temperature than the fluid around it. The surrounding fluid can restrict the expansion of the plasma bubbles such that these bubbles will emit electromagnetic energy while electrical energy is still applied. For example, photons can be emitted from atoms (or molecules) within the plasma bubbles. These emitted photons may in turn heat the material they are incident on. For example, this can provide heating of the containment portion of the unit and / or the fluid within the unit. This, in turn, enables the unit to output heated fluid for heating and / or power generation system 500. The heated fluid may contain liquids and / or gases, and in some cases, the heated fluid may also contain some plasma material.

[0032] Now refer to Figure 1 Describe an exemplary heating system.

[0033] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a heating system 50 is shown. The heating system 50 includes a liquid supply system 10, a cell 100, and a power extraction system 20. Cell 100 includes a fluid inlet 12 and a fluid outlet 22. Cell 100 has a receiving portion 120 that defines an internal portion 125 of cell 100. Cell 100 also includes a plurality of electrodes, as shown, including a first electrode 111 and a second electrode 112. Cell 100 may include a plasma unit (e.g., a fuel unit for generating plasma).

[0034] The receiving portion 120 of unit 100 encloses the internal portion 125. A fluid inlet 12 provides a flow path for fluid to enter the internal portion 125 of unit 100. A fluid outlet 22 provides a flow path for fluid to exit from the internal portion 125 of unit 100. The internal portion 125 of unit 100 may also be sealed by the receiving portion 120. A liquid supply system 10 is coupled to the fluid inlet 12 of unit 100. A power extraction system 20 is coupled to the fluid outlet 22 of unit 100. The connection between the liquid supply system 10 and the fluid inlet 12, and the connection between the power extraction system 20 and the fluid outlet 22, are shown as annular flow paths. However, it should be understood that this is purely for illustrative purposes, and any suitable flow path may be provided. Furthermore, although not shown in the figures, the power extraction system 20 may also be coupled to the liquid supply system 10 (e.g., to pressurize and / or heat the liquid to be supplied to the internal portion 125).

[0035] A first electrode 111 is at least partially disposed within the interior portion 125 of the unit 100. A second electrode 112 may also be at least partially disposed within the interior portion 125 of the unit 100. The first electrode and the second electrode 112 are arranged concentrically. The first electrode 111 extends within the central region of the interior portion 125 of the unit 100. The second electrode 112 is arranged radially outward from the first electrode 111. The second electrode 112 may be cylindrical, and the first electrode 111 may also be cylindrical. Figure 1 In the example shown, the first electrode and the second electrode 112 are arranged coaxially. The second electrode 112 is located near the inner surface of the accommodating portion 120 (however, in some examples, the second electrode 112 may be integrated with the accommodating portion 120, for example, to form part of the accommodating portion, and / or, for example, if part of the accommodating portion is conductive, the second electrode 112 may be disposed on said part of the accommodating portion 120).

[0036] The first end of the first electrode 111 is located outside the inner portion 125 of the receiving portion 120. The second end of the first electrode 111, away from the first end, is located inside the inner portion 125 of the receiving portion 120. The second electrode 112 may extend along part or all of the length of the inner portion 125 of the receiving portion 120. At least one end of the second electrode 112 may extend out of the inner portion 125 of the unit 100. Although... Figure 1 Not shown, but the first electrode and / or the second electrode 112 may each be connected to a power source. For example, each electrode may have an end extending to the outside of the internal portion 125 (e.g., extending into the receiving portion 120), and this end may be connected to a power source. In some examples, the receiving portion 120 may be grounded, and the first electrode 111 may be connected to the positive terminal of the power source.

[0037] The receiving portion 120 may be cylindrical. A fluid inlet 12 is disposed at the end of the receiving portion 120 opposite to the fluid outlet 22. A first electrode and a second electrode 112 extend along an axis (e.g., the longitudinal axis of unit 100) extending from the fluid inlet 12 to the fluid outlet 22. The fluid outlet 22 may be arranged vertically above the fluid inlet 12 (e.g., above the fluid inlet, such as directly above the fluid inlet).

[0038] Liquid supply system 10 is arranged to supply liquid to unit 100. Liquid can be supplied to unit 100 through fluid inlet 12. Liquid supply system 10 may include connectors for liquid supply, such as liquid reservoirs. Liquid supply system 10 is configured to control the delivery of this liquid to unit 100. For example, the liquid to be supplied may comprise, in whole or in part, a fluid exhibiting non-Newtonian behavior in the environment of unit 100. The liquid may be water or an aqueous solution.

[0039] The power extraction system 20 is arranged to receive heated fluid from unit 100. The heated fluid can be output from unit 100 through fluid outlet 22. The heated fluid may include liquids and / or gases. For example, the heated fluid may be a combination of gas and liquid, such as steam with some water droplets. Fluid outlet 22 is arranged such that the heated fluid can flow out of unit 100 for use by the power extraction system 20. For example, steam generated within unit 100 may rise and be discharged through fluid outlet 22. The power extraction system 20 is configured to utilize the heated fluid output from unit 100. The power extraction system 20 may be configured to receive the heated fluid and use it as part of a supplied heated fluid (e.g., for heating purposes). The power extraction system 20 may be configured to receive the heated fluid and use it to generate electricity. For example, the heated fluid may be used, for example, to drive a generator using a steam engine.

[0040] The accommodating portion 120 is configured to encapsulate an internal portion 125. The accommodating portion 120 is arranged to define the internal portion 125 to provide a region in which a liquid can be heated. An internal surface of the accommodating portion 120 (e.g., an internal surface facing / defining the internal portion 125) may be configured to generate heat in response to incident photons (e.g., the accommodating portion 120 may be conductive). The internal surface may include a region of the accommodating portion 120 located near the internal portion 125. The internal surface may include a portion of the accommodating portion 120 and / or the internal surface may include additional components, such as a layer / film disposed on the internal surface to generate heat in response to incident photons. For example, the internal surface may be configured to absorb electromagnetic energy, such as in the form of visible light. The internal surface is configured to heat up when it receives incident photons. The internal surface is configured to provide heating of the fluid within the internal portion 125, for example, when it heats up by receiving incident photons. The accommodating portion 120 may be made of a metal such as steel. The receiving portion 120 is configured to retain fluid in the internal portion 125 under pressure.

[0041] The fluid inlet 12, the internal portion 125, and the fluid outlet 22 are arranged to define a flow path for fluid to flow through the internal portion 125 of the receiving portion 120. The internal portion 125 is arranged to receive the liquid to be heated through the fluid inlet 12. The unit 100 is arranged to heat the liquid in the internal portion 125 to provide heated fluid. The fluid outlet 22 is arranged to provide a flow path for the heated fluid to exit the internal portion 125.

[0042] First electrode 111 and second electrode 112 are configured to provide a current flow path through the internal portion 125 of unit 100. One of electrodes 111 and 112 can provide an anode, while the other can provide a cathode. For example, first electrode 111 can provide an anode for introducing current into the internal portion 125 of unit 100, while second electrode 112 can provide a cathode for carrying current away from the internal portion 125 of unit 100. First electrode 111 and second electrode 112 are spaced apart from each other. First electrode 111 is arranged to receive a voltage such that a potential difference exists between first electrode 111 and second electrode 112. First electrode 111 and second electrode 112 are arranged capacitively. The presence of fluid in the internal portion 125 can provide a conductive path between first electrode 111 and second electrode 112. The fluid will provide resistance between the two electrodes 111 and 112. First electrode 111 and second electrode 112 with fluid in unit 100 can effectively provide a circuit with capacitance and resistance. First electrode 111 and second electrode 112 are configured to provide voltage stress to the fluid and / or plasma within the internal portion 125.

[0043] During operation, the liquid supply system 10 supplies liquid through the fluid inlet 12, and this liquid is supplied to the internal portion 125 of the unit 100. In this example, the liquid will be water, but other liquids can be used. The liquid supply system 10 operates to supply water to the unit 100, causing the unit 100 to fill with water. Any gas previously present in the unit 100 can be forcibly expelled through the fluid outlet 22 of the unit 100. The unit 100 can then be substantially filled with water.

[0044] A voltage is applied to the first electrode 111 (anode). This will cause some current to flow into the water. Due to the resistance of the water, this current flow and resistance will cause some heating of the water (e.g., I). 2 (R heating). The resistance heating process continues as a voltage is applied to the first electrode 111. As the temperature of the water within the inner portion 125 rises, microbubbles of gas begin to form in the water within the inner portion 125. These microbubbles can be formed steam bubbles or released air bubbles that were originally present in the water supplied to the inner portion 125 of the unit 100. Therefore, some cavitation will form within the liquid in the inner portion 125 of the unit 100. With the continuous application of voltage to the first electrode 111, plasma bubbles will be generated within the inner portion 125 of the containment 120. These bubbles will release energy into the surrounding fluid and the inner surface of the containment 120. This, in turn, provides heating of the fluid within the inner portion 125.

[0045] Without being bound by theory, applying a voltage to the first electrode 111 will charge the capacitor provided by the first and second electrodes 112. As the fluid within the inner portion 125 heats up, the dielectric constant of the fluid may change, and this may change the capacitance of the unit 100 (e.g., between the first and second electrodes 111 and 112). For example, in the case of water, the dielectric constant of water will decrease as the water heats up (and the dielectric constant of water will also decrease when water becomes steam). In particular, when microbubbles of gas (e.g., steam) begin to form within the liquid in the inner portion 125, these microbubbles will provide a localized region with a lower dielectric constant. This process can effectively provide a reduction in the dielectric constant within the localized region. For example, in the case of water, the difference in dielectric constant between the bubbles formed in the water and the surrounding water can be approximately 40 times (e.g., the capacitance per unit volume of these bubbles can be 1 / 40th of the capacitance per unit volume of the surrounding water). During this process, the volumetric energy density of the fluid and / or plasma within the inner portion 125 will remain constant. As the dielectric constant within the bubble decreases, the capacitance in that region will decrease. When the volumetric energy density remains constant and the capacitance decreases, the voltage per meter will correspondingly increase (e.g., according to E = 1 / 2CV). 2(To conserve energy). For example, when using water, the voltage per meter will increase by approximately √40 times.

[0046] Without being bound by theory, while electrical energy is still applied to the first electrode 111, these gaseous microbubbles (with a density lower than the surrounding liquid) will attempt to expand rapidly around them. However, the surrounding liquid will resist this expansion, for example, due to the non-Newtonian properties of liquids under these conditions. This will cause the temperature and pressure of the microbubbles to increase rapidly. The capacitance of the microbubbles will then decrease further (e.g., causing an increase in dV / dr), resulting in a further increase in the voltage stress across the bubble. With sufficient voltage stress across the bubble, ionization may occur, leading to the formation of plasma within the bubble. Thus, one or more plasma bubbles may form in the liquid within the inner portion 125. The density of the plasma may be lower than that of the gas, so the plasma bubbles will further attempt to expand rapidly while the voltage is still applied to the first electrode 111. In particular, the process of generating such plasma bubbles will occur rapidly, so each plasma bubble will expand rapidly. This, in turn, will produce a non-Newtonian fluid response in the liquid within the inner portion 125 of unit 100. For example, in the case of water, the water will not immediately yield before the expanding plasma bubbles generate pressure waves. Therefore, the plasma bubble maintains a relatively fixed volume (e.g., the plasma bubble may only expand relatively slowly). While the plasma volume remains relatively constant, the temperature and pressure within the bubble rise rapidly in response to the voltage stress generated by the voltage applied to the first electrode 111.

[0047] In order to accommodate the high energy levels within the plasma bubble without being bound by theory, energy can be absorbed by the atoms (and molecules) within the bubble. Therefore, the energy levels (e.g., states) of these particles may increase. Within the plasma, atoms may move their electrons to higher electron energy levels, and / or the spin states of these particles may change. For example, the spin state of a hydrogen atom may transition from a lower-energy secondary state to a higher-energy normal state. Molecules may also move to higher rotational and / or vibrational energy levels, and / or these molecules may undergo further splitting. Thus, the atoms within each bubble will be at a disproportionately high energy level (e.g., compared to the fluid within the conventional fluid / internal section 125).

[0048] Without being bound by theory, plasmas may emit photons to adapt to the high energies within them. Electrons may move to lower-energy electronic states, and / or, for atoms / molecules, may transition to lower-energy vibrational / rotational / spin states. It is this return to lower-energy configurations that leads to photon emission (e.g., adapting to a decrease in energy level according to the Bohr model). This emission of photons can occur over a relatively large range. In the case of water, a significant portion of this photon emission occurs in the visible light spectrum.

[0049] The photons emitted from each plasma bubble are then absorbed by the fluid or containment 120 in the internal portion 125 of unit 100. In response to receiving such incident photons, the fluid and / or containment 120 will heat up upon absorption. The internal surface of containment 120 can absorb a significant amount of these photons, thereby increasing its temperature. As the internal surface of containment 120 heats up, it in turn provides conductive heating to the fluid within the internal portion 125. This can lead to convection, thereby increasing turbulence in the fluid within the internal portion 125 of unit 100. As a result of this process, the fluid within the internal portion 125 will heat up. A large portion of the liquid supplied to the internal portion 125 of unit 100 may then evaporate to provide a gas (e.g., vapor). It should be understood that, in the context of this disclosure, some of the fluid leaving unit 100 may have some unconventional or at least lower energy configuration compared to the liquid supplied to unit 100. This is a result of plasma generation and subsequent energy release occurring within unit 100.

[0050] The heated fluid then passes through fluid outlet 22. Typically, the heated fluid is in the form of steam (generated within the internal section), which is heated and discharged through fluid outlet 22. The heated fluid is then used in the power extraction system 20 to extract usable work from it. For example, the heated fluid can be used for power generation and / or heat distribution.

[0051] Now refer to Figure 2 To describe some other examples of this disclosure.

[0052] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the heating system 50 is shown. (Compared to...) Figure 1 Same, Figure 2 The heating system 50 includes a liquid supply system 10, a unit 100, and a power extraction system 20. Figure 2 These components of the heating system 50 and Figure 1 The components of the heating system are similar, for example, Figure 1 The heating system 50 has the following characteristics: Figure 2 The heating system 50 is used in combination with its features.

[0053] The liquid supply system 10 may further include a liquid reservoir 14, a heater 16, and a pump 18. Unit 100 includes a fluid inlet 12, a fluid outlet 14, and a receiving portion 120 defining an internal portion 125. Unit 100 includes a first electrode 111 and a second electrode 112. Furthermore, as... Figure 2 As shown, unit 100 may include a third electrode 113 and a resistive element 115. Unit 100 may include a plasma unit (e.g., a fuel unit for generating plasma).

[0054] The heating system 50 may also include a power supply 30 and a controller 40. Multiple sensors are indicated by black circles to illustrate the possible sensing capabilities of the system 50. The sensors shown include a power sensor 41, a fluid inlet sensor 42, a first electrode sensor 43, a second electrode sensor 44, a third electrode sensor 45, a fluid outlet sensor 46, and an internal sensor 47.

[0055] The liquid supply system 10 can connect the liquid reservoir 14 to the fluid inlet 12 of the unit 100. The liquid reservoir 14 can be connected via a pump 18 and / or a heater 16 (both in...). Figure 2 (As shown in the diagram) is connected to fluid inlet 12. Liquid supply system 10 is configured to supply liquid to the internal portion 125 of unit 100. The liquid supply system can draw liquid from a liquid source (such as...) Figure 2 The liquid reservoir 14 shown supplies liquid, or the liquid supply system may include a connector for supplying liquid (e.g., tap water supply).

[0056] The first electrode and the second electrode 112 can be referenced as above. Figure 1The first electrode 111 is arranged within the unit 100 as described. Furthermore, a third electrode 113 is also provided within the inner portion 125 of the unit 100. The third electrode 113 is optional and may or may not be included. When the third electrode is included, a first end of the third electrode 113 may be located outside the inner portion 125, and the third electrode 113 may extend from the first end to a second end located within the inner portion 125. The second end of the third electrode 113 may be located within the inner portion 125, close to the second end of the first electrode 111. The first electrode 111 and the third electrode 113 may be parallel (e.g., the first electrode and the third electrode may be coaxial). The second electrode 112 and the third electrode 113 may be parallel (e.g., coaxial). The first electrode 111 may extend from the outside of the first end of the receiving portion 120 toward the opposite end of the receiving portion 120 into the inner portion 125. The third electrode 113 may extend from the outside of the opposite end of the receiving portion 120 toward the first end into the inner portion 125. The first electrode 111 and the third electrode 113 may extend into the inner portion 125 such that there is no spatial overlap between these electrodes 111, 113 (e.g., the respective second ends of the first electrode and the third electrode do not contact / overlap). The second electrode 112 may extend along the length of the inner portion 125 from the first end or outside the first end to the opposite end or outside the opposite end. The distance between the second ends of the first electrode 111 and the second ends of the third electrode 113 may be less than the minimum distance between the first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112. The third electrode 113 may be located away from the intended current path between the first electrode and the second electrode 112.

[0057] Resistive element 115 may also be included in the inner portion 125. Resistive element 115 may also be cylindrical. Resistive element 115 may be arranged to increase the resistance of the conductive path between the first electrode 111 (anode) and the second electrode 112 (cathode). Resistive element 115 may extend around a large portion of the inner portion 125 (e.g., along the length and width of the inner portion to impede most of the possible conductive path from the anode to the cathode). Resistive element 115 may be located between the first electrode 111 / the third electrode and the second electrode 112. For example, resistive element 115 may be located radially outward from the first electrode 111 / the third electrode 113, but not radially outward beyond the second electrode 112. Resistive element 115 may extend along part or all of the length of the inner portion 125. Resistive element 115 may be arranged in the current flow path between the first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112, for example, such that current must flow through resistive element 115 to reach the second electrode 112 from the first electrode 111. The resistive element 115 may extend along one or both ends of the inner portion 125 (e.g., to reduce the possibility of a conductive path from the anode to the cathode that may not be via the resistive element 115).

[0058] Power source 30 may include a DC supply (e.g., an AC-to-DC converter for providing DC may be present). Power source 30 may be connected to one or more components of heating system 50. Figure 2 Several of these possible connections are shown in solid lines. For example, these connections may include some form of conductor to provide a conductive connection from power source 30 to the component. Power source 30 may be connected to any of the first electrode 111, and / or the second electrode 112 and the third electrode 113. Unit 100 may also include a heater, such as a resistance heater (e.g., a cylindrical heater). The power source may also be connected to the heater. Figure 2 As shown, power supply 30 can be connected to resistive element 115 (e.g., to provide resistance heating). However, it should be understood that the resistive element does not need to be connected to a power supply. Instead, a resistive element may be included solely to increase the resistance between the first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112.

[0059] The controller 40 can be connected to each of the sensors. The controller 40 can also be connected to one or more of the power supply 30, heater 16, and pump 18. Figure 2 These connections are shown with dashed lines. These connections can be wired or wireless.

[0060] The liquid supply system 10 is configured to supply liquid to the internal portion 125 of the unit 100. The controller 40 can be configured to control the operation of the liquid supply system 10. For example, the liquid supply system 10 can selectively heat (using heater 16) and / or pressurize (using pump 18) liquid from the liquid reservoir 14, which will be supplied to the internal portion 125 of the unit 100. The controller 40 can be configured to control the operation of the heater 16 and / or the pump 18 to control the temperature and / or pressure of the liquid supplied to the unit 100.

[0061] Power supply 30 can be configured to apply a voltage to the first electrode 111 (e.g., to provide the above reference). Figure 1 (As described in the operation). The power supply 30 can also be configured to apply voltage to the third electrode 113 (and / or, for example, the heater of unit 100). The power supply 30 can also be coupled to the second electrode 112 to receive current carried away therefrom. The power supply 30 can be configured to selectively apply voltage, for example, using a high-voltage DC. The controller 40 can be configured to control the operation of the power supply 30. For example, the controller 40 can be configured to control at least one of the following: the magnitude of the voltage applied by the power supply 30, the duration of the applied voltage, and / or the component to which the voltage is applied.

[0062] The third electrode 113 can be active or passive. When the third electrode is active, a voltage is applied to the third electrode 113. When the third electrode is passive, the third electrode 113 can be conductive to receive current within the internal portion 125 but not power from the power source 30. The third electrode 113 can be configured to provide a balancing electrode (e.g., the third electrode can be arranged to balance the electric field / current generated within the internal portion 125). The controller 40 can be configured to control the operation of the power source 30 to selectively control whether (and / or how much) a voltage is applied to the third electrode 113.

[0063] Resistive element 115 can be configured to have relatively high resistance (e.g., compared to the resistance of the electrodes and / or fluid within internal portion 125). Resistive element 115 can have sufficient resistance to effectively provide electrical insulation (between the anode and cathode).

[0064] In the example, the unit includes a heater configured to provide heating in response to an applied voltage, such as providing a resistor (I0). 2R) Heating. The heater may be an area of ​​the housing or a separate component configured to provide resistance heating (e.g., the heater may be integrated into a part of the housing, such as an end cover). The heater may be arranged to provide heating of the fluid in the internal portion 125 and / or the housing 120 in response to the application of voltage to the heater. The controller 40 may be configured to control the operation of the power supply 30 to selectively control whether voltage is applied to the heater (and / or how much voltage is applied to the heater). In some examples, the heater may be provided by a resistive element 115.

[0065] The controller 40 can be configured to receive a signal indicating at least one operating parameter for the operation of the unit 100. The controller 40 can be configured to control the operation of the heating system 50 based on the received signal. For example, the controller 40 can be configured to control the operation of at least one of the heater 16, pump 18, and / or power supply 30 based on the received signal. The controller 40 can be configured to control the heat and / or pressure of the liquid supplied to the internal portion 125. The controller 40 can be configured to control whether voltage is applied to one or more of the first electrode 111, third electrode 113, and / or heater, and / or how much voltage is applied to one or more of the first electrode, third electrode, and / or heater. In other words, the controller 40 can be configured to control the liquid supply to the internal portion 125 of the unit 100 and / or the electrical energy applied by the electrodes of the unit 100.

[0066] The controller 40 can be configured to control operation based on at least one received signal of one or more operating parameters of the indicating unit 100. Signals can be received from one or more sensors. It should be understood that the exact nature of the received signals and / or the sensors receiving the signals are not considered limiting. Figure 2 An exemplary sensor is shown, which can provide information indicating one or more operating parameters of system 50.

[0067] Power sensor 41 may be configured to provide an indication of operation of power supply 30. Power sensor 41 may be configured to provide an indication of the magnitude of applied power (e.g., voltage), and / or the power sensor may provide any relevant feedback regarding the signal applied by power supply 30. For example, power sensor 41 may be configured to provide an indication of any chatter associated with the voltage applied by power supply 30 (e.g., provided to a first sensor). Fluid inlet sensor 42 may be configured to provide an indication of at least one characteristic of the liquid to be supplied to internal portion 125. For example, this may include an indication of the pressure and / or temperature of the liquid to be supplied. As another example, fluid inlet sensor 42 may be configured to provide an indication of one or more chemical characteristics of the liquid to be supplied to internal portion 125 (e.g., an indication of the chemical composition of the liquid, such as the percentage of impurities / additives, etc.). Fluid outlet sensor 46 may be similar to fluid inlet sensor 42. For example, fluid outlet sensor 46 may be configured to provide an indication of the temperature, pressure, and / or chemical composition of the fluid output from unit 100. The fluid outlet sensor 46 can be configured to provide an indication of any relevant energy configuration changes in the fluid leaving the unit 100 (e.g., whether any additional composition is present).

[0068] The first electrode sensor 43, the second electrode sensor 44, and the third electrode sensor 45 can be configured to provide an indication of one or more characteristics of the associated electrical energy present at the electrode. The sensors can provide an indication of the voltage and / or current present at the associated electrode. For example, the electrode sensors can be configured to provide an indication of how the current and / or voltage at said electrode changes over time (e.g., providing an indication of the time derivative of the current / voltage).

[0069] The internal portion sensor 47 is configured to provide an indication of conditions within the internal portion 125 of the unit 100. The internal portion sensor 47 may be located within the internal portion 125 of the accommodating portion 120; for example, the internal portion sensor may be attached to the inner wall of the accommodating portion 120 (e.g., ...). Figure 2(As shown). Alternatively, the internal portion sensor 47 may be located outside the external portion, but configured to provide some indication of conditions within the internal portion 125. The internal portion sensor 47 may be configured to provide an indication of the fluid flow dynamics within the internal portion 125, for example, providing an indication of the presence of any turbulence and / or how turbulent the flow is. This may include the use of a flow meter, microphone, or any other suitable sensor. The internal portion sensor 47 may be configured to provide an indication of the electromagnetic energy present within the internal portion 125 (e.g., an indication of the amount and / or type of electromagnetic radiation occurring). For example, the internal portion sensor 47 may include a suitable antenna to detect the presence of such electromagnetic energy / radiation, and / or the internal portion sensor may include some form of camera (e.g., as part of an optical fiber) configured to obtain an indication of the light present in unit 100. The internal portion sensor 47 may be configured to provide an indication of the state of activity occurring within unit 100.

[0070] During operation, Figure 2 The heating system 50 is in accordance with the above reference. Figure 1 The heating system 50 described operates in a substantially similar manner. That is, the power source 30 applies electrical energy (e.g., voltage) to the first electrode 111 to heat the fluid in the internal portion 125. This heating is caused by resistance heating and heating by incident light emitted from bubbles of plasma within the internal portion 125. Furthermore, capacitors can be provided between the first and third electrodes 113, and / or between the second and third electrodes 113. This can provide a balancing effect for the electric field within the internal portion 125 of the unit 100. If the third electrode is configured as a floating electrode (e.g., in a passive state), and if a voltage is applied to the third electrode 113 (e.g., in an active state), the third electrode 113 can provide a balancing effect.

[0071] Furthermore, the controller 40 can be configured to control the operation of the heating system 50 based on any one of a plurality of different control loops. Each control loop can provide a feedback loop in which data on the operating parameters of the indicating unit 100 (e.g., from a sensor) is obtained, and the controller 40 controls the operation of the components of the heating system 50 based on the obtained data. The data can be obtained from any suitable sensor (e.g., Figure 2 (Any of the sensors shown and described above) is obtained. Controller 40 can control the operation of any suitable component of heating system 50, such as controlling the supply of liquid to the internal portion 125 of unit 100 (e.g., controlling heater 16 or pump 18), and / or controlling the electrical energy applied by one or more of the electrodes (e.g., controlling the power supplied by power source 30).

[0072] Four exemplary control loops will now be discussed. In the first example, the operation of unit 100 will be described in a "normal" mode, in which at least one characteristic is monitored and / or adjusted to provide improved operating efficiency of unit 100. In the second and third examples, the operation of unit 100 will be described for increasing and decreasing the output of unit 100, respectively. In the fourth example, the operation of unit 100 when it is in "startup" mode will be described.

[0073] In the first example, the operation of the heating system 50 is controlled in a normal, continuous operation mode. Here, the controller 40 is configured to receive signals indicating the operating parameters of the unit 100, and the controller 40 is configured to control the operation of the system 50 such that the operating parameters remain within the desired range of the performance of the unit 100. The unit 100 is designed to provide heated fluid as its output. Therefore, the operating parameters can provide an indication of the output of the unit 100. For example, the operating parameters can provide an indication of how effectively the unit 100 performs and / or an indication of the amount of heat generated by the unit 100 (e.g., the operating parameters can provide an indication of the amount / temperature of heated fluid generated by the unit 100 per unit time). It should be understood that, in the context of this disclosure, the unit performance itself does not need to be determined, but rather the controller 40 can control the operation of the unit 100 based on indications of the unit performance.

[0074] The controller 40 can be configured to receive indications of unit performance. Indications of unit performance can provide an indication of the operating status of unit 100. This may include an indication of the amount / temperature of the heated fluid generated by unit 100 and / or an indication of the mass of plasma generated within unit 100. The indication may be based on the temperature and / or pressure of the heated fluid generated by unit 100 (e.g., the indication may be an indication of said temperature and / or pressure). For example, such an indication can be obtained using a fluid outlet sensor 46. The indication may be based on the temperature / pressure of the liquid supplied to unit 100 (e.g., sensed by fluid inlet sensor 42) and the temperature / pressure of the heated fluid leaving unit 100 (e.g., sensed by fluid outlet sensor 46). The indication may be based on the amount of heating provided by unit 100 (e.g., the difference between inlet and outlet temperatures) and / or the heating rate provided by unit 100.

[0075] As an example, controller 40 can be configured to receive a signal indicating the temperature of the heated fluid leaving unit 100. If the heated fluid is outside a selected range (e.g., above an upper threshold temperature and / or below a lower threshold temperature), controller 40 can control the operation of heating system 50 to appropriately increase / decrease the temperature so that the outlet temperature returns to the selected range. This may also include controller 40 determining whether the liquid supplied to unit 100 is heated beyond a threshold amount and / or within a threshold time period. Controller 40 can control the operation of heating system 50 such that sufficient heating occurs and / or heating occurs sufficiently quickly.

[0076] In addition to receiving direct indications of the temperature / pressure of the heated fluid leaving unit 100, or alternatively, controller 40 may receive signals indicating unit performance. For example, controller 40 may receive signals indicating the amount and / or quality of plasma generated within unit 100. Controller 40 may control the operation of heating system 50 such that the amount and / or quality of plasma generated is within a selected range. This can then be used to control unit 100 to generate heated fluid, since the generation of plasma within unit 100 ultimately results in the heating of fluid within unit 100.

[0077] The controller 40 can be configured to obtain an indication of the characteristics of plasma generation within the unit 100 based on signals received from sensors. The indication of plasma generation characteristics can be determined based on temperature and / or pressure data of the fluid entering and / or leaving the unit 100. The amount of plasma generation can be determined based on the amount of heat generated and / or the rate at which the fluid is heated. For example, faster / more heating may indicate more plasma generation. The controller 40 can be configured to determine that plasma generation is within a selected range if the amount and / or rate of heating of the unit 100 is within a selected range.

[0078] The amount of plasma generated can be determined based on indications of conditions within the internal portion 125 of the containment 120 (e.g., using internal portion sensor 47). Indications of turbulent movement of fluid within the internal portion 125 may indicate increased plasma generation (e.g., due to increased conductive heating provided by the internal portion of the containment 120, leading to convection). Alternatively or additionally, indications of the presence of more electromagnetic energy (e.g., more light is visible / more electromagnetic waves are detected) may indicate increased plasma generation. The controller 40 can be configured to determine that plasma generation is within a selected range if the amount of turbulence and / or electromagnetic energy / emission is within a selected range.

[0079] The amount of plasma generated can be determined based on indications of current and / or voltage at one of the electrodes. For example, controller 40 can obtain indications of a voltage applied to first electrode 111 and an indication of the generated current passing through first electrode 111 (e.g., using first electrode sensor 43). Controller 40 can be configured to monitor voltage and current data over time and determine, based on this data, when satisfactory plasma generation has occurred. For example, controller 40 can control power supply 30 to increase the voltage applied to first electrode 111 over time, and the controller can monitor the generated current. As the voltage increases, the current initially increases as the voltage continues to increase, then remains relatively stable. Once a threshold voltage is reached, the current will begin to increase, and the rate of increase will increase with the voltage. Controller 40 can be configured to detect that satisfactory plasma generation has occurred in the region where the current begins to increase again. For example, controller 40 can be configured to determine that satisfactory plasma generation has occurred once the current begins to rise again. Then, controller 40 can control power supply 30 to stop increasing the voltage applied to first electrode 111.

[0080] The amount of plasma generated can be determined based on an indication of flutter provided to the power supply 30 in response to the application of a voltage to the first electrode 111. For example, this can provide an indication of plasma generation occurring in the fuel, such as when flutter occurs due to plasma generation. The controller 40 can be configured to determine that plasma generation is within a selected range if the detected flutter is within a selected range.

[0081] The above example describes the operating parameters of unit 100. Controller 40 can be configured to determine and / or receive signals indicating the operating parameters of the unit. Based on the indication of any of these operating parameters, controller 40 can be configured to control the operation of heating system 50. If the obtained indication is outside a selected range (e.g., above an upper threshold and / or below a lower threshold), controller 40 can control the operation of system 50 such that the value of the parameter is within the selected range. To this end, controller 40 can control the electrical energy supplied to the liquid in unit 100 and / or applied to the fluid within unit 100.

[0082] The controller 40 can be configured to control the liquid supplied to the unit 100 such that at least one operating parameter is within a selected range. Controlling the liquid supply may include at least one of the following: (i) controlling the temperature of the liquid supplied to the internal portion 125 of the unit 100, (ii) controlling the pressure of the liquid supplied to the internal portion 125 of the unit 100, and / or (iii) controlling the amount of liquid supplied to the internal portion 125 of the unit 100 within a selected time window. The controller 40 can be configured to control the operation of the heater 16 and / or the pump 18 to control the temperature and / or pressure of the liquid supplied to the unit 100. The fluid inlet 12 may include a single orifice for receiving liquid, or the fluid inlet may include multiple orifices, for example, to provide multiple entry points for liquid to flow into the unit. The controller 40 can be configured to control the operation of the pump 18 to control the flow rate of fluid through the unit 100, for example, controlling how much fluid is delivered to the unit 100 per unit time. The liquid supply system 10 can be configured to provide a continuous flow of liquid to the unit 100, and the controller 40 can control the rate at which the liquid is supplied to the unit 100.

[0083] When operating parameters indicate that the unit requires increased output (e.g., unit 100 needs to provide more fluid heating), controller 40 can control liquid supply system 10 to provide at least one of the following: (i) liquid supplied to unit 100 at a higher temperature, (ii) liquid supplied to unit 100 at a higher pressure, and / or (iii) more liquid supplied to unit 100. For example, if operating parameters indicate that plasma generation is below a threshold, the controller can increase the heat and / or pressure supplied to unit 100.

[0084] The controller 40 can be configured to control the electrical energy applied to the electrodes of the unit 100 such that at least one operating parameter is within a selected range. This may include at least one of the following: (i) controlling the amount of time for which a voltage is applied to the first electrode 111, (ii) controlling the voltage applied to the first electrode 111, (iii) controlling the voltage applied to the second electrode 112, and / or (iv) controlling the voltage applied to the heater. The controller 40 may control the power supply 30 to increase the applied energy if the operating parameters indicate that temperature generation needs to be increased and / or plasma generation is below a threshold. For example, if plasma and / or heat generation is below a threshold, the controller 40 may apply a voltage (or apply a larger voltage) to the heater and / or the first electrode 111.

[0085] The controller 40 can be configured to control both the electrical energy applied to the electrodes of unit 100 and the liquid supply to unit 100 (e.g., both can be controlled simultaneously). The controller 40 can control one of the two based on how the controller controls the other. For example, the controller 40 can select how to control the electrical energy applied to the electrodes of unit 100 (and / or vice versa) based on how the controller will control the liquid supply to unit 100. If the controller 40 determines that increased plasma generation is needed, the controller 40 can increase the voltage applied to the heater and / or the first electrode 111, and increase the temperature and / or pressure of the water to be supplied to unit 100. If the controller 40 determines that increased generation of heated fluid is needed, the controller 40 can increase the voltage applied to the electrodes and / or the heater, and increase the amount of liquid supplied to unit 100.

[0086] In the second and third examples, controller 40 is configured to receive a demand signal indicating a need for output from unit 100. The demand signal may indicate a need for more or less output from unit 100. For example, the demand may be independent of the efficiency of unit 100, which may operate within threshold ranges of relevant operating parameters, but the demand signal may indicate that the output needs to be changed (e.g., increased or decreased).

[0087] When a demand signal indicates a need for less output, controller 40 is configured to control the liquid supplied to unit 100 and the electrical energy applied to the electrodes of unit 100. When demand decreases, controller 40 reduces the liquid supply to unit 100. For example, controller 40 may reduce the fluid flow rate through unit 100. The liquid may still be supplied to unit 100 at the same or similar temperature and / or pressure. Controller 40 may reduce the electrical energy applied. For example, controller 40 may reduce the voltage applied to the first electrode 111. Controller 40 may still apply the same or similar voltage to the third electrode 113 and / or the heater. Controller 40 may still control operation as described above, such that plasma generation remains within a selected range despite the reduced total output.

[0088] When a demand signal indicates a need for more output, controller 40 can control operation in the opposite manner. Controller 40 can increase the rate of liquid supply to unit 100 and the amount of electrical energy applied to the electrodes of unit 100. Controller 40 can be configured to control the operation of control unit 100 to prevent the flow rate of liquid through unit 100 from exceeding a plasma generation threshold amount at which the flow rate is too high to produce sufficient plasma. Controller 40 can still control operation as described above, such that despite the increase in total output, plasma generation remains within a selected range.

[0089] In the fourth example, controller 40 is configured to control the operation of system 50 in startup mode. For example, when unit 100 is first turned on, the unit may need some time to operate at high efficiency. In particular, the housing 120 of unit 100 may be colder than during use. Controller 40 may be configured to determine the startup operating conditions to be used. For example, controller 40 may obtain indications of the temperature of relevant components of system 50 (e.g., housing 120) to determine whether system 50 should operate in startup mode, and / or controller 40 may determine the startup mode to be used based on indications of previous use (e.g., system 50 has not been used recently).

[0090] In startup mode, controller 40 is configured to control the operation of control unit 100 to provide additional heating. Controller 40 may increase the voltage applied to the first electrode 111 to provide additional resistance heating. Additionally or alternatively, controller 40 may apply voltage to the heater to provide, for example, resistance heating. For example, controller 40 may control operation such that a greater voltage is applied to the heater when in startup mode than during normal operation (e.g., no voltage can be applied to the heater during normal operation). For example, controller 40 may be configured to control the operation of the heater to provide more heating during startup (e.g., more heating energy can be used). Controller 40 may also control the operation of additional heaters (such as cylinder heaters) to provide heating for unit 100 / internal portion 125. Controller 40 may control the supply of liquid to unit 100 such that, in startup mode, the liquid supplied to unit 100 is at a higher temperature and / or pressure, and / or the flow rate of fluid through unit 100 is lower. When in startup mode, controller 40 may control the electrical energy applied to the electrodes and / or heaters to be higher.

[0091] Controller 40 can be configured to monitor at least one operating parameter of unit 100 to determine when to exit the startup mode. For example, when an indication is received that the temperature associated with unit 100 remains below a threshold temperature value, controller 40 can control the operation of system 50 to be in startup mode. Once the temperature exceeds the threshold temperature value, controller 40 can control the operation of system 50 to operate under normal mode operating conditions. For example, in normal mode, less liquid preheating may occur. Controller 40 can be configured to determine that sufficient plasma generation is occurring (e.g., as described above) and, in response, switch to normal mode of operation.

[0092] Now refer to Figure 3 Another exemplary unit 100 is described. Figure 3 Unit 100 corresponds very closely to the unit described previously, so the relevant components will not be described again.

[0093] Figure 3 Unit 100 is shown. Unit 100 includes a first electrode 111, a second electrode 112, a third electrode 113, and a resistive element 115. Unit 100 also includes a receiving portion 120 defining an internal portion 125, and the receiving portion having a fluid inlet 12 and a fluid outlet 22. Unit 100 also includes a first end cover 122, a second end cover 124, and a compression device 126. Unit 100 may include a plasma unit (e.g., a fuel unit for generating plasma).

[0094] An internal portion 125 extends from a first end of a receiving portion 120 to a second end of the receiving portion 120, the first end of which includes a fluid inlet 12 and the second end of which includes a fluid outlet 22. The internal portion 125 may be cylindrical. In addition to defining the fluid inlet 12 and the fluid outlet 22, the receiving portion 120 also encapsulates the internal portion 125. In this example, a resistive element 115 is located near the inner wall of the receiving portion 120, although in other examples, the resistive element 115 may be integral with the inner wall or separate from the wall and located inside the internal portion 125. A first end cap 122 and a second end cap 124 may also form part of the resistive element 115, for example, the first end cap and the second end cap also provide increased resistance for the conductive path from the anode to the cathode. A second electrode 112 is disposed within the inner wall of the receiving portion 120 (e.g., integral with the inner wall of the receiving portion). A first electrode and a third electrode 113 are at least partially disposed within the internal portion 125. The first electrode 111 extends from the outside of the first end into the inner portion 125. The third electrode 113 extends from the outside of the second end into the inner portion 125. A gap exists between the two in the inner portion 125. The three electrodes and the resistive element 115 may be coaxial (e.g., they may be concentric).

[0095] A first end cap 122 closes the inner portion 125 at a first end. A second end cap 124 closes the inner portion 125 at a second end. End caps 122 and 124 form part of a receiving portion 120 for the inner portion 125. The first end cap 122 is non-conductive. The second end cap 124 is non-conductive. Each end cap can effectively form part of a barrier layer for a conductive path from the anode to the cathode (e.g., the end cap can form part of a resistive element 115 or can operate in combination with a resistive element). Each end cap 122 and 124 includes one or more orifices to allow fluid to flow through them. One or both end caps may have orifices near the center of the end cap. For example, the orifice in the first end cap 122 may be located near the first electrode 111. The one or more orifices may be arranged to facilitate liquid inflow into the inner portion 125 while inhibiting the possibility of a conductive path from the anode to the cathode forming through the one or more orifices. The first end cap 122 may have multiple orifices to allow liquid to flow into the inner portion 125 through multiple different points. Compression device 126 is located within the first end of receiving portion 120, adjacent to the first end cover 122. Compression device 126 may include any suitable biasing device, such as a spring. Each end of receiving portion 120 may have a thicker material, such as… Figure 3 As shown. At least one portion of the receiving part 120 can be connected to electrical ground. Figure 3 As shown, the first end of the receiving portion 120 is grounded. One or both end covers may include a heating element (e.g., a resistance heater) that can be used to heat the liquid within the inner portion 125 (e.g., during startup). For example, a power supply 30 may be connected to a heater in the end cover (e.g., the first end cover 122). A controller 40 may be configured to control the application of power to the heater in the end cover to provide heating.

[0096] The first electrode 111 may include a conductor extending along the length of the electrode. The conductor may be disposed within an insulator to provide the electrode. An insulating shield may be provided for at least some regions of the electrode within the inner portion 125 (e.g., the insulating shield may be disposed at the end of the first electrode 111 disposed within the inner portion 125). For example, the electrode may have a conductor extending along a central axis, wherein the insulator radially surrounds the conductor along its length within the inner portion 125 (e.g., along its entire length). The first electrode 111 may also include a carrier at its end remote from the inner portion 125. The carrier may include suitable fixing means (such as a ledge) for attachment to the first end cap 122. The carrier may include sealing and attachment means for attaching the first electrode 111 to the first end cap 122 and sealing the inner portion 125. For example, a radially extending flange may provide a sealing surface. For example, threads may secure the end cap 122 to the electrode to seal the inner portion 125. A similar arrangement can be provided for the third electrode 113, such as the arrangement of the third electrode with the second end cover 124.

[0097] The compression device 126 is configured to apply pressure toward the inner portion 125 of the accommodating portion 120 onto the first end cover 122. The compression device 126 can help maintain the inner portion 125 of the accommodating portion 120 under pressure. The accommodating portion 120 is arranged such that liquid can flow into the inner portion 125 through the fluid inlet 12, and that vapor / liquid can flow out through the fluid outlet 22. The accommodating portion 120 is arranged to provide structural support so that the inner portion 125 can be maintained under pressure even when fluid is present within it. For example, one or more sidewalls of the accommodating portion 120 are arranged to withstand radial expansion of the inner portion 125, and the end wall of the accommodating portion 120 is arranged to withstand longitudinal expansion of the inner portion 125. The operation of unit 100 is as described above. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The operation of the described units is similar, so it will not be described again here.

[0098] The heating system described in this article can be used in larger power generation systems. References will now be made to... Figure 4 and Figure 5 To illustrate this larger power generation system.

[0099] Figure 4 A heating and power generation system 1000 is shown. The heating and power generation system 1000 includes a power management system 200, a unit 100, a thermal management system 300, a fluid management system 400, and a power generation system 500. Figure 4 A power transmission line connector 220 is also shown. Unit 100 may include a plasma unit (e.g., a fuel unit for generating plasma).

[0100] Figure 4 A block diagram illustrating the functional interrelationships between the different component systems of the heating and power generation system 1000 is shown. However, it should be understood that this is intended to demonstrate functional connections, not specific structural connections. It should be understood that the structural arrangements of the different component systems may be interconnected (e.g., as will be referred to later). Figure 5 (Described).

[0101] like Figure 4 As shown, the power management system 200 is connected to unit 100. Unit 100 is connected to the thermal management system 300. The thermal management system 300 is connected to each of the power generation system 500 and the fluid management system 400. The fluid management system 400 is connected to unit 100. The power generation system 500 is connected to the power management system 200. This connection is intended to demonstrate the functional interrelationships between the different component systems. The power management system 200 can also be connected to the transmission line connector 220 (e.g., as shown in the diagram). Figure 4 (As shown).

[0102] The power management system 200 is configured to control the application of power to the unit 100. The power management system 200 can control the electrical energy (e.g., voltage) applied to the first electrode 111 of the unit 100. The power management system 200 can also control the electrical energy (e.g., voltage) applied to the remaining electrodes and / or heaters of the unit 100. The power management system 200 can also control the operation of any pump 18 and / or heater 16 for supplying liquid to the unit 100 under pressure and / or at a higher temperature. Therefore, the power management system 200 can control the operation of the unit 100 to generate heated fluid.

[0103] Unit 100 is configured to operate as described above (e.g., to apply electrical energy within the internal portion 125 of the unit to generate heated fluid).

[0104] The thermal management system 300 is configured to receive heated fluid generated by unit 100. The thermal management system 300 is configured to utilize the heated fluid to provide associated thermal work. For example, the thermal management system 300 may be configured to use the heated fluid to provide heating, such as for heating a building. The thermal management system 300 may include one or more components for providing heat transfer from the heated fluid from unit 100 to another component and / or substance. For example, the thermal management system 300 may include one or more heat exchangers.

[0105] The power generation system 500 is configured to receive heated fluid generated by unit 100. The power generation system 500 is configured to use the heated fluid to generate electricity (e.g., electrical energy). Figure 4The output of unit 100 is shown to be provided to thermal management system 300 and from thermal management system 300 to power generation system 500. However, it should be understood that, within the context of this disclosure, one of these systems may not be included, or both systems may be provided by the same components. Power generation system 500 may include one or more generators to generate electricity based on the movement of heated fluid (e.g., using pressurized gas to drive a turbine to generate electricity). This arrangement may also include thermal management components (e.g., distributing heat to other parts of power generation system 500). In some examples, the heated fluid may be used for both heating and power generation purposes. Thermal management system 300 may then control the distribution of heated fluid accordingly (e.g., controlling the distribution of heated fluid to power generation system 500). For example, the power extraction system 20 described above may include such thermal management system 300 and / or power generation system 500.

[0106] The power generated by the power generation system 500 can then be supplied to the power management system 200. For example, the power generated by the power generation system 500 can then be used by the power management system 200 to supply power to unit 100 for further power generation. The power management system 200 can also be connected to the transmission line connector 220 to receive power and / or transmit power to the transmission line. For example, during startup, the power management system 200 can receive all of its power from the transmission line, but after startup, at least some of the power can be received from the power generation system 500. After startup, some of the power generated by the power generation system 500 can be supplied to the transmission line connector 220 for distribution elsewhere.

[0107] The fluid management system 400 is configured to supply liquid (e.g., as described above for the liquid supply system 10) to unit 100. The fluid management system 400 is configured to receive fluid that has already been output from unit 100. The fluid management system 400 may be configured to process fluid heated by unit 100 and already used by a thermal management system and / or a power generation system. The heated fluid generated by unit 100 may be at high temperature and / or high pressure. The thermal management system and / or power generation system is configured to extract usable work from this high-temperature / high-pressure fluid. Once usable work has been extracted, the fluid may be at a much lower temperature and pressure. For example, the fluid may leave unit 100 as a high-temperature, high-pressure gas, and once fully utilized for work extraction, the fluid may become liquid again (e.g., at a lower temperature). The fluid management system 400 is configured to process the used fluid. Processing the used fluid may include returning the used fluid to the environment and / or treating (e.g., filtering) the fluid, for example, so that the used fluid can be reused as liquid to be supplied to unit 100.

[0108] During operation, the power management system 200 receives electricity (e.g., from the transmission line connector 220 and / or the power generation system 500). The power management system 200 applies electrical energy to unit 100 (e.g., to the first electrode 111). The fluid management system 400 supplies liquid to unit 100. The electrical energy applied to unit 100 is used to heat the liquid supplied to unit 100, causing unit 100 to output heated fluid. This heated fluid is received by the thermal management system 300 and / or the power management system 200, which extracts usable work from the heated fluid (e.g., for heating and / or power generation). Once this work is extracted, any electricity generated by the power generation system 500 is supplied to the power management system 200. Used fluid is supplied to the fluid management system, which processes the used fluid. This process can be repeated (e.g., continuously) to provide heat and / or generate electricity.

[0109] Now refer to Figure 5 A more specific example of the heating and power generation system 1000 is described.

[0110] Figure 5 A heating and power generation system 1000 is shown. The heating and power generation system 1000 includes a unit 100. The system also includes a power source 30, a pump 18, and a drain pipe 15. The system 1000 includes multiple heat exchangers, such as... Figure 5 As shown, the multiple heat exchangers include a first heat exchanger 301, a second heat exchanger 302, a third heat exchanger 303, and a fourth heat exchanger 304. The system 1000 also includes a thermal engine 510 and a generator 520, the thermal engine having a first drive region 511 and a second drive region 512. Unit 100 may include a plasma unit (e.g., a fuel unit for generating plasma).

[0111] Unit 100 is connected to receive two inputs (liquid and electrical) and provide one output (heated fluid). The inputs of unit 100 are shown at the bottom and right side of unit 100, and the output of the unit is shown at the top of the unit.

[0112] The output of unit 100 is connected to each of the first heat exchanger 301 and the thermal engine 510. The flow path for the output can be divided into two paths, one connected to the first heat exchanger 301 and the other connected to the thermal engine 510. Specifically, the output from unit 100 is connected to a first drive region 511 of the thermal engine 510. The thermal engine 510 has a first engine inlet for receiving fluid to drive the engine 510 in the first drive region 511. The first drive region 511 is also connected to a first engine outlet for discharging the fluid that has driven the engine 510 in the first drive region 511. The first engine outlet is also connected to the first heat exchanger 301.

[0113] Engine 510 also includes a second engine inlet and a second engine outlet. The second engine inlet receives fluid to drive engine 510 in the second drive region 512. The second engine outlet discharges the fluid that has driven engine 510 in the second drive region 512. The second engine inlet is also connected to a first heat exchanger 301. For example, fluid can flow from the first engine outlet to the second engine inlet through the first heat exchanger 301. Engine 510 is connected to a generator. Each of the first drive region 511 and the second drive region 512 of engine 510 can be connected to the generator. The first drive region 511 and the second drive region 512 can drive engine 510 at different ratios. Both contribute to driving the generator, thereby generating electricity.

[0114] The first heat exchanger 301 may be connected to the second heat exchanger 302. The system 1000 may be configured to allow heated fluid from unit 100 to flow through the first heat exchanger 301 and to the second heat exchanger 302. The second heat exchanger 302 may also be connected to a third heat exchanger 303 and / or a fourth heat exchanger 304.

[0115] Power source 30 is connected to unit 100. Power source 30 provides input to the fuel supply (e.g., provides electrical energy to the electrodes of unit 100). Power source 30 may include a connector for receiving power from a transmission line (e.g., power source 30 may receive three-phase power). Power source 30 may include a converter (e.g., AC to DC) for providing a DC output, such as a high-voltage DC output. The high-voltage DC output can then be supplied to unit 100, for example, to be applied to the first electrode 111. Power source 30 may also be connected to a generator to receive power generated by the generator. Power source 30 can receive either AC or DC from the generator. If AC is received, it can be converted to DC (e.g., using the same or a different AC to DC converter). Some of the power generated by the generator can be supplied to the transmission line, for example, for other purposes.

[0116] A third heat exchanger 303 and / or pump 18 may be connected to the input of unit 100. The third heat exchanger 303 and / or pump 18 can be used to heat and / or pressurize the liquid to be supplied to unit 100. This provides a liquid input to unit 100 for generating the heated fluid. The heated fluid output from unit 100 is ultimately connected to drain pipe 15. For example, fluid that has passed through the two regions 511, 512 of engine 510 can be supplied to drain pipe 15. Similarly, fluid that has passed through any of the heat exchangers (e.g., second heat exchanger 302, third heat exchanger 303, and / or fourth heat exchanger 304) can then be connected to drain pipe 15.

[0117] System 1000 is arranged to provide multiple uses for the heated fluid generated by unit 100, such as extracting work from the heated fluid in various ways. System 1000 is configured to provide a high-temperature, high-pressure fluid output from unit 100 to drive a first drive region 511 of engine 510. A generator is configured to generate electricity through this drive of the first drive region 511. A first heat exchanger 301 is configured to reheat the fluid that has already driven the first drive region 511 of engine 510. The first heat exchanger 301 is arranged to exchange heat between the heated fluid from unit 100 and the fluid that has already driven the first drive region 511 of engine 510. System 1000 is configured to use the reheated fluid that has already driven the first drive region 511 of engine 510 to drive a second drive region 512 of engine 510. Compared to the first drive region 511, the second drive region 512 of engine 510 is configured to have a simpler ratio (e.g., requiring less energy to drive rotation). The fluid passing through the second drive region 512 can be at a lower pressure than that in the first drive region 511. The generator is configured to generate electricity in response to the drive of the first drive region 511 and / or the second drive region 512 of the engine 510.

[0118] System 1000 is arranged to provide further heating for heated fluid that has passed through the first heat exchanger 301 and / or has flowed out of the second engine outlet, where applicable. For example, system 1000 may be arranged to deliver the heated fluid to one or more of the second heat exchanger 302, the third heat exchanger 303, and / or the fourth heat exchanger 304 to extract usable heating work from the heated fluid. Any of these heat exchangers 302, 303, and 304 may be coupled to an external component for using this heat. System 1000 may be configured to exchange heat between the heated fluid and the liquid to be supplied to unit 100, thereby heating the liquid before it is delivered to unit 100. System 1000 is arranged to drain any remaining fluid using drain pipe 15.

[0119] During operation, liquid is supplied to unit 100, and electrical energy is applied to the electrodes of unit 100 to generate heated fluid. The heated fluid leaves unit 100 and flows to a first heat exchanger 301 and a first drive region 511 of engine 510. The heated fluid flows through the first drive region 511 to drive engine 510 and generator to generate electricity. The fluid then flows into the first heat exchanger 301, where it is reheated by the heated fluid that traveled directly from unit 100 (e.g., without via engine 510) to the first heat exchanger 301. The fluid that has traveled through engine 510 is then reheated before flowing through a second engine drive region. The fluid then drives engine 510 and generator to generate electricity. The fluid that has passed through the second drive region 512 of engine 510 and / or has moved away from engine 510 and passed through the first heat exchanger 301 is then used in other heat exchangers 302, 303, 304 to extract more usable heat work from the fluid. Then drain the fluid using drain pipe 15.

[0120] It should be understood that, within the context of this disclosure, the examples described herein are not intended to be limiting. Alternative and / or additional features may also be included. For example, reference has been made to concentric electrodes, such as those arranged coaxially with a central first electrode 111 and a second electrode 112 located radially outward of the first electrode 111. However, this arrangement may be reversed. Alternatively, the electrodes do not need to be arranged concentrically. For example, the two electrodes may be arranged in another manner, such as as plate-like electrodes, such as two parallel plates, or as parallel lines or other parallel objects, such as spheres.

[0121] The electrodes of unit 100 have been referenced herein. A first electrode 111 may provide an anode, a second electrode 112 may provide a cathode, and / or a third electrode 113 may provide a balancing electrode. It should be understood that, in the context of this disclosure, each electrode may provide a conductive path; for example, each electrode may include a conductor extending along the length of the electrode. The anode may include a conductor providing a conductive path from the outside of the inner portion 125 into the inner portion 125 to the distal end of a conductor within the inner portion 125. The cathode may include a conductor providing a conductive path from within or adjacent to the inner portion 125 to away from the inner portion 125. The balancing electrode may include a conductor providing a conductive path from the outside of the inner portion 125 into the inner portion 125 or from within the inner portion 125 away from the inner portion 125. The first electrode 111 may be arranged closer to the third electrode 113 than the first electrode to the second electrode 112; for example, the minimum distance between a point on the first electrode 111 and a point on the third electrode 113 may be less than the minimum distance between a point on the first electrode and a point on the second electrode 112. For example, the minimum distance between the first electrode and the third electrode can be much smaller than the minimum distance between the first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112.

[0122] The examples described herein relate to the use of a single unit. However, it should be understood that, within the context of this disclosure, multiple units can be configured. For example, the operation of different units can be timed to provide a consistent output of heated fluid over time. The operating timing of each unit can be offset such that the total output of heated fluid remains relatively constant over time. For example, it should be understood that each unit can have a heated fluid output that varies over time, and multiple units can be timed such that the output from all combined units is more consistent than the output of any single unit. Controller 40 can be configured to control the supply of liquid to each unit and / or apply electrical energy to electrodes to provide a consistent output of heated fluid. For example, one or more sensors can be used for each unit to determine operating parameters of each unit, such as the output of heated fluid for each unit.

[0123] It should be understood that the supply of liquid to unit 100 can occur continuously over time or only within discrete time intervals. Controller 40 can be configured to control whether liquid is supplied to unit 100. For example, unit 100 may include a fluid inlet valve operable to control whether fluid can flow into internal section 125, and / or may control the operation of pump 18 to supply liquid to unit 100 or not supply liquid to the unit. A continuously flowing fluid may exist within unit 100; for example, fluid is continuously supplied to unit 100, and heated fluid continuously leaves unit 100 (e.g., as gas through fluid outlet 22). Discrete time intervals may exist for fluid input, such that one unit of liquid is supplied to unit 100 (e.g., enough to fill unit 100), and then no additional liquid is supplied when electrical energy is applied to the electrodes to supply heated fluid (e.g., once all fluid has been sufficiently heated to be released through fluid outlet 22). Another unit of liquid may then be supplied to unit 100. It should be understood that, for this operating mode, multiple different units operating together may include timing operations such that when one unit is being supplied to another, another unit is applying electrical energy to the fluid in that unit. It should be understood that multiple different units (e.g., more than two) can be used, their timings offset from each other, for example, such that when one unit is about to finish heating, another unit is in the middle of heating, and yet another unit has just begun heating.

[0124] The internal surface of the accommodating portion 120 has been described as an electromagnetic energy absorbing surface. This can be a property of the material used to assemble the accommodating portion 120 (e.g., steel), and / or a coating can be provided on the internal surface to facilitate the absorption of electromagnetic energy (e.g., from photon emission). It should be understood that absorbing electromagnetic energy can include receiving incident photons (e.g., in the visible light spectrum) and generating heat in response to said photons incident on the surface. It should also be understood that electrons or other particles (e.g., charged particles emitted from plasma / plasma cooling processes) can also be incident on the internal surface of the accommodating portion 120. The internal surface of the accommodating portion 120 can also be configured to generate heat in response to such incident particles. For example, resistance heating can be provided in response to an electron flow through the internal surface.

[0125] It should be understood from the above discussion that the examples shown in the accompanying drawings are merely exemplary and include features that can be generalized, removed, or replaced as described herein and in the claims. Referring generally to the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that the schematic functional block diagrams are used to indicate the functions of the systems and apparatus described herein. Furthermore, processing functions may also be provided by devices supported by electronic equipment. However, it should be understood that functions do not need to be divided in this way and should not be construed as implying any particular hardware structure other than the described and claimed hardware structures. The functions of one or more elements shown in the accompanying drawings may be further subdivided and / or distributed throughout the apparatus of this disclosure. In some examples, the functions of one or more elements shown in the accompanying drawings may be integrated into a single functional unit.

[0126] In the context of this disclosure, as will be understood by the reader in the art, each of the examples described herein can be implemented in a variety of different ways. Any feature of any aspect of this disclosure can be combined with any aspect of other aspects of this disclosure. For example, a method aspect can be combined with an apparatus aspect, and the described features can provide operation of specific elements of a reference apparatus in a method that does not use those particular types of apparatus. Furthermore, each feature of each example is intended to be separable from the features combined with the description, unless it is explicitly stated that some other feature is necessary for its operation. Each of these separable features can, of course, be combined with any feature of the other features of the example in which it is described, or with any feature or combination of features of any other feature of any example in any other example described herein. In addition, equivalents and modifications not described above may be employed without departing from the invention.

[0127] Some features of the methods described herein can be implemented in hardware, and one or more functions of the apparatus can be implemented in the method steps. It should also be understood that, within the context of this disclosure, the methods described herein do not need to be performed in the order they are described or depicted in the accompanying drawings. Therefore, aspects of this disclosure described with reference to a product or apparatus are also intended to be implemented as methods, and vice versa. The methods described herein can be implemented in a computer program, in hardware, or in any combination thereof. Computer programs include software, middleware, firmware, and any combination thereof. Such programs can be provided as signals or network messages and can be recorded on a computer-readable medium, such as a tangible computer-readable medium that can store computer programs in a non-transitory form. Hardware includes computers, handheld devices, programmable processors, general-purpose processors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and logic gate arrays. For example, the controller 40 described herein can be provided by any control device, such as a general-purpose processor configured with a computer program product to program the processor to operate according to any of the methods described herein. The functionality of the controller 40 can be provided by an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a configuration of logic gates, or any other control device.

[0128] Other examples and variations of this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art within the context of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A heating system, the heating system comprising: Liquid supply system; The unit is configured to: receive liquid from the liquid supply system, heat the liquid, and output heated fluid; A work extraction system configured to extract usable work from the heated fluid output by the unit; as well as Controller; The unit includes: (i) a receiving portion arranged to define an internal portion for receiving a liquid to be heated; and (ii) a plurality of electrodes, the plurality of electrodes including a first electrode configured to apply electrical energy to the fluid in the internal portion; and Wherein, the first electrode is configured to apply electrical energy to the fluid in the internal portion to generate one or more plasma bubbles for releasing energy to the fluid in the internal portion and the containment portion to provide heating to the fluid in the internal portion; and The controller is configured to reduce or stop applying voltage to the first electrode when the current changes or the rate of change of the current exceeds a threshold.

2. The heating system of claim 1, wherein, The first electrode is an anode, which is arranged to provide a conductive path for applying current to a fluid in the interior portion, wherein the plurality of electrodes further include a cathode, which is arranged to provide a conductive path away from the interior portion for receiving current from the anode through the fluid in the interior portion.

3. The heating system of claim 2, further comprising a balancing electrode arranged to provide an additional conductive path toward or away from the fluid in the interior portion.

4. The heating system of claim 3, wherein, The balancing electrode is separated from the conductive path from the anode to the cathode.

5. The heating system of any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The unit includes a resistive element disposed between the anode and the cathode.

6. The heating system according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The anode and the cathode are arranged concentrically with each other.

7. The heating system of claim 3, wherein, The anode, the cathode, and the balance electrode all have the same coefficient of thermal expansion.

8. The heating system of claim 4, wherein, The balancing electrode extends perpendicularly away from the conductive path from the anode to the cathode.

9. The heating system of claim 4, wherein, The balancing electrode is arranged closer to the anode than the cathode.

10. The heating system of claim 5, wherein, The resistive element includes quartz.

11. A heating system, the heating system comprising: Liquid supply system; The unit is configured to: receive liquid from the liquid supply system, heat the liquid, and output heated fluid; as well as A work extraction system configured to extract usable work from the heated fluid output by the unit; The unit includes: (i) a receiving portion arranged to define an internal portion for receiving a liquid to be heated; and (ii) a plurality of electrodes, including a first electrode and a second electrode, the first electrode being configured to apply electrical energy to the fluid in the internal portion, and the second electrode being capacitively arranged with respect to the first electrode; and The system is configured to apply electrical energy to the first electrode to charge a capacitor provided by the first and second electrodes, to generate plasma bubbles in the fluid of the internal portion, to release energy to the fluid in the internal portion and the containment, and to provide heating to the fluid in the internal portion.

12. The heating system according to claim 11 or the heating system according to claim 1, wherein, The heating system according to claim 11 further includes a controller, wherein the controller is configured to: (i) receive a signal indicating at least one operating parameter of the unit, and (ii) control the operation of the heating system based on the operating parameter.

13. The heating system of claim 12, wherein, The controller is configured to control the operation of the heating system such that the heat and / or plasma in the unit is generated above a threshold level.

14. The heating system of any one of claims 12-13, wherein, Controlling the operation of the heating system includes controlling at least one of the following: (i) the supply of liquid to the unit through the liquid supply system, and (ii) the electrical energy applied by the electrodes.

15. The heating system of claim 14, wherein, The controller is configured to control the supply of liquid to the unit and / or the electrical energy applied by the electrodes based on an indication of the required heating demand provided by the unit.

16. The heating system of any one of claims 12-13, wherein, The signal indicating at least one operating parameter includes an indication of the mass and / or quantity of plasma generated within the unit; and The controller is configured to control the operation of the heating system such that the mass and / or quantity of plasma generated is maintained within a selected range.

17. The heating system of claim 16, wherein, The signal indicating the quality and / or quantity of plasma generated includes an indication of at least one of the following: (i) the pressure and / or temperature of the fluid output from the unit, (ii) the amount and / or type of electromagnetic energy present within the unit, and (iii) the current flow and / or voltage associated with one or more of the electrodes.

18. The heating system of any one of claims 12-13, wherein, The controller is configured to control at least one of the following: (i) controlling the supply of liquid to the unit based on electrical energy to be applied by the plurality of electrodes, and (ii) controlling the electrical energy to be applied by the plurality of electrodes based on the supply of liquid to the unit.

19. The heating system of any one of claims 12-13, wherein, The signal indicating at least one operating parameter includes an indication of temperature associated with at least one of the following: the unit, the fluid in the unit, and the fluid output from the unit; as well as The controller is configured to control at least one of the following: (i) electrical energy applied by the electrodes, (ii) the supply of liquid to the unit, and (iii) an external heater to increase the temperature of the unit, the fluid in the unit, and / or the fluid output from the unit if the indicated temperature is below a threshold level.

20. The heating system of any one of claims 11-13, wherein, The liquid supply system is configured to increase the heating of the liquid before supplying it to the unit if the heat and / or plasma generation of the unit is below a threshold level.

21. The heating system of any one of claims 11-13, wherein, The power extraction system includes at least one of the following: (i) a regulator for mass transfer of heat and / or pressurized fluid, (ii) a heat exchanger for transferring heat to the working fluid, and (iii) a power generation system.

22. The heating system of claim 21, wherein, The power generation system is a steam-based power generation system.

23. A method for providing a heated fluid to extract usable work from the heated fluid, the method comprising: The liquid to be heated is supplied to the unit, wherein the unit includes: (i) a receiving portion arranged to define an internal portion for receiving the liquid to be heated, and (ii) a plurality of electrodes configured to apply electrical energy to the fluid in the internal portion; Controlling the operation of the plurality of electrodes to apply electrical energy to the fluid in the internal portion to generate one or more plasma bubbles, wherein controlling the application of electrical energy to the first electrode includes reducing or stopping the voltage applied to the first electrode when the current changes or the rate of change of the current exceeds a threshold. In response to the receiving of incident photons associated with bubbles of plasma in the inner portion, heat is generated in the receiving portion near the inner portion. The fluid in the internal portion is heated by conducting heat through the accommodating part.

24. A method for providing a heated fluid to extract usable work from the heated fluid, the method comprising: The liquid to be heated is supplied to the unit, wherein the unit includes: (i) a receiving portion arranged to define an internal portion for receiving the liquid to be heated, and (ii) a plurality of electrodes configured to apply electrical energy to the fluid in the internal portion, wherein the plurality of electrodes includes a first electrode and a second electrode arranged capacitively. Electrical energy is applied to the first electrode to charge the capacitor provided by the first and second electrodes, thereby generating plasma bubbles in the fluid of the internal portion. In response to the receiving of incident photons associated with bubbles of plasma in the inner portion, heat is generated in the receiving portion near the inner portion. The fluid in the internal portion is heated by conducting heat through the accommodating part.

25. A computer program product comprising computer program instructions configured to control a processor to perform the method according to claim 23 or 24.

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