Tail gas waste heat driven electric oxygen co-production combustion-supporting system
The combined heat and power generation system driven by exhaust gas waste heat utilizes temperature difference power generation and temperature-pressure swing coupling adsorption technology to solve the problem of underutilization of exhaust gas waste heat, improve combustion efficiency and power output, reduce pollutant emissions, and is suitable for a variety of transportation equipment.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202510438396.6
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-04-09
- Publication Date
- 2026-01-06
- Estimated Expiration
- 2045-04-09
AI Technical Summary
In existing technologies, the calorific value of waste heat from automobile exhaust is not fully utilized, resulting in low combustion efficiency, insufficient power output, and high pollutant emissions, especially in high-altitude environments.
Design a waste heat-driven cogeneration system for combustion, including a waste heat exchange-power generation module, an adsorption oxygen production module, and a power manager. Through temperature difference power generation and temperature-switching-pressure coupling adsorption technology, the system utilizes waste heat from the exhaust gas to generate electricity and produce oxygen, thereby improving combustion efficiency and reducing pollutant emissions.
It achieves efficient utilization of exhaust waste heat, improves the combustion efficiency and power output of internal combustion engines, reduces pollutant emissions, and is suitable for transportation equipment in plateau and high-altitude areas, while reducing energy consumption and pollution emissions in plain areas.
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Figure CN120285723B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention belongs to the field of adsorption oxygen production and thermoelectric power generation, and specifically refers to a combined heat and power generation system for combustion assistance driven by waste heat from exhaust gas. Background Technology
[0002] With the rapid development of modern industry and transportation, energy consumption has become an increasingly prominent issue. In high-altitude environments, due to reduced air density and lower temperatures, engine combustion efficiency decreases significantly, potentially leading to incomplete combustion, reduced power output, or starting difficulties, thus affecting vehicle performance and reliability. Furthermore, incomplete fuel combustion also produces air pollutants such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, polluting the atmosphere.
[0003] To improve fuel efficiency, enhance power output, and reduce emissions, current technologies primarily focus on optimizing engine intake, fuel modification, and emission control systems. For example, oxygen-enriched fuel technology increases combustion efficiency and engine output by raising the oxidant content and calorific value of the fuel; turbocharging technology increases combustion chamber pressure to promote thorough mixing of fuel and oxygen, achieving efficient combustion. However, oxygen-enriched fuel technology is still in the research stage, with high production costs and significant technical challenges, requiring further optimization to improve its practicality. While turbocharging systems effectively increase power output, their complex structure and high maintenance costs hinder the economic viability of small civilian vehicles and make it difficult to meet the high power and stability requirements of high-altitude military equipment. Therefore, the applicability of existing technologies in high-altitude environments remains limited.
[0004] On the other hand, the waste heat generated during engine combustion accounts for a large proportion of the total calorific value of the fuel, and current technologies have failed to effectively recover and utilize this waste heat energy. In recent years, some studies have proposed using the waste heat from automobile exhaust for thermoelectric power generation, in order to recover it in the form of electricity and improve energy utilization efficiency. However, there are still many technical bottlenecks regarding the rational utilization and storage methods of this type of energy recovery technology, which urgently require further research and optimization. Summary of the Invention
[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an electro-oxygen cogeneration combustion-assisted system driven by exhaust waste heat, thereby solving the problem that the calorific value of exhaust waste heat in the prior art is not fully utilized.
[0006] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the technical solution of the present invention is as follows:
[0007] In a first aspect, a waste heat-driven electro-oxygen cogeneration combustion-supporting system includes:
[0008] Exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module, adsorption oxygen generation module and power manager;
[0009] The exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module includes a tube-fin heat exchanger, a thermoelectric element, and a cold-end heat exchanger. The thermoelectric element is in close contact with the cold-end heat exchanger and the tube-fin heat exchanger at the top and bottom, respectively.
[0010] The adsorption oxygen generation module includes an air compressor, a front-end D-tube, a first adsorption tower, a second adsorption tower, and a rear-end D-tube. The first and second adsorption towers are filled with adsorbent. The front-end and rear-end D-tubes have solenoid valves ah to control the gas flow direction. The exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module and the adsorption oxygen generation module are connected through an upward gas path and a downward gas path.
[0011] The power manager connects to the air compressor and the solenoid valve (ah).
[0012] Furthermore, the tube-fin heat exchanger in the exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module consists of fins and heat exchange tubes. The heat exchange tubes are coiled in a serpentine shape perpendicular to the exhaust gas flow direction. The internal structure of the visible adsorbent is adjusted according to the working requirements and expected temperature of the inflow exhaust gas.
[0013] Furthermore, the thermoelectric power generation array in the exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module is composed of a plurality of thermoelectric elements arranged in close contact with the cold end heat exchanger on the top and the upper surface of the tube-fin heat exchanger on the bottom. The DC current generated by the thermoelectric elements enters the power manager for rectification, inversion, and voltage boosting to obtain the standard output voltage AC power to supply the system to work.
[0014] Furthermore, the cold-end heat exchanger in the exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module is composed of an industrial water cooling head or directly connected to the inherent cooling system of vehicles such as automobiles.
[0015] Furthermore, the exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module and the adsorption oxygen generation module are connected through an upward and downward air path. The internal air path of the adsorption oxygen generation module consists of an air compressor, a front-end D-shaped tube, a first adsorption tower, a second adsorption tower, and a rear-end D-shaped tube. The gas flow direction is controlled by a solenoid valve AH within the air path, and the oxygen enters the second adsorption tower through the upward air path.
[0016] Furthermore, the air compressor can provide air with a pressure of not less than four standard atmospheres and force the air into the adsorption chamber to achieve normal separation of nitrogen and oxygen in the adsorption tower.
[0017] Furthermore, the first and second adsorption towers in the adsorption oxygen generation module can be cylindrical, cuboid, or other shapes. The adsorbent in the adsorption tower adsorbs nitrogen from the air at room temperature and desorbs nitrogen under high-temperature oxygen-enriched air rinsing.
[0018] Furthermore, the gas temperature introduced into the first and second adsorption towers of the adsorption oxygen generation module should be below 300K during the adsorption stage and above 400K but below 600K during the desorption stage.
[0019] Furthermore, the energy required by the air compressor is provided by the thermoelectric elements in the thermoelectric power generation array of the exhaust heat exchange-power generation module. The thermoelectric elements output DC power to the power manager through the temperature difference between the tube-fin heat exchanger and the cold end heat exchanger, thereby obtaining standard voltage AC power to supply the system to work.
[0020] The above-described solution of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects:
[0021] During operation, the system consists of an exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module, an adsorption oxygen generation module, and a power manager. The core of the adsorption oxygen generation module is a pair of adsorption towers filled with adsorbent. When in an initial unadsorbed state, it can be circulated with room temperature air to adsorb nitrogen, outputting oxygen-enriched air which is then introduced into the engine combustion chamber to improve fuel efficiency. Alternatively, when in a saturated adsorption state, it can be circulated with high-temperature oxygen-enriched air to desorb the adsorbed nitrogen, returning it to its initial unadsorbed state. The tube-fin heat exchanger in the exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module efficiently collects waste heat from the exhaust gas. This heat serves two purposes: firstly, it provides a temperature difference for the thermoelectric elements connected to the cold-end heat exchanger, generating electricity to maintain the normal operation of the entire system and provide additional energy to the vehicle; secondly, it allows for thorough heat exchange between the hot exhaust gas and a portion of the oxygen-enriched air output from one of the two adsorption towers. The heated oxygen-enriched air then flows into the other adsorption tower for purging, desorbing the adsorbed nitrogen.
[0022] The system consists of an exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module, an adsorption oxygen production module, and a power manager. The exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module efficiently recovers waste heat from the exhaust gas using a heat exchanger, providing a heat source for the thermoelectric element. A temperature difference is created through a cold-end heat exchanger, enabling thermoelectric conversion and continuous power generation. Furthermore, this module uses a heat exchanger to allow some of the produced oxygen to convectively exchange heat with the exhaust gas, inputting the preheated oxygen into the adsorption tower to promote the desorption process of the adsorbent. The adsorption oxygen production module consists of a compressor and an adsorption tower. Utilizing the variable pressure and temperature environment provided by the compressor and the exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module, and taking into account the differences in nitrogen adsorption capacity of the adsorbent in the adsorption tower under different pressures and temperatures, this module alternately achieves nitrogen adsorption and desorption, thereby continuously producing oxygen, which is then supplied to the internal combustion engine through an oxygen output device. The power manager, as the system's power conversion unit, converts the low-voltage DC power generated by the exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module into high-voltage AC power to drive the compressor in the adsorption oxygen production module. This invention fully utilizes waste heat from exhaust gases for thermoelectric power generation, providing energy to an adsorption oxygen production system. Simultaneously, it leverages the waste heat to achieve efficient oxygen adsorption and desorption, providing oxygen-enriched combustion for the internal combustion engine without consuming additional energy. This improves combustion efficiency while effectively reducing pollutant emissions. The system meets the demands of transportation equipment in high-altitude and plateau regions for efficient and stable combustion of internal combustion engine fuels, and is also suitable for transportation equipment in plains areas requiring reduced energy consumption and pollution emissions. This invention offers significant advantages such as requiring no additional energy consumption, simultaneous power supply and consumption, and stable and reliable oxygen production. While improving the combustion efficiency of internal combustion engines, it also possesses good environmental adaptability and widespread application value.
[0023] This invention utilizes an exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module to provide energy for an adsorption oxygen generation module, while simultaneously leveraging the temperature difference between the exhaust gas waste heat and the ambient temperature to assist the adsorption process and improve gas adsorption efficiency. This design not only effectively saves energy but also provides the oxygen needed for oxygen-rich combustion in the car engine, thereby enhancing power output, while reducing emissions of pollutants such as carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons, thus improving combustion cleanliness.
[0024] This system integrates multiple functions such as thermoelectric power generation, adsorption oxygen production, and voltage stabilization output into a compact design with a small overall size. The exhaust gas heat exchange-powered module utilizes the high-temperature environment of the vehicle's exhaust pipe to generate electricity based on the thermoelectric difference. This electricity is then used to drive the adsorption oxygen production module, thereby increasing the oxygen concentration during internal combustion engine combustion, improving engine power output, and effectively reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, this system is suitable for various military combat equipment and civilian vehicles, possessing strong environmental adaptability and broad application potential.
[0025] The adsorption oxygen generation module of this system employs temperature-swing-pressure coupled adsorption technology. It regulates the pressure of the adsorption environment through a compressor and heats part of the product gas using a tail gas heat exchange-power generation module to control the adsorption temperature. Based on the selective adsorption characteristics of the adsorbent for nitrogen at different temperatures and pressures, this module performs nitrogen adsorption under low-temperature, high-pressure conditions and desorption under high-temperature, low-pressure conditions, thereby improving adsorption efficiency and oxygen enrichment rate, ultimately increasing oxygen production and achieving a more efficient oxygen supply. Furthermore, the adsorption oxygen generation module controls the operation of two adsorption towers through two sets of D-shaped gas guide pipes. The front-end D-shaped gas guide pipes can input air output from the compressor or part of the product oxygen heated by the tail gas heat exchange-power generation module into the two adsorption towers respectively; the rear-end D-shaped gas guide pipes respectively direct the oxygen generated from nitrogen adsorption and the nitrogen generated from desorption from the two adsorption towers to the oxygen storage device and the outside environment. Eight solenoid valves in the two sets of D-shaped gas guide pipes control the opening and closing of the gas paths, allowing the two adsorption towers to alternately operate in adsorption and desorption states.
[0026] In the adsorption oxygen generation module, the generated oxygen is regulated by a flow valve. A portion of the product oxygen is guided to the exhaust heat exchange-power generation module to heat the adsorption tower, promoting the desorption process of the adsorbent. The majority of the remaining oxygen is directly delivered to the engine to optimize the combustion process and improve fuel efficiency. This system fully utilizes the selective adsorption characteristics of the adsorbent in the adsorption tower for nitrogen under different temperatures and pressures, achieving efficient separation of nitrogen from the air. This enriches the oxygen, which is then delivered to the internal combustion engine via an oxygen output device to improve combustion efficiency. The AC power generated by the exhaust heat exchange-power generation module, after conversion and voltage regulation by the power manager, directly powers the adsorption oxygen generation module, achieving internal power self-sufficiency without external power supply and improving energy utilization. The exhaust heat exchange-power generation module consists of a tube-fin heat exchanger, thermoelectric elements, and a radiator. The tube-fin heat exchanger efficiently recovers waste heat emitted from vehicle exhaust and converts it into usable energy, providing a stable heat source for the system. Attached Figure Description
[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electro-oxygen cogeneration combustion-supporting system driven by exhaust gas waste heat according to the present invention.
[0028] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the specific structure of the adsorption oxygen generation module in this invention.
[0029] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached diagram: 1-Exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module; 2-Adsorption oxygen generation module; 3-Power manager; 4-Pin tube heat exchanger; 5-Thermoelectric element; 6-Cold end heat exchanger; 7-Air compressor; 8-Front end D-tube; 9-First adsorption tower; 10-Second adsorption tower; 11-Rear end D-tube; 12-Upward gas path; 13-Downward gas path; 14-Flow valve; 15-DC power; 16-AC power; 17-Exhaust gas pipe; 18-Adsorbent; 19-Solenoid valve a; 20-Solenoid valve b; 21-Solenoid valve c; 22-Solenoid valve d; 23-Solenoid valve e; 24-Solenoid valve f; 25-Solenoid valve g; 26-Solenoid valve h. Detailed Implementation
[0030] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the present disclosure may be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art.
[0031] like Figures 1-2 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention proposes an electro-oxygen cogeneration combustion-supporting system driven by exhaust gas waste heat, comprising:
[0032] Exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module 1, adsorption oxygen generation module 2 and power manager 3;
[0033] The exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module 1 includes a tube-fin heat exchanger 4, a thermoelectric element 5, and a cold-end heat exchanger 6. The thermoelectric element 5 is in close contact with the cold-end heat exchanger 6 and the tube-fin heat exchanger 4 at the top and bottom, respectively.
[0034] The adsorption oxygen generation module 2 includes an air compressor 7, a front-end D-shaped tube 8, a first adsorption tower 9, a second adsorption tower 10, and a rear-end D-shaped tube 11. The first adsorption tower 9 and the second adsorption tower 10 are filled with adsorbent 18. The front-end D-shaped tube 8 and the rear-end D-shaped tube 11 are equipped with solenoid valves a-h19-26 to control the gas flow direction. The tail gas heat exchange-power generation module 1 and the adsorption oxygen generation module 2 are connected through an upward gas path 13 and a downward gas path 14.
[0035] Power manager 3 connects air compressor 7 and solenoid valve a-h19-26.
[0036] In this embodiment of the invention, the exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module 1 includes a tube-fin heat exchanger 4, a thermoelectric element 5, and a cold-end heat exchanger 6. The tube-fin heat exchanger 4 is connected to the vehicle's exhaust pipe and absorbs heat during the vehicle's exhaust emissions. More specifically, the tube-fin heat exchanger 4 is located in a section of the vehicle's exhaust pipe, meaning that both ends of the tube-fin heat exchanger 4 are part of the vehicle's exhaust pipe, and the vehicle's exhaust gases pass through the tube-fin heat exchanger 4 during emission. The tube-fin heat exchanger 4 is provided with fins to enhance heat transfer. The fins completely penetrate the tube-fin heat exchanger 4 and are connected to the upper and lower surfaces of the tube-fin heat exchanger 4. Simultaneously, the tube-fin heat exchanger 4 contains coiled heat exchange tubes. The inlet of the heat exchange tubes is a branch of the downward air passage 13, and the outlet is the upward air passage 12. The upper and lower surfaces of the tube-fin heat exchanger 4 and the hot end of the thermoelectric element 5 are connected by thermally conductive adhesive. The cold end of the thermoelectric element 5 is connected to the cold end heat exchanger 6. The tube-fin heat exchanger 4 and the cold end heat exchanger 6 work together to provide a constant operating temperature for the thermoelectric element 5, so that the thermoelectric element 5 generates electricity by relying on the temperature difference. The DC power 15 generated by the thermoelectric element 5 is rectified, inverted and boosted by the power manager 3 to obtain a standard output voltage AC power 16, which is output to the vehicle system and then to the air compressor 7 in the adsorption oxygen generation module 2. Preferably, this voltage is directly output to the air compressor 7 in the adsorption oxygen generation module 2.
[0037] During operation, the air compressor 7 pumps outside air into the adsorption oxygen generation module 2. Under the control of the solenoid valve a-h19-26, the air flows into one of the first adsorption tower 9 and the second adsorption tower 10, where it comes into full contact with the adsorbent 18. This allows most of the nitrogen in the air to be adsorbed, thereby increasing the relative oxygen content. Most of the oxygen-enriched air obtained through adsorption is used for auxiliary combustion in the engine, while the remainder enters the exhaust heat exchange-power generation module 1 via the downward air passage 14, where it exchanges heat with the high-temperature exhaust gas in a tube-fin heat exchanger. The high-temperature oxygen-enriched air then returns to the adsorption oxygen generation module 2 via the upward air passage 13 and flows into the other of the first adsorption tower 9 and the second adsorption tower 10, purging the adsorbent 18 in the adsorption tower and desorbing the nitrogen adsorbed therein. The desorbed gas is finally discharged from the system through the exhaust pipe 17. Simultaneously, a portion of the heat energy from the engine exhaust gas is converted into electrical energy in the exhaust heat exchange-power generation module using thermoelectric elements 5. This electrical energy is then supplied to the air compressor 7 and the solenoid valve a-h19-26 via the power manager 3.
[0038] like Figures 1-2 As shown, the tube-fin heat exchanger in the exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module 1 consists of fins and heat exchange tubes. The heat exchange tubes are coiled in a serpentine shape perpendicular to the exhaust gas flow direction. The visible adsorbent 18 adjusts its internal structure according to the working requirements and the expected temperature of the inflow exhaust gas.
[0039] In this embodiment of the invention, the tube-fin heat exchanger in the exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module 1 consists of fins and heat exchange tubes. The heat exchange tubes are coiled in a serpentine shape perpendicular to the exhaust gas flow direction. The internal structure can be adjusted according to the working requirements of the adsorbent 18 and the expected temperature of the inflow exhaust gas. For example, the heat exchange tubes can be coiled in a single layer or multiple layers. The fins are penetrated by the heat exchange tubes, and their upper and lower surfaces are in close contact with the upper and lower bottom surfaces of the heat exchanger. The fins and heat exchange tubes can be made of metal or non-metal materials with high thermal conductivity, specifically stainless steel or aluminum alloy. The fin surfaces can be surface treated to improve the utilization rate of exhaust gas waste heat and the outlet temperature of oxygen-enriched air. The fins are made of metal or non-metal materials with high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum alloy or steel-aluminum materials. Their surfaces can be surface treated. Their planar ends are connected to the thermoelectric element with a high thermal conductivity synthetic polymer material, specifically thermally conductive silicone grease, to improve the waste heat utilization rate.
[0040] like Figures 1-2 As shown, the thermoelectric power generation array in the exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module 1 is composed of a plurality of thermoelectric elements 5, which are in close contact with the cold end heat exchanger 6 on the top and in close contact with the upper surface of the tube-fin heat exchanger 4 on the bottom. The DC power 15 generated by the thermoelectric elements 5 flows into the power manager 3, and is rectified, inverted and boosted to obtain the standard output voltage AC power 16 to supply the system to work.
[0041] In this embodiment of the invention, the thermoelectric power generation array in the exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module 1 is composed of a plurality of thermoelectric elements 5 arranged together. The elements are in close contact with the cold-end heat exchanger 6 on top and with the upper surface of the tube-fin heat exchanger 4 on the bottom. High thermal conductivity materials can be used to connect the contact points. The direct current 15 generated by the thermoelectric elements 5 flows into the power manager 3, where it is rectified, inverted, and boosted to obtain the standard output voltage alternating current 16 to supply the system. The number of thermoelectric elements in the thermoelectric power generation array can be adjusted according to the system's power requirements. Alternatively, similar thermoelectric arrays can be added to other surfaces of the tube-fin heat exchanger 4. The thermoelectric element 5 can be composed of a PN junction, conductive plates, and ceramic plates. The heat exchange tubes in the tube-fin heat exchanger 4 can be single-layer or multi-layer coiled. They can be coiled radially or axially along the heat exchanger. The fins in the tube-fin heat exchanger 4 can be single-layer flat fins, cross-shaped fins, or other shapes. The tube-fin heat exchanger 4 can have a multi-layer structure to enhance heat transfer and improve the utilization rate of exhaust gas waste heat.
[0042] like Figures 1-2 As shown, the cold end heat exchanger 6 in the exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module 1 is composed of an industrial water cooling head or directly connected to the inherent cooling system of vehicles such as automobiles.
[0043] In this embodiment of the invention, the cold-end heat exchanger 6 in the exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module 1 can be composed of an industrial water cooling head, or directly connected to the inherent cooling system of vehicles such as automobiles. The cold-end heat exchanger is installed on the thermoelectric power generation array, enabling the upper surface of the thermoelectric element to fully exchange heat with the cooling working fluid, thereby increasing the temperature difference between the two ends of the thermoelectric element. The cold-end heat exchanger 6 is composed of a liquid cooling system, and can directly utilize the inherent cooling device of vehicles such as automobiles. The coolant can be a conventional automotive coolant composed of distilled water, ethylene glycol, foam inhibitors, and other components.
[0044] like Figures 1-2 As shown, the exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module 1 and the adsorption oxygen generation module 2 are connected through an upward air path 13 and a downward air path 14. The internal air path of the adsorption oxygen generation module 2 consists of an air compressor 7, a front-end D-shaped tube 8, a first adsorption tower 9, a second adsorption tower 10, and a rear-end D-shaped tube 11. The gas flow direction is controlled by a solenoid valve a-h19-26 inside the air path, and the oxygen enters the second adsorption tower 10 through the upward air path 12.
[0045] In this embodiment of the invention, the exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module 1 and the adsorption oxygen generation module 2 are connected through an upward air path 13 and a downward air path 14. The internal air path of the adsorption oxygen generation module 2 consists of an air compressor 7, a front-end D-shaped tube 8, a first adsorption tower 9, a second adsorption tower 10, and a rear-end D-shaped tube 11. The gas flow direction inside the air path is controlled by a solenoid valve a-h19-26. Specifically, when solenoid valves a, c, e, and h are open and solenoid valves b, d, f, and g are closed, high-pressure cold air from air compressor 7 enters the first adsorption tower 9. The first adsorption tower 9 undergoes adsorption under low-temperature and high-pressure conditions. The product oxygen generated during adsorption enters the downward gas path 13, and a small portion of the product oxygen is sent through flow valve 14 to the heat exchange tubes in the tube-fin heat exchanger 4 for convective heat exchange with the exhaust gas. Most of the product oxygen is then directed to the engine to improve combustion. The small portion of high-temperature product oxygen after convective heat exchange enters the second adsorption tower 10 through the upward gas path 12. The second adsorption tower 10 undergoes desorption under high-temperature and low-pressure conditions. The nitrogen waste gas generated during desorption is discharged through exhaust pipe 17. When solenoid valves a, c, e, and h are closed and solenoid valves b, d, f, and g are open, the first adsorption tower 9 is in a desorption state while the second adsorption tower 10 is in an adsorption state. In the gas path, each pipe can be composed of insulation material with low thermal conductivity, or a general pipe can be wrapped with an insulation layer, such as glass wool.
[0046] like Figures 1-2 As shown, the air compressor 7 can provide air with a pressure of not less than four standard atmospheres and force the air into the adsorption chambers 9 and 10 to achieve normal separation of nitrogen and oxygen in the adsorption tower.
[0047] like Figures 1-2As shown, the first adsorption tower 9 and the second adsorption tower 10 in the adsorption oxygen generation module 2 can be cylindrical, cuboid or other shapes. The adsorbent 18 in the adsorption tower adsorbs nitrogen in the air at room temperature and desorbs nitrogen under high temperature oxygen-enriched air rinsing. The temperature of the gas introduced into the first adsorption tower 9 and the second adsorption tower 10 in the adsorption oxygen generation module 2 should be lower than 300K in the adsorption stage and higher than 400K and lower than 600K in the desorption stage.
[0048] In this embodiment of the invention, the first adsorption tower 9 and the second adsorption tower 10 in the adsorption oxygen generation module 2 can be cylindrical, cuboid, or other shapes. The adsorbent 18 in the adsorption tower can adsorb nitrogen gas from the air at room temperature and desorb nitrogen gas under high-temperature oxygen-enriched air rinsing, and can be a high-temperature resistant lithium molecular sieve.
[0049] like Figures 1-2 As shown, the energy required by the air compressor 7 is provided by the thermoelectric element 5 in the thermoelectric power generation array of the exhaust heat exchange-power generation module 1. The thermoelectric element 5 outputs DC power 15 to the power manager 3 through the temperature difference between the tube-fin heat exchanger 4 and the cold end heat exchanger 6, and obtains standard voltage AC power 16 to supply the system operation.
[0050] In this embodiment of the invention, the energy required for system operation, particularly the energy required for the air compressor 7, is mainly provided by the thermoelectric element 5 in the thermoelectric power generation array of the exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module 1. Specifically, the thermoelectric element 5 utilizes the temperature difference between the tube-fin heat exchanger 4 and the cold-end heat exchanger 6 to output DC power 15 to the power manager 3. After rectification, inversion, and voltage boosting, standard voltage AC power 16 is obtained to supply the system for operation. When the thermoelectric power generation array is insufficient to provide the power required by the system due to insufficient exhaust gas temperature or changes in ambient temperature, the system can also be temporarily supported by the vehicle battery or other external energy sources for normal operation.
[0051] like Figures 1-2 As shown, in a specific embodiment of the present invention, the adsorption oxygen generation module 2 adopts a temperature-switching-pressure-switching coupling adsorption mode, adsorbing at low temperature and high pressure, and desorbing at high temperature and low pressure. Specifically, it includes an air compressor 7; a front-end D-type tube 8; a first adsorption tower 9; a second adsorption tower 10; a rear-end D-type tube 11; an upward air path 12; a downward air path 13; a flow valve 14; an exhaust pipe 17; an adsorbent 18; solenoid valve a19; solenoid valve b20; solenoid valve c21; solenoid valve d22; solenoid valve e23; solenoid valve f24; solenoid valve g25; and solenoid valve h26.
[0052] The first adsorption tower 9 and the second adsorption tower 10 are each equipped with an adsorbent 15. Each adsorption chamber has an air inlet at the front and an exhaust outlet at the rear. The air inlets of the first adsorption tower 9 and the second adsorption tower 10 share a front-end D-shaped pipe 8, which is connected to the air compressor 7 and the upward air passage 12, respectively. The exhaust outlets of the first adsorption tower 9 and the second adsorption tower 10 share a rear-end D-shaped pipe 8, which is connected to the downward air passage 13 and the waste gas pipe 17, respectively, to ensure a continuous and stable output of oxygen during the movement of the adsorption chambers.
[0053] The front-end D-type tube 8 includes two air inlets: an air compressor 7 and an upward air passage 12; and two air outlets: connected to the first adsorption tower 9 and the second adsorption tower 10, respectively. The rear-end D-type tube includes two air inlets: connected to the first adsorption tower 9 and the second adsorption tower 10, respectively; and two air outlets: connected to the downward air passage 13 and the exhaust pipe 17, respectively. The air passage connection between the two D-type tubes is controlled by eight solenoid valves ah (19-26). Specifically, when solenoid valves a, c, e, h (19, 21, 23, 26) are open and solenoid valves b, d, f, g (20, 22, 24, 25) are closed: high-pressure cold air compressed by air compressor 7 enters the first adsorption tower 9. The first adsorption tower 9 carries out the adsorption process under low temperature and high pressure conditions. The product oxygen generated during the adsorption process enters the downward air passage 13, and a small portion of the product oxygen is sent to the heat exchange tube in the tube-fin heat exchanger 4 through the flow valve 14 for convective heat exchange with the exhaust gas to heat it. Most of the product oxygen is sent to the engine to improve combustion. The small portion of high-temperature product oxygen after convective heat exchange enters the second adsorption tower 10 through the upward air passage 12. The second adsorption tower 10 carries out the desorption process under high temperature and low pressure conditions. The nitrogen waste gas generated during the desorption process is discharged through the exhaust pipe 17.
[0054] When the first adsorption tower 9 completes the adsorption process and the second adsorption tower 10 completes the desorption process, the eight solenoid valves simultaneously change their opening and closing directions, so that the first adsorption tower 9 is under high temperature and low pressure conditions to carry out the desorption process; and the second adsorption tower 10 is under low temperature and high pressure conditions to carry out the adsorption process.
[0055] The above process constitutes one adsorption cycle. During the adsorption cycle, one adsorption tower receives high-pressure cold air from air compressor 7 and undergoes adsorption under low-temperature and high-pressure conditions; the other adsorption tower receives a small portion of hot product oxygen and undergoes desorption under high-temperature and low-pressure conditions. Once one adsorption cycle is completed, the two towers switch operating modes to achieve continuous oxygen output, meaning that an adsorption tower is always in an adsorption state.
[0056] Both the front-end D-type tube 8 and the rear D-type tube 11 are rubber tubes. The adsorbent 18 can be made of materials such as LiLSX lithium molecular sieve, activated carbon, or activated alumina to ensure efficient adsorption and desorption of nitrogen under varying temperature and environmental conditions. The first adsorption tower 9 and the second adsorption tower 10 can have external shapes such as cylinders, cuboids, or cubes, and their internal volumes should match the traffic equipment they are located in. Solenoid valves (ah) are used in the gas input and output pipelines of the adsorption towers to ensure the gas flow direction and prevent pipeline blockage due to gas convection. Rubber tubes can be used for the inlet and outlet pipes connected to the valves to reduce vibration and noise. When the downward gas path 13 outputs oxygen to the engine after passing through the flow valve 14, gas condensers can be added to the exhaust port to reduce the impact of gas temperature on the performance of the gas control valve and ensure unobstructed pipeline flow. An oxygen storage tank is installed between the downward gas path 13 and the internal combustion engine to act as a buffer.
[0057] like Figures 1-2 As shown, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the front-end D-shaped tube 8, the first adsorption tower 9, the second adsorption tower 10, the rear-end D-shaped tube 11, the upward gas path 12, and the downward gas path 13 are connected by welding. The working process of the device is as follows:
[0058] The exhaust gas waste heat-driven cogeneration system includes an exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module, an adsorption oxygen generation module, and a power manager. The exhaust gas heat exchange-power generation module mainly consists of a tube-fin heat exchanger, thermoelectric elements, and a cold-end heat exchanger. The tube-fin heat exchanger is connected to the vehicle's exhaust gas outlet pipe. Multiple sets of fins and heat exchange tubes are arranged on the tube-fin heat exchanger to enhance heat transfer to the thermoelectric elements and a small portion of the product oxygen. The upper and lower ends of the heat exchanger are tightly connected to the hot end of the thermoelectric elements using thermally conductive adhesive, while the cold end of the thermoelectric elements is tightly connected to the cold-end heat exchanger. The system utilizes the rapid and efficient heat transfer characteristics of the fins to collect waste heat emitted from the exhaust gas, providing a heat source for the thermoelectric elements. The vehicle's existing liquid cooling system provides a cold source for the thermoelectric elements through the cold-end heat exchanger, thereby generating a temperature difference to achieve continuous power generation. The main control board in the power manager controls the on / off state of relays, thereby inverting and boosting the unstable low-amplitude DC power generated by the exhaust gas heat exchange-generator module to achieve a stable and usable power supply. The adsorption oxygen generation module changes the pressure environment through a compressor and changes the temperature environment through a small portion of the heat product oxygen. Eight solenoid valves control the two adsorption towers to alternate between low-temperature, high-pressure adsorption conditions and high-temperature, low-pressure desorption environments. Utilizing the difference in affinity of the adsorbent for nitrogen at different temperatures and pressures, nitrogen is adsorbed. Through variable temperature and pressure coupling adsorption, the adsorbent adsorption efficiency is improved, thus increasing oxygen production. The product oxygen is then precisely controlled in terms of pressure and flow rate via flow valves. The oxygen enters the diesel engine through the exhaust branch to assist combustion, improving combustion efficiency, thereby enhancing power supply and reducing gaseous pollutant emissions.
[0059] The above description represents the preferred embodiments of the present invention. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various improvements and modifications without departing from the principles of the present invention, and these improvements and modifications should also be considered within the scope of protection of the present invention.
Claims
1. A tail gas waste heat driven electric oxygen co-production combustion support system, characterized in that, The system comprises a tail gas heat exchange-power generation module (1), an adsorption oxygen production module (2) and a power manager (3); The tail gas heat exchange-power generation module (1) comprises a tube-fin heat exchanger (4), a thermoelectric sheet (5) and a cold end heat exchanger (6), the thermoelectric sheet (5) is in close contact with the cold end heat exchanger (6) and the tube-fin heat exchanger (4) respectively from top to bottom; The adsorption oxygen production module (2) comprises an air compressor (7), a front-end D-shaped pipe (8), a first adsorption tower (9), a second adsorption tower (10) and a rear-end D-shaped pipe (11), the first adsorption tower (9) and the second adsorption tower (10) are filled with an adsorbent (18), the front-end D-shaped pipe (8) and the rear-end D-shaped pipe (11) have electromagnetic valves a-h (19-26) for controlling the gas flow direction, the tail gas heat exchange-power generation module (1) is connected with the adsorption oxygen production module (2) through an uplink gas path (12) and a downlink gas path (13); The power manager (3) is connected with the air compressor (7) and the electromagnetic valves a-h (19-26); The tail gas heat exchange-power generation module (1) is connected with the adsorption oxygen production module (2) through the uplink gas path (12) and the downlink gas path (13), the internal gas path of the adsorption oxygen production module (2) is composed of the air compressor (7), the front-end D-shaped pipe (8), the first adsorption tower (9), the second adsorption tower (10) and the rear-end D-shaped pipe (11); the gas flow direction is controlled by the electromagnetic valves a-h (19-26), and oxygen enters the second adsorption tower (10) through the uplink gas path (12); The air compressor (7) can provide air with a pressure of not less than four standard atmospheres, and press the air into the first adsorption tower (9) and the second adsorption tower (10) to realize normal separation of nitrogen and oxygen in the adsorption towers; The first adsorption tower (9) and the second adsorption tower (10) in the adsorption oxygen production module (2) can be cylinders, cuboids or other shapes, the adsorbent (18) in the adsorption towers adsorbs nitrogen in air at normal temperature, and desorbs nitrogen under the flushing of high-temperature oxygen-rich air; The temperature of the gas flowing into the first adsorption tower (9) and the second adsorption tower (10) in the adsorption oxygen production module (2) should be lower than 300K in the adsorption stage, and higher than 400K and less than 600K in the desorption stage; The energy required by the air compressor (7) is provided by the thermoelectric sheet (5) in the thermoelectric array of the tail gas heat exchange-power generation module (1), the thermoelectric sheet (5) outputs direct current (15) to the power manager (3) through the temperature difference between the tube-fin heat exchanger (4) and the cold end heat exchanger (6), and obtains standard output voltage alternating current (16) for supplying system work.
2. The tail gas waste heat driven electro-oxygen co-production combustion support system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tube-fin heat exchanger in the tail gas heat exchange-power generation module (1) is composed of fins and heat exchange pipes, the heat exchange pipes are coiled in a serpentine shape perpendicular to the tail gas flow direction, and the adsorbent (18) requires adjustment of the internal structure according to the expected temperature of the inflowing tail gas.
3. The tail gas waste heat driven electro-oxygen co-production combustion support system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thermoelectric array in the exhaust heat exchange-power generation module (1) is arranged by a plurality of thermoelectric sheets (5), which are in close contact with the cold end heat exchanger (6) on the top and in close contact with the upper surface of the tube-fin heat exchanger (4) on the bottom, and the direct current (15) generated by the thermoelectric sheet (5) flows into the power manager (3) to be rectified, inverted and boosted to obtain standard output voltage alternating current (16) to supply the system work.
4. The tail gas waste heat driven electro-oxygen co-production combustion support system according to claim 1, wherein, The cold end heat exchanger (6) in the exhaust heat exchange-power generation module (1) is composed of an industrial water cooling head or directly connected to the inherent cooling system of a vehicle or the like.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Integral oxygen production device based on temperature swing adsorption and oxygen production method
CN115924850A
Tail gas thermoelectric power generation coupled oxygen adsorption combustion-supporting system
CN118030244A